Tuesday Volume 514 27 July 2010 No. 39 Part1of2

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Tuesday 27 July 2010

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2010 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Parliamentary Click-Use Licence, available online through the Office of Public Sector Information website at www.opsi.gov.uk/click-use/ Enquiries to the Office of Public Sector Information, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU; e-mail: [email protected] 845 27 JULY 2010 846

sector and others to create local enterprise partnerships, House of Commons which are genuinely representative of what local communities want. Tuesday 27 July 2010 Sir Alan Beith (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): Does my right hon. Friend recognise that the abolition of outposts The House met at half-past Eleven o’clock of central Government in the regions is good news so long as the decisions that they previously took devolve PRAYERS locally and do not drift to the centre? Does he also recognise the importance that business in the north-east attaches to the creation of a new enterprise partnership [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] that is able to do some of the things that the regional development agency used to do? Oral Answers to Questions The Deputy Prime Minister: Yes, of course I recognise that it is very important that the manner in which the local enterprise partnerships are now established—not least in the north-east, which has a strong regional DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER identity—should be shaped around the needs of the communities involved. We look forward to receiving proposals from the north-east for the local enterprise The Deputy Prime Minister was asked— partnerships in the north-east. Regional and Local Representatives May I just say that localism is not just about bureaucratic structures? It is about giving local authorities greater 1. Mr Gordon Marsden (Blackpool South) (Lab): control over our health service and people a say over What discussions he has had with ministerial colleagues how policing is conducted in our local communities. It involving elected representatives at regional and local is about looking long term at how local authorities can level in decision making by Government Departments. have a greater say over money as well. That is real [11073] localism, not bureaucratic localism.

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr Nick Clegg): The Boundary Changes Government are committed to not just promising localism, but practising it. I and other Ministers have regular 2. Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): meetings with local authority colleagues, across a range What assessment he has made of the effects on of issues and at regular intervals, about the decisions constituency cohesion of parliamentary constituency that we are thinking of making. That is what greater boundaries which do not follow existing administrative transparency and devolution are all about. boundaries. [11074] Mr Marsden: The Deputy Prime Minister talks a good talk about devolution and localism, but that is The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Mr Mark about all he does. In fact, he and the Business Secretary Harper): The Government believe that constituencies acquiesced in the abolition of the regional development should be of more equal size, and that should be more agencies. I have here a letter from him in which he important than administrative convenience for Members acquiesced in the abolition of Government offices—one of Parliament. In any case, many constituencies cross of the few areas in which local representatives can have local authority boundaries at the moment. For example, an input. 19 of the 32 London borough boundaries are crossed by constituencies today. Will the Deputy Prime Minister now give an undertaking to the House that he will intervene on his colleagues in the Government to make sure that the new regional Chi Onwurah: Will the Minister or the Deputy Prime growth fund decisions have a proper input from elected Minister explain to me their definition of the localism councils and local authorities, rather than— that means that local people in Newcastle will have no say locally in the boundaries imposed on them because there will be no opportunity for a local public inquiry? Mr Speaker: Order. We have got the gist of it. Questions and answers must be brief. Mr Harper: Clearly, the hon. Lady has not read the The Deputy Prime Minister: I am interested that the Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill, hon. Gentleman should think that the abolition of the which we published last week. We are actually extending regional development agencies and Government offices the consultation period for local people from one month is somehow a blow against localism. Our view is that the to three months, to give local people, local organisations Government offices had become a representation of and political parties more opportunity to comment on Whitehall in the regions, rather than a voice for the the boundary commission proposals, not less. regions in Whitehall. Equally, some RDAs do a good job, but he knows as well as I do that many local Jacob Rees-Mogg (North East Somerset) (Con): In communities do not identify with regional development considering this matter, will the Minister bear in mind agencies. That is why we were right to say that it was up the fact that people have historic loyalties to the traditional to local communities to come together with the private counties of England, not to administrative regions? In 847 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 848 particular, will the people of Somerset be allowed their fact that Labour Members do not believe in seats of historic county, not some monstrous, vague, administrative equal size and votes counting equally across the whole nonsense? of the United Kingdom.

Mr Harper: If he has looked at the Bill, my hon. Voter Registration Friend will know that the boundary commissions are able to take into account local ties, but only to the 3. Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): What extent that we can still have equal-sized constituencies. assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the They are able to look at those things, but we think that system of voter registration in Great Britain. [11075] the principle of equal-sized seats is most important and should take priority. The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr Nick Clegg): The Electoral Commission reports that the completeness of Mr Jack Straw (Blackburn) (Lab): Will the Minister Great Britain’s electoral registers remains broadly similar confirm that under the Bill, local boundaries, including to the levels achieved in comparative countries. The county boundaries, can be completely ignored and that Government want to improve the accuracy of the register the only boundaries required to be observed are the by speeding up the introduction of individual electoral national boundaries? Will he also confirm that under registration in Great Britain. We are also considering the Bill the Boundary Commission will be required, by giving electoral registration officers the capacity to compare law, to begin the process of redrawing the boundaries the data on their electoral registers with other, readily for the whole of the United Kingdom in the Isle of available, public data to identify individuals who may Wight—to transfer 35,000 voters in that constituency not be registered. across the Solent into Hampshire, and then to work up the United Kingdom in an equally arbitrary way, with Mr Amess: Over the past 13 years, there was much no public inquiries? talk by the last rotten Labour Government about sorting out the shambles of electoral registration. What plans I heard the Minister’s waffle about extra consultation, do the new Government have to speed up the process of but that is no substitute whatever for independent public introducing individual registration? inquiries, which the Government are abolishing because they are scared of the results. How does what is in the The Deputy Prime Minister: I agree with my hon. Bill fit with any idea of the practice of localism and Friend that far too little progress was made by the greater transparency that the Deputy Prime Minister previous Government in dealing with this issue. We will has just promised? accelerate the process of individual electoral registration, and we will make announcements about that shortly. Mr Harper: There were so many questions in there Our whole approach to this is governed by two principles: that it is not clear which one to answer. First, we are not first, to bear down on fraud in the system, of which proposing to move anybody who currently lives on the individual electoral registration is a key component; Isle of Wight; I think that they will continue to live and secondly, further to improve the completeness of where they are. The right hon. Gentleman is talking the register itself. If Members in all parts of the House nonsense. We do not lay down a prescriptive method for have particular ideas about how the annual canvass can the boundary commissions to draw the boundaries; be improved, the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, they are independent, and they will continue to draw my hon. Friend the Member for Forest of Dean the boundaries. Frankly, the hyperbole that he has come (Mr Harper), who is responsible for constitutional reform, out with today and in his reasoned amendment to the will be keen to hear their views. That is why we are Bill bears no relation to the proposals that we published having the pilot scheme this autumn to allow electoral last week. registration officers to compare the register with other databases, go to the homes of people who are not on the Mr Straw rose— electoral register and ensure that they get on to the electoral register. Mr Speaker: Order. Let me say to the right hon. Gentleman that the second question needs to be shorter. Mr David Blunkett (Sheffield, Brightside and Hillsborough) (Lab): But perhaps the Deputy Prime Minister would turn his mind to the reality of what is about to happen Mr Straw: The Minister has obviously not read his with the boundary changes that we have been discussing. own Bill. If community cohesion is good enough for Is it not a fact that this is a straight gerrymander, and separate seats on the outer isles of Scotland and for the that if he meant what he said, he would delay the invention of an entirely artificial rule to protect the seat boundary changes until there was a full 100% compulsory of a former leader of the Liberal Democrats, why is it register based on the reality of where people actually not good enough for the rest of the United Kingdom? live so that we do not end up with the distortion of taking away seats in inner-city areas? Mr Harper: The right hon. Gentleman knows that there are two exceptions, which are the two Scottish The Deputy Prime Minister: The right hon. Gentleman seats that have unique geography.There is not an exception talks about straight facts; here are some straight facts. for the seat of the former leader of the Liberal Democrats; Last December, Islington North’s electorate was 66,472. it is simply a rule to prevent the boundary commission Just 10 miles away, East Ham’s electorate was 87,809. It from drawing an extraordinarily large seat, and his cannot be right to have constituencies in which the boundaries are able to be redrawn in the same way as worth of people’s votes is so very different from place to anybody’s else’s. All this bluster simply highlights the place. Fairness is a simple principle that should operate 849 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 850 in our democracy. He should also be aware that 218 of have been reduced to a pathetic rump of 65 MPs, does the existing constituencies are already within 5% either he not think that precisely because AVis not proportional, side of the 76,000 threshold that will operate when the it raises complicated questions? It is extraordinarily boundary review is conducted. In other words, more dangerous, therefore, to have the referendum on the than a third of Members here are already in line with same day as other elections, namely the Scottish elections. the new rules. What on earth is wrong with fairer votes We need a proper debate on the issue. across the whole of the country? The Deputy Prime Minister: About 84% of voters in Peter Bottomley (Worthing West) (Con): Would it be England will be voting, or eligible to vote, next May. In possible to go to those who have great details, such as Scotland and Wales everybody will be entitled to vote. credit agencies and mobile phone operators, and within About 39 million people will be invited to vote next data protection law use their private information to May, and it seems to me that instead of asking people help to ensure that the canvass is complete? to constantly go back to polling booths to cast separate votes, it is perfectly right to invite them to have their The Deputy Prime Minister: We certainly want to see say on a simple yes/no issue on the same day, at, by the what we can do in the pilot schemes that will start this way, a lower cost to the Exchequer—it will save about autumn to compare the electoral register database with £17 million. other readily available databases, public and private, obviously entirely in keeping with data protection rules. Topical Questions The sole objective will be to allow electoral registration officers to go to people’s homes and say, “We’ve seen by comparing these databases that you’re not on the electoral T1. [11082] Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): If he will register. That’s why we would like you to come on to the make a statement on his Ministerial responsibilities. electoral register.” Let us remember that Opposition Members, who are making a great deal of noise about The Deputy Prime Minister: As Deputy Prime Minister, this now, did nothing to improve the electoral register I support the Prime Minister in the full range of for 13 years. Government policy and initiatives. Within Government I take direct responsibility for this Government’s programme AV Referendum (Scotland) of political and constitutional reform.

4. Jim McGovern (Dundee West) (Lab): What recent Charlie Elphicke: May I ask the Deputy Prime Minister discussions he has had with the Scottish Executive on about his responsibilities as regards the great repeal preparations for the proposed referendum on the Bill, and whether it may be brought forward in the next alternative vote system. [11077] Session?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr Nick Clegg): It was The Deputy Prime Minister: As my hon. Friend may right and important that Parliament was the first to know, our priority in the autumn is the freedom Bill, know about proposals for a referendum on the alternative and that will be the principal legislative vehicle to repeal vote. The Bill will be debated in Parliament, and we will and pare back many of the incursions that have occurred listen also to views from all the devolved Administrations. into our privacy, civil liberties and great tradition of I have written to the First Minister in Edinburgh to freedom, which were so roundly abused by the previous explain the reasons behind our proposed timetable for Government. the referendum. Mr Jack Straw (Blackburn) (Lab): On the assumption Jim McGovern: The Deputy Prime Minister must that the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister understand the level of anger in Scotland on this issue, are not holidaying together in Montana, will the Deputy and the fact that there was no consultation with the Prime Minister say if and when he will be in charge of Scottish Parliament before the decision was made has the country when the Prime Minister is away on holiday? increased that anger. Did he ever consult the Scottish Parliament before making it, and will he now discuss it The Deputy Prime Minister: As already announced with it? by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House, the Prime Minister will take his vacation in the second half The Deputy Prime Minister: As I said, I thought it of August. He will remain Prime Minister and in overall right that this Parliament was the first to know about charge of the Government, of course, but I will of such a major issue. I simply do not understand why it is course be available to hold the fort. considered in any way a detraction from the Holyrood elections next May in Scotland that, at the same time, people across the United Kingdom should be asked to T2. [11083] Paul Uppal (Wolverhampton South West) reply to a simple yes/no question on whether they want (Con): What measures is the Deputy Prime Minister the alternative vote. It is disrespectful to the voters and taking to tackle postal voting fraud, which particularly people of Scotland to suggest that somehow they are affected me during the last general election? incapable of making two decisions at once. The Deputy Prime Minister: As I said earlier— Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): Notwithstanding [Interruption.] the fact that my new and best right hon. Friend would, I am sure, now deprecate the fact that if we had had the Mr Speaker: Order. Witticisms aside, I want to hear alternative vote in 1997 the Conservative party would the reply of the Deputy Prime Minister. 851 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 852

The Deputy Prime Minister: In 2006, new measures right of the Boundary Commission to hold local public were introduced by the previous Government—measures inquiries. How is that empowering local people to have that the Liberal Democrats supported—to improve the understandable, local boundaries that respect acknowledged personal identifiers required in the administration of local communities? postal votes. We want to build on that work and are reflecting further on the matter. We welcome views The Deputy Prime Minister: As my the Parliamentary from either side of the House on how we can further Secretary, Cabinet Office, my hon. Friend the Member strengthen measures to deal with fraud. As I said earlier, for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper), said earlier, we are one of the fundamental principles that guides all our extending the period of consultation on proposals for work on such matters is ensuring that everybody who the independent boundary commissions from one month can, and is entitled, to vote is on the register, so that to three—[Interruption.] I hear a lot of chuntering they do vote, and ensuring that fraud is tackled wherever from Opposition Members, but I ask them again to it arises. consider this question: what is wrong with trying to create greater fairness and equality in the conduct of T3. [11084] Jack Dromey (Birmingham, Erdington) our democracy? They seem to think that the measure is (Lab): On 22 June, the Deputy Prime Minister told the somehow targeted at them, but I remind them that the House that the decision not to proceed with the loan to problem of gaps in the electoral register occurs not Sheffield Forgemasters was a consequence of the reluctance just in inner-city areas, but in coastal constituencies, of the shareholders to dilute their shareholding. Today, where there is a pattern of under-registration, and in a written statement from the Business Secretary clarifies constituencies— that it was an issue of affordability. The Government have announced a £1 billion regional growth fund. Were the company to make a fresh application, will the Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): What are you doing Deputy Prime Minister give an undertaking to the about it? House that it will be considered as a matter of priority, and will he support it as a Sheffield Member of Parliament? The Deputy Prime Minister: The hon. Lady screams from a sedentary position to ask what we are doing The Deputy Prime Minister: In the written statement about it, but what did she do about it for 13 years? to which the hon. Gentleman alludes, the Business Secretary concludes: T7. [11088] Mr David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) “We have made clear that we stand ready to work closely with (Con): If the referendum on AV is successful and the the company as it pursues its ambitions and we are willing to look voting system is changed for parliamentary elections, carefully at all proposals, as we would for any project” does my right hon. Friend have any plans to reform the from any other company voting system for local government elections? “when the future availability of public funds becomes clearer after the completion of the spending review.” The Deputy Prime Minister: There is of course a The hon. Gentleman will know that the issue was the legitimate debate to be held about the voting systems lack of affordability in this year’s current Budget, because for local government, but we have already embarked on we discovered when we came into government that the a fairly rich menu of political and constitutional reforms, previous Government had promised £9 billion more and we have no plans at present to make changes to the than departmental budgets. That was wrong. That is electoral arrangements for local government. why it was wrong for Government Ministers at the time to write out cheques that they knew would bounce. T5. [11086] Hugh Bayley (York Central) (Lab): What is the coalition Government’s policy on the legality of the T6. [11087] James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): I UK invasion of Iraq? welcome the Government’s plans for fewer and more equal-sized constituencies. However, I notice that we are proposing to reduce the number of MPs only to The Deputy Prime Minister: I am happy to confirm 600. Was a greater reduction considered, and if so, why that what I said last week at Prime Minister’s questions was it rejected? about the legality of the war was a personal opinion— [Interruption.] Labour Members may laugh, but I welcome the fact that they are asking questions about that disastrous The Deputy Prime Minister: In considering how to decision now. It would have been handy if they had reduce the cost of politics and the size of the House, asked those questions when it was first taken. which is far larger than the vast majority of equivalent Chambers in mature democracies around the world, we had to balance two things. As I said, we had to balance T8. [11089] John Stevenson (Carlisle) (Con): The coalition reducing the cost—50 fewer MPs means a saving of about Government are committed to equal-sized constituencies £12 million per year—against the ability of hon. Members for Westminster elections. In my constituency, we have on both sides of the House to serve their constituencies discrepancies in local government wards of nearly 20%. and constituents. That is why we arrived at the cut of Does the Deputy Prime Minister support the principle around 7.6% in the total number, to 600 MPs. of equal-sized wards for local elections, and what action will he take to ensure that that happens? Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): In his statement on 5 July, the Deputy Prime Minister said he wanted to The Deputy Prime Minister: As I said in an earlier empower local people, but the Parliamentary Voting reply, there are of course legitimate questions about System and Constituencies Bill specifically excludes the how elections are conducted for local councils. It is not 853 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 854 something that we have plans at present to embark on, bothered to tell people what they meant in practice, so simply because we have a heavy agenda of constitutional we are having to do the work for them. The structural and political reforms that we are seeking to progress. deficit is £12 billion higher than we were told by the Therefore at present we do not have plans to revisit the previous Government. These are difficult decisions. issue that my hon. Friend raises. However, I hope the hon. Gentleman will agree that what we have said in the Budget on increasing the allowance—the T9. [11090] Dr Alan Whitehead (Southampton, Test) point at which people start paying income tax—on the (Lab): The Deputy Prime Minister has announced that extra, including up to £2 billion over the coming years the consultations for the new constituency boundaries in child tax credits, on the guarantee that pensions will will be minimal and not involve communities. How does be increased by 2.5% above inflation— he reconcile that minimal consultation with the Prime Minister’s pronouncements about the big society, Mr Speaker: Order. This sounds like a suitable subject community engagement and power passing from the for an Adjournment debate. centre to communities, giving them the right to make representations about how they are represented? T10. [11091] Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): Just this morning, the Deputy Prime Minister sent us The Deputy Prime Minister: It seems to me that all a very helpful letter about the forthcoming Bill on extending the period during which representations can the alternative vote system and so on. In it, he wrote: be made from one month to three months is not minimising “The Government also believes it is important to give people a people’s ability to make their views known: it is doing choice over their electoral system.” exactly the reverse. Given that, why will the forthcoming referendum offer only a choice between first past the post and AV, which Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): A vital part he himself described as a pathetic excuse for a voting of rebuilding trust in our political system is giving system? Why will it not also offer the single transferable constituents the power to call a by-election if their MP vote? has been found guilty of wrongdoing. I am delighted that the right of recall is in the coalition agreement, but The Deputy Prime Minister: Let me remind my hon. can my right hon. Friend tell us when he will bring Friend that, during the general election, there was a forward legislation to implement this? party—the Labour party—that wanted to press ahead with the alternative vote and another party—the Liberal The Deputy Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is right. Democrats—that believed in a more proportional voting By the time the election was called, I think that all system. parties had a manifesto commitment to introduce a As is the nature of a coalition agreement, we reached power of recall, whereby if it were proved that a Member a compromise—[Interruption.] Opposition Members of Parliament was guilty of serious wrongdoing, his or talk about pluralism and choice in politics, but only if it her constituents would not have to wait until the next is on the basis of things that they want, not what general election to cast judgment on the fitness of that anybody else wants. individual to continue to represent them, but would be able to trigger a process of recall by a petition from 10% Anas Sarwar (Glasgow Central) (Lab): One hundred of constituents. We intend to bring forward that proposal and fifty Labour MPs voted against the Iraq war. How in legislation next year, and I hope that it will enjoy many of the Deputy Prime Minister’s new bedfellows cross-party support. did?

Ian Paisley (North Antrim) (DUP): My constituent The Deputy Prime Minister: I am not a walking Karen Taylor received a letter from the Deputy Prime encyclopaedia of how people voted, but of course I pay Minister on 21 June saying that we can cut public tribute to the small number of Labour MPs who did spending in a way that is fair and responsible and stick to their consciences and asked difficult questions. asking her to provide ideas about getting more for less, However, what I find astonishing is that now Labour not to hold back, to be innovative, radical and challenge Members seem to be exercised about the matter despite the ways things are done. I know that my constituent having not raised the alarm when they should have has replied to you, indicating that she wants you to done—when the decision was taken in the first place. invest more in public services, to pull the economy out of recession and stop the use of consultants. How do you intend to reply?

Mr Speaker: Order. I do not intend to reply at all, but ATTORNEY-GENERAL I hope that the Deputy Prime Minister does.

The Deputy Prime Minister: I certainly agree with the The Attorney-General was asked— last suggestion—that there was a bonanza of consultants in the programmes conducted by the last Government. Defendant Anonymity One consultant was even made a millionaire from the fees alone in the Building Schools for the Future 1. Barbara Keeley (Worsley and Eccles South) (Lab): programme. So of course we need fewer consultants. As What recent representations he has received on the the hon. Gentleman knows, we have entered government effect of introducing anonymity for defendants in rape having to deal with a very difficult situation. The last cases on rates of prosecution by the Crown Prosecution Government announced £50 billion of cuts, but had not Service in such cases. [11102] 855 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 856

2. Geraint Davies (Swansea West) (Lab/Co-op): What Violence against Women recent representations he has received on the effect of introducing anonymity for defendants in rape cases on 3. Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): What the outcomes rates of prosecution by the Crown Prosecution Service were of the Crown Prosecution Service’s review of its in such cases. [11105] violence against women strategy. [11106]

The Attorney-General (Mr Dominic Grieve): The Crown 7. Luciana Berger (Liverpool, Wavertree) (Lab/Co-op): Prosecution Service’s violence against women strategy, What recent representations he has received on the 2008 to 2011, was published in June 2008. No review effect of introducing anonymity for defendants in rape has been carried out to date. Quarterly assurance is cases on rates of prosecution by the Crown Prosecution provided by the voluntary sector, and annual reports Service in such cases. [11110] are published. The assessment of the benefits of the strategy on violence against women prosecutions will be The Solicitor-General (Mr Edward Garnier): The direct made in 2011. answer is none. The responsibility for the policy lies with the Secretary of State for Justice. Mr Hanson: I am grateful for that reply. Does the Minister accept that the concerted effort of the previous, Labour Government led to a 64% reduction in the Barbara Keeley: There is a serious concern that if we incidence of domestic violence according to the British introduce anonymity for defendants in rape cases, other crime survey? Will he therefore ensure that potential witnesses will not then come forward and rates of cuts of 25% in CPS funding and his Department will prosecution will drop. Hon. Members understood that not lead to a lesser focus on domestic violence issues, the Government were to compile all available research which are important not just to women, but to the and statistics, and report to the House before the summer. whole community? However, reports in the media say that that will not now happen. Will the hon. and learned Gentleman urge the The Attorney-General: I have no reason to disagree in Ministry of Justice to commission research into the any way with what the right hon. Gentleman has said. impact on victims of rape and their likelihood of reporting He is right that, for example, successful prosecutions the crime if anonymity is granted to defendants? from charge to conviction have significantly increased, from 65% in 2006-07 to 72% in 2009-10, against an The Solicitor-General: The research is ongoing and increasing volume of such prosecutions. The number of will be published in the autumn, but I can assure the discontinued cases has fallen, from 26% in 2006-07 to hon. Lady that the Ministry of Justice has the matter 21% in 2009-10. Similar statistics apply to rape cases. well in hand. Although there will clearly be financial constraints on all Departments, let me reassure him that it is certainly my intention and that of the Director of Public Prosecutions Geraint Davies: I have received many representations, to ensure that the CPS can maintain its record of including from Swansea student union and women’s momentum and good progress in this area. groups in Swansea. Will the hon. and learned Gentleman now confirm once and for all, given the rumours, that Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): Is it not the case he intends to drop plans to stop police giving out the that one of the reasons for the progress in successfully names of those accused of rape whom the police believe prosecuting domestic violence and rape cases that the are serial rapists? right hon. and learned Gentleman has reported is the existence of independent domestic violence advocates and independent sexual violence advocates? Will he give The Solicitor-General: I am not sure of any such the House a commitment that he will continue to resource proposals, but if the hon. Gentleman has information such a programme—a programme that is helping women that would help me to reach a proper conclusion, or if bring their attackers to justice—or persuade his colleagues he wishes to refer the matter to the Ministry of Justice, who are budget holders to do so? which has the policy lead on this issue, or the Home Office, given that it has responsibility for the police, I The Attorney-General: Yes, there are currently am sure his representations would be gratefully received. 141 specialist domestic violence courts, and in these courts there is the assistance of independent domestic Luciana Berger: I am very disappointed to hear that violence advisers, as the hon. Lady says. Indeed, as she the research is now not going to be out until the and I both know, in Slough there is an excellent voluntary autumn. An answer from a Justice Minister, on 17 June, service helping those who have been the victims of said that it would be published before the summer domestic violence. I will do all that I can to reassure her recess. Will the research alluded to be original research that there is no intention of allowing that excellence to into the incidence of malicious false accusations of be diminished. Clearly, I accept that in times of financial rape, or will it be a survey of existing evidence? constraints we will look across the board at everything. However, as matters stand at the moment, it is the intention of the Crown Prosecution Service, as well as The Solicitor-General: The research will be research, my intention as the Attorney-General, to ensure that and no doubt we will look into the matter as a whole. I the progress that has been made in this area is maintained. am sorry to disappoint the hon. Lady—this must be very annoying for her—but she really needs to address Maria Eagle (Garston and Halewood) (Lab): I welcome her questions to the Ministry of Justice, which is the the right hon. and learned Gentleman’s comments about lead Ministry dealing with the issue. his continuing focus on the issue. However, now that he 857 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 858 has given up his role of co-ordinating the policy response organisations to prevent bribery, is intended to encourage to domestic violence across the criminal justice system commercial organisations to self-refer and co-operate. as a whole, and in view of the CPS submission to the This is one of the reasons why it is hoped and expected Treasury—we have all read it on The Guardian website: that, in many cases, expenditure on major trial processes it says that delivering only key priorities will be affordable will not be necessary. The £2 million that has been in future—will he confirm today, in terms, that tackling identified is the Serious Fraud Office’s best assessment domestic violence will indeed be one of those key of what will be needed to take this policy forward. priorities for the CPS and him? Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): May I suggest one The Attorney-General: Yes, I am happy to confirm other area in which the Serious Fraud Office should do that tackling domestic violence will remain a key priority. a bit more work? It relates to the suborning of police However, going back to the point that I made last time I officers. We have only to read a couple of tabloid answered questions about the role of the Attorney-General newspapers every day to see that newspapers and journalists and the office, perhaps I could explain that the decision pay police officers for stories, which constitutes suborning to cease taking a lead in this area is reflective of the size a police officer. of the Law Officers’ office and their ability to drive such an agenda. There is a trilateral partnership, as the hon. The Attorney-General: By its nature, the Serious Fraud Lady is aware. The role of the Law Officers is to be Office is concerned principally with offences of serious heavily involved in that tripartite relationship, providing fraud. I certainly think that suborning a police officer is policy advice and helping to drive agendas. However, it an extremely serious offence, but it seems to me to be a is right and proper that driving the agenda in question matter that is more likely to lie with the Crown Prosecution should lie with another Department, because those Service. other Departments are specifically resourced to introduce People with Disabilities (Victims of Rape) the necessary legislation. 6. Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): What assistance Serious Fraud Office the Crown Prosecution Service gives to people with disabilities who are giving evidence as victims in rape 5. Hugh Bayley (York Central) (Lab): What cases. [11109] assessment he has made of the resource implications for the Serious Fraud Office of the implementation of the The Solicitor-General (Mr Edward Garnier): Giving Bribery Act 2010. [11108] evidence as a victim in a rape case must be a traumatic experience, no matter whether the person has a disability The Attorney-General (Mr Dominic Grieve): An impact or not. The Crown Prosecution Service endeavours to assessment was prepared for the Bribery Bill when it ensure that individually tailored support is given to all was introduced into Parliament in November 2009, and victims. Victims with disabilities are eligible for a range the Serious Fraud Office contributed to it. The impact of special measures to enable them to give their best assessment estimated that the new offence of failure by evidence. In appropriate cases, prosecutors offer to meet a commercial organisation to prevent bribery would victims personally to discuss the need for special measures. result in one additional contested criminal prosecution per year of a commercial organisation by the Serious Kerry McCarthy: I am afraid that the Minister’s Fraud Office. The overall cost to the SFO was estimated answer reflects the fact that my question has appeared at £2 million a year. As regards the implementation of on the Order Paper in a substantially different form the Bribery Act, funding for the SFO from April 2011— from how it went into the Table Office. What I am really which is when the Act is expected to come into force—will, concerned about is that people with disabilities, particularly as with all other Government Departments, be settled learning disabilities, are disproportionately the victims in the current spending review. The SFO expects to be of rape, yet the prosecution rate in such cases is very able to carry out all its normal functions, including low. What more can be done to ensure that, despite any Bribery Act investigations and prosecutions, within that difficulties they might have in giving evidence, their funding settlement. cases are brought to court?

Hugh Bayley: Our international obligations under The Solicitor-General: I will endeavour to assist the United Nations and OECD conventions require us not hon. Lady, irrespective of the way in which her question only to have an effective law to prohibit transnational ended up on the Order Paper. First, I want to congratulate bribery but to enforce that law. Given that the cost of her on her appointment as the shadow Minister for enforcing the new Bribery Act is about £2 million a those affected by disability issues. I am sure that she will year, will the Serious Fraud Office have that amount of be an active participant in these debates, and I hope that money set aside to fulfil its obligations under the Act policy will develop as a consequence—[Interruption.] I from April next year? was endeavouring to be genuinely helpful, Mr Speaker. The main point that I want to get across to the hon. The Attorney-General: As I indicated a moment ago, Lady is that any prosecution depends on evidence, and the view of the Serious Fraud Office is that, on the basis achieving best evidence from people with disabilities is of its submissions, it will have the necessary resources— vital. If she is right in saying that a disproportionate including that £2 million—to do what is necessary in number of people with disabilities are raped and that this area. It is worth remembering that the policy, which their cases do not get to trial, we must do all that we was commenced by the previous Government, was designed can—and I do mean “we”—to ensure that their evidence to limit the number of contested cases. For example, is presented to court in a way that juries can consider section 7 of the Act, which covers the failure by commercial and, if appropriate, bring in a true verdict of guilty. 859 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 860

Sir Alan Beith (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): Will the women. As I mentioned earlier, successful prosecutions Attorney-General keep in mind the recommendation of of domestic violence have significantly increased from the Justice Committee that the courts are quite capable 65% in 2006-07 to 72% in 2009-10. We believe that these of treating people with learning disabilities, and those roles have been key contributors to such improvement. with mental health problems, as credible witnesses? The Crown Prosecution Service should not be frightened to Bridget Phillipson: The introduction under the Labour bring such witnesses before the courts. Government of specialist prosecutors has no doubt been a crucial factor in driving up the success rate of The Solicitor-General: I entirely agree with the right prosecutions in cases of domestic violence. Will he hon. Gentleman. As I hope I indicated in my first reply, commit the CPS to continue to focus its efforts on the Crown Prosecution Service does its very best to prosecuting perpetrators of domestic violence? ensure that all victims of rape are properly treated and that their evidence is put before the court so that the alleged defendants, or alleged criminals, can be brought The Attorney-General: As I mentioned earlier, the to justice. I have absolutely no doubt that the CPS will CPS sees the prosecution of domestic violence as being do its very best. I should add that, having recently one of its key priorities—there are, of course, others, attended the Judicial Studies Board course on serious but it is one of them. For that reason, it has no intention sex offences, I know that the judiciary are acutely aware of relaxing or giving up on trying to ensure that these of the need to deal with the sort of problems that the cases are properly prosecuted and taken through the right hon. Gentleman mentioned. courts.

Caroline Flint (Don Valley) (Lab): Given that one of the vulnerabilities that people with learning disabilities face is that if they are abused or raped in a residential ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE setting, some of those carrying out these rapes will move to another care home and might get lost in the system, and given that the Government have announced The hon. Member for South West Devon, representing that they no longer intend to proceed with putting the the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission application for anonymity on to a legislative basis, but was asked— want to look at non-statutory options, may I urge the Solicitor-General and his right hon. and learned Friend Voter Registration the Attorney-General to ensure that there is wide consultation on any non-statutory option to extend 1. Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): What recent anonymity? representations the Electoral Commission has received on the effect of individual voter registration on the The Solicitor-General: The point is well made and accuracy of the electoral register. [11092] noted. Mr Gary Streeter (South West Devon): The Electoral Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) (Con): Commission informs me that since January 2010 it has Certain European jurisdictions have the use of specialist received representations from two Members of Parliament rape courts, which enable best evidence and have increased on the possible effect of individual electoral registrations conviction rates, so would the Attorney-General consider on the accuracy of the electoral register. that?

The Solicitor-General: All judges who try serious Kevin Brennan: I thank the hon. Gentleman for that sexual offences cases are specially trained, as are the answer. Individual voter registration is something that prosecutors from the Crown Prosecution Service and the Electoral Commission has always favoured and has the people who assist prior to trials, such as those who passed through this House on the promise that steps work in the sexual assault referral centres and the would be taken to ensure that it did not impact on the independent domestic and sexual violence advisers, who number of people registered to vote. Has he had any were mentioned in an earlier question. My hon. Friend discussions with the Commission about what it is going makes a good point, which underlines our earlier to do to ensure that individual voter registration, which discussions. has now been speeded up by the current Government, will not mean that thousands and thousands of extra Domestic Violence people are not registered to vote?

8. Bridget Phillipson (Houghton and Sunderland South) Mr Speaker: Let me say to the hon. Gentleman and (Lab): What assessment he has made of the effects of others that there are other questioners. Questions need the appointment of domestic violence specialist Crown to be a lot shorter and sharper. prosecutors on the effectiveness of prosecutions for domestic violence offences. [11111] Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission is extremely concerned to maintain the accuracy and completeness The Attorney-General (Mr Dominic Grieve): All Crown of the register, and the hon. Gentleman is right to raise Prosecution Service prosecutors have been trained in the point. It now awaits the Government’s bringing domestic violence cases. Dedicated prosecutors are linked forward of their proposals on speeding up individual to specialist domestic violence courts and each CPS electoral registration. It will then, of course, give its area has a co-ordinator to deal with violence against advice to Government in the usual way. 861 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 862

Electoral Reform Mr Streeter: Individual electoral registration officers are responsible for the management of electoral registration. 2. Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): What However, the commission undertakes public awareness discussions the Electoral Commission has had with activities to encourage voter registration. As a result of Government Departments on funding levels necessary its campaign before the general election, more than half for it to undertake its functions under the Government’s a million standard and 40,000 overseas voter registration programme of electoral reform. [11093] forms were downloaded from its website.

Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission informs me Mr Hollobone: What is the commission’s estimate of that its chair and chief executive have held discussions the number of unregistered voters in the United Kingdom with the Deputy Prime Minister on the commission’s and overseas? Would it not be a good idea if every time role in relation to a referendum on changes to the an unregistered voter came into contact with a Government voting system for the United Kingdom Parliament, and Department, the Department asked the voter, “Are you on the funds that it will require to perform that role. on the electoral roll?” The commission also informs me that it has not held discussions with the Government about the funding implications of other proposals for electoral reform. Mr Streeter: I think it is fairly well known that there are estimated to be about 3.5 million unregistered voters Helen Goodman: If there is one thing more important in England and Wales. As several million British people than tackling the deficit, it is the integrity of our live overseas and only about 15,000 are on our voting democratic system. The hon. Gentleman has set out register, there is clearly a huge job to be done in relation part of the ambitious programme of reform with which to overseas voters. I will pass my hon. Friend’s interesting the Electoral Commission is having to deal. Will he also suggestion to the powers that be. press the Deputy Prime Minister to ring-fence the commission so that its budget will not be cut at this Mr Phil Woolas (Oldham East and Saddleworth) difficult time? (Lab): One of the main reasons why people, especially young men, stay off the electoral register is the fact that Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission expects to their partners can often receive the single person’s council have to spend about £9.3 million in connection with the tax discount. Does the hon. Gentleman think it would referendum on the alternative voting system. I am sure be a good idea to look at that relationship to establish that the House will approve that amount, and I do not whether the benefits and, indeed, the tax system could expect any difficulty to be involved in providing the be used to encourage electoral registration? commission with sufficient resources to enable it to do its job properly. Mr Streeter: I am not sure that that is a matter for the Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): During his Electoral Commission, but the hon. Gentleman will discussions with the Electoral Commission about the have heard the Deputy Prime Minister say earlier today cost of the forthcoming referendum on electoral reform, that the Government were considering using existing did the Deputy Prime Minister tell the commission how databases to inform electoral registration better, and much the referendum would cost if it were held on I think that that is probably one of the answers. 5 May and how much it would cost if it were held on some other date? Greg Hands (Chelsea and Fulham) (Con): In recent years, thousands of Polish nationals in Hammersmith Mr Streeter: I am afraid I do not know the precise and Fulham have voted in Polish national elections at answer to that question, but no doubt the Deputy polling stations set up for the purpose in locations such Prime Minister will be in touch with my hon. Friend to as the Polish cultural centre in Hammersmith. Has the make the position clear. Electoral Commission had any discussions with the Government to establish whether we might be able to Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): The extra jobs that do the same for United Kingdom nationals based abroad, the Electoral Commission will have to do in helping enabling them to vote in United Kingdom embassies with individual registration and so forth will cost money and consulates? if the system is going to work. Will the hon. Gentleman agree to be the champion of the additional resources Mr Streeter: My hon. Friend has made a good point. that the commission will require, and will he argue for I believe that such discussions have taken place over the them with his colleagues in Government? last two or three years. However, decisions of that kind are ultimately a matter for Government, and it will be Mr Streeter: I am happy to be considered to be a for Government to make any changes to the existing champion on that issue. I have little doubt that the law. Electoral Commission, which has an important role to play in overseeing the political processes in this country, will receive sufficient resources to enable it to do its job. Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): Has the Electoral Commission conducted any research into the impact of Voter Registration our process of applying for citizenship on a reluctance to register, and if it has not, may I urge the hon. 3. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): What steps Gentleman to encourage it to do so? I am thinking in the Electoral Commission is taking to include on particular of the level of fees that are charged; does that electoral registers eligible unregistered voters resident put people off becoming citizens and therefore going on (a) in the UK and (b) overseas. [11094] to acquire the right to vote? 863 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 864

Mr Streeter: The hon. Lady raises an important appointment of a female bishop, which will undoubtedly point. I am not aware of any such research, but I will happen soon, must be on merit rather than political certainly pass that suggestion on to the Electoral correctness? Commission. Tony Baldry: I am sure that all appointments in the Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) Church of England, including that of the Second Church (LD): Will the hon. Gentleman invite the Electoral Estates Commissioner, are made on merit. Commission to come up with radical proposals for improving the level of registration of people entitled to vote in the UK and to consult with the public urgently on ideas for achieving that, because there are many ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE ideas out there that need to be collected and shared with Government so we can have a much better registration system? The hon. Member for South West Devon, representing the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission Mr Streeter: I am very happy to pass those suggestions was asked— on to the Electoral Commission. It is worth making the point that Governments of all colours have attempted Referendums (Timing) over the years—indeed, over the decades—to improve voter registration and the Electoral Commission runs 7. Jessica Morden (Newport East) (Lab): What well-resourced public awareness campaigns, but there is assessment the Electoral Commission has made of the still a group of hard-to-reach people in this country. effects of holding referendums on the same day as I will certainly pass his suggestions on to the Electoral other elections. [11098] Commission, however. Mr Gary Streeter (South West Devon): The Electoral Commission set out its position on the proposal to hold a UK-wide referendum next year on changes to the CHURCH COMMISSIONERS voting system to the UK Parliament in a statement on Thursday 22 July, a copy of which has been placed in the Library. The commission said in its statement that The hon. Member for Banbury, representing the Church on balance it believes it should be possible to deliver Commissioners, was asked— the different polls proposed for 5 May 2011 if the key practical risks in doing so are properly managed. The Women Bishops commission will advise Government and Parliament if these risks have not been adequately addressed at the 6. Diana R. Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) appropriate stage during consideration of the Parliamentary (Lab): What recent representations he has received on Voting System and Constituencies Bill. proposals for the consecration of women as bishops. [11097] Jessica Morden: Given that the Deputy Prime Minister did not have the courtesy to consult the Welsh Assembly The Second Church Estates Commissioner (Tony Baldry): Government before making the decision to have the I have received numerous representations from people alternative vote referendum on the same day as the on all sides of the argument. I recently addressed Welsh Assembly elections, will the Electoral Commission the General Synod of the Church of England on this be listening to the concerns in Wales about the distraction matter in York, and I have placed a copy of my statement caused by holding the two elections on one day, particularly in the Library. in terms of competing media campaigns?

Diana R. Johnson: Will the hon. Gentleman take a Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission is extremely guess as to when he thinks we will have the historic first good at consulting all its stakeholders, and that will woman bishop in the Church of England? When does certainly involve all kinds of interest groups in Wales in he think that will be? the run-up to the referendum.

Tony Baldry: The legislation completed its Report Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): Will the stage at York. It now has to go to all the 44 dioceses of hon. Gentleman tell us why the Electoral Commission the Church of England. If a majority of them agree, it has changed its view? will go back to General Synod, probably in 2012. If two thirds of each of the General Synod’s houses agree to it, Mr Streeter: In November 2009 the Electoral I would then expect it to come here to the Ecclesiastical Commission took a long look at all the international Committee and this House in 2013, and if this House experience of holding different kinds of votes and agrees, we could see the appointment of the first woman referendums on the same day and came to the conclusion bishop in 2014. that, in principle, it is wrong to maintain that we cannot hold two votes on the same day along the lines that it Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin) (Con): As someone had previously indicated. However, it is of course looking who considered entering the ministry but realised I had to make sure that the key safeguards are in place, too many vices and not enough virtues, may I commend notably those relating to public awareness and the design the life and ministry of women in the Church, but also of ballot papers, and it will advise Government on that ask my hon. Friend whether he agrees that the first well before the referendum next May. 865 Oral Answers27 JULY 2010 Oral Answers 866

CHURCH COMMISSIONERS to the Government that funds withdrawn from RDAs should be made available to other regional or local bodies, and that funding applications to these bodies The hon. Member for Banbury, representing the Church from cathedrals should still be supported? Commissioners, was asked— Women Bishops Tony Baldry: I understand the point the hon. Gentleman makes. It is estimated that some £9 million is required to 8. Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): When he expects put York cathedral into good repair. Although funding the Church of England to consecrate its first woman has been coming forward—I understand that there is a grant application to the Heritage Lottery Fund, and the bishop. [11099] Wolfson Foundation has set up a fund for cathedral The Second Church Estates Commissioner (Tony Baldry): repairs—we will need to find money from all sorts of I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave a few sources if we as a nation are to meet the responsibility moments ago. of repairing these fantastic cathedrals, which are part of our national heritage. Chris Bryant: As one who did go into the Church Mr James Gray (North Wiltshire) (Con): Can my hon. ministry and then discovered that I had plenty of vices, Friend explain why two of the cathedrals in Scotland— may I ask the hon. Gentleman to be a little more Glasgow and Dunblane—are fully funded by the public impatient about the issue of women bishops? To be purse, yet not a single cathedral in England is so funded? honest, it felt as if he was saying, “Nearer and nearer draws the time”, but will it be the time that will surely Tony Baldry: The situation in Scotland is simply come when we have women bishops, and why on earth different from that here. As I said, we need to raise does this legislation have to come back to this House? considerable sums of money—for Salisbury, Winchester Surely the Church of England should be freed from the and Lincoln cathedrals, and for York minster—but that shackles of bringing its legislation here, so that we can will require a number of different sources of funding: move forward on this issue rather faster. part from the state, part from trusts and charities and part from private individuals. Tony Baldry: If the hon. Gentleman reads what I said to the General Synod, he will see that I made it clear that many of us want this legislation to come forward as ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE speedily as possible, but we have to get it right. The reason it comes back here is that we have an established The hon. Member for South West Devon, representing Church, and until such time as Parliament decides that the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission we do not, we will continue to have an established was asked— Church. Democratic Process (Engagement) Peter Bottomley (Worthing West) (Con): I hope my hon. Friend will ask the Synod to recognise that the 10. Mr Graham Allen (Nottingham North) (Lab): House welcomed the decision it took to trust women What recent proposals the Electoral Commission has bishops to do the right things, rather than trying to made to engage people in the democratic process; and force them into being second-class bishops. if he will make a statement. [11101] Mr Gary Streeter (South West Devon): The Electoral Tony Baldry: I thank my hon. Friend for that. I made Commission informs me that its work in this area it clear in York at the General Synod that I did not focuses on encouraging voter registration and making think I could get through this House any legislation in sure that people have the information they need to take which there was a scintilla of a suggestion of women part in elections. It believes that it is for political parties bishops in any way being second-class bishops. and candidates to give people a reason to turn out to Cathedral Restoration vote on polling day. Mr Allen: The last general election was the most 9. Hugh Bayley (York Central) (Lab): What recent rule-bound, hidebound, bureaucratically hamstrung election representations the Church Commissioners have made for all of us as candidates. We had to fill in more papers, to the Government on public funding for the repair and swear more oaths and write more notes to the electoral restoration of cathedrals. [11100] registration officer than ever before. When will the Electoral Commission get back to its core role of really Tony Baldry: Church groups of all denominations are trying to excite people to register, and to vote and seeking to encourage and persuade the Government to thereby participate in our democracy? continue the listed places of worship grant scheme, which enables a 100% refund of VAT on church buildings Mr Streeter: I was not sure whether the hon. Gentleman, and repairs. who is greatly respected in this House, was describing the Electoral Commission or the previous Government. Hugh Bayley: Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Yorkshire He will have seen a report that has just been filed by the Forward, the Yorkshire regional development agency, Electoral Commission that recommends significant changes was forced to withdraw a grant of £1 million toward the to our electoral system along the lines he suggests. We cost of restoring the great east window of York minster? very much hope that the Government will be listening Will the Church Commissioners make representations to this excellent report. 867 27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 868

Annual Energy Statement At the moment, the UK economy is reliant on fossil fuels. As UK oil and gas production decline, this leaves 12.34 pm us more exposed to volatile prices and increasing global competition for the resource. The challenge is to spur The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change the capital investment required for new energy infrastructure. (Chris Huhne): With permission, Mr Speaker, I wish to The volatility of fossil fuel prices and continuing uncertainty make a statement on energy policy. This statement and about the carbon price makes such investment high the departmental memorandum that I am placing in the risk, pushing up costs and slowing development, so the Libraries of both Houses fulfils our commitment to first step is to support the carbon price. present an annual energy statement to Parliament. In making this statement within three months of coming In addition, I can announce that we are carrying out into office we are signalling the importance of this a comprehensive review of the electricity market and I policy. We are setting out a clear strategy for creating will issue a consultation document in the autumn. This the 21st-century energy system that this country urgently will include a review of the role of the independent needs if we are to have affordable, secure and low-carbon regulator Ofgem. The Government will also put forward energy in future. detailed proposals on the creation of a green investment We face short-term challenges as a result of the bank. The coalition agreement is clear that new nuclear legacy inherited from the previous Government. We can go ahead so long as there is no public subsidy. The have the third lowest share of renewable energy of all Government are committed to removing any unnecessary 27 states in the European Union, which is the same obstacles to investment in new nuclear power. In the ranking as in 1997. In the longer term, we must meet the memorandum, I have outlined some clear actions to aid challenges of a volatile oil market and increased energy this. As a result, I believe that new nuclear will play a imports. We are taking three big steps forward: we are part in meeting our energy needs. In the heating sector, I creating a market for energy savings through the green can confirm our strong commitment to action on renewable deal; we are ensuring a properly functioning electricity heat. The Government are considering responses to the market; and we will strengthen the carbon price. renewable heat incentive consultation and will set out detailed options following the spending review. Our actions must be informed by the best information about the future. That is why I am publishing our work The UK is blessed with a wealth of renewable energy on 2050 energy pathways, which has been worked up in resources, both onshore and offshore. We are committed consultation with industry, scientists, engineers and to overcoming the real challenges in harnessing those economists. We are making the data and analysis available resources. We will implement the connect-and-manage and we are inviting comments over the summer. We regime, and I am today giving the go-ahead to a transitional want to start a grown-up debate about what a low-carbon regime for offshore wind farms. Both those measures future will look like and the best way of achieving it. will help to speed up the connection of new generation These are possible pathways; we are not claiming to be to the grid. We remain committed to developing generation able to see the future with certainty, but we cannot from marine energy, biomass and anaerobic digestion. continue on the current pathway, which is high carbon Biomass investors that were promised help under the and highly dependent on imports, with highly volatile renewables obligation will continue to benefit. prices. We also need incentives for small-scale and community Like the other industrial revolutions, the low-carbon action. We are consulting on a new microgeneration revolution will be driven by entrepreneurs, the private strategy, and I am today laying an order to allow local sector, local communities, individuals, businesses, scientists authorities to sell renewable electricity to the grid. and engineers—not by government. However, industry Fossil fuels can also have their place in a low-carbon needs stable policy and functioning markets. The role of future, provided that we can capture and store most of government is to provide the policy framework and to their carbon emissions. We will introduce an emissions act as a catalyst for private sector investment. As the performance standard and we intend to launch a formal 2050 pathways work demonstrates, we need to apply call for future carbon capture and storage demonstration those principles to the challenge of changing fundamentally projects by the end of the year. the way we produce and consume energy. This is a bold vision. We will not be able to deliver it The cheapest way of closing the gap between energy without a 21st-century network that can support 21st- demand and supply is to cut energy use. We need to century infrastructure. The statement sets out practical address the state of our buildings—we have some of the measures that we are taking to improve network access oldest housing stock in Europe. Our green deal will and begin the building of a truly smart grid. However, transform finance for improving the energy efficiency of the vision needs to be grounded in reality. The low-carbon Britain’s homes. It will get its legal underpinning from economy must happen, but it will not happen tomorrow. measures in the first-Session energy Bill. We are also There are potentially 20 billion barrels of oil equivalent accelerating the roll-out of smart meters, which provide remaining in the UK continental shelf, but we must consumers and suppliers with the information to take maximise economic production while applying effective control of their energy management. Alongside this environmental and safety regulations. We are doubling statement, the Government and Ofgem are publishing a the inspections of offshore oil and gas rigs, and we will prospectus for smart meters, which sets out how we will undertake a full review of the oil and gas environmental do this. regime. Openness is important to us, as it is to business and We must also be mindful of our inherited responsibilities. the public. Alongside this statement, I am also publishing My Department is responsible for managing the country’s analysis of the impact of energy and climate change nuclear legacy. I am committed to ensuring that those policies on both household and business energy bills up essential duties are carried out with the utmost care and to 2020, and I will continue to do so on an annual basis. consideration for public safety. 869 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 870

The UK does not stand alone. The Government will On nuclear, the right hon. Gentleman has finally said work together with our international partners in efforts something positive, but I do not think that anyone will to promote action on climate change and energy security really believe that his heart is in it. Let me test him out. across the world. We are working hard to put Europe at We said in our national policy statement that we believed the front of the race for low-carbon technology. This that new nuclear should be free to contribute as much will help to refresh the appetite for action across the as 25 GW towards new capacity. Does he agree with world after the disappointment of Copenhagen. that? In conclusion, the statement is about planning ahead On a green economic future for Britain, I am afraid and providing clarity and confidence in the policy that his statement goes backwards too, most shamefully framework. That is why I am also publishing today my with the decision on Sheffield Forgemasters. A written Department’s structural reform plan to show how we answer has been smuggled out by the Secretary of State are carrying out our priorities. Once we have completed for Business, Innovation and Skills this morning trying the spending review, we will publish a full business plan. to explain how it is possible that the Prime Minister, the At last we can have an energy policy with real direction Deputy Prime Minister and others said in this House and purpose, and a Government who are willing to take that Sheffield Forgemasters had refused to dilute the the bold steps necessary. I commend the statement to loan when that was not the case. the House. Will the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Edward Miliband (Doncaster North) (Lab): I thank Change explain once and for all, because it has not been the Secretary of State for early sight of his statement explained before, why, given that it was a loan, given and the associated documents. There are some things in that the money was set aside, given that there was value the statement that I welcome: the continuation of our for money as judged by the independent panel that work on the 2050 pathways and scenarios; the role of looks at these issues, he cancelled that loan? Why has he local authorities; and what he said about smart metering, taken the £1 billion away from the green investment although I think that he has adopted our timetable for bank? We set aside resources from the sale of High the roll-out of smart meters despite the great rhetoric Speed 1 towards the green investment bank and he has before the election about a faster timetable. taken that money away. So the right hon. Gentleman is The problem with the statement, however, is that the going backwards, too, on the question of our industrial Secretary of State did not tell us that, on a whole range future. of issues, he is going backwards not forwards compared Finally, on fairness, we all accept the huge challenge with the actions of the previous Government. The truth of fuel poverty amid the green transition. Will the right is that the Government have gone from the rhetoric hon. Gentleman explain why, in the documents that he without substance of opposition to rhetoric without publishes today, he no longer says that he will necessarily substance in government. Let me take the issues in turn be going ahead with the compulsory social tariffs that and ask him some questions. will give cut-price energy for the most vulnerable? Again, Contrary to what the Secretary of State says, we had it is put off until after the spending review, and again it a clear plan on the long-term transition to the low-carbon is subject to review. Does he agree that it is vital? The economy that Britain needs—it was the low-carbon Liberal Democrats’ position before the election was to transition plan that was published in summer 2009. do more to help the most vulnerable, including through That plan was widely applauded by industry, employers compulsory social tariffs. and green organisations. The problem, however, is that The truth about this Government is that they promised he is unpicking parts of that plan. If he wants a higher that they would be the greenest Government ever. Any renewables target, will he explain why he is abandoning fair-minded person looking at this statement will conclude the measures that we put in place to meet the existing that they are a huge disappointment—to industry and renewables targets? He has given in to Conservative to the country.In our first debate, the right hon. Gentleman nimbyism by abolishing local and regional targets for said: renewables. “One thing that the Government are going to do is to under-promise It is absolutely unclear from the documents that the and over-deliver”.—[Official Report, 27 May 2010; Vol. 510, right hon. Gentleman has presented to the House how c. 317.] he will meet the higher targets. We do not even know On today’s evidence, he got it the wrong way round. what they will be. On onshore wind, his own Minister, Lord Marland, in another place, says: Chris Huhne: I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman “It is our determination there should be no dramatic increase for his response. Let me make it clear that we have set in this”.—[Official Report, House of Lords, 5 July 2010; Vol. 720, out in this annual energy statement a clear route map c. 5.] with a framework that will deliver the low-carbon economy How will the right hon. Gentleman meet his renewable that I believe we both want. That is something that will targets without a dramatic increase in onshore wind? If be seen in the test of results rather than in the test of he does not agree with Lord Marland, he had better get rhetoric. a grip on his own Department. If one looks at wind power, for example, I cannot The right hon. Gentleman is going backwards on accept that the Government should take lectures from wind power and on the incentives to use renewable heat the Opposition on renewable energy. The reality is that in our homes. We were set to be the first country in the we have the third worst record of all 27 European world in April 2011 to have a renewable heat incentive Union member states. I know that the right hon. in place. All that he has done in the statement today is Gentleman, in the latter years of the last Government, to postpone any decision on this until after the spending improved the policy settings, to which I pay tribute, but review. Will he explain why has he done so and what the the reality is that, taken as a whole, the record of timetable will be for the renewable heat incentive? 13 years of Labour rule on this agenda is truly shocking. 871 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 872

[Chris Huhne] coalition’s differences as was—or perhaps as still—who has ministerial responsibility for driving forward the For us to take office after 13 years of Labour Government, civil nuclear programme? Given my experience of working when they have made no progress whatsoever in improving with three Secretaries of State, and given the complexities our rankings on renewable energy compared with all of the matter, I know that one needs a Secretary of 27 members of the EU, is extraordinary. State who is determined to drive the programme forward. The right hon. Gentleman knows very well that, on the renewable heat incentive and, indeed, on Sheffield Chris Huhne: I have great respect for the right hon. Forgemasters and the fuel poverty commitment, we are Gentleman’s expertise in this area. We work very much inevitably subject to the spending review for the very as a team in the Department, and my hon. Friend the simple reason that his colleague, the right hon. Member Member for Wealden (Charles Hendry), the energy for Birmingham, Hodge Hill (Mr Byrne), said extremely Minister, and I have been working very closely with pithily when he left the Treasury, “There is no money nuclear suppliers and attempting to meet some of their left.” Although I have enormous respect for the green concerns about the regulatory framework. It was precisely credentials of the right hon. Member for Doncaster because we had two different views, from the Conservative North (Edward Miliband), I do not think that he does side and the Liberal Democrat side, that we dealt with the cause of progressive politics or green politics any the issue right at the beginning, with a coalition agreement good by pretending that there is a bottomless bucket of that makes very clear what is going to happen. money that we can dip our hands into and throw at On the point that the right hon. Member for Doncaster problems. North made about whether we should commit to a The right hon. Gentleman did not say anything about particular target, I simply say that I do not believe that the constraints that, if elected, the Labour party as he it is the job of government to micro-manage how we put very well knows would have laboured under exactly as in place a framework for, and facilitate, low-carbon we do. He certainly talks the talk, but we are delivering. energy. However, there is no doubt that the coalition We will introduce a carbon price floor; he did not. We agreement sets out that there is a place for new nuclear, will introduce an emissions performance standard; he and I believe that there will be investment in new did not. We will introduce a green deal to tackle energy nuclear to meet our energy needs in the future. saving in every household, including fuel-poor households; and he did not. That should be a matter of shame to Sir Robert Smith (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) Labour Members. (LD): The Secretary of State will know, from his visit to north-east Scotland so soon after his appointment, just Several hon. Members rose— what skills have been developed in the sub-sea engineering field and the world-leading companies that are in my constituency. Does he recognise that those skills will be Mr Speaker: Order. A very large number of right very much needed to drive forward further gas and oil hon. and hon. Members wish to take part in this statement, production, the carbon sequestration projects in the but there is another statement to follow and then a North sea and existing marine renewable skills? Will he ten-minute rule Bill, followed by the Backbench Business build on those skills to ensure that we have a British-based Committee debate to which nearly 50 Members have solution to the carbon problem? applied to contribute, so what I require both in questions and in answers is brevity. Chris Huhne: I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for that question. Nobody who has visited his part of the Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con): As my right hon. world can fail to be impressed by the professionalism Friend knows, the energy-intensive industries in my and expertise in the area. Interestingly, such skills not constituency, such as ceramics and aluminium, which only exist in oil and gas exploration, where it started, have already achieved great efficiencies over the past but are extending right the way across the piece. For 10 years, are very concerned about the impact of the example, companies that were involved in building rigs new carbon trading rules that are due to be introduced for oil and gas exploration are now involved in building in a couple of years. Will he assure us that the rules will bases for wind turbines. I can assure my hon. Friend not result in production and jobs simply moving overseas that we in the Department are very conscious of the to jurisdictions that do not take carbon emissions as extremely valuable resource that we have in north-east seriously as we do in this country? Scotland among all those energy sectors.

Chris Huhne: Both the Department and the European Dr Alan Whitehead (Southampton, Test) (Lab): I Commission have looked closely at those competitiveness note the right hon. Gentleman’s reference to the ambition issues, and we feel confident that a range of measures, of the green deal that he is going to bring forward such as free allocation when it comes to the emissions shortly. However, the Minister of State, Department of trading scheme, can deal with those problems. We should Energy and Climate Change, the hon. Member for remember that there are substantial transport costs, Bexhill and Battle (Gregory Barker) recently ruled out which provide some protection, and I believe that the the inclusion of microgeneration in green deal offers for industries concerned have a healthy future. homes. Does the right hon. Gentleman accept that, therefore, the green deal will effectively prove to be a Malcolm Wicks (Croydon North) (Lab): I welcome small mouse rather than a mighty change? Does he the idea of an annual energy statement and, indeed, accept also that, based on securitisation, bodies such as much of this statement’s content, particularly what I Eaga already use the feed-in tariff to offer home think is a step forward—the assertion that new nuclear improvements, including solar photovoltaic cells, at no will play a part in meeting our energy needs. Given the up-front cost? Why cannot he do that in the green deal? 873 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 874

Chris Huhne: I think that the hon. Gentleman would very much like to be part of that proposal to misunderstands the green deal, which is primarily about ensure that we can create a much more progressive insulation. We are very happy for any green deal provider renewables sector in Thanet. to offer microgeneration alongside insulation, and he should remember that an extraordinary level of incentives Chris Huhne: My hon. Friend can rest assured that for microgeneration is available through the feed-in we have not forgotten about the marine parks proposal; tariff, so we are by no means excluding it. We want to indeed, we are taking it forward with consultation. We see it encouraged, and if green deal providers supply hope to make an announcement in due course. green deal insulation for households they will be able to offer microgeneration packages, too. The hon. Gentleman should make an important Mr Frank Doran (Aberdeen North) (Lab): The Secretary distinction. The green deal, along with home energy of State commented a lot about the importance of the insulation, needs to be in place in our existing housing private sector in his policy, but he did not show a real stock right the way through to 2050. Whereas, with the understanding about how the private sector operates in best will in the world, if we look at boilers and other this area. He will recall that a few weeks ago he visited forms of microgeneration, we see that there is going to the Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group stand at the be a replacement process, because we have yet to produce All-Energy conference in Aberdeen. The point was boilers that can last right the way through to 2050, made to him strongly that the private sector was gearing which would be quite a stretch. Inevitably, there are two up for the renewable heat initiative, which as I understand different markets. it was intended to come about, with all-party support, in 2011. There has, however, been silence on the issue and, given his statement today, I am sure that there will Sarah Newton (Truro and Falmouth) (Con): I very be concern about more than that. There will be concern much welcome the Government’s strong commitment that the whole affair has been shelved until after the today to renewable heat. In my constituency we hope to economic statement later in the year and that there will host the first commercial deep geothermal energy plant be chaos in the private sector. There is real concern in the UK, and we have the only UK manufacturer of about the Government’s failure to implement what was ground-heat pumps, so the speed with which the anticipated. Government can act on bringing in the renewable heat incentive is vital to my constituents. Will the Minister be so kind as to outline the time frame? Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman is quite right that it is absolutely essential that any private sector investment, Chris Huhne: My hon. Friend should be aware that which we aim to unlock, should have certainty and all those decisions need to be taken in line with the clarity. On the renewable heat incentive, the statement is spending review, but in the statement there is a very clear about our commitment to renewable heat, which clear commitment to renewable heat, from which I hope is absolutely essential if we are to meet our target. The that she can draw comfort. I have been in discussions hon. Gentleman has to appreciate that the country is with other MPs from Cornwall, and I am very aware of facing an exceptionally severe fiscal crisis and that it is the potential for geothermal. My hon. Friend the energy inevitable that we deal with these matters in the context Minister is planning a visit shortly to Cornwall, and I of the spending review. However, people in the sector also hope to be able to see the progress that is being can take considerable comfort from my words today made in those important areas. about renewable heat.

Tony Lloyd (Manchester Central) (Lab): I very much Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): My right hon. welcome the Secretary of State’s commitment to look at Friend assures us that there will be no subsidy to the the energy markets, but will he accept that the markets nuclear industry. Today, BP has announced that it expects in both gas and electricity do not offer fair prices to the to spend £20 billion on the clean-up following the Gulf poorest people? In that context, will he commit to of Mexico oil disaster. Will he raise the limit on the giving the power to Ofgem to ensure that it regulates the exposure of nuclear operators to catastrophes to an delivery of energy to the poorest people in our country? equally demanding level? Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman is quite right to point out that competition is an absolutely key part of Chris Huhne: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that ensuring that everybody gets fair prices, but so is social question. One of the things that we are looking at in the price support and the other steps that we can take to context of making sure that there is no public subsidy target energy-saving measures on, in particular, the for nuclear is the contingent liability regime and ensuring poorest households. The green deal will very much that there are no holes in it. In due course, we will be include that element, because dealing with the cause of able to make a statement on that. the problem will be infinitely preferable to having to deal merely with the symptoms. Mr Adrian Bailey (West Bromwich West) (Lab/Co-op): I welcome the Secretary of State’s acknowledgement, Laura Sandys (South Thanet) (Con): I thank the albeit somewhat grudgingly, of the role of the new Secretary of State very much for a clear sense of direction nuclear industry in providing for our future energy on energy security, which we have lacked for many needs. I seek reassurance from him that his party’s years. What plans do he and his Department have to previous objection to nuclear was not a factor in the implement the marine energy park proposal that was in withdrawal of the loan from Sheffield Forgemasters. If our manifesto before the election? My constituency, he can give that reassurance, will he at last give us a which includes the world’s largest offshore wind farm, transparent and coherent explanation of why funding 875 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 876

[Mr Adrian Bailey] Chris Huhne: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. There is a clear economic reason for making a for extremely welcome projects at Nissan and Ford were distinction between nuclear power and the other sources allowable when funding for Sheffield Forgemasters was of energy on which we can rely in coming years. It is not? simply that there is a strong argument for encouraging an infant industry, at an early stage of development, Chris Huhne: I can absolutely and categorically give from the public sector. We have seen that with onshore the hon. Gentleman an assurance that whatever he wind, whose cost has come down dramatically precisely imagines to be the prejudices or otherwise of me or my because of the encouragement of the public sector. I am party have absolutely nothing to do with the decision afraid that the same argument cannot be made for on Sheffield Forgemasters, which was a matter of nuclear power, which has been around for a long time. It affordability. I merely draw his attention to the written is not an infant industry, but an established and mature ministerial statement from my right hon. Friend the one and it can and should compete on that basis, along Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills. That with all other comers. clearly sets out the reasons that underlay the decision.

Mr Robert Walter (North Dorset) (Con): I welcome Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): The Secretary the Secretary of State’s statement on the low-carbon of State emphasised that the Government are working economy, particularly his commitment to offshore wind. as a team. Which members of the team were involved in In the beautiful Blackmore vale in my constituency we the decision on Sheffield Forgemasters? face yet another application to erect wind turbines. The only business case is the subsidy paid for those turbines; Chris Huhne: As the hon. Lady will know, government the wind blows barely 20% of the time. Will the Secretary is a collective business. Large numbers of people were of State confirm that it will still rest with the local involved in the decision on Sheffield Forgemasters. At planning authority to judge such applications on planning the Department, we were certainly kept informed. considerations? Mr John Baron (Basildon and Billericay) (Con): I Chris Huhne: I can confirm to my hon. Friend that welcome the statement, but does my right hon. Friend below 50 MW the decision is for the local planning appreciate that 4,000 different tariffs cause understandable authority. However, I urge him not to fall into the easy confusion among consumers? Under pressure, the previous trap of assuming that the only reason for building Government promised that annual statements would onshore wind turbines is for subsidy. The recent study include information on the cheapest tariffs so that on costs that the Department has had from Mott consumers could more easily see whether they were MacDonald shows that there has been a dramatic reduction paying too much for their energy. Are this Government in the cost of onshore wind. The result is that it is going to continue with that promise? If so, has the competitive in a free market with other sources of energy. Secretary of State considered including cheapest-tariff Barry Gardiner (Brent North) (Lab): Thirty per cent. information on monthly bills? An annual statement of the UK’s energy supply will be going off stream discriminates against active switchers. between 2017 and 2025 as nuclear power stations are decommissioned. Is it good enough for the Secretary of Chris Huhne: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that State to say that the private sector may supply new question. He is absolutely right; one of the most powerful nuclear facilities? Surely he has to come up with a plan instruments in the toolbox is the unleashing of competition now to replace that 30% of energy and tell the House as effectively as possible. Competition is ineffective if where it is going to come from. there is not a clear commitment to information and understanding on the part of consumers. We will bring Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman and I have already forward proposals in the energy Bill later this year to had this debate, which is a bit like dancing on the head make sure that consumers are properly informed. We of a pin. The reality is that the Government’s job is to will take account of the time scale that my hon. Friend set a clear framework that will deliver the energy investment has proposed. that we need to deal with the problem that the hon. Gentleman rightly raises. I believe that the statement is Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): Is the Secretary of a first step towards doing that. We will have a clear State aware that at this moment in time coal produces amount of new energy infrastructure investment. I merely up to 35%—at times, 50%—of the electricity generated point out that it is really no part of the business of in the UK, yet the announcement this morning did not government to micro-manage decisions that should properly make a single reference to coal? Will he give a commitment be left to the marketplace and the private sector. to the continuation of the British deep mining coal David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): I industry? congratulate the Secretary of State on his announcement. However, I am concerned that there will be no public Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman clearly was not subsidies for the nuclear power industry. My constituency listening to the part of the statement that dealt with has two nuclear power stations that pump out 10% of carbon capture and storage. The future of the coal the national grid. One is to be decommissioned in the industry—and, potentially, of gas—is about carbon next 10 years. Nuclear technology is a low-carbon fuel capture and storage. It is an exciting technology on source, and the statement represents that. We should be which this country has led. We have done a lot of the looking into part-funding privatised nuclear power stations. interesting, pioneering science on it. That, above all, Surely that is the way ahead. will be the commitment to the coal sector. 877 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 878

Andrew George (St Ives) (LD): I warmly congratulate nuclear fusion. May I encourage him to consider the my right hon. Friend on his statement. Further to the latter technology? It has always been said that it is question by the hon. Member for Manchester Central 20 years away, but we are now talking about a 2050 (Tony Lloyd), who is no longer in his place, what energy pathway, which will take us beyond 20 years. reassurance—indeed, guarantee—can the Secretary of May I encourage public spending on this area such as State provide to the House that vulnerable households that we have seen in Oxfordshire? will be supported and not further impoverished as a result of the measures that will be rolled out following Chris Huhne: As my hon. Friend says, the technology this statement of policy? has been held out as having enormous promise for many years. It would be absolutely marvellous, as I Chris Huhne: My hon. Friend will know that the think everybody can agree, if we were able to move to forecasts that we are making for 2020 crucially depend, new nuclear fusion, which has all sorts of fantastic in terms of their impact on household bills, on what one advantages. I will await with interest the briefing from thinks will happen to the price of oil and gas. If one my excellent chief scientist on the practicalities of thinks that it will basically be the same as today, there is incorporating it within a 2050 pathways review. a modest increase in the cost of policies compared with the alternative; if one takes the International Energy Mr Phil Woolas (Oldham East and Saddleworth) Agency’s view of a $100 price for a barrel of oil, for (Lab): The nuclear industry is worth an estimated example, one sees that our policies are reducing the cost £30 billion of investment over the next 10 years in the of electricity to households. However, it is absolutely north-west of England alone. At the time of the crucial to ensure not only that the policy framework announcement on Sheffield Forgemasters, that was part delivers overall lower costs but that poor households, in of a much wider strategy mainly based in the north-west, particular, will not bear the brunt. That is why we are which included public money being spent on research, looking at social price support and why, as I said to the not least in the area that the hon. Member for Bournemouth hon. Member for Manchester Central (Tony Lloyd), it East (Mr Ellwood) mentioned—for example, at the is absolutely crucial to target our energy efficiency Dalton nuclear institute and the advanced manufacturing measures on fuel-poor households so that we can deal research centre. That is public money for investment. Is with the cause, not merely with the symptoms. that money secure, or does the Secretary of State see it as a subsidy to the nuclear industry? Mr Gareth Thomas (Harrow West) (Lab/Co-op): I was grateful to hear the Secretary of State’s reconfirmation Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman really does not get of the doubling of inspections of offshore oil and gas it yet, and I am afraid that he shares that with a lot of rigs. However, given that we have just seen testimony his colleagues on the Labour Benches. The reality is that from the United States about Transocean oil rig managers the fiscal constraints under which this Government are ordering that a general alarm on the Gulf of Mexico oil now labouring—I use that word advisedly—are such rig that exploded be disabled, is it not time for the that we are having to look with extraordinary forensic Secretary of State or the energy Minister to summon acuteness at spending right across the board. The days the Health and Safety Executive and Transocean to give when he and his colleagues were able to sign blank further assurances about the safety of the 10 Transocean cheques and leave them like confetti across the country oil rigs that operate in UK waters? are over. If he has not yet woken up to that fact, he had better do so pretty soon, because the electorate will not Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman raises an important take him seriously until he does. point that we are very aware of and have been devoting a lot of attention to in the Department. We had our Dr Thérèse Coffey (Suffolk Coastal) (Con): I welcome own problems in this country with Piper Alpha at the my right hon. Friend’s statement and invite him to come end of the 1980s. In response to that, substantial changes to Suffolk Coastal or, as I rechristened it in my maiden were made in the regulatory regime which meant that speech, the green coast, where he will see a range of there were no conflicts of interest of the sort that have energy schemes such as those that he is proposing. existed in the American regime, and the US Administration However, in considering the subsidy that is given to the are taking on board some of those lessons. We have production of offshore energy, will he also consider how tightened up the regime, which we want to be as effective we get that energy onshore? One of the great ironies as possible, and we will learn the lessons as they come would be the production of all this very environmentally out from the various inquiries into what happened with friendly energy but the blight of pylons right across Deepwater Horizon. I assure the hon. Gentleman that areas of outstanding natural beauty and beautiful we will also be in close discussions with our Norwegian countryside. counterparts; we are already doing so at an official level. Last week in the US, at the clean energy ministerial Chris Huhne: My hon. Friend is right to raise that meeting, I had some interesting discussions with my issue. We are indeed considering the transmission regime Norwegian counterpart on learning the best lessons to ensure that we get the appropriate type. One of the from what has gone on in the Gulf of Mexico to ensure big issues is that we essentially have a cost profile for the that we have an absolutely state-of-the-art regulatory transmission regime that is based on an incentive to put regime, as I assure the hon. Gentleman we will. mobile power stations as close as possible to their markets. That is absolutely fine when we are dealing Mr Tobias Ellwood (Bournemouth East) (Con): My with sources of energy that are mobile, but increasingly right hon. Friend has made it clear that there is no we are dealing with sources of energy that are not public money for the mature nuclear energy markets, mobile. If we want to build wind turbines, we have to but I presume that that means nuclear fission, not put them in areas where there is wind and where there is 879 Annual Energy Statement27 JULY 2010 Annual Energy Statement 880

[Chris Huhne] that those incentives are adequate, and I assure him that I believe in the need for that overall framework. an economic basis for doing so. My hon. Friend’s point is a significant one for us in the Department, and we are David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): Electricity addressing it. in the UK—this is a legacy from the past 15 years—costs about 30% more than in France, where it is supplied by Mr Clive Betts (Sheffield South East) (Lab): The cheap nuclear. Is it a policy objective for us to fix that, Secretary of State said a few minutes ago that his and if so, under what time frame does the Secretary of Department was kept informed about the decision on State think that that will happen? Sheffield Forgemasters. Were he and his ministerial colleagues consulted before the decision was made, and Chris Huhne: As the hon. Gentleman knows, the if so, what views did they put forward in that consultation? French began their energy commitment to nuclear power in the wake of the first oil shock of 1973-74, so the Chris Huhne: We were consulted on Sheffield subsequent period encompasses an awful lot of Forgemasters, although the matter relates to the budget Governments of different persuasions. We are attempting of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. to move as quickly as possible to a situation whereby The reality is that advice between Ministers obviously we, too, can have highly affordable electricity that is remains confidential—[HON.MEMBERS: “Ah!”]—asindeed relatively robust and resilient to the sort of shocks that I believe it was confidential under the last Government. we are likely to see across the world economy. However, I would be happy to ask the shadow Secretary of State to come to the Dispatch Box and explain all the Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): In his statement, the occasions on which he disagreed with his colleagues. Secretary of State said that the Government were committed to removing any unnecessary obstacles to investment in Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): The Secretary new nuclear. I assume that that is a reference to Liberal of State shows the same enthusiasm for new nuclear Democrat policy. Does he still believe it is possible to power as I do for the European Union, but I do not deliver a low-carbon energy supply without nuclear? Is have to lead the charge for the European Union, whereas that his policy, or has he changed his mind, and will he he does have to lead the charge for new nuclear. How be in a darkened room when we debate new nuclear in does he square that circle? future?

Chris Huhne: I had absolutely no idea that the hon. Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman must know that I Gentleman shared to such a degree my enthusiasm for am a Minister in a coalition Government, who recognised the European Union. right at the beginning of the negotiations that there were differences of views between the two parties. We were very clear, and the coalition agreement was very Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): The clear, about how we were reconciling them, and I am Secretary of State’s statement shows that he has quickly getting on with the job of delivering our agreement. assimilated and merged with the Conservative view—the “market knows best” approach to environmentalism. Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): I was somewhat However, will not the swingeing and unnecessarily quick disappointed that although the Secretary of State made cuts to some of this expenditure, particularly for local fleeting reference to marine energy, he had nothing to authorities, make a mockery of any carbon-reduction say about tidal power in particular and the potential to strategies or aspirations that he has? exploit it in the Severn estuary. Can he confirm his commitment to the Severn barrage feasibility study, and Chris Huhne: The hon. Gentleman is not listening if can anything be done to accelerate it so that we can have he thinks that I am saying that the market always knows an answer sooner rather than later on whether it can go best. I am saying that the Government have a responsibility, ahead? in the national interest, to set a framework that will deliver a low-carbon economy and energy security in Chris Huhne: The hon. Lady can rest assured that we what is likely to be an increasingly volatile and difficult are considering the Severn barrage feasibility study and world. In that context, having put the incentives in will make an announcement in due course with our place, it is up to the market to deliver. We need to ensure response. 881 27 JULY 2010 European Investigation Order 882

European Investigation Order The third concern is about legal safeguards. We will seek to maintain the draft directive’s requirement that evidence should be obtained by coercive means, for 1.21 pm example through searching a premises, only where the The Secretary of State for the Home Department dual criminality requirement is satisfied. Requests for (Mrs Theresa May): With permission, Mr Speaker, I evidence from foreign authorities will still require completion would like to make a statement on the draft directive for of the same processes as in similar domestic cases. In a European investigation order, and the Government’s order to search a house, for example, police officers will decision to opt into that draft directive. still need to obtain a warrant. As people have become more mobile, so too has The execution of the EIO must be compatible with crime, and that has serious consequences for our ability the European convention on human rights. That means to bring criminals to justice. To deal with cross-border that there must be a clear link between the alleged crime, countries enter into mutual legal assistance— criminality and the assistance requested, otherwise MLA—agreements. Those agreements provide a framework complying with the request would be in breach of through which states can obtain evidence from overseas. article 8 of the ECHR, on private and family life. MLA has therefore been an important tool in the fight By opting in to the EIO at this stage, we have the against international crime and terrorism. It has been opportunity to influence its precise content. We know crucial in a number of high-profile cases. For example, that the existing draft is not perfect, and we are confident Hussein Osman, one of the failed terrorists from the that we will be able to change it in negotiations. My 21/7 attacks five years ago, might not have been convicted noble Friend Baroness Neville-Jones has already had had it not been for evidence obtained through MLA. discussions with her German counterpart, and we are However, MLA has not been without its faults. The confident that we will shape the draft directive so that it process is fragmented and confusing for the police and helps us to fight crime and deliver justice while protecting prosecutors, and it is too often too slow. In some cases it civil liberties and avoiding unduly burdening the police. takes many months to obtain vital evidence. Indeed, in That is why the civil liberties group, Justice, says that one drug trafficking case the evidence arrived in the UK “on balance it is better for the UK to engage in this area than be after the trial had been completed. The European ousted onto the periphery of evidence in cross border cases.” investigation order is intended to address those problems I ask hon. Members to remember this: the EIO will apply by simplifying the system, through a standardised request to both prosecutors and defence lawyers, which means form and by providing formal deadlines for the recognition that it can be used to prove British subjects innocent and execution of requests. abroad, as well as to prosecute the guilty at home. The Government have decided to opt into the EIO The EIO will allow us to fight crime and deliver because it offers practical help for the British police and justice more effectively. It does not amount to a loss of prosecutors, and we are determined to do everything we sovereignty. It will not unduly burden the police. It will can to help them cut crime and deliver justice. That is not incur a loss of civil liberties. It is in the national what the police say the EIO will do. We wrote to every interest to sign up to it, and I commend this statement Association of Chief Police Officers force about the to the House. EIO, and not one said that we should not opt in. ACPO itself replied that Alan Johnson (Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle) “the EIO is a simpler instrument than those already in existence and, provided it is used sensibly and for appropriate offences, we (Lab): I do not want to worry the right hon. Lady welcome attempts to simplify and expedite mutual legal assistance.” unduly at our daily meeting, but I broadly welcome this However, I know that some hon. Members have statement. I suspect that I am just a short preliminary concerns about the EIO, and I should like to address to the real opposition on the matter, which is the them in turn. The first is on the question of sovereignty. Brokeback tendency behind her. [HON.MEMBERS: In justice and home affairs, there are many ideas coming “Bareback!”] Or bareback tendency, even, which adds a out of Brussels, such as a common asylum policy, that whole new dimension. would involve an unacceptable loss of sovereignty. I We supported the Stockholm programme in December, want to make it absolutely clear to the House that I will which included the decision that a comprehensive system not sign up to those proposals, and I have made that for obtaining evidence in cases with a cross-border clear to my European counterparts. However, the EIO dimension, based on the principle of mutual recognition, directive does not incur a shift in sovereignty. It is a should be further pursued, not least because as the practical measure that will make it easier to see justice— Home Secretary said, the current framework consists of British justice—done in this country. a whole series of instruments that are fragmentary and The second concern is about burdens on the police. repetitive. They hamper cross-border investigation at a At a time when we are reducing domestic regulatory time when the international dimension, particularly of burdens on the police, I agree that it would be unacceptable serious organised crime, is of increasing importance. to have them re-imposed by foreign forces. That is why There is a clear need for a comprehensive, legally we will seek to ensure that there is a proportionality binding single instrument to provide a definitive framework test, so that police forces are not obliged to do work in for cross-border investigations. That should not be conflated relation to trivial offences, and that forces will be able to with the European prosecutor proposal, which we were extend deadlines when it is not possible to meet them. firmly against. Perhaps the Home Secretary can confirm I want to be clear that the EIO will not allow foreign that failure to opt into the current instrument would authorities to instruct UK police officers on what operations leave the UK with the existing unsatisfactory and to conduct, and it will not allow foreign officers to fragmentary provision, thus putting us at a disadvantage operate in the UK with law enforcement powers. in the fight against cross-border crime. In contrast, as 883 European Investigation Order27 JULY 2010 European Investigation Order 884

[Alan Johnson] —to have the safeguard of proper consideration, because a warrant will be required, as is the normal course of she said, opting in will allow us to negotiate further events if the UK police choose to search premises. safeguards. Does she agree that those should include greater consideration of the rights of the suspect, and Several hon. Members rose— should not that include judicial scrutiny at both the issuing and executing stage? Mr Speaker: Order. Many Members wish to ask I agree with the Home Secretary that there should be questions, and as I said before, there is great pressure on a proportionality test, as with the European evidence business, so brevity is required. Hopeful of a lead on warrant, which I believe the UK will no longer be that point, I call Mr William Cash. obliged to implement if we sign up to the EIO. Can she confirm that that is the case? Mr William Cash (Stone) (Con): I am deeply concerned The human rights organisation, Justice, has indeed that the EIO has not been considered by the European urged the Government to opt into the instrument, but it Scrutiny Committee, which was formally set up last has raised a number of concerns about the initial draft. night, and nor have many other important matters. The What discussions have the Secretary of State or her legal basis is qualified majority voting, co-decision and Ministers had with that organisation, and does she the European Court of Justice under the Lisbon treaty. agree with its analysis? Will the Secretary of State confirm that the EIO applies It is good to see that the Government have recognised to all investigative measures, and that it gives undue that cross-border crime is a serious concern. The Home rights to police officers from other European countries Secretary’s party opposed the European arrest warrant, to order our police to gather sensitive personal information principally, I believe, because it contained the word —and, furthermore, DNA and banking records—in “European”. I am glad that she is not repeating that relation to non-criminal matters, and from those who mistake, and in welcoming her statement, I hope that are not even suspects? The grounds for refusing an EIO will rethink her approach on second generation biometric request are totally inadequate, and I am sure that the passports so that as with the EIO, British citizens are ESC will demand a debate and call evidence, but regrettably, not left behind as security measures in the rest of the it cannot do so until 8 September, because it has not European Union become more effective. been called to sit until then.

Mrs May: I welcome the positive and constructive Mrs May: I must tell my hon. Friend that decisions approach that the right hon. Gentleman has taken on when the ESC meets are rather more a matter for today. Sadly, we are about to go into recess, so he and him—as I understand it, he is the Chair of that I must find a means of meeting other than across the Committee—than for me. However, I share some of his Dispatch Box in the coming weeks. He made a number concern. As he and other Members of the House will of points and made a passing reference to the Stockholm know, I have written a pamphlet and proposed a 10-point programme. Of course, this Government did not support plan on how Parliament can have more of an opportunity everything in that. We are treating each justice and to have a say on, and to debate, decisions on European home affairs issue on a case-by-case basis, so we will matters. decide to opt in to some things, such as the EIO, and to opt out of others. The instrument came before the Government on 29 April with a three-month deadline for decision. Of course, The right hon. Gentleman asked me to confirm the that period was partly taken up by the election, and the impact of a failure to opt in. Failure to opt in would ESC was formed only last night, as my hon. Friend indeed leave UK police and prosecutors in a very said. In the normal course of events in Parliament, the unfortunate position, because it would mean that they ESC could suggest the matter for debate. On that point, must rely on existing MLA agreements to obtain evidence it is certainly my hope that when the Government from overseas. It is intended that forces from which propose to opt in on a major JHA issue, Parliament evidence is requested will meet a timetable contained can consider it. However, I hesitate to give more of a within the EIO. I suspect that because of that, the guarantee than that, because what happens in Parliament practical reality of opting out is that that UK requests is a matter for the business managers rather than for me. would go to the bottom of the pile. The figures are On the powers that my hon. Friend claims the EIO gives stark—70% to 75% of our MLA requests are with other to foreign police forces and others, I must tell him that EU member states—so failure to opt in would have a I think he is wrong. significant impact. The right hon. Gentleman asked about the European Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab): May I welcome the evidence warrant. The directive makes it clear that the new-found affection between the Front Benchers, and EEW will be repealed and replaced by the EIO. He also take that one stage further by agreeing with the hon. mentioned the European arrest warrant. Of course, it is Member for Stone (Mr Cash) for the first time on a important that people should not get mixed up between European issue? It is really important for Parliament to the EIO and the EAW. We took a view different from have the opportunity to scrutinise this decision. We that of the previous Government on the EAW when have just had a meeting of the Home Affairs Committee. they signed up to it, but our review of extradition will The Police Minister gave evidence about police resources, include a review of the EAW. but we could not question him on the EIO, because the The right hon. Gentleman talked about safeguards. Home Secretary was due to make this statement. This is As I said in my statement, it will be necessary in the case a serious matter that requires scrutiny by the ESC or the of certain requests—for example, for the search of premises Home Affairs Committee. 885 European Investigation Order27 JULY 2010 European Investigation Order 886

The Home Secretary made a statement to the House my right hon. Friend the Member for Wokingham that the EIO will not have an effect on police resources, (Mr Redwood): we are talking about codifying and the Police Minister, in his excellent evidence to the arrangements that already exist. We are not suddenly Committee, talked about the need to preserve police being asked to sign up to something new that has just resources, but a request from one of our European been plucked off the shelf. The suggestion is for practical partners will result in more police time being spent. co-operation that codifies and simplifies arrangements That must be the case, because they would not make that already exist and that benefit police forces here in such a request otherwise. the UK.

Mrs May: I agree that it would be of benefit for Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD): I welcome Parliament to scrutinise and debate many such European the statement. It is right that we should opt in to orders matters more than has happened in the past. However, that slash bureaucracy, help us fight crime and do not given that we are up against a deadline and going into infringe our sovereignty. Does the Home Secretary agree recess, it would have been very easy for me simply to that it is important for her to work not just with her have made a written ministerial statement. Instead, I counterparts, but with Members of the European chose to come to make an oral statement so that I could Parliament, to ensure that we strengthen the privacy answer questions on the EIO. and human rights safeguards in this order? On police resources, I remind the right hon. Gentleman that we intend and hope to introduce a proportionality Mrs May: I thank my hon. Friend for his contribution, test in the negotiations, which is important. However, and I hope that we can all work with MEPs to ensure the EIO is not some new arrangement that will suddenly that the directive that we end up with as a result of the require extra police resources. Rather, it codifies and negotiations in the coming months does what he suggests— simplifies processes that already exist. To the extent that slashes bureaucracy and makes it simpler for our prosecutors it reduces bureaucracy and simplifies those processes, and police to ensure that justice is done. In doing that, I hope that it will be of extra benefit to our police. we are all of conscious of the need to protect civil liberties. Mr John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con): Many of us were elected on a programme of no more powers whatever Mike Gapes (Ilford South) (Lab/Co-op): Can the passing to the European Union. Given that the Home Home Secretary confirm that the proposals that she has Secretary promised us that no sovereignty would be made today—which are welcome, and represent a move transferred by the EIO, will she reassure us of that by away from Europhobia—include provisions, in articles 23, putting into the draft proposal a simple clause that says 24 and 25 of the Council decision, for intervention on that Britain can withdraw from the arrangement at any banking transactions? Contrary to what the hon. Member time if it proves to be not as advertised? If we have that for Stone (Mr Cash) implied, that is important in order clause, we are sovereign; if we do not have it, we are not to stop international organised crime. sovereign. [Interruption.] Mrs May: The hon. Gentleman makes the important point that the European investigation order will be a Mrs May: I thank the hon. Member for Bolsover help to UK police forces and others across the European (Mr Skinner) for that sedentary intervention. Union in tackling what we all agreed only yesterday is I did make that statement on sovereignty in relation an important issue that should be given a greater focus— to the EIO. We are opting in to the draft directive, over serious organised crime. which there will be negotiations in the coming months. However, I said what I said because the order and the Alec Shelbrooke (Elmet and Rothwell) (Con): May I directive are not about sovereignty moving to Europe, urge my right hon. Friend, when she deals with the but about making a practical step of co-operation to detail of these proposals, to ensure that these powers ensure that it will be easier for us not only to fight crime, will apply only to common criminality between one but crucially, to ensure that justice is done. country and another? For example, France has just banned the wearing of the burqa, which is a very Kate Hoey (Vauxhall) (Lab): I am disappointed but un-British thing to do. Can she assure the House that if not surprised by the Government’s decision to opt in to someone in this country used our freedom of speech to the EIO. I was a Home Office Minister some years ago, criticise that move, the French authorities would not be and even then officials tried push all kinds of things by able to come here and arrest that person? which more power was taken away from this country. Following the Secretary of State’s previous answer, is Mrs May: I think that my hon. Friend refers to the she saying—let us let the public know the truth—that issue of dual criminality between member states, which once we opt in, no matter how much we find that it is is already provided for in relation to certain measures in not working in our interest or that it is costing huge the directive, especially coercive measures that might be amounts of money, there is absolutely nothing we taken as a result of the European investigation order. I can do? can assure him that the issue of dual criminality is very much on our minds. Mrs May: I thank the hon. Lady for her question, which shows not only that matters European divide Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): May I warmly thank different parties, but that people within the same party the Home Secretary for adopting this sensible, pragmatic take different attitudes. She assumes that opting in to and pro-European policy? I look forward to sending the order will mean extra costs and extra burdens for her a membership form for the European Movement. UK police, but I repeat what I said in response to One of the problems that many UK police forces have 887 European Investigation Order27 JULY 2010 European Investigation Order 888

[Chris Bryant] about the 256 European arrest warrants referred for mediation last year, presumably at a cost of untold had is tracking down child pornography and paedophile millions to European taxpayers. Can the Home Secretary rings across Europe. Can she confirm that these proposals assure us that she and her team will scrutinise the detail will go some way to helping police forces track down of this directive to ensure that it is operationally more those people? effective than the European arrest warrant system?

Mrs May: Now I am really worried! Mrs May: I can indeed assure my hon. Friend that we Detection of various crimes, and the tracking down will look closely at the detail of this. The intention is to of the perpetrators, relies on cross-border co-operation. make it easier for prosecutors and police—and the The point of the EIO is that it will assist such co-operation defence—to obtain the evidence necessary for trials. and, crucially, it will enable evidence to be gathered in a She mentions the European arrest warrant, but as I said timely fashion. We already have examples— not in the earlier, the EIO is entirely separate. sort of cases to which the hon. Gentleman refers, but in drug trafficking—in which the evidence has arrived Andrew Percy (Brigg and Goole) (Con): The problem only after the end of the trial. with the argument that this is simply a simplification of existing arrangements is that that argument was put forward by Labour Ministers when they were pursuing Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): I thank the the Lisbon treaty. That is why many of us are concerned Home Secretary for her statement to the House—it is about this and will continue to believe, as we said in much appreciated. Does she share the concerns of some opposition, that it demonstrates a relish for surveillance Back Benchers that during proceedings on the Lisbon and a disdain for civil liberties. What impact will this treaty—when we were in opposition—loss of sovereignty order have on our DNA and fingerprint databases? Will was often described as just a “practical measure”? That forces from Europe be able to access those databases, phrase crept into her statement, too, and I would be and if so, what will happen if the person whose DNA grateful for reassurance that that is not the case. they have accessed proves to be innocent? We would wipe that database after a period of time, but what Mrs May: I am trying not to make too much of a would be our relationship with our partners in Europe? habit of making statements in the House—although there have been a few Home Office statements recently. Mrs May: I can, I hope, reassure my hon. Friend on I recognise my hon. Friend’s concern about the use of his second point. Under the data protection arrangements that terminology. I have looked into this issue and it is in the European Union, DNA samples could be held by indeed a very practical measure. It will simplify, codify another member state only for the same time as they and put some time limits on processes that already exist. can be held here in the UK. That opens up another The MLA agreements are already in existence and are argument about why the Government intend to change followed up by police forces here requesting evidence the arrangements for the DNA database and do not from overseas and by police forces overseas requesting want to hold the DNA of innocent people for significant evidence from the UK. These proposals will make it periods, as the Labour Government did. much easier to undertake that process in a timely fashion so that the evidence is available for both prosecutors Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): My right hon. Friend and defendants in their trials. talks about the proportionality test that will be applied, but who will write the rules of that test? Will it be by Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): May I negotiation among EU countries or will it be the UK congratulate the Home Secretary on the bravery that Government? And who will adjudicate that? she has shown in taking such a different stance from that of so many members of her party? There are Mrs May: The proportionality test is something that clearly criminals who exploit loopholes across borders, we intend to negotiate with other member states from so would she be able to find a way to report to Parliament the point of opt-in to the point at which the text of the periodically on any advantages or gains that flow from final directive is determined. this collaboration? Jacob Rees-Mogg (North East Somerset) (Con): As Mrs May: Having had my statement welcomed both the final text will be determined by qualified majority by the shadow Home Secretary and by the hon. Member vote, how may we be certain that we will not cede for Rhondda (Chris Bryant), and now being described powers to Europe? Does the Home Secretary recall the as “brave” by the hon. Member for Nottingham East words of a great and noble lady who, when Europe was (Chris Leslie), I am not sure about this. trying to snatch powers, once said from that very Dispatch I am happy to write to the hon. Gentleman with some box, “No, no, no”? Is not that a much preferable way in examples of the existing arrangements working, as well which to approach a further European grab? as examples of the problems caused for prosecutors and police by the lack of a timetable such as the one that Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) will be introduced by the EIO. (LD): “No, no, no” is the answer.

Claire Perry (Devizes) (Con): The Home Secretary’s Mrs May: I am tempted, but I will avoid falling into statement eloquently set out the reasons to welcome that trap. this process. However, the words “opt in” and “European In the coming months we will be negotiating the final directive” send shivers down many backbones in my text of the directive with other member states. The early constituency. Only today I heard from a constituent indications, from discussions with other member states, 889 European Investigation Order27 JULY 2010 European Investigation Order 890 are that our concerns about the parts of the directive the directive will serve to speed up complex investigations, where we think that the drafting is not perfect, and and should therefore help to keep criminals off the more can be done, are shared by other member states, streets? Does she also agree that to do so would benefit which is why we are confident we can arrive at a text British society as well as European society? that meets all the requirements that we want to set out. But is my hon. Friend really saying that he wants us to Mrs May: I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend’s hamper the efforts of our police to bring people to point. In response, I would simply cite a case of drugs justice and fight crime? I sincerely hope not. This measure trafficking that was drawn to my attention in which the will help the police to ensure that justice is done and failure to execute an MLA request resulted in a misleading crime beaten. picture being presented to the jury of the strength of the prosecution case. As a result, evidence that might Mark Reckless (Rochester and Strood) (Con): I am have exculpated the UK defendant was not available in grateful to my right hon. Friend for coming to the time for the trial. That case alone explains why we want House, and I have been working hard to try to understand to sign up to the EIO. the Government’s position on this matter. However, I did not understand fully, from her statement, whether Mr James Clappison (Hertsmere) (Con): May I European authorities will not be able to order an congratulate my right hon. Friend on coming to the investigation. Surely, the EIO does what it says on the House to make this statement? It is no fault of her own, tin, and allows European prosecutors and police to but nevertheless deeply unfortunate, that neither the order an investigation here? European Scrutiny Committee nor the House of Commons has had the opportunity to consider this document. I urge her, when she comes to consider the detail of this Mrs May: I will try to explain it to my hon. Friend. proposal and future proposals of the same nature—which We already have agreements—the mutual legal assistance I believe may well appear—to be on her guard against agreements—that enable the police force in the UK to the undoubted attempts of certain quarters in the European ask other police forces in European member states to Union to build a common European judicial and legal gain evidence that will be of use and benefit in taking system, and to use any means to hand as a building cases to court and in providing evidence. There is also a block towards that purpose? Will she be on her guard reciprocal arrangement for other member states to ask against that? In those circumstances, I believe that she our UK police forces to undertake similar evidence would indeed be capable of saying, “No, no, no.” gathering. The EIO will simply put that on a timetable and simplify the processes. Currently a number of Mrs May: I can assure my hon. Friend that I will be instruments can be used, but they are complex and on my guard, as will other members of the Government. confusing to those who use them. The EIO will simplify We have made it clear that we are considering on a them into a single instrument and put a timetable on the case-by-case basis all issues arising under the justice process, which is why it will be of benefit to the police and home affairs remit of the EU. As I have said to the and prosecutors. House, I believe that in this particular case it is in the national interest to opt in, but on other occasions we Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): Does the will opt out. So we take the issue that he raised very Home Secretary agree with me, and with the police, that seriously. 891 27 JULY 2010 Points of Order 892

Points of Order Leader of the House and to the House of Commons Commission, on the subject of early-day motions, the 1.54 pm right hon. Member for Delyn (Mr Hanson), who is in his place—I advised him that I would be raising this Mike Gapes (Ilford South) (Lab/Co-op): On a point point—gave a very helpful response on why early-day of order, Mr Deputy Speaker. I seek your advice. Recently, motions should be debated. However, he then observed I tabled a series of questions to the Home Secretary that in 18 years he had not known an EDM to be about the work of the UK Border Agency, and yesterday debated. May I put it on the record that on 8 December I got a reply from the Immigration Minister refusing to 2009, as is recorded in column 154 of Hansard, early-day place in the Library of the House copies of the guidance motion 1—an excellent motion in my name—was debated and directions issued to UK Border Agency International for nearly three and a half hours and voted on by Group staff about visit visas, on the basis that this 530 MPs? So EDMs do find their way on to the Floor information is “best viewed online”. May I request, of the House, although I agree with him that more Mr Deputy Speaker, that you speak to the Home Office should be debated. and instruct it to be more co-operative with Members, so that information can be made available in the Library? Mr Deputy Speaker: As someone who used to put down many EDMs, I have great sympathy with the hon. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): That is not Gentleman’s point, and I thank him for his clarification. a point of order, but it is now on the record. I am sure that the House appreciates it.

The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): Further Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): On a point of to that point of order, Mr Deputy Speaker. I try as hard order, Mr Deputy Speaker. Youmight recall that 20 years as I can to be as helpful as possible to the hon. Member ago this week, the then hon. Member for Eastbourne, for Ilford South (Mike Gapes) and others. He can, of the late Ian Gow, was murdered by the Provisional course, go into the Library, go on to the net and view it IRA. He was a magnificent Member and somebody online, if he wants to. who, I believe, should be recognised permanently in the same way that Airey Neave is recognised. Mr Deputy Mr Deputy Speaker: I thank the Minister for that Speaker, will you take that point back to Mr Speaker to reply, although I do not think it was quite what the hon. see whether a permanent memorial can be granted in Gentleman wanted. However, it is now on the record. the memory of Ian Gow, the former Member for He feels that he should have been given the information Eastbourne, who was murdered on 30 July 1990? directly, and I am sure that that can be looked at again. Mr Deputy Speaker: I will raise that point with Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): On a point of order, Mr Speaker. It is on the record, so he will be able to read Mr Deputy Speaker. Yesterday, at questions to the it as well. 893 27 JULY 2010 Dog Control and Welfare 894

Dog Control and Welfare of breeds, based on their potential demeanour, and assume that simply eradicating them from society will Motion for leave to bring in a Bill (Standing Order dismantle the culture that they are bred from. That is an No. 23) approach that takes no account of the behaviour or intentions of the criminals on the other end of the lead. 1.58 pm Indeed, the real issue to be tackled is the behaviour of the owners. Any dog can be dangerous and cause harm; Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): I beg to move, it is how the animal is reared and trained that matters That leave be given to bring in a Bill to repeal the Dangerous most of all. That is why the current, breed-specific Dogs Act 1991; to require the introduction of compulsory Dangerous Dogs Act does not work and should be microchipping of dogs; to make provision relating to the welfare of dogs and public safety around dogs; and for connected purposes. repealed. I have chosen to bring this subject before the House My Bill would shift the legislation towards acknowledging for three reasons: first, and perhaps most notably, because the concept of “deed, not the breed”. By moving the I am a passionate animal-lover. I feel very strongly that focus to the specific actions of irresponsible owners, we the animal kingdom, with which we share this planet, will be able more effectively to identify and tackle the deserves the highest level of care and respect that we as root causes of such criminal activity. In short, we should human beings can give. Secondly, I believe that those be scrapping the breed-specific approach and affording who choose to own a pet have a certain responsibility police or other authorised persons much greater that comes with that privilege. In the case of dogs, this discretionary powers in deciding whether a dog poses a responsibility is twofold—the welfare of the animal and threat to the public. the duty to ensure the safety of others through proper The other key failure of the current legislation relates control. Finally, over the past three years, I was proud to dogs that are dangerously out of control. As the to serve on Her Majesty’s Opposition Front Bench, in legislation stands, such attacks are classified as criminal the Home Affairs team, as shadow Minister with offences only if they occur either in a public place or responsibility for animal welfare. In that role, I had the where the dog is not permitted to be. However, the opportunity to work closely with dog welfare organisations reality is that many attacks take place on private property. and people throughout the country who work, day in, My Bill would extend the law to cover attacks on all day out, dealing with issues surrounding the control property, allowing the police to investigate such offences and welfare of dogs, and who have a real and genuine and for prosecutions to be considered. I should also like understanding of how we can help to solve some of the to stress the failure of the current legislation in taking a issues relating to dogs in society today. preventive approach. We need to be able to deal with Last year, dogs overtook cats to become the most dogs suspected of being dangerous by imposing controls. popular choice of pet in the United Kingdom. Before My Bill would introduce a system of dog control orders you call me to order and ask me to declare my interest where there is reasonable cause to believe that a dog is in the matter, Mr Deputy Speaker, I should say that not under sufficient control and poses a potential threat I am, of course, the owner of dog—a Staffordshire to the public. bull terrier called Buster. You will be relieved to know, I am a fervent supporter of identification as a means Sir, that dangerous he is not, but microchipped he of providing all dog owners with a simple, cheap and certainly is. effective way of significantly enhancing both the safety In recent years, the issue of dangerous dogs has taken and security of their dogs, and the legal accountability on increasing significance. Inner-city areas in particular that they hold for their behaviour. Methods of permanent are being blighted by the intimidating sight of individuals identification—most notably microchipping—are already and gangs brandishing dogs that have been deliberately exploited across the country by veterinary centres, charities trained to produce the most aggressive demeanour possible. and shelters, and, of course, individual owners and Having dealt with the matter as the shadow Minister families. It is estimated that currently around a third of with responsibility for animal welfare, I fully appreciate all dogs in the United Kingdom have been microchipped, the prevalence that the issue of dangerous dogs has with which has contributed to a tremendous increase in the a disturbingly wide proportion of the general public. proportion of stray and stolen dogs being successfully The number of complaints received by the Royal Society identified and returned to their rightful owners. for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals concerning My Bill would introduce permanent identification as “status” and dangerous dogs has increased twelvefold. a compulsory measure for all dogs bred in the United On average, there are now 100 cases every week of Kingdom. That would be phased in over a period of people being admitted to hospital as a result of a dog time and would apply only to new litters. Microchipping attack. It would be no exaggeration to claim that what is a far cry from the old system of the dog licence, we are now seeing is a national calamity, in terms of abolished in the 1980s, which required bureaucracy and both public safety and animal welfare. As a result, it is the administration of excessive paperwork on the part clear that the current legislation has failed on an epic of local authorities. The benefits of introducing compulsory scale. There is now a huge public desire for renewed identification—as a means of reducing everyday dog laws that address the problem, with owners properly attacks, returning lost, stray or stolen dogs to their held to account. owners, and easing the burden on local authorities and The Dangerous Dogs Act was introduced in 1991—yes, dog wardens—are clear. Essentially, we would be by a Conservative Government—but it has obviously dramatically enhancing the ability to make dog owners failed adequately to achieve what it set out to do. A key legally accountable for the actions and the welfare of feature of the Act, contained in section 1, is a ban on their dogs. That alone would solve so many of the the breeding, sale and ownership of specific types of problems that we face in dealing with the control and dogs. However, it is not good enough to select a handful welfare of dogs. However, I say this to the Government: 895 27 JULY 2010 896

[Andrew Rosindell] Backbench Business please do not allow concerns about databases and anti-ID [2ND ALLOTTED DAY] card thinking to block what is a practical, common-sense solution. Linking a dog to its legal owner by using a microchip is not an infringement of civil liberties; it is Summer Adjournment simply the same as having a number plate on a car. 2.9 pm I would also like to take this opportunity to recognise the dedicated work undertaken on the issue by those Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab): On organisations with which I have worked in recent years. behalf of the Backbench Business Committee, I beg to Were it not for the invaluable research and campaigning move of the Dogs Trust, the Kennel Club, the RSPCA, Blue That this House has considered matters to be raised before the forthcoming Adjournment. Cross, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Vets Get Scanning, Speaking Out For Animals, the Retired Greyhound This is the second time that we have had a debate on Trust and many others, these matters would not be the Floor of the House that has been chosen by the receiving anything like the level of attention that they Backbench Business Committee. We have chosen to are receiving today. I pay tribute to them all. keep the pre-recess Adjournment debate format, mainly because we have had so many insistent representations Promoting and encouraging dog control and welfare from colleagues to retain it. As Mr Speaker mentioned is not simply about state intervention; it is about encouraging earlier, about 50 Members have put down their names those who seek or hold ownership of dogs to do so to speak, and the Chamber is very full. This is a rare responsibly, in such a way that benefits the welfare of opportunity for Members to debate issues that they have the animal and continues to ensure maximum public not been able to raise elsewhere, either because they safety. However, the law must underpin that, allowing have not been called to speak in a debate or because an individual to own a dog while also making them they have been unsuccessful in securing an Adjournment responsible for its control and well-being. Freedom debate. with responsibility is something that I as a Conservative believe in very strongly. The freedom to choose to own a The Backbench Business Committee believes that the dog must go hand in hand with the responsibility that pre-recess Adjournment debate could be improved, however, goes with it. That must surely be the right approach of a and we hope that the Deputy Leader of the House will Conservative-led Government. I commend my Bill to commit to ensuring that those Members who want one the House. will receive a substantive reply from the relevant Government Department. The Committee will also consider Question put and agreed to. changes to the format of these debates, and we welcome Ordered, any suggestions for improvement. With that, Mr Deputy That Andrew Rosindell, Angie Bray, Mr Andrew Speaker, I wish you and everyone else in the House a Turner, Stephen Metcalfe, Martin Horwood, Glenda relaxing and enjoyable recess. Jackson, Mr David Lammy, Angela Smith, Mr Jeffrey M. Donaldson, Daniel Kawczynski, Zac Goldsmith Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): May I remind and Dr Thérèse Coffey present the Bill. hon. Members that there is a limit of eight minutes on Andrew Rosindell accordingly presented the Bill. speeches in the debate? Bill read the First time; to be read a Second Time on 2.11 pm Friday 17 June 2011, and to be printed (Bill 65). Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): I should Business without Debate like to raise a number of points before the House rises for the summer recess. I should also like to congratulate DELEGATED LEGISLATION the Chairman of the Backbench Business Committee, Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing the hon. Member for North East Derbyshire (Natascha Order No. 118(6)), Engel), on her wonderful decision. I make my remarks against the background of an POLITICAL PARTIES,NORTHERN IRELAND extraordinary general election result. There are not too That the draft Control of Donations and Regulation of Loans many Members of Parliament left who were elected on etc. (Extension of the Prescribed Period) (Northern Ireland) the same day as Tony Blair and the right hon. Member Order 2010, which was laid before this House on 30 June, be for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath (Mr Brown), and there approved.—(Angela Watkinson.) are now 232 newly elected Members of Parliament. I Question agreed to. want to say to colleagues in all parts of the House that Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing I hold Tony Blair entirely responsible for the way in Order No. 118(6)), which this Parliament—the mother of all Parliaments—has ELECTRICITY been diminished, and for the way in which I believe he That the draft Electricity and Gas (Carbon Emissions Reduction) misled us over the war with Iraq. I hold the right hon. (Amendment) Order 2010, which was laid before this House on Member for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath responsible 14 July, be approved.—(Angela Watkinson.) for taking away the historic duty of the Bank of England Question agreed to. to regulate the financial market. Against that difficult backdrop, I wish to raise a number of points. The first is the plight of fishermen in Leigh-on-Sea, an historic fishing village in which 28 families are still involved in fishing. Sadly, because their boats are in the 10-metres-and-under category, they are experiencing a crisis because their quota has been exhausted. They fish 897 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 898 for cod, but I am advised that if negotiations were to and 561 rooms for students will be available. I hope lead to the granting of a quota of 0.5 tonnes per boat that, in these challenging times for seaside resorts, Southend for sole, skate and cod from September until the end of will be seen as an attractive place in which people can the year, fishing would continue to thrive and prosper advance their studies. in Leigh-on-Sea. I am supported in this by my right I also pay tribute to the YMCA, which is doing hon. Friend the Member for Rayleigh and Wickford marvellous work locally, and I hope that the Deputy (Mr Francois) and my hon. Friends the Members for Leader of the House will give it whatever encouragement Rochford and Southend East (James Duddridge) and he can. for Castle Point (Rebecca Harris). My next point is about myalgic encephalopathy, or I was delighted to learn from my right hon. Friend ME. This debilitating illness is very hard to diagnose, the Home Secretary that she is looking at the issue of and a number of my constituents have found it difficult policing. It seems somewhat perverse that, according to to get benefits following a diagnosis. Following their a report published last week, front-line police officers work capability assessment, ME patients are often described spend more time off work than on duty. as ineligible for the correct benefit. I hope that the I am also delighted that Eastwood school in my Deputy Leader of the House will have a conversation constituency has facilities that would very well suit one with the relevant Department to ensure that ME sufferers of the smaller visiting teams in the Olympic games. I are not disadvantaged when claiming disability living had the great privilege of chairing the Committee allowance. proceedings of the Olympic games legislation. The games Last year, I raised with the then Prime Minister the are now just two years away. I understand from friends plight of my constituent, Julie Ditchburn. She was in China that there is a wonderful exhibition in Shanghai living with a gentleman who was not treating her and at the moment. Perhaps in two years’ time, a similar the children terribly well, and she left the family home opportunity will arise for the new Olympic games centre. and brought the children to this country. Under the I know that a number of colleagues want to make terms of the Hague convention, however, the children their maiden speech today. I want to take this opportunity were ordered to be taken away from her. These were to wish everyone a very happy and well-deserved break very distressing circumstances, and the children are now during the summer recess. back in Spain. It would be wonderful if the Deputy Leader of the House could have a word with my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary to see whether our 2.18 pm consulate there could be a bit more helpful than it is being at the moment, as I was told it would be some Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): I could speak months ago. about all the problems with the coalition, but there are I shall move on to the plight of my constituent, two pressing cases in my constituency that I need to air. Tinashe Sahanga, who came to the United Kingdom First, I want to explain that the Bolsover constituency from Zimbabwe with his mother, brothers and sisters in used to have 12 pits and about 20 textile factories. In the 2000 when he was 16 years old. Quite extraordinarily, 1980s and 1990s, all those pits went. They were closed he has still not been granted leave to remain here. Sad by the previous Tory Government. The textile factories, though some colleagues might consider it, I watch the by and large, followed suit, mainly because Marks & BBC Parliament channel, and on it I saw the lady who is Spencer and one or two other big stores decided to have in charge of these matters, Lin Homer, saying that she all their goods made abroad. The net result was that was determined to be proactive in helping Members of unemployment in the Bolsover area, and in north Parliament whose constituents were experiencing difficulties Derbyshire generally, rose to more than 15% in the pit such as these. I appeal again to the Deputy Leader of villages. We had a lot of work to do, and when the Labour the House to pass on my concern about the plight of my Government came in—contrary to what the hon. Member constituent, Tinashe Sahanga. for Southend West (Mr Amess) said—the truth is that My next point is about Southend airport. Under the we managed to start regenerating the area. present Government, this problem would probably not have arisen. Permission has been granted for the expansion Instead of leaving the pit tips there, we cadged the of the airport, and that is upsetting a number of my money from the previous Prime Minister—then the constituents. I have now launched a petition to the Chancellor of Exchequer—to flatten them and turn European Parliament, and I hope that it will look them into areas where work could be provided. The carefully at my constituents’ concerns about noise and factories were not the same and the money was not the pollution. same as it was when people were working in the pits. Many hon. Members receive complaints from their The truth is that we needed a lot of factories to make up constituents about their cars being clamped. Certain for the several thousand miners and the many textile organisations are clamping cars, and my hon. Friend workers who had been thrown out of work. This was a the Member for Rochford and Southend East has even deprived area without any doubt, so we had to do a lot been threatened by one of these enforcement companies. of cadging of money in that context. They impose fines of £400 or £500, which is just outrageous. When Building Schools for the Future came along, These people seem to be outside the law. I ask the we were naturally very pleased. We thought, “Here we Deputy Leader of the House to have a word with the are: we can get about four or five schools, some of them appropriate Minister, to see whether anything can be very old, rebuilt and provide some work for all those done about this. people”. The private sector would have been involved as A week ago, I visited the wonderful Southend campus suppliers for Building Schools for the Future and other of Essex university, which was opened by Princess Anne schools in Britain. When the public sector is culled, it in 2007. Student facilities will be opening there shortly, creates misery for the private sector—that is roughly it. 899 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 900

[Mr Dennis Skinner] give them a new lease of life. That is why houses built in about 1948 or 1949 were able to last right through to the Two or three schools were included in the programme, year 2000 and beyond. and Bolsover had its completion date only a fortnight Sadly, however, in the past few years, the foundations ago. have begun to collapse. In my constituency, there are When the Secretary of State made his statement to 108 of these buildings, and pensioners are living in cancel 700 Building Schools for the Future projects, every one of them. They are in Bolsover, a deprived Members can imagine my horror when I heard that area, and in villages such as Langwith Junction and Tibshelf community school was not included in the list New Houghton. Pensioners in these areas are now of projects that will go ahead. Looking at the website is living in fear, as some of these dwellings have been shut enough to make you cry. I shall quote what came out in down. There are 40 in one village and about 15 have July 2010 on the Tory-controlled Derbyshire county already been closed. Can Members imagine what the council website. It is almost unbelievable: conditions are like for people when houses next door to “This is an immensely exciting time in the history of Tibshelf them and peppered around them are closed? School. The Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme Again, then, I am asking for a meeting with a Minister. for Derbyshire is arriving just as the school is preparing to celebrate its centenary… The plans for the new school are developing When we met the Labour Housing Minister, my right nicely”— hon. Friend the Member for Wentworth and Dearne this is in July this year— (John Healey), he did not give us a letter saying that the money was all gone. My right hon. Friend said to us: “and have been shared with the whole community. From September 2010 the Tibshelf family will grow to include not only the villages “Here is the money. Start the programme of rebuilding of Tibshelf, Newton, Blackwell, Westhouses and Hilcote, but also the prefabricated houses. Give the pensioners a chance Holmewood, Heath, Morton and Pilsley”— to live in some decent accommodation.” So we took the the latter in the constituency of my hon. Friend the money and we thought we were going to start after the Member for North East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel). election. Then, we got the response from the Secretary Why did it say all that? Because not only was Tibshelf of State for Communities and Local Government that going to have its brand-new school; it was to be even he is not prepared to find that money any more. We are bigger than we originally thought because it was going asking for a meeting with him in order to get those to take over Deincourt school in North Wingfield in my houses built to provide people with work and— hon. Friend’s constituency. The result would have been that even more pupils could attend and a new Deincourt Mr Speaker: Order. Time is up, I am afraid. We are primary school would be built. The ripples were rolling grateful. right across to the county council, which was excited by it. The truth is that the Secretary of State kyboshed all Several hon. Members rose— that in a second when he decided that Tibshelf was not going ahead. There we are, then, for a school that is 2.46 pm celebrating its centenary next year. Priti Patel (Witham) (Con): May I say how delighted Tibshelf did not get on the first list; it did not get on I am, having sat in the shadow of so many excellent the second list; it did not get on the third, fourth or fifth maiden speeches over the past two and a half months, lists. I am pleading with the Secretary of State to make to have at long last the opportunity to make my own sure that this school is included—not only because of debut, my maiden speech, as a new Member of Parliament the deprivation in the area and because the project in this august House of Commons? I add that I am provides work, but because the educational facilities conscious of the significance and importance of today’s needed for this wonderful sports college are so important. Adjournment debate to all our colleagues in the Chamber, What has happened not only affects Bolsover, but creates so I am grateful to have your indulgence, Mr Speaker, problems for the kids in Deincourt and elsewhere. Deincourt and that of the House and all colleagues this afternoon school is due to be demolished in the next few weeks. It as I make my debut. was to have a complete rebuild. Those children will have It brings me genuine joy to pay tribute to my four no school to go to unless we can change this decision. predecessors. Thanks to the creativity of the Boundary Let me finish the first part of what I want to say Commission, the new and unique Witham constituency today by calling on the Secretary of State in respect of comprises three very distinct areas of the county of this matter. I am pleased that my hon. Friend the Essex. It was represented in the previous Parliament by Member for North East Derbyshire mentioned that we four most distinguished Members of Parliament. I should get answers. I want to know whether the Secretary forewarned them that I was making my debut and I of State will meet us when we come back in September; suspect they felt that I might make them blush—hence then we can bring down to this place the headmaster, their absence. officers of the Derbyshire education authority and others First, I pay tribute to my hon. Friend the Member for to get this decision reversed. Braintree (Mr Newmark). He has served the town of The second issue I want to raise is Bolsover’s prefabricated Witham, from which my constituency takes its name, bungalows. Like many others up and down the country, and many of the surrounding communities with tremendous they were built after the second world war. We did not distinction and care. I also pay a personal tribute to my have the materials or the money then—by God, we hon. Friend the outstanding Member for Harwich and certainly did not have the money—so these prefabs were North Essex (Mr Jenkin), who has not only bequeathed built. A lot of people thought they would not last very me some of the most beautiful swathes of the Essex long, but they were wrong because the prefabs were countryside, but served those parts of my constituency built pretty well. Then we cladded around them in many with enormous distinction and in a way that has won constituencies up and down Britain and we managed to him many friends in the local area. 901 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 902

It is also an honour to pay tribute to my hon. Friend to buy their first business—what else but a newsagent’s? the Member for Maldon (Mr Whittingdale). Mr Speaker, As a result, my youth was literally spent sleeping above I was at one stage considered to be somewhat to the the shop and playing directly under the till, while watching right of the political centre—until, that is, I inherited my family—thanks to the free-market policies of Margaret some of my hon. Friend’s local Conservative party Thatcher—thrive and grow. Wherever my parents set activists! My hon. Friend is nothing short of a colossus up shop, they employed local people, contributed to the locally, and his advice and opinions are greatly sought. local community, and made a substantial contribution He has represented the local areas that now fall into my to the local economy. constituency with great gusto, forthright views and I speak from personal experience when I say that the conviction, which I look forward to emulating. impact of the last Government’s policies on enterprise Last but not least, I would like to pay a most sincere and small business was simply devastating. I saw at first tribute to my coalition colleague, the hon. Member for hand the ever-growing burdens of the state encroach on Colchester (Bob Russell). He has quite rightly developed our livelihood and sap our ability to function as a a reputation as an assiduous constituency Member of business, let alone support our local community by Parliament and I am aware that the area I have inherited providing employment and much-valued local services. from him—the ward of Stanway—has come to expect a The excessive regulation from central Government stifled first-class service from their Member of Parliament, every ounce of the very entrepreneurial flair that once and I intend to keep it that way. led Napoleon to describe our great country as a nation As I said earlier, my constituency is a new one. of shopkeepers. Standing at over 130 square miles, it covers areas from I should like to think that the Witham constituency the districts of Braintree, Maldon and the borough of was a hotbed of Patels, but alas, not yet. None the less, I Colchester. In previous guises, the constituency has also am proud to represent a constituency of entrepreneurs been in part represented by a number of our most whose businesses create jobs and prosperity throughout distinguished parliamentarians. The two most notable our high streets, villages and towns. The Witham were Lord Newton of Braintree and Lord Wakeham. constituency is a place where the unique and unyielding Speaking personally, I cannot pay sufficient tribute to ingenuity of the British people to create opportunities Lord Newton, who, wherever I go in my constituency, is and prosperity is found in abundance. Nowhere is our spoken of with such genuine warmth, affection and reputation as a nation of shopkeepers and free-market sincerity owing to his years of public service and dedication entrepreneurs more apparent than in Witham, and while to what was then the Braintree constituency. It is fair to I am a Member of this House I will stand by the say that I have a truly tremendous local legacy. businesses on which my constituents depend and which, At the heart of my new constituency is the historic of course, make my constituency such a dynamic place market town of Witham, which is surrounded by a to represent. significant number of villages and hamlets. Witham’s I believe that our country is at its strongest when it history and buildings date as far back as the Domesday promotes the spirit of enterprise, the values of hope book, and the town is well known for its wealth of and aspiration, and the desire to get on in life. That is 16th-century timber-frame buildings, for its distinctive why I am certain that this Government’s priority of town hall, and, now, for the more modern developments lower corporation tax, providing incentives for small that define the town. My constituency is also home to business, abolishing Labour’s tax on jobs, and ending well over 40 villages and hamlets, including Hatfield the over-zealous bureaucracy that has strangled our Peverel, Coggeshall, Wickham Bishops, Kelvedon, The small businesses will enable this country to flourish Notleys, Woodham, Totham, Marks Tey, Tollesbury again. and the village of Tiptree. I should like to think that I am grateful to you, Mr Speaker, and to the House hon. Members have already familiarised themselves for enabling me to make my maiden speech, but my with Tiptree’s most famous produce while having their greatest thanks go to the good-natured and hard-working morning tea and toast, as the village is home to the people of Witham for electing me. I pledge that I will orchards and the factory producing the world-famous never shy away from representing them and being a Wilkin and Sons Tiptree jam. strong voice for them in the House. Witham is also a constituency where small businesses, enterprise and traditional high streets matter. Local 2.34 pm entrepreneurs and businesses support 83% of jobs in Witham, compared to the national average of 68%, and Mr David Crausby (Bolton North East) (Lab): I want 25,000 people and their families depend on the prosperity to express my concern about the development of the of those businesses. In my view—and as they tell me—those Princess Anne maternity unit at Royal Bolton hospital. businesses need a fair and flexible labour market and a The creation of a new regional baby supercentre at the competitive and low-tax framework to provide jobs and hospital was announced in August 2007. Construction prosperity. work on the expansion began in September 2009, and is My own deep and personal interest in what I call the due to be completed by the end of 2011. Royal Bolton economics of enterprise and small business stems from hospital won the bid in competition with other hospitals, my family background. My parents arrived in Britain and we were naturally delighted in Bolton. from Uganda with literally nothing, and, like the thousands The care that the NHS delivers throughout our lives of British Asians—and also the many Patels—who and during the period that leads to our death is priceless, arrived in Britain in similar circumstances at that time, but nothing can be more important than the start that they relentlessly pursued the path of pure hard work in our children are given in life, and quality maternity order to get on in life. By working long hours and by services can make an important difference in that regard. saving their hard-earned money, my parents were able The development was welcomed by the whole region 903 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 904

[Mr David Crausby] being provided to fund the supercentres and the improved facilities for the benefit of everyone only because the because it was designed to raise maternity services to available resources were being sensibly concentrated. another level. The state-of-the-art supercentre was designed What he said in one town alongside a prospective to provide extra delivery rooms, new high-dependency Conservative candidate was being denied in other towns. beds, new intensive-care and high-dependency cots, new Eventually, however, under pressure, the then shadow beds for antenatal and post-natal wards, new on-site Secretary of State for Health was forced to claim publicly overnight facilities for parents, and the best equipment that the Conservatives would keep all the maternity possible to provide care for our sickest babies. Twenty units open and at the same time ensure that Bolton’s million pounds were invested to make all that happen development and other supercentres would be unaffected. and 400 jobs were to be created in the town, not just for Things have changed now, of course. The former the benefit of Bolton but in the interests of parents and shadow Secretary of State has lost the shadow part of children throughout Greater Manchester. his title and reality is setting in, but he still provides no explanation as to where the money will come from or Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I am sorry to interrupt what other services will have to be cut as a result of, my hon. Friend, but he may not have realised that the effectively, his commitment to increase spending on hon. Member who spoke before him was making a Greater Manchester maternity services. He no doubt maiden speech. I am sure that he would like an opportunity hopes that his general election promises will fade into to congratulate her on a very fine speech. the distance, and in order to try and wriggle out of them he has called for a review of Greater Manchester’s Mr Crausby: I am sorry, Mr Speaker. It is a real maternity facilities. He does so even though the making privilege to follow the hon. Member for Witham (Priti it better programme had already involved an enormous Patel). I am grateful to her for inciting that intervention, review and public consultation, so he is simply playing because it has given me another minute in which to for time. The major question that the Secretary of State speak, but I also congratulate her on what was indeed must answer is if the centres that were previously due to an excellent maiden speech. close are now set to continue, where will the extra The decision was made after the extensive making it funding come from for the centres of excellence and the better review of maternity services. Doctors, nurses, supercentres? midwives and specialists were consulted throughout, As a result of my concerns, I raised this issue in a and 12 primary care trusts, 12 hospitals and 12 local recent Prime Minister’s Question Time and the Prime authorities were directly involved in the process. Thousands Minister assured me that there were no plans to cancel of information leaflets were distributed across the region. the improvements to Bolton’s maternity unit, but just Workshops were held with members of the public, and one week later health bosses were told by the Government a citizens’ council, a maternity council, NHS managers, that they would have to, again, prove that the improvements doctors and nurses were all involved. The level of public are necessary in order to secure the investment. consultation was unprecedented, with more than 242,000 The Secretary of State for Health and the Prime people sharing their views by means of formal responses, Minister need to be clear with the people of Bolton and petitions and public meetings. At all stages, the focus Greater Manchester. The consultation work has already was on making the necessary changes to provide the been completed and the most efficient plan put in place best possible care for patients. with construction and recruitment in Bolton already It was decided to replace the 12 centres in Greater under way. After more than six years of preparation Manchester with eight centres of excellence, with three and investment the entire process is almost complete. supercentres providing neonatal care. The higher standard Will the Government support the improvement plans as of care provided by the new structure and concentrated they did during the general election campaign? If not, resources would mean that more premature and sick what alternative do they propose, and how will services babies would survive, and fewer parents would be turned be affected and funded? away owing to staffing problems. It was estimated that between 30 and 50 lives a year would be saved. The I have fought hard throughout my political life, but I move from 12 to eight centres was never going to be would never dream of sinking so low as to put at risk easy—it was bound to arouse strong and emotional the health and well-being of mothers and children for local protest—but in this case it was the right thing to electoral advantage. The Secretary of State for Health do, because it was in the interest of better-quality has no honourable alternative now but to come clean maternity services throughout Greater Manchester. and stump up the money to deliver what he promised to the people of Bolton and Greater Manchester by fully The problems started when the general election campaign funding Bolton’s maternity supercentre as he said he arrived. Along came the then shadow Secretary of State would. for Health—the current Secretary of State, the right hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley)— campaigning in Bury, Rochdale and other Greater 2.43 pm Manchester constituencies. He was clearly a man in pursuit of votes and popularity, and he was going to get Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con): First, may what he wanted by promising to keep all the maternity I say what a pleasure it is to follow so shortly after my units open. In doing so, however, he was completely hon. Friend the Member for Witham (Priti Patel)? It is a undermining the making it better scheme in a naked delight to be speaking in the same debate in which she attempt to win Conservative target seats in Greater made her maiden speech. I am sure some of us can Manchester. He must have known—if he did not, he remember how terrifying that is, and my hon. Friend certainly should have known—that this money was did amazingly well. 905 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 906

I want to use this opportunity to highlight the unusual regulate and monitor events and protect them should case of an institution that fails people who look to it for something go wrong and their life savings are taken protection and help when situations go wrong. I shall away? mention the names of a number of people and I am not being naive in making this speech, and I am organisations, but there is no court case pending so that aware that financial journalists might want to pick up is not sub judice. on this story. If they do so, we would love to know Many people work hard all their lives, and save hard. whether Stuart Waldron, who disappeared overnight, is Some people may run corner shops or work as self- still trading somewhere in the City of London. We have employed plumbers and save a deal of money, and a a barrister’s statement of case that analysed the whole time comes in their life when they realise that they want situation. Unfortunately the case cannot be taken on to use that money for their pension or to help them any further because there is no money left to do so; the through their later years, so they look to make investments people involved cannot fight their corner. If any financial with that money. Some people will use organisations journalist would like a copy of the barrister’s statement such as investment banks and stockbroker firms, and I of case they would be very welcome to it. want to talk about a particular stockbroking firm with It is amazing that an organisation such as the FSA, which, in 2007, a number of people decided to invest which is supposed to protect the interests of ordinary their life savings. This story is also about the Financial hard-working people, should have let people down so Services Authority. The company took these people’s spectacularly. It will not be the stockbrokers, the City life savings—a number of people’s livelihoods were also bankers or the huge institutions that bring about the involved—and within weeks it had all gone. upturn in this country; it will be the hard-working A trader by the name of Stuart Waldron handled the individuals who set up their own businesses, go to work accounts of these people. He asked all of them to set up every day, save as hard as they can and hope that, with a separate e-mail account that he could use for trades those savings, they can look after themselves and their only. He then rang particular people and said that the families and see the rewards of their labour. It is an e-mail account was not working and asked for their absolute disgrace when organisations such as WorldSpreads password. The investors thought that there was nothing try to blame their own misdemeanours, corrupt dealings unusual in that, because the account was just for trading, and failings on to one individual, Stuart Waldron, who so they gave the trader their password. He then proceeded disappears overnight—paid, we believe. to send messages to and from himself giving instructions I hope that while I am giving this speech there is not on buys and sells. When that became apparent, the FSA someone sat in the WorldSpreads offices handing over became involved and I sent a number of documents to their life savings, because we will know what will happen the authority. That was a considerable time ago and I to them. We know the pattern: over a number of weeks, have not yet had a response from it. I e-mailed the those savings will dwindle and suddenly, a situation will relevant inspector at the FSA, Margaret Cole, three occur—perhaps like that involving BP—and the explanation weeks ago because I knew I was going to speak about given will be, “We are so sorry your savings have this matter today, but I have not had a reply. disappeared, but the markets were badly affected by the The stockbroking firm is called WorldSpreads, and it current situation”. That provides the smokescreen for operates outside the City of London—surprise, surprise. such activities. We know the corrupt e-mails that such Therefore, it does not come under the jurisdiction of the organisations send. They depend on the naivety and City of London police. It appears that the people who inexperience of those who do not have the educational run WorldSpreads used to run a stockbroking firm background in, or experience of, the financial markets. called Square Mile Securities, which was inspected and I am sorry to have taken the House’s time up with this closed down, although because of its financial situation case. I hope that, as a result of highlighting it today, at the time, it paid a reduced penalty. Those people from some steps might be taken towards providing justice SMS who were closed down and had to pay that fine and to returning some of those people’s money to them. then went on to set up WorldSpreads. The inspector who closed down SMS was Margaret Cole. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): I call Graham Jones. I remind the House that this is a maiden speech. WorldSpreads held up its hands and said Stuart Waldron was a rogue trader. My investors decided not 2.51 pm to believe that and chose instead to take the case further. They had a meeting with the directors of WorldSpreads, Graham Jones (Hyndburn) (Lab): Thank you, which was recorded. On the recording it is made very Mr Deputy Speaker, for allowing me to make my maiden clear that Stuart Waldron was not a rogue trader but speech, and I congratulate the hon. Member for Witham that the operation was planned—indeed, it was a procedure (Priti Patel) on her maiden speech today. that the company appeared to carry out regularly. It is an honour and a humbling privilege to represent One key point is that the FSA has so far failed to Haslingden and Hyndburn in this House. It is a constituency represent the individuals who have lost their life savings, that sits in the impoverished east Lancashire corridor, but there is also a bigger point. I am aware of this group with its companion constituencies of Blackburn, Burnley of individuals—I know what has happened to them in and Pendle, some 18 miles north of Manchester. It is a their particular case—but how many more stockbroking valley littered with the history of a bygone industrial firms are operating in such a way? How many more heritage: mill towns that earned Britain great wealth. individuals are the FSA failing to protect? How many The demise of “king cotton” has run in parallel with people are walking into a stockbroking firm with their economic difficulty. life savings—even as I am giving this speech today—trusting My grandfather and grandmother, whom I owe so that firm and hoping that there is a procedure behind much and who now reside in a far greater place, would them and an organisation such as the FSA that will be beaming with pride today. It was family—along with 907 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 908

[Graham Jones] At this point I would like to say a few words about my predecessor, Greg Pope, as is an honoured tradition in the lack of prosperity in the Thatcherite ’80s that capped this place. Before I do so, however, I would like to place people’s aspirations and life chances—who determined on the record a word of thanks to his predecessor. Greg my political persuasions. It is the strength and courage Pope, in his maiden speech 18 years ago, said of Ken of party colleagues that has brought me to this place, Hargreaves that it is and I am eternally grateful for that. “no overstatement to say that he has devoted his life to representing The local government area of Hyndburn was formed the people of the area”—[Official Report, 20 May 1992; Vol. 208, in 1974 and makes up six sevenths of the constituency. c. 322.] It constitutes the borough of Accrington and the old of Hyndburn. I can only report to the House that that urban districts of Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Rishton, remains true 18 years later. It is fair to say that Greg was Altham, Great Harwood and Oswaldtwistle. Haslingden everyone’s friend. Articulate and thoughtful, he cared sits in the Rossendale valley and is a proud market town about his constituents, bequeathing a constituency office famous for cotton and textile manufacturing, and for that in my opinion provides a service to constituents the 19th-century Irish republican leader and parliamentarian that is second to none. Michael Davitt. Greg, like me, traversed a local path to Parliament, My constituency stretches to the rural north, to the beginning his political life in his home town of Great place I understand to be a one-party state, known as the Harwood as a councillor back in 1984, under the wings Ribble Valley. Parliamentary boundaries do throw up of George Slynn. Rainy days in the Ribble Valley did odd surprises. While canvassing the borders of this iron not deter his determination, and he was rewarded on a curtain of political difference, I discovered the annexation sunny day in 1992, when the Labour vote did come out of several farms whose cherished Ribble Valley postal in Hyndburn. He secured four terms of office as the address—BB7, Clitheroe—now falls within Hyndburn. Member of Parliament for Hyndburn. His vast experience My predecessor, Greg Pope, still maintains with great as a Member of this House will be missed by those in all certainty that his defeat by a margin of 22,000 in the parts of it, as will his pleasant demeanour, honesty and Ribble Valley constituency in 1987 was all down to rain sincerity, and particularly his expertise in foreign affairs. on the day affecting the Labour turnout. It would be remiss of me—Greg would welcome my Having heard the laudable but extravagant claims saying this—not to remind the House that that were made in the House about the industrial revolution, “he is thought to be the only Member of Parliament to have I feel duty bound to honour the history of my constituency invaded the stage during a gig by The Clash in 1978”. by wresting away the title of the birthplace of the As such, his musical nobility was assured when my hon. industrial revolution from my hon. Friend the Member Friend the Member for Oldham East and Saddleworth for Stoke-on-Trent Central (Tristram Hunt)—he made (Mr Woolas) was drawn to commend him in a Westminster that claim in his maiden speech; he has a keen eye for Hall debate, saying that this was in his mind a badge of history—and from my hon. Friend the Member for honour. Derby North (Chris Williamson). Finally, let me speak briefly of the challenges facing As we all know, James Hargreaves—a “gobbiner” my constituency in the coming years. Despite investment from Oswaldtwistle—invented in 1764 the spinning jenny, by the previous Government, which has led to significant which revolutionised the manufacture and mass production improvements in some areas, much still needs to be of cotton. By the 1830s, approximately 85% of all cotton done. Some 40% of privately owned residential properties manufactured worldwide was processed in Lancashire. in the constituency are not up to the decent homes Many maiden speeches—I have listened to a few— standard, and more than 10% are unfit for human shamelessly act as a tourist bulletin for their constituency, habitation. There are some 2,500 empty properties, and I intend in mine to follow that trend. My constituency including in the Rossendale town of Haslingden, and is famous for Accrington “NORI” brick—the word today some wards in Accrington rank amongst the “IRON” was painted upwards on the chimneys when it most deprived in the country in terms of health care, was supposed to be painted downwards; educational life expectancy and other such indicators. standards have obviously gone up since then—which The Government’s housing market renewal programme was used in the construction of the empire state building is attempting to remedy those problems, but it goes and Blackpool tower. Europe’s largest collection of without saying that the huge cuts in funding handed out Tiffany glass is also in the constituency. so far—particularly to my area, which is one of the Of course, there is also Accrington Stanley. The club most affected—will blight the local economy for perhaps has risen from bankruptcy and I can inform the House the second time following 18 years of Thatcherism. that it is on an assured footing under the stewardship of Hyndburn has one of the lowest rates of participation my friend Ilyas Khan, whose commitment to the club, in adult sports and recreation in Lancashire, and is the passion for the area and dedication to the Leonard third lowest in the country. In my constituency it is not Cheshire disability charity I must commend. possible to create opportunities for the private sector to deal with those fundamental issues without public sector One cannot mention the constituency without honouring support, and I intend to be a fierce and vocal supporter the 11th East Lancashire Regiment, known as Accrington of my constituents’ interests in this House. pals. The pals’ first day of action was on the battle of the Somme on 1 July 1916, at Serre in the north of France. Within half an hour of their advance into fierce 2.59 pm resistance, 235 men were killed and a further 350 Daniel Kawczynski (Shrewsbury and Atcham) (Con): wounded—more than half the battalion. Whole families I congratulate the hon. Member for Hyndburn (Graham were devastated, and it was said then that not a single Jones) on his eloquent and passionate maiden speech; I street was unaffected. wish him every success representing his constituents. 909 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 910

Localism, we are told, is very important and I agree I want to draw the Minister’s attention to the fact with that concept. We need to have more powers for that Shropshire has exceeded the national recycling local councils in Shropshire—for Shropshire unitary targets and is massively ahead of other suggested targets. authority and Shrewsbury town council—moving away I am greatly worried that we will be importing waste from Westminster and from regional quangos, so that from other parts of the UK to be incinerated in Shropshire. those who take the decisions can be accountable to local In the last Parliament, we had many debates in this people in Shropshire. Chamber and Westminster Hall about incinerators. Labour and Conservative Ministers always come back with the Shrewsbury town council is the largest town council same response on this issue. They say, “This is a local in the United Kingdom. Following the reorganisation matter and you should take it up with your local council,” of local councils in Shropshire, I very much hope that but I do not believe that the Minister can wash his we can evaluate how more power can be devolved to hands of this issue, because there needs to be direct Shrewsbury town council, but one area in which I think Government intervention. For the record, I am extremely a greater lead, and certainly more advice, is needed upset that the council—a Conservative council, I hasten from government is waste management. There are proposals to add—is proceeding with the incinerator. for an incinerator to be built in Harlescott, which is a highly residential part of Shrewsbury. The Minister will My next point to the Minister is that I would like the know that Shrewsbury is an extremely beautiful mediaeval council to receive greater clarification about house building town. The No. 1 income generator for our community is targets. The previous Labour Administration wanted to tourism, so local residents are extremely concerned at foist huge house building targets on Shropshire—almost the prospect of the incinerator being built. As the local concreting over it—leading to great concern among MP, I have received many petitions on the matter and villagers, including those in Cressage and Pontesbury, have attended many public meetings about it. who love their rural way of life. I should like the Minister to clarify the matter and to assure us that local Hon. Members will be interested to hear that the councils will have greater responsibility to decide house issue involves the French operator Veolia, which its building programmes rather than their being imposed chief executive told me when I met him in the House of by central Government. Commons was originally set up by Napoleon Bonaparte. That company is like an octopus with its tentacles all Lastly, I shall address my pet subject, about which, as over the UK. How will the Minister regulate and control chairman of the all-party group for the continuation of that ever-growing, powerful company in its quest to first past the post, I feel passionately. The only three build more and more incinerators throughout the UK? countries around the world that use the alternative vote What checks, balances and supervision are the national system are Australia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea. I do Government going to put in place? What co-ordination not believe that the United Kingdom should be using a from Government will there be regarding where such voting system that is predominantly used in Papua New incinerators are placed? Guinea and Fiji.

Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): Does my Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): hon. Friend agree that first past the post is so called for Is my hon. Friend aware that we, too, have an application a reason, because it rightly suggests that the horse that for an incinerator in my constituency and that many wins the race deserves to get the prize? To carry on the such incinerators are to be funded through the private analogy, does he agree that the alternative vote means finance initiative project? Does he agree that it is that the backers of the horses that came third, fourth or tremendously dangerous to fund technology projects even worse decide whether the horse that came first or with PFI on a potential 25-year payback given that the the horse that came second ought to get the prize? technology could be out of date within five or 10 years? Daniel Kawczynski: I absolutely concur with my hon. Daniel Kawczynski: Yes; I am very grateful to my Friend on that point. The referendum will cost the hon. Friend. I was just about to talk about concerns United Kingdom millions of pounds. In five years of that the technology will be antiquated by the end of the being a Member of Parliament, I have received only one contract. I want to press the Minister for greater national letter—and only then because I went on the “Today” co-ordination. Councils up and down the country are programme and said that I had not received any on this looking separately, in silos, at incinerators with little issue, after which I received one—from one constituent regard to national co-ordination in their placement. My saying, “Dear Mr Kawczynski, could you please support hon. Friend is absolutely correct. In our case, the contract a change in the voting system?” My constituents come would last for 29 years, but the polluting technology to see me about pensions, child tax credits and Child involved is already antiquated and should be avoided. Support Agency payments—all the things that affect Why cannot we have more efficient carbon dioxide-neutral their day-to-day lives. All Members in the Chamber will methods of waste disposal? There are many examples in know some of the terrible difficulties that our constituents Sweden and other European Union countries that use are going through and will go through in coming years the most modern and pioneering technology for their as a result of the fiscal mess that we have inherited. For waste. Please will the Minister look at them and try to us to be distracting ourselves on 6 September with give a greater lead and incentive to councils such as deliberations about a referendum on a change to the Shropshire not to go with antiquated technology that voting system when we have one of the best voting pollutes our atmosphere? Will he explain the policy and systems in the world is a great travesty. I, for one, as advise that there should be greater co-ordination between chairman of the all-party group, encourage all Members councils and more assistance to help them evaluate the to join the group and to keep up the pressure on our best solutions? Government to ditch these ludicrous proposals. 911 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 912

3.7 pm affection for his independence of thought, integrity and immense tenacity, much to the annoyance of many a Graeme Morrice (Livingston) (Lab): Thank you, Madam premier. Deputy Speaker, for allowing me to make my maiden speech on the last day before the House rises for the My constituency is a very diverse area including, as summer recess. May I congratulate all those who have I mentioned, the new town of Livingston, which is one made their maiden speeches to date? I congratulate in of Scotland’s five new towns created in the 1960s. particular the hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel) Livingston is the biggest town in the Lothians outside and my hon. Friend the Member for Hyndburn (Graham Edinburgh. Over the years it has become a major hub in Jones), who painted very attractive pictures of their Scotland’s silicon glen. BSkyB has its main call centre constituencies, albeit with different political landscapes. in Livingston, and is the largest private sector employer in West Lothian. The Livingston designer outlet centre, You might be aware, Madam Deputy Speaker, that I which is one of the biggest in Britain, attracts 6 million am unique in this House in that there are two of me—at shoppers annually. The town is also home to West least, I am one of two Members with the same name. I Lothian’s only senior football team, which came third share my name with my hon. Friend the Member for in the Scottish premier league in 2002 and qualified for Easington (Grahame M. Morris), albeit with a different the UEFA cup—a remarkable achievement for such a spelling. Some might say—my apologies to Oscar Wilde— new club. My constituency also takes in numerous other that to have one Graeme Morrice in the House of communities of a more post-industrial and rural nature, Commons may be regarded as a misfortune, but to have covering the Almond and Breich valleys and Strathbrock. two looks like carelessness. Like all new Members, I am absolutely delighted to have been elected to Parliament Historically, West Lothian was dominated by both to serve my constituents and the community in which oil-shale mining in the eastern part of the county and I have lived for most of my life. It is a great honour and coal mining in the west, as is evident from the bings that privilege to have the trust of my constituents placed still exist on the landscape. In the 1850s West Lothian in me, and I pledge to serve them faithfully in the years was home to the first truly commercial oil works in the to come. world, thanks to the eminent chemist James “Paraffin” Young.The Union canal and railways, with their stunning It is customary during a maiden speech to pay tribute aqueducts and viaducts that were built during that to one’s predecessor and I want to thank Jim Devine for era—they are still standing to this day—facilitated the his work during his four and a half years as an MP. Jim economic success of the area. campaigned on many issues, most notably on the collapse of Farepak, and the green belt. Jim Devine became a Unfortunately, West Lothian’s proud heritage of mineral Member of the House following the untimely death of extraction ended in the mid-1980s with the enforced the late Robin Cook in 2005, and he would often say closure of the Polkemmet pit. That, along with the loss that it was a place he did not want to be in those sad of British Leyland in Bathgate and numerous other circumstances. I understand and share those sentiments. factory closures, meant that unemployment in the county Much has been said and written about Robin Cook’s rose to an unprecedented 25%. That was the legacy left outstanding contribution to national politics and world in my constituency by the Conservative Governments events, and I am sure that will be the case for many of Margaret Thatcher and John Major, and it took years to come. However, I knew Robin as the local, more than a decade of the interventionist policies and hard-working and caring constituency MP who gave public service investment programme of the incoming 22 years of dedicated service to the people of his Labour Government before the tide was eventually community. Robin was my friend, and I miss him deeply turned. I do not want a return to the days of laissez-faire to this day, as I am sure many hon. Members do. economics, wholesale privatisation and the decimation of public services that I remember only too well, as do My constituency has one of the biggest populations the people and communities that I represent. among Scotland’s constituencies, with about 77,000 electors. It stretches 16 miles from the Edinburgh boundary My background is in local government. I have been a in the east to the Lanarkshire boundary in the west, and councillor in my constituency for the past 23 years, 14 miles from the Pentland hills and Scottish borders in serving the community of Broxburn and Uphall, which the south to the constituency of Linlithgow and East was the birthplace of my mother, and is where I lived Falkirk in the north, beyond which is the firth of Forth from the age of 12. I had been council leader for and Fife. The constituency is strategically located within 12 years when, in 2006, West Lothian became the first the central belt of Scotland, situated as it is within the Scottish local authority to be honoured with the prestigious local authority area of West Lothian. accolade of UK council of the year. Indeed, in this very House Tony Blair, the then Prime Minister, commended Although the name of my constituency is Livingston, myself and the council’s chief executive, Alex Linkston, as it takes in the new town of Livingston, it also covers on that remarkable achievement. many of the more traditional towns and villages of West Lothian, some of which have such delightful sounding If I may, I wish to congratulate Alex Linkston on his names as Breich, Dechmont, Ecclesmachan and 45 years’ service in local government, during which he Faucheldean. The constituency itself was created only has worked continually for West Lothian council and its in 1983. It was a new seat created to reflect the growth predecessors. He is retiring in September, and he was of Livingston new town, as well as taking in parts of the awarded a CBE in 2007 for his services to local government. former West Lothian and Midlothian constituencies. It I am sure that the whole House would like to join me in therefore boasts of such historic and eminent figures thanking him for his long and distinguished public as Manny Shinwell, William Gladstone, the Liberal service and wishing him well for the future. Prime Minister, and of course my friend Tam Dalyell, a Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker, for allowing me former Father—and indeed favourite—of the House, to make my maiden speech. I wish you and the rest of who will always be remembered with immeasurable the House a very enjoyable summer break. 913 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 914

3.15 pm A further problem affecting South Staffordshire is car boot sales. When hon. Members think of car boot Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) (Con): I pay sales, they probably imagine pleasant events involving tribute to the excellent maiden speeches made by the 20 or 30 cars that might be raising money for a local hon. Members for Livingston (Graeme Morrice) and hospital, church or school, but South Staffordshire is for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) and by my hon. Friend blighted by industrial car boot sales involving many the Member for Witham (Priti Patel); they sold their hundreds of traders descending on our rural villages. constituencies very well. There is no regulation or control by the district council, As a reasonably new Member of Parliament—I have and the events bring misery to many areas. I invite been a Member for only a few weeks—I have quickly Members to visit the villages of Featherstone or Himley discovered that one of the joys of the role is the enormous on a Sunday to see the blight that the car boot sales range of issues that one reads about in each day’s bring—[Interruption.] Members are probably booking postbag. Some of them are very easy to deal with and their train tickets right away. The villagers are not able can lead to good resolutions, but others are more complex. to leave their homes because of the traffic chaos inflicted I therefore welcome the opportunity to bring some of on them. I am asking not for a vast amount of legislation, those issues to the Floor of the House. but simply for South Staffordshire district council to be Traveller sites represent a great problem facing much able to impose the same regulations as many London of South Staffordshire. Of all the west midlands boroughs, so that we can control those industrial car constituencies, we have one of the largest numbers of boot sales so that my constituents can go about their Traveller sites. Under the previous Labour Government daily lives without this terrible affliction. there were proposals to double the number of such sites My final point touches many hon. Members’ in my constituency, but that would put great pressure on constituents; it is about cancer drugs. I welcome the our communities. It is somewhat unfair that a constituency Government’s moves to take decision making on need with a large number of Traveller sites should also have away from primary care trusts and give it to clinicians. I to deal with many new sites. It is particularly unfair that hope that that will benefit one of my constituents, a the proposed location of many of the sites is green belt brave young woman with a young family, who, with land. The previous Government’s rules allowed sites to immense courage and incredible bravery that would be placed on such land because of the exemptions that humble anyone, is battling lung cancer, for which her they enjoyed, so I hope that the coalition Government clinician has advised that she needs a course of Taxol will change that. and Pemetrexed. This has been declined by South Later today I will present to the House a petition Staffordshire primary care trust, which is an utter disgrace. with more than 2,100 signatories. It has been signed by I hope that the changes to PCTs, and to the making of South Staffordshire constituents as well as a few others decisions on whether patients are allowed to have certain who have visited South Staffordshire and enjoyed the medicines, will benefit my constituent, but I fear that pleasures of its beautiful countryside. I hope that the they will not come in time for her. I urge the Deputy Government will change the law. Most importantly, Leader of the House to do everything within his powers however, there is something that they can do during the to put pressure on anyone, whether at Cabinet level or recess: get rid of circular ODPM 01/06. That would in the Department of Health, as I have tried to do, who make a major difference to the planning system straight could do anything to help my constituent to have a away, and change the way in which faceless bureaucrats chance at life and to be able to enjoy her family. If my in Bristol can force on my constituents, as well as those hon. Friend can do that, I am sure that my constituent of many hon. Members, Traveller sites that are not would be incredibly grateful, as would many of our wanted, and should not be built on green belt land. I constituents. hope that my hon. Friend the Deputy Leader of the This coalition Government have made some positive House will pass that message on to Ministers. changes and a positive start, but so much more is needed, and requires to be done. I urge my hon. Friends Daniel Kawczynski: Does my hon. Friend agree that to keep pushing those on the Treasury Bench to ensure the problem relates not just to Gypsy sites? The Bristol that that change is delivered. office can exert a lot of influence over all sorts of planning applications in our communities, but its right ROYAL ASSENT to do so should be abolished, with the power devolved back to local councils. Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Ihaveto notify the House, in accordance with the Royal Assent Gavin Williamson: My hon. Friend makes an excellent Act 1967, that Her Majesty has signified her Royal point. If Members of Parliament had as much power as Assent to the following Acts: the inspectors in Bristol, we would truly appreciate it. Appropriation (No. 3) Act 2010 We need the power to be devolved because the process Finance (No. 2) Act 2010 has a great impact on local communities, and local voices are not being heard. Local councillors can say no Academies Act 2010 to something, yet inspectors in Bristol will say yes. That Kent County Council (Filming on Highways) Act 2010 cannot be allowed to continue. Allhallows Staining Church Act 2010 915 27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 916

Summer Adjournment It is the public services on which my constituents Debate resumed. rely—services that are popular, accessible and good quality—that face the first of the threats. Those are the services that bind society more closely together, and 3.23 pm legitimise the right to social support. Now, under the Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): I start by guise of the big society, we see many of them picked paying tribute to the maiden speakers this afternoon: apart. I am all in favour of people acting together to the hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel) and my hon. improve and strengthen their communities, and we have Friends the Members for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) many examples of that in my constituency, from Positive and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice). I have a particular Partington to Trafford peace week, the 60-plus action affection for Livingston because my father was head group, the companions and carers lunch club, and the teacher of one of the very first primary schools there in Urmston partnership. Those and many other groups do the mid-1960s. tremendous work in the community. They enrich people’s In my maiden speech I spoke about my constituency, lives. But let us be absolutely honest: they can in no way its people, their ambitions for their families and their replace the public infrastructure. Their role is not, and care for their community, and the dignity of work. should not be, the strategy or stewardship of public Stretford and Urmston is not the most deprived of resources, or securing universal access. For that we need constituencies in the country. We do not have the highest the state. That role has been fulfilled by Government levels of unemployment or the worst poverty rates, but offices for the regions, primary care trusts and local many families are very worried about the future and authorities—all now being airbrushed out, or seeing their local community.My constituency sits in the northern their roles minimised as part of the Government’s local part of the borough of Trafford, Conservative-controlled delivery plans. since 2004. In that time my constituents have come to Volunteers do great work in our community, but they feel that they are very much the poor relations, as they volunteer: they do what they want, when they can. That watch funds flow to the leafier, more prosperous south is why a local police inspector told me the other day that of the borough. One trivial but telling example is that in although special constables make a great contribution, January, when we suffered the heavy snowfalls, it did they can in no way replace police community support not escape notice that the council’s snowplough was officers. We cannot insist on where or when specials seen almost immediately in Hale, in the south of the work, and we cannot secure a critical police presence borough, whereas in Stretford and Urmston we waited from special constables at the visible policing level that weeks. In fact we never saw the snowplough at all; we the public want and expect. had to wait for the thaw. Let us think about relying on volunteers to run our My constituency also loses out in much more serious local library or swimming baths. Those roles require ways. Unemployment is twice the level in the wealthier skilled, qualified and paid staff, guaranteed to maintain next-door constituency of Altrincham and Sale West. minimum standards of access, quality and safety. Let us Inequalities in health mean a difference in male life also consider the Sure Start centres that support young expectancy of 11 years between the poorest wards in my families, or the carer who goes every evening to help an constituency and the richest in the south. Investment in older person to get to bed. Those are core services that our town centres, parks and youth facilities has all too cannot be left to the chance of voluntary provision, yet often seen my constituency at the back of the queue. I fear that the direction of the big society will be a cover Last week Trafford metropolitan borough council for reducing investment, and that the result will be announced cuts of £70 million in public spending over patchy unreliable provision. the next few years. It made that announcement at a I want Ministers to come to the House and tell us press conference: it took a leaf out of Ministers’ books, what the big society really means for public service because councillors were not the first to hear. We do not quality, public sector employees, the voluntary and have all the details of the cuts, but we already know that community sectors, communities, individuals and families. 81 more jobs will be lost this year and an elderly I want for every one of my constituents a guarantee that people’s home will close, and that social care, libraries, open, accessible and quality provision will be maintained education, play facilities and parks are all likely to in the services on which they rely. I want assurances for be hit. my local voluntary sector that it is not expected to That is the reality of spending cuts. It is no use become a cheap substitute for proper public provision. seeking to suggest that they are the result of local And I want to hear from Ministers, from the Prime decisions alone, because the £6 billion of Ministers’ Minister downwards, that the big society will be truly so-called efficiency savings will have a direct effect on fair to us all. education and youth facilities in my constituency, on community cohesion programmes and on programmes 3.31 pm to address health and the quality of life. It is Ministers Mr Edward Timpson (Crewe and Nantwich) (Con): It who have frozen the playbuilder scheme in my constituency. is a pleasure to be called in this end-of-season debate, in Last week I asked the Leader of the House about that, which we all have an opportunity to talk about subjects and he said that it was a local decision, but I have since that perhaps the parliamentary time we have been afforded learned that it was an instruction from the Department so far has not allowed us to discuss. In the short time I for Education. Do not tell me that Labour had put in have, I shall bring to the House’s attention three or four place spending plans that could not be afforded, because areas of interest in my constituency and generally, the in Trafford a choice is being made about what to spend first of which is the decline in competitive sport. money on, and to cut front-line services first. Trafford I welcome the Government’s plans to revive competitive council has still been able to find the money for consultancies games in schools and reverse the decline in competitive and senior director posts, and to refurbish the town hall. sport, when there are no winners and no losers. Those 917 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 918 of us who have been through not only a general election is the provision of mental health services for children campaign recently but through polls when we might not and the need for the child and adolescent mental health have been successful know what it is to like to win and service—CAMS—to be far more rigorous and available what it is to like to lose, and we are all the better for it. to all children when it is required. Furthermore, children However, fewer than one third of our schools take part need support when they leave care; we had a lengthy in regular competitive sport, and fewer than one fifth debate on that during discussion of the Children and compete against other schools. In Crewe and Nantwich, Young Persons Bill in the previous Parliament. I have seen for myself the huge importance of, and A disproportionate number of children in custody appetite for, competitive sport, and its huge impact on have been in the care system or are in it. I will continue many young people’s lives. to press for one anomaly to be addressed: the fact that Crewe and Nantwich athletics club has been children in voluntary care who find themselves in custody phenomenally successful and is top of the men’s, women’s lose their status as looked-after children—all the support and under-11s’ leagues. I congratulate the young athletes mechanisms fall away. Why should that happen? I shall who have been promoted to the premier north-west return to the subject throughout this Parliament. league, especially Liam Clowes, who has been selected My third issue is one that many older constituents to run for Great Britain at the world junior championships. have raised with me—the switchover to digital radio. None of that would have been possible unless Steve Approximately 100 million analogue radios are still Walker, the head coach, had believed in the importance being used in the UK and 20 million car radios can of competitive sport as a way to energise young people, receive only AM and FM radio. The previous Government and in their ability. were going to press ahead with the fairly arbitrary date Crewe and Nantwich gymnastics club and the Cheshire of 2015 for the switchover, yet only 24% of radio academy of integrated sports and arts have sent many listening is done through digital channels. We have to young adults with disabilities to the Special Olympics, question the reliability of DAB radio; I still believe that which will take place again next year in Athens, where the coverage is patchy. Furthermore, what are we going they have won countless gold medals. That is all down to do with all the old analogue radios? Who has given to the hard work and dedication of the coaches, who thought to that? believe that competitive sport plays a vital part in So many older people in my constituency believe that encouraging young people to learn to deal with success the FM service is more than adequate for their needs. If and failure and to reach their potential. Many young the switchover is rushed, the impact on the commercial people have a real passion for sport and can see through radio sector could well be highly damaging. I am pleased the façade of receiving a medal just for taking part; they that the Government view the issue as more of an want to believe that what they have done has meaning aspiration—that a 50% threshold of DAB users is to be and will help them to strive for greater things. required and that the FM service will continue even if I therefore welcome this Government’s attitude in the DAB service is brought in as the preference for trying to reintroduce competitive sport throughout our radio stations. schools and within our communities, because I enjoy Those three subjects were completely unrelated, Madam watching my daughter and son taking part in the egg Deputy Speaker, but I am sure that you found them and spoon race. I enjoy seeing not only the tears of joy fascinating. They all concern my constituents, from the when they win, but the tears of disappointment when very young to the very old, and I hope that they will be they do not. That is not because I am a competitive dad, taken seriously by hon. Members on both sides of the but because I like to see them engage in competitive House as we progress through this Parliament. sport that will help enliven and enrich their understanding of what sport can bring to their school and community. 3.39 pm The previous Government introduced a directive under which schools were asked to replace competitive races Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North) (Lab): Thank you on sports days with so-called problem solving exercises. for calling me, Madam Deputy Speaker; this is the first There is some debate about whether egg and spoon races time I have spoken while you have been in the Chair. I can be described as problem solving exercises, but I know congratulate you belatedly on your election. what I would prefer my son and daughter to be doing. I compliment the three Members who made their I shall not try to relate all my subjects together, but maiden speeches today. I was disappointed that in her simply move on. My next topic is the plight of looked-after excellent description of the free market of Witham, the children in our society—a serious issue in which I have hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel) did not get been involved for a long time. I am keen that the new, round to mentioning the 14th century peasants’ revolt, reconstituted all-party groups on adoption and fostering which originated in her constituency and offered a and on looked-after children and care leavers should try rather different take on how an economy can be developed. to encourage Members of Parliament to go into their In his excellent speech, my hon. Friend the Member constituencies and meet some of the young people in for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) described the origins of care, or those who have experience of the care system. the industrial revolution, and just about everybody Members can thereby discover for themselves exactly north of Watford can claim that their area had a part in what is going on and how looked-after children are faring. that. I grew up in Shropshire, and we are absolutely We need to take up so many issues in the House on convinced that the industrial revolution began there. behalf of the many children in the care system who do We will have to continue that debate. not have a voice. I am delighted that the Government I was so pleased that my hon. Friend the Member for have seen fit to ensure that looked-after children will Livingston (Graeme Morrice) mentioned the late Robin benefit from the pupil premium, and I would have been Cook and his enormous contribution to this House surprised if they had not taken that step. Another issue and, indeed, his opposition to the Iraq war. 919 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 920

[Jeremy Corbyn] the Secretary of State for Health, pledged to do everything we could to save Whittington A and E department, and The summer Adjournment debate, as it used to be thus the hospital with it. I was not aware of this, but called, is a good institution, but a limited one, because apparently he toured the whole country making such until now there has been no facility for reply other than pledges and promises, as my hon. Friend the Member the hapless Deputy Leader of the House having to sit for Bolton North East (Mr Crausby) said. through several hours of speeches on a convoluted We are now concerned about what is going to be the range of subjects—from local issues, to FM radio, to, future of health services in north London and the probably, space travel some time later this afternoon—and Islington area. Although Islington has an urban chic, being expected to respond to them all but, in reality, not cappuccino society image, with rather strange restaurants being able to respond to any of them. If our procedures on Upper street where various arrangements were made are to mean anything, there must be some facility, at the between previous Labour leaders, in reality it is a borough very least, for Ministers to reply to points made during of huge disparities in wealth and poverty. All the health these debates by letter or by statement. Alternatively, we indices—I have with me an excellent publication by the could go back to what used to be known as the Consolidated local primary care trust and the council, the health Fund debates, when Members could raise any specific profile for Islington for 2010—indicate that there are issue and a Minister was forced to reply to them—in high levels of health deficiency, obesity, cancer, heart effect, a series of all-night Adjournment debates that we conditions and a number of other problems. Interestingly, used to enjoy in the mid-1980s. I recall talking about the that publication also shows that the health condition of London ambulance service from 4 am until 5.30 am, the borough has improved considerably over the past and in the end an ambulance came and took us all away 10 years. Life expectancy has increased, infant mortality out of sheer exhaustion. has declined, and all health indices have improved I want to raise an absolutely crucial issue concerning considerably, although they are still below the regional the health service in my constituency. In the past few and national average. months, there has been enormous discussion and debate I was very pleased that Islington council and the about the configuration of health services in north NHS produced an excellent document entitled “Closing London. Something called the north central London the Gap—Tackling Health Inequalities in Islington”, a health service configuration—a conglomeration of the copy of which I have with me. It indicates that one of primary care trusts for the whole of north London— the major problems is the lack of affordable housing concocted a substantial report, a vintage photocopied and emphasises the need for people not to grow up in version of which I have here, which made several proposals, overcrowded accommodation that damages their health. including the closure of the accident and emergency department at my local hospital, the Whittington, with The reason I mention all that is that, with some an implied and very obvious threat to A and E departments concern, I recently received a letter from the apparently elsewhere. soon to be redundant primary care trust, stating that That provoked consternation locally, as it would anywhere there was to be a stocktake of stakeholders’ views on else, as well as an interesting public discussion and the future configuration of the health service in my debate about the nature of the national health service, borough. It provoked an immediate response from the issues of poverty and need, and the value of a local Defend the Whittington Hospital Coalition, which stated: hospital in addressing those issues. All Members will be “We note that in this letter you”— familiar with such discussions. Several public meetings the director of North Central London strategic health were held. For the first one I called, I was reluctant to authority— get a large room because I was not sure how many “give notice of a meeting to discuss with GPs from across North people would turn up. However, 350 people turned up Central London commissioners the results of the stocktake on to ask questions, and even more came to another meeting 15th July”. that was held a short time later. A feeling of democratic deficit within the NHS was very obvious throughout all It asked for an immediate reply. In the reply, the health those discussions. We then organised a local march authority wrote: along the Holloway road in defence of Whittington “This local stock take will help inform how we involve people hospital, which 5,000 people attended. in the review which will not start before September.” As a result, the leaderships of the three main political The authority’s letter then immediately goes into a long parties started to vie with each other to support the paragraph about the need to be aware of the health demands to keep the local hospital. During the general White Paper, and concludes that the previous review election campaign, we had one of those strange moments has been halted, that the stocktake is reviewing the that occurs at such times when the Defend Whittington process undertaken, and that there will be a discussion Hospital Coalition called a demonstration outside the with GPs in anticipation of their new role. It is time to hospital and were overwhelmed with speakers, including stop messing with the NHS, return it to local democratic Labour candidates such as me, my right hon. Friend the accountability and save the Whittington hospital. Member for Holborn and St Pancras (Frank Dobson) and my hon. Friend the Member for Islington South 3.47 pm and Finsbury (Emily Thornberry), and a number of Liberal Democrat candidates. The future Secretary of Jake Berry (Rossendale and Darwen) (Con): I first State for Health, the right hon. Member for South congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Witham Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley), turned up and was (Priti Patel) and the hon. Members for Livingston (Graeme immediately given a place on the platform alongside Morrice) and for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) on their this strange conglomeration of people. All of us, including maiden speeches. The hon. Member for Hyndburn’s the right hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire, now constituency adjoins mine, and in what I hope will be an 921 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 922 afternoon of agreement I agree with him that the industrial once-in-a-lifetime opportunity completely to redevelop revolution started in east Lancashire. In fact, I will refer a large portion of Rawtenstall town centre, and it must to that later in my speech. not be squandered. I believe that it is the duty of every Member of this The case for the rail link is compelling, and linked to House, whatever their political persuasion, to try to the wider redevelopment of the Rossendale valley. I reduce poverty and inequality wherever they find it. therefore hope that the Government look favourably on That is why I am determined that vital community future efforts to secure funding for those schemes. resources in deprived areas of my constituency should The town of Darwen on the other side of my not fall victim to the enormous public debt and recession constituency is undergoing a renaissance with the that we inherited from the previous Government. redevelopment of the town hall, Holker House, and the continuing success of Darwen market. I hope that the Community centres in Darwen were recently threatened town continues to thrive. We have a superb new leisure by Blackburn with Darwen council as it began tightening centre, and in September our new academy school will its belt to deal with our deficit problems. The people of open. I pay tribute to the contribution that teachers and Darwen have always been radical and innovative, and other education professionals make to our society and they did not take that lying down. They will not let to every young person in the country. I am sure that Sudellside community centre close, and they are looking hon. Members will join me in wishing the pupils and at community ownership. When the issue was raised, staff of the Rod Aldridge academy good luck in their some people in the area were sceptical. I was not. It is new school building in September. patronising, and simply not true, to suggest that passion for community ownership cannot be found in deprived areas. The big society is an idea not for middle-class 3.53 pm do-gooders but for all of us. Sudellside community Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): I pay tribute to the centre is vital to the community in which it is situated, hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel), and my hon. and I will do all I can to ensure a bright and vibrant Friends the Members for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) future for it. and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice). They say that all Rossendale and Darwen is a very special part of the good things are worth waiting for, which is certainly world. Not only is it picturesque, but it was the cradle of true on the occasion of their maiden speeches. the industrial revolution. Its innovation continues today I have been amazed in the past two months by the through its manufacturing prowess on both the national efforts of the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats to and international stage. As its Member of Parliament, I mislead the public by saying that there is no alternative am focused on the future prosperity of my area and to the vandalism that they are inflicting on public believe that if that is to be achieved we must address services in Bolton West and throughout the country, urgently the issue of building new infrastructure to and by the fact that they seem not to know that there is support business and create new jobs. a global recession or that if Britain and the rest of the world had taken no action, we would now be in a global Manchester is the economic capital of the north-west—I depression. Had they been in government, would they was brought up in Liverpool, which makes that a very have taken no action? Would they have let the banks difficult to say, but it is unfortunately none the less collapse, taking with them our savings, mortgages, pensions true—and Rossendale must look to Manchester for its and businesses? Would they have allowed twice as many future prosperity. If the valley is to prosper, we must houses to be repossessed and twice as many people to improve our transport links. That is why we must urgently be unemployed? proceed with the rail link from Rossendale to Manchester. The proposed scheme would mean a commuter train I was shocked that no Education Ministers would running on east Lancashire heritage railway—an example meet the pupils of Westhoughton high school to explain of commercial and conservation rail running on the why they are not getting a new school when they visited same track. the Palace a fortnight ago. I was also shocked that they cancelled the Building Schools for the Future projects The link would be of enormous benefit to Greater in both Bolton and Wigan, even though those authorities Manchester and provide easy access to Rossendale’s had reached financial close, even though the money was highly skilled work force. Rossendale’s manufacturing in the budget to pay for them, and even though BSF base and our spectacular open spaces would also be would provide much-needed jobs and apprenticeships. made accessible to all. Housing is inexpensive in my Government is about choices. This Government are constituency, and a rail link would provide high-quality, making the choice to pay back the deficit by cutting affordable homes to BBC workers who move to the new vital services to the most vulnerable in society. They are media city in Salford. I am sure that they would flee the also choosing to pay back the deficit quickly, and to urban humdrum of London and Manchester. privatise health and education, but those are not the In addition to improving transport links, the railway only choices, and they are not the choices that Labour would drive regeneration of our town centres. For too would have made. long, shoppers in Rawtenstall have had to suffer the With that in mind, will the Government tell me and sight of the Valley centre at the bottom of Bank street. my constituents whether the electrification of the That festering sore on an otherwise attractive shopping Manchester to Preston railway line will go ahead? It street must be redeveloped, and I applaud the local was announced last year and would mean more trains, Conservative council’s action to proceed with a compulsory fewer emissions, cheaper running costs and better journey purchase order of the site. I hope over the next few times. As part of the electrification, we would get new-to-us months that I can assist in creating a vibrant and trains. Currently, passengers on our services play sardines historically sensitive new plan for that area. This is a every morning and evening. People are often left on the 923 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 924

[Julie Hilling] further occasions she was asked. This document appears to have no legal basis and the Israelis should not prevent platform because nobody else can squeeze into the movement to and through the Palestinian territories. carriages. In fact, the engineers for Northern Rail should At 6 am, Komal was told that she had been refused get medals. I do not know how they keep some of those entry and would be sent back to the UK. The reason trains running. Whether or not electrification happens, she was given was “security”. She asked if the officers will we get new rolling stock? Good public transport is were saying that she was a security threat and they said, vital to economic growth, but the bottleneck in the rail “No, of course we aren’t implying that you are a terror network in Manchester is a hindrance to growth. Will threat.” But if security was the real reason, why would we get the northern hub, so that there are more trains to they have let her into Israel? She was then taken away and through Manchester? for searching. All her bags and personal belongings As part of national pubs week, I visited the Red Lion were thoroughly searched and she was strip searched. pub in Westhoughton in my constituency to talk about At about 7 am, she was taken away from the airport and the problems that the licence trade faces. This is a well put in a prison cell. She had no access to her belongings run pub which is rooted in the community and used by or her phone so she could not tell her family or friends a whole variety of groups, but I left fearful about its what had happened to her. She was kept in a cell until future. Of course the licensees mentioned the smoking 8.30 pm, having been held for more than 24 hours, ban, but their biggest concern was their inability to unable to communicate with anyone and given just one compete with the large chain pubs because of the cold packed meal. This was a frightening, disturbing brewery tie and other related costs. They told me about and degrading episode for a young Muslim woman. the extortionate costs of Sky and about the cost of Komal could have signed the document and been business rates, compounded by having to pay council allowed into Israel, so security cannot have been the tax for their accommodation in the pub—paying twice real concern. Does this therefore mean that the Gaza for the same services, an issue that affects all business blockade has now been extended to the west bank? people who live over the shop. They told me about the Please can the Government tell me what action they cost of heat and light and their fears for increases in have taken to uphold the freedom of travel for British VAT. They told me about the cost of their performing citizens and to ensure that the Israeli authorities are not rights licence—they have even had to remove the jukebox discriminating against British citizens on the grounds of because they could not afford a full licence. their ethnicity or religious beliefs? Can they tell me how Six pubs close every day. The last Government were many British citizens have been denied entry to the west committed to introducing a “guest beer right” for tied bank, and can they investigate why my constituent was tenants, which would allow them the freedom to make a treated in this discriminatory and degrading fashion? fair profit. Will the current Government go ahead with Finally, as hon. Members may know, I have spent those plans? The Government have pledged to introduce most of my life as a youth and community worker, and I a community right-to-buy scheme so that communities am worried about what is happening to youth work now can take over their local pub, but will they provide the that the cuts are starting to bite. Youth and community £3.3 million funding that was committed by the last work goes to the core of the big society, but groups are Government? Will they close the loophole in the planning already concerned that they will not be able to survive. law that allows pubs to be demolished or changed into Do the Government not realise the importance of the shops or restaurants without the need to seek planning area-based grant and regional bodies, such as the regional permission? Will they also look at other costs associated development agencies and the Government office for with running a pub to see if any other help can be the north-west, to the voluntary and community sector? given? Without the support of funding streams to support and I have also met with one of my constituents, Komal attract funding, groups will not survive. As in the ‘80s Adris, a British citizen, who recently went on holiday to and ‘90s, we run the risk of both local authority and Israel and the west bank. At passport control in Tel voluntary sector youth projects closing—young people Aviv, Komal was asked what her father’s name was. with nowhere to go and nothing to do. How can the When she answered “Mohammed”, she was taken out local authorities and youth services fulfil their obligation of the queue and into a separate room for questioning. that 25% of young people have contact with youth She was told that this was routine procedure, but she workers, and 25% of those achieve accredited outcomes? was the only person from the whole flight who was I am scared for the future in Bolton West, and I hope taken aside. She was also the only person with a brown that I will get reassurance that the future is not as bleak face. She was kept from 8 pm to 7 am with a number of as I fear. different Israeli officials interrogating her. No one would tell her how long she would be held or why she was being kept. She was asked why she was visiting Israel 4.1 pm and Palestine and she explained where she was intending Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): I, too, congratulate to go. the hon. Members for Witham (Priti Patel), for Hyndburn As the night went on, the questioning became more (Graham Jones) and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice) aggressive. In the early hours Komal was given a on their maiden speeches. In particular, I appreciated Government document to sign that would have allowed the opportunity to recollect the role in the House of a her to enter Israel, but prevented her from entering previous Member for Livingston—a friend, at the time, Palestinian territories. She was told that if she attempted of the current Member—who gave such a wonderful to visit any Palestinian town or city she would be example to new Members of the importance of being arrested and put in prison, even if it was just a visit to independently minded, through his principled opposition Bethlehem. She refused to sign, as she did on the two to the Iraq war. 925 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 926

I wrote to Mr Speaker to let him know of my interest me. Indeed, that other application was not officially in taking part in this debate, because I wanted to speak submitted with the agency before my constituents submitted about the situation affecting the railways in my constituency. their application; rather, conversations with the agency However, I hope that I will be forgiven for first following had, as they were told, merely begun. It is therefore with up on a matter I have raised several times in the House great concern that I hear of allegations that an assessment since I arrived relating to the exploitation of the energy of my constituents’ application was delayed because of in our rivers, particularly the River Avon at Avoncliff in the interest that I have taken in their case and because my constituency. I wish to do so because it is becoming of the questions—essentially policy questions—that I a formative part of my initial understanding of the role have raised in the House. and privileges—or otherwise—of hon. Members. I was I would therefore be grateful if the Deputy Leader of approached by constituents who have done a remarkable the House, who has answered one of those questions—in job of renovating a derelict mill on the side of the river, fact, the question that I asked of him was the most ably and who were keen to establish a renewable energy answered of those on the subject that I have asked in the project—a hydro scheme—on the river, which is something House so far—would raise the matter with his ministerial that the country needs us to do more often. colleagues, because I have grave reservations about what In September last year, my constituents made an has been happening in this instance. application for a river abstraction licence from the I originally wanted to speak in this debate on the Environment Agency, and by the end of March this subject of railways, and as time is short, I will focus on year, they had been provided with a draft agreement one particular aspect of rail services in my constituency. from the agency indicating the terms under which they At the start of the current franchise, which is operated might be successful in receiving such a licence. Strangely, by First Great Western, the new franchise agreement they then heard nothing for quite a period, and so came withdrew the requirement to provide a number of services to me at one of my surgeries. It seemed necessary to get on the line between Chippenham and Trowbridge in my the agency to give them some clarity on the future constituency which called at Melksham. Those were prospects for this application, because the delay was the only services calling at that station. As a result, a blighting the development, so I wrote to the agency on popular and well used service has been reduced to one behalf of my constituents. I also started to make inquiries that now does only two round trips a day—round trips in this place, not specifically into that case, but into the that are 12 hours apart and therefore of much less value nature of the policy relating to the role of the agency. to my constituents. Great efforts have continued to be After all, why should we need abstraction licences for made throughout to restore that service. I am looking renewable energy projects that only momentarily use forward to a meeting with First Great Western next the water as it passes through the devices that generate week, at the start of the recess, at which I might pursue the energy from the river? that pressing issue. Melksham is the fifth largest settlement I had only just begun to make inquiries when my in Wiltshire, yet it currently has a minimal train service. constituents made further approaches to the agency I should like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to about their application. I learned at my surgery this the campaign for improved services at Melksham station weekend that the applicant had mentioned to the staff which has been run by the now chair of the local at the agency that, because of the problems that the chamber of commerce, Mr Graham Ellis, and to all delays were causing them, they had enlisted the support those in the “Save the train” campaign and those who of their Member of Parliament. To my shock, it was continue to pursue the matter through the Wiltshire alleged by the applicant when he met me this weekend community rail partnership. There is some light at the that he had received a response from that public servant end of the tunnel, in that there is another operator that to the effect that he was being told: “Yes, and I can would like to run services on the line. I would therefore assure you that if there are any more speeches in Parliament be grateful if the Deputy Leader of the House could about this situation, your application will go to the raise with colleagues in the Department for Transport back of the queue.” That is quite a serious matter, as the need to be open and flexible about open access I am sure you will agree, Madam Deputy Speaker, and agreements, so that in these more straitened times we one that has caused me great concern. might make better use of the track that we actually Hon. Members might feel that going to the back of have. I hope that, in the spirit of the big society, the Go! the queue is not the most serious of consequences, given co-operative, which is looking to embark on an open that we all have to develop some patience when seeking access agreement, might be given every opportunity to permissions from regulatory authorities. However, what improve the services available to my constituents. is alleged to have been said is relevant in this case, because I received a reply to my letter to the Environment 4.9 pm Agency dated 29 June in which I was told that the agency had failed to reach a determination on the Yvonne Fovargue (Makerfield) (Lab): I should like to application. However, a letter dated the very next day congratulate the hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel) was sent to the applicants advising them that their and my hon. Friends the Members for Hyndburn (Graham application had been unsuccessful—something that I Jones) and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice) on their find hard to believe those replying to my original letter maiden speeches. Good things are indeed worth waiting would not have been aware was in the pipeline. for. A delay to my constituents’ application is significant, I would like to raise an issue that is important to because the reason given for the refusal was that another many of my constituents and that has been highlighted application, on the other side of the river, had already by two announcements this week—namely, employment been granted permission ahead of theirs, yet that application in the Wigan borough. The first announcement was had not been granted when my constituents first approached made by the hard-pressed Wigan council, which confirmed 927 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 928

[Yvonne Fovargue] Another organisation employing many of my constituents who are living with daily uncertainty over their that more than 800 jobs were at risk due to the huge future is the Tote, which has its headquarters in the scale of the coalition’s proposed cuts of more than borough and employs some 600 people. I note early-day £55 million in Wigan. motion 578, tabled by the hon. Member for Tewkesbury The second blow to my constituents in Makerfield (Mr Robertson) and sponsored by my hon. Friend the was the loss of 100 jobs and the possible closure of the Member for Wigan (Lisa Nandy), and I ask the Minister Ingersoll Rand factory in Hindley Green. Time and to commit to retaining the Tote’s headquarters in Wigan. again, I have heard Members on the coalition Front This would protect the employment of its staff and the Bench state that public sector job losses will be mitigated acknowledged expertise and professionalism that they by the growth of the private sector. Well, in my constituency, possess. there appears to be a contraction of both sectors, and Some of my constituents travel out of the Wigan that is a blow that my constituents can ill afford. borough to work, and I must mention the overcrowding on the trains to Liverpool and Manchester. The Greater Since last summer, the fall in unemployment in Wigan Manchester chamber of commerce has rightly pointed has been nearly 8%, due in part to the policies of the out the significance of the rail network to the future previous Labour Government and Wigan council of economic success of the Greater Manchester area. I investing in businesses via the working neighbourhood would welcome an indication from the Minister that fund, and investing in our young people, with more investment in the northern hub, in electrification and in than 200 young people employed in the future jobs fund the commissioning of rolling stock to ease overcrowding programme last year. They gained valuable skills and will be forthcoming. supported organisations such as Age Concern and the Wigan borough veterans council. Some of those young This Government seem determined to silence all the people, despite subsequently gaining paid work, have voices that speak for our region. They have already axed continued to volunteer with their placement organisations the regional development agency and abolished the —the big society in action! Government office for the north-west. However, as one of my new Labour party members said, we have seen All this has been taken away by this Government, both parties in this coalition Government go through with no regard to the success of the scheme in my the Lobby and vote for measures that will disadvantage borough. The local authority intensive support start-up the poor and vulnerable, including introducing selective service, funded by the working neighbourhood fund education and increasing VAT. They are standing up to and the Northwest Regional Development Agency, has be counted, and it is time for us to do the same. been creating an average of one new business every day since the start of 2010. However, the axing of the RDA and the slashing of the working neighbourhood fund 4.15 pm budget will leave the future growth of new businesses gravely in doubt in my constituency. Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con): Over the last three years during which I was a parliamentary candidate, The coalfield communities regeneration programme building up to the last general election, many people in has also supported new businesses in my area. Will the Montgomeryshire asked me what specific issue I would Minister commit to continuing to fund that vital get involved in if I became an MP. I nearly always told programme, which supports the business and voluntary them that the issue of particular interest to me was the sectors in Makerfield? What support will he give to relationship between the National Assembly for Wales, ensure that this and other funding streams continue to of which I had been a member for eight years, and this nurture new businesses in my constituency? Parliament in Westminster. That relationship is indeed Another blow to the Wigan borough was the loss the subject that I would like to speak about today. I of our new schools under the Building Schools for the know that not everyone in the Chamber will share my Future programme. That announcement was all the obsession with the detail of devolution and the transfer more devastating as Wigan council had received a letter of powers to Wales, so let me provide a little context from the Minister only the day before the cuts were before I raise three specific aspects of the issue. announced, stating that where a local educational The National Assembly for Wales was established in partnership had reached financial closure, as ours had, 1999 on the basis of the Government of Wales Act 1998, the schemes were to be allowed to proceed. Not only which followed a referendum of the people of Wales in were the hopes of our young people, parents and teaching 1997. The 1998 Act did not grant to the National staff cruelly dashed, but many people—including many Assembly for Wales any primary law-making powers; it young people who believed that they could gain had to depend on secondary law-making powers. That apprenticeships in the construction industry, building was the position until a new Government of Wales Act local schools—now have no hope of work. 2006 was passed, under which primary law-making I ask the Secretary of State for Education to look powers were indeed granted to the National Assembly again at that decision, and to come to Wigan and speak for Wales, albeit by means of what at least some of us to the parents, teachers and pupils there, particularly thought was a very complex and bureaucratic system. I those in Hindley, the area already devastated by the job do not think that it has been successful. losses at Ingersoll Rand. In a visit to my local authority, What has transpired is that in the first quarter of next he would see at first hand the impact of his decision on year there will be a very significant referendum for the pupils and teachers seeking to achieve excellence in a people of Wales, in which they will be asked to vote on building that is no longer fit for purpose, where teachers whether they want to move to part 4 of the 2006 Act. have to stick the tiles back on the walls before commencing That would enable the primary law-making powers in lessons. all the devolved policy areas to be transferred to the 929 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 930

Assembly. The essential difference between the position there, and it has not gone ahead. If a strategic view had now and the position after a yes in the referendum is been taken of the benefit to the United Kingdom it that all the primary powers in devolved policy areas probably would have gone ahead, but because of the would be transferred all in one go rather than bit by bit relationship that exists between the two sides of the through the complex process I mentioned, which is border as the devolutionary process settles in, it dropped what obtains at the moment. down the list of priorities. As I said, I wish to touch briefly on three particular The devolutionary process is continuing and will aspects of the relationship between this House and the continue, whether or not there is a yes vote in the National Assembly for Wales. The first is the date on referendum. We in the Chamber must make certain that which the referendum should be held. I have always when an issue is devolved, we retain our interest and do taken a very strong view on that. It is not that I worry our best to ensure that services to our constituents in particularly about when the date should be. The National Wales are not disadvantaged by the fact that there are Assembly Government believe that the date should be two Governments on the two sides of the border, following on or before the next Assembly election on 5 May. I do different policies. not mind about that. What is hugely important to us here is that this should be recognised as the general election for the National Assembly for Wales—the Welsh 4.22 pm general election—and another important constitutional issue should not be decided on the same day. There is an John Cryer (Leyton and Wanstead) (Lab): I congratulate issue in this House relating to that. As to whether the the three maiden speakers, the hon. Member for Witham law-making referendum should be on the same date as (Priti Patel) and my hon. Friends the Members for the Welsh general election, I have taken the view for two Livingston (Graeme Morrice) and for Hyndburn (Graham or three years that it should not be. I have expressed the Jones). However, I should point out to the hon. Member same view in saying that the alternative vote referendum for Witham that when Napoleon said that Britain was a should not be held on the same date as the general nation of shopkeepers, he did not mean it strictly as a election. compliment. The second important issue revolves around the powers. I was very pleased that my hon. Friend the Member Currently, devolved powers are set out in a schedule. for Livingston mentioned Robin Cook. I remember, Before the referendum on 5 May takes place, the range when I was in this place before, hearing Robin Cook’s of powers to be included in schedule 7 will be a matter speech when he resigned from the Government. He held of debate, and it is possible that several other powers the House of Commons in the palm of his hand. I have beyond the currently devolved powers will be included. rarely seen someone make such a powerful speech. Shortly As yet, the debate has not really started, but it is time after that, 139 Labour MPs went into the Opposition that it was, as this is a hugely important matter. We need Lobby and voted against the Iraq war. The suggestion to be aware of exactly what powers will be devolved well that we are now hearing from the Liberal Democrats before the referendum takes place. that theirs was the only party that opposed the war as a The third issue is also important, in my view. When a matter of principle is absolutely untrue. power is devolved from this place to the National As a matter of fact, I remember occasions on which Assembly for Wales, it is not the end of this place’s we went into that Lobby—maybe 30 or 40 of us from involvement. In my constituency, a number of devolved the Benches on the Government side of the House—and matters depend hugely on the wish on the English side the Liberal Democrats stayed here, sitting on their of the border to ensure that they are dealt with properly. hands, because at that point it was not entirely clear in Let me give a couple of examples. which direction public opinion was going. Only when A few weeks ago, a little girl collapsed at her school, public opinion was clearly swinging against the war did Llangedwyn primary school, near the English border. the Liberal Democrats decide to vote with us in the The situation was serious, and an ambulance was called. Opposition Lobby. There was an ambulance station no more than 3 or 4 miles away, just over the border in England, but the The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of ambulance was called not from that station but from a the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): Wrong way station perhaps 25 or 30 miles away. That young child’s round. life was put in danger by the bureaucratic difficulties involved in efficient management of the relationship John Cryer: No, it is not. That is the right way round. between the two sides of the border, and, unless we are very careful, similar cases will occur simply as a result It is five years since I took part in a pre-recess of the devolutionary process. Adjournment debate. Such debates have become something The second example relates to the connection between of an institution. It is a sort of whingeing gits day, my constituency and the midlands. Road improvement—I enabling us to get a few things off our chests. I am am thinking specifically of the A458, but it is the pleased to note that a number of speeches, particularly principle that matters—is crucial to the economy of from Members on the Government Benches, have followed mid-Wales and to my constituency. An improvement that tradition. programme costing about £30 million could have gone I want to begin by raising an issue which I hope concerns ahead, but at least 90% of the work would have been us all, namely unemployment. You might be right-wing, done in Wales. The Government of Wales were hugely you might may be left-wing, you might be a Liberal—you committed to the programme, but about 5% of it involved would be a prat, but you might be a Liberal—but I hope England. As no economic benefit would flow to England that the issue of joblessness concerns Members on both from the development, it was not seen as a priority sides of the House. 931 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 932

Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): Order. I have great buildings, but the reality is that if teachers am sorry to interrupt the hon. Gentleman as I know he are teaching in a crumbling school that inevitably affects is getting into his stride now, but if he could pay the quality of their pupils’ education. BSF provided the attention to some of his language that would be helpful. light at the end of the tunnel, and that light has now been extinguished. John Cryer: I apologise, and I withdraw that comment My hon. Friend the Member for Walthamstow (Stella and will find another way of making my point at Creasy) and I both represent constituencies that fall another time. within the boundaries of the Waltham Forest borough, Returning to the subject of unemployment, we have and since the BSF announcement was made we have been told by a number of Ministers, and especially the been requesting a meeting almost on a daily basis, but Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, that people the Secretary of State for Education has not yet managed should be prepared to travel around the country. That to get back to us to say we can have a meeting about an goes back to the time of “uncle Norman” telling all of issue that goes to the very core of why we are Members us—and I was one of them—to travel around the country of Parliament. in search of work. I would like the Deputy Leader of the House to I want to draw attention to a specific example. A consider having a quiet word with the Secretary of State constituent of mine lost his job some time ago. He was and recommending that he pulls his finger out. I am on jobseeker’s allowance for six months, and the local sorry I made those slighting comments because I have job centre in Leytonstone in my constituency was very just realised that the Deputy Leader of the House is a helpful and provided the resources to allow him to Liberal so I did not do myself any good, and I do not travel to interviews around the country. He therefore regret what I said. Perhaps he could have a quick word found a job at the other end of country, in the north— with the Secretary of State for Education, telling him to following the advice of the Secretary of State and other pull his finger out and meet my hon. Friend and I and Ministers—but he then found himself in difficulty, because the leader of the council as soon as possible. he had to try to find resources for a deposit for My final subject, which I want to touch on very accommodation and also living costs for the period briefly, follows on from comments made by the hon. between starting work and receiving his first pay packet. Member for Shrewsbury and Atcham (Daniel Kawczynski) He was offered three alternatives. First, there was a about the referendum on the voting system. We are in a crisis loan, but that can only be used for very narrow surreal situation. The only one of the three major purposes so it was not available. Secondly, there was the parties that went into the election with a commitment advance to wages scheme, but that would only provide to a referendum on the alternative vote versus the £50, which was not enough. Thirdly, there was the first-past-the-post system was the Labour party.Personally, adviser discretion fund. That potentially could have I am a supporter of first past the post. I thought it was provided £300. The problem, however, is that that has absolute nonsense sticking that in our manifesto—but now been cut to £100. Therefore, in circumstances of then, I did not write it. The two parties that are now in fairly widespread unemployment and possibly rising government went into the election, when in opposition, deprivation when we have been told that our constituents without any commitment to a referendum on AV or must travel around the country in search of work, the first past the post; yet now they are in government, they Government have cut the adviser discretion fund, thus propose to have one. making it more difficult for them to travel around the This will not sort out the issue for Liberal MPs, country—or any distance—in search of work. because what they want is proportional representation. The second subject I want to draw attention to is the Of course, the Deputy Prime Minister would love that, vexed issue of the Building Schools for the Future because if we had PR he could go into meetings in programme. I have lost all seven BSF projects in my back-rooms, ditch all sorts of commitments he has just constituency. Seven schools were going to benefit from fought the election on—such as on the replacement of BSF projects, but all of them have now been cancelled. I Trident—and go back to the voters and say, “I did think we all know why the Library keeps receiving stand on all those commitments but sadly I’ve had to inaccurate lists of cancelled projects. When the Tories dump them all because I’ve done a deal with the Tories.” and Liberals came into government they found that a He would love such a system, and if we ever have that number of contracts were about to be let so they kind of future in British politics, that really will be a thought, “We’d better cancel them quickly—put the menace. boot in—to make sure that loads of these potential projects get cancelled.” They therefore rushed the list 4.31 pm through in an inaccurate form because they did not do the background work—they did not allow the Department Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con): May I add my to do the research. As a result, we have inaccurate lists congratulations to the hon. Members for Hyndburn placed in the Library and then we get officials scurrying (Graham Jones) and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice), around again trying to revise them and put new lists in and to my hon. Friend the Member for Witham (Priti the Library. Patel), on their maiden speeches? I was advised early on Sadly, however, in my case it looks as if the list is that one should wait some considerable time before accurate. I wish it was not. Some of the schools that making one’s maiden speech. I foolishly chose to ignore would have benefited from a BSF project are literally that advice, and today was a perfect example of why it crumbling. Teachers, pupils, governors, the heads and was such good advice. the support staff and others in these schools have been I want to take this opportunity to articulate the struggling for years under very difficult circumstances. frustrations of many commuters in my constituency of Nobody would argue that we get brilliant teaching if we Enfield North, who, frankly, have been ignored for 933 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 934 years. I have campaigned for at least five years to try to do not meet those requirements they could ultimately improve the level of commuter services. The rail operator face the serious sanction of losing their franchises. We that serves the bulk of the constituency—National Express believe and welcome the idea that longer franchises will East Anglia—and its predecessor brand both failed to lead to greater investment and perhaps to greater recognise something that they should know: that the improvement in services. That is vital. conditions on the trains are frankly unacceptable, and I understand the role of the carrot and the stick, but I that their frequency and reliability are generally poor. I urge the Government, in the spirit of localism that I am even had a National Express manager tell me that, keen to embrace, to consider one or two other opportunities. although it had rolling stock, it had chosen not to put In particular, as we approach the round of new franchises, the required additional stock on some of the Enfield we have the chance to consider two important possibilities. North local lines because we were bottom of their list of First, should we consider allowing greater local control priorities. That is no comfort to my constituents, who over train services operating in the London area? Secondly, pay zone 6 fares. and more importantly, should there be greater local We also suffer from generally ill-kept stations which input into the new franchise negotiations? could do with a deep clean. Staffing at stations is What could we gain from that? A locally accountable limited and often non-existent; late at night, of course, transport authority would know how vital transport is that does not encourage a feeling of safety and security. to the local economy and would understand the micro-issues Sunday services are non-existent. Many loyal Tottenham affecting local commuters far better than does a rail Hotspur fans travel regularly to see their team—is that operator. Such bodies answer to voters and can respond not suffering enough? [Interruption.] I will not be forgiven more effectively. There is an incentive for them to have for that comment, but to add to that the indignity of an issues fixed, to ensure rail performance, to ease unreliable service on a Sunday, when engineering works overcrowding, to address safety in unsafe stations and are scheduled to coincide with important travel days, to put those issues up the agenda. Significantly, they just does not make sense and reflects the attitude of would also be ready to provide input into future neglect towards my constituents. negotiations. I am very keen that the experiences of my I do not want the House to take my word for it. The constituent commuters in the past five years should not statistics show that Network SouthEast had the lowest be wasted. Instead, we could gain real intelligence about satisfaction ratings of all the services in the south-east many of the shortcomings on the ground, which could and London. That is not good enough, but what do then be considered when dealing with services. This some of my constituents say? With perfect timing, I issue is of great importance to people who spend two to received a letter from some constituents only yesterday. three hours a day getting in and out of work. They say that Who could fulfil that task? Is there a role for Transport “our local trains seem unable to move, therefore leaving us for London or the local authority? Should we give stranded on platforms, and”— statutory weight to such a body? I put these ideas on the when they finally get on to the train— table because in areas such as health, education and “having to travel like cattle in sweltering carriages.” housing, we are leading the way on greater devolvement locally and greater local involvement and decision making. All that they request is more carriages and an increase However tempting it might be, I do not propose that in the number of timetabled trains, which is not local people should write the timetables or decide the unreasonable. They even ask—this shows how bad things level of rolling stock, but I do propose that the people are—for a of Enfield North and elsewhere should have the opportunity “replacement bus service to Tottenham Hale when the line is to have their local say on a matter of such great local closed for work”. importance. How many of us groan when we are offered a replacement bus service? My constituents want one because they see it as an improvement—how shocking is that? As I have 4.39 pm said, they have to pay the most in our area, which is in Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): I congratulate zone 6. the hon. Member for Witham (Priti Patel) and my hon. National Express’s reply was most illuminating, because Friends the Members for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) after several paragraphs of basically saying, “No change”, and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice) on their excellent it said, “Please go to our improvement plan on the maiden speeches. website.” Hon. Members will not be surprised to hear I want to talk about an issue of particular interest to that that link, which I tried only this morning, does not me: public health policy and the action that the Government work either. The frustration is all too evident. [Interruption.] can take to promote health and well-being. First, though, As my hon. Friend the Member for Sittingbourne and I want to wish my constituent Hilda Barwell a happy Sheppey (Gordon Henderson) says from a sedentary birthday and to mention National Eisteddfod, Wales’s position, it is much like the website of the Independent greatest language, arts and cultural event, which is Parliamentary Standards Authority. coming to Blaenau Gwent this week. Hilda Barwell has I wish to be constructive, because I am confident that been a terrific example for all good Labour members my constituents will welcome the steps that were announced in Blaenau Gwent. When she was 16, one of her first by the Minister of State, Department for Transport, my actions as a trade unionist was to lead a strike to right hon. Friend the Member for Chipping Barnet improve working conditions in the Berlei factory in (Mrs Villiers). It is encouraging that we will ensure that Ebbw Vale. There was no heating in the factory and new rail franchising systems will impose demanding mice were running across the feet of her fellow workers—it performance requirements based on passenger outcomes was a bit like the Tea Room in this place. Hilda has been and satisfaction. It is also good to know that if operators a terrific campaigner over the years and, even now, she 935 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 936

[Nick Smith] from pubs. However, the introduction of those public health initiatives has stalled. Again, the Government runs the Blaenau Gwent centre for the disabled. She is are reviewing the matter, always putting others first, so a belated happy birthday “given the challenges facing business competition and costs.”—[Official to Hilda. Report, 15 July 2010; Vol. 513, c. 891W.] As I said, the National Eisteddfod is coming to Labour prefers to tackle the challenges of smoking-related Blaenau Gwent next week. Many share my belief that deaths and illness, and their devastating human cost arts and culture can play their part in helping community and costs to the national health service. As Action on regeneration. I hope that the Eisteddfod will be an Smoking and Health has said: important opportunity to help to renew our valleys and “After all the election promises about public health, surely the towns and to build a better Blaenau Gwent. I particularly coalition can make a better start than by caving in to the tobacco want to highlight the fact that Susan Robeson will be lobby”. visiting the Eisteddfod to show a documentary about Of course, the coalition Government have given in her grandfather Paul Robeson, the great singer and not just to the tobacco industry, because the food human rights activist. He famously visited the Eisteddfod industry’s advances have also been successful. The industry in Ebbw Vale in 1958 as a guest of Nye Bevan, the then lobby has stopped the introduction of the consumer-friendly local MP.Nye’s invitation followed on from the successful traffic light warnings for food, and instead we are to campaign to let Paul Robeson finally travel abroad, have guideline daily amounts. Linked to that, the which he had been banned from doing by the American Government are to weaken the Food Standards Agency. authorities because of his radical views on civil rights. It The agency will lose its role to promote healthy eating, is good, more than 50 years later, that we are able to which was described by a Government adviser on food celebrate the historic occasion of those great men working policy, Professor Tim Lang of City university, as a together “retrograde step”. Despite its shortcomings and omissions, I am proud The Secretary of State for Health has also attacked of Labour’s record on public health, especially with initiatives to improve school meals. He says that he regard to tackling smoking in public places. However, I wants to avoid confrontation, which he claims was the am dismayed by the coalition Government’s recent hallmark of the Labour Government, but I do not abdication of their responsibilities on public health. It believe that Labour’s promotion of healthy school meals is well documented that alcohol abuse can cause physical was confrontational. Jamie Oliver’s promotion of good and mental health problems, and we have all witnessed school dinners was hardly a public health blitzkrieg; the antisocial behaviour that alcohol can fuel. Of course, rather, it raised awareness of an important public health the reasons for alcohol abuse are complex, and social issue. drinking is an established part of our national culture, However, we must confront stark health inequalities. but we can take action. In Blaenau Gwent, average male life expectancy is just Only a few weeks ago, the National Institute for over 78. Just 10 miles down the heads of the valleys Health and Clinical Excellence set out proposals to road in Usk, it is 85. That cannot be right. Good curb excessive drinking. However, its recommendations employment is crucial for improved public health, but of a ban on alcohol advertising and a minimum price we must also address the key issues of diet, smoking for a unit of alcohol have proved controversial. Indeed, and alcohol. Healthy living must be promoted by a real the Secretary of State for Health has already ruled out progressive Government. Where is the Lib Dems’ voice minimum pricing, and instead we are told that the in this vital debate? Why have they not championed the Government will consumer rather than the producer? In public health, “report back in the autumn on the scope for targeting alcohol why have they not intervened with their political partners duty at the products most associated with binge drinking and to give our children and young people protection from under-age consumption.”—[Official Report, 22 June 2010; less healthy food, from tobacco manufactures trying to Vol. 512, c. 178.] recruit new smokers, and from low-price alcohol and The Secretary of State says that he is worried that the binge drinking that it sustains? When one man’s minimum pricing disproportionately affects the poor, regulation can be another man’s vital public health but so do public spending cuts and increasing VAT, and protection, their coalition, laissez-faire agenda is already that has not stopped the Government, so I doubt that going too far. When the Lib Dems meet at their conference that is his main reason. Indeed, we do not know whether in the recess, perhaps they will look again at their public that is true. Academics argue that the better-off spend health policy, and strengthen, not weaken, these far more on alcohol than the poor. Logic leads us to commitments. The public health agenda is too important believe that young people have the least to spend on to all our young people for the Lib Dems to be complete alcohol, so raising the price might mean that they poodles and accept this laissez-faire lead from their consume less. Surely that would be a worthy public majority party partners. health outcome. The fact that Tesco has come out in favour of a minimum price is a helpful start. I would 4.46 pm like a sensible discussion about minimum pricing, because Mr Mike Hancock (Portsmouth South) (LD): If I I believe that it would gain the support of the majority may take a leaf out of the introduction to the speech by of the public. the hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent (Nick Smith), The Labour Government gained such public support I would like to wish happy birthday to everyone in over time for their ban on smoking in public places and Portsmouth South who has a birthday today. That covers then, with the universal support of the medical profession that one. I cannot name individuals. [Interruption.] The and health campaigners, they legislated to remove cigarettes hon. Member for Henley (John Howell) also has a from public display and to ban cigarette vending machines birthday today. Happy birthday to the hon. Member. I 937 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 938 am sure that the whole House is delighted about that, the second world war, when one third of all housing had and we will all be round his house tonight for drinks. I been bombed and 50% had been seriously damaged. We would also like to congratulate all those who made their have a huge housing problem, so I want Ministers to maiden speeches today. It is always a formidable task, take note very carefully, because it is not just a London but it feels so good once it is over. I am sure that they all problem. It affects all our constituencies, and I want us feel a lot better for that experience being done and to take that seriously. dusted. I, like other Members today, want to express my When the hon. Member for Leyton and Wanstead concerns about Building Schools for the Future and the (John Cryer) was on the Government Benches in his disappointment factor. The programme involves 11 schools first incarnation in the House of Commons, he called in my city and several in my constituency, one of which most of the then Government prats—[Interruption.] I was only weeks away from having everything signed and think that he did, and I hate to think what other names sealed. If the statement had been made after the recess, he called them, on more than one occasion, when I was the project would already have got the go-ahead. Work sitting where he is sitting now. I can only suggest that on the two schools most affected by the cut would his change of tack, and his direction of attack, is probably have gone ahead and the Secretary of State because he seeks a job in a reformed shadow Cabinet, would have had to include them, so I really want the so we will look with interest at how he develops. upcoming review to send a positive message to the I want to raise five points. The first point concerns many disappointed parents, teachers, governors and, the huge problem faced by my local authority, among most of all, pupils throughout the country, stating that others—once again, I declare an interest as I am still a it will not only set the record straight on the fallacy of member of Portsmouth city council—whereby more believing that all projects could be afforded, but give than 3,300 properties are occupied by students, none of some hope to schools, such as those in my city, that have whom pay council tax because they are exempt, and been swept aside in a rather cavalier way. I want some those who own the properties, who are running them as justice to prevail. very successful businesses, do not pay business rates on My next point is about the sad plight of something them. That means that our city is deprived of a council very dear to my heart—Portsmouth football club, and tax take of nearly £3.5 million a year. Nevertheless, we the shabby and awful way in which that club and, have to provide all the services: the fire services, the mainly, its supporters have been treated by the premiership. police—through the police precept—the rubbish collection An organisation awash with money has allowed a great and the street cleaning. club, with a huge history of support from local residents I therefore want the coalition to consider seriously over more than 100 years, to disintegrate. Next week in the idea of charging business rates on those very successful the courts, it will be trying to get Her Majesty’s Revenue businesses that make a huge amount of money out of and Customs off its back so that it can at least hold on student lettings. I do not want to see the cost passed on to its position in the championship, having been demoted to students, because students are already paying extortionate from the premiership. I want some action to be taken. I rents for some of the rooms that they rent, where five know that Ministers will say, “It’s not our job,” but this students in a property pay upwards of £70 a week each is our national sport. It is Portsmouth today, but it for a room. A lot of money is being made by somebody. could be many other clubs tomorrow. It seems that such In some instances, very small houses are turning over action is okay when people are taking money out, but £50,000-odd a year, and no tax is being paid to the local they do not want to put anything back in order to authorities—and that loss to local authorities is magnified support the loyalty that fans have shown. throughout the country. There is something wrong My final point is directed at my colleagues in the somewhere, and I want the Government to tackle that coalition. I was a big advocate the coalition, because issue. I did not think that anything else on offer was viable. I I had the privilege of chairing a debate in Westminster advocated it believing that we would introduce a fair Hall on changes in the benefit system, particularly way of dealing with the issues that we face—but I was changes in housing benefit. Those present for the debate not elected to see the poorest in our society suffer, and might easily have been led to believe that it was only a I want to put a big marker down to my colleagues in London problem, but I assure London Members who government by saying, “Please, please, please think took part in the debate that it is not. When large seriously about the consequences of some of the things numbers of people claim housing benefit there is a that the coalition is going to do over the coming months.” consequence, and individuals on jobseeker’s allowance After the election and the forming of the coalition, will not find it easy to cope with that. many people out there believed that there was real hope on the horizon. I do not want that hope to end in Some people whom I represent are being told that if despair. I want us to be fair to those who need our help they do not get a job within 12 months they will lose most, and I hope that we will be. 25% of their benefits, and I do not know how they will be expected to live with that, or even pay their rent. 4.54 pm Landlords will not lower their rent. I would love to think that the policy was a method of forcing landlords Jonathan Reynolds (Stalybridge and Hyde) (Lab/Co-op): to reduce their rent, but I cannot possibly see that Before the House adjourns, I wish to place on the happening, because in cities such as mine landlords will record the problems and concerns of my constituents as opt to house students, and people with children will a result of road congestion through the villages of again be queuing up at the local authority’s door claiming Mottram and Hollingworth, and mention the ongoing to be homeless. Where will the local authority put saga of the proposed Mottram-to-Tintwistle bypass. them? I do not know. In my city our housing waiting list [Interruption.] I can see that there is a lot of immediate is longer now than it was in the months after the end of interest in the subject. 939 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 940

[Jonathan Reynolds] To move things forward, Tameside metropolitan borough council, my local authority, began working on a wider If any hon. Members have ever driven between Sheffield solution, which incorporated a smaller new road with and Manchester, they will probably have been delayed other traffic restraining measures. The scheme currently in my constituency. The journey from the end of the has resources allocated to it from the regional funding M67 in Hattersley to the junction with the M1 in south allocation, but we await the comprehensive spending Yorkshire is a nightmare. The Woodhead pass is a review to see whether they will still be there in October. convenient route across the country that avoids the Local campaigners have been very demoralised by the M62, but its popularity has meant total misery for my lack of progress. I pay tribute to Mike Flynn, Bob constituents in Longdendale. I remind the House of my Haycock and David Moore for keeping the campaign standing declared interest as an elected member of going. They know that they will always have my support. Tameside metropolitan borough council. The problem is national, not local: the traffic congestion The latest figures given to me by the House of Commons is not caused in my constituency or borough. The Library tell me that, on average, 34,000 vehicles a day Government must recognise that the problem comes pass through the Mottram Moor A road in Hollingworth. from outside our area, and allocate resources to find a That is an astonishing amount of traffic for small solution. I am not prescriptive about what that should villages to cope with. It means that people cannot leave be, but I feel that some new road capacity in the area is their houses, that the noise is unbearable and that the essential if a solution is to be meaningful. pollution levels are completely unacceptable, particularly Some will say that any new road capacity increases in the playground of Hollingworth primary school, of pollution, as it makes a journey more favourable for which I am still a governor. other road users. For me, that misses the point; the Many Secretaries of State for Transport have visited important thing about pollution in any given area is the us and promised improvements; in fact, I believe that number of receptors of that pollution—who is breathing one made the journey, promised us that something the pollution in. If there were an increase in traffic in would be done, but unfortunately was sacked on his the Longdendale valley as a whole, the receptors would journey back to London. That may explain the reluctance be the vegetation along the side of the new bypass or of more recent Secretaries of State for Transport to visit similar road, and that would be far preferable to the the area. current situation, in which the receptors are my constituents I am sure that hon. Members are wondering about along Hyde road, Mottram Moor and Market street in the legislative history of the problem. The plans for a Hollingworth, and the schoolchildren in Hollingworth bypass in the area date back to the 1990s. They were primary school. extolled in the Conservative Government’s “Roads for Other options have been suggested as a potential Prosperity” White Paper in 1989, following a public solution, including, most notably, a weight restriction consultation process. A preferred route was selected in on heavy goods vehicles using the Woodhead pass. I am October 1993, but work was suspended in 1996 following open to any ideas that would provide a solution, but my further Government reviews of the national road building concern with the weight restriction is that it would programme. damage the local economy in Tameside, which seems In July 1998 the Labour Government published “A unfair given that the problem comes from outside our New Deal for Trunk Roads in England”, which also area. included the bypass. In November 2002 the Highways Whenever transport problems are raised, this question Agency submitted a report to the regional planning should always be asked: is a public transport solution bodies, and the local communities affected by the congestion available? In all honesty, when I look at the situation in presented a petition with more than 9,000 signatures to Longdendale I cannot see how that can be the case. In Downing street a few months later. I was part of that addition, it cannot be denied that the coalition has local deputation. The preferred route for a bypass in the given us a new ministerial team at the Department for area was not without its opponents. The very tip of the Transport who, rightly or wrongly, are perceived as new road would have entered the territory of the Peak having little interest in the subject generally. If the District national park, whose representatives naturally rumours are true, in October my constituents could face raised concerns. However, many objections were also not only the loss of the money allocated to deal with the raised by people who had never visited the area and specific congestion problem but the loss of the new wrongly assumed that most of the new bypass would be rolling stock for the railway in Greater Manchester, the in the park. loss of bus services in the area through the slashing of The public inquiry into the bypass opened on 26 June the bus operators grant, and rail fare increases of RPI 2007. However, following several adjournments to consider plus 10%. That would be a very dark day for transport the evidence submitted, the public inquiry was adjourned in this country, and it would cause significant economic indefinitely in December 2008, following the submission damage to constituencies such as mine. of inaccurate data by the Highways Agency. I shall My constituents face an unbearable situation that the stand corrected if this is not the case, but I believe that it Government need to recognise and help to address. To got the length of the Stocksbridge bypass wrong. That refuse to do so—I say this quite genuinely—will lead to should be a concern, given that it is the Highways civil disobedience in the area. The status quo is not an Agency. After further delays throughout 2008, the public option. I therefore ask the Deputy Leader of the House inquiry was abandoned, as the cost of the scheme had to make efforts to arrange for me and other local gone up steadily in the intervening years and funding representatives to meet people from the Department for had been allocated elsewhere. I have to report that as a Transport prior to a spending review announcement, to result, there is considerable bitterness in my constituency encourage the Department to announce which A-roads at the performance of the Highways Agency. it believes to be suffering from unacceptable levels of 941 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 942 congestion and announce a strategy for dealing with Northern Ireland and the rest of Europe. A shipping them, and to ask a Minister from the Department for company recently built two special ships that could sail Transport to visit my constituency to see for themselves in and out of the port, which were needed because of the intolerable situation that my constituents contend the depth and dredge of the harbour. They cost about with on a daily basis. £70 million. I am sure that all Members would agree that if a building was constructed in their constituency 5.1 pm for £70 million, it would be headline news. However, we cannot get the traffic off the M6 to Heysham port quick David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): It enough, and there are problems with transport in Lancaster. has been a very interesting three months for a new We are all trying to get green transportation initiatives Member of Parliament, watching with fascination the working, with the jobs that they will create. We all whole process of governance at this level. I have sat implore the Secretary of State to put roads in our areas through and voted on very many Bills and pieces of at the top of the list, and I do so because the road in legislation over the past few months. We have all been question would be a key strategic route to the rest of the working hard across these Benches on our respective country. issues. I would like to outline what has been going on in my constituency in relation to the coalition policies that On a nicer note, Carnforth station, which was the affect it, and how, in the past three months, things have scene of the movie “Brief Encounter”—I am sure a lot been moving in a positive direction. of Members have seen that David Lean classic—was Sunderland Point in my constituency—to describe it rebuilt many years ago. The catalyst was a chap called as beautiful is an understatement—is a sliver of land Peter Yates, who was been working with me to try to see that can be reached at low tide. Being in the area is like through his dream. The rebuilding was successfully stepping back in time to the 1700s; it has never changed. completed, and I will give the visitors’ centre a plug. It is Most of the buildings are grade II listed. The previous excellent, and the station has been transformed and Government, in their wisdom, told the Environment restored into the scene of “Brief Encounter”. People Agency to take away the historical context of protecting from all over the world go there to propose at the table the shoreline management, but I am happy to report where the character got grit in her eye, and it is something that the area has had a partial reprieve because the to see. We have been working hard over the past three Environment Agency has assisted with the inshore “Hold years to get Virgin Trains to stop and take on passengers back the line” scheme to allow the tide to come in. That in Carnforth. It has agreed to that in principle, which is well short of what I would like to see—world heritage will open up tourism in the area and get cars off the status for Sunderland Point—but it is a step in the right road and promote green tourism. direction. Once such areas are lost to the elements, we On green issues, I am not against wind farms, despite will never get them back. This does not only apply to what a lot of the blogs say. I just have a vision of them, my constituency—it could be said of areas all around like Martians across the landscape, in areas of outstanding the country. natural beauty. I have the Lake district to my north and Moving up the coast to Heysham, I have heard a few the trough of Bowland to my south, and in the middle is of the gibes in this House and seen the internet blogging the Lune valley, or Lunesdale. It has not been categorised that says, “David Morris glows in the dark because he is as an area of outstanding natural beauty, even though it pro-nuclear.” The truth is, however, that the nuclear is. It is a beautiful area. Thankfully, I can report that power station is the largest employer in Heysham, and I Natural England is looking into stretching the AONB am unashamedly pro-nuclear. Some Members disagree up to the borders of the Lake district, which would in with me, but I still find them absolutely delightful. That effect negate the possibility of wind farm building there. is what makes us great. This is our debating Chamber; it I am absolutely certain that that would delight some of is why we are here. I would like to see a third project the area’s residents, but it would also delight me personally being built at the nuclear power station in Heysham, because it is a beautiful area and I believe it should be and I would like more nuclear power stations to be built kept for future generations. I do promote wind farms, all across the country. I am very concerned, like most but I will always say that they should be out to sea. Members, that the lights will go out in 10 years’ time. On a final note on matters that I wish to push Although I posed a bit of an awkward question to the forward, a school in my constituency closed about Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change this 12 months ago and the building is in mothballs. After afternoon, I agreed with 95% of his statement. I disagree all the controversy in our education debates about with him on the nuclear issue, but we are here to fight schools being regenerated and rebuilt, we have a school the corner of our constituents and of what we believe in the Lune valley that could be reinvigorated under the is right. free schools programme and used as a school once more. The hon. Member for Stalybridge and Hyde (Jonathan On a personal note, I have thoroughly enjoyed my Reynolds) talked about the building of a bypass, and I first three months in the House and have met some very have a similar problem. Such problems arise up and interesting colleagues on both sides of it— down the country. In my case, plans for the road in question have been in formulation for the past 60 years. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Order. On that Its building was rubber-stamped by the previous Secretary point, I think we should move on. of State, and we even appointed a developer, but of course there is no money in the kitty so it has to stop. 5.10 pm I have to press the issue, and not just I but my hon. Friend the Member for Lancaster and Fleetwood (Eric Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): As a new Ollerenshaw) is working hard on it. In our area of Member, I am only just getting my head around some Lancashire, Heysham port is a key strategic route out to of the traditions of this place, and I am glad that 943 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 944

[Sheila Gilmore] cannot look at housing benefit without looking at the rest of the affordable housing budget. In 2007-08, housing Mr Speaker or the Deputy Speakers have not done to benefit represented 85% of the total support for affordable me what was done to a colleague of mine when we were housing, with only 15% coming from capital investment. rookie solicitors. She stood up to speak, and the sheriff In 1990, the balance was 59% to 41%. Every time I raise said, “Miss C, I cannot hear you”—I will not give her this subject, coalition Members point out that the Labour name in case she reads Hansard, although I cannot Government had 13 years to sort it out, and indeed they imagine why anyone other than Members would do so. did. I said before I was elected that I would take up this She raised her voice, as one would, and spoke louder, issue, whoever won the election. It is an important issue, but the sheriff repeated that he could not hear her. Only and I will urge our new leader, whoever it is, to address after her voice had risen in volume considerably did it it seriously. dawn on her that he meant he could not hear her The temporary accommodation aspect of housing because she was wearing a trouser suit. Things have benefit has not received much discussion so far and is moved on now, even in the Scottish courts. not covered by the current proposal, but it is very One other delight of the maiden speeches and other important. Every year in my city far more people apply speeches today is that they enhanced my geographical as homeless to the council than it has council or housing knowledge—I realise how little I knew about various association vacancies. We have good homelessness legislation parts of England. I was also interested in what my hon. in Scotland, under which everybody has a right to Friend the Member for Bolsover (Mr Skinner) said temporary accommodation if they need it, and by 2012— about prefabs. I had the dubious delight of dealing with which is not that far off—they will have a right not only a similar situation in my ward when I was on the city to temporary accommodation but to stay in that council. We had to tell people that their prefabs had accommodation until a permanent offer is made. Temporary reached the end of their reasonable lives, but people accommodation is becoming overcrowded. really loved them. That tells us a lot about what people When I was on the council, I was involved in setting like in housing. When I dealt with housing on the up a private sector leasing scheme, which was meant to council, I constantly told architects and planners that be a short-term solution until we got more houses. I people like their little houses with their back and front know that the council is now considering extending that doors that they can call their own. We still have a lot to private leasing scheme for another five years, but it is an learn from that. extremely expensive way of providing housing. In March Many of my constituents have come to see me. Last this year, there were 1,600 private sector leased homes in week, I was visited by a group of civil servants from my the city, with an average monthly rent of £880. That is constituency who are concerned about the proposals in more than £10,000 per year per property, with a total of the Superannuation Bill. We will debate that in September, £16.8 million. Most of those tenants will get housing but in my discussion with my constituents we agreed benefit. If some 70% of that cost is met through housing that one big problem is that there seems to be a concerted benefit, that is nearly £12 million. The affordable housing campaign in parts of the media and, in my view, the investment programme for Edinburgh in the past five coalition Government, to portray civil servants as fat years has amounted to £34 million, and £41 million in cats, to ensure that the public do not have sympathy for the last year, and for that some 500 houses are built them. When someone mentions civil servants, many every year. If we had the £11.8 million that is being people think of a Sir Humphrey figure—someone who spent on those private sector leased houses, another frequents his London clubs, who is waiting for his “K” 150 houses could be built. and who will indeed have a good pension—but the civil I know that we could not make the switch in one year, servants I met work in fairly ordinary clerical and but if the coalition Government want to be the sort of administrative jobs. One might say that they are pen Government that some people thought we would get pushers or, these days, screen watchers, but they are not out of a hung Parliament—in other words, one that on high salaries and do not have huge pensions. listens to all sides—they would seek to address this, Average civil service pay is £22,850, compared with rather than making savings on housing benefit to set average private sector pay of £24,970. Sixty-three per against the deficit. The savings could go towards building cent. of civil servants earn less than £25,000, and the the homes that people so desperately need. If we planned average civil service pension, taking out a few very high for that over a 10-year period, we could make a real earners, is £4,200 per annum. I told those civil servants difference. I hope to be part of that over the next four that I would do everything I could—as I hope other and a half years. hon. Members will—to counter the impression of civil servants that is given in some parts of our media, so 5.18 pm that we can acknowledge the important job that they do for other constituents, such as people who are waiting Gordon Henderson (Sittingbourne and Sheppey) (Con): for their benefit payments or who are trying to get jobs May I say how delightful it has been this afternoon to by spending time in Jobcentre Plus. That is the other listen to such a varied debate? I congratulate those hon. side of the coin. Those civil servants may be administrators Members who made their maiden speeches—and many and paper shufflers, but we need them very much. of the hon. Members who made not so maiden speeches. During my election campaign, I said that I would I wish to raise a subject of great concern to many of take up the issue of housing benefit, and I have been my constituents—the proposed closure of the magistrates particularly interested in the debates since the emergency court in Sittingbourne. I understand that hon. Members Budget. I fully agree that the spend on housing benefit on both sides of the House will be concerned by the is too high, but the current proposals penalise the potential loss of their local court and will lobby Ministers claimant without getting to the root of the problem. We hard in an effort to save it. In those circumstances, it is 945 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 946 perhaps difficult to argue that my own local court To remove the Isle of Sheppey from the equation should be treated as a special case, but that is exactly when considering the future of our only remaining what I propose to do. magistrates court is simply unacceptable. To suggest, as This is not the first time that Sittingbourne magistrates the document does, that somebody living at the eastern court has been considered for closure. However, during end of Sheppey could travel to either Chatham or the last review, a decision was taken to retain the service, Canterbury in less than 60 minutes is laughable. It is a not least because of the unique nature of its catchment journey that even with the right connections can take area. Sittingbourne magistrates court serves a wide area two hours. Closing Sittingbourne magistrates court, of north Kent, including the borough of Swale which and forcing defendants and witnesses to travel either to has a population of 132,000 and is the second most Canterbury or Chatham, would turn justice into a deprived area in the whole of Kent. There are pockets public transport lottery.I have already made representations of severe social and economic deprivation, particularly to the Ministry of Justice on behalf of my constituents on the Isle of Sheppey. Some 15 neighbourhoods in the in Sittingbourne and Sheppey, and I urge Ministers now borough are in the 20% most deprived areas nationally, to listen closely to my pleas and announce that our local with 11 of those areas being located on Sheppey. As you court will remain open. I plead with them not just for will be aware, Mr Deputy Speaker, people living in myself, but for all those vulnerable constituents living in deprived areas often make up a higher proportion of this deprived area. court users than people from more affluent areas. Those people are also more likely to rely on public 5.24 pm transport—and that is the nub of the problem. Public Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): Many transport and links between Sheppey and the mainland of my constituents in Nottingham East are from the are very poor. People without their own transport and Pakistani and Kashmiri population, and have friends or who live at the east end of the island will be particularly family living in Kashmir and that part of the world. hard hit by the closure of Sittingbourne magistrates court. They are increasingly concerned about the ongoing If somebody from Leysdown was involved in a court dispute and the problems that remain unresolved between case held in Medway that happened to finish late in the India and Pakistan over what is a disputed territory. I afternoon, it would be almost impossible for them to am not a world expert on the issue, but I have had a get home by public transport, because by the time they number of constituents continually raise it with me, and would have walked from the magistrates court in Chatham I felt it important to take this opportunity to raise it to the railway station, caught a train to Sittingbourne today, especially as I do not believe that the Kashmir and then another train to Sheerness, they would be question, from the list of all the international problems faced with missing the last bus to Leysdown, which worldwide, is aired as frequently as it should be. leaves from Sheerness at 1 minute past 6 in the evening. I use Leysdown as an example, but many other rural Obviously many Members will be aware of the post-war communities in my constituency are facing a similar settlement of 1947-48, when the area was partitioned. problem. However, islanders in particular would be There was a significant amount of conflict, and when particularly miffed about the closure of Sittingbourne the line of control was established, drawing up the magistrates court, because until relatively recently, Sheppey boundaries around the various Indian and Pakistani- had its own court, as did Faversham, which is close by. administered parts of Kashmir, that set off a chain of When that court was closed, we were promised that the events. That chain of events involved the United Nations court in Sittingbourne would remain open. Closing our drawing up a resolution aspiring towards some level of last remaining court in Swale would be a betrayal of eventual self-determination for the people of Kashmir, some very vulnerable people. so that they could decide their future fate and hopefully I turn briefly to the consultation document that sets achieve a peaceful and democratic outcome. Unfortunately, out some of the criteria being used to determine the since then there have been at least three major conflicts need for a court. One of the criteria is that people between India and Pakistan in the area, some of which should be able to reach a court within 60 minutes using have come close to becoming very major conflicts indeed. public transport. Helpfully, the consultation document Although I understand the Indian concerns about also includes a fact sheet that describes Sittingbourne the ongoing possibility of infiltration from across the magistrates court, its work load, its accommodation, border—many of those concerns are legitimate—and the implications for staff and costs and its location, although I accept that there are human rights concerns including journey times from Sittingbourne to Canterbury in the Pakistani-administered parts of Kashmir, it is the and Chatham, the alternative courts. human rights questions that arise so frequently in the Mr Deputy Speaker, you probably will not be surprised Indian-administered part of Kashmir that have such to learn that conveniently for the Ministry of Justice the caused great concern among many of my constituents. train journey times shown are well within the 60-minute Although the news is difficult to verify—there are very guideline. Unfortunately, however, the figures are not few independent observers and very little reporting by a all they seem. For instance, the times quoted are station free press—there are reports of thousands and thousands to station and take no account of the time it would take of people losing their lives in the conflict, with up to somebody to get from their home to Sittingbourne 10,000 people having disappeared since 1990 according station at one end, and from the station to court at to one report. the other end. There is also a glaring omission in the The current situation continues to be very serious consultation document fact sheet. The map that was indeed. There has been a curfew in many parts of conveniently and thoughtfully provided to show the Indian-administered Kashmir since June, which means relative locations of the courts has airbrushed Sheppey that a large part of the population are unable to leave from existence—which is particularly worrying for those their homes, with work curtailed, employment not always of us who live on the island. possible and shops not functioning. Even when people 947 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 948

[Chris Leslie] Several hon. Members rose— go out to protest, they often find that the police swiftly Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Order. A number stamp out any dissent. That can lead to a repetitious of hon. Members wish to speak, and I want to call as cycle, which tends to involve people mourning the deaths many as I possibly can. I am therefore reducing the time of local residents and, in turn, the police suppressing limit on speeches to six minutes. I know that this will that turnout, which can lead to a flare-up of conflict, prove difficult for many Members, but I am sure that with young men in particular pelting the police with everyone will want to try to get a speech in. stones. Such conflicts can flare up in many parts of the world, resulting in civilian deaths, which are extremely regrettable. I am told that there have been 34 such 5.32 pm deaths so far this year. Dr Sarah Wollaston (Totnes) (Con): Many Members I take this opportunity to urge the Government not this afternoon have laid claim to the industrial revolution. to be frightened to raise the unresolved question of Totnes cannot lay claim to that, but it undoubtedly has Kashmir with the Indian Premier and the Indian the finest beaches and countryside in the land, and I Government, particularly as the Prime Minister and hope that many Members will visit us over the summer. other Ministers are visiting India this week—I think—on If any of our visitors get into deep water or find a trade delegation, and the issue is exceptionally important. themselves drifting off to France, they will doubtless Obviously many people in Kashmir would eventually believe that they can rely on the coastguard to protect like the opportunity for some level of self-determination them. I want to draw to the House’s attention a serious or a better say in their destiny and governance. However, incident in that regard. On 28 June, four teenagers went the key thing now is to find a way of demilitarising and swimming shortly before 8 am, and they got into difficulties calming the situation in Kashmir. Obviously I understand in a rip current. A call was made from Bigbury coastguard the approach taken on the borders, but what is important to Brixham coastguard requesting the attendance of the is the sense that internal repression is taking place Hope Cove lifeboat. The reason for that request was within Kashmir, and we need to move on from that. I that the Hope Cove rescue boat was just 3.1 miles away also hope that we can eventually include Kashmiri and could have covered the distance in 14 minutes, people and civil society leaders much more in dialogue including muster time. The coastguard chose not to and the peace process. send it out, however, because the Hope Cove rescue There are a couple of other points, affecting our boat has had unilaterally imposed upon it an arbitrary constituents back in this country, that I take this opportunity and very small distance in which to operate. to raise. The disability living allowance has for many years supported many disabled people, helping them That decision was not taken on the grounds of cost. with specialised equipment and the extra costs that they In fact, it costs far more to send the lifeboat from face, including transportation costs. The Conservative Salcombe, which is 11 miles away and takes 27 minutes party promised to protect the disability living allowance to get there. Nor was the decision based on a sensible in its manifesto. Unfortunately, however, it appears that worry about the cost of operating the Hope Cove rescue there will be significant cuts in the DLA in the near boat, because a generous benefactor sent a cheque for future. the entire running costs to the coastguard, which was returned. The decision had no basis in common sense. The introduction of a so-called objective medical Had it not been for a person passing in a kayak who assessment from 2013 appears to have allowed the Treasury pulled one of the teenagers unconscious from the water, to put a figure on the saving that it will be able to make that teenager would, sadly, have died rather than just on the DLA. The projected saving in 2013 is £360 million, spending a day in intensive care. and more than £1 billion in 2014-15. If it is to be a genuinely objective medical assessment, I am at a loss to The local community has requested, through a solicitor, see how the Treasury can quantify the savings involved, to see a transcript of the recording of the call from the or indeed predict that there will be savings rather than Bigbury coastguard to the Brixham coastguard. After extra expenditure. This is exceptionally worrying. Many all, we are not talking about a passing member of the people are expressing their concerns about this, and I public making this recommendation; it was made by the hope that we will have an opportunity to discuss the Bigbury coastguard itself. That request has been refused, matter further on another occasion. even though the information was requested under the I am also concerned by the Government’s recent Freedom of Information Act 2000. I would like to decision to scrap the East Midlands Development Agency know what is the point of that Act if it is not to call and the Government office for the east midlands. Both public bodies to account, to cut through and say, “Where those bodies have tried hard to bring investment and is the decision-making process and what was it based regeneration to my part of the world. In particular, on?”. I am calling—and I hope the House will support EMDA has had some of the lowest administration me in doing so—for Her Majesty’s coastguard to release costs of any RDA, and objective studies have shown that information. that £9 of wider benefit has come from every £1 that it I know that many other Members wish to speak so I has invested in the real economy and in regeneration. will be brief, but the other point here is that the Under- There has been a great deal of investment in the creative Secretary of State for Transport, my hon. Friend the industries, for example, including the New Art Exchange Member for Hemel Hempstead (Mike Penning), has in my constituency and Nottingham Contemporary, kindly offered to visit and see the situation for himself. and it would be a great shame if that regeneration He has given an assurance that he will not close down budget were to be cut. Those organisations have added the rescue boat without doing that. There is no substitute great value to the economy, and I hope that we shall see for seeing conditions in person on the ground. I hope that investment continue in the longer term. that the Minister will give us a date for his visit. We are 949 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 950 expecting at last the barbecue summer that was promised reform Bill: it is a great patronage Bill; it is a great us last year. We are expecting many visitors to the South gerrymandering Bill; it is a great partisan shenanigans Hams and we would like them to be safe. In the interest Bill—and it is also, incidentally, the great rotten boroughs of public safety, we call for the rescue boat at Hope (for Liberals in Scotland) Bill. In case anyone is not Cove, which is so valued by the entire community, to be certain, I am wholly opposed to it. safeguarded and not to have the Maritime and Coastguard The second issue I want to discuss is S4C, although I Agency wash its hands of its responsibility in this understand that this may not be a matter of scintillating regard by seeking to devolve all responsibility for safety interest to everyone in the House. We heard over the at sea to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. weekend that the Government are going to cut the funding for S4C by 6% every year for the next four years. Mr Deputy Speaker: I would like to thank the hon. This has not, of course, been announced to the House, Member for Totnes (Dr Wollaston), as what she said but I understand that S4C has been told about it. The will help greatly. funding of S4C is laid down in statute. In order to change its funding—I think it would be a big mistake to 5.37 pm take £24 million out of the Welsh broadcasting economy— Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): It is a great shame the Government would introduce primary legislation, that the hon. Member for Southend West (Mr Amess) is unless they are doing some kind of dodgy deal in the not in his place, as I would like to correct something he background which they are not prepared to tell us said earlier. He referred to a much-quoted sentence about in the House. when he said that this Parliament was the “mother of I urge the Deputy Leader of the House to reply to all Parliaments”. In fact, this was originally said by the each of the issues that I am raising, or to ensure that Liberal John Bright, but when he said it, he was not Ministers do so. I believe that, as we move into a fully referring to this Parliament as being the mother of all digital era, the existence of S4C is all the more important Parliaments, but saying that England was the mother of for my constituents. It enables them to see Welsh coverage Parliament. He, like many Liberals, was wrong as well, on television, not only in the Welsh language but, because the longest-standing Parliament was not this increasingly, in the English language. country’s, but the Icelandic Althing, which first sat in I also urge the Deputy Leader of the House to 929. We should at times be a bit more careful about our consider the issue of the funding of the BBC. Many history. people in this country believe that the BBC is one of the That brings me to the first issue I want to raise, which greatest institutions that Britain has ever given to our relates to the pernicious and now-published Parliamentary society and to the world. We all have our complaints Voting System and Constituencies Bill. It is pernicious about individual journalists—about their being biased, because, for a start, it shackles together two issues that or not biased—but the honest truth is that around the have no proper right to be in the same Bill. If they have world, the BBC and the World Service are well respected to be in the same Bill, they should be in the same Bill as and admired. Let me say to the Government that anyone the other published Bill that provides for fixed-term in any other country would be astounded at the thought Parliaments; it would then be a general constitutional that we would cut the funding of the BBC by any reform Bill. Indeed, elements of the Parliamentary Voting significant amount. System and Constituencies Bill presume that the other Bill is going to be carried, so there is an argument for Mr Gareth Thomas (Harrow West) (Lab/Co-op): My putting all three issues together, but not just two. hon. Friend is making an extremely good speech. I The Bill is also pernicious because it will increase the particularly approve of his comments about the BBC. power of patronage in this House. Cutting the number Does he agree that the BBC could provide a service of seats from 650 to 600 without cutting the number of for my constituents in Harrow by investigating the Ministers will increase the role that patronage plays in circumstances in which ColArt, which runs a factory in this House. I note in passing that the Liberals have my constituency employing some 200 people, wants to decided to add yet more patronage by creating these shift manufacturing operations from Wealdstone to France, rather strange Liberal Whips. The tentacles of patronage thus putting at risk the jobs of many of my constituents? needed to keep this coalition together are, as I say, Is that not a subject that the BBC could usefully investigate? pernicious. The most pernicious element of all relates to the Chris Bryant: I congratulate my hon. Friend on the process that the Bill presumes will happen. Accordingly, phenomenal sagacity and dexterity that he has just the Boundary Commission will draw up its four reports shown. Obviously there should be at least an investigative for Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England. It programme by the likes of “Panorama”—if it has any will send them to the Secretary of State who will then— time to spare between investigations of the shenanigans I am not joking, but the legislation might be— in the Liberal party. “lay…before Parliament…the draft of an Order in Council for The serious point I am making is that cutting the BBC giving effect with or without modifications” licence fee has absolutely nothing to do with cutting the to the recommendations. In other words, the Secretary deficit, and that, through its investment in all the creative of State can draw up precisely what the constituency industries, the BBC plays a vital role in many other boundaries look like and this House will not be able to parts of our British national identity. amend it because it will be an Order in Council. All we That brings me to my next point. One of our actions could do is vote for or against it. That is indeed pernicious. as a Government of which I am particularly proud was The Deputy Prime Minister has referred on television our introduction of the artist’s resale right in the United and radio to the coalition introducing the best reforms Kingdom, which has benefited 1,827 artists—although since the great Reform Act of 1832. This is not a great it may be a bit more since this morning. Ten million 951 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 952

[Chris Bryant] course, but by the time many people get to Cornwall they will have passed through Wiltshire, Somerset and pounds have gone to those artists. It is mostly the Devon. We have to make sure that we trunk the road smaller names rather than the very famous people who through Somerset into Devon, and around Honiton in are receiving the money, but an investment is also being particular, where there is a bad bottleneck. When people made in the important artistic community in this country. get to Honiton, they can link into the dual carriageway The British art market put out a rumour that our action that takes them on to Exeter and beyond. It would be would destroy it, but in fact the market has risen by great if we could get this done. In 1997, the road was all roughly 23% year on year since 2003. I urge the Government ready to be built, but then—lo and behold—we got a to ensure that the right applies not only to living artists Labour Government who immediately stopped it. As but to the estates and families of artists who have died, the plans are all ready, we could go ahead and build this because they are often the people who maintain the straight away if we had the money. heritage of those artists. My constituency has the two hospitals of Tiverton Finally, I want to raise another issue relating to south and Honiton, and we have maternity units in both of Wales. The defence training academy at St Athan will them. Prior to the election, services were cut in Honiton dramatically improve the quality of training that we and they have been stopped in Tiverton. I want to give our armed forces. It will provide between 5,000 and ensure that those maternity services are reintroduced, 6,000 jobs in south Wales, and should therefore be seen because it is absolutely right that we not only have not as an optional add-on, but as essential to our midwives to help with home births, but that mothers defence of the realm. can choose to give birth in hospital as well. I therefore make that great plea. 5.43 pm I want there to be more competition with BT in the rolling out of broadband into rural areas. At present Neil Parish (Tiverton and Honiton) (Con): It is a great BT is dictating the speed at which it is being rolled out, honour to make a few points in the summer Adjournment and it is currently not being rolled out at all across many debate. I begin by suggesting to the hon. Member for rural areas. I welcome the coalition Government’s Rhondda (Chris Bryant) that perhaps there should be a commitment to helping communities roll out broadband. small redistribution of wealth from the BBC to ITV.We should remember that it also does a good job. The need to take decisive action on tuberculosis in Let me move quickly on to the subject of South West cattle is an issue dear to the hearts of many of us in Water charges. In my constituency—in my view, it is as rural areas. We spend more than £100 million a year on beautiful as that of my hon. Friend the Member for taking out diseased cattle, yet we are not tackling the Totnes (Dr Wollaston)—the charges are significantly disease in wildlife. I welcome the commitment of the higher, because we have 30% of the beaches and only Minister of State, Department for Environment, Food 3% of the population to pay the extra charges. I should and Rural Affairs to ensure that we look at ways in like the Government to consider some form of national which we can cull infected badgers so that cattle are not levy requiring people from all over the country to pay re-infected. for the beaches that they come to enjoy. We welcome My final point is about Zimbabwe, which is, I accept, them when they come to enjoy those beaches, but we do a long way from my constituency, but many of my not think that the retired people of the South West constituents come from that country and I was an Water area should pay the extra charges. It would mean election observer there in 2000. Zimbabwe is still staggering bills in the South West Water area falling by about on, and I hope our coalition Government prove to be £65 to £75, yet the national levy would be in the region more effective than the current coalition Government in of £1.50. I ask the Government to look at this that country. I plead with the Government to look in sympathetically. future at helping Zimbabwe to have a proper audit of On Tiverton high school, let me first say that I the farms and farmland there. Zimbabwe could feed understand that the coalition Government have of course both itself and quite a lot of Africa, but at present it had to cut back on the Building Schools for the Future cannot even feed itself because that land is not being programme because there was no money left. We know farmed and not being looked after. The ownership of that that is the case, and I shall not repeat it too often. these farms is now often not for the sake of farming the We need to be sure that we can build schools in the land, but just for the sake of having property, and that future, and that the money we put into capital spending should be investigated. actually goes into building schools and not on administration, as 20% to 30% did under BSF. I ask 5.49 pm Ministers that when money becomes available, Tiverton Glenda Jackson (Hampstead and Kilburn) (Lab): I high school is not forgotten, because that would be good pay tribute to the three Members who made their not only for the high school, but for a part of Tiverton maiden speeches this afternoon. Interestingly, all three that needs regeneration. referred to Margaret Thatcher and the influence she I want now to talk about the A303/A30. had had on them—in different ways. I am sure that they must be experiencing a sense of déjà vu, as I am and The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of certainly my constituents are. Despite the Government’s the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): Hear, hear. pronouncements that they are introducing a new politics, it is clear that they are actually introducing policies that Neil Parish: I thought the Deputy Leader of the are Thatcherism mark 2: for example, the first steps to House might say that as the A303 also runs through his privatise the NHS, the attacks on state schools, and the constituency. In Cornwall, we have trunked the whole terrible damage they are going to inflict on our welfare A303—or A30 as it is down there. That is excellent of system. 953 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 954

However, one marked difference is that Thatcherism in bed-and-breakfast accommodation. I can foresee a mark 1 presented its policies on the basis of ideological time when, if the housing benefit policy is not changed, conviction. This Government are presenting their those days will return. We will see more and more Thatcherite policies on the basis of blaming everybody people sleeping on our streets and local authorities will else, not least the previous Labour Government. They have to push people out into the outer London boroughs, continue to run with the canard that they are having to which will mean that the low-income workers on whom make these swingeing cuts across the whole of our this city depends for its smooth running will have to national fabric because we got the finances wrong. To leave. Is that really how we are going to create a thriving those who take the trouble to read the Gothic novel that economy not only in the capital city but in the country the Chancellor of the Exchequer published under the at large? It seems to be the antithesis of that. title of an emergency Budget, it becomes increasingly It is not too late for the Government to realise that clear that his feverish imagination fanned the flames of there are alternatives. They simply have to think, for a the Frankenstein finances that form the basis for these moment, outside their stifling envelope and realise that choices. their first duty is to the people who sent them here. That My central point is that in that fantasy Budget—that will be a bit of a stretch—they are not exactly a Gothic novel—the Government stated categorically that, representative Government—but they have to think again. although it would be a Budget of austerity, they would protect the most vulnerable in our country and the low 5.58 pm paid. That is clearly not the case, and the example I give Jane Ellison (Battersea) (Con): I congratulate my is their housing benefit proposal, which is a particular hon. Friend the Member for Witham (Priti Patel) and concern in my constituency. I know that the Conservatives the hon. Members for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) and never listen to the Opposition, but perhaps they will for Livingston (Graeme Morrice) on their excellent listen to what the Mayor of London has to say on this maiden speeches. May I pick up the point made by the issue. He is targeting the new cap that will be introduced, hon. Member for Islington North (Jeremy Corbyn), which at the moment will affect the majority of housing who is no longer in his place, about the facility for a benefit claimants in the private sector. However, the substantive response from a Minister to points raised in secretive changes that the Government are introducing the Adjournment debate? In my capacity as a member to benefit uprating—for example, basing it on the consumer of the Backbench Business Committee—I see present prices index, rather than the retail prices index—will also a colleague on the Opposition side of the Chamber— affect all housing benefit claimants. and as this debate is taking place in BackBench Business The Mayor of London said: Committee time, I will report that point back to the “The new cap is lower than the existing LHA”— Committee in time for our evidence seminar in September. local housing allowance— I hope that the House will not adjourn until it has “in all 33 London boroughs for five bedroom homes, in 25 boroughs considered the matter of business rates and particularly for four bedroom homes and in 18 boroughs for homes with three their impact on small businesses, shops and restaurants and two bedrooms. In 30 boroughs, the combined impact of the in Battersea and other parts of Wandsworth. I am new threshold and the new cap will leave families in three bed delighted that the coalition Government have signalled homes, whose rents are currently at the median of local rents, their support for small business through a number of with a weekly shortfall ranging from £23 to £360.” proposals, not least the scrapping of the planned rise in That, as I have said, does not even begin to touch on the employers’ national insurance and the commitment to impact of the changes being made to the wider benefits seek a way to make small business rate relief automatic. system, such as increasing non-dependant deductions. Although it is very welcome, the latter move will have The hon. Member for Portsmouth South (Mr Hancock) relatively little impact in a London constituency such as discussed the situation of people on jobseeker’s allowance mine in which business rates are so high, reflecting their after 12 months. I have received a letter from a single-mother proximity to central London but without the footfall of constituent of mine. If, after 12 months, she has not central London. managed to obtain employment, her housing benefit I should like to ask the Government to go further will be reduced, even though she is allowed to look for over this Parliament, as the localism agenda gathers work that fits in with her family commitments such as pace, and consider giving local councils a greater role in taking her child to and from school. She lives in a setting local business rates. This issue was thrown into borough in the centre of London in which rents are sharp relief by the dreadful impact on my constituency above not only the national average but the London of the business rate revaluations of 2009 and 2010, by average. Despite the Government’s protestations to the which London was particularly badly hit. Many businesses contrary, this measure will impact on the most vulnerable. and shopping areas such as Northcote road, Old York It will affect not only people on jobseeker’s allowance, road, St John’s hill, Battersea Park road and Lavender but pensioners and some people with disabilities. hill have struggled to survive those rises, which were The Government must rethink this policy. In common often of more than 100%. The number of empty shops with so many of the policies they are introducing, they and restaurant fronts bears testimony to the fact that have markedly failed to think it through. We must some businesses lost that struggle. consider the serious harm that the ill-considered Wandsworth council has been innovative in the face consequences of such changes could cause. This policy of the difficulties caused by the ending of transitional will not save the country any money—if that is indeed relief last year and it remains the only council in London the Government’s motive for introducing it. In fact, it that runs a hardship scheme for small businesses. To will cost us a great deal more. I do not want anyone to date, that scheme has helped more than 50 local firms to have to go back to the days under the previous Thatcherite save money on their bills and stay afloat, the result of regime when families with small children were trapped which is that they are still paying tax and employing 955 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 956

[Jane Ellison] Afghanistan and elsewhere in recent years, that obviously gives rise to serious concerns for RAF bases throughout people. Innovative councils could do even more if they the country, including RAF Leuchars in Fife, as well as had the power to set some or all of the business rate RAF Kinloss and RAF Lossiemouth elsewhere in Scotland. instead of just collecting it. A borough such as Wandsworth It is not unreasonable to assume that if seven squadrons with a low tax culture could bring real benefits to its of Tornados are taken out of service, we simply will not businesses and we could avoid painful juxtapositions, need such a number of RAF bases. I will therefore be such that in spring 2009, when a local launderette’s grateful if the Deputy Leader of the House will press business rates increased by 250% while residents in the Defence Secretary to clarify what the Government the same road received a zero increase on residential plan to do about our Tornado and Harrier squadrons. council tax. Longannet power station plays an important part in I am aware of the chequered history of local councils my constituency. It has served homes and businesses in setting business rates, so that power might have to be east and central Scotland with electricity for some 40 years, earned, but local councils of whatever political complexion so it is approaching the end of its natural life. As the that have a clear grasp of the importance of small House will recall, it is on the shortlist of two for the business to the local economy could play a significant carbon capture and storage competition, the result of role, through the setting of a lower local business rate, which was expected in October. Many Members would in sustaining existing businesses and encouraging new have been worried by today’s statement from the Secretary ones. I hope that the Deputy Leader of the House will of State for Energy and Climate Change, because he agree that it is important to rebuild the connection seemed to suggest that the competition would be pushed between local authorities, local businesses, the services back to the end of the year. that those businesses receive from local authorities and Hon. Members will recall that when the House debated the local residents who value those businesses. It is energy efficiency last month, the Minister of State, worth considering whether to restore some measure of Department of Energy and Climate Change, the hon. accountability in the levying of business rates. That idea Member for Wealden (Charles Hendry), did not have sits very comfortably with the Government’s commitment time to answer all the points raised. He promised to to localism and I commend it to the House. write to clarify those points, but it appears that he has lost his writing pad over the past five weeks, because 5.59 pm Members have not received answers to their questions. Again, I will grateful if the Deputy Leader of the House Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Fife) (Lab): will ask the Minister of State to write to me about three I hope that we can consider a couple of extra matters specific points, which I shall recap for the record. before the House adjourns for the summer recess. When the parties in government talk about public spending First, will the Government still meet the October cuts, they would like us to believe that they are simply deadline for the CCS competition? Secondly, is the talking about what they claim are the legions of overpaid prize for the competition still that set out by my right and underworked public sector bureaucrats who push hon. Friend the Member for Doncaster North (Edward paper around and introduce more and more regulation. Miliband) when he was Secretary of State, or has it However, the truth is rather different up in west Fife, fallen victim to the Chancellor’s spending cuts? Thirdly, where the public spending cuts will have a devastating will the Minister of State meet me and other Scottish impact on the defence and electricity generation industries. Members so that we can discuss possible changes to the transmission charges operated by the national grid and Yesterday, the Ministry of Defence announced that how we can make them more equitable to Scottish the Harrier jump jet will not fly from the new super-carriers power stations? when they come into service. Hon. Members will recognise that, given that the joint strike fighter will not be available for some time after Queen Elizabeth is scheduled 6.4 pm to enter into service, one can draw one of only two Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): I conclusions: either the MOD proposes that the Queen add my compliments for the three fine maiden speeches Elizabeth should become a glorified helicopter carrier that we have heard today from my hon. Friend the for the first few years of its life; or, even more worryingly, Member for Witham (Priti Patel) and the hon. Members the Department plans to delay the Queen Elizabeth’s for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) and for Livingston (Graeme entry into service following the comprehensive spending Morrice). I am sure that they will make excellent review. I will be grateful if the Deputy Leader of the representatives for their constituencies. House asks the Secretary of State for Defence to write Before we break for the recess, it is important for the as a matter of urgency to Members on both sides of the House to have an opportunity to discuss how localism House with an interest in defence to clarify the MOD’s and the big society are affecting my constituency. Localism position on the Harrier and joint strike fighter and, is being welcomed and embraced by my constituents. In crucially, the date of entry for the Queen Elizabeth and North West Leicestershire, as in many other constituencies, the Prince of Wales. the biggest local issue in the run-up to the general Monday’s edition of The Times carried a rather disturbing election was the Labour Government’s top-down housing story suggesting that, as part of the public sector cuts targets. It was decided that my constituency should have that we hear so much about, the MOD plans to take out an extra 12,200 houses. The district council was set an of service immediately either the RAF Tornados or the impossible task of consulting the local population. The Royal Navy Harriers. Leaving aside the obvious reasons main problem was that there was very little to consult why we need both the Tornados and the Harriers in about. The figure was set, and it was decided already service for the defence of the nation, as well as the that the clear focus for the main thrust of development amazing jobs that the aircraft crews have been doing in was to be concentrated on the town of Coalville. I put it 957 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 958 to you, Mr. Speaker, that there is nowhere in North not, as then it would be subject to all the bureaucracy, West Leicestershire where building more than 12,000 houses red tape and targets that would go with that. It would would be acceptable to the local residents. That level of rather keep its independence and raise its own funds. housing growth, if implemented, would have changed That says a lot about the dedication and commitment of the character of my constituency for ever. the volunteers and fundraisers who work for the Derbyshire, I am very pleased, and my constituents are mostly Leicestershire and Rutland air ambulance, but it also delighted, that these top-down targets have been dropped. says a lot that is not good about government. This means that all powers to decide housing numbers, I reiterate that North West Leicestershire has some types, densities and where they will be built, now rest fantastic selfless people working in the community. The where they belong, with locally elected, locally accountable challenge for government is to create the conditions to district councils. Many community groups were set up ensure that their efforts reap the maximum benefits for to oppose the top-down targets, and their work is society. We can do this by devolving powers to the worthy of mention. The Whitwick action group, the people who recognise what local communities need. Don’t Destroy Donington campaign, the residents against Those people do not need the state to interfere with inappropriate development in Ashby and the friends of their lives. The time of big government is over: it did not Thringstone are particularly worthy of mention. It is work, and it was far too expensive. Anything that also worth mentioning that it is easier to lead someone government take responsibility for, individuals and forward than to push them, and this is very much the voluntary groups tend to withdraw from. The Government difference between this Government’s policy and that of need to relinquish ground back to volunteer groups and the last. individuals. This is the time of localism and the big For too long, local government and local opinion society, and we will be able to build economically, have been ridden roughshod over by central Government. socially and spiritually stronger communities because The Government are often the final arbiters of planning of it. appeals, which have huge effects on local communities, often acting as judge, jury and executioner. Ministers 6.10 pm have in the past, with the mere flourish of a penned Diana R. Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): signature, condemned communities that they do not I shall discuss three issues that are causing concern and know, and people they have never met, to years of anxiety in my constituency, but first I pay tribute to the anguish. For example, the overturning of decisions hon. Member for Morecambe and Lunesdale (David taken locally with regard to the opencast mine at Ravenstone Morris), who talked about the beauty of, and gave us a in North West Leicestershire has, quite literally, undermined tour around, his constituency. I was lucky enough to be the influence of, and respect that residents have for, the in Morecambe last weekend, and I certainly agree that locally elected council and councillors. This dumbs Morecambe bay is a very beautiful setting. I also visited down the role of the council, and I believe that it the Midland hotel, which has gone through a major discourages many able people from standing for election. refurbishment to restore it to its 1930s art deco beauty, This Chamber, Members will be glad to hear, will be partly funded, as I understand it, through the regional hearing more from me about opencast mining in the development agency in the north-west. I just wanted to very near future. This Government will, I hope, give put on the record the fact that government can do good local councils the chance to show real leadership— things. something so sadly lacking in the past, when they were The first issue in my constituency that I want to raise mostly there to enact top-down national policies. is about education. Although Hull was fortunate enough I have also seen during the past few weeks how to be in one of the early waves of Building Schools for localism feeds into the big society in my constituency, the Future, so is not part of the coalition Government’s which we so much want to encourage to flourish. I have slash-and-burn approach to BSF investment, there remains met some of the selfless people who work in the voluntary a concern about the primary capital programme in the sector and seen the work that they are doing to improve city. Indeed, I am still awaiting a response to a question and turn around the lives of some of the most vulnerable that I put to the Secretary of State. It was due for people in my community in North West Leicestershire. I answer on 14 July, so I wonder whether the Deputy have been to the Marlene Reid centre, a social enterprise Leader of the House could chase that up for me. based in Coalville, and to the Turning Point office, also in Coalville, where staff and volunteers are helping Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): I share those affected by drug and alcohol misuse, and I have my hon. Friend’s concern about a failure to receive a been to Home Start, which provides dozens of volunteers response from the Department for Education. I asked a to support parents and families struggling to cope who question, which was due for answer on 12 July, about are in need of a little support to get them through their the lists, and I still have not received a reply. I assume lives. This is the big society in action, and I will be doing that she shares my concern. all I can to see that these groups have all the support they need from the Government to carry on with their Diana R. Johnson: Absolutely. I do share that concern, essential work. It is vital that those groups are not and I hope that the Deputy Leader of the House will be subject to undue interference from government. able to help us. I want to share with hon. Members an interesting I want to talk about McMillan nursery in my experience. I visited the local air ambulance, which flies constituency, which Ofsted recently rated as outstanding. out of East Midlands airport in my constituency. The The head teacher, Andrew Shimmin, and his staff do a service is funded totally by charitable donations. When fantastic job in a part of Hull that faces many challenges. I asked whether it would not rather be funded by the However, the recent weeks and months have been a Government, surprisingly it said that it definitely would difficult time for McMillan. We had the very sad death 959 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 960

[Diana R. Johnson] closer to reducing or abolishing tolls on the Humber bridge. Now we are told by the Secretary of State for of Kerry Mackinder, who had worked at the school for Transport that we must choose between the road schemes some time, and the staff’s future is now threatened by and progress on the Humber bridge tolls. Studies have Hull’s Liberal Democrat council, which seems intent on clearly shown that cutting the tolls would boost the making deep cuts without proper consultation and without local economy on both sides of the River Humber. considering other options for the school. Surely the £98 million cost of building the Humber The coalition Government have talked at length about bridge has now been paid back by Humber people. early intervention, and I know that many Members Those are the issues—education, housing and transport believe that it is important to put money into children’s —that really matter to my constituents in Hull, far lives early, so that we do not have to spend it later when more than the rushed referendum on the voting system. things go wrong. Unfortunately, Hull city council does In a passionate contribution to the debate, my hon. not seem to take that approach, and there are particular Friend the Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) talked concerns about the new funding formula that Madam about the gerrymandering over the Parliamentary Voting Deputy Speaker introduced when she was the Minister System and Constituencies Bill. On the first day back, with responsibility for children in the previous Government. we are to be forced to have a Second Reading debate on She made it clear that the new funding formula for early that Bill without any pre-legislative scrutiny. That is an years could take into account the important role that absolute disgrace. nursery schools play, as they have professionally trained teachers, often work in deprived areas, and often need 6.17 pm to keep places vacant in case social services need to place a child urgently in a nursery school. Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con): I should like to I was very disappointed to hear not only that staff at place on the record my congratulations to Members McMillan nursery are to be made redundant, but that who made their maiden speeches earlier this afternoon. the nurture group—a positive way of dealing with Before we break for the recess, I should like to raise a children’s problems early—is also to be abandoned. number of local, national and possibly international Local parents are organising a petition to try to keep issues. the group open, and I pay tribute to the trade unionists I shall start with local issues. I am sure that the whole who, on behalf of members who work at McMillan, are House would like to congratulate Elmgrove, Aylward, fighting hard, trying to get other plans for the nursery Glebe, St John’s and Stag Lane schools in my constituency, put forward and challenging the tight timetable for which have all received Artsmark awards from the Arts consultation with staff about their jobs. Council in the past week. That leads me to a concern The second constituency issue that I want to raise is being raised at local level, about the wonderful new housing. The previous Government agreed to a regeneration Cedars youth centre, which is being developed in a scheme in Orchard Park based on private finance initiative partnership between Harrow council, the lottery and credits, and the local authority is consulting the community Watford football club. Some £4.2 million was set aside on that. However, owing to the coalition Government’s for it, but we are awaiting approval from the Department stance on decisions made before the election, I am for Education. I trust that that will be forthcoming worried that the scheme might not come to fruition, before the recess is out. and it is badly needed. I understand that Hull city council Seventy years have passed since Britain stood alone has already spent up to £1 million on the consultation and the RAF, and Fighter Command in particular, stood and on the preparatory work for the scheme. between us and the Nazis. The centre of that operation In another part of my constituency, Bransholme was at Bentley priory in my constituency. Time, of course, North, the first housing stock transfer will take place. has moved on; now there is a challenge as to what we There was a ballot earlier this year, and the Housing will do with Bentley priory. There is a clear need to Minister will have to agree to the transfer later in the preserve the priory for the nation so that we can celebrate year, but the uncertainty about the coalition Government’s what Fighter Command achieved 70 years ago. We must approach to social housing is causing concern in Kingston not allow it to fall into disrepair and disuse and pass it upon Hull North, so, as tenants want the stock transfer on in that state to our children and our children’s to happen, I again seek a reassurance that it will. children. My final point about housing is that at the beginning Some hon. Members who know me well might wonder of July I received a petition from residents of Auckland why I am raising this next issue in the House. A firm in avenue in Hull. Led by Mrs Walker and Mrs Lambert, it my constituency called ColArt, which is probably better was about the deterioration in the neighbourhood resulting known as Winsor and Newton, is currently consulting from the conversion of small family homes into houses on closing down its operation in Wealdstone and in multiple occupancy. I had a look for myself, and transferring the manufacturing jobs to France and other there was indeed a deterioration in the area. I have parts of the world, involving the loss of 200 specialist written to Hull city council to ask it how it is planning jobs in the constituency. The local council and the to use its powers to deal with the problem in that area. Government need to intervene to safeguard those jobs Now I understand that the coalition Government have for local people and to protect manufacturing industry suspended the Labour Government’s legislation on houses in London. I trust that that support and effort will be in multiple occupancy, which was intended to help forthcoming from the Government before the consultation communities and residents such as those now suffering period is over at the end of September. This afternoon in Auckland avenue. I met representatives of the factory, who are deeply Finally, I turn to transport. Under the Labour concerned about what is going to happen to their jobs Government, approval had been given to upgrade schemes and to the future of manufacturing in our area. I am on local roads such as the A63. We were also moving happy to place on record my firm and full support for 961 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 962 their work, and I will, with the firm, be seeking appropriate as a drag on the private sector, those of us with a more measures to ensure that we safeguard that facility for clear-headed view know the important relationship that local people. exists between the public and private sectors. For every Finally, I want to discuss a case—Regina v. Robert £1 that a local government worker earns in Liverpool, Nicholls and others—which arose on 28 and 29 June in they spend 70p there. If that money stops, we will see Lewes Crown court, and which probably would have small businesses close, a spiralling welfare bill and passed unnoticed but for the learned judge’s summing public services straining under the weight of underfunding up in directing the jury. The case concerns a number of and increased demand. individuals who committed terrible criminal damage at Jack Stopforth, chief executive of Liverpool chamber a local armaments factory in January 2009. As they of commerce, has said that the Government are being virtually admitted that they had done so, it was something “unbelievably naive” over the effect of job losses and of a surprise when they were acquitted of the crimes clearly have after the jury had deliberated for a very short period. A “no awareness of the link between public sector services and week to 10 days ago, the summing up by the judge was private sector supply chains”. released. It reads almost like the case for the defence or Despite that important relationship, the Government a plea in mitigation. In the course of some 87 pages, it seem determined to further crush any project that would lists a whole litany of reasons and excuses as to why it is bring necessary jobs and investment to Merseyside. The perfectly reasonable for people in this country to commit withdrawal of funding for the Mersey gateway, which criminal damage against armaments factories if those would bring 5,000 jobs, and the cancelling of Liverpool’s factories are supplying the state of Israel. 26 Building Schools for the Future projects, which has This has caused immense concern in my constituency, already cost 1,000 jobs, are evidence of that. Today, the where there are large numbers of Jewish people who Northwest Development Agency has announced more believe that it will provide a licence for individuals who than £52 million of cuts to 101 projects, many of which oppose the state of Israel to take criminal action against fall in Liverpool. factories in this country that supply the state of Israel. There have been a number of short-sighted cuts, It is the thin end of a very thick wedge, and the particularly the decision not to introduce a tax relief for Government—the Ministry of Justice—must step in the video games industry. In 2009, the industry brought and take action. We cannot have judges with prejudicial approximately £1 billion to the UK’s gross domestic views instructing juries to acquit people where there is product, and in my constituency and across Liverpool no evidence to support that outcome. I have asked the there are a number of video games developers including Lord Chancellor to intervene in this case and ensure Genemation, Bizarre Creations, Magenta Software and that something is done, and I trust that that will happen Playbox. Sony Computer Entertainment, based at Wavertree before the recess. technology park, employs more than 600 people, and introducing a games tax relief would protect and increase 6.23 pm a figure of £415 million in new and saved tax receipts Luciana Berger (Liverpool, Wavertree) (Lab/Co-op): for the Treasury, far outweighing the £192 million that I wish to use this debate to highlight the devastating the relief would cost. Can the Deputy Leader of the impact that the coalition Government’s cuts in public House explain why the Red Book highlighted only the expenditure will have on the city of Liverpool and, in cost of the tax relief and not the net benefit? particular, on my constituents in Wavertree. The Decisions such as that and the cancellation of the Government’s proposals for cuts of up to 40% in some loan to Sheffield Forgemasters highlight the Government’s Departments will jeopardise the economic recovery, short-term thinking and strike at the very premise behind unfairly punish those in the most deprived areas and, their strategy to pursue a private sector-led recovery. according to the Office for Budget Responsibility, put They seem adamant that the gap created by their public 600,000 public sector workers out of work. sector cuts will be filled by increased demand and job Members in all parts of the House acknowledge the creation in the private sector. However, businesses in effect of the global recession on the country’s public areas such as Liverpool rely more heavily than others finances, but the new Tory Government have ignored on income from public sector workers. this approach and instead opted to pursue an agenda Not only will the Government raise unemployment described by the Institute for Fiscal Studies as amounting with their cuts, but they seem to want to punish those to the longest and deepest period of public spending who are unfortunate enough to find themselves out cuts since the second world war. Despite what the of work. All of us in the House recognise the value of Government would have the public believe, these cuts helping people off benefits and into work. That is are not inevitable. They are the result of the ideological important for self-esteem, well-being and the economy, choices that the Conservative-Liberal Government are and jobseekers should be supported, not castigated. making. Economists such as Nobel prize-winning Professor The Government’s plans to freeze jobseeker’s allowance— Joseph Stiglitz have warned that the Tory Government’s [Interruption.] Oh, I will sit down. Sorry. Budget and their other cuts will result at least in a slowing of the recovery and at worst in a double-dip recession. 6.27 pm Merseyside will bear the brunt of the Government’s Barry Gardiner (Brent North) (Lab): Our function in cuts far more than other areas of the country, not least this House is to ensure that our information about because in some parts of the region 60% of the work constituents’ problems is translated into creating better force rely on the public sector for their income. While policy so that our constituents have fewer problems. some of the more ideologically driven Members on the Today, I wish to raise two issues that have recently come Government Benches may demonise the public sector to my attention. 963 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 964

[Barry Gardiner] that. More than 10 million adults in our country have never used the internet. What has the coalition done? It On educational provision for those with behavioural scrapped the previous Government’s commitment to and learning difficulties, I have had a case in which a free internet access from all libraries; cut £50 million a lady—I will call her K—brought into the borough her year from an IT fund designed to bring technology into son with severe learning and behavioural difficulties, classrooms in order to fund free schools; scrapped challenging behaviour and anger management problems. procurement and other support for information and On 22 July, my constituent made distressed calls saying communications technology in schools; and rushed through that the previous day, her son had been out of control. the Academies Act 2010, abandoning the requirement He had ransacked the flat and smashed all the furniture. for schools to teach science and maths at all, never mind The tutor who arrived to give him the five and a half separate sciences. hours of educational provision that he was due under The coalition has also abolished regional development statute had to leave and said that he would get help. The agencies, which helped to support science and technology police came and the mother asked them for help, but locally; deferred concrete, funded plans to make broadband they left again. She rang social services but no one available everywhere in favour of three small rural pilots; arrived. She took her son to the police station, crying and placed leadership on broadband in the Department out for help. A social worker arrived, saw the smashed-up for Culture, Media and Sport. I have a great deal of flat and took the son away for an hour, then brought respect for that Department, and it would be wrong not him back again saying that they could not cope with him. to recognise the critical role that digital culture plays in Over the weekend, I have arranged for special provision the digital economy. However, broadband is not only to be made for respite for the mother, but the point is about delivering content; it is the basis for our future that five and a half hours a week of statutory provision economic resurgence. Frankly, for the Department for for a child is not enough. This child cannot be Business, Innovation and Skills to give up leadership on accommodated in school, but a local authority has a that critical matter is totally dotty. responsibility. When a parent is keeping a child out of Building the right broadband infrastructure is complex, school, it gives fines and parenting orders, yet when it is and it needs people with expertise to manage it. What responsible for the child it need put in place only five broadband does expertise does the Department for and a half hours’ provision a week. That is wrong and Culture, Media and Sport have? Will the Deputy Leader absolutely inadequate, because it means that the parent of the House explain what the Government are doing to can get no respite. overcome digital exclusion, and what expertise are they Section 3 of the Children, Schools and Families Act drawing on to do so? 2010, which was introduced by the previous Labour Whether a person is digitally literate or not is a Government, ensures that full-time provision is made matter of choice at the moment—many people leave the available. On 14 July, an order introduced provisions of operation of their set-top boxes to their children and that Act, but not section 3. Will the Deputy Leader of know more of the dark side of the moon than the inside the House say when that section will be introduced, so of their digital phones—but in future, there will be no that children get the educational provision and care that option, because digital literacy will be as important as they rightly deserve? My constituent was told that the the ability to add up. The coalition is failing to equip only way she could get that provision was if the child our children for that future, and in so doing, damaging were put under a child protection order, which would our economy. mean that she would be deemed the perpetrator of an assault, when in fact the child was disruptive, violent 6.34 pm and aggressive. It is absolutely wrong that that should be the only route to respite for a parent. Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): It is a shame that, on only the second day on which the 6.31 pm Backbench Business Committee has chosen the business, Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): I Back Benchers such as my hon. Friend the Member for shall focus on something that has not yet been covered Liverpool, Wavertree (Luciana Berger) are being cut off in this absolutely fascinating debate: the Government’s in their prime and others have not been able to raise all attitude to technology in the community, which is a the issues that they wished to raise. cross-party issue. We all agree on the enabling role that More than 9 million people in the UK are deaf or we want technology to play in our communities. I want hard of hearing. That is about one in every seven my constituents in Blakelaw and Elswick to be able to people, or approximately 14,000 per constituency. I wake up in the morning and look at the latest job wish to explore issues of accessibility for people who vacancies online; for employees in West Gosforth and are deaf or hard of hearing to telephone services as well Westgate to be able to claim their tax credits online; for as shops and businesses. Deafness is the invisible disability students in Kenton and Fenham to have access to the and many elderly people tell me that hearing aids are world’s most inspirational teachers from their bedrooms; automatically seen as a sign of decrepitude. That could and for pensioners in Wingrove, and Benwell and explain why only some 2 million people use hearing aids Scotswood, to benefit from medical and social care in when it is estimated that between 5 million and 6 million the comfort of their homes. could benefit from them. Those who have difficulty The Minister for Universities and Science recently hearing find that when speaking on the telephone or made quite a good speech on the importance of science face to face people are impatient with them, and even and technology, but the coalition will be judged by sometimes seem to find it acceptable to be rude to them. actions, not by fine words. In Newcastle, only 60% of Many hon. Members will associate deafness and my constituents have broadband at home. Social and hearing loss with the use of British sign language or economic issues rather than availability play a part in BSL. It is important to our understanding of the issue 965 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 966 that we acknowledge the fact that only 50,000 people in had an operational loop. It would seem that regional the UK use BSL as a first or preferred language. In fact, managers of stores are fully aware of the importance, the Royal National Institute for Deaf People, the UK’s but do not switch them on. largest deaf and hearing loss charity, estimates that I have many more issues to raise, and perhaps I need more than 8.2 million people have mild to moderate to return to the House to discuss them further. deafness. I declare an interest, as that figure includes me. I lost all hearing in one ear at the age of 16 after Several hon. Members rose— contracting mumps. I wish to highlight action that businesses can take to Mr Speaker: Order. I should point out that the Front- better help their customers who are deaf or hard of Bench speeches will begin at 6.42 pm. hearing access them over the telephone. This is an especially important area as more businesses adopt 6.40 pm automated answering software and call centre staff as Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab): It is the public’s primary means for contacting them. I am nice to know that Back-Bench Members are getting sure that we can all recall frustrating experiences when such a high profile under this new regime. I would have trying to contact a business by that method. Imagine liked to discuss the imposition of police commissioners how much more frustrating it would be with a hearing at a time of budget cuts. I would like to know why we loss. Often you are asked to press a number to ensure are abolishing the highest performing regional development that your call can be directed appropriately, but if you agency in the country at a time when Birmingham has do not properly hear these instructions immediately it the highest unemployment of the core cities, and why can be very difficult to seek clarification and often calls we are imposing a VAT rise that will cripple small go round in circles or are prematurely terminated. It is service sector businesses in my constituency—people also deeply frustrating when a person asks the call such as hairdressers and small restaurant owners. centre operator to give a yes or no answer, but the On the day, however, when the Khyra Ishaq case operator reverts to the fixed script they have to use and review has been published, I want to focus on Birmingham gabbles or mumbles, despite being asked to speak slowly. council’s decision to review the 23 nurseries it is thinking Some people who have speech difficulties, perhaps after of closing, including three in my constituency—Millpool a stroke, also have problems using voice recognition Gardens, Selly Oak and the Meadows. The council says telephone systems, which can be a nightmare. today in response to the report that it is going to refocus If a business wishes to have that kind of system, it is on early intervention and prevention, but that cannot essential that there is an early and clear option for people be done by cutting basic nursery provision; it cannot be with a hearing loss to be put through to an operator who done by no one resigning when, in the 21st century, a has received deaf awareness training. There are some little girl starves to death when she is supposed to be very simple steps that businesses can take. These include under the protection of Birmingham city county; and ensuring that their operators speak clearly and at a slow we will not make much progress when not a single speed and that they repeat themselves when asked to do person admits responsibility and resigns for that atrocity. so. Businesses must recognise that calls involving customers Instead of anyone resigning, what has Birmingham who are deaf or hard of hearing will be of a longer council done? It has appointed a new cabinet member length. I hope that the Deputy Leader of the House will and an additional senior manager earning £120,000 a ask the Minister responsible to consider introducing a year—just slightly less than the Prime Minister—in set number on all systems that people who are deaf or order to improve its services. That is why there is no hard of hearing could press to be put through to money for social workers. That is why there are not somebody who understands their needs. enough social workers. That is why there is no money to I also wish to raise the problems with text relay, provide basic services and provision in Birmingham. It which is a national relay service that allows text phone is a disgrace that the council is getting away with users to communicate with users of normal telephones it—and if there was more time, Mr Speaker, I would tell through a relay assistant. It is a complex system and it you what we ought to do to deal with it. does take time, but unfortunately call centre staff and others are reluctant to use it, simply because it does take 6.42 pm time. However, some large and high-profile businesses are doing the right thing, including Western Power, Barbara Keeley (Worsley and Eccles South) (Lab): I Lloyds TSB, Barclays Bank and even Government agencies thank all hon. Members who contributed to the debate. such as HMRC. Clearly, we have to look at how we allocate time, because There are some simple steps that can be taken to I understand that we have had 41 speakers. We have ensure that people who are deaf or hard of hearing can had subjects ranging from fishing quotas and pre-fab communicate, and even I was surprised, as someone bungalows, to maternity services and cancer drugs, and who is hard of hearing, at just how simple those steps from a much-needed bypass to much-wanted railway are. People can ensure that they talk in a place with improvements. We have also heard three excellent maiden good lighting so that they can be lip-read; they talk in a speeches from the hon. Member for Witham (Priti place away from noisy distractions; they face the person, Patel) and my hon. Friends the Members for Hyndburn again so they can be lip-read; they speak clearly, but not (Graham Jones) and for Livingston (Graeme Morrice). too slowly, and do not exaggerate their lip movements; One major theme has been the continuing concern of and they do not shout, because that is uncomfortable hon. Members about the loss of new school buildings for a hearing aid user and it looks aggressive. under the Building Schools for the Future programme. Better use of a loop induction system would help as That was raised by my hon. Friends the Members for well. In a mystery shopping expedition by the Royal Bolsover (Mr Skinner), for Bolton West (Julie Hilling), National Institute for Deaf People, only 22% of shops for Makerfield (Yvonne Fovargue) and for Leyton and 967 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 968

[Barbara Keeley] The hon. Member for Crewe and Nantwich (Mr Timpson) talked about competitive sport. Although Wanstead (John Cryer), and the hon. Member for I agree with him about the need to encourage excellence, Portsmouth South (Mr Hancock). It is of great concern my biggest fear is for all those children and young to those hon. Members and to the head teachers, governors, people who will not be able to afford the costs of pupils and schools affected. We cannot have good quality participating in sport, particularly now that the grants education in schools where tiles have to be stuck back for free swimming have been cut. on the walls. Hon. Members have urged the Education My hon. Friend the Member for Islington North Secretary to think again, and I join them in repeating (Jeremy Corbyn) talked about enjoying Adjournment that, for the sake of our schools and for the jobs that debates in the middle of the night in the 1980s. For most would have been created or protected by investment people, this debate, lasting five hours in the daytime, has in BSF. been long enough. [Interruption.] “Oh no!” I hear. “We The hon. Member for Witham made a good maiden could have gone on longer.” He also referred to his speech. She had the task of paying tribute to not one concern about the future of the health service in Islington. but four predecessors, and she did so very well. Like He urged Ministers to stop messing with the NHS, a other Labour Members, I do not share her enthusiasm view that I strongly support. for Margaret Thatcher, but I am sure that most Members The pre-recess Adjournment debate is a good vehicle are supporters of their local newsagents and other small for allowing hon. Members to raise issues and express shops in our communities. My hon. Friend the Member views. The hon. Member for Southend West (Mr Amess) for Hyndburn made an excellent maiden speech, paying has raised nine issues today.I have known him to raise 13, tribute to his predecessors and drawing a picture of the so he was being kind to the Deputy Leader of the House. communities from Oswaldtwistle to Accrington, and on The hon. Member for Mid Bedfordshire (Nadine to the borders of the Ribble valley. He cited as badges Dorries) spoke of a local case involving a trader and of honour that his constituency contains the birthplace constituents who had lost their life savings. I hope that of the industrial revolution, and that his predecessor her raising the issue today will help to publicise her invaded the stage at a Clash concert. My hon. Friend constituents’ plight. the Member for Livingston also made an excellent speech. On confusion over names, I should tell him that The hon. Member for Rossendale and Darwen (Jake in the last Parliament, we had two Michael Fosters and Berry) talked about a superb new leisure centre and a two Angela Smiths, but there was only one Robin new academy school in his constituency. It is very good Cook, to whom he rightly paid tribute. He drew some to hear of sound investment from a Labour Government. vivid pictures of West Lothian communities and paid I agree with my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston tribute to local government leaders, of which he was upon Hull North (Diana R. Johnson) that Government formerly one. investment, including that made through regional development agencies, is welcome in many constituencies. Several hon. Members raised issues caused by policy confusion in developments in the NHS. My hon. Friend The hon. Member for Shrewsbury and Atcham (Daniel the Member for Bolton West spoke about confusion Kawczynski) argued strongly for the first-past-the-post and disarray caused in Greater Manchester by the system of voting. My hon. Friend the Member for Rhondda Health Secretary’s decision to revisit the consultation (Chris Bryant) talked about the coalition Government’s on maternity and neonatal services. In Salford, we very appalling proposals to hack away at communities and much want to keep our maternity unit at Hope hospital change constituency boundaries to suit a political purpose. open. She is right to draw attention to the confusion We will all have more to say on that when we return in caused not only in Bolton, but in Bury, Rochdale and September. other parts of Greater Manchester. We ask that Health My hon. Friend the Member for Stalybridge and Ministers listen to local people and resolve the future of Hyde (Jonathan Reynolds) made a strong case for a our maternity services. bypass in his constituency. My constituency of Worsley The hon. Member for South Staffordshire (Gavin and Eccles South suffers from congestion, and we have Williamson) talked about cancer drugs. There is much three motorways and some of the most badly designed condemnation of primary care trusts when difficult junctions anywhere. I hope that the Department for decisions are made about the funding of certain drugs. Transport will cancel the ill-advised lane gain scheme It is tempting to think that if all decisions were taken by proposed for junctions 12 to 15 of the M60, and that GPs, that would solve all the problems. However, not all whatever is saved can be used to help further the proposals GPs either want or are ready to take on commissioning. for the bypass in Stalybridge and Hyde. We should ask what effect their taking financial decisions A number of Members have talked in strong terms will have. What will a patient think when a GP says no about planning and faceless bureaucrats, and about to a particular treatment or drug for financial reasons? central decisions being made on planning issues. However, The disappointment will be the same. that is exactly what the Conservative-led Government My hon. Friend the Member for Stretford and Urmston are doing by closing more than 150 magistrates and (Kate Green) made a compelling case for fairness in the county courts, including in Salford. As we have heard, services delivered to her constituents and voiced her keeping justice local is a key issue in places such as concern about the cuts made by Trafford council. I Sittingbourne and Sheppey too. I hope that Government should say that I was a councillor in Labour-run Trafford Members will continue to argue against the Government’s from 1995 to 2004. We worked hard to protect care for centrally driven decision on that. older people, develop services for children and young When we are working in our constituencies over the people, and even keep our parks and gardens. She is a recess, rather than here, it is important that we keep in strong advocate for her constituents, as she showed in mind those in our armed forces, to whom I pay tribute. I her speech today. pay tribute to those serving in Afghanistan, to those 969 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 970 who have fallen and their families, and to those who in their constituencies. They included the hon. Members have been injured. We must always remember their for Rossendale and Darwen (Jake Berry), for Harrow service and sacrifice, and support them and their families. East (Bob Blackman) and for Harrow West (Mr Thomas). I should like to wish a good summer break to all the Several hon. Members were concerned about school staff who provide so much support to us throughout buildings and the fact that they had fallen foul of the the year, particularly the staff of Hansard, who make sense cancellation of Building Schools for the Future. That of our debates, the staff in the Library, all the wonderful point was raised by the hon. Member for Bolsover staff in the Tea Room, the other catering staff in (Mr Skinner). Whenever he talks about the mining the House, the cleaners, the Clerks of the Committees, interests in his constituency, he reminds me of the coal the police, the Serjeant at Arms and her team, and the mining area of my constituency, where the pits closed a Doorkeepers. We really appreciate the work that they little earlier than in his. all do to ensure that this place runs as smoothly as I appreciate the need to replace our crumbling schools, possible. and I wish that we had had a programme that was capable Finally, Mr Speaker, may I thank you and all the of being delivered. However, in the case of those schools Deputy Speakers for keeping such excellent order in our that deserve replacement, I hope that hon. Members debates? The new team has done a great job, and I hope will persevere, and that they will push, push and push that you all have a good break during the summer. again for those schools to be included in future programmes. I know that the Secretary of State for Education and 6.49 pm the Minister with responsibility for schools, my hon. Friend the Member for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of (Mr Gibb) will listen to those propositions. I hope that the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): I want to Ministers will meet the hon. Member for Bolsover start where the hon. Member for Worsley and Eccles about Tibshelf school. I hope that they will also meet South (Barbara Keeley) finished, just in case I do not the hon. Member for Leyton and Wanstead (John Cryer), get the chance to say this later. I really want to send all my hon. Friend the Member for Portsmouth South those who work in the House my very best wishes and (Mr Hancock) and the hon. Member for Tiverton and pay tribute to the way in which they keep this place Honiton (Neil Parish). running. They include the staff of Hansard, the Library I think that the hon. Members for Kingston upon Hull and the Tea Room, the cleaners, the Clerks, the police, North (Diana R. Johnson) and for Birmingham, Selly the Serjeant at Arms and her team, and the Doorkeepers. Oak (Steve McCabe) were talking about schools that I particularly want to join the authors of early-day were not part of the Building Schools for the Future motion 596 in paying tribute to George Blaylock, Clive programme. One of the criticisms of that programme Burrows, Ken Jones and Clive Thomas, who, after a was that it did not extend to primary schools, infant combined 73 years of service, are retiring as Doorkeepers. schools or nursery schools, and perhaps that is something [HON.MEMBERS: “Hear, hear!”] I hope that all hon. that we need to do in the future. Members appreciate how much we owe to the staff of Another sub-theme related to trains. The hon. Member this House and the way in which they carry out their for Rossendale and Darwen talked about the need for a duties. Rossendale to Manchester link. He was supported in There is not time to do justice to all the excellent that by the hon. Member for Bolton West (Julie Hilling). speeches that we have heard this afternoon. The Chair The hon. Member for Enfield North (Nick de Bois) of the Backbench Business Committee, the hon. Member talked about the deficiencies in provision in his constituency, for North East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel), made the and he mentioned National Express. The hon. Member very good suggestion that we should find a mechanism for Morecambe and Lunesdale (David Morris) mentioned whereby everything that is said in these debates receives the famous station at Carnforth, and my hon. Friend a proper response from Ministers. I will do my best to the Member for Chippenham (Duncan Hames) talked ensure that that happens on this occasion. Certainly, I about the slightly less famous station at Melksham. I shall ensure that any points to which I do not respond am nevertheless familiar with that station, and with the go to the appropriate Department. Her request was need for First Great Western to do a better job. I hope backed up by the hon. Members for Islington North that we will be able to make progress on what is essentially (Jeremy Corbyn) and for Battersea (Jane Ellison). the railway companies providing a better service. I hope I congratulate the three hon. Members who made that the Under-Secretary of State for Transport, my their maiden speeches today. We had a surfeit of very hon. Friend the Member for Lewes (Norman Baker), competent speeches, and I am delighted that the standard who is very much engaged with these issues, will take of speeches has been maintained by all those who have those matters forward. entered the House this time round. The speeches covered Another sub-theme was health. I will forgive the hon. an enormous amount of territory. We went from the Member for Islington North for calling me “hapless”; Clash with the hon. Member for Hyndburn (Graham I think I have quite a lot of hap, although he feels Jones) to the jam with my the hon. Member for Witham otherwise. He spoke about the Whittington hospital, (Priti Patel). The hon. Member for Livingston (Graeme and I know how important it is. He argued for local Morrice) did something that I always appreciate—namely, decisions on hospitals and against centralisation. The he put a few of his more difficult-sounding villages into hon. Member for Bolton North East (Mr Crausby) said the middle of his speech. I always do that, because it that he did not want local decisions on hospitals, but keeps the officers of Hansard happy. Kingsbury Episcopi! centralisation and a big supercentre. They cannot both I just throw that in for no reason at all. be right, but the most important thing is that local On the substance of the debate, there were groups of provision is what is necessary to provide a good health subjects, and they included schools, which featured service in the local area. The points raised will continue prominently. Some hon. Members paid tribute to schools to be debated. 971 Summer Adjournment27 JULY 2010 Summer Adjournment 972

[Mr David Heath] The hon. Member for Montgomeryshire (Glyn Davies) talked about the law-making powers for the National The hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent (Nick Smith) Assembly of Wales, while the hon. Member for Portsmouth did a side advertisement for the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol South spoke about houses in multiple occupation and Cymru, offered birthday wishes to his constituent, and the difficulties of council tax and business rates. I hope also talked about alcohol pricing. How we reduce binge that the Department will look at those issues. drinking is something that we will have to address as a The hon. Member for Stalybridge and Hyde (Jonathan public health issue. I think that the Department is very Reynolds) talked about the Mottram-to-Tintwistle bypass seized of the importance of that. and wanted a meeting with a Minister. I think he The hon. Member for Tiverton and Honiton spoke threatened civil disobedience if he did not get it, so we about the two hospitals in his constituency and wants to had perhaps better arrange it. I hope that the relevant see a return to the provision of maternity services, while Minister will explain why the public inquiry was so the hon. Member for South Staffordshire (Gavin mishandled under the last Government. Williamson) raised the issue of his constituent who The hon. Member for Morecambe and Lunesdale needed a cancer drug. I am sure he will be pleased that talked about the conservation of the conservation of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health the coastline, while the hon. Member for Edinburgh has announced today that from October an extra £50 million East (Sheila Gilmore) told us that all civil servants are will be available to help patients get access to innovative not fat cats—and she is absolutely right; it is an important new cancer drugs. Doctors will be put in charge of point that needs to be made. The hon. Member for deciding how the funding is spent for their patients Nottingham East (Chris Leslie) talked about Kashmir, locally, based on the advice of cancer specialists. while the hon. Member for Totnes (Dr Wollaston) talked I thought there would be a sub-group based on courts about the Hope Cove lifeboat. She raised a crucial issue; when the hon. Member for Sittingbourne and Sheppey she wants to know when a Minister will visit and asked (Gordon Henderson) talked about Sittingbourne court. about the freedom of information request. I will make I could join this group, as I am facing the proposed sure that her specific questions are answered. closure of Frome magistrates court. There is a consultation I have no time to respond to any more questions, but exercise and we will all put our views forcibly to the I will ensure that hon. Members do get replies to the Ministry of Justice. Decisions will be based on access to points that they raised. May I wish you, Mr Speaker, justice criteria, which is very important. I hope that he and all staff a very happy recess. will make his case on that basis. We now come to a group that I have headed simply as “denial”. This includes the hon. Members for Stretford and Urmston (Kate Green), for Bolton West, for Makerfield PETITIONS (Yvonne Fovargue), for Leyton and Wanstead,for Hampstead Gilad Shalit’s Continued Captivity and Kilburn (Glenda Jackson) and for Liverpool, Wavertree (Luciana Berger), who would simply not accept the mess that their Government—the Labour Government—had 7pm left. The key phrase came from the hon. Member for Mr Lee Scott (Ilford North) (Con): I wish to present Bolton West who said that the choices that are being a petition signed by 5,807 people. It states: taken now are not the choices they would have made. The Petition of the residents of Ilford North and others, Well, we would have loved to have known what choices Declares that the petitioners deplore the continued captivity of they would have made, because they were committed to Corporal Gilad Shalit and the violations of his basic human £40 billion-worth of cuts and 500,000 job losses in the rights; notes that 25 June 2010 marked the 4th anniversary of public sector. Come on, let us hear what they were! Shalit’s abduction by Hamas militants and that for over four Let me try to deal with all the rest in the three minutes years he has been denied visits from the Red Cross, adequate medical care and contact with the outside world; further declares remaining. The hon. Member for Southend West(Mr Amess) that the petitioners believe these to be serious violations of his ranged from fishing smacks under 10 metres in Leigh-on-Sea human rights under international law; and further notes that the to myalgic encephalomyelitis and his constituents Julie petitioners believe that the inhumane prison conditions imposed Ditchburn and Tinashe Sahanga, Southend airport, on Shalit are criminal, immoral and unjust. clamping and policing. I will make sure that various The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons Departments will get to hear what he had to say. urges the British Government, and in particular the Secretary of The hon. Member for Mid Bedfordshire (Nadine State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, to do all in their Dorries) raised what sounds like a very important case power and use all avenues possible to secure the basic human of the Financial Services Authority failing in its regulatory rights and freedom of Corporal Shalit, and call upon the United Nations and International Red Cross to redouble its efforts to function in respect of her constituents. The hon. Member secure the basic human rights and freedom of Corporal Shalit. for South Staffordshire mentioned Traveller sites and is And the Petitioners remain, etc. presenting a petition. He will be pleased that the decentralisation Bill is coming forward in mid-November [P000852] to give extra powers to local authorities. Traveller Sites on Green Belt Land (South The hon. Member for Crewe and Nantwich Staffordshire) (Mr Timpson) raised competitive sports and I absolutely agree with him, while my hon. Friend the Member for Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) (Con): I wish Chippenham talked about his constituent in Avoncliff to present a petition from residents wishing to stop and the attitude of the Environment Agency. He and I Traveller sites from being built on green belt land, which share a lot of experience on this issue of micro-hydro has been signed by 2,181 people. It states: power generation and the attitude of the Environment The Petition of residents of the South Staffordshire constituency Agency. It is an issue that we must get to the bottom of. and others, 973 Summer Adjournment 27 JULY 2010 974

Declares that Traveller sites are being built on green belt land; Trigeminal Neuralgia and further declares that the petitioners believe that planning law should apply to these sites. Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons do now adjourn.—(James Duddridge.) urges the Government to bring forward proposals to change the law to prevent Traveller sites being imposed on green belt land. 7.5 pm And the Petitioners remain, etc. [P000853] Jim Fitzpatrick (Poplar and Limehouse) (Lab): I am very pleased to have secured this debate, and I hope it Sunnyhurst Wood (Lancashire) might provide some comfort to many people across the UK who suffer from the condition of trigeminal neuralgia Jake Berry (Rossendale and Darwen) (Con): I wish or TN. I should declare my interest: I have been a fellow to present a petition on behalf of the Friends of Sunnyhurst sufferer. It is an interest I would gladly disown and, Wood and others. It records the support of the users of indeed, I fairly recently had neurosurgery to try to Sunnyhurst wood to stop the achieve just that—to disown it. I am grateful to the Minister for being in his place, and I am sure that he is “storage of silt from the Paddling Pond and Moat Lake” as pleased as I would have been in his position to be being allowed to form closing the sitting for the Government before the recess. “large unsightly mounds over long periods.” If I may, I will outline some background to the Following is the full text of the petition: condition, because part of the reason for securing this [The Petition of the Friends of Sunnyhurst Wood and debate was to raise awareness of TN. Then I would like others, to express a little appreciation for those trying to deal Declares that the storage of silt from the Paddling with TN and help the sufferers. I will conclude with a Pond and Moat Lake in Sunnyhurst Wood results in the few requests of the Minister, of which I have given him formation of large unsightly mounds over long periods. prior notice. The Petitioners therefore request that the House of The Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK—TNA Commons urges the Secretary of State for Communities UK—of which I am a member, is a support group for and Local Government to call on Blackburn with Darwen people suffering from an agonisingly painful neurological Borough Council to take steps to prevent the storage of condition. Trigeminal neuralgia affects one or more of silt in Sunnyhurst Wood. the three branches of the trigeminal nerve in the head and has been called “the worst pain known to man.” It And the Petitioners remain, etc.] is characterised by sudden, excruciating spasms of electric [P000854] shock-like pain, usually just on one side of the face. Human Trafficking Thankfully, it is a relatively rare condition thought to affect less than 0.1% of the population, although the latest TNA indications are that there are 12.6 sufferers Mr John Leech (Manchester, Withington) (LD): I per 100,000 people in the UK. It is more common in wish to present a petition on behalf of 730 students women than men, and although it usually affects people from Levenshulme high school, who arranged a special aged 50 or over, the association is coming across many event at the school to raise awareness of the ongoing younger sufferers, even young children. problem of human trafficking. The petition states: I remember my first referral to a maxillofacial consultant The Petition of the constituents of Manchester Withington and others, at the Royal London hospital. He asked me to describe my symptoms. I told him and the medical students who Declares that the petitioners believe that the continuing and increasing incidence of human trafficking into the UK and across were with him, “It makes me cry”. “There you are,” he the world is a disturbing situation that brings misery to many told his team, “a classic definition of the condition. You adults and children across the globe; notes that the petitioners either have a London bus parked on your foot or you believe human trafficking is a stain on the moral values of the have trigeminal neuralgia.” UK; and notes that the petitioners support the ″STOP THE ″ Apparently there is nothing new about TN. It has TRAFFIK campaign. been documented from the times of the Greeks and The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons Romans in the 1st century, but because of its rarity urges the Government to take all possible steps to put an end to human trafficking. research has been spasmodic and it is still a little-known condition often misdiagnosed due to lack of knowledge And the Petitioners remain, etc. among some medical professionals. [P000855] The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but it is thought to be as a result of damage to the root of the nerve at the base of the skull where it emerges from the brain stem and often because the nerve is being compressed by a vein or artery. This damage causes the nerve to malfunction and send messages of intense pain to the brain in response to just a light touch on a “trigger” area of the face. The pain can last from a few seconds to a few minutes, and there can be many bursts of pain in quick succession. Many patients suffer for months or years without correct treatment, and even undergo extensive, unnecessary dental work before the condition is correctly 975 Trigeminal Neuralgia27 JULY 2010 Trigeminal Neuralgia 976

[Jim Fitzpatrick] the word, helping sufferers and raising awareness. They are all very much appreciated because of their efforts. diagnosed. There can be periods of complete pain remission, The association can be reached by searching the web for but these gradually become shorter and shorter, and TNA UK. patients therefore live in constant fear of a severe attack I mentioned earlier the misdiagnosis of TN as dental of debilitating pain. problems. I am pleased to report that the British Dental Any facial movement, such as eating, talking, smiling Association has acknowledged that its members can or kissing, shaving, washing the face or brushing one’s help in this regard. I am told that it plans to commission teeth can provoke an attack, and that can completely an article on facial pain for its British Dental Journal, destroy any quality of life. There were several occasions and is considering a session on facial pain at next year’s in this place when I was preparing to speak and was BDA conference. We in TNA UK will be happy to do fearful that I would be prevented from doing so because all we can to assist with that, and we are grateful to the of the sense of an impending attack. That might have BDA for looking at the issue so seriously. I have also improved others’ quality of life in not having to listen to written today to the BDA to seek confirmation of the me, but for some patients being unable to live normally initiatives. leads to their becoming isolated and depressed, sometimes I would be very grateful if the Minister advised the to the point of suicide. House on the following matters. In his briefing for this Normal painkillers do not bring any relief and initially debate, have his officials acknowledged that there is an anticonvulsants used to treat epilepsy are prescribed. awareness issue? Notwithstanding the rarity of the However, these often have unpleasant side effects and condition, greater familiarity among medical and dental lose their efficacy with time so ever larger doses are practitioners would save money and, more importantly, required. When the medication is no longer effective, or reduce suffering. TNA UK is not asking for funding, if the side effects cannot be tolerated, various surgical although that would be welcome—if the Minister has procedures can be considered, although these carry a his cheque book, we would like to see it. risk of complication and results are not always long As I have said, the association volunteers work very lasting. The data on the success of surgical procedures hard. However, can the Minister advise whether there is are only now being assessed and will be more accurately anything that TNA UK can do to help additionally evaluated in the future. The most effective operation is a promote awareness of trigeminal neuralgia within the micro-vascular decompression or MVD—major surgery NHS family? Is there anything that the NHS can do that involves moving the offending blood vessel or specifically to support Professor Zak in her research vessels away from the nerve, close to the brain stem. into the condition and surgical outcomes? Finally, TNA Unfortunately, TN has a habit of recurring, and even UK and individual sufferers would welcome any advice this operation does not always deliver long-term relief. that the Minister might have in respect of their condition I should at this point express my sincere thanks to the and how their overall situation might be improved. excellent Mr Neil Kitchen and his first-class team at I am grateful for the opportunity to have this debate the national hospital for neurology and neurosurgery in and I look forward to the Minister’s response. Queen’s square, London. He operated on me last December, and I am happy to say that since then, when I was in considerable distress, my condition is much improved 7.14 pm and my need for medication is now minimal. I should The Minister of State, Department of Health (Mr Paul also say thank you to my wife, Dr Sheila Fitzpatrick, Burstow): I congratulate the hon. Member for Poplar without whose care, love and attention a difficult experience and Limehouse (Jim Fitzpatrick) on securing the would have been much more painful. opportunity to debate this important issue on the last The Trigeminal Neuralgia Association was formed in day before the summer recess. To have the privilege to 1999 by a patient and a doctor, Professor Joanna be the Minister replying to a debate at this Dispatch Zakrzewska. It specialises in treating TN, offers support Box is not something I necessarily expected when we all and encouragement to sufferers, and became a registered departed from this House in April, so it is a double charity in 2002. Professor Zak, as she is fondly known pleasure to be concluding business in the House before for obvious spelling and articulation reasons, is a beacon we leave for a busy summer recess. of hope to all TN sufferers. Worldly and wise, she is the I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on highlighting essence of reassurance, and on her own or sometimes this important topic, on bringing it to the attention of allied to Mr Kitchen and other surgeons, she offers the House and on raising it with me as the Minister and, sufferers real hope. through me, with officials. He is right to raise both his The aims of the association are to continue to provide personal experience and, in doing so, the experiences of information and offer support to members, and to raise many others who suffer from this condition and who awareness of TN among medical professionals and the often live with long-term chronic pain. He has spoken general public. TNA UK receives no Government or movingly and powerfully about the misery and discomfort corporate funding and is entirely dependent on membership that the condition can bring. I have heard that in some fees and donations. All the association’s officers give cases a strong wind just brushing a person’s cheek can their time for free, and TNA UK is now in contact with be enough to trigger or ignite that intense pain through more than 1,000 patients, receiving many new inquiries the nerve endings firing up. That is almost impossible to each week. The officers of the association—the tireless imagine unless one has personally experienced it, as he chairman Jillie Abbott, supported primarily by Mr George has described. Cunningham, a former hon. Member and treasurer of The hon. Gentleman asked about professional awareness. TNA UK, and membership officer Mr Clive Clifton—and I have to confess that ministerial awareness of this numerous other generous individuals volunteer to spread condition was extremely low until quite recently. I had 977 Trigeminal Neuralgia27 JULY 2010 Trigeminal Neuralgia 978 not heard about it—I will be honest—and I have spent policies more closely to be helpful in that regard. We the past few days learning as much as possible about it. will have to make sure that all that feeds into commissioning From what I have learned, I agree that the condition and clinical practice at local level, and there are several deserves to be much better understood by policy makers, areas in which we are looking to build knowledge and the general public and front-line clinical staff. The hon. awareness at all levels of the NHS. Gentleman gave an excellent account of what clinical First, as the hon. Gentleman might be aware, NICE experts believe causes trigeminal neuralgia and of how has recently issued new clinical guidelines on managing the condition can be managed, and he rightly talked neuropathic pain. The guidelines specifically mention about how understanding of its prevalence is developing. trigeminal neuralgia and describe the circumstances in As the hon. Gentleman has explained, there are which patients should be referred to a specialist pain various treatments available. I understand that in about service. On the back of that, NICE is working with the three-quarters of cases, patients respond well to anti- National Institute for Health Research to explore additional convulsant drugs, which have the effect of settling the avenues of research that could help patients with the nerve endings. However, although those drugs can be condition. effective in reducing the frequency of attacks, they The NICE guidelines on neuropathic pain recommended might not remove the pain entirely. Pain management four areas for future research, one of which is specific to techniques are then important for helping patients to trigeminal neuralgia and would give us evidence of the manage their condition when attacks occur. As he has effectiveness of one of the most commonly used treatments. described, some patients might find that drug treatments The other three topics cover the use of combination become less effective over time or that they cause undesirable drug therapies, factors influencing quality of life, and side effects. That is when surgery might become necessary the question of how much treatment should be influenced to interrupt or block electrical activity in the nerve. by the underlying cause of pain. They will be relevant to There are several options, as he has described, but in the all forms of neuropathic pain, including trigeminal most severe cases, surgery is often the option taken up; neuralgia. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that the topics it can be invasive and delicate, and it might not always are being considered for research as part the health bring the long-term relief that is desired. technology assessment programme, and that a decision Radiosurgery is another option, which may successfully will be made in due course. interrupt the nerve impulses. There is exciting work A second area of interest concerns the future planning under way using Gamma Knife technology, which is of local services. The Government have agreed to press less invasive and can be more effective. The hon. Gentleman ahead with a national pain audit, to which 200 pain might be interested to know that the National Institute clinics are already signed up. Data collection will begin for Health and Clinical Excellence recently issued updated later this year. The audit will assess not only the organisation guidance on treating trigeminal neuralgia using Gamma of local services to ensure that they meet local needs, Knife. but quality of care through the measurement of patient I have been told by my policy officials that one of the outcomes. The audit will help us to build a picture of big challenges in treating this condition is diagnosis, patient need, which will help the NHS to build local which involves a GP or dentist having to rule out a strategies to improve pain management services. Again, whole host of other possibilities, including tumours, such information will enable us to ensure that the right dental problems, the after-effects of shingles and dysfunction services are available for people with trigeminal neuralgia. of the jaw. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that the Royal Thirdly, as the hon. Gentleman might also be aware, College of General Practitioners has developed a curriculum a consultation will take place during the summer on the statement for neurological problems, which includes the NHS transparency in outcomes framework set out in need to consider trigeminal neuralgia in patients with the recent NHS White Paper. We want to hear the views headaches and neuropathies—I think that last word of health care professionals, patients, carers, hon. Members will read better in Hansard than I pronounced it—so it and the public on what measures we should seek with should be something that GPs cover as part of their regard to best outcomes and ensuring that patients have initial training. the right experiences in the NHS. I would certainly like I add that the condition is also referenced in TNA UK to contribute its thoughts on that, because undergraduate dentistry training. Of course, because of that would help the shaping of the kind of outcome its rarity, many GPs and dentists will see it only very agenda that we want to see. infrequently in their practice, so I join the hon. Gentleman Fourthly, I will meet the Neurological Alliance, an in welcoming the work that the British Dental Association umbrella group representing more than 50 neurological is doing to promote the condition and to keep these charities and organisations, to discuss the way forward possibilities in the front of dentists’ minds. By way of on long-term conditions more generally. I understand supporting these efforts, I have asked my officials to that TNA UK is part of this group, so I hope that it will contact the dental deans to make sure that the condition make its views known in the alliance so that they can also features in the continuing education and training form part of our discussions. of dentists. I join the hon. Gentleman in thanking third sector The hon. Gentleman’s description of trigeminal neuralgia organisations such as TNA UK, which he rightly praised, shows the need to join up national and local approaches for their work in raising patient awareness. On average, to pain management and long-term conditions. As an someone with chronic pain will have direct contact with action arising from this debate, I have asked my officials a health professional for only about three hours a year; to look carefully at pain management in the context of they care for themselves for the rest of the time. It is the framework for long-term neurological conditions. I therefore extremely important for patients to know want to help the NHS to make the right connections about their condition and receive the support that they between local services and to align national and local need to manage their pain. That will become ever more 979 Trigeminal Neuralgia27 JULY 2010 Trigeminal Neuralgia 980

[Mr Paul Burstow] attention to every individual condition, it is gratifying to know that organisations such as TNA UK are supporting important as we broaden control through personal health patients and promoting greater awareness. I am keen for budgets and offer patients greater choice and say over us to work with them, and with the hon. Gentleman, to their treatment. Good information for patients is the continue improving the quality and effectiveness of key to unlocking those benefits. I should add that there treatment for those who suffer pain, and I believe that is also useful information on the NHS Choices website, the White Paper provides useful impetus in that regard. which discusses the diagnosis and treatment of the On a personal note, I wish the hon. Gentleman the condition and puts patients directly in touch with TNA UK. very best. I am delighted to hear that his treatment was The hon. Gentleman asked what else TNA UK could to his satisfaction, and I hope that it provides him with do to raise awareness of the condition or to improve the lasting relief from this distressing condition. position of sufferers. I have already described a number Question put and agreed to. of initiatives on which we would warmly welcome input from TNA UK. If I may make a final suggestion, the Chronic Pain Policy Coalition is doing excellent work 7.25 pm nationally and regionally to inform and shape policy. House adjourned. TNA UK has common cause with such groups, so they could helpfully join forces to make the case for better pain management throughout the country. I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on securing the CORRECTION debate, and I am now aware of the pain and agony that Official Report, 26 July 2010; at column 757, delete the condition can bring. Although I am afraid that the “Julian Sturdy (York Outer)” and insert “Julian Smith Department of Health is not resourced to give equal (Skipton and Ripon)”. 179WH 27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 180WH

financial. Local people are very focused on the tragic Westminster Hall human cost of delaying the scheme. There are serious safety concerns, which were brought into sharp focus by a Road Safety Foundation report in June, which found Tuesday 27 July 2010 that single-lane roads were twice as dangerous as dual carriageways. To the real economic cost we must add a [HYWEL WILLIAMS in the Chair] cost measured not in pounds, but in lives. Having set out the context, I want to explain, first, the overwhelming local support for the scheme, and, secondly, its clear A11 (Dualling) economic justification. Finally, I shall address head-on Motion made, and Question proposed, That the sitting the central fact facing the Government: the vast, be now adjourned.—(Miss Chloe Smith.) unprecedented budget deficit that the coalition is addressing. First, unlike some transport projects, the scheme 9.30 am commands wide support. The number of fellow MPs here today from all over East Anglia is testament to that Matthew Hancock (West Suffolk) (Con): It is a great fact. Indeed, I am yet to come across an objector. pleasure to speak under your chairmanship for the first Indicative of that was a petition of some 16,000 local time, in my first speech in a Westminster Hall debate, residents presented to the Department for Transport in Mr Williams. I am delighted to have been granted this November 2008 by Daniel Cox, leader of Norfolk debate on the economic impact of dualling the A11, county council. Environmental concerns that were raised and am grateful to the Minister for giving his time. I am have been addressed. The project is supported by both also grateful for the cross-party attendance by the many Natural England and the Royal Society for the Protection colleagues from all over Norfolk and Suffolk who have of Birds, which says that come to the debate. “the road will not harm wildlife in the Brecks” It is poignant that this is the last day of the parliamentary term, for today Members will return to their and that it is constituencies—many of them along the A11. Those “confident that this is the right deal for nature”. hon. Members will follow a now familiar path: steady Local businesses are also behind the scheme. The progress past the M25 and an unencumbered glide past local branch of the Federation of Small Businesses Stansted, before turning right-handed, and making steady backs the plans, arguing that an efficient road system is progress up to Mildenhall. Then they, like 25,000 others “essential”. Giles de Lotbinière, the managing director every day, will come to a shuddering halt at Barton of local business Lignacite, says A11 delays are a “hindrance Mills. As they grind past the service station, and take to businesses”. Indeed, international businessman and their life in their hands getting on to the Fiveways local landowner Lord Iveagh reflected the general tone roundabout, they fear they will never go faster than adopted by the businesses that I have spoken to when he 30 mph again. Is that because it is a built-up area? No. said: Is it because of the number of pedestrians? Hardly. It is “the more we can do for the road the better”. because they have reached the Barton Mills bottleneck. The project of relieving the Barton Mills bottleneck Why does that feature endure? Do the people of Norfolk is supported not just by local people, safety campaigners, not need a decent road to the capital? The journey from environmental groups and businesses, but by all three London to Norwich is 115 miles long. Yet for an political parties. During the election campaign, Lord inexplicable reason, nine miles in the middle of it have Adonis, on a last gasp visit to his friend Charles Clarke been left as a single carriageway. in Norwich South, said: The Minister will today hear many accounts of the “Labour is committed to completing the dualling of the A11 extremely high economic returns that would result from with construction beginning this year.” finishing that bit of road. He may wonder how a On 23 April, the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime road-widening project can have such high economic Minister spoke out in support of the widening. My returns, but I urge him to think of it not as a road-widening right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister said that project between Barton Mills and Thetford—although the project was “totally justified”, while my right hon. it is that—but more as the long-overdue completion of Friend the Prime Minister said that the road to Norfolk. The first layout of the motorway network, drafted in 1936, included a motorway from “everyone knows it needs to be done”. London to Norfolk. Proposals for completion of the So from top to bottom, support is widespread. dualling of the final nine miles of the A11, known as What of the economic case? Having done the research, the Barton Mills bottleneck, were first put forward in reviewed the evidence, and spoken to the officials at the 1989. After an assiduous campaign by my predecessor, Department, for whose time I am grateful, I can say Richard Spring, and my neighbour, my hon. Friend the that the economic case for finishing the road is compelling. Member for Bury St Edmunds (Mr Ruffley)—I pay The cost estimate for the scheme is £134 million. Consultants tribute to them both—it became a Government priority for the Highways Agency estimate that, for that cost, in 1999. Public meetings on the plans were held two the project will generate £19 million in indirect taxes, years ago this week. My constituents, and people all and economic benefits of £550 million for consumers over East Anglia, hope that the new Government will and £1.1 billion for businesses; so on the Government’s finally give the scheme the go-ahead when the spending own figures, the benefits are more than 20 times the review is completed. cost. That is an astonishing figure, which I shall put into Today’s debate focuses on the economic impacts of context. A return of more than twice the cost is regarded the road, so I will not dwell on the fact that the reasons by the Department for Transport as for improving that stretch of the A11 are not solely “providing high value for money”. 181WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 182WH

[Matthew Hancock] totals in this Budget, but we will make careful choices about how that capital is spent. The absolute priority will be projects with a Hon. Members will not be surprised to find that the significant economic return to the country.”—[Official Report, Highways Agency reports that 22 June 2010; Vol. 512, c. 170.] “benefits exceed expenditure costs substantially, demonstrating That policy is right, and the proposed scheme would the economic viability of the scheme”. help make it a reality. I believe that the A11 improvement scheme clearly fits into the class of capital spending that The report found that there would be productivity the Chancellor is keen to continue. benefits in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, and that they would be concentrated on Thetford, Norwich Last week, the Secretary of State for Transport told and Great Yarmouth. It is good to see that MPs representing the Eastern Daily Press that the scheme had achieved “a all those towns are present for the debate. The financial very high score”under the Whitehall cost-benefit analysis, case for completing the road is clearly strong, but the and spoke of the “very powerful” economic benefits of impact would be felt far beyond the balance sheets of removing such bottlenecks. Will the Minister repeat the businesses of East Anglia. Completing the road those words to the House today? Will he confirm that would boost confidence among businesses across Norfolk, the evidence shows a compelling case for the road to be generate interest from investors and help to create conditions completed? Does he accept that there is virtually no for new employment. Until 18 months ago, businesses local opposition? Will he now tell us that, even in these around Thetford routed their lorries away from the difficult economic times, removing the Barton Mills bottleneck on a Friday because it was impossible to bottleneck is at the top of his list of priorities? negotiate. Now they are forced to reroute them every Lastly, will he accept my invitation to join me, one working day. That is the real business cost. day soon, in opening the final section of this long The Highways Agency report that I mentioned discusses overdue road, completing the dream of a highway to the risks of not proceeding with the work and states Norwich? If he does so, the warm and generous people that of East Anglia will give him the hero’s welcome that he deserved. [Applause.] “future growth aspirations could be jeopardised by the failure to improve the trunk road. Traffic delays would become sufficiently severe that new development would fail to materialise”. 9.42 am I said that the benefits are 20 times the cost; let me put Elizabeth Truss (South West Norfolk) (Con): I am that figure further into context by comparing it with the delighted that my hon. Friend the Member for West figures for other schemes on the Department’s list. The Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) has secured today’s debate. A13/A130 link at Sadlers Farm has an economic benefit This issue more than any other is a priority for the four times the cost; for the A13 passenger transport people of South West Norfolk; for too long, they have corridor, the ratio is 2; for the A421 improvements at struggled with a difficult situation, given that the road is Milton Keynes, the figure is 1.9; and for the Luton one of the main thoroughfares into my constituency. busway it is 1.6. I am told that some schemes in north-east The matter should be given serious consideration by England have an economic return of less than one; I Ministers in advance of this autumn’s comprehensive should be grateful if the Minister would confirm whether spending review. The scheme is long overdue, and it is that is true. particularly pressing given the need to generate growth The reason for that astonishingly high rate of return in our economy and to ensure that Britain races ahead. is clear. We are not talking about a new road project, or I wish to talk about three things: first, Norfolk’s even the improvement of a whole road, but the final infrastructure deficit; secondly, specific effects of the piece of an otherwise complete jigsaw. The question is problem on the town of Thetford; and, thirdly, the why the work has not already been done. I shall not try wider benefits that the scheme would deliver to our to answer that question today, although the hon. Member economy. for Glasgow North East (Mr Bain) might try to do so. Although the United Kingdom is the world’s sixth In truth, I find many of the actions of the previous richest country, it is 34th in the world infrastructure Administration unfathomable, and that is but one of league table. However, Norfolk would rate far behind them. Instead, I shall address head-on the hard question that. It is the largest county in England not to have a that we all face. dual carriageway linking to the national trunk road There is no ducking the fact that our nation’s finances network. We are the only county not to have been are in a mess. We have the biggest peacetime deficit on included in BT’s plans for super-fast broadband. We do record, and we are borrowing £1 for every £4 that the not have the train speeds or railway connections that a Government spend. The central task for the new county with the economic potential of Norfolk truly Government in turning our economy around is to deal deserves. with the deficit. I campaigned on that platform, and I Of the missed opportunities to improve infrastructure support it wholeheartedly. We all know that money is over the past 13 years, the grossest error was the failure tight. The question is how we should deal with the mess. to dual the final stretch of the A11, which I put down to The economic evidence shows that fiscal retrenchments mis-prioritisation by the now defunct regional authorities. are most successful when they are done mostly by They decided that the A11 had a lower priority than reducing current spending. I was therefore delighted other schemes that had a far lower economic benefit. when the Chancellor forsook the easy option of further The scheme is readily supported by local businesses. cutting capital spending in the Budget. He said: For instance, Jo Pearson of Pearsons (Thetford) Ltd “Well-judged capital spending by Government can help provide said: the new infrastructure our economy needs to compete in the “Thetford, Norwich and the whole of Norfolk, for too long modern world. It supports the transport links we need to trade now has been the poor relation; the difference this upgrade will our goods...There will be no further reductions in capital spending make in economic prosperity and jobs is immeasurable. We have 183WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 184WH heard all the talk time and again; this project must be not at the The figures suggest that a total investment cost of top of the ‘to do’ list but a distant memory in the completed £100 million would yield tax revenue of £42 million and pile!!” journey-time benefits of £1.2 billion, and that is before People in Thetford and elsewhere in Norfolk are fed up we take into account the extra businesses that might with being told that the project will happen only to find locate in the area when the A11 is dualled. Many that the digging has not started. I and my colleagues companies are currently put off by the poor transport want to see a definite plan for action. connections, and they are put off not just in Thetford, My hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk mentioned but in Norwich and all along the A11 corridor. The the wide support give to the scheme by the local community. current Norfolk economy is valued at £16 billion. Between I would also mention the Gateway A11 East action 2001 and 2007, growth in the Norfolk economy outstripped group, which is represented here in the Public Gallery the rest of England by 10%. We could achieve even and has come to London to show how important the higher relative growth in our county because the scheme is to them. The Eastern Daily Press, too, is here entrepreneurs and the business acumen are there, but and listening to today’s debate; the paper has featured we need the infrastructure to support them. the problem heavily in its columns over the years. The Let us consider why the benefit of such a road scheme has extremely widespread support. scheme is so large. The answer is that this piece of road is effectively a ransom strip. It is the final part that has The problem, as has been pointed out, is that we are not been dualled. Recent research from the OECD now in much more difficult economic times. However, suggests that connecting up networks so that they work Norfolk is not asking for handouts. We did not receive is most important and achieves the most value for the national insurance tax holiday for new businesses; money in infrastructure investment. It is not about and we did not receive the millions of public sector jobs having individual high-value projects; it is about ensuring that other parts of the country did. Indeed, 72% of the that we have a network that works, and that is the Norfolk economy is in the private sector. To continue missing link in the chain. Those who might question the growing and making a net contribution to the tax projected high returns—there are not many of them pot—that is what we do in Norfolk—those businesses here today—should look at the projections for the A11 need their employees to be able to get into work and Attleborough bypass, which has just been completed. their supplies to be delivered to their customers. That is One year after the project, the Department for Transport all that we ask. commissioned a study to consider the return and how it The Norfolk infrastructure crunch is particularly acute had compared with the projections. The return on that in Thetford. Thetford was the ancient capital of East project was a 5.2 benefit-cost ratio, which was only Anglia. It has an amazing number of energetic 0.2 adrift from the projections. I commend the Department businesses—[Interruption.] I think I heard an objection; for Transport for the accuracy of its economic analysis. I am happy to take an intervention. Given that such a projection is being made on a similar road, I suggest that the high benefit that we would Thetford is a natural hub. We should bear in mind expect from the A11 Fiveways-to-Thetford scheme will that it is well connected—at least, it would be if the A11 be realised. was sorted—to Cambridge, another growing economic area. There is a bottleneck where there should be potential Like my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk, I economic expansion. However, although the town may have viewed the other projects in the pipeline. As far as I be struggling with the lack of decent road connections, can tell, the A11 project came out with by far the there are plans to build 6,000 more houses over the next highest benefit-cost ratio. Most other projects were in few years and many more jobs and businesses will be the low units and very few projects hurdled into the located there. As a result, what is now difficult may tens. At a meeting between the nine Norfolk MPs and become impossible. There are also plans for a new the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, it was agreed that academy. We have the potential to be a major area of economic return would be the key criterion, and that it economic growth. would apply not only within Departments but across Departments. I urge the Minister to ensure that these I fear that the people of Thetford are in danger of high-value projects are considered within not only the being all dressed up with nowhere to go. Despite the Department for Transport’s budget but in comparison fact that the town is surrounded by some rather nice with all capital budgets across Departments. We do not bits of dual carriageway, further out it peters out into a want to see a high-value project stopped just because it single-lane highway, which makes it difficult to transit falls under the Department for Transport, and Government further. Boudicca was thought to have based her operations capital used on a lesser-value project in another Department. in Thetford in ancient times. If she was to try leading In our meeting with the Chief Secretary, we established her insurgency against the Roman army today, she the important principle that projects with the highest would not get as far as Cambridge, given the state of the economic returns should go ahead regardless of which roads. Department they are part of. The road is important not only to the people of The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport Thetford and South West Norfolk; it is economically (Mike Penning): The passion with which my hon. Friend vital to the nation. As my hon. Friend the Member for makes her case is commendable. The only budget for West Suffolk pointed out, the Department for Transport roads within Government is in the Department for says that schemes with a benefit-cost ratio of more than Transport. It is our budget and we are responsible for it. 2 should be considered highly favourable. The guidance I will not shirk that responsibility; the buck stops here. also says that in most, if not all, cases, such schemes should go ahead. The fact that the scheme would return Elizabeth Truss: I thank the Minister for his answer. I £19 for every £1 invested suggests that it would be of take from it that the project would be ring-fenced by the huge economic benefit. Department rather than considered across Departments. 185WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 186WH

[Elizabeth Truss] We do not have a motorway in Norfolk. As my predecessors often joked—unfortunately, it is true—the The Minister might consider the road budget, but would nearest motorway to Great Yarmouth is in Holland. We other budgets be freed up if capital was not being need the A11 dualled because it releases massive potential properly utilised in other Departments? for Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. I wanted to be here today to show that there is an understanding Mike Penning: Of course, other aspects and other across our county that that road is a vital artery that money from different parts of other Departments form unlocks so much economic potential. I wanted to ensure the package, but the package for roads specifically falls that the Minister and the Department know that we all under the Department for Transport. When we consider share the belief that this is a massively important piece projects around the country as funding is freed up, we of investment. will examine that package, but the actual budget for roads specifically comes from the Department for Transport. Again, I fully commend my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk for securing the debate. From Great Elizabeth Truss: I shall continue to press my case. Yarmouth’s point of view, we should like to see the Infrastructure in this country has lost out in current scheme go ahead. It is an important part of the jigsaw. spending, and we have all paid the price for that in In years to come, I and my other hon. Friends, including economic growth held back. I will certainly put the case my hon. Friend the Member for Broadland (Mr Simpson), that infrastructure projects, as part of the capital budget, will no doubt argue that the scheme needs to link up should be prioritised if they deliver such economic with the dualling of the A47 and other roads, but, for benefit. Clearly, the best option would be for the scheme now, the A11 is the key to the jigsaw. to be approved under the road budget, and we look to the Minister to consider that as part of the comprehensive 9.59 am spending review. As my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk said, Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con): I am grateful to you, the A11 dualling from Thetford to Fiveways is not just Mr Williams, for giving me the opportunity to speak in another road project. It is a very important project that this debate. I thank my hon. Friend the Member for will free up a huge amount of business resource, energy West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) for securing a debate and entrepreneurship across East Anglia and help drive on a matter that is of such importance to the future growth across the region. We are not asking for handouts prosperity of Norfolk and Suffolk. He has already in Norfolk. We are a county that delivers jobs, 72% of spoken eloquently and passionately and I want to say a which are in the private sector, and we are a net contributor few words in support of the case that he has put to the overall tax pot. What we want is our fair share of forward. I speak not only as a fellow Suffolk MP but as infrastructure spending to ensure that we can carry on someone who has lived in the county his whole life and delivering those economic benefits into the future. who, until 12 weeks ago, spent his whole working life of 27 years in Suffolk and Norfolk. Hywel Williams (in the Chair): Order. As a number of When I started work as a trainee surveyor in Norwich new Members are in the Chamber, may I remind them in 1983, only two parts of the A11 from Cambridge to of three points? First, they need not touch the microphones; Norwich were dualled. They were the Cringleford bypass they will come on automatically. Secondly, no reference on the southern outskirts of Norwich, which at that should be made to members of the public or members time was the only dual carriageway in Norfolk, and the of the press being present. Thirdly, irrespective of the section of the A11 around Newmarket where it combined obvious infectious enthusiasm for the A11, there should with the A14. be no applause. In the past 27 years, the A11 has gradually been 9.57 am improved and today the only section that remains to be Brandon Lewis (Great Yarmouth) (Con): I apologise dualled is that between the Fiveways roundabout, which that I have to leave shortly before the end of this debate is at Barton Mills, and Elvedon, which is in my hon. to attend a Select Committee meeting. I wanted to Friend’s constituency. It is vital that that dualling work speak briefly today to show how important the A11 is is carried out as soon as possible. That section of the beyond the corridor of constituencies that it directly A11 is a dangerous stretch of road. In rush hour, there runs through. I represent Great Yarmouth and, as was are long tailbacks and it is a bottleneck that is holding mentioned by my hon. Friend the Member for West back the creation of jobs. Those jobs may be in the Suffolk (Matthew Hancock), whom I commend for logistics sector in the Thetford area, in the research and securing this debate, the A11 dualling is hugely importance development sector around Norwich, or in the green to us. Great Yarmouth has the opportunity to unlock energy sector in my own constituency, which is further economic growth that could transmute Norfolk, Suffolk east in the Lowestoft area. and potentially Cambridge with renewable energy and In East Anglia, we have particularly poor infrastructure. offshore wind farms. They could benefit, too, from our We only have motorways along the western edge of the new deep-water outer harbour. region; we have a rail network that is creaking at the When I talk to businesses, whether they are in the seams; we have poor broadband connections, and we chambers of commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses have an electricity network that is in need of a major or any other commercial interest, the common comment upgrade if we are to realise the full potential offered by is about infrastructure. We need high-speed broadband, the offshore renewable sector. but, more importantly, we need access by rail and road. Nevertheless, our economy is performing remarkably The important part of that jigsaw is the dualling of the well. My hon. Friend recently hosted a reception at A11. It would release the opportunity for business to which various East Anglian businesses launched their come through. “blueprint for growth”. That highlighted the fact that 187WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 188WH the eastern counties are an economic powerhouse. Indeed, on the agenda; nobody was really interested in roads at the eastern counties are one of only three parts of the that time. However, the great outcry and bellowing from UK that make a net contribution to the UK Exchequer. the then Members for Norwich, North and Norwich, That success is in spite of our poor infrastructure. If South—Dr Ian Gibson and Charles Clarke respectively— proper investment is made, we can be at the forefront of and others proved that even then we recognised that the country’s drive out of the recession. We can play a roads were absolutely crucial. crucial role in helping the coalition to secure its goal of If the Barton Mills stretch of the A11 is blocked, rebalancing the economy across the regions and across perhaps by roadworks or an accident, and if the A47 is a wide range of new industries. Dualling this stretch of blocked at the same time—I think that it happened once road across the Brecks will help to achieve that goal and that both roads were blocked at the same time—there is it will also help East Anglia to become a more attractive no doubt that Norfolk will be totally gridlocked. As I location that new companies can move to and where say, that gridlock has actually happened. It is a ludicrous existing businesses can grow. As I have said, that growth situation that that should happen to one of the largest will be in such sectors as scientific research and development counties in the country and it obviously has a knock-on around Norwich and renewable energy in Lowestoft effect for our friends and colleagues in Suffolk. and Yarmouth. In addition, the A11 is criss-crossed by a number of I wholeheartedly support my hon. Friend in his efforts secondary roads. At times, it is almost impossible for to secure funding for the dualling scheme. However, people to get across those secondary roads and I believe there is a wider issue to address. It is important that that that also has a knock-on effect on the local economy. Britain moves away from the piecemeal approach to the It seems that Norfolk and Suffolk suffer from a provision of infrastructure. We have pursued that approach double negative. First, we have an inadequate road link for far too long and it is putting the brake on economic between Norwich and London. At this point, I must activity and holding back the creation of jobs. gently tease my hon. Friend the Member for South West I recognise that we are in challenging times, with Norfolk (Elizabeth Truss) and say that Boadicea was, of money in short supply. However, if we are to secure course, heading towards Colchester and not towards long-term economic growth in Britain, including in Cambridge; I think that Boadicea’s old satellite navigation East Anglia, local businesses and local government equipment might have been slightly out when she was need to work together to set out a blueprint of the heading south to our friends in Colchester for a quiet infrastructure that they need and we then need to word in their ear and burning down their capital. While consider new ways to secure the investment for that I am at it, I also gently point out to my hon. Friend that infrastructure. By adopting such an approach, East in Roman times it was Venta Icenorum, which was Anglia can realise its full economic potential and play outside Norwich, that was the capital of East Anglia. its full part in delivering the more balanced and diverse Having Thetford as the capital was a later, rather vulgar economy that Britain needs. occurrence under the Anglo-Saxons. [Laughter.] However, Mr Williams, I will pass that by. 10.3 am As I was saying, the crucial point is that we not only have that inadequate road link but, as my hon. Friends Mr Keith Simpson (Broadland) (Con): Mr Williams, have already pointed out, we have had for years a very it is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship. inadequate rail link, first run by Anglia and now by I warmly congratulate my hon. Friend the Member National Express. We have all been working to improve for West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) and my other that link and I hope that the Minister will pass on to his hon. Friends who are here in Westminster Hall today. colleagues who are responsible for the rail network the We “old lags” from pre-2010—the “Alten Kämpfer”, as fact that, when the franchise comes up for renewal, we our German cousins would call us—stand in awe of intend gripping in no uncertain terms, and we will want their enthusiasm and the fact that they really want to to interview the various companies that might be thinking hunt as a pack on behalf of East Anglia. of putting in a bid for that franchise. Norfolk has two main trunk roads, the A11 and the My hon. Friends have outlined the impact on business A47, neither of which are completely dualled. I have and economic development of dualling this stretch of fought long and hard for the A47 to be dualled because, road. My experience of 13 years as a Member of as my hon. Friend the Member for Great Yarmouth Parliament, in a constituency that is north of Norwich, (Brandon Lewis) has said, it goes through part of my is that there is no doubt that one of the factors—I constituency. In terms of priorities, however, I think emphasise that it is only one of the factors, although I that everybody in Norfolk—whether they are business think that it is an absolutely crucial one—in getting people, local councillors or Members of Parliament—has investment into Norfolk, either from the rest of the recognised that the No. 1 priority is the completion of United Kingdom or from overseas, is the perception the dualling of this nine-mile stretch of the A11. That is that our infrastructure, including the important road the message that I would give to our hon. Friend the and rail network, is of poor quality. Even in the age of Minister—that this dualling work is the key to unlocking being able to order goods through the internet, when it a lot of the economic development that we require in comes to companies that ultimately rely on shifting the northern part of East Anglia. quite heavy duty goods by road and rail, I think that I hope that I can compare and contrast the reaction Norfolk and Suffolk frequently lose out if those companies of the coalition Government with the briefing that I are looking for new places to go to. Therefore, it is went to in 1997 with the newly elected MPs at that time. absolutely crucial that we re-establish that infrastructure. It was a briefing from Baroness Hayman, the Speaker in The northern part of our region has always been a the House of Lords, who was then a junior Transport poor relation. Parts of Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire Minister. We were told then that roads were really not are poor as measured by every index of social deprivation 189WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 190WH

[Mr Keith Simpson] 10.12 am that one can think of. My own constituency only has George Freeman (Mid Norfolk) (Con): Thank you, small pockets of social deprivation, but in particular I Mr Williams, for the chance to contribute to this important am thinking of friends and colleagues in Lowestoft, debate, and for chairing it. I congratulate my hon. Great Yarmouth, King’s Lynn and Norwich, where Friend the Member for West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) there are major areas of social deprivation. Therefore, on securing it. I hope that the presence of so many of us getting in new business is crucial. from across East Anglia will make the point that the case has huge cross-party and cross-county support, We should also bear it in mind that we have about and that the Minister will recognise that the issue has a 2 million to 3 million tourists coming to Norfolk and head of steam. Suffolk each year to visit our beautiful counties and one of the horror stories that they invariably leave with is I am conscious of time restrictions, so I will focus on that of being stuck on the A11. We want to encourage some specific economic benefits. I speak as someone tourism, so roads are crucial. who came to politics after a 14-year career in technology venturing, and who has spent most of his childhood We should also bear in mind, as hon. Members have and adult life on the A11 in one way or another. I have pointed out, the importance of the right kind of capital some experience of the frustrations involved when travelling expenditure. I know that the Minister is aware of it; my within or out of Norfolk. hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk has flagged it up. I also pray in aid the support of a colleague who is I shall concentrate on three types of economic benefit: unable to speak in this debate, although her fragrant local, regional and national. On the local level, as I said presence is before me; I refer to my hon. Friend the in my maiden speech, my constituency is the jewel in the Member for Norwich North (Miss Smith), who, as a crown that is Norfolk. It is in the landlocked heart of Whip, may be seen but, sadly, never heard, or at least Norfolk and centres on Dereham. My constituency heard only in private. My hon. Friend the Member for suffers from all the problems relating to marginalisation South Norfolk (Mr Bacon) also sends his apologies, as and detachment from the mainstream economy. Average he is on duty at the Public Accounts Committee. Both incomes in Mid Norfolk are less than £20,000, and we my hon. Friends have said that there are two types of have pockets of extreme, often hidden, rural deprivation capital expenditure. The first, once made, may cost and of pensioner poverty. Frustratingly, there are many more and more. Such expenditure is important, as it fast-growing small businesses in the constituency that includes schools, prisons, hospitals and so on. The are desperate to grow and spread prosperity, but they second, apart from the occasional need to repair potholes, are unable to do so because they are cut off and lie in produces economic growth after the initial capital the heart of a county that is also cut off, as Norfolk is investment is made. Roads are one of the most important the only county not connected to the national dual elements of such growth. I commend my hon. Friends carriageway system. That serves only to strengthen the for making that point. perception in Mid Norfolk that we are destined to be either a quaint rural backwater—perhaps not quaint to Matthew Hancock: Does my hon. Friend agree with those struggling to pay their bills, but quaint to those the Minister’s boss, the Secretary of State for Transport, passing through—or, as under the last Government, a that there are powerful economic benefits to removing giant housing estate, zoned for growth, and described the bottleneck? with ugly terms such as “growth point status.” Neither of those models are what my constituents Mr Simpson: Yes, absolutely. I am sure that colleagues want. They want a richer and more organic way—dare I from other parts of the country will make similar say, a Norfolk way, an idea that hon. Members have points, but I believe that our point about the A11, heard me discuss. It involves a vision of a vibrant rural which is backed up by the quote from the Secretary of economy based on jobs in villages, smaller pockets of State, is a powerful one. housing, and entrepreneurship in the countryside. All of that can happen; the only thing holding it back is a On the politics of the issue, I have every sympathy for lack of infrastructure and a lack of ability to get in and the Minister. His civil servants will have produced a out of the area, whether by broadband, road or rail. good brief saying, “I commend all the people who have spoken, sympathise with them and feel their pain, but I My constituency sits between Norwich and Cambridge, point out that we are in the middle of a comprehensive two world centres for innovation in technology and spending review and I can therefore make no commitments enterprise. It is ironic that it languishes in rural poverty whatever; kisses to all.” I am not being patronising; he is and marginalisation, given that to the west and east are in a difficult position, as are all Ministers in all Departments. growth hot spots struggling to provide capacity when it Our most important message to the Minister is that comes to housing and transport infrastructure. We do the MPs of Norfolk and Suffolk are absolutely united not want a handout; we want a way in and out, so that in the opinion that the A11 should be given priority. We our local businesses can thrive. have been to see the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Turning to the regional argument, anybody looking and some colleagues have met the Secretary of State for at East Anglia will find it striking that although over the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport to discuss broadband, past 15 to 20 years it has had high growth rates, particularly so we understand the economic constraints, but when in and around Cambridge and Norwich, it also contains the Minister considers priorities during the next few pockets of extreme deprivation. How can Cambridge, months, we urge him to look carefully at what we have an inflationary hot spot of new technologies, be so close argued for. We believe that, in two to three years, the to centres of deprivation in Peterborough, King’s Lynn, investment required will produce more tax revenue for Cromer, parts of Norwich, Yarmouth, Lowestoft and the Government and will benefit all our constituents. parts of the Suffolk coast? Anybody coming to the area 191WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 192WH would think that it must be prosperous. It is as though that it had hitherto suffered. It is good to see that my California had around its perimeter pockets of the hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk (Matthew extreme deprivation recognisable in bits of the Bronx in Hancock) is carrying on that fine tradition of progressive New York. The reason is that it is so difficult to get Suffolk MPs fighting for better transport links to Norfolk around. Despite having worked in Cambridge for 10 years, and Norwich. I know that some hon. Members could I know nobody there who does business with companies not attend this debate; my hon. Friend the Member for in Yarmouth. Companies in Yarmouth should be doing South Norfolk (Mr Bacon) is pained not to be here, and business with companies in Cambridge, but if it reliably we are pained by his absence. takes more than three hours to get there, that will not We were given a Betjeman-like description of the happen. That key piece of dualling would unlock the trouble of driving along the A11 by my hon. Friend the regional economy. Member for West Suffolk. It is a journey that I have Additionally, on the east coast of our county there made many times. As Betjeman would have understood, are national assets in the form of container ports, where when one travels on the railways in the west of our huge amounts of national trade arrive before setting off country, the train often goes from field to field, as the on a journey through East Anglia to the rest of the UK railway dodges what were the objections of local economy over a non-dualled section of road—the A47, landowners. That is why it is so refreshing to have not to which another hon. Member referred. It is ridiculous, only a progressive Member of Parliament in West Suffolk, from the point of view of national infrastructure and but a progressive landowner in Lord Iveagh, who has the national economy, that at the heart of the county is kindly and brilliantly championed the A11, much of a bottleneck holding back so much growth. which transgresses on his land. On the national economic picture, the Government We Suffolk MPs are so keen on this route because we have proposed a clear and important programme for are Conservatives, and we believe not in levelling down, getting the public sector deficit under control and promoting but in increasing both the general wealth and the regional private sector growth through the “open for business” prosperity of our two counties. I am pleased to be programme. East Anglia can lead in such growth and in joined by the Norfolk MPs in that quest; they are rebalancing our economy geographically, as well rebalancing clearly following in the tradition of past fine Suffolk it away from an over-dependence on the City, housing MPs. One might well ask why the Member of Parliament and consumer spending. We can lead in three of the for Ipswich is arguing for better road links to Norwich. world’s biggest growth sectors: biomedicine, clean Well, increased prosperity in Norwich is, of course, very technology and food science. good for Ipswich. The good people of Norwich can In the Norwich research park, more than 2,500 scientists visit our superior parks and our pre-eminent museums work in what is recognised as a global centre of excellence. and galleries. They can also come to be trashed by our A team there under Professor Jonathan Jones has just transcendent football team. All of those things are pioneered the world’s first blight-resistant potato, an good for Ipswich and for the people of Norwich. enormous innovation with the potential to transform Many transport infrastructure projects affect both food growing not just in this country but around the our counties, and it is entirely right—I am glad that my world. How ridiculous is it that when companies come hon. Friend the Member for Broadland (Mr Simpson) here to inspect that technology and discuss licensing it, referred to this—that we are hunting as a pack, as the they may fly to Stansted and then face an impossible issues affect all of us. In my case, there is the issue of journey to a world-class centre of excellence over a improving the Copdock interchange and the Harris single carriageway? That reality is holding back our Bacon curve, which will allow freight to go to the potential. All we ask is for the Minister to acknowledge midlands and will allow us to improve our main train the potential that our economy would have if we had line from Norwich to Ipswich and London. Of course, that section of dualling. there is also the matter of the franchise arrangements, which we will approve in the near future, and my hon. The section of the A11 that is in my constituency is Friend referred to that subject. dualled. However, although that makes it convenient to get around Attleborough, it is not much good if our Traditionally, our two counties have suffered from a business people hit a traffic jam when they head south chronic lack of investment in transport infrastructure. to interact with the national and world economy. We That is a missed chance, because we are one of the have all made a compelling case on this matter. I thank regions that contribute to the Exchequer—not many hon. Members for listening and very much look forward do. It would seem sensible to invest in that success to to the Minister’s reply. enable the major towns and areas of our two counties to grow and prosper even more. In that way, we can benefit the rest of the country. 10.19 am Ben Gummer (Ipswich) (Con): Last Friday, I was at Elizabeth Truss: Is it not the case that, under the Ipswich station for the naming of a new train, the previous Government, the economic return of projects Evening Star, which is, of course, the name for Venus in was not properly considered or factored into decisions the night sky. Coincidentally, it is also the name of a that were made? That is why so many rational projects local newspaper in Ipswich. At that event, I was able to did not go ahead at a time of unprecedented Government relate the sad story of how the people of Norwich stood spending. They failed to fix not only the roof, but the in the way of the introduction of a train line from road, while the sun was shining. Ipswich to Norwich in the 1840s. It was only through the enterprising intervention of the then Member of Ben Gummer: I am pleased to endorse my hon. Friend’s Parliament for Ipswich that the train was able to go via comments. She is entirely right: capital expenditure was Ipswich, and Norwich was released from the isolation neglected, particularly in the east of England. A point 193WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 194WH

[Ben Gummer] with a rate of more than 11% across the east of England, and prospects appear to be worsening relative to the that I made in my maiden speech, and that I wish to wider region, with the number of business births in impress time and again on the Exchequer, is that although Norfolk down by 17.5% since 2007. That figure compares the Budget for this year is set—I was glad to see that poorly with a drop of around 5% across the wider east capital expenditure was protected in it—it is vital that of England. ongoing Budgets bear down as much as possible on In 2004, there were 3,690 new businesses in Norfolk; current expenditure to release funds for capital expenditure. in 2006, that figure fell dramatically to 3,195; in 2008, it As anyone who has driven around the country knows, fell dramatically again to just 2,765. Norfolk is slipping after going down nice bits of dual carriageway, one further behind, and the gap is widening. In the past, suddenly drives into a village where everything is blocked. East Anglia has generated a high number of start-ups, That has gone on for too long. The issue is not just with some of which have gone on to achieve huge success, the A11. We have failed to finish major infrastructure such as Bernard Matthews and his turkeys. The drop in projects across the country. As for the spending on start-ups in a county that has traditionally relied roads to which the Government wish to commit over economically on large numbers of small business operations the next few years, they should start by tidying up those is worrying. A key reason for that decline is the lack of areas that clearly need investment, and the issue that we infrastructure within a sparsely populated county, which are raising is surely at the top of the list. puts it at a competitive disadvantage. I would like to touch on one further point. Members Yet Norfolk can contribute so much. There is huge from Norfolk and Suffolk have been writing letters of a untapped potential in Norwich and across Norfolk joint nature on schools, health care, broadband, roads and waiting to be unleashed by the completion of the dualling railways. In all those things, we lag behind the rest of of the route. My constituency is at the end point of the the country, in terms of spending per capita. It is simply A11, and it is appropriate that its starting point was unfair for that to persist. It occurred not only under the originally the Bank of England, because Norwich businesses previous Administration, but under Administrations will need a fast, direct route to the banks for the before them. The situation is unfair, and not just because enormous proceeds that dualling the road will generate. it fails to release the prosperity of the counties of which Norfolk has the potential to be at the cutting edge of I have spoken; it is unfair on the pockets of deprivation green technology, science and research, but that depends that my hon. Friend the Member for Mid Norfolk on improving our infrastructure. Offshore energy, (George Freeman) mentioned so wisely. It is all too easy engineering, financial and business services and creative for deprived areas that are surrounded by areas of and media industries are among the areas in which relative affluence to be forgotten because of their wealthy Norfolk could be a world leader, but to develop them neighbours. That is not fair on those areas. we must overcome the shortcomings in our transport In 1277—a year much lamented by Welshmen in this system. It is enormously frustrating that a whole county’s House; I count myself as one—Edward I began his development has been held back by a series of delays to invasion of our nation. He progressed with a giant force a final decision on upgrading the A11. of not archers or swordsmen, but road builders. He Norfolk’s transport infrastructure has been under- built a road across the Dee from Chester to your beautiful invested in for decades. The need to dual the A11 was constituency, Mr Williams. I am glad to see a new first raised nearly 40 years ago by Edward Heath in reincarnation of that great king in my hon. Friend the 1971. In 1984, the Eastern Daily Press threw its weight Member for West Suffolk, who, I hope, will drive a road behind the campaign, as have dozens of Norfolk MPs not to Caernarfon but to Thetford and then Norwich. over the intervening years, and yet we are still waiting in He will thereby release for both Norwich and Ipswich 2010. It is perhaps because of that long-term under- the prosperity that we can realise only by receiving the investment that the economic case for dualling the A11 investment that we need. is so compelling. Norwich is the largest UK city that is not connected to the dual carriageway and motorway 10.27 am network, and making that connection is one of the few low-hanging fruits, ripe and easily picked, that would Simon Wright (Norwich South) (LD): I congratulate result in enormous benefits. For Ministers looking for the hon. Member for West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) cost-effective ways of delivering economic benefits through on securing a debate on an issue that I know he campaigned infrastructure investment, the A11 is surely at, or near, on long before he was elected. Like so many of us, he the top of the list. raised the matter in his maiden speech—indeed, he managed to lobby me on the issue before either of us Norfolk is geographically isolated and sparsely populated, had been sworn in as an MP. I also pay tribute to the which provides challenges for economic development, work of my neighbour the hon. Member for Norwich and the poor quality of the county’s road network and North (Miss Smith), who is sadly unable to address us. I its lack of connectedness make those challenges much know she cares passionately about the issue because of harder for businesses to overcome. the benefits that dealing with it will bring to the people of Norwich. Matthew Hancock: Does the hon. Gentleman agree It is important to recognise the challenges posed to that not only do businesses in Norfolk lose out as a the local economy by lack of infrastructure in and result of that bottleneck, but many businesses at the leading into Norfolk. The county’s economic position other end in Suffolk, which would dearly love to work within the east of England and the greater south-east with the great businesses he has mentioned and the region is not typical of those areas. Business birth rates great scientists other Members have mentioned, lose in Norfolk are less than 9%, which compares poorly out because the bottleneck splits those two areas? 195WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 196WH

Simon Wright: I certainly agree with that point and partnership. Its petition attracted 16,000 signatures and thank the hon. Gentleman for making it. The benefits all-party support from the county’s MPs. Norfolk chamber would be not just for Norfolk, but for all the other areas of commerce, alongside Shaping Norfolk’s Future and where greater interconnectedness would provide new more than 100 business leaders from Norfolk and Suffolk, business opportunities. submitted a joint letter of support for that proposed The other major roads leading into Norwich and scheme. The consensus is strongly in favour of the Norfolk from outside the county are single carriageway scheme and the strength of feeling is high. for significant and extended stretches, which places an In conclusion, the reason there is such huge support even larger strategic value on the A11. Getting Norwich for the scheme is that the case is so compelling. It will and Norfolk better connected to the wider region is a bring major economic benefits to Norwich, Norfolk vital step towards overcoming our geographical constraints and well beyond, at a time when capital investment and the competitive disadvantage that businesses in the projects need to demonstrate strong justification. I am region face. The journey time savings that would result confident, as I hope the Minister is after hearing our from dualling the final stretch of the A11 are estimated submissions, that the evidence in favour of the scheme at around seven minutes during peak times, but they proceeding is compelling. I strongly urge Ministers to could be considerably greater. Lack of capacity on the reach a conclusion on it as quickly as possible so that road regularly leads to delays of up to 20 minutes or Norwich and Norfolk can look forward with optimism more, or considerably longer during peak holiday seasons. and confidence to future economic development. Those who witness the A11 at the start and end of bank holiday weekends witness a seemingly never-ending convoy of caravans going nowhere, which is surely a deterrent 10.37 am to return holiday visits to the county, and it unfairly Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): It is a reinforces the stereotype of Norfolk as a remote and pleasure to serve under your chairmanship for the first peripheral region. time, Mr Williams. I congratulate the hon. Member for A £600 million benefit to Norfolk’s economy is waiting West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock) on securing this to be realised from the dualling of the A11, providing important debate, which is of great relevance to securing significant value for money at a time when public spending higher economic growth in East Anglia and the wider needs careful scrutiny for economic impact, as so many east of England area. The fact that I am faced by so hon. Members have said in the debate. The Atkins many Members on the coalition Benches and have no report identified time savings worth £558 million and a Members on my own Benches shows just how far my further £136 million of wider economic benefits, including party has to go in trying to win back the trust of people agglomeration benefits. Much of those agglomeration in the east of England, a task that we shall pursue with economies will be driven by productivity increases in great diligence in the course of this Parliament. Norwich. Businesses in my constituency and research The hon. Gentleman and the hon. Member for South institutions in and adjacent to Norwich are particularly West Norfolk (Elizabeth Truss) campaigned with great likely to see the positive impacts of increased clustering. effectiveness and persistence before and after the general The region will see the economic benefit of improved election for the dualling of the nine-mile stretch of the connections between two key centres of growth: Norwich A11, between the Five Ways roundabout at Barton and Cambridge. Mills and the roundabout at the southern end of the Ben Gummer: May I mention a third sector of growth, Thetford bypass, and I pay tribute to their efforts. We in addition to those in Ipswich that I have mentioned? have followed the hon. Gentleman’s contributions in the My hon. Friend might be interested to know that Chamber with great interest, particularly those on economic Martlesham has the largest area of software development matters. He has quickly demonstrated a zeal for fiscal in Europe, and because of the poverty of the A140 as a consolidation, of which his right hon. Friend the Chancellor road, the quickest way to get there is via the A14 and would undoubtedly be proud. Indeed, given the hon. A11, so getting the third part of the triangle is important Gentleman’s background, it would not be surprising to for his constituents and mine. learn that he was the architect of the plan for fiscal consolidation. Today, however, he made a surprising Simon Wright: I certainly take that point on board. but welcome case for targeted capital investment in There is enormous expertise and world-class research in transport infrastructure. Who knows what further progress Ipswich, as well as the existing business opportunities. we may make before the end of this Parliament? Perhaps There is a real opportunity for all centres across the we will find that beneath that only occasionally monetarist region to benefit from the clustering effect. exterior there beats the heart of a Keynesian after all, at Businesses are being deterred from investing in Norfolk least with regard to transport investment. because of the A11’s current inadequacies. Tackling the bottlenecks on the route will provide a huge confidence Elizabeth Truss: Is not it the case that even Adam boost to businesses in Norfolk and outside that are Smith, quite a dry economist, suggested that infrastructure looking to generate new investment and employment spending was important for the viability of businesses? opportunities in Norwich and Norfolk. Norwich is one It is hardly a Keynesian case. of the UK’s top 10 shopping destinations, but despite that some major retailers have held back from investing Mr Bain: The hon. Lady makes an important point, there because of the threat of hold-ups to deliveries on and one to which I will return later in my remarks. I the A11. know that hon. Members are keen on establishing the The completion of the dualling of the A11 was provenance of their arguments through literature reviews— identified as the No. 1 priority for Shaping Norfolk’s indeed, I have an important article to which I will refer Future, the private sector-led economic development later. 197WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 198WH

[Mr Bain] that investment infrastructure is important, especially roads—why did the Minister make such a declaration The hon. Member for West Suffolk eloquently argued on 28 April this year and not on 28 April 1998? that investment in roads now can generate higher economic growth in the future—I strongly agree. I pray in aid an Mr Bain: As ever, the timing of my noble Friend important article by Nicholas Crafts in the Oxford Lord Adonis was impeccable. He will have made that Review of Economic Policy last year. He cited the problem decision having weighed up all the factors, in his inimitable of the relative lack of transport investment in roads style. over the past few decades, for which Governments of all political hues should be held accountable. The important Other transport capital investment is contributing to point in his piece—indeed, the nub of his argument—was economic recovery in East Anglia. Rail freight contributes that public investment in roads provides greater returns £870 million to the UK economy each year, and Network in private investment. He concluded that the productivity Rail’s decision to upgrade the line between Felixstowe gains obtained “crowd in” and do not “crowd out” and Nuneaton via Ipswich, Ely and Peterborough will private investment. I hope that Government Members help the rail freight industry in East Anglia in particular, take that argument on board. potentially taking 750,000 lorries off the roads in the UK and on to rail by 2030. I pay tribute to the other contributions to the debate from the hon. Members for South West Norfolk, for Great I am pleased to see the Under-Secretary of State in Yarmouth (Brandon Lewis), who spoke with great insight his place. During the election campaign there was quite about the benefits of the A11 dualling for his area, for a tough war over the A11 dualling between his right Waveney (Peter Aldous), for Broadland (Mr Simpson), hon. Friend the Minister of State, Department for for Mid Norfolk (George Freeman), for Ipswich (Ben Transport and his hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of Gummer) and for Norwich South (Simon Wright). State for Transport, the hon. Member for Lewes (Norman As the hon. Member for West Suffolk mentioned, Baker). The coalition agreement makes 12 commitments although investment in completing the dualling could on transport issues, but none relates to the £6 billion cost the public purse anywhere between £106 million plan for roads investment which the Government inherited and £147 million, the Highways Agency has estimated from their predecessors. that such investment would bring £557 million in benefits I hope that the Minister will take the opportunity to the East Anglian economy and improve safety capacity today to affirm the Government’s support for necessary and journey times along the A11. improvements to our roads network, of which the The hon. Member for Norwich South referred to the completion of the A11 dualling is a key part, and to Atkins report commissioned by the East of England make it clear that the Liberal Democrat pre-election Development Agency, Norfolk county council and the policy of cuts in new roads investment has been repudiated. Government office for the East of England. It established More widely, can he outline what his Department’s that benefits could be worth £202 million for commuters criteria are in its value-for-money analysis of transport and leisure travellers, £355 million for business travellers, capital projects? Can he indicate which criteria, in his including freight and car travellers and an additional view, the completion of the A11 dualling would fulfil? 20%—perhaps £136 million—in time savings. My broader point, which was referred to by the hon. In the “A11 Wider Economic Impacts Study”, Atkins Member for West Suffolk, is that countries that have makes a powerful case for the economic benefits that attempted a programme of fiscal consolidation remotely could be brought by the dualling. The report cites resembling that being pursued by the Government have increased business efficiency and confidence, and bringing seen transport as an easy target. Canada in the mid-1990s together the communities of Norfolk and Suffolk—tangible is a case in point, where spending was slashed by 50%. benefits that would emerge from the investment. That must not happen in the comprehensive spending The section is the last remaining stretch of single review and in the programme of fiscal consolidation. carriageway on the M11-A11 route to Norwich, where congestion is a consistent problem, exacerbated at times Matthew Hancock: I am grateful that the hon. Gentleman by agricultural traffic. A public consultation was initiated accepts that the Government of whom he was a part in 2001, a preferred route was announced in November failed to invest in infrastructure enough. It is good of of that year, a draft order was published in 2008, and a him to admit that. Therefore, does he agree that not public inquiry commenced in November 2009. reducing capital spending in the Budget was the correct The project has been met generally with favour and decision? Given his citation of the economic literature, approval locally. The Royal Society for the Protection of does he commend that decision by the Chancellor? Birds and Natural England, reportedly opposed to the scheme at first, withdrew its opposition after the Highways Mr Bain: The point made in the Crafts article, and in Agency agreed to create suitable habitats for nesting a number of studies, is that Governments—both Labour stone curlews. On 28 April, as already referred to, my and Conservative—over decades have not invested enough noble Friend Lord Adonis, the then Secretary of State in transport. I hope that that is borne in mind in the for Transport, on behalf of the Labour Government comprehensive spending review. made a commitment to complete the dualling of the nine-mile section between Thetford and Barton Mills, Am I content that the Chancellor has not cut capital subject to receipt of the planning report following the investment further? Absolutely. We shall see what happens public inquiry into the project. on 20 October, but transport has a strong case for needing additional capital investment, not least in projects Ben Gummer: I am interested in that admission. such as the completion of Thameslink and high-speed Given the journal cited earlier by the hon. Gentleman—I rail, on the benefits of which I have spoken in previous am afraid that I missed that issue, but it seems self-evident Westminster Hall debates. 199WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 200WH

I hope that the Minister will show today that he and military, I have spent at least one long weekend every the Secretary of State are prepared to fight for investment year in the area. My children are grown up now—they in our roads, buses and trains, and do not simply see are 19 and 21—but they will not mind my saying that their budget as one which is ripe for pruning by the they loved Center Parcs when they were young. We have Chancellor. I pay tribute to the contributions made by sat on the A11 more times than I have had hot dinners, other hon. Members and hope that the Minister will long before air-conditioning for cars was invented, cooked have good news for the people of Norfolk and Suffolk. while we waited, and then took our lives in our hands as we tried to cross back on to the A11. That was before 10.48 am the new traffic lights were put in at Elveden for Center Parcs. I know that they caused a great deal of controversy The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport locally when they were put in, but they have saved lives. (Mike Penning): It is a privilege to serve under your On saving lives, there were 148 accidents between chairmanship, Mr Williams, for the first time when on 2004 and 2008 on this section of the road, 12 of which the Government side of the House, under the new were serious and two of which were fatal. Our thoughts coalition. are with the families and loved ones of the people who My hon. Friends are hunting in a pack today, as they lost their lives on that road. do regularly in the House. I congratulate them on doing The argument is broad. It is about congestion, but so. It is good that people stand up for their communities, what does congestion cause? We have heard today about come together to agree what they agree on and move the economic effects on communities in Suffolk and in forward on that. I am somewhat trapped, as hon. Members Norfolk. I visited many hon. Members during the general know, by the draft orders that are still in place. I must be election in my shadow Health role, which I had before I slightly careful about what I say so that I do not moved to my new and exciting role as the Roads Minister. prejudice any developments. The spending review is still I talk about roads all the time to everyone—I love being going on and, once it is over, we will announce as soon the Roads Minister. as possible which programmes will go ahead. That is the right way to proceed—promises broken are not worth My hon. Friend the Member for Great Yarmouth anything. (Brandon Lewis) is here today. I went to Great Yarmouth The shadow Minister, the hon. Member for Glasgow when he was the candidate. I went up the night before North East (Mr Bain), referred in his short comments because I was petrified about not being there on time to unfunded projects. We know that many of those for an appointment at 9 o’clock the following morning—I projects would not have gone ahead unless the previous know what that road is like. He was generous and very Government had borrowed even more and given us kind in entertaining me the night before. even more fiscal problems than we have at present. The argument is not just about business, although the My hon. Friend the Member for Broadland business argument is there, but about other factors that (Mr Simpson) said that I have a speech written by my we need to consider such as pollution, and the officials. Yes, I do, but, if I tried, I would not be able to environmental effects on constituents of that kind of read it in the next 10 minutes. Actually, because of the congestion on the road. Investment decisions have to be nature of the debate, I think that it would not be right made not only about businesses but about homes. There and proper to do that. In the time that I have been in the is no point building many homes in a part of the world House, I have often sat on the other side of this Chamber where the road infrastructure is so bad. and watched Ministers read out, in good faith, what I will ensure that the points raised by hon. Friends on was put in front of them by their officials, but not rail infrastructure, particularly for freight, are taken to respond to comments that were made during the debate. my right hon. Friend the Minister of State, Department This debate has been excellent, and I shall try to for Transport, and that she is made aware through my respond to as many questions as possible. If I cannot officials of the comments that were made today. I respond directly today, I shall write to the individuals visited Felixstowe only the other day, and I know that responsible on the issues that have been raised. So much investment in rail to get freight out of that part of the has been said, and I do not want to leave anything country is crucial to such ports. I pay tribute to Hutchison hanging in the air. We will write, talk about the issues for investing in the railways, not just there but further and work together to go forward. down the line as well. I have been lobbied by Members of this House—the In many ways, the things that were said today show Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth what is great about this country. Politicians will not give Affairs, my hon. Friend the hon. Member for North up on this—I am thinking especially about the new West Norfolk (Mr Bellingham), and my hon. Friends generation of younger politicians. I am conscious that I the Members for Norwich North (Miss Smith) and for shall have to look at why this section of the road has not South Norfolk (Mr Bacon)—who, because of other been dualled, and whether there is funding for it. Obviously, responsibilities, were not able today to make the points I will look at why, in 13 years, the previous Government that they would have liked to make. However, they have did not do the work. They did some of the preparatory made their views known to me in the Tea Room, in the work, and they knew when they came in how important Lobby and anywhere else. My broad shoulders can take it was. the kind of lobbying that I get on roads at present. The hon. Member for Glasgow North East said that My hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk (Matthew the project was important, and asked me to give an Hancock) put the argument for the A11 fantastically answer today. He had 13 years to get the previous well. I am extremely familiar with that part of the Government to do that. Actually, because they borrowed world. Until I went into the military at 16, I spent every so much and did not worry about the country’s fiscal holiday on the Norfolk Broads, and, since I left the situation, the funding was there. 201WH A11 (Dualling)27 JULY 2010 A11 (Dualling) 202WH

[Mike Penning] Mike Penning: The coalition Government and I, as Minister, are determined to be as open and honest as The Secretary of State for Transport, officials and I possible in respect of all projects. At present, there are will look at the business case. Projects have gone ahead no projects in the pipeline. When we publish our decisions, in the past 13 years with tiny benefit-cost ratios of 1 and I intend to publish what is likely to go ahead and also 2. Projects with a business case that is a tiny percentage of what will not go ahead. that for the A11 were started and are going ahead today. I am conscious of blight associated with some projects All I can say is that, if I had been the Roads Minister around the country. Believe it or not, communities then, such projects would not have gone ahead because desperately do not want some projects to go ahead, yet there was not a local business or environmental case for the previous Government were going to force them them. through. We should not do that, if we believe in local I cannot change the past. I cannot say today that I democracy and local people having a right to say what will stop projects halfway through. We have said that should happen. If there is a shortage of money, and if every road project across the country that has not they do not want a project to go ahead, it is unlikely—not started will stop, and we have stopped the public inquiries. definite, but unlikely—that it will go ahead. I do not want public money spent on public inquiries, projects and engineers, plans being drawn up and the I promise that when we list the projects that will go public worrying even more, if there is a possibility that ahead, the BCRs and business cases for them will be many of the projects will not go ahead. If we are to published. We will also publish the business cases for make progress, it is right and proper to ensure that the projects that will not go ahead, so that the public know money is there. exactly what they are. In some cases, people may wish to challenge a decision not to go ahead, so there will be What are we looking at? The BCR for the A11 project consultation. It is important that people feel that this is is not 2, 3, 4 or, as alluded to earlier, 19—it is actually not a done deal, and that they can challenge the business 20. I shall not beat about the bush. My hon. Friend the case and start to come forward with some innovative Member for West Suffolk asked me to comment on ideas. what the Secretary of State said the other day about the project having a very high BCR. I will repeat what he Hon. Members may be aware that for junction 11A said: it has a very high BCR. We are waiting for the of the M1, which is one of the other projects being analysis to be done within my Department to confirm considered, the local community joined the developer that it is 20. If it is not, I am fairly certain that it will be and came forward with a substantial amount of money— between 19 and 20, and, if that is the case, it is very some £50 million—to aid the project, should it go high. ahead. That new way of thinking involves developers Can I say today that the project will go ahead? No, I and communities coming together for a project that am sorry that I cannot. However, I promise to look at they want. I am saying not that that is what should be all the environmental, business, community and pollution done in respect of the A11, but just that there are advantages of each scheme, including the A11 scheme. I different ways of doing things. We will be open and most certainly will do that. honest about that as we develop the road programme. I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for West Matthew Hancock: On behalf of my colleagues, may Suffolk and other colleagues on spending so much time I say that we are extremely grateful for the Minister’s in this Chamber on the last day before the House goes thoughtful and direct response? Is he able to publish, or into the summer recess. I congratulate them on hunting point us to published evidence of, the BCRs for the as a pack, and I look forward to more lobbying in the other projects that are in the pipeline? Division Lobbies and the Tea Rooms. 203WH 27 JULY 2010 Burton upon Trent County Court 204WH

Burton upon Trent County Court court system go ahead. That is why I am delighted to be able to urge the Minister to stop and reconsider the impacts. 11 am Nationally, the reorganisation of the court system Andrew Griffiths (Burton) (Con): Thank you, will mean that approximately 25% of county courts will Mr Williams, for presiding over my first appearance in a close. Yetin Staffordshire, as my hon. Friend the Member Westminster Hall debate. I hope that you will be gentle for Stafford (Jeremy Lefroy) knows, Leek county court with this Westminster virgin. has already been lost, and it is proposed that two of the I thank the Minister for giving up his valuable time to four remaining county courts should go, so the cut in attend. He knows that I have attempted to make points my county will be 50%, which is double the amount on behalf of my constituents in Burton on a number of expected elsewhere in the country. Both the county occasions; I am grateful for the opportunity to make my courts that are closing—Burton and Tamworth—are in case today. I also thank the Minister for engaging in the eastern part of the county. Closing both those genuine consultation. Unfortunately, under the previous courts simultaneously would be a double blow to the Government, we got used to consultations that were area, leaving residents in both east and south-east little more than an exercise in futility—tick-box exercises, Staffordshire with long journeys to the nearest county rubber-stamping decisions that had already been made court. in an air-conditioned office in Whitehall, delivering a Minister’s grand master plan. There is genuine reassurance Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con): I congratulate my in knowing that we have a proper consultation, with hon. Friend on securing this debate. Is he aware that in discussion and debate, about the future judicial system. Staffordshire more than 23,000 fines, with a value of I have visited Burton county court and met the staff, more than £11 million, remain uncollected by the Courts who appreciate having the opportunity to make their Service? Residents of Staffordshire will therefore find it case for Burton county court surviving. difficult to see why there should be the 50% cuts about which he reminded us. The Minister understands that the proposed closure of Burton county court is of concern to my constituents in Burton and Uttoxeter—to those hard-working people Andrew Griffiths: I thank my hon. Friend for his employed in the justice system, to those who use the insightful and useful intervention. It is important to service, and to those who are worried about how the consider the effectiveness and efficiency of the court judicial system will operate in this brave new world. system. As he says, such a backlog of unclaimed fines is unpalatable and uncomfortable for anybody running It is important to recognise that savings across the the court system. I will mention later the impact that public budget are urgently needed. The previous the proposals for cuts will have on the future efficiency Government’s excesses and mismanagement have left and effectiveness of the courts. the country, like many families and businesses in my constituency, facing difficult, tough decisions when it The proposal in the consultation document is that comes to paying for the essentials in life. This debate work from Burton will go to either Derby or Stafford, takes place in the context of those tough financial my hon. Friend’s constituency. The consultation paper constraints. states that Stafford county court is 26 miles away by car, by the shortest route, and that the journey takes 45 minutes My constituents are not stupid: they realise that the by car. Even by car, that is no short journey, and the country is broke and that savings have to be made. It is task of attending court will be much more difficult for understandable that the Courts Service should bear its the 24% of households in my constituency—almost a share of that belt-tightening, but it is equally clear that quarter of my constituents—that do not have access to that belt-tightening must be done in a manner that a car or van and rely solely on public transport. Many protects the interests of justice and, above all, access to of those households are among the most vulnerable in justice. Although this debate relates to the proposed the area, comprising those on a low income, the elderly closure of Burton county court, it would be a mistake and people with disabilities. A third of the wards in my to consider the matter in isolation, rather than as part constituency that are covered by the county court are of a wider reorganisation programme. among the 20% most deprived wards in the country; Underestimating the role that the county court system that gives an indication of the kind of vulnerable people plays in our society would be a fundamental mistake. who are served by the court. That deprivation brings The services offered by Burton county court, and county with it related problems of poverty and increased social courts throughout the country, often deal with the most and family breakdown—precisely the kind of problems sensitive, painful and challenging elements of modern dealt with by the county court. life; bankruptcy, divorce and family breakdown are all According to the consultation paper, it takes two dealt with in our county courts. Those courts represent hours and 23 minutes to get from Burton to Stafford by a direct link between our local communities and the bus—a journey well worth making, because Stafford is justice system. We must understand fully the impacts a wonderful place to visit—but the round trip takes the that any closures will have on those communities before best part of a working day for anybody from my we proceed with any closures. constituency who wishes to attend the county court in The previous Government’s disastrous post office Stafford. It takes five hours to travel there and back, not closure programme showed us that proposals that taking into consideration waiting time or the time for might appear justified when considered in isolation can the case to be heard. Even the train takes one hour and have a disproportionate effect when their cumulative 40 minutes, with a change, at a cost of some £14.30 for a impact in an area is considered. I fear that those mistakes normal adult return fare. That is simply unaffordable could be repeated if the proposed closures in the county for many on low incomes in my constituency. 205WH Burton upon Trent County Court27 JULY 2010 Burton upon Trent County Court 206WH

[Andrew Griffiths] I am worried about the impact on the legal process. It is not difficult to understand that some witnesses will It is important to remember that the journey times find it difficult if they are forced to travel to court on calculated are for a journey from the county court in the same bus as the plaintiff, the defendant or the Burton to the proposed alternative in Stafford. For the person against whom they will give evidence. It is not many people who do not live right next door to Burton difficult to understand that witnesses may find that a county court, the journey will be significantly longer, harrowing and frightening experience, perhaps frightening because they will have to go into Burton town to get a enough to stop them giving evidence. Will the Minister train or bus to travel onwards. assure me that he does not envisage everyone involved As for constituents who live in areas such as in a case being forced to travel on the same bus to give Marchington, which is one of the larger villages in the evidence? middle of my constituency, or Rocester, the home of In the consultation paper, the rationale for closing JCB, no combination of trains and buses can get them Burton county court seems to rest on two factors. The to Stafford county court in time for a 9 o’clock meeting. first is that the facilities have not been upgraded, and I accept that Derby county court is more convenient for that is obviously due to the previous Government’s some of my constituents than Stafford, and it may seem failure to invest properly in the Courts Service. I yield to sensible in principle to say that cases will be transferred no one in my belief that public spending must be from Burton to Derby, but many people have doubts brought under control to repair the damage that was about whether that is likely to happen in practice, and done by that spendthrift Government, but it would be what percentage of cases will be affected. Perhaps the short-sighted, and would damage the justice system, if Minister will tell us what he envisages happening, and we closed the court to save the one-off capital cost how many cases he proposes to send to Derby, and how required to bring it up to scratch. Imposing such a cut, many to Stafford. That would provide a clearer picture which would significantly inconvenience many east of what we may expect. Staffordshire court users, to save what would not even Derby court falls outside the west Mercia and amount to a rounding-up error in the deficit reduction Staffordshire area court services. Derbyshire’s courts plan risks undermining confidence in the bigger picture are subject to a separate review, and I would like an of balancing the nation’s public finances. assurance from the Minister that the two reviews will be dovetailed together and considered as a whole. What The second reason suggested in the proposal is that guarantees can he give that if changes to the county Burton county court is not used efficiently. I have met court service in Derbyshire lead to more work being the dedicated, committed and hard-working staff, and transferred from other courts in Derbyshire to Derby there is no doubt but that it is not used efficiently. It has county court, Burton will not fall down the pecking a total of 178 sitting days before district and deputy order, with cases ultimately being transferred to Stafford, district judges, but the problem could be easily overcome with the associated difficulties that I outlined? if we considered the overall effect of the closure of The suggestion in the consultation paper that work courts in Staffordshire, rather than considering the closure could be transferred to Derby has so far done little to of Burton county court in isolation. reassure my constituents. We must consider the The consultation paper proposes the closure of two consequences of the vastly increased travel times. I fear courts, the second being Tamworth county court; its that they will result in people not bothering to attend. If work would be transferred to Stafford. Tamworth is witnesses are faced with five hours’ travel to give evidence 11 minutes from Burton by train, and the bus links for 20 minutes, they will simply not turn up, and that between the two are fabulous. That closeness is recognised will further frustrate the court system, delay justice and elsewhere in the Minister’s helpful consultation document, waste even more money—taxpayers’ money. Surely, if where it is proposed that Tamworth magistrates court the priority is to reduce inefficiency in the court system, be closed and its business transferred to Burton. Surely our priority should be to tackle non-attendance in court the answer is to follow that approach, and to transfer and non-payment of fines, an issue to which my hon. county court cases to Burton. That sensible approach Friend the Member for Stafford referred. That is a would add an additional 60 sitting days, at least, to problem in the civil courts and in magistrates courts, Burton county court, vastly improving its effectiveness and it should surely be at the top of our hit list. The and efficiency, and delivering much better value for problem will be made worse by increasing the inconvenience money and access to the justice system. for witnesses who are called to give evidence. Court users in Tamworth would benefit from the Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con): My proposal, because they would have to travel only to constituency has no court facilities whatever, and little Burton, rather than to Stafford, and the case load at public transport, so I can vouch for my hon. Friend’s Burton would rise to the necessary amount because of points about witnesses’ inability to get to court, and the that increased work load. Furthermore, Staffordshire difficulties created for many of those constituents of would bear its fair share of the burden of the reorganisation, mine who are called as witnesses. losing one in four of its county courts—exactly the national average of 25%. I respectfully ask the Minister Andrew Griffiths: I thank my hon. Friend for her to reconsider the proposals, and to ensure that we have important intervention. I mourned the passing of Leek a strong civil court system in Staffordshire that offers county court; in a rural constituency such as hers, it is access to justice for all, rich or poor. I ask him to ensure important to consider travel times and the sparsity of that Staffordshire shoulders its fair share of the pain, public transport. Not to do so would be to the detriment and to guarantee that my constituents will have fair and of justice and fairness in the system. equal access to justice in the court system. 207WH Burton upon Trent County Court27 JULY 2010 Burton upon Trent County Court 208WH

11.18 am the telephone, is often a better, and less stressful, option for people involved in court cases. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice Where judicial involvement is required, we are exploring (Mr Jonathan Djanogly): I welcome this debate to discuss whether in future physical attendance at court is always our proposal to close the Burton upon Trent county a necessity.Can the use of telephone hearings be extended? court, subject to consultation. This might have been my Does video conferencing technology open new possibilities? hon. Friend’s first appearance in Westminster Hall, but In that context, let me point out to my hon. Friend the it was certainly a good one, and he ably represented his Member for Staffordshire Moorlands (Karen Bradley) constituents’ best interests. that fines are not dealt with by the county court. Fines Allow me, Mr Williams, to set out the Government’s are one area where we know that having a physical position on our proposals to reform and rationalise the court does not result in higher payment rates. However, court estate. I will provide details of the reasoning my hon. Friend’s point was well made, and I confirm behind including Burton upon Trent on the list of that we have invested in making it easier to pay fines possible closures. I am sure that my hon. Friend will using methods such as telephone, internet and so on, in want to respond to the consultation that closes, as he order to improve the rate of payment. will be aware, on 15 September. County courts across Since Lord Woolf’s civil justice reforms in 1996, the England and Wales have seen a real change in recent number of civil cases has declined by 20%. In order to years because Her Majesty’s Courts Service has dramatically meet future needs of customers in a faster, more efficient increased access to online and telephone services. Currently, and affordable way, we are working closely with partners 70% of money claims, and the vast majority of possession across the civil justice system, including Citizens Advice actions, are issued centrally via electronic channels. and the Legal Services Commission, to increase the People can pay fines online for driving infringements, or provision of mediation and further improve court for not paying their TV licence on time. They can pay procedures. Furthermore, we will work closely with the off debts or court fees online, using a wide variety of judiciary to support work on procedural improvements. methods. We are working to improve the availability of information on the web and over the telephone, using Although cost is by no means my only concern, given dedicated information centres with comprehensive details the dire national economic situation, which my hon. of all civil and family cases, so that fewer people will Friend the Member for Burton acknowledged, we cannot need to travel to court to ask a question. forget the savings that would be delivered by this programme of closures. If all courts under consultation were to We cannot continue to deliver the same level of close, we would achieve savings in running costs of service in the same way and ignore the changing needs £15.3 million per year, as well as avoiding a backlog of of society. New technologies, which we are all confident £21.5 million in maintenance costs. A further assessment about and use in our everyday lives, have not been will be necessary on the level of savings that could be sufficiently adapted for use in the courts, although they achieved and the potential value that could be released are essential to streamline our processes and improve from the disposal of properties. services for the public. That is why, in addition to consulting on the courts estate, I am inviting members The closure of Burton county court would save around of the public, MPs, and others with an interest, to give £106,000 in operating costs that would no longer have me their ideas for improving and modernising the courts to be paid. Furthermore, we would not be liable for the service. additional investment of around £450,000 in maintenance backlog costs. I confirm to my hon. Friend that we are HMCS is also looking at how to speed up the experience looking at the area as a whole, and we know that there is for court users in the county court by changing how the a high density of county courts in Staffordshire and back offices work. We are establishing a series of large, West Mercia. As less work is dealt with in the courts, we multi-purpose, multi-skilled administrative centres, which will need fewer court buildings. We want to ensure that will centralise claims and process work from all county we have all the evidence available before making decisions courts, thereby freeing up front-line services and staff to about which courts provide us with the best service and focus on supporting more complex cases that need should remain open. Therefore, I encourage all affected judicial intervention. That is not a new innovation; MPs to write in to the consultation with their views. there has been an incremental move towards more centralised administrative centres for 30 years. The concept has been successfully tested in local business centres, Andrew Griffiths: I thank the Minister for explaining and we plan to centralise civil work into two key locations much of the rationale behind his decision, but there will in Salford and Haywards Heath, where civil claims will always be people who need to access the court system. be administered until judicial intervention is necessary. Will the Minister explain what he believes would be a We will also continue to support high-volume users in reasonable amount of travel time for accessing a county our bulk centre in Northampton. court? Has he done any work on the impact that increased Wherever court users can make use of a non-judicial travel time has on non-attendance at county court hearings? intervention for family and civil cases, we must provide them with all the support and information that they Mr Djanogly: We have considered that point, and we need to explore a variety of dispute resolution routes. A felt that a travel time of 60 minutes would be appropriate. large number of cases go to court, but in practice many I will come on to that point if I have time. In his earlier people find the full court experience to be inconvenient, remarks, my hon. Friend said that attendance at court is intimidating and expensive, as well as slow and unpleasant. a stressful experience, and he spoke about situations of That is neither necessary nor in the best interests of bankruptcy, family breakdown and divorce. As traumatic either party in the case. Providing options for alternative as those things are, most people will not frequently get dispute resolutions, such as mediation conducted over divorced or be declared bankrupt, so the comparison 209WH Burton upon Trent County Court27 JULY 2010 Burton upon Trent County Court 210WH

[Mr Djanogly] than the standard we have set, but we must consider the area as a whole. Across Staffordshire and West Mercia, that he made with the closure of a local post office— county courts are considerably underused, with an average something used by many people on a daily basis—was utilisation rate of 61%. We know which courts offer the not accurate. best long-term opportunities to continue to deliver a Having talked to some MPs during the programme of good-quality service in larger multi-functional facilities. consultation, I am aware of the prevailing view that the Burton courthouse is under the freehold ownership principles on which we are consulting are right. of HMCS and does not offer facilities to the standards Understandably, however, few MPs wish their own local that one would expect of a county court. For a start, it court to close. The passion about this issue that I have would not be compliant with the Disability Discrimination seen from all MPs—not least my hon. Friend—is admirable Act 2005 unless significant maintenance work took and important to our constituents. Nevertheless, if we place. Hearings and counter services at Burton county accept that we have to reduce the courts estate considerably court will transfer to either Derby or Stafford county for the good of the public, we must also accept that courts, depending on which is closer for the parties sometimes the court in our own constituency may be involved. Both Stafford and Derby county courts are the most strategic one to close. purpose-built buildings with a high standard of Some of the local county courts in Staffordshire and accommodation and facilities for court users, judiciary West Mercia have larger and better facilities that are and staff. multi-functional and can take a large proportion of the work in the area. As far as possible, we want to try and Andrew Griffiths: I would like to confirm what the focus work in those courts. It is our responsibility to Minister meant when he said that the decision about think about what is best for the whole of the area, and whether a court user has to go to Derby or Stafford we believe that the five larger courts at Hereford, Stafford, county court would depend on the distance to be travelled. Stoke-on-Trent, Telford and Worcester would offer the Is it correct to say that if Derby is closer, a person area a strong, efficient and effective civil court system. would not be forced to go to Stafford? There are 10 members of staff at Burton county court, and a total of 43 staff in all the county courts Mr Djanogly: The distance would be different for proposed for closure in the Staffordshire and West various constituents. One court may be more appropriate Mercia area. Once the Lord Chancellor has made his than another because of what it does. Not all courts do final decisions about whether and which courts to close, the same things so we cannot generalise in that way. I we will work closely with the trade unions to look at the appreciate the issues about distance and travel raised by impacts on staff. my hon. Friend. He made his points well, and he should submit them to the consultation. No member of the judiciary is based at Burton county court, although two district judges sit a total of 127 days per year, with a further 51 days of deputy 11.30 am district judge sittings per year. That is marginally less Sitting suspended. 211WH 27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 212WH

Hospital Services (North-East) Frankly, much of the inequality has to do with people’s lifestyles. One third of the population of Hartlepool smoke, as opposed to 24% across England. Some wards [JIM SHERIDAN in the Chair] in Hartlepool have smoking rates of 40% to 50%. The rate for smoking in pregnancy is way above the national 2.30 pm average. The proportion of women who breastfeed their baby in Hartlepool is half what it is across the country. Mr Iain Wright (Hartlepool) (Lab): It is a pleasure to Hartlepool is above the national average for the proportion speak under your chairmanship, Mr Sheridan. The of people who binge-drink, although I would like to debate is about hospital services in the north-east, but I point out that it is below the average for the Teesside shall focus on services in North Tees and Hartlepool, so area as a whole. Rates of early death from heart disease, I welcome the fact that I can see here my hon. Friends strokes and cancer are significantly worse in Hartlepool the Members for Stockton North (Alex Cunningham), than the national average, as is life expectancy. Although for Easington (Grahame M. Morris) and for Sedgefield the gap in life expectancy between Hartlepool and the (Phil Wilson), as well as the hon. Member for Stockton rest of the country has narrowed in the past decade, it South (James Wharton). I am also pleased to see a good remains the case that a man in Stranton ward has a life north-eastern Member in the form of my hon. Friend expectancy some 11 years shorter than that of a similar the Member for Wansbeck (Ian Lavery). As I said, I man in a more affluent area. shall focus on North Tees and Hartlepool, but I think that the hon. Member for Hexham (Guy Opperman) All that history—the lifestyles and the poor health will wish to catch your eye, Mr Sheridan, and widen the outcomes—means that it is vital that we have the best debate so that it has a more regional perspective. I possible health service for my constituents. Although thank him for writing me a note, asking to participate in progress has been made, it will take more sustained help the debate. and support, and reconfiguration of services, to narrow the gap still further. We have seen more investment in I welcome the opportunity to discuss hospital services Hartlepool health in the past 10 years—actually, we in North Tees and Hartlepool again. We had an important have seen more investment in primary health facilities in but too-short debate on 5 July, initiated by my hon. the past five years than in the previous half-century—but Friend the Member for Stockton North, in which many the people of Hartlepool still feel battered and bruised hon. Members hoped to contribute so that they could when it comes to the future of hospital services. express their concern about, and seek clarification on, the Conservative-Liberal Government’s decision to cancel Since the 1990s, there has been huge uncertainty the £464-million new hospital that was to serve the about what shape the health services will take, and populations of Hartlepool, Stockton, Easington and where they will be located. There has been review after Sedgefield. I am indebted to Mr Speaker, who, after review after review—the Tees services review, the Darzi discussing the matter with me, granted this longer debate review, the report from the independent reconfiguration so that we could discuss more thoroughly the vital issue panel—and now there is the decision to scrap the hospital of health care and hospital services in my area. We also at Wynyard. In that time, other areas have seen a had a meeting with the Minister in the week following reconfiguration of hospital services; in our neighbouring that debate. area south of the Tees, one of the best hospitals in Europe—the James Cook University hospital—has been The decision by the new Government—one of their built. Those of us north of the Tees deserve something first decisions on coming to office—to withdraw the similar. £500-million investment from our area throws the vital issue of health care and hospital services back into While the uncertainty has continued for my area, the complete confusion and mayhem. My constituents and hard-working staff in our local NHS have not been those of my hon. Friend the Member for Stockton provided with the clear vision and leadership needed. North, as well as those of my hon. Friends the Members That has compromised their ability to provide world-class for Sedgefield and for Easington, are worth much more health care for our area. The uncertainty has led to a than that and deserve much better. loss of morale and subsequent difficulties in recruitment It is especially important that there should be excellent and retention. The trade union Unison is to be commended health care in Hartlepool and the surrounding areas in my area for proudly standing up for the people who because the people whom I represent experience some work in hospitals, but the Government’s decision, together of the worst health inequalities in the country. Much of with other reforms that they propose, is placing strain that is due to our legacy as a former heavy manufacturing on local services and threatening jobs. We need certainty town, with industrial diseases and injuries. Much of it is and continuing investment, and the Government, in one due to the deindustrialisation of the 1980s and ’90s, and of their first acts in office, have provided neither. the failures of Government at that time to put in place It is fair to say that many people in my area might an alternative economic model. Economic inactivity consider the Government’s decision to scrap the proposed and health inequality go hand in hand, and we have in new hospital to be appropriate—indeed, welcome—and the past 30 years suffered from high levels of deprivation. might think that with a hospital not being built in Much of the health inequality has to do with poor and Wynyard, the University hospital of Hartlepool will inadequate investment in primary health care in Hartlepool stay open, and that services will migrate back to it. It in the last half-century. For example, we have had a surely defies common sense, as I have been told by some much lower ratio of GPs per head of population than constituents, that a town such as Hartlepool, with a we should have had for much of the time that we have population of 90,000, cannot have a fully functioning had an NHS. As a result, we have had to rely on district general hospital, with all the modern services hospitals, whereas other areas may have had suitably that hospitals should provide. It is argued that the high levels of GPs and primary health facilities. decision to scrap the proposed new hospital at Wynyard 213WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 214WH

[Mr Iain Wright] range of facilities, specialist staff and expertise for elective and emergency medical and surgical care, the presents an opportunity to provide that, and will mean college recommends a preferred catchment population that the University hospital of Hartlepool will have a size of between 450,000 and 500,000 people. However, secure future. the college estimates that hospitals of that size account That is an understandable stance, based on affection for fewer than 10% of acute hospitals in England, and for the great service that Hartlepool hospital has provided states that there is unlikely to be a significant shift to down the years. The big events of life have occurred in that size of hospital in the short to medium term. As it the hospital for many thousands of Hartlepudlians, is, the majority of acute hospitals have, and are likely to including me. I am thinking of the births of my four continue to have, catchment populations of about 300,000. children, the death of my nana and the saving of my son That is significantly more than the population of my Benjamin’s life twice—first when he contracted meningitis constituency. at the age of eight, and then at the age of 12, when he It is essential that MPs and all representatives listen suffered a stroke. The dedication of people working in to the professional advice of eminent surgeons. I do not that hospital is second to none, and my family are very intend to play fast and loose with patient safety and much testimony to that. clinical excellence. As a politician, I realise that I do not However, I fear that we will not see the return of know better than doctors, and I want the best possible hospital services to Hartlepool, and that we will have health care for my constituents. I will fight to the last to the worst of all possible worlds—hospital services will achieve the best possible services for Hartlepool. They move away from Hartlepool and become more inaccessible have to be safe and medically advisable, but if something to the people whom I serve, and we will not have a is seen to be clinically essential by surgeons, it is right world-class facility in the borough of Hartlepool to that my hon. Friends and I should listen. It is also right replace them. that Ministers should listen to eminent surgical and clinical advice, and I suggest that the cancellation of the I fully accept and embrace the changes in health proposed new hospital means that they did not. I hope services. I welcome the technological advances that that the Minister will do so today. mean that whereas previously certain medical procedures required extensive stays in district general hospitals, I believe that Lord Darzi’s proposals of 2005, under those procedures can now be done safely and more which Hartlepool hospital was to become a centre of cheaply in a local setting. Just a few years ago, high-quality excellence for women’s and children’s services, and the internet use, for example, could be provided only by University hospital of North Tees was to become a bulky and costly desktop computers; now, people can centre of excellence for emergency surgery, were workable have internet access in the palm of their hand. In the and feasible. Alas, it was not to be, as other parts of same way, such advances are pushing more and more Teesside felt that they could not live with that. Although medical and surgical procedures into the community, I thought that the subsequent independent reconfiguration into GPs’ surgeries and even into people’s homes. I panel review was unnecessary, I respect its decision, the welcome that. quality of its evidence and its professionalism. I cannot argue with the overpowering weight of clinical advice We are certainly seeing that trend in Hartlepool. The on the matter. Momentum programme is reconfiguring more and more In the IRP report, paragraph 4.8.5, entitled “Clinical services that were once the preserve of the hospital, views—the need for change”, stated: putting them into the local clinic, closer to people. I met a man in Hartlepool recently who had had his toes “There was a common view across all staff that no change is amputated. Just a few years ago, that would have required not an option. Staff are keen to work with the Trust management and to embrace clinically-driven change”— an operation in a hospital and a lengthy stay there for recovery and recuperation. The man I met had had the “clinically-driven change” is a hugely important phrase— procedure carried out in the operating theatre of his GP ″that secures the best outcome for patients, staff and the Trust…There clinic in the Headland surgery, and he was home in a was widespread support for a new modern hospital, north of the matter of hours. We shall see much more of that. Tees, concentrating on providing high quality hospital services that cannot be more appropriately provided in local communities”. The newly opened One Life Hartlepool centre, built as part of the Momentum programme, is equipped to The IRP also stated: carry out minor skeletal surgery and will do orthodontic “This is not simply a matter of recruiting additional staff. work that was previously the preserve of hospitals. GP Specialist skills can only be acquired and maintained with sufficient ‘throughput’ of cases. Since safety standards can only be expected surgeries increasingly take blood samples on-site rather to rise in the future, the current model of service provision is than requiring the patient to attend hospital. Again, unsustainable.” that is welcome. In the concluding remarks in the report, the chair of the However, we also have to admit that increases in IRP—a GP and the chair of an acute NHS Trust in medical specialisation, coupled with a wider and more Nottingham—stated in his personal recollections that: miraculous range of things that can now be achieved “The clinicians were virtually unanimous in their desire to through science and surgery, mean that many surgical work on one site. This was not based on their personal convenience procedures are now reserved for doctors and nurses but on clinical evidence and a belief that a real and sustainable with very specialised skills, as opposed to those in improvement in patient care would take place.” general medicine and surgery. I want the best possible services for Hartlepool. The In preparing for this debate, I have been in contact ideal situation if I lived in Utopia would be a hospital in with the Royal College of Surgeons of England, and I the very centre of Hartlepool that provided the widest am grateful for its help. As part of its best clinical possible range of specialisms. In the real world, however, practice, for acute general hospitals that provide the full I realise that the desire to see a hospital serving the 215WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 216WH people of Hartlepool, Stockton, Easington and Sedgefield The Minister may say that the independent NHS was driven by clinicians, based on clinical evidence and board will be important when it comes to resolving fuelled by a belief that patient outcomes would improve tensions or contradictions, and that its decisions will be and health inequalities diminish as a result. based on clinical views and free from political interference. To be fair, I think that the present Government That would be welcome, but does that mean that the recognise that, too. In a recent answer to my written NHS commissioning board will have responsibility for parliamentary question on whether he would implement resource allocation? The White Paper certainly suggests the recommendations of the Darzi review, the Minister so, saying that the board will replied: “allocate and account for NHS resources.” “The recommendations of the Darzi review of acute health In that context, I think that “resources” means services north of the River Tees were superseded by the advice revenue resources, but does it also mean capital provided by the Independent Reconfiguration Panel to the then resources? What would happen if the NHS commissioning Secretary of State for Health in December 2006. This advice board recommended that, for hospital services north formed the basis of the ‘Momentum: Pathways to Healthcare of the Tees, it was clinically essential that the programme’ which was developed by the local national health recommendations of the independent reconfiguration service to provide a new health care system for the people of panel were implemented? Would the board’s decisions Stockton, Hartlepool, Easington and Sedgefield.”—[Official Report, overrule ministerial priorities? 28 June 2010; Vol. 512, c. 407W.] The Minister may respond along the lines that the From that response, it seems that the Minister accepts independent NHS board will take decisions out of the that clinical pressures were driving and pushing this hands of politicians, but the White Paper contradicts matter. that. It states on page 33 that In that context, will the Minister confirm that the “The Secretary of State will have a statutory role as arbiter of proposed new hospital entirely meets the criteria set out last resort in disputes that arise between NHS commissioners and in a letter of 20 May from the NHS chief executive to local authorities, for example in relation to major service changes.” Monitor—criteria that are about ensuring that all service In other words, the reconfiguration of hospital services, changes are led by clinicians and patients, not driven which can cause bitterness and fear in many communities, from the top down? Taking that point further, will the as it has in mine, can still be decided by the Secretary of Minister explain how the Secretary of State reconciles State. That does not take politics out of changes to his policy of clinical-led decisions with the pledge made hospital services at all. during the general election campaign that Hartlepool I ask the Minister to address a number of other hospital would not close if a Conservative Government points. Does he accept that the manner in which the were elected and a Tory MP returned for the seat of project was assessed within Whitehall—in both the Hartlepool? What clinical evidence was there to back Department of Health and the Treasury—under the Labour that pledge? Is that not an example of top-down meddling Government was entirely in accordance with appropriate by politicians, regardless of clinical evidence? Is it now procedures? Does he accept that the project was appraised Government policy for the configuration of health services by officials in an entirely appropriate and rigorous to be contingent on voting behaviour, rather than clinical manner, and that that was not done a couple of weeks decisions? before the general election, but had been planned and Will the Minister provide further clarity about his prepared for several years? Hartlepool borough council written answer to me, to which I referred a moment ago, has written to the Secretary of State on the matter. The on whether Darzi should be implemented? If he believes letter was signed by the chairman of the council and the that Hartlepool hospital should remain open, will he leaders of the Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat provide additional support and resources to ensure that groups; they have yet to receive a response, so I would it can remain open, and that services will return to it? be grateful if the Minister could expand on what he said However, this is not just about money; it is about the in the earlier debate. way in which services are provided and how they are Will the Minister publish the revised criteria and linked. assessment considerations on which the project failed, Since the Adjournment debate of 5 July, and our so that we can see what is to be done to address the subsequent meeting with the Minister, the NHS White matter? Why are Hartlepool and North Tees rejected, Paper has been published. It rightly pledges to put when Liverpool and Epsom are not? patients at the heart of services and decisions regarding services. I welcome that. The phrase used in the White The Minister of State, Department of Health (Mr Simon Paper is Burns): I might be able to help the hon. Gentleman on that point, so that he need not get confused. As he is a “nothing about me without me”. diligent Member, I need only remind him that in our The White Paper also asks for an enhanced local voice; debate on 5 July—in column 150 in Hansard—I went again, that is welcome. However, I would be interested into great detail in answering that question. I am afraid to hear the Minister’s view on what should happen if that the situation has not changed since then. That was there is a stark difference between what the professionals the accurate answer then, and it is the accurate answer want and what the public want—if surgeons and clinical today. teams say that specialism requires a concentration of services on a central site, but local communities say, as Mr Wright: I thank the Minister for that clarification. they often do, that they like the status quo and that Some of my hon. Friends might probe him a bit further change is unwelcome? How does the Minister envisage on that point, because we are unclear about a number such tension being resolved, given that such views are of aspects. Let me return to the point about the appropriate often polar opposites? and rigorous procedure that took place in Whitehall. 217WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 218WH

[Mr Iain Wright] not least the fact that people have been waiting for the hospital to be rebuilt for well over 10 years and that has My recollection might be incorrect, so the Minister may not yet happened. I sincerely hope that those matters have to provide further clarification. Will he confirm will be reviewed. Will the Minister write to me over the whether a letter of direction, which would be needed if next month with some assurances about the way forward? the permanent secretary was unhappy with the decision I have two final points to make. I know that others taken by the Secretary of State, was needed for the wish to speak in this debate. The hon. Member for proposed new hospital? The decision has left Hartlepool Wansbeck knows of my concerns because they have and the surrounding communities high and dry. There come up in discussions between ourselves. The issue of will be no new world-class hospital, the plans for which care and how it is provided in Northumberland and, I were based on clinical decisions, and no money to suspect, throughout the north-east has been a nightmare upgrade existing facilities. I fear that we will soon have of bureaucracy and difficulty. Tremendous attention to one hospital serving the people of my constituency, and detail is required to improve the situation. Regrettably, that hospital will be in North Tees. That is completely at present, care is provided by a multitude of providers, unsuitable for the task, and for the people of Hartlepool, and the budgets are split and differentiated between who will find it appallingly hard to travel to. individual providers and individual utilisers. I accept We have no clear direction from the Government on that a commission has been set up to review care, but it the future of hospital services; there is only a vague must consider how provision is made, particularly in sense of having been told, “You are on your own; you rural areas such as ours. I blame no particular Government can do what you like.” That is part of a worrying for the problem because it has developed over a period pattern emerging in the north-east. First, there was the of time, but this is an area that clearly needs review. future jobs fund, then the working neighbourhoods Let me finish on an issue that relates to the way in fund, then the decision on the hospital, and then the which we review the provision of health care. We need scrapping of Building Schools for the Future. The to ensure that the healthy choice is the easy choice. My people of Hartlepool and the surrounding areas are constituent, Dr Steven Ford, who ran against me as an worth more than that and deserve better. I hope that the independent candidate in the recent general election, Minister will acknowledge that this afternoon and clarify said that we must be living in a very odd world when, in how we will provide help, support and additional resources the middle of an obesity epidemic, the European Union to improve hospital services in North Tees and Hartlepool. cuts the price of sugar by more than one third. Therefore, we are trying to address the problem of obesity at the 2.51 pm same time as we are cutting the sugar price. It seems to Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): I thank the hon. me that we would benefit greatly if we addressed that Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright) for allowing me to issue in future. speak in this debate. I accept and acknowledge that I am grateful for having the opportunity to speak in fundamentally he secured the debate to raise issues in this debate. I do not need any specific replies from the relation to the role of hospitals in Hartlepool. However, Minister today, but I hope that he will write to me in as it is a debate on hospital services in the north-east due course about the points that I have raised. and as I am the Member of Parliament for the largest constituency in the north-east and have responsibility for many rural areas that cover well over 1,000 square 2.56 pm miles, I want to lay down a few markers in relation to Grahame M. Morris (Easington) (Lab): I am pleased the hospital services in my area. to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Sheridan, in this The Government are engaged in a widespread review important debate. I congratulate my hon. Friend the of everything from care to hospital facilities, but rural Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright) on securing this areas—I know that I speak for other Members who debate on hospital services in the north-east. In my represent rural areas—have to be treated and reviewed remarks, I intend to focus on the future of hospital in a slightly different way. In my constituency, I have a services for my constituents in the south of Easington wonderful hospital, which was opened as a general who, until June of this year, were looking forward to the hospital by the former Prime Minister Tony Blair, and benefits of a new acute hospital at Wynyard, which which has been consistently downgraded over the past would have served local people in five parliamentary few years. That is a source of great upset to the people constituencies: Stockton North, Stockton South, of Hexham. The hon. Member for Wansbeck (Ian Hartlepool, Easington and Sedgefield. This state-of-the-art Lavery) and others will know of the issues relating to hospital costing £464 million was granted approval in the proposed Cramlington hospital, which is still in the March following many years of preparation and pipeline. I have been told by health officials in the local consultation, with health professionals and clinicians primary care trust and the strategic health authority working on the ground. The original concept for the that there is no difficulty with the hospital going ahead new hospital was set out by Professor Sir Ara Darzi, because the funding is assured. Although health has not and proposals by an independent reconfiguration panel been as affected as other areas, will the Minister none were clear in recommending a new hospital to replace the less reassure me that the hospital has survived the the existing provision spread across two sites, 14 miles funding reviews? apart. In dealing with rural services, let me turn to the issue It is evident that the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS of the rebuilding of Haltwhistle hospital. Again, it Foundation Trust will struggle to continue to provide takes the best part of an hour and a half to get there high-quality health care as we move forward into the from Newcastle and the various hospitals there. There future with the existing, ageing configuration. I commend have been significant difficulties relating to the hospital, the work of health care professionals and ancillary 219WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 220WH support staff at the University hospital of North Tees Grahame M. Morris: I want to continue on this point, and the University hospital of Hartlepool, without because the Minister is reinforcing my point in relation whose dedication and commitment our health service to the costs. He said on 5 July that the cost of “operating could not function. the new facility” was £5.035 billion over the 35-year North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust period that is the hospital’s life span. He continued: has worked hard to meet key targets—Labour’s targets—to “but the cost of repairing defects, maintaining, operating and ensure a high quality and universal standard of health providing services from the two existing buildings was care for all the people in its catchment area. More than £5.24 billion.”—[Official Report, 5 July 2010; Vol. 513, c. 150.] 90% of outpatients and 85% of inpatients wait no more Therefore, although it was not immediately clear, is that than 18 weeks from being referred by their GP to incorrect? receiving their first treatment in hospital, which is no Mr Burns: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for mean achievement. The trust has also consistently managed giving way again. Let me just clarify it for him. The to see, treat, admit or discharge 98% of patients within figures were £5,000,033,000 and £5,000,024,000, not four hours of arriving in accident and emergency. Like £5,000,240,000. services across England and Wales, the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust guarantees to see Grahame M. Morris: Okay, thanks. The cost difference patients within two weeks if a GP thinks that they may is very marginal, when we factor in things such as NHS have cancer. That final target, the cancer guarantee, has inflation and so on. The Minister has already given been kept by the Minister, although my right hon. some clarification, but my point is that by not continuing Friend the Member for Leigh (Andy Burnham) had to with the proposed new hospital the cost of delivering work hard for that victory. If the proposed hospital at health care may in fact— Wynyard does not go ahead and our services must Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): I have to say that the continue to be delivered from inadequate and increasingly figures that the Minister has just given in his intervention outdated hospital buildings, I have a real concern that on my hon. Friend seem to make the Government’s patients will suffer. Within the context of the proposed position even worse than I thought it was. What we are new hospital, I want to touch briefly on NHS targets. actually talking about is a margin of difference of The Government’s principal argument against targets £11,000—based on the figures that he has just given us has been eroded since they accepted the two-week cancer here in Westminster Hall—across the 35-year operating guarantee, so why can they not admit that targets are programme. Now, I am not sure if that is actually important to ensure a universal quality of health care? correct. I wonder if it is a bit like the lists given out by Hospital services in the north-east have offered high- the Secretary of State for Education; the figures and the quality standardised care during the past decade. As I numbers keep altering on us. But based on the figures have mentioned, my concern is that, if North Tees and that the Minister has just given us, we are talking about Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is forced to deliver £11,000, and that is the cost of not having a brand care to patients from two existing and increasingly spanking new state-of-the-art hospital to serve five outdated hospital buildings, the removal of targets that constituencies: my own constituency; the constituencies would have guaranteed a certain level of patient care of my hon. Friends the Members for Stockton North, will put patient care at risk. It is possible to foresee a for Hartlepool and for Sedgefield (Phil Wilson), and the scenario whereby, in comparison with those areas where constituency of the hon. Member for Stockton South the Government have allowed the construction of new (James Wharton). hospital buildings to go ahead, the services provided in North Tees and Hartlepool—in much more challenging Grahame M. Morris: There seems to be some confusion circumstances—could fall behind the standard of care here with the figures. However, in my mind, perhaps in offered by the new hospitals elsewhere in the country. the minds of other Labour Members and certainly in I remember that the Minister had some difficulty the minds of the good people of Easington, it only over the figures that were quoted when he responded to shows what a bad decision it was. I do not believe that it my hon. Friend the Member for Stockton North (Alex is being made for the stated financial reasons, but Cunningham) on 5 July, as has already been mentioned; instead seems to form part of some type of idelologically- perhaps there was some confusion over the figures. I based course of action taken by the coalition Government. would appreciate it if the Minister could clarify this It is clear now that the saving of £464 million—the point, because the record was corrected and I am taking figure that was widely quoted to the media at the time these comments from Hansard, concerning the evaluation of the hospital’s cancellation—is completely misleading. of the relative costs of providing health care with and At some point, I hope that we will also get to the without the new hospital. The corrected version of bottom of the true costs to the taxpayer of cancelling Hansard reads as follows: and pulling the plug on this new hospital development, “Over the appraisal period of 35 years”— which, as my hon. Friend the Member for Hartlepool has indicated, has been in the planning since 2005. that is, the life span of the hospital— On 2 May 2010, in an interview with Andrew Marr, “the total net present cost—that is, the whole-life cost—of building, maintaining and operating the new facility was £5.033 billion, but the right hon. Member for Witney (Mr Cameron) talked the cost of repairing”— passionately about how a responsible society should protect the vulnerable. This is what he said: Mr Burns: I want to reassure the hon. Gentleman, “The test of a good society is you look after the elderly, the with regard to the changes made by Hansard, that there frail, the vulnerable, the poorest in our society. And that test is was no confusion on my behalf at all. The Hansard even more important in difficult times, when difficult decisions scribe printed it wrongly and I sought for it to be have to be taken, than it is in better times.” corrected. That is what happened—no confusion on my I am sure that many of my colleagues knew at the time, part. as I did, that that statement lacked substance. 221WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 222WH

[Grahame M. Morris] thought-out project that would improve health care for people who have suffered a legacy of some of the worst Easington is one of the most deprived areas in the health outcomes in Britain. United Kingdom. Health inequalities still play a large role in Easington; there is shorter life expectancy and 3.9 pm poorer quality of life. Life expectancy in Easington is a Phil Wilson (Sedgefield) (Lab): Thank you for giving full two years lower than the national average. The me the opportunity to speak in the debate, Mr Sheridan. proposed new hospital was part of a clinically-led strategic I want to make a business case for the Wynyard hospital reorganisation of health provision for one of the poorest based on its effect on the local economy, because the areas in Britain, which would have gone some way to Government’s decision is short-sighted. The new hospital tackling some of the worst health outcomes in the was to be sited at Wynyard park—a 700-acre business country. park owned by Wynyard Park Ltd that has created The latest figures that I have been able to access are more than 1,000 jobs in the past five years. Fifty-five the 2007 statistics on standardised mortality rates per companies have moved on to the site, and the hospital 100,000 population. They show clearly that death from would have been a catalyst for further private sector illness that is amenable to health care—that is, deaths investment and jobs. The Government go on all the that would have been preventable with health time about the need to rebalance the north-east’s economy, interventions—accounted for 256 deaths per 100,000 of and the Opposition agree with them. One way to do the population in the Easington local authority area, that and to help generate private sector investment compared to an average of only 195 across the rest of would be to invest in infrastructure and public sector England and Wales. For all causes, the figure for Easington hospitals, such as the one that the Government have is 713, compared to 582 for England and Wales. For cancelled. coronary heart disease, the figure is 112 per 100,000 in The cancellation of the hospital came on the back of Easington compared to 90 per 100,000 across the rest of the announcement about housing benefit. The former England and Wales. For cancer, the figure for Easington Chancellor said that we would take £250 million out of is 219 per 100,000 compared to 175 nationally. housing benefit through reforms, but the present Government want to take out £1.8 billion, which would Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): Does my greatly affect areas of County Durham. In addition, hon. Friend agree that one of the success stories in his just under 100 schemes have been cancelled under Building constituency has been the local primary care trust’s Schools for the Future, which is a problem not just for anti-smoking policy—the area has seen some of the education, but for construction jobs in the region. On largest drops in smoking anywhere in the country? Does top of that, the regional development agency is to be he also agree that the fact that that policy will be abolished. It has played a part in work on the Wynyard abolished too will add to the health inequalities in his site and the foundation hospital, and it has tried to constituency? attract investment into the area. James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): I understand Grahame M. Morris: That is a very good point and the hon. Gentleman’s terminology when he says that the the development of community health infrastructure RDA will be abolished, but is it not rather the case that has been integral to the proposal for the new hospital. It it will be replaced by more localised local enterprise is key to improving health and tackling health inequalities. partnerships, which will deliver better for local people I have some sympathy with the Minister, as it seems in communities across the north-east? that the proposed hospital suffered at the hands of the Phil Wilson: Actually, it is being abolished—that is Chief Secretary to the Treasury as he searched to save what is happening. around £2 billion in June. However, regardless of the changing economic circumstances that saw Britain’s I want to make two points about the RDA. First, it budget deficit improve by £10.4 billion from the original invested £2 million last year in attracting inward investment. pre-election forecasts, I do not believe that it is too late On the basis of that money, it attracted £720 million of for the Minister to give the proposed new hospital a inward investment into the north-east—82% of inward second chance, following a reconsideration of the evidence. investment into the region comes through the RDA, so if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Secondly, in preparation for the hospital development, the RDA organised meetings James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): Will the between the foundation hospital and overseas firms to hon. Gentleman give way? see whether those firms would come on to the site. Grahame M. Morris: If you do not mind, Mr Sheridan, Mr Kevan Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that the I will not give way to the hon. Gentleman. I know that person who had the vision for the Wynyard site was time is short, but I am almost finished and I think that John Hall? He saw the benefits of working with the the hon. Gentleman will have an opportunity later to RDA and others to develop it, and the hon. Member speak. I have almost completed my contribution. for Stockton South (James Wharton) was a big supporter As it stands, the future of health provision in North of his during the election. Tees and Hartlepool is being put at serious risk. The Phil Wilson: That is absolutely right. I heard John cancellation of the hospital at Wynyard can only ever Hall speak last Friday, and he also has a lot to say about be viewed as a delay—the need for it still exists. Whether the abolition of the RDA. it is a delay of five years, 10 years or longer, the people of Stockton North, Stockton South, Hartlepool, Easington Mr Iain Wright: My hon. Friend is making a convincing and Sedgefield need a new hospital. I invite the Minister economic case for the hospital. Does he agree that the to think in the long term and not to abandon a well £464 million in investment that was to be provided 223WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 224WH could also provide about 550 apprenticeship opportunities Phil Wilson: We are not saying that we should do that in the construction industry and elsewhere? The at every opportunity, but when we spend public money, Government say that they want private sector-led growth we should take the opportunity to ensure that it pump- and recovery, and I agree with that approach, but primes the local economy. That is what the Wynyard scrapping the hospital and cancelling Building Schools scheme was bound to do. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman for the Future will mean that private sector construction does not think that the public sector is of any value, but industry jobs are not maintained. Is that not a devastating Opposition Members do. blow for the north-east? Guy Opperman: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? Phil Wilson: That is absolutely right. Over the past 13 years, the number of apprenticeships in the region Phil Wilson: No, several other Members want to get has gone up astronomically. In 1997, in my constituency, in on the debate. there were fewer than 30 apprenticeships, but there are more than 700 today. Obviously, anything that curtails Figures have been bandied about, such as the £5 billion the growth of apprenticeships in the future should be and the £11,000 difference, which was actually frowned on. £11 million—the Minister corrected that error, and I noticed it, too, and went up to correct it. That £11 million, As far as other jobs are concerned, the hospital over 35 years, means the difference between a new would be a catalyst for inward investment and private hospital and a hospital that is falling down. Surely we sector investment. Wynyard Park Ltd worked closely could have found that money somewhere to help to with the hospital, local universities and further education maintain the hospital. colleges because it realised that high-value medical and other research jobs would come to the area. The company I want to end with a question to the Minister. Three estimated that 12,500 jobs would be created on top of or four weeks ago, we brought down the foundation the 3,000 jobs that the hospital would create. There trust’s chief executive and the chair for a meeting, and I would be 12,500 private sector jobs in the area on the was pleased that the Minister could meet us. I took back of the hospital development—just think of the away from that meeting the view that the Department Government’s income tax and national insurance take would look again at the development if the trust could and all the other benefits that they would pick up on the come up with a credible scheme or initiative to get basis of that growth in the local economy. Public sector money from the private sector. If all the figures stacked investment would kick-start growth in the private sector. up, would the Department underwrite such a proposal? The hospital would also have become an anchor We are talking about a foundation hospital. Are we tenant—a tenant that attracted a lot of other investment saying that foundation hospitals will be around for to Wynyard. In addition, it would have brought greater ever? Things might change—Governments might change, investment in infrastructure; the roads and transport policy might change—but the hospital must still be networks would have improved, which would have brought funded. Are the Government prepared to underwrite more businesses to the park. This is not just about the any financial arrangements with the banks and the hospital, as great as that would be. My family and I private sector? have used the North Tees and Hartlepool hospitals, and On that point, I will sit down and listen to what other they are great hospitals, but it is time to replace them Members have to say. The proposed hospital is a missed and to have a new hospital. The credible case put by the opportunity for growth in not only the public sector, new hospital’s designers was that the development would but the private sector in the region. be not only a hospital, but a catalyst for growth in the private sector economy in the south Durham and Tees 3.19 pm valley area. That case has been completely ignored. I really get annoyed when people try to say that the Alex Cunningham (Stockton North) (Lab): I am grateful project was worked out on the back of a fag packet a to have another opportunity to discuss the need for a few weeks before the general election. I have been 21st century hospital to meet the needs of my constituents attending meetings on the issue since I was elected in and those throughout the north-east; however, I shall be 2007, and meetings were going on before then. We need briefer than I was the last time I spoke on the matter. the development to happen. It was good to hear my hon. Friends talk about The Government’s proposals prove what the Prime specific issues affecting the health of people in their Minister said during the election campaign when he constituencies, and to hear my hon. Friend the Member pointed out that the north-east would feel the brunt of for Sedgefield (Phil Wilson) outline the benefits that the the cuts. He was right to say that we rely too much on hospital could bring over and above health. I want to public sector jobs, so the Government should give us start with an outline of the health picture in the borough the opportunity to change that, but that opportunity of Stockton-on-Tees. Things have improved in recent was taken away from us when the hospital programme years, but much still needs to be done. According to the was cancelled. NHS health profile for 2010, which has just dropped through my letter box, in Stockton-on-Tees, life expectancy Guy Opperman: The hon. Gentleman asserts that the for men living in the most deprived areas is still nearly area should be given the opportunity to address the 12 years less than for men living in the least deprived lack of private sector jobs, but that that would be done areas. In relation to early deaths from heart disease and by spending more public sector money. We cannot stroke, survival rates have steadily improved over the address the deficit on every single occasion by creating years: from 160 deaths per 100,000 people in 1998 to private sector jobs through public sector spending, which about 80 per 100,000 people in 2007. That is half the is surely the basis of the hon. Gentleman’s hospital number of deaths and there is much credit to our argument. hospitals’ care and to the local PCTs and health 225WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 226WH

[Alex Cunningham] is a worthy champion of his constituency and the region, with respect to a range of matters including programmes. However, we are still well behind the health, education and economic regeneration. He spoke England average in our progress in relation to early passionately about the need to deal with the health deaths from heart disease, stroke and cancer. inequalities that blight this country, and the problems in What do the decisions made by the coalition Government his constituency in particular, as well as the need for mean for the north-east and people’s health? A new excellence in health care in the north-east, including the hospital has been scrapped. That is a huge blow, and it new hospital that is at the heart of the debate. is still not clear why our hospital was chosen, while Like all hon. Members who have spoken, I pay tribute others have been given the go-ahead. We have had years to the staff of the NHS, whose work for and commitment of planning, as other hon. Members described, and that to the people of the north-east and the rest of the was discussed in detail in my Adjournment debate on country is excellent. It was striking to hear the personal 5 July. I accept that the decision has now been made, but experience that my hon. Friend the Member for Hartlepool it is not clear what will happen. There is also uncertainty had in his local hospital, and what excellent care he and for patients in the scrapping of Labour’s promises. The his family received. I pay tribute to all hon. Members coalition have scrapped the 18-week waiting list target who are present today, including my hon. Friends the and the 48-hour GP access target and downgraded the Members for Stockton North (Alex Cunningham), for four-hour accident and emergency waiting time target. Easington (Grahame M. Morris), for Wansbeck (Ian There is also great uncertainty for people who work Lavery), for Sedgefield (Phil Wilson), for North Tyneside in the NHS locally, who will commission services in the (Mrs Glindon), and for North Durham (Mr Jones). I future. I met Dr John Canning, a member of the Cleveland know that they all feel strongly and passionately about local medical committee, and discussed, among other the issue. things, the re-organisation of the NHS and in particular I want to comment on the remarks of my hon. Friend GP commissioning. We await detailed plans, but I am the Member for Easington. He put patient care and dismayed that the Government, who in opposition safety, which is what the debate is really about, at the promised, “no more pointless reorganisations”are presiding centre of his remarks. He set out his concerns about over the biggest structural overhaul of the NHS in what will happen to patients who are left with the two 60 years. The NHS needs stability; it does not need to be hospitals, where they will now be treated. Will the forced to deal with a huge and unnecessary politically- abolition of targets affect care and safety? That is an motivated structural upheaval at a time of significant important issue, which I hope the Minister will deal financial pressure on public services. with. My hon. Friend also raised the important issue of The new GP commissioners will be responsible for finances and how they stack up. I would like to know in ensuring that their patients get the best possible health particular whether the difference in cost between building care in the best possible facilities. I just wonder how a new hospital and repairing and maintaining the two is they will make those decisions. Perhaps they will send £11,000 or £11 million. I am sure that the Minister will patients many miles to a new hospital with all the clarify that. services required by the patient close together and under one roof. Alternatively, will they utilise the services at Mr Burns: If it will help the shadow Minister I shall their local hospital, where the care might be very good clarify the point yet again. The reason the question ever but the facilities could be less than first class? Some came into the public domain was that on the morning patients make a positive choice to travel to neighbouring of the previous debate the right hon. Member for Leigh hospitals, which have the most modern and up-to-date (Andy Burnham) incorrectly put out a press statement facilities, and could be expected increasingly to shun saying that the building of a new hospital would be local services because they believe, rightly or wrongly, cheaper than the maintenance and upkeep of the two that in that way they will get better treatment. existing hospitals, over a 35-year period. The figures, The strategy outlined by the foundation trust remains which Hansard originally printed wrongly—hence the the right one. When Stockton-on-Tees borough council correction—showed a difference of £11 million. It was met, every member in the chamber voted to ask the cheaper by £11 million to keep the two existing hospitals. Minister to review the decision; that included the The point was merely to show that the right hon. Conservative council leader. So can we look forward to Gentleman was factually incorrect. a new hospital? The answer could still be yes if it is the true and honest will of the Government. Detailed work Diana R. Johnson: I am grateful to the Minister for on developing a private finance initiative to meet the correcting what he said earlier, when he talked about costs of the new hospital is well under way, but there the figure of £11,000. We understand that the figure is remains great uncertainty about whether there will be £11 million. I suggest that in the great scheme of things, Government support. If the foundation trust completes if the difference in cost between maintaining and repairing the work and satisfies Monitor, its financial regulator, two hospitals and building a state-of-the-art new one is that it has a robust project that will work, will the £11 million, Labour Members might think that it is Department of Health approve it and ensure that the £11 million that should be spent. people of my constituency and the surrounding ones get the hospital they need and deserve? Mr Iain Wright: I just want to make two points. First, I am sure that it was an oversight, but I point out that my hon. Friend the Member for Gateshead (Ian Mearns) 3.24 pm is here. In his short time in the House he has been a Diana R. Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): fantastic representative of that fair area. On the point I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Hartlepool about net present values and appraisals of the hospital, (Mr Wright) on securing the debate this afternoon. He my hon. Friend may know more than I do about it, 227WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 228WH but—whatever the talk of £11,000 or £11 million—are taking up their position in Government. It is clear that the wider savings to the taxpayer from better health the Treasury and other Departments reviewed every outcomes and from ensuring that people do not rely on significant spending decision made between 1 January hospitals for protracted periods also part of the appraisal and the general election on 6 May. The proposal for the system? Are they taken into account, or is it a matter of new hospital scheme, which received Government approval the narrow costs of maintaining existing or new sites? only in March, was considered properly during that review, but there are questions about why that particular Diana R. Johnson: I apologise to my hon. Friend the hospital project was cancelled and others were allowed Member for Gateshead for not mentioning him; I know to proceed when my right hon. Friend had made it clear that he takes a particular interest in the issue. that the hospital was a top priority for the NHS. I hope that the Minister will explain the rationale for the decision that was made about the hospital, and Mr Burns: As I said to the hon. Member for Hartlepool, whether the cost-benefit analysis included the savings if the hon. Lady studies carefully our debate of 5 July, that would come about from a healthier population as I am sure she has—I do not usually recommend that with better access to health services. I am sure that he people read my speeches—she will see that column 150 gives will explain it. My hon. Friend the Member for Easington in detail the answer to that question. also mentioned health inequalities. It is important to ensure that patients and communities have access to Diana R. Johnson: The Minister will be pleased to high-quality in-patient facilities when they need them. know that I took great pleasure in reading his response My hon. Friend the Member for Sedgefield argued to that debate, but I am still not satisfied with the compellingly on business grounds that the hospital could explanation given. There is room for further explanation help lead the regeneration of the area. He described the why that particular hospital was chosen. hospital as an anchor tenant that could attract up to 12,500 private sector jobs, a telling point for an area of the country that wants to attract private sector business Mr Burns: What precisely does not satisfy her in that and stand on its own two feet. He made a compelling explanation? What in particular causes her concern? case. My hon. Friend also said how good the care that he and his family had received from the local NHS was. Diana R. Johnson: I am particularly concerned—I think that my hon. Friend the Member for Hartlepool Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): It is important that mentioned this—about the clear view of all the clinical the Minister has now clarified that the figure is not professionals—[Interruption.] I do not have the speech £11,000, as he stated earlier, but £11 million. I am sorry, in front of me, but considering that the Secretary of but the difference between the figures that he gave was State for Health talks continually about the need for in fact £11,000, and I hope that the record will show doctors and clinicians to be in the driving seat when that. That said, we now know that the figure is £11 million decisions are made in the NHS, and considering that, as over 35 years, or £314,000 a year, the lack of which will my hon. Friend said, it is clear that the clinicians and deprive the people in those five constituencies of a health professionals involved were very centred on having brand spanking new hospital facility that could add that one hospital, why have those views been suddenly significant value over that period to detract from the pushed to one side? Will the Minister explain that, given additional cost. the coalition Government’s new approach of saying that clinicians are at the centre of decision making? If Diana R. Johnson: My hon. Friend makes an important so, I will be pleased. point about the cost over 35 years. Also, on the cost of cancelling the project, how much My hon. Friend the Member for Stockton North, money was spent getting to the point of preparing to who I understand is a former non-executive director of proceed? What yearly maintenance and repair bill does the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, the Minister think will now have to be paid for the two spoke clearly about the need for a new hospital. I know hospitals? What is the coalition Government’s plan for that he also tabled early-day motion 273, which attracted in-patient health facilities for that community? What a great deal of support, to request a review of the does he see as the future for either a new hospital or a coalition decision about the hospital. He, too, made an different style of health service provision in the area? important case about health inequalities and why the What is his thinking? It is certainly not clear. hospital is needed. He also pointed out that structural The Office for Budget Responsibility’s projections, to upheaval in the NHS at a time when we are facing such which one of my hon. Friends referred, show that the financial problems is a recipe for chaos. What is the actual deficit was lower than was projected before the future for the people represented by him and our hon. general election. We have also seen higher-than-expected Friends? Again, I look to the Minister to explain the growth figures this week, which hon. Members might coalition Government’s thinking about what will happen find surprising. I ask the Minister to reconsider the to the needs of communities in the north-east. economic impact of refusing to follow through on the I do not wish to rehearse the history of this £464 million decision to build the hospital, taking into account what hospital project—my right hon. Friend the former Secretary my hon. Friend the Member for Sedgefield said about of State made it clear that it was a top priority for the the potential for the hospital to be an anchor tenant to NHS, and agreed in March this year that it should go attract important private sector businesses and jobs. I ahead—but it had been in planning for a long time. It know that the coalition Government are committed to was not just signed off close to a general election. As we helping the private sector grow us out of our present have heard, the coalition Government decided to cancel financial situation, so will the Minister reconsider? The the hospital project within the first few weeks after range of Members present in the Chamber shows a 229WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 230WH

[Diana R. Johnson] rated either good or excellent for the quality of their services. That gave the north-east the highest score in clear commitment to ensuring that the people of the England for the third year running. north-east get their fair share of resources and the kind Among those hospital trusts, Gateshead Health NHS of hospital service that they so richly deserve. Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Northumbria Healthcare 3.37 pm NHS Foundation Trust all received double excellent The Minister of State, Department of Health (Mr Simon scores for both quality of services and the use of resources. Burns): I congratulate the hon. Member for Hartlepool The high quality of services across the north-east is (Mr Wright) on securing this debate. As he and his hon. down to the skill, dedication, creativity and sheer hard Friends will know—as the shadow Minister rightly work of the thousands of NHS staff across the region. I said, they are here in force—we have had one, more want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to them brief, debate on this subject, and I have had the pleasure and wish them well in their continued success in providing of welcoming most of the Opposition Members present first-class care and services to the people of the north-east. to a meeting at my Department, where we had a useful exchange of views. Alex Cunningham: Would the Minister care to help us Before I address the main thrust of most of the get a hat trick, and to go from double to triple excellence, contributions, which is North Tees and Hartlepool, I by having a brand new hospital for the people of North will give a brief overview of the health situation in the Tees and Hartlepool? north-east and will refer to some of the comments made by my hon. Friend the Member for Hexham (Guy Mr Burns: I admire the hon. Gentleman for his Opperman). persistence. If he could have a little patience, I shall talk about the points made by my hon. Friend the Member Earlier this month, as hon. Members know, we published for Hexham, and will then come on to the hospital that our vision for the national health service in the White has so dominated the debate. Paper, “Equity and excellence: Liberating the NHS”, which signals the beginning of the most profound reform My hon. Friend mentioned Northumbria Healthcare in the NHS’s 62-year history. By taking power away NHS Foundation Trust and its proposal to build a from Ministers and civil servants in Whitehall and £75-million emergency care hospital in Cramlington. I handing it to patients and clinicians, we shall transform am advised that planning permission is currently being the health service from the ground up. sought for the proposed site and that further development work is under way. I hope that that goes some way to Diana R. Johnson: Will the Minister give way? answering the point that he raised. I will make sure that I write to him during the next week or so on the other Mr Burns: I thought that the shadow Minister might points that he mentioned to explain all the outstanding want to intervene. issues. Diana R. Johnson: I am intrigued. I read carefully the I shall now turn to the review of the hospital in North coalition agreement, which said that there would be no Tees and Hartlepool. The hon. Member for Hartlepool top-down reorganisation of the NHS and mentioned specifically raised the Government’s decision to cancel having elected representation on primary care trust North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust’s boards, which I understand are now to be scrapped. proposal for a new hospital building. As I stated in the Will he explain why, in a few weeks, the Government House in our last debate on this matter on 5 July, the have completely ditched that proposal, which was in the original proposal for a publicly funded capital scheme coalition agreement? received Treasury approval in March this year, in the run-up to the general election. In view of the shocking Mr Burns: I will certainly explain that when I get on state of the public finances and the desperate need to to the specific point about Hartlepool because, reduce the £155 billion deficit, which I need not remind unfortunately, as will be unveiled to the shadow Minister Labour Members was left to us by their Government, and the hon. Member for Hartlepool, their comments the Treasury and other Departments reviewed every today are based on a false premise and show that they significant spending decision made under the previous do not fully understand the previous speeches on the Government between 1 January 2010 and the general issue, or the meeting we had at the Department of election on 6 May. Health. All will be unveiled shortly, and I hope that the shadow Minister will understand the reasoning behind Mr Iain Wright: I appreciate the Minister’s explanation the decision taken. and analysis, but if the Conservative-Liberal coalition As I was saying, as part of the vision, and the moving Government are concerned about the state of the public forward on the White Paper, we want every hospital finances and want to help drive down the debt quicker, trust in the country to become a foundation trust. We why was there not a moratorium on all capital spend in want to direct every aspect of the national health service the NHS, similar to that which the Secretary of State at delivering clinical outcomes that are as good as, or for Education put in place with regard to Building better than, any in the world. The north-east is already Schools for the Future? ahead of the game in many respects. In November 2009, it became the first and only region in England to have Mr Burns: Because, as I will again explain—this is all of its NHS hospital and mental health trusts awarded similar to what I said on 5 July—there were a range of foundation trust status. When the Care Quality Commission criteria determined and, as the hon. Gentleman is aware, reviewed hospital services in the region last year, every we took the decision on the hospital on the grounds of single hospital trust and every ambulance service was affordability and the foundation trust status of the 231WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 232WH hospital. If he will bear with me, I will explain that accept that the evidence suggests that over the 35-year again, so that even if he does not accept the decision, write-off time, or life of a hospital, there would be an he will, I hope, come to understand the reasoning estimated additional cost to the pubic purse of £5 million behind it. a year as a result of going down the PFI route? That On 17 June, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, my would cost the public purse an additional £175 million right hon. Friend the Member for Inverness, Nairn, over the lifetime of the hospital—money that would Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Alexander), announced otherwise go into patient care. to the House the decisions made following the Government’s review of spending commitments. The review cancelled Mr Burns: I have to say, in the kindest, gentlest way 12 projects, including the proposed new hospital at possible, that I fear we are beginning to go around in North Tees and Hartlepool. circles. I have given the corrected figures; confusion was The aim of granting foundation trust status is to give caused by what Hansard originally printed in the last bodies, such as the trust in the area represented by the debate on the subject, when I talked about the comparable hon. Member for Hartlepool, greater financial costs of maintaining the two hospitals that exist and independence. As well as being able to keep any internally building a new one. There was a marginal £11 million generated resources, foundation trusts also have greater difference. freedom to borrow from either the public or the private sector. As the proposals required an allocation of public Grahame M. Morris: Will the Minister give way? dividend capital from the Department of Health of more than £400 million, they were not consistent with Mr Burns: The hon. Gentleman must wait a minute, that financial independence. Treasury and Department because I have only 10 minutes in which to answer the of Health Ministers, including me, decided that, overall, questions that the hon. Member for Hartlepool asked. those factors—affordability within the changed economic The fact is that the decision was taken on affordability climate and the hospital’s foundation trust status—weighed and on the fact that the trust was a foundation trust and against the £458-million scheme for North Tees and so was free to seek other means by which to finance the Hartlepool more than they did against the other three project, rather than going to the Department for capital schemes at Liverpool, Epsom and St Helier, and the funding. Those decisions were taken because of the Royal National Orthopaedic hospital. For those reasons, tough economic situation we inherited after 6 May and the Government withdrew support for the scheme. the massive deficit the country was left with. My right Following our previous debate, I was pleased to meet, hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer rightly on 8 July, Paul Garvin—the chair and non-executive believes that that the No. 1 priority for sorting out the director of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation economy is to get rid of the deficit as quickly as Trust—together with the hon. Member for Hartlepool possible. Regrettably, tough decisions have to be taken and many of his hon. Friends now present. At that in the light of the dire economic situation. meeting, we discussed the possibility of the trust putting I must tell the hon. Members for Hartlepool, and for forward a new proposal under the private finance initiative. Kingston upon Hull North (Diana R. Johnson), in the As I have said repeatedly, I cannot in any way give any nicest terms possible, that it was their party’s guarantees that such a scheme would, or would not, be mismanagement of the economy and deficit that put us approved. Like any proposal, it would have to be considered in the current situation. We will have to take tough on its merits and in light of the economic climate at the decisions if we are to have a buoyant, vibrant economy time it was put forward for consideration and possible again. [Interruption.] If I might continue—[Interruption.] approval. However, the advice I would offer the foundation Jim Sheridan (in the Chair): Order. trust is the same advice I would offer any organisation putting forward such a proposal. Any scheme must reflect the changed realities of the national health service, Mr Burns: I will now answer some of the Opposition as set out in the White Paper. It would clearly have to Members’ questions. The hon. Member for Hartlepool demonstrate that it passed the four tests for reconfigurations asked whether there was an optimum population size set out by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State. for a hospital. I have consulted my officials, who tell me That is, it has to have the support of GP commissioners; that they are unaware of whether there is an official arrangements for public and patient engagement, including optimum population size for hospitals, so I will look with local authorities, must be strengthened; there must into the matter and write to him with a satisfactory be clear clinical evidence underpinning any proposal; answer as soon as possible, giving him any information and it must develop and support patient choice. we have. The economic and policy circumstances have changed I have already explained, including on 5 and 8 July, since the original proposals were put forward. It would the decision that governed the withdrawal of approval be advisable for the foundation trust to make sure that for the hospital. On the hon. Gentleman’s question any revised proposals reflect those changes, and can about the future of Hartlepool hospital, there are currently demonstrate that they have the full support of GPs, the no plans to close it, and that will remain the case unless public and the local authority. Any new proposal must the strategic health authority and the PCT propose be realistic, affordable and provide value for money. closure. There are no such proposals at present, as far as Iamaware. Grahame M. Morris: On the point about providing value for money, and the elephant in the room, which is Mr Iain Wright: I thank the Minister for that clarity. the implied advice that the appropriate route for a Given the proposals to abolish SHAs and PCTs, what foundation trust is a PFI initiative, does the Minister will happen after that? 233WH Hospital Services (North-East)27 JULY 2010 Hospital Services (North-East) 234WH

Mr Burns: It is perfectly reasonable for the hon. everything was awful, or that everything done by a Tory Gentleman to express concern and an interest in finding Government is wonderful; it is a mixture of the two. out what would happen. The answer is that that will One has to be mature enough to recognise that, as I do. depend on a combination of factors, including the The initiatives I will refer to took place in the past few national commissioning board that will be created, the years, so they were under a Labour Government. GP commissioners and the decision of the local health As the hon. Lady will know, 26 of the 46 Momentum community. If a local health community put forward business service change projects are under way as part any proposals to reconfigure health patterns in its area, of the “Momentum: Pathway to Healthcare”programme. it would have to go through all the procedures that are They consist of detailed service reviews, a revised pathway currently in place, and there will also be the changes based on a map of medicine, a value impact assessment that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will put and a service implementation plan. Examples of pathways in place to strengthen the community’s input into any reviewed to date include those on diabetes, respirology, proposed reconfiguration. The views and support of cardiology and haematology. There are also cross-cutting clinicians and GPs will be sought, and the focus will be business service change projects under way in the areas on improving outcomes and affordability, and including of work force and education, IT, and communications the views of local populations. and engagement. There is also an integrated care centre The hon. Gentleman will know from reading the at Hartlepool, with which the hon. Member for Hartlepool White Paper and the five related documents that have so will be familiar, and an integrated care centre at Billingham, far been published, which flesh out the details, that which I expect the hon. Member for Stockton North local authorities will have a greatly enhanced role in the (Alex Cunningham) and my hon. Friend the Member provision of health services and the maintenance of for Stockton South (James Wharton) will know. health care standards in the local community, and will not be restricted solely to their current role in public Diana R. Johnson: Will the Minister give way? health. Mr Burns: I will give way briefly for one final intervention. The hon. Gentleman asked whether the Government will implement the recommendations of the Darzi review Diana R. Johnson: I am pleased that the Minister has on acute health services north of the River Tees. The read out a list of initiatives introduced under a Labour recommendations of that review were superseded by Government, but I am interested in the coalition advice provided by the independent reconfiguration Government’s thinking on health service provision in panel to the then Secretary of State for Health in the north-east. What initiatives do they have planned December 2006. That advice formed the basis of the for dealing with the health inequalities that have been “Momentum: Pathways to Healthcare”programme, which mentioned by Members today? was developed by the local national health service to provide a new health care system for the people of Mr Burns: I thank the hon. Lady for giving me the Stockton, Hartlepool, Easington and Sedgefield. We opportunity once again to tell her that those are all understand that NHS Hartlepool and NHS Stockton- contained in the vision outlined by my right hon. Friend on-Tees will continue to work closely with North Tees the Secretary of State in the White Paper that was and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust on delivering published last week. It is a vision that puts patients at the wider Momentum programme, and will be discussing the heart of health care, so that they can have the best the options available with the trust. I hope that that health care of the highest quality. It is based on the goes some way towards satisfying the hon. Gentleman. premise that there should be a local, bottom-up system, The hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North rather than one in which politicians and bureaucrats in mentioned the generality of the provision of health Whitehall issue diktats and tell local communities with care, and new health care facilities, in the region, and I which they are unfamiliar what they should and should can reassure her by mentioning a number of initiatives not do. That is the way forward for enhancing health that have taken place in the Stockton-on-Tees area in care. recent years. Our vision is based not on processes that are distorted for party political purposes, but on the need to improve Diana R. Johnson: In recent years. outcomes so that people get better health care. The patient experience, whether in a hospital setting or Mr Burns: Yes, in recent years—there is no point in when a patient visits their GP, should be tailored to the hon. Lady sitting there and saying that because, to their needs, rather than to what the state tells them that be frank, anyone who takes a sensible approach to such they should have. That move will be spearheaded by matters will not try to score cheap party political points. GPs, through GP consortia, as it is they who are closest I recognise that for the past 13 years we have had not a to patients, know the health care that they need, and Conservative, but a Labour, Government, and I am know how patients can best access it. That will all be mature enough and comfortable enough within myself determined by improving outcomes and the patient to recognise that during those years advances in health experience in order to give the finest quality care that care were made. I am not one of those narrow politicians the country can provide—the highest in the world. That who say that, because there was not a Tory Government, is the answer to the hon. Lady’s question. 235WH 27 JULY 2010 Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer 236WH

Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer we assume they must have had all-party support. Therefore, further delay and a third consultation are frustrating. It is unclear to us what new, previously unavailable information 4pm might be obtained by the third consultation that was Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Fife) (Lab): not available from the first two processes. I hope that I welcome the opportunity to have my first Adjournment the Minister’s reply will clarify that point. debate under your chairmanship, Mr Sheridan. May I also make it clear that Labour Members do The regulations on the ship-to-ship transfer of oil as not oppose ship-to-ship transfers in principle? The Scottish cargo excite passions right along the Forth and elsewhere, Government and environmental bodies such as the in a way that the dry title of the debate might not credit. RSPB do not do so either. Furthermore, the Scottish Many of my constituents and those of my parliamentary Government cannot be accused of nimbyism when they colleagues feel strongly about the need for the regulations, are championing the use of other Scottish waters. However, as do all the local authorities in the east of Scotland and because oil spills into the sea are an environmental and a range of environmental organisations, such as the tourism disaster, we believe that ship-to-ship transfers Royal Society for the Protection of Birds—I should must be regulated. We only need to look at what happened declare that I am a member of the RSPB, as I am sure in the gulf of Mexico, or closer to home in the Shetland many colleagues are. islands with the Braer oil tanker a few years ago, to see what can happen to our environment when things go I place on record that I accept the assurance offered horribly wrong. by the Minister that he did not intend to give the impression that the Government were sneaking out the Regulations should ensure two things—that ship-to-ship U-turn on the regulations. Labour Members accept that transfers are carried out in the right and safest place; he was merely badly advised by his civil servants, who and, secondly, that they meet the current environmental either did not realise or did not inform him of the regulations. Therefore, long-standing good practice should hostility and anger that the Government’s announcement be permitted to continue, as in Scapa Flow, which is would cause in Scotland. sheltered, overseen by the harbour authority and in close proximity to pollution control equipment and The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport expert staff. However, potentially hazardous places such (Mike Penning): I was going to let the hon. Gentleman as the firth of Forth, which is open sea, uncontrolled have a free run, but the decision about when to lay the and with little if any nearby pollution control, should statutory instrument was not the result of ill advice by be prohibited. civil servants—it was my decision. Thursdays are full The 2010 regulations, in our opinion and that of the sitting days in the House. Every single MP who had shadow team before the general election, provided just shown an interest was e-mailed a letter and a copy of such an approach. They also provided a means to the statutory instrument. The measure was laid on a full ensure that the operations comply with current EU sitting day—Thursday—and was not sneaked out. I regulations, otherwise the Government would be at risk resent how that has just been portrayed. of committing an infraction, as I am sure the Minister will confirm. Thomas Docherty: I reiterate, I do not believe that the I do not believe—I suspect that colleagues would not Minister was trying to sneak the statutory instrument disagree—that the shipping industry should be allowed out by using the form of a written statement. I hope he to pursue the policy of self-regulation for which it is understands that many Scottish Members of Parliament lobbying. Before entering Parliament, I worked at a would have been grateful for the opportunity to have a nuclear power station and on the railways. No one in debate on the subject, perhaps after an oral statement, their right mind would argue for allowing either the so I very much welcome today’s opportunity. nuclear or the railway industries to self-regulate. Given Giving a background to the subject might be helpful. that we require independent, statutory regulation of The regulations followed a commitment by the previous those two industries, and given the risks involved in the Government after my hon. Friend the Member for activity that we are discussing, why should the shipping Edinburgh North and Leith (Mark Lazarowicz) withdrew industry believe that it should be allowed to self-regulate? his private Member’s Bill, the Environmental Protection I hope that the Minister will rule out that option today (Transfers at Sea) Bill. The Bill was itself the result of when he replies or, failing that, will expand on his an outcry in Scotland against proposals by Forth Ports thinking on self-regulation. to start carrying out ship-to-ship transfers in the firth of The shipping lobbyists and their supporters will complain Forth. The Bill followed the introduction of new Scottish about the cost to them of following the regulations. regulations, brought in by the Scottish Government in However, I understand that the cost is only about 2007, which dealt with those aspects of environmental £9 million a year, and the proposals would add only an regulations devolved to the Scottish Parliament. extra half-day’s sailing to reach Scapa Flow rather than Significantly, those regulations were supported by all the Forth. I do not believe that £9 million is a price too parties in the Scottish Parliament, including the Liberal high for the protection of our environment. Democrats and the Conservatives. As I have made clear, the subject concerns a great Let me clear up one myth that opponents of the number of my constituents. It is rare indeed when the regulations—the shipping lobby in particular—have been SNP Scottish Government, the Lib Dem and SNP-run perpetuating, namely, that the regulations have been Fife and Edinburgh councils, Labour MPs, and Labour, rushed in some way. The 2010 regulations took the SNP, Lib Dem and Conservative Members of the Scottish Department for Transport two years and two consultations Parliament all speak with one voice. That, I hope, to produce. They were eventually laid before Parliament demonstrates to the Minister the level of anger felt by in the so-called wash-up in April, to get through which many people in Scotland. 237WH Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer27 JULY 2010 Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer 238WH

Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): The RSPB is The counter to that early-day motion was early-day one of the big campaigners on the issue. My area motion 308, which was tabled by my hon. Friend the certainly experienced such campaigns when I was on Member for Edinburgh North and Leith and which the council, which was before 2007—that is how long attracted 28 signatures. Basically, it said that the House we have been talking about the matter. The RSPB welcomed the regulations, and asked for them to be stated that it could not understand why the regulations enforced. Curiously enough, however, the hon. Member could not go ahead. Was my hon. Friend aware of that? for Portsmouth South (Mr Hancock) seems to have signed both motions. Far be it from me to try to Thomas Docherty: My hon. Friend has been a champion establish why a Liberal Democrat might think that he on the issue in Edinburgh for quite a while. She is right can be both in favour of and against something that the RSPB is unhappy. I think it is fair to say that it simultaneously—I suspect that the Minister might have feels that its voice has not yet been heard in the debate. I more experience of that than I do. hope that the Minister will be able to give us a guarantee today that, as part of his consultation over the next six In conclusion, I welcome the opportunity to have this months, he will find an opportunity to meet with the debate. So that we are all clear, I accept the Minister’s RSPB and me, as well as with my right hon. and hon. assurance that he was not seeking or intending to sneak Friends, if he can find time in his diary, perhaps in out the announcement. I hope that he can give us some September or October. The RSPB could then have an reassurance on the points that we have raised on regulations opportunity, in person, to make its case. and other subjects, and I very much hope that he will be able to provide some light on who has made representations I am conscious that I have been pursuing this issue to him so far, and on his plans to take further representations for some time. from Members on both sides of the House. Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (Lab/ Co-op): I appreciate that there was some confusion Several hon. Members rose— about who would raise this matter, there being two new Members from Scottish constituencies with the same Jim Sheridan (in the Chair): Order. Before I call the first name. I understand that that caused a little confusion. next speaker, I remind Members that it is normal practice I have been aware of the issue for some time, having to allow the Minister at least 10 minutes to wind up and worked in the Scotland Office. I wonder whether my to give appropriate answers. hon. Friend is aware that, at the time of the build-up to the regulations being laid, there was a considerable 4.13 pm period in which there was significant resistance to them from the Department for Transport, although the Scotland Sarah Newton (Truro and Falmouth) (Con): Thank Office and other bits of the Government were pushing you, Mr Sheridan, for allowing me to speak. I also for them. Could the Minister respond to that point, thank my hon. Friend the Minister for allowing me to which is of concern to some of us on this side of the make a few comments. Chamber? On the early-day motion, Members probably know that one is forced to table an early-day motion to pray Thomas Docherty: I am grateful to my hon. Friend against a set of regulations, so my motion was a technical for those comments. He obviously has particular expertise intervention to register my concern about the regulations and knowledge of the mechanics of government from and to pray against them, in the hope that the Minister his former life. I would be grateful if the Minister could might consider my arguments for reconsidering them. respond to that point. It might also be worth his clarifying what representations, if any, he has had from either the To reassure Opposition colleagues, I, too, represent Secretary of State or the Under-Secretary of State for an area that might be viewed as the other part of the the Scotland Office. We understand that they are supposed Celtic fringe. Some hon. Members who represent to be Scotland’s champions in the Government, and, constituencies at the other end of the British isles given that the Scottish Government and the local authorities certainly refer to it in that way. I represent an equally have raised the matter with his ministerial colleagues, it beautiful part of the country that prides itself on its would be helpful to get an understanding of whether natural environment, and it is of the utmost importance the Scotland Office has been asked for, or has proactively to me and all Members from Cornwall to protect that provided, any input to the review. environment. I am conscious that I am beginning to approach the I also represent the port of Falmouth, which is the Minister’s time, so let me make one final observation. third-largest natural harbour in the world. It is a special Of course, we would never seek to use early-day motions area of conservation, and we very much prize its as a method of gauging the overall strength of feeling in environment. It has the last oyster-fishing fleet still the House. I suspect that the Minister and I would be at under sail in Europe. We manage to consider the one in suggesting that they are not necessarily the best environment, while having a vibrant commercial port way to make policy. However, it may be worth looking that not only has contracts with the RAF for servicing at the two early-day motions that were tabled on this its ships, but has ship-repairing, yacht-building and subject. oil-bunkering businesses. One was from the hon. Member for Truro and Falmouth I received representations from constituents who were (Sarah Newton), who I welcome to the debate. I am concerned about the operation of the regulations as laid sure that she will have some thoughts for us in a before the House. We all absolutely understand the moment. Her early-day motion, which began importance of protecting our natural environment. I “That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty”, grew up in Cornwall at the time of the appalling Torrey asked for the regulations to be annulled, and attracted Canyon oil spill, which blighted all the beaches of four signatures. Cornwall and caused devastation to wildlife. I have 239WH Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer27 JULY 2010 Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer 240WH lived through such a situation, and the last thing that I Thomas Docherty: On the point about the wash-up, would want is to be associated with anything that would can the Minister clarify what representations either the jeopardise the environment or cause such degradation. Conservative or the Liberal Democrat transport teams I felt that it was important to make representations to made against the regulations being introduced in April? the Minister, and I am absolutely delighted with the That might clarify matters for us. course of action that he has taken to ensure that any regulations passed by the House are enforceable. My Mike Penning: I understand where the hon. Gentleman concerns were about the enforceability of the regulations is trying to go. Let me be honest and say that I do not and ensuring that they did, in fact, deliver what we all know. In the way that I am looking at the matter now, I want, which is a balance between environmental protection do not think that that matters, because it is about and a vibrant shipping industry, which makes a great whether Parliament was fully informed and had an contribution not only to my constituency but to the opportunity to go through the process that was required British isles as a whole. for such important regulations. I set out in my letter quite firmly that, although this 4.16 pm important issue seems techie, it is not. The environment comprising this country’s shores is important. This is The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport not a devolved matter. I listened intently to hon. Members’ (Mike Penning): It is a pleasure to serve under your comments. Although we have to take into consideration chairmanship, Mr Sheridan, for the first time speaking the views of other Parliaments in the United Kingdom from the Government Benches. I have been chaired by and those of other Members of Parliament, this decision you before, but only when I was in the Opposition. is being made by one of the few ministerial roles that I congratulate the hon. Member for Dunfermline and still deals fully with the United Kingdom. I am proud of West Fife (Thomas Docherty) on securing this debate—his that. timing is perfect, just as we go into recess. If he looks I considered carefully, and understand exactly, what around, he will find that many colleagues have disappeared the regulations were trying to do: protect the environment north and south, even though this is a full sitting day. I and bring some ports inside regulation—the hon. Member know about the difficulties of travelling to different for Dunfermline and West Fife mentioned Scapa Flow parts of the country when the House adjourns. For earlier—that are outside both it and the European some time, Thursdays have not been one of the longest habitats directive, which is not acceptable. sitting days—not very much business was whipped on I accept that regulation is required—there is no argument Thursdays. However—I am afraid that we may all have about that—but we are looking for suitable regulation to get used to this—they are very much a full day, and for the process, which is why we have gone into consultation. we could have Friday sittings as well. Written ministerial We need to consider whether the regulations are a statements will be tabled on Thursdays. sledgehammer to crack a nut, in certain respects, and There was a debate when I first took on this job and whether they are enforceable. That is why I asked for the looked at the regulations, when I asked about the correct consultation and suspended the implementation of method for informing the House and the country that I the regulations, scheduled for October. I did not revoke had some concerns about how they had been laid. In the SI, which was another option that could have gone May, when I became the Shipping Minister, there was a ahead. Instead, I delayed its implementation for six huge pile of paperwork to go through—that is natural months so that we could consult fully—Parliament enough, for a brand-new Minister. One of the things should do that—and find out about any other concerns that struck me, before I received any representations that the public, those involved in shipping, the RSPB from anyone, was the legislation that had been put and others may have about how the regulations will through in the wash-up period. work in practice. I do not know what those concerns I was here for only five years before the hon. Gentleman are, because the consultation is not over. My hon. was elected, and I do not know all the processes. However, Friend the Member for Truro and Falmouth (Sarah I know that not everything that goes through in the Newton) has already mentioned the concerns in Falmouth wash-up period has received general agreement, especially about how the regulations will work. when it comes to statutory instruments. It does not work that way, so it is wrong to say that everything was Sheila Gilmore: After such a long gestation period for agreed and was fine—it was not. Putting in a statutory the regulations, does the Minister understand the scepticism instrument three days before the House rises for an and anger in the communities that have campaigned election is perhaps not the way to have open government about this matter and want to see it happen? I came off or to discuss things, be able to pray against them and Edinburgh city council in 2007. We were discussing move forward. regulations then and there was a bit of confusion about I accept the hon. Gentleman’s concerns that the the degree to which the Scottish Parliament could take statement was made on a Thursday and that Scottish part. After such a long time, does the Minister understand MPs were on their way back to Scotland, but the House how people feel, and is he prepared to give clear reassurance was sitting. The written ministerial statement was tabled to those who want clear regulation in this regard? by 9.30, and by 9.36, every MP who had shown an interest, including every Scottish Member who had Mike Penning: I understand the public’s concern, done so, as well as Alex Salmond, the leader of the throughout the country, about what would happen if Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Government, was there was an oil spill and about the dangers to the e-mailed with the written ministerial statement and a environment. I also understand that the consultation letter from me explaining why I was going through the was lengthy. But the regulations are sitting there and process. there is genuine concern on both sides of the argument 241WH Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer27 JULY 2010 Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer 242WH

[Mike Penning] is about how far regulation goes and whether it is enforceable: that is the crucial thing with any regulation about whether they go far enough. As the Minister made in the House. responsible, it is crucial that I ensure that the legislation My scepticism is not based on my lack of willingness that is put before the House is fit for purpose. to protect the environment. Anyone looking at my track record will know my views on the environment. I am a Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con): I was heavily lobbied fisherman and have fished in many of the coastal areas on this issue immediately after I was elected and I that the hon. Gentleman represents. We have to consider listened to a lot of businesses that are concerned about the risk. The hon. Gentleman mentioned earlier what the job prospects in the Lowestoft area as a result of the has happened in respect of BP in the gulf of Mexico. ban. I should like to mention in particular the Regulatory Sadly, that might happen—God forbid that it does—on Policy Committee’s report, dated 13 April, the summary any of the rigs sitting out there today. There has not opinion of which is: been a spillage from ship-to-ship transfer. The regulations “The case for the prohibition of ship-to-ship oil transfers in are preventive and will put a burden on the shipping UK territorial waters outside of harbour areas has not been business: there is no argument about that, because that made. There appears to have been little assessment of risk in will happen. If we put such a burden on shipping, will drawing up this proposal, and it is not clear that the environmental ships sail up to Scapa and go in and pay their dues, or benefits will be achieved. Furthermore, there is no adequate will they move a few miles out? I am not a shipping explanation for the enhanced environmental benefits of the preferred Option 3, over Option 2.” person, but I understand that the margins are not huge. That may happen. Will the Minister confirm that he has had regard to the findings of the Regulatory Policy Committee in coming A lot of ships doing the transfers are Russian. As to his decision? hon. Members know, the Russians have a large fleet, some of which is not the best quality. I hope that the Russians do not get upset about that, but it is a fact. If Mike Penning: Not only have I had those findings, we can at least see the ships and control them to some but I will look at them after the consultation is concluded. degree within our territorial waters, we stand a chance. One of my biggest concerns is whether all the regulations If they sit offshore, we will not be able to protect them are likely to work. That is a point of law. If they are not at all. going to work in law, what is the point of having them? It is crucial that Parliament sets laws that are enforceable The measures in respect of Scapa Flow, the habitats and fit for purpose. I will return to this point. I suspended directive and the environmental consequences will have the regulations because I am concerned that they may to happen: that is part of the regulations. I understand not be enforceable and are possibly not fit for purpose. that the hon. Member for Dunfermline and West Fife However, I stress that that does not take away the vehemently does not want ship-to-ship transfer in the requirement for regulation. I am disappointed that, as Forth, but we have to consider whether there is a legal revealed in earlier comments, there seems to have been a way of ensuring that that does not happen. Although lack of communication or co-operation between the the hon. Gentleman does not want ship-to-ship transfers, Scotland Office in the previous Government and the ships could move 12.1 miles off the coast and do the Department for Transport. I assure the hon. Gentleman transfers legitimately there. Under the regulations, we that that does not exist now and that there is now real cannot do anything if they move outside the 12-mile co-operation between all the relevant Departments. limit. That worries me an awful lot. I will meet as many different people and representative Ship-to-ship transfers also take place off the Suffolk bodies as possible, including the RSPB. I am conscious coast. The hon. Member for Suffolk Coastal (Dr Coffey), that I have not had the sort of representation from the who is not in this Chamber today, is concerned about RSPB that I should like to have seen, but I expect to whether ships will move outside the controlled environment, receive it during the consultation. where transfers happen at the moment, and go beyond Of course, the shipping industry is concerned, but it the 12-mile limit. My hon. Friends the Members for is not just about the shipping industry, as we have heard Truro and Falmouth and for Waveney (Peter Aldous) from hon. Members from around the country, who are have mentioned concerns about jobs being jeopardised. concerned about whether these are the right regulations The hon. Member for Dunfermline and West Fife to protect the environment and jobs and whether they asked whether I would rule out self-regulation. There are a sledgehammer to crack a nut. I will consider that will be regulation: there is no argument about that. This matter carefully during the consultation period. 243WH 27 JULY 2010 Strategic Transport (Cambridge) 244WH

Strategic Transport (Cambridge) a council meeting, but they were dismissed by the ruling Conservatives, who said that a big scheme would be along soon. My proposals would have saved time and 4.29 pm money, and they would also have saved lives. It is Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): I am delighted disgraceful that, eight years on, no safety improvements to have secured this crucial debate, especially as it is the have been implemented, and a coherent, affordable plan last Westminster Hall debate before the long recess. I has not been developed to deal with the A14 problem. apologise, Mr Sheridan, for detaining you and the Minister I pay tribute, in passing, to Cambridgeshire police, from the break. Transport affects all my constituents who have taken special measures to reduce the number daily, in one way or another, and it is a major concern of accidents, although they can only do so much. The that is raised constantly by residents and employers. introduction of average speed cameras has been impressively Having spent almost my whole life in Cambridge, and effective in reducing accidents. Will the Minister examine having chaired the Cambridge traffic management the affordability and cost-benefit analysis of a much committee for many years, I know the problems all too smaller-scale improvement that would deal with the well. However, I am enthusiastic about the opportunities main safety concerns, could be delivered soon, would to make transport in Cambridge better for all—for benefit so many residents and start to save lives now? businesses using important freight routes, for commuters Sadly, the A14 is not the only problem area for travel who make the daily journey to work, and for tourists around Cambridge. The fiasco of the Cambridge guided who come to enjoy the region’s historical and cultural bus is another example of poor strategic thinking. As attractions. Liberal Democrat leader on the county council, I led If we are to have a transport system that is better for the campaign against that ill-conceived project. The all, we must get our priorities right. That means seriously money and the space, even as designed at the outset, considering whether we should continue our dependence could have been far better used for other schemes. One on cars and lorries. I am sure that I need not rehearse problem is that the bus is not guided through Cambridge, for the Minister road vehicles’ impact on the environment. which is precisely where a guideway would have been I have long believed that there are good arguments most useful. It is notable that the inventor of the guided based on nothing more than simple self-interest. Congestion bus concept lives in Cambridge, and was an active is increasingly problematic everywhere, and particularly campaigner against the guided bus. around Cambridge. Everyone knows that, and no one The county council, egged on by the previous enjoys it, but the evidence shows that, if more roads are Government, became so fixated on the guided bus built, more congestion fills those roads. that other facilities lost out on resources as a result. The best argument for doing things differently is That error was compounded by the failure to ensure simply the A14, which is vital to the region and the that Cambridge residents would be able to use the country, but is notoriously congested and unsafe. The traffic system. There are continuing limits on where it will stop loads are far above those recommended by the Highways to pick up passengers. In the meantime, other bus Agency, and almost a quarter of vehicles on the road routes have been altered, and stops removed from service are HGVs travelling to or from Felixstowe port. HGVs to allow the guided bus to speed through when, if ever, are responsible for more than one third of the accidents it starts running. As I speak, the whole project is some on the A14. Anyone who has travelled along the road a £50 million over the allotted budget of £106 million, few times will know how often there are hold-ups. Even and is more than a year overdue, with no immediate a trip to the supermarket may quickly become an expedition prospect of running any time soon. Indeed, some of the worthy of Captain Scott. Sadly, the Highways Agency’s buses bought by Stagecoach to run on the guideway way of dealing with the problem belongs in the history used to say, “I’ll be on the busway soon”, but were books. The agency and the county council are trying to repainted to say, “Will I be on the busway soon?” That ram through a scheme that would see the road widened shows the level of its concern. to a 10-lane superhighway at the exorbitant cost of The latest public papers suggest that legal arguments around £1.4 billion. That is a huge, unaffordable sum, between the county council and the contractors, BAM especially at this time of financial constraint. Nuttall, are likely to run until 2014-15, greatly benefiting My concerns are not just financial. The proposed the lawyers on each side, I suspect, whatever the outcome. scheme, which the Government have put on hold, would That is not ideal for people in Cambridge who would also wreak havoc on Cambridge. The calculations show like to be able to get around. I hope that, when the that several key roads in Cambridge would have a huge scheme is finally up and running, it will be effective, and increase in traffic. For example, Huntingdon road, which that people will use it. A white elephant with some is the main entry into the city from the north-west, usage is far better than a white elephant with no usage. could have 60% more traffic, while Horningsea road, to But given the broken promises by the Conservatives at the east, could have traffic levels more than doubled. Shire hall that it would be built “on cost, on budget” The effects of that extra traffic on other roads in and at Cambridge—for example, the ring road system—have simply not been calculated. “no cost to the Council taxpayer”’, That is not to say that nothing should be done. In I am not holding my breath. The Minister agreed in 2002, when I was a young, new county councillor, I response to my parliamentary questions to hold a review argued that we should make safety improvements as of guided bus policy, and argued that the county council soon as possible, develop a smaller scheme that would should perform its own inquiry into the system. I thank also deal with associated problems, such as the Huntingdon him for that. viaduct’s end of life, and prevent Godmanchester from What are the solutions in the A14 corridor? The being a slip road for the A14. I made my suggestions at Liberal Democrats have long argued that the best way 245WH Strategic Transport (Cambridge)27 JULY 2010 Strategic Transport (Cambridge) 246WH

[Dr Julian Huppert] Such investment should include transport interchanges, and one specific issue is that of access to cycle parking to lighten congestion on the A14 is to get freight off the at Cambridge station. There is huge demand for cycle road and on to rail. Our manifesto pledge, as I am sure parking at that station, as anyone who has used it will the Minister knows, was to take money from the major know, but there is gross underprovision of spaces. I roads budget and to use it to reopen closed rail lines. have raised the issue with Network Rail, First Capital One such line is the east-west link, which comes in two Connect and National Express East Anglia, and those forms, depending on who one talks to, but both would companies have agreed to work on the problem. In be beneficial. One version is the Cambridge-Oxford particular, Network Rail has committed to looking at line, and opening up a direct route across the country providing new double-decker cycle racks at the station, from Ipswich to Oxford; the other is more northerly, via until the large CB1 scheme is complete, and I thank it Nuneaton, and would allow freight to travel from Felixstowe for that commitment. Will the Minister ensure that such docks without having to use roads until much nearer its small proposals, which would nevertheless make a huge destination. Work has already commenced on the Nuneaton difference to people’s daily lives, are supported, mandated section, and I hope that the Minister will give a commitment and funded? to see that essential work through to completion, so We must encourage people to use forms of transport that we have a functioning freight route. other than the private car. As a driver, cyclist and Those schemes would massively reduce traffic on the pedestrian, I am keenly aware of the conflicting needs A14, making it safer, faster and more reliable. They are of different travellers, but it is a constant balancing act. remarkably cost-effective, and would use existing I have no wish to deny drivers essential access, but I also infrastructure for much of the route. For the wider want to ensure that we promote environmentally sustainable region, that would provide far greater freedom of movement forms of transport around Cambridge. Cycling and for workers and tourists, along with better and safer walking are the ideal forms of travel, and they help options for businesses—truly a transport system better people to stay healthy.Too often, however, local authorities for all. are slow to provide good-quality routes for people to As well as investment in rail infrastructure, which use on which they feel safe and which do not deviate would enable a switch of freight mode, further incentives are from their direction of travel. Such routes tend not to needed. A scheme in Switzerland, the Leistungsabhängige get the appropriate levels of maintenance when potholes Schwerverkehrsabgabe, or LSVA—I apologise to the appear and—at least in Cambridge—they are not gritted Hansard reporters and anyone who knows how it is sufficiently during the winter months. pronounced—is a nationwide scheme that charges HGVs In Cambridge, we had to reinstate legal cycling along to use the roads. The fee is based on all distance a national cycling route through the city centre after it travelled; it is charged per kilometre as well as per was banned by the Conservatives. Other measures would tonne. It also includes an element depending on vehicle also help. A speed limit of 20 miles per hour should be emissions, and applies to all HGVs weighing more than easier to implement on a city-wide basis, so that although 3.5 tonnes. Will the Minister investigate such schemes the speed limit on major roads would continue to be to encourage freight off the road and on to rail, hopefully 30 miles per hour, side streets would have a limit of with the rail scheme that he will help us to deliver? 20 miles per hour. That would have a limited impact on Another vital step for Cambridge is the introduction drivers, but would significantly increase the safety of of Chesterton railway station. It has been needed for cyclists and pedestrians. many years and, at a stroke, would reduce congestion in We need less bureaucracy. In Cambridge, we spent the centre of the city. Surveys show that around 70% of many years seeking permission from the Department the vehicles parking at Cambridge station come from for Transport for road signs that indicated no entry to north of the city, so a station at Chesterton, which is in all except cyclists. We campaigned on that for years, and the north, would see the majority of those vehicles we have finally been allowed a pilot of a sign that diverted there, bringing welcome relief to residential should be easy to demonstrate and use. Such signs are streets and the historic city centre. That project would more easily understood by road users than the low-flying be relatively cheap, and would be an excellent fit with motorbikes that are the alternative sign. Government policy. It would meet criteria for improving access to key centres and reducing carbon emissions. It We must also promote bus services. Buses provide would also be beneficial for the many high-tech companies essential access, but too often they are run by monopoly around the Cambridge science park, as they would providers, whose main interests are their own financial benefit from more convenient travel for their employees, returns rather than the provision of a proper transport and from better connections to London. On a technical service to the population. Such providers use their clout note, such a project would ease the existing congestion to extract huge sums of money from councils to provide at Cambridge station. Cost-benefit calculations are essential services. Will the Minister defend funding for extremely positive, and that proposal was the top regional cycling and walking schemes in Cambridge and elsewhere, priority under the former grading scheme. and will he support more local powers to improve the I understand from the Minister that the Department bus services? Will he help with the trains so that there is for Transport is working with the county council to more space to find a seat and tickets are better and assess the scheme for Chesterton, and that the council is more clearly priced? As a parochial interest, could there considering funding options. I urge the Department be a sign in King’s Cross underground station to state and the council to reconsider the expensive and bloated which platform the Cambridge train will depart from? expansion of the A14, and to redirect funds where they Two years ago, this House made the courageous are most needed. Cambridge can grow in a sustainable decision to pass an Act to stop climate change. However, way only if investment is put into public transport it is no good setting targets if positive action is not facilities now. taken to achieve them. If we persist in ignoring the fact 247WH Strategic Transport (Cambridge)27 JULY 2010 Strategic Transport (Cambridge) 248WH that it is impossible to build our way out of congestion, My hon. Friend knows better than I do that Cambridge we will not only make life more miserable for motorists, has always been an important and distinguished city cyclists and pedestrians alike, but throw in the towel in whose origins go back to Roman times and the location the battle against catastrophic environmental damage. of the first bridged crossing of the River Cam inland Making transport better for all in the short term is from the sea. Transport clearly had a crucial role in one thing, and I am delighted to have had the chance to society then, as it does now. Cambridge is a world-renowned set out my proposed strategy for Cambridge in the university town with three universities. It is city of coming years, but we should never lose sight of the fact science that has hosted such eminent scholars as Newton, that, by increasing access to public transport and creating Darwin and Watson and Crick. Lately it has built a sustainable communities, we are not only making transport world-wide reputation as a leader in bio-engineering better for all—we are also building a fairer society. technology, and the growth of that sector is a powerful economic driver, both locally and nationally. 4.44 pm The growth of Cambridge and the demand for travel has led to increases in traffic congestion. With many The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport more new homes planned for the sub-region over the (Norman Baker): I congratulate my hon. Friend the next 10 years, even more people will be travelling around. Member for Cambridge (Dr Huppert) on securing this Since the 1970s, successive Governments have attempted debate; this is the first time that I have had the chance to to solve the congestion problem by building more roads. welcome him formally to this place, and I also congratulate First came the M11 from London to the south of him on taking over from David Howarth in representing Cambridge in the mid-1970s. That was later extended to the people of Cambridge. He has asked a number of provide a western bypass of Cambridge in 1979 and the questions about transport in Cambridge and has raised Cambridge northern bypass followed soon after as the some important issues. I am pleased to respond to his A45. The old A604 road to Huntingdon was dualled first Adjournment debate on a subject that I know is of and widened, but it was not until the mid-1990s and great importance to him and his constituents. He will the completion of the M1 to A1 east-west link in recognise that he has given me a huge wish list, and I Northamptonshire, that the whole route was renumbered cannot promise to satisfy him on every point in my as the A14. That route became the first major east-west response. trunk route linking the east coast ports to the manufacturing As a preamble, I shall say something about the priorities centres in the midlands and the north-west but, as my of the coalition Government. The coalition agreement hon. Friend will know, the road is now a congested makes clear our commitment to a modern low-carbon artery. transport infrastructure as an essential element of a dynamic and entrepreneurial economy. However, I must In widening the old A604 to a dual two-lane carriageway, also make clear at the outset that the overriding need the Government of the day did not foresee the demand identified by the coalition Government is that of tackling that would be placed on that road once it became part the national deficit. That means that the decisions we of the A14. As long ago as 1994, the standing advisory take and the speed with which we are able to implement committee for trunk road assessment—SACTRA—made transport improvements will need to be determined in clear in its report that new roads tend to generate the context of the forthcoming comprehensive spending additional traffic, which must be taken into account in review. forward planning. The Department for Transport is playing a full part There have been various schemes to widen the A14 in the spending review that will report in the autumn; between Cambridge and Huntingdon. The most recent there will be a statement from the Chancellor on 20 October is the present A14 Ellington to Fen Ditton scheme, and we have already announced a range of measures which emerged as a recommendation of CHUMMS—the aimed at delivering reductions in spending. On 24 May, Cambridge to Huntingdon multimodal study. My hon. the Chancellor and the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Friend will be aware that a preferred route was announced gave details of £6.2 billion of savings in Government for that scheme a few years ago, and that a public spending in 2010-11. The Department for Transport is inquiry was scheduled to start last month. That inquiry contributing to those savings by finding £683 million was suspended pending the outcome of the spending this year, and that has meant taking difficult decisions review, as has happened with other such schemes across on funding. On 10 June, the Secretary of State for the the country. It was simply not tenable or sensible to Department for Communities and Local Government continue with the statutory process of the scheme, given published further details of local government savings, the uncertainty in relation to the spending review. I including £309 million of savings from local transport should record at this stage that there is significant funding. support for the scheme, but there are also many people who have serious reservations about it, on both I understand that those reductions and the deferring environmental and financial grounds. of decisions on some transport schemes until after the outcome of the spending review will be difficult for The scheme cost is now in excess of £1 billion, which many places. Through reductions in ring-fencing we would be a huge investment for a single road. The have maximised the flexibility for local authorities to spending review means that we must reconsider the reshape their budgets according to local priorities and affordability of that scheme and all others. We shall identify where efficiencies can be found. There is also an need to consider whether we really have the best and opportunity to rethink transport plans and priorities most sustainable solution to the problem. We have to and ensure that proposals are environmentally, as well ask that question about all schemes. as financially, sustainable. Given current financial I take my hon. Friend’s point about safety improvements. constraints, it is essential to ensure that any new It is certainly important that we do not have an absence infrastructure is affordable and offers value for money. of safety improvements to a road because we are holding 249WH Strategic Transport (Cambridge)27 JULY 2010 Strategic Transport (Cambridge) 250WH

[Norman Baker] scheme in the city centre, which my hon. Friend oversaw in a previous capacity, has been very successful in out for something bigger. I had a similar situation in my promoting safe cycling and walking and containing constituency with the A27. Clearly, people who have traffic growth. concerns about safety have a right to have those addressed. If cycling is to succeed anywhere in the UK, it must That will need to be factored into any consideration succeed in Cambridge. Unlike my constituency, Cambridge that we undertake in relation to the road that we are is, after all, relatively flat and situated in the driest part discussing today after the spending review is complete. I of the country. Cycling is also the mode of choice for stress that no decision has been taken about the road the large student population. With 18% of all journeys as yet. made by bike, Cambridge already has the highest level The previous Administration recognised that there of cycling anywhere in the country. The aim is to was a separate need to cater for people who live in the increase that further. As a cycling demonstration town villages around Cambridge and who work in the city or project participant, it is receiving some £3.6 million of at the science park. The solution to that was seen as the extra funding for that from my Department. I would guided busway. That scheme was approved by the previous like to see the experiences of Cambridge applied to Administration way back in 2001 and construction other places at the end of the project. commenced in 2007, yet it is still not open. It has Enabling people to interchange easily from one public become a very expensive project, with costs rising from transport mode to another is fundamental in getting £116 million in 2006 to an estimated £160 million now. people out of their cars. Again, I am aware that Cambridge That is more than three times the original estimate. is at the forefront of that through the development of Delivery issues remain to be resolved between the station gateway project. That project will deliver a Cambridgeshire county council and the contractor, as bus interchange facility right outside the main rail station. my hon. Friend said. I know that he has concerns about We are keen for such projects to expand and to be the project; he expressed those in a parliamentary question, replicated throughout the country. which I answered last month. There are clearly lessons That leads me on to the issue of rail. Let me assure to be learned from both the Cambridge and the Luton my hon. Friend that the present Government are committed to Dunstable guided bus projects. That is why I have to making the best use of our rail network, as part of asked my officials to consider the history and cost our commitment to creating a low-carbon economy and structure of those projects. I have asked for a report by to improving the travelling experience for passengers. I the end of September on that matter and associated am pleased to note that Network Rail is expected to matters relating to light rail. Many of those schemes commence work shortly at Cambridge station to construct have also come in significantly above budget or were the new island platform. However, the estimated cost of cancelled by the previous Administration. We need to £15 million is obviously high. I shall add in passing that learn the lessons to ensure that that does not happen the ministerial team in the Department are quite keen again. to get better value from Network Rail for some of these Let me deal with the issue of tackling congestion in projects. That cost does seem to me rather expensive for the city centre. First, I want to make it clear that a platform. building big expensive infrastructure is not the only In any case, the new platform will provide much-needed answer to tackling congestion. I know that my hon. extra station capacity to enable First Capital Connect Friend shares my view that much more can be done to and National Express East Anglia to operate in a much support sustainable travel. We can achieve a great deal more efficient and organised manner. The new platform by concentrating much more on local interventions that is expected to be in operation by the end of next year. In respond to local needs. That will mainly be achieved addition, the completion of the Thameslink programme through the local transport plan process. As I highlighted will give Cambridge faster journey times to London, in a recent speech at the Transport Times conference in access to St Pancras and many more direct connections Manchester, local transport plans remain the best way to places south of the Thames. for authorities to plan and deliver their strategy for My hon. Friend will be aware that the issue of new integrated, safe, sustainable and efficient transport in rolling stock for London to Cambridge services is under their areas. review by my Department. It is important that in ordering However, in line with the coalition agreement to new trains, we get the very best value for money and promote decentralisation and devolution of power to that the specification is exactly right for the job that we local government, my Department will no longer seek want them to do. My hon. Friend will also be aware that to intervene in how local authorities review their progress stabling for the new trains was one of the factors taken against local transport plans. That will be a matter into consideration in relation to the development of a entirely for them. After the spring 2011 deadline for new station at Chesterton, to which he referred. I know renewal of the plans, reports or reviews will no longer that he is very keen on that project. I appreciate that be required for central Government to consider. Chesterton station is regarded as important for the Local authorities are working hard to have their new people of north Cambridge wishing to avoid the need to plans in place by next April, and I encourage them to be travel through the city centre and for people working at creative and innovative in doing so. Cambridgeshire the science park. While the spending review is under county council and the city council have done excellent way, I can give no assurances about the funding of that work on sustainable travel in recent years, and I trust project, but I know that Cambridgeshire county council that their commitment to that cause and their working is working hard with Network Rail to develop various in partnership will continue. They have had considerable technical and funding options, and I welcome that. success in raising bus patronage locally through the Network Rail is also working hard to deliver another development of park-and-ride sites. The traffic management scheme that my hon. Friend supports—the gauge upgrading 251WH Strategic Transport (Cambridge)27 JULY 2010 Strategic Transport (Cambridge) 252WH of the Felixstowe to Nuneaton rail line to take continental- that Cambridge is well placed to benefit from available size containers and hence get more freight off our roads investment when the financial position eases. and on to rail. He mentioned the opportunity for modal My hon. Friend asked about lorry road user charging. shift for freight from road to rail. Phase 1 of that He will know that there is a commitment in the coalition complex scheme, which is being part-funded by the agreement to take forward lorry road user charging. Government, Hutchison Ports UK and the European The Under-Secretary of State for Transport, my hon. Commission, is nearing completion. When it is finished Friend the Member for Hemel Hempstead (Mike Penning), next year, the number of freight trains will increase to who was in this Chamber a few minutes ago, is leading eight per day per direction, and when phase 2 is complete that work for the Department. in 2014, up to 24 freight trains per day will be able to My hon. Friend the Member for Cambridge also travel to Peterborough and hence the north. Further mentioned road signs. A road sign review is under way. I work is needed in control period 5, and Network Rail is have asked officials to note his comments on that issue working on that, but at this stage I can provide no to feed them into the road sign review. The object of the certainty about funding. However, 24 freight trains a review is to make it easier for local authorities to get day in either direction means a lot of lorries off the signage up that is sensible for their areas and consistent roads. with an application of national standards so that people The coalition agreement includes a commitment to understand the signs if they come from elsewhere in the make the transport sector greener and more sustainable, country. We want to make it easier to get signs up that which includes reforming how decisions are made on suit local needs. which transport projects to prioritise, so that the benefits My hon. Friend mentioned powers to improve bus of low-carbon proposals are fully recognised. Work is services. We have no plans at present to change the going on in the Department and we hope to have regulatory arrangements regarding buses, although something in place to enable us to reassess projects the Competition Commission inquiry considering the when the spending review is complete, so those two architecture of the bus network and the structure of the elements of work can come together. industry is under way. It would be imprudent to take a Getting more freight off the roads and on to the decision either to loosen controls or to tighten them in railways is one way of doing what I have described. advance of that reporting. We expect to have a draft Investing in low-carbon buses is another. That is why, report from the Competition Commission probably by building on that policy framework and on the success of December this year. the first round of the green bus fund, I was pleased It is clear that we face a challenging period. Tough recently to announce a second round of the fund, worth decisions have already been necessary to tackle the £15 million, which will support the procurement of an UK’s budget deficit. The Government have identified additional 150 low-carbon buses in England. All transport their most urgent priority as tackling the deficit, and authorities, including Cambridgeshire county council, transport must play its part in that process. Only when are encouraged to submit a bid, and I hope that my the Government’s spending review has been concluded hon. Friend will take that back to his county council. will we be in a position to see what investment can be The county council should, in identifying its needs made, but I assure my hon. Friend that we are committed and priorities, consider the full range of options available to promoting low-carbon forms of transport. We are and the potential for attracting funding from sources committed to sustainable transport— other than public sector ones. Given the current financial climate, I cannot offer any assurance at this time about 5pm the future time scale for taking forward schemes identified, Sitting adjourned without Question put (Standing Order but reviewing the feasibility of options should mean No. 10(11)).

79WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 80WS

It is this dilution that the Prime Minister and the Written Ministerial Deputy Prime Minister were referring to when they spoke in the House. The chief executive of Sheffield Statements Forgemasters has confirmed that he is prepared to dilute his shareholding in the company in order to facilitate the project. However, it has also been clear Tuesday 27 July 2010 that the shareholders would seek a fair price for any equity sale, and at this time their view is that their returns from growing the business organically are likely BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS to exceed those from undertaking the 15,000 tonne press project if the purchase of the press was financed Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd by substantial equity dilution. On 20 July, Sheffield Forgemasters issued a statement in which the company said: The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and “We are still keen to undertake the 15,000 tonne press development Skills (Vince Cable): The Government’s decision to but feel that the company’s best interests will be served by cancel the £80 million loan for a new 15,000 tonne press suspending work on the project for the time being. The opportunities that had been conditionally offered to Sheffield in global nuclear will continue to grow”. Forgemasters by the last Government was taken on the “This pause will give the company, which has invested more than grounds of affordability. Sheffield Forgemasters is a two years and significant funds to this project, time to resume a great British company with a dedicated, highly skilled greater focus on growing our business into civil nuclear and other workforce and a strong senior management team. The sectors. We will continue to pursue other development opportunities based around our 10,000 tonne and 4,000 tonne forging presses Government’s decision is no reflection on the company’s and our recently completed programme of machine shop staff, directors or this particular project. improvements”. It is a worthwhile project, but when the coalition “As our thinking develops we will of course take up the Government’s Government came into office they discovered that the offer of further discussions. The company recognises the difficult previous Administration had allocated too much money financial position faced by the country and accepts the loan offer across Government. In total, the previous Government will not be reinstated”. approved £34 billion of new spending commitments The Government understand this decision and the between 1 January 2010 and the general election. It was company’s desire to focus on other projects. We have therefore necessary to seek additional savings of £6 billion made clear that we stand ready to work closely with the in this financial year. This meant that Ministers across company as it pursues its ambitions and we are willing the whole of Government had to take a number of very to look carefully at all proposals, as we would for any difficult decisions—cancelling the loan for a new 15,000 project, when the future availability of public funds tonne press that had been offered to Sheffield Forgemasters becomes clearer after the completion of the spending was one such decision. The cancellation of the loan has review. not led to redundancies. In fact, the company continues to prosper. Although the question of equity dilution had no TREASURY bearing on the decision not to proceed with the loan to Forgemasters, comments made by the Prime Minister Tax Policy Documents and the Deputy Prime Minister have been queried and I therefore wish to explain the position. The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David When giving oral evidence to the Business, Innovation Gauke): The Government are today publishing nine and Skills Select Committee on 20 July 2010, I explained documents relating to tax, following commitments made that there is an inherent problem with a relatively small at Budget. The Government set out their new approach company taking on a very big project. If the company to tax policy making at Budget, designed to support finances the project with a large amount of debt it is their ambition for a more predictable, stable and simple likely to become so highly geared that its long-term tax system. viability is put at risk. If it funds the project with (http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ third-party equity, existing shareholders have to dilute junebudget_tax_policy_making.htm). their shareholding. This is not a criticism of the company, its shareholders or the project; it is simply a statement The publication of these documents together is consistent of the problem and it is something that the chief executive with the principles set out in that document; it provides of Sheffield Forgemasters, Graham Honeyman, raised businesses, tax professionals and other interested parties in an interview with the Yorkshire Post on 17 June 2010 with comprehensive information of the Government’s when he made the following points: proposed reforms to these elements of the tax system. “Private equity would take the whole of the shareholding away Further detail on these documents is provided below. from Forgemasters and put it in the hands of somebody else. That Copies of these documents are available on the tax is, not just my shares (49%) or the other directors, 65% of the policy discussion page of the HM Treasury website and shop floor own the shares in the company. The amount of money the current consultations page of the HMRC website to put in to fund the press would more or less have to absorb the and have been deposited in the Libraries of both Houses. whole of the shareholding”. PAYE reform “The reason why we went to the Government is the interest rates were reasonable. Bank interest rates are very high therefore we The Government today are publishing a consultation would have to make huge profits every year in order just to pay off on improving the operation of “Pay As You Earn” interest on the debt. This is why we needed support from the (PAYE), which seeks views on the collection of real Government”. time information to simplify taxation and reduce burdens 81WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 82WS on business. It also invites views on an option for on the nature of these improvements, including possible longer-term reform to improve accuracy and further options to achieve the aims set out here and potential reduce administrative burdens, or alternative proposals other worthwhile improvements that should be considered. to the same end. The Government seek interested parties’ This document is available on the HM Treasury website. views on these proposals. This document is available on Modernisation of Investment Trust Company rules the HMRC website. The Government today are publishing a consultation Furnished holiday lettings document which sets out the Government’s proposals The Government today are publishing a consultation for modernising tax rules for investment trust companies, document on a proposal to ensure the tax rules for together with consequential amendments to the Companies furnished holiday lettings meet EU legal requirements Act by the Department for Business Innovation and in a fiscally responsible way, by changing the eligibility Skills. The Government seek interested parties’ views thresholds and restricting the use of loss relief. The on the proposals for change. This document is available Government seek interested parties’ views on the proposal on the HMRC website. set out in the document. This document is available on Inheritance tax avoidance schemes the HM Treasury website. The Government today are publishing a consultation Pensions tax relief on legislation designed to bring inheritance tax, as it The Government announced in the June Budget that applies to the transfer of property into trust, into the they are considering the issue of pensions tax relief. The disclosure regime with the objective of addressing the Government today are publishing a discussion paper problem of identifying such schemes and users at an setting out the range of policy issues that would need to early stage. The Government seek interested parties’ be decided in any new regime. The Government seek views on the detail of implementation. This document interested parties’ views on these issues. This document is available on the HMRC website. is available on the HM Treasury website. National Minimum Wage: travel and subsistence schemes Associated company rules The Government today are publishing a summary of The Government today are publishing a summary of responses to the recent consultation on travel and responses to the recent consultation on simplifying the subsistence schemes implemented for some temporary associated company rules as they apply to the small workers paid at or near the national minimum wage profits rate of corporation tax. As announced in the (NMW). The Government have carefully considered June Budget, the Government will introduce the proposed the responses and have concluded that, on balance, legislation in Finance Bill 2011 and it will take effect action should be taken. They will amend the NMW from 1 April 2011. This document is available on the regulations to take effect from 1 January 2011. This HM Treasury website. document is available on the HM Treasury website. Taxation of foreign branches The Government today are publishing a discussion document on the scope of an exemption for foreign COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT branch profits, aimed at delivering a more territorial approach to corporation tax to enhance the UK’s competitiveness. The Government seek interested parties’ Ministerial Hospitality views on the likely impacts of the proposals set out in the document and on implementation of these proposals. This document is available on the HM Treasury website. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Controlled Foreign Companies interim improvements Communities and Local Government (Robert Neill): Iam The Government today are publishing a short note today publishing the details of receptions hosted by setting out the aim and scope of CFC interim improvements Ministers at the Department for Communities and Local together with the framework for consultation over the Government for 2009-10. summer. The Government seek interested parties’ views The total cost of these receptions was £9251.19.

Date Host Event Venue Number of Attendees

12/10/09 Rt Hon John Denham MP Eid Ul-Fitr Reception (co-hosted Foreign and 425 (approx) with Foreign Secretary and CommonwealthOffice Home Secretary) 02/12/09 Rt Hon John Denham MP CLG Christmas Press Reception House of Commons 50 15/03/10 Barbara Follett MP A reception to recognise the Eland House 50 work volunteers did for their communities during the severe weather in winter of 2009/10 16/03/10 Shahid Malik MP A reception to recognise the Admiralty House 100 efforts of the UK International Search and Rescue Team in Haiti. 03/06/10 Rt Hon Eric Pickles MP External Relations Reception Eland House 126 19/07/10 Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP Reception with house builders Eland House 13 83WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 84WS

Zero-Carbon Homes closely with industry through bodies such as the Zero- Carbon Hub and I can confirm that we have made an allocation of £600,000 for this year to support the hub’s The Minister for Housing (Grant Shapps): The coalition work. We will also work with house builders to assist programme sets out this Government’s ambitions for a them in complying with these standards, and those low-carbon and eco-friendly economy, and to be the charged with ensuring there is compliance, to ensure greenest Government ever. Substantial, and cost-effective, that energy and carbon savings are obtained. reductions in carbon emissions from buildings will be This Government are committed to ensuring that all an essential part of our effort. new homes post-2016 can be zero-carbon while ensuring that the costs of new build do not prevent appropriate Much of that reduction will come from retrofitting and sustainable development. the existing housing stock, but new-build homes will need to play an important part. The coalition programme commits to continuous improvements in the energy DEFENCE efficiency of new housing. We need to make sure that our homes in future are cleaner, greener and cheaper to Ministry of Defence Resource Accounts 2009-10 run from the outset. We must also meet the challenge to build more homes. The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): I We will therefore ensure that from 2016 new homes am pleased to announce that I have published the need not add extra carbon to the atmosphere. Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) resource accounts for Our approach will balance mitigating the impact of 2009-10. They will provide a comprehensive overview of new development in carbon terms against the viability the Department’s financial performance for the year, of that development. This will involve a flexible approach together with data on some specific areas of non-financial which sets an ambitious level of energy efficiency and performance, including factual information on the carbon compliance measures in building regulations, Department’s contribution towards public service and enables developers and local authorities, working agreements and departmental strategic objective targets. together, to achieve zero-carbon. The role of local Copies have been placed in the Library of the House, authorities is central in achieving real reductions in and will be available online from the MOD’s website at carbon emissions, and we will ensure that they will have the following link: their say when it comes to delivering zero-carbon homes. www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceFor/ I am announcing today some important further steps Researchers/ on the route to zero-carbon. First, I can confirm that we will introduce the minimum ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE standard for fabric energy efficiency based on that set out in the recent consultation on the Code for Sustainable Parliamentary Written Question (Correction) Homes. We will take this forward in the future revisions of part L of the building regulations. The Minister of State, Department of Energy and Secondly, we will set a national benchmark carbon Climate Change (Gregory Barker): I would like to inform compliance standard in building regulations. I will need the House that a written answer I gave on 6 July 2010, to be realistic and take account of costs. The Government Official Report, column 147-8W, UIN 5720, to the hon. recognise the challenges posed by the 70% level previously Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright), was incorrect. proposed and the case for this needs to be re-examined. The hon. Member’s question tabled on 2 July 2010 Therefore, I am commissioning more work from the asked what the address is of the head office of each Zero-Carbon Hub to test what would be an appropriate non-departmental public body for which his Department level. I have asked the hub to report back on this as is responsible. early as they can. In my written answer of 6 July 2010, I provided a list There has been considerable interest in giving developers of NDPBs that referred to both the Office of Nuclear the option to meet their further obligations through Development (OND) and the Gas and Electricity Markets payments to fund local energy projects, possibly via an Authority (GEMA). existing local tariff mechanism. We intend to explore The entry that read: the feasibility of this option over the coming months, “Office for Nuclear Development: Area 3D, 3 Whitehall Place, including how the use of such funds for carbon abatement London, SW1A 2AW” could complement the delivery of other types of should have read: infrastructure. We intend to ensure that local authorities “Nuclear Liabilities Financing Assurance Board: Area 3D, 3 Whitehall have a prominent role in the design and delivery of Place, London, SW1A 2AW”. funds that may be made available through any payment The inclusion of OND was due to OND’s role in mechanism. We will work with local authorities and the providing the secretariat for the NLFAB. house building industry to establish the precise details The list included the Gas and Electricity Markets of any potential approach. Authority (GEMA). GEMA is not a non-departmental To respond to these challenging new standards, industry public body, but rather it is a non-ministerial Government will need to develop innovative and better integrated Department. design and building methods and technologies; methods These errors were due to inaccurate transcription which will not only enable them to build new and better from an existing internal database. homes, but which will make our construction industries The full answer should read as follows: more competitive internationally in the coming years. Civil Nuclear Police Authority: H280 Hinton House, Birchwood To support these efforts, we will continue to work Park Avenue, Risley, Warrington, Cheshire, WA3 6AS 85WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 86WS

The Coal Authority: 200 Lichfield Lane, Mansfield, Despite differences over Kosovo’s status, EU member Nottinghamshire NG18 4RG states agree about the next steps. Kosovo’s and Serbia’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority: Herdus House, Westlakes long term futures are in the EU. All EU member states Science and Technology Park, Moor Row,Cumbria CA24 3HU are backing Baroness Ashton’s offer to facilitate talks Committee on Climate Change: 4th Floor, Manning House, on matters of practical co-operation between Kosovo 22 Carlisle Place, London SW1P 1JA and Serbia. This will help both countries take steps Committee on Radioactive Waste Management: Area 3D, together which will improve the lives of ordinary people 3 Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2AW of all communities and move them towards their EU Fuel Poverty Advisory Group: Area 1D, 3 Whitehall Place future. The Government have made it absolutely clear SW1A 2AW that any attempt to encourage the partition of Kosovo Renewables Advisory Board: Area 4A, 3 Whitehall Place or re-open status talks threatens stability in the entire SW1A 2AW Balkans region and will be strongly resisted. We believe Nuclear Liabilities Financing Assurance Board: Area 3D, that the Opinion’s publication should mark an end to 3 Whitehall Place, London, SW1A 2AW discussions on Kosovo’s status. UKChemicalWeaponsConventionNationalAuthorityAdvisory The Government will continue to lobby for further Committee: Area G01, 3 Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2AW recognitions for Kosovo. We believe that the ICJ Opinion Nuclear Liabilities Fund: Farringdon Place, 20 Farringdon will encourage those states who have not yet done so to Road, London EC1M 3AP recognise Kosovo.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE HEALTH

EU Explanatory Memoranda 9 June 2010-9July2010 Cancer Drugs (Correction)

The Secretary of State for Health (Mr Andrew Lansley): The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): I In 2008, Professor Sir Mike Richards, National Cancer regret that the written ministerial statement given on Director, was asked to lead a review of the extent and 15 July 2010, Official Report, column 41 WS, contained causes of international variations in drug usage and a factual error: provide a report. Professor Richard’ report has been in Meetings of the Lords Select Committee on the the Library of the House and copies are available to European Union commenced on Tuesday 22 June 2010 hon. Members from the Vote Office. and not on Tuesday 29 June 2010 as stated. I would like to thank Professor Richards and his advisory group for their work on the report. They have undertaken a thorough review, which represents the International Court of Justice’s Advisory most comprehensive analysis yet of the extent and Opinion (Kosovo) potential causes of international variations in medicines usage. The report explores the extent and causes of international The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): I variations in drug usage across 14 countries, including welcome the delivery of the International Court of the United Kingdom, for a range of conditions and Justice’s (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on 22 July on the diseases. The report indicates that there are wide accordance with international law of the unilateral international variations in usage of most of the drugs declaration of independence in respect of Kosovo. included in the study. Although a few countries emerge The ICJ decided, by 10 votes to four, that Kosovo’s as generally high or low users, there does not appear to declaration of independence did not violate international be a uniform pattern across disease areas. law. In coming to this opinion, the ICJ considered As with most of the countries studied, usage levels in general international law, UN Security Council resolution the UK appear mixed when looking across the range of 1244 (1999) and the Kosovo constitutional framework. conditions. It does however show high levels of use in The Government are a strong supporter of Kosovo’s some important areas, for example of lipid-regulating independence. The United Kingdom submitted arguments drugs which are helping to prevent many deaths from to the ICJ in support of the conclusion which the Court cardiovascular disease. eventually reached. One of the more concerning findings in the report The Milosevic regime’s campaign of ethnic cleansing relates to our usage of newer cancer drugs, which lags in 1999, which led to the forced exile in neighbouring behind that of most of the countries studied. The countries of around half the entire Kosovo Albanian findings in this report make it even more important that population, with thousands of deaths and other acts of Government do everything it can to remove barriers to brutal violence at the hands of Serbian forces, meant doctors prescribing the cancer drugs they think will that Kosovo could never again be integrated back into help their NHS patients. In the medium term our plans Serbia. Kosovo has been functioning as an independent to introduce value-based medicines pricing in 2014, on state for two and a half years and the UK holds firm in expiry of the current pharmaceutical price regulation its conviction that Kosovo as a sovereign state defined scheme, will allow Government to take the initiative on by its existing borders is a positive force for stability in access to new medicines. We will make new medicines the Western Balkans. available to NHS patients at a price that represents their 87WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 88WS value, rather than being restricted to recommending HOME DEPARTMENT against the use of a new drug in the NHS due to the price its manufacturer sets. However, we also need to act to improve access to Control Orders these drugs in the meantime. As an interim measure, the coalition agreement set out our plans to establish a cancer drugs fund from April 2011, subject to the The Secretary of State for the Home Department spending review outcome. The need for this fund is (Mrs Theresa May): Section 14(1) of the Prevention of clearly supported by Professor Richards’ findings, and Terrorism Act 2005 (the 2005 Act) requires the Secretary we will be consulting on our plans for the fund later in of State to report to Parliament as soon as reasonably the year. But the report underlines the need for action practicable after the end of every relevant three-month now to help NHS patients access the cancer drugs their period on the exercise of the control order powers doctors think will benefit them. during that period. I am therefore announcing today additional funding I regret to inform the House that there was an inaccuracy of £50 million for this financial year to support improved in the information given in the statement entitled Control access to cancer drugs. This funding, which has been Order Powers (11 March 2010-10 June 2010) and laid found from a review of Department of Health central before Parliament on 21 June 2010. budgets, will be made available through clinically-led The statement reports that 10 of the 12 individuals regional panels from October 2010. subject to a control order as of 10 June 2010 were This Government are committed to ensuring that British citizens. The correct figure was that nine of the cancer patients no longer have to worry about whether 12 individuals subject to a control order were British they will be able to get the cancer drugs their doctors citizens. recommend from the NHS. Criminal Records Bureau (Annual Report)

Right to Request Social Enterprise Scheme The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Lynne Featherstone): I announce that the 2009-10 annual report and accounts for the The Minister of State, Department of Health (Mr Criminal Records Bureau has been laid before the House Paul Burstow): I will be announcing shortly the second today and published on the CRB website. Copies will be wave of National Health Service organisations that will available in the Vote Office. join the Department’s “Right to Request”social enterprise scheme. Details will be placed in the Library of the Licensing Consultation House when available. The “Right to Request”gives all primary and community The Secretary of State for the Home Department care staff employed by primary care trusts (PCTs) the (Mrs Theresa May): On Wednesday 28 July the Home right to put a request to their PCT board to set up a Office will be publishing a public consultation on proposals social enterprise to deliver health and social care services. to overhaul the Licensing Act. Each of these organisations has received the approval In the coalition agreement, the Government set out a of their PCT and strategic health authority (SHA) to clear programme of reform around alcohol licensing to pursue plans to set up a social enterprise. With appropriate tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour that is too support, these projects should go on to become successful often associated with binge drinking in the night-time and financially viable social enterprises that strengthen economy. In particular, the Government set out the the delivery of tailored health and social care services in following commitments which are covered in this the NHS. consultation. The projects include a wide range of health and We will overhaul the Licensing Act to give local authorities social care services, including those for children, young and the police much stronger powers to remove licences people and adults, and end of life, mental health and from, or refuse to grant licences to, any premises that are disability services. They range from single service lines causing problems. to whole provider arms. We will allow councils and the police to shut down permanently any shop or bar found to be persistently selling alcohol to This announcement is part of the ambition set out in children. “Equity and Excellence: liberating the NHS”: We will double the maximum fine for under-age alcohol “to create the largest and most vibrant social enterprise sector in sales to £20,000. the world”. We will permit local councils to charge more for late-night licences to pay for additional policing. The initiative to encourage and support social enterprises We will ban the sale of alcohol below cost price. to deliver public services is the first of its kind in the While we recognise the important role which pubs world. The scheme empowers staff to harness their can play as part of the fabric of neighbourhoods and entrepreneurial skills and exercise leadership to improve communities, the introduction of the Licensing Act in services for local communities through social enterprise. 2005 has not brought with it a vibrant “café culture”. I am committed to supporting the creation and expansion Too often on a Friday and Saturday night, the police of mutuals, co-operatives, charities and social enterprises and local A&E departments bear the brunt of some of and want to enable these groups to have much greater the worst excesses of binge drinking and alcohol-fuelled involvement in the running of health and social care crime and disorder. We are determined to change this, services. and will be proposing to introduce more flexibility into 89WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 90WS the current licensing regime to allow local authorities on the successful outcome of the Hampton review of and the police to clamp down on alcohol-related crime their regulatory performance conducted in 2009; and and disorder hot spots within local night-time economies. provides further information on the negotiation of a The consultation document will be available on the revised European Directive to replace European Union Home Office website and printed copies will also be Directive 86/609/EEC on which the Animals (Scientific available in the Vote Office. Procedures) Act 1986 is based.

Scientific Procedures on Living Animals PRIME MINISTER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the National Security Vetting Home Department (Lynne Featherstone): The statistics of “Scientific Procedures on Living Animals—Great The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): National Britain—2009” (HC 317), was laid before the House security vetting is a critically important control for today. Copies will be available in the Vote office. protecting UK interests. It is important for our domestic This annual statistical report meets the requirement security, for the protection of sensitive information, and in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 to for the protection of critical sites and individuals assessed inform Parliament about the licensed use of animals for to be at risk from terrorism. It facilitates information experimental or other scientific purposes. It also forms sharing with international partners, and defence and the basis for meeting periodic reporting requirements at intelligence co-operation. EU level. Supplementary information with additional Vetting arrangements should be as transparent as tables is also available on the Home Office website. national security considerations allow. Consequently, a The statistical report shows an overall decrease of copy of “HMG Personnel Security Controls” has been 36,540 (-1%) in the number of procedures started, from placed in the Library. This describes the vetting checks 3,656,080 in 2008 to 3,619,540 in 2009. This fall followed that may be made in order to safeguard national security. six previous annual increases and is the second highest It describes a renewed emphasis upon a proportionate total since the current method of recording was introduced approach to vetting in terms of the application and in 1987. A number of factors, such as investment in decision-making process, to ensure that vulnerabilities research and development and strategic funding priorities, are properly managed, subjective judgments are not determine the overall level of scientific procedures. made, and grievances can be heard. This statement The Home Office, as regulatory authority under the replaces the Statement of Vetting Policy made on 1986 Act, ensures that its provisions are rigorously 15 December 1994, Official Report, columns 764-766W. applied and only authorises work that is scientifically justified and minimises the numbers of animals used and the animal suffering that may be caused. Intelligence-Gathering Techniques The statistical report and supplementary information can be found at: The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): The annual http://scienceandresearch.homeoffice.gov.uk/animal-research/ reports of the Chief Surveillance Commissioner, the publications-and-reference/statistics/ right hon. Sir Christopher Rose, (HC 168), the Interception I am also pleased to inform the House that I have of Communications Commissioner, the right hon. Sir Paul today placed in the Library the annual report of the Kennedy, (HC 341), and the Intelligence Services “Home Office Animals Scientific Procedures Division Commissioner, the right hon. Sir Peter Gibson, (HC 342) and Inspectorate” for the year 2009. have today been laid before both Houses of Parliament. Publication of the report honours a commitment There is, rightly, a considerable level of public interest given in response to a recommendation of the House of in the use by public authorities of covert intelligence- Lords Select Committee on Animals in Scientific Procedures gathering techniques. The Government are committed in July 2002 that more information should be made to ensuring that public authorities only use these powers available about the implementation of the Animals when it is necessary and proportionate to do so. The (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. commissioners play an important role in monitoring the use of these powers by public authorities, and Earlier annual reports focused on the work of the ensuring compliance. Animals Scientific Procedures Inspectorate. The report It is regrettable that systematic failings have been for 2009 is the second in which the work of the Animals noted by the Interception of Communications Scientific Procedures Division licensing and policy teams Commissioner in some prison establishments, and that has also been included. a small number of errors have occurred elsewhere. As As in previous years, the report explains what Home the commissioners themselves make clear, the details of Office inspectors do and how they do it and the these incidents cannot be disclosed publicly for security inspectorate’s role in assessing and advising on applications reasons. Following the practice of many years, my right for personal and project licences and certificates of hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for the Home designation under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Department, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Act 1986 and reporting non-compliance. Northern Ireland and Defence have been provided by The report also explains how the Animals Scientific the commissioners with a detailed description of and Procedures Division and Inspectorate have continued explanation for these errors. The Government are satisfied to work towards delivering a better regulation programme that appropriate action has been taken to address to improve regulation of animal experimentation; reports these failings. 91WS Written Ministerial Statements27 JULY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 92WS

I extend my thanks to Sir Christopher, Sir Paul and will replace the existing confusing array of DWP specialist Sir Peter, and to their staff, for their work on these disability employment provision (WORKSTEP, Work reports. Preparation and the Job Introduction Scheme) across England, Scotland and Wales. Work Choice will greatly improve upon the effectiveness WORK AND PENSIONS of current provision by tailoring support to the needs of each severely disabled individual to help move them into and stay in long-term sustainable jobs. Employment Support (Disabled People) Reform in this sector is long overdue. In the past, provision has been patchy with a fragmented network of providers. Work Choice will simplify the current The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work overlapping set of programmes and will reduce the and Pensions (Maria Miller): Today the Government number of provider contracts from more than 200 to are reaffirming their clear commitment to disabled people just 28. by launching a new programme to provide support for severely disabled people. The new programme, currently Work Choice has been developed in close consultation called Work Choice, will be introduced from 25 October with providers, disability groups and disabled people 2010. It will sit alongside the Work Programme and will and has widespread support. help into work disabled people who face the most Work has been ongoing since the coalition Government complex and long-term barriers to employment and took office to ensure continuity of support. We are who may require high intensity support in the workplace. making this announcement now to ensure that all providers Nearly half of all disabled people work and many are able to prepare fully to deliver the programme from more want to work but have not had the right support. October. Work Choice will provide that support for more severely We will now proceed to contract with the successful disabled people who want to move into employment. It bidders for the Work Choice programme.

13P Petitions27 JULY 2010 Petitions 14P

occupiers of pitches on residential mobile home sites Petitions with improved protection against eviction and other rights and responsibilities. Tuesday 27 July 2010 In late 2008 the previous Government conducted a consultation in response to concerns raised by local authorities and Gypsies and Travellers about the application OBSERVATIONS of some of the 1983 Act. Following this consultation, statutory instruments were drafted that would commence section 318 and at the same time amend the 1983 Act for local authority Gypsy and Traveller sites. There was COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT not enough Parliamentary time to debate these statutory instruments before the general election. Gypsies and Travellers (Security of Tenure) The new Government will be making a decision on The Petition of Cathay Birch and others, section 318 in the context of a wider strategy they are developing in relation to Gypsies and Travellers and an Declares that the European Court of Human Rights announcement will be made in due course. (in 2004) and the House of Lords (in 2008) have stated that the situation regarding the lack of security of EDUCATION tenure for Gypsies and Travellers on rented pitches amounted to a breach of Human Rights; that the Proposed Expansion (St Peter’s School, Croydon) Government said they would amend the law by including The Petition of the people of Croydon, Council sites within the provisions of the Mobile Homes Act 1983; that the Government then released an e-mail Declares that the proposed expansion of St Peter’s to certain organisations on 10th February 2010 saying Primary School, South Croydon for a “bulge class” in that they no longer had time to introduce the necessary September 2010 and future expansion to 2FE (2 Form amending powers; and that this has happened despite Entry) from 1FE will damage the ethos of the school the fact that security of tenure could be introduced with when other suitable schools are currently undersubscribed a few simple sentences; and notes the massive disruption that will be caused to children at the school. Further declares that the Petitioners believe the The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Government should take action now to resolve this Commons urges the Government to ask Croydon Council breach of Human Rights by amending legislation to to look at alternative arrangements for accommodating ensure Gypsies and Travellers on rented pitches have increased demand for school places. the same rights to security of tenure as other social housing tenants. And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Mr Andrew Pelling, Official Report, 7 April 2010; Vol. 508, The Petitioners therefore request that the House of c. 42P.] Commons call upon the Government immediately to [P000825] bring forward proposals to amend the Act of Parliament pertaining to security of tenure of Gypsies and Travellers Observations from the Secretary of State for Education: on rented pitches to ensure that security of tenure is Under current legislation, proposed changes to local given. school provision, including expansions, are matters for And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Julie local determination. Where changes are proposed a Morgan, Official Report, 30 March 2010; Vol. 508, statutory process must be followed which includes c. 787.] consultation with those likely to be affected by the proposals. Proposals are determined, taking account of [P000804] any comments or objections received, under established Observations from the Secretary of State for Communities local decision-making arrangements. The Government and Local Government: have no direct role in the process. Section 318 of the Housing and Regeneration Act We understand that Croydon local authority has 2008 (the 2008 Act) removes the current exclusion of recently consulted on proposed changes to primary local authority Gypsy and Traveller sites from the Mobile schools in its area, including the expansion of a number Homes Act 1983 (the 1983 Act). The 1983 Act provides of schools to help accommodate an increase in demand.

879W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 880W

union representatives. The Department has five staff Written Answers to representatives all of whom have spent the equivalent of five days or fewer on trade union-related activities since Questions 12 April. Comparable figures for the Department as it is now configured are not available for the period preceding Tuesday 27 July 2010 12 April.

NORTHERN IRELAND ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE Departmental Internet Anaerobic Digestion Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much (a) his Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for spent on website design in each year since 1997. [7614] Energy and Climate Change what steps he is taking to encourage the use of anaerobic digestion (a) Mr Paterson: Comparable figures for the Northern nationally and (b) in the East Midlands. [11582] Ireland Office (NIO) as it is now configured, following the completion of devolution on 12 April, are not Gregory Barker: At a national level, renewable electricity available: generation from anaerobic digestion is incentivised through (a) Since 12 April 2010 the Northern Ireland Office has spent both the renewables obligation and the feed-in-tariff. In £562.50 (exclusive of VAT) on web design; addition we are funding through the environmental (b) The NIO has no agencies. It has one non-departmental transformation fund an anaerobic digestion demonstration public body which incurred no expenditure in this area. programme which will provide the industry, the finance sector and stakeholders with valuable information on Police Service of Northern Ireland: Recruitment the benefits of anaerobic digestion. AD projects can also receiving funding through the European Union Paul Goggins: To ask the Secretary of State for rural development programme for England. Northern Ireland when he expects the proportion of The Secretary of State announced today in his annual Catholic police officers within the Police Service of energy statement that support for anaerobic digestion Northern Ireland to reach 30 per cent. [11572] will be ‘grandfathered’ under the renewables obligation (ie that the level of support for a project will not change Mr Paterson: Catholic composition of the PSNI regulars once it is accredited). currently stands at 29.15%. I will be discussing the We expect to set out later this year the further steps to impact of the Chief Constable’s decision to impose a be taken by Government and industry to deliver the recruitment freeze with the Justice Minister after the coalition programme commitment to a huge increase in summer. energy from waste using anaerobic digestion. Trade Unions Feasibility studies have been carried out into anaerobic digestion in the east midlands at a regional and local Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for scale for electricity generation and for transport fuel Northern Ireland how many paid manpower hours production. Two projects have already received funding civil servants in his Department spent on trade and several more are in the pipeline. union-related duties and activities in each year since 1997. [11710] Banks: Environment Protection Mr Paterson: Civil servants in the Department have spent approximately 73.5 hours on trade union-related Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for activities since 12 April 2010. Comparable figures for Energy and Climate Change what plans he has for the the department as it is now configured, following the (a) future and (b) future funding of regional green completion of devolution on 12 April, are not available banks. [9454] for the preceding period. Gregory Barker: Following the spending review, the Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Government will put forward detailed proposals on the Northern Ireland how many civil servants in his creation of a Green Investment Bank to help the UK Department spent the equivalent of (a) five days or meet the low-carbon investment challenge. The Government fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to are considering a wide range of options for the scope 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more on and structure of the Green Investment Bank and will trade union-related activities or duties while being paid assess the implications for regional financing initiatives salaries from the public purse in each year since 1997. for low carbon technologies as part of this consideration. [11711] In addition, RDAs are supporting green investment through specific low carbon and generalist SME venture Mr Paterson: The Northern Ireland Office (NIO), as capital funds using ERDF Structural Funds. The it is now configured following the completion of devolution Government will continue to support these funds subject on 12 April, does not have full-time dedicated trade to transitional arrangements for the unwinding of RDAs. 881W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 882W

Carbon Emissions to energy suppliers in respect of unsolicited provision of energy efficient lightbulbs to customers under the Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Carbon Emissions Reduction Target scheme. [11569] Energy and Climate Change what steps his Gregory Barker: Under the Carbon Emissions Reduction Department is taking to meet the target of a 20 per Target (CERT) between April 2008 and March 2010, cent. reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2020. approximately 140 million bulbs were distributed outside [11244] of retail routes to achieve approximately 20 million lifetime tonnes of carbon dioxide reductions (approximately Gregory Barker: The Climate Change Act 2008 sets 11% of suppliers total target). We do not know how greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets of at least many of these bulbs were provided unsolicited. 34% by 2020 and at least 80% by 2050 (both from the 1990 baseline). The first three carbon budgets, running The Government have announced that CFLs will no from 2008 to 2012, 2013 to 2017 and 2018 to 2022, are longer be eligible for promotion under the CERT extension set in line with the 34% target. This is based on the (April 2011 to December 2012) and that written consumer UK’s share of an EU-wide greenhouse gas emissions requests will be required for any non-professionally reduction target of 20% from 1990 levels by 2020. installed measure delivered outside of retail routes. Latest projections published in June indicate that on Combined Heat and Power central scenarios we are on track to achieve the 34% target. The Prime Minister has pledged to make this the Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for greenest Government ever. In addition to a range of Energy and Climate Change whether his Department new policy initiatives, the coalition has already announced plans to raise the feed-in tariff threshold from 5MW to that central Government would reduce its carbon emissions 10MW. [7263] by 10% within 12 months and that real time reporting of energy efficiency data would be implemented across Gregory Barker: As we set out in the Coalition Government HQ buildings. We are also supporting Programme for Government, we will establish a full greater energy efficiency by introducing the Green Deal system of feed-in tariffs in electricity. We are considering and have announced in the House that we are extending our strategic approach to electricity market reform and the carbon emissions reduction target (CERT) to the funding for renewables and will make further end of 2012. We are supporting the carbon price by announcements in due course. arguing for the EU to adopt a 30% emissions target for 2020 and we will reform the electricity market to deliver Departmental Billing the investment we need to ensure decarbonisation and security of supply. Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what percentage of James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for payments made by his Department to (a) small and Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he medium-sized enterprise suppliers and (b) all suppliers has made of the effectiveness of the Carbon Emissions were made (i) within 10 days of receipt of invoice and Reduction Target and Community Energy Saving (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three Programme schemes in reducing levels of carbon months for which information is available. [11386] dioxide emissions. [11568] Gregory Barker: In the last three months, DECC has paid the following percentages of invoices: Gregory Barker: An evaluation of the predecessor scheme to the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target Percentage reported in December 2008, and found it to be very Within five Within 10 Within 30 effective. Ofgem administrate CERT on the Government’s Month working days1 working days calendar days2 behalf, publishing quarterly updates of suppliers’ progress April 2010 n/a 96.2 99.3 towards targets. Ofgem accredit the carbon score of May 2010 92.3 n/a 99.3 schemes where suppliers meet the terms of the operational June 2010 94.4 n/a 99.9 guidance, including auditing and reporting requirements. 1 From May 2010, the requirement to monitor and report payment performance CERT has been focussed around measures which deliver against 10 working days was changed to five working days; 10 day payment long lived savings, namely insulation. We estimate that performance for May and June has not been recorded. the measures delivered under CERT will deliver lifetime 2 DECC’s standard agreed payment terms is payment in 30 days of receipt of a valid invoice. savings of some 185 Mt CO2 by April 2011. An evaluation of the scheme will be undertaken in 2011. DECC does not currently record and publish information about the size of suppliers as this does not fully reflect A full public consultation was held on proposals for the number and size of businesses engaged in supplying the Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) from goods and services. We do not discriminate by size of February to May 2009 and it came into effect from business because many SMEs can be found within September 2009. The CESP impact assessment following larger supply chains. the consultation estimated that the scheme will deliver some 2.9 Mt CO2 over the lifetime of the measures Departmental Internet installed. We are currently undertaking an evaluation of the CESP, which will be complete in March 2011. Damian Hinds: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how much (a) his James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Department and (b) its predecessor spent on search Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made engine biasing with (i) Google and (ii) other search of the total level of carbon dioxide reductions credited engines in each of the last five years. [10017] 883W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 884W

Gregory Barker: DECC spent £309,800 exclusive of LED lighting, solid-wall insulation) were ended VAT in 2009-10. DECC was formed in October 2008 early saving £0.7 million. The scope of the central and did not hold budgets to cover paid search until Government Low Carbon Technology Programme was 2009-10. reduced saving £2.9 million. The scope of the offshore We are unable to break these figures down by search wind supply chain capital grants scheme was reduced engine as neither we nor the Central Office of Information saving £3 million. hold that level of detail and to find this out would The Carbon Trust budget was reduced by £12.6 million. involve disproportionate cost. The Carbon Trust is a private company and the precise details of how their savings will be made is a matter for Departmental Legal Costs its board, but Carbon Trust will this year receive up to £115 million from DECC when all grants are taken into Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for account. Energy and Climate Change how much (a) his We will not be proceeding with any unallocated funding. Department and (b) its non-departmental public bodies spent on legal advice in each year since its inception. [7570] Departmental Temporary Employment Gregory Barker: The Department was established in October 2008. Expenditure figures for 2008-09 cannot Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for be provided without incurring disproportionate cost. In Energy and Climate Change how many employees on 2009-10 the Department spent £15.48 million on legal temporary contracts worked in (a) his Department, services. “Legal services” includes legal advice, the cost (b) its associated non-ministerial departments and (c) of DECC’s internal legal team and other legal services the non-department public bodies sponsored by his such as the conduct of litigation. The Department’s Department on the latest date for which figures are NDPBs’ expenditure on legal services was £6.03 million available. [5928] in 2008-09 and £1.92 million in 2009-10. Gregory Barker: The latest figures (all FTE) available Departmental Official Hospitality are based on June 2010 reports. DECC had 41 staff on payroll on temporary contracts and a further 109 people Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy working in DECC on temporary contracts and not on and Climate Change how much his Department spent payroll. on hospitality for events hosted by each Minister in his Civil Nuclear authority had 31 staff on payroll on Department in (a) May and (b) June 2010. [10110] temporary contracts and a further 14 people working on temporary contracts not on payroll. Gregory Barker: There has been nil spend on hospitality The Committee on Climate Change had no staff on events by Ministers in May and June of 2010. temporary contracts. Departmental Pay The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority had 13 people working on temporary contracts not on payroll. Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy The Coal Authority had 13 people working on temporary and Climate Change how much was paid in contracts not on payroll. remuneration in total to civil servants in his Department in 2009-10. [9896] Departmental Trade Unions Gregory Barker: The amount paid in remuneration in total to civil servants in the Department in 2009-10 was Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy £44,211,403. and Climate Change how much his Department has Departmental Public Expenditure paid to trade unions in each year since 2008; and what estimate he has made of the monetary value of facilities provided by his Department for use by trade Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for unions in each year since 2008. [11691] Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 72W, on Gregory Barker: DECC was created as a new Department departmental public expenditure, if he will break down in October 2008; records of trade union related activities by category of savings the sums to be saved from are not available for financial period 2008-09. allocations to low carbon technology and business support. [11651] For year 2009-10 no money, over and above the salary costs associated with the employment of one Gregory Barker: DECC’s support to low carbon full-time Departmental Trade Union Side Secretary technology and business support has been reduced by (civil service grade SEO, salary range £34,713 to £41,851) £34 million in 2010-11. This is broken down as follows: and an additional 42 days spent on union related activities by local union representatives, was paid to any of our The Low Carbon Buildings Programme was closed three trades unions. early saving £3 million. The budget for round 2 of the Deep Geothermal Challenge Fund (DGCF) was To date for year 2010-11 no money apart from salary reduced by £l million. Bio-energy grants and Infrastructure costs has been paid. budgets were reduced by £4.7 million in total. The No estimate has been made of the value of facilities Energy Saving Trust Trials (advanced heating controls, provided by the Department for use by trade unions. 885W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 886W

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy of State who will determine each case. Transitional and Climate Change how many paid manpower hours arrangements will ensure there is a seamless transition civil servants in his Department spent on trade from the current regime to the new one. union-related duties and activities in each year since 2008. [11692] Energy: Housing

Gregory Barker: DECC was created as a new Department Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for in October 2008; records of trade union related activities Energy and Climate Change what criteria he plans to are not available for financial period 2008-09. put in place to determine whether energy efficiency The recognition agreement between DECC and the products are eligible for support under the Green Deal. recognised trade unions (the Public and Commercial [10324] Services Union, Prospect, and the FDA) follows the ACAS code of practice “Time off for Trades Union Gregory Barker: We have set out the proposal for a Duties and Activities”, and sets out the details of facility Green Deal that will enable energy users to install time agreed between parties. energy efficiency measures, with no upfront cost, and In 2009-10, DECC employed one full-time equivalent paid for over time through the savings on their energy officer (approximately 1,900 hours) who operates as our bills. Departmental Trade Union Side Secretary. In addition, While we continue to develop the detail that will 42 days (approximately 350 hours) have been spent by underpin the Green Deal, taking into account the needs civil servants on trade union related duties and activities. of the consumers and industry, we are clear that the cost of repayments for Green Deal installed measures Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy should be less than the likely energy bill savings. We are and Climate Change how many civil servants in his also clear that installed measures should be able to pay Department spent the equivalent of (a) five days or for themselves in a reasonable period of time. fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to We will be setting out the measures that qualify for 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more on the Green Deal in secondary legislation once the trade union-related activities or duties while being paid forthcoming Energy Security and Green Economy Bill salaries from the public purse in each year since 2008. has received Assent. [11693] Energy: National Policy Statements Chris Huhne: DECC was created as a new Department in October 2008; records of trade union related activities Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy are not available for financial period 2008-09. and Climate Change pursuant to the written The recognition agreement between DECC and the ministerial statement of 15 July 2010, Official Report, recognised trades unions (the Public and Commercial column 40WS, on the draft energy national policy Services Union, Prospect, and the FDA) follows the statements (consultation), what changes have been ACAS code of practice “Time off for Trades Union made to the Appraisal of Sustainability for the Duties and Activities”, and sets out the details of facility Overarching Energy National Policy Statement. [11896] time agreed between parties. In 2009-10 DECC had one full-time equivalent officer Charles Hendry: The work on the Appraisal of who operated as our Departmental Trade Union Side Sustainability for the Overarching Energy National Policy Secretary. (Category F) Statement is not yet complete and therefore I am not In the same year 13 other civil servants (trade union able to say now exactly what changes will be made to it. representatives) spent fewer than five days each on However, once the work is completed, all the Appraisals trade-union related activities. (Category A) of Sustainability and the draft national policy statements will be published for re-consultation in the autumn. Electric Cables Energy: Prices Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what procedure he plans to adopt Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for for the consideration of applicants for (a) new Energy and Climate Change if he will consider the electricity lines of 132kV and above and (b) other merits of requiring energy companies to (a) promote linear major infrastructure projects; and if he will make their social tariffs to those who qualify for them and a statement. [11493] (b) allow registration for social tariffs between April and September each year. [9121] Charles Hendry: Applications for new electricity lines of 132 kV and above and other major linear energy Gregory Barker [holding answer 19 July 2010]: Under infrastructure projects are currently submitted to the the current voluntary agreement which is in place from Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) for examination. 2008-11, Ofgem has ensured that information about the On 29 June we announced that we would abolish the suppliers’ social tariffs and programmes and a contact IPC and replace it with a Major Infrastructure Planning phone number for consumers to check their eligibility, Unit (MIPU) as part of the Planning Inspectorate. is available on all the suppliers’ websites. Collectively, However, until new legislation is in place to put these suppliers had signed up over one million customers by arrangements into effect, the IPC will continue in its the end of the first year of the agreement, spending present role. Once the MIPU is established, it will make £157 million, which exceeded the Government target recommendations to my right hon. Friend the Secretary by 57%. 887W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 888W

Suppliers’ social tariffs are currently available for Energy: Windows registration at the individual suppliers’ discretion. However, in order to be called a social tariff and marketed as Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for such, the tariff is required to be available on an enduring Energy and Climate Change what recent estimate he basis, not just seasonally. has made of the proportion of houses eligible under Under the Energy Act 2010, the Government have Government schemes for assistance with the powers to introduce mandated social price support installation of energy-efficient windows. [11494] through the Energy Act 2010 and, subject to the outcome Gregory Barker: In principle, energy efficient glazing of the Spending Review and public consultation on its is an eligible measure under the carbon emissions reduction proposals, intends to introduce the first scheme in 2011. target for any residential property, providing that the replacement windows go beyond the minimum requirements Mr McCann: To ask the Secretary of State for in part L of the building regulations. It is therefore a Energy and Climate Change if he will bring forward decision for the obligated companies whether or not to proposals to limit increases in domestic energy prices. promote these measures in any particular case. Glazing [11610] is also an eligible measure on a similar basis under the Community Energy Saving Programme for any property Charles Hendry: I have no plans to reintroduce controls situated within the scheme’s eligible areas. for domestic energy prices. Open energy markets and vigorous competition between suppliers are the best Housing: Energy means of keeping domestic prices as low as possible. Since privatisation, competition in UK markets has Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for consistently delivered some of the cheapest domestic Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish energy prices in the EU. the outstanding annual progress reports under the Ofgem closely monitors energy price movements and Home Energy Conservation Act 1995; and if he will has said it would investigate this market if it appears make a statement. [10871] that competition was not working properly, as indeed Gregory Barker: I am currently considering the future they did in 2008-09. of the Home Energy Conservation Act 1995 (HECA), including whether to publish the latest data reported by Mr McCann: To ask the Secretary of State for local authorities and will make my intentions clear in Energy and Climate Change when he expects Ofgem to due course. publish conclusions of its consultation on ending the 65 working day notice period for unilateral contract Insulation: Housing variations. [11611] Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Charles Hendry: I understand that Ofgem is now Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on the considering the responses to its consultation and it will future of the home insulation programme; and if he publish its final proposals before the end of the summer. will make a statement. [11895] Gregory Barker: On 30 June I announced that the Mr McCann: To ask the Secretary of State for principal home insulation scheme, the carbon emissions Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he reduction target, an obligation on energy suppliers to has made of the accuracy of the use of domestic energy meet household carbon saving targets, would be extended prices when used to calculate wholesale energy prices. to the end of December 2012. We have restructured the [11618] scheme to increase the focus on delivering insulation measures. An order to give effect to the extended scheme Charles Hendry: The Department for Energy and was laid before Parliament on 14 July. Climate Change does not publish wholesale energy Going forward, we expect home insulation measures price forecasts. It publishes oil, gas and coal price to continue to play a central role under the Government’s assumptions for the period till 2030, which are used in new Green Deal programme. Provisions relating to the the Department’s analytical work. Rather than forecasting Green Deal will be included in the forthcoming Energy prices, DECC attempts to generate a number of price Security and Green Economy Bill. scenarios, based on estimates of fundamentals, that represent a plausible range that might materialise in the Noise: Farms future. The assumptions do not capture short-term volatility in fossil fuel prices, but they are intended to Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for reflect potential long-term trends. It is therefore possible Energy and Climate Change if he will review the to witness significant deviation from these trends in any guidance produced by the Energy Technology Support one year. The Department keeps these assumptions Unit in 1997 on the assessment and rating of noise under review, and will update them when necessary. The from wind farms; and if he will make a statement. last review took place in January 2010 but no changes [9445] were made. In addition, as part of DECC’s Updated Energy and Emissions Projections, DECC produce Charles Hendry: Noise is a key issue to be taken into wholesale electricity price projections which arise from account in considering proposals for wind farm the fossil fuel price assumptions. The most recent projections development. There is no reason to believe that the can be found at: protection from noise provided for by the ETSU-R-97 http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/proiections/ guidance does not remain acceptable, and we have no proiections.aspx plans to change this. 889W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 890W

However, I have commissioned an analysis of how his written parliamentary question no. 5720, Official noise impacts are considered in the determination of Report, column 147-8W was incorrect. My hon. Friend wind farm planning applications in England. The project has today laid before Parliament a written ministerial will seek to establish best practice in assessing and statement correcting this error. rating wind turbine noise by investigating previous decisions. The Office for Nuclear Development (OND) is not a Our aim is to ensure that ETSU-R-97 is applied in a non-departmental public body, but a unit within the consistent and effective manner and that it is implemented Department of Energy and Climate Change. in a way that provides the intended level of protection. Following a competitive tender process, we have awarded Offshore Wind Capital Grants Scheme the work to Hayes McKenzie, who will begin in September and expect to complete the project around the end of Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy the year. and Climate Change what assessment he made of the likely effects on the Government’s progress on its Nuclear Power targets on climate change of the reduction in the budget of the Offshore Wind Capital Grants Scheme David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for prior to his announcement of that reduction. [10319] Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish a national policy statement on civil nuclear power; and if Charles Hendry: Decisions on the recent reductions he will make a statement. [11781] in low carbon technology spending were informed by a value for money assessment of planned programmes, Charles Hendry: I laid before Parliament a written which included an assessment of the impact of the ministerial statement on 15 July 2010, Official Report, programme on climate change targets as well as other column 40WS, which set out that we will re-consult on factors such as UK security of supply and the programmes’ the energy national policy statements in the autumn. As ability to be delivered within the timescale of the 2010-11 part of this we will publish the revised draft NPSs financial year. Following that assessment it was decided including the nuclear NPS. We expect to be in a position to proceed with a £5 million programme, providing to lay the documents before Parliament for ratification grants to seven projects with the strongest fit with the in spring next year. scheme criteria, which we announced on the 5 July 2010. Alongside over £20 million of funding provided Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for in Calls 1 and 2 of this scheme, we expect that funding Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the to make a significant indirect contribution to realising contribution of the Minister of State of 22 June 2010, the carbon benefits from offshore wind deployment by Official Report, column 23WH, what steps he plans to supporting next-generation technology. take to identify areas in the UK nuclear sector where there may have been hidden subsidies. [11995] Power Stations: Didcot

Charles Hendry: On the question of historic subsidies Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for for nuclear power, I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I Energy and Climate Change how much water Didcot A gave my hon. Friend the Member for Redcar (Ian power station used for cooling purposes in the latest Swales) on 1 July 2010, Official Report, column 600W. period for which figures are available; and to what use On new nuclear power, the Government are clear that water so used will be put when Didcot A power station there will be no public subsidy. As I explained on closes in 2020. [11505] 22 June 2010, Official Report, column 24WH, one area that is being considered carefully is waste and Charles Hendry: In 2009 Didcot A power station’s net decommissioning funding. The Government are putting cooling water usage was 2,941,708 cubic metres. This in place measures to ensure that operators of new water will no longer been drawn from the river once nuclear plants are required by law to set aside money Didcot A closes by the end of 2015. from day one to pay for the waste and clean-up process. The Government will carefully scrutinise other areas, as Renewable Energy necessary, to ensure that there is no subsidy for new nuclear going forwards. Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has made of Office for Nuclear Development the effect on progress towards the Government’s targets on climate change of (a) the reduction in the Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for budget of the Carbon Trust, (b) the reduction of Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of funding for development of deep geothermal energy 14 July 2010, Official Report, column 796W, on Office generation and (c) the reduction in scope of the for Nuclear Development, for what reason the Office Offshore Wind Capital Grants scheme. [10338] for Nuclear Development was listed as a non- departmental body in the answer to the hon. Member Charles Hendry: Decisions on the recent reductions for Hartlepool of 6 July 2010, Official Report, in low carbon technology spending were informed by a columns 147-8W, on non-departmental public bodies. value for money assessment of all planned technology [10053] programmes, which included an assessment of the expected impact of the programme on climate change targets, as Charles Hendry: The answer my hon. Friend the well as other factors such as UK energy security and the Minister of State for Climate Change gave to the hon. programmes’ ability to be delivered within a 2010-11 Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright) on 6 July 2010, to timescale. 891W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 892W

The Carbon Trust is a private company and the Charles Hendry: Ministers have met a number of precise details of how their savings will be made is a banks in recent weeks to discuss the development of the matter for its board but Carbon Trust will this year Green Deal and discussions have touched on receive up to £115 million from DECC when all grants microgeneration issues, including solar photovoltaic are taken into account. In the case of deep geothermal technology.The Government recognise that this technology the 2nd round call can proceed and together with the has an important part to play in helping to reduce £4 million of funding spent last year will provide valuable carbon emissions in homes. Since April this year the help in the development and deployment of that technology main vehicle for supporting investment in solar in the UK. £5 million of funding for seven projects photovoltaics is the feed-in-tariff, which is available for under the third call of Offshore Wind Capital Grants a range of small scale low carbon technologies. programme will—together with over £20 million awarded in previous calls—support the development of next- Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for generation low-carbon offshore wind technologies. Energy and Climate Change if he will meet Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy representatives of Mipower Ltd in Shrewsbury to and Climate Change what steps he is taking to improve discuss the contribution of environmental businesses to measurement and reporting of the contribution of economic development. [11251] central Government expenditure to delivering (a) the target by 2020 of a seven-fold increase from the 2008 Gregory Barker: Thank you for your invitation to baseline in the amount of energy generated by meet representatives of Mipower Ltd in Shrewsbury renewable resources and (b) the contribution of such to discuss the contribution of environmental businesses expenditure to 2050 targets; and if he will make a to economic development. statement. [10952] Can I suggest that Mipower Ltd meet officials within Gregory Barker: From the 2010-11 financial year, the Distributed Energy and Heat Team in DECC who DECC and delivery partners will report alongside their lead on microgeneration. I would recommend Mipower annual reports and accounts the income and expenditure Ltd contacts Paul Rochester at on the major renewables policies that fall within DECC’s [email protected] remit. This will provide financial information to supplement to take matters forward. the information on progress against the renewables target already published by the Department. As set out in the June 2010 edition of Energy Trends Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for published by this Department, progress has been made Energy and Climate Change for what reasons tidal against the UK’s target of 15% of energy from renewables technologies used to produce electricity earn two by 2020—3.0% of energy consumption in 2009 came renewable obligation certificates; if he will consider the from renewable sources, up from 2.4% in 2008. Full merits of increasing the number of certificates earned data for 2009 will be published in the Digest of United to three; and if he will make a statement. [11492] Kingdom Energy Statistics (DUKES) which will be published later this month and copies placed in the Gregory Barker: The renewables obligation (RO) is Libraries of both Houses. the Government’s main mechanism for incentivising There is no 2050 target for renewables, but the investment in large scale renewable electricity. It supports Government have just published the 2050 Pathways a wide range of technologies with a view to help deliver Analysis. This is a framework for understanding the the required level of generation necessary to meet our potential role of different sectors in meeting the target of sourcing 15% of our energy from renewable 80% emissions reduction target and ensuring secure sources by 2020. energy supplies, and for considering some of the choices Support levels for all RO supported technologies will and trade-offs that will be faced over the next 40 years. be reviewed as part of the periodic banding review due to start in October this year. Any changes to support Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for levels would then take effect on 1 April 2013. Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on encouraging the (a) growth of environmental industries and (b) generation of electricity by low- Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for carbon methods, with particular reference to the Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions he manufacture of products and systems for energy has had on the use of pyrolytic energy recovery generation. [11247] technology. [11579] Charles Hendry: The Government are committed to Charles Hendry: My right hon. Friend the encouraging the growth of environmental industries Secretary of State has not had any discussions on and the generation of low carbon electricity, and today pyrolysis recently. set out its overall approach to energy and climate change issues in the Annual Energy Statement. Government recognise that pyrolysis is an important and versatile technology which can be used Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for to convert biomass or bio based waste into a range of Energy and Climate Change what discussions he has energy outputs. Pyrolysis is supported through the had with banks on access to finance for (a) businesses renewables obligation, with electricity generated from in the photovoltaic manufacture, installation and liquid or gaseous fuel produced through innovative supply industry and (b) householders and businesses advanced pyrolysis qualifying for two renewable obligation to pay for such installations. [11249] certificates. 893W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 894W

Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme JUSTICE Driving Offences: Fixed Penalties Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when responses to the Renewable Heat Incentive consultation will be published; and Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for when his Department will publish its own response to Justice what role the County Court Bulk Centre has in the consultation. [11423] respect of penalty orders issued by the Traffic Enforcement Centre. [11252] Gregory Barker: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Sevenoaks Mr Djanogly: The County Court Bulk Centre (CCBC) (Michael Fallon) on 15 June 2010, Official Report, is part of Northampton county court. CCBC is made columns 367-68W. up of the Claims Production Centre (CPC), the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC), Money Claims On Line Wind Power (MCOL) and Possession Claims On Line (PCOL). Part 75 of the Civil Procedure Rules 1998 (to be read Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for in conjunction with Practice Direction 75) provides Energy and Climate Change whether he plans to revise jurisdiction to Northampton county court (Northampton the noise assessment guidance for wind turbines County Court Bulk Centre) under the name The Traffic (ETSU-R-97). [8993] Enforcement Centre to register and enforce on street parking charges, vehicle emission penalties, road user Gregory Barker: Noise is a key issue to be taken into charges (congestion charges) and bus lane transgression account in considering proposals for wind farm charges. development. There is no reason to believe that the protection from noise provided for by the ETSU-R-97 Compensation: Armed Forces guidance does not remain acceptable, and we have no plans to change this. Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) However, I have commissioned an analysis of how if he will review the circumstances in which the Legal noise impacts are considered in the determination of Services Commission may enforce a charge for costs on wind farm planning applications in England. The compensation awards made to injured servicemen; project will seek to establish best practice in assessing [11297] and rating wind turbine noise by investigating previous (2) in how many cases the Legal Services decisions. Our aim is to ensure that ETSU-R-97 is Commission enforced a charge for costs on applied in a consistent and effective manner and that it compensation awards made to injured servicemen in is implemented in a way that provides the intended level the last 12 months; and what sums were charged in of protection. each case. [11298] Following a competitive tender process, we have awarded the work to Hayes McKenzie, who will begin in September Mr Djanogly: Legal aid is not generally available for and expect to complete the project around the end of personal injury claims that do not result from alleged the year. clinical negligence. However, legal aid may be granted in individual cases where particular criteria are met. Wind Power: Noise These criteria include: that there is significant wider public interest in the proceedings; and that the proceedings Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for involve allegations against a public authority concerning Energy and Climate Change if he will revise ETSU- serious wrong-doing, abuse of position or power or R-97 on the assessment and rating of noise from wind significant breach of human rights. farms to bring it into line with current standards. In cases where a legally aided client gains money as a [5568] result of their funded proceedings, the Legal Services Commission (LSC) seeks to recover the public funds Charles Hendry: Noise is a key issue to be taken into expended. This is a fundamental principle of the legal account in considering proposals for wind farm aid system, and ensures that money is available to fund development. There is no reason to believe that the other deserving cases. We have no plans to limit the protection from noise provided for by the ETSU-R-97 application of the statutory charge. guidance does not remain acceptable, and we have no The LSC does not categorise legal aid applications plans to change this. relating to service personnel separately from other However, I have commissioned an analysis of how applications. The number of legally aided cases where noise impacts are considered in the determination of injured service personnel have received compensation wind farm planning applications in England. The project cannot be identified. will seek to establish best practice in assessing and rating wind turbine noise by investigating previous decisions. County Courts: Finance Our aim is to ensure that ETSU-R-97 is applied in a consistent and effective manner and that it is implemented Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice in a way that provides the intended level of protection. what the running cost of Llangefni county court was in Following a competitive tender process, we have awarded each year from 2006 to 2009. [10334] the work to Hayes McKenzie, who will begin in September and expect to complete the project around the end of Mr Djanogly: The operating costs of Llangefni county the year. court in each year from 2006 to 2009 were as follows: 895W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 896W

Available sitting days in both 2008-09 and 2009-10 Operating costs (£000) were 506 (this figure assumes that both chambers and 2005-06 226.8 courtroom were available every working day throughout 2006-07 210.9 the periods). The percentage of days sat in 2008-09 was 2007-08 249.4 therefore 85% and in 2009-10 it was 79%. 2008-09 290.5 Notes: 2009-10 279.9 Rhyl County Court has one circuit judge court and one District Judge Chambers. The Circuit Bench is inclusive The operating costs exclude income but include non-cash of High Court Judges, Deputy High Court Judges costs, staffing costs and judicial costs incurred by HM Circuit Judges, Deputy Circuit Judges and Recorders. Courts Service. District Judges includes District Judges and Deputy District Judges. County Courts: Redditch Courts Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what estimate his Department has made of the Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State cost to the public purse of the operation of Redditch for Justice (1) how many warrants for the arrest of (a) county court in each of the next three years. [10453] defendants and (b) witnesses resident in the former Minehead court area have been issued for failure to Mr Djanogly: The outcome of the Spending Review appear at courts in Bridgewater or Taunton since the 2010 (SR10) will be announced on 20 October. The closure of Minehead courthouse; [11024] Ministry of Justice’s SR10 submission incorporates high (2) how many defendants appeared at Bridgwater level assumptions in respect to future expenditure and Magistrates Court in each of the last five years; and savings. Until the SR10 settlement is agreed with HMT how many such defendants gave addresses in and the internal MOJ Business Group allocations are Bridgwater; [11025] completed, detailed financial information at the level requested is not available. (3) how many truancy cases were heard in courts in (a) Bridgwater and (b) Taunton in each of the last five For the hon. Member’s information, the operating years; [11026] costs of Redditch county court for the last three years are given in the following table. The operating costs (4) how many court cases were adjourned owing to exclude income but include non-cash, staff and judicial files held at Taunton courthouse not having been made costs. It should be noted that there is a policy of available in the last two years. [11027] recovering the costs for county courts through fee income from court users accessing county court services. Mr Djanogly: The information requested is not held centrally as it is not recorded by court staff electronically £ as part of their routine daily administrative duties. The only means to collect these data would be the inspection 2007-08 493,463 of each individual case file at disproportionate cost. 2008-09 510,412 2009-10 471,114 Courts: Closures

County Courts: Wales Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice for what reasons he decided to propose the closure of Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice courts in Rhyl and Denbigh. [10831] what estimate he made of the proportion of available court time in each chamber of Rhyl county court Mr Djanogly: In order to form the proposals for during which the court sat in the latest period for which closure, the principles contained within consultation figures are available. [10851] paper CP15/10 were considered. Particular regard was paid to the respective utilisation rates and the opportunity Mr Djanogly: Information on days sat at Rhyl county to rationalise the court estate within reasonable travelling court and the proportion of these as a percentage of distances of communities. available sitting days is given in the table. Courts: Operating Costs Total days sat (non Court (day sat) Judge Type High Court work) Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for April 2008 - March Circuit Bench 172.5 Justice (1) what the operating costs were of each court 2009 in Wales in each of the last three years; [11393] District Bench 258.5 (2) how much was spent on refurbishment and Total 431 maintenance at each court in Wales in each of the last three financial years. [11304] April 2009 - March Circuit Bench 147.5 2010 Mr Djanogly: The operating costs and the resource District Bench 242.5 maintenance and improvements costs for each court in Total 433 Wales for the last three full financial years are shown in the following table. 897W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 898W

The operating costs exclude income but include non-cash Courts Service. The operating costs are inclusive of the costs, staffing costs and judicial costs incurred by HM resource maintenance and improvement costs.

Operating expenditure (£000) Maintenance and improvements expenditure (£000) Name of court 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Aberdare magistrates and county court 522.4 420.4 614.3 82.8 85.7 49.0 Abergavenny magistrates court 363.9 218.7 242.2 26.1 21.6 20.8 Abertillery magistrates court 139.1 138.7 125.8 23.5 22.1 25.8 Aberystwyth county court 262.1 215.1 191.6 11.5 25.7 26.2 Aberystwyth magistrates court 83.7 44.0 66.4 10.2 16.7 13.3 Ammanford magistrates court 71.8 59.5 132.2 19.1 10.3 86.2 Barry magistrates court 918.3 1,308.4 1,140.8 75.1 386.0 79.0 Blackwood civil and family centre 941.9 1,095.8 986.2 107.0 25.1 35.0 Brecon law courts 553.2 561.9 536.9 35.8 49.3 48.7 Bridgend magistrates court 1,653.5 1,660.8 1,763.4 45.0 57.6 62.1 Caernarfon county court 464.9 488.4 506.7 34.4 13.9 29.3 Caernarfon crown and magistrates court 1,502.1 1,276.3 3,794.5 33.3 31.8 64.1 Caerphilly magistrates court 226.3 709.0 371.8 35.1 90.9 55.0 Cardiff civil justice centre 3,431.5 3,041.0 4,702.7 550.7 78.2 126.8 Cardiff crown court 3,432.8 4,203.7 3,718.3 300.6 389.7 162.7 Cardiff magistrates court 3,743.5 3,772.2 5,896.7 351.5 236.0 253.6 Cardigan magistrates court 40.9 95.2 98.0 13.2 22.7 31.5 Carmarthen county court 467.8 403.7 355.8 45.5 30.1 38.8 Carmarthen magistrates court 303.7 265.5 414.3 194.3 122.2 74.7 Chepstow magistrates court 0.2 — 2.9 — — — Conwy and Colwyn Bay county court 147.1 192.2 173.1 5.9 13.6 1.0 Cwmbran magistrates court 244.6 316.5 396.8 89.7 54.8 37.5 Denbigh magistrates court 83.9 109.9 101.3 29.9 41.6 24.9 Dolgellau crown and magistrates court 132.7 66.3 62.3 46.8 32.4 13.7 Flint magistrates court 69.9 -4.3 102.7 12.9 12.6 7.3 Haverfordwest law courts 1,123.4 1,191.5 1,558.0 46.5 75.0 408.5 Holyhead magistrates court (North 163.9 127.2 81.7 98.7 36.4 16.7 Anglesey) Llandrindod Wells magistrates court 65.1 81.8 63.9 17.5 19.1 13.4 Llandudno magistrates court 1,283.5 1,531.3 1,807.5 44.7 136.2 41.7 Llanelli magistrates and county court 1,485.3 1,236.2 1,544.6 143.5 143.5 95.0 Llangefni county court 249.4 290.5 279.9 15.4 33.9 41.2 Llangefni magistrates court 24.1 72.7 15.2 13.4 8.6 8.8 Llwynypia magistrates court 258.6 292.3 337.4 40.1 41.8 49.9 Merthyr Tydfil combined court 5,358.9 6,172.3 3,230.8 610.5 -119.7 75.3 Mold court complex 1,484.7 1,878.9 1,616.9 119.1 216.5 115.0 Neath and Port Talbot county court 488.2 564.1 558.5 23.7 45.3 18.3 Neath magistrates court 956.3 964.3 1,018.1 89.2 59.2 93.9 Newport county court 154.7 211.9 614.7 16.5 72.0 148.9 Newport county court (Olympia House) 1,059.5 1,041.1 1,018.5 16.9 18.3 113.9 Newport crown court 1,229.3 1,431.5 1,247.9 75.2 85.2 70.4 Newport magistrates court (Civic Centre) 190.6 300.0 445.1 48.2 46.8 44.8 Newport magistrates court (Pentonville) 433.2 120.8 72.7 21.0 24.0 21.5 Pontypool county court 147.5 113.8 118.3 12.6 16.9 14.7 Pontypridd county court 684.6 853.3 965.6 36.5 138.5 27.3 Pontypridd magistrates court 1,091.9 1,513.9 923.2 57.8 287.0 41.0 Port Talbot magistrates court 296.7 192.6 397.8 56.0 51.9 41.2 Prestatyn magistrates court (Rhuddlan) 146.3 176.4 241.4 38.6 38.7 33.9 Pwllheli magistrates court 34.6 56.4 45.6 13.3 19.5 17.9 Rhyl county court 528.7 583.5 657.0 33.4 22.8 31.7 Swansea civil justice centre 2,221.4 2,001.3 2,109.5 237.2 95.8 200.6 Swansea crown court 569.1 662.4 1,001.5 86.3 133.0 22.7 Swansea crown court offices 1,989.1 1,873.0 1,983.0 331.7 88.4 73.2 Swansea magistrates court 1,790.9 1,750.8 1,696.8 195.7 137.6 42.4 Welshpool magistrates and county court 247.2 443.7 458.7 38.5 27.8 72.4 Wrexham county court 637.8 678.6 712.0 8.7 8.3 8.7 Wrexham magistrates court 1,492.8 1,636.9 1,542.8 83.4 74.6 50.7 899W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 900W

Courts: Security implementation of his proposals for court closures on the number of such employees working for the Court Service; and if he will make a statement. [10790] Mr Leech: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many security staff work for HM Courts Service. Mr Djanogly: There are 1,439 security staff employed [10789] by MITIE working at HMCS courts. There is also a complement of about 300 guards available to draw on Mr Djanogly: There are 55 directly-employed security to cover leave, or sick absence. guards working for HM Courts Service (HMCS) at the Royal Courts of Justice. A further 57 guards at the The consultations on court estate proposals began on Central Criminal Court are provided by Corporation of 23 June 2010 and will close on 15 September 2010. No London. However, the majority of security guards currently specific assessment has been of the effects of any court deployed across the HMCS estate are provided under closure on MITIE employees working for HMCS. However, contract through third party providers. As at June 2010 I encourage MITIE and its individual employees to there were approximately 1,439 security staff working respond to the consultation and their response will be at HMCS sites and a further 72 working at Tribunals considered as part of decisions on whether and which Service sites. A complement of circa 300 guards is also courts to close. available to draw on to cover leave/sick absences. At a Courts: Taunton minority of HMCS sites, a further (estimated) 24-30 security staff are provided under the terms of occupational Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State lease agreements. for Justice on how many days each court in (a) Taunton and (b) Bridgwater sat in each of the last five Mr Leech: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice years. [11029] how many security staff working at each court for HM Courts Service are employees of MITIE Group plc; Mr Djanogly: The information requested is shown in what assessment he has made of the effects of the following table.

Hours Available to Available to Total available Criminal Civil Other judicial Total judicial Utilisation Court/period magistrates other users hours utilisation utilisation use use (percentage)

Bridgwater April 2009 to 3,719.70 0 3,719.70 1,383.41 149.2 0 1,532.61 41.2 March 2010 April 2008 to 3,719.70 0 3,719.70 1,625.74 174.1 6 1,805.84 48.5 March 2009 April 2007 to 3,719.70 0 3,719.70 1,863.00 235.05 192.5 2,290.55 61.6 March 2008

Taunton April 2009 to 4,959.60 0 4,959.60 2,400.89 193.35 12 2,606.24 52.5 March 2010 April 2008 to 4,959.60 0 4,959.60 2,591.83 286.2 33.5 2,911.53 58.7 March 2009 April 2007 to 4,959.60 0 4,959.60 2,710.00 202.3 216.5 3,128.80 63.1 March 2008 Note: The Ministry of Justice (HMCS) has obtained this electronic data from an internal management system (HMCS Performance Database). The data required for Bridgewater and Taunton Magistrates courts can be obtained centrally as far back as financial year 2007-08. All magistrates courts have only ever recorded sitting hours. Sitting days are not available in this jurisdiction.

Courts: Wales Table 1: Completed proceedings in magistrates courts local justice areas Local justice area Financial year Volume

Ceredigion 2007-08 2,398 Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many cases were heard in each court in 2008-09 2,222 Wales in each of the last three years. [11396] 2009-10 2,278

Mr Djanogly: Information on the workload of the De Brycheiniog 2007-08 1,290 magistrates courts, county courts and the Crown court 2008-09 1,087 in Wales for each of the last three years is provided in 2009-10 1,425 the following tables.

Table 1: Completed proceedings in magistrates courts local justice areas Dinefwr 2007-08 1,703 Local justice area Financial year Volume 2008-09 1,639

Carmarthen 2007-08 3,034 2009-10 1,080 2008-09 2,480

2009-10 2,042 Llanelli 2007-08 3,778 901W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 902W

Table 1: Completed proceedings in magistrates courts local justice areas Table 1: Completed proceedings in magistrates courts local justice areas Local justice area Financial year Volume Local justice area Financial year Volume

2008-09 4,350 Gwent 2007-08 33,668 2009-10 5,074 2008-09 29,182 2009-10 31,166 Montgomeryshire 2007-08 2,195 2008-09 2,435 Merthyr Tydfil 2007-08 6,480 2009-10 2,408 2008-09 6,076 2009-10 5,850 Neath and Port Talbot 2007-08 8,171 2008-09 7,733 Miskin 2007-08 12,385 2009-10 7,778 2008-09 11,209 2009-10 10,000 Pembrokeshire 2007-08 5,213 2008-09 5,218 2009-10 4,623 Newcastle and Ogmore 2007-08 9,184 2008-09 7,843

Radnorshire and North 2007-08 548 2009-10 7,351 Brecknock 2008-09 625 Vale of Glamorgan 2007-08 7,724 2009-10 709 2008-09 7,154 2009-10 6,325 Swansea 2007-08 17,551 2008-09 16,940 Notes: 1. ‘Volume’ includes Criminal, Civil and Family proceedings. Means Enquiries, 2009-10 15,602 and Rights to Representation. 2. Information is only available at local justice area and includes all the courts within Wales. Anglesey (Ynys Mon) 2007-08 3,473 3. The data come from an internal management system. The data are subject to our minimal levels of quality assurance and are based on the data currently 2008-09 3,256 available. 2009-10 2,765 Table 2: Private and public law family orders made (counted by child) in county courts and the District Registry of the High Court in Wales, 2006-08 to 2008-09 County courts High Court Conwy 2007-08 5,722 Court 2008-09 5,871 name 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 6,032 Aberystwyth 146 128 138 0 0 0 Blackwood 345 305 510 0 0 0 Denbighshire 2007-08 6,213 Brecknock 38 46 38 0 10 0 2008-09 6,205 Bridgend 23 3 164 195 2 0 0 2009-10 6,467 Caernarfon 309 405 370 1 11 14 Cardiff 1,088 991 927 27 12 5 Carmarthen 132 122 176 0 0 0 Flintshire 2007-08 5,800 Haverfordwest 245 240 181 0 0 0 2008-09 5,328 Llanelli 338 379 292 3 0 0 2009-10 6,731 Llangefni 194 137 265 0 0 0 Merthyr 168 151 201 0 0 0 Tydfil Gwynedd 2007-08 5,998 Neath and 261 285 247 1 0 0 2008-09 5,428 Port 2009-10 6,260 Talbot Newport, 1,018 1,123 1,073 21 10 2 Gwent Wrexham Maelor 2007-08 9,614 Pontypridd 813 646 842 3 0 3 2008-09 9,472 Rhyl 366 417 480 15 22 62 Swansea 719 830 886 28 7 6 2009-10 10,487 Welshpool 73 81 110 0 0 0 Wrexham 297 267 267 2 2 2 Cardiff 2007-08 32,661 All Wales 6,783 6,717 7,198 103 74 94 2008-09 32,576 Notes: 1. Figures relate to the number of children subject to each application. 2009-10 28,179 2. Public law refers to child protection cases where a local authority is stepping in to protect a child from harm. Private law refers to cases where there is a dispute between two or more private individuals regarding a child. For Cynon Valley 2007-08 3,557 example, over where he/she is to live or whether someone should have contact 2008-09 3,831 with him/her. Both are cases brought under the Children Act 1989. 3. Statistics for 2009-10 are not yet available; 2009 data are due to be published 2009-10 3,188 in September 2010. Source: HM Courts Service FamilyMan system 903W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 904W

Table 3: Completed family court proceedings in Wales county courts, 2007-08 to Table 5: Crown court cases dealt with in Wales, 2007-08 to 2009-10 2009-10 Crown court Court name 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 centre 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Caernarfon 468 481 522 Aberystwyth 309 267 233 Cardiff 4,014 4,414 3,643 Blackwood 1,161 1,059 948 Carmarthen 411 421 410 Brecknock 235 219 173 Dolgellau 0 0 0 Bridgend 812 735 703 Haverfordwest 172 146 148 Caernarfon 765 579 616 Merthyr Tydfil 304 444 1,084 Cardiff 1,952 1,641 1,431 Mold 829 930 1,042 Swansea 1,088 1,153 1,175 Carmarthen 402 398 283 Welshpool o 0 0 Haverfordwest 615 488 498 Note: Llanelli 784 1,086 1,343 1. Crown court cases includes cases committed/sent for trial, committed for sentence and appeals against magistrates courts decisions. Llangefni 285 240 252 2. Some of the centres listed above are ‘satellite’ courts of main centres, those main courts and satellites are listed in the following list. Merthyr Tydfil 330 286 313 Source: Neath and Port 790 578 572 HM Courts Service CREST System Talbot Newport, 1,156 934 941 Satellites of Mold Gwent Caernarfon Pontypridd 792 606 799 Dolgellau Rhyl 692 666 400 Welshpool Swansea 966 803 1,454 Satellites of Swansea Welshpool 613 554 550 Carmarthen Wrexham 794 738 608 Haverfordwest All Wales 13,453 11,877 12,117 Crimes of Violence: Sentencing Notes: 1. Figures include orders made in the District Registry of the High Court, and exclude public and private law cases. Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 2. Figures include cases related to domestic violence injunctions, dissolution and nullity of marriage and ancillary relief. what proportion of offenders sentenced to prison terms 3. One case may include more than one type of ancillary relief order. of six months or less were sentenced for violent Source: offences. [11348] HM Courts Service FamilyMan system.

Table 4: The total number of civil (non-family) cases heard in each county court Mr Blunt: The number of offenders sentenced to an in Wales for the last full three financial years immediate custodial sentence of six months or less for Court name 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 violent indictable offences, non-violent indictable offences Aberdare 307 326 272 and all indictable offences, and the proportion they are Aberystwyth 111 138 128 of total indictable offences, England and Wales 2008 Blackwood 1,084 1,033 777 (latest available) are shown in the table as follows. Brecknock 85 106 88 Data for 2009 are planned for publication on 21 October Bridgend 867 858 651 2010. Caernarfon 280 324 271 Number of offenders sentenced to immediate custodial sentences of six months Cardiff 2,511 2,625 2,151 or less, by indictable offence group1, England and Wales 20082,3,4 Carmarthen 298 321 272 Immediate custodial Proportion of the total Conwy and 326 403 321 Offence category/ sentence of six month or sentenced for indictable Colwyn group less offences (%) Haverfordwest 422 384 361 Violent indictable Llanelli 408 478 345 offences Llangefni 193 185 163 Violence against 4,742 — Merthyr Tydfil 362 363 278 the person Mold 379 414 328 Sexual offences 285 — Neath and Port 685 688 630 Robbery 317 — Talbot Total 5,344 14 Newport, 1,637 1,520 1,201 Gwent Non-violent Pontypool 398 384 435 indictable offences Pontypridd 820 822 721 Burglary 3,563 — Rhyl 619 634 478 Theft and 18,515 — Swansea 1,307 1,357 1,096 handling stolen goods Welshpool 160 153 145 Fraud and forgery 2,149 — Wrexham 837 847 607 Criminal damage 564 — Note: Total number of civil proceedings completed in the Welsh county courts Drug offences 1,781 — includes all cases disposed of by a trial or small claim hearing, or which saw Other indictable 5,207 — an order for possession of property made at a hearing. offences Source: HM Courts Service CaseMan system and Possession Claim On-Line system Indictable 493 — motoring offences 905W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 906W

Number of offenders sentenced to immediate custodial sentences of six months these where fees are charged, or the nature and level of 1 2,3,4 or less, by indictable offence group , England and Wales 2008 any fees that may be charged by different providers. Immediate custodial Proportion of the total Offence category/ sentence of six month or sentenced for indictable An initial impact assessment was published alongside group less offences (%) the consultation paper which considered the potential Total 32,272 86 effectiveness of all of the options contained in the Total indictable 37,616 100 consultation paper. The impact assessment contained a offences number of questions which sought to obtain information 1 Summary offences have not been included as they are not categorised into relating to each of the options. However, the few responses violent or non-violent offences to these questions contained very little factual information 2 The figures given in the table relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. When a defendant has relating to these options. Consequently, it is not possible been found guilty of two or more offences it is the offence for which the to make any estimate about the total amount of fees heaviest penalty is imposed. Where the same disposal is imposed for two or that will have been incurred by customers entering into more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. debt management plans. 3 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and Officials at the MoJ have recently completed a full complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police analysis of the views and opinions offered by all interested forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection parties to the debt management consultation. The processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Government will consider the results of the consultation 4 Excludes data for Cardiff magistrates’ court for April, July, and August 2008. before deciding what further action to take, and will Source: publish its response shortly. Justice Statistics - Analytical Services, Ministry of Justice

Debt Management : Regulation Departmental Billing

Mr Betts: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for which organisations officials of his Department have Justice what percentage of payments made by his met to discuss regulation of the debt management Department to (a) small and medium-sized enterprise sector since 6 May 2010; [11472] suppliers and (b) all suppliers were made (i) within 10 days of receipt of invoice and (ii) on the agreed (2) what research his Department has undertaken on payment terms in the last three months for which alternative regulatory models to the system of self- information is available. [11379] regulation in the debt management sector since 6 May 2010; [11473] Mr Djanogly: The percentage of payments made (3) what estimate the Government has made of (a) within 10 days to all suppliers for the last three months the number of people that will be in debt management are: plans where fees have been charged by the end of 2010 and (b) the total amount of fees that will have been Percentage incurred by customers entering into debt management plans in 2010; [11474] April 2010 95 (4) when he expects to publish the response to his May 2010 93 Department’s consultation on debt management June 2010 93 schemes; whether a summary of responses will be published; and which Department will be responsible The Department does not keep records on payments for implementing the decisions made; [11476] made to small and medium-sized suppliers, as to attempt to break the payment performance down further between SMEs and all creditors by the Department and its Mr Djanogly: Officials at the Ministry of Justice agencies would incur disproportionate costs. speak to a wide range of interested parties as part of conducting the business of Government. However, since As the Department’s payment processes are now 6 May 2010 there have been no meetings with any predicated on achieving the cross-Government prompt organisations to discuss debt management, nor has payment targets performance for all suppliers against been any further research on alternative regulatory models individual supplier terms are not measured. to the system of self-regulation in that sector. The consultation on debt management schemes that Departmental Communication closed on 18 December 2009 looked at the way that debtors deal with their indebtedness. It asked for evidence Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for on whether the powers contained in Chapter 4 of Part 5 Justice what instructions have been issued by the of the Tribunals Courts and Enforcement Act (TCEA) private office of each Minister in his Department on 2007 to approve operators of Debt Management Schemes the preparation of briefing, speeches and replies to (DMS) should be introduced or whether the taking of official correspondence. [9673] other steps to make sure that debtors are protected and creditors’ interests are safeguarded would be more Mr Kenneth Clarke: Guidance on ministerial preferences appropriate. is an effective way of making sure Ministers are able to There is currently very little empirical data relating to fulfil their obligations to Parliament and the public to debt management plans. It is estimated that 100,000 to the highest standards possible. Ministers’ private offices 150,000 individual plans are created each year, with up have therefore issued guidance on the departmental to 700,000 plans in existence at any one time. However, intranet as necessary setting out each Minister’s preferences there is no definitive data on either the proportion of for briefing, speeches and replies to official correspondence. 907W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 908W

Departmental Consultants Departmental Official Hospitality

Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Justice what his Department’s budget for consultants is how much his Department spent on hospitality for for 2010-11. [9212] events hosted by each Minister in his Department in (a) May and (b) June 2010. [10117] Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Department’s budget for consultancy for 2010-11 is £23.546 million. This was the Mr Kenneth Clarke: The only expenditure of this initial identified allocation, and has not been amended nature was by me, as Secretary of State for Justice and following the new cross Government freeze on new Lord Chancellor on the following events: consultancy spend. Event Amount (£) We are committed to implementing this freeze and hope to reduce the anticipated spend. All new consultancy 17 May Reception with MOJ Director 20.80 contracts over £20,000 must now be signed off by a 2010 Generals 25 May Lord Chancellor’s reception (State 1,208.56 departmental Minister and notified to the Efficiency 2010 Opening of Parliament) Reform Group and HM Treasury Spending teams. 9 June Reception and dinner for British- 5,102.59 2010 Israeli legal exchange 17 June Reception for key figures in the 854.75 Departmental Official Cars 2010 Legal and Criminal Justice system All hospitality is closely scrutinised and carefully Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for monitored to ensure good value for taxpayers’ money Justice how much his Department has spent on the and that it stays within the appropriate rules and guidelines. Government Car Service since the Government took office. [7965] First Offenders

Mr Blunt: The cost to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice for the use of the Government Car Service for the how many of those convicted for a first offence of a period 12 May 2010 to 12 July 2010 is £67,402.79. This non-violent and non-sexual nature have been sentenced expenditure covers use of the Government Car Service to a prison term in each year since 2005. [11559] by the Ministry of Justice headquarters, Her Majesty’s Courts Service, the Tribunals Service, the Office of the Public Guardian and the National Offenders Management Mr Blunt: Figures for the total number of offenders Service (NOMS). The figures are for amounts invoiced who were convicted for a first offence of a non-violent by the Government Car and Despatch Agency in the and non-sexual nature and sentenced to a prison term period and may relate in part to journeys taken prior to in each year since 2005 are shown in following table: 12 May 2010. Average monthly expenditure on the Number of offenders who were convicted and sentenced to immediate custody for Government Car Service in 2008-09 was £110,000 per a first offence of a non-violent and non-sexual nature in England and Wales, 2005-08, indictable offence only1,2 month, giving an indicative equivalent figure of £220,000 Sentencing for the same period last year. These figures are currently year All Immediate custody (%) unaudited. 2005 26,761 6,010 22.5 Due to the process used to account for expenditure, a 2006 25,397 5,980 23.5 small proportion of costs may relate to the previous 2007 25,775 6,896 26.8 Administration in the early part of May and some 2008 25,096 7,201 28.7 recent journeys may not yet have been accrued for on 1 Including indictable and trial either ways offences the accounting system. It would incur disproportionate 2 Counts of offenders sentenced during the year, an offender may be counted cost to quantify these issues as individual order details more once if an offender had been sentenced more than once would need to be retrieved and scrutinised. These figures are a further breakdown of those in The Home Office provides the arrangements in relation Table 6.7 of ’Sentencing Statistics 2008’ which was to the Minister of State for Policing and Criminal published on 28 January 2010 and can be found at Justice, who also has ministerial responsibilities at the http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/sentencingannual.htm Ministry of Justice. The figures have been drawn from the police’s The new Ministerial Code, published on 21 May administrative IT system, the police national computer, 2010, contains changes that affect ministerial entitlement which, as with any large scale recording system, is to travel by Government car. It states that subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. “the number of Ministers with allocated cars and drivers will The figures are provisional and subject to change as be kept to a minimum, taking into account security and other more information is recorded by the police. relevant considerations. Other Ministers will be entitled to use cars from the Government Car Service Pool as needed”. Fixed Penalties: Shoplifting The Department for Transport and its Government Car and Despatch Agency are working with Departments Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for to effect the transition to the new arrangements. Justice how many fixed penalties have been (a) issued The Ministerial Code is available on the Cabinet and (b) paid in each of the last three months for shop Office website. theft; and if he will make a statement. [10849] 909W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 910W

Mr Blunt: Data on the number of Penalty Notices for Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State Disorder (PNDs) issued and paid in full for theft (retail for Justice what consideration he has given to the under £200) to all persons aged 16 and over, in England future use of the Bridgwater Magistrates’ Court and Wales, 2008 (latest available) can be viewed in the building should the consultation by HM Courts following table. Data for 2009 are planned for publication Service on the provision of courts services in Devon on 21 October 2010. and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset and Gloucestershire The figures presented for the number of PNDs paid recommend its closure. [11542] in full reflect the number of PNDs that have been paid without any court action being taken. Mr Djanogly: No decisions on closures have been We will be considering our approach to all out of made or will be made until all the responses to the court disposals, including fixed penalty notices for public consultations have been considered. The shoplifting, as part of the sentencing assessment. consultations will be vital in deciding the approach to the retention or closure of courthouses within the HMCS Under our programme for Government for the next Estate. It would be premature to discuss future use of five years, we will conduct a full assessment of sentencing court buildings during the consultation phase. policy to ensure that it is effective in deterring crime, protecting the public, punishing offenders and cutting reoffending. Human Rights: Children Number of Penalty Notices for Disorder issued and paid in full for theft (retail under £200) to all persons aged 16 and over, by month, England and Wales Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for 20081, 2 Justice whether Andrew Williamson and Peter Issued Paid in full Smallridge received legal advice from his Department January 3,394 1,573 on the use of force and the human rights of children in February 3,597 1,629 the course of their review of the use of restraint in March 3,708 1,726 juvenile secure settings. [11136] April 3,707 1,650 May 3,680 1,709 Mr Blunt: We have no record of receiving a request June 3,919 1,751 for legal advice from the co-chairs of the independent July 3,833 1,671 review. However, the Government’s response to the August 3,587 1,607 review was informed by legal advice. September 3,679 1,648 October 4,194 1,940 Insurance: Households November 4,108 1,953 December 4,210 2,046 Annual 45,616 20,903 Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for 1 The Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) scheme was rolled out to all police Justice what estimate he has made of the number and forces in England and Wales in 2004 under the provisions of the Criminal proportion of householders who have legal insurance; Justice and Police Act 2001. Under the scheme, the police are able to issue and if he will make a statement. [10848] penalty notices (£50 or £80) for a range of minor offences some of which attract a higher tariff. The recipient of a PND has 21 days to either pay the penalty or seek a court hearing. No admission of guilt is required and the PND recipient Mr Djanogly: Legal expenses insurance (often referred discharges all liability for the offence and receives no criminal record, if the penalty is paid. If no action is taken a fine of one and half the penalty amount to as before the event insurance) pays or contributes to is registered against the recipient of the notice. The courts are responsible for the policyholder’s legal expenses in circumstances prescribed enforcing fines arising from PNDs in the same way as any other unpaid fine. by the policy. This type of insurance cover is commonly 2 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted purchased as an add-on to other insurance policies such from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police as home or motor insurance. However, it may be taken forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection out by individuals as a stand-alone policy. processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. The Government do not routinely collect data on the Source: number and proportion of householders who have legal Justice Statistics Analytical Services in the Ministry of Justice. insurance. However, a report prepared for the Ministry HM Courts Service of Justice in 2007 estimated that 59% of people had some form of legal expenses insurance overall. Of those Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State 35% had legal expenses insurance as part of their home for Justice whether the consultation by HM Courts insurance. A copy of the report is available at Service on the provision of courts services in Devon www.justice.gov.uk/publications/legal-exp-ins-report.htm and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset and Gloucestershire will include an assessment of the likely effect on the Judges sitting times of Taunton Magistrates’ Court in the event of the closure of Bridgwater Magistrates’ Court. [11541] Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many district judges there were in each year from Mr Djanogly: Our assessment is that Taunton magistrates 2003 to 2009. [10335] court has sufficient capacity to deal with any additional work that it receives if Bridgwater were to close. The Mr Djanogly: The numbers of district judges in post proposals are designed to ensure that sitting days are as at 1 April each year from 2003 to 2009 are set out in fully utilised but we do not predict that Taunton magistrates the following table. This information is also available on court will need to sit beyond the target of five hours per the Judiciary of England & Wales website at courtroom per day. www.judiciary.gov.uk 911W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 912W

Dean and West Somerset Local Justice Area and the Deputy District District Sedgemoor Local Justice Area. The proposal is to close Deputy Judge Judge Bridgwater and transfer work to Taunton Magistrates As at 1 District District (magistrates (magistrates Court, which is 12 miles and a 20 minute car journey April Judge Judge courts) courts) away. 2003 426 787 104 174 Bridgwater has a very low utilisation rate of 41.2%. 2004 433 801 104 173 The court is not permanently staffed and does not 2005 430 826 128 167 provide a public counter service; staff at Taunton currently 2006 449 840 134 158 travel to Bridgwater for hearings. Taunton Magistrates 2007 450 780 139 169 Court has a utilisation rate of 52.5% and could 2008 438 773 136 167 accommodate the workload from Bridgwater, should it 2009 444 668 134 166 close. Legal Aid : Expenditure Should the decision to close Bridgwater Magistrates Court be taken, a full implementation plan will be produced to ensure the smooth transfer of work. This Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice will include some minor work in Taunton Magistrates what legal aid expenditure was on immigration appeals Court to prepare it to receive the additional work. in (a) London and (b) nationally in each financial year since 2005-06. [11801] Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what capital expenditure was incurred in maintenance Mr Djanogly: It is not possible to identify expenditure of the building housing Llangefni magistrates court in for initial advice from expenditure before the Immigration each year from 2006 to 2009. [10462] and Asylum Tribunal in cases where work under both levels of service is provided, nor is it possible to identify immigration expenditure from asylum expenditure under Mr Djanogly: The capital costs for Llangefni magistrates a legal aid certificate. The overall legal aid expenditure court were zero for each of these years. The resource on immigration and asylum in London, and nationally, maintenance figures for these years, which form part of for each year since 2005-06, is provided in the following the overall running costs, are provided in the following table. table.

£ million £ National (including London London) 2005-06 1,841 2006-07 8,278 2005-06 49 86 2007-08 12,714 2006-07 37 73 2008-09 9,258 2007-08 44 80 2009-10 8,834 2008-09 44 82 2009-10 46 85 Magistrates Courts: Closures Legal Services Commission: Finance Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for with reference to the consultation of HM Courts Justice what plans his Department has for future Service on proposals on the provision of courts services funding for the Legal Services Commission. [11122] in North and West Yorkshire, what factors he took into account in determining that the closure of Skipton Mr Kenneth Clarke: As part of our Spending Review magistrates and county courts would remove the planning and negotiation, we are considering a number requirement for the allocation of HM Courts Service of options to reduce legal aid spend over the course of funding of £310,000 for backlog maintenance. [11116] the Spending Review period. We intend to seek views on our proposed new approach in the autumn. Mr Djanogly: The maintenance backlog figure comprises It has already been announced that we plan to move several elements of maintenance work including: heating the Legal Services Commission to become an Executive and plumbing; decoration; roofing; ventilation and air- agency of the Ministry of Justice, which will streamline conditioning and external works. Assessments of backlog accountability. maintenance are provided by professional Managing Agents using Condition Surveys and reference to their Magistrates Courts Forward Maintenance Register. As indicted in the consultation papers, if Skipton Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State Magistrates Court and Skipton County Court (which for Justice what assessment he has made of the are co-located in the same building) were to close it adequacy of courthouse provision in Taunton in the would remove the need for HMCS investment in backlog event of the closure of Bridgwater Magistrates Court. maintenance of around £310,000. The maintenance [11030] backlog figures given in the consultation papers are based on data as at July 2009 (the most recent at time of Mr Djanogly: Bridgwater Magistrates Court is the publication). The figures will be updated with July 2010 only court in the Sedgmoor Local Justice Area. The closure data for the purpose of the impact assessment which of the court would require the merger of the Taunton will be published alongside the consultation responses. 913W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 914W

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice In conjunction with the National Steering Group, we if he will make an equality impact assessment in are currently reviewing the provision of Specialist Domestic respect of the proposed closure of (a) Denbigh Violence Courts in those areas where their provision magistrates court and (b) Rhyl county court. [10832] may be affected.

Mr Djanogly: An equality impact assessment (EIA) Magistrates Courts: West Sussex initial screening has been produced for the court estate rationalisation programme. The EIA initial screening Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for identifies that there are likely to be equality impacts Justice how many (a) criminal cases, (b) individual should courts close and that further information is hearings in criminal cases and (c) non-criminal cases required. We will be working throughout the consultation were handled by each magistrates court in West Sussex period to gather this information and are seeking views in each of the last five years. [10622] on equality impacts through the consultation process. We will produce a full impact assessment for each Mr Djanogly: Information is only available on the HMCS area to inform any decision on whether and number of criminal cases and non-criminal cases for which courts should close. West Sussex Local Justice Area (LJA), which includes Chichester and Worthing magistrates courts, since 2007. Magistrates Courts: Domestic Violence This can be found in the following table: Completed proceedings: West Sussex1 2 Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Criminal cases Non criminal cases which of the magistrates’ courts being reviewed for 2007- 12,684 4,558 closure have an associated specialist domestic violence 083 court. [11932] 2008-09 7,763 3,785 2009-10 12,207 3,791 1 Information is only available at Local Justice Area level and includes all the Mr Djanogly: Of the 103 magistrates courts on whose courts within this LJA (Chichester and Worthing). closure we are consulting, 25 are currently part of an 2 Civil, Family, Means Inquiries and Rights to Representation. accredited Specialist Domestic Violence Court (SDVC) 3 Prior to April 2007, the data was not collected centrally. For this reason, the data is from 2007-08. system. These are: Note: Knowsley The data comes from an internal management system. The data is subject to our minimal levels of quality assurance and is based on the data currently available. Whitehaven The completed proceedings data above includes cases Salford that have a final outcome. It does not include the Goole number of hearings a case may have had or any cases Selby that are in the process of being heard. Pontefract However, information is held on the average number of hearings for West Sussex LJA. This can be found in Barry the following table: West Bromwich Average number of hearings for defendants in all criminal cases—target: 2.25 Rugby hearings: West Sussex1 Towcester Average number of hearings2 (target Period 2.25 hearings) Daventry Kettering September 2007 2.76 March 2008 2.79 Lewes September 2008 2.62 Hemel Hempstead March 2009 2.35 Newbury September 2009 2.27 Tamworth March 2010 2.53 1 Information is only available at Local Justice Area and includes all the courts Newton Abbot within this LJA (Chichester and Worthing). Spalding 2 The average number of individual hearings for each criminal defendant (data above) is recorded via the Ministry of Justice Time Internal Survey. In March Acton and September of each year the survey covers all defendants in completed criminal cases. As a year on year comparison, the same period should be used, Aberdare as this is representative of the caseload during that period of the year (i.e. Bridgwater* March 2008 should be compared with March 2007). Note: Andover* The average includes a mixture of cases that may have adjournments and cases that could also be completed after first listing. Alton* Grays* Magistrates: Gwynedd Haringey* For 20 of these courts it is proposed to move the Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice work of the existing SDVC to another accredited SDVC (1) how many justices of the peace there were in the should the courts close. In the remaining five cases County of Gwynedd in each year from 2006 to 2009; (those starred above) the proposals involve the transfer [10466] of the SDVC work to a court that is currently not (2) how many justices of the peace sat as magistrates designated as a Specialist Domestic Violence Court, in the County of Gwynedd in each year from 2006 to should those courts close. 2009. [10467] 915W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 916W

Mr Djanogly: The Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Offenders: Rehabilitation Committee on Justices of the Peace for Gwynedd covers two benches—Gwynedd and Ynys-Mon/Anglesey. It Diana R. Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for should be noted that benches do not necessarily correspond Justice what assessment he has made of the effect of to county lines. It is not, therefore, possible to give exact budgetary reductions in his Department on the figures for magistrates (aka Justices of the Peace) allocated implementation of his proposals for the rehabilitation to a particular county. The following table shows all of offenders. [11305] recorded magistrates covered by the Gwynedd Advisory Committee area from 2006 to 2009 (this includes magistrates Mr Kenneth Clarke: Over the coming months we will who were not actively sitting during the period). be developing a new approach to rehabilitation so that the public are protected and the level of reoffending is Number reduced. We intend to increase opportunities for the 31 March 2006 122 private and not-for-profit sectors to become involved in 31 March 2007 140 rehabilitation work and be paid for their results. We 31 March 2008 139 intend to set out more detail on these proposals as well 31 March 2009 154 as on an assessment of sentencing policy in a Green Paper in the autumn. The following table shows those magistrates who Relevant resource decisions will be made in light of were actively sitting in the area from 2006 to 2009. these policy developments and the spending review.

Number Office of the Public Guardian 31 March 2006 89 31 March 2007 102 Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for 31 March 2008 105 Justice how many investigations have been conducted 31 March 2009 111 by the Office of the Public Guardian in each of the last three years; and how many of these have resulted in Mesothelioma: Compensation consequent action being taken by the Public Guardian. Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice [11920] what steps he plans to take to help expedite compensation claims for those who have developed Mr Djanogly: The functions of the Office of the Public Guardian, as laid down in section 58 of the mesothelioma. [11219] Mental Capacity Act 2005, include the ability to investigate Mr Djanogly: The Government are committed to any concerns around the way in which an attorney, supporting people suffering from mesothelioma and we appointed either under a registered enduring power of are considering how this can best be achieved. In particular, attorney (EPA) or lasting power of attorney (LPA), or a officials are currently undertaking scoping work to deputy appointed by the Court of Protection is carrying consider options to speed up and improve the claims out their responsibilities. process in relation to compensation claims for mesothelioma Since 1 October 2007 the OPG has received a total of and will involve representatives from claimant solicitors, 2,559 referrals, all of which undergo an initial assessment insurers and the judiciary. I expect to receive detailed in order to ascertain the level of risk to the vulnerable advice on this in the autumn. adult and the priority of the situation. After this initial Money Laundering: Corruption assessment the cases were dealt with as follows: 1,195 required a more formal in depth investigation by the Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice OPG; with reference to article 57 of the United Nations 1,080 were signposted to social services department, the police Convention Against Corruption 2004, what embezzled or elsewhere (because they fell outside the OPG’s jurisdiction); public funds the Serious and Organised Crime Agency 284 resulted in no other action being taken as the referral was has returned to victim governments following found to warrant no action. convictions in the UK for money laundering and The breakdown by year of the 1,195 formal investigations corruption in the last five years. [11526] is as follows: 2007: 29 Nick Herbert: SOCA is one of a number of UK law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation of 2008: 294 the proceeds of corruption. SOCA does not have a role 2009: 544 in the return of recovered funds to victim countries. 2010 (to date): 328 Confiscation of assets is a matter for the courts. The Of this 1,195 total since October 2007, 998 formal subsequent enforcement of a court order is the responsibility investigations have so far been concluded and action of Her Majesty’s Court Service. The return of recovered taken. assets is the responsibility of the Government. Actions taken by the OPG at the conclusion of a According to the latest data we hold, £1.37 million formal investigation have included: applying to the Court has been returned following convictions in the UK; a of Protection for the removal of either the deputy or the further £16.4 million has been recovered through civil attorney, severance of an EPA or an LPA, increasing actions launched by the Government of Nigeria in the the supervision level of the case, serving the attorney UK building on Metropolitan police case work. with a censure letter whereby the attorney is told to A further £162 million is frozen in the UK (as a result improve in specific areas or face further action. Some of Metropolitan police and SOCA work). cases have resulted in a referral to the police. 917W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 918W

Where cases are signposted to a third party, this is ‘OPG in Touch’ is the newsletter produced by the because the cases fall outside the jurisdiction of the OPG to provide information to deputies—persons OPG, which only covers registered enduring or lasting appointed by the Court of Protection to make decisions powers of attorney or deputies appointed by the Court on behalf of someone lacking capacity to make those of Protection. decisions themselves. Generally, up to three editions are produced each year. The predecessor, produced by the Mr Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for PGO was known as ‘Reaching Out’. Justice what the cost of the operations of the Office of the Public Guardian was in each of the last three years; The costs of producing the newsletter are as follows: and what the cost of producing the OPG in Touch newsletter was in each of those years. [11532] £ Mr Djanogly: The Office of the Public Guardian April 2007 to March 2008 132,924 (OPG) was created on 1 October 2007 to coincide with April 2008 to March 2009 36,252 the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. April 2009 to March 2010 27,961 It replaced the Public Guardianship Office (PGO) and 1 Includes two editions of ‘Reaching Out’ is an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice. The operating costs for the final six months of the PGO from April 2007 to September 2007 and those for the Out-of-Court Disposals OPG from its creation in October 2007 to date are as follows: Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many and what percentage of those offences Operating costs (£) brought to justice were (a) administered as out-of- court disposals and (b) pursuant to a criminal PGO conviction in court in each year since 2003. [11447] April 2007 to September 2007 9,411,000 Mr Blunt: The number and proportion of offences OPG brought to justice for England and Wales 2003 to 2008 October 2007 to March 2008 7,184,000 (latest available calendar year) are given in the table as April 2008 to March 2009 16,935,000 follows. April 2009 to March 20101 23,286,000 Data for 2009 are planned for publication on 21 October 1 Figures for 2009-10 are subject to final approval. 2010.

Number of offences brought to justice (OBTJs), by outcome and the proportion they are of the total, England and Wales 2003 to 20081,2 Offences brought to justice (OBTJ) Formal warnings for Offences taken into Penalty notices for cannabis consideration3 disorder4 possession5 Cautions6 Convictions Total OBTJs7

Number (thousand)

2003 95 3 n/a 238 723 1,060 2004 104 30 19 264 707 1,125 2005 114 99 54 312 698 1,277

2006 123 142 79 370 694 1,407

2007 108 144 99 383 722 1,457

2008 105 117 106 344 731 1,403

Percentage of total OBTJs (%)

2003 9 0 n/a 22 68 100

2004 9 3 2 23 63 100

2005 9 8 4 24 55 100

2006 9 10 6 26 49 100

2007 7 10 7 26 50 100

2008 7 8 8 24 52 100 n/a = Not applicable 1 Excludes British Transport Police. 2 Excludes convictions data for Cardiff magistrates court for April, July and August 2008. 3 Offences taken into consideration by the court and previously recorded by the police; figures for April 2004 onwards include offences not previously recorded. 4 Piloted in 2002 and introduced nationally in 2004. 5 Introduced in April 2004 6 Includes reprimands and final warnings for juveniles. 7 Total may not equal the sum of the constituent parts due to rounding. Note: The introduction of the National Crime Recording Standards (NCRS) in April 2002 resulted in significant increases in the number of crimes recorded. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services in the Ministry of Justice 919W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 920W

Pleural Plaques: Compensation officer Grade 2; and if he will make a statement. [11216] Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what estimate he has made of the number of people Mr Blunt: All new prison officer recruits join the with pleural plaques eligible for compensation under service at prison officer Grade 2; this system has been in the extra-statutory scheme announced on 22 February place since October 2009. 2010. [11362] This arrangement is working well and NOMS do not have any plans to change it. Mr Djanogly: We expect around 6,500 people to consider applying under the extra-statutory payment Prisoners: Foreign Nationals scheme. Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice for Justice (1) how many foreign nationals were how many of those with pleural plaques and eligible detained at HMP Peterborough in each month in the for the extra-statutory compensation scheme last 12 months to April 2010; what proportion of the announced on 22 February 2010 have received total prisoner population in each month this compensation payments; and by what date he expects represented; and if he will make a statement; [11805] all those eligible under the scheme to have received (2) what the nationality was of each foreign national compensation. [11363] prisoner held at HMP Peterborough on 1 April 2010; and if he will make a statement. [11809] Mr Djanogly: The extra-statutory scheme has not begun accepting claims, and so no payments have as yet Mr Blunt: Table 1 as follows shows numbers of foreign been made. We hope that the scheme will be in a national prisoners detained in HMP Peterborough and position to start accepting claims shortly. The scheme these as proportions of the total population in HMP will remain open for applications for the period of one Peterborough, split by gender, for the last 12 months up year from the date on which it comes into operation. to and including March 2010. Payments will be made on a timely basis on receipt of As at 31 March 2010, table 2 shows the nationality of applications, and any payments outstanding at the end each foreign national prisoner detained in HMP of the one year period for applications will be made as Peterborough. Figures of less than five have been suppressed soon as possible after that date. to avoid possibility of disclosure, such figures are indicated by an asterisk. Prison Officers These figures have been drawn from administrative IT systems which, as with any large scale recording Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for system, are subject to possible errors with data entry Justice what plans he has for the future of prison and processing.

Table 1 Female Foreign Nationals as a Male Foreign Male Foreign Nationals as a proportion of Female Foreign proportion of total female Nationals in HMP total male population in HMP Nationals in HMP population in HMP Peterborough Peterborough Peterborough (Percentage) Peterborough (Percentage)

April 2009 117 19 47 14 May 2009 118 19 62 17 June 2009 114 19 61 18 July 2009 123 20 60 16 August 2009 130 21 53 17 September 2009 126 20 50 16 October 2009 130 21 61 19 November 2009 123 21 66 18 December 2009 113 19 61 18 January 2010 132 21 61 20 February 2010 120 19 63 19 March 2010 122 20 69 19

Table 2 Table 2 Nationality Male Female Nationality Male Female

Algeria * * Morocco * * Angola * * Nigeria 5 8 Botswana * * Senegal * * Sierra Leone * * Cameroon * * Somalia 5 * Congo * * South Africa * * Gambia * * Tunisia * * Ghana * * Uganda * * Kenya * * Zimbabwe * 5 Liberia * * Afghanistan * * 921W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 922W

Table 2 Prisoners: Repatriation Nationality Male Female

Bangladesh * * Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for China * * Justice if he will bring forward proposals to ensure India * * prompt consideration of applications for the transfer Pakistan * * of UK citizens serving prison sentences in (a) Sri Lanka 6 * Venezuela and (b) other states with a prisoner transfer Vietnam 7 11 agreement with the UK. [11882] Guyana * * Albania * * Mr Blunt: The United Kingdom has been able to Belgium * * repatriate prisoners since 1985 and procedures are in Bulgaria * * place to ensure that any application received is considered Czech Republic * * promptly and in accordance with the requirements of the relevant international arrangement. Estonia * * France * * The United Kingdom and Venezuela are signatories Germany * * to the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Gibraltar * * Sentenced Persons. The Ministry of Justice is working Hungary * * in conjunction with the Foreign and Commonwealth Irish Republic * * Office to identify British nationals who wish to be transferred from Venezuela to England and Wales to Italy * * continue serving their prison sentence here. From 1 January Latvia 7 * 2007 to 31 December 2009 the Ministry of Justice Lithuania 11 * repatriated 10 British nationals from Venezuelan prisons. Moldova * * During the same period 177 British nationals were Netherlands * * transferred from other countries with which the United Poland 11 * Kingdom has prisoner transfer arrangements. Portugal 9 * The repatriation of prisoners to Scotland and Northern Romania 6 6 Ireland is a matter for the respective devolved Russian Federation * * administration. Serbia and ** Montenegro Slovakia 8 * Prosecutions: Weapons Iran * * Iraq * * Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice United States * * (1) how many 13 to 19 year olds were prosecuted for Grenada * * possession of a gun in (a) Streatham constituency, (b) Jamaica * 5 the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London and St Lucia * * (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are available; Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for [10733] Justice how many non-UK nationals from (a) EU (2) how many 13 to 19 year olds were prosecuted for member states and (b) non-EU member states are possession of knives in (a) Streatham constituency, detained in prison (i) on remand and (ii) serving (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London sentences. [11815] and (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are Mr Blunt: As at 31 March 2010, there were 879 available. [10734] non-UK nationals from EU member states in prison on remand and a further 2,413 serving sentences. There were 1,542 non-EU nationals in prison on remand and Mr Blunt: The number of persons aged 13 to 19 a further 5,420 serving sentences. proceeded against at magistrates courts in Greater London and England for firearms possession offences and having The number of foreign national prisoners held in all an article with a blade or point in a public place, from prison establishments in England and Wales by nationality 2005-08 (latest available) is given in tables 1 and 2 is published quarterly in the population in custody respectively. bulletin, found under the following link: http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/ Information held centrally does not allow a breakdown populationincustody.htm of cases by parliamentary constituency or local authority These figures have been drawn from administrative area, therefore Metropolitan and City of London police IT systems which, as with any large scale recording force area data have been provided in lieu. system, are subject to possible errors with data entry Data for 2009 are planned for publication on 21 October and processing. 2010.

Table 1: Number of persons aged 13 to 19 years proceeded against at magistrates courts in Greater London1 and England for firearm possession offences2, from 2005- 082, 3

Police force area 2005 2006 2007 2008

England 919 758 832 635 923W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 924W

Table 1: Number of persons aged 13 to 19 years proceeded against at magistrates courts in Greater London1 and England for firearm possession offences2, from 2005- 082, 3 Police force area 2005 2006 2007 2008

Of which: Greater London 199 184 182 140 1 Includes the City of London and Metropolitan police force areas. 2 Includes offences under sections of the Firearms Act 1968 as amended by Criminal Justice Act 1972, Firearms (Amendment) Act 1994, Criminal Justice Act 2003, Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 and the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006. 3 The figures given relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offence for which they were dealt with. When a defendant has been found guilty of two or more offences, the offence selected is the one for which the heaviest penalty is imposed. Where the same disposal is imposed for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. Note: Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extractedfromlarge administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services: Ministry of Justice.

Table 2: Number of persons aged 13 to 19 years proceeded against at magistrates Secure Training Centres courts in Greater London1 and England for offences of having an article with a blade or point2, from 2005-082, 3 Area 2005 2006 2007 2008 Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for England 1,990 2,193 2,149 2,148 Justice which (a) persons and (b) organisations his Of which: Department consulted prior to (i) the issue of contracts to the private providers to run the secure training Greater 604 661 558 712 London centres at (A) Oakhill, (B) Hassockfield, (C) 1 Includes the City of London and Metropolitan police force areas. Rainsbrook and (D) Medway and (ii) the reissue of the 2 Includes offences under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 section 139; and section contract for Oakhill. [10345] 139A(1) as added by Offensive Weapons Act 1996, section 4(1). 3 The figures given relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offence for which they were dealt with. When a defendant has been found guilty Mr Blunt: Prior to the establishment of the first of two or more offences, the offence selected is the one for which the heaviest secure training centre (STC) in 1998, the Home Office penalty is imposed. Where the same disposal is imposed for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum (which at the time had responsibility for commissioning penalty is the most severe. places for young people in custody) carried out a full Note: public consultation on the new type of custodial Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted establishment for under-18s. from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection Following this, the Home Office carried out a tendering processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those exercise for the building, financing, construction and data are used. operation of the new centres, in accordance with European Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services: Ministry of Justice. Union contract rules and regulations. In May 2008 G4S, the contractor at Oakhill Secure Rape: Rights of Accused Training Centre, acquired Rebound Children’s Services, the operator of two other STCs (Rainsbrook and Medway). Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for G4S decided that Rebound should also be given Justice pursuant to the oral answer of 20 July 2010, responsibility for Oakhill. However, this process did not Official Report, column 161, on defendant anonymity involve reissuing the contract. (rape cases) (1) on what non-statutory basis he proposes that anonymity for defendants in rape cases could be provided; [11557] Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what plans he has to bring forward legislative Justice if he will make it his policy to place secure proposals to grant anonymity to defendants in rape training centres under the control of public sector cases. [11558] providers. [10346]

Mr Blunt: As I made clear at the all-day debate on Mr Blunt: Secure training centres are privately run Official Report, this subject on 8 July 2010, columns custodial establishments for young people under 18. 533-602, the Government will consider over the summer They are one of three forms of custody for under-18s: recess how best to go about strengthening anonymity the other two are young offender institutions, which are up to the point of charge and will bring proposals to mostly run by the Prison Service, and secure children’s Parliament in the autumn. The Government are only homes, which are run by local authorities (under the considering non-legislative options on this matter and, supervision of the Department for Education). as I said in the House on 20 July 2010, Official Report, columns 160-61, we are trying to find the best non-statutory Each type of establishment operates a different type solution. of regime, which is designed to cater for the needs of the The Government have also decided to postpone young people that are placed there. The diversity of the publication of an assessment of the existing research under-18 estate helps it better to meet the varying needs and statistics until September. This will allow us to give of young people in custody. as full a consideration as possible to the relevant evidence Secure places for under-18s in custody are commissioned and to address the many questions that have been by the Youth Justice Board, which keeps the raised, in particular those raised in the debate on 8 July. accommodation it commissions under continuing review, The revised time scale also allows appropriate quality to ensure it best meets the needs of young people while checks to be undertaken. ensuring value for money. 925W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 926W

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Blunt: It is essential that approved and effective Justice if he will review each control and restraint techniques are available to staff in custodial establishments incident which took place in secure training centres who find themselves dealing with young people whose during the 12 months to March 2009; and if he will behaviour puts the young people themselves, or others, publish details of each incident including the (a) at risk. The independent Review of Restraint in Juvenile number of staff involved, (b) age, ethnic origin, sex Secure Settings, published in December 2008, concluded and any disabilities of the child in custody and (c) age, that, in exceptional circumstances, pain-compliant ethnic origin and sex of each member of staff involved. techniques were necessary in the secure estate for children [10369] and young people. Pain-complaint techniques are only to be used as the last resort, where all other methods of Mr Blunt: Secure training centres are regularly inspected control have failed or would not succeed and where by Ofsted including in the use of restraint. In addition, there is serious threat to the safety of young people or the Youth Justice Board monitors who work in the staff. establishments are informed whenever restraint is used within 24 hours of the occurrence. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Data regarding the use of restraint in secure training Justice if he will establish a public inquiry chaired by a centres are collected by the Youth Justice Board from member of the judiciary to investigate the monthly returns by each establishment. The following compatibility of practices in secure training centres tables show the number of restrictive physical interventions with Article 3 of the European Convention on Human (RPI) recorded in each secure training centre by age, Rights. [10374] ethnic origin and sex of the young person during the 12 months to March 2009. Mr Blunt: Secure training centres are subject to regular Data on restrictive physical interventions by disability inspection by Ofsted. Each STC has a monitor whose or by number, age, ethnic origin or sex of members of role is to review and report to the Secretary of State on staff involved in restraint incidents are not collected the running of the centre. Monitors have a number of centrally. statutory functions including investigating allegations made against custody officers and hearing appeals from The data have been supplied by the Youth Justice trainees. Board and have been drawn from administrative IT systems, which, as with any large scale recording system, The independent “Review of Restraint in Juvenile are subject to possible errors with data entry and processing Secure Settings”, which examined behaviour management and may be subject to change over time. and restraint practices in all three sectors of the under-18 secure estate, reported in 2008. The Government have Restrictive physical interventions by age, April 2008 to March 2009 no plans to establish a further inquiry into practices in 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Total secure training centres. STC 0 0 60 625 602 453 52 1,792 total Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice which companies have been contracted to Hassockfield 0 0 3 165 209 157 9 543 transfer children under the age of 18 years to and from Medway 0 0 23 154 106 106 27 416 secure training centres; and how many times and for Oakhill 0 0 29 198 120 107 5 459 what purpose staff of each of these companies used Rainsbrook 0 0 5 108 167 83 11 374 each of the techniques involving force specified in the Physical Control in Care manual on a child under the Restrictive physical interventions by ethnic origin, April 2008 to March 2009 age of 18 years in each month of each of the last five Asian Black Mixed Other White Total years. [11172]

STC 18 256 209 1 1,308 1,792 total Mr Blunt: Since 1 April 2005, the Youth Justice Board has contracted with Reliance Custodial Services Hassockfield 3 6 68 0 466 543 for the provision of a service to transport sentenced Medway 1 96 31 1 287 416 young people to and from secure training centres. The Oakhill 9 107 86 0 257 459 contract makes provision for Reliance to sub-contract Rainsbrook 5 47 24 0 298 374 and there are currently four companies with whom they maintain such an arrangement: Wrixon Care Services; Cares UK; Excel Custodial & Escort Services; and Restrictive physical interventions by sex, April 2008 to March 2009 Rebound Escort Solutions. Male Female Total According to data provided to the Youth Justice STC total 1,132 660 1,792 Board by Reliance Custodial Services, between July 2005 and June 2010 a total of 12 Physical Control in Hassockfield 384 159 543 Care restraints were applied for the purpose of preventing Medway 286 130 416 a young person from: injuring him- or herself or others; Oakhill 329 130 459 damaging property; or inciting another trainee to cause Rainsbrook 133 241 374 injury or damage to property. Details of which particular hold or holds were used in each instance are not collected Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for centrally. Justice if he will bring forward proposals to prohibit Restraint holds or, on occasion, handcuffs, are also the use of restraint techniques that involve deliberately used, following individual risk assessments, when escorting inflicting physical pain in secure training centres. [10370] young people through non-secure areas; and handcuffs 927W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 928W are used in some court areas where it is mandatory to process and how to contact advocates, which is displayed do so. Previous data are not available for this category in communal areas. The Youth Justice Board (YJB) is of restraint, but earlier this year contractors began currently undertaking a review of complaints, with a putting in place systems to collect the data, which the view to improving the complaints processes across the Youth Justice Board expect to be available from July under-18 secure estate. onwards. The YJB is working in partnership with the Children’s Rights Alliance for England (CRAE) to develop an Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for independent publication for children and young people. Justice if he will bring forward proposals to prohibit The publication will explain young people’s rights while the use of handcuffs on children in secure training in custody and in the community, the concepts of human centres and young offender institutions. [10371] rights and equality and how and where to get help if they consider that their rights may have been breached. Mr Blunt: It is essential that approved and effective techniques are available to staff in custodial establishments Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice who find themselves dealing with young people whose what information is provided by secure training centres behaviour puts the young people themselves, or others, to (a) children held in secure training centres, (b) the at risk. Handcuffs are permitted for use in secure training parents or carers of children admitted to secure centres in exceptional circumstances, where their use training centres, (c) local authorities which are the would be the safest option. Any use of handcuffs must corporate parents of children and (d) independent be authorised by the Director of the centre. advocacy services on approved restraint measures. In young offender institutions, handcuffs are applied [10825] only when absolutely necessary in specified circumstances, Mr Blunt: Behaviour management and restraint issues either within the establishment to control a violent or are discussed with all children and young people as part aggressive young person or to prevent the escape of a of the secure training centre’s (STC) admission procedure. young person being escorted outside the establishment. The Youth Justice Board is working in partnership with STCs to pilot additional ways of informing young Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for people on the use of restraint practices. Justice if he will undertake a review of child protection Parents and carers who attend a young person’s measures in secure training centres with the aim of initial planning and review meetings have an opportunity bringing forward legislative proposals to improve the to discuss all aspects of the young person’s training safeguarding of children in custody. [10372] plan, including aspects of behaviour management. Parents and carers are informed of any incident involving restraint Mr Blunt: The YouthJustice Board, with the assistance at the earliest opportunity. of the National Children’s Bureau, conducted a Following every incident of restraint, the secure training comprehensive review of safeguarding in the under-18 centre will inform a young person’s youth offending secure estate, which was published in December 2008. team (YOT) case worker. Where a local authority is the The review looked at child protection measures in secure corporate parent of a young person, the YOT will either training centres and noted a number of areas of effective liaise with the social worker assigned to the young practice and areas for improvement. Following the review, person regarding the incident or instruct the establishment the YouthJustice Board developed a safeguarding strategy to contact the social worker directly. for the next three years and is pressing ahead with the implementation of that strategy. Each secure training centre holds a monthly incident review meeting attended by the independent advocate The revised statutory guidance “Working Together to team leader to review information about restraint incidents Safeguard Children”, published in March 2010, places including their location, the staff involved and the a responsibility on local safeguarding children boards holds used. Independent advocates are also invited to to have in place effective working practices between demonstrations of the restraint techniques run by the local authorities and secure establishments. This will centres. include consideration of agreed referral processes and information-sharing arrangements for child protection Secure Training Centres: Disciplinary Proceedings issues. Secure training centres, in partnership with their local authorities, undertake regular audits of their Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice safeguarding policies in line with section 11 of the how many staff have been (a) disciplined, (b) Children Act 2004. suspended and (c) dismissed following a restraint incident in a secure training centre in each of the last Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for five years. [10827] Justice if he will take steps to improve the provision of information to children who have been detained in a Mr Blunt: Restraint is only ever to be used by staff as secure training centre and their families on their rights a last resort, when all other approaches have either not to seek justice and compensation in cases of abuse by succeeded or would not be appropriate. Each secure staff of a secure training centre. [10373] training centre holds a monthly incident review meeting attended by the independent advocate team leader to Mr Blunt: All young people in secure training centres review information about restraint incidents including (STCs) have access to support and advice, including their location, the staff involved and the holds used. from independent sources such as advocates and help-lines. The Youth Justice Board monitors who work in the As part of the induction process, all young people in establishments are informed whenever restraint is used STCs are provided with information about the complaints within 24 hours of the occurrence. 929W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 930W

The available data, which are set out in the following Mr Blunt: The revised statutory guidance “Working table, have been supplied by the Youth Justice Board Together to Safeguard Children”, published in March and have been drawn from administrative IT systems, 2010, places a duty on Local Safeguarding Children which, as with any large scale recording system, are Boards to subject to possible errors with data entry and processing “ensure appropriate links with any secure setting in its area and may be subject to change over time. and be able to scrutinise restraint techniques, the policies and protocols which surround the use of restraint, and incidences of Staff disciplined, suspended and dismissed following a restraint incident at a secure training centre, 2006 to 20101 injuries”. Disciplined Suspended Dismissed Every secure training centre Director is a member of the Local Safeguarding Children Board and will be able 20062 300to provide any information that is required by the 20072 240LSCB to fulfil its statutory function. 2008 6 6 0 2009 3 2 1 Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010 0 1 0 Justice if he will bring forward proposals for a ban on 1 Data supplied by the Youth Justice Board. the use in secure training centres and young offender 2 Does not include data relating to Oakhill, as this is not available for this year. institutions of restraint techniques which may result in Secure Training Centres: Equipment physical pain. [11222] Mr Blunt: It is essential that approved and effective Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice restraint techniques are available to staff in custodial whether wrist locks are authorised for use in secure establishments, to enable them to deal with young people training centres. [10828] whose behaviour puts at risk the safety of the young person him- or herself, other young people, or members Mr Blunt: Wrist locks are not currently authorised of staff. Restraint is only used as a last resort, when all for use in secure training centres. other methods of control have failed or would not succeed. Secure Training Centres: Restraint Techniques Any form of restraint has the potential to cause pain if the young person resists. In deciding whether a technique Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for should be approved for use, the key issue is safety. The Justice if he will review the use of control and restraint Restraint Accreditation Board, chaired by Professor techniques in secure training centres with the aim of Susan Bailey, is about to begin a programme of work to ensuring that all techniques used by staff in situations assess the safety and appropriateness of all techniques where there are immediate and serious threats to life used in the under-18 secure estate. are (a) consistent with standards in comparable settings involving children and vulnerable adults and Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for (b) compliant with human rights legislation. [10474] Justice how many times a child has been held face down to the floor during restraint in each secure Mr Blunt: The independent Review of Restraint in training centre in each of the last five years. [11465] Juvenile Secure Settings published in December 2008 made a series of recommendations to improve the use Mr Blunt: Each secure training centre records the of restraint and behaviour management by staff across types of physical control in care holds applied during the under-18 secure estate, including in situations where each incident of restraint, and analyses information on there are immediate and serious threats to life. In the a monthly basis. However, the centres’ information course of drawing up their recommendations, the joint management records do not specifically capture the chairs of the review examined in detail the use of number of instances where holds may have been applied restraint in other settings involving children and vulnerable when the young person was held in a prone position. adults. A major programme of work is in progress to Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for implement the review’s recommendations. Justice whether he has specified that any groups of children other than pregnant children must not be held Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice face down on the floor in secure training centres. with reference to the physical control in care restraint [11466] manual used in secure training centres, whether there are any equivalent documents governing restraint and Mr Blunt: There are no techniques authorised for use the use of force in young offender institutions. [10829] in secure training centres that involve deliberately taking young people to the floor. If, in the course of a restraint, Mr Blunt: Restraint is only ever to be used by staff as a young person deliberately takes himself or herself to a last resort, when all other approaches have either not the ground, then, in general, either the young person succeeded or would not be appropriate. Prison Service will continue to be restrained and will be brought to a Order 1600 regulates the policy on use of force in young standing position at the earliest opportunity, or he or offender institutions. The Control and Restraint training she will be released. A young person must not be held manual sets out the training syllabus and briefing material on the floor for more than three minutes, after which he necessary for teaching the approved techniques to staff. or she must be released. The Physical Control in Care manual makes it clear that girls who are pregnant must Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for not be held face down on the floor. The manual also Justice what steps he has taken to inform the chairs of draws attention to the heightened risks of restraining local safeguarding children boards of the restraint and other groups of young people, including those suffering breakaway techniques authorised for use in secure from asthma, obesity, or recent head injury or who are training centres. [10907] in a psychotic state or a state of excited delirium. 931W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 932W

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for monthly returns by each establishment. The tables show Justice how many times a member of staff has used the the number of restrictive physical interventions (RPI) technique of the tantrum hold in each secure training recorded in each secure training centre by age, ethnic centre in each of the last five years; and for what origin and sex of the young person during the 12 months purpose in each case. [11467] to March 2009. This is the most recent period for which data are available. Mr Blunt: The tantrum hold is an approved physical Data on restrictive physical interventions by disability control in care technique, for use in extreme circumstances or by number, age, ethnic origin or sex of members of to prevent a young person from self-harm. staff involved in restraint incidents are not collected The requested information is set out in the following centrally. table. The data have been provided by the Youth Justice The data have been supplied by the Youth Justice Board. Board and have been drawn from administrative IT Use of the tantrum hold in each secure training centre, 2006-101 systems, which, as with any large scale recording system, Medway Rainsbrook Oakhill Hassockfield are subject to possible errors with data entry and processing and may be subject to change over time. 2006 8 4 47 0 2007 9 9 6 0 Restrictive physical interventions by age, April 2008 to March 2009 2008 6 14 0 0 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Total 2009 2 5 0 0 STC 0 0 60 625 602 453 52 1,792 2010 (to 0000total date) Hassockfield 0 0 3 165 209 157 9 543 Total 25 32 53 0 Medway 0 0 23 154 106 106 27 416 1 Data provided by the Youth Justice Board. Oakhill 0 0 29 198 120 107 5 459 Rainsbrook 0 0 5 108 167 83 11 374 Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) how many times a member of staff has used Restrictive physical interventions by ethnic origin, April 2008 to March 2009 the technique of driving their straightened fingers into Asian Black Mixed Other White Total a child’s face in each secure training centre in each of STC total 18 256 209 1 1,308 1,792 the last five years; and for what purpose in each case; Hassockfield 3 6 68 0 466 543 [11468] Medway 1 96 31 1 287 416 (2) how many times a member of staff has used the Oakhill 9 107 86 0 257 459 technique of raking their shoe down a child’s shin, Rainsbrook 5 47 24 0 298 374 driving down onto the child’s instep, in each secure training centre in each of the last five years; and for Restrictive physical interventions by sex, April 2008 to March 2009 what purpose in each case. [11470] Male Female Total STC total 1,132 660 1,792 Mr Blunt: These techniques, called ‘breakaway Hassockfield 384 159 543 techniques’; can only be used lawfully by staff in self-defence, Medway 286 130 416 in extreme circumstances when their own safety is genuinely Oakhill 329 130 459 at risk. Data provided by the Youth Justice Board Rainsbrook 133 241 374 indicates that no members of staff in secure training centres have used any of these techniques in the past five years. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many times a member of staff has used the Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice technique of driving their inverted knuckles under a whether children with (a) learning and (b) other child’s rib cage in each secure training centre in each of disabilities were involved in any restraint incident in the last five years; and for what purpose in each case. each secure training centre in the last 12 months. [11469] [11760] Mr Blunt: The technique referred to in the question, Mr Blunt: Data on young people in secure training involving pressure to the ribs, is one of two ‘distraction centres with learning or other disabilities who are involved techniques’. Distraction techniques are for use where a in a restraint incident are not collected centrally. trainee is being extremely violent and it is not possible to apply one of the ordinary restraint holds without Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice first causing the trainee to disengage. They are for use how many children of each (a) sex, (b) age group and only in exceptional circumstances. (c) ethnic origin were involved in each restraint The Youth Justice Board (YJB) has collected specific incident in each secure training centre in the last 12 data on use of distraction techniques since April 2006. months. [11299] The available data, supplied by the YJB, are set out in the following table. They have been drawn from Mr Blunt: Secure Training Centres are regularly inspected administrative IT systems, which, as with any large-scale by Ofsted including in the use of restraint. In addition, recording system, are subject to possible errors with the Youth Justice Board Monitors who work in the data entry and processing and may be subject to change establishments are informed whenever restraint is used over time. To discover the purpose for which the technique within 24 hours of the occurrence. was used on each occasion would involve analysis of Data regarding the use of restraint in secure training individual incident reports, which could not be done centres are collected by the Youth Justice Board from without incurring disproportionate cost. 933W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 934W

Use of rib distraction technique in secure training centres, April 2006 to March Mr Kenneth Clarke: Facilities agreements between 2009 the Ministry of Justice and the trade union sides follow April 2006 to April 2007 to April 2008 to March 2007 March 2008 March 2009 Total the provisions of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the ACAS code of practice Hassockfield 0 0 0 0 ‘Time off for trade union duties and activities’, available Medway 2 3 0 5 at: Oakhill 0 2 0 2 http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2391 Rainsbrook 0 0 0 0 The number of civil servants in the Department and Total2507its predecessors who spent the equivalent of (a) five days or fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) Trade Unions 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more on trade union-related activities or duties while being Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice paid salaries from the public purse in each year since how much his Department and its predecessors has 1997 could not be provided without incurring paid to trade unions in each year since 1997; and what disproportionate cost. estimate he has made of the monetary value of facilities provided by his Department and its Traffic Enforcement Centre predecessors for use by trade unions in each year since 1997. [11679] Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what mechanisms are in place for the Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice does not governance of the Traffic Enforcement Centre. [11253] make any direct payments to trade unions. Mr Djanogly: The County Court Bulk Centre manager Facilities agreements between the Ministry of Justice is responsible to maintain a sound system of internal and the trade union sides follow the provisions of the control that supports the achievement of HMCS/CCBC Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) policies, aims and objectives, while safeguarding the Act 1992 and the ACAS code of practice ‘Time off for public funds and assets, and the Traffic Enforcement trade union duties and activities’ available at: Centre is part of this responsibility. http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2391 The centre manager is required to provide regular The number of days that staff spent on trade union assurance to the accounting officer through his line related duties and activities within the 2008-09 financial management chain, that the system of internal control year was a maximum of 41,558. The estimated total and risk management is both in place and operating salary cost of such activity was £6.3 million. This did effectively within the manager’s responsibility. There not include PCS local representatives in MOJ (excluding are robust procedures that require the centre manager NOMS). This figure is not known. to provide evidence of and evaluate the controls in The amount spent on trade union activity and on place. other facilities provided for use by trade unions since The centre manager is ultimately responsible to the 1997 is not held centrally and could be provided only at regional director with responsibility for the civil business disproportionate cost. centres. Witnesses Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many paid manpower hours civil servants in his Mr Arbuthnot: To ask the Secretary of State for Department and its predecessors spent on trade Justice how many intermediaries are registered by his union-related duties and activities in each year since Department. [10713] 1997. [11680] Mr Djanogly: On 26 July there were 119 registered Mr Kenneth Clarke: Facilities agreements between intermediaries on the Intermediary Register, the national the Ministry of Justice and the trade union sides follow database for the Witness Intermediary Scheme. the provisions of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the ACAS code of practice Witnesses: Hearing Impairment ‘Time off for trade union duties and activities’, available at: Mr Arbuthnot: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many referrals have been made to his http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2391 Department’s intermediaries in each year since 2006; The number of paid manpower hours civil servants in and what proportion of such referrals have been made the Department and its predecessors spent on trade to registered deaf intermediaries. [10934] union-related duties and activities in each year since 1997 could not be provided without incurring Mr Djanogly: Annual data are not available before disproportionate cost. August 2009 when the operation and management of the witness intermediary scheme’s matching service was Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice transferred to the National Policing Improvement Agency. how many civil servants in his Department and its Since then there have been 1,214 requests (referrals) for predecessors spent the equivalent of (a) five days or a registered intermediary, of which 19 specifically requested fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to a deaf registered intermediary. A further 17 requests 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more on stated that the individual for whom the request was trade union-related activities or duties while being paid made could be assisted through the provision of a salaries from the public purse in each year since 1997. non-deaf registered intermediary with, as appropriate, [11681] Makaton or British sign language skills. 935W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 936W

Since the witness intermediary scheme was introduced Building Societies: Regulation as a pilot project in 2004, there have been over 4,000 requests made for a registered intermediary. Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will bring forward proposals to Mr Arbuthnot: To ask the Secretary of State for strengthen the regulatory framework for building Justice how many deaf intermediaries are registered societies. [10753] with his Department. [10935] Mr Djanogly: There are currently five deaf registered Mr Hoban: The building society sector has an important intermediaries on the Intermediary Register, the national role to play within UK financial services and is a key database for the witness intermediary scheme. player within the mutual sector. The Government are committed to promoting the financial mutual sector to foster diversity and competition within the financial services industry, and is currently considering how best TREASURY to achieve this. Accelerated Development Zones Capital Gains Tax Pat Glass: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for the accelerated development Andrew George: To ask the Chancellor of the zones pilot programme. [11779] Exchequer what assessment he has made of the likely effects on the residential letting sector of increasing the Danny Alexander: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the rate of capital gains tax. [6324] answer I gave the hon. Member for Stockton South (James Wharton) on 22 July 2010, Official Report, Mr Gauke: The likely effect on the residential letting column 515W. sector of increasing the rate of capital gains tax was Bank Services: Fees and Charges estimated to be small.

Gregg McClymont: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Sanders: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Exchequer when he plans to bring forward proposals to what further plans he has for implementing his policy achieve the commitment in the Coalition Agreement to of taxing non-business capital gains at rates similar or introduce measures to end unfair bank and financial close to those applied to income. [8551] transaction charges; and if he will make a statement. [11846] Mr Gauke: The Chancellor announced in the Budget on 22 June that capital gains tax would rise to 28% for Mr Hoban: The Government stated in the coalition those with total income and taxable gains above the agreement that higher rate income tax threshold. The Government are “we will introduce stronger consumer protections, including not planning to revisit this decision in this Parliament. measures to end unfair bank and financial transaction charges”. Cheques We are considering how best to implement this commitment and will bring forward proposals in due course. Andrew Selous: To ask the Chancellor of the More widely, the Government will legislate to establish Exchequer pursuant to his oral answer of 8 July 2010, a new Consumer Protection and Markets Authority so Official Report, column 518, on banking, what steps his that the interests of consumers of financial services are Department is taking to ensure that alternatives to the placed at the heart of the regulatory system and given cheque guarantee card are in place; whether he expects the priority they deserve. And the Independent Commission such alternatives to be in place by 30 June 2011; and if on Banking will look at the structure of banking in the he will make a statement. [8790] UK, the state of competition in the industry and how customers and taxpayers can be sure of the best deal. Mr Hoban: Alternatives to the cheque guarantee Building Societies card, such as cash and debit and credit cards, are already in place. Consumers will still be able to write Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Chancellor of the cheques and businesses can continue to accept them Exchequer what recent assessment he has made of the even after the guarantee scheme’s withdrawal. effects on building societies of the implementation of the proposal to equalise the terms of depositor Child Benefit protection of members in respect of merging building societies at the time of merger. [11228] Barbara Keeley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 15 July 2010, Mr Hoban: Since December 2008 there has been an Official Report, column 912W, on child benefit, for extension of financial services compensation scheme what reasons he provided a reference to a web page coverage where two building societies merge, ensuring rather than the figures requested; and what assessment that where members have deposits in each society, those he has made of the compliance of the answer with deposits are protected, in effect up to £100,000 (£50,000 Cabinet Office guidance on the answering of limit per person, per merging society). This gives them parliamentary questions for written answer. [11574] the opportunity to move their money elsewhere if they wish and protects the newly merged society from a Mr Gauke: It has been the practice of successive sudden withdrawal of deposits. The FSA recently Administrations to refer Members to publications and announced the extension of this rule to cover mergers other source documents from which information they taking effect before 30 December 2010. are seeking can be extracted. 937W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 938W

Consumer Price Index The Asset Protection Agency and the Royal Mint Advisory Committee have no record of any spending Annette Brooke: To ask the Chancellor of the on office refurbishment. Exchequer what recent research his Department has Departmental Catering undertaken on the use of the Consumer Price Index to measure the rate of inflation. [11487] Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Justine Greening: The scope and definition of the Exchequer how much his Department spent on consumer price index (CPI) is for the independent Office catering in each year from 1997 to 2009. [4856] for National Statistics (ONS). The CPI is consistent with the harmonised index of consumer prices (HICP) Justine Greening: The Treasury’s accounting system that is specified in a series of European regulations. The does not separately identify catering spending and the ONS undertake research to maintain and improve consumer information could not be provided within the price indices. disproportionate costs threshold. The Chancellor confirmed at Budget that the independent Public spending data from the COINS database for Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England the years 2005-06 to 2009-10 inclusive was published on will continue to target 2% inflation, as measured by the 4 June. 12-month increase in the CPI. Departmental Internet Corporation Tax Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Susan Elan Jones: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much (a) his Department and (b) its Exchequer what assessment has been made of the agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on effects of the proposed reduction in the small profits website design in each year since 1997. [7598] rate of corporation tax on (a) small businesses and (b) manufacturers. [10724] Justine Greening: The available information on spending by HM Treasury and the Debt Management Office Mr Gauke: The estimated impact on the Exchequer (DMO) on website design since 2002-03, when a new of the reduction in the small profits rate of corporation accounting system was introduced, is shown in the tax is set out in ‘Budget 2010 Policy Costings’, which following table. was published alongside the Budget and is available at: http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/junebudget_costings.pdf £000 Around 850,000 companies across all sectors will HMT DMO benefit from the reduction in the small profits rate of 2003-04 0 85 corporation tax to 20% from April 2011. This includes 2004-05 22 220 at least 50,000 companies in the manufacturing sector. 2005-06 0 210 2006-07 0 25 Departmental Buildings 2007-08 0 0 2008-09 0 0 Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the 2009-10 8 0 Exchequer how much (a) his Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on Neither the Asset Protection Agency nor the Royal office refurbishment in each year since 1997. [7347] Mint Advisory Committee have incurred any spending on website design. Justine Greening: HM Treasury—a full PFI refurbishment of the Treasury’s building was completed Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Chancellor of the in 2002. The cost of any refurbishments since that date Exchequer what steps he has taken to ensure that his have been included in the annual unitary payment made Department’s Spending Challenge website complies to the PFI provider and is not separately recorded. As a with minimum standards of accessibility. [10415] result of the introduction of a new accounting system in 2002-03, provision of information prior to that date Justine Greening: The Spending Challenge website could be provided only at disproportionate cost. was built and implemented as a joint exercise between Debt Management Office—information prior to 2002-03 No 10, Cabinet Office, Directgov, HM Treasury and a is not available due to the introduction of a new accounting private sector partner called Delib. HM Treasury facilitated system. The available information is shown in the following access to the Spending Challenge website via its own table: departmental site. The Spending Challenge website was built to Web £000 Content Accessibility Guidelines. It conforms to level AA, meaning the website is accessible to most users. 2002-03 53 This was validated using both manual tests and automated 2003-04 2 tools. It also went though a series of tests with users, 2004-05 3 including people with disabilities. 2005-06 0 2006-07 35 2007-08 3 Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Chancellor of the 2008-09 70 Exchequer what steps he has taken to ensure that his 2009-10 11 Department’s Your Freedom website complies with minimum standards of accessibility. [10416] 939W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 940W

The Deputy Prime Minister: I have been asked to Departmental Public Consultation reply. The Your Freedom application went though a series Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Chancellor of the of tests with users including people with disabilities to Exchequer what steps he has taken to ensure that make sure it met the minimum AA web accessibility people without internet access can participate in his standards. In addition, the supplier tested those elements Department’s Spending Challenge. [10418] that were specific to ’Your Freedom’ using both manual tests and automated tools. Because the planned brand Danny Alexander: Those without internet access, or colours were found not to meet accessibility standards those who do not wish to participate in the Spending after initial testing they were replaced with a colour Challenge online, can write to the Treasury directly, or palate that did. through their MP in the normal way. Letters that pertain to the Spending Challenge are then being fed into the Departmental Legal Costs wider process set up to capture the ideas that the Spending Challenge is generating and feed them through to the relevant Spending Departments. Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much (a) his Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on Departmental Security legal advice in each year since 1997. [7561]

Justine Greening: The following table sets out the Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the available information on spending on legal advice for Exchequer how much (a) his Department and (b) its HM Treasury, the Debt Management Office (DMO) agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on and the Asset Protection Agency (APA). security in each year since 1997. [7365]

£000 Justine Greening: The information requested is as HMT DMO APA follows: 2002-03 n/a 70 n/a HM Treasury 2003-04 n/a 81 n/a A full PFI refurbishment of the Treasury’s building 2004-05 2,701 64 n/a was completed in 2002. The cost of any physical security 2005-06 3,306 78 n/a for the building since that date has been included in the 2006-07 2,412 93 n/a annual unitary payment made to the PFI provider and 2007-08 2,650 57 n/a is not separately recorded. 2008-09 10,445 43 n/a Debt Management Office and Asset Protection Agency 2009-10 17,742 136 89 Physical security of the leased office accommodation is charged as part of the quarterly service charge and is Legal costs for HM Treasury were not separately not separately identifiable without incurring identified within the accounting system prior to 2004-05 disproportionate costs. and could not be provided without incurring disproportionate costs. Identifiable security costs are shown in the following table. Information for DMO prior to 2002-03 is not available due to the introduction of a new accounting system at Debt Management that time. Data on legal spending are not available by Financial year HM Treasury Office purpose but the figures quoted will be mostly advisory costs. 2003-04 16 6 2004-05 35 5 Data for the newly formed APA are only available 2005-06 289 2 from 2009-10. 2006-07 38 2 The Royal Mint Advisory Committee did not incur 2007-08 63 2 any legal costs for the period in question. 2008-09 78 3 2009-10 102 2 Departmental Official Cars The Royal Mint Advisory Committee does not incur Ian Austin: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer any security costs. (1) what his estimate is of the mileage travelled by each Minister in his Department in a Government car in (a) May and (b) June 2010; [8330] Departmental Training (2) how many miles each Minister in his Department travelled in a Government car in (a) May and (b) June Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the 2010. [8179] Exchequer how much his (a) Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on Justine Greening: I refer the hon. Member to the employee training in each year since 1997. [7636] answer given to him by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport on 13 July, Official Report, Justine Greening: The available information is shown column 624W. in the following table. 941W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 942W

‘Impacts of Housing Benefit proposals: Changes to the £000 Local Housing Allowance’ to be introduced in 2011-12 HMT DMO APA on 23 July 2010. 1997-98 n/a n/a n/a A copy of these has been placed in the Library. 1998-99 n/a n/a n/a 1999-2000 n/a n/a n/a Income Tax 2000-01 n/a n/a n/a 2001-02 n/a n/a n/a Mr Timpson: To ask the Chancellor of the 2002-03 1,848 94 n/a Exchequer how many and what percentage of (a) men (b) 2003-04 1,708 133 n/a and women who pay income tax pay it at the (i) basic rate, (ii) higher rate and (iii) additional rate. 2004-05 1,574 139 n/a [11544] 2005-06 1,803 104 n/a 2006-07 1,621 76 n/a Mr Gauke: The requested information for 2010-11 is 2007-08 1,888 111 n/a provided in the following table. 2008-09 2,139 143 n/a 2009-10 2,252 124 1 Males Females Number Number For HM Treasury and the Debt Management Office Taxpayer (thousand) Percentage (thousand) Percentage (DMO), information on spending prior to 2002-03 is not available due to the introduction of a new accounting Starting rate for 70 0.5 150 1 system in that year. 10p savings Basic rate 14,800 85 12,200 93.5 Data for the newly formed Asset Protection Agency (APA) are only available for 2009-10. Higher rate 2,340 13.5 670 5 Additional rate 240 1.5 40 0.5 The Royal Mint Advisory Committee has not incurred Total number of 17,400 13,100 any spending in the period in question. taxpayers

Equitable Life Assurance Society: Compensation These estimates have been produced using HMRC Personal Tax Model, based on 2007-08 Survey of Personal Tessa Munt: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Incomes data projected to 2010-11 using the Office for what requests he has received from the Equitable Budget Responsibility’s economic assumptions for this Members Action Group for information on Head A June 2010 Budget. calculations; what information he has provided in response; and if he will make a statement. [11894] Income Tax: Females

Mr Hoban: In response to requests for greater Mr Timpson: To ask the Chancellor of the transparency, on 22 July 2010, I published alongside Sir Exchequer how many and what proportion of people John Chadwick’s final advice on the losses suffered by who will no longer pay income tax as a result of the policyholders. Published alongside this was the actuarial implementation of the measures in the June 2010 advice provided to Sir John during the course of his Budget are women. [11584] work and a letter from Towers Watson setting out a Mr Gauke: The personal allowance for under 65s will range of loss figures that follow from Sir John’s report. be increased by £1,000 in April 2011, with the gains Health Foods limited to basic rate taxpayers. We estimate that the 880,000 lowest income taxpayers will be removed from tax altogether, of which 59% are females. Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the This estimate is calculated using HMRC Personal Exchequer what his definition is of foodstuffs with a Tax Model, based on 2007-08 Survey of Personal Incomes medicinal value. [11268] data projected to 2011-12 using June 2010 Budget economic assumptions. Mr Gauke: Under VAT legislation, food and medicines come under separate zero rates. There is therefore no National Insurance Fund need to provide a separate definition for foodstuffs with a medicinal value. Mr Sanders: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for the future level of the national Housing Benefit insurance fund; and what recent discussions he has had with the Government Actuary on that matter. [10950] Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to the 2010 Budget, what Mr Gauke: The Government plans for the National assessment he has made of the likely effects on Insurance Fund to bear a proper relationship in the low-income groups of the proposed changes to housing longer term to demands in respect of payment of benefits. benefits. [4678] Ministers receive advice from the Government Actuary in the ordinary course of business. The report of the Steve Webb: I have been asked to reply. Government Actuary required by the Social Security The Department published an equality impact assessment Administration Act 1992 on the effect of changes on ‘Changes to the Local Housing Allowance arrangements announced in the Emergency Budget will be laid before and Housing Benefit size criteria for people with non- Parliament with the associated draft legislation in due resident overnight carers’ and a separate document on course. 943W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 944W

Non-domestic Rates: Garages and Petrol Stations regarding the effect of the cost of nuclear decommissioning on fiscal aggregates such as public sector net debt or Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Chancellor of the public sector net borrowing. Exchequer how many appeals against Valuation Office Agency rating assessments by independent petrol filling Office for Tax Simplification stations remain outstanding from the 2005 Valuation Office Agency revaluation scheme; and how many such Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer appeals have been lodged since 1 April 2010 in respect how many officials from his Department will be of the 2010 revaluation scheme. [8608] working directly for the Office for Tax Simplification. [11314] Mr Gauke: The Valuation Office Agency’s (VOA) primary aim is to ensure that rating assessments are Mr Gauke: Michael Jack and John Whiting, who are accurate and fair. Where possible, it aims to reach leading the office for the first year, will be supported by agreement on what constitutes fair and accurate valuation a small secretariat to be appointed over the summer. schemes through discussions with the relevant ratepayers This will include three officials from HM Treasury and or their representatives. Where this is not possible, HM Revenue and Customs in addition to externally ratepayers may raise proposals (appeals) against the funded secondees. rating lists. The number of rating proposals outstanding relating Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer to petrol filling stations (excluding those with supermarkets) what estimate he has made of the cost of setting up the is provided in the following table. Office for Tax Simplification. [11315] Proposals relating to petrol filling stations against the 2005 and 2010 rating lists Mr Gauke: The Office of Tax Simplification is being 2005 rating lists as 2010 rating lists as fully established over the summer. The set up costs for at 31 March 2010 at 30 June 2010 the office are estimated to be £30,000 and mainly consist of accommodation, IT and recruitment. They will be England 1,579 1,966 met from within existing Treasury and HMRC budgets Wales 93 110 for 2010-11. Total 1,672 2,076

The VOA is not required to hold details of the name Overseas Trade: Israel of the occupier of individual properties and so is not able to say how many of these outstanding proposals Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Chancellor of the relate to petrol filling stations occupied by independent Exchequer how much revenue the Government petrol retailers. collected from the (a) importation and (b) sale in the Data on proposals made against the 2010 rating lists UK of goods sourced, packaged or grown on Israeli has not been published, and so the above data have been settlements which the UN has declared illegal in each taken from the VOA’s operational database. year since 2000; and if he will make a statement. Proposals to alter a rating list can be made on several [10974] grounds; these include that the complied list valuation is incorrect; that a notice to alter the list is incorrect; for Mr Gauke: The Government are unable to provide deletion of the entry in the list; or there has been a the information requested. The Israeli Settlements in material change of circumstances that has affected the the Occupied Palestinian Territories do not have a property. The numbers provided are for all grounds of separate country code. Consequently, it is not possible appeal. for HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to separately identify imports from the Israeli Settlements. However, Where the ratepayer and the Valuation Officer cannot since 2000 HMRC has issued demands for around agree on the correct rateable value, the appeal will be £482,000 customs duty on approximately 1,000 heard before the independent Valuation Tribunal. If the consignments of products imported into the UK from ratepayer is still dissatisfied with the outcome, then Settlements where preferential tariff rates under the there is a right to make an appeal to the Lands Tribunal. EC-Israel Association Agreement had been incorrectly claimed. Nuclear Power Stations: Decommissioning Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Cash: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer on Exchequer if he will review the licensing process for the what occasions his Department received importation of goods sourced, packaged or grown on representations on the cost to the public purse of Israeli settlements which the UN has declared illegal nuclear decommissioning as a proportion of net public for the purpose of preventing the licensing of such sector (a) borrowing and (b) debt in the last two goods. [10975] years; from whom each such representation was received; and if he will place in the Library a copy of Mr Gauke: The European Commission has responsibility his Department’s response in each case. [1196] for the licensing system and would, as such, initiate and undertake any review. The Commission last examined Danny Alexander [holding answer 7 June 2010]: Treasury the rules for agricultural products in 2008. The Government Ministers and officials regularly discuss funding for cannot take unilateral action to review, amend or alter nuclear decommissioning with interested parties. No the processes and requirements for issuing import licences specific representations have been received to the date for goods imported from the Israeli settlements. 945W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 946W

Personal Loans Premium Bonds

Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent assessment he has made of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the change in merits of increasing the £30,000 maximum holding for the level of household (a) borrowing and (b) debt as a Premium Bonds. [10752] result of the June 2010 Budget by the end of 2011. [9507] Mr Hoban: On 12 May 2003 the maximum holding limit for Premium Bonds increased from 20,000 Bonds Mr Hoban [holding answer 19 July 2010]: The (£20,000) to a limit of 30,000 Bonds (£30,000). The information requested falls within the responsibility of limit of £20,000 was set ten years prior, on 13 April the Chairman of the Office for Budget Responsibility, 1993. who has been asked to reply. The maximum limit was increased in response to high Letter from Sir Alan Budd, dated 23 July 2010: customer demand for NS&I to do so. As Chair of the Budget Responsibility Committee of the Office Currently, the average Premium Bond holding is for Budget Responsibility (OBR) I have been asked to reply to £1,763—this includes customers who hold the minimum your recent question: £1 as well as customers who hold the maximum limit of To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate he has £30,000. There are 477,020 Premium Bond holders out made of the change in the level of household (a) borrowing and of a total of 23,648,498 holders who hold the maximum (b) debt as a result of the June 2010 Budget by the end of 2011. £30,000 investment limit, which represents 2.0% of this (9507) total. 46.6% of customers hold the minimum value. We have published forecasts for household consumption and These statistics, as at July 2010, show that there are the saving ratio in the June Budget document. The saving ratio only a small percentage of total Premium Bond holders remains close to historic averages through 2010 and 2011, meaning who hold the maximum investment limit; therefore at that consumption growth is close to that of income over the this stage there are no plans to make changes to the period. limit. However, we regularly review the structure of the The specific information that you have requested on household Premium Bonds scheme, and would make changes if borrowing and debt has not yet been published. In accordance appropriate. with our publication procedure, (which is available on our website at: Public Expenditure: Scotland http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/d/ interim_release_process.pdf Ann McKechin: To ask the Chancellor of the We will release the supplementary information that you have Exchequer what effect implementation of the proposals requested on 19 August 2010, at 11am. This information will be in the Department of Health’s White Paper on NHS published on the OBR website, and copies of all published reform will have on the amount of money made material will be placed in the Library of the House. available under the Barnett formula for Scotland. [11062] Police: Lambeth Danny Alexander: Health policy in Scotland is devolved to the Scottish Executive so it is for the Scottish Executive Mr Umunna: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer to determine its own policy. Funding for the NHS in what effect implementation of the measures proposed England will be determined in the Spending Review. In in the June 2010 Budget will have on police numbers in Scotland it will be for the Scottish Executive to determine (a) the London Borough of Lambeth and (b) health spending within the overall Scottish block budget Streatham constituency. [10366] to be determined in the Spending Review in the usual way. Nick Herbert: I have been asked to reply. Decisions about the number of police officers, police Public Expenditure: Wales community support officers and other police staff engaged by the Metropolitan Police Service and how they are Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Chancellor of the deployed to each of the London boroughs and to Exchequer when he plans to respond to the final report specialist units is a matter for the Commissioner (Sir of the Independent Commission on Funding and Paul Stephenson) and Metropolitan Police Authority. Finance for Wales; and if he will make a statement. The future funding settlement for the police will be [11303] determined by the spending review which will not be Danny Alexander: The Independent Commission on known until October this year. Funding and Finance for Wales’ final report is a report to the Welsh Assembly Government, not to HM Pregnant Women: Grants Government. However the Treasury looks forward to studying the report and discussing it with the Welsh Assembly Government. Barbara Keeley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many health in pregnancy grants were Public Finance made in the area now covered by Worsley and Eccles South constituency in 2009-10. [6138] Gordon Banks: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect Mr Gauke: The information is only available at on the level of unemployment of the recently disproportionate cost. announced reductions in public spending. [3830] 947W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 948W

Danny Alexander [holding answer 22 June 2010]: To Mr Gauke: The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) collects continue with the previous fiscal plans would put the and holds rental information on domestic property as recovery at risk. The Governor of the Bank of England part of its statutory function to provide determinations has said: for housing benefit and to publish monthly local housing “The bigger risk at present, given the experience of the last two allowance rates. The VOA aggregates information within weeks, would be for a new government not to put in place clear Broad Rental Market Areas (BRMAs) and not by local and credible measures to deal with the fiscal deficit.” authority. By acting now, the Government have reduced the risk The London borough of Hackney sits across three of adverse market conditions, which would mean higher BRMAs (Inner East London, Central London and interest rates for all, stifle recovery and make the challenges Inner North London). The local housing allowance ahead even harder. rates determined for the month of July 2010 were based Comparisons between the pre-Budget and Budget on 10,657 pieces of rental information across these forecast may be misleading as both are based on market three BRMAs. Historic domestic property rental expectations of interest rates. The OBR forecasts that information collected by rent officers is also held by the unemployment will come down from 8.1% this year, VOA. falling in every year to 6.1% in 2015. The LHA-Direct website at: Public Sector: Pensions https://lha-direct.voa.gov.uk/Secure/Default.aspx includes graphical representations of the rents used to determine the three BRMAs that cover Hackney. Mrs McGuire: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assumptions the Office for Budget Additionally the Valuation Office Agency holds rental responsibility used of employer contributions to each information on non-domestic property, from several of the four main public sector pension schemes in (a) sources, to support its statutory functions. 2010, (b) 2011, (c) 2012, (d) 2013, (e) 2014 and (f) 2015 in its forecast; and whether these assumed rates Revenue and Customs: Debt Collection took account of cap and share changes. [10973] Mr Sanders: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Justine Greening: The information requested falls what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of within the responsibility of the chairman of the Office (a) HM Revenue and Customs staff and (b) private for Budget Responsibility, who has been asked to reply. debt collection agencies in collecting unpaid taxes on Letter from Sir Alan Budd, dated 26 July 2010: behalf of HM Revenue and Customs. [8782] As Chair of the Budget Responsibility Committee of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) I have been asked to reply Mr Gauke: As set out in HMRC’s 2009-10 annual to your recent question asking: accounts the total level of receivables at the end of What assumptions the Office of Budgetary Regulation used of March 2010 was £26.1 billion, compared to £27.7 billion employer contributions to each of the four main public sector as at 31 March 2009—a reduction of 5.8%. pension schemes in (a) 2010, (b) 2011, (c) 2012, (d) 2013, (e) 2014 Receivables represent amounts due from taxpayers in and (f) 2015 in its forecast; and whether these assumed rates took account of cap and share changes. (10973) respect of established liabilities at the end of the reporting period for which payment has not been received. Following requests for supplementary information on its forecasts, the Office for Budget Responsibility is due to release the information The Comptroller and Auditor General’s report on concerning employer contributions to the public service pension HMRC’s 2009-10 accounts, which discusses HMRC’s schemes on its website debt management operations, is available at: http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/ http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/hmrc-accs-0910.pdf publications.html HMRC’s evaluation summary of last year’s small on 19 August 2010. This is consistent with the interim scale pilot exercise designed to explore the benefits and OBR’s release policy risks of using private debt collection agencies to recover http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/d/ some types of debts is available at: interim_release_process.pdf http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/cap-cap-pilot.pdf Copies of the published material will also be placed in the Library The Government announced in the June 2010 Budget of the House. that HMRC will be using debt collection agencies this These forecast contributions do not take account of the effect year to collect £140 million of additional revenue from of ’cap and share’ changes. As illustrated in Table 2.3 of ’Budget 2010: The economy and public finances - supplementary material existing tax debts. June 2010’ (available here: http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/d/ Revenue and Customs: ICT junebudget_supplementary_material.pdf ’cap and share’ is separate from the income to pension Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the schemes. The effect of ’cap and share’ changes is estimated Exchequer what upgrading to HM Revenue and as a £1 billion increase to pension scheme receipts from Customs’ systems for income assessment and tax 2012-13 onwards. collection is in progress; and when he expects the upgrade to be completed. [11345] Rents: Hackney Mr Gauke: There are many IT systems that support Meg Hillier: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer the assessment and collection of income tax, all of what information his Department holds on rent levels which are in a cycle of continuous upgrade driven by a in the London Borough of Hackney. [11586] combination of: 949W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 950W

Legislative and budget related change; Taxation Operational efficiency; and Technical refresh and updating. Mr Binley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Much, but not all of that, particularly the change what his most recent assessment is of the application of driven by legislation, budget changes and operational the Rees rules on the introduction of retrospective efficiency, is introduced in major IT releases each year. legislation in light of the announcement by HM They are in the autumn (usually a weekend in October/ Revenue and Customs on employment loss planning on November) and on 6 April. The changes within both 1 April 2009; and if he will make a statement. [11441] those releases in 2010-11 are on track to complete on time. Mr Gauke: The Government are, in general, opposed The Government are publishing a discussion paper to retrospective legislation and believe that a very strong on potential reform of the PAYE system today. case has to be made where legislation is to have retrospective effect. The schemes counteracted by the HM Revenue and Customs announcement of 1 April 2009 were Roads: Repairs and Maintenance particularly aggressive and artificial and the Joint Committee on Human Rights last year concluded that Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Chancellor of the the former Government’s backdating of action was Exchequer how much funding he plans to make justifiable in this instance and did not contravene the available to local authorities for the repair and European Convention on Human Rights. maintenance of potholes in roads for which they are The Government are committed to reforming the tax responsible. [510] system to make it more competitive, simpler, greener and fairer. How it legislates and implements tax policy Danny Alexander: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the is key to this reform. The Government have issued a answer given by the Under-Secretary of State for Transport, discussion document ‘Tax policy making: a new approach’ the hon. Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) on 30 June and is engaging with interested parties on the issues 2010, Official Report, column 554W. explored in that document. Sheffield Forgemasters: Finance Taxation: Betting Shops

Edward Miliband: To ask the Chancellor of the Philip Davies: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent representations he has received Exchequer what estimate has been made of the effect on a private sector alternative to a Government loan to on revenues accrued by the Exchequer of online betting Sheffield Forgemasters. [11361] firms relocating offshore in the latest period for which figures are available. [7797] Mr Hoban: Since 6 May 2010, the Treasury has not received any representations on a private sector alternative Justine Greening: In total general betting duty typically to a Government loan to Sheffield Forgemasters. raises around £350 million to £400 million per annum. When making changes to the tax, the Government Tax Allowances: Video Games consider the likely impact on the sector and wider economy. Robert Flello: To ask the Chancellor of the A complete assessment of the impact on tax of online Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect firms relocating offshore is not available. The Government on tax receipts of a tax relief on the UK games have noted the steps taken by some bookmakers to industry. [10793] move their online betting operations offshore and are keeping this under review. Mr Gauke: The estimated fiscal impact of policy VAT decisions made in the Emergency Budget were published in the Budget 2010 policy costings document: Susan Elan Jones: To ask the Chancellor of the http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/junebudget_costings.htm Exchequer what estimate has been made of the administrative cost to small businesses of Tax Evasion: Construction implementing the proposed rise in the standard rate of value added tax. [10723] Richard Harrington: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of progress in Mr Gauke: The costs to business of the increase in the implementation of the conclusions of his the standard rate of VAT are set out in the Impact Department’s consultation on the reports of False Assessment published alongside the June Budget 2010. self-employment in construction: taxation of workers, This is available from the HM Treasury website at: July 2009; and if he will make a statement. [10824] http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/ junebudget_impact_assessments.pdf Mr Gauke: The previous Government consulted on proposals for a legislative test to determine the employment VAT: Electric Vehicles status of workers in the construction industry for tax and NICs purposes. The Government have decided to Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the explore with interest groups whether it is possible to Exchequer what his policy is on the application of achieve a legislative solution that is effective, fair and value added tax to electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. workable. [11983] 951W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 952W

Mr Gauke: Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles attract (2) whether HM Revenue and Customs has the same VAT treatment as conventional equivalent discretion to write off tax credit overpayments in vehicles. No distinction is made on the basis of the way circumstances where claimants have been diagnosed in which a vehicle is powered. with mental health and related illnesses. [10995]

VAT: Pet Foods Mr Gauke: HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) does not separately record the information requested. Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the Code of Practice 26 ‘What happens if we have paid Exchequer (1) for what reasons value added tax is you too much tax credit?’ sets out how HMRC deal levied on packaged pet foods; [11266] with overpayments of tax credit. If a customer, or more likely their representative, contacts HMRC and advises (2) what assessment he has made of the merits of them that they are suffering from a mental health exempting packaged pet food from value added tax. problem, then HMRC staff will deal with these cases [11267] carefully and sympathetically and in some circumstances will agree not to pursue the claimant for payment. Mr Gauke: Value added tax (VAT) is designed to be a broad-based tax, charged on goods and services supplied Working Families Tax Credit in the course of business unless they are specifically relieved from the tax by zero-rating or exemption. Bob Russell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Foods for animals reared for human consumption how many cases concerning working family tax credits are generally zero-rated, but VAT law has always excluded were raised with (a) his Department and (b) HM most other animal food items from this relief. These Revenue and Customs by each hon. Member between exclusions include canned, packaged or prepared pet May 2005 and May 2010. [3856] foods, packaged foods for birds other than poultry or game, and biscuits and meal for cats and dogs. Justine Greening: Working tax credits (WTC) and Agreements with our EU partners prevent us from child tax credit (CTC) replaced working families’ and extending the scope of existing exemptions or zero disabled person’s tax credits (WFTC and DPTC) in rates, or introducing new ones. The Government could April 2003. not therefore exempt pet foods from VAT; no assessment Information about the number of WTC and CTC has been made of the merits of doing so. cases raised by each right hon. and hon. Member with HM Treasury and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), Welfare Tax Credits in the format requested, is available only at disproportionate cost. Helen Goodman: To ask the Chancellor of the Between 1 May 2005 and 31 May 2010 my right hon. Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of and hon. Members wrote to HMRC Benefits & Credits households which will lose income as a result of the Operations (formerly Tax Credit Office) about implementation of his proposals to (a) reduce the tax approximately 32,000 cases and tax credits MP Helpline credit second income threshold to £40,000, (b) increase advisers handled around 66,500 calls from Members the first and second withdrawal rate to 41 per cent., (c) and their caseworkers. taper the family element of child tax credit immediately In the same period, right hon. and hon. Members after the child element, (d) remove the baby element of sent around 19,500 letters to Treasury Ministers and child tax credit, (e) remove the 50 plus element of HMRC Executive Committee members. working tax credit, (f) reverse the child tax credit Information on letters from hon. Members received supplement for children aged one and two years, (g) in other areas of HMRC about tax credits in the specified reduce the income disregard from (i) £25,000 to period is not available. £10,000, and (ii) £10,000 to £5,000, (h) introduce an income disregard of £2,500 for falls in income, and (i) reduce the backdating of tax credits for changes of circumstances from three months to one month in each INDEPENDENT PARLIAMENTARY year from 2011-12 to 2014-15; and what estimate he STANDARDS AUTHORITY COMMITTEE has made of the average change in total household income consequent on the implementation of each Complaints such proposal in each such year (A) in cash and (B) real terms. [4931] Helen Jones: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Mr Gauke [holding answer 30 June 2010]: I refer the the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, hon. Member to the answer given on 28 June, Official how many complaints the Independent Parliamentary Report, column 460W. Standards Authority has received in respect of incorrect advice given to hon. Members by its staff; and Welfare Tax Credits: Overpayments what steps the Authority has taken in consequence of such complaints. [11727] Mr Anderson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) vhow many tax credit overpayments Mr Charles Walker: I have been informed by the have been written off in circumstances where claimants Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority that were diagnosed with mental health and related illnesses the Chief Executive’s office has investigated 16 official in each of the last three years; [10994] complaints since 7 May.These complaints are not recorded 953W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 954W by type. Where a Member has identified incorrect advice, Mr Charles Walker: No constituencies have been IPSA has said it will take steps to ensure that correct determined to be eligible for additional funding to pay advice is given in future. for staff. Correspondence IPSA has, however, confirmed to MPs that, for staff members who were employed before 7 May 2010, IPSA will honour their existing contracting arrangements, Mrs Main: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, including their salaries. In addition, where Members are representing the Speaker’s Committee for the finding difficulty in staying within budget, they can seek Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, extra support from IPSA by providing it with evidence whether the Inter-government Despatch Service may be of their requirements. IPSA will consider that evidence used to send correspondence to the Independent and decide whether the MP should be able to operate Parliamentary Standards Authority. [10857] with a higher budget for this financial year. Mr Charles Walker: IPSA is able to receive correspondence sent via Government Mail. Members: Allowances

IPSA: Board Ann McKechin: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Glenda Jackson: To ask the hon. Member for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for what procedures the Independent Parliamentary the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Standards Authority will adopt to reimburse hon. how many times the Board of the Independent Members for London Area Living Allowance for the Parliamentary Standards Authority has met; how period between the date of the General Election and many times it will meet in the next 12 months; and if the date on which the initial claim for that allowance the Authority will publish the agendas and minutes of was submitted. [7679] such meetings. [10203] Mr Charles Walker: The MPs’ expenses scheme does Mr Charles Walker: The IPSA Board has met on not allow the London Area Living Payment to be paid 17 occasions since its first meeting of 4 December 2009. in respect of any period before IPSA is notified that an 12 of these meetings constituted formal board meetings MP intends to claim it. Consequently, IPSA is not able for which minutes and agendas are prepared. The minutes to backdate any such claims to the date of the general of these meetings, which include the agendas, are made election. available on the IPSA website once the minutes have [Pursuant to the original answer published on 14 July been agreed by the IPSA Board. 2010, Official Report, column 812W,IPSA has provided Ordinarily the IPSA Board meets at least once every me with some additional information.] month and intends to do so over the next 12 months, IPSA has decided to exercise discretion in the operation with the exception of August 2010. of the rule described in the original answer. Members’ Staff: Pay Where a Member informed IPSA of their intent to claim before 15 June 2010, they will have their claim backdated to 7 May. Where a Member informed IPSA Grahame M. Morris: To ask the hon. Member for of their intent to claim after this date, their claim will be Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for backdated only to the date they informed IPSA. the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what estimate the Independent Parliamentary This acknowledges that Members would not have Standards Authority has made of the cost to the public been able to submit a claim for LALP before they were purse of publishing the (a) salary details of staff of provided with access to the online expenses system. hon. Members in £5,000 bands and (b) precise salary details of staff of hon. Members who are connected Ann McKechin: To ask the hon. Member for parties in 2010-11. [11515] Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Charles Walker: The Independent Parliamentary pursuant to the answer of 14 July 2010, Official Report, Standards Authority has informed me that no estimate column 812W, on Members: allowances, for what has been made of the cost to the public purse of reasons some hon. Members have been advised by the publishing salary details of MPs’ staff. However, any Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority cost is expected to be minimal as it is a straightforward (IPSA) that claims can be backdated to the date of transaction. Following a recently closed consultation, it election; and by what methods an hon. Member was is no longer proposed to publish precise salary details of able to submit such a claim before being provided staff who are connected parties. access to IPSA’s IT system for claims. [11182]

Mr Andrew Turner: To ask the hon. Member for Mr Charles Walker: Under the MPs’ expenses scheme, Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for LALP is not payable in relation to any period before the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, notification is given to IPSA that the MP intends to what criteria the Independent Parliamentary Standards claim it. Authority uses to determine the constituencies eligible However, IPSA has decided to exercise discretion in for additional funding to pay for staff of hon. the operation of the rule, so that where a Member Members; and which constituencies have been so informed IPSA of their intent to claim before 15 June designated. [11648] 2010, they will have their claim backdated to 7 May. 955W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 956W

Where a member informed IPSA of their intent to Richard Burden: To ask the hon. Member for claim after this date, their claim will be backdated only Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for to the date they informed IPSA. the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, if This acknowledges that Members would not have the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority been able to submit a claim for LALP before they were will assess the comparative cost to the public purse of provided with access to the online expenses system. (a) continuing existing group and employer and public liability insurance for the offices of hon. Members and Members: Claims (b) introducing a system where hon. Members negotiate and pay for the provision of such policies Mr Allen: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, individually and claim reimbursement from the representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Authority. [10052] Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, if the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority will Mr Charles Walker: IPSA is considering the best take steps to ensure that each notification of mechanism for the continued provision of employer reimbursement to Members identifies the invoice or and public liability insurance when it ceases to be invoices in respect of which the reimbursement is being provided by the House, including whether it should be made. [9883] provided centrally through IPSA or claimed individually by Members. In its analysis, IPSA will consider value Mr Charles Walker: The IPSA remittance advice note for money and the cost to the public purse. or notification of the expense claim payment does identify the invoice or invoices in respect of which reimbursement Members: Correspondence is being made. The note identifies all correspondence to a unique reference number. This number is created by a Miss McIntosh: To ask the hon. Member for MP or his or her proxy when they enter a claim in the Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Expenses@Work system. the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what the average time taken to provide a response to a Glenda Jackson: To ask the hon. Member for query made by an hon. Member to the Independent Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Parliamentary Standards Authority by (a) email, (b) the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, hard copy letter and (c) telephone call has been since how much was claimed by hon. Members from the the Authority’s inception. [10007] Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority for expenditure incurred in June 2010; and how much had Mr Charles Walker: At present, IPSA aims to respond been paid to hon. Members in reimbursement for such to all queries within five working days. IPSA has recently claims as at 12 July 2010. [10207] introduced a new case management system which will improve the response time to emails, letters and telephone Mr Charles Walker: According to the claims submitted queries; and ensure accurate records of correspondence using the online expenses system, in June 2010 hon. between Members and IPSA. Once this system is fully Members incurred expenses worth £832,111.50. Many rolled out across IPSA, it will provide Members with of the claims for these expenses were not submitted information on its performance against these and other until July and are either awaiting the submission of service targets. receipts, awaiting validation or have been passed for payment. Up to 12 July 2010, £218,240.80 of this amount Helen Jones: To ask the hon. Member for had been paid to hon. Members, and claims worth Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for £28,217.28 were returned to hon. Members for further the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, explanation. what system the Independent Parliamentary Standards Members: Constituency Offices Authority operates to associate emails and letters from hon. Members with the claim to which the Miss McIntosh: To ask the hon. Member for correspondence relates. [11602] Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Charles Walker: I have been informed by the for what reason the Independent Parliamentary Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority that, Standards Authority does not allow items relating to in cases where emails or letters seek information about the constituency office of an hon. Member to be a particular claim, the Information Team extracts charged to the budget allocated for this purpose; and if information relating to the claim from the online system he will make a statement. [10010] and uses this to respond to queries. In cases which are not straightforward, the Information Team may speak Mr Charles Walker: The basis of IPSA’s scheme is directly to members of the Validation Team regarding that Members should receive expenses for costs actually the progress or details of the claim. Where letters or and reasonably incurred. Members can submit claims emails cover receipts or other supporting documentation, for costs incurred for the performance of parliamentary these are passed directly to the Validation Team. functions relating to their constituency office and surgeries from the dedicated Constituency Office Rental Expenditure Members: Email budget. In addition, Members may submit appropriate claims for expenditure to the General Administrative Helen Jones: To ask the hon. Member for Expenditure Budget, which covers items such as office Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for equipment, procurement of services, and communications the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, costs. what the average time taken by the Independent 957W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 958W

Parliamentary Standards Authority to reply to emails expenses to hon. Members in respect of travel by taxi from hon. Members has been; and how many emails with heavy luggage between a London rail terminal have not been answered within two weeks in the current and the Palace of Westminster. [11728] parliamentary session. [11335] Mr Charles Walker: IPSA’s policy is that it will reimburse Mr Charles Walker: At present, IPSA aims to respond taxi fares where a journey is necessary and at least one to all emails and letters within five working days. It is of the following criteria is satisfied: no other reasonable not possible to readily provide data regarding the percentage method of transport is available for all or part of the of queries which have been answered within this timeframe journey, or alternative methods of transport are to date. IPSA has recently introduced a new case impracticable due to pregnancy, disability, illness or management system. This will both reduce the response injury of the MP or of a staff member. Heavy luggage time to emails, and ensure accurate records of may be a factor in the MP deciding these criteria apply. correspondence between Members and IPSA. IPSA Whether the journey is between a London rail terminus will provide Members with information on its performance and the Palace of Westminster is not, in itself, a criterion, against these and other service targets once this system although taxi fares will not be reimbursed for any part is fully rolled out across the organisation. of an MP’s daily commute between their London home and Westminster, or their constituency home and office. Members: Travel Offices

Helen Jones: To ask the hon. Member for Richard Burden: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what procedures the Independent Parliamentary what the policy of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority plans to put in place during the Standards Authority is on payment for (a) office recess for hon. Members who are unable to verify travel equipment and furniture, (b) rent, business rates and card statements within seven days. [11333] utilities attributable to its office premises and (c) office consumables (i) directly from the Authority’s budget Mr Charles Walker: Members are required to submit and (ii) by members of the Authority’s board and the completed online travel card form within 14 days of senior staff on the basis of retrospective it being available on the system with the corresponding reimbursement. [10054] invoices/receipts being sent within 21 days. If for a particular month an individual Member is unable to Mr Charles Walker: IPSA, as an employer, provides comply with these time scales (for example if they are office premises and facilities for its staff directly from its away on business or holiday) they should e-mail budget rather than on the basis of retrospective [email protected] with the reason reimbursement. and the date they will be able to submit the completed Operating Costs form. When all or a large number of Members may be unable to comply with the normal time scales (for Glenda Jackson: To ask the hon. Member for example during the summer or Christmas recess) then Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the time scales will be automatically increased to allow the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, for this fact. what the (a) capital and (b) estimated annual running cost is of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Helen Jones: To ask the hon. Member for Authority’s computerised claims system. [10205] Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Charles Walker: The capital cost of the software what steps the Independent Parliamentary Standards expenses@work was £126,000 (including VAT at 17.5%). Authority is taking to (a) identify hon. Members who The estimated annual running cost of expenses@work have not received electronic copies of their travel card is not identified separately. The support contract for all statements and (b) ensure that such hon. Members IT software support at IPSA, which includes support receive their statements. [11334] for Microsoft Office, the Financial Accounting System ″Great Plains″, the Payroll software ″Jane HR″ as well Mr Charles Walker: All Members who have incurred as expenses@work, is £116,000 (including VAT at 17.5%) expenditure on the travelcard within the month will per annum. receive a paper copy sent to their home address. The Pay paper copy will be sent at the end of each month. All Members who have a registered proxy on the online Grahame M. Morris: To ask the hon. Member for expenses system will also receive an electronic copy, sent Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for to their proxy. Where Members do not have a proxy, the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, they may use an alternate logon to access the electronic how many staff of the Independent Parliamentary statement. We are working on a system change to Standards Authority (IPSA) have received reward and develop an improved IT solution to this issue. recognition payments since its inception; and how many such payments IPSA expects to make in 2010-11. Karen Bradley: To ask the hon. Member for [11513] Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Charles Walker: IPSA’s staff recognition scheme what the policy of the Independent Parliamentary enables staff to nominate colleagues for modest awards Standards Authority is on reimbursement of travel in recognition of outstanding performance. The scheme 959W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 960W has only just commenced and so no staff members have Number so far received such awards. It is not possible to predict how many staff will receive such awards in 2010-11. Week of 21 May 2010 56 Week of 28 May 2010 56 Grahame M. Morris: To ask the hon. Member for Week of 4 June 2010 61 Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for Week of 11 June 2010 61 the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Week of 18 June 2010 61 how many staff seconded to the Independent Week of 25 June 2010 61 Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) from Week of 2 July 2010 56 Government Departments have received performance- Week of 9 July 2010 56 related bonus payments since its inception; and how Week of 16 July 2010 56 many such payments IPSA expects to make in 2010-11. [11514] Trade Unions: Finance Mr Charles Walker: IPSA does not routinely collect information on bonuses paid to seconded staff by their Jim Sheridan: To ask the hon. Member for home Departments. Any performance-related bonuses Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for paid to staff seconded to IPSA from Government the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Departments have been in respect of performance periods (1) for what reason the Independent Parliamentary prior to the date when IPSA became operational. IPSA Standards Authority decided that trade union will not pay any performance-related bonuses to seconded subscriptions for staff of hon. Members should not be or other staff in 2010-11. deducted from their pay at payroll; [11928] Recruitment (2) what estimate the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has made of the annual cost of deducting trade union subscriptions for the staff of Miss McIntosh: To ask the hon. Member for hon. Members from their pay at payroll. [11929] Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Charles Walker: In the first months of operation, what recruitment procedure was followed for those IPSA’s priorities have been to pay the salaries of MPs’ working at the Independent Parliamentary Standards staff and to make the required statutory and pension Authority processing claims from hon. Members; and deductions. IPSA has not made an assessment of the what relevant previous experience such staff have had. cost of deducting trade union subscriptions for MPs’ [10036] staff. IPSA is currently reviewing the situation in relation Mr Charles Walker: The processing of claims from to trade union subscriptions and hopes to offer this as a Members by IPSA is handled by staff from a range of facility in the near future. backgrounds. A significant number of staff are drawn from the House of Commons Members’ Pay and Allowances team and have considerable experience of processing MPs’ claims. They are complemented by WALES temporary staff selected for their experience and skills. A total of 29 staff with relevant experience will have Environment Agency’s water supply schemes: Wales transferred from the House of Commons to IPSA by Mr David: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if August 2010. she will discuss with Welsh Assembly Government IPSA has made a significant investment in staff training. Ministers the operation of the Environment Agency’s All staff attend an induction course which covers IPSA water supply schemes in Wales. [9925] values, behaviours and team working, the MPs’ Expenses Scheme, data assurance and protection, and operational Mr David Jones: My right hon. Friend, the Secretary functions. of State for Wales, and I have regular discussions with Welsh Assembly Government Ministers on a range of Temporary Employment issues. The Environment Agency and water companies in Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the hon. Member for Wales are in regular contact to ensure the efficient Broxbourne, representing the Speaker’s Committee for operation of water supply schemes so that water supplies the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, and the environment in Wales are protected during how many agency staff have been contracted to work at periods of low water flows. While we have been facing the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority in exceptional circumstances this year with the driest start each week since 1 May 2010. [11823] to the year in England and Wales for 80 years, we are confident that there is a robust framework in place for Mr Charles Walker: The number of agency staff that dealing with this type of situation. have been contracted by IPSA has varied by month and In addition, the Welsh Assembly Government is currently is illustrated as follows. undertaking a feasibility study to investigate the possibility of creating a single separate environment organisation Number for Wales. This will include discussions regarding the operation of water supply schemes in Wales. An initial Week of 7 May 2010 56 report will be put to Welsh Assembly Government Week of 14 May 2010 56 Ministers in the autumn. 961W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 962W

Constituencies: Wales will discuss the implementation of the reforms set out in the Parliamentary Voting Systems and Constituencies Bill during the summer. Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans she has to discuss proposed changes to the Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales number of parliamentary constituencies in Wales with what estimate she has made of the cost to the public (a) representatives of local government and civic purse of the Government’s proposals to change the (b) society in Wales, the Wales Trades Union Congress boundaries of parliamentary constituencies in Wales. and (c) the Wales CBI. [11753] [11757]

Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State and I intend Mr David Jones: The previous general review of to discuss the implementation of the Government’s parliamentary constituencies in Wales concluded in 2005, commitment to fewer and more equally-sized parliamentary and cost £649,498. This formed part of the £13.6 million constituencies with a wide range of interested parties in total cost of the last boundary reviews in each part of Wales, including the Welsh Local Government Association, the United Kingdom (although these reviews did not the Wales Council for Voluntary Action, the Wales take place simultaneously). Trades Union Congress and the Wales CBI. The Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill, introduced on 22 July, makes provision for a boundary Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales review to be completed in each part of the United if she will make it her policy to support the use of the Kingdom before October 2013. The precise cost of the British-Irish Council and the Joint Ministerial Council reviews will depend on the final form of the legislation to discuss the effect on Wales of the Government’s and the approach adopted by the Commissions. However, proposed constitutional reforms. [11754] we anticipate that the total cost will be less than the aggregate cost of the last set of reviews. Mr David Jones: The Government discussed the coalition Departmental Operating Costs agreement and those elements within it, including constitutional reform, which were likely to be of most significance to the devolved Administrations at the Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for plenary meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee Wales what steps she has taken to reduce the running (JMC) in June. The Government’s constitutional reform costs of her Department since her appointment. [9817] agenda was also discussed in July at the inter-governmental senior officials’ forum which supports the JMC. Mr David Jones: As part of our preparations for the spending review, officials in my Department are currently The Secretary of State for Wales has discussed the formulating proposals to reduce the running costs of constitutional reforms with the Welsh Assembly the Wales Office. Government, and we will continue to work collaboratively with the devolved Administrations as the reforms are We have already achieved a number of savings since implemented. The forward work programme for the May 2010. For example, all train travel undertaken by JMC and JMC(Domestic) will be the subject of discussion Ministers and officials within the Wales Office is now by by Ministers collectively at the first meeting of standard class. My office has also given notice to cancel JMC(Domestic) in the autumn. the car contracted for my use in London, thereby halving this Department’s previous number of ministerial cars These matters are not appropriate for discussion at in London. the British-Irish Council, which contains members who are not part of the United Kingdom. Public Sector: Manpower

Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many items of correspondence she has received in what assessment she has made of the effect on the (a) support of the Government’s proposals to reduce the Welsh economy and (b) number of public sector jobs number of parliamentary constituencies in Wales. in Wales of proposed reductions in public expenditure [11755] in Wales. [11752]

Mr David Jones: The Wales Office has received two Mrs Gillan: As specific spending plans will be announced items of correspondence relating specifically to the in the autumn, following the comprehensive spending Government’s proposals for fewer parliamentary review, it is not possible to make any worthwhile assessment constituencies of more equal size. Both sought clarification of the effects of public expenditure reductions in Wales. of the proposals. We remain committed, however, to working with the Welsh Assembly Government to minimise the impacts of these necessary savings both on the Welsh economy Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales and on public sector workers themselves. what recent representations she has received on proposals to change the boundaries of parliamentary Railways: Electrification constituencies in Wales. [11756] Jessica Morden: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr David Jones: My right hon. Friend the Secretary Wales what recent discussions she has had with the of State for Wales and I have discussed the Government’s Secretary of State for Transport on the proposed commitment to fewer parliamentary constituencies of electrification of the South Wales to London rail line. more equal size with a number of interested parties, and [11933] 963W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 964W

Mrs Gillan: As I outlined in my evidence to the Welsh Mr Lidington: Since taking up his post in May 2010, I Affairs Committee on Tuesday 20 July, I have had a have not yet had an opportunity to have an official number of informal discussions with the Secretary of meeting with the Albanian ambassador to the UK. State, and will be meeting him shortly to discuss the issue in greater detail. Brazil: Embassies Ryder Cup Tournament Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many employees Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales work in the UK embassy in Brasilia; and how many are what discussions she has had with the First Minister on assigned to work on (a) climate change issues and (b) the hosting of the Ryder Cup tournament in Newport, support for UK citizens who have been the victims of 1 to 3 October 2010; and if she will make a statement. crime in Brazil. [2815] [11623] Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Mr David Jones: My right hon. Friend, the Secretary is currently reviewing the basis on which work force of State for Wales, has regular discussions with the First information is supplied and we are, therefore, unable to Minister on a range of issues affecting Wales, including reply fully at this stage. We will, however, place a copy the Ryder Cup. of this information in the Library of the House as soon She has recently visited the Celtic Manor Hotel and as possible. Spa Resort to view the Ryder Cup Golf Course for herself and hear about the facilities and the preparations British Council: Offices that are taking place to cater for this world renowned tournament. John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which British Council offices are under consideration for possible closure. [6625] FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE Mr Jeremy Browne: As my right hon. Friend the Afghanistan: Chevening Scholarships Programme Foreign Secretary set out in his speech on 1 July 2010, the British Council has a crucial role to play in raising David Miliband: To ask the Secretary of State for the profile of the UK overseas, projecting the UK’s core Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many people values to the world and contributing to the strong from Afghanistan have been awarded a Chevening networks that will underpin the UK’s engagement with scholarship for 2010-11. [8964] emerging powers. The British Council’s network of Mr Hague: Six candidates were informed last week country offices is constantly reviewed to ensure it is an that they have been awarded scholarships. A further efficient and effective platform for the UK. There is a three awards will be offered once shortlisted candidates Government-wide spending review under way.The Foreign have heard whether their university places have been and Commonwealth Office and the British Council will confirmed. be expected to contribute to reducing the deficit as part of that review. No decision will be taken on the future Afghanistan: Christianity of the British Council’s operations until the result of that review has been settled. Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent British Nationals Abroad: Prisoners representations he has made to the Government of Afghanistan on the protection of rights to Christian Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign belief and worship in that country in accordance with and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of its obligations under the United Nations Declaration 12 July 2010, Official Report, column 508W, on British on Human Rights. [11855] nationality: prisoners, on how many occasions (a) his Department and (b) British embassies and consulates Alistair Burt: The Government strongly support the have made representations to overseas governments right to freedom of religion or belief. We are working to regarding fair trial concerns in respect of UK citizens support all individuals who face discrimination and charged with offences in those countries in each of the persecution on the basis of religion, wherever they are last three years; and if he will make a statement. in the world. Article two of the Afghan constitution [11206] provides for freedom of religion, and we expect the Afghan Government to fully implement this. We have a Mr Jeremy Browne: We will consider making regular dialogue with the Afghan Government on human representations to the local authorities in any case rights, including the need to ensure the security of all where a British national in detention has not been Afghans, regardless of religion. In addition, we will also treated in line with internationally accepted standards. raise particular cases of concern with the Afghan This may include cases where the trial does not follow Government as necessary. fair trial standards, or where there is a complaint about mistreatment or discrimination. However, while we keep Albania: Foreign Relations records of individual cases, we could only produce an overall figure for the number of times we have made Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for representations on fair trial issues by individually going Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on what date the through the records of all British nationals who have Minister for Europe in his Department last met with been in detention abroad. To provide this information the Albanian Ambassador to the UK. [11197] would therefore incur disproportionate cost. 965W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 966W

Departmental Billing Alistair Burt: Foreign and Commonwealth Office expenditure on all car services provided by the Government Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Car and Despatch Agency covering use by officials and Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what percentage Ministers during the period 12 May to 12 July 2010 was of payments made by his Department to (a) small and £37,709. medium-sized enterprise suppliers and (b) all suppliers were made (i) within 10 days of receipt of invoice and Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for which of his months for which information is available. [11388] Department’s other Ministers a car and driver is provided for that Minister’s regular or dedicated use. Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office [9884] (FCO) paid 98.3%, 96.1% and 97% of supplier invoices within ten days of receipt of a valid invoice in April, Alistair Burt: The Foreign Secretary uses police close May and June 2010 respectively. protection drivers. Four of the five remaining Foreign In May 2010 the Government’s target to pay 90% of and Commonwealth Office Ministers have a Government supplier invoices within 10 working days was replaced Car Service car allocated to them. with a new target to pay 80% of supplier invoices in five working days. The FCO supports this important Departmental Operating Costs Government initiative, paying 84.29% and 90.5% of supplier invoices within five working days of receipt of Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for a valid invoice in May 2010 and June 2010 respectively. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has The FCO is aware of the importance of paying taken to reduce the running costs of his Department suppliers promptly, and makes every effort to pay valid since his appointment. [9607] supplier invoices as quickly as possible. Specific information about the size of our suppliers is not held centrally and Alistair Burt: I refer the hon. Member to the reply thus identifying the percentage of payments made to given to the hon. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) small and medium-sized enterprises would result in on 7 June 2010, Official Report, columns 23-24W, and disproportionate cost. the written ministerial statement issued by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State on 29 June 2010, Departmental Contracts Official Report, columns 37-38WS.

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Public Expenditure Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has made an estimate of the monetary value of the Mr Straw: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign contracts between his Department and private sector and Commonwealth Affairs what his Department’s companies which will be cancelled under his total (a) capital and (b) current spending was in each Department’s planned spending reductions. [10170] year since 1995 in (i) cash and (ii) constant prices; how many full-time equivalent (A) UK-based and (B) Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office locally-engaged staff his Department employed in each is liaising with the Office of Government Commerce, such year; and how much his Department spent on which is reviewing contracts with key suppliers across consultants (1) contracted to his Department and (2) central Government. It is too early to determine which, employed by other organisations under contract to his if any, contracts will be cancelled, so accordingly we Department in each such year. [10143] cannot identify the monetary value of possible cancellation costs. Alistair Burt [holding answer 21 July 2010]: Capital Departmental Manpower and current spending for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is only available on a consistent basis, including Machinery of Government changes and changes Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for to the classification of central Government spending, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many (a) back to 2004-05. This has been published in Table 1 of full-time and (b) part-time staff his Department annex A to the 2009-10 Resource Accounts (HC 74). employed in each year since 1997. [8839] The figures are reproduced in the following table Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office along with their equivalent at constant prices: is currently reviewing the basis on which work force information is supplied and we are, therefore, unable to £ million 1 reply fully at this stage. We will, however, place a copy Capital spending Current (Resource) spending Constant Constant of this information in the Library of the House as soon Cash prices Cash prices as possible. 2004-05 113 128 1,683 1,900 Departmental Official Cars 2005-06 133 147 1,811 2,008 2006-07 161 173 1,813 1,945 Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 228 238 1,819 1,897 Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much his 2008-09 227 230 2,000 2,030 Department has spent on the Government Car Service 2009-10 201 201 2,192 2,192 1 Deflated by GDP index, 2009-10=100 since the Government took office. [7973] 967W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 968W

With regard to the information requested about full-time Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign equivalent UK-based and locally-engaged staff, the FCO and Commonwealth Affairs what estimate his is currently reviewing the basis on which workforce Department has made of its expenditure on travel information is supplied and we are, therefore, unable to undertaken in an official capacity by each Minister in reply fully at this stage. We will, however, place a copy his Department in (i) May 2010 and (ii) June 2010. of this information in the Library of the House as soon [8229] as possible. An accurate, comparable breakdown of spend on Alistair Burt: I refer the hon. Member to the reply I consultants from 1995 to the present can be provided gave to the hon. Member for York Central (Hugh only at disproportionate cost. Bayley) to his parliamentary question 7973. As set out in the Ministerial Code, Departments will Departmental Regulations publish, at least quarterly, details of all travel overseas by Ministers. Information for the first quarter will be Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for published as soon as it is ready. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which of his All travel is undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial Department’s regulations are under review; and if he Code. will make a statement. [7152] Developing Countries: Carbon Emissions Alistair Burt: We currently have no regulations under formal review, but we will consider any suggestions David Miliband: To ask the Secretary of State for relevant to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office made Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in respect of through the Your Freedom website: which of the 22 priority countries under the Low http://yourfreedom.hmg.gov.uk Carbon High Growth Programme Fund his Department’s programme spending will be reduced. launched by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime [7879] Minister on 1 July 2010. This gives members of the public the opportunity to suggest existing regulations Mr Hague: I advised the House of my intention to for removal. cut the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s spending on its Low Carbon High Growth programme by around Departmental Secondment £3 million this financial year and explore alternative sources of funding for the programme for future years Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for in my written ministerial statement of 29 June 2010, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many civil Official Report, columns 37-38WS. Since then, we have servants from each Government department are on scaled back programme spending in all Low Carbon secondment to EU institutions. [9281] High Growth priority countries for 2010-11. We have sought to minimise the extent of cuts to programmes in Mr Lidington: There are approximately 110 British the key emerging economies. civil servants on secondment to the EU institutions. Diplomatic Service: Parliamentary Scrutiny The largest groups are from the following Departments: Department for International Development: 19 Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for Department for Business, Innovation and Skills: 10 Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will assess Department for Transport: 16 the merits of allowing nominees for senior Foreign and Commonwealth Office: nine ambassadorial appointments to appear before the Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs: six Foreign Affairs Committee for confirmation hearings. Her Majesty’s Treasury: six [11196] Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs: six. Mr Lidington: Appointments in the Foreign and Departmental Travel Commonwealth Office (FCO) are made on merit, on the basis of fair and open competition, in accordance with the Diplomatic Service Order in Council 1991. The Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Government will continue to offer the Committee post- Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which (a) appointment hearings for the appointment of non- Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have diplomats to diplomatic posts. been driven by the Government Car Service since the Government took office; and how much each of these EC Nationals: Citizenship persons has received in expenses for use of taxis, buses and underground trains in that period. [7974] Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment Alistair Burt: I refer the hon. Member to the answers he has made of the draft regulation on the European given to the hon. Member for West Bromwich East (Mr Citizen’s Initiative proposed by the European Watson) on 30 June 2010, Official Report, column 588W, Commission; and if he will make a statement. [10741] and 8 June 2010, Official Report, column 100W. In addition, the Government publish on a quarterly Mr Lidington: The Government welcome the European basis, the expenses incurred by the most senior officials Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) as an innovation to empower which includes use of the Government Car Service and the citizens of Europe and to help address the perceived other travel expenses. democratic deficit in the European Union. In order to 969W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 970W avoid a bureaucratic or burdensome outcome for either Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office citizens or member states, the UK will continue to press is currently reviewing the basis on which work force for changes to the draft provisions on requirements for information is supplied and we are, therefore, unable to citizens to provide varying amounts of personal data reply fully at this stage. We will, however, place a copy before being able to join a petition, and the means by of this information in the Library of the House as soon which these data will be verified by member states. as possible. Going forward therefore, the Government will be seeking France: Anti-Semitism a more flexible, open and citizen-friendly system. Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Eritrea: Christianity and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has received on anti-Semitism in France; and if he will Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for make a statement. [10556] Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps his Department is taking to assist Christians in Eritrea at Mr Lidington: In 2009 there were 832 acts of anti- risk of persecution. [10002] Semitism recorded in France. In the past week, there have been reports of two Mr Jeremy Browne: The Government are very concerned separate incidents of anti-Semitism in France; the vandalism about the lack of freedom of religious expression in of graves in a Jewish cemetery and an attack on a Eritrea, and about the imprisonment and reports of synagogue outside of Paris. The French Interior Minister torture of members of certain religious groups. Following Brice Hortefeux, has condemned the attacks as “despicable, up reports of human rights abuses is difficult in Eritrea, intolerable and shocking” and underlined the French but we have repeatedly pressed the Eritrean Government authorities’ commitment to punishing the perpetrators. to address the situation. At the United Nations Universal The Government condemn anti-Semitism and all forms Periodic Review last year the United Kingdom called of racism. on the Eritrean Government to address concerns relating to religious detainees. British officials raise human rights Grants issues with the Eritrean Government at every suitable opportunity, in Asmara and with the Eritrean embassy Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for in London. The EU also has an ongoing political Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs to which dialogue with Eritrea and human rights concerns, including organisations his Department provides grant funding; religious freedom, are raised as part of this. and how much it has provided to each in each of the last 10-years. [10636] EU Countries: Embassies Mr Jeremy Browne [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for provided the following Grant in Aid funding to the Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many (a) BBC World Service, British Council, the Westminster UK-based and (b) locally-employed staff are Foundation for Democracy (WFD), the Great Britain employed by his Department in each of the member China Centre (GBCC) and the Marshall Aid states of the EU. [1724] Commemoration Commission (MACC).

£ million 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

BBC World Service 207 187.9 201 220.1 225.1 239.1 239.5 255 265 268 British Council 137.7 145 151.5 162.5 172.1 189.2 188.1 189.5 201 200.8 WFD 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 4.1 GBCC 0.28 0.29 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 MACC 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.2 2.2 2.2

These are by far the greatest beneficiaries of FCO Mr Jeremy Browne: We have made a number of grants. Smaller grants have also been made to project representations to the Indonesian Government regarding implementers and other organisations around the world the importance of allowing the Ahmadiyya community, to help deliver UK foreign policy objectives. Budgets in including those in Lombok, to practise their faith and the FCO are devolved to over 260 posts and details of ensure they are protected from harm. Most recently the these payments are not held centrally. As a result, this issue was raised during the EU Indonesia Human Rights information could be obtained only at disproportionate Dialogue in Jakarta in June 2010. cost. Indonesia: Islam Iraq: Embassies Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the representations to the government of Indonesia on the answer of 15 July 2010, Official Report, columns restrictions placed on the Ahmadiyya Muslim 868-69W, on Iraq: embassies, how much each company community in Indonesia, with particular reference to listed in the answer paid towards the Queen’s Birthday Ahmadiyyas in Lombok displaced from their homes. celebration; and if he will place in the Library a copy of [11578] each sponsorship agreement. [11769] 971W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 972W

Alistair Burt: Each company, listed in our previous Members: Correspondence answer of 15 July 2010, contributed US$800 to the cost of hosting events for the Queen’s Birthday celebration Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for in Baghdad, Basra and Erbil on 16 June 2010. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he intends Our embassy in Baghdad wanted to reflect the breadth to reply to the letter dated 2 June 2010 from the right of engagement of British Companies in Iraq during the hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to Queen’s Birthday celebrations locally. By securing Dr Jill Lovecy. [9352] sponsorship in this way the embassy were also able to achieve best value for the public purse. Mr Hague: I replied to the right hon. Member for There were no formal sponsorship agreements made. Manchester, Gorton, on 12 July. I apologise for the delay in replying to the hon. Member’s letter and for the Israel: Educational Exchanges delay in answering this question. I have reminded officials that this should not happen again. Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what funding his Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Department allocated for the British-Israel Research Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he plans to and Academic Exchange Partnership in (a) 2008-09 reply to the letter from the hon. Member for Islington and (b) 2009-10; and how much it plans to allocate for North of 10 June 2010 on behalf of the Chagos Islands (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12. [10354] all-party parliamentary group. [11921]

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Mr Lidington: We did not receive the letter referred to (FCO) has committed £42,000 to the British-Israel Research by the hon. Member for Islington North, but have now and Academic Exchange Partnership (BIRAX) over the sought to obtain a copy and will reply as soon as past three years as follows: possible.

Committed funds (£) MI6

2008-09 5,000 Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009-10 27,000 Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will 2010-11 10,000 commission research into the level of public trust in the No budgets have been set for 2011-12 and the FCO Secret Intelligence Service. [8818] will decide allocations for this and future years in the light of the spending round that is expected to be Alistair Burt: The Government do not intend to conclude this autumn. commission research into the level of public trust in the Secret Intelligence Service. BIRAX helps to build and enhance university links between Britain and Israel. BIRAX currently supports Slovakia: Cluster Munitions 15 innovative scientific research projects involving 17 different universities from across the UK and Israel. David Miliband: To ask the Secretary of State for Israel: Overseas Trade Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to press Slovakia to become a signatory of the Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Convention on Cluster Munitions. [11448] Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what his policy is on the sale of goods in the UK that were sourced, Mr Hague: The convention on cluster munitions is packaged or grown on Israeli settlements which the the most significant disarmament agreement of recent United Nations has declared illegal; [10923] years. The Government are committed to globalising the convention and thereby ending the unacceptable (2) if he will bring forward proposals for a ban on civilian suffering caused by use of these munitions. We the sale of goods in the UK that were sourced, urge all states not yet party to sign and ratify the packaged or grown on Israeli settlements which the convention. United Nations has declared illegal. [10924] The EU’s Working Group on Global Arms Control Alistair Burt: The Government’s policy on settlement and Disarmament (CODUN) regularly considers the activity in the West Bank and East Jerusalem is clear. convention on cluster munitions and discusses how Settlements are not only illegal under international law member states are advancing its humanitarian aims. and in direct contravention of Israel’s Roadmap Having signed and ratified the convention, the UK commitments, but they also represent an attempt to plays a leading role in these debates and has actively create ‘facts on the ground’ which makes a two-state urged not just Slovakia, but the other six EU member solution harder to achieve. It is important that consumers states that have not yet done so to sign the convention. in the UK are able to make fully informed decision concerning the products they buy.That is why, in December Somalia: Foreign Relations 2009, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs introduced guidelines in consultation with the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office to label more accurately Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions produce from Israeli settlements that are sold in the he has had with representatives of the Transitional UK. This does not represent a ban on the sale of Federal Government of Somalia since his products from Israeli settlements in the UK. appointment. [10362] 973W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 974W

Mr Jeremy Browne: Foreign and Commonwealth Office Mr Jeremy Browne: The UK is closely following Ministers have had no discussions with representatives Namibia’s ongoing court case involving the alleged of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia sterilisation of three HIV-positive women. Although we since the new Government was formed. There is however cannot comment on the case while it is sub judice, the regular contact between Somali Ministers and our officials UK will continue to monitor allegations of human based in Nairobi. The Minister for Africa, my hon. rights abuses and promote women’s rights including Friend the Member for North West Norfolk through the Department for International Development’s (Mr Bellingham), will meet Ministers from the Transitional Southern African regional programmes. We are not Federal Government of Somalia during the course of aware of any reports of cases of forced sterilisation in his visit to the region, including at the African Union South Africa. summit. The Government remain committed to supporting Sudan: War Crimes Somalis as they rebuild their country. We support the UN-led Djibouti peace process and the political Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for reconciliation efforts of the TFG. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to support the International Criminal Court in Somalia: Peace Negotiations bringing the President of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir, to trial. [11527] Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps his Mr Jeremy Browne: The UK has been a consistently Department is taking to secure progress towards peace strong supporter of the International Criminal Court in Somalia. [10361] (ICC) as an independent judicial institution, and of its engagement on Darfur. We have repeatedly urged the Mr Jeremy Browne: The Government remain committed Government of Sudan to cooperate with the court over to supporting Somalis as they rebuild their country. My the arrest warrants it has issued for President Bashir hon. Friend Henry Bellingham, Minister for Africa, and other Sudanese citizens. We have taken action, in works closely with my right hon. Friends the Secretary liaison with key partners, to limit Bashir’s ability to of State for International Development and the Secretary travel internationally, by highlighting to potential host of State for Defence working alongside EU partners countries UN Security Council Resolution 1593 of 2005 and the UN to support international efforts to bring which urged all UN member states to co-operate with lasting peace to Somalia. the ICC, and the particular legal obligations of States The root causes of the instability need to be addressed, party to the ICC. taking steps to promote stability and better governance. We have a tri-departmental conflict prevention budget of £7 million this financial year. We believe a Somali-led approach is needed, focusing on the political, military SCOTLAND and economic. These three strands of activity need to be properly sequenced and interwoven if there is to be Act of Settlement 1701 success. On the political front we support the UN-led Djibouti Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for peace process and the political reconciliation efforts of Scotland what recent discussions he has had with the the transitional federal Government which is taking the Deputy Prime Minister on the Act of Settlement 1701. lead in the delivery of peace and stability in Somalia. [11948] The peace process provides the best hope for Somalis to turn their country around, form an effective Government Michael Moore: I have regular discussions with my and improve security and humanitarian access. ministerial colleagues on a range of matters and I refer The UK is willing to work with the Somali authorities, the hon. Gentleman to the closing speech by the Minister the UN and African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) for Political and Constitutional Reform in the Adjournment and all other stakeholders to help build a stronger and Debate on 1 July 2010, Official Report, column 1109, more accountable security sector, providing that a coherent called by the Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant). plan is in place. The UK has supported AMISOM since its inception and we will continue to look at ways in Commonwealth Games 2014 which we can further support the mission. Improved security enables better service delivery and Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for economic growth. We are working across Government Scotland what steps he plans to take to help secure for to help promote a peaceful, politically stable and Glasgow a legacy from the 2014 Commonwealth economically viable Somalia. Games; and what discussions he has had with the Leader of Glasgow City Council. [10817] South Africa and Namibia: Sterilisation David Mundell: I am a strong supporter of the Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Commonwealth games coming to Glasgow and hope and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has that it will provide a lasting legacy in inspiring more received on the practice of forced sterilisation in (a) Scots to participate in sport and use the excellent new South Africa and (b) Namibia; whether he has made facilities. During a recent visit to Glasgow I saw some of representations to the government of (i) South Africa the infrastructure projects which will support the games and (ii) Namibia in consequence; and if he will make a and discussed how Government could best support the statement. [11287] games with the leader of Glasgow city council. 975W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 976W

Constituencies Limit. Our necessary plan to cut the record budget deficit that this Government inherited, goes hand in Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for hand with our determination to return sustained growth Scotland what discussions he has had with the to the Scottish economy. Advocate General for Scotland on the exemption of Orkney and Shetland constituency from plans to Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for reduce the size of Parliamentary constituencies in Scotland when he next plans to meet the Leader of Scotland. [11839] Glasgow city council to discuss the prospects for economic growth in Glasgow. [10813] Michael Moore: The Government are determined to establish greater equality for votes cast in general elections David Mundell: I have had productive discussions across the United Kingdom. We have proposed the two with the Leader of Glasgow city council on a wide exceptions of Orkney and Shetland as well as Na h-Eileanan range of issues including the prospects of the Scottish an Iar as those islands are less accessible and harder to economy. I also visited the Clyde Gateway project which traverse. We have concluded that exceptions for these offers significant potential for economic growth in Glasgow. areas are justified by their particular geography. Our plan to cut the record budget deficit that this The Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Government inherited, goes hand in hand with a sustained Bill also provides for an upper limit on the geographical economic recovery. size of a constituency. Elections Departmental Internet

Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much his Department spent on website Scotland what discussions on what dates he has had design in each year since 1997. [7615] with (a) the Scottish Government, (b) the Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, (c) the Electoral David Mundell: The Scotland Office only came into Commission in Scotland and (d) electoral registration existence on 1 July 1999. officers in Scotland on proposals to enable the Scottish The Scotland Office website came into existence in Parliament to change the date of elections to the 2004-05 with an initial set up cost of £24,718. Scottish Parliament in 2015. [8580] In 2008-09 The Scotland Office spent £15,052.50 plus Michael Moore: Following the Deputy Prime Minister’s VAT on maintenance. The cost included the redevelopment statement on 5 July 2010, I wrote to the First Minister, of the site including a comprehensive in-house content the Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, other management system which represents considerable value party leaders, and the Scottish Parliament’s independent for money and cost savings for the office when implemented MSP, confirming this Government’s commitment to as well as now and in the future. fixed term parliaments so that no longer will the incumbent Departmental Pay administration be able to decide the date of the general election. I acknowledged that concern exists for combining Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for elections for the House of Commons and the Scottish Scotland how much was paid in remuneration in total Parliament on the same date and confirmed that the to civil servants in his Department in 2009-10. [9997] Government would engage with them to discuss this matter further. David Mundell: The Scotland Office paid £2,007,214 in remuneration to its civil servants in 2009-10. Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Travel Scotland whether he has plans for a public consultation on the methodology for determining the date upon Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for which the elections for the Scottish Parliament will be Scotland what his ministerial engagements were on held in 2015. [8581] 13 July 2010; and what travel he undertook for the purpose of those engagements. [10800] Michael Moore: There are legitimate concerns about the impact of combining the elections on the same day, David Mundell: The Secretary of State undertook a and I have said that I am keen to engage with other number of ministerial engagements in Scotland on 13 July. interested parties to find a solution that addresses those He travelled to and between these engagements in the concerns. ministerial car. Economic Growth: Glasgow Food Standards Agency

Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has made an assessment of the Scotland what discussions he has had with the likely effect of the expenditure reduction announced on Secretary of State for Health on the change in 24 May 2010 on economic growth in Glasgow. [10812] functions formerly carried out by the Food Standards Agency in Scotland. [11886] David Mundell: The OBR forecasts for the economy published at the time of the Budget reflect the savings Michael Moore: The Secretary of State for Health to departmental budgets announced on 24 May 2010 has decided to transfer nutrition policy for England but these are not available on a regional basis. Scotland’s from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to the Department share of this spending reduction is £332 million—around of Health. The FSA retains current responsibility for 1% of the Scottish Government’s departmental expenditure nutrition policy in Scotland. 977W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 978W

Personnel: Public Sector WOMEN AND EQUALITIES

Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Government Equalities Office’s :Regulations Scotland what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on projected trends in Mr Anderson: To ask the Minister for Women and employment in the public sector in Scotland Equalities which of the Government Equalities Office’s attributable to public expenditure reductions in the regulations are under review; and if she will make a [7139] next five years. [11946] statement. Michael Moore: I have had discussions with the Lynne Featherstone: In the Budget the Government Chancellor of the Exchequer on a wide range of topics. announced plans for reducing the regulatory burdens The independent Office for Budget Responsibility published on business, including the introduction of a one-in-one-out their employment forecasts for the whole of the UK on system for new regulations and a fundamental review of 30 June 2010. Based on policies in the June 2010 Budget, all regulation inherited from the previous Government in three years time public sector employment will be scheduled for introduction over the coming year. 150,000 higher compared to the forecast based on policies The Government have agreed to implement the core in the March 2010 Budget. Total employment is forecast simplification provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in to rise each year over the next five years. October this year and is looking at how the rest of the Act can be implemented in the best way for business. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for The Your Freedom website launched by the Deputy Scotland what estimate he has made of the gross Prime Minister on 1 July 2010, will also give members reduction in the number of jobs in the public sector in of the public the opportunity to suggest existing regulations Scotland in the next five years. [11947] for removal, in order to reduce the burden on business. Michael Moore: The Independent Office for Budget Church of England: Equal Opportunities Responsibility published their employment forecasts for the whole of the UK on 30 June. Based on policies Miss McIntosh: To ask the Minister for Women and in the June 2010 Budget, in three years time public Equalities what recent representations she has received sector employment will be 150,000 higher compared to on equality in appointments in the Church of England. the forecast based on policies in the March 2010 Budget, [10773] and total employment is forecast to rise each year over the next five years. Lynne Featherstone: I have recently received one representation about equality in appointments in the Trade Unions Church of England.

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland Departmental Speeches how much his Department and its predecessor has paid to trade unions in each year since 1997; and what Angela Smith: To ask the Minister for Women and estimate he has made of the value of facilities provided Equalities which (a) (i) civil servants and (ii) special by his Department and its predecessor for use by trade advisers in the Government Equalities Office and (b) unions in each year since 1997. [11712] other individuals are employed to write speeches for each Minister in that office. [7306] Michael Moore: The Scotland Office was established on 1 July 1999. Since that date, the Scotland Office has Lynne Featherstone: One civil servant is employed to made no payments to trade unions. The Scotland Office write speeches for the Government Equalities Office. does not maintain a record of facilities provided. Civil servants from across the Department are also involved as part of their duties in drafting ministerial Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland speeches. Special advisers will also input on occasion. how many paid manpower hours civil servants in his Women’s National Commission Department and its predecessor spent on trade union-related duties and activities in each year since Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Minister for Women 1997. [11713] and Equalities whether she plans to end the Women’s Michael Moore: The Scotland Office was established National Commission. [11807] on 1 July 1999. The office does not have any staff who Lynne Featherstone: The coalition Government have spend time undertaking trade union duties or activities. made clear their commitment to increase the accountability of all public bodies and reduce their number and costs. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland The Women’s National Commission is included in this how many civil servants in his Department and its exercise along with most non-departmental public bodies. predecessor spent the equivalent of (a) five days or fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to My Department, the Government Equalities Office, 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more on has written to the chair of the Commission, Baroness trade union-related activities or duties while being paid Gould of Potternewton, inviting the WNC to respond salaries from the public purse in each year since 1997. to the three tests which all NDPBs are being assessed [11714] against. We are now considering the reply. I have also met with Baroness Gould to discuss the review and Michael Moore: The Scotland Office was established listen to her views. on 1 July 1999. The office does not have any staff who The review will conclude in the autumn and the result spend time undertaking trade union duties or activities. will be made public. 979W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 980W

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Common Agricultural Policy

Afghanistan: Overseas Aid Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to the answer of Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for 14 July 2010, Official Report, column 776W, on the International Development what proportion of his Common Agricultural Policy, what priorities he has set proposed increase in funding for development in for future discussions on long-term stability of food Afghanistan will be allocated to (a) security, (b) production; what representations he plans to make at economic development and (c) service delivery. [11931] EU level on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement. [10977] Mr Andrew Mitchell: In order to deliver the results set out in my written ministerial statement of 21 July 2010, Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. Official Report, column 18WS, the additional funding My priority is to achieve a market-driven and consumer for Afghanistan (2010-11 to 2013-14) has been provisionally focused agricultural sector, which is crucial for both allocated as follows: (a) £67 million for improving European and global food security. We will need to security and political stability; (b) £78 million for economic increase food production sustainably through improving stability, growth and jobs; and (c) £55 million for productivity and competitiveness in the UK, EU and helping the Afghan Government deliver vital basic services. beyond. This will support the priorities set out by the Afghan My ministerial colleagues and I will continue to meet Government at last week’s Kabul conference. Progress with the European Commission and other EU member will be closely monitored against agreed benchmarks to states to discuss the common agricultural policy. ensure results are achieved. Conflict Prevention Amajaro Holdings Limited Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State International Development when he expects the for International Development whether he has (a) had Government’s cross-Whitehall conflict strategy to be any meetings with and (b) received any representations published. [9975] from the directors or other representatives of (i) Amajaro Holdings Ltd and (ii) Brompton Capital Ltd Mr Jeremy Browne: I have been asked to reply. since taking office. [11734] Once work on a National Security Strategy and the Strategic Defence and Strategic Defence and Security Mr Andrew Mitchell: I received a letter from Armajaro Review has been concluded, my hon. Friend, Henry Holdings Ltd dated 1 July, which has been passed to the Bellingham, Minister responsible for Conflict Issues, Foreign and Commonwealth Office for reply. I have not will consider how to take forward work to underpin a held any meetings with Armajaro Holdings Ltd or cross-departmental approach to tackling conflict. Brompton Capital Ltd or received other representations from them since taking office as Secretary of State for International Development. Departmental Manpower

Bilateral Aid: HIV Infection Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to his answer of 12 July 2010, Official Report, column 501W, on Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for departmental manpower, how many of his International Development how much his Department Department’s 96 governance advisers have a degree in has spent on bilateral aid targeting (a) HIV and AIDS (a) political science or politics and (b) public policy. and (b) reproductive health in each year since 2005-06. [10497] [10960] Mr O’Brien: At least 31 of the Department’s governance Mr O’Brien: The Department for International advisers have a degree in political science or politics, Development (DFID) spent the following in bilateral including single or joint honours. aid targeting HIV and AIDS and reproductive health in each year since 2005-06. At least nine of the Department’s governance advisers have a degree in public policy. £ millions 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Departmental Private Education

DFID bilateral expenditure 49.2 55.8 55.9 110.3 117.4 directly targeting Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for reproductive health International Development how much his Department DFID bilateral expenditure 130.9 128.7 134.2 158.0 146.3 spent on continuity of education allowance at (a) directly targeting HIV and AIDS Charterhouse School, (b) Dulwich College, (c) Eton College, (d) Harrow School, (e) Marlborough As laid out in the coalition programme, the Government College, (f) Rugby School, (g) Westminster School, are committed to restricting the spread of major diseases (h) Winchester College, (i) Cheltenham Ladies like HIV and AIDS. Details of future support to HIV College, (j) Roedean School, (k) St Paul’s School, (l) and AIDS related programmes will be determined in Fettes College and (m) Gordonstoun School in the last light of the ongoing aid reviews. 12 months for which figures are available. [11454] 981W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 982W

Mr Andrew Mitchell: In the 2009-10 financial year, DFID’s principal contribution to meeting MDG 2 in 48 members of DFID’s staff on overseas postings received Afghanistan is made through the Afghanistan an education allowance. The monies spent on education Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF). The ARTF is managed allowances at each of the schools and colleges listed, are by the World Bank and reimburses proven expenditures detailed in the following table. on Government operating costs. Between 2007-08 and 2009-10, the education sector was assessed as accounting Monies spent on education allowance for 52% of ARTF expenditure. The Ministry of Education’s School (£) published data does not distinguish between spending Charterhouse School 0 on primary and secondary education, but in 2008-09, Dulwich College 0 primary students (Grades 1-6) comprised 76% of the Eton College 0 primary and secondary education total (Source: Harrow School 0 Afghanistan Ministry of Education, “Education Summary Marlborough College 24,855 Report 2008/09”). On that basis, the UK’s ARTF Rugby School 0 contribution to primary education can be notionally Westminster School 0 assessed as set out in the following table. Winchester College 16,515 Cheltenham Ladies College 0 £ million Roedean School 19,735 2007-08 21.7 St Paul’s School 0 2008-09 23.7 Fettes College 32,699 2009-10 23.7 Gordonstoun School 0

Payments are not made directly to the school, but are Developing Countries: Females reimbursed to the employee on receipt of an invoice. Two of the 48 employees above, returned to the UK Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for during the 2009-10 financial year and were eligible to International Development what steps his Department receive education continuity payments. Neither have is taking to remove barriers to education for girls in children who attended any of the schools listed. countries affected by conflict, with particular reference to girl mothers pregnant as a result of abduction or Departmental Regulations rape. [11926]

Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr O’Brien: As laid out in “The Coalition: our International Development which of his Department’s programme for government”, the Department for regulations are under review; and if he will make a International Development (DFID) will prioritise increasing statement. [7149] access to basic services, such as health and education, for the world’s poorest people, including a particular Mr O’Brien: In the Budget the Government announced focus on the rights of women and girls. plans for reducing the regulatory burdens on business, including the introduction of a one-in-one out system The Secretary of State has recently initiated a review for new regulations and a fundamental review of all of DFID’s aid programmes, including support to health regulation inherited from the previous Government and education, to ensure we achieve value for money scheduled for introduction over the coming year. These and accelerate progress towards the millennium regulations will not be implemented until they have development goals. This includes a review of our emergency been reviewed and re-agreed by the Reducing Regulation response programme, which will look at the provision Cabinet Committee. of support across sectors in the immediate aftermath of conflict or natural disaster. The Department for International Development (DFID) is not responsible for any regulations that affect businesses. With over half of primary aged children not enrolled in school living in fragile states, a total of 42 million Developing Countries: Education children out of an estimated 72 million worldwide, we recognise the need to promote education in fragile and Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for conflict-affected states and to address the specific needs International Development how much financial of women affected by violence. assistance his Department has provided to each country in southwest Asia to achieve the Millennium Developing Countries: Health Services Development Goal of increasing the number of children attending primary school in each of the last Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for three years. [5826] International Development what steps his Department takes to ensure fair access to health systems through its Mr Duncan: The Department for International aid programme frameworks in developing countries. Development (DFID) has provided the following amounts [10961] in support of millennium development goal (MDG) 2 in Pakistan since 2007-08. Mr O’Brien: The Department for International Development (DFID) gives high priority to ensuring £ that the benefits of health services are distributed equitably when it invests in health systems in developing countries. 2007-08 6,549,706 In addition to increasing the quality and supply of 2008-09 21,855,000 services, DFID works closely with Governments and 2009-10 26,349,553 other partners to make sure that these services reach the 983W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 984W poor and vulnerable. This requires giving special attention Developing Countries: Human Trafficking to removing the barriers that prevent those most in need from accessing the care they require. Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for The Secretary of State has recently commissioned a International Development what steps he plans to take review of DFID’s aid programmes to determine how we towards eradicating the use of child labour in can achieve better value for money for the taxpayer and developing countries; and if he will make a statement. accelerate progress towards the Millennium Development [10617] Goals. This will include DFID support to the health sector. Mr O’Brien: Child labour is unacceptable and the Government are committed to tackling it. Investment in primary and lower secondary education reduces child Developing Countries: HIV Infection labour rates. That is why the Department for International Development (DFID) is working towards the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) two and Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for three on education and gender equality, and to securing International Development pursuant to the answer of 8 strong outcomes at the MDGs summit in September. July 2010, Official Report, column 418W, on developing countries: HIV infection, if he will make an The UK Government also strongly support the Ethical assessment of the effectiveness of the HIV awareness Trading Initiative (ETI) which challenges poor labour programmes for young people; and if he will make a standards around the world, including child labour, and drives practical measures to improve them. DFID will statement. [10996] continue to encourage British businesses to sign up to the initiative and to follow the Organisation of Economic Mr O’Brien: HIV awareness programmes are having Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines a positive effect. A recent study by UNAIDS found that for Multinational Enterprises, which set out good corporate young people are adopting safer sexual behaviours. behaviour. HIV prevalence among young people has declined by more than 25% in 15 of the 21 countries most affected Developing Countries: Maternity Services by AIDS. These declines are largely due to a fall in new HIV infections among young people. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for The Department for International Development (DFID) International Development what disaggregated data is contributing to the decline in infection rates. For his Department collects on the outcomes of maternal example, in South Africa, prevention programmes funded health programmes funded by his Department for (a) by a number of partners, including DFID, have helped all populations and (b) indigenous and other cultural contribute towards a 60% decline in new infections minority populations in each developing country so among 15 to 24-year-olds. supported; and if he will make a statement. [10962]

Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr O’Brien: The Department for International International Development pursuant to the answer of 8 Development (DFID) uses an annual review process to July 2010, Official Report, column 418W, on measure results towards achieving programme objectives developing countries: HIV infection, when he expects in each of its maternal and newborn health programmes. the report of his Department’s review to be published. Where reaching a marginalised population is an integral [11038] part of the programme, the monitoring process will track this. Mr O’Brien: The Department for International Development aims to publish conclusions from both EC Aid the Bilateral Aid Review and Multilateral Aid Review in the first part 2011. Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development which countries are the top Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for 10 recipients of EU development aid; how much aid International Development pursuant to the answer of 8 was given to each in the last year for which figures are July 2010, Official Report, column 418W, on available; and what the average annual income was in developing countries: HIV infection, what progress has each country in that year. [10660] been made on the review of his Department’s aid programme; and what guidance his Department uses in Mr O’Brien: The top 10 recipients of EU aid in 2009, ensuring the effectiveness of projects funded under that annual commitments per country and the average annual programme. [11039] income for each country are provided in the following table. Figures for actual disbursement of EU aid fluctuate each year. This expenditure is managed by the European Mr O’Brien: Programmes funded by the Department Commission. for International Development (DFID) are reviewed annually against agreed performance indicators and Top 10 recipients of EU Commitments (¤ targets to ensure progress and assess impact and aid million) Per capital GDP (¤) effectiveness. Turkey 533.26 7785 DFID aims to publish conclusions from both the Tanzania 418.69 390 Bilateral Aid Review and Multilateral Aid Review in Democratic Republic 417.69 140 the first part of 2011. of the Congo 985W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 986W

entrants; ensured 13,430 infants were immunised against Top 10 recipients of EU Commitments (¤ aid million) Per capital GDP (¤) measles; paid for 11,882 births attended by a skilled health worker; provided 239,796 people with safe water; Occupied Palestinian 399.78 1114 and helped connect 13,519 people to the national grid. Territory Haiti 289.3 557 The Secretary of State has recently commissioned a Afghanistan 269.83 362 review of DFID’s bilateral aid programme to determine Kosovo 219.59 1488 how we can achieve better value for money for the Kenya 207.98 612 taxpayer and accelerate progress towards the Millennium Pakistan 200.19 784 Development Goals. DFID’s bilateral programme in Sources: Mozambique will be review under this process. Annual Report 2010 on the European Community’s Development and External Assistance Policies and their Implementation in 2009, June 2010 and UN Indicators on Income and Economic Activity, June 2010 Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what estimate he has made EU Law of the proportion of the budgeted expenditure of the government of Mozambique attributable to Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for contributions from his Department in the last year for International Development if he will estimate the cost which figures are available. [10816] to his Department of compliance with regulations arising from EU obligations in the last 12 months. Mr O’Brien: Using an average over the last three [6882] years (2007 to 2009), the Department for International Development estimates that 2.2% of the Government of Mr O’Brien: The information requested could be Mozambique’s annual budget is General Budget Support obtained only at disproportionate cost. from DFID. Our total contribution to the Government of Mozambique’s annual budget, including funding International Assistance provided directly to sectors such as health and education, is approximately 3.7%. Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what the Deputy Prime Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Minister’s objectives are in attending the forthcoming International Development if he will assess the effect of UN summit on the Millennium Development Goals; his Department’s direct budget support to the and if he will make a statement. [11081] government of Mozambique on the level of that government’s expenditure on (a) arms and (b) Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Government aim to reach defence. [10880] international agreement on an action agenda to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015, Mr O’Brien: The average allocation to spending on as well as securing additional commitments, from both defence and arms in Mozambique over the last three developed and developing countries, on the most off-track years was 3.1% of the budget. Of this, the Department MDGs such as maternal and child health and malaria, for International Development (DFID) estimates arms and an accountability mechanism to monitor progress. expenditure to be less than 10% or 0.31% of the budget. Significant expenditures under the Government of Mozambique: Overseas Aid Mozambique’s defence budget include strengthening Mozambique’s extensive borders, and contributing to Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for de-mining as the country aims to be free of land mines International Development what plans he has for by 2014. future budgetary support to the government of Donors monitor closely the overall proportion of Mozambique. [10814] funding allocated to poverty reduction and raise any concerns about the balance of allocations in dialogue Mr O’Brien: The Secretary of State has recently with the Government on budget support. The proportion commissioned a review of the Department for international of Government spending going to pro-poor sectors is Development’s (DFID’s) bilateral aid programme to above the target agreed with the previous UK Government. determine how we can achieve better value for money The Secretary of State has recently commissioned a for the taxpayer and accelerate progress towards the review of DFID’s bilateral aid programme to determine Millennium Development Goals. Future budgetary support how we can achieve better value for money for the to the Government of Mozambique will be determined taxpayer and accelerate progress towards the Millennium as part of this review. Development Goals. DFID’s bilateral programme in Mozambique will be review under this process. Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of direct budget support NGOs: Finance given to Mozambique by his Department. [10815] Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr O’Brien: Department for International Development International Development what proportion of his (DFID) budget support has enabled the Government of Department’s budget will be spent on funding UK Mozambique to increase expenditure on agriculture, non-governmental organisations in 2010-11; and how education, water and sanitation, social protection and he expects such spending to change (a) in cash terms health. In 2008 this support allowed more than 105,000 and (b) as a proportion of his Department’s budget in children to go to primary school, including 13,200 new each of the next three years. [10492] 987W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 988W

Mr Andrew Mitchell: We are unable to provide details St Helena: Airports of the Department for International Development’s (DFID’s) spend through UK non-government organisations Mr McCann: To ask the Secretary of State for in 2010-11 at this stage. DFID reports these figures on International Development (1) what recent an annual basis in Statistics in International Development representations he has received on the construction of in accordance with the National Statistics Code of an airport in St Helena; [11737] Practice. (2) whether he has received recent representations on Decisions about the amount of funding for UK the construction of an airport in St Helena; [11736] non-governmental organisations in future years will be (3) what recent representations he has received on taken in the context of the on-going Government wide the construction of an airport in St Helena. [11738] spending review. Mr Andrew Mitchell: I have received a small number Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for of letters and parliamentary questions about the building International Development what decisions he has of an airport in St Helena. taken on Partnership Programme Agreement (PPA) funding for UK non-governmental organisations Turks and Caicos Islands: Overseas Loans (NGOs) from April 2011 in relation to the (a) timetable for NGOs to bid for funding and for his Department to assess the bids and announce their Mr Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State decisions, (b) number of NGOs to be funded, (c) for International Development pursuant to the written budget for PPA funding in (i) 2011-12 and (ii) each of ministerial statement of 1 July 2010, Official Report, the following two years and (d) process for consulting columns 49-50WS, on the Turks and Caicos Islands, NGOs on these matters before they are invited to bid what the total cost to the public purse will be of his for funding; and if he will make a statement on the temporary package of financial support for the Turks Government’s policy and priorities for PPA funding. and Caicos Islands. [11857] [10493] Mr Andrew Mitchell: We intend the temporary package of financial support to the Turks and Caicos Islands to Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International be at or near zero cost to Her Majesty’s Government Development (DFID) is committed to providing support over the medium term. to Civil Society Organisation’s (CSO’s) who share our aims and objectives and can measure the impact of their work to show greater effectiveness, results and Mr Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State value for money. for International Development pursuant to the written ministerial statement of 1 July 2010, Official Report, No decisions have yet been taken on the future of the columns 49-50WS, on the Turks and Caicos Islands, Partnership Programme Arrangement’s (PPA’s) but I what conditions have been set for his proposed loan to hope to announce details in the near future. the Turks and Caicos Islands. [11858]

Mr Andrew Mitchell: The UK Government have agreed Overseas Aid: HIV Infection that in response to a short-term loan of up to £10 million to the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG): Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for 1. TCIG will set and deliver an ambitious and sustainable plan International Development how much his Department with the objective of balancing the TCIG budget at the earliest possible opportunity, and in any case, within three years; and that has spent on each type of aid in relation to activities TCIG will strengthen its capacity to manage its public finances. connected with HIV and AIDS in each year since 2. The UK Government accepts no legal liability for borrowing 2005-06. [10959] for the planned airport runway extension in TCI. 3. TCIG will provide detailed and frequent financial information Mr O’Brien: Department for International Development to the Department for International Development and the Foreign (DFID) bilateral and multilateral expenditure on HIV and Commonwealth Office. and AIDS activities in each year since 2005-06 are provided as follows. UN

£ millions Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 International Development what priorities he has set DFID bilateral expenditure 130.9 128.7 134.2 158.0 146.3 for the High-Level Plenary Meeting of the UN General directly HIV and AIDS Assembly in September 2010, with particular reference DFID expenditure on HIV 75.5 101.5 111.4 79.2 144.1 to Millennium Development Goal (a) 4, on child and AIDS through core contributions to multilateral health, (b) 5 on maternal health, and (c) 6on organisations combating HIV/AIDS. [10863]

As laid out in the coalition programme, the Government Mr O’Brien: The UK Government remain determined are committed to restricting the spread of major diseases to use events such as the UN General Assembly meeting like HIV and AIDS. Details of future support to HIV in September to urge all countries to sign up to ambitious and AIDS related programmes will be determined in outcome targets to drive progress towards the attainment light of the ongoing aid reviews. of the millennium development goals (MDGs). 989W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 990W

Maternal health is a major priority for the coalition CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Government and personally championed by the Prime Minister. At the September meeting, we will be Cultural Heritage supporting the UN Secretary-General’s Joint Action Plan to improve the health of women and children. The Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for plan aims to accelerate progress on all three of the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport which decisions health MDGs (4, 5 and 6), as well as MDG 3, to taken by local authorities under legislation relating to promote gender equality and empower women, and national heritage require his consent before taking MDG 1, to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, effect. [10777] through efforts to reduce malnutrition. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for John Penrose: The following decisions taken by local International Development what steps he plans to take authorities in relation to national heritage have been to inform Parliament of the outcomes of the High- identified as requiring the consent, approval, confirmation Level Plenary Meeting of the UN General Assembly in or prior consultation of the Secretary of State for September 2010. [10864] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. The following table is the result of a thorough legislative trawl, however Mr Andrew Mitchell: I will place a copy of the in the interests of the reasonable use of resources and a outcome document from the High-Level Plenary Meeting timely response, it may not be exhaustive and does not of the UN General Assembly in the House Library and refer to decisions relating to national heritage for which I will update Parliament of the outcomes secured for the consent of the Secretary of State for Communities achieving the millennium development goals by 2015. and Local Government is required.

Provision Legislation

Acquisition by a local authority by agreement An authority may acquire by agreement any land that is necessary for preserving a Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act building acquired under s52 of P(LBCA)A 1990 or necessary for preserving 1990 (“P(LBCA)A 1990”) s52(1)(b) amenities or for affording access to it or for its control or management. In this case, unlike the acquisition of the building itself, the authority must (in England) obtain the confirmation of the SoS.

Confirmation of compulsory acquisition of listed building in need of repair Local authorities must submit draft compulsory purchase orders to the SoS for P(LBCA)A1990 s47(2) confirmation.

Acquisition of ancient monuments A local authority may only dispose of an ancient monument situated in England Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 which it owns and which has been the subject of a compulsory purchase order (“AMAAA 1979”) s30(2) after consulting with the SoS.

Guardianship of ancient monuments With the consent of the SoS (after consultation with EH in relation to a AMAAA 1979 s12(1) monument in England) a local authority may be designated the guardian of an ancient monument.

Compulsory purchase under the Planning Act Local authorities do not have powers under the AMAAA 1979 to compulsory Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (“TCPA 1990”) purchase ancient monuments but they could do so under the TCPA 1990 with s226(1)(1A) consent of SoS.

Urgent works to preserve unoccupied buildings in conservation areas Local authorities can undertake urgent works to unlisted buildings in P(LBCA)A 1990 s.76 conservation areas only once a direction has been made (at their request) by SoS directing that section 54 (re urgent works to listed buildings) shall apply to that unlisted building as it applies to listed buildings - this could be characterised as a form of consent/approval.

Departmental Cars Financial year Total (£) Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his 2005-06 13,947.79 Department spent on car hire in each year since 1997. 2006-07 16,094.75 [11420] 2007-08 17,054.99 John Penrose: The amount spent on hire vehicles in 2008-09 10,823.38 each of the last five years is set out in the following 2009-10 4,836.70 table: 991W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 992W

Unfortunately we are unable to provide data for the John Penrose: The Department has spent the following years prior to 2005 as this information is not held on on training in the last five financial years: our financial system. Financial year Spend on training (£) Departmental Contracts 2009-10 760,080 Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008-09 679,198 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has 2007-08 856,504 made an estimate of the monetary value of the 2006-07 754,417 contracts between his Department and private sector 2005-06 784,431 companies which will be cancelled under his We do not hold figures for preceding years. Department’s planned spending reductions. [10173] Information on the amount spent by the DCMS Mr Jeremy Hunt: To date, no contracts have been agency and arm’s length bodies is held by them and cancelled that relate to the current year. The cancellation could be provided only at disproportionate cost. of contracts in later years will depend on the outcome Flags of the spending review. Departmental Sponsorship Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Department takes to ensure that the Union flag is not Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his displayed upside down on official occasions. [11504] Department spent on (a) sponsorship of and (b) attendance at awards ceremonies in each year since John Penrose: The DCMS has issued guidance on the correct way to fly the Union flag, which is available at 1997. [11183] the following website: John Penrose: The information requested is not held http://www.culture.gov.uk/what_we_do/honours/7125.aspx centrally by the Department and to obtain it, would Gaming Machines incur disproportionate cost. Departmental Taxis Mark Garnier: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for assessment he has made of the effects on the adult Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his gaming centre industry of the introduction of a return Department spent on taxis in each year since 1997. to a £2 stake for B3 machines and a proportionate [11533] [11324] increase in Category B3 numbers; (2) whether his Department plans to introduce (a) a John Penrose: The total expenditure incurred by the return of the £2 stake to B3 gaming machines and (b) Department on taxis since 1998-99, the earliest year for a proportionate increase in numbers of B3 machines. which information is readily available, is set out in the [11726] table: John Penrose: On 23 June 2010, I met representatives Financial year Amount £ of the British Amusement Catering Trades Association (BACTA) to discuss a range of issues affecting the 2009-10 18,149 gaming machine industry. This included the case for 2008-09 32,179 increasing the stake for category B3 machines to £2 and 2007-08 36,359 the proportion of category B3 machines in each 2006-07 38,421 establishment as a means of helping the adult gaming 2005-06 21,759 centre industry to remain competitive. I am now considering 2004-05 22,157 these matters in the context of the public protection 2003-04 21,878 objectives of the Gambling Act 2005. 2002-03 16,109 I hope to make an announcement shortly. 2001-02 20,812 2000-01 26,415 Libraries 1999-2000 21,686 1998-99 15,891 Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Some expenditure on taxis and black cabs included Department spent on public libraries in each year since under general travel and subsistence account cannot be 1997. [8800] separately identified except at disproportionate cost. Mr Vaizey: The Department provides grant in aid Departmental Training funding to the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA), which they use to develop and support museums, Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for library and archive services. The Department does not Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his (a) retain figures from 1997, however total funding allocated Department and (b) its agency and non-departmental to the MLA from 2002-03, excluding funding for public bodies spent on training for its employees in Renaissance but including libraries, is outlined in the each year since 1997. [7640] table: 993W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 994W

TRANSPORT Grant in aid (£ million)1

2002-03 14.519 Air Traffic Systems 2003-04 13.063 2004-05 13.063 Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for 2005-06 13.063 Transport what information his Department holds for 2006-07 17.331 benchmarking purposes on the privately-owned air 2007-08 16.471 traffic systems of other EU member states. [11742] 2008-09 15.971 2009-10 14.971 Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport receives 2010-11 13.063 the reports produced by the independent Performance 1 Excluding funding for the Renaissance museum project. Review Commission of Eurocontrol, the European Organization for the Safety of Air Navigation, which National Lottery: Blaenau Gwent benchmarks the performance of all en-route air traffic service providers across Europe. Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much Big Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Lottery funding was awarded to the community and Transport what specific safety criteria and other voluntary sector in Blaenau Gwent constituency in conditions any organisation seeking to purchase the 2009-10. [11828] Government’s share of National Air Traffic Services will be required to meet. [11743] John Penrose: In 2009-10, the Big Lottery Fund made grants totalling £345,066 to the Blaenau Gwent Mrs Villiers: No decision on the sale of NATS has constituency. Of this, 98.38% went to voluntary and been made, and the specific requirements for any potential community sector (VCS) organisations and 1.62% to purchaser of the Government’s shareholding of NATS non-VCS organisations. have yet to be determined. Should a sale of some or all of the Government’s shareholding proceed, safety oversight National Lottery: Grants measures would continue to apply in the same way they do currently. Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for carried out an equality impact assessment on his Transport what assessment has been made of the proposed changes to the distribution of lottery funds. potential safety implications of the sale of the [11930] Government’s share of National Air Traffic Services to a private company. [11744] John Penrose: The consultation we are running until 21 August, which is on the Departments’ website at: Mrs Villiers: The Government’s overriding priority is http://www.dcms.gov.uk/consultations/default.aspx that safety should not be compromised and there is no intention to amend the existing robust statutory safety includes a draft impact assessment and specifically asks oversight arrangements for NATS. whether consultees believe, or can provide evidence of, any adverse or positive impacts on particular groups from the change. We are not currently aware of any Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for evidence that suggests there will be adverse impacts but Transport what mechanisms will be in place to ensure (a) the consultation responses will inform a full equality the continued safety of those working in the (b) impact assessment. aviation industry and passengers in circumstances in which the Government sells its share in National Air Traffic Services to a private company. [11745] National Lottery: Public Participation Mrs Villiers: If a decision is made by the Government Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for to sell some or all of its shareholding of NATS, the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what account he is existing statutory arrangements for the safety oversight taking of the views of those who purchase lottery of NATS would remain as they are at present. tickets for the National Lottery in his review of the allocation of proceeds from the National Lottery. Association of Train Operating Companies [11915]

John Penrose: Lottery distributors are already working Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for together to identify best practice and to develop options Transport if he will designate National Rail as a public for increasing public involvement in their decisions company. [8552] about lottery funding. A public consultation on our proposed changes to Mrs Villiers: The Government have a commitment to Lottery shares is on the Department’s website at: reform Network Rail and to make it more accountable to its customers and passengers. The Value for Money http://www.dcms.gov.uk/consultations/default.aspx Study, chaired by Sir Roy McNulty, is currently examining I hope that lottery players, along with all of those who the structures and incentives of the rail industry to see are interested in the lottery, will send their views to how best to enable this. No decisions on specific measures mailto:[email protected] have yet been made. 995W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 996W

Aviation Biofuels

Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what recent assessment he has made of the case for (1) when his Department plans to publish a National Action Plan for meeting EU biofuel targets; [11311] additional airport capacity in England; [4973] (2) plans to bring forward mechanisms in support for (2) what his policy is on airport expansion outside advanced or second generation biofuels and electric- the South East; [4987] powered vehicles to meet the requirements of EU (3) whether he intends to publish a national policy Directive 98/70/EC; [11312] statement on aviation. [5065] (3) will make a decision on bringing forward legislation on amending the Renewable Transport Fuel Mrs Villiers: Individual proposals for airport expansion Obligation scheme to meet the requirements of EU need to be judged on their merits, taking into account Directive 98/70/EC on environmental quality standards relevant environmental considerations. We have made for fuel. [11313] clear, however, that we oppose new runways at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, on the grounds that the adverse Norman Baker: We are currently working towards impacts of such development would be unacceptable. implementation of the EU Renewable Energy Directive On the matter of national policy statement, the 2009/28/EC (RED), which requires member states to Government will issue a more detailed statement later source 10% transport energy from renewables by 2020. in the summer. This target was agreed in 2009 and is part of a wider requirement to source 15 per cent of overall energy from renewables by 2020. Aviation: Exhaust Emissions Our assessment of how the RED targets could be met was published in the UK’s National Renewable Action Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Plan in June 2010. This is available on the European Transport what steps he is taking to encourage Commission’s Renewable Energy Transparency Platform agreement at global level on reducing aviation and on the Department for Energy and Climate Change’s emissions. [8972] website. Detailed options for achieving our renewable energy Mrs Villiers: The UK actively participates in all in transport targets are being considered, and we will be discussions on climate change and aviation in international engaging with stakeholders in due course. forums, and particularly in the UNFCCC and in the On electric vehicles, the coalition agreement stated aviation specific UN body, the International Civil Aviation that we will mandate a national re-charging network for Organisation (ICAO). plug-in vehicles. We are considering a range of options While progress in these forums has been slow, there for delivering this and are also reviewing future support has been some success, for example in October 2009 for the purchase of low carbon vehicles. We will make a agreement was reached in ICAO on a global, annual statement in due course on this. average fuel efficiency improvement of 2% per annum until 2020 and on an aspirational global fuel efficiency Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport improvement of 2% per annum to 2050. In addition, what his Department’s policy is on the provision of earlier this year ICAO states agreed that the organisation subsidies for production of second generation biofuels. [11317] should work on developing a CO2 standard for new aircraft. Norman Baker: We are currently reviewing options The steps that have been taken to date in ICAO do for implementing the EU Renewable Energy Directive not go far enough in delivering a sustainable global and to date have not provided specific subsidies for the aviation industry and the UK will continue to push for production of second generation biofuels. an ambitious, global approach to reduce emissions from international aviation. Bus Services: Concessions Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will bring forward proposals to provide Transport what assessment he has made of the free concessionary bus travel for injured veterans. recommendations of the Committee on Climate Change in its report, Meeting the UK aviation [2821] target-options for reducing emissions to 2050, Norman Baker [holding answer 17 June 2010]: Many December 2009. [11991] seriously injured service personnel and veterans are already eligible for the England-wide free concessionary Mrs Villiers: We are committed to reducing emissions bus travel scheme by virtue of age or disability.Furthermore, from transport and ensuring the right framework is in the Department for Transport’s guidance on eligibility place for aviation to contribute to the UK’s climate for disabled people sets out that eligibility for a stabilisation goals. Making clear our opposition to new concessionary bus pass may be considered automatic runways at Heathrow, Stansted and Gatwick is an important for injured veterans who are in receipt of war pensioner’s element to that. The Committee on Climate Change’s mobility supplement, where eligibility is linked to the December report was an important contribution to the ability to walk. We are currently considering how to evidence base, and we will consider the detail of policy extend the scheme to include automatic eligibility for and announce our conclusions on the best way to veterans in receipt of similar awards under the new achieve our aims in due course. armed forces compensation scheme. 997W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 998W

Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Crossrail Line and London Underground what plans he has for eligibility rules on concessionary bus travel in England to 2015-16. [10382] Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) discussions, (b) meetings and Norman Baker [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The (c) exchanges of correspondence he has had with the coalition Government have not announced any plans to Mayor of London on (i) Crossrail and (ii) funding for change the existing eligibility rules on concessionary the London Underground network since his bus travel in England to 2015-16. appointment. [10929] The Government are considering a possible expansion Mrs Villiers: Ministers and officials regularly discuss to the scheme to include automatic eligibility for seriously and correspond with the Mayor of London and Transport injured veterans and service personnel who are in receipt for London officials on a variety of London transport of a guaranteed income payment under the new Armed issues, including Crossrail and funding for the London Forces Compensation Scheme and who fall within the Underground network. categories of disability set out in the Transport Act 2000. Cycling: West Midlands Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he plans to change the age of eligibility for Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State concessionary bus travel in the fiscal period 2011-12 to for Transport what steps he intends to take to promote 2015-16; and if he will make a statement. [10389] cycling in (a) the West Midlands and (b) Coventry. [11264] Norman Baker [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The coalition Government have not announced any plans to Norman Baker: The Government made a clear change the age of eligibility for concessionary bus travel commitment to support cycling in the coalition agreement. in England to 2015-16, beyond those announced by the In 2010-11, we are funding two cycle towns in the West previous Administration. Midlands (Shrewsbury and Stoke-on-Trent) as well as providing £888,000 to support cycle training for children Bus Services: Wigan across the West Midlands, including Coventry. This is in addition to funding provided to West Midlands authorities Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for through the local transport plan process. Financial Transport which bus services in Wigan constituency support for cycling in future years will be considered as received funding from the Bus Service Operators Grant part of the spending review. in the last 12 months for which figures are available. Dartford-Thurrock Crossing: Tolls [11977] Jackie Doyle-Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: All bus operators operating local bus Transport if he will assess the merits of ceasing to levy services in Wigan are eligible to claim Bus Service the tolls at the Dartford-Thurrock crossing between Operators Grant (BSOG), provided they meet the eligibility 2100 on Friday (a) 10 September and 0500 on Monday criteria set out in regulations. This includes, in the 13 September and (b) 1 October and 0500 on Monday Wigan area: 4 October 2010 for the purpose of managing additional Arriva traffic arising from the closure of the Blackwall tunnel. Finch Coaches [11236] First Manchester Olympia Travel UK Ltd Mike Penning: The Highways Agency are liaising closely with Transport for London to ensure effective South Lanes Travel arrangements are in place for managing additional traffic Stagecoach movements over the Dartford Crossing due to closure Wigan and District Community Transport of the Blackwall tunnel. Wigan Buses Ltd Any solution will need to take account of the potential Wigan council. benefits and impacts, and the need to maintain the safe We do not, however, hold information on BSOG operation of the Crossing for the millions of its users. payments by individual bus services. Departmental Billing Carbon Dioxide Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what information his Department holds on Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport the time taken by contractors employed by it to pay the what assessment he has made of the effects on levels of invoices of their sub-contractors under prompt carbon dioxide emissions from (a) biomass-to-liquid payment arrangements; and if he will make a biofuels, (b) cellulosic ethanol biofuels and (c) statement. [9243] biofuels from algae, straw, grass and wood. [11390] Norman Baker: In general, the Department for Transport Norman Baker: To date, no fuels derived from such does not hold information on the time taken by contractors sources have been supplied for commercial use in the it employs to pay sub-contractors. Although the Highways UK. Therefore, no detailed assessment has yet been Agency, for instance, has undertaken some limited sampling made of the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) associated of supplier performance in relation to the prompt payment with these production pathways. We remain interested of sub-contractors, it does not have any full, routine, in emerging biofuels that have the potential to reduce verified system for monitoring supplier performance in green gas emissions. this area. 999W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1000W

We are taking the following steps to promote the Percentage paid within 30 working days prompt payment of sub-contractors: April 2010 May 2010 June 2010 Our guidance to contract managers is being updated to include Vehicle 99.8 99.6 99.8 a requirement to monitor payment performance as part of the Certification contract management process; Vehicle and 99.9 100.0 99.9 Operator Services The current version of the Department’s General Conditions of Contract contains a clause requiring its contractors, where Government Car 99.5 99.1 99.6 and Despatch they enter into a sub-contract for the purpose of performing their obligations under the contract with the Department, to ensure Total 99.7 99.5 99.5 that a provision is included in the sub-contract to pay the sub- contractor within 30 days of receipt of a valid invoice; and We are unable to provide information separately for small and medium-sized enterprise suppliers. Our supplier portal is being updated to give sub-contractors information about how to report non-compliance to the Office of Government Commerce’s supplier feedback process. Departmental Buildings We remain committed to paying invoices within five working days and encouraging our suppliers to ensure John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for that the benefits are felt by all in the supply chain. Transport how many separate buildings his Department occupies in (a) London and (b) elsewhere in the UK. [6893] Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what percentage of payments made by his Norman Baker: The Department for Transport occupies Department to (a) small and medium-sized enterprise the following headquarter buildings in (a) London and suppliers and (b) all suppliers were made (i) within 10 (b) elsewhere in the UK: days of receipt of invoice and (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three months for which (a) Great Minster House, 55 Victoria Street, Southside, 123 Buckingham Palace Road and 46 Ponton Road. information is available. [11164] (b) The Axis Building (Nottingham), Morriston (Swansea), Spring Place (Southampton), Eastgate Office Centre and Berkeley Norman Baker: The 10-day target has been replaced House (Bristol). with a five-day target, and information is recorded on Data on the wider buildings occupied in part by the this basis. Department for Transport is not centrally recorded and The percentage of invoices paid within five days of could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. receipt for the Department and its agencies for the past three months is as follows: Departmental Electronic Equipment Percentage paid within five working days April 2010 May 2010 June 2010 Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many hours of training on using (a) Central 76.5 89.2 89.2 Department laptop computers (b) mobile telephones and (c) Driving Standards 64.9 85.5 85.3 Blackberry’s was provided to staff of his Department Driver and Vehicle 61.8 84.6 84.1 and its agencies in the last three financial years; and at Licensing what cost such training was provided. [11900] Highways 55.9 58.9 64.0 Maritime and 81.1 95.2 93.9 Norman Baker: The information is as follows: Coastguard (a) ICT training in the central Department is split into Vehicle n/a 94.7 89.4 Certification two parts: Vehicle and 78.8 82.2 67.9 (i) General staff training in the use of equipment for either Operator Services desktop or laptop computers is provided as part of the initial Government Car 43.7 86.3 85.8 induction. These data exclude software training. and Despatch Total 64.8 78.1 77.6 Hours Cost (£)

The departmental commercial terms generally specify 2007-08 391.5 58,692 that payment will be made within 30 days of receipt of a 2008-09 370.5 51,976 valid invoice. 2009-10 186 31,659 2010-11 (to date) 24 6,228 The percentage of invoices paid within 30 days of receipt for the Department and its agencies for the past (ii) Separate training is also provided for staff working remotely on laptops. Formalised external training began in October 2009. three months is as follows: Percentage paid within 30 working days Hours Cost (£) April 2010 May 2010 June 2010 2009-10 (from 61 5,709 Central 100.0 99.7 99.8 October) Department 2010-11 (to date) 19 109 Driving Standards 99.8 99.8 99.7 Driver and Vehicle 99.8 99.8 99.7 Licensing (b) No formal training is provided for staff for use of Highways 99.3 98.8 98.9 official mobile telephones. Maritime and 99.9 99.9 99.8 (c) Information on staff training in the use of BlackBerrys Coastguard is as follows: 1001W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1002W

rules and cost limits on such expenditure, which in the Hours Cost (£) main consists of refreshments at meetings with external 2007-08 No central training — stakeholders. offered 2008-09 157 17,520 Departmental Photographs 2009-10 180 15,051 2010-11 (to date) 39 3,114 Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much his Department has spent on None of the Department’s seven executive agencies official photographs of Ministers since the formation either provide formal training or separately record the of the present administration. [6435] cost of this. Departmental Equal Opportunities Norman Baker: The Department for Transport has spent £550 plus VAT on official ministerial photographs since the formation of the new Government. The Secretary Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for of State has subsequently directed that future ministerial Transport how much his Department has spent (a) in photographs will be taken by staff of the Department. total and (b) on staff costs on promoting equality and diversity in each of the last three years for which Departmental Public Expenditure figures are available; and how many people are employed by his Department for this purpose. [5922] Gavin Shuker: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: The Department for Transport has Transport what discussions he has had with Network spent the following amounts: Rail on the programme areas to be affected by planned reductions in his Department’s budget. [11031] (a) Total (including staff costs) in promoting diversity, and fulfilling statutory obligations, in each of the last three financial years Mrs Villiers: Department for Transport Ministers £ and officials communicate regularly with Network Rail. 2007-08 496,112 As part of the Government’s in-year efficiency savings 2008-09 705,833 announced on 24 May, Network Rail has agreed to pay 2009-10 1,617,434 the Department £100 million during 2010-11. The Note: cancellation of the programme of station enhancements With estimated spend of £500,000 planned in 2010-11. announced in November 2009 will save £50 million. The (b) Staff costs on promoting equality and diversity and faith in each of the last three financial years detail of where further savings are to be made will be £ decided by Network Rail.

2007-08 384,965 Departmental Regulation 2008-09 406,221 2009-10 442,062 Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport which of his Department’s regulations are Departmental Official Hospitality under review; and if he will make a statement. [7140]

Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: In the Budget the Government Transport how much (a) his Department and its announced plans for reducing the regulatory burdens predecessors and (b) its agencies and non- on business, including the introduction of a one-in-one departmental public bodies spent on hospitality in each out system for new regulations and a fundamental year since 1997. [7443] review of all regulation inherited from the previous Government scheduled for introduction over the coming Norman Baker: Expenditure by the Department for year. These regulations will not be implemented until Transport on hospitality in the four most recent years they have been reviewed and re-agreed by the Reducing was as follows: Regulation Cabinet Committee. As part of a wider review of employment law, the £ Department will also be reviewing laws within relevant 2006-07 648,657 policy areas to “ensure they maximise flexibility for 2007-08 737,971 both parties while protecting fairness and providing the 2008-09 694,991 competitive environment required for enterprise to thrive”. 2009-10 647,623 The Your Freedom website launched by the Deputy Prime Minister on 1 July 2010, will also give members Due to a major restructuring of accounting records, of the public the opportunity to suggest existing regulations expenditure in years prior to 2006-07 cannot be provided for removal, in order to reduce the burden on business. on a comparable basis without incurring disproportionate costs. Departmental Security A recent departmental exercise to identify discretionary spending savings in 2010-11 showed that we are planning Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for to spend £458,000, £159,000 less than previously estimated. Transport how much (a) his Department and its The Department adheres to the principles on the predecessors (b) its agencies and non-departmental management of Public Money as set out in HM Treasury’s public bodies spent on security in each year since 1997. handbook on Regularity and Propriety and has strict [7373] 1003W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1004W

Norman Baker: The Department for Transport was They do not include costs where records are not formed in 2002 and includes the Central Department, available centrally or where such records no longer seven Executive Agencies and a Shared Service Centre. exist. Central records are not to be taken as representative The Department also sponsors a number of non- of total costs as there are varying accounting procedures departmental public bodies. in place across the Department and its Agencies for The figures provided (in the table below) for the costs elements of spend attributed to security costs. of protective security for this Department, its Agencies and sponsored bodies are from those records available centrally.

2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-09 2009-10

DfT(c) N/A N/A. N/A N/A 464,440 659,781 765,023 1,553,983 1,513,937 1,799,993 Agencies and 35,874 360,897 1,606,925 2,419,559 2,521,915 2,641,177 2,691,296 3,202,453 4,121,579 4,118,958 NDPB total

Departmental Travel East Coast Main Line: Travel

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Andrew Turner: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate his Department has made of Transport what estimate he made of the monetary its expenditure on travel undertaken in an official value of free first class rail travel undertaken by staff of capacity by each Minister in his Department in (a) East Coast Main Line in the last 12 months; and what May 2010 and (b) June 2010. [8232] estimate he made of the number of such staff who undertook such travel in that period. [11785] Norman Baker: As set out in the Ministerial Code each Department will publish, at least quarterly, details Mrs Villiers: The Secretary of State has made no of all travel overseas by Ministers. Information for the estimate of the monetary value of free first class travel first quarter will be published as soon as it is ready. All undertaken by East Coast Main Line staff. Staff travel travel is undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial arrangements, both on and off duty, are the responsibility Code. of the employing train operating company. East Coast Main Line has inherited the employment contracts and I refer the hon. Member to the answer of 22 July policies of National Express East Coast, which provide 2010, Official Report, column 508W. for staff travel on the usual industry terms.

Driving: Licensing Electric Vehicles

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many UK driving licences were Transport (1) what assessment he has made of the reported stolen in each county in each year since 1997. effect of ending the electric vehicle consumer incentive [11045] on (a) jobs, (b) the car manufacturing industry, (c) carbon dioxide emissions and (d) levels of air Mike Penning: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing pollution; [11626] Agency does not record the number of driving licences (2) when he expects to announce his decision on the reported as stolen, but it does record the number of future of the electric vehicle consumer incentive duplicate driving licences issued due to the licence being scheme. [11627] reported as lost/stolen/defaced. The following table provides figures for each financial year from 1997. Figures are Norman Baker: The Department for Transport is not available by county and are for GB as a whole. currently considering in detail the provision of direct support for purchases of low-carbon vehicles, including 1997-98 753,091 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and will make a 1998-99 660,995 statement as soon as possible. 1999-2000 467,181 2000-01 510,254 The Secretary of State is aware that supporting green vehicle technology can help the UK meet its environmental 2001-02 584,489 obligations and create high-tech low carbon jobs in the 2002-03 699,528 UK. The uptake of ultra-low carbon technology will be 2003-04 811,670 necessary to meet our national carbon target in the long 2004-05 856,258 term and to realise local air quality benefits. 2005-06 937,634 2006-07 1,029,527 The recent announcement to support Green Buses 2007-08 1,144,273 and the commitment in the Coalition Agreement to 2008-09 1,162,444 mandate a national charging infrastructure illustrates 2009-10 1,146,685 the Government’s commitment to a market for ultra-low carbon vehicles. 1005W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1006W

Felixstowe-Nuneaton Railway Line “ALBs must not use public funds to employ external public affairs or other consultants to lobby Parliament or Government with the principle aim of altering government policy or to obtain Dr Thérèse Coffey: To ask the Secretary of State for increased funding”. Transport what representations he has received on his Department’s funding for the Felixstowe-Nuneaton London Underground: Finance freight line; and if he will make a statement. [10869]

Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport has received Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for various stakeholder representations on the funding of Transport (1) whether he has had recent discussions the rail links between the UK’s major ports and cities, with Transport for London on Government funding including the route from Felixstowe to Nuneaton on the for options for the southward extension of the West Coast Main Line. The upgrade of the Felixstowe- Bakerloo line; [10367] Nuneaton line to facilitate the passage of larger and (2) what recent discussions he has had with longer freight trains is part of the £200 million Strategic Transport for London on Government funding for Freight Network investment programme, funded by the proposals for extensions to the London Underground Department for the five years to March 2014. All network. [10368] Government expenditure is under review with decisions to be made in the comprehensive spending review, and Mrs Villiers: Ministers and officials hold regular the deficit reduction programme takes precedence. However discussions with Transport for London and the Mayor we recognise the importance of this freight infrastructure on a variety of issues, but no recent discussions have investment and the benefits it provides. taken place focusing specifically on extensions to the London Underground network. Hotels Luton Station Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much was spent on hotel bills for (a) Gavin Shuker: To ask the Secretary of State for Ministers and (b) officials in his Department and its Transport what plans he has for the development of agencies in each of the last three financial years; and Luton rail station; how much his Department has which hotels were used in each case. [11829] allocated to Luton for the period of the 2010 Parliament; and if he will make a statement. [10953] Norman Baker: Hotel costs for Department for Transport (c) and four of its agencies are contained in the following table. The information does not differentiate between Mrs Villiers: Network Rail is continuing to work with Ministers and officials. The figures for Department for local partners to assess what improvements can be Transport (c), Driving Standards Agency and Highways delivered at Luton station following the decision to cut Agency—represent bookings through central contracts the £50 million that had been provisionally allocated to only. improving the ten priority stations identified in the Station Champions’ “Better Rail Stations” report. 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 In the meantime, as part of the Thameslink programme, £2.1 million is being spent on work to extend the DfT(c) 404,388 485,198 303,730 platforms at Luton station and this is scheduled to be DSA 17,776 15,408 18,408 completed by end-October 2010. £250,000 from the DVLA 856,268 832,256 766,480 Department’s Access for All Small schemes fund has MCA 716,601 765,379 841,417 also been allocated to improve access at Luton via the HA 910,264 811,723 531,355 footbridge by end-March 2011. The remaining three agencies could provide the information only at disproportionate cost. Merchant Shipping A list of the hotels used is not held centrally, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport with reference to his letter to the hon. Lobbying Member for Dunfermline and West Fife of 8 July 2010, from which interested parties he has received representations on the effect of the Merchant Shipping Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for (Ship-to-Ship Transfers) Regulations 2010; if he will Transport if he will issue guidance to his Department’s place in the Library a copy of each such (a) agencies and (b) non-departmental public bodies representation; and if he will make a statement. [8046] on the retention and use of lobbying companies for the provision of lobbying and support services to Mike Penning [holding answer 13 July 2010]: Ihave campaign for increased funding. [9458] received three letters containing representations from my hon. Members for Truro and Falmouth, Waveney, Norman Baker: HMT issued guidance to all and Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross. Copies of Departments, agencies and non-departmental public these representations have been deposited in the Library. bodies in March 2010, in the form of a document I have also received a number of oral representations entitled “Reforming Arm’s Length Bodies”. including the British Ports Association and the Chamber Rule 4 and para 3.1.1. of this document states that of Shipping. 1007W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1008W

Two Early Day Motions on the subject of the merchant Norman Baker: The Department is committed to shipping (ship-to-ship transfers) regulations have been ensuring that public transport works for everyone, including tabled. Details of the early-day motions, and the hon. disabled people. Members associated with them, are available on: By law, all newly built or refurbished public transport http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMList.aspx vehicles must be accessible to disabled people, including wheelchair users. Over a third of all trains are already Motor Vehicles: Exhaust Emissions accessible, as is half the bus fleet. Deadlines have been set for when all trains, buses and coaches must be Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for accessible. These range between 2015 and 2020. Transport what steps he plans to take to reduce carbon Free off-peak local bus travel throughout England dioxide emissions from motoring; and if he will make a has given the opportunity for greater freedom and statement. [10312] independence to around 11 million older and disabled people. Norman Baker: We will implement a full programme Transport operators also have a legal duty to consider of measures to ensure that the transport sector contributes the needs of disabled people when publishing service to both economic growth and the achievement of the information and providing booking and other facilities. Government’s climate change targets. We are considering Disability legislation also covers infrastructure, such as a wide range of options to reduce carbon dioxide bus and railway stations. emissions from road transport, including how best to support low carbon vehicles, sustainable biofuels, In addition, the Department’s ‘Accessfor All’programme alternatives to travel and modal shift to other forms of aims to deliver a step-free accessible route to and between transport. The speed of implementation of any measures platforms at 148 stations across the network, by 2015. that have a cost to the public finances will depend, In the East Midlands, work has been completed at however, on decisions to be made in the comprehensive Sleaford, work is undergoing at Boston, and work is at spending review. the design stage at Long Eaton, Loughborough and Wellingborough. Under the Access for All ‘Small Schemes’ The coalition agreement stated that we will mandate fund, the Department has been able to allocate over a national recharging network for plug-in vehicles, and £300,000 to stations in the East Midlands for smaller we are considering a range of options for delivering scheme improvements reflecting local needs. this. We are also reviewing future support for the purchase of ultra-low carbon vehicles, and we will make a statement We are also seeking to ensure that those who travel on this in due course. have the confidence and basic skills to do so; that transport staff have the appropriate training to help Motorways: England people; and that passengers can travel in a safe environment. Rail Services Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will discuss with his Welsh Assembly Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Government counterpart the improvement of what criteria will be used for taking decisions arising motorway links between England and Wales. [11748] from his independent review of the procurement of new rolling stock on (a) the East Coast Main Line and Mike Penning: I would be happy to discuss any (b) the West Coast Main Line; and if he will make a transport issues with my Welsh counterparts. However, statement. [9178] any improvements could only be considered once the spending review is finished, and the wider fiscal context Mrs Villiers: For the East Coast Main Line, the is clear. Intercity Express Programme and any various alternatives will be assessed on standard value for money and National Express affordability criteria. After the delivery of the extra 106 Pendolino carriages, Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for there is no further rolling stock procurement currently Transport if he will make it his policy to ensure that planned for the West Coast Main Line longer distance National Express Group does not operate in the rail services. A procurement for new electric trains to connect industry after March 2011. [R] [9583] Glasgow and Edinburgh with Manchester is under review as part of a re-evaluation of the High Level Output Mrs Villiers [holding answer 19 July 2010]: The Specification schemes which forms part of the spending Department for Transport will consider any application review process necessitated by the deficit the Government for a franchise. Such consideration takes account of have inherited from its predecessors. bidders’ previous experience and performance of operating passenger franchises and relevant contracts. Each bid is Railway Stations judged objectively and impartially. Gavin Shuker: To ask the Secretary of State for Public Transport: Disability Transport (1) what progress his Department has made on implementing the recommendations in the Better Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Rail Stations review; [10938] Transport what steps he plans to take to improve the (2) what recent assessment he has made of the provision of public transport for physically disabled adequacy of facilities at (a) Luton rail station, (b) all people (a) nationally and (b) in the East Midlands. category B rail stations and (c) all rail stations [11580] operated by First Capital Connect; [10954] 1009W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1010W

(3) what assessment he has made of the compliance The planned phased construction of a national high of Luton rail station with the minimum station speed rail network means that it can be delivered in an standards set out in the report of the Better Rail affordable way. And over the long-term it is still expected Stations review. [10955] that passenger demand will continue to grow strongly.

Mrs Villiers: The “Better Rail Stations” Report Mr Andrew Turner: To ask the Secretary of State for highlighted concerns about the state of a number of Transport if he will renew the entitlement to benefits in stations and noted the inconsistent level of facilities at kind for employees of publicly-owned rail companies. stations. The adequacy of facilities at all stations, including [11787] Luton, was considered as part of the review and the report made a number of recommendations around Mrs Villiers: The Secretary of State already requires consistent minimum facilities and standards at all categories operators, through their Franchise Agreement, or in the of stations. case of publicly owned rail companies, their Service These, along with other proposals within the report, Agreement, to participate in the Rail Staff Travel Scheme. will be considered as part of our programme for reform This travel scheme allows staff who possess staff travel of the railways, though the need to address the deficit to use it on all train operators in Britain, on broadly may have an impact on decisions. similar terms to those which applied in 1995. We propose to grant longer franchises in order to give Railways: Fares operators the incentive to invest in the improvements passengers want, including better stations. We are also Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State considering options to alter the balance of responsibility for Transport what steps he plans to take to promote for stations between Network Rail and the train operators. lower railway fares. [5740] Railway Stations: Greater London Mrs Villiers [holding answer 5 July 2010]: The Government are committed to fairness on rail fares. We Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for hope to be able to keep the current formula for the cap Transport if his Department will undertake further on regulated fares, but we need to wait until further investigation of options for a station in Brixton on the work has been done on the spending settlement before East London Line Overground extension. [11451] making a final decision on the fare formula for next Mrs Villiers: The case for a new station at Brixton year. High Level was assessed in 2007 by Network Rail as part of the South London Route Utilisation Strategy. Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for The station was found to be unaffordable due to the Transport if he will take steps to ensure that future rail high cost of construction. fare increases in the South East are proportionate to average earnings growth for regular pay for passengers I am not aware of any material change in circumstances in the South East. [7011] that would mean that a different conclusion would be reached by a further study. Given our current spending Mrs Villiers: The Government are committed to fairness restrictions it would not be appropriate for the Department on rail fares. The present formula provides for annual for Transport to spend further money to investigate this increases of RPI +3% on South Eastern franchise up to issue in advance of the outcome of the spending review. and including 2011 and RPI +1% on other franchises in the South East region. We hope to be able to keep the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for current formula for the cap on regulated fares, but we Transport when he expects to make a decision on the will need to wait until further work has been done on South London Route Utilisation Strategy’s the spending settlement before making a final decision recommendation that Wimbledon loop Thameslink on the fare formula for next year. trains terminate at Blackfriars from 2015. [11596] Railways: Franchises Mrs Villiers: I anticipate that a decision on this matter will be taken some two years before the date of Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the timetable change, in line with normal railway industry Transport pursuant to the written ministerial statement planning time scales. of 17 June 2010, Official Report, column 58WS, on Railways transport: rail franchising, when he expects to respond to the consultation on the future of rail franchising; Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for when he expects to be in a position to announce a new Transport what assessment he has made of the effect of policy on rail franchises; and if he will make a the current economic climate on his plans for high statement. [8902] speed rail. [11336] Mrs Villiers: The ‘Reforming Rail Franchising’ Mr Philip Hammond [holding answer 26 July 2010]: consultation document was released on 22 July 2010 The coalition Government has rejected further capital and a copy has been placed in the House of Commons spending cuts as an easy, but wrong option for tackling Library. It is available on the Department for Transport the deficit. As the Chancellor said in his emergency website at: Budget speech: http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/2010-28/ “Well-judged capital spending by government can help provide The closing date for responses is 18 October 2010. A the new infrastructure our economy needs to compete in the response to the consultation and an announcement of modern world”. the Government’s future plans will be made after that date. 1011W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1012W

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for of electric trains, would increase train capacity and Transport if he will include in the forthcoming review reduce passenger journey times. It would also help to of rail franchises measures to encourage more flexible cut carbon emissions and reduce the cost of running the fare structures for commuters who work part-time and railway. those who work from home on certain days; and if he The Government supports rail electrification. However, will make a statement. [9802] our priority is tackling the fiscal deficit and Ministers will consider the full range of proposed transport projects Mrs Villiers: There are ways in which fares structures in parallel with the spending review process to ascertain could be changed to be more flexible using the benefits what is affordable. of smart card technology. The revenue work streams of the rail value for money study being carried out by Sir Railways: Manchester Roy McNulty is expected to provide valuable input in the medium term. Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Railways: High Speed Two Transport if he will provide previously planned new rolling stock for the (a) Manchester-Glossop and (b) Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Manchester-Huddersfield railway line. [11402] Transport what recent representations he has received on his proposals to link the High Speed Two rail line to Mrs Villiers: The Government recognises the concerns around rail crowding levels on a number of routes into Heathrow Airport. [11341] Manchester. However, in view of the pressure on the Mr Philip Hammond [holding answer 26 July 2010]: public finances and the priority we have placed on On 21 July Lord Mawhinney published his independent tackling the deficit, we are reviewing the full range of overview of high speed rail access to Heathrow. High transport projects to assess them for affordability and Speed Two Ltd (HS2 Ltd) is also doing some detailed value for money. That review includes the carriages in work in this area which will take more time to complete. the High Level Output Specification (HLOS) programme We will therefore carefully consider Lord Mawhinney’s which have not yet been contracted. recommendations alongside this further work by HS2 I recently visited Manchester to discuss this issue Ltd and will announce our conclusions later this year. with local stakeholders and I have also met a delegation In addition, the Department for Transport has received of MPs from affected constituencies. The outcome of a range of correspondence and other representations these meetings will be considered as part of the from interested parties. re-assessment of the HLOS carriages programme. Our conclusions will be announced on completion of the Railways: Liverpool Spending Review in the autumn.

Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what information his Department holds on Transport what information his Department holds on whether peak-time train services on the Manchester- whether peak-time train services on the Manchester- Huddersfield railway line are operating at over- Glossop railway line are operating over capacity. capacity. [11398] [11404] Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport does not Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport does not hold detailed information for every station stop on hold detailed information for every station stop on individual services on the Manchester-Huddersfield railway individual services on the Manchester-Glossop railway line. However, the critical load information for peak line. However, the critical load information for peak services arriving into Manchester Piccadilly during autumn services arriving into Manchester Piccadilly during autumn 2009, suggests that some trains on this line are operating 2009, suggests that trains on this line are not currently at over-capacity. operating at over-capacity. First TransPennine Express, the train operator that provides most services on this route may be able to Northern Trains, the train operator that provides provide more information. First TransPennine Express these services may be able to provide more information. can be contacted at the following address: Northern Trains can be contacted at the following address: Northern Rail Limited, Northern House, 9 Rougier Customer Relations Street, York, YO1 6HZ. First TransPennine Express Freepost Railways: Overcrowding ADMAIL 3878 Manchester Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for M1 9YB. Transport what recent assessment he has made of levels of overcrowding on commuter rail services into (a) Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for London, (b) Birmingham, (c) Manchester, (d) Transport what assessment he has made of the Bristol, (e) Leeds and (f) Sheffield. [5533] economic effects on the North West of the proposed electrification of the Liverpool-Manchester line. [11399] Mrs Villiers: Comprehensive annual assessments are made of the usage of rail commuter services for these Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport has assessed cities (London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds electrification of the Liverpool to Manchester line, via and Sheffield) during the autumn of each year, when Newton-le-Willows, as being high value for money. commuter demand is at its most stable. The assessments Electrification of the line, coupled with the introduction will be published in due course. 1013W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1014W

Railways: Parking (in 2002 prices). Adding in the value of the lost time experienced by other travellers raises this figure to £23- Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for 24 billion per annum. This report is available at: Transport whether he has made a recent estimate of the http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http:// average cost to train passengers of parking in a railway www.dft.gov.uk/about/strategy/transportstrategy/ station car park; and if he will make a statement. eddingtonstudy/researchannexes/ [8906] The following table provides estimates of the cost of congestion to business and other travellers in lost time Mrs Villiers: Parking charges at railway stations are in 2003 (in 2002 prices) in each English region. set by train operators or other private sector providers, Estimated cost of congestion by English region, 2003, at 2002 prices and are not regulated as part of franchise agreements. Region £ billion The Department for Transport does not hold information on the level of parking charges at individual stations or North East 1.0 the average parking charge across the network. Yorks and Humber 1.7 East Midlands 0.9 Railways: Travel Eastern England 1.2 South East 1.9 Mr Andrew Turner: To ask the Secretary of State for London 5.3 Transport what estimate he made of the (a) operating South West 0.7 cost and (b) public subsidy per passenger made in West Midlands 1.9 respect of rail travel (i) on services run by each train North West 1.9 operating company and (ii) nationally in the last 12 England total 16.5 months. [11786] These figures are based on the difference between the actual time taken to make a journey and the time that Mrs Villiers: The Secretary of State for Transport would be taken under theoretical ‘free-flow’ conditions. does not estimate the operating cost for each train They do not necessarily represent the net benefit that operating company. This is a matter for the individual would result from removing congestion. train companies. The Secretary of State for Transport Roads: Accidents does, however, review each train operating company’s actual operating costs against their budget. This takes Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for place on a periodic basis as part of his normal review Transport for what reasons the proposed Road into the financial health of each train company. Accident In-Depth Study has been cancelled; and Subsidy per passenger kilometre is published by the whether he has plans for an alternative research project Office of Rail Regulation for all train operating companies on the causes of road accidents. [11599] in its National Rail Trends Yearbook. The most recent figures published are for 2008-09, and can be located on Mike Penning: The proposed components of the Road page 59 using the following link: Accident In-Depth Study (RAIDS) relating to on scene http://www.rail-reg.gov.uk/upload/pdf/YEARBOOK0809- accident investigations have not been taken forward this v22.pdf year as it was not affordable given the difficult fiscal circumstances the Government inherited. However, a Road Traffic Offences: Fines new integrated RAIDS database has recently been completed containing data from the legacy ‘On the Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for Spot’ and ‘Co-operative Crash Injury Study’. This database Transport if he will take steps to enable motorists will make it easier to make better use of the very charged under the Traffic Management Act 2004 to pay extensive data collected in recent years. a charge and to appeal against it. [953] In addition, all fatal accidents are investigated by specialist police accident investigators, and DFT also Norman Baker: We have no plans to adopt the policy make extensive use of the police STATS19 data which the hon. Member suggests. A motorist served with a covers all personal injury road accidents reported to the penalty charge notice for parking in contravention of police. STATS19 includes many items relevant to the regulations under Part 6 of the Traffic Management causes of accidents, including junction details, weather Act 2004 should pay the penalty charge quickly or conditions and the factors that police consider contributed challenge it if s/he believes that it has been served in to the accident. error. This does not, of course, apply in cases where the Roads: Construction vehicle has been immobilised and/or removed. Road Traffic: Economic Situation David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what criteria will be used to determine which previously approved road building projects will proceed Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for following the in-year reductions in his Department’s Transport what estimate has been made of the cost to budget. [9529] the economy of road congestion in each region in the latest year for which figures are available. [9954] Mike Penning: As part of the £6 billion package of savings announced in May, we announced that the start Norman Baker: The 2006 Eddington Study estimated of works on some road schemes would be postponed. that, using the Department for Transport’s National Final decisions on these schemes will be taken following Transport Model, the direct costs of congestion to the spending review, and will depend upon the overall business could rise by £10-12 billion from 2003 to 2025 level of capital spending agreed across Government. 1015W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1016W

Roads: Metals Mike Penning: Since I published the Carter report on 9 June 2010, Official Report, column 9WS, I and my Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for officials have met representatives from all sides of the Transport if he will estimate the annual cost to the industry, including the Chamber of Shipping and trade public purse of substituting (a) metal and (b) unions, and heard first-hand their views and concerns non-metal replacements for metal items stolen from on differential pay. highways for scrap. [10889] On 23 June 2010, Department for Transport officials provided European Commission officials with a copy of Norman Baker: The Department for Transport has the Carter review into seafarers’ pay. There have been no plans to make such an estimate. It is for each no discussions between the Department for Transport highway authority (or, in the case of utility apparatus and the European Commission regarding the Carter covers, the relevant utility company) to determine the review. most appropriate materials to use in replacing stolen The views of the European Commission or its officials highways ironwork, bearing in mind the particular on legal issues relating to seafarers’ pay differentials circumstances of the site in question. have been set out on several occasions in the last five years in correspondence or at meetings with Department Seafarers for Transport officials. John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for London: Finance Transport what recent discussions (a) he and (b) his officials have had with the European Commission on seafarers’ pay differentials. [11966] Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will publish each item of Mike Penning: The Secretary of State met the European correspondence between Ministers in his Department Commissioner for Transport, Siim Kallas, on 8 July and the Mayor of London on the budget for Transport 2010 and, among other things, discussed differential for London since his appointment. [5456] pay for seafarers. Department for Transport officials have discussed Mrs Villiers: The Secretary of State meets and seafarers’ pay differentials with European Commission corresponds with the Mayor regularly on London transport officials on various occasions since the Commission issues including Transport for London funding. These first raised their concerns about the UK legislation. discussions are currently taking place in the context of Officials from the Department for Transport and the the spending review and it would not be appropriate to European Commission are next due to meet to discuss release details. this issue on 29 July 2010 in Brussels. Transport: Greater London Severn Bridge: Tolls Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Paul Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will publish the (a) agenda and (b) Transport when he plans to introduce legislation to minutes of each meeting he has had with the Mayor of enable the use of credit cards for payment for tolls on London on transport matters since his appointment. the Severn crossings. [11793] [6897] Norman Baker: In March this year, an amendment was made to the Severn Bridges Regulations to allow Mrs Villiers: I refer the right hon. Member to my card payments to be accepted at the tolls. Work has answer given today (UIN 5456). started to amend the tolling software to accept credit and debit cards, and we hope this will be resolved before Vehicle and Operator Services Agency the Ryder Cup begins. Shipping: Pay Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 20 July 2010, Official Report, column 189W, on the Vehicle Operator John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Services Agency (VOSA), if he will discuss the future Transport (1) what discussions (a) he and (b) his of VOSA with the relevant trade unions before any officials have held with the British Chamber of decision on the Agency’s future is taken; and whether Shipping on the Carter Review into seafarers’ pay he (a) has commissioned and (b) intends to differentials; [11956] commission any consultancy advice on the future of (2) what discussions (a) he and (b) his officials have VOSA prior to the Comprehensive Spending Review. held with the European Commission on the Carter [12047] Review into seafarers’ pay differentials; and whether the European Commission has expressed support for Mike Penning: As is normal practice, discussions will the Carter Review recommendations.; [11957] be held with the relevant trade unions before any decisions (3) whether his Department has received any (a) are taken on the future of the Vehicle and Operator legal advice or (b) guidance from the European Services Agency (VOSA). No consultancy advice has Commission over the last five years on the been commissioned and there are no plans to commission Government’s obligations on seafarers pay any consultancy advice on VOSA prior to the differentials. [11958] comprehensive spending review. 1017W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1018W

Wrexham-Bidston Railway Line: Electrification Government Departments: Travel

Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Watson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Transport what recent discussions he has had with Office if he will publish the revised travel guidance for Welsh Assembly Government Ministers on the Government departments on first class rail travel. [27] electrification of the Wrexham to Bidston rail line. [9944] Danny Alexander: I have been asked to reply. A revised set of guidance for travel and subsistence Mrs Villiers: The Welsh Assembly Government are has been issued to departments. I shall place a copy of responsible for Arriva Trains Wales’ services between the guidance in the Library. Wrexham and Bidston. We continue to keep in touch with the Welsh Assembly Government and Merseytravel Jobseeker’s Allowance: Lone Parents about options for the line. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many lone parents in Rutherglen and CABINET OFFICE Hamilton West constituency are in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance. [11884] Civil Servants: Pensions Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply. Mrs McGuire: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet In May 2010 there were 160 lone parents claiming Office what estimate he has made of the change in jobseeker’s allowance in Rutherglen and Hamilton West. central Government expenditure on the Principal Civil The figure has been rounded to the nearest five. Service Pension Scheme attributable to the use of the consumer prices index for pension indexation in the Manufacturing Industries: Carlisle next five years. [11058] Mr Maude: The Government have not made a separate John Stevenson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet estimate of the change in central Government expenditure Office what recent estimate has been made of the for the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (PCSPS) proportion of people in Carlisle constituency employed relating to the announcement at Budget that the uprating in the manufacturing sector. [9317] of the majority of state benefits, State Second Pension Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the and public service pensions would be moved from RPI responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have to CPI, with effect from April 2011. asked the Authority to reply. The estimated savings in annually managed expenditure Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated July 2010: for public service pension expenditure in each year of the forecast period are set out in the following table. As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking These savings form part of the overall savings figures what recent estimate has been made of the proportion of people for benefits, tax credits and public service pensions in Carlisle constituency employed in the manufacturing sector. published in line 22 of Table 2.1 in Budget 2010. These (9317) figures include savings for the PCSPS, and all other The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles employment public service schemes apart from the Local Government statistics for local areas from the Annual Population Survey Pension Scheme. (APS) and its predecessor the Annual Labour Force Survey (LFS) following International Labour Organisation (ILO) definitions. £million The proportion of people of working age who were resident in Carlisle employed in the manufacturing sector was 9.7 per cent. 2011-12 330 These figures have been taken from the APS for the period 2012-13 550 January 2009 to December 2009. 2013-14 880 National and local area estimates for many labour market 2014-15 1,290 statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant count are available on the NOMIS website at Civil Servants: Redundancy Pay http://www.nomisweb.co.uk Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Minister for the Public Sector: Cumbria Cabinet Office what progress he has made in discussions with the Public and Commercial Services John Stevenson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Union on changes to the Civil Service Compensation Office what his most recent estimate is of the Scheme. [11944] proportion of the working population in (a) Carlisle constituency and (b) Cumbria employed in the public Mr Maude: Discussions on changes to civil service sector. [9144] terms and conditions are conducted with the Council of Civil Service Unions rather than with individual unions. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the I wrote to Paul Noon, chairman of the Council of responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Civil Service Unions, on 6 July inviting the unions to asked the authority to reply. begin talks on a future compensation scheme with my Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated July 2010: officials. One key area for discussion is to what extent As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I the future scheme can provide proportionately better have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking terms for the lower paid. I have since met the unions what the most recent estimate is of the proportion of the working once and my officials have had further meetings with population in (a) Carlisle constituency and (b) Cumbria employed them. in the public sector. (9144) 1019W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1020W

The ONS compiles employment statistics for local areas from Public Sector: Manpower the Annual Population Survey (APS) following International Labour Organisation (ILO) definitions. Individuals are classified John Stevenson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet to the public or private sector according to their responses to the Office what proportion of those working in the public APS. Consequently, the classification of an individual’s sector sector work in the (a) education, (b) health and (c) may differ from how they would be classified in National Accounts. local government sectors; and how many work in other The proportion of the working age population employed in the sectors. [9143] public sector in the Carlisle constituency is 17.7 per cent and for Cumbria 17.0 per cent. These figures have been taken from the Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the APS for the period January 2009 to December 2009. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated July 2010: to a margin of uncertainty. As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I National and local area estimates for many labour market have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant concerning, what proportion of those working in the public count are available on the NOMIS website at sector work in the (a) education, (b) health and (c) local government sectors; and how many work in other sectors. (9143). http://www.nomisweb.co.uk The requested data are attached at Annex A.

Annex A: Proportion of public sector workers employed in (a) education (b) health (c) local government (d) other sectors and (e) total public sector1 Percentage—Not seasonally adjusted Health Other health and Total public Education2 NHS social care3 Local Government4 Other sectors5, 6 sector

2010 Q1 23 27 6 48 52 100 1 Estimates of employment for education, health, local government and other sectors are not mutually exclusive. People employed in education, for example, are also included as part of local government employment estimates. 2 Estimates of employment in ‘education’ are based on Standard Industrial Classification 2007 Division 80. 3 Estimates of employment in ‘other health and social care’ are based on Standard Industrial Classification 2007, Divisions 86, 87 and 88. 4 Includes some employment in ‘education’ and ‘other health and social care’. 5 The public sector comprises central government, local government and public corporations. ‘Other sectors’, in this context, refers to employment in central Government and public corporations. 6 ‘Other sectors’, includes employment in the NHS (central Government) and some employment in education and other health and social care. Source: Office for National Statistics

PRIME MINISTER ATTORNEY-GENERAL Human Trafficking: Prosecutions Parliament: Security Mr Bone: To ask the Attorney-General how many cases have been brought for offences relating to human Jim Shannon: To ask the Prime Minister what steps trafficking in each of the last three years. [11477] he is taking to ensure the personal details of security personnel are not disclosed. [11344] The Attorney-General: The Crown Prosecution Service’s records show that, in the last three years, the following The Prime Minister: It has been the practice of successive prosecutions have been brought on charges under sections Governments not to comment on security matters. 57, 58 and 59 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, alleging trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation:

Number of prosecutions

CHURCH COMMISSIONERS 2007-08 87 2008-09 114 Bishops: Females 2009-10 102 Prosecutions brought on charges under section 4 of Miss McIntosh: To ask the hon. Member for the Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants) Banbury, representing the Church Commissioners Act 2004, alleging trafficking for other exploitative what recent representations he has received on the purposes: subject of the appointment of women bishops in the Church of England; and if he will make a statement. Number of prosecutions [10718] 2007-08 3 2008-09 10 Tony Baldry: I have received numerous representations 2009-10 19 on the subject of the appointment of Women Bishops in the Church of England. I addressed the General The data relates only to the number of charged Synod on this matter in York on 10 July 2010, and I offences which reached first hearing in the magistrates have placed a copy of my statement in the Library. courts. 1021W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1022W

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION On 7 July 2010 the Department e-mailed or wrote to all of the employees affected to apologise for any distress Catering they had suffered. 12 complaints about the matter were received by the House of Commons Service and PICT Damian Collins: To ask the hon. Member for from hon. Members or their staff. Middlesbrough, representing the House of Commons Commission, what proportion of (a) all food, (b) meat, (c) fresh vegetables, (d) fresh fruit, (e) frozen ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE vegetables and (f) eggs procured by the House of Democracy Diversity Fund Commons Catering and Retail Services in the last 12 months for which figures are available was produced John Robertson: To ask the hon. Member for South in the UK. [11550] West Devon, representing the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission, what recent representations Sir Stuart Bell: No record is held of the country of the Electoral Commission has received on the origin of food procured by the House of Commons introduction of a democracy diversity fund. [11096] catering service and so it is not possible to state the proportion of meat, fresh vegetables, fresh fruit or Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission informs me frozen vegetables produced in the UK in the 12 months that it has received no recent representations on the to March 2010. introduction of a democracy diversity fund. However, butchery suppliers are periodically required Absent Voting to confirm the country of origin of meat and poultry supplied to the House of Commons, and when this was Philip Davies: To ask the hon. Member for South last done in April 2010, an estimated 0.04% of combined West Devon, representing the Speaker’s Committee on fresh meat and poultry purchases were not of British the Electoral Commission what assessment the origin. Electoral Commission has made of the extent of All fresh eggs supplied to the House of Commons in misuse of postal voting at the last general election. the 12 months to March 2010 were supplied by a British [11213] producer in Kent and were BEIC British Lion standard Mr Streeter: The Electoral Commission informs me approved. that it is working with the Association of Chief Police Officers to collate information about all reported cases Damian Collins: To ask the hon. Member for of alleged electoral malpractice, including those relating Middlesbrough, representing the House of Commons to postal voting. Commission, what contracts the House of Commons The Commission and ACPO will publish in January Department for Facilities has with food producers and 2011 an analysis of cases of alleged malpractice reported suppliers in Kent. [11552] during 2010, including any cases relating to the May 2010 UK parliamentary general election. This will include Sir Stuart Bell: The House of Commons catering the status of any cases relating to allegations of specific service purchases most of its food supplies through postal voting offences and the outcome where cases wholesalers for reasons of economy and logistics. Of have been resolved. the 36 contracts in place for supply of foodstuffs to the House of Commons, one is held by a company based in Carlisle City Council: Constituencies Kent for the supply of fresh eggs. No record is held of John Stevenson: To ask the hon. Member for South the number of food producers and suppliers in Kent West Devon, representing the Speaker’s Committee on who might be indirectly supplying the House of Commons the Electoral Commission when the next review of through these wholesale suppliers and intermediaries. local government ward boundaries for Carlisle Council Members’ Staff: Termination of Employment will take place. [9242] Mr Streeter: The Local Government Boundary Grahame M. Morris: To ask the hon. Member for Commission for England informs me that it has no Middlesbrough, representing the House of Commons current plans to carry out an electoral review of Carlisle Commission, how many staff of hon. Members city council. received P45 forms at the last payroll due to the transfer of staff pay functions to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority; how many staff of BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS hon. Members were removed from the Parliamentary ICT system as a result; and how many complaints the Banks: Interest Charges House of Commons Service and PICT have received Sarah Newton: To ask the Secretary of State for from hon. Members or their staff about this matter. Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he plans to [11508] take to regulate interest rates charged by banks on unauthorised overdrafts. [10494] Sir Stuart Bell: A total of 149 staff of hon. Members received P45 forms at the last payroll due to the transfer Mr Davey: The coalition Government are committed of staff pay functions to the Independent Parliamentary to introducing stronger consumer protections, including Standards Authority. Some of the staff who had been measures to end unfair bank charges as set out in the issued P45s were incorrectly placed on a list of leavers, coalition agreement. BIS is working with the Treasury and three staff of hon. Members were temporarily on this issue and will be coming forward with measures removed from the Parliamentary ICT system as a result. in due course. 1023W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1024W

Broadband: Blaenau Gwent Ministers have been engaging with a variety of groups, individuals, public sector workers and organisations Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for from all over the country via websites such as the Business, Innovation and Skills how many households Spending Challenge: in Blaenau Gwent constituency he expects to be able to http://spendingchallenge.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ access broadband of 2mpbs or faster by December Ministers will continue to engage over the summer. 2012. [11827] Cairn Energy Mr Vaizey: This Department has made no assessment of the number of households in the Blaenau Gwent constituency expected to be able to access 2 Mbps by Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for 2012. However, Broadband Delivery UK is assessing Business, Innovation and Skills what Cairn Energy and current broadband provision at community level in its Capricorn Oil Ltd projects have received assistance work on delivery of universal service commitment and through the Export Credits Guarantee Department in next generation broadband access. the last three years. [11912] Business: Government Assistance Mr Davey: None. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Business, Innovation and Skills when he expects Grant Scheme for Business Investment funding provided through regional development agencies to be resumed. [10545] Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps his Mr Prisk: The recent Budget announced that the Department has taken to monitor the financial and regional development agencies (RDAs) are to be abolished. regulatory costs to businesses of participation in the In advance of the forthcoming Spending Review, any Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency financial commitments that the RDAs wish to enter Scheme since the publication of the impact assessment. into from and including 2011/12 require the approval of both this Department and HM Treasury. This applies [11997] to Grant for Business funding as it does to all business Gregory Barker: I have been asked to reply. support delivered by the agencies. Government have not undertaken any additional Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for assessment on the financial and regulatory costs since Business, Innovation and Skills how many businesses in publication of the Final Impact Assessment in January Bedford constituency received support from the 2010. Registration for participation in the scheme opened Capital for Enterprise Fund in the last 12 months. on 1 April and closes on 30 September and we have no [11426] reason to question the assessment made at the start of this year. The Final Impact Assessment estimated the Mr Prisk: The Capital for Enterprise Fund has not net benefits overall of the scheme to be £3,800 million. made any investments in the Bedford constituency.Overall, We will keep the operation of the CRC Energy Efficiency the fund has made investments in 38 businesses with a Scheme under review. total value of £50.8 million. Consumers: Protection James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills when the review of the Grant for Business Investment and other Solutions for Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for Business products will be completed; and if he will Business, Innovation and Skills when he plans to bring forward proposals to achieve the commitment in the make a statement. [11534] Coalition Agreement to introduce stronger consumer Mr Prisk: All Solutions for Business products are protections; and if he will make a statement. [11847] being looked at as part of the Department’s Spending Review settlement, which is due to be published on Mr Davey: Progress has already been made in a 20 October 2010. number of areas to improve consumer protection. On 12 July I announced that the Government had Business: West Midlands reached agreement with the credit reference industry to give consumers easier access to their credit reports, and Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State continued free access to credit reports for victims of for Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he has identity fraud and the financially vulnerable. On the to consult businesses in (a) the West Midlands and (b) same date I also announced moves to strengthen consumer Coventry on the effect on the region of reductions in protection around holiday timeshares, with a consultation government expenditure. [11942] on the transposition of the EU timeshare directive. Mr Prisk: As part of the SR engagement process, the On 14 July I announced a review of consumer credit Government are committed to engaging with and involving and personal insolvency and my Department will be the whole country in the difficult decisions that will issuing a formal call for evidence following the summer have to be taken, this includes businesses, large and recess. This is an opportunity to improve the safeguards small. Doing so will demonstrate that the Government on consumer credit products, where this is necessary, believes there is a more open, transparent and collaborative and in particular to ensure that people get fair deals on approach to solving problems than has been the case in credit cards, loans and other products on the market, the past. and improving access for the financially excluded. 1025W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1026W

I am currently reviewing the regulatory framework Copies of this information are also available in the for consumer protection, including the role of all publicly Library. Details for 2009-10 and 2010-11 Q1 expenditure funded consumer bodies. I am also reviewing options will be made available shortly. for action to end unfair bank and financial transaction The information includes name, date, destination, charges. Further announcements will be made in due purpose of the trip and cost by each Minister. More course. detailed information could be provided only at Departmental Billing disproportionate cost. Departmental Publications Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what percentage of Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for payments made by his Department to (a) small and Business, Innovation and Skills what the cost to the medium-sized enterprise suppliers and (b) all suppliers public purse of the literature produced by his were made (i) within 10-days of receipt of invoice and Department and its predecessors has been in each year (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three from 1997 to May 2010; and if he will make a months for which information is available. [11162] statement. [10604]

Mr Davey: In the last three months, BIS has paid the Mr Davey: The Department produces many pieces of following percentages of invoices: literature annually, as did its predecessors. Much of this activity is not controlled centrally and information about Percentage its costs could be assembled only at disproportionate Within 5 working Within 10 working Within 30 calendar Month days1 days days2 cost.

April n/a 93.2 99.5 Departmental Travel 2010 May 94.6 n/a 99.7 2010 Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for June 93.7 n/a 99.7 Business, Innovation and Skills what the budget was 2010 for ministerial travel in his Department and its 1 From May 2010, the requirement to monitor and report payment performance predecessors in each year since 1997; how much was against 10-working days was changed to five working days; 10-day payment (a) spent and (b) unspent in each year; and if he will performance for May and June has not been recorded. 2 BIS’ standard agreed payment terms are payment in 30-days of receipt of a make a statement. [10519] valid invoice. BIS does not currently record and publish information Mr Davey: Budgets are not set at this level. about the size of suppliers as this does not fully reflect Information regarding BIS Ministers’ overseas travel the number and size of businesses engaged in supplying up to 2008-09 which was originally published on the goods and services. We do not discriminate by size of Cabinet Office website is available in the Library. business because many SMEs can be found within Information for 2009-10 will be available shortly. larger supply chains. Departmental Official Hospitality East of England Development Agency: Lobbying

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how much his Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer Department spent on hospitality for events hosted by of 15 June 2010, Official Report, column 391W, on each Minister in his Department in (a) May and (b) regional development agencies, and with reference to the answer of 22 March 2010, Official Report, column June 2010. [10104] 150W, on the East of England Regional Development Mr Davey: £150 in total. Agency: public relations, if he will make an assessment of the compatibility of the East of England Departmental Overseas Visits Development Agency’s public affairs contract with Fishburn Hedges with his Department’s guidance on Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for hiring lobbyists; and how much that regional Business, Innovation and Skills how much expenditure development agency has spent to date on public affairs has been incurred by his Department on overseas travel consultants. [11261] in respect of each Minister in each year since its inception and 6 May 2010; what the (a) departure Mr Prisk: The East of England Development Agency’s date, (b) return date and (c) destination was in each public affairs contract with Fishburn Hedges ended in such case; what class of travel each Minister travelled; January 2010. how much was claimed on travel and subsistence by Payments to Fishburn Hedges to date are as follows: each Minister on each visit; if he will place in the Library a copy of the itinerary for each such visit; and £ if he will make a statement. [10603] 2005 81,905.26 2006 168,483.98 Mr Davey: A list of all overseas visits undertaken by 2007 222,570.74 this Department’s Ministers since the inception of the 2008 73,285.76 Department until 31 March 2008 and costing in excess 2009 91,116.54 of £500 were published on the Cabinet Office website. 1027W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1028W

EU Grants and Loans have, however, made informal inquiries to Government on the future of the ERDF and guidance has been provided, where possible. Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of Foreign Investment in UK: China State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent representations he has received from regional Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for development agencies on the future of the European Business, Innovation and Skills what the monetary Regional Development Fund. [11733] value was of foreign direct investment from China (a) in total and (b) in each sector in each of the last five years. [R] [10606] Mr Prisk: The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has received no official representation from Mr Prisk: The available data is shown in the following the regional development agencies on the future of the table. Updated figures are due to be available from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). RDAs Office for National Statistics on 3 February 2011.

£ million Net foreign direct investment flows into the United Kingdom from Net FDI international investment position in the China United Kingdom from China Industrial activity of UK affiliates 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 End 2008

Total -26 13 12 16 -20 202 Agriculture, forestry and fishing — — — — — — Mining and quarrying (including oil/gas) — — — — — — Food products — — — — — — Textile and wood, printing and publishing 1———01— 1— Chemical, plastic and fuel products 1— 1——01— 1— Metal and mechanical products — — — — — — Office, IT and communications ———0— — equipment Transport equipment — 1— 1—01— 1— Other manufacturing — — — 0 1— 1— Electricity, gas and water — — — — — — Construction — 1— 1—01— 1— Retail/wholesale trade and repairs 1—97110 59 Hotels and restaurants — — — — — — Transport and communications 0 0 2 1 1—1 Financial services 1— 1— 1—10 1— Real estate and business services 0 1 1—10 6 Other services — — — 0 1— 1— ‘—’ Indicates that no data was returned 1 Indicates that data is disclosive and cannot be published Source: ONS Business Monitor MA4, Tables 5.3 and 6.3

Further Education: Capital Investment College name 2010-11 total grant profile (£)

Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Leyton College 3,947,795 Business, Innovation and Skills how much capital Orpington College 4,872,156 South Thames College (including the 10,119,097 support grant each further education college in former Merton College) [11174] London will receive in 2010-11. St Dominic’s Sixth Form College 9,105 Tower Hamlets College 175,000 Mr Willetts: As set out in the following table 14 Uxbridge College 8,634 Greater London colleges including three sixth form West Thames College 30,944,021 colleges are due to receive grants amounting to £114 Westminster Kingsway College 366,362 million in 2010-11 subject to receipt of eligible claims. 114,608,398 22 Greater London colleges are also eligible to apply for the £50 million Renewal and Enhanced Renewal fund as part of the additional £50 million capital funding Eligible colleges for Renewal Grant and Enhanced Renewal announced by the Chancellor on the 24 May. Grant Barking College College name 2010-11 total grant profile (£) Bexley College Barnet College 4,335,537 Carshalton College Bromley College 1,878,901 College of Haringey, Enfield and North City of Westminster College 40,543,381 East London Coulsdon College 6,456 Greenwich Community College Croydon College 17,374,577 Harrow College Lambeth College 27,376 Havering College of Further Education 1029W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1030W

Hillcroft College Coalition’s agreed criteria, which include increasing Kensington and Chelsea College social mobility and attracting more students from Kingston College disadvantaged backgrounds. Lewisham College Higher Education: Finance Mary Ward Centre (The) Newham College of Further Education Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Redbridge College Business, Innovation and Skills what recent discussions Richmond Adult Community College he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on Richmond upon Thames College levels of expenditure on higher education. [10980] Southgate College Southwark College Mr Willetts: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of Tower Hamlets College State regularly discusses a range of subjects with my Uxbridge College right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer, including higher education. Waltham Forest College Workers’ Educational Association Higher Education: Per Capita Costs Working Men’s College (The) Further Education: Finance Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what the average cost Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for to the public purse was of an undergraduate university Business, Innovation and Skills what proportion of course in the latest period for which figures are total spending on further education colleges was available. [11224] allocated in respect of (a) staff costs related to teaching and (b) all staff costs in the latest period for Mr Willetts: There is no published estimate of the which figures are available. [12002] overall average cost to the public purse of an undergraduate university course due to differences in the definitions of Mr Willetts: Funding is allocated to further education which students are eligible for teaching grant and student (FE) colleges and other training organisations for delivery support. Estimates are however available of expenditure of further education and skills training. per receiving student per year for each of these components separately: As autonomous bodies it is for FE colleges to determine the amount of funding they spend on teaching and Teaching expenditure—in academic year 2008/09 the average teaching grant expenditure per funded student (both undergraduate other staff costs in order to deliver this provision. and postgraduate) was around £4,200 per year. Each college publishes their own accounts. The Skills Student support expenditure—in 2008/09 around 870,000 students Funding Agency summarises information from all college were awarded student support in the form of grants and/or loans. accounts on their website: In total £1.136 billion was received in grants at an average of www.skillsfundingagency.bis.gov.uk £1,300 per student awarded student support. Maintenance and fee loans for these students totalled £4.698 billion, which would Higher Education have an average budgetary cost1 per student awarded student support of around £1,500. 1 Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for The budgetary cost represents the future cost to government of subsidising and writing off the loans issued. Business, Innovation and Skills whether he plans to revise the system by which private higher education Higher Education: South Yorkshire institutions are granted degree awarding powers; and what his Department’s plans are for private higher education institutions and their ability to award Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for qualifications. [5690] Business, Innovation and Skills how many young people resident in Don Valley constituency entered (a) Mr Willetts: There are no immediate plans to change higher education and (b) university in each of the last the system by which private sector organisations are 12 years. [10711] granted degree-awarding powers but this is an area which we will keep under review. Mr Willetts: The Department does not hold constituency-level data for students studying higher Higher Education: Admissions education courses at further education colleges. It is, therefore, not possible to provide the numbers of all Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for young higher education entrants from the Don Valley Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he plans to constituency. take to encourage access to higher education for those The numbers of young (under 21) undergraduate from low income backgrounds. [10568] entrants, from the Don Valley constituency, to UK higher education institutions (universities and higher Mr Willetts [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The need education colleges) are provided in the table as an to attract more students from disadvantaged backgrounds alternative. Figures are taken from the Higher Education into higher education is written into the coalition agreement. Statistics Agency Student Record and are provided for This makes clear that once Lord Browne’s Independent the academic years to 1997/98 to 2008/09. Data for Review of Higher Education funding and student finance the 2009/10 academic year will become available from has reported, its proposals will be judged against the January 2011. 1031W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1032W

Young1 undergraduate entrants2 from the Don Valley constituency3, UK higher of their international activities. UKTI only has access 4 education institutions , academic years 1997/98 to 2008/09 to trade and investment figures relating to projects Academic year Young undergraduate entrants where UKTI or its regional partners were specifically 1997/98 280 involved. These figures will not realistically reflect the 1998/99 310 number of jobs that are dependent upon trade with 1999/2000 310 Israel. 2000/01 275 UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) is the Government 2001/02 330 Department with responsibility for helping British 2002/03 325 companies succeed overseas and attracting foreign direct 2003/04 325 investment into the UK. 2004/05 340 2005/06 390 Postal Workers: Cycling 2006/07 335 2007/08 340 2008/09 385 Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for 1 Young refers to entrants aged under 21. Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has 2 Covers entrants to both full-time and part-time courses. made of the environmental effects of Royal Mail’s 3 The table does not include entrants where the constituency of the student cannot be established due to missing or invalid postcode information. plans to phase out the use of post-bikes. [11945] 4 Excludes the Open university due to inconsistencies in their coding of entrants across the time series. Notes: Mr Davey: Decisions regarding the methods used for 1. Figures are based on a HESA snapshot population as at 1 December. its delivery operations are the responsibility of Royal 2. Figures are rounded to the nearest five. Mail’s management team and not matters for Government. Source Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) Student Record. As the level of packets and parcels in delivery rounds increases, due to growth in goods ordered online, the Methyl Bromide daily mailbag may not in many cases be suitable for carriage on bicycles and it is vital that the company Jackie Doyle-Price: To ask the Secretary of State for delivers the mail as efficiently and effectively as possible. Business, Innovation and Skills how many Royal Mail always considers the environmental impact representations he has received on the prohibition of of any operational changes it makes. They have reduced methyl bromide by the EU; and what alternative their greenhouse gas emissions by more than 12% since fumigants to methyl bromide are available for the 2004-05 (transport-related emissions have reduced by treatment of timber and timber products. [6344] 9.8%) and are wholly committed to achieving even more stretching reductions in years to come. The group Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. achieved a reported reduction in its greenhouse gas The use of methyl bromide as a pesticide was reviewed emissions of 26,797.1 tonnes in 2008/09. by the European Commission during 2008 as part of the ongoing review of the safety of all pesticides and as Regional Development Agencies: Land a result methyl bromide was found to have harmful effects on human health. It was therefore made illegal to use the substance as a pesticide after 18 March 2010. Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of Consequently, the use of methyl bromide is no longer State for Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he allowed under EU Regulation 1005/2009 on substances has for the land assets held by each regional that deplete the ozone layer. development agency following dissolution. [11927] The Secretary of State has received no representations on the prohibition of methyl bromide by the EU. However Mr Prisk: Regional development agencies own a Lord Henley and I have both responded to correspondence range of land assets which were acquired for regeneration from MPs about the use of methyl bromide in the purposes. Some of these assets may be sold by Agencies fumigation of willow for cricket bats for export to as part of their normal programme of disposal over the India. The Department has also received representations next year. We will be discussing with RDAs, their partners from the Specialist Cheesemakers Association. and other Departments the future ownership of assets. No final decisions have been made. Currently, there is no alternative fumigant approved under international agreements for the phytosanitary treatment of timber or wood products. Research: Standards

Overseas Trade: Israel Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what his most recent Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for estimate is of the cost to the public purse of the Business, Innovation and Skills what recent estimate he Research Excellence Framework. [11598] has made of the number of jobs in the UK that are dependent on trade with Israel; and if he will make a Mr Willetts: The Higher Education Funding Council statement. [R] [10605] for England, and higher education funding bodies elsewhere in the UK, have together incurred costs of £1.4 million Mr Prisk: Estimates regarding the total number of developing the Research Excellence Framework (REF) jobs in the UK dependent on trade with any particular during 2009-10. The results of REF will inform 5-6 years country are not available. There is no requirement for of research funding allocations (which currently amount companies to notify UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) to over £1.6 billion pa in England). 1033W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1034W

Sheffield Forgemasters The future of fees policy is currently being reviewed by the Independent Review of Higher Education Funding Mr Betts: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, and Student Finance, led by Lord Browne. The Review Innovation and Skills (1) on what date (a) he, (b) each will consider how to ensure a properly funded university other Minister in his Department and (c) each official sector in a way which is more financially sustainable in his Department who was involved in decision- than the current system, and it is looking at a wide making on the proposed loan to Sheffield Forgemasters range of options. It will report in the autumn. was first aware of the contents of each piece of correspondence from Andrew Cook to his Department Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for referred to during the debate on 21 July 2010, Official Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has Report, columns 523-32, what discussions he has had made of the effect of a graduate tax on the number of with ministerial colleagues on this correspondence; on available university places; and if he will make a what date such discussions took place; and if he will statement. [11856] make a statement; [11573] (2) whether (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Mr Willetts: The Independent Review of Higher Department had discussions with (i) the Chairman, (ii) Education Funding and Student Finance, led by Lord any representative and (iii) any employee of William Browne, has been tasked with making recommendations Cook Holdings Ltd on matters relating to the to Government on the future of fees policy and withdrawal of the proposed loan facility to Sheffield financial support for students in England. The review Forgemasters on 21 July 2010; [11583] will consider how to ensure a properly funded university (3) what (a) meetings, (b) telephone discussions and sector in a way which is more financially sustainable (c) correspondence (i) he and (ii) his officials have had than the current system. The review is looking at a wide with (A) Andrew Cook, owner of William Cook range of options, including the feasibility of a progressive Holdings Ltd and (B) employees and representatives of graduate contribution tied to earnings. It will report in the company on Sheffield Forgemasters since 7 May the autumn. 2010; on what dates such contact took place in each case; what the outcome of each such contact was; and Students: Loans if he will make a statement. [11556] Mr Prisk: Mr Cook sent an email to my constituency Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for address on 25 May. I forwarded it to my BIS private Business, Innovation and Skills if he will bring forward office on the same day. Mr Cook then emailed the proposals to increase the maintenance loan available to advice he had received from Linklaters directly to my students from January 2011 to reflect the change in Private Office on 9 June. living costs attributable to the proposed rise in the standard rate of value added tax. [11922] Mr Cook’s representations were subsequently circulated to a small number of officials within the Department, Mr Willetts: The student maintenance loan has been including three senior civil servants (Janice Munday, set for the 2010/11 academic year and we have no plans Mike Keoghan and Aileen Boughen). My Private Office to change it. No decision has been made on the level of responded to both of Mr Cook’s emails thanking him maintenance loan for future years. for sharing his concerns and saying that they had been noted. The Department has had no meetings with any representatives of William Cook Holdings on the subject COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT of Sheffield Forgemasters. Following your request for a copy of the representations from Mr Cook in your letter to me of 30 June, an official wrote to Mr Cook on Betting Shops: Greater London 16 July, in accordance with the best practice set out by the Information Commissioner for consulting third parties Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for in relation to requests for information made under the Communities and Local Government what Freedom of Information Act. The same official also representations he has received from the Mayor of had brief telephone conversations with Mr Cook on London on planning and betting shops in London 16 July and 21 July. since his appointment. [10926] There were no discussions between BIS Ministers about Mr Cook’s representations prior to their disclosure Robert Neill: No representations have been received. to you. Gambling Policy is a matter for the Department for Students: Finance Culture, Media and Sport.

Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Council Housing: Young People Innovation and Skills what estimate he has made of the range of revenues which could accrue to universities in Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for England through the introduction of tuition fees varied Communities and Local Government what estimate he (a) by academic institution and (b) by degree has made of the number of people under the age of programme; and if he will make a statement. [11319] 18 years who have applied for local authority housing Mr Willetts: Variable tuition fees were introduced in in each of the last five years. [11175] England in 2006, following the Higher Education Act 2004, which allows universities to set any fee up to a maximum Andrew Stunell: This information is not collected of £3,290 (in 2010-11). centrally. 1035W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1036W

Departmental Billing Table 2: Neighbourhoods and population of Peterborough constituency in IMD 2007 deciles Number of Percentage of Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for IMD Decile LSOAs Population population Communities and Local Government what percentage of payments made by his Department to (a) small and 4 6 8,061 8 medium-sized enterprise suppliers and (b) all suppliers 5 6 8,847 8 were made (i) within 10 days of receipt of invoice and 6 4 5,634 5 (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three 7 4 6,309 6 8 6 9,984 9 months for which information is available. [11160] 9 5 6,816 6 2 Robert Neill: Communities and Local Government 10 1 1,458 1 do not differentiate payments by supplier size as we Total 69 105,555 have determined to pay all suppliers within 10 days. 1 Most deprived 2 Least deprived The percentage of supplier invoices paid within 10 days Fire Services: Contracts of receipt in April 2010 was 90.89%, in May it was 92.23% and in June it was 93.76%. We do not record payment data against agreed payment terms. Gordon Henderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what Deprived Areas: Peterborough cancellation charges apply in respect of each of the contracts awarded under the FiReControl Project. Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State [11198] for Communities and Local Government which lower layer super output areas in Peterborough constituency Robert Neill: The only FiReControl contracts to which are in the 10 per cent. most deprived such areas in the significant cancellation charges could apply would be country. [11377] the contracts awarded to EADS to develop the IT solution and to VT Flagship for facilities management. Robert Neill: There are 69 Lower Super Output Areas If any cancellation charges were applied, these could (LSOAs) that have their central point within the vary significantly depending on the circumstances in Peterborough constituency of these 11 (16%) are amongst which the contracts were cancelled. Specific arrangements the 10% most deprived areas in England as defined by set out in these contracts cannot be disclosed due to the Indices of Deprivation 2007. Table 1 lists these 11 commercial confidentiality. areas and their IMD scores and ranks (with one being Floods: Cumbria the most deprived and 32,482 being the least deprived). Table 1: LSOAs in Peterborough constituency which are amongst the 10% most John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for deprived in England: Communities and Local Government what assessment LSOA Code LSOA Name IMD2007 Score IMD2007 Rank he has made of the role of the Government Office for E01015609 Peterborough 61.13 803 the North West in the response to the 2009 Cumbrian 007B floods; and how he expects that role to be fulfilled in E01015607 Peterborough 52.06 1937 future. [11891] 007A E01015616 Peterborough 49.68 2379 013F Greg Clark: The Cumbria floods in 2009 clearly E01015658 Peterborough 48.99 2499 showed how local people, local government, emergency 007E services and central government effectively worked together E01015600 Peterborough 48.29 2625 on an emergency response and the ongoing recovery. 014B I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial E01015604 Peterborough 48.12 2652 010B statement made to the House on 22 July 2010, Official E01015663 Peterborough 47.67 2744 Report, columns 27-28WS, on regional government in 009D which we state that there are, however, some Government E01015664 Peterborough 47.23 2828 office functions, such as arrangements for resilience and 009E civil contingencies, which will need to continue. The E01015599 Peterborough 47.19 2836 spending review process will be used to test which 014A activities currently carried out by the Government offices E01015611 Peterborough 47.05 2866 013B should continue, and to decide the most cost-effective E01015657 Peterborough 45.52 3209 ongoing arrangements. 007D Government Office for the North West Table 2 shows the distribution of LSOAs and people in the Peterborough constituency across the deciles of Julie Hilling: To ask the Secretary of State for the Indices of Deprivation Communities and Local Government how many third Table 2: Neighbourhoods and population of Peterborough constituency in IMD sector organisations, community groups and voluntary 2007 deciles groups have been assisted by the Government Office Number of Percentage of for the North West in the last three years. [10791] IMD Decile LSOAs Population population

11 11 17,358 16 Greg Clark: GONW typically works through 2 9 14,571 14 intermediaries rather than direct intervention with individual 3 17 26,517 25 organisations. 1037W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1038W

Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for pandemic influenza outbreak. The National framework Communities and Local Government what recent is currently being reviewed in the light of our experience representations he has received on the future of the during the 2009 influenza pandemic and the Government Office for the North West; and when he recommendations of the independent review into the expects to announce his decision on the future of the swine flu response, chaired by Dame Deidre Hine. This Office. [10843] will include consideration of the roles and responsibilities in planning for a future pandemic. Greg Clark: The Secretary of State has received seven I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial representations regarding the future of Government statement made to the House on 22 July 2010, Official office for the north-west to date. Report, column 27-28WS on Regional Government in I refer my hon. Friend to the written ministerial which we state that there are some Government Office statement on regional government made to the House functions, such as arrangements for resilience and civil on 22 July, Official Report, column 27-28WS. contingencies, which will need to continue. The Spending Review process will be used to test which activities Government Offices for the Regions currently carried out by the Government Offices should continue, and to decide the most cost-effective on-going Mrs Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for arrangements. Communities and Local Government what formal Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for consultation his Department has undertaken in Communities and Local Government how many relation to his review of regional Government offices. Government Office staff are engaged in duties relating [11406] to the past closure requirements of the 2000-2006 European Regional Development Fund programme; Greg Clark: The coalition Government’s ‘Programme and what arrangements he plans to make for for Government’ published on 20 May stated that completion of such duties following the end of the “we will abolish the Government Office for London and consider Government Office Network. [11950] the case for abolishing the remaining Government Offices”. We have received a wide range of representations following Greg Clark: There are 59.2 full-time equivalent staff its publication. engaged in duties relating to the part-closure requirements Consultation has taken place with staff, trade unions, of the 2000-06 European Regional Development Fund and sponsor Departments. Local authorities were asked programme in the Government Office Network. to submit their views as part of a wider conversation on I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial reducing the burden on local government post the statement made to the House on 22 July 2010, Official publication of the coalition agreement. Report, column 27-28WS on Regional Government in I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial which we state that there are, some Government Office statement made to the House on 22 July 2010, Official functions which will need to continue, including work Report, columns 27-28WS, on regional government. on the European Regional Development Fund programme. Consultation on the future of the network will be The Spending Review process is being used to test covered by the spending review consultation process which activities currently carried out by the Government already announced by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor Offices should continue, and to decide the most cost-effective of the Exchequer. on-going arrangements.

Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government which local Communities and Local Government whether he authorities he consulted before taking the decision to undertook a cost/benefit analysis as part of his review of the Government Office Network. [11951] abolish the Government Office Network. [11585] Greg Clark: An outline business case addressing costs Greg Clark: On 28 May my right hon. Friend the and savings has informed the decision in principle; there Minister for Housing and Local Government wrote to will be further related work through the Spending Review local authority chief executives and leaders asking them before the final decision on the Government Office for their ideas on reducing the burden on local government. Network’s closure is taken in the autumn. Among ideas suggested by local authorities were representations supporting the removal of the remaining Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Government offices. Communities and Local Government whether he undertook a risk analysis as part of his review of the John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Government Office Network. [11952] Communities and Local Government what role the Government Office Network played in co-ordinating Greg Clark: We will be undertaking a full risk analysis the Government’s response to the swine influenza as we work through the spending review before the final outbreak; and what plans he has for coordination of decision on the Government office network is taken in regional responses to future similar events. [11924] the autumn.

Greg Clark: The Department of Health (DH) and Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Cabinet Office (CO) published “Pandemic Flu: A National Communities and Local Government whether he Framework for Responding to an Influenza Pandemic” carried out an Equalities Impact Assessment before in November 2007. This sets out the central, regional determining his policy on the Government Office and local response arrangements, in the event of a Network. [11953] 1039W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1040W

Greg Clark: An equality impact assessment will be Housing Benefit undertaken before a final decision on the Government office network is taken in the autumn. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment Government Offices for the Regions: Voluntary he has made of the effect on the level of demand for Organisations emergency social housing from local authorities of the proposed reduction in the level of housing benefit. John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for [11275] Communities and Local Government which voluntary sector organisations he consulted as part of his review Andrew Stunell: The Department for Work and Pensions of the Government Office Network. [11892] assesses the impact of proposed changes on specific groups as part of the policy development process. DWP Greg Clark: There has been no specific consultation published an initial equalities impact assessment on with the voluntary sector organisations on the Coalition’s 23 July which can be found at: review of the case for closure of the Government Office http://www.dwp.gov.uk/whats%2Dnew/ Network, however, we have been in dialogue with the and will be working with Communities and Local Voluntary Sector on our decentralisation and Big Society Government, the Welsh Assembly Government and the agendas. Scottish Government, along with local authorities, to assess the wider impacts on their housing functions. Greater London Authority: Finance DWP will also publish a full impact assessment when legislation is being laid before Parliament. Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many (a) Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for discussions, (b) meetings and (c) exchanges of Communities and Local Government what assessment correspondence he has had with the Mayor of London he has made of the effect on levels of demand for on the grant to be awarded to the Greater London private rented accommodation consequent on the Authority since his appointment. [10927] proposed reduction in the level of housing benefit. [11276] Robert Neill: There have been no ministerial discussions or correspondence with the Mayor to date about the Andrew Stunell: The Department for Work and Pensions grant given by the Department for Communities and will be undertaking an assessment of the impact of the Local Government for the Greater London Authority. proposed reduction in housing benefit as part of the policy development process. They will be working with Hertfordshire Oil Storage Terminal Communities and Local Government, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Scottish Government, along with John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for local authorities, to assess the wider impacts of the Communities and Local Government what assessment changes. he has made of the role of the Government Office for the South East in the response to the Buncefield oil Housing: Construction depot explosion; and how he expects that role to be fulfilled in future. [11893] Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (1) what recent Robert Neill: Following the Buncefield fire in December discussions he has had with housing associations and 2005 an independent Major Incident Investigation Board local authorities on the Kickstart programme; [11483] (MIIB), independently chaired by the right hon. the (2) what recent representations he has received on Lord Newton of Braintree was established under the the Kickstart programme. [11486] direction of the Health and Safety Commission to conduct an investigation into the causes and ways to Andrew Stunell [holding answer 26 July 2010]: There avoid or mitigate against similar incidents in the future. have been a small number of representations received The Board published a number of reports. These included through correspondence from local Members of Parliament the report “Recommendations on the emergency regarding a number of specific programmes, which preparedness for, response to and recovery from incidents” Ministers have replied to directly. The Homes and published in July 2007 which included the role of the Communities Agency (HCA) are in regular contact Government Office for the East of England. with relevant local authorities, registered social landlords I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial and other key stakeholders in relation to the review of statement made to the House on 22 July 2010, Official some Kickstart programmes to ensure they are kept Report, column 27-28WS, on Regional Government in informed of progress. In London, this review will be which we state the Government’s intention in principle undertaken by the HCA’s London Board which is to abolish the remaining eight Government Offices, but chaired by the Mayor of London. state that there are some Government Office functions, such as arrangements for resilience and civil contingencies, Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for which will need to continue. Communities and Local Government what estimate he The Spending Review process will be used to test has made of the cost to his Department of providing which activities currently carried out by the Government incentives to local authorities to make provision for Offices should continue, and to decide the most cost-effective new housing development in each of the next three on-going arrangements years. [11852] 1041W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1042W

Grant Shapps: We are committed to increasing housing population variant it is estimated that net international supply and seeing more of the homes that people want, migration could account, on average, for 40% of the net in the places that people want them, to meet Britain’s growth in households in England over the projection housing need. The coalition agreement set out our clear period from 2006 to 2031. intention to provide incentives for local authorities to However, this does not directly equate to the actual deliver sustainable development, including new homes effective demand for housing. This will also be determined and business. by factors such as the ability of individual households Officials are working up the design of the new scheme to meet the cost of housing which is in turn influenced and we will consult on it later this year. We are committed by the wider economic context. These projections also to housing growth, introducing these incentives will be do not take into account the 2008-based population a priority and we aim to do so early in the spending projections, subsequently published by the ONS, which review period. include lower projected levels of net international migration. CLG expect to publish 2008-based household projections Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for later this year. Communities and Local Government (1) how much he expects each (a) district council, (b) unitary authority Local Government and (c) county council to receive on average in incentives for the provision of new social housing in John Stevenson: To ask the Secretary of State for each of the next three years; [11853] Communities and Local Government whether he plans to request a review of the size of local authority wards. (2) if he will publish the financial models used to design his policy to provide incentives to local [9600] authorities to make provision for new housing Robert Neill: Local government electoral arrangements development. [11854] in England, including any questions as to the size of local authority wards, are matters for the Local Government Grant Shapps: We are committed to increasing housing Boundary Commission for England—a parliamentary supply and seeing more of the homes that people want, body independent of Government which reports to the in the places that people want them, to meet Britain’s House through the Speaker’s Committee. housing need. The coalition agreement set out our clear intention to provide incentives for local authorities to Local Government Finance deliver sustainable development, including new homes and business. Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Those local authorities which take action now to Communities and Local Government whether he consent and support the construction of new homes expects local authorities to make savings consequent will receive direct and substantial benefit from their on the publication of details of all purchases from actions. Because we are committed to housing growth, suppliers of items over £500. [11230] introducing these incentives will be a priority and we aim to do so early in the spending review period. Robert Neill: Local people should be able to hold Officials are working up the design of the new scheme politicians and public bodies to account over how their and we will consult on the scheme later this year. money is being spent and how decisions are being made on their behalf. We expect the publication of details of Housing: Immigration all purchases from suppliers of items over £500 to unleash an army of ’armchair auditors’ who will ensure councils push for the best value for money. In addition Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for by making clear what councils are spending their money Communities and Local Government what his most on, opportunities will arise for new providers to propose recent assessment is of the likely effect of immigration new ways to do things more efficiently and cheaply. on the level of demand for housing in England in the next 20 years. [10739] Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government pursuant to the Andrew Stunell: The potential future demand for answer of 15 July 2010, Official Report, column 907W, housing can be informed by CLG’s household projections. on local government finance, what procedure he plans The latest projections were published on the CLG website to follow to assess the merits of reductions in local in March 2009 government expenditure as part of the Comprehensive http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/corporate/ Spending Review; and what information he plans to statistics/2031households0309 take into account in his assessment. [11649] and are based on the 2006-based population projections produced by the Office for National Statistics. They Robert Neill: As in previous Spending Reviews, the provide a long term view of the net growth in the Government will draw together evidence on cost pressures number of households given a projected population and the scope for efficiencies in local government, drawn and previous demographic trends. As such the household from a range of sources. These will include submissions projections do not take into account changes in policy from the Local Government Association and others in or economic circumstances that may have a material the local government sector; and contributions which effect on future household formation and do not explicitly members of the public and frontline public sector workers reflect the different tenure pattern and household formation make in response to our Spending Challenge. We will of migrant groups. The household projections reflect a also take account of burdens we have removed from net position; the number of newly forming households local government—such as comprehensive area net of those that dissolve. Using the zero net migration assessment—which reduce local authority costs. 1043W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1044W

Local Government: Manpower Robert Neill: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Nottingham North (Mr Allen) Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for on 22 July, Official Report, column 488W. Communities and Local Government what the percentage change in the number of directly-employed National House Building Council local authority staff has been since 2000; and what estimate has been made of the number of directly- Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for employed staff who have been replaced by use of Communities and Local Government if he will review outsourced or contracted-out services in that period. the role of the National House Building Council as the [11517] building controls authority for new-build housing. [10826] Robert Neill: The Department does not hold records of the number of people employed by local authorities. Andrew Stunell: The NHBC are not the only building The Office for National Statistics collects employment control provider for new build housing. The developer statistics for the public sector including local authorities has the choice of who carries out the building control in England and Wales as part of the Quarterly Public function for their building work which can be either the Sector Employment Survey. Data from this survey have local authority building control or a private sector been published with written permission from all local approved inspector, such as NHBC. authorities by the Local Government Association on their website and are available at: Non-domestic Rates http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/page.do?pageId=1955843 No estimate has been made of the number of directly- employed staff who have been replaced by use of outsourced Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for or contracted-out services in that period. Communities and Local Government (1) how many businesses will be affected by the proposal in the June 2010 Budget to cancel backdated business rate bills for Local Government: Pensions newly assessed properties that were split from a larger rateable property; how many businesses are not covered Mrs McGuire: To ask the Secretary of State for by this definition but have received backdated bills; and Communities and Local Government what estimate he what the total liabilities are of businesses in each has made of the change in central Government category; [11351] expenditure on the Local Government Pension scheme (2) what estimate he has made of the effect of the attributable to the use of the consumer prices index for proposal announced in the June 2010 Budget to cancel pension indexation in the next five years. [11059] backdated business rates on the total revenue from business rates in England in each of the next 10 years. Robert Neill: No estimate is available; however, the [11353] outcomes of the individual actuarial valuations of the eighty-nine Local Government Pension scheme funds Robert Neill [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The in England and Wales currently underway will take Government have been committed to find a permanent account of the change in pension indexation when new solution for companies, such as some affected companies employer contribution rates are provided for employers in ports, hit by certain backdated rates bills to help in the scheme to apply from April 2011 to ensure safeguard jobs and businesses. Estimates published by ongoing individual fund solvency. HMT for the June 2010 Budget gave figures for the cost of waiving certain backdated business rate bills Local Government: Teesside http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/junebudget_costings.pdf These costs will be assessed again, and the questions on James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for the number of businesses affected and their liability Communities and Local Government if he will discuss addressed, in the impact assessment that will accompany with local representatives in Teesside the formation of the regulations for the cancellation of backdated business a sub-regional identity for Teesside; and if he will make rates. a statement. [11114] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: I am aware that Tees Valley has a well Communities and Local Government what the (a) cost established history of partnership working across local and (b) net present value is of the proposal in the June government and business, and that it has been exploring 2010 Budget to cancel backdated business rate bills potential to form a local enterprise partnership. The eligible for the eight-year schedule of payments Government will be very happy to receive such a proposal, scheme. [11355] if that is the wish of local authorities and local businesses in the area. Robert Neill [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The Government have been committed to find a permanent Mayors: Leicester solution for companies, such as some affected companies in ports, hit by certain backdated rates bills to help Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for safeguard jobs and businesses. Estimates published by Communities and Local Government if he will set a HMT for the June 2010 Budget gave figures for the cost timescale for mayoral elections in the city of Leicester. of waiving certain backdated business rate bills [11272] http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/junebudget_costings.pdf 1045W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1046W

These costs will be assessed again, and the questions on (iv) Where a local authority proposes to carry out operations the number of businesses affected and their liability that may damage the features of interest within an SSSI against addressed, in the impact assessment that will accompany the advice of Natural England (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981); the regulations for the cancellation of backdated business (v) Applications for listed building consent which affect Grade rates. I and II*, or demolish significant parts of Grade II, listed buildings and where English Heritage object (ODPM Circular Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for 01/2001); Communities and Local Government pursuant to the (vi) Private listed building applications if English Heritage or any of the National Amenity Societies object (ODPM Circular answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 40W, 01/2001); on non-domestic rates, when he plans to lay before (vii) Applications by local planning authorities for listed building Parliament legislation to give effect to the proposed consent in their own area (The Planning (Listed Buildings and backdating of non-domestic rating. [11732] Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990). Other circumstances where decisions by planning Robert Neill: I refer the right hon. Member to the authorities may require the consent of the Secretary of answer I gave him on 15 July 2010, Official Report, State include: column 908W. (i) For Local Development Frameworks: submission of a local Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for development scheme to the Secretary of State who may direct changes; withdrawal of a development plan document after it has Communities and Local Government whether he plans been submitted and revocation of a local development document to increase the level of small business rate relief. after it has been adopted; and establishing or dissolving a joint [11979] planning committee (Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004); (ii) Orders for the modification and revocation of planning Robert Neill: We are doubling the level of small permissions under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990; business rate relief in England for one year, from 1 (iii) Discontinuance Orders under the Town and Country October 2010. Over half a million businesses in England Planning Act 1990; expected to benefit, with approximately 345,000 businesses (iv) Completion notices served under certain circumstances paying no rates. The Government are also committed to under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990; find a practical way to make small business rate relief (v) Prohibition Orders and Suspension Orders under the Town automatic, in accordance with the coalition agreement. and Country Planning Act 1990; (vi) Modification or cancellation of an Article 4 Direction Non-domestic Rates: Farms under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 (as amended); Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for (vii) Modification or cancellation of a Local Development Communities and Local Government what estimate he Order under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as has made of the reduction in revenue from business amended); rates consequent on the non-rating of agricultural (viii) Orders revoking or modifying listed building consent buildings in the latest period for which figures are under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) available. [11158] Act 1990; (ix) Directions requiring express consent for certain advertisements Robert Neill: No estimates of the reduction in revenue to be displayed in a specified area for which deemed consent from business rates consequent on the non-rating of would otherwise be available (the Town and Country Planning, agricultural buildings are available. (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007); (x) Orders defining an “Area of Special Control of Advertisements” Planning under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007; Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for (xi) Disposal of land that is held by a local authority for Communities and Local Government which (a) planning purposes for less than the best consideration that can directions and (b) other decisions by local planning reasonably be obtained (Section 233 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990); authorities require his consent before taking effect. (xii) Applications to dispose of, sell or build on land where [10776] required by the Green Belt (London and Home Counties) Act 1938; Robert Neill: The following decisions by a local planning (xiii) Variations or revocations made to Tree Preservation authority must be notified to the Secretary of State to Orders where an objection has been raised to the variation or revocation; allow him to decide whether the application should be (xiv) Compulsory Purchase Orders made under Section 226 of called in for his own determination: the Town and Country Planning Act 1990; (i) Where it is proposed to grant planning permission for (xv) Applications for hazardous substance consent made by a certain types of green belt development, development outside planning authority where the planning authority is also the town centres, World Heritage Site development, playing field hazardous substances authority under the Planning (Hazardous development or flood risk area development. The specific Substances) Regulations 1992; developments covered are set out in the Town and Country Planning (Consultation) (England) Direction 2009; (xvi) Modification and Revocation Orders under the Planning (Hazardous Substances) Act 1990. (ii) Article 14 Directions under the General Development Procedure Order 1995 may also be issued to prevent a local Dr Whitehead: To ask the Secretary of State for authority from granting planning permission for any development whilst the Secretary of State considers whether the planning Communities and Local Government (1) when he application should be called in for his own determination; plans to bring forward proposals to amend the (iii) Developments that local authorities intend to grant planning provisions of the Town and Country (General permission for and which would adversely affect the integrity of Permitted Development) Order 1995 as required by the an internationally designated nature conservation site (The Green Energy (Definitions and Promotions) Act 2009; Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010); [11015] 1047W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1048W

(2) what representations he has received on No data is available on the number of arrests under amendments to the provisions of the Town and section 91 of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 in Country (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 respect of such injunctions. as required under section 3 of the Green Energy Social Rented Housing: Foreign Nationals (Definition and Promotion) Act 2009. [11016]

Greg Clark: A statutory instrument will be laid before Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Parliament shortly. Communities and Local Government what his most A summary of the responses to the public consultation recent estimate is of the total number of foreign regarding these proposals and the Government response national headed households in social housing; and will be published as soon as possible thereafter. what this represents as a proportion of the total social housing stock. [10582] Private Rented Housing Andrew Stunell: Over the two years 2006-07 and David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 there were, in England, an estimated 310,000 Communities and Local Government what steps he foreign national headed households in social housing— plans to take to protect private tenants from accounting for 7.7% of all social households. unscrupulous landlords. [11600] These figures were derived from the Survey of English Housing. More recent estimates will be released in Andrew Stunell: Local authorities already have extensive autumn 2010 when the final report of the inaugural powers to take action against rogue landlords. We will English Housing Survey for 2008-09 is published. work with them to ensure that any barriers to them The definition of ‘foreign national’ used above is using those powers are lifted. consistent with that used in published results from the Social Rented Housing: Antisocial Behaviour Survey of English Housing; namely a foreign national is someone who is not a national of the UK or Ireland. Susan Elan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many social Communities and Local Government how many of the housing tenancies were demoted as a result of new (a) local authority social lettings and (b) anti-social behaviour in each of the last five years. registered social landlord lettings were to foreign [12039] nationals from (i) EU states and (ii) non-EU states in each of the last five years for which figures are Andrew Stunell: Information on the number of social available. [10585] housing tenancies demoted as a result of antisocial behaviour in each of the last five years is not available. Andrew Stunell: Information on the number of foreign national households receiving social housing is collected Susan Elan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for through the Continuous Recording of Letting form Communities and Local Government how many (CORE). Historically, CORE has only collected information anti-social behaviour injunctions were served on local from registered social landlords. An increasing number authority tenants in each of the last five years; and how of local authorities are now providing information through many arrests under section 91 of the Anti-Social this process as well, but there are still some gaps in the Behaviour Act 2003 there were in respect of such data. injunctions. [12040] Estimates for 2007-08 and 2008-09 are published on Andrew Stunell: Information on the number of the Communities and Local Government website in injunctions granted under section 153 Housing Act 1996 table 754 at: (antisocial behaviour injunctions) was reported by local http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/housing/xls/ authorities in England on the Housing Strategy Statistical 1417846.xls Appendix (HSSA). Local authorities reported that 1,119 For the two years for which figures are available, the antisocial behaviour injunctions were granted during proportion of new social lettings that were to EU 2008-09. Reliable estimates of the number of antisocial foreign nationals and to non-EU foreign nationals are behaviour injunctions granted in previous years are not set out in the following table both for local authority available. landlords and for RSL landlords.

New lettings to EU and non-EU foreign nationals of new social lettings by type of provider, 2007-08 and 2008-09

Percentage

Local authority housing Registered social landlord All social housing housing

EU foreign Non-EU EU foreign Non-EU EU foreign Non-EU All foreign nationals foreign nationals foreign nationals foreign nationals nationals nationals nationals

2007-08 3.3 4.9 2.6 2.6 2.9 3.6 6.5

2008-09 3.7 5.0 2.9 2.6 3.2 3.6 6.8 1049W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1050W

Supermarkets: Planning Permission Urban Areas

Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the Communities and Local Government if he will bring 12 largest local authorities in England with city status forward proposals to give local authorities powers to are in terms of (a) population and (b) area. [11547] take into account the economic and environmental effects on the surrounding area of new supermarket Robert Neill: The Office for National Statistics (ONS) stores in the planning application process. [10149] publishes population estimates for local authorities, the latest of which relate to a mid-2009 time point:

Robert Neill: We recognise how important it is that http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Product.asp?vlnk=15106 we protect town centres and ensure genuine shopping Standard area measurements for local authorities choice for local communities. National planning policy are calculated by the ONS and published on their (contained in Planning Policy Statement 4 (PPS4): ‘Planning website: for Sustainable Economic Growth’) enables local authorities to take account of the economic, social and environmental http://www.ons.gov.uk/about-statistics/geography/products/ impacts when considering planning applications for geog-products-other/sam/index.html new supermarket developments. The Department for Constitutional Affairs (DCA), In the coalition agreement, the Government stated now part of the Ministry of Justice, maintains the list of that they will publish and present to Parliament a grants of city status in the UK. Following the Golden simple and consolidated national planning framework Jubilee city status competition, there are now 66 cities covering all forms of development. We will make an in the UK—50 in England, five in Wales, six in Scotland announcement on how we propose to take forward the and five in Northern Ireland: national planning framework and the implications for http://www.dca.gov.uk/constitution/city/citygj.htm#part6 specific areas of planning policy. We recognise the concern that exists concerning the application of PPS4 [Continued in Column 1051W] and will be re-examining it in this context. 3MC Ministerial Corrections27 JULY 2010 Ministerial Corrections 4MC Ministerial Correction Letter of correction from Mr. Paterson: An error has been identified in relation to the answer given to the hon. Member for Weaver Vale (Graham Tuesday 27 July 2010 Evans) on 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 5W, on hospitality expenditure.

NORTHERN IRELAND It has come to our attention that the figure of £234 was not up to date at the time of answering this Question Departmental Official Hospitality as some relevant July costs had not been centrally recorded at the time the Question was answered. The Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for updated figure should have been £438.63. Northern Ireland how much (a) his Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies The corrected full answer should now read: spent on hospitality in each year since 1997. [7451]

Mr Paterson: On 12 April 2010 the Northern Ireland Mr Paterson: On 12 April 2010 the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) transferred responsibility for policing and Office (NIO) transferred responsibility for policing and justice to the Northern Ireland Assembly. Comparable justice to the Northern Ireland Assembly. Comparable figures for the Department as it is now configured are figures for the Department as it is now configured are not available. not available. Since 12 April the Department has spent £234 on hospitality. Since 12 April the Department has spent £438.63 on hospitality. The NIO has no agencies. It has one non-departmental public body which has incurred no cost on hospitality The NIO has no agencies. It has one non-departmental since 12 April. public body which has incurred no cost on hospitality [Official Report, 19 July 2010, Vol. 514, c. 5W.] since 12 April.

ORAL ANSWERS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 854 DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 845 Defendant Anonymity ...... 854 AV Referendum (Scotland) ...... 849 Domestic Violence ...... 859 Boundary Changes...... 846 People with Disabilities (Victims of Rape) ...... 858 Regional and Local Representatives...... 845 Serious Fraud Office ...... 857 Topical Questions ...... 850 Violence against Women ...... 856 Voter Registration...... 848 ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE ...... 866 Democratic Process (Engagement)...... 866 CHURCH COMMISSIONERS ...... 863 Referendums (Timing) ...... 864 Women Bishops ...... 863 Electoral Reform...... 861 Cathedral Restoration...... 865 Voter Registration...... 860 Women Bishops ...... 865 Voter Registration...... 861 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 79WS HEALTH...... 86WS Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd...... 79WS Cancer Drugs...... 86WS Right to Request Social Enterprise Scheme ...... 87WS COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 82WS Ministerial Hospitality...... 82WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 88WS Zero-Carbon Homes...... 83WS Control Orders...... 88WS Criminal Records Bureau (Annual Report)...... 88WS Licensing Consultation ...... 88WS DEFENCE...... 84WS Scientific Procedures on Living Animals...... 89WS Ministry of Defence Resource Accounts 2009-10... 84WS PRIME MINISTER ...... 90WS ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 84WS Intelligence-Gathering Techniques...... 90WS Parliamentary Written Question (Correction)...... 84WS National Security Vetting...... 90WS

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 85WS TREASURY ...... 80WS EU Explanatory Memoranda 9 June 2010-9July Tax Policy Documents ...... 80WS 2010 (Correction)...... 85WS International Court of Justice’s Advisory WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 91WS Opinion (Kosovo) ...... 85WS Employment Support (Disabled People) ...... 91WS PETITIONS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 13P EDUCATION...... 14P Gypsies and Travellers (Security of Tenure) ...... 13P Proposed Expansion (St Peter’s School, Croydon). 14P WRITTEN ANSWERS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 1020W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS—continued Human Trafficking: Prosecutions...... 1020W Consumers: Protection...... 1024W Departmental Billing ...... 1025W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 1022W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 1025W Banks: Interest Charges ...... 1022W Departmental Overseas Visits ...... 1025W Broadband: Blaenau Gwent...... 1023W Departmental Publications ...... 1026W Business: Government Assistance ...... 1023W Departmental Travel ...... 1026W Business: West Midlands...... 1023W East of England Development Agency: Lobbying . 1026W Cairn Energy...... 1024W EU Grants and Loans...... 1027W Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Foreign Investment in UK: China...... 1028W Efficiency Scheme ...... 1024W Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS—continued CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT—continued Further Education: Capital Investment...... 1027W National Lottery: Blaenau Gwent...... 993W Further Education: Finance...... 1029W National Lottery: Grants ...... 993W Higher Education...... 1029W National Lottery: Public Participation...... 993W Higher Education: Admissions ...... 1029W Higher Education: Finance ...... 1030W ELECTORAL COMMISSION COMMITTEE ...... 1022W Higher Education: Per Capita Costs ...... 1030W Absent Voting ...... 1022W Higher Education: South Yorkshire ...... 1030W Carlisle City Council: Constituencies...... 1022W Methyl Bromide ...... 1031W Democracy Diversity Fund...... 1022W Overseas Trade: Israel ...... 1031W Postal Workers: Cycling ...... 1032W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 880W Regional Development Agencies: Land ...... 1032W Anaerobic Digestion ...... 880W Research: Standards...... 1032W Banks: Environment Protection ...... 880W Sheffield Forgemasters ...... 1033W Carbon Emissions...... 881W Students: Finance ...... 1033W Combined Heat and Power ...... 882W Students: Loans ...... 1034W Departmental Billing ...... 882W Departmental Internet ...... 882W CABINET OFFICE...... 1017W Departmental Legal Costs ...... 883W Civil Servants: Pensions ...... 1017W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 883W Civil Servants: Redundancy Pay...... 1017W Departmental Pay ...... 883W Government Departments: Travel ...... 1018W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 883W Jobseeker’s Allowance: Lone Parents ...... 1018W Departmental Temporary Employment ...... 884W Manufacturing Industries: Carlisle...... 1018W Departmental Trade Unions ...... 884W Public Sector: Cumbria ...... 1018W Electric Cables ...... 885W Public Sector: Manpower...... 1020W Energy: Housing ...... 886W Energy: National Policy Statements ...... 886W CHURCH COMMISSIONERS ...... 1019W Energy: Prices ...... 886W Bishops: Females ...... 1019W Energy: Windows...... 888W Housing: Energy ...... 888W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 1034W Insulation: Housing ...... 888W Betting Shops: Greater London ...... 1034W Noise: Farms...... 888W Council Housing: Young People ...... 1034W Nuclear Power...... 889W Departmental Billing ...... 1035W Office for Nuclear Development ...... 889W Deprived Areas: Peterborough...... 1035W Offshore Wind Capital Grants Scheme ...... 890W Fire Services: Contracts ...... 1036W Power Stations: Didcot ...... 890W Floods: Cumbria...... 1036W Renewable Energy...... 890W Government Office for the North West ...... 1036W Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme ...... 893W Government Offices for the Regions ...... 1037W Wind Power ...... 893W Government Offices for the Regions: Voluntary Wind Power: Noise ...... 893W Organisations...... 1039W Greater London Authority: Finance ...... 1039W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 963W Hertfordshire Oil Storage Terminal...... 1039W Afghanistan: Chevening Scholarships Programme. 963W Housing Benefit ...... 1040W Afghanistan: Christianity...... 963W Housing: Construction...... 1040W Albania: Foreign Relations ...... 963W Housing: Immigration...... 1041W Brazil: Embassies ...... 964W Local Government ...... 1042W British Council: Offices ...... 964W Local Government Finance ...... 1042W British Nationals Abroad: Prisoners ...... 964W Local Government: Manpower...... 1043W Departmental Billing ...... 965W Local Government: Pensions ...... 1043W Departmental Contracts ...... 965W Local Government: Teesside ...... 1043W Departmental Manpower...... 965W Mayors: Leicester...... 1043W Departmental Official Cars...... 965W National House Building Council ...... 1044W Departmental Operating Costs ...... 966W Non-domestic Rates...... 1044W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 966W Non-domestic Rates: Farms...... 1045W Departmental Regulations ...... 967W Planning...... 1045W Departmental Secondment ...... 967W Private Rented Housing ...... 1047W Departmental Travel ...... 967W Social Rented Housing: Antisocial Behaviour...... 1047W Developing Countries: Carbon Emissions...... 968W Social Rented Housing: Foreign Nationals ...... 1048W Diplomatic Service: Parliamentary Scrutiny...... 968W Supermarkets: Planning Permission...... 1049W EC Nationals: Citizenship...... 968W Urban Areas ...... 1050W Eritrea: Christianity ...... 969W EU Countries: Embassies...... 969W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT ...... 990W France: Anti-Semitism ...... 970W Cultural Heritage ...... 990W Grants...... 970W Departmental Cars ...... 989W Indonesia: Islam...... 969W Departmental Contracts ...... 991W Iraq: Embassies...... 970W Departmental Sponsorship ...... 991W Israel: Educational Exchanges ...... 971W Departmental Taxis ...... 991W Israel: Overseas Trade ...... 971W Departmental Training ...... 991W Members: Correspondence ...... 972W Flags ...... 992W MI6...... 972W Gaming Machines...... 992W Slovakia: Cluster Munitions...... 972W Libraries ...... 992W Somalia: Foreign Relations ...... 972W Col. No. Col. No. FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE— JUSTICE—continued continued Departmental Official Hospitality...... 908W Somalia: Peace Negotiations...... 973W Driving Offences: Fixed Penalties ...... 894W South Africa and Namibia: Sterilisation ...... 973W First Offenders...... 908W Sudan: War Crimes ...... 974W Fixed Penalties: Shoplifting ...... 908W HM Courts Service ...... 909W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION...... 1021W Human Rights: Children...... 910W Catering ...... 1021W Insurance: Households...... 910W Members’ Staff: Termination of Employment ...... 1021W Judges ...... 910W Legal Aid : Expenditure...... 911W INDEPENDENT PARLIAMENTARY Legal Services Commission: Finance ...... 911W STANDARDS AUTHORITY COMMITTEE ...... 952W Magistrates Courts...... 911W Complaints ...... 952W Magistrates Courts: Closures ...... 912W Correspondence ...... 953W Magistrates Courts: Domestic Violence ...... 913W IPSA: Board ...... 953W Magistrates Courts: West Sussex...... 914W Members: Allowances ...... 954W Magistrates: Gwynedd ...... 914W Members: Claims...... 955W Mesothelioma: Compensation ...... 915W Members: Constituency Offices ...... 955W Money Laundering: Corruption ...... 915W Members: Correspondence ...... 956W Offenders: Rehabilitation ...... 916W Members: Email...... 956W Office of the Public Guardian...... 916W Members’ Staff: Pay...... 953W Out-of-Court Disposals ...... 918W Members: Travel ...... 957W Pleural Plaques: Compensation...... 919W Offices...... 958W Prison Officers ...... 919W Operating Costs ...... 958W Prisoners: Foreign Nationals...... 920W Pay...... 958W Prisoners: Repatriation ...... 922W Recruitment ...... 959W Prosecutions: Weapons...... 922W Temporary Employment ...... 959W Rape: Rights of Accused...... 923W Trade Unions: Finance...... 960W Secure Training Centres ...... 924W Secure Training Centres: Disciplinary Proceedings...... 928W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 979W Secure Training Centres: Equipment...... 929W Afghanistan: Overseas Aid...... 979W Secure Training Centres: Restraint Techniques ...... 929W Amajaro Holdings Limited ...... 979W Trade Unions ...... 933W Bilateral Aid: HIV Infection ...... 979W Traffic Enforcement Centre...... 934W Common Agricultural Policy ...... 980W Witnesses ...... 934W Conflict Prevention ...... 980W Witnesses: Hearing Impairment...... 934W Departmental Manpower...... 980W Departmental Private Education...... 980W Departmental Regulations ...... 981W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 879W Developing Countries: Education ...... 981W Departmental Internet ...... 879W Developing Countries: Females...... 982W Police Service of Northern Ireland: Recruitment ... 879W Developing Countries: Health Services ...... 982W Trade Unions ...... 879W Developing Countries: HIV Infection ...... 983W Developing Countries: Human Trafficking ...... 984W PRIME MINISTER ...... 1019W Developing Countries: Maternity Services ...... 984W Parliament: Security...... 1019W EC Aid...... 984W EU Law...... 985W SCOTLAND...... 974W International Assistance...... 985W Act of Settlement 1701...... 974W Mozambique: Overseas Aid ...... 985W Commonwealth Games 2014 ...... 974W NGOs: Finance...... 986W Constituencies...... 975W Overseas Aid: HIV Infection...... 987W Departmental Internet ...... 975W St Helena: Airports ...... 988W Departmental Pay ...... 975W Turks and Caicos Islands: Overseas Loans...... 988W Departmental Travel ...... 975W UN...... 988W Economic Growth: Glasgow ...... 975W Elections ...... 976W JUSTICE...... 894W Food Standards Agency...... 976W Compensation: Armed Forces...... 894W Personnel: Public Sector...... 977W County Courts: Finance...... 894W Trade Unions ...... 977W County Courts: Redditch ...... 895W County Courts: Wales...... 895W TRANSPORT ...... 994W Courts...... 896W Air Traffic Systems...... 994W Courts: Closures ...... 896W Association of Train Operating Companies ...... 994W Courts: Operating Costs...... 896W Aviation ...... 995W Courts: Security ...... 899W Aviation: Exhaust Emissions...... 995W Courts: Taunton...... 900W Biofuels...... 996W Courts: Wales...... 899W Bus Services: Concessions ...... 996W Crimes of Violence: Sentencing...... 904W Bus Services: Wigan ...... 997W Debt Management : Regulation ...... 905W Carbon Dioxide ...... 997W Departmental Billing ...... 906W Crossrail Line and London Underground...... 998W Departmental Communication ...... 906W Cycling: West Midlands ...... 998W Departmental Consultants...... 907W Dartford-Thurrock Crossing: Tolls ...... 998W Departmental Official Cars...... 907W Departmental Billing ...... 998W Col. No. Col. No. TRANSPORT—continued TREASURY—continued Departmental Buildings...... 1000W Corporation Tax ...... 937W Departmental Electronic Equipment ...... 1000W Departmental Buildings...... 937W Departmental Equal Opportunities...... 1001W Departmental Catering ...... 938W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 1001W Departmental Internet ...... 938W Departmental Photographs...... 1002W Departmental Legal Costs ...... 939W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 1002W Departmental Official Cars...... 939W Departmental Regulation...... 1002W Departmental Public Consultation...... 940W Departmental Security ...... 1002W Departmental Security ...... 940W Departmental Travel ...... 1003W Departmental Training ...... 940W Driving: Licensing...... 1003W Equitable Life Assurance Society: Compensation .. 941W East Coast Main Line: Travel...... 1004W Health Foods ...... 941W Electric Vehicles ...... 1004W Housing Benefit ...... 941W Felixstowe-Nuneaton Railway Line ...... 1005W Income Tax ...... 942W Hotels ...... 1005W Income Tax: Females ...... 942W Lobbying...... 1005W National Insurance Fund...... 942W London Underground: Finance ...... 1006W Non-domestic Rates: Garages and Petrol Stations . 943W Luton Station...... 1006W Nuclear Power Stations: Decommissioning...... 943W Merchant Shipping ...... 1006W Office for Tax Simplification ...... 944W Motor Vehicles: Exhaust Emissions ...... 1007W Overseas Trade: Israel ...... 944W Motorways: England...... 1007W Personal Loans ...... 945W National Express...... 1007W Police: Lambeth ...... 945W Public Transport: Disability ...... 1007W Pregnant Women: Grants...... 945W Rail Services...... 1008W Premium Bonds ...... 946W Railway Stations ...... 1008W Public Expenditure: Scotland...... 946W Railway Stations: Greater London...... 1009W Public Expenditure: Wales ...... 946W Railways...... 1009W Public Finance ...... 946W Railways: Fares ...... 1010W Public Sector: Pensions ...... 947W Railways: Franchises ...... 1010W Rents: Hackney...... 947W Railways: High Speed Two...... 1011W Revenue and Customs: Debt Collection...... 948W Railways: Liverpool ...... 1011W Revenue and Customs: ICT ...... 948W Railways: Manchester ...... 1012W Roads: Repairs and Maintenance...... 949W Railways: Overcrowding...... 1012W Sheffield Forgemasters: Finance...... 949W Railways: Parking ...... 1013W Tax Allowances: Video Games...... 949W Railways: Travel ...... 1013W Tax Evasion: Construction...... 949W Road Traffic: Economic Situation...... 1013W Taxation...... 950W Road Traffic Offences: Fines ...... 1013W Taxation: Betting Shops...... 950W Roads: Accidents ...... 1014W VAT ...... 950W Roads: Construction ...... 1014W VAT: Electric Vehicles ...... 950W Roads: Metals ...... 1015W VAT: Pet Foods ...... 951W Seafarers ...... 1015W Welfare Tax Credits...... 951W Severn Bridge: Tolls ...... 1015W Welfare Tax Credits: Overpayments ...... 951W Shipping: Pay...... 1015W Working Families Tax Credit ...... 952W Transport for London: Finance...... 1016W Transport: Greater London...... 1016W WALES...... 960W Vehicle and Operator Services Agency ...... 1016W Constituencies: Wales...... 961W Wrexham-Bidston Railway Line: Electrification .... 1017W Departmental Operating Costs ...... 962W Environment Agency’s water supply schemes: Wales ...... 960W TREASURY ...... 935W Public Sector: Manpower...... 962W Accelerated Development Zones...... 935W Railways: Electrification ...... 962W Bank Services: Fees and Charges ...... 935W Ryder Cup Tournament ...... 963W Building Societies...... 935W Building Societies: Regulation...... 936W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES...... 978W Capital Gains Tax ...... 936W Church of England: Equal Opportunities ...... 978W Cheques ...... 936W Departmental Speeches...... 978W Child Benefit...... 936W Government Equalities Office’s :Regulations ...... 978W Consumer Price Index...... 937W Women’s National Commission...... 978W MINISTERIAL CORRECTION

Tuesday 27 July 2010

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Nick Harvey: The operations and the business of the Written Answers to Royal Air Force are administered by Headquarters Air Command. Questions The current structure, commanded by the Commander in Chief Air Command is divided between three pillars: Operations; Personnel; and Strategy, Policy, Plans and Corporate Services. Tuesday 27 July 2010 A diagram of this structure is available from the RAF [Continued from Column 1050W] website at the following link: http://www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/rafcommand.cfm

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for DEFENCE Defence what steps he is taking to reduce the number of military and civilian personnel at RAF—HQ Air Command. [11773] Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations Nick Harvey: Headquarters Air Command is conducting David Miliband: To ask the Secretary of State for a Capabilities and Structures Review which will align Defence what progress has been made on the repairs to with the Strategic Defence and Security Review. Yatimchay Road in Helmand Province intended to make the road safer from attack by improvised Air Force: Deployment explosive devices. [7685] Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Mr Hague: I have been asked to reply. how many low-flying sorties Royal Air Force pilots We continue to invest in construction measures, including carried out in (a) Turkish, (b) Swedish, (c) Spanish, stronger roads and better roadside infrastructure, to (d) Saudi Arabian, (e) Portuguese, (f) Polish, (g) improve freedom of movement for Afghan civilians and Norwegian, (h) Dutch, (i) Italian, (j) Danish. (k) counter the threat from emplaced Improved Explosive Greek, (l) French, (m) Australian, (n) US, (o) German Devices (IEDs). and (p) Belgian air space in (i) 2005, (ii) 2006, (iii) 2007, (iv) 2008 and (v) 2009. [10847] Responsibility for the Yatimchay Road project passed to the US Marine Corps in April 2010 as part of the Mr Robathan: The information requested is not held handover of the Musa Qala district to US Command. centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate The project has been fully surveyed and, given the scale, cost. presented to senior US officers for approval. The proposal includes a hardened section of road at points of greatest Armed Conflict: Children vulnerability to IEDs. Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received on Defence if he will hold discussions with his US counterpart implementing the recommendations of the 25th Report on coordination of the drawdown timetables of US and of the Joint Committee on Human Rights Session UK armed forces in Afghanistan. [8819] 2008-09, HC 318, on children’s rights, in respect of children and armed conflict; and if he will make a Nick Harvey: The Secretary of State regularly discusses statement. [11103] the international mission in Afghanistan with his US counterpart, including the plan for transition of security Mr Robathan: The recommendations were addressed responsibility from the International Security Assistance as part of the Government Response to the Joint Committee Force to the Afghan National Security Forces, and they on Human Rights Twenty-fifth Report of Session 2008-09 did so during his recent visit to the US from 28 June to 2 published on 3 March 2010 (HL Paper 65 HC 400). The July. Ministry of Defence has received no representations specifically on the implementation of the recommendations Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence in respect of children and armed conflict. if he will review the cost-effectiveness of the use of attack (a) helicopters and (b) pilots in Afghanistan. Armed Forces: Food [10470] Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gerald Howarth: We are reviewing the cost Defence on what date the two-year contract extension effectiveness of all our capabilities as part of the Strategic awarded by his Department to Purple Food Service Defence and Security Review. Solutions was signed; and whether there was Ministerial approval of the contract. [10833]

Air Force Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence food supply contract with Purple Food Service Solutions was extended Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for on 14 December 2009; the first of two available options Defence if he will publish a diagram of the structure to extend the contract by periods of two years. There and responsibilities of RAF—HQ Air Command. was no requirement for Ministers to oversee the contract [11772] extension. 1053W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1054W

Armed Forces: Health Services fulfilling. Where a job can be found, and they are either qualified or can be trained for the job, the individual Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for may be transferred to that post. Defence whether he plans to commission a Ministry of Where a role cannot be found or it is in the interests Defence hospital unit in Scotland. [11343] of the individual and the armed forces, then an individual may be discharged on medical grounds. We will ensure Mr Robathan [holding answer 26 July 2010]: There that these men and women, and their families have the are currently no plans to extend the existing network of care and support they require. Personnel may also be Ministry of Defence Hospital Units (MDHUs). entitled to financial support from the Armed Forces Compensation scheme and an invaliding pension, where appropriate. Armed Forces: Housing On 11 February, the Ministry of Defence launched the army recovery capability (ARC) along with its partners Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes. The how many armed forces families have participated in his ARC meets the needs of injured, wounded and sick Department’s Home Ownership pilot. [11126] personnel and helps these personnel either return to duty or to make a smooth transition to civilian life, Mr Robathan: Currently there are 351 applicants to however long it takes. It focuses on the specific welfare, the Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme (pilot) administrative and developmental needs of individuals who have been assessed as being eligible in principle. Of during, in-between, or after their medical care, as well these, 205 have progressed to the stage where they have as providing support to their families where appropriate. been invited to speak to a financial adviser. There have This ensures there is an end-to-end system for enabling been to date 22 completions. injured personnel to regain fitness for duty if possible, or to leave the services with the appropriate level of David Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for support, where this is more appropriate. Defence what his policy is on the future funding of the The Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force also have Home Ownership pilot; and if he will make a statement. their own bespoke recovery capabilities, tailored to their [11129] particular service’s requirements. Mr Robathan: The Armed Forces Home Ownership Armed Forces: Mental Health Services Scheme (pilot) is a shared equity scheme for service personnel who cannot otherwise afford to buy a home Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence in the current housing market. It was launched as a four pursuant to the answer of 13 July 2010, Official Report, year pilot in January 2010 and like all other aspects of column 602W, on armed forces: mental health services, defence, will be evaluated and assessed as it progresses whether the findings of the study to be carried out by and as part of the current Strategic Defence and Security the hon. Member for South West Wiltshire will be Review. published; and when he expects that study to be concluded. [10427] Mr Tom Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of armed forces personnel Mr Robathan: My hon. Friend the Member for South live off-base. [11366] West Wiltshire (Dr Murrison) is conducting an independent study.His initial findings are currently under consideration Mr Robathan: Armed forces personnel live in a variety and I expect them to be published shortly. of accommodation, both publicly provided and non- publicly provided, which may be on or off-base. While Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence all personnel are required to record their Residence at pursuant to the answer of 13 July 2010, Official Report, Place of Duty Address on the Joint Personnel column 602W, on armed forces: mental health services, Administration system, there is no requirement to record (1) whether the medical discharge assessment for whether the accommodation is located on or off-base. armed forces personnel undertaken 90 days prior to Therefore, this information is not held. discharge is carried out on an individual basis; [10428] (2) what assessment he has made of the merits of Armed Forces: Injuries delivering F-Med-133 forms directly to GPs rather than to the individuals involved in order to reduce the Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for risk of loss or misappropriation; [10429] Defence if he will take steps to ensure that armed (3) what estimate he has made of the average length services personnel seriously injured on military operations of time spent by doctors on a medical discharge are able to continue military careers. [10242] assessment for armed forces personnel. [10431]

Mr Robathan: Those who are injured deserve our Mr Robathan: The aim of the discharge medical greatest support. Our policies allow the services to assessment is to assess and record the medical status retain those who have been seriously injured, if they and functional capacity at the time of discharge. It is wish to stay, for as long as there is a worthwhile role or conducted by a doctor during an individual, face to it is judged to be in the interest of the individual and the face consultation. The total time spent conducting service. When an individual can no longer undertake these assessments can vary from case to case but typically their current role, for medical reasons, they are able to lasts approximately 60 minutes. This currently includes look for other roles that they are medically capable of a self-declaration, formal health check (including 1055W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1056W hearing and a comprehensive physical examination) to promote access to services and ensure the best treatment and a review of all significant episodes of ill health possible is available for veterans with mental health during service. problems. The full assessment is recorded on a FMed 1 (signed by both the doctor and the patient) and summarised on Armed Forces: Officers a FMed 133. In most cases individuals still in service will not have re-registered with a NHS General Practitioner Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for (GP) by the time of their Release Medical, and therefore Defence how many retired officers are on the list of the individual is provided with a copy of the FMed 133 active personnel; and what estimate he has made of the to pass to their new NHS GP. The FMed 133 also cost to his Department of such listings in the latest provides the new NHS GP with a single service-specific period for which figures are available. [11365] address from where the individual’s full medical records may be obtained, which includes the completed FMed 1 Mr Robathan: There are 29 retired officers who are form. The individual must consent to the transfer of on the list of active personnel. They are eligible for their FMed 133 form to their GP, and to the GP having various allowances such as access to Service transport access to their service medical records. for duty visits, access to Service medical and dental The Defence Medical Services (DMS) is actively engaged facilities and funeral/memorial services. with the Department of Health and the Royal College The costs incurred by these individuals at such events of General Practitioners to: assist individuals’re-registration are not held centrally and could be obtained only at with an NHS GP at discharge; to transfer the FMed 133 disproportionate cost. directly to the NHS GP incorporated into the registration process; to enhance the NHS’ visibility of the ex-military Armed Forces: Uniforms population at the point of release; and to further smooth the transition of health care delivery from DMS to NHS through direct correspondence between primary Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for health care teams as required. Defence (1) when he expects the General Service Respirator to come into service; [11917] The Prime Minister has asked my hon. Friend the Member for South West Wiltshire (Dr Murrison) to (2) what his most recent estimate is of the costs his carry out a study into the health of both serving and Department will incur under its General Service ex-service personnel to see what more can be done to Respirator contract. [11919] assess and meet these needs; a focus of this study will be mental health. Decisions on what further work needs to Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence approved £63.9 be undertaken will necessarily depend on the results of million for the delivery of 300,000 sets of the General my hon. Friend’s study. Service Respirator (GSR) in 2004. The GSR is expected to enter service over the summer; the project remains within its cost approval. Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 13 July 2010, Official Report, column 602W, on armed forces: mental health services, Armed Services: Discharges whether any medical assessment is made of armed services personnel after their discharge. [10430] Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) early service leavers and (b) others have left each of the armed services in each year since 2005. Mr Robathan: All armed forces personnel receive a [9183] discharge medical assessment 90 days prior to discharge. The NHS is responsible for the health care needs of armed forces personnel after their discharge. Mr Robathan: The numbers of early service leavers and others that have left each of the armed forces in The Government are committed to providing effective, each year since 2006 are listed in the following tables: through-life, health services for our service and ex-service personnel. The Prime Minister has asked my hon. Friend Royal Navy Army early Royal Air Force the Member for South West Wiltshire (Dr. Murrison) to early service service early service conduct an independent study into veterans’ mental Financial year leavers leavers leavers health issues. 2006-07 1,860 5,240 522 The Ministry of Defence has contributed £500,000 2007-08 2,268 6,347 1,738 towards the setting up and evaluation of NHS Veterans 2008-09 2,248 5,261 949 Community Mental Health Pilot schemes in six NHS Trusts around the country. Additionally, the Medical Royal Air Assessment Programme at St Thomas’ hospital in London Royal Navy Army other Force other is available to serving and former armed forces personnel Financial year other leavers leavers leavers who have deployed on operations since 1982. This offers 2006-07 2,460 10,530 4,548 comprehensive physical and mental health assessments 2007-08 2,072 8,983 3,282 for veterans who believe their ill health may be linked to 2008-09 2,182 7,879 3,371 service. The Government have also recently confirmed an Data for financial year 2005-06 are not held in the additional £2 million to allow the Department of Health format requested but the totals across all armed forces to work with strategic partners, including Combat Stress, are as follows: 1057W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1058W

Defence Estates: Public Appointments Financial year 2005-06 Early service leavers 10190 Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Other leavers 13070 Defence when the new head of Defence Estates will be appointed; and if he will make a statement. [10768] Commonwealth Organisations Mr Robathan [holding answer 26 July 2010]: An announcement will be made in due course. Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence to which Commonwealth organisations his Defence: Procurement Department provides grant funding; and how much it has provided to each in each of the last 10 years. Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for [10635] Defence how many urgent operational requirements have been commissioned to date; how many are in Mr Robathan [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The progress; what equipment is the subject of each such Ministry of Defence only grants funding to one requirement; what estimate he has made of the cost of Commonwealth organisation, which is the Commonwealth each such requirement; and when he expects each War Graves commission since 2000-01: requirement in progress to be completed. [11770]

£ million Mr Gerald Howarth: Between 2002-03 and June 2010, some 1,150 Urgent Operational Requirements (UORs) 2000-01 24 were approved, of which some 550 UORs were for 2001-02 24 operations in Iraq and some 600 for operations in 2002-03 26 Afghanistan. Some UORs have been subject to re-approvals 2003-04 29 as requirements have evolved and some will have been 2004-05 32 provided in both theatres, so a single capability may be 2005-06 31 counted more than once in these numbers. 2006-07 32 Some 290 UORs have been approved and are recorded 2007-08 34 as having a current financial liability. It would be 2008-09 37 inappropriate to list details of what equipment may be the subject of each of these UORs as its disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, Industrial Capabilities: Defence effectiveness or security of the armed forces. The average cost of UORs approved last financial year (2009-10) Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for was approximately £8 million. UOR timeframes reflect Defence what national industrial capabilities he has the operational urgency of the requirement, many deliver identified as requiring protection and retention for well within a year of the requirement being identified, strategic military purposes. [11771] 18 months is the maximum planning horizon.

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gerald Howarth: The Strategic Defence and Security Defence what joint procurement exercises his Department Review (SDSR) will form the baseline for determining has with partners in (a) France and (b) Germany. the capabilities that we need, now and in the future. [11774] After the SDSR has been completed in the autumn, and before the end of the year, we intend to publish a Green Mr Gerald Howarth: The Ministry of Defence’s Paper on our defence industry and technology policy. Collaborative Equipment Programmes list shows that The Green Paper will build on the SDSR conclusions, the UK is engaged in the following equipment programmes and ongoing discussions with industry and others. There with France and Germany, on both a bilateral and will then be a wider consultation process with Parliament, multilateral basis. industry and academia before we bring forward a White Paper in spring 2011. This will formally set out our new Equipment programme approach to industry and technology, including setting out our sovereignty requirements and how we will seek France to safeguard associated industrial technologies. Manufacture/ Olympus/Tyne Gas Turbines In-service Defence Estates NATO Submarine Rescue System Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System David Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Multiple Launch Rocket System In-Service Defence what plans he has for the future of Defence Support NATO Armament Ballistics Kernel Estates; and if he will make a statement. [11422] Counter Battery Radar (COBRA) Mr Robathan: The Government are conducting a Principal Anti Air Missile System (PAAMS) Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR), covering Lynx all aspects of defence, including estates. The defence Puma section of the SDSR will be finished in time to inform Gazelle the comprehensive spending review on 20 October. 1059W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1060W

Agreed terms of business would require the MOD to Equipment programme pay correctly presented invoices within 30 calendar RTM322 Helicopter Engine days. MOD achievement against this target, excluding NATO Improved Link Eleven the Trading Funds, is provided in the following table. NAVSTAR GPS Invoices paid within 30 days of receipt Percentage

Demonstration Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile April 2010 99.6 A400M May 2010 99.6 Functional Integration of Electro-Magnetic June 2010 99.4 Sensors Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (Heavy) We have made no separate assessment of the time taken to pay small and medium-sized enterprises.

Concept ACCOLADE (Off-Board Active Decoy) Departmental Buildings 40mm Cannon Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Germany Defence (1) how much (a) his Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on Manufacture/ Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System office refurbishment in each year since 1997; [7361] In-service Multiple Launch Rocket System In-Service (2) how much (a) his Department and (b) its Support agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on NATO Armament Ballistics Kernel televisions in each year since 1997; [7511] Counter Battery Radar (COBRA) (3) how much (a) his Department and (b) its M3 Amphibious Bridge agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on light bulbs in each year since 1997. [7631] Sidewinder Air-to-Air Missile Typhoon Mr Robathan: This information is not held centrally Tornado and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. NATO Improved Link Eleven All expenditure must be necessary, appropriate, cost NAVSTAR GPS effective and an admissible charge to public funds. Departmental Communication Demonstration Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile A400M Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what instructions have been issued by the private office of each Minister in his Department on Departmental Billing the preparation of briefing, speeches and replies to official correspondence. [9656] Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what percentage of payments made by his Mr Robathan: There is extant, generic departmental Department to (a) small and medium-sized enterprise guidance on the topic. Private offices may provide, on suppliers and (b) all suppliers were made (i) within occasion, pointers on style for briefing particular 10 days of receipt of invoice and (ii) on the agreed Ministers—they do not issue separate instructions. payment terms in the last three months for which information is available. [11380] Departmental Internet

Peter Luff: 10-day payment information currently Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for available for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and its Defence how much (a) his Department and (b) its Trading Funds for all suppliers is provided in the following agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on table. website design in each year since 1997. [7612] Invoices paid within 10 days of receipt Percentage Mr Robathan: We operate four principal websites, one for the corporate Ministry of Defence (MOD) and April 2010 98.67 one for each of the armed forces. Design costs are available for these websites from 2005-06. Since 1 May 2010, the Department began measuring performance against a target of payment within five £000 working days. Data available against the new target is Financial MOD Royal British Royal Air provided in the following table and is published on the year corporate Navy Army Force MOD’s website at: 2005-06 400 270 0 0 www.mod.uk 2006-07 0 0 266 120 Invoices paid within five days of receipt 2007-08 150 110 75 0 Percentage 2008-09 0 0 0 0 1 May 2010 94.06 2009-10 418 298 25 215 1 June 2010 95.47 Includes the costs of the internal Defence intranet which are not recorded separately. 1061W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1062W

Other MOD websites are not managed centrally, and We report the cost of the use of official cars by senior their cost could be provided only at disproportionate officials under the Government’s disclosure of senior cost. staff business expenses regime for directors general and From 2009-10, the costs of the MOD corporate above. The 2009-10 estimated cost of their use was website will be published centrally in an annual report £301,000. on central Government websites. The annual report for The figures represent how much we spent on running 2009-10 is available at the following link: the vehicles, including the cost of the lease, driver, http://coi.gov.uk/aboutcoi.php?page=357 maintenance, servicing, consumables, fuel and the Information on the cost of the websites of our agencies employer’s contribution to benefits-in-kind taxation, and non-departmental public bodies will be included in where applicable. the report from 2010-11. Comparable figures are not available for the use of On current plans, we plan to close a number of our official cars by the service chiefs in 2009-10, but will be smaller websites by 31 March 2011, both to save money from 2010-11. Information is otherwise not held centrally and to improve the coherence and effectiveness of our and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. web presence. MOD Ministers and staff may use an official car where this makes good business sense. We increasingly Departmental Legal Costs share cars for senior staff through pooling and other similar arrangements to increase flexibility and reduce Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for cost. Official cars are an extension of the office and give Defence how much (a) his Department and (b) its Ministers and our most senior staff private space to agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on work in so they can make more efficient use of time legal advice in each year since 1997. [7574] spent travelling.

Mr Robathan: We estimated, as part of a Treasury Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for benchmarking exercise, that our expenditure on legal Defence how many (a) civil servants and (b) special services was in the region of £40 million in 2009-10. advisers in his Department are entitled to the use of (i) This figure includes the cost of the in-house legal team, a car with a dedicated driver, (ii) a car from the and services provided by the Treasury Solicitor, Counsel, Government car pool and (iii) a taxi ordered through a Parliamentary Counsel, private law firms and other departmental account. [3208] legal consultants. The figure excludes the cost of non- Government Legal Service lawyers, such as the legal Mr Robathan: As was the case under previous advisers to the three service branches, and the costs of Governments, all service personnel, civil servants and legal services incurred by our Trading Funds, which lie special advisers may use an official car or taxi in properly outside our departmental accounting boundary. defined circumstances. Senior civil servants employed in our headquarters have given up their cars with a Information on expenditure on legal advice is not dedicated driver and share pool cars instead. held centrally and such information for previous years could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much his Department has spent on the Departmental Location Government Car Service since the Government took office. [7979] Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he plans to relocate (a) civil servants and (b) Mr Robathan: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) incurred Government bodies for which his Department is £698 for use of the Government Car Service between responsible (i) out of London and (ii) to the West 12 May and 12 July 2010. The MOD generally uses its Midlands; and if he will make a statement. [8295] own car pool for providing a car service to our Ministers, senior officials and service officers. Mr Robathan: The location of Ministry of Defence activity and plans for the Defence estate will be considered Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for in the strategic defence and security review. Defence which (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have been driven by the Government Car Departmental Official Cars Service since the Government took office; and how much each of these persons has received in expenses for Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for use of taxis, buses and underground trains in that Defence what the cost to the public purse of provision period. [7980] of official cars for (a) Ministers in his Department, (b) civil servants in his Department and (c) service Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for chiefs was in the last 12 months. [1059] Defence which (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have been driven by the Government Car Mr Robathan: The Government Car and Despatch Service since January 2005; and how much each of Agency is responsible for providing the official car for those individuals has received in expenses for use of use by the Secretary of State. Its 2009-10 cost, funded taxis, buses and underground trains in that period. by the Ministry of Defence, is intended for publication [8255] by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport in due course. The estimated cost of providing Mr Robathan: Information on Ministry of Defence official cars for use by other Defence Ministers in the (MOD) users of the Government Car Service is not same financial year was £218,000. held centrally and could be provided only at 1063W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1064W disproportionate cost. MOD Ministers and staff will Mr Robathan: This information is not held centrally normally use MOD pool cars where such a form of and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. transport is necessary. The Government publish, on a quarterly basis, the Departmental Stationery expenses incurred by our most senior officials. These include any use of the Government Car Service and Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for other travel expenses. The MOD’s disclosure of senior Defence how much (a) his Department and (b) its staff business expenses is available at: agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ stationery in each year since 1997. [7468] CorporatePublications/FinancialReports/Expenses/ SeniorStaffBusinessExpenses.htm Mr Robathan: We hold information on expenditure on stationery and office supplies as follows, but have no Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for breakdown below departmental level: Defence on how many occasions Ministers in his Department have been driven to the House of Commons Financial year Expenditure (£ million) by the Government Car Service in each year since 2005. 2003-04 28.8 [8352] 2004-05 28.0 Mr Robathan [holding answer 13 July 2010]: Records 2005-06 29.5 are not held centrally therefore the answer could be 2006-07 27.9 provided only at disproportionate cost. However, coalition 2007-08 22.8 Government Ministers are encouraged to walk, bicycle 2008-09 20.2 or take public transport where appropriate. The practice 2009-10 22.6 of driving Ministers from Portcullis House to MOD The figures represent expenditure on stationery (excluding main building has been discontinued since the general branded stationery) and office supplies (such as printer election. consumables and magnetic media) by the Department, the on-vote defence agencies and those advisory non- Departmental Pay departmental bodies we sponsor. The figures do not include expenditure by our trading funds who do not Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence call off the central contract and lie outside the departmental how much was paid in remuneration in total to civil accounting boundary. servants in his Department in 2009-10. [9894] We use recycled paper and paper products as much as possible. Mr Robathan: The remuneration paid to the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD’s) civil servants in 2009-10 was Departmental Travel some £1.9 billion. This figure represents the costs of gross salary, overtime, performance related pay and Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence taxable allowances for UK-based industrial and non- what estimate his Department has made of its expenditure industrial civilian staff (including casuals), members of on travel undertaken in an official capacity by each the MOD police and officers and ratings of the Royal Minister in his Department in (a) May 2010 and (b) Fleet Auxiliaries. June 2010. [8238] Not included is remuneration to employees of our trading funds, which lie outside the MOD’s departmental Mr Robathan: As set out in the Ministerial Code, accounting boundary, or to contractors, agency staff Departments will publish, at least quarterly, details of and locally engaged civilians, who are not civil servants. all travel overseas by Ministers. Information for the first Information on remuneration, staff numbers and quarter will be published as soon as it is ready. their cost of employment is published in our annual All travel is undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial report and accounts each year. Copies have been placed Code. in the Library of the House and are available on the internet, at the following address: Departmental Utilities http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ CorporatePublications/AnnualReports/ Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much (a) his Department and (b) its Departmental Private Education agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on (i) electricity, (ii) water, (iii) heating and (iv) telephone Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for services in each year since 1997. [7593] Defence how much his Department spent on continuity of education allowance at (a) Charterhouse School, Mr Robathan: Our expenditure on electricity, water, (b) Dulwich College, (c) Eton College, (d) Harrow heating and telephone services has been as follows: School, (e) Marlborough College, (f) Rugby School, (g) Westminster School, (h) Winchester College, (i) £ million Financial Water and Telephone Cheltenham Ladies College, (j) Roedean School, (k) year Electricity sewerage1 Heating2 services3 St Paul’s School, (l) Fettes College and (m) Gordonstoun School in the last 12 months for which 1997-98 124 46 50 138 figures are available. [11452] 1998-99 123 46 47 221 1065W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1066W

the armed forces and ex-Service personnel and to make £ million recommendations for improvement particularly in the Financial Water and Telephone year Electricity sewerage1 Heating2 services3 area of mental health. NHS Veterans Community Mental Health Pilot schemes 1999- 114 45 42 211 have also been established in six NHS Trusts around the 2000 country. They are currently being evaluated with a 2000-01 107 44 46 248 report expected in the autumn. The findings of the 2001-02 107 42 78 135 evaluation report will inform broader rollout of veterans’ 2002-03 92 41 82 154 mental health services across the NHS in 2011-12. 2003-04 98 47 75 176 Additionally, the Medical Assessment programme at 2004-05 114 62 94 131 St Thomas’ Hospital in London is available to serving 2005-06 141 91 131 309 and former armed forces personnel who have deployed 2006-07 171 98 126 348 on operations since 1982. 2007-08 167 103 114 363 The Government have also recently confirmed an 2008-09 205 108 161 364 additional £2 million to allow the Department of Health 1 From 2004-05, the costs include expenditure on Project Aquatrine, a to work with strategic partners, including combat stress, private finance initiative contract for the management of the MOD’s water and wastewater infrastructure. to ensure the best treatment possible is available for 2 The costs include gas and solid fuel between 1997-98 and 2000-01 veterans with mental health problems. and gas and heating oil from 2001-02 on. 3 The costs include line and telephone rental and minor equipment Gurkhas: Pensions and, from 2005-06, the PFI service charge for the Defence Fixed Telephone Service. These figures represent expenditure by the Department, Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence the on-vote defence agencies and those advisory non- (1) whether his Department’s estimate that the cost to departmental public bodies we sponsor. The figures do the public purse of paying equal pensions to Gurkha not include expenditure by our trading funds as they lie veterans who retired before 1 July 1997 would be outside the departmental accounting boundary.We publish £75 million per annum includes the pension settlements a figure for total expenditure for utilities in our annual already distributed through the Gurkha pension report and accounts. scheme and the Gurkha Offer to Transfer project; [11589] EU Law (2) whether expenditure on the Gurkha pension scheme will be included in the comprehensive spending Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for review; and if he will make a statement. [11590] Defence if he will estimate the cost to his Department of compliance with regulations arising from EU Mr Robathan: The cost of equalising pensions for obligations in the last 12 months. [6875] Gurkhas at the same level as the Armed Forces Pension Scheme has been estimated by the Government Actuary’s Mr Gerald Howarth: This information is not held Department at approximately £1.5 billion, at 2007 prices, centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate comprising a one-off payment of £500 million and £50 cost. We comply with all relevant EU legislation where million each year for 20 years. However, this estimate we have not been granted specific exemption from it, does not include pension settlements already distributed but we seek at all times to ensure that compliance does through the Gurkha pension scheme and the Gurkha not exceed the minimum cost or constraint. Offer to Transfer project Ex-servicemen: Mental Illness The spending review will look comprehensively across the whole of Government expenditure. All defence expenditure, including that on armed forces pensions, is Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for considered in the review, and the annual amounts paid Defence how many (a) veterans and (b) veterans out under the Gurkha Pension Scheme are not separated diagnosed with mental illness linked to their service are out from overall Armed Forces Pension Scheme (i) imprisoned and (ii) on probation. [9237] expenditure. Mr Robathan [holding answer 20 July 2010]: The number of veterans in prison in England and Wales was Low Flying announced in a written ministerial statement on 6 January 2010, Official Report, column 7WS. The results of the Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence follow-on work referred to in that statement will be how many low-flying sorties pilots of the (a) German, announced shortly. Work to determine the number of (b) US, (c) Turkish, (d) Swedish, (e) Saudi Arabian, ex-Service personnel on probation is currently ongoing, (f) Portuguese, (g) Polish, (h) Norwegian, (i) Dutch, jointly with the Ministry of Justice. Information on the (j) Italian, (k) Greek, (l) Danish, (m) Belgian, (n) numbers of veterans in prison/probation diagnosed with Australian and (o) French air force carried out in UK mental illness linked to their service is not available. air space in (i) 2005, (ii) 2006, (iii) 2007, (iv) 2008 and The Government are committed to providing effective, (v) 2009. [10799] through-life, health services for our Service and ex-Service personnel. The Prime Minister has asked my hon. Friend Mr Robathan [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The the Member for South West Wiltshire (Dr. Murrison) to figures are produced per training year and are based on conduct an independent study into the provision of usage by foreign based aircraft, not by the nationality of Ministry of Defence and NHS support and services to the pilot. 1067W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1068W

Military aircraft from other NATO and Allied Nations Total amount of complaints are permitted to make small-scale use of the UK Low received Flying System, and the majority of foreign use is during NATO exercises that enable interoperability training to 2006 451 take place. Foreign aircraft are authorised to use the 2007 375 UK Low Flying System on a strictly reciprocal basis, 2008 260 and may only fly at heights that UK military aircraft 2009 302 could fly in their country. A prerequisite for using the UK Low Flying System is that all foreign crews are Nepal: Armed Forces briefed by UK aircrew, and training sorties are planned on UK military mapping that shows all low flying Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence avoidance areas. United States air force aircraft permanently what level of local overseas living allowance is paid to based in the UK are not regarded as foreign visitors, but (a) members of the armed forces serving in Nepal and are subject to the same regulations as UK military (b) staff of the Gurkha Welfare Trust. [11588] aircraft. The figures are as follows: Mr Robathan: Local overseas allowance (LOA) is Foreign Percentage designed to contribute towards the necessary additional use(hours) Total (hours) foreign use local cost of day-to-day living, when service personnel 2004-05 397 76189 0.52 are required to serve overseas. LOA recognises the 2005-06 558 75077 0.74 amount by which average essential expenditure on day- 2006-07 312 65137 0.48 to-day living in a particular overseas location differs 2007-08 168 58232 0.29 from that in the UK, taking into account the differences 2008-09 329 51888 0.63 in the local lifestyle. The amount of LOA paid to 2009-10 208 57520 0.36 members of the armed forces serving in Nepal is up to £20.48 (per day) depending on personal circumstances. Low Flying: Wales The Gurkha Welfare Trust is a registered charity, independent of the Ministry of Defence, which was established in 1969 to provide financial, medical and Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence community aid to alleviate hardship and distress among how many compensation payments his Department Gurkhas when they leave the British Army. The Ministry made to individuals living in North and Mid Wales of Defence has two full-time military personnel attached relating to the effects of low-flying sorties in (a) 2005, to the field arm of the trust in Nepal to run the Gurkha (b) 2006, (c) 2007, (d) 2008 and (e) 2009. [10797] Welfare Scheme. However, the Ministry of Defence is not responsible for the pay of the trust’s staff. Mr Robathan [holding answer 26 July 2010]: Data relating to compensation claims arising from military Piracy aircraft low-flying activity are not held specifically for mid and north Wales. The recorded figures for Wales Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for are as follows: Defence what the Government’s policy is on intervening in the hijacking of UK-flagged merchant ships with Number of claims settled British nationals on board; and if he will make a statement. [10441] 2005 24 2006 15 Nick Harvey: The Royal Navy can and will take 2007 33 robust action to come to the aid of any victim vessel 2008 21 under attack by pirates in international waters, regardless 2009 7 of flag, but cognisant of the potential threat to the lives of innocents on board. Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence International counter piracy operations are operating how many complaints his Department received from in close coordination with the shipping community to individuals living in North and Mid Wales about ensure merchant vessels are following best management low-flying sorties in (a) 2004, (b) 2005, (c) 2006, (d) practice on how to avoid, repel or stall pirate attacks, 2007, (e) 2008 and (f) 2009. [10798] which gives warships the time to respond appropriately to any distress signals. Mr Robathan: Complaints concerning low-flying military aircraft training are recorded by Low Flying Area (LFA). Portsmouth Dockyard: Security All of Wales, except the north east of Powys, lies within LFA 7. The following figures are the total amount of Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for complaints received for the LFA, not individual Defence whether he plans to reduce his Department’s complainants. The figures also include the Tactical Training expenditure on security provisions at the Naval Area 7T. Dockyard at Portsmouth. [11233]

Total amount of complaints Mr Gerald Howarth: The cross-Government Strategic received Defence and Security Review intends to bring defence 2004 464 policy, plans, commitments and resources into balance, 2005 456 and produce, over time, a transformative change to British defence. This is a wide-ranging review which will 1069W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1070W examine all aspects of defence, including support services Military Remains Act 1986 since 1 January 2005: such as security at military establishments. The Review Sites will be published in the autumn. Protected sites RAF Menwith Hill HMS Delight 1 May 2008 HMS Exmoor 1 November 2006 Mr Fabian Hamilton: To ask the Secretary of State HMS Fisgard II 1 February 210 for Defence what his most recent estimate is of the cost HMS Ghurka 1 May 2008 of Operation Phoenix at RAF Menwith Hill; and who HMSK4 1 November 2006 bears the cost of that operation. [11870] HMS K17 1 November 2006 HMT Kurd 1 February 210 Nick Harvey: The works associated with Project Phoenix HMS L24 1 May 2008 at RAF Menwith Hill are funded by the US authorities. HMS Loyalty 1 May 2008 The most recent estimate of the cost is some £52 million, HMS Ml 1 November 2006 which includes £39.5 million of enabling works. HMS M2 1 November 2006 Somalia: Piracy SS Mendi 1 February 210 HMS Pathfinder 1 February 210 HMS Penylan 1 May 2008 Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what expenditure his Department has incurred SS Storaa 1 May 2008 on tackling piracy around the Horn of Africa in the HMS Swordfish 1 November 2006 HMS Umpire 1 November 2006 last 12 months. [8836] HMS Vandal 1 November 2006 Nick Harvey: Combating piracy is one of a number HMS Vortigern 1 November 2006 of concurrent tasks carried out by Royal Navy units HMS Warwick 1 November 2006 around the Horn of Africa. Therefore, the cost of the U714 1 May 2008 British Naval deployments, the associated costs and UB65 1 November 2006 contributions to multinational task forces and the UK command and control elements could be provided only Controlled sites at disproportionate cost. UB81 1 November 2006 Submarines

Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has assessed the DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER merits of delivering the first boat in the Vanguard- Constituency Sizes successor class submarines before the completion of the final boats of the Astute-class order. [9781] 5. Karen Lumley: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he expects his proposals for fewer and more Peter Luff [holding answer 21 July 2010]: The Astute equal-sized constituencies to be implemented. [11078] and successor programmes are subject to the Strategic Defence and Security Review and value for money Mr Harper: The Parliamentary Voting System and studies respectively. Constituencies Bill would require the Boundary Decisions regarding delivery schedules will be made Commissions to submit a report before 1 October 2013. on completion of both these studies, and will ensure a Parliament would then be asked to agree an Order sustainable industrial programme to allow the retention bringing new boundaries into force at the next General and transfer of key industrial capabilities. Election, which is planned for 7 May 2015. War Graves Urban Constituency Sizes: Scotland 6. Ann McKechin: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister Damian Collins: To ask the Secretary of State for what criteria will apply to redrawing of the boundaries Defence which maritime war grave sites in UK waters of urban parliamentary constituencies in Scotland were designated in the last five years. [11551] under his proposals for fewer and more equal-sized constituencies. [11079] Mr Robathan: The following 28 wrecked vessels were in military service when lost and lying in UK waters, Mr Harper: The rules set out in the parliamentary have been designated under the Protection of Military voting system and Constituencies Bill introduced on Remains Act 1986 since 1 January 2005. 22 July will apply to the boundaries of urban parliamentary Military Remains Act 1986 since 1 January 2005: constituencies in Scotland as they will across the rest of Sites the UK. Protected sites Referendum: Timing HMS Acheron 1 May 2008 HMS Blackwood 1 November 2006 7. Chris Leslie: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister HMS Boadicea 1 November 2006 what assessment he has made of the merits of holding HMS Bullen 1 November 2006 the proposed referendum on the voting system for HMS Calgarian 1 February 210 election to the House of Commons on a date other than 5 May 2011. [11080] 1071W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1072W

The Deputy Prime Minister: 5 May 2011 is the best geography and local ties. The size of the other parts of the UK date for the referendum on AV. Combining with other make this problem manageable elsewhere. The Bill therefore polls on the same day saves money, increases turnout provides that if the rounding effect is of a particular magnitude, and minimises inconvenience to voters. and the BCNI considers that either their ability to take other factors into account or to complete the review within the deadline Constituencies: Wales set out in the Bill would be unreasonably impaired, then the BCNI may propose constituencies that vary from the UK electoral quota by a fixed amount (the difference between the UK electoral Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Deputy Prime quota and the electorate of Northern Ireland divided by the Minister pursuant to the oral statement of 5 July 2010, number of seats allocated to Northern Ireland). Official Report, columns 23-5W, on political and constitutional reform, whether the implementation of Iraq Conflict: Legal Opinion his proposals for boundary changes to Parliamentary constituencies in Wales will be dependent on the Gemma Doyle: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister outcome of the proposed referendum on the transfer of whether he took advice from the Attorney-General on legislative powers under Part 4 of the Government of making reference to the legal status of the invasion of Wales Act 2006. [10210] Iraq before doing so during Prime Minister’s Questions on 21 July 2010; and if he will make a statement. Mr Harper: The Government’s proposals for more [11576] equal constituency sizes for the House of Commons will ensure that votes have more equal weight. The The Deputy Prime Minister: I am happy to confirm implementation of these proposals will not be dependent that my comments in the House on 21 July 2010 represented on the outcome of the proposed referendum under the my long-held personal view on the legality of the war in Government of Wales Act 2006. The Parliamentary Iraq. It is a view I have expressed in public many times Voting System and Constituencies Bill does take account before. of the link between parliamentary constituencies and Welsh Assembly Government constituencies; the link Legislation: Public Consultation between the two will be broken so that fewer parliamentary constituencies in future would not lead to a concomitant Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister reduction in the size of the Assembly. what steps he has taken to ensure that people without internet access can participate in his Your Freedom Constituency Size consultation exercise. [10417]

Mr Reid: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister for what The Deputy Prime Minister: The Government welcome reason he has proposed exceptions to a general interest in the Your Freedom consultation from all proposal that each future parliamentary constituency groups in society. Some of these may not have access to must have a population of registered electors within the internet, but there are a number of options available five per cent. of a target quota. [11845] from the Government to help them get online. The publicity materials for Your Freedom, stated: Mr Harper: The Parliamentary Voting System and “If you don’t know how to use the internet but would like to be Constituencies Bill was introduced on 22nd July and involved in the engagement, call 0800 77 1234 to find your nearest sets out revised rules for the distribution of seats. Rule 2 UK online centre. UK online centres are a network of free provides that the electorate of any constituency must be computer centres across England that offer people help and within 95% to 105% of the United Kingdom electoral support to access and use computers and the internet.” quota. There are only three possible exceptions: To support the partnership with UK online, fliers, posters Rule 6 preserves the existing constituencies of Orkney and and guidance notes were produced which the 3,500 UK Shetland and Na h-Eileanan an Iar. These constituencies have online centres can use to promote the Your Freedom small populations and are not easily reached from the mainland. dialogue and to encourage participation. Although Your They have already been recognised either in legislation or in Freedom consultation is specifically an on-line consultation practice in previous boundary reviews as justifying particular this does not preclude those wishing to contribute ideas treatment. We have concluded therefore that exceptions for these to Government doing so through written correspondence. areas are justified by their particular geography. Rule 4 requires that no constituency will be larger than 13,000 square kilometres and that a constituency larger than 12,000 square kilometres would not have to be within 95% of the UK ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS electoral quota, if a Boundary Commission is satisfied that it is not reasonably possible for the constituency to comply with Rule Agricultural Wages Board 2. This rule would not, however result in additional representation for a part of the UK where it was applied and all other constituencies in that part of the UK must be within 95-105% of the UK Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for electoral quota. Rule 4 simply aims to prevent extremely geographically Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment large constituencies from having to be created in sparsely populated she has made of the effect of the abolition of the areas in order to meet the parity requirements. Agricultural Wages Board on the UK’s compliance Rule 7 applies only to Northern Ireland. Because a whole with the provisions of International Labour Organisation number of constituencies must be allocated to each part of the Convention No. 129. [11591] UK, the average number of electors in each constituency in each part of the UK will be different from the UK electoral quota. This difference might have a particular impact in Northern Ireland Mr Paice: The UK has not ratified the International due to the small size of the electorate, and might unfairly constrain Labour Organisation Convention 129 and is therefore the ability of the Boundary Commission for Northern Ireland not bound by its terms. However, even if the Convention (BCNI) to take account of other factors set out in the Bill, such as were binding on the UK, the Government consider that 1073W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1074W its proposal to bring agricultural workers within the It is also important to note that the terms of a scope of the national minimum wage framework would worker’s employment contract which exist at the time provide an adequate replacement for the agricultural the Agricultural Wages Board is abolished will continue wage regime in terms of the requirements of the to apply until such time as the contract is varied by Convention. agreement between the employer and the worker, or Any decision to ratify the Convention would be for until the contract comes to an end. This is the case Ministers in the Department of Work and Pensions. whether the terms are written, verbally agreed or implied by custom and practice. If an employer makes changes to the terms of employment without the worker’s agreement, Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for this constitutes a breach of contract. The worker may Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate have a claim for breach of contract, unfair dismissal she has made of the number of workers whose pay and or unlawful deduction of wages if the change relates terms and conditions were set by the Agricultural Wages to pay. Board in each (a) region and (b) constituency in the latest period for which figures are available. [11592] Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions Mr Paice: The numbers of agricultural workers whose Ministers in her Department had with representatives minimum terms and conditions are set by the Agricultural 1 2 of agricultural workers prior to her announcement that Wages Board are 139,640 in England and 12,840 in the Agricultural Wages Board is to be abolished. Wales. [11594] Regional and constituency figures are not available for workers in Wales. Figures for England will be placed Mr Paice: There have been no specific discussions, in the Library of the House. but views of the representatives of the two sides of the 1 Source: Agricultural Wages Board have been well known for DEFRA June Survey of Agriculture 2009 many years. I have spoken to Ian Waddell, the leader of 2 Source: the workers’ side to explain the reasons for the Government’s decision, which are that the agricultural June Survey of Agriculture, Wales wages legislation is outdated, inflexible and imposes regulatory burdens on farmers which are often small Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for businesses. I firmly believe that by lifting the cumbersome Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which of the requirements of the agricultural wage framework, the terms and conditions currently set by the Agricultural industry will be better able to attract new and young Wages Board will not be set by the provisions of the entrants to the industry and to meet the challenges of National Minimum Wage Act 1998 after the abolition 21st century farming and increasing domestic food of the Board. [11593] production. The abolition of the Board will require amendments to primary legislation and therefore will Mr Paice: The majority of the terms and conditions be subject to proper parliamentary scrutiny and debate. currently set by the Agricultural Wages Board, such as a minimum rate of pay, holiday entitlement, sick pay and Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for rest breaks will in future be covered by the minimum Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether the consent entitlements for such matters specified under the National of the Welsh Assembly Government is required to Minimum Wage Act or specified by other relevant abolish the Agricultural Wages Board in England. employment legislation such as the Working Time [11653] Regulations or the Statutory Sick Pay Rules. The National Minimum Wage Act and the Working Mr Paice: The Government fully intend to act in Time Regulations do not make provision for the following agreement with Welsh Assembly Government colleagues entitlements which are currently covered by the Agricultural on agricultural wages policy issues in Wales and will Wages Order: bring forward proposals for Wales together with the Specific rates of pay for overtime proposals to give effect to the policy in England to Standby duty and night allowance bring agricultural wages in England within the national minimum wages regime. A legislative consent motion Entitlement to bereavement leave before the National Assembly for Wales is not required Birth or adoption grant (currently of £60 per child) in these circumstances. Dog allowance The Agricultural Wages Order makes specific provision Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for for: Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with representatives of trade unions representing Apprentice under the age of 19, or in the first year of their apprenticeship workers who are covered by the Agricultural Wages Board on her plans for the future of that Board. [12009] Workers of compulsory school age Students on a work placement of less than one year Mr Paice: There have been no specific discussions, Specific provision for these categories of workers is but views of the representatives of the two sides of the not made under the National Minimum Wage legislation. Agricultural Wages Board have been well known for However, such persons are entitled to employment rights many years. I have spoken to Ian Waddell, the leader of and protections under the Working Time Regulations the workers’ side to explain the reasons for the and the legislation dealing specifically with the employment Government’s decision, which is that the agricultural of children and young people. wages legislation is outdated, inflexible and imposes 1075W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1076W regulatory burdens on farmers which are often small Mr Paice: The following table sets out the number of businesses. I firmly believe that by lifting the cumbersome outstanding payments for the Single Payment scheme requirements of the agricultural wage framework, the (SPS) years 2008 and 2009 in England. industry will be better able to attract new and young entrants to the industry and to meet the challenges of Percentage of the 21st century farming and increasing domestic food Number of claims claimant population production. The abolition of the Board will require outstanding as at outstanding as at SPS year 14 July 2010 14 July 2010 amendments to primary legislation and therefore will be subject to proper parliamentary scrutiny and debate. 2008 63 10.006 2009 228 20.212 Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Devolution Total 291 — 1 Based on an estimated total claimant population of 106,500. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for 2 Based on an estimated total claimant population of 107,500. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent Included within this total of outstanding claims are discussions she has had with the Scottish Executive on 180 (53 in 2008 and 127 in 2009) cases involving probate, the attendance of representatives of the devolved business partnership changes and domestic issues. Some administrations at meetings of the Agriculture and of these may result in no payment being due but the Fisheries Council. [11289] Rural Payments Agency (RPA) keeps those farmers who have a legitimate outstanding payment aware of Mr Paice: The Secretary of State and I met recently the progress in processing their claims. with Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural The remaining 111 claims are mainly awaiting customer Affairs and Environment at the Scottish Executive. One information or are being processed through over payment of the issues discussed was devolved Administration and entitlement correction actions. Ministers’ attendance at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council. 35 Single Payment scheme claims from 2005-07 remain to be paid. Most of these cases involve probate or legal Agriculture: Subsidies issues for which we rely on information from external parties. We cannot therefore predict when deceased claimants’ estates will be settled and legal confirmation Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for given of the correct recipient of the funds. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the written ministerial statement of 20 July 2010, Official Report, columns 9-10WS, on Rural Payments Agency, Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for whether the Rural Payments Agency met its performance Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent targets on payments to farmers for 2009-10; and what representations she has received on prosecutions for the monetary value of such payments was in each non-payment of fines relating to the single payment month between December 2009 and March 2010. scheme brought by the Crown Prosecution Service. [10835] [11104]

Mr Paice: The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) met Mr Paice: None. There are no legislative provisions both components of its ministerial target ‘To have paid for issuing fines under the single payment scheme. However, 75% by value of valid Single Payment scheme 2009 the EU rules governing the administration of the scheme scheme claims by 31 January 2010 and 90% by value of do provide for a series of reductions and exclusions to valid 2009 claims by 31 March 2010 five and six weeks be applied to payments where over claims are made. ahead of the target dates. Where it is not possible to recover any overpayments RPA also met the EU requirement to pay 95.238% of made through deductions from subsequent payments to the SPS 2009 fund value by end of June 2010 during the relevant claimants, civil law remedies may be applied. week commencing 19 April 2010, ten weeks ahead of the target date. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much the The monetary value of payments made to farmers Rural Payments Agency has paid out under the Single under the Single Payment scheme (England only) between Payment Scheme in each year since 2005. [11795] December 2009 and 31 March 2010 are as follows:

Month Paid in month £ million Mr Paice: Payments made by the Rural Payments Agency in relation to the single payment scheme are December 1,448.6 presented by scheme year in the following table. January 118.1 February 120.1 Scheme year Payments made (£ million) March 70.0 2005 1,573.60 2006 1,634.28 Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State 2007 1,460.23 for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) how 2008 1,639.21 many Single Payment scheme claims made in (a) 2008 2009 1,871.96 and (b) 2009 remain outstanding; [11022] (2) by what date she expects all outstanding Single The table details payments made up to 30 June 2010. Payment scheme claims from previous years to have The figures exclude Single payment scheme payments been resolved. [11023] made by other paying agencies. 1077W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1078W

Bovine Tuberculosis: Disease Control Richard Benyon: Guidance to officials is placed on the DEFRA intranet and updated from time to time. I Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for am arranging for copies of the current guidance to be Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the placed in the Libraries of the House. answer of 30 June 2010, Official Report, column 560W, on bovine tuberculosis: disease control (1) whether the Departmental Electronic Equipment (a) culling and (b) vaccination options under consideration include any to be (i) funded by an industry levy and (ii) Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for implemented by farmers; [11034] Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much (a) (2) when she expects to announce her proposals on her Department and its predecessors and (b) its agencies bovine tuberculosis. [11035] and non-departmental public bodies spent on televisions in each year since 1997. [7503] Mr Paice: The coalition has committed, as part of a package of measures, to develop affordable options for Richard Benyon: This information is not held centrally a carefully-managed and science-led policy of badger and the information could be provided only at control in areas with high and persistent levels of bovine disproportionate cost. TB. All public expenditure has to be incurred in accordance We are currently developing proposals which we plan with the principles of Managing Public Money and the to publish for public consultation in the autumn. Treasury handbook on regularity and propriety. Subject to those principles business areas have discretion over Bovine Tuberculosis: Wales purchasing having regard to the evaluation of alternative options and, value for money considerations. Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the Departmental Internet answer of 30 June 2010, Official Report, column 560W, on bovine tuberculosis disease control, whether she has Damian Hinds: To ask the Secretary of State for made an assessment of the effect of the recent court Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much (a) ruling in Wales in respect of the Welsh Assembly her Department and (b) its agencies spent on search Government’s plan for the use of badger control engine biasing with (i) Google and (ii) other search measures as part of its bovine tuberculosis strategy. engines in each of the last five years. [10013] [11064] Richard Benyon: The Department spent £319,792 and Mr Paice: We are studying the Court of Appeal’s £149,710 on paid search in financial years 2008-09 and ruling on the Badger Trust’s appeal against the Judicial 2009-10 respectively. We are unable to break these figures Review of the Welsh Assembly Government’s badger down by search engine as the Central Office of Information control policy. does not hold that level of detail. Coastal Erosion: Listed Buildings Figures for financial years 2005-06, 2006-07 and 2007-08 could be collated only at disproportionate cost. David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for There was no spend by DEFRA’s Executive agencies Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps her on paid search in the same time period. Department is taking to protect listed buildings under threat from coastal erosion. [9528] Departmental Lighting

Mr Vaizey: I have been asked to reply. Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Government policy on managing coastal change, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much (a) including the impact of coastal erosion on heritage her Department and its predecessors and (b) its agencies assets, is set out in ‘Adapting to Coastal Change: Developing and non-departmental public bodies spent on light a Policy Framework’, which was published by the bulbs in each year since 1997. [7623] Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in March 2010. Richard Benyon: DEFRA (including its Executive This was developed in partnership with DCMS and agencies), and its non-departmental public bodies Natural with advice from English Heritage, the Government’s England and Commission for Rural Communities spent statutory advisers on the historic environment, and can £36,448.76 on light bulbs since 1 April 2009. Information be found online here: for previous years and other NDPBs not listed, including http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/flooding/documents/ Environment Agency is not available and could be manage/coastalchange-policyframework.pdf provided only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Communication Departmental Official Hospitality

Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what instructions Food and Rural Affairs how much her Department have been issued by the private office of each Minister spent on hospitality for events hosted by each Minister in her Department on the preparation of briefing, speeches in her Department in (a) May and (b) June 2010. and replies to official correspondence. [9664] [10111] 1079W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1080W

Richard Benyon: In May, Ministers hosted a stakeholder Richard Benyon: As set out in the ministerial code event at which hospitality (at a cost of £816) was Departments will publish, at least quarterly, details of provided. In the months of May and June, Ministers all travel overseas by Ministers. Information for the first have hosted no other events at which they provided quarter will be published as soon as it is ready. hospitality at departmental expense. All travel is undertaken in accordance with the ministerial Departmental Operating Costs code. Further travel related costs can be found in the replies Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for to the hon. Member for West Bromwich East (Mr Watson) Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she of 7 June 2010, Official Report, column 15W, and the has taken to reduce the running costs of her Department hon. Member for York Central (Hugh Bayley) of 26 July 2010, Official Report, column 704W. since her appointment. [9605]

Richard Benyon: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer Environment Agency I gave the right hon. Member for Sheffield, Brightside and Hillsborough (Mr Blunkett) 12 July 2010, Official Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for Report, column 456W, which sets out how DEFRA is Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will bring making £162 million in savings in 2010-11 as part of the forward proposals for a formal review of the Environment announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on Agency’s policy priorities. [11339] 24 May of wider public expenditure reductions in 2010-11. Further information about these savings is available Mr Paice [holding answer 26 July 2010]: DEFRA is on the DEFRA website at the currently carrying out a review of its arm’s length following link: bodies as part of the Government’s commitment to http://ww2.defra.gov.uk/about/corporate-finances reform public bodies. We are also currently examining all the Department’s expenditure and priorities, including Departmental Security that of the Environment Agency and other bodies, as part of the spending review which is due to conclude on Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for 20 October. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much (a) her Department and its predecessors and (b) its agencies EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council and non-departmental public bodies spent on security in each year since 1997. [7371] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Richard Benyon: Expenditure on security covers a Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on how many wide array of issues, including guarding contracts, physical occasions in each year since July 1999 Ministers in the barriers, CCTV, specialist lighting, staff training, Scottish Executive have (a) attended, (b) spoken on information security, personnel vetting and IT encryption, behalf of the UK and (c) taken the lead in meetings of as well as the cost of security teams. Funding for the Agriculture and Fisheries Council to discuss (i) security is not recorded separately. agriculture items and (ii) fisheries items. [11347] Budgets are devolved to agencies and non-departmental public bodies who then apply them as required. To Mr Paice: Ministers from the Scottish Executive regularly extract security costs separately from other costs would attend meetings of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council. incur a disproportionate cost. In line with the concordat/memorandum of understanding with devolved Administrations, the UK Minister speaks Departmental Training on behalf of the UK on agriculture and fisheries issues at council. Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much her Flood Control: Finance (a) Department and its predecessors and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on employee Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for training in each year since 1997. [7642] Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the answer of 7 July 2010, Official Report, column 456W, Richard Benyon: The information requested is not on departmental public expenditure, from (a) what held centrally, as training budgets are delegated to areas and (b) which projects the expected saving in divisions and individual managers within the Department. flood management will be made. [11761] As a consequence the information requested could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Richard Benyon: The Environment Agency has agreed Departmental Travel the changes in the regional programmes (resulting from the in-year savings) with Regional Flood Defence Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Committees. These will not impact on the delivery of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate construction projects due to finish this year. her Department has made of its expenditure on travel The Environment Agency is significantly ahead of its undertaken in an official capacity by (a) her and (b) target to protect households. It is on course to deliver each other Minister in her Department in (i) May 2010 better protection to at least 160,000 households by and (ii) June 2010. [8230] March 2011, against a target of 145,000. 1081W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1082W

The areas where expenditure has been reduced, resulting Food Standards Agency in £30 million in-year savings in flood management are: project costs (£26.2 million), strategic assessments Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for (£2 million) and operational activity (£1.8 million). Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the The following table shows the schemes which contribute written ministerial statement of 20 July 2010, Official to the £30 million in- year spending cuts for 2010/11 Report, column 12WS, on machinery of government and the Regional Flood Defence Committee areas in changes, what criteria were used in reaching the which they are located. decision on the future role of the Food Standards Agency. [11624] RFDC Projects Mr Paice: The criteria were that food safety should Anglian Central Godmanchester FD Improvement remain independent of Government, but that wider Scheme food policy issues should not. It follows that wider food Anglian Central Ouse Washes policy for England, where not concerning food safety, Anglian Central Thetford No 1 Sluice has been transferred from the Food Standards Agency Anglian Central Welmore Lake Sluice Pump (FSA) to the Department for Food, Environment and Improvements Rural Affairs and the Department of Health. These Anglian Eastern Ipswich M&E changes will allow the FSA to focus on its core remit: Anglian Eastern Wallasea Island ensuring all aspects of food safety, underpinned by Anglian Northern Humber Tetney to Saltfleet 1&2 scientific expertise. Anglian Northern Wisbech Defences Midlands Sheepwash Repairs Food: Labelling Midlands Childswickham and Murcot Midlands Upton Upon Severn Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Midlands Gunness Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the Midlands Newark FAS Prime Minister’s written ministerial statement of 20 July Midlands Gainsborough Frontages 2010, Official Report, column 12WS, on Machinery of North West Didsbury Flood Basin Drainage imps Government changes, what assessment she has made Northumbria Blyth Sea Defences of the effects on the (a) budget and (b) staffing level of Southern Cleve Hill Land Purchase her Department of the change to her Department’s Thames Salmons Brook FAS responsibilities in respect of food labelling. [10837] Thames B&D Frontage; R006 01 La Porte Chemicals Mr Paice: We are finalising staff numbers and associated Thames CAP Refurbishment Prog Thames budget but approximately 25 labelling and food composition Thames Graveney Channel Fencing and Future policy posts will be moving to DEFRA. Maintain HandS Thames R Brent Remedials Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Thames R Crane Remedials Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the Thames Regional FW Telemetry: Phase VII Prime Minister’s written ministerial statement of 20 July Thames B&C Package2-6EABridges- 2010, Official Report, column 12WS, on Machinery of ncpms Government changes, when she expects to publish details Thames Benson Weir Walkways of her Department’s new responsibilities in respect of Thames Poyle Channel Improvements food labelling. [10838] Thames B&C Package1-3NonEABridges Mr Paice: As set out in the press release published on Thames B&C Package 3 -10 EA Bridges the DEFRA website on 20 July, DEFRA is now responsible Thames Osney Depot Dry Dock Gates for: Thames Greenwich Package 14 policy on food labelling, where this does not relate to food Thames Rainham Creek Dam E017 safety or nutrition. This includes country of origin labelling; Yorkshire Donna Nook policy on food composition standards and labelling, where Yorkshire Catterick unrelated to food safety; Yorkshire River Spen leading within Government on the EU Food Information Regulation and other EU negotiations on food labelling except Floods: Gloucestershire for safety or nutrition aspects. Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when Prime Minister’s written ministerial statement of 20 July she expects to take a decision on authorising the land 2010, Official Report, column 12WS, on Machinery of purchase in connection with the Horsbere Brook Flood Government changes, what criteria will be used to determine Prevention Scheme at Longlevens and Elmbridge in those aspects of food labelling and food composition Gloucestershire; and if she will make a statement. policy which are the responsibility of her Department. [11548] [10839]

Richard Benyon: Terms and conditions are being Mr Paice: For England, policy on food labelling and agreed between the Environment Agency and the food composition, other than that relating to nutrition landowner. The Environment Agency expects to be in a or to food safety, has been transferred to DEFRA, and position to secure the land in August 2010. policy relating to nutrition labelling will transfer to the 1083W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1084W

Department of Health. These changes will allow the of the Food Standards Agency in respect of the fruit FSA to focus on its core remit: ensuring all aspects of and vegetable task force. [10991] food safety, underpinned by scientific expertise. The changes will strengthen food policy in DEFRA Mr Paice: The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has and support the Government’s commitment to give been represented on both the Fruit and Vegetables Task consumers better information on where their food comes Force and its consumption subgroup. In future the from. Department of Health will take up the FSA’s positions on the task force and subgroup. Food: Standards Forests: Stockton on Tees

Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether Thornaby answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 6W, on woods in Stockton South constituency is classified as food: standards, what recommendations the task force ancient woodland. [10742] has made to her Department; what assistance she has provided to the task force since her appointment; and if Mr Paice: Thornaby Woodis shown as ancient woodland she will make a statement. [10989] on the Provisional Ancient Woodland Inventory for England. However, new woodland creation has taken Mr Paice: The Fruit and Vegetables Task Force presented place to the north and south of the ancient woodland its interim report to DEFRA Ministers in June 2010. I area. have since attended the task force’s last meeting on 30 Genetically Modified Organisms June to discuss the interim proposals and have asked the task force to continue its work. The task force’s Mr Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for proposals will be published in due course. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what research projects involving genetically-modified (a) crops, (b) Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for food and (c) feed her Department has funded since Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the 1997; what the (i) topic, (ii) start date, (iii) cost and (iv) answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 6W, on project code was of each such project; who the main food: standards, when the task force will next meet. contractor was in each case; and which such projects [10990] have been completed to date. [8027]

Mr Paice: The Fruit and Vegetables Task Force is Mr Paice: The following table lists research projects expected to meet next in the early autumn. The task commissioned by DEFRA or its predecessors relating force’s three subgroups will continue to meet over the to GM crops, food and feed. It does not include some summer. projects that were completed before the establishment of DEFRA in 2001, for which details are not readily Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for available. Most of the DEFRA projects in this area Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the relate to the risk assessment of GM organisms and the answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 6W, on coexistence of GM and non-GM crops, rather than the food: standards, which body will take up the responsibilities development of GM crops as such.

DEFRA research projects involving genetically modified crops, food and feed DEFRA Code Title Contractor costs (£) Start End

CE0158 Transformation of wheat by Rothamsted Research 88,434 1 April 1998 31 March 2000 Agrobacterium (BBSRC) co-cultivation CE0161 Agrobacterium mediated Institute of Grassland 82,059 1 May 1998 30 April 2000 transformation of oats and Environment Research AR1001 Scale-up of Agrobacterium Institute of Grassland 46,987 1 October 2000 30 September 2001 mediated transformation of and Environment oats to detect low frequency Research stable integrations AR1002 Genetic transformation of Rothamsted Research 56,372 1 October 2000 30 September 2001 wheat using Agrobacterium (BBSRC) tumifaciens AR1003 Reproducible John Innes Centre 60,271 1 October 2000 30 September 2001 Agrobacterium-mediated (BBSRC) transformation systems for wheat and barley CE0159 Development of a routine De Montfort 150,143 1 December 1998 30 September 2001 system for Agrobacterium- University, Dept of mediated transformation of Applied barley 1085W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1086W

DEFRA research projects involving genetically modified crops, food and feed DEFRA Code Title Contractor costs (£) Start End

CE0173 Nuclear and plastid The University of 149,635 1 October 1998 30 September 2001 transformation of wheat Manchester and tritordeum using the streptomycin—selectable aadA marker gene HH2119SSF Control of transgene Horticulture Research 206,398 1 October 1998 30 September 2001 expression in strawberry International HH1616SPC Modification of Horticulture Research 228,172 1 September 1998 30 November 2001 chrysanthemum growth International habit thorough genetic manipulation CB02015 Implementing Directive People, Science and 24,915 1 October 2001 31 January 2002 2001/18/EC—information Policy Ltd requirements HH3706STF Examination of gusA Horticulture Research 29,398 19 November 2001 31 March 2002 transgene expression in the International fruit of transgenic apple plants driven by plant promotors HL0110LFV Genetic modification of Horticulture Research 180,956 1 October 1998 31 March 2002 Brassica oleracea for International resistance to turnip and cauliflower mosiac viruses HH1020THN Genetic modification of University of 274,772 1 December 1998 30 April 2002 rootstocks for disease Nottingham resistance in rose CB02007 Impact of Bt exudates from Forest Research 37,669 1 July 2001 1 June 2002 roots of GM plants Station (Alice Holt) CE0171 Gene regulation in John Innes Centre 277,947 1 January 1999 30 June 2002 transgenic wheat including (BBSRC) methods to increase expression and/or reduce variation in expression HH0909SFV Genetics of transformation John Innes Centre 298,195 1 February 1999 31 July 2002 and regeneration in (BBSRC) horticultural brassicas CB02014 Impacts of contemporary Natural Environment 44,654 15 April 2002 31 October 2002 and alternative arable Research Council cropping systems (Central Office) CS0119 Digestion and absorption of ADAS UK Ltd. 230,798 1 May 2001 31 October 2002 feed components in broilers CB02010 Modelling effects on University of East 150,564 10 December 2001 30 November 2002 farmland food webs of Anglia herbicide and insecticide management I AR1004 An investigation into John Innes Centre 73,405 1 January 2001 31 March 2003 strategies to improve pea (BBSRC) transformation HH0915SMU Molecular analysis of Horticulture Research 343,209 1 April 2000 31 March 2003 integrative transformants of International the mushroom CB02001 Farm-scale evaluations of Natural Environment 1,460,288 1 June 2000 31 March 2003 GM beet and farmland Research Council wildlife (Central Office) CB02003 Farm-scale evaluations of Scottish Crop 1,307,068 9 April 1999 31 March 2003 GM spring oilseed rape and Research Institute wildlife CB02022 Supply chain impacts of LMC International 72,944 1 May 2003 11 July 2003 further regulation of products consisting of, containing or derived from GMOs CB02011 Compositional traits—effect Atkins Environment 49,945 11 February 2002 31 July 2003 on GM survivability and persistence CB02012 Modelling effects on Natural Environment 138,512 3 January 2002 31 July 2003 farmland food webs of Research Council herbicide and insecticide (Central Office) management II 1087W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1088W

DEFRA research projects involving genetically modified crops, food and feed DEFRA Code Title Contractor costs (£) Start End

CE0172 Use of maize and rice MAR Rothamsted Research 327,161 19 December 1999 31 December 2003 sequences to stabilise the (BBSRC) expression of transgenes in wheat CB02030 Support for the British British Ornithologist’s 10,000 5 February 2004 6 February 2004 Ornithologists’ Union Union conference on GM crops and birds CB02008 Impact of transgenes for Natural Environment 396,428 1 April 1999 30 March 2004 herbivore and virus Research Council resistance (Central Office) CB02027 GM crop farm-scale Lewislive Ltd 60,105 15 September 2003 31 March 2004 evaluation results presentations and open meetings HH0910SFV New techniques for genetic Horticulture Research 1,323,082 1 April 1999 31 March 2004 improvement of International horticultural brassicas. HH0911SFV Genetic improvement of Horticulture Research 841,013 1 April 1999 31 March 2004 lettuce International HH1031SSF Tissue and plastid targeted Horticulture Research 393,734 1 November 2000 31 March 2004 transgene expression in a International perennial plant, strawberry CB02004 Farm-scale evaluations of Rothamsted Research 1,305,999 9 April 1999 31 March 2004 GM winter oilseed rape and (BBSRC) wildlife CB02018 Determining risks to soil University of Leeds 36,882 1 October 2000 30 April 2004 organisms associated with a genetically modified crop expressing a biopesticide in its roots CB02002 Farm-scale evaluations of Natural Environment 1,643,331 9 April 1999 30 April 2004 GM maize and farmland Research Council wildlife (Central Office) CB02023 Estimate consumer The University of 94,550 22 April 2003 30 April 2004 willingness to pay for Manchester reducing or eliminating GM products or derivatives in food and increasing robustness of the labelling regime CB02031 Evaluation of the Institute of Grassland 16,000 18 March 2004 18 June 2004 organisation and and Environment management of the GM Research farm-scale evaluations CB02006 Gene flow monitoring: Natural Environment 337,481 10 May 2000 30 June 2004 herbicide resistance genes to Research Council wild crop relatives (Central Office) CB02024 Mechanisms for Atkins Environment 49,784 16 June 2003 30 June 2004 investigating changes in soil ecology due to GMO releases CB02038 GM co-existence New Game-Plan Ltd 10,431 28 August 2004 16 September 2004 consultation—support for workshops CB02029 The statistical theory and Central Science 24,779 1 June 2004 29 October 2004 analysis of GMO Laboratory enforcement AR0911 Smart plant technology for Rothamsted Research 209,608 1 December 2001 30 November 2004 sensing crop nutritional (BBSRC) status CB02016 Assessment of the Central Science 35,020 12 December 2002 31 December 2004 distribution of GM material Laboratory in kernel lots HH2116SMU Mushroom quality-loss after University of 397,220 1 April 2001 31 March 2005 harvest—causes and control Warwick CB02017 Non-target effects of John Innes Centre 18,327 1 July 2000 30 April 2005 transgenic crop plants (BBSRC) resistant to virus diseases 1089W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1090W

DEFRA research projects involving genetically modified crops, food and feed DEFRA Code Title Contractor costs (£) Start End

CB02013 Biodiversity effects of Centre for Ecology 37,064 15 April 2002 12 September 2005 management associated with and Hydrology GM cropping systems CB02021 Strategies for risk Natural Environment 355,400 1 April 2002 30 September 2005 assessment, minimising the Research Council environmental impact of (Central Office) fungal disease-suppressing GM bacteria and plants on non-target species (was RG0126) CB02005 Monitoring gene flow from Central Science 248,596 1 June 2000 30 September 2005 the GM crop to non-GM Laboratory equivalent crops in the vicinity CB02045 Detection and traceability Central Science 66,082 1 April 2003 30 September 2005 technologies to underpin Laboratory GM inspection and enforcement CB02046 Plasmid standards for real Central Science 68,085 1 April 2003 30 September 2005 time PCR and UKAS Laboratory accreditation of GM enforcement testing CB02036 Desk study on technologies Reading University 52,506 1 June 2005 30 November 2005 for biological containment of GM and non-GM crops CB02043 Agronomic and Rothamsted Research 40,123 8 March 2005 30 November 2005 environmental implications (BBSRC) of the establishment of GM herbicide tolerant problem weeds CB02033 Monitoring occurrence of Scottish Crop 500,000 1 May 2004 31 December 2005 GM oilseed rape volunteers Research Institute in subsequent oilseed rape crops at FSE sites CB02039 Review of separation National Institute of 49,950 10 June 2004 31 December 2005 distances and buffer crops Agricultural Botany for co-existence between GM and non-GM crops CB02041 RNA-mediated gene John Innes Centre 24,452 21 February 2005 31 December 2005 silencing mechanisms and (BBSRC) their implications in plants CB02040 Quantitative approaches to Central Science 100,000 14 March 2005 28 February 2006 the risk assessment of GM Laboratory crops CB02034 Farm-scale evaluations: Rothamsted Research 351,759 1 May 2004 31 March 2006 further sampling of soil seed (BBSRC) bank and seedling emergence CB02037 Farm-scale evaluations: Centre for Ecology 117,434 1 May 2004 31 March 2006 further sampling of soil seed and Hydrology bank and seedling emergence—CEH contract CB02042 Availability and use of Central Science 48,168 1 April 2005 31 March 2006 general surveillance Laboratory information for potential changes resulting from GM crop cultivation AR1005 BRACT—Biotechnology John Innes Centre 898,468 1 June 2003 28 February 2007 Resources for Arable Crop (BBSRC) Transformation CB02035 Sustainable introduction of Central Science 84,248 1 May 2004 1 May 2007 GMOs into European Laboratory agriculture (SIGMEA) CB02020 Factors affecting cross- Scottish Crop 825,105 1 November 2002 31 May 2007 pollination in OSR growing Research Institute under typical UK conditions CB02025 Insertion of cauliflower Scottish Crop 203,329 1 February 2004 31 July 2007 mosaic virus DNA into host Research Institute genomes during natural viral infections 1091W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1092W

DEFRA research projects involving genetically modified crops, food and feed DEFRA Code Title Contractor costs (£) Start End

CB02032 The potential for horizontal University of Exeter 421,779 1 June 2004 31 October 2007 gene transfer from transgenic plants to fungi CB02019 Factors affecting rates of Institute of Grassland 831,415 1 April 2003 31 March 2008 cross-pollination in maize and Environment growing under typical UK Research conditions CB0301 Investigation of the Central Science 16,687 15 October 2008 31 January 2009 establishment and Laboratory persistence of GM potato volunteers and the potential consequences for current EU labelling thresholds for GM CB02026 Curation of the data Natural Environment 194,321 1 April 2003 31 March 2009 collected in the farm-scale Research Council evaluations (Central Office) CB02044 COEXTRA (GM and Central Science 170,161 1 April 2005 30 September 2009 non-GM supply chains: Laboratory their CO-EXistence and TRAceability CB02049 Adventitious GM presence Central Science 92,423 15 January 2009 15 July 2010 arising through use of Laboratory shared farming machinery, transport and storage equipment CB02048 Modelling the fitness value University of Exeter 27,000 8 January 2008 7 January 2011 of the Arabidopsis thaliana Circadian Clock

Hill Farming: Birds Hydropower licences, 1 November 2008 to 26 July 2010 Number Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008 2009 2010 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment Licences received 11 58 64 she has made of the contribution of game management Note: Currently being worked on 57, with 16 waiting to be picked up. to the management of upland areas. [9112]

Mr Paice: The Government recognise the importance of the contribution which game management makes to Pheasants: Animal Welfare the creation and management of the relevant habitat types. 96% of those Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) which are grouse moor are now in favourable or Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for recovering condition, increasing from 51% in 2006. This Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will bring is a reflection of moorland managers’ awareness of the forward proposals to ban battery cages for breeding importance and sensitivity of upland biodiversity. pheasants. [12036] Hydroelectric Power Mr Paice: There are no proposals to bring forward Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for legislation to ban cages for breeding game birds. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many extraction On 22 July, the Government laid before Parliament a licences for hydroelectric schemes the Environment Agency Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared has (a) issued, (b) refused and (c) received but not for Sporting Purposes. The section of the code relating determined in each of the last three years. [11918] to the housing of game birds recommends that barren cages should not be used and is line with the Richard Benyon: The following table shows the number recommendations of the Farm Animal Welfare Council’s of hydroelectric power licenses the Environment Agency Opinion of 2008. have issued, refused and received since 1 November 2008. Before this date licenses were handled by the The code was drafted by a working group of areas, as oppose to centrally through the National representatives of industry, shooting interests and animal Permitting Centre. welfare organisations. Hydropower licences, 1 November 2008 to 26 July 2010 In the meantime, game birds reared for sporting Number purposes continue to be protected by the Animal Welfare 2008 2009 2010 Act 2006, which makes it an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to an animal as well as failing to Licences issued 0 34 38 provide for the welfare needs of an animal under the Licences refused 0 0 5 control of man. 1093W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1094W

Phytophthora Ramorum In addition to this, since the first infections were discovered, there have been 166 non-larch sites confirmed Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for as infected in parks and gardens in Cornwall. At least Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is 22 of these are now confirmed as being clear of the taking to assist with the clearance and re-stocking of pathogen. sites affected by Phytophthora ramorum. [11545]

Mr Paice: On 6 July this year, the Forestry Commission Rural Payments Agency: Costs announced a £600,000 support package to support woodland owners in tackling the outbreak of Phytophthora James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for ramorum infection in larch trees in south-west England Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the and south Wales. The package has been put in place as administrative costs of the Rural Payments Agency part of DEFRA’s five-year Phytophthora programme, have been in each year since 2005. [11794] which is being managed by the Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera). The first £100,000 has been Mr Paice: The total spent by RPA on administration earmarked to give private sector owners access to (net running) costs in each year since 2005 are as professional advice about how to have infected trees follows: felled and marketed in ways that comply with biosecurity and other regulations. Owners will be able to apply for £000 up to £1,000 of aid from this part of the fund. 2008-09 240,429 The remaining £500,000 will be used to prevent further spread of the disease. It will help owners with the costs 2007-08 241,716 of clearing immature or ’thicket-stage’ Japanese larch 2006-07 228,337 from affected sites, both privately owned and those 2005-06 239,209 managed by the Forestry Commission, especially those most likely to cause further spread of the disease. Included in the above are costs associated with the UK Co-ordinating Body, as reported in RPA’s annual Further details are available on the Forestry report and accounts. The figures include in year adjustments Commission’s Phytophthora ramorum web pages. over and above the budget allocation for additional Scientists from Forest Research are preparing guidance work taken on by RPA during the financial year. on restocking sites affected by Phytophthora ramorum The 2009-10 costs are yet to be signed off by the for owners and managers. They expect to be able to Comptroller and Auditor General. issue this within the next few weeks on the Forestry Commission website. The Forestry Commission and Fera are working closely Sustainable Development Commission with industry to develop guidelines for improvements in parks and garden management, and in the retail and nursery trade, which will further reduce the spread of Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for the disease. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the contribution of the Sustainable Phytophthora Ramorum: Cornwall Development Commission to the Government’s sustainability strategy. [10941] Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent Mr Paice: The Sustainable Development Commission assessment she has made of the spread of Phytophthora (SDC) has made a positive contribution across Government ramorum in Cornwall. [11546] and society over the past 10 years and I pay tribute to its work and to the current and previous chairs, Will Day Mr Paice: Since the first detection of Phytophthora and Jonathon Porritt. ramorum in Sussex in May 2002, a systematic programme As the Sustainable Development Commission’s report of surveys has been carried out by the Food and on Sustainable Development in Government, published Environment Research Agency and the Forestry on 22 July, makes clear, there is more to be done. The Commission covering nurseries, garden centres, woodland Prime Minister has pledged that this will be the greenest and other sites in the wider environment, with action Government ever. While Government have made progress, being taken to destroy infected plants that posed a risk we need to take more concerted action on the carbon of further spread: especially Rhododendrons. agenda, led by DECC, and also on the wider sustainability In August 2009, the pathogen was found for the first agenda including waste, water, biodiversity, resource time in Japanese larch, a commercial forestry tree species, efficiency and other areas which DEFRA leads on. As at sites in Cornwall (as well as in Devon and Somerset), set out in our Structural Reform Plan, this will help to and surveys since then have found a number of further mainstream sustainability and strengthen the Government’s sites where trees have been infected. These surveys have performance. intensified and are ongoing, supported by aerial surveillance As the Secretary of State announced in a written by helicopter. Notice has now been served on 373 ministerial statement on 22 July 2010, Official Report, hectares in Cornwall, which have been confirmed with columns 31-33WS, to do this effectively across Government, the infection since the initial outbreak was discovered. DEFRA will establish an enhanced departmental capability Only one new infected site was found between April and and presence on sustainable development and withdraw June this year. Most of the infected sites are on the funding from the SDC from the next financial year, public forest estate. increasing Government responsibility and transparency. 1095W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1096W

Trade Unions which would be passed to customers, and would also have environmental impacts. All companies take a risk- Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for based approach. They balance a planned level of service, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much her which includes measures such as hosepipe bans, against Department has paid to trade unions in each year since the costs customers are willing to pay for a secure 2001; and what estimate she has made of the monetary supply. value of facilities provided by her Department for use by trade unions in each year since 2001. [11667] Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will require Richard Benyon: DEFRA does not pay any money water companies not to use housing targets contained directly to any of its recognised trade unions. DEFRA in regional spatial strategies to inform water demand does grant its trade union representatives reasonable forecasts as part of their water resources management time off and facilities to carry out trade union duties, plans. [11506] activities and training in accordance with their statutory rights. Richard Benyon: We expect to review how the process has worked for this first round of statutory plans once The financial value of the facilities provided to the all are published. We also expect to consider the need trade unions for the financial years 2009-10 is estimated for changes to existing guidance, including that on at £1,201,301 for DEFRA and its Executive agencies. demand forecasts, before the next set of plans is prepared. Records for earlier years are not readily available and This will take into account the revocation of the regional can be produced only at a disproportionate cost. strategies. We will continue to ensure that these plans take appropriate account of the best available housing Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, growth data. Food and Rural Affairs how many paid manpower hours civil servants in her Department spent on trade union-related duties and activities in each year since 2001. [11668] HOME DEPARTMENT

Richard Benyon: For the financial year 2009-10 DEFRA Alcoholic Drinks and its agencies provided its trade union representatives with approximately 6,805 hours facility time. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for the Records for earlier years are not readily available and Home Department (1) what methodology her Department can be provided only at a disproportionate cost. plans to use to calculate the cost price of alcohol; [11643] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) when she plans to bring forward legislative Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many civil proposals to prohibit the sale of alcohol below cost servants in her Department spent the equivalent of (a) price. [11916] five days or fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or James Brokenshire: We are determined to tackle the more on trade union-related activities or duties while sale of below cost alcohol, and clamp down on irresponsible being paid salaries from the public purse in each year sales where this has been shown to impact on crime and since 2001. [11669] disorder. The Government are considering the detail of what “below cost selling” constitutes and how the ban Richard Benyon: This information to answer this question will be enforced. We will work closely with other is not readily available and can be provided only at a Government Departments including the Department disproportionate cost. for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Office of Fair Trading, as well as representatives of the licensed Water Companies trade, including the supermarkets, to determine how best to effectively implement this commitment, without Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for unduly adding a bureaucratic burden for businesses. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will take steps to encourage utility companies to (a) increase the Animal Experiments reliability of water supplies and (b) reduce the frequency of hosepipe bans and other measures to Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the conserve water supplies. [10914] Home Department what organisations (a) she and (b) other Ministers in her Department (i) have met and (ii) Richard Benyon [holding answer 26 July 2010]: All plan to meet to discuss policy and practice on scientific water companies plan for secure water supplies through procedures on animals. [11200] their 25-year water resources management plans. These set out how a company will provide for a sustainable Lynne Featherstone: I have already met with supply and demand balance, taking into account pressures representatives from the UK Bioscience sector coalition such as population growth and climate change. and the chair of the Animal Procedures Committee. I This does not mean that they can avoid introducing have meetings scheduled with representatives from the restrictions in times of water shortages although typically British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection and companies plan for restrictions once every 20 years. To Animal Defenders International and a date is to be plan for resources that would meet demand in any arranged to meet with representatives from the Royal circumstances would accrue significant additional costs, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. 1097W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1098W

Asylum The Government are committed to cracking down on illegal working, including any asylum seekers working illegally. Regular raids on employers are carried out and Mr Robin Walker: To ask the Secretary of State for employers are liable for a fine of up to £10,000 per the Home Department what assessment she has made illegal worker. of the effect of the delay in processing asylum applications on the hidden economy and the level of British Nationality illegal working. [11320] Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Damian Green: It is our priority to ensure that those the Home Department how many people (a) applied who apply for asylum in the UK have their applications for and (b) were refused UK citizenship in (i) processed as quickly as possible. That is why, as outlined Lancashire, (ii) the North West and (iii) the UK in each in the Partnership Programme, the Government are year since 1997. [10883] committed to exploring new ways to improve the current asylum system to speed up the processing of applications. Damian Green: The information requested is shown The UK Border Agency is working to meet this in the following tables. Totals for the UK have been commitment and improve the asylum process, which taken from the 2009 Home Office Statistical Bulletin. will help promote swifter refugee integration and, where The information relating to Lancashire and the north-west asylum is refused, will assist in ensuring the return and has been provided from local management information reintegration of failed asylum seekers is done as smoothly and is not a National Statistic. As such it should be and effectively as possible. treated as provisional and therefore subject to change.

Table 1: Nationality applications received and refusals of British citizenship in the north-west, 1997 to 2009 Number Applications received Refused Total for the Total for Total for the Total for Total for the UK north-west Lancashire Total for the UK north-west Lancashire

1997 66,000 — — 4,745 — — 1998 68,030 — — 3,750 — — 1999 67,400 — — 3,995 — — 2000 62,475 — — 6,785 — — 2001 109,005 — — 9,530 — — 2002 115,500 — — 8,330 — — 2003 147,345 — — 10,555 — — 2004 132,630 6,135 795 13,820 315 30 2005 211,910 11,025 1,195 16,640 830 70 2006 140,925 7,615 670 15,310 740 75 2007 157,055 9,495 825 15,630 760 55 2008 156,015 11,385 975 9,085 520 45 2009 193,810 15,630 1,510 10,250 865 50

Table 2: Applications received in the north-west, 2004-09 Number Local authority 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Blackburn and Darwen 410 785 230 255 370 700 Blackpool 70 120 105 145 135 155 Bolton 410 760 340 565 775 975 Bury 160 260 145 235 270 405 Cumbria 85 200 95 160 210 230 EastCheshire———— 5275 Halton 10 35 40 40 40 75 Isle of Man 60 85 105 75 145 200 Knowsley 45 55 55 65 75 160 Lancashire 795 1,195 670 825 975 1,510 Liverpool 490 970 775 865 1,095 1,555 Manchester 1,495 3,075 2,460 3,080 3,275 3,810 Oldham 335 595 255 340 705 1,165 Rochdale 275 390 210 370 475 685 Salford 125 340 320 315 470 625 Sefton 70 105 100 90 100 145 St Helens 45 70 60 85 95 120 Stockport 215 425 300 325 330 470 Tameside 150 220 115 175 250 445 Trafford 335 510 410 530 520 710 Warrington 70 170 120 170 180 285 1099W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1100W

Table 2: Applications received in the north-west, 2004-09 Number Local authority 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

West Cheshire 280 380 350 370 455 275 Wigan 70 105 185 170 210 310 Wirral 135 180 170 250 220 340 Total 6,135 11,025 7,615 9,495 11,385 15,630 Notes: 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 5. Totals may not sum to their components due to rounding. 2. Citizenship ceremonies were introduced Jan 2004, this is when the applicants postcodes were mapped to their nearest local authority. 3. Total for Lancashire only includes Lancashire local authority. A breakdown of all the north-west local authorities is presented in the second table. 4. The total for the UK figures have been taken from the 2009 Home Office Statistical Bulletin. 5. Applications received for the UK to 2004 include applications for right of abode. Total applications for 2005 and all application figures for the north-west and Lancashire exclude right of abode cases. Source: Local Management Information provided by UKBA, North West Region Planning and MI Team. Table 3: Refusals of British citizenship in the north-west, 2004-09 Local authority 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Blackburn and Darwen 15 40 60 15 15 45 Blackpool 5 1555510 Bolton 155055304545 Bury 101510201040 Cumbria 10 20 10 10 5 5 EastCheshire—————10 Halton 1—555—1— Knowsley 5 10 1—5 -5 Lancashire 30 70 75 55 45 50 Liverpool 35 65 75 80 45 95 Manchester 100 300 230 315 175 265 Oldham 25 45 30 40 20 55 Rochdale 20 25 35 20 25 35 Salford 10 25 40 40 35 60 Sefton — 5 1—51—5 St Helens — 5 5 1—55 Stockport 5 25 25 20 15 35 Tameside 5 15 5 10 5 15 Trafford 10 35 25 30 20 20 Warrington 1—10105510 WestCheshire102520201510 Wigan 5 10 5 10 15 25 Wirral 10 15 10 20 10 10 Total 315 830 740 760 520 865 1 Negligible i.e. 2 or less. Notes: 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 5. Totals may not sum to their components due to rounding. 2. Citizenship ceremonies were introduced Jan 2004, this is when the applicants postcodes were mapped to their nearest local authority. 3. Total for Lancashire only includes Lancashire local authority. A breakdown of all the north-west local authorities is presented in this table. 4. The total for the UK figures have been taken from the 2009 Home Office Statistical Bulletin. 5. Applications received for the UK to 2004 include applications for right of abode. Total applications for 2005 and all application figures for the north-west and Lancashire exclude right of abode cases. Source: Local Management Information provided by UKBA, North West Region Planning and MI Team.

Crime: Fraud Crime: Unemployment

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many incidents of criminal Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for the activity involving stolen driving licences there were in Home Department if she will make an assessment of the latest period for which figures are available; and if the effects on levels of (a) crime and (b) civil she will make a statement. [11048] disobedience of changes in the level of unemployment. [8850] James Brokenshire: The information requested is not collected centrally. While the Home Office collects data on offences recorded by the police in England and Nick Herbert: There are no current plans to make an Wales, it is not possible to identify those which involved assessment of the effects on levels of crime or civil the use of stolen driving licences. disobedience of changes in the level of unemployment. 1101W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1102W

Criminal Records Bureau Home Office Statistical Bulletin “Homicides, Firearm Offences and Intimate Violence 2009/10”. David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for the Table 1: Offences currently1 recorded as homicide by apparent method Home Department what the Criminal Records Bureau’s of killing for victims aged 13 to 19, England, 2005-06 to 2008-092 revenue was in the latest period for which figures are Recorded crime (Number) available. [11740] Method of killing 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Lynne Featherstone: The revenue generated by the Sharp 25 30 44 34 Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) for the latest financial instrument3 year (2009-10) is £127.3 million. Shooting4 611107 1 As at 24 November 2009; figures are subject to revision as cases are David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for the dealt with by the police and by the courts, or as further information Home Department in respect of how many individuals becomes available. the Criminal Records Bureau received (a) more than 2 Offences are shown according to the year in which police initially one, (b) more than two and (c) more than five applications recorded the offence as homicide. This is not necessarily the year in which the incident took place or the year in which any court decision for (i) standard and (ii) an enhanced disclosure in the was made. most recent 12 months period for which figures are 3 Includes knives and other sharp instruments. available; and if she will make a statement. [11741] 4 Including shooting by crossbow. Excludes homicides where firearms used as a blunt instrument.

Lynne Featherstone: The Criminal Records Bureau Table 2: Offences currently1 recorded as homicide by apparent method (CRB) does not hold this information. The Bureau’s of killing for victims aged 13 to 19, London region2, 2005-06 to 2008- system stores information based upon each application 093 and not on each individual applicant. Each application Recorded crime (Number) is treated as a new application. Method of It is ultimately for each recruiting organisation and killing 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 not the CRB to decide whether and when a certificate Sharp 8122018 should be applied for. instrument4 The decision to request these checks are made in line Shooting5 2663 with the organisations’ own internal recruitment policies 1 As at 24 November 2009; figures are subject to revision as cases are and any legislation that governs them. dealt with by the police and by the courts, or as further information becomes available. A CRB certificate is not clearance to work; it simply 2 The London region consists of the City of London and the metropolitan provides the recruiting organisation with the information police forces. available at that time on which to base their decision. As 3 Offences are shown according to the year in which police initially conviction or other relevant information can be recorded recorded the offence as homicide. This is not necessarily the year in which the incident took place or the year in which any court decision against an individual at any time, authorities may decide was made. that a new application needs to be made to make sure 4 Includes knives and other sharp instruments. the information provided is accurate and up to date on 5 Including shooting by crossbow. Excludes homicides where firearms each occasion. used as a blunt instrument. Death: Weapons Departmental Billing

Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for the Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many 13 to 19 year olds Home Department what information her Department were killed in shootings in (a) Streatham constituency, holds on the time taken by contractors employed by it (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London to pay the invoices of their sub-contractors under and (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and prompt payment arrangements; and if she will make a (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are statement. [9251] available; [10735] Nick Herbert: The Home Department does not hold (2) how many 13 to 19 year olds were killed in knife this information centrally and to obtain it would incur incidents or stabbings in (a) Streatham constituency, disproportionate cost. (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London and (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are Departmental Consultants available. [10736] Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for the James Brokenshire: Available information is from the Home Department what the budget for consultants to Homicide Index and relates to offences currently recorded her Department is for 2010-11. [9208] as homicide (murder, manslaughter and infanticide) as at 24 November 2009. Data from the Homicide Index Nick Herbert: Under the new coalition Government, cannot be broken down below police force area level, the Department has set targets to reduce overall expenditure and so data only for London and England can be on consultants by some 50% in the current financial provided. The following tables show the number of year, supported by stricter rules of engagement and homicide victims aged 13 to 19 years inclusive where the approvals, with Secretary of State approval required for apparent method of killing is ‘sharp instrument’ or any expenditure above £20,000. These measures are ‘shooting’, in each financial year from 2005-06 to 2008-09. designed to reduce expenditure to £84 million in the Figures for 2009-10 will be published in January 2011 in current financial year. 1103W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1104W

Departmental ICT Nick Herbert: There is no centralised reporting mechanism for recording of reported thefts in the Home Department. To gather the information required would Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the incur disproportionate costs. Home Department how much (a) her Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies Departmental Official Cars spent on information and communication technology in each year since 1997. [7341] Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which Ministers in her Department have Nick Herbert: The following table sets out the available used an allocated Ministerial car to travel between her data for information and communication technology Department and the House of Commons on each day within the Home Office and UK Border Agency, Identity since 21 May 2010. [5550] and Passport Service and Criminal Records Bureau. Figures for the Home Office Core and UK Border Nick Herbert: I refer the hon. Member to the answer Agency are provided from 2005-06 onwards, and are provided to the hon. Member for West Bromwich East drawn from the Department’s resource accounts. These (Mr Watson) on 28 June 2010, Official Report, column include identifiable ICT costs, including PFI costs, but 434W. not IT-related staff and capital costs as it is not possible All travel is undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial to break down expenditure in those areas without incurring Code. disproportionate cost. General and subsidiary ledgers produced for the purpose Departmental Official Hospitality of preparing certified financial statements are not retained after a period of six years, in line with National Audit Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the Office requirements. The Department does not, therefore, Home Department how much (a) her Department and hold the requested information for financial years before (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies 2004-05. spent on hospitality in each year since 1997. [7448] Information on expenditure by the Identity and Passport Service is provided for each financial year since 1999, Nick Herbert: Expenditure incurred by the Department, drawn from the agency’s annual accounts. UK Border Agency and Identity and Passport Service is set out in the table. Figures for the Criminal Records Bureau are provided for each financial year since 2000, drawn from internal £000 records. Home Office and Identity and ICT expenditure UKBA Passport Service £ 2009-10 51 7 Home Office1 CRB IPS 2008-09 50 7 2009-10 n/a 1,873,416 21,679,000 2007-08 58 5 2008-09 217,155,000 1,541,360 20,559,000 2006-07 93 13 2007-08 171,472,000 1,435,361 13,716,000 2005-06 324 6 2006-07 193,484,000 1,305,567 11,941,000 2005-06 173,491,000 1,327,939 7,410,000 Home Office expenditure on official hospitality and 2004-05 2— 1,115,874 6,691,000 entertainment conforms to departmental guidance on 2003-04 n/a 1,140,883 3,372,000 financial procedures and propriety, which complies with 2002-03 n/a 985,088 2,966,000 the principles of Managing Public Money and the 2001-02 n/a 610,015 2,744,000 Treasury handbook on Regularity and Propriety. 2000-01 n/a 128,249 1,905,000 Hospitality is defined as the provision of food, drink and entertainment of non-civil servants where it is 1999- n/a n/a 1,361,000 2000 beneficial to the interests of the Department. n/a = Not available General and subsidiary ledgers produced for the purpose 1 Media and IT costs for UKBA are included in the Home Office of preparing certified financial statements are not retained figures. The publications also show the grant payments made to the after a period of six years, in line with National Audit non-departmental public bodies but are not included in the media and IT costs. Office requirements. The Department does not hold the 2 2004-05 figures are not available as the accounts were disclaimed by requested information for financial years before 2004-05. the National Audit Office and any reported expenditure would be The Department’s 2004-05 Resource Accounts were unreliable. disclaimed and reported expenditure for that year is unreliable. Departmental Lost Property Expenditure incurred by the Criminal Records Bureau and non-departmental public bodies could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what property has been recorded as Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for the (a) lost and (b) stolen from the Department in the last Home Department how much her Department spent 12 months; and what estimate has been made of the on hospitality for events hosted by each Minister in her cost of the replacement of that property. [5960] Department in (a) May and (b) June 2010. [10115] 1105W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1106W

Nick Herbert: £2,494.81 was spent on hospitality for Departmental Regulation an event hosted by the Home Secretary and her ministerial team with approximately 100 key Home Office partners Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for the in May of this year. The event provided Ministers with Home Department which of her Department’s the opportunity to establish relationships and share regulations are under review; and if she will make a early priorities. The hospitality cost was kept to a statement. [7150] minimum by managing the event in-house. No other events were hosted by Home Office Ministers in either Nick Herbert: In the Budget the Government announced MayorJune. plans for reducing regulatory burdens, including the introduction of a one-in-one out system for new regulations and a fundamental review of all regulation inherited Departmental Operating Costs from the previous Government scheduled for introduction over the coming year. These regulations will not be Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for implemented until they have been reviewed and re-agreed the Home Department what steps she has taken to by the Reducing Regulation Cabinet Committee. reduce the running costs of her Department since her The Your Freedom website launched by the Deputy appointment. [9824] Prime Minister on 1 July 2010, will also give members of the public the opportunity to suggest existing regulations Nick Herbert: The Home Office is committed to for removal: reducing its costs and is currently considering how http://yourfreedom.hmg.gov.uk/ future savings will be achieved as part of the Government’s spending review which will report in October. This will Departmental Stationery build on the £367 million savings that the Department Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the has already identified as its share of the £6 billion Home Department how much (a) her Department and cross-government cuts announced by the Coalition (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies Government in May. spent on stationery in each year since 1997. [7467]

Departmental Pay Nick Herbert: Due to a switch over to the Oracle ERP system in 2004 and changes to the Home Department’s accounting systems, details of spend on Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for the stationery for the Home Department and UKBA prior Home Department how much was paid in remuneration to 2004 are not available. To obtain the information in total to civil servants in her Department in 2009-10. would incur disproportionate cost. [9901] However we do hold data for the Home Department and United Kingdom Border Agency spend on stationery Nick Herbert: The Home Office accounts show that in each year since 2004 which is as follows: the costs for all permanently employed staff within the Home Office and its agencies for 2009-10 are as follows: Table 1: Stationery spend Home Department and UKBA £000 (£) 2004-05 2,286,400 Core HO + 2005-06 2,773,000 Core Home Office Agencies 2006-07 4,490,700 Wages and salaries 102,729,000 941,808,000 2007-08 4,214,700 Social security costs 10,284,000 66,797,000 2008-09 3,250,400 Other pension costs 23,296,000 159,724,000 2009-10 2,132,200 Less recoveries in respect (666,000) (2,197,000) of outward secondments The Home Department’s executive agency and executive Total net costs 135,643,000 1,166,132,000 NDPBs spend on stationery in each year since 1997 or their vesting date if later is:

Table 2: Stationery spend—agency/NDPB

CRB IPS IPCC ISA NPIA OISC SIA SOCA

1997-98 — 351,900 — — — 1998-99 — 438,600 — — — 1999-2000 — 705,200 — — — 2000-01 15,400 469,000 — — — 2001-02 61,200 1,258,100 — — — 31,000 2002-03 79,400 790,000 — — — 14,100 2003-04 72,000 622,000 — — — 10,200 33,600 2004-05 47,700 522,400 179,000 — — 13,400 47,100 2005-06 40,200 587,600 171,000 — — 11,500 64,200 2006-07 55,000 738,400 232,000 — — 8,500 77,300 1,085,900 2007-08 17,100 666,800 179,000 — 558,000 10,200 68,000 686,300 1107W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1108W

Table 2: Stationery spend—agency/NDPB

CRB IPS IPCC ISA NPIA OISC SIA SOCA

2008-09 65,600 490,500 137,000 72,500 537,000 10,800 88,200 723,600 2009-10 35,400 270,600 161,000 76,000 786.000 7,900 115,600 649,300

Departmental Temporary Employment Induction training at the National School of Government was undertaken by the following Home Office Ministers: Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for the James Brokenshire Home Department how many temporary employees Lynne Featherstone are working in (a) her Department and (b) other Nick Herbert bodies financed from its budget. [9211] Damian Green No additional training has been provided for Home Nick Herbert: There were 690 temporary employees Office Ministers since the formation of the present working in the Home Office Headquarters and its three Administration. Executive Agencies (UKBA, IPS, and CRB) as at 31 Departmental Travel March 2010 out of 26,800 civil servants. 210 were in the Home Office headquarters, 370 in Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the UKBA, 100 in IPS and 10 in CRB. Home Department how much her (a) Department and (b) its agencies and non-departmental public bodies Departmental Training has spent on travel for employees in each year since 1997. [7429] Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what training has been provided for Nick Herbert: Due to changes in the computer systems Ministers in her Department since the formation of the used to record travel costs and/or the way travel costs present administration; and at what cost. [6448] have historically been recorded we are unable to provide complete data. The Home Office HQ and UK Border Nick Herbert: I refer the hon. Member to the answer Agency moved to the current system in October 2008. given by my right hon. Friend the Member for Horsham Other agencies and NDPBs did not have systems in (Mr Maude) to the hon. Member for West Bromwich place for the whole period and/or do not separate out East (Mr Watson) on 3 June 2010, Official Report, travel costs from other expense types. It would have column 52W. The National School of Government is represented a disproportionate cost to obtain data from funded through its Core Learning Programme to deliver all NDPBs, but we have included in our response data induction and other training to Ministers, and there is from the Executive agencies. The table provides all no separate charge to Departments. available data.

HO/UKBA IPCC (rail spend CRB IPS NPIA SOCA SIA ISA only)

1997-98 1— — 211,061 — — — — — 1998-99 1— — 262,315 — — — — — 1999-2000 1— — 151,723 — — — — — 2000-01 1— 112,680 698,692 — — — — — 2001-02 1— 159,956 853,792 — — — — — 2002-03 1— 379,746 913,029 — — — — — 2003-04 1— 337,500 760,510 — — 1—— — 2004-05 1— 468,219 1,018,540 — — 1— — 175,031 2005-06 1— 377,428 1,382,681 — — 279,180 — 251,071 2006-07 1— 342,215 2,075,806 — 9,605,345 358,512 — 210,481 2007-08 1— 279,846 2,573,460 2,669,000 9,065,251 384,544 — 198,476 2008-09 27,579,571 371,289 2,976,401 3,097,000 9,993,716 499,478 91,359 249,069 2009-10 10,920,147 419,984 2,921,661 3,721,000 8,871,119 559,701 150,541 205,660 1 Historical data unavailable. 2 From October 2008 only. Key: NDPB—Non-departmental public body HO—Home Office UKBA—United Kingdom Border Agency CRB—Criminal Records Bureau IPS—Identity and Passport Service NPIA—National Policing Improvement Agency OISC—Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner SOCA—Serious Organised Crime Agency SIA—Security Industry Authority ISA—Independent Safeguarding Authority IPCC—Independent Police Complaints Commission PCoE—(HO) Procurement Centre of Excellence 1109W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1110W

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Thus far, no Home Office Minister has claimed any Home Department which (a) Ministers and (b) officials expenses relating to the use of taxis, underground or in her Department have been driven by the Government buses. Car Service since the Government took office; and how The Government publishes on a quarterly basis, the much each of these persons has received in expenses for expenses incurred by the most senior officials which use of taxis, buses and underground trains in that includes use of the Government car service and other period. [7970] travel expenses. Entry Clearances: Skilled Workers

Nick Herbert: All Home Office Ministers apart from Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for the the Home Secretary have been driven by the Government Home Department how many work permits were Car Service. All Government Car Service contracts issued for (a) doctors and (b) nurses and auxiliary were terminated in May but the contract stipulates that nurses from each African country under the (i) work all Departments are obliged to serve a 90-day termination permits system and (ii) points-based immigration period, which means all contracts will expire in August. system in each of the last five years. [10588] As was the case under previous Governments, all civil Damian Green: The numbers of work permits issued servants and special advisers may use an official car or for each of the requested categories are set out in the taxi in properly defined circumstances. following table.

Work permits approved (Africa) by Doctor/nurse 1 January 2005 - 20 July 2010 Nationality Occupation 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Total

Algeria Doctor 0 1— 0 000 1— Nurse 1— 0 0 000 1— Total 1— 1— 0 000 1— Botswana Doctor 0 5 1— 1—00 5 Nurse 140 70 35 40 5 1—295 Total 140 75 35 40 5 1—300 Burundi Nurse 1— 1— 1— 000 5 Total 1— 1— 1— 000 5 Cameroon Doctor 5 5 1— 1—00 15 Nurse 40 30 20 35 1— 1—130 Total 45 35 20 40 1— 1—145 Congo Doctor 0 1—01—00 1— Nurse 5 1— 1— 1—00 10 Total 5 1— 1— 500 10 Egypt Doctor 85 85 40 75 5 0 285 Nurse 1—001—00 5 Total 85 85 40 75 5 0 290 Ethiopia Doctor 0 1— 1— 000 1— Nurse 1— 1— 0 000 5 Total 1— 1— 1— 000 5 Gambia Nurse 35 25 10 10 1— 1—80 Total 35 25 10 10 1— 1—80 Ghana Doctor 20 20 5 15 0 0 60 Nurse 650 290 200 220 10 10 1,375 Total 670 310 210 230 10 10 1,435 Guinea Nurse 1— 1— 0 000 1— Total 1— 1— 0 000 1— Ivory Coast Nurse 1— 0 0 000 1— Total 1— 0 0 000 1— Kenya Doctor 10 20 5 5 0 0 35 Nurse 255 145 95 115 5 1—615 Total 265 165 95 115 5 1—650 Lesotho Doctor 0 1—51—00 5 Nurse 80 50 25 40 1—0190 Total 80 50 25 40 1—0200 Liberia Doctor 1— 1— 0 000 5 Nurse 1—001—00 5 Total 1— 1—01—00 5 Libya Doctor 50 30 10 10 0 0 100 1111W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1112W

Work permits approved (Africa) by Doctor/nurse 1 January 2005 - 20 July 2010 Nationality Occupation 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Total

Nurse 1— 0 0 000 1— Total 55 30 10 10 0 0 100 Malawi Doctor 1—51— 1—00 10 Nurse 125 70 40 50 1— 1—285 Total 125 75 40 50 1— 1—295 Mauritius Doctor 5 10 0 1—00 20 Nurse 350 175 145 150 10 1—830 Total 350 190 145 155 10 1—850 Morocco Nurse 0 1— 0 000 1— Total 0 1— 0 000 1— Mozambique Nurse 0 0 0 t 0 0 1— Total 0 0 0 t 0 0 1— Namibia Doctor 0 1— 0 000 1— Nurse 25 15 10 15 t 0 70 Total 25 15 10 15 t 0 75 Niger Nurse 0 1—00 01— Total 0 1— 0 000 1— Nigeria Doctor 100 125 25 35 1—0285 Nurse 1,160 600 390 490 30 5 2,685 Total 1,260 730 415 525 30 5 2,970 Rwanda Doctor 1— 0 0 000 1— Nurse 1— 1— 1— 1—00 5 Total 1— 1— 1— 1—00 5 Seychelles Nurse 25 15 10 5 0 0 50 Total 25 15 10 5 0 0 50 Sierra Leone Doctor 1— 5 0 000 5 Nurse 70 45 20 15 5 0 155 Total 75 50 20 15 5 0 160 Somalia Doctor 1— 1— 0 000 1— Nurse 5 5 1— 1—00 10 Total 5 5 1— 1—00 15 South africa Doctor 300 265 175 170 5 1—915 Nurse 2,010 1,135 545 410 25 5 4,135 Total 2,310 1,400 720 580 30 10 5,050 Sudan Doctor 35 30 20 30 1—0115 Nurse 1—0001—0 1— Total 35 30 20 30 1—0115 Swaziland Nurse 100 70 25 20 1—0215 Total 100 70 25 20 1—0215 Tanzania Doctor 1—101— 1—00 15 Nurse 45 25 20 10 1—0100 Total 45 35 20 15 1—0115 Togo Nurse 1—01— 1—00 5 Total 1—01— 1—00 5 Tunisia Nurse 1—0001—0 5 Total 1—0001—0 5 Uganda Doctor 5 5 1— 1—00 15 Nurse 70 30 30 30 1—0165 Total 80 35 30 35 1—0180 Zaire Doctor 1— 0 0 000 1— Nurse 0 0 0 1—00 1— Total 1—001—00 1— Zambia Doctor 5 5 1— 000 10 Nurse 350 195 135 130 10 1—820 Total 355 200 135 130 10 1—835 Zimbabwe Doctor 25 20 10 10 1—0 60 1113W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1114W

Work permits approved (Africa) by Doctor/nurse 1 January 2005 - 20 July 2010 Nationality Occupation 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Total

Nurse 2,330 1,610 1,095 1,175 60 10 6,280 Total 2,355 1,625 1,105 1,185 60 10 6,340 Total 8,540 5,265 3,155 3,330 180 40 20,510 1 Indicates 1 or 2 Notes: 1. The data in this publication are based on management information, are provisional and may be subject to change. The data are not National Statistics. 2. Figures are rounded to nearest 5 3. Because of rounding, figures may not add up to totals shown. 4. Doctor Occupations include: Medical Practitioner, Hospital Consultant, Doctor, GP Registrar, Specialist Registrar 5. Nurse Occupations include: Nurse, Midwife

EU Justice And Home Affairs Firearms: Greater London

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what EU agreements made Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for the under Justice and Home Affairs provisions require Home Department how many non-fatal incidents involving further UK consent to be fully incorporated into the (1) 13 to 19-year-olds and guns there were in (a) First Pillar following ratification of the Treaty of Streatham constituency, (b) the London Borough of Lisbon; and how many have been so incorporated to Lambeth, (c) London and (d) England in (i) each year date. [10353] from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are available; [10729] James Brokenshire: The Lisbon Treaty contains (2) guns there were in (a) Streatham constituency, transitional provisions for measures adopted under the (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London police and judicial co-operation title of the old Treaty and (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and on European Union. These provide for a transitional (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are period of five years to apply in relation to those measures. available. [10731] During this period the European Court of Justice continues to have limited jurisdiction and the European Commission is precluded from bringing infraction proceedings. At James Brokenshire: Available data relate to offences the end of the five-year period these measures will recorded in London and England between 2005-06 and become subject to the full jurisdiction of the European 2008-09, and are from the Home Office’s additional Court of Justice and the full enforcement powers of the data collection on selected offences in which firearms European Commission. While this requires no further (excluding air weapons) were reported to have been consent from the UK, the Lisbon Treaty includes a used. They are shown in the following tables. Data for protocol that allows us to opt out of all these measures 2009-10 are scheduled to be published in January 2011. en bloc at any time before 1 June 2014. Firearms are taken to be involved in a crime if they are fired, used as a blunt instrument or used as a threat. It is Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State not possible to provide information below police force for the Home Department what recent discussions she level. has had at EU level on the mechanisms for incorporating into the First Pillar those agreements Table 1: Non-fatal offences recorded by the police in which firearms (excluding air weapons) were reported to have been used1, England, made under Justice and Home Affairs provisions that 2005-06 to 2008-09 require further UK consent. [11243] Recorded crime 13 to 19-year-olds Total James Brokenshire: The Secretary of State for the Home Department and junior Ministers engage regularly 2005-06 1,934 10,807 with EU counterparts both at EU level meetings such as 2006-07 1,753 9,374 the Justice and Home Affairs Council and through 2007-08 1,753 9,603 bilateral discussions with counterparts in the European 2008-09 1,258 8,030 Commission and EU member states. The Lisbon treaty 1 Firearms are taken to be involved in an offence if they are fired, used contains provisions preserving measures adopted under as a blunt instrument against a person, or used as a threat the police and judicial co-operation title of the old Table 2: Non-fatal offences recorded by the police in which firearms treaty on European Union (i.e. before 1 December (excluding air weapons) were reported to have been used1, London 2 2009) for a transitional period of five years, during region , 2005-06 to 2008-09 which the European Court of Justice continues to have Recorded crime only limited jurisdiction and the European Commission 13 to 19-year-olds Total is precluded from bringing infraction proceedings. At 2005-06 784 3,862 the end of this period these measures will become 2006-07 685 3,303 subject to the full jurisdiction of the European Court of 2007-08 633 3,376 Justice and the full enforcement powers of the European 2008-09 514 3,070 Commission. While this requires no further consent 1 Firearms are taken to be involved in an offence if they are fired, used from the UK, the treaty includes a protocol that allows as a blunt instrument against a person, or used as a threat. us to opt out of all of these measures en bloc at any 2 The London region consists of the City of London and the Metropolitan time before 1 June 2014. police forces. 1115W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1116W

Football: Security to the ISA children’s barred list from the Protection of Vulnerable Adults List because of the risk they Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State demonstrated to children. for the Home Department if she will request a report Independent Safeguarding Authority: Darlington from the South African authorities on their arrangements for ensuring public order in relation to football fans attending the recent FIFA World Cup. Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the [9406] Home Department what plans she has for the future of the Independent Safeguarding Authority offices in James Brokenshire [holding answer 19 July 2010]: We Darlington. [11329] have no plans to request such a report. There was close and extensive liaison between the South African authorities Lynne Featherstone [holding answer 26 July 2010]: and UK governmental and policing football experts We have already announced our decision to review the before and during the tournament and very close criminal records and vetting and barring regime and co-operation in venue cities between host and English scale it back to a common sense level. The Independent police delegations. Throughout the World Cup, the host Safeguarding Authority (ISA) was established to support authorities provided daily reports on their safety and the operation of the vetting and barring scheme and the security strategy and events in South Africa. outcomes of that review will have an impact on its role. It would, however, not be appropriate to pre-empt Hunting Act 2004 the outcomes of the review.

Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for the Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what training is provided for police Home Department what tasks are undertaken at the officers and the Crown Prosecution Service on Independent Safeguarding Authority’s offices in Darlington. enforcing the provisions of the Hunting Act 2004; and [11330] if she will increase the levels of provision of such training. [7409] Lynne Featherstone [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The Independent Safeguarding Authority’s role is to James Brokenshire [holding answer 12 July 2010]: make fair and consistent barring decisions on those Training provided to police forces on enforcing the people who may pose a risk of harm to children and/or provisions of the Hunting Act is a matter for individual vulnerable adults through paid or unpaid work. The chief officers. The Crown Prosecution Service provides ISA has four statutory functions: comprehensive Legal Guidance on the Hunting Act to maintain a list of those who are barred from engaging in 2004 for prosecutors. The Government have no plans to regulated activity with children (the “children’s barred list”); increase the levels of provision of such training. to maintain a list of those barred from engaging in regulated activity with vulnerable adults (the “adults’ barred list”); Identity Cards to reach decisions about whether a person should be included in one or both barred lists; and Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for the to reach decisions as to whether to remove a person from a Home Department pursuant to the answer to the hon. barred list. Member for Birkenhead of 9 June 2010, Official Report, column 157W, for what reason refunds for Independent Safeguarding Authority: Employment identity cards will not be offered. [12045] Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Damian Green: The coalition Government are committed Home Department how many people are employed by to scrapping the identity card scheme and the national the Independent Safeguarding Authority in Darlington. identity register. We aim to achieve that at the least [11331] possible cost to the taxpayer. A very small percentage of the population voluntarily chose to buy a card and were Lynne Featherstone [holding answer 26 July 2010]: warned that the scheme may be scrapped. We do not see At the Independent Safeguarding Authority’s offices in why the taxpayer should pick up the bill to provide Darlington, there are currently 276 employees. This refunds. figure includes full-time permanent staff, fixed term staff and casual staff. Independent Safeguarding Authority: Children Khat Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people have been barred Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for the from working with children by the Independent Home Department what recent research her Department Safeguarding Authority. [11332] has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the effects of the use of the substance khat. [10738] Lynne Featherstone [holding answer 26 July 2010]: From 12 October 2009 to 22 July 2010, the Independent James Brokenshire: The Department commissioned Safeguarding Authority has placed 11,361 people on two studies in 2009 to explore the social harms associated the children’s barred list. A further 15,649 people have with khat use, though the perceived health effects of been transferred to the children’s list who were listed khat are also briefly reported on in each of the studies. under previous schemes: the Protection of Children Act The first of these is a mainly qualitative study undertaken list and List 99. Some individuals were also transferred among the UK’s Somali, Yemeni and Ethiopian 1117W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1118W communities exploring perceptions of the social harms the collection, and also due to changes in: (i) the clarification associated with khat use and perceptions of the appropriate rules for recording GBH with intent; and (ii) the definition role of Government intervention (the study also included of GBH without intent. a short survey of drug action teams to gauge the Knife and sharp instrument offences recorded by the police for selected availability of treatment service provision for khat users). offences, 2007-08 to 2009-101, recorded crime The second is a review of the national and international Method of killing 2007-082 2008-09 2009-10 literature examining the evidence on the social harms associated with khat and the impact of legislation in England 20,985 34,806 32,570 countries which have legislated against khat use and London Region3 7,428 12,259 12,570 supply. 1 Police recorded knife and sharp instrument offences data are submitted via an additional special collection. Other offences exist that are not In addition, the British crime survey report “Drug shown in this table that may include the use of a knife or sharp Misuse Declared 2009/10”, published on 22 July 2010, instrument. In this table ‘offences involving a knife’ refers to the use of for the first time includes estimates of the prevalence of a knife or sharp instrument. Total of selected serious offences only khat use in the general population. Preliminary findings include the five offence types shown in this table. 2 (based on six months data) show that 0.2% of adults Due to the inclusion of additional offence groups, a change in the clarification rules for recording GBH with intent, and a change in the reported using khat in the last year. definition of GBH without intent it is not possible to compare This report is available on the Home Office RDS between 2007-08 and later years. 3 website at: The London region consists of the City of London and the Metropolitan police forces. http://rds.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/pdfs10/hosb1310.pdf Source: Members: Correspondence “Drug Misuse Declared: Findings from the 2009/10 British Crime Survey (England and Wales)”. Mr Winnick: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when she plans to reply to the letter Knives: Greater London from the hon. Member for Walsall North of 14 June 2010 on Abu Hamza, ref. M7887/10. [10333] Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many non-fatal incidents involving Nick Herbert [holding answer 22 July 2010]: A reply (1) 13 to 19-year-olds and knives there were in (a) was sent to the hon. Member on 22 July 2010. Streatham constituency, (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London and (d) England in (i) each year Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for the from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) 2010 on the latest date for Home Department when she plans to reply to the letter which figures are available; [10730] from the hon. Member for Rutherglen and Hamilton (2) knives there were in (a) Streatham constituency, West on his constituent Ms Linda Patlock. [11879] (b) the London Borough of Lambeth, (c) London and (d) England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and Damian Green: I wrote to the hon. Member on 26 July (ii) 2010 on the latest date for which figures are 2010. available. [10732] Mr Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for the James Brokenshire: Available data relate to offences Home Department when the UK Border Agency plans recorded in London and England between 2007-08 and to respond to the letter of 23 June from the hon. 2009-10, and are from the Home Office’s additional Member for Basildon and Billericay regarding Mr B. data collection on selected offences involving knives Vadgama. [11939] and sharp instruments (hereafter referred to as ‘knife offences’). Since only aggregate knife offences data are Damian Green: The UK Border Agency replied to my collected from forces, it is not possible to provide hon. Friend’s letter of 23 June 2010 regarding Mr B information broken down by age of victim or suspect, Vadgama on 21 July 2010. or below police force level. Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for The collection was introduced in April 2007 and the Home Department when she expects to reply to the knives are taken to be involved in an incident if they are letter dated 11 June 2010 from the right hon. Member used to stab or cut, or in a threat. A sharp instrument is for Manchester, Gorton, with regard to Ms Aisha any object that pierces the skin (or, in the case of a Akhtar. [11968] threat, is capable of piercing the skin) and includes bottles and glass (when broken prior to the offence) and Damian Green: I replied to the right hon. Member on syringes. 22 July 2010. Data collected in 2007-08 covered the offences of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm (GBH) with Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for intent, GBH without intent and robbery. The following the Home Department when she expects to reply to the offence categories were added to the collection in 2008-09: letter dated 2 June 2010 from the right hon. Member threats to kill, actual bodily harm (ABH), sexual assault for Manchester, Gorton, with regard to Mr Kasaif and rape. Ikbal. [11969] The following table shows data for the years 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-10. It should be noted that data for Damian Green: The letter of 2 June crossed in the 2007-08 are not directly comparable to those for later post with the reply of 2 June to the earlier letter of years. This is due to the change in offences covered by 14 May 2010. No further reply was needed. 1119W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1120W

Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for for the purpose of informing her Department’s submission the Home Department when she expects to reply to the to the Chancellor of the Exchequer in respect of the letter dated 20 May 2010 from the right hon. Member Comprehensive Spending Review. [11112] for Manchester, Gorton, with regard to Mr A. Khan. [11970] Nick Herbert: None. However, HMIC and the Audit Commission published a joint report on 20 July called Damian Green: I refer the right hon. Member to the ″Sustaining Value for Money in the Police Service.″ reply given on 26 July 2010, Official Report, column 651W. Police: Criminal Proceedings Multiple Temporary Event Notices Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for the Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many police officers were Home Department if she will bring forward proposals (a) disciplined, (b) subject to criminal charges, (c) to enable multiple temporary event notices to be given a custodial sentence and (d) dismissed for offences submitted on a single application. [11989] under the provisions of the Official Secrets Act 1989 in each of the last 10 years; [11178] James Brokenshire: The Home Office will shortly (2) how many police officers were (a) subject to lead a public consultation on the overhaul of the Licensing criminal charges of, (b) given a custodial sentence Act and other alcohol measures set out in the coalition following conviction for and (c) dismissed following agreement. This will include inviting views on deregulation conviction for perjury in each of the last 10 years. and temporary events notices. [11179] National Referral Mechanism Nick Herbert: The Home Office does not hold a central record of the information requested. This is a Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for matter for the Chief Officer of each force. the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 5 July 2010, Official Report, column 77W, for what reasons no Police: Domestic Violence decision was recorded in the cases of 122 individuals who were referred to the National Referral Mechanism Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for the between 1 April 2009 and 31 March 2010; and if she Home Department what steps she is taking to ensure will make a statement. [7926] that police forces give appropriate priority to responding to incidents of domestic violence. [11962] Nick Herbert: “No decision recorded” refers mostly to cases which are still under consideration. It can also James Brokenshire: Domestic violence is unacceptable. refer to cases where decisions have been made but have The Government are developing a strategy to tackle not yet been recorded in the statistics. violence against women and girls and this will include National Referral Mechanism statistics are updated domestic violence and within that, the police response. quarterly. In future statistical updates, cases which are Serial perpetrators are one of a number of domestic still under consideration will be shown as such. violence issues we are exploring. We will consider the New York policing model, as well as other models and Police Community Support Officers: Powers reviews, within these discussions. A Home Office pilot project for victims of domestic Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for violence with no recourse to public funds commenced the Home Department if she will issue guidance to in November 2009 and was scheduled to run to the end police forces on the powers of police community of August 2010. On 16 July, the Home Secretary announced support officers to issue fixed penalty notices; and if an extension to the pilot until the end of March 2011 she will make a statement. [10888] and a commitment to find a long-term funding solution to the issue. Nick Herbert: Police community support officers all have a set of 20 standard powers. They may be granted The pilot is monitored on a monthly basis and a full additional powers at the discretion of the chief officer evaluation will take place following completion of the of their force. There are three standard powers to issue pilot. fixed penalty notices (FPN) while five are discretionary. Police: Manpower Some FPNs are issued on behalf of local authorities and these are produced in a number of different formats. Hence, training differs between forces, depending on Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of local circumstances. There are no plans by the Home State for the Home Department (1) what estimate she Office to issue guidance to police forces on these powers. has made of the number of police officers to be The issue of guidance on the use of fixed penalty recruited in (a) England and Wales and (b) Durham notices is an operational matter. constituency consequent on the financial savings arising from the abolition of voluntary identity cards; Police: Comprehensive Spending Review [10059] (2) what proportion of the financial savings Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home attributable to the abolition of voluntary identity cards Department what representations she has received from she plans to allocate to recruitment of front-line police (a) the Audit Commission and (b) HM Inspector of officers in (a) England and Wales and (b) Durham Constabulary on the number of frontline police officers constabulary. [10061] 1121W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1122W

Nick Herbert: No estimate has been made of the 1 Full-time equivalent figures that have been rounded to the nearest number of police officers to be recruited by any force in whole number. 2 Figures are for the 39 forces of England. England and Wales. Recruitment remains a matter for 3 Financial year runs from 1 April to 31 March inclusive. each Chief Constable. 4 Recruits include those officers joining as ‘Standard Direct Recruits’ There are no net savings to the Exchequer in the and those who were ‘previously Special Constables’. This excludes current financial year from the decision to cancel ID officers on transfers from other forces and those rejoining. Cards. The allocation of savings made from the abolition Police: Overtime of ID cards beyond the current financial year is a matter for the spending review. Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much overtime was undertaken in Police: North Yorkshire each police force in England and Wales in the latest period for which figures are available; and what the cost Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for the was to each force. [9270] Home Department how many (a) community support officers and (b) uniformed police officers have been Nick Herbert: Information about time spent on police recruited in (i) North Yorkshire and (ii) England in overtime is not collected by the Home Office. In respect each of the last three years. [11628] of the cost of overtime I would refer the right hon. Member to the reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Nick Herbert: The available data are provided in the Brigg and Goole (Andrew Percy) on 3 June 2010, Official table. Figures exclude officers on transfers from other Report, column 80-81W. forces and those rejoining. Police: Pay Number of police officers and police community support officers (FTE1) recruited in North Yorkshire and England2, 2007-08 to 2009- Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home 103, 4 Department what the salary is of the (a) chief constable 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 and (b) deputy chief constable of each police force in Officers CSO Officers CSO Officers CSO England and Wales. [9174]

North 0 29 0 10 96 28 Nick Herbert: The salaries of commissioners, deputy Yorkshire commissioners, chief constables, deputy chief constables England 5,640 4,126 7,657 3,114 5,28 2,324 and their equivalents are:

As at 1 September 2009 As at 1 September 2009 Forces commissioner salary (£) deputy/assistant commissioner salary (£)

Metropolitan (MPS) 253,620 1209,382 City of London 156,900 2129,444 1 Deputy 2 Assistant As at 1 September 2009 As at 1 September 2009 Forces chief constable salary (£) deputy chief constable salary (£)

West Midlands 1176,943 2135,660 Greater Manchester 4— 4— West Yorkshire 165,147 132,120 Thames Valley 156,303 128,949 Merseyside 153,351 126,519 Northumbria 4— 4— Hampshire 150,399 124,083 Kent 147,456 121,647 Lancashire 4— 4— Devon and Cornwall 4— 4— South Yorkshire 144,510 119,217 Essex 4— 4— Avon and Somerset 4— 4— Sussex 4— 4— South Wales 4— 4— Nottinghamshire 138,609 3114,348 Hertfordshire 135,660 111,918 West Mercia 4— 4— Cheshire 4— 4— Humberside 4— 4— Staffordshire 4— 4— Leicestershire 4— 4— Derbyshire 4— 4— Surrey 132,708 109,485 Norfolk 4— 4— Cleveland 129,759 107,052 1123W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1124W

As at 1 September 2009 As at 1 September 2009 Forces chief constable salary (£) deputy chief constable salary (£)

Durham 4— 4— Cambridgeshire 4— 4— North Wales 4— 4— North Yorkshire 4— 4— Gwent 4— 4— Northamptonshire 4— 4— Suffolk 4— 4— Dorset 4— 4— Wiltshire 4— 4— Bedfordshire 4— 4— Gloucestershire 126,810 106,167 Lincolnshire 4— 4— Cumbria 4— 4— Warwickshire 4— 4— Dyfed-Powys 4— 4— 1 MPS-Assistant commissioners. 2 MPS-Deputy assistant commissioners 3 The Home Secretary agreed in May, on the advice of the Senior Appointments Panel and HMIC, to a request from Nottinghamshire police authority that in the exceptional circumstances of that force a successful candidate for DCC could receive an additional allowance of £21,312. 4 Indicates brace.

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home allegations of racism were (i) the main factor and (ii) Department what payments other than salary payments combined with other factors in each of the last two were made to each (a) chief constable and (b) deputy years. [11904] chief constable in each police force in England and Wales in the latest period for which figures are available. Nick Herbert: The Home Office does not keep data [9265] on these figures, and therefore is unable to provide these estimates. Nick Herbert: It is for police authorities to determine payments other than salary payments for individual chief constables and deputy chief constables, in accordance Police: Scotland with the provisions in the Police Regulations 2003 and determinations made by the Home Secretary under the Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Regulations. Information about these payments is held Home Department whether she has the power to authorise by police authorities and is not currently collected by the deployment of additional firearms to police in the Home Office. Scotland. [11861] The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003 (as amended by the Accounts and Audit (Amendment No. 2) (England) Nick Herbert: The Home Secretary does not have the Regulations 2009) set out remuneration disclosure power to authorise the deployment of additional firearms requirements which police authorities have to comply to police in Scotland. with. Police: Powers Police: Training

Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Sir Paul Beresford: To ask the Secretary of State for Department how many times police exercised powers the Home Department what measures her Department under section 22 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 to has put in place to provide information and training for engage in post-charge questioning of terrorist suspects police forces about the availability and effect of the in (a) 2008 and (b) 2009; and how many times police Foreign Travel Order. [8567] have exercised such powers in 2010 to date. [8667] Nick Herbert [holding answer 15 July 2010]: The Nick Herbert: The provisions on post-charge questioning Home Office will be publishing updated guidance on in Section 22 of Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 have not the Sex Offenders Act 2003, which includes Foreign been commenced. The police have, therefore, not exercised Travel Orders, by the end of this year to reflect changes this power to date. As part of the Government’s urgent in law brought into effect by the Policing and Crime Act review of pre-charge detention, the Government will be 2009. The Home Office published a circular online considering whether and if so how post-charge questioning highlighting the changes and implementation dates. might be used. This can be accessed at: Police: Race Relations http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/home-office-circulars/ circulars-2010/005-2010/ Ms Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home These changes have also been communicated to all Department what estimate she has made of the amount forces through the Association of Chief Police Officers paid by each police authority to settle (a) cases out of (ACPO) and featured in the ACPO Public Protection court and (b) at the conclusion of tribunals where Conference in October 2009. 1125W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1126W

The National Policing Improvement Agency, as part Nick Herbert: Data on stop and search procedures of their Public Protection Learning Programme training carried out under various legislation in London and programme, provides information and training to Public England from 2005-06 to 2008-09 (latest available) are Protection Unit staff on Foreign Travel Orders. provided in the table. Data on the number of 13 to 19 year olds searched as Rape well as searches in Lambeth and Streatham constituency are not available as the information on stop and searches Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for reported to the Home Office is broken down by police the Home Department what recent assessment she has force area level only, and does not include the ages of made of the prevalence of date rape; and if she will persons stopped and searched. make a statement. [11907] Data on searches in 2009-10 are scheduled to be published in spring 2011. James Brokenshire: According to the British Crime Number of stop and search procedures1 conducted in Greater London2 Survey figures for 2007-08 (the most recent year for and England, 2005-06 to 2008-09 which data are available) 42% of serious sexual assaults Number of stop and search procedures (including rape) were committed by somebody known conducted in: to the victim. 22% of serious sexual assaults were committed Financial year England Greater London by a person described as a ‘friend’ or ‘date’. The Government are committed to ensuring that all victims 2005-06 931,638 329,686 of rape are supported, feel able to report to the police 2006-07 1,002,763 378,333 and that the conviction rate is increased. 2007-08 1,181,099 528,939 2008-09 1,469,041 802,761 1 Includes stops and searches under: Risk Assessment Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for the Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000 2 Home Department if she will extend Multi-Agency Includes the Metropolitan police and City of London police force areas Risk Assessment Conference arrangements to all areas. Telephone Tapping [11954] Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for the James Brokenshire: The Government are developing Home Department what recent steps her Department a strategy to tackle violence against women and girls. has taken to (a) detect and (b) prevent the incidence This includes domestic violence and will consider MARACs. of telephone (i) hacking and (ii) blagging. [6336]

Risk Assessment: Domestic Violence Nick Herbert: Section 1 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 provides an offence of unlawful interception. The police and Crown Prosecution Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for the Service are independently responsible for investigating Home Department what funding her Department and prosecuting such cases of unlawful interception. In plans to make available to maintain each of the existing some circumstances, ‘blagging’ or making false Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences and the representations, whereby an individual pretends to be Independent Domestic Violence Advisers in the next another person, could be a constituent element of a three years. [11955] dishonesty offence. James Brokenshire: The Home Office is providing Terrorism: Arrests £3.5 million in 2010-11 to contribute to the funding of Independent Domestic Violence Advisers, Multi Agency Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Risk Assessment Conferences and some wider work to the Home Department how many people identified as tackle violence against women. being associated with (a) Islamic extremist, (b) far Funding for future years will be considered as part of right extremist and (c) dissident republican interests the comprehensive spending review. have been arrested on suspicion of offences related to terrorism in each year since 1997. [8822] Stop And Search: Greater London Nick Herbert: The Home Office does not collate statistics in this way. However, the Home Office does Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for the publish statistics on arrests and outcomes under the Home Department (1) how many stop-and-searches Terrorism Act 2000 (Operation of Police Powers under were carried out in (a) Streatham constituency, (b) the the Terrorism Act 2000 and Subsequent Legislation: London borough of Lambeth, (c) London and (d) Arrests, Outcomes and Stops and Searches). The link to England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) the latest edition of this publication is provided as follows: 2010 on the latest date for which figures are available; http://rds.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/pdfs10/hosb1010.pdf [10727] (2) how many stop-and-searches were carried out on UK Border Agency 13 to 19 year olds in (a) Streatham constituency, (b) the London borough of Lambeth, (c) London and (d) Kris Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for the England in (i) each year from 2005 to 2009 and (ii) Home Department how many cases the UK Border 2010 on the latest date for which figures are available. Agency has defended at the High Court in each of the [10728] last three years. [10578] 1127W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1128W

Damian Green: The UK Border Agency does not the nationality of the offender or age of victim cannot store information in the way requested. However the readily be extracted from the database. In total, on 31 administrative court has provided the following data March 2009, there were 32,336 registered sex offenders showing applications to the High Court where the in England and Wales. Secretary of State for the Home Department was listed as the defendant in immigration cases in each of the last Yvonne Fletcher three calendar years: Applications received in the ACO Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Number the Home Department if she will meet the Chairman 2007 2008 2009 of the Police Federation to discuss Government assistance to police forces to secure the arrest of the Judicial review civil— 2,940 1,390 2,440 killer of WPC Yvonne Fletcher. [9337] immigration asylum only Judicial review civil— 50 1,060 950 Nick Herbert: Home Office Ministers meet regularly immigration asylum fresh with the Police Federation to discuss issues of concern. claim The murder of PC Yvonne Fletcher was a terrible Judicial review civil— 1,310 2,080 2,720 immigration not asylum crime. The investigation into her murder is continuing Total 4,310 4,530 6,110 and remains an operational matter for the police. The Note: Foreign and Commonwealth Office is in regular contact Figures rounded to the nearest 10; figures do not include with the Metropolitan police service and continues to reconsiderations against refusals of permission to appeal press the Libyan Government to allow them to return. The administrative court has also provided the following data showing how many judicial review applications were withdrawn, discontinued or subject to a consent order in each of the last three calendar years. WORK AND PENSIONS Arthritis: Costs Number 2007 2008 2009 Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State Discontinued/ 1,680 1,970 2,220 for Work and Pensions whether his Department has withdrawn/ made a recent estimate of the cost to the economy of consent order productivity losses consequent on people with Note: Figures rounded to the nearest 10; applications may be received in one rheumatoid arthritis leaving employment; and if he will calendar year but not recorded as withdrawn/discontinued until the assess the merits of taking steps to assist such people to following calendar year. remain in work. [8260] The UK Border Agency seeks to defend all cases either considered on the papers or at an oral hearing Chris Grayling: The Department has made no estimate that are not discontinued, withdrawn or subject to a of the cost to the economy as a result of productivity consent order. losses due to people with rheumatoid arthritis leaving employment. Vetting and Barring Scheme The Government are committed to helping disabled people and those with health conditions to remain in Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the work. Access to Work provides financial help towards Home Department when she plans to announce her the extra costs faced by people with a disability in work, proposals on the future operation of the Vetting and where this goes beyond what would be reasonable for an Barring Scheme. [10877] employer to meet. Access to Work supported 37,210 disabled people during 2009-10. Lynne Featherstone: We have already announced our decision to review the criminal records and vetting and Children: Maintenance barring regime and scale it back to a common sense level. We are agreeing the terms of reference for this Natascha Engel: To ask the Secretary of State for review and will announce further details in due course. Work and Pensions what recent research (a) his Department and (b) its agencies have (i) commissioned Violent and Sex Offender Register: Offences Against and (ii) undertaken on the use and application of the Children rules on departures and variations. [4773]

Sir Paul Beresford: To ask the Secretary of State for Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement the Home Department how many British citizens are Commission is responsible for the child maintenance registered on the Violent and Sex Offenders Register as system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner having committed sexual crimes against children. to write to the hon. Member with the information [9010] requested and I have seen the response. Letter from Susan Park: James Brokenshire [holding answer 19 July 2010]: In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the use This question cannot be answered readily and accurately of departures and variations within the Child Support Agency, from the Violent and Sex Offenders Register (ViSOR). the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the This is due to the format in which the information is Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Support Agency structured on ViSOR, which means information such as is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement 1129W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1130W

Commission. As the Child Maintenance Commissioner is currently Chris Grayling: In accordance with guidance from on annual leave, I am responding on his behalf. HM Treasury, the Department maintains records of You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what property that it owns, and which has been lost or stolen. recent research (a) his Department and (b) its agencies have (i) In the past 12 months, no items have been recorded as commissioned and (ii) undertaken on the use and application of lost or stolen, and there is therefore no corresponding the rules on departures and variations. [4773] replacement cost. These records do not include assets The Department and the Commission have not conducted any which are leased to, but not owned by the Department, formal research in this area. The Commission has, through the for example under contractual arrangements. Child Support Agency, carried out some interviews with people working in this area to get operational feedback on how variation cases are processed in order to identify concerns and issues. Departmental Manpower Previously, when policy responsibility rested with the Department for Work and Pensions, officials met with a range of stakeholders Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for including client representative organisations to discuss problems Work and Pensions how many of the staff employed by in the current system and the potential solutions. Subsequently his Department on fixed-term contracts which are Commission officials have met, and received representations from, client representative groups on an ad-hoc basis to discuss a range coming to an end will be given new contracts; and if he of policy issues including variations. will make a statement. [9938] All of these sources of information and ideas are feeding in to the policy work being carried out to develop rules for variations Chris Grayling: As at 30 June 2010 the Department in the future scheme, currently planned to be launched in 2011. and its Agencies employed 12,531 full time equivalent Draft regulations for any proposed future scheme, including staff on fixed-term appointments. variations, will be consulted on publicly in advance of implementation. The overwhelming majority of staff on fixed-term Council Tax Benefits appointments have been recruited to support the increase in workloads as a result of the economic downturn. As the economy improves and as further business efficiencies Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for are introduced, this requirement should reduce. However, Work and Pensions when he expects to complete the if extra staff are needed in a certain location or on a renaming of council tax benefit as council tax rebate. particular project, we will always seek to redeploy any [11849] surplus permanent staff wherever possible, and fixed term contracts will only be extended, or extra staff Steve Webb: We cannot commit to a timetable for recruited, where absolutely necessary. implementation until we have fully assessed the precise costs and impact of this change. We are engaging with The Department and its Agencies continue to keep local authorities and their IT suppliers in work to staffing levels under close review, including the need to establish the particular delivery implications and associated extend fixed term appointments. At this stage it is not costs for local authorities. Similar work is being carried possible to say how many contracts may need to be out within Jobcentre Plus and the Pension, Disability extended. and Carers Service where there are major implications for IT systems which link to local authorities’ systems Departmental Official Cars and play a crucial role in supporting benefit claims. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Departmental Contracts and Pensions how much his Department has spent on the Government Car Service since the Government Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Work took office. [7952] and Pensions whether he has made an estimate of the monetary value of the contracts between his Chris Grayling: The Department has spent £59,436.92 Department and private sector companies which will (excluding VAT) on the Government Car Service since be cancelled under his Department’s planned spending the Government took office. reductions. [10171] The Department spent £95,872.04 (excluding VAT) on the Government Car Service for the same period in Chris Grayling: All areas of DWP third party expenditure 2009. It has subsequently restricted the number of people are under close scrutiny to reduce costs either through who are eligible to use the service to Ministers, the contract renegotiation, demand management or Permanent Secretary and, occasionally, senior officials. collaboration with other departments. This work is being undertaken in accordance with guidance from the This is a service level agreement, which is a legacy Efficiency and Reform Group. Negotiations with major from the previous Government and we are reviewing all contractors are under way, aligned with the cross- expenditure in time for the spending review. Government approach led by the Cabinet Office. These are not at a stage where estimates of the value of Departmental Official Hospitality potential contract cancellations have been made. Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Departmental Lost Property and Pensions how much his Department spent on hospitality for events hosted by each Minister in his Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Department in (a) May and (b) June 2010. [10123] and Pensions what property has been recorded as (a) lost and (b) stolen from his Department in the last 12 Chris Grayling: No money has been spent by this months; and what estimate has been made of the cost Department on hospitality for events hosted by any of of the replacement of that property. [5967] its Ministers during May and June 2010. 1131W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1132W

Departmental Operating Costs We will talk to disabled people and a broad range of representative organisations to ensure support is effectively Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for targeted on those with greatest need and distributed on Work and Pensions what steps he has taken to reduce a consistent basis, while continuing to tackle the inequalities the running costs of his Department since his that can arise from severe disability. appointment. [9815] Disability Living Allowance: Medical Examinations Chris Grayling: As the hon. Gentleman may know, the DWP has committed to contributing £535 million Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Work towards the Government’s savings target of £6.243 and Pensions (1) what steps his Department has taken billion, as announced by the treasury on the 24 of May to ensure compliance with (a) the legal duty to make 2010. The cost saving will be made from budgets for the reasonable adjustments under the Disability Young Persons Guarantee, the Six Month Offer, IT and Discrimination Act 1995 and (b) the UN Convention other project investment, cost reductions from major on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in relation to suppliers, staff savings by implementing a recruitment attendance at medical assessments by claimants of freeze and not renewing the contracts of some fixed disability living allowance; [11521] term-appointments, reductions in discretionary spending (2) what assessment he plans to make of the (which includes business travel and office expenses) and compatibility of the proposed changes to the disability reducing the cost of our buildings. living allowance claims forms with (a) the legal duty The DWP will continue to find greater efficiencies under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to make throughout the Spending Review in order to meet the reasonable adjustments and (b) Article 9 of the UN spending challenges set by the Treasury. Further details Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. of which will be available from the 20 of October. [11522] Departmental Secondment Maria Miller: Under the current arrangements for Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for disability living allowance, a small proportion of applicants Work and Pensions what steps he plans to take to are requested to undertake an assessment with the increase the number of officials seconded from his Department’s medical services contractor. Arrangements Department to EU institutions. [9285] are made to ensure accessibility by offering an assessment in the customer’s home or at a medical examination Chris Grayling: DWP uses its limited budget strategically centre. to support secondees to EU institutions, focusing on The Government’s approach to reform of the assessment areas likely to be of most interest to this department. for disability living allowance will continue to be based Although the Department has no plans to increase the on the key principle of fairness, and ensuring disabled current level of representation at present, officials are people have the same opportunities as everyone else in working with other Whitehall departments to develop society. This is an essential component of social justice, best practice and improve the effectiveness of existing which is at the heart of this Department’s agenda. EU secondments and ensure that both Government and secondees achieve best value from the secondment The details of the new assessment are currently under process. development but will be designed from the beginning to meet our obligations under the United Nations convention Disability Living Allowance and our duties under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, ensuring that the impact on disabled people is Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Work given full consideration. To assist with the development and Pensions (1) whether he plans to make changes to process, and recognising our obligations under the UN the system of sanctions taken against those who convention, we will engage with external partners, including commit (a) fraud and (b) error in disability living disabled people and their organisations. allowance claims under the proposed new system; [11523] Disability Living Allowance: Mental Illness (2) when he plans to consult disabled people on proposed changes to disability living allowance; and Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Work which organisations representing disabled people will and Pensions whether he plans to revise the eligibility be invited to take part in the consultation; [11524] criteria for disability living allowance for people with mental health or behavioural conditions. [9868] (3) for what reasons the medical assessment system to be used to assess eligibility for disability living Maria Miller: We will reform Disability Living Allowance allowance is to be based on the work capability to ensure it supports those people with the highest assessment used in relation to employment and support needs, on a consistent and transparent basis. We will allowance. [11525] introduce a more objective assessment from 2013-14 Maria Miller: Commitments were made in the June and as we develop our proposals we will talk to both Budget to reform DLA to ensure it supports those disabled people and a broad range of organisations, people who are most in need. We will develop a more including those representing people with mental health objective assessment for introduction from 2013-14 and and behavioural conditions. consider how a more transparent system could reduce Employment: Lone Parents the scope for fraud and error. The criteria and assessment for disability living allowance is not linked to the capability Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Work for work and is therefore distinct from the work capability and Pensions what steps his Department is taking to assessment. assist lone parents into work. [9566] 1133W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1134W

Maria Miller: Supporting lone parents into paid work Department as part of its general functions and there is essential to our strategy for the eradication of child are some small costs in hiring accommodation for meetings, poverty. As well as maintaining and building the necessary covering travelling expenses, etc but these are not separately culture and infrastructure around provision of childcare identified and promotion of flexible working, the Coalition Government will introduce a single Work programme Funerals: West Midlands in the first half of 2011, which offers all benefit recipients, including lone parents, personalised help, delivered by Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and contractors drawn from the private, public and voluntary Pensions what the monetary value of reclaimed funeral sectors, as well as social enterprises. payments in (a) the West Midlands and (b) Dudley We are also increasing the requirement on lone parents borough has been in each year since 2000. [9697] with older children to seek work, in line with their caring responsibilities. Currently, lone parents whose Steve Webb: I refer the hon. Member to the written youngest child is 10 or over and who are not in paid answer I gave him on 22 July 2010, Official Report, work must ordinarily claim jobseeker’s allowance and column 549W. look for work, or employment and support allowance and undergo a work capability assessment. Before that, Housing Benefit they can claim income support. The age of the youngest child will be reduced to seven in October 2010, and the Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for June 2010 Budget announced that it would be lowered Work and Pensions whether he has made a recent to when the youngest child enters school or formal estimate of the level of over-occupation in social sector education. We plan to implement this change in 2011-12, housing in respect of which the main tenant is in receipt subject to passage of the relevant primary legislation. of housing benefit in (a) Bishop Auckland and (b) Lone parents with children under the age of 13 can Blackpool North and Cleveleys constituency. [5177] restrict their availability for work to their children’s Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Work school hours, and non-availability of childcare must be and Pensions what his estimate is of the extent of taken into account by benefit decision-makers when over-occupation in social sector housing in Stretford considering whether a parent had good cause for turning and Urmston constituency among households where down an offer of employment. the main tenant is in receipt of housing benefit. [5858] Lone parents with younger children are not required to seek work, but if they wish to return to work, Yvonne Fovargue: To ask the Secretary of State for pre-employment and in-work support are available through Work and Pensions what his estimate is of the extent of specialist Lone Parent Advisers. over-occupation in social sector housing in Makerfield In recognition of the difficulties lone parents caring constituency among households where the main tenant for disabled children may encounter in returning to is in receipt of housing benefit. [6053] work, regulations provide that lone parents on income Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for support with a child aged fifteen or under who have a Work and Pensions what his estimate is of the extent of child receiving the middle or higher care component of over occupation in social sector housing in Houghton disability living allowance are not required to seek work and Sunderland South constituency in households in return for benefit. where the main tenant is in receipt of housing benefit. [6057] Ethnic Minority Employment Taskforce: Expenditure Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Work and Pensions what his estimate is of the extent of and Pensions what the cost to the public purse was of over occupation in social sector housing in (a) the Ethnic Minority Employment Taskforce in each Glasgow North and (b) Ealing Central and Acton year since 2004. [10081] constituency in households where the main tenant is in receipt of housing benefit. [6151] Maria Miller: The Ethnic Minority Employment Task Steve Webb: The information is not available. The Force does not have a specific budget. Secretariat support Department for Work and Pensions does not collect is provided by the Department for Work and Pensions information on dwelling size for all housing benefit as part of its general functions and the cost of this recipients. support is not separately identified. This taskforce is a non-departmental public body and is therefore subject Information on housing occupancy rates generally is to the review currently being undertaken by the Cabinet a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of Sate Office. for Communities and Local Government. The English Housing Survey in 2008-09 showed that Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 258,000 (6.7%) of all social rented households and and Pensions what the cost to the public purse was of 164,000 (5.4%) of all private rented households in England the Ethnic Minority Advisory Group in each year since were over-occupied as measured by the bedroom standard. 2006. [10082] The ″bedroom standard″ is essentially the difference between the number of bedrooms needed to avoid Maria Miller: The Ethnic Minority Advisory Group undesirable sharing (given the number and ages of is an independent advisory group to Government and household members and their relationships to each has no specific budget and members receive no other) and the number of bedrooms actually available remuneration. Secretariat support is provided by my to the household. 1135W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1136W

Source: This is because, under existing legislation, housing benefit Figures on over-occupation are taken from Table 6: subsidy levels for this type of temporary accommodation Overcrowding and under-occupation by tenture’ from are based on a formula that uses local housing allowance the English Housing Survey, 2008-09’. rates for the January preceding each relevant financial year. Therefore subsidy levels until April 2012 would be Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for based on local housing allowance rates before the proposed Work and Pensions whether he has made a recent changes take effect. estimate of the number of non-dependants living in Subsidy levels from April 2012, including the method households in which the main occupier is in receipt of used to calculate them, have not yet been decided. housing benefit in (a) Bishop Auckland and (b) Blackpool North and Cleveleys constituency. [5184] Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many families in each status Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work category receive housing benefit. [7275] and Pensions what his estimate is of the number of non-dependants living in households where the main Steve Webb: The available information is published in occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in West the First Release DWP Statistical Summary Table 1.1. Lancashire constituency. [5628] The most recent edition was published on 14 July 2010; a copy has been placed in the Library. Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for The First Release DWP Statistical Summary is also Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the available online at: number of non-dependants living in households where http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd1/stats_summary/ the main occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in stats_summary_jul2010.pdf (a) Glasgow North and (b) Ealing Central and Acton constituency. [6148] Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of claimants of housing Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for benefit in (a) England and (b) Doncaster (i) are claimants Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the of jobseeker’s allowance and (ii) have claimed jobseeker’s number of non-dependants living in households where allowance for 12 months or more. [8967] the main occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in (a) Slough, (b) Salisbury and (c) Scarborough and Steve Webb: The information requested is not available. Whitby constituency. [6190] Information is collected on the number of housing benefit claimants in receipt of a passported benefit, and Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the available information on the number who are also Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the receiving income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA(IB)) number of non-dependants living in households where in England and Doncaster metropolitan borough council the main occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in is in the following table. However to provide the total Houghton and Sunderland South constituency. [6056] number of JSA claimants receiving housing benefit and Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Work the duration of their claims would require a significant and Pensions what his estimate is of the number of exercise to merge the relevant data and would incur a non-dependants living in households where the main disproportionate cost. occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in Stretford The available information is shown in the following and Urmston constituency. [5857] table. Recipients of housing benefit, in England and Doncaster council, who Yvonne Fovargue: To ask the Secretary of State for are also receiving JSA(IB): April 2010 Work and Pensions what recent estimate he has made Percentage of the number of non-dependants living in households All JSA (IB) with JSA (IB) where the main occupier is in receipt of housing benefit in Makerfield constituency. [6050] England 4,044,270 494,190 12.2 Doncaster 25,770 3,610 14.0 Steve Webb: The information is not available. council Notes: Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for 1. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the 2. Passported status does not include recipients with unknown passported status. likely saving to the public purse due to reductions in the 3. Passported benefit as recorded on systems within the local authority. sums allocated to fund temporary private sector 4. Caseload figures are rounded to the nearest 10, percentages to one accommodation as a result of setting local housing decimal place. allowance rates at the 30th percentile of local rents for Source: each year for April 2012 for which figures are available. Single housing benefit extract (SHBE). [5618] Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of those affected by the Steve Webb: The information is not available. reduction in housing benefit to 90 per cent. after 12 months Housing benefit subsidy for people in temporary on benefit, as announced in the June 2010 Budget, are accommodation is considered separately to mainstream estimated to be (a) families with children and (b) lone local housing allowance rates and reviewed annually. parents. [10409] The proposal to set local housing allowance rates at the 30th percentile, from October 2011, would not Steve Webb: The information requested is not available. affect housing benefit subsidy levels for private sector We are developing the detailed policy design for the leased temporary accommodation before April 2012. measure announced in the June 2010 Budget to reduce 1137W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1138W housing benefit by 10% after 12 months for those Number of local housing allowance tenants in Great Britain by family customers who are also in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance. type—April 2010 We shall publish impact assessments to accompany the Local housing allowance relevant legislation when introduced in Parliament and recipients Number are investigating the scope for publishing sooner. Single with child dependant(s) 325,010 Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Aged 65 and over 54,030 Pensions what steps he plans to take to monitor the effect Notes: 1. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. [10982] of his proposed changes to housing benefit. 2. Tenure type does not include recipients with unknown tenure type. 3. Local housing allowance (LHA) tenants may include a small Steve Webb: We will monitor the impact of the changes number of non-LHA cases making a new claim since 7 April 2008. to housing benefit announced in the emergency Budget This will include recipients in caravan accommodation. through housing benefit data we routinely collect from 4. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10. local authorities. We will also be discussing with other 5. Age groups are based on the age on the count date (second Government Departments and the devolved Thursday in the month), of either: (a) the recipient if they are single, or (b) the elder of the recipient or partner if claiming as a couple. Administrations other ways we might monitor the wider Source: impact of these changes. Single Housing Benefit Extract (SHBE). Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Jon Cruddas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Work and Pensions what plans he has to review the and Pensions (1) how many and what proportion of housing benefit budget in respect of (a) supported and households in receipt of local housing allowance (a) (b) sheltered accommodation. [11220] make an additional payment to cover the difference Steve Webb: There is no separate budget for these between benefit received and rent paid, (b) keep the types of accommodation. However the Department is difference between the rent paid and benefit received currently reviewing the way they are assessed within the and (c) pay the same amount in rent as their housing housing benefit system. benefit in each local authority area; [11285] (2) how many and what proportion of households in Jon Cruddas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work receipt of local housing allowance (a) make an and Pensions how many households are in receipt of additional payment to cover the difference between local housing allowance in each (a) local authority benefit received and rent paid, (b) keep the difference area and (b) broad rental market area. [11283] between the rent paid and benefit received and (c) pay Steve Webb: The Department does collect some the same amount in rent as their housing benefit in management information on Broad Rental Market Areas each broad rental market area. [11286] but this has not been sufficiently quality assured below national level to use in any departmental briefing or Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work external publication, including a parliamentary question. and Pensions how many and what proportion of To do so for the purposes of this parliamentary question people receiving housing benefit and local housing would incur disproportionate cost. allowance receive less in benefit than their rent. [11412] The available local authority information has been Steve Webb: The information requested is not available placed in the Library. at sub-national level. Jon Cruddas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work In August 2009 in Great Britain, among customers and Pensions how many people in households in receiving housing benefit under the local housing allowance receipt of local housing allowance are (a) in work, (b) arrangements, 48% had a shortfall of £23 per week on unemployed, (c) retired, (d) parents with dependent average and 44% had an excess of £11 per week on children and (e) permanently sick or disabled. [11284] average. This relates to shortfalls or excesses caused by a customer’s contractual rent being higher or lower than Steve Webb: The information is not available in the the appropriate local housing allowance rate. 8% of format requested. customers paid the same amount of rent as they received The available information is in the table. in local housing allowance. Number of local housing allowance tenants in Great Britain by family type—April 2010 Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Local housing allowance and Pensions what average housing benefit payment is recipients Number for households in (a) the private sector and (b) the social housing sector. [11410] All 1,043,860 Couple with child dependant(s) 155,210 Steve Webb: The available information is in the table.

Housing benefit recipients average weekly award by tenure in Great Britain, April 2010 Tenure type Social rented sector Private rented sector Private deregulated tenants Private All HB Registered social regulated Local housing Non-local housing recipients Total LA tenants landlord tenants Total tenants allowance tenants allowance tenants

84.24 73.04 67.86 77.43 109.74 76.10 113.38 103.94 1139W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1140W

Notes: 1. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. 2. Tenure type does not include recipients with unknown tenure type. 3. Local housing allowance tenants may include a small number of non-LHA cases making a new claim since 7 April 2008. This will include recipients in caravan accommodation. 4. Average awards are shown as pounds per week and rounded to the nearest penny. Source: Single Housing Benefit Extract 100% individual level data (SHBE).

Table taken from table 5 of publication at: Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd1/hb_ctb/ and Pensions (1) what assessment has been made of the hbctb_release_jul10.xls effects on tenants in the private rented sector of proposed reductions in housing benefit; [11415] Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work (2) how many people will receive reduced housing and Pensions what average housing benefit payment is benefit payment because of the proposed cap on local for households in (a) the North West and (b) the UK. housing allowance; [11416] [11411] (3) what equality impact assessment has been made of the proposed cap on local housing allowance; Steve Webb: Information for Northern Ireland is a [11417] matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State (4) what assessment has been made of the effects on for Northern Ireland. young people of the proposed reductions in housing The available information is in the table. benefit. [11440] Average weekly housing benefit payment, April 2010 Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for £ Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the North West (Government Office 73.28 number of people in Sunderland who will be affected Region) by the proposed changes to housing benefit; and Great Britain 84.34 whether he has made an estimate of the average change Notes: in housing benefit payments to such people under his 1. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. Department’s proposals. [11011] 2. Average amounts are shown as pounds per week and rounded to the nearest penny. Source: Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for Single Housing Benefit Extract 100% individual level data (SHBE). Work and Pensions how many people in (a) Staffordshire and (b) Tamworth were in receipt of Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work housing benefit of more than £400 a month in the and Pensions how many people receiving housing latest period for which figures are available. [11872] benefit are living in poverty. [11413] Jon Cruddas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many households are in receipt of Steve Webb: The latest information is available from housing benefit (a) at the five bedroom rate and (b) of the Family Resources survey, 2008-09. Of the estimated more than £400 per week for a five bedroom property 6.5 million individuals in families who recorded receipt in England. [11282] of housing benefit, the number who were living in households with income below 60% of median household income in 2008-09 was 2.6 million (40%) before housing Steve Webb: The Department published an Equality costs and 3.9 million (60%) After housing costs. Impact Assessment on ‘Changes to the Local Housing Allowance arrangements and Housing Benefit size criteria Notes: for people with non-resident overnight carers’ and a 1. These statistics are based on households below average separate document on ‘Impacts of Housing Benefit income (HBAI) data sourced from the Family Resources survey proposals: Changes to the Local Housing Allowance to (FRS). be introduced in 2011-12’ on 23 July 2010. A copy of 2. The reference period for HBAI figures is single financial these has been placed in the Library. years. 3. The income measures used to derive the estimates shown Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work employ the same methodology as the Department for Work and and Pensions if he will provide transitional measures to Pensions publication “Households Below Average Income” series, those on low incomes who have reduced incomes as a which uses disposable household income, adjusted (or “equivalised”) result of proposed reductions in housing benefit. for household size and composition, as an income measure as a proxy for standard of living. [11436] 4. The figures are based on OECD equivalisation factors. Steve Webb: Existing housing benefit customers will 5. Figures have been presented on both a before housing cost not normally be affected by changes to the local housing and after housing cost basis. For before housing cost, housing allowance rates until the anniversary of their claim. costs (such as rent, water rates, mortgage interest payments, structural insurance payments and ground rent and service charges) This could be up to a year after the changes come into are not deducted from income, while for after housing cost they effect. are. The Department for Work and Pensions will provide 6. The FRS is known to under-record benefit receipt so the practical support for local authorities and welfare advisers estimates presented should be treated with caution. to ensure that a comprehensive and consistent 1141W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1142W communication strategy is developed for people in receipt Meg Hillier: To ask the Secretary of State for Work of housing benefit who may face a reduction in entitlement. and Pensions when he expects to publish draft The Government will provide additional funding for regulations for the implementation of the housing discretionary housing payments. This will be an additional benefit proposals in the June 2010 Budget. [11635] £10 million in 2011-12 and £40 million a year thereafter. This will help local authorities target additional funding Steve Webb: The Department has referred draft legislation to those customers who they feel need the most support. which would give effect to the changes to local housing allowance rates in 2011 to the Social Security Advisory The Department is working with other Government Committee. We will also be consulting with the Local Departments and the devolved Administrations to explore Authority Associations in the normal way. strategies that can be adopted to ease the process for households seeking and moving to alternative Housing Benefit: Camden accommodation. Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Work and Pensions how many people resident in the and Pensions what assessment has been made of the London Borough of Camden have been claiming the effects on levels of youth unemployment of changes to maximum level of local housing allowance in the latest non-dependent deductions in housing benefit. [11437] period for which figures are available; and how many of those people are in work. [11937] Steve Webb: We shall publish an impact assessment for the changes to non-dependent deductions announced Steve Webb: In April 2010, our records show that in the Budget to accompany the relevant legislation there were no housing benefit recipients in the London when introduced in Parliament. We plan to announce borough of Camden receiving the maximum level of the rates for 2011/12 as part of the annual uprating local housing allowance of £1,800 per week. exercise. Source: Single Housing Benefit Extract for April 2010. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Housing Benefit: Disability and Pensions if he will make reductions in housing benefit only in cases where tenants are offered suitable alternative accommodation. [11438] Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether the Government’s proposals for changes to housing benefit will apply to households Steve Webb: The measures that will be introduced in where one or more individual has a disability. [10272] 2011 to reduce housing benefit expenditure will apply in all relevant cases, not just where tenants are offered Steve Webb: The Government intend to apply the alternative accommodation. housing benefit changes announced in the Emergency The change that will restrict housing benefit for working Budget to households where one or more people have a age tenants in the social rented sector who live in a disability, as appropriate depending on the individual property that is too large for their needs will require measure. primary legislation. It is too early to say how the 2013 However, the Government will provide additional change might be designed, but my Department will be funding for discretionary housing payments. This will working with the Department of Communities and be an additional £10 million in 2011-12 and £40 million Local Government to identify a range of options and a year thereafter. This will help local authorities target we will consult as we develop the proposals and during additional funding to those customers who they feel the legislative process. need the most support.

Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Housing Benefit: Doncaster and Pensions how many households will be affected by the proposal to limit working age housing benefit Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Work entitlement to reflect housing size. [11439] and Pensions (1) how many households receive housing benefit of more than (a) £250 per week for a one Steve Webb: The information is not available. bedroom property, (b) £290 per week for a two bedroom property, (c) £340 per week for a three bedroom property The detailed policy design of this change is still being and (d) £400 per week for a four bedroom property in developed. Impact assessments, including the number Doncaster; [8968] of households affected, will be published to accompany the relevant legislation when introduced in Parliament. (2) how many households receive housing benefit of more than (a) £53 per week for a one room property, (b) £74.79 per week for a one bedroom property, (c) Meg Hillier: To ask the Secretary of State for Work £90 per week for a two bedroom property, (d) £97.81 and Pensions with reference to the Budget Red Book, per week for a three bedroom property and (e) £132.33 page 40, Table 2.1, how the figures in lines 29 to 36 per week for a four bedroom property in Doncaster. were calculated. [11633] [8969]

Steve Webb: The assumptions and methodologies Steve Webb: At March 2010, for housing benefit underlying policy costings for the June 2010 Budget claims assessed under the local housing allowance have been published. A copy has been placed in the arrangements in the Doncaster local authority, our Library. records show that there were: 1143W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1144W

No households with a one-bedroom entitlement receiving over Information on whether a claimant of housing benefit £250 per week; is in employment or not in employment is not available. No households with a two-bedroom entitlement receiving over The available information for Peterborough city council £290 per week; area is in the following tables. No households with a three-bedroom entitlement receiving Housing benefit (HB) recipients, split by working age/elderly, as at over £340 per week; and August 2003 to August 2007: Peterborough city council No households with a four or five-bedroom entitlement receiving over £400 per week; As at All housing August: benefit recipients Elderly Working age 660 households with a one-room entitlement receiving over £53 per week; 2003 10,840 4,260 6,570 1,520 households with a one-bedroom entitlement receiving over £74.79 per week; 2004 10,990 4,240 6,750 1,730 households with a two-bedroom entitlement receiving 2005 11,500 4,240 7,250 over £90 per week; 550 households with a three-bedroom entitlement receiving 2006 11,680 4,220 7,450 over £97.81 per week; and 2007 12,030 4,240 7,790 70 households with a four or five-bedroom entitlement receiving over £132.33 per week. Notes: 1. The data refer to benefit units, which may be a single person or a Notes: couple. 1. All figures have been rounded to the nearest 10 recipients. 2. The figures have been rounded to the nearest 10 and totals may not 2. The Single Housing Benefit Extract does not have bedroom sum due to rounding. entitlement recorded in 5% of the Local Housing Allowance 3. Figures for any non-responding authorities have been estimated. cases in Doncaster so there may be some underestimation in the 4. Working age/elderly spilt is unavailable prior to August 2003. numbers reported. 5. Elderly is defined as claimants in receipt of the following Passported Benefit, as recorded on the Local Authority computer system: Pension Source: Credit (Guarantee Credit and Minimum Income Guarantee prior to Single Housing Benefit Extract October 2003). If the claim is not passported then a claimant is counted as elderly if they are aged 60 or over. Housing Benefit: Greater London 6. Working Age is defined as claimants in receipt of the following Passported Benefits, as recorded on the Local Authority computer system: Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income-Based). If Glenda Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for the claim is not passported then a claimant is counted as working age Work and Pensions if he will estimate the numbers of if they are aged under 60. (a) pensioners, (b) single parent families, (c) families 7. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. in the lowest income decile, (d) individuals on Source: disability living allowance, (e) individuals on Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit Management Information System Quarterly 100% taken in August 2003 to August 2007 incapacity benefit and (f) asylum claimants in (i) the London borough of Camden, (ii) the London borough Housing benefit recipients, split by age group, as at November 2008, of Brent and (iii) the Greater London area who will be August 2009 and April 2010: Peterborough city council adversely affected as a result of proposed reductions in All Housing Aged 65 and housing benefit. [11063] benefit recipients over Aged under 65 November 13,030 3,500 9,530 Steve Webb: The information is not available in the 2008 format requested. August 14,610 3,550 11,050 The Department published an equality impact assessment 2009 for the housing benefit changes that will affect the April 15,360 3,520 11,840 calculation of local housing allowance rates on 23 July 2010 2010. This contains an assessment of the impact of Notes: 1. The data refer to benefit units, which may be a single person or a changes by gender, disability, age, race and on families. couple. A copy has been placed in the Library. 2. The figures have been rounded to the nearest 10. We are developing the detailed policy design of the 3. Single Housing Benefit Extract (SHBE) is a monthly electronic other housing benefit changes announced in the Budget. scan of claimant level data direct from local authority computer systems. It replaces quarterly aggregate clerical returns. The data is We shall publish impact assessments to accompany the available monthly from November 2008 and April 2010 is the most relevant legislation when introduced in Parliament and recent available. are investigating the scope for publishing sooner. 4. Age groups are based on the age on the count date (second Thursday in the month), of either: (a) the recipient if they are single, Housing Benefit: Peterborough or (b) the elder of the recipient or partner if claiming as a couple. 5. The data for November 2008 to April 2010 are not comparable to data between August 2003 and August 2007 due to different definitions. Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State 6. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. for Work and Pensions how many (a) pensioners, (b) Source: people of working age in work, (c) people of working Single Housing Benefit Extract (SHBE) age who are unemployed, (d) social sector tenants and (e) private sector tenants receiving housing benefit Housing benefit recipients, August 2001 to August 2007, by tenancy type: Peterborough city council there were in (i) Peterborough constituency and (ii) the As at All Housing Social rented Private rented Peterborough City Council area in each year since August: benefit recipients sector sector 2001; and if he will make a statement. [11294] 2001 11,240 9,230 2,010 Steve Webb: The information requested is not available 2002 11,060 9,140 1,910 at the constituency level. 2003 10,840 9,040 1,790 1145W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1146W

Housing benefit recipients, August 2001 to August 2007, by tenancy Industrial Injuries type: Peterborough city council As at All Housing Social rented Private rented August: benefit recipients sector sector Mike Wood: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the number 2004 10,990 9,030 1,960 of people unable to work as the result of an injury at 2005 11,500 9,200 2,300 work in each year since 1997. [8184] 2006 11,680 9,060 2,620 2007 12,030 8,940 3,090 Chris Grayling: The information is not available from Notes: data collected by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). 1. The data refer to benefit units, which may be a single person or a couple. 2. The figures have been rounded to the nearest 10 and totals may not Jobcentre Plus: Edinburgh sum due to rounding. 3. Figures for any non-responding authorities have been estimated. Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for 4. Housing Benefit figures exclude any Extended Payment cases. 5. Social Rented Sector includes Local authority and Registered Work and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 21 July Social Landlord tenants. Private Rented Sector includes Private Regulated 2010, Official Report, columns 417-18W, on Jobcentre and Private Deregulated tenants. Plus: Edinburgh, how many of the 66 members of staff 6. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. on fixed term contracts will have their contracts Source: renewed in the future. [12013] Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit Management Information System Quarterly 100% taken in August 2001 to August 2007 Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus Housing benefit recipients as at November 2008, August 2009 and is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, April 2010, by tenancy type: Peterborough city council Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. All Housing Social rented Private rented Member with the information requested. benefit recipients sector sector Letter from Darra Singh: November 13,030 9,350 3,680 The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question 2008 asking how many of the 66 members of staff on fixed-term August 14,610 9,910 4,690 contracts in Edinburgh will have their contracts renewed in the 2009 future. This is something that falls within the responsibilities April 15,360 10,290 5,060 delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus. 2010 As a public sector organisation, Jobcentre Plus needs to review Notes: its staffing position regularly. We are currently undertaking such 1. The data refer to benefit units, which may be a single person or a a review and would expect to reach firmer conclusions in several couple. weeks time on possible future extensions of people on fixed-term 2. The figures have been rounded to the nearest 10. appointments. Staffing and spending plans for Jobcentre Plus will 3. Components may not sum to total due to (i) independent rounding be dependent on the levels to be announced on 20 October 2010 (ii) exclusion of unknown and other small categories. in the Spending Review settlement set out by HM Treasury. 4. SHBE is a monthly electronic scan of claimant level data direct Therefore, I am unable to answer your specific question at this from local authority computer systems. It replaces quarterly aggregate time. clerical returns. The data is available monthly from November 2008 and April 2010 is the most recent available. 5. Social Rented Sector includes Local authority and Registered Jobcentre Plus: Manpower Social Landlord tenants. Private Rented Sector includes Private Regulated and Private Deregulated tenants. 6. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Source: and Pensions (1) what estimate he has made of the Single Housing Benefit Extract (SHBE) effect on the number of Jobcentre Plus jobs of the implementation of proposals in the June 2010 Budget; Housing Benefit: Wigan [10993] (2) what estimate he has made of the likely change in the number of frontline Jobcentre plus posts in the next Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work two years. [11020] and Pensions how many people are receiving housing benefit in Wigan. [11414] Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Steve Webb: In April 2010 there were 24,550 housing Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. benefit claimants in the metropolitan borough of Wigan. Member with the information requested. The information is readily available on the internet in Letter from Darra Singh: table 2 of the publication at: The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your questions asking i) what estimate he has made of the change in the number http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd1/hb_ctb/ of Jobcentre Plus jobs resulting from the proposals in the June hbctb_release_jul10.xls 2010 budget; and ii) what estimate he has made of the change in Notes: the number of frontline Jobcentre Plus posts in the next two years. These are issues that fall within the responsibilities delegated 1. Recipients are as at second Thursday of the month. to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus. 2. Data is rounded to the nearest 10. The impact of the proposals in the June 2010 budget will be a 3. April 2010 represents the latest data held. staffing reduction in Jobcentre Plus of 2,000 full time equivalents in 2010/11. That figure comprises a headcount efficiency of 1,000 Source: people, with the remaining reduction of 1,000 people being due to Single Housing Benefit Extract 100% individual level data (SHBE). falling work volumes. However, we continue to monitor workloads 1147W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1148W and economic forecasts, and Jobcentre Plus staffing levels are Jobcentre Plus staff employed on temporary contracts in Rutherglen reviewed on a regular basis as part of that. and Hamilton West constituency; South Lanarkshire; and Scotland (March 2010) Future staffing and spending plans for Jobcentre Plus will be dependent on the levels to be announced on 20 October 2010 in Fixed-term Fixed-term the Spending Review settlement set out by HM Treasury. appointments of appointments less than of more than I hope that this is helpful. Location 12 months 12 months

Rutherglen and Hamilton West 1 27 Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work South Lanarkshire 1 42 and Pensions what assessment he has made of the Scotland 147 765 effect of proposed staffing changes at Jobcentre plus on Notes: the ability of Jobcentre Plus Centres to help those on 1. Headcount figures are quoted in full-time equivalents using ONS incapacity benefit back into work; and if he will take definitions for counting headcount and details the latest published steps to alleviate any negative effects of any such data at March 2010. changes on such activities. [11036] 2. Figures have been rounded to whole numbers. 3. The Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency comprises three Jobcentre Plus offices: Cambuslang, Hamilton and Rutherglen that Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus fall within South Lanarkshire. The other two offices that make up is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, South Lanarkshire are East Kilbride and Lanark. Source: Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. Dataview, Jobcentre Plus Member with the information requested. Letter from Darra Singh: Jobseeker’s Allowance The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking what assessment been made of the effect of proposed Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and staffing changes at jobcentre plus on the ability of Jobcentre Plus Pensions (1) what proportion of contacted claimants Centres to help those on incapacity benefit back into work; and if attended the mandatory back to work session for we are taking any steps to alleviate any negative effects of any claimants of jobseeker’s allowance in response to the such changes on such activities. first request from Jobcentre Plus in the latest period for The impact of the proposals in the June 2010 budget will be a which figures are available; [10946] staffing reduction in Jobcentre Plus of 2,000 full time equivalents in 2010/11. However, we continue to monitor workloads and (2) what requirement there is on Jobcentre Plus offices economic forecasts and Jobcentre Plus staffing levels are reviewed to provide for a security guard to attend mandatory on a regular basis as part of that. We have developed plans to back to work sessions for claimants of jobseeker’s allowance; ensure that these headcount changes will not negatively affect [10947] Jobcentre Plus’ ability to help incapacity benefit claimants back to work. (3) what training Jobcentre Plus staff conducting the mandatory back to work session for claimants in receipt Future staffing and spending plans for Jobcentre Plus will be of jobseeker’s allowance are required to undergo; dependent on the levels to be announced on 20 October 2010 in [11001] the Spending Review settlement set out by HM Treasury. However, we will ensure that plans are in place to support incapacity (4) whether the content of the mandatory back to benefits claimants following these decisions. work session for claimants in receipt of jobseeker’s I hope that this is helpful. allowance is devised (a) centrally or (b) at local level; [11002] (5) what provision his Department has made to collate Jobcentre Plus: Temporary Employment feedback from those attending at mandatory back to work sessions for claimants in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance; [11003] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Work (6) if he will direct Jobcentre Plus staff to distribute and Pensions how many Jobcentre Plus staff are employed (a) travel cost claim forms and (b) My Three Step on temporary contracts in (a) Rutherglen and Hamilton Plan packs at each mandatory back to work session for West constituency, (b) South Lanarkshire and (c) Scotland. claimants in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance. [11004] [11881] Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. Member with the information requested. Member with the information requested. Letter from Darra Singh: Letter from Darra Singh: The Secretary of State has asked me to respond to your The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question parliamentary questions about Back to Work Sessions as these asking how many Jobcentre Plus staff are employed on temporary fall within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive contracts in a) Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency; b) of Jobcentre Plus. South Lanarkshire; and c) Scotland. This is something that falls With regard to your first question, data is not available on this within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of aspect of Jobcentre Plus performance. Jobcentre Plus. With regard to your second question, there is no central The Office for National Statistics defines temporary staff as requirement to have a security guard in attendance at Back to those on a fixed-term appointment of less than 12 months. Work Sessions. However, we take the health and safety of our However, Jobcentre Plus also uses fixed-term appointments for staff and customers very seriously. Each location where we run longer periods of employment. The table below sets out the Back to Work sessions is subject to a formal Risk Assessment on position based on the three locations you requested. which we consult staff health and safety representatives. 1149W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1150W

Additionally, and in response to your third question, before Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and running a Back to Work Session all facilitators must have completed Pensions how many families resident in Angus a bespoke learning and development package called Presenting constituency will be affected by changes to the rate of and Facilitating Group Sessions. These sessions are designed to local housing allowance from October 2011; and by support those delivering the various group sessions available to our customers. The aim of the event is to provide our staff with how much on average per household. [10529] the skills required to deliver Group Sessions to our Customers. This event gives them the necessary skills and knowledge to Dr Whiteford: To ask the Secretary of State for Work research, prepare and deliver group sessions. and Pensions how many families resident in Banff and With regard to your question about content, Back to Work Buchan constituency will be affected by changes to the Sessions are designed to raise awareness of the local labour rate of local housing allowance from October 2011; market - employers recruiting; jobs available; travel to work areas, and by how much on average per household. [10542] etc - and the help available to improve job prospects; and remind customers of their responsibilities to actively seek work and take-up opportunities made available. To support delivery, material Steve Webb: The information is not available at the is available centrally to ensure the consistency of basic information constituency level. and key messages and is then tailored locally to give the presentation The Department published a document on ’Impacts greater relevance to the local labour market. of Housing Benefit Proposals: Changes to the Local We welcome customer feedback, as it helps us to improve our Housing Allowance to be introduced in 2011-12’ on the service. Nationally, Back to Work Sessions have been, and continue 23 July, which includes analysis at the local authority to be, evaluated and the results are encouraging. Most customers level. A copy of the document has been placed in the have viewed the sessions favourably, particularly where they have Library. been interactive and of local relevance. Feedback has also highlighted areas where they could be better and this has led to service delivery improvements. Similarly, offices will seek and act upon Maintenance: Children customer feedback locally to help assess and improve their Back to Work Sessions. Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for In terms of travel expenses, we aim to run Back to Work Work and Pensions what steps his Department is Sessions so they coincide with the normal requirements to attend the Jobcentre for a jobsearch review. This means customers are taking to ensure payment of child maintenance arrears not required to make an additional journey and do not incur owed to single parents in Redditch constituency. additional travel expenses, so reimbursement is inappropriate. [10454] However, where this is not possible and in circumstances where customers are entitled to a reimbursement, this should be made Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement clear at the outset of the session; and payment made promptly. I Commission is responsible for the child maintenance have asked for operational guidance to be reviewed and clarified in this respect. system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information Finally, the 3-Step Plan is an integral part of the Back to Work requested and I have seen the response. Session. The guidance issued to Jobcentre Plus staff states quite clearly that each attendee must be issued with a copy of the 3-Step Letter from Susan Park: Plan and encouraged to complete it as fully as possible. The In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the guidance also instructs staff to encourage attendees to access the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission, the Secretary Jobseeker pages of the Direct Gov website where they can find of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance practical help and advice when applying for jobs. Commissioner. As the Child Maintenance Commissioner is currently I hope this reply is helpful and assures you of our intent to on annual leave, I am responding on his behalf. provide people with the best possible service. You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to ensure payment of child maintenance arrears owed to single parents in Redditch constituency. [10454] Local Housing Allowance In the 12 months to March 2010, £1,910,000 in child maintenance was collected and arranged for parents with care in Redditch constituency. As at March 2010, £6,720,000 in arrears was owed Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for on cases where the parent with care is resident in Redditch Work and Pensions how many families resident in constituency. £3,718,000 of this is owed specifically to the parent Dundee East constituency will be affected by changes with care with the remainder owed to the Secretary of State. to the rate of local housing allowance from October Outstanding maintenance arrears were down from £3,828 million 2011; and by how much on average per household. in March 2009 to £3,761 in March 2010. The rate of arrears [10531] during 2004/05 was increasing by around £23 million per month. In the 12 months to March 2010 arrears reduced on average by £5.6m per month. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for The Coalition Government has said that tackling the issue of Work and Pensions how many families resident in outstanding child maintenance arrears is a high priority and the Moray constituency will be affected by changes to the Commission is reviewing its strategy and plans for pursuing local housing allowance rate from October 2011; and if arrears in light of this. In addition, the Secretary of State for he will estimate the average amount of reduction for Work and Pensions announced in the House of Commons on each such family. [10446] 14 June 2010 that the Commission would set a new target for the collection of arrears. The Commission is working with Ministers to agree a suitable level for this target. Mr MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many families resident in Na In the meantime the Commission is deploying its range of enforcement measures to collect arrears, including deducting h-Eileanan an Iar constituency will be affected by money directly from bank accounts, seizing properties through changes ot the rate of local housing allowance from Order for Sale action and preventing or reversing the transfer of October 2011; and by how much on average per assets from a non-resident parent with outstanding arrears to household. [10520] another person in order to evade child maintenance. 1151W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1152W

Mortgages: Government Assistance An estimate of the numbers of people who would be exempted from the requirement to pay into a workplace Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Work pension consequent on the exemption of those aged and Pensions how many people in (a) Rutherglen and over 50 and 55 in 2012, is provided in the following Hamilton West constituency, (b) South Lanarkshire table. and (c) Lanarkshire and East Dunbartonshire Jobcentre Number for people who would be exempted from automatic enrolment Plus district received support for mortgage interest in Million each of the last 12 months; and how many of each were in receipt of (i) income support, (ii) jobseeker’s allowance Excluding those aged over 50 2-3 and (iii) pension credit. [11880] Excluding those aged over 55 1-2 Note: Steve Webb: The available information is in the table. Ranges are rounded to the nearest million Claimants of income support, jobseeker’s allowance and pension credit Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for in receipt of support for mortgage interest (SMI), by parliamentary constituency, local/unitary authority and Jobcentre Plus district at Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the November 2009 number of people who would be excluded from the Income Pension requirement to pay into a workplace pension consequent Total support Jobseeker’s credit on the exemption of those small and medium-sized with with allowance with enterprises with under (a) five, (b) 10, (c) 20, (d) 30, SMI SMI with SMI SMI (e) 40, (f) 50 and (g) 100 employees from the requirement Rutherglen and 0.7 *0.2 — 0.5 for automatic enrolment due to begin in 2012. [11851] Hamilton West Parliamentary Steve Webb: The current policy is that from 2012, Constituency workers between the age of 22 and State Pension Age, South Lanarkshire 2.1 *0.5 *0.1 1.6 with annual earnings in at least one job of more than Unitary Authority £5,035 (2006-7 earnings terms) will be eligible for automatic Lanarkshire and East 5.1 1.1 *0.4 3.6 enrolment into a qualifying pension scheme, unless they Dunbartonshire Jobcentre Plus District are already participating in such a scheme. Notes: Our current assumptions indicate that around 10 1. Figures are displayed in thousands and rounded to the nearest million -11 million people will be eligible for automatic hundred. enrolment in a workplace pension scheme from 2012. 2. Totals may not sum due to rounding. 3. Figures have been uprated using 5% proportions against 100% An estimate of the numbers of people who would no Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS) totals. longer be eligible for automatic enrolment if small and 4. Support for mortgage interest can only be claimed on income medium sized enterprises with under five, 10, 20, 30, 40, based jobseeker’s allowance. 50 and 100 employees were exempted from the duty to 5. Pension credit was introduced on 6 October 2003 and replaced automatically enrol their workers is provided in the minimum income guarantee (income support for people aged 60 or following table. over). The vast majority of people who were previously in receipt of the minimum income guarantee transferred to pension credit in October 2003. million 5. Monthly figures are not available. Quarterly information is Number for people available but as local authorities and Jobcentre Plus districts change who would no over time the latest available data has been provided. longer be eligible New total eligible 6. Figures marked with (*) are subject to a high degree of sampling for automatic for automatic error and should only be used as a guide. enrolment enrolment 7. “—” Denotes nil or negligible. Source: Excluding those with 2 8-9 Department for Work and Pensions, Information Directorate, 5% under five employees sample. Excluding those with 3 7-8 under 10 employees Occupational Pensions Excluding those with 3-4 7 under 20 employees Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Excluding those with 4 6-7 Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the under 30 employees number of people who would be exempted from the Excluding those with 4-5 6 under 40 employees requirement to pay into a workplace pension Excluding those with 5 5-6 consequent on the exemption of those over (a) 50 and under 50 employees (b) 55 years from requirement for automatic enrolment Excluding those with 5-6 5 due to begin in 2012. [11850] under 100 employees Note: Steve Webb: The current policy is that from 2012, Ranges are rounded to the nearest million workers between the age of 22 and state pension age, with annual earnings in at least one job of more than £5,035 (2006-07 earnings terms) will be eligible for Office for Budget Responsibility: Employment automatic enrolment into a qualifying pension scheme, unless they are already participating in such a scheme. Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Our current assumptions indicate that around 10 and Pensions whether his Department has been consulted million -11 million people will be eligible for automatic by the Office for Budget Responsibility on its employment enrolment in a workplace pension scheme from 2012. forecasts. [9564] 1153W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1154W

Chris Grayling: The Office for Budget Responsibility Parliamentary constituency Rutherglen and Hamilton West produces its employment forecasts independently of Number Government. Department for Work and Pensions staff State pension recipients 17,940 were not consulted on them. Pension credit individual 8,440 beneficiaries Pension credit household 6,870 Pension Credit recipients constituency Notes: Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for 1. Caseload figures are rounded to the nearest 10. Work and Pensions if he will bring forward proposals 2. State pension figure provided is the total state pension caseload. to uprate pension credit by a level no less than that of 3. Pension credit household recipients are those people who claim pension credit either for themselves or on behalf of themselves and a earnings in each year of the 2010 Parliament. [11808] partner. Individual beneficiaries are the number of claimants in addition to the number of partners for whom they are claiming. Steve Webb: There is a statutory requirement that the 4. Parliamentary constituencies are for the Westminster Parliament pension credit standard minimum guarantee will be of May 2010. up-rated at least in line with earnings. 5. Parliamentary constituencies are assigned by matching postcodes against the relevant ONS postcode directory. Source: DWP Information Directorate Work and Pensions Longitudinal Pensioners: Bedfordshire Study 100 per cent data as at November 2009 Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many pensioners receive (a) Pensioners: Social Security Benefits the basic state pension and (b) pension credit in (i) Bedfordshire and (ii) Mid Bedfordshire constituency. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Work [11814] and Pensions if he will bring forward proposals to increase the level of those allowances paid to pensioners Steve Webb: The information available is in the table. for which his Department is responsible. [11622]

Pension Pension Steve Webb: The statutory framework governing the State credit credit annual uprating of benefits and pensions currently requires pension individual household that all components of state pension, with the exception Area recipients beneficiaries recipients of the 25p age addition, must at a minimum be increased Mid Bedfordshire 17,990 3,400 2,760 in line with annual growth in prices and that the standard parliamentary minimum guarantee in pension credit must at a minimum constituency be increased in line with annual growth in average Bedford Unitary 72,580 16,460 13,510 earnings. Authority The coalition Government will re-link the basic state Notes: 1. Caseload figures are rounded to the nearest 10. pension to earnings from 2011 and we are providing a 2. State pension figures are for the total state pension caseload. triple guarantee that the basic state pension will rise Around 1% of state pension recipients are not in receipt of the basic each year by the highest of earnings, prices or 2.5%. For state pension, but are receiving additional state pension only or 2011, we will additionally ensure that the increase will graduated retirement benefit only. not be lower then it would have been under the previous 3. Basic state pension only figures are not available by current 2010 parliamentary constituencies. uprating arrangements. 4. Pension credit household recipients are those people who claim pension credit either for themselves or on behalf of themselves and a Pensions: Index Linking partner. Individual beneficiaries are the number of claimants in addition to the number of partners for whom they are claiming. 5. Parliamentary constituencies are for the Westminster Parliament Sarah Newton: To ask the Secretary of State for of May 2010. Work and Pensions what recent representations he has Source: DWP Information Directorate Work and Pensions Longitudinal received on the use of the consumer price index to Study 100% data as at November 2009 calculate final salary pensions; and if he will make a statement. [10495]

Pensioners: Rutherglen Steve Webb: I would refer the hon. Member to my answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 118W. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people in Rutherglen Mrs McGuire: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Hamilton West constituency are in receipt of (a) and Pensions what estimate he has made of the change the state pension, (b) pension credit and (c) winter in expenditure in the Financial Assistance Scheme fuel allowance. [11898] attributable to the use of the consumer prices index for pension indexation in the next five years. [11057] Steve Webb: In winter 2008-09, the latest year for which information is available, 18,980 people received a Steve Webb: The figures show the estimated annual winter fuel payment in Rutherglen and Hamilton West reduction in Financial Assistance Scheme expenditure constituency. as a result of switching the indexation of payments in The information for state pension and pension credit payment and revaluation of payments in deferment is in the table. from RPI to CPI from 2011. 1155W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1156W

Figures are in cash terms and are rounded to the Rate of basic Rate if RPI Rate if CPI nearest £100,000. The reduction represents 0.1% of Date of state pension, £ used, £ per used, £ per estimated total FAS spending in each year. Uprating per week week week

CPI from 2011 (£) April 2008 90.70 83.85 71.25 April 2009 95.25 88.05 74.95 2011 100,000 April 2010 97.65 88.05 75.75 2012 300,000 Notes: 2013 700,000 1. In the CPI scenario the basic state pension level has been increased 2014 1,300,000 by CPI inflation for September of the preceding year. Where it has been used RPI inflation is taken from the same period. 2015 2,200,000 2. The official CPI index starts in 1996 but historical estimates back to 1988 have been calculated based on archived RPI data. These estimates Data and modelling limitations mean it is not possible can be considered a reasonable proxy to the official series. Further to provide details of the saving for indexation only. details are given in Economic Trends No. 541. Prior to the 10 However we estimate that the saving relating to revaluation December 2003, the CPI was published as the HICP. would be greater than that for indexation. Sources: DWP analysis; The Abstract of Statistics for Benefits, National Insurance Contributions, and Indices of Prices and Earnings, 2009 Pensions: Uprating edition; Office for National Statistics historical CPI data, July 2010

Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Pensions: Working Mothers Work and Pensions what the (a) level of the basic state pension and (b) value of the retail price index uprating Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for applied to it was in each year since 1989; and if he will Work and Pensions what recent discussions he has had estimate that level had that pension been uprated in with Ministerial colleagues on the effect of maternity line with the consumer price index in each such year. leave on the pension contributions of working mothers. [11860] [11581]

Steve Webb: The Coalition Government are providing Steve Webb: None on this specific issue, but the a triple guarantee that the basic state pension will rise Government have made clear its intention to commence each year by the highest of earnings, prices or 2.5%. For the core provisions of the Equality Act 2010—including 2011, we will additionally ensure that the increase will those requirements on occupational pensions and maternity not be lower then it would have been under the previous leave—from October 2010. uprating arrangements. The new provisions will not alter the current position The information requested is provided in the following that: table. An estimate for CPI inflation in September 1988 an employer contributing to an occupational pension must is unavailable. continue to make the usual payments during the period an In April 1994, April 2001, April 2002, April 2003 and employee gets statutory maternity pay or contractual maternity April 2010 the basic state pension was increased by pay; and more than the value for RPI in the relevant period. The an employee is required only to pay any contributions of her third column provides the rate the basic state pension own on the amount of statutory maternity pay or contractual would have been if only RPI had been used to increase remuneration actually paid to, or for, her during that period. it. There is no increase in April 2010 as RPI inflation was negative in the relevant period. Post Office Card Account: Rutherglen

Rate of basic Rate if RPI Rate if CPI Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Date of state pension, £ used, £ per used, £ per and Pensions what estimate he has made of the number Uprating per week week week of people in (a) Rutherglen and Hamilton West April 1989 43.60 — — constituency and (b) South Lanarkshire who have Post [11887] April 1990 46.90 46.90 45.85 Office card accounts. April 1991 52.00 52.00 49.55 Steve Webb: As at February 2010, the latest date for April 1992 54.15 54.15 53.05 which information is available, the number of Post April 1993 56.10 56.10 54.65 Office card accounts held in Rutherglen and Hamilton April 1994 57.60 57.10 56.30 West constituency was 12,150. The number held in April 1995 58.85 58.35 57.15 South Lanarkshire was 27,250. April 1996 61.15 60.65 58.85 April 1997 62.45 61.90 60.20 Poverty April 1998 64.70 64.15 61.30 April 1999 66.75 66.20 62.15 Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work April 2000 67.50 66.95 62.90 and Pensions what plans he has to estimate the minimum April 2001 72.50 69.15 63.55 income required for healthy living. [1636] April 2002 75.50 70.35 64.40 April 2003 77.45 71.55 65.05 Maria Miller: We recognise that the current legislation April 2004 79.60 73.55 65.95 and ways of measuring poverty do not necessarily capture April 2005 82.05 75.85 66.70 all aspects of poverty or inequality facing individuals April 2006 84.25 77.90 68.35 and families. The Government are committed to tackling April 2007 87.30 80.70 70.00 the causes of poverty and not just treating the symptoms. 1157W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1158W

We must tackle the root causes of how people get poverty, breaking the cycle of disadvantage and dependency trapped in poverty, breaking the cycle of disadvantage culture to stimulate social mobility. and dependency culture to stimulate social mobility. Frank Field has been asked to lead an independent The right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr Field) review of poverty and life chances including examining has been asked to lead an independent review of poverty the case for reforms to poverty measures, in particular and life chances including examining the case for reforms for the inclusion of non-financial elements. The review to poverty measures, in particular for the inclusion of will explore whether there are measures that can improve non-financial elements. The review will explore whether the way poverty is tackled, ensuring we focus on the there are measures that can improve the way poverty is root causes and the paths into poverty as well as looking tackled, ensuring we focus on the root causes and the at the non-financial side. paths into poverty as well as looking at the non-financial side. Poverty: Lancashire Poverty: Children Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps he plans to take to Work and Pensions what recent estimate he has made reduce levels of income inequality in Lancashire. [10546] of the number of children in (a) absolute poverty, (b) relative poverty and (c) combined material deprivation Mr Gauke: I have been asked to reply. and low income in East Lothian constituency. [11520] Analysis shown in the June Budget shows that the overall impact of modelled direct tax, indirect tax, and Maria Miller: Estimates of the number and proportion benefit and tax credit changes coming into effect by of children living in poverty in Scotland are published 2012-13 is progressive, with the rich paying more than in “Poverty and Income Inequality in Scotland: 2008-09”. the poorest. The Government have also set out in their This uses household income adjusted (or ‘equivalised’) spending review framework that they will for household size and composition, to provide a proxy “look closely at the effects of its decisions on different groups in for standard of living. society, especially the least well off, and on different regions.” (2.4, As they are based on survey data, child poverty page 7). estimates published in “Poverty and Income Inequality in Scotland” do not allow analysis by parliamentary Social Security Benefits: Disability constituency. Figures for Scotland are set out in the following table. Tony Lloyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Number of children in absolute, relative and combined material and Pensions what assessment he has made of the deprivation and low income in Scotland effects on disabled people of recent changes to the Period 2008-09 Number of children (thousand) eligibility criteria for accessing the Independent Living Absolute poverty1 110 Fund. [10023] Relative poverty2 210 Combined material deprivation 160 Maria Miller [holding answer 20 July 2010]: The and low income3 decision to restrict applications in accordance with priority 1 Absolute poverty refers to the number of children living in households groups outlined in the Trust Deed was made under the whose equivalised income is below 60% of the Great Britain median previous administration and no consultation was income before housing costs in 1998-99. undertaken about the effect of this decision on disabled 2 Relative poverty refers to the number of children living in households whose equivalised income is below 60% of contemporary UK median people. The ILF subsequently closed the Fund to new income before housing costs. applicants in June to safeguard the support given to the 3 Combined material deprivation and low income refers to the number 21,000 existing recipients of the discretionary fund. of children living in households with a material deprivation score of 25 or more and with equivalised incomes below 70% of contemporary UK median income before housing costs. Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for Notes: Work and Pensions how many people in (a) 1. The source of this information is the Poverty and Income Inequality Bedfordshire and (b) Mid Bedfordshire constituency in Scotland: 2008-09 publication. were in receipt of (i) disability living allowance, (ii) 2. The income measures used to derive the estimates shown employ incapacity benefit and (iii) employment and support the same methodology as the Department for Work and Pensions publication “Households Below Average Income” series, which uses allowance on the most recent date for which figures are disposable household income, adjusted (or ‘equivalised’) for household available. [11813] size and composition, as an income measure as a proxy for standard of living. 3. The figures are based on OECD equivalisation factors. Chris Grayling: The information is provided in the 4. Figures are based on survey data and as such are subject to a degree following table: of sampling and non-sampling error. Employment support allowance claimants, incapacity benefit/severe 5. Numbers of children in low-income households have been rounded disablement allowance, and disability living allowance, November 2009 to the nearest 10,000 children. Number Source: Poverty and Income Inequality in Scotland: 2008-09 ESA IB/SDA DLA Income measures do not necessarily capture all aspects Mid Bedfordshire 350 1,590 2,770 of poverty or inequality facing children and their families parliamentary and the Government is committed to tackling the causes constituency of poverty and not just treating the symptoms. We must Unitary authorities 950 9,460 13,680 tackle the root causes of how people get trapped in in Bedfordshire 1159W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1160W

Notes: For 2011, we will additionally ensure that the increase 1. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allowance will not be lower than it would have been under the (ESA) from October 2008. 2. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10, some additional disclosure previous uprating arrangements. has been applied. 3. Caseload for DLA show the number of people in receipt of an Trade Unions allowance, and exclude people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, for example if they are in hospital. 4. Constituencies used are for the Westminster Parliament of May Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 2010. and Pensions how much his Department and its 5. IB/SDA ’claimants’ include people in receipt of benefit and also predecessors has paid to trade unions in each year since those who fail the contributions conditions but receive a national 1997; and what estimate he has made of the monetary insurance credit, i.e. ’credits only cases’. value of facilities provided by his Department and its 6. The figures for unitary authorities in Bedfordshire are the total of Bedford and Central Bedfordshire UA’s and reflect the boundary predecessor for use by trade unions in each year since changes from April 2009. 1997. [11688] Source: DWP Information Directorate Work and Pensions Longitudinal Chris Grayling: Since 1997 the Department and its Study 100% data. predecessors have paid no monies to trade unions. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for The information requested on the value of facilities Work and Pensions how many people in Rutherglen provided by the Department and its predecessor for use and Hamilton West constituency are in receipt of (a) by trade unions in each year since 1997 is not available incapacity benefit, (b) disability living allowance and and could be provided only at disproportionate costs. (c) employment and support allowance. [11899] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many paid manpower hours civil Chris Grayling: The information is provided in the servants in his Department and its predecessors spent following table: on trade union-related duties and activities in each year Employment support allowance claimants, incapacity benefit/severe since 1997. [11689] disablement allowance, and disability living allowance, November 2009 Number Chris Grayling: This specific information is not readily Parliamentary available and could be provided only at disproportionate constituency IB/SDA ESA DLA costs. Rutherglen and 6,360 1,100 8,940 Under the Corporate Employee Relations Framework, Hamilton West which sets out the maximum amount of time we will Notes: 1. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allow trade union representatives to undertake their allowance (ESA) from October 2008. 2. Figures are rounded to the trade unions activity. The Department for Work and nearest 10, some additional disclosure has been applied. 3. Caseload for DLA show the number of people in receipt of an allowance, and Pensions allows a total resource of 0.2% of the exclude people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, Department’s overall whole time equivalent staffing for example if they are in hospital. 4. Constituencies used are for the headcount as at the 1 April each year. Out of a total of Westminster Parliament of May 2010. 5. IB/SDA ’claimants’ include 21,134,300 staff days this was 42,460 days for the year people in receipt of benefit and also those who fail the contributions commencing 1 June 2009 to 31 May 2010. conditions but receive a national insurance credit, i.e. ’credits only cases’. Source: DWP Information Directorate Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study 100% data. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many civil servants in his Department Social Security Benefits: Married People and its predecessors spent the equivalent of (a) five days or fewer, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days and (f) 25 days or more Patrick Mercer: To ask the Secretary of State for on trade union-related activities or duties while being Work and Pensions how many spouses of designated paid salaries from the public purse in each year since persons have previously (a) applied for and (b) been 1997. [11690] refused state benefits. [10099] Chris Grayling: This information is not readily available Maria Miller: The information is not available. Benefit and could be provided only at disproportionate costs. would only be refused where the relevant entitlement conditions are not met. Unemployment

State Retirement Pensions Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what forecast the Office for Budget Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Responsibility has made of those unemployed (a) for and Pensions if he will bring forward proposals to raise less than six months, (b) between six and 12 months, the basic state pension by the (a) change in (i) average (c) between 12 and 24 months and (d) over 24 months earnings or (ii) each price index or (b) 2.5 per cent., in each year from 2010. [4650] whichever is higher, in (A) 2012, (B) 2013 and (C) 2014. [11923] Justine Greening [holding answer 28 June 2010]: I have been asked to reply. Steve Webb: The coalition Government are providing The official forecast produced by the Office for Budget a triple guarantee that the basic state pension will rise Responsibility does not include a breakdown of ILO each year by the highest of earnings, prices or 2.5%. unemployment by duration of unemployment. 1161W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1162W

Unemployment Benefits: Greater London The number of working age claimants of incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance whose main disabling condition is recorded as drug abuse or alcoholism—November 2009 Alcoholism Drug Abuse Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1) how many problem drug user residents Enfield local 80 130 in (a) Greater London, (b) the London Borough of authority Enfield and (c) Enfield North constituency received Enfield North 30 40 each out of work benefit in each year since 2005; [11802] parliamentary constituency (2) what estimate he has made of the number of Notes: people in (a) Greater London, (b) the London Borough 1. Data are rounded to the nearest 10. of Enfield and (c) Enfield North constituency who are 2. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allowance from October 2008. unable to work as a result of (i) alcohol and (ii) drug 3. Enfield parliamentary constituency figures take account of the dependency and who are in receipt of out of work boundary changes from May 2010. The most up to date available benefits. [11803] data are for November 2009, and the figures have been processed to reflect the 2010 parliamentary constituency boundary changes. 4. Future published benefit data will reflect the 2010 parliamentary constituencies from May 2010. These data will be published from Chris Grayling: Drug and alcohol addiction is one of November 2010 onwards. the most damaging root causes of poverty. Helping Source: people who are trapped on benefits through drug and DWP Information Directorate 100 per cent Work and Pensions alcohol addiction so that they can recover and find Longitudinal Study. employment is a top priority for the Government. Estimated number of working age claimants who are problem drug users by benefit type in England in 2006 Drug or alcohol dependency does not of itself confer Number entitlement to incapacity benefits. To qualify for incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance, claimants have to Jobseeker’s allowance 66,000 undertake a medical assessment of incapacity for work Incapacity benefit 87,000 which is called the personal capability assessment. This Income support 146,000 assesses the effects of a person’s condition on their Disability living allowance 25,000 ability to carry out a number of everyday activities Total in receipt of one or more 267,000 relevant to work. People with a recorded diagnosis of of the above benefits alcohol or drug dependency may have other diagnoses, Notes: 1. The figures are derived from estimates of the number of recipients for example mental illness, which result in their incapacity of each main benefit who are problem drug users. Those individuals for work. Causes of incapacity are based on the who receive disability-related benefits and declare their drug use are a International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, sub-set of this larger group. published by the World Health Organisation: 2. Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand. 3. The sum of the component benefits is greater than the total because http://www.who.int/classifications/icd/en/ claimants can be in receipt of one or more benefits at the same time. 4. Problem drug users are defined as those who use opiates (e.g. A breakdown by medical condition is only available heroin) and/or crack cocaine and include those who are in treatment for incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance. Details for their dependency. of medical condition are not available for the other 5. Disability living allowance can be claimed by people who are both out-of-work benefits. The available information is in the in and out of work. 6. The copy of the working paper by Hay and Bauld can be found in tables. the House of Commons Library, and can also be accessed at: The number of working age claimants of incapacity benefit/severe http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/WP46.pdf disablement allowance whose main disabling condition is recorded as Source: drug abuse 2005-09 Population estimates of problematic drug users in England who London Enfield North access Department for Work and Pensions benefits: A feasibility government Enfield local parliamentary study, Working Paper No. 46, Hay, G. and Bauld, L. 2008 office region authority constituency

November 2005 6,670 130 60 Unemployment Benefits: Peterborough November 2006 6,680 140 60 November 2007 6,930 130 50 Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for November 2008 6,750 150 50 Work and Pensions (1) how many problem drug users November 2009 5,800 130 50 resident in (a) the East of England, (b) Peterborough Notes: city council area and (c) Peterborough constituency 1. Data are rounded to the nearest 10. received each out of work benefit in each year since 2. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allowance [11192] from October 2008. This will account for some of the change in 2005; numbers of incapacity benefit and severe disablement allowance (2) what estimate he has made of the number of claimants between November 2008 and November 2009 whose main people in (a) Peterborough constituency and (b) the disabling condition was recorded as drug abuse. Peterborough city council area who are unable to work 3. Benefit data reflect the pre-2005 parliamentary constituency boundaries as the provision of a time series based on the 2010 parliamentary and in receipt of out of work benefits as a result of (i) constituency boundary changes would incur disproportionate cost. alcohol and (ii) drug dependency; and if he will make a 4. Future published benefit data will reflect the 2010 parliamentary statement. [11292] constituencies from May 2010. These data will be published from November 2010 onwards. Source: Chris Grayling: Drug and alcohol addiction is one of DWP Information Directorate 100 per cent Work and Pensions the most damaging root causes of poverty. Helping Longitudinal Study people who are trapped on benefits through drug and 1163W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1164W alcohol addiction so that they can recover and find Estimated number of working age claimants who are problem drug employment is a top priority for the Government. users by benefit type in England in 2006. Benefit Estimated number Drug or alcohol dependency does not of itself confer entitlement to incapacity benefits. To qualify for incapacity Jobseeker’s Allowance 66,000 benefit/severe disablement allowance, claimants have to Incapacity Benefit 87,000 undertake a medical assessment of incapacity for work Income Support 146,000 which is called the personal capability assessment. This Disability Living Allowance 25,000 assesses the effects of a person’s condition on their Total in receipt of one or more of the above 267,000 ability to carry out a number of everyday activities benefits relevant to work. People with a recorded diagnosis of Notes: 1. The figures are estimates of the number of recipients of each main alcohol or drug dependency may have other diagnoses, benefit who are problem drug users. Those individuals who receive for example mental illness, which result in their incapacity disability-related benefits and declare their drug use are a sub-set of for work. Causes of incapacity are based on the this larger group. International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, 2. Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand. published by the World Health Organisation 3. The sum of the component benefits is greater than the total because claimants can be in receipt of one or more benefits at the same time. http://www.who.int/classifications/icd/en/ 4. Problem drug users are defined as those who use opiates (e.g. heroin) and/or crack cocaine and include those who are in treatment for their dependency. A breakdown by medical condition is only available 5. Disability living allowance can be claimed by people who are both for incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance. Details in and out of work. of medical condition are not available for the other 6. The copy of the working paper by Hay and Bauld can be found in out-of-work benefits. The available information is in the the House of Commons Library, and can also be accessed at: tables. http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/WP46.pdf Source: The number of working age claimants of incapacity benefit/severe Population estimates of problematic drug users in England who disablement allowance whose main disabling condition is recorded as access Department for Work and Pensions benefits: A feasibility drug abuse, 2005 to 2009. study, Working Paper No. 46, Hay, G. & Bauld, L. 2008. Peterborough Peterborough parliamentary November East of England local authority constituency Unemployment: Holborn 2005 2,550 130 90 2006 2,600 130 90 Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 2007 2,780 150 100 and Pensions how many people resident in Holborn 2008 2,840 170 110 and St Pancras constituency have been unemployed for 2009 2,340 150 90 more than a year. [11935] Notes: 1. Data are rounded to the nearest 10. Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply. 2. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allowance The information requested falls within the responsibility from October 2008. This will account for some of the change in numbers of incapacity benefit/severe disablement allowance claimants of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority between November 2008 and November 2009 whose main disabling to reply. condition was recorded as drug abuse. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated July 2010: 3. Benefit data reflect the pre-2005 parliamentary constituency boundaries as the provision of a time series based on the 2010 parliamentary As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I constituency boundary changes would incur disproportionate cost. have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking 4. Future published benefit data will reflect the 2010 parliamentary how many people in Holborn and St Pancras constituency have constituencies from May 2010. This data will be published from been unemployed for more than a year. (11935) November 2010 onwards. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles unemployment Source: statistics in line with International Labour Organisation (ILO) DWP Information Directorate 100% Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study. definitions for local areas from the Annual Population Survey (APS). However, due to the small sample size, no reasonable The number of working age claimants of incapacity benefit/severe estimate is available for Holbom and St Pancras constituency. disablement allowance whose main disabling condition is recorded as drug abuse or alcoholism, November 2009. As an alternative we can provide the number of persons Alcoholism Drug abuse claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for more than 52 weeks. In June 2010 the number of these in the Holborn and St Pancras constituency Peterborough local authority 90 150 was 670. Peterborough parliamentary 70 100 National and local area estimates for many labour market constituency statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant Notes: count are available on the NOMIS website at: 1. Data are rounded to the nearest 10. http://www.nomisweb.co.uk 2. Incapacity benefit was replaced by employment support allowance from October 2008. 3. Peterborough parliamentary constituency figures take account of the boundary changes from May 2010. The most up to date available Vulnerable Adults: Home Visits data are for November 2009, and the figures have been processed to reflect the 2010 parliamentary constituency boundary changes. 4. Future published benefit data will reflect the 2010 parliamentary Ms Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for constituencies from May 2010. These data will be published from Work and Pensions whether he plans to maintain the November 2010 onwards. Source: number of home visits to vulnerable clients undertaken DWP Information Directorate 100% Work and Pensions Longitudinal by Pension, Disability and Carers Service local service Study. at its current level. [11848] 1165W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1166W

Steve Webb: Following a strategic review, the future Chris Grayling: In the UK, there have been 496,200 visiting service will be more directly targeted only on completed Work Capability Assessments from October vulnerable customers with particular needs which cannot 2008 up to the end of May 2010. The equivalent figure be met in more cost effective ways. The service will also for Wales is 29,100. This information is not available for be expanded to support all of the Department’s vulnerable the Cynon Valley constituency. customers. While this strategy is expected to widen the customer base and align the service offering across the Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Department, more effective targeting and movement of and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2010, some of the current customer base to lower cost channels Official Report, column 13W, on the Work Programme, is expected to reduce the number of future customers who the members are of the review of the work needing a face to face service and subsequently the capability assessment. [11999] number of visits. Chris Grayling: The Internal Review of the Work Work Capability Assessment Capability Assessment led by the Department was published on 29 March 2010. The review engaged with medical and other experts and disability representative groups Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and found that generally the assessment accurately identifies and Pensions which private companies carry out the individuals for benefit. Those consulted as part of the work capability assessment on behalf of his Department; review included representatives from: and how much has been paid to each for this work to Citizens Advice; date. [11992] The Disability Benefits Consortium; The Disability Employment Advisory Council; Chris Grayling: Following open, competitive tender, the Department for Work and Pensions re-awarded Mencap; Atos Origin IT Services Ltd, trading as Atos Healthcare, MIND; a new contract to perform medical services on behalf of The National Autistic Society; the Department from 1 September 2005. The total cost The Parkinson’s Disease Society; of these services amounts to approximately £100 million The Royal College of Psychiatrists; per annum. This figure not only covers the total number RNIB; of examinations undertaken across all benefits, but also RNID; costs relating to written and verbal medical advice, fixed overheads, administrative costs, investment in new RSI Action; technology and other service improvements. Atos Origin Medical Services; The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development; Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work The Social Security Advisory Committee; and and Pensions what proportion of people in (a) the Senior health care professionals from the fields of psychiatry, UK, (b) Wales and (c) Cynon Valley constituency neurological disability/rehabilitation; occupational and who underwent the work capability assessment in the psychological medicine. last 12 months was judged fit for work; how many appeals against such determinations were initiated; and Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work how many such appeals were successful. [11993] and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 10W, on disabled people (work), if he will publish the results of the review of the Chris Grayling: Between June 2009 and May 2010, work capability assessment led by his Department. 66% of people who completed the Work Capability [12000] Assessment in the UK were found Fit for Work. The equivalent figure for Wales is 63%. This information is Chris Grayling: The Internal Review of the Work not available for the Cynon Valley constituency. Capability Assessment led by the Department was published Appeals data are not available for the period June on 29 March. A copy of the Report and the associated 2009 and May 2010. For new ESA claims received in the Addendum, which was published at the same time, have UK between October 2008 and June 2009, where the been placed in the Library. claimant was found Fit for Work, has appealed the Department’s decision and has had an appeal heard by May 2010, 40% of these appeals found in favour of the appellant. The equivalent figure for Wales is 36%. This HEALTH information is not available for the Cynon Valley Abortion: Death constituency. Due to the time it takes for appeals to be submitted to Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Health the Tribunals Service and heard, it is likely that there (1) how many women are known to have died within are more appeals that have not yet been heard. one month of operations for termination of pregnancy notified under the Abortion Regulations 1991, as Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work amended, in each year since 1980; and what cause of and Pensions how many people in (a) the UK, (b) death was recorded on the death certificate in each Wales and (c) Cynon Valley constituency have case; [10504] undergone the work capability assessment as part of a (2) what research his Department has (a) undertaken claim for employment and support allowance to date. and (b) evaluated on the number of women who died [11994] following complications from a legal abortion; when his 1167W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1168W

Department last undertook an evidence review of the Causes of death for maternal deaths from legal and illegal abortions number of women who died following complications 1979 to 2005 (all causes taken from report vignettes unless otherwise from a legal abortion that drew on (i) UK and (ii) stated) international research; and if he will make a statement. Number Cause of death [10505] 1994-96 0 — Anne Milton: Data on deaths from abortion from 1979 to 2005 can be found in the following table. The maternal death data are currently published in a triennial 1997-99 0 — cycle and 2006-08 data will be published in March next year. 2000-02 0 — All of the maternal deaths following a legal abortion reported to the Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries 2003-05 1 Unclear, unusual trauma in genital tract, have undergone a full review. unusual organism found. 1 Taken from report as final cause of death Causes of death for maternal deaths from legal and illegal abortions Source: 1979 to 2005 (all causes taken from report vignettes unless otherwise The data are from the maternal death enquiry run by CMACE stated) (Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries) specifically from the Why Number Cause of death Mothers Die triennial report (prior to 2003) and Saving Mothers Lives triennial report (2003-2005). Legal abortions We have confirmed with the National Institute for Health Research that there is no specific funded research 1979-81 5 Pulmonary embolism (4)1 1 or evidence review in this area. However, the Department Sepsis (1) has commissioned the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists to review and update their 2004 1982-84 7 guidance ‘The Care of Women Requesting Induced Abortion’. The aim of the guidance is to ensure that all 1985-87 1 Air embolism (1) women considering induced abortion have access to a service of uniformly high quality. 1988-90 3 Haemorrhage (1) Accident and Emergency Departments Septic shock (1) Severe bronchospasm (1) Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions he has had with NHS London 1991-93 5 Endotoxic shock (1)1 on future hospital and accident and emergency Laparotomy, perforation of the uterus (1) provision in London. [11843] Adult respiratory distress syndrome, DIC, infection with bacteriodes melaminogenicus Mr Simon Burns: There has been no discussions with (1) NHS London on future hospital and accident and Laparotomy, perforation of the uterus, emergency provision in London. In future, all service haematoma (1) changes must be led by clinicians and patients, not be Clostridium Welchi infection (1) driven from the top down. The Government have outlined new, strengthened 1994-96 1 Holes in the jejunum, faecal peritonitis (1) criteria that it expects decisions on national health service service changes to meet. The local NHS are considering the impact of these criteria in their area and 1997-99 2 Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (1) local communities are establishing how this work will DIC, multiple organ failure (1) be taken forward.

2000-02 3 Cause of death unclear Accident and Emergency Departments: Patients

2003-05 1 Severe anaemia from haemorrhage from Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for retained products (1) Health how many patients attended each accident and emergency department in London (a) in each of the Illegal last three years and (b) in 2010 on the latest date for abortions which figures are available. [11840] 1979-81 1 Sepsis (1) Mr Simon Burns: Information is not collected in the format requested. 1982-84 0 — The following table sets out the number of first attendances at accident and emergency departments, 1985-87 0 — minor injury units and walk in centres in London national health service organisations from April 2007 to 1988-90 0 — March 2010. The data is collected by provider trust rather than by department and is the latest published 1991-93 0 — data available. 1169W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1170W

First attendances at accident and emergency (A&E) departments, minor injury units and walk in centres, London NHS organisations April 2007 to March 2010 Organisation name 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Total 3,697,022 3,780,506 3,980,549

Havering Primary Care Trust 36,048 37,176 42,687 Barnet Primary Care Trust 72,230 78,570 89,886 Hillingdon Primary Care Trust — 30,512 30,517 Barking and Dagenham Primary Care Trust 38,608 54,622 56,726 City and Hackney Teaching Primary Care Trust 9,124 10,415 16,010 Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust 44,697 43,108 45,523 Newham Primary Care Trust 50,461 39,637 47,835 Haringey Teaching Primary Care Trust 31,349 36,640 35,349 Hammersmith and Fulham Primary Care Trust 19,595 14,058 20,751 Kensington and Chelsea Primary Care Trust 13,903 14,620 14,577 Westminster Primary Care Trust 27,455 27,556 29,386 Wandsworth Primary Care Trust 13,649 45,241 77,652 Richmond and Twickenham Primary Care Trust 47,362 46,786 46,675 Redbridge Primary Care Trust 5,092 33,688 36,875 Waltham Forest Primary Care Trust 48,332 45,147 54,169 Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust 74,002 77,308 85,746 North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust 108,822 107,902 110,431 The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Trust 123,086 96,030 100,224 Kingston Hospital NHS Trust 97,439 100,540 104,405 Ealing Hospital NHS Trust 100,967 98,324 98,812 Barking, Havering and Redbridge Hospitals NHS Trust 194,654 177,625 181,890 West Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust 91,474 90,291 94,928 Queen Elizabeth Hospital NHS Trust 99,534 98,224 — Bromley Hospitals NHS Trust 84,202 84,162 — Whipps Cross University Hospital NHS Trust 86,281 92,947 98,484 Queen Mary’s Sidcup NHS Trust 74,060 80,273 — Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust 147,257 144,627 154,214 The Lewisham Hospital NHS Trust 140,556 126,564 125,471 St Mary’s Hospital NHS Trust 56,796 — — Mayday Healthcare NHS Trust 151,498 151,768 154,389 St George’s Healthcare NHS Trust 156,808 133,430 111,087 King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 111,880 135,476 143,474 The Whittington Hospital NHS Trust 89,231 86,991 92,792 Newham University Hospital NHS Trust 83,042 88,496 66,924 Baits and The London NHS Trust 117,109 119,453 124,879 Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 58,671 64,487 69,383 Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 97,688 97,574 100,746 The Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust 49,081 — — Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 108,857 108,868 111,957 University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 94,962 93,558 100,715 North West London Hospitals NHS Trust 197,273 207,819 244,445 Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust 145,965 150,072 149,780 Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust 128,108 129,786 135,998 Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust 102,581 208,057 227,639 South London Healthcare NHS Trust — — 274,634 1171W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1172W

First attendances at accident and emergency (A&E) departments, minor injury units and walk in centres, London NHS organisations April 2007 to March 2010 Organisation name 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

IS Walk-in Centres with a Commuter Focus 67,233 72,078 72,484 Notes: 1. Information is not collected on the number of patients treated at A&E departments. However, data on the number of attendances at A&E departments are available and published quarterly via the Department of Health’s Quarterly Monitoring Accident and Emergency Services (QMAE) dataset. This includes patients who attended A&E but who were not subsequently treated and counts each attendance by the same patient separately. 2. Certain organisations merged during the submission periods of QMAE. These include: Closed in September 2007 (merge): St Mary’s Hospital NHS Trust The Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust Opened October 2007: Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust Closed in March 2009 (merge): Queen Mary’s Sidcup NHS Trust Bromley Hospitals NHS Trust Queen Elizabeth Hospital NHS Trust Opened April 2009: South London Healthcare NHS Trust 3. Primary care trusts manage services at Type 3 A&E Units (minor injury units, and walk-in centres) and also commission these services from the independent sector. Source: Department of Health’s Quarterly Monitoring Accident and Emergency Services (QMAE) dataset

Alcoholic Drinks: Labelling quality of the proposals submitted. Future levels of expenditure on research in asbestos-related diseases will Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for be determined by the success of relevant bids for funding. Health if he will bring forward proposals for compulsory labelling of alcoholic drinks with (a) information on Care Quality Commission: Fees the number of units the drink contains, (b) daily safe drinking limits, (c) a message about responsible drinking, Sarah Newton: To ask the Secretary of State for (d) a health warning for pregnant women and (e) the Health whether he plans to assess the merits of (a) a website address for the Drinkaware Trust. [11645] discount and (b) an exemption scheme for non-profit organisations and charities as part of his Department’s Anne Milton: A public consultation on options for consultation on the registration fees charge by the Care improving health information on the labels of alcoholic Quality Commission. [10496] drinks closed on 31 May. The responses to this exercise are now being analysed and it would be inappropriate Mr Simon Burns: The Care Quality Commission is for us to pre-empt the findings. We will set out our plans responsible for setting the level of registration fees for next steps, in the coming months. payable by different providers. The Commission intends to consult on its proposals for registration fees that will apply from April 2011 in Asbestos: Diseases the autumn. Final proposals for registration fees will be subject to the consent of the Secretary of State for Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Health. (1) if he will (a) support and (b) provide funding for the establishment of a national centre for asbestos-related CJD diseases; [11186] (2) how much he plans to spend on research into Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Health asbestos-related diseases in the next three years; [11187] what compensation his Department has paid to (a) (3) what his policy is on increasing expenditure on individuals affected by variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob research into asbestos-related diseases. [11188] disease and (b) their families in each year since 1996. [10943] Mr Simon Burns: The Department has asked the National Cancer Research Institute to carry out a review Anne Milton: Compensation for patients suffering of research in mesothelioma and other asbestos-related from variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), and diseases. The outcome of the review will inform the their families, has been available since 2001. In total, future strategies and work of the Institute’s partner £67.5 million has been made available to cover the funders, and help develop the potential to build research needs of the first 250 patients and their families. This capacity and increase research investment in asbestos-related sum has been paid into the vCJD Trust, which disburses diseases. The review is due to report in the autumn. funds in line with the terms of its Trust Deed. The National Institute for Health Research and the As at 11 June 2010, the Trust had paid £38,705,147.16 Medical Research Council both welcome applications in compensation in relation to a total of 175 vCJD for support into any aspect of human health and these patients. A breakdown between patients and their families are subject to peer review and judged in open competition, is not readily available. The totals of payments made in with awards being made on the basis of the scientific each year are as follows: 1173W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1174W

to pay all suppliers as soon as is practicable after receipt Period Total compensation (£) of a valid invoice, regardless of their size. 10 April 2001 - 14 March 2002 13,098,333.33 The percentage of invoices paid within 10 days of 15 March 2002 - 5 April 2003 7,334,176.66 receipt of invoice and on the agreed payment terms in Year ending 5 April 2004 6,145,738.07 the last three months are shown in the following table. Year ending 5 April 2005 3,090,429.47 Year ending 5 April 2006 3,621,644.14 Percentage of invoices paid Percentage of invoices paid 1 Year ending 5 April 2007 3,360,026.63 within 10 days within 30 days Year ending 5 April 2008 870,734.25 April 94.14 99.55 Year ending 5 April 2009 724,841.69 2010 Year ending 5 April 2010 429,224.92 May 95.66 98.68 2010 June 96.61 99.07 Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 2010 what funding his Department has provided for research 1 The Department has a standard payment term that states that into variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in each year payment shall be due 30 days after receipt of the goods or the correct since 1996. [10944] invoice, whichever is the later.

Anne Milton: Expenditure by the Department on Departmental Internet research into variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is shown in the table. Damian Hinds: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much (a) his Department and (b) its £ million agencies spent on search engine biasing with (i) Google and (ii) other search engines in each of the last five 1996-97 0.3 years. [10015] 1997-98 1.1 1998-99 2.1 Mr Simon Burns: The Department has a corporate 1999-2000 4.7 website: 2000-01 4.0 www.dh.gov.uk 2001-02 4.0 2002-03 6.1 and also manages NHS Choices: 2003-04 7.2 www.nhs.uk 2004-05 6.0 the official health information portal for the public. 2005-06 4.3 The Department’s corporate website does not invest 2006-07 3.9 in any paid search activity. In line with Government 2007-08 5.7 policy, NHS Choices no longer has any arrangement, or 2008-09 5.1 pays for any search engine activity. 2009-10 4.8 No commitments have been made with Google or any other search provider for ‘pay per click’ online Cystic Fibrosis: Prescriptions marketing since the moratorium on marketing spend was put in place on 24 May 2010. Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for NHS Choices used paid search activity to ensure that Health if he will bring forward proposals for an exemption it reaches the widest possible audience, and that users from payment of prescription charges for cystic fibrosis can easily find clinically assured health information and patients. [11543] access the services they need from Government. Mr Simon Burns: Decisions on any future changes to Paid search activity was a key component of several the system of prescription charges and exemptions in major campaigns for the Department in 2009-10, including England would need to be taken in the context of the our anti-smoking and pandemic flu campaigns, to reach next spending review, which is due to report in the as large an audience as possible. autumn. In the meantime, there are no plans to make The Department spent £2.93 million and £1.48 million any changes to the current list of conditions which are on paid search activity in 2009-10 and 2008-09 respectively. exempt from prescription charges. A breakdown of this spend by search engine is not readily available and can be obtained only at a Departmental Billing disproportionate cost. Likewise, data for the three years preceding 2008-09 can be obtained only at disproportionate Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for cost. Health what percentage of payments made by his The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Department to (a) small and medium-sized enterprise Agency has not spent any money with Google or other suppliers and (b) all suppliers were made (i) within 10 search engines. days of receipt of invoice and (ii) on the agreed payment terms in the last three months for which information is Departmental Parliamentary Questions available. [11387]

Mr Simon Burns: The Department of Health does Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if not differentiate between small and medium sized enterprises he will place in the Library a copy of the internal and other creditors. It is the intention of the Department background note prepared for the response to each 1175W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1176W

Parliamentary question tabled by the hon. Member for 9 June 2010: Meeting between the Secretary of State and John Southend West and answered by his Department since Black 5 June 2010. [4274] 13 July 2010: Meeting between Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Lords) and John Black (Dr P. Hamilton, Department of Anne Milton: The information requested has been Health, Director Medical Education attending). placed in the Library. Correspondence: 21 May 2010, 27 May 2010 and 15 June 2010: John Black to Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if Secretary of State he will place in the Library a copy of the internal 26 May 2010: Secretary of State to John Black. background note prepared for the response to each parliamentary question tabled by the hon. Member for Southend West and answered by his Department in (a) Epilepsy: Nurses June and (b) July 2009. [4305] Diana R. Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Anne Milton: The information requested has been Health what information his Department (1) has on the placed in the Library. number of epilepsy specialist nurses transferred partially or in full to general nursing duties in the latest Departmental Travel period for which figures are available; [11378] Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (2) holds on the ratio of children with epilepsy to what estimate his Department has made of its paediatric epilepsy specialist nurses. [11391] expenditure on travel undertaken in an official capacity by each Minister in his Department in (i) May 2010 Mr Burstow: We have no information on the number and (ii) June 2010. [8231] of specialist epilepsy nurses that have been transferred to general nursing duties. Mr Simon Burns: Based on invoices the Department Information on the ratio of children with epilepsy to has received, the estimated expenditure is in the region the number of paediatric specialist epilepsy nurses is of the figures in the following table. not collected centrally. £ The Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership, Minister May 2010 June 2010 which receives its funding from the Department, has commissioned a national clinical audit of childhood Secretary of State for Health 4,246.22 9,684.85 epilepsy to support local health services to evaluate (Mr Andrew Lansley) clinical practice and to stimulate service improvement. Minister of State for Health 3,058.65 8,644.52 One of the measures the audit will use will be the (Mr Simon Burns) percentage of children with epilepsy with evidence of Minister of State for Care 2,796.17 5,996.93 input by an epilepsy specialist nurse within one year. Services (Mr Paul Burstow) Data collection is due to start in the autumn of 2010 at Parliamentary Under-Secretary 5,190.77 8,280.83 of State (Anne Milton) early adopter sites, with a national roll out to follow Parliamentary Under-Secretary 3,624.02 7,195.98 soon after. The audit is being coordinated by the Royal of State (Earl Howe) College of Paediatrics and Child Health. The existing Government Care Service contracts, which were subject to a 90-day contract termination period, Foetal Tissue end on 19 August 2010. All ministerial travel is undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial Code. Mr Burrowes: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Doctors: Working Hours how many foetuses have been used for the purposes of research in the last five years; which clinics have supplied Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for foetal remains for research in the last five years; and if Health what recent representations he has received on he will make a statement. [10407] the application of the EU Working Time Directive to the working hours of surgeons and trainee surgeons; Anne Milton: This information is not collected centrally. and if he will make a statement. [10881] The law governing the use of foetal tissue for research Mr Simon Burns: The coalition Government are purposes is the Human Tissue Act 2004. It does not committed to ‘limit the application of the working time distinguish between foetal tissue and other tissue from directive in the United Kingdom’. Ministers at the the living. Foetal tissue is regarded as the mother’s Department have discussed the impact of the application tissue. of the working time directive on the working hours of he Human Tissue Act 2004 requires that the storage surgeons and trainee surgeons specifically or in relation of human tissue for research, and other “scheduled to other matters on a number of occasions. purposes” is licensed. The regulator responsible for Meetings: licensing is the Human Tissue Authority (HTA). It has 18 May 2010: Telephone conversation between the Secretary of published a series of codes of practice on key activities State and John Black (President of the Royal College of Surgeons) involving human tissue, including consent (Code of 7 June 2010: Presentation of Sir John Temples report “Time Practice 1) and research (Code of Practice 9). The HTA for Training” to the Secretary of State (Medical Education England has no role in approving individual research projects, Chair and Managing Director Sir Christopher Edwards and and information on the number of foetuses used in Chris Outram attending) research is not collected centrally. 1177W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1178W

Food Standards Agency Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. I am advised that the Food Standards Agency has Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for not specifically funded any projects on public attitudes Health what consideration he gave to the final to organic agriculture. However, organic food has been recommendations of the Calman Commission on Scottish addressed in a number of consumer surveys conducted Devolution in deciding to change the function of the by the agency, but it should be noted that they were only Food Standards Agency. [11949] addressed to a small extent as the surveys cover a wide range of food related issues. These surveys are available Anne Milton: Officials were made aware of the report on the agency’s website at by the Commission on Scottish Devolution “Serving www.food.gov.uk Scotland Better: Scotland and the United Kingdom in the 21st Century”, published in June 2009, during discussions Mr Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for about the transfer of nutrition policy from the Food Health what projects on organic agriculture the Food Standards Agency to the Department. Standards Agency has funded since 1997; what the (a) topic, (b) start date, (c) cost and (d) project code was Food Standards Agency: Public Consultation of each such project; who the main contractor was in each case; and which such projects have been Mr Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for Health completed. [10868] what projects on public attitudes to organic agriculture the Food Standards Agency has funded since 1997; Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. what the (a) topic, (b) start date, (c) cost and (d) I am advised that the Food Standards Agency has project code was of each such project; who the main funded three projects on organic agriculture since its contractor was in each case; and which such projects inception in 2000 and all have been completed. Details have been completed. [10867] of these projects are listed in the following table.

Topic Start date Cost (£) Project code Main contractor

Systematic review of differences in nutrient February 2008 117,870 L01X01 London School of Hygiene content of organically and conventionally and Tropical Medicine produced food Verifying the authenticity of organically grown April 2002 203,818 Q01076 University of East Anglia crops using stable nitrogen isotope analysis Verification of organic meat production by June 2001 218,299 Q01047 Central Science Laboratory detection of permitted and not-permitted uses (now Food and Environment of veterinary medicines Research Agency)

Reports for all projects are published on the agency’s Mr Simon Burns: The Department collects information open access repository, Foodbase, at regarding how many patients are registered with general http://www.foodbase.org.uk/index.php practitioners by primary care trust (PCT) in England. This information for March 2010 is shown in the following General Practitioners table. The Department does not collect information on those who choose not to be registered. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Registered patients by PCT in England March 2010 whether he plans to issue guidance on the role of GPs Number in managing proposed health consortia. [10956] County Durham 532,645 Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper, “Equity and Darlington 105,817 Excellence: Liberating the NHS” (CM 7881) published Gateshead 204,527 on 12 July 2010, set out our proposals for transforming Hartlepool 94,197 the quality of commissioning by devolving decision-making Middlesbrough 152,429 to local consortia of general practitioner (GP) practices. Newcastle 281,048 “Liberating the NHS: Commissioning for patients” North Tees 191,013 published on 22 July provides further information on North Tyneside 214,749 the intended arrangements for GP commissioning, Northumberland 321,180 providing the basis for fuller engagement with primary Redcar and Cleveland 134,372 care professionals and the public. South Tyneside 154,930 Copies of both publications are available in the Library. Sunderland Teaching 284,518 General Practitioners: Registration Ashton, Leigh and Wigan 318,886 Blackburn with Darwen 166,949 Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Blackpool 152,293 Health how many patients are registered with GPs in Bolton 291,201 each NHS district; and what recent estimate he has Bury 194,268 made of the number of eligible residents of each such Central and Eastern Cheshire 468,656 district who are not registered with an NHS GP. Central Lancashire 469,653 [11841] 1179W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1180W

Registered patients by PCT in England March 2010 Registered patients by PCT in England March 2010 Number Number

Cumbria 518,673 Great Yarmouth and Waveney 230,178 East Lancashire 388,172 Luton 208,706 Halton and St Helens 319,206 Mid Essex 377,278 Heywood, Middleton and 222,104 Norfolk 739,012 Rochdale North East Essex 324,799 Knowsley 158,661 Peterborough 177,447 Liverpool 486,836 South East Essex 362,585 Manchester 545,418 South West Essex 421,484 North Lancashire 339,531 Suffolk 614,410 Oldham 237,638 West Essex 285,566 Salford 242,878 West Hertfordshire 587,589 Sefton 280,889 Barking and Dagenham 186,794 Stockport 297,652 Barnet 366,439 Tameside and Glossop 238,566 Bexley 228,182 Trafford 231,769 Brent Teaching 354,814 Warrington 205,854 Bromley 324,061 Western Cheshire 259,043 Camden 249,972 Wirral 331,963 City and Hackney Teaching 275,481 Barnsley 243,929 Croydon 378,486 Bradford and Airedale 545,642 Ealing 375,118 Calderdale 210,248 Enfield 287,528 Doncaster 308,274 Greenwich Teaching 266,444 East Riding of Yorkshire 314,792 Hammersmith and Fulham 189,039 Hull 288,826 Haringey Teaching 281,265 Kirklees 418,972 Harrow 235,569 Leeds 811,698 Havering 254,029 North East Lincolnshire 169,532 Hillingdon 273,372 North Lincolnshire 167,011 Hounslow 259,021 North Yorkshire and York 798,504 Islington 213,221 Rotherham 255,699 Kensington and Chelsea 189,074 Sheffield 565,539 Kingston 190,176 Wakefield District 350,926 Lambeth 375,649 Bassetlaw 110,880 Lewisham 301,136 Derby City 294,399 Newham 341,627 Derbyshire County 713,156 Redbridge 270,290 Leicester City 360,224 Richmond and Twickenham 198,900 Leicestershire County and 675,527 Southwark 316,493 Rutland Sutton and Merton 391,773 Lincolnshire 744,097 Tower Hamlets 255,720 Northamptonshire 701,137 Waltham Forest 277,164 Nottingham City 337,773 Wandsworth 366,059 Nottinghamshire County 667,221 Westminster 249,314 Birmingham East and North 444,861 Brighton and Hove City 300,806 Coventry Teaching 359,256 East Sussex Downs and Weald 347,468 Dudley 314,552 Eastern and Coastal Kent 768,170 Heart of Birmingham Teaching 319,279 Hastings and Rother 182,732 Herefordshire 180,690 Medway 281,880 North Staffordshire 210,652 Sandwell 338,834 Surrey 1,160,764 Shropshire County 296,332 West Kent 704,108 Solihull 222,034 West Sussex 822,077 South Birmingham 390,080 Berkshire East 421,281 South Staffordshire 616,949 Berkshire West 499,321 Stoke on Trent 279,616 Buckinghamshire 529,013 Telford and Wrekin 170,479 Hampshire 1,315,141 Walsall Teaching 269,389 Isle of Wight National Health 140,879 Warwickshire 547,997 Service Wolverhampton City 261,350 Milton Keynes 256,514 Worcestershire 574,537 Oxfordshire 675,828 Bedfordshire 430,095 Portsmouth City Teaching 212,219 Cambridgeshire 619,928 Southampton City 262,887 East and North Hertfordshire 583,199 Bath and North East Somerset 195,344 1181W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1182W

Registered patients by PCT in England March 2010 the quality of commissioning by devolving decision-making Number to local consortia of general practitioner (GP) practices. Bournemouth and Poole 364,164 “Liberating the NHS: Commissioning for patients” Bristol 463,374 published on 22 July provides further information on Cornwall and Isles of Scilly 548,541 the intended arrangements for GP commissioning. Given Devon 762,737 their key role in co-ordinating care, GPs are well placed Dorset 399,886 to lead on commissioning care for patients. However we expect consortia to involve relevant health and social Gloucestershire 610,327 care professionals from all sectors, including secondary North Somerset 208,318 care professionals and nurses, in helping them design Plymouth Teaching 274,056 care pathways or care packages that achieve more integrated Somerset 536,645 delivery of care. South Gloucestershire 256,017 We will work with the national health service and Swindon 215,692 professional bodies in the transition to the new Torbay 145,832 arrangements of GP commissioning to promote multi- Wiltshire 458,913 professional involvement. Total England 54,894,497 Kidney Patients Health Services Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many kidney transplants there have been in each of Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Health the last five years; and how many such transplants were if he will make an assessment of the potential role of classified as successful. [11012] (a) secondary care professionals and (b) nurses in commissioning health services. [10958] Anne Milton: The following table shows the number of kidney transplants from living and deceased donors Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper, “Equity and carried out in the United Kingdom from 1 April 2005 to Excellence: Liberating the NHS” published on the 12 31 March 2010; and the percentage of patients where July 2010, has set out our proposals for transforming the graft had not failed at three months and 12 months.

Number of kidney only transplants Percentage of Grafts surviving1 Deceased donor Live donor Deceased donor Live donor Total 3 months 12 months 3 months 12 months

2005-06 1,204 589 1,793 95 93 97 96 2006-07 1,257 690 1,947 95 93 97 97 2007-08 1,249 831 2,080 95 93 97 96 2008-09 1,403 927 2,330 95 93 98 96 2009-10 1,482 1,037 2,519 95 2—982— 1 Where up-to-date follow-up data are available. 2 12-month graft survival data are not available for 2009-10, as a full 12 months has not yet elapsed.

Kidneys: Transplant Surgery Number of kidney only transplants Deaths - organ waiting list (kidney) Deceased Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for Donor Live Donor Total Health how many patients requiring a kidney transplant (a) received a kidney transplant and (b) 2007-08 1,249 831 2,080 308 died while awaiting a transplant in each of the last 2008-09 1,403 927 2,330 255 three years. [11859] 2009-10 1,482 1,037 2,519 286

Anne Milton: The following table shows the number Long Term Care of kidney transplants from living and deceased donors carried out in the United Kingdom from 1 April 2007 to Diana R. Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for 31 March 2010; and the number of patients that died 1 Health what plans he has to conduct the mid-term whilst on the active waiting list for a kidney transplant. review of the National Service Framework for long- 1 Active means that when an organ becomes available, term neurological conditions. [11392] the patient is included among those who are matched against the donor to determine whether the organ is Mr Burstow: We are currently considering the options suitable. Patients can be temporarily removed (suspended) for the National Service Framework for long-term from the waiting list for reasons ranging from being neurological conditions, and will report back in due away on holiday to being too ill to undergo the operation. course. 1183W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1184W

Mental Health Services: Finance National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence

Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of Health (1) if he will review membership of the Partners the likely level of future demand for mental health Council of the National Institute for Health and services in London; and how much funding he plans to Clinical Excellence; [11214] allocate for that purpose in (a) 2011-12 and (b) the (2) what criteria apply in respect of appointment to next three years. [11842] the Partners Council of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. [11215] Mr Burstow: We will be assessing our priorities carefully and will announce details on mental health policy in due course. Our focus will be on making services patient-led, Mr Simon Burns: We will keep the operation of the based on the best clinical evidence, responsive to patients’ partners council under review, taking account of advice choice and management of their own care, and delivering from the National Institute for Health and Clinical best ‘health’ outcomes. Excellence (NICE) and the views of council members. The membership of the council is designed to reflect Mental Health Services: Prisons the range of external partners who work with the Institute in the development of its guidance. It is therefore drawn Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health from patient advocacy groups, health professional groups, what assessment he has made of the capacity of mental the health care industries and other third sector health in-reach teams to meet the needs of prisoners organisations which have an interest in NICE’S work. with mental health needs serving imprisonment for public protection sentences. [10593] National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence: Consultants Mr Burstow: The mental health needs of prisoners are met by a combination of primary care staff and mental health in reach teams. No assessment of the Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State capacity of mental health in reach teams working with for Health if he will bring forward proposals for a prisoners serving imprisonment for public protection mechanism for the peer review of responses by the sentences has been made. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence to consultee comments. [11553] Mental Health: Children Mr Simon Burns: Details of the processes for the Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for Health development of National Institute For Health and Clinical what assessment his Department has made of the Excellence (NICE) guidance are a matter for the Institute contribution of local authorities to the delivery of child as an independent body, and NICE consults periodically and adult mental health services provided jointly with on these processes. NICE most recently updated its the NHS; and if he will make a statement. [11516] process guides-for clinical guidelines in 2008 and for technology appraisals and interventional procedures in Mr Burstow: We will be announcing details on mental 2009. Information on the way NICE develops its guidance health policy in due course. The reforms set out in the is available at: White Paper “Equity and Excellence, Liberating the www.nice.org.uk/aboutnice/howwework/how_we_work.jsp NHS”will improve the national health service for patients of all ages, including children and young people. Our NHS focus will be on making services patient-led, based on the best clinical evidence, responsive to patients’ choice Dr Pugh: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and delivering best health outcomes. “Liberating the what consultation he undertook with patients’ NHS: Local Democratic Legitimacy in Health” also representatives prior to the publication of the Health sets out proposals to improve integration and partnership White Paper. [10451] working across health and social care for children and adults. We do not plan to undertake such assessments. Mr Simon Burns: The public voted for change; the Copies of both documents have already been placed manifestos of both parties of the coalition contained in the Library. clear plans for the national health service. By publishing Mental Illness: Prisoners a strategy in the White Paper, and providing clear leadership and purpose for the NHS, the Government are now able to engage fully with ail external partners Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Health on the detail of how best to implement these changes. A what his most recent estimate is of the incidence of number of supporting consultation documents have mental health illnesses in the prison population in been published providing further detail and opportunities England and Wales. [10325] for engagement. Mr Burstow: Based on the 1997 Office for National Statistics psychiatric morbidity survey and Ministry of NHS White Paper: Personnel Justice research published in 2008, our estimate is that around 90% of sentenced prisoners have some form of Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State mental health problem. The 1997 survey showed that for Health what plans he has to consult NHS 7% of sentenced male prisoners and 14% of female employees in Coventry on the proposals in the NHS prisoners had functional psychosis. White Paper. [11943] 1185W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1186W

Mr Simon Burns: ‘Equity and Excellence: Liberating Mr Simon Burns: Information on the number or the NHS’ set out the Government’s strategy for the working patterns of chaplains employed by national national health service. A copy has already been placed health service trusts is not collected centrally. It is for in the Library. By providing clear leadership and purpose individual trusts to determine their own provision and for the NHS the Government are now able to engage they are not under a statutory obligation to consult fully on the detail of how best to implement these with any advisory body on the appointment of healthcare changes. A number of supporting consultation documents chaplains. However, many will refer to the occupational have been published providing further detail and standards and codes of conduct published by organisations opportunity for engagement, entitled: ‘Liberating the and professional associations such as the Hospital NHS: Transparency in outcomes: a framework for the Chaplaincies Council, the UK Board of Healthcare NHS’, ‘Liberating the NHS: Increasing democratic Chaplaincy and Multi Faith Group for Healthcare legitimacy in health’, ‘Liberating the NHS: Commissioning Chaplaincy. I have responsibility for healthcare chaplaincy for patients’and ‘Liberating the NHS: Regulating healthcare along with other issues relating to the NHS workforce. providers’. A review of arms length bodies entitled ‘Liberating the NHS: Report of the arms-length bodies NHS: Essex review’ has also been published. Copies of these documents have already been placed in the Library. They are also available on the Department’s website at: Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many (a) managers and (b) administrative staff www.dh.gov.uk/liberatingtheNHS each NHS trust in Essex employed in each year since NHS: Chaplains 1997; and what proportion of the total staff of each Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health trust each figure represents. [10155] (1) whether NHS organisations consult any advisory body on the appointment of NHS chaplains; [11239] Anne Milton: Information is not available in the (2) which Minister in his Department has responsibility format requested. for policy on NHS chaplains; [11240] The following tables show national health service (3) how many chaplains of each faith each NHS staff in East of England strategic health authority area acute hospital trust employs; and how many such chaplains in each specified organisation and each specified staff each trust employs on a full-time basis. [11241] group as at 30 September each year since 1997.

NHS hospital and community health services: NHS staff in the East of England strategic health authority area in each specified organisation and each specified staff group, as at 30 September each year Headcount and percentage headcount 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

East of England strategic health authority area All staff1 83,415 84,097 86,365 88,961 95,111 98,978 103,247 Administrative staff as a 19 19 19 19 20 20 21 percentage of all staff (%) All administrative staff 15,877 15,989 16,339 17,239 18,731 19,847 21,486 Senior managersA 713 697 794 821 1,094 1,295 1,173 ManagersA 1,314 1,323 1,363 1,390 1,375 1,597 1,899 Administrative staff (central 5,343 5,164 5,635 6,081 6,203 6,380 7,116 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 650 619 527 533 585 618 694 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 1,145 1,205 1,110 1,116 1,201 1,323 1,586 support)D Administrative staff (clinical 6,344 6,565 6,472 6,712 7,599 8,218 8,660 support)E Administrative staff (ambulance 368 416 438 586 674 416 358 support)F Of which: Mid Essex hospital services NHS trust All staff1 3,554 3,487 3,434 3,505 3,557 3,822 4,293 Administrative staff as a 16 17 17 17 16 16 16 percentage of all staff (%) All administrative staff 557 583 587 586 563 628 690 Senior managersA 13 13 10 8 19 25 27 ManagersA 65 61 59 52 49 52 66 Administrative staff (central 222 257 249 241 146 188 207 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 27 27 29 27 35 29 38 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 31 31 27 32 6 9 10 support)D 1187W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1188W

NHS hospital and community health services: NHS staff in the East of England strategic health authority area in each specified organisation and each specified staff group, as at 30 September each year Headcount and percentage headcount 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Administrative staff (clinical 199 194 213 226 308 325 342 support)E

Mid Essex PCT2 All staff1 n/a n/a n/a n/a 604 651 1,137 Administrative staff as a n/a n/a n/a n/a 17 22 25 percentage of all staff (%) All Administrative staff n/a n/a n/a n/a 102 143 287 Senior managersA n/a n/a n/a n/a 3 9 21 ManagersA n/a n/a n/a n/a 7 18 43 Administrative staff (central n/a n/a n/a n/a 30 51 76 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, n/a n/a n/a n/a 1 2 2 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T n/a n/a n/a n/a 0 0 7 support)D Administrative staff (clinical n/a n/a n/a n/a 61 63 138 support)E

North East Essex PCT3 All staff1 n/a n/a n/a n/a 614 816 1,463 Administrative staff as a n/a n/a n/a n/a 19 32 26 percentage of all staff (%) All administrative staff n/a n/a n/a n/a 118 258 378 Senior managersA n/a n/a n/a n/a 12 16 17 ManagersA n/a n/a n/a n/a 13 40 65 Administrative staff (central n/a n/a n/a n/a 46 116 154 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, n/a n/a n/a n/a 0 0 0 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T n/a n/a n/a n/a 8 9 24 support)D Administrative staff (clinical n/a n/a n/a n/a 39 77 118 support)E

Headcount and percentage headcount 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

East of England strategic health authority area All staff1 111,593 112,708 109,083 106,732 110,181 117,535 Administrative staff as a 21 22 21 21 22 23 percentage of all staff (%) All administrative staff 23,310 24,382 23,050 22,539 24,228 26,860 Senior managersA 1,377 1,398 1,162 1,160 1,224 1,379 ManagersA 2,232 2,081 1,964 2,015 2,225 2,710 Administrative staff (central 7,875 8,349 7,786 7,857 8,669 9,687 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 635 585 581 535 579 684 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 1,712 1,709 1,625 1,336 1,192 1,261 support)D Administrative staff (clinical 9,131 9,882 9,557 9,296 9,961 10,772 support)E Administrative staff 348 378 375 340 378 367 (ambulance support)F Of which: Mid Essex hospital services NHS trust All staff1 4,025 4,140 3,859 3,432 3,502 4,232 Administrative staff as a 18 19 18 17 19 17 percentage of all staff (%) All Administrative staff 724 770 709 585 666 723 Senior managersA 34 38 35 31 43 29 1189W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1190W

Headcount and percentage headcount 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

ManagersA 61 67 56 50 57 79 Administrative staff (central 242 275 242 194 174 157 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 35 36 46 40 44 47 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 86761916 support)D Administrative staff (clinical 344 348 323 264 329 395 support)E

Mid Essex PCT2 All staff1 1,277 1,270 1,254 1,137 1,166 1,314 Administrative staff as a 25 29 27 27 29 33 percentage of all staff (%) All administrative staff 319 365 342 306 340 429 Senior managersA 17 18 19 15 23 28 ManagersA 48 56 51 48 55 74 Administrative staff (central 97 118 108 95 97 131 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 233444 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 375314 support)D Administrative staff (clinical 152 163 156 141 160 188 support)E

North East Essex PCT3 All staff1 1,618 1,680 1,610 1,615 1,569 1,617 Administrative staff as a 28 31 29 27 30 33 percentage of all staff (%) All Administrative staff 459 522 459 434 468 536 Senior managersA 20 23 23 25 27 28 ManagersA 101 66 58 47 41 56 Administrative staff (central 151 202 171 170 212 257 functions)B Administrative staff (hotel, 011011 property and estates)C Administrative staff (ST&T 24 22 20 16 20 19 support)D Administrative staff (clinical 163 208 186 176 167 175 support)E n/a = not available. 1 All staff includes medical and dental staff, qualified nursing, health visiting and midwifery staff, qualified scientific, therapeutic and technical staff, qualified ambulance staff, support to doctors and nursing staff, support to ST&T staff, support to ambulance staff, administrative staff and hotel, property and estates staff. 2 Mid Essex PCT was formed in October 2006 from a complete merger of Maldon and South Chelmsford PCT, Chelmsford PCT, Mid Essex PCT and Witham, Braintree and Halstead Care Trust. It is impossible to accurately map work force figures for these predecessor organisations prior to their formation on 2001. 3 North East Essex PCT was formed in October 2006 from a complete merger of Tendring PCT, Colchester PCT, and North East Essex PCT. It is impossible to accurately map work force figures for these predecessor organisations prior to their formation on 2001. A Staff with overall responsibility for budgets, manpower or assets, or accountable for a significant area of work. Senior managers include staff at executive level and those who report directly to the board. B This group includes areas such as personnel, finance, IT, legal services, library services, health education and general management support services. C This group includes clerical and administrative staff working in areas such as laundry, catering, domestic services and gardens. D Scientific, therapeutic and technical support staff. E Clinical support includes clerical and administrative staff and maintenance and works staff working specifically in clinical areas, for example medical secretaries and medical records officers. F Staff in direct support of patient care, such as ambulance control assistants. Data Quality: The NHS Information Centre for health and social care seeks to minimise inaccuracies and the effect of missing and invalid data but responsibility for data accuracy lies with the organisations providing the data. Methods are continually being updated to improve data quality where changes impact on figures already published. This is assessed but unless it is significant at national level figures are not changed. Impact at detailed or local level is footnoted in relevant analyses. Sources: 1. The Information Centre for health and social care Non-Medical Workforce Census. 2. The Information Centre for health and social care Medical and Dental Workforce Census. 1191W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1192W

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Health deficit outturn positions; 2002-03 is the earliest year for what the deficit of each NHS trust in Essex was at the which information is available. end of each financial year since 1996-97. [10158]

Anne Milton: The information requested is shown in the following table. This table shows both surplus and

Surplus/(Deficit) (£000) NHS Trust 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Basildon and Thurrock General Hospital NHS 4,765 12 — — — — — Trust1 Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust2 (58) 22 134 1,878 — — — Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust3 22 (5,843) 293 (1,439) 8,611 2,939 875 Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust 1,062 513 (2,299) (11,202) (2,572) 8,983 7,316 North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS 5 694 616 2,474 707 510 — Trust4 New Possibilities NHS Trust5 (2,300) — — — — — — Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (3,714) (495) 156 (5,857) 4,408 4,534 3,222 South Essex Partnership NHS Trust6 365 116 217 1,377 107 — — Southend Hospital NHS Trust7 4 57 17 524 2,809 — — 1 Basildon and Thurrock General Hospital NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 April 2004. 2 Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust mergerd with other Ambulance NHS Trusts on 1 April 2006. 3 Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 May 2008. 4 North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 October 2007. 5 New Possibilities NHS Trust merged with other Trusts on 1 April 2003. 6 South Essex Partnership NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 May 2006. 7 Southend Hospital NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 June 2006. Note: Where an NHS Trust obtains Foundation Trust status part-way through any year, the data provided is only for the part of the year the organisation operated as an NHS Trust. The Department does not collect data from NHS Foundation Trusts. Source: NHS Trust summarisation schedules 2002-03 to 2008-09

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Health paid on servicing its bank overdrafts, current and long how much interest each NHS trust in Essex has paid on term loans, obligations under finance leases and Private servicing its debt in each year since 1997. [10159] Finance Initiative arrangements, is shown in the following table. 2002-03 is the earliest year for which information Anne Milton: Information on the total amount of is available. interest each national health service trust in Essex has

£000 Trust 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Basildon NS Thurrock General Hospital 0 0————— NHS Trust1 Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust2 0000——— Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust3 0030000 Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust 0000311,183 543 North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS 1121520000— Trust4 New Possibilities NHS Trust5 0—————— Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust 8 21000719551 South Essex Partnership NHS Trust6 00000—— Southend Hospital NHS Trust7 300 298 295 291 48 — — 1 Basildon and Thurrock General Hospital NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 April 2004. 2 Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust merged with other Ambulance NHS Trusts on 1 April 2006. 3 Essex Rivers Healthcare NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 May 2008. 4 North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 October 2007. 5 New Possibilities NHS Trust merged with other Trusts on 1 April 2003. 6 South Essex Partnership NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 May 2006. 7 Southend Hospital NHS Trust became a Foundation Trust on 1 June 2006. Notes: 1. Where an NHS Trust obtains Foundation Trust status part-way through any year, the data provided are only for the part of the year the organisation operated as an NHS Trust. The Department does not collect data from NHS Foundation Trusts. 2. ‘Debt’ can be interpreted in a number of ways in relation to the finances of NHS Trusts. We have interpreted ‘debt’ to mean the total amount reported by each NHS Trust in their Balance Sheet in respect of bank overdrafts, loans, finance leases and Private Finance Initiative (PFI) arrangements. These are the items most readily identified with the term ‘debt’ in accounting terminology. Source: NHS Trust summarisation schedules 2002-03 to 2008-09 1193W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1194W

NHS: Higher Education public service pensions would be moved from retail prices index to consumer prices index, with effect from Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Health April 2011. what assessment his Department has made of the The estimated savings in annually managed expenditure implications of the NHS White Paper for higher for public service pension expenditure in each year of education institutions; and if he will make a statement. the forecast period are set out in the following table. [10930] These savings form part of the overall savings figures for benefits, tax credits and public service pensions Anne Milton: A proposed model for the new education published in line 22 of Table 2.1 in Budget 2010. These and training framework in England, based on the principles figures include the locally run Police and Firefighters in the White Paper, is being developed. This will form schemes but do not include savings for the Local the basis for consultation, which is expected to be Government Pension Scheme. launched in autumn 2010. There will be engagement with key partners, including £million the high education sector, over the summer to develop the proposed model for the future. 2011-12 330 2012-13 550 NHS: VAT 2013-14 880 2014-15 1,290 Mr Barron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the amount of value Self-harm added tax (a) paid by the NHS in 2009-10 and (b) to be paid by the NHS in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) 2011-12. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health [12025] (1) if he will commission research into the reasons for the rate of incidents of self-harm in England compared Mr Simon Burns: The information is not held centrally. to other EU countries; and if he will make a statement; Organs: Donors [10644] (2) if he will take steps to ensure co-ordination of Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Government funding of research into the (a) causes of how many people in the UK are registered on the suicide, (b) prevention of suicide and (c) treatment of National Organ Register; and what steps his Department people who have attempted suicide unsuccessfully; and is taking to increase levels of organ donation. [10771] if he will make a statement; [10647] (3) if he will take steps to ensure co-ordination of Anne Milton: At the end of the financial year 2009-10 Government funding of research into the (a) causes there were 17.1 million people on the organ donor and (b) prevention of self-harm; and if he will make a register. statement; [10648] The Department has engaged with the national health (4) if he will take steps to (a) raise the level of service, relevant NHS and professional organisations, awareness of and (b) provide common training for and the charitable sector to improve United Kingdom front-line staff in (i) prisons, (ii) hospitals, (iii) schools, organ donor rates. Strong partnerships have been developed (iv) social services, (v) the police and (vi) Jobcentre Plus with the DVLA, Boots plc, health-related trade unions offices in the (A) prevention and (B) aftermath of and general practitioner surgeries to encourage organ incidents of suicide; and if he will make a statement; donor registration. A Programme Delivery Board, chaired [10652] by Mr Chris Rudge, National Clinical Director for Transplantation, was established in 2008 to oversee (5) if he will take steps to (a) raise the level of implementation of the 14 recommendations made by awareness of and (b) provide common training for the independent Organ Donation Taskforce. This board front-line staff in (i) prisons, (ii) hospitals, (iii) schools, has nearly completed its work. (iv) social services, (v) the police and (vi) Jobcentre Plus offices in the (A) prevention and (B) aftermath of An increase in donation rates of 11% against the incidents of self-harm; and if he will make a statement; 2007-08 baseline had been achieved at the end of the [10653] first year of activity and figures for year ending 2009-10, due to be published shortly, are expected to show 19%. (6) if he will establish at (a) national, (b) regional and (c) local level a mechanism for the (i) flow of Pensions information and (ii) evaluation of best practice of services and support available to those who have Mrs McGuire: To ask the Secretary of State for attempted suicide; and if he will make a statement. Health what estimate he has made of the change in [10656] central Government expenditure on the NHS Pension Scheme attributable to use of the consumer prices Mr Burstow: The national health service will be backed index for pension indexation in the next five years. with increased real resources yet we recognise that there [11060] are still efficiencies to be made, however, we intend to make sure front-line services in the NHS as a whole are Mr Simon Burns: The Government have not made protected from cuts. Our confirmation of the final £70 any separate estimate of the change in central Government million instalment of growth funding from the current expenditure for the NHS Pension Scheme relating to spending round for the Improving Access to Psychological the announcement at Budget that the uprating of the Therapies programme is enabling primary care trusts to majority of state benefits, state second pension and broaden the geographical coverage of services, meaning 1195W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1196W more people can get help, and to increase the range of Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education therapies available, giving people more choice and access what services currently provided by local education to the right psychological support. authorities he plans new academy schools will fund out We will be assessing our priorities carefully and will of their own budget. [5214] announce details on mental health policy, in due course. Our focus will be on making services patient-led, based Mr Gibb: The principle of academies’ funding is that on the best clinical evidence, responsive to patients’ academies should receive the same level of per-pupil choice and management of their own care, and delivering funding as they would receive from the local authority best ‘health’ outcomes. as a maintained school. In addition, they receive top-up funding to meet additional responsibilities that are no National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence longer provided for them by the local authority and an guidance says that clinical and non-clinical staff who addition for an academy’s extra VAT costs which they have contact with people who self-harm or attempt can no longer reclaim through the local authority. suicide in any setting should be provided with appropriate training to equip them to understand and care for Local authorities vary considerably in the services people who have self-harmed or attempted suicide. that they provide free of charge to schools. The additional amount that academies receive in their grant to cover The National Institute for Health Research is funding these services varies accordingly. The Department has a range of research on self-harm and suicide. Further recently published funding guidance on its website for information can be found at all schools considering converting to an academy. The www.netscc.ac.uk services and costs which academies have to provide for from their grant income, and which may have been Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health provided free of charge or met by their authority, if (1) if he will take steps to co-ordinate a risk assessment they were a maintained school, include: of the effect on the incidence of self-harm of proposed special educational needs (SEN) support services; policies and programmes; and if he will make a behaviour support services; statement; [10657] the education welfare service; (2) if he will take steps to co-ordinate a risk costs relating to 14-16 practical learning options; assessment of the effect on the incidence of suicide of proposed policies and programmes; and if he will make the costs of school meals and milk; a statement. [10658] the assessment of free school meals eligibility; pupils’ support (e.g. clothing grants); Mr Burstow: The consideration of health impact the costs of repairs to, and maintenance of kitchens; assessment is a mandatory part of the Government’s asset management costs; policy development process. licences and subscriptions (e.g. for computer software); certain staff costs (e.g. maternity, long term sickness and trade union duties); the costs of certain employment terminations, redundancy and EDUCATION early retirement; the costs of a local authority’s statutory/regulatory duties; Academies school improvement services; the costs of monitoring national curriculum assessment; Paul Goggins: To ask the Secretary of State for museum and library services; Education what steps he is taking to ensure that schools which wish to become academies consult (a) music services; parents, (b) local authorities, (c) local businesses and visual and performing arts services; (d) others in the local area. [3105] outdoor education services.

Mr Gibb: The governing body, which includes parental, Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education local authority and staff representation, must agree that whether local authority scrutiny committees may examine the school can become an academy before an application the performance or operations of academy schools is made. [8980] The Academies Bill has been amended to include a new clause on consultation. The new clause will ensure Mr Gibb: We want local authorities to continue to be that the governing body of a maintained school carries powerful champions of educational excellence. It is up out a consultation exercise on whether the school should to local authority scrutiny committees to determine the convert to academy status. Schools will not be able to areas or issues that they wish to examine and for each open as an academy unless a consultation exercise has academy to determine the level of their involvement. been carried out. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education The governing body is best placed to decide who it whether (a) schools and (b) local authorities will be should consult, which could include local businesses required to consult staff and trade unions before plans and others in the local area. We would expect that to transfer schools to academy status are taken forward. parents and the local community are consulted. [9081] Guidance issued to schools wishing to convert to an academy provides further detailed information on Mr Gibb: The current employer of school staff (either consultation, the guidance is available at the local authority or the governing body, depending on www.education.gov.uk/academies the type of school) will need to conduct a TUPE 1197W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1198W consultation with all staff and the unions as part of the Mr Gibb: Academies are independent schools established staff transfer process. We have also amended the Academies by academy trusts, which are charitable companies receiving Bill so that it now requires governing bodies of converting grant from the Secretary of State for the academy’s schools to consult with those persons whom they think running costs. It is for potential suppliers to decide appropriate before entering into funding arrangements whether to enter into contracts with trusts, and in the with the Secretary of State. event of any default, to pursue payment in line with the terms of the contract. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether new academy schools will take Academies: Conditions of Employment responsibility for legal liabilities and cases from the predecessor schools. [9098] Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Gibb: Where the predecessor school is an employer whether protection of staffing structures and terms and of staff, and in relation to its position as an employer, conditions of employment in new academy schools transfer of legal liabilities and responsibilities will be under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of governed by Transfer of Undertaking (Protection of Employment) (TUPE) Regulations will remain in place Employment) Regulations. beyond the point of transfer. [9101] In general, the legal liabilities of the predecessor Mr Gibb: Under the Transfer of Undertakings school will not automatically pass to the academy trust, (Protection of Employment) (TUPE) Regulations contracts but what will transfer will vary from project to project. are transferred with their existing terms and the protection This will depend on the nature of the legal liabilities is indefinite. The contracts remain in force until they are concerned. However, it is open to the predecessor school brought to an end or changed in accordance with and/or the local authority to agree with the academy normal contractual principles. trust the transfer of assets and contracts from the predecessor school/local authority to the academy trust, and as part of this agreement it may be that they would Academies: Dudley agree that some related legal liabilities would be transferred to the academy trust. Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Education which schools in Dudley have submitted an application Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for for academy status. [8398] Education how much his Department and its agencies spent on the academies programme in the latest period Mr Gibb: To date, no schools in Dudley have submitted for which figures are available; how many staff are an application for academy status, although four have employed by his Department and its agencies on the expressed an interest. programme; how much is planned to be spent on the The list of primary and secondary schools within programme in 2010-11; and how many staff will be England that have expressed an interest in academy working on the programme in 2010-11. [9466] status is available at: Mr Gibb: In financial year 2009-10, the revenue spend http://www.education.gov.uk/academies/schools-registering- interest on the academies programme was £1,272.09 million. The expected revenue spend in 2010-11 is currently estimated at £1,996.0 million. This excludes any expenditure Academies: Ealing on schools converting under the Academies Bill, which will depend on the numbers of schools. The capital Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State spend in 2009-10 was £388.6 million through grant paid for Education how many schools in (a) Ealing, by the Department for Education and £307.3 million Southall and (b) the London Borough of Ealing have for projects funded through Partnerships for Schools expressed an interest in becoming academy schools. (PfS). In 2010-11 the estimated spend is £301.0 million [9557] through departmental grant and £665.0 million for projects funded through PfS. Mr Gibb: We have received one expression of interest The Department is employing 115 staff engaged directly in converting to academy status from an outstanding on the academies programme. The YoungPeople’s Learning school in the Ealing Southall constituency and a total Agency (YPLA) has 47 members of staff working of eight from schools in the London borough of Ealing, specifically on the academies programme; this is expected five of which are from outstanding schools. to increase to 81 during FY2010-11 through transfers from elsewhere in the Agency. In PfS, 17 members of Academies: Enfield staff work on the academies programme with no increase expected in 2010. Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for Academies: Billing Education which schools in the London Borough of Enfield have submitted an application for academy Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for status. [8264] Education if he will put in place contingency plans to compensate companies contracted to provide goods or Mr Gibb: Two outstanding schools in the London services to academy schools in circumstances in which Borough of Enfield have applied to convert to academy such schools default on payments under those status—Cuckoo Hall Primary School and Kingsmead contracts. [9622] Community School. 1199W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1200W

Academies: Faith Schools from any interested parties. In addition, we have amended the Academies Bill so that it requires governing bodies Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State of converting schools to consult with those persons for Education what estimate he has made of the likely whom they think appropriate before entering into funding number of new academies that will apply for faith arrangements with the Secretary of State. school status. [10482] Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Gibb [holding answer 22 July 2010]: A school whether he plans to re-negotiate the funding agreements which does not currently have faith school status cannot of existing academy schools if the Academies Bill is apply to adopt faith school status as part of the process passed. [9102] of applying to convert to become an Academy. It could apply to be designated as a faith school after conversion Mr Gibb: We intend to discuss with each academy to Academy status, providing it met the criteria. We trust whether they wish to adopt the new model funding expect that the additional freedoms and flexibilities agreement which is being developed. associated with Academy status will make converting to Academies: Manpower an Academy a popular option for many schools, including existing faith schools. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State what assessment he has made of the effect on the ability for Education how many grant-maintained faith schools of staff transferring to new academy schools in September have registered an interest in becoming academies. 2010 to participate in a consultation on that transfer [10484] under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations of the holding of such a Mr Gibb: [holding answer 22 July 2010]: Grant- consultation during the school summer holidays. [9623] maintained status is no longer a recognised category of school as the status was abolished by the School Standards Mr Gibb: Guidance issued to schools recommends and Framework Act 1998. We have, however, received that schools have early discussions with their staff and many expressions of interest in converting to Academy unions when considering conversion to Academy status. status from local authority maintained faith schools. Whilst there is no set period in law for the duration of a Transfer of Undertaking (Protection of Employment) Academies: Finance (TUPE) Regulations, where the employer is proposing changes before the transfer, the guidance recommends Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education that consultation should be of a suitable length to agree whether academy schools will continue to have to obtain changes with staff. The governing body of a school will admitted body status to the Local Government Pension be best placed to determine the timing and length of the scheme as a condition of their funding. [8979] TUPE consultation. Outstanding schools that have applied for academy status for September 2010 will be aware of Mr Gibb: Academies are scheduled bodies under the their obligations to consult. Local Government Pension scheme and are therefore Academies: North Tyneside automatically members. Academy Trusts will continue to be required to ensure that all employees at Academies Mr Alan Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for other than teachers have access to the LGPS. This Education on what date and in what form his requirement is included in their funding agreement. A Department received notification that St Thomas More similar requirement applies to teachers in respect of the Catholic School in North Tyneside wished to register Teachers’ Pension scheme. The ongoing funding of an interest in becoming an academy school. [8653] Academy Trusts is contingent upon the conditions in their funding agreements being met. Mr Gibb: St Thomas More Roman Catholic High School registered an interest in becoming an academy Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for on 11 June 2010 via the online registration form on the Education whether (a) individual funding agreements Department for Education website at: and (b) supplementary funding agreements between www.education.gov.uk him and academy schools will be published on his It is important to note that this is a registration of Department’s website. [9082] interest for further information and should not be taken Mr Gibb: All new funding agreements between the to imply that the school has made any decision or Secretary of State for Education and academy trusts, commitment to proceed with the process. whether individual or supplementary, will be published Academies: Redundancy in due course on the Department’s website. Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for whether new academies will recognise the service of Education whether he plans to consult parents, staff in the period before the school obtained academy governors and school staff on the contents of the new status for the purposes of calculating redundancy payments. model funding agreement for academy schools. [9083] [9103]

Mr Gibb: The new model funding agreement has not Mr Gibb: Staff who transfer to employment by an been finalised yet. However, we have published a draft academy would be entitled to redundancy payments in on the Department’s website and would welcome comments respect of service prior to conversion. This is in so far as 1201W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1202W their statutory and contractual rights to redundancy and fund education business partnership services (EBPs). payments are transferred under the Transfer of The Department does not provide funding direct to Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations. EBPs for this purpose. The funding is to help in the effective delivery of statutory work-related learning at Academies: Sponsorship Key Stage 4, specifically to provide, among other things, work placements for young people and recruiting employers Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for for this activity, and carrying out other services for Education what discussions his Department has had schools, for example, risk assessments and Criminal with the Charity Commission on proposals to make Records Bureau checks. academy schools exempt charities with no public Information on the funding made available to the reporting requirements. [9076] Bedfordshire and Luton Education Business Partnership (BLEBP) in each financial year is not available centrally. Mr Gibb: The Permanent Secretary and the chief BLEBP is currently registered for the Award for Education executive of the Charity Commission have discussed Business Excellence, the nationally recognised quality proposals to make academies exempt charities and other standard, but has yet to be formally assessed and accredited. officials have met or spoken to their Charity Commission counterparts on several occasions. It is not the case that there will be no public reporting Building Schools for the Future Programme requirements. Academy trusts will be required to publish their annual accounts, annual report, memorandum and articles of association, funding agreement and a list Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for Education of the names of the governors of the academy trust. (1) pursuant to the oral statement of 7 July 2010, Official Report, columns 484-85, on schools funding, Academies: Warrington for what reason the location of Broadoak School was given as Eltham constituency in the list provided to the Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for House; and if he will make a statement; [8446] Education which schools in Warrington have expressed (2) pursuant to the oral statement of 5 July 2010, an interest in academy status. [9069] Official Report, columns 47-50, on education funding, what estimate he has made of the contribution of the Mr Gibb: As of 14 July, five schools in Warrington reduction in funding to the Building Schools for the local authority area have registered their interest in Future Programme to the reduction of the academy status. These schools are: Government’s structural deficit; and if he will make a Cherry Tree Primary School statement; [8447] Great Sankey High School (3) what estimate he has made of the funding required Lysander Community High School for essential repairs to school buildings in locations Westbrook Old Hall Community Primary School where Building Schools for the Future programmes will Winwick Church of England Primary School. not proceed; what contingency funding has been allocated for such repairs; and if he will make a statement; [8448] Academies: West Midlands (4) what criteria he applied to determine the Building Schools for the Future projects which were not to Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State proceed; what account he took of (a) formal for Education how many schools in (a) the West commitments made and (b) time spent by school Midlands and (b) Coventry South constituency have authorities and pupils in preparing bids under the expressed an interest in becoming academy schools. programme in making his determinations; and if he [8163] will make a statement. [8449]

Mr Gibb: As of 8 July 2010, 182 schools in the West Mr Gibb: On 5 July, the Department announced that Midlands have expressed an interest in becoming Building Schools for the Future (BSF) projects that Academies, of which four are in the Coventry South have reached financial close will continue, together with constituency. repeat projects which have outline business case (OBC) Bedfordshire and Luton Education Business approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample schemes in Partnership: Finance projects that have reached close of dialogue are under further consideration. All projects that have not reached close of dialogue will stop with immediate effect. Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what funding his Department has provided Broadoak school was incorrectly placed in the for the Bedfordshire and Luton Education Business constituency of Eltham in the previously published list Partnership (BLEBP) in each financial year since the of projects. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State partnership was established; for what purposes such for Education has already apologised unreservedly for funding has been provided; and what assessment he has the errors and has taken full responsibility for them. made of BLEBP’s effectiveness in fulfilling such The value of the schemes that have been stopped is purposes. [8791] £7.5 billion. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer made clear in his Budget statement that we Sarah Teather [holding answer 15 July 2010]: The would honour the overall public capital investment Department has provided funding via the former Learning plans put in place by the previous Government. However, and Skills Council, and now via the Young People’s we are clear that the whole way in which we build Learning Agency, to local authorities to commission schools needs radical reform. 1203W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1204W

We have therefore commissioned, in the context of of financial close. In some cases, the building contractor the Government’s fiscal consolidation plans and emerging commences work on site at risk prior to financial close. policy, a comprehensive independent review of the BSF projects that have reached financial close will Department’s existing capital expenditure which will continue, together with repeat projects which have OBC make recommendations on the future delivery models approval prior to January 2010. Sample schemes in for capital investment. The review team will report at projects that have reached close of dialogue are under the end of the year. Its interim report will guide future further consideration. All projects that have not reached spending decisions over the next spending review period. close of dialogue will stop with immediate effect. The It will also look at how best to meet parental demand; implications for projects in Sunderland local authority make current design and procurement cost-effective are as follows: and efficient; and consider how capital is allocated and targeted. Status

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Red House Academy Open Education if he will ensure that Joseph Leckie School Academy 360 Open in Walsall South constituency continues to participate Castle View Enterprise Academy Open in the Building Schools for the Future programme; and Oxclose Community School Open if he will make a statement. [6549] Sandhill View Open Washington Open Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that BSF Biddick Open projects that have reached Financial Close will continue, St Robert of Newminster RC School Unaffected together with repeat projects which have Outline Business Barbara Priestman Stopped Case approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample schemes Castlegreen Community School Stopped in projects that have reached Close of Dialogue are Farringdon Community Sports College Stopped under further consideration. All projects that have not Hetton Stopped reached Close of Dialogue will stop with immediate Houghton Kepier Sports College Stopped effect. BSF plans for Joseph Leckie School have been Monkwearmouth Stopped stopped. Portland Specialist School Stopped Sunderland Pupil Referral Unit Stopped Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Southmoor Community School Stopped Education when he plans to inform Joseph Leckie Springwell Dene Stopped School in Walsall South constituency of the decision St Anthony’s Catholic Girls’ School Stopped on funding to be allocated to the school under the St Aidan’s Catholic School Stopped Building Schools for the Future programme; and if he Thornhill—Sunderland Stopped [6550] will make a statement. Venerable Bede CE (Aided) Secondary School Stopped

Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that BSF The effects of ending the BSF programme on the projects that have reached Financial Close will continue, construction industry were considered by the Secretary together with repeat projects which have Outline Business of State in coming to his decision. Case approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample schemes in projects that have reached Close of Dialogue are Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for under further consideration. All projects that have not Education (1) if he will ensure that projects already reached Close of Dialogue will stop with immediate announced under the Primary School Capital programme effect. BSF plans for Joseph Leckie School have been continue as planned; [8561] stopped. (2) whether he plans to announce further projects under the Primary School Capital programme. [8562] Mary Macleod: To ask the Secretary of State for Education if he will issue guidance to schools which Mr Gibb [holding answer 15 July 2010]: Funding bid for funding under the Building Schools for the allocations to support local delivery of the Primary Future scheme on the ending of that scheme. [8142] Capital programme have already been confirmed for the current financial year. Decisions about the specific Mr Gibb: There are no plans for the Department to projects that will benefit from this funding are matters issue guidance to schools which bid for funding under for the relevant authority. the Building Schools for the Future scheme on the In the context of the Government’s fiscal consolidation ending of that scheme for schools that have not reached plans and emerging policy, we have commissioned a a particular stage of the programme. comprehensive independent review of all of the Department’s existing capital expenditure to inform Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for decisions about future delivery models for capital Education how many schools whose Building Schools investment. This will include future investment in primary for the Future scheme projects were classified as schools. The review team will report at the end of the unaffected are already under construction. [8198] year. Its report will guide future spending decisions over the next Spending Review period (2011-12 to 2014-15). Mr Gibb: Approximately one third of unaffected It will also look at how best to meet parental demand; schools have reached financial close for construction provide new primary places in areas of population work and are not yet open. In normal circumstances, a growth; and secure the best possible value for money in building contractor begins work on site within a fortnight terms of design and procurement. 1205W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1206W

Mrs Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for advice he received on whether to hold a consultation Education what criteria will be adopted by the capital before publishing the list of Building Schools for the review team in assessing projects; and what Future projects to be cancelled. [10662] consultations that team will undertake. [8712] Mr Gibb [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The Secretary Mr Gibb [holding answer 15 July 2010]: The terms of of State took into account advice and information from reference for the review of capital programmes, announced a range of sources in coming to his decision on the by the Secretary of State on 5 July, can be found on the Building Schools for the Future programme. As was the Department for Education’s website: case with the previous Government, information relating http://www.education.gov.uk to internal discussion and advice is not normally disclosed. Partnerships for Schools will lead on the review of sample projects, also announced on 5 July by the Secretary Ed Balls: To ask the Secretary of State for Education of State. Criteria for the review, including any plans for when Partnership for Schools was informed of his consultation, will be released shortly. decision to end projects under the Building Schools for the Future programme. [10664]

David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gibb [holding answer 22 July 2010]: The Secretary Education on what date his Department received of State worked closely with Partnerships for Schools in notification of the intention of (a) Penketh High coming to his decision on the Building Schools for the School and (b) Sir Thomas Botelar School to apply to Future programme. As was the case with the previous join the Building Schools for the Future programme. Government, information relating to internal discussion [8752] and advice is not normally disclosed. Mr Gibb: Partnerships for Schools (PfS) is the body Building Schools for the Future Programme: Cumbria with responsibility for managing applications from local authorities for entry to the Building Schools for the Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Future (BSF) programme. Education what assessment he has made of the effect Warrington local authority submitted an Expression on schools in West Cumbria of his decision to of Interest to join BSF in November 2008. The Expression discontinue the Building Schools for the Future of Interest listed Penketh high school and Sir Thomas programme. [7174] Botelar school as projects that the local authority proposed for capital investment. The local authority submitted a Mr Gibb: On 5 July, the Department announced that Readiness to Deliver application to join BSF in May BSF projects that have reached financial close will 2009 and Penketh high school and Sir Thomas Botelar continue, together with repeat projects which have outline school were included in the projects proposed for capital business case approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample investment. The local authority was not invited to join schemes in projects that have reached close of dialogue the BSF programme following that application. are under further consideration. All projects that have In September 2009 the local authority submitted a not reached close of dialogue will stop with immediate second Readiness to Deliver application and again effect. This will impact on the plans for Cumbria BSF highlighted Penketh High and Thomas Boletar Schools projects as follows: for BSF programme in November 2009. Projects

Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Richard Rose Central Academy Unaffected Education (1) what criteria he plans to use to make his Richard Rose Morton Academy Unaffected decision on Building Schools for the Future funding The Furness Academy Unaffected for proposed developments at sample schools; [8890] West Lakes Academy Unaffected (2) what mechanisms he plans to use in making his Mayfield Special Stopped decision on Building Schools for the Future funding Millom Stopped for proposed developments at sample schools; [8891] Netherall Stopped (3) when he expects to announce his decision on New Workington Stopped Building Schools for the Future funding for proposed West Cumbria LC PRU Stopped developments at sample schools. [8892] Whitehaven Stopped

Mr Gibb [holding answer 15 July 2010]: The Secretary Building Schools for the Future Programme: Darlington of State has announced his intention to determine as soon as possible which sample projects should proceed Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for (with or without modification). His decisions will be Education when he plans to inform Branksome, based upon advice from officials, which in turn will be Hurworth and Longfield schools in Darlington of the based upon discussions between Partnerships for Schools decision on the funding to be allocated to them under and the local authorities and schools concerned. The the Building Schools for the Future programme; and if Secretary of State will take a range of factors into he will make a statement. [5421] account in making his decisions. Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that Building Ed Balls: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Schools for the Future projects that have reached financial pursuant to the oral statement of 5 July 2010, Official close will continue, together with repeat projects which Report, columns 47-57, on education funding, what have outline business case approval prior to 1 January 1207W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1208W

2010. Sample schemes in projects that have reached Mr Gibb: Costs incurred by individual local authorities close of dialogue are under further consideration. All and schools in preparing for Building Schools for the projects that have not reached close of dialogue will Future are not held centrally. Costs vary for local stop with immediate effect. Plans for Branksome, Hurworth authorities depending on how they have chosen to and Longfield schools in Darlington to receive BSF manage their BSF projects and the stage they have funding have been stopped. reached. Building Schools for the Future Programme: Ealing Building Schools for the Future Programme: Leeds

Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Mudie: To ask the Secretary of State for Education for Education (1) what estimate he has made of the (1) what plans he has for the Building Schools for the reduction in public expenditure which will take place in Future programme in Leeds; and if he will make a Ealing, Southall constituency as a result of his decisions statement; [5559] on the Building Schools for the Future programme; (2) if he will take steps to encourage the continued [9556] participation of Parklands Girls School in Leeds in the (2) what estimate he has made of the likely effect on Building Schools for the Future programme. [5560] the number of jobs in the construction industry of his decisions on the Building Schools for the Future Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that Building programme. [9700] Schools for the Future projects that have reached Financial Close will continue, together with repeat projects which Mr Gibb: The Secretary of State considered wide-ranging have Outline Business Case approval prior to 1 January advice from officials on the impact of his decision on 2010. Sample schemes in projects that have reached the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme. Close of Dialogue are under further consideration. All This advice did not cover the specific detail of the projects that have not reached Close of Dialogue will impact on public expenditure or the number of jobs in stop with immediate effect. The Leeds BSF programme, the construction industry in Ealing Southall. including Parklands Girls High, is unaffected. We have not made an estimate of the likely impact of the Secretary of State’s decision on BSF on the construction Building Schools for the Future Programme: Liverpool industry. This decision is not the end of capital investment in schools. The Secretary of State announced on 5 July Mrs Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education a review of all capital expenditure by the Department (1) what assessment he has made of the effects of the for Education. This review will conclude by the end of cancellation of Building Schools for the Future projects 2010. Its outcome will help to determine the way in in Liverpool on employment and the economy in the which future capital money will be used by the Department. area; [9007] Building Schools for the Future Programme: Greater (2) what discussions he has held with Liverpool City London Council on the recent cancellation of Building Schools for the Future projects in Liverpool. [9008] Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what plans he has for the Building Schools Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 July 2010]: The Secretary for the Future project at (a) Bishop Thomas Grant of State considered wide-ranging advice from officials School, (b) Dunraven School and (c) La Retraite on the impact of his decision on the Building Schools School in Streatham constituency. [5727] for the Future (BSF) programme. The Secretary of State for Education has had no Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that Building discussions with Liverpool city council on the recent Schools for the Future projects that have reached financial cancellation of Building Schools for the Future in Liverpool. close will continue, together with repeat projects which A Westminster Hall debate on BSF in Liverpool was have outline business case approval prior to 1 January held on 30 June 2010. 2010. Sample schemes in projects that have reached close of dialogue are under further consideration. All Building Schools for the Future Programme: projects that have not reached close of dialogue will Stockton-on-Tees stop with immediate effect. Dunraven school is a sample school and is therefore under further consideration Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for while BSF plans for La Retraite school and Bishop Education what plans he has for the Building Schools Thomas Grant RC have been stopped. for the Future sample schools (a) Ian Ramsey and (b) Bishopsgarth in the borough of Stockton-on-Tees. Glenda Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for [7750] Education (1) what information his Department holds on the costs incurred by the London Borough of (a) Mr Gibb: On 5 July, the Secretary of State announced Brent and (b) Camden in preparing schools in their that projects within the Building Schools for the Future areas for the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme that have reached financial close will programme; [7870] continue, together with follow-up projects for which the (2) what information his Department holds on the outline business cases were approved before 1 January costs incurred by (a) Hampstead, (b) Jack Taylor, (c) 2010. We are considering further projects prioritised Queen’s Park Community and (d) Royal Free Hospital locally as sample projects that have reached the stage Children’s school on preparations for the Building where dialogue with bidders is closed. All projects that Schools for the Future programme. [7871] have not reached close of dialogue have been stopped. 1209W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1210W

Ian Ramsey and Bishopsgarth schools in Stockton- provision and (ii) special needs and other non- on-Tees are not amongst the sample schemes and therefore mainstream provision in each of the next three years will not continue as part of the BSF programme. had the programme not been discontinued; [7922] (2) what assessment he has made of the effects on Building Schools for the Future Programme: Sunderland schools in Houghton and Sunderland South constituency of his decision to discontinue the Building Schools for Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Education the Future programme; [7923] (1) what assessment he has made of the effects of his (3) what estimate he has made of the effects of ending decision to terminate the Building Schools for the Future the Building Schools for the Future programme on the programme on the number of construction jobs in number of construction jobs in (a) Sunderland and (b) Sunderland Central constituency; [7118] Houghton and Sunderland South constituency. [7924] (2) if he will take steps to ensure that each school in Sunderland Central constituency which has had a Building Schools for the Future project terminated Mr Gibb: Sunderland had two Building Schools for before completion participates in the new school the Future (BSF) projects, the first of which was Wave 1 and this project has received the funding available to it. building programme; [7120] The second project, in BSF Wave 7, was in the early (3) what estimate he has made of the amount which stages of planning and while an indicative overall funding will be saved by stopping the Building Schools for the envelope of £127 million had been determined, the local Future (BSF) programme for all schools in Sunderland authority had not submitted its Outline Business Case Central constituency; what estimate he has made of setting out each school’s investment and delivery strategy. expenditure on payments triggered by break clauses as For this reason, information in the form requested is a consequence of his decision; and if he will take steps not held centrally. to compensate schools in the constituency for money and time they have spent on the BSF programme prior to its cancellation. [7121] Building Schools for the Future Programme: Telford Mr Gibb: On 5 July, the Department announced that BSF projects that have reached financial close will David Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for continue, together with repeat project which have outline Education which schools in Telford and the Wrekin are business case approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample part of his Department’s review of the Building schemes in projects that have reached close of dialogue Schools for the Future Programme. [5865] are under further consideration. All projects that have not reached close of dialogue will stop with immediate Mr Gibb: The Department has announced that BSF effect. The following projects in Sunderland Central projects that have reached Financial Close will continue, have stopped: together with repeat projects which have Outline Business Barbara Priestman Case approval prior to 1 January 2010. Sample schemes Monkwearmouth in projects that have reached Close of Dialogue are Sunderland pupil referral unit under further consideration. All projects that have not Southmoor community school reached Close of Dialogue will stop with immediate St Anthony’s Catholic girls’ school effect. All schools in Telford and the Wrekin will be St Aidan’s Catholic school unaffected by the Department’s review of the BSF programme. BSF investment in the following schools Thornhill—Sunderland will continue as planned: Venerable Bede CE (aided) secondary school. Unaffected schools The Department has launched a comprehensive review of all of its capital programmes to ensure that future Abraham Darby Academy capital investment represents good value and strongly Madeley Academy (extension) supports the Government’s ambitions to reduce the Thomas Telford CTC deficit. The cancellation of BSF does not represent the end of capital investment in schools. The review will Adams’ Grammar School make recommendations to help shape the design of Blessed Robert Johnson Catholic College future capital investment in schools. The Burton Borough School It is estimated that circa £84 million will be saved by Charlton School stopping the Building Schools for the Future programme in Sunderland Central constituency. No contracts have Ercall Wood Technology College been signed for the second wave of the BSF programme Hadley Learning Community—Secondary Phase for Sunderland metropolitan borough council, and therefore The Lord Silkin School no break clauses will be triggered. There are no plans to Mount Gilbert Special School compensate schools for money and time spent on the BSF programme. Newport Girls High School The Phoenix School Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Southall Special School Education (1) what the planned expenditure on the Sutherland Business and Enterprise College School Building Schools for the Future programme in (a) Houghton and Sunderland South constituency and (b) The Bridge Special School Sunderland would have been for (i) mainstream Wrockwardine Wood School. 1211W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1212W

Building Schools for the Future Programme: (2) what assessment has been made of the effects his Wandsworth decision on the Building Schools for the Future programme will have on levels of educational Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Education inequality in Warrington; [8001] (1) which schools in Wandsworth have (a) received and (3) what estimate he has made of the effect on the (b) made use of funding from the Building Schools for number of construction jobs in Warrington of his the Future programme; [8541] announcement on the Building Schools for the Future (2) what the planned dates of (a) financial close and programme; [8002] (b) project completion were for each Building Schools (4) what representations he has received from for the Future project in the London borough of Warrington borough council on his decisions not to Wandsworth; [8542] proceed with plans under the Building Schools for the (3) when Wandsworth borough council was first Future programme in Warrington North constituency; invited to bid for Government funding for school [8003] capital programmes under the Building Schools for the (5) what discussions he has had with (a) the Secretary Future programme; [8661] of State for Communities and Local Government and (4) to which wave of the Building Schools for the (b) Warrington borough council on the relationship Future (BSF) programme Wandsworth borough council between plans to rebuild William Beaumont high school was allocated when initially granted BSF funding; and and the development of the Orford Park project in when it was initially expected each school would reach Warrington North; [8004] financial close on its projects. [8723] (6) what estimate he has made of the effect of the decision on the Building Schools for the Future programme Mr Gibb: No schools in the London borough of on the number of (a) jobs and (b) apprenticeships in Wandsworth have received funding from the Building Warrington. [8005] Schools for the Future (BSF) programme. The London borough of Wandsworth was invited to join Wave 5 of Mr Gibb: The Secretary of State has not had any the programme and responded with their readiness to recent discussions with or representations from Warrington deliver application in October 2006. They officially borough council about Building Schools for the Future joined the programme with their remit meeting in September (BSF). Nor has the Secretary of State discussed with 2007. the Secretary of State for Communities and Local The following table sets out the schools that Wandsworth Government the relationship between plans to re-build proposed for capital investment, their expected date of William Beamont high school and the development of financial close and estimated opening date. the Orford Park project, although departmental officials have been in discussion with Warrington borough council Sample/Non Estimated school Estimated school about the impact of the BSF announcement on projects School sample financial close opening date in their area. No assessment has been made of the effects of his decisions on BSF on levels of educational Burntwood Sample November 2010 January 2013 inequality specifically in Warrington. Southfields Sample November 2010 January 2013 On 5 July the Secretary of State announced a review Elliott Non sample December 2011 September 2013 of the Department’s capital programmes. The review Saint John Non sample June 2011 September 2013 Bosco will make recommendations to help shape decisions over future capital investment in schools, to ensure that Battersea Non sample February 2013 September 2014 Park investment represents good value for money and strongly Bradstow Non sample March 2015 April 2016 supports the Government’s ambitions to reduce the Chestnut Non sample February 2013 May 2014 deficit, raise standards and tackle disadvantage. Grove The effects of ending the BSF programme on the Ernest Bevin Non sample November 2013 September 2015 construction industry were considered by the Secretary Francis Non sample May 2014 February 2015 of State in coming to his decision. The cancellation of Barber BSF does not represent the end of capital investment in Garratt Park Non sample March 2015 September 2015 schools or the opportunities for employment in the Graveney Non sample July 2013 September 2016 construction industry. In particular, a more flexible and Linden Non sample July 2013 October 2013 streamlined approach is likely to make it easier for small Lodge and medium-sized enterprises to become involved. Nightingale Non sample July 2015 May 2016 Oak Lodge Non sample February 2013 April 2015 Children: Protection Paddock Non sample July 2013 October 2013 St Cecila’s Non sample May 2014 May 2015 Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what recent assessment he has made of the role of children and learners directorates in Government Building Schools for the Future Programme: Offices for the Regions in safeguarding children; and Warrington what assessment he has made of the effect on safeguarding children of the cessation of such offices. [10801] Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Education (1) whether his Department had discussions Tim Loughton [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The with Warrington borough council before his coalition agreement announced the decision to close the announcement on the Building Schools for the Future Government Office for London and to review the position programme; [8000] of the other eight Government Offices. On 22 July, the 1213W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1214W

Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Sarah Teather: Funding for activities in 2011-12 is announced the Government’s intention in principle to being considered as part of the Government’s spending abolish the remaining eight Government offices, subject review. Further details of the spending review can be to using the spending review to resolve consequential found at: issues. A final decision will be made at the end of the http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/spend_index.htm spending review in the autumn. In the light of that announcement the six DFE-funded GO-based field forces Departmental Official Cars will also come to an end earlier than planned. The six field forces to end early are: Safeguarding advisers; Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Children and Learners Strategic advisers; Child Poverty which Ministers in his Department have used an advisers; Teenage pregnancy co-ordinators; Sustainable allocated Ministerial car to travel between the schools network; and, Healthy schools co-ordinators Department and the House of Commons on each day (jointly funded with DH). since 21 May 2010. [5543] Closing the GO network is in line with the Government’s intention to remove administrative layers and simplify Tim Loughton: I refer the hon. Member to the answer accountability across national and local government given on the use of official cars by Ministers on Tuesday and service providers, and to reduce public expenditure. 22 June 2010, Official Report, column 202W. This also supports the Government’s commitment to The Department does not record the details of individual empower local authorities by removing top down journeys made by ministerial cars. monitoring, support and challenge. This approach aims All travel is undertaken in accordance with the ministerial to free up local authorities so they can focus on their code. own improvement agendas. Local authorities themselves have called for greater Departmental Security freedom to plan and manage their own improvement and to be innovative in how they deliver high quality Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for services for children and young people. We are keen to Education how much (a) his Department and its work with the sector in developing its own, sector-led, predecessors and (b) its non-departmental public bodies models for improvement—for example through the Centre spent on security in each year since 1997. [7376] for Excellence and Outcomes which shares good practice round the system and uses specialists seconded from the Tim Loughton: The information requested is a follows: sector that councils can draw on as and when they want. (a) The information requested is not separately identified The Government are determined to make child protection within the Department’s published resource accounts. as effective as can be, with a focus on better frontline The requested information could be obtained through a services. We will not do anything that will jeopardise or detailed analysis of contracts with suppliers but this compromise child safety.We are seeking to put responsibility could be achieved only at disproportionate cost. back to frontline services to ensure they have the right (b) The Department does not obtain information at level of local scrutiny and accountability to drive up that level of detail from each of our non-departmental quality and provide the kind of children’s services the public bodies; this could be obtained only at public want. disproportionate cost. Departmental Travel Children: South Yorkshire Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Education which (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Education if he will take steps to ensure that introduction Department have been driven by the Government Car of the proposed pupil premium does not lead to a Service since the Government took office; and how reduction in funding for disadvantaged children in South much each of these persons has received in expenses for Yorkshire. [9463] use of taxis, buses and underground trains in that period. [7993] Mr Gibb: The Government are committed to the introduction of the pupil premium for disadvantaged Tim Loughton: I refer the hon. Member to the answer children. The pupil premium will lead to an increase in I gave to the hon. Member for West Bromwich East (Mr funding for disadvantaged children as it will be funded Watson) on 22 June 2010, Official Report, column 202W. from savings found outside the schools budget. The In addition, the Government publish on a quarterly Secretary of State for Education announced a consultation basis, the expenses incurred by the most senior officials on the implementation of the pupil premium in a written which includes use of the Government car service and ministerial statement on 26 July 2010. other travel expenses. Education Maintenance Allowance Communications Skills John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Education what assessment he has made of the effect on whether his Department plans to hold, together with the number of (a) notices of entitlement issued and (b) the Department of Health, events to mark a National payments made from the education maintenance allowance Yearof Speech, Language and Communication in 2011-12. of the proposed reduction in its administration budget. [8475] [10385] 1215W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1216W

Mr Gibb [holding answer 22 July 2010]: Students will Number of Children estimated that would have become eligible for notice no impact as a result of savings made to the FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 education maintenance allowance administration budget. Local Authority Estimates based on revised totals (thousand) Savings have been made as a result of the development September 2010 September 2011 of more efficient processing systems. Notices of entitlement Tameside 2.3 5.1 and payments in 2010-11 will continue to be issued to Trafford 1.7 3.7 current service standards. Warrington 1.3 2.9 Wigan 2.8 6.1 Free School Meals Wirral 2.4 5.4

Ed Balls: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Yorks and 52.7 116.6 if he will estimate the number of pupils in each local Humber authority who would have received a free school meal Barnsley 2.1 4.7 had the 2009 Pre-Budget Report proposal on extending Bradford 9.7 21.5 the eligibility criteria been implemented. [10640] Calderdale 2.2 5.0 Doncaster 3.0 6.7 Mr Gibb [holding answer 22 July 2010]: Information East Riding of 2.3 5.1 is shown in the following table, by local authority and Yorkshire Government Office region, for the estimated number of Kingston Upon 2.6 5.7 pupils who would have been entitled to free school Hull, City of meals had the proposal to extend provision been Kirklees 5.3 11.7 implemented. Leeds 6.5 14.5 Number of Children estimated that would have become eligible for North East 1.3 2.9 FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 Lincolnshire Local Authority Estimates based on revised totals (thousand) North 1.4 3.1 Lincolnshire September 2010 September 2011 North 4.1 9.1 England 420.0 930. Yorkshire North East 22.0 48.8 Rotherham 2.8 6.1 Darlington 1.0 2.2 Sheffield 5.1 11.3 Durham 4.3 9.5 Wakefield 3.1 6.8 Gateshead 1.6 3.5 York 1.1 2.5 Hartlepool 0.9 2.0 Middlesbrough 1.5 3.4 East Midlands 37.1 82.1 Newcastle upon 2.1 4.7 Derby 3.3 7.3 Tyne Derbyshire 5.4 12.0 North Tyneside 1.6 3.6 Leicester 4.2 9.4 Northumberland 2.3 5.1 Leicestershire 4.3 9.6 Redcar and 1.2 2.7 Lincolnshire 5.6 12.3 Cleveland Northamptonshire 5.5 12.2 South Tyneside 1.2 2.7 Nottingham 3.1 6.9 Stockton-on- 1.7 3.8 Nottinghamshire 5.5 12.2 Tees Rutland 0.2 0.4 Sunderland 2.5 5.5

West Midlands 51.3 113.; North West 64.7 143. Birmingham 14.8 32.7 Blackburn with 2.6 5.7 Darwen Coventry 3.1 6.9 Blackpool 1.6 3.5 Dudley 2.4 5.4 Bolton 3.4 7.5 Herefordshire 1.3 2.8 Bury 2.0 4.3 Sandwell 3.9 8.7 Cheshire East 2.1 4.6 Shropshire 1.9 4.3 Cheshire West 2.2 4.8 Solihull 1.3 2.9 and Chester Staffordshire 5.5 12.2 Cumbria 3.6 7.9 Stoke-on-Trent 2.9 6.4 Halton 1.1 2.4 Telford and 1.5 3.3 Knowsley 1.6 3.6 Wrekin Lancashire 10.7 23.7 Walsall 2.9 6.5 Liverpool 4.1 9.0 Warwickshire 3.2 7.2 Manchester 5.7 12.7 Wolverhampton 2.4 5.3 Oldham 3.3 7.3 Worcestershire 4.0 8.9 Rochdale 2.6 5.7 Salford 2.4 5.2 East of England 38.5 85.3 Sefton 2.1 4.7 Bedford 1.3 2.8 St. Helens 1.3 2.9 Central 1.3 2.9 Stockport 2.0 4.5 Bedfordshire 1217W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1218W

Number of Children estimated that would have become eligible for Number of Children estimated that would have become eligible for FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 Local Authority Estimates based on revised totals (thousand) Local Authority Estimates based on revised totals (thousand) September 2010 September 2011 September 2010 September 2011

Cambridgeshire 3.1 6.8 Buckinghamshire 2.9 6.5 Essex 7.8 17.3 East Sussex 3.6 8.1 Hertfordshire 6.1 13.6 Hampshire 6.6 14.7 Luton 3.0 6.6 Isle of Wight 1.0 2.2 Norfolk 6.0 13.2 Kent 9.9 22.0 Peterborough 2.6 5.9 Medway 2.1 4.7 Southend-on- 1.3 2.9 Milton Keynes 2.0 4.5 Sea Oxfordshire 3.2 7.0 Suffolk 4.8 10.6 Portsmouth 1.6 3.5 Thurrock 1.2 2.7 Reading 1.0 2.2 Slough 1.7 3.7 London 67.3 148.9 Southampton 1.6 3.6 Surrey 4.5 9.9 Inner London 28.4 62.8 West Berkshire 0.6 1.2 Camden 1.4 3.0 West Sussex 4.6 10.1 City of London 0.0 0.1 Windsor and 0.6 1.3 Hackney 3.0 6.6 Maidenhead Hammersmith 0.8 1.7 Wokingham 0.6 1.2 and Fulham Haringey 3.2 7.0 South West 36.1 79.8 Islington 1.2 2.7 Bath and North 0.8 1.9 Kensington and 0.5 1.2 East Somerset Chelsea Bournemouth 1.0 2.2 Lambeth 2.3 5.1 Bristol, City of 2.8 6.1 Lewisham 2.2 4.9 Cornwall 4.4 9.7 Newham 5.1 11.4 Devon 5.6 12.3 Southwark 2.5 5.6 Dorset 2.6 5.7 Tower Hamlets 3.5 7.7 Gloucestershire 3.6 7.9 Wandsworth 1.7 3.7 Isles of Scilly 0.0 0.0 Westminster 1.0 2.2 North 1.3 2.9 Somerset Outer London 38.9 86.1 Plymouth 2.2 4.8 Barking and 2.3 5.1 Poole 1.0 2.1 Dagenham Somerset 3.7 8.2 Barnet 2.4 5.2 South 1.6 3.6 Bexley 1.5 3.3 Gloucestershire Brent 3.4 7.5 Swindon 1.6 3.6 Bromley 1.4 3.2 Torbay 1.1 2.5 Croydon 2.9 6.4 Wiltshire 2.8 6.2 Ealing 2.6 5.7 Note: Uses HMRC’s December 2009 Publication Dataset Assumes Enfield 3.8 8.4 extension to low income working families Figures may not sum due Greenwich 1.9 4.3 to rounding Harrow 1.7 3.7 Havering 1.3 2.9 Free School Meals: Enfield Hillingdon 1.9 4.2 Hounslow 2.1 4.7 Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for Kingston upon 0.9 2.0 Education what recent assessment he has made of the Thames educational achievement of pupils in receipt of free Merton 1.5 3.3 school meals in schools in the Enfield local authority Redbridge 3.0 6.6 area. [6748] Richmond 0.6 1.2 upon Thames Mr Gibb: Information is published on an annual Sutton 1.1 2.4 basis on the performance of all pupils including breakdowns Waltham 2.8 6.2 for those eligible for free school meals and these can be Forest accessed on the Department’s website. We have made a clear commitment to narrowing attainment gaps between South East 50.4 111.: children from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers through our recently announced pupil premium. Bracknell 0.6 1.3 Forest The latest publications containing information on the Brighton and 1.6 3.5 achievement of pupils eligible for free school meals at Hove local authority level are available at: 1219W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1220W

http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000911/ Number of children estimated that would have become eligible for index.shtml FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 (Table 6): Early Years Foundation Stage Profile attainment Thousand published on 28 January 2010. Estimates based on revised totals http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000899/ Local authority September 2010 September 2011 index.shtml Lancashire 10.7 23.7 (Table 5): Key Stage 1 attainment published on 8 December Liverpool 4.1 9.0 2009. Manchester 5.7 12.7 http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000889/ index.shtml Oldham 3.3 7.3 Rochdale 2.6 5.7 (Table 5): Key Stage 2 attainment published on 19 November 2009. Salford 2.4 5.2 http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000900/ Sefton 2.1 4.7 index.shtml St Helens 1.3 2.9 (Table 5): GCSE attainment published on 15 December 2009. Stockport 2.0 4.5 Tameside 2.3 5.1 Free School Meals: North East Trafford 1.7 3.7 Warrington 1.3 2.9 Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Wigan 2.8 6.1 Education what estimate he has made of the number of Wirral 2.4 5.4 pupils resident in (a) the North East and (b) Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland constituency Yorks and Humber 52.7 116.6 who would have been entitled to free school meals had Barnsley 2.1 4.7 the proposal to extend provision been implemented. Bradford 9.7 21.5 [9473] Calderdale 2.2 5.0 Mr Gibb: Information is shown in the following table, Doncaster 3.0 6.7 by local authority and Government Office region, for East Riding of Yorkshire 2.3 5.1 the estimated number of pupils who would have been Kingston Upon Hull, City 2.6 5.7 of entitled to free school meals had the proposal to extend provision been implemented. The Department does not Kirklees 5.3 11.7 hold information about eligibility for free school meals Leeds 6.5 14.5 by constituency. North East Lincolnshire 1.3 2.9 North Lincolnshire 1.4 3.1 Number of children estimated that would have become eligible for North Yorkshire 4.1 9.1 FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 Rotherham 2.8 6.1 Thousand Sheffield 5.1 11.3 Estimates based on revised totals Wakefield 3.1 6.8 Local authority September 2010 September 2011 York 1.1 2.5

England 420.0 930.0 East Midlands 37.1 82.1 Derby 3.3 7.3 North East 22.0 48.8 Derbyshire 5.4 12.0 Darlington 1.0 2.2 Leicester 4.2 9.4 Durham 4.3 9.5 Leicestershire 4.3 9.6 Gateshead 1.6 3.5 Lincolnshire 5.6 12.3 Hartlepool 0.9 2.0 Northamptonshire 5.5 12.2 Middlesbrough 1.5 3.4 Nottingham 3.1 6.9 Newcastle upon Tyne 2.1 4.7 Nottinghamshire 5.5 12.2 North Tyneside 1.6 3.6 Rutland 0.2 0.4 Northumberland 2.3 5.1 Redcar and Cleveland 1.2 2.7 West Midlands 51.3 113.5 South Tyneside 1.2 2.7 Birmingham 14.8 32.7 Stockton-on-Tees 1.7 3.8 Coventry 3.1 6.9 Sunderland 2.5 5.5 Dudley 2.4 5.4 Herefordshire 1.3 2.8 North West 64.7 143.3 Sandwell 3.9 8.7 Blackburn with Darwen 2.6 5.7 Shropshire 1.9 4.3 Blackpool 1.6 3.5 Solihull 1.3 2.9 Bolton 3.4 7.5 Staffordshire 5.5 12.2 Bury 2.0 4.3 Stoke-on-Trent 2.9 6.4 Cheshire East 2.1 4.6 Telford and Wrekin 1.5 3.3 Cheshire West and Chester 2.2 4.8 Walsall 2.9 6.5 Cumbria 3.6 7.9 Warwickshire 3.2 7.2 Halton 1.1 2.4 Wolverhampton 2.4 5.3 Knowsley 1.6 3.6 Worcestershire 4.0 8.9 1221W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1222W

Number of children estimated that would have become eligible for Number of children estimated that would have become eligible for FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 FSM in September 2010 and in total by September 2011 Thousand Thousand Estimates based on revised totals Estimates based on revised totals Local authority September 2010 September 2011 Local authority September 2010 September 2011

Hampshire 6.6 14.7 East of England 38.5 85.3 Isle of Wight 1.0 2.2 Bedford 1.3 2.8 Kent 9.9 22.0 Central Bedfordshire 1.3 2.9 Medway 2.1 4.7 Cambridgeshire 3.1 6.8 Milton Keynes 2.0 4.5 Essex 7.8 17.3 Oxfordshire 3.2 7.0 Hertfordshire 6.1 13.6 Portsmouth 1.6 3.5 Luton 3.0 6.6 Reading 1.0 2.2 Norfolk 6.0 13.2 Slough 1.7 3.7 Peterborough 2.6 5.9 Southampton 1.6 3.6 Southend-on-Sea 1.3 2.9 Surrey 4.5 9.9 Suffolk 4.8 10.6 West Berkshire 0.6 1.2 Thurrock 1.2 2.7 West Sussex 4.6 10.1 Windsor and Maidenhead 0.6 1.3 London 67.3 148.9 Wokingham 0.6 1.2

Inner London 28.4 62.8 South West 36.1 79.8 Camden 1.4 3.0 Bath and North East 0.8 1.9 Somerset City of London 0.0 0.1 Bournemouth 1.0 2.2 Hackney 3.0 6.6 Bristol, City of 2.8 6.1 Hammersmith and Fulham 0.8 1.7 Cornwall 4.4 9.7 Haringey 3.2 7.0 Devon 5.6 12.3 Islington 1.2 2.7 Dorset 2.6 5.7 Kensington and Chelsea 0.5 1.2 Gloucestershire 3.6 7.9 Lambeth 2.3 5.1 Isles of Scilly 0.0 0.0 Lewisham 2.2 4.9 North Somerset 1.3 2.9 Newham 5.1 11.4 Plymouth 2.2 4.8 Southwark 2.5 5.6 Poole 1.0 2.1 Tower Hamlets 3.5 7.7 Somerset 3.7 8.2 Wandsworth 1.7 3.7 South Gloucestershire 1.6 3.6 Westminster 1.0 2.2 Swindon 1.6 3.6 Torbay 1.1 2.5 Outer London 38.9 86.1 Wiltshire 2.8 6.2 Barking and Dagenham 2.3 5.1 Notes: Barnet 2.4 5.2 1. Uses HMRC’s December 2009 Publication Dataset. Bexley 1.5 3.3 2. Assumes extension to low income working families. Brent 3.4 7.5 3. Figures may not sum due to rounding. Bromley 1.4 3.2 Croydon 2.9 6.4 Free Schools: Greater London Ealing 2.6 5.7 Enfield 3.8 8.4 Greenwich 1.9 4.3 Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Harrow 1.7 3.7 how many expressions of interest in free school status Havering 1.3 2.9 have been received from schools in London. [8700] Hillingdon 1.9 4.2 Hounslow 2.1 4.7 Mr Gibb: The Department has received two Free Kingston upon Thames 0.9 2.0 School proposal forms from schools in Greater London. Merton 1.5 3.3 Redbridge 3.0 6.6 Richmond upon Thames 0.6 1.2 GCE A-levels: Disadvantaged Sutton 1.1 2.4 Waltham Forest 2.8 6.2 Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many pupils eligible for free school South East 50.4 111.5 meals obtained (a) three, (b) four and (c) five A grades Bracknell Forest 0.6 1.3 at A level in each of the last 10 years. [5689] Brighton and Hove 1.6 3.5 Buckinghamshire 2.9 6.5 Mr Gibb: The information available is given in the East Sussex 3.6 8.1 following table. 1223W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1224W

Number of year 13 candidates1 eligible for free school meals2 achieving Figures linking A-level achievements to year 11 free A grades at A-level3 school meal eligibility are not readily available prior to 3ormoreA 4ormoreA 5ormoreA 2006. Figures for earlier years can be provided only at 4 4 grades grades grades disproportionate cost. 2006 377 97 4 2007 433 113 20 2008 432 97 17 GCSE: Disadvantaged 2009 509 118 19 1 Candidates aged 16-18 at the end of advanced level study in all schools and colleges. Chris Skidmore: To ask the Secretary of State for 2 Year 13 candidates that were eligible for free school meals when in Education how many (a) boys and (b) girls eligible for year 11. Free school meal eligibility in year 11 is only available for free school meals gained a grade C or above at GCSE those candidates who were in maintained schools at the end of key in (i) modern languages, (ii) history, (iii) science and stage 4. (iv) mathematics in each of the last 10 years. [5605] 3 GCE and Applied A-levels and Double Awards are included. 4 Candidates achieving 5 or more A grades are also included in the “4 or more A grades” and “3 or more A grades” columns. Similarly, Mr Gibb: The requested information is provided in candidates achieving 4 or more A grades are also included in the figures for “3 or more A grades”. the following table for years from 2003. Figures prior to Source: 2003 are not available because attainment data were National Pupil Database. only matched to pupil characteristics from 2003 onwards.

The number of pupils achieving A*— C at GCSE or equivalent in the following subjects Modern Foreign Languages1 History Science2 Mathematics

2003 FSM Boys 3,235 2,319 — 23,107 Girls 6,379 2,997 — 24,207 Non—FSM Boys 67,159 46,338 108,610 Girls 105,280 52,060 — 102,562

2004 FSM Boys 3,456 2,507 — 23,622 Girls 6,608 3,126 — 24,735 Non—FSM Boys 69,027 50,093 108,757 Girls 106,609 55,083 — 103,477

2005 FSM Boys 3,191 2,512 — 22,512 Girls 6,183 3,179 — 23,547 Non—FSM Boys 66,875 50,736 103,523 Girls 102,369 55,836 — 97,779

2006 FSM Boys 4,049 2,532 — 10,510 Girls 6,910 3,213 — 10,647 Non— Boys 64,373 52,841 — 142,149 FSM Girls 97,221 56,462 — 143,350

2007 FSM Boys 3,864 2,527 — 11,074 Girls 6,484 3,161 — 11,397 Non—FSM Boys 61,523 52,770 149,880 Girls 91,770 55,967 — 149,997

2008 FSM Boys 3,800 2,410 10,192 12,067 Girls 6,254 3,107 10,727 11,953 Non—FSM Boys 61,565 53,262 139,161 156,214 Girls 91,149 57,484 139,046 154,658

2009 FSM Boys 3,999 2,522 12,236 13,252 Girls 6,376 3,349 13,047 12,808 Non—FSM Boys 62,488 52,812 142,613 158,646 Girls 91,033 56,295 144,646 153,835 1225W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1226W

1 Modern Foreign Language (MFL) includes 21 separate modern languages that are available on the National Pupil Database (NPD) from 2006. For the years 2003 to 2005, MFL includes just French, German and Spanish. 2 Science includes pupils who have achieved grades A*-C in at least two science GCSEs (or equivalent). Specifically, this includes core and additional science or two of the three separate science GCSEs of physics, chemistry and biology. This science indicator was only matched on to the NPD from 2008.

Grandparents: Parental Responsibility decisions about future delivery models for capital investment. This will include future investment in primary Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State schools. The review team will report at the end of the for Education if he will bring forward proposals to year. Its report will guide future spending decisions over enhance the role of grandparents and extended kin in the next spending review period (2011-12 to 2014-15). It caring for children; and if he will make a statement. will also look at how best to meet parental demand; [7949] provide new primary places in areas of population growth; and secure the best possible value for money in Tim Loughton [holding answer 12 July 2010]: terms of design and procurement. Grandparents and other relatives play an important Public Expenditure role in many families’ lives—helping out with child care, providing emotional and financial support, being there Yvette Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for when times are hard—for their children and their Education whether equality impact assessments will be grandchildren. Sometimes that can include taking on used in determining the areas of his Department’s full time care of their grandchildren. budget in respect of which spending will be reduced. Children who cannot live with their parents benefit [8341] from being brought up by their wider family. Relatives should receive the support they need to do this. The Tim Loughton [holding answer 14 July 2010]: We are Government will be carefully considering the responses considering the equality implications of potential spending to the consultation on new statutory guidance for local decisions and equality impact assessments will be carried authorities on support for family and friends carers, out as necessary. which ended on 18 June 2010. The Government are also committed to reform of the Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency family justice system, as set out in the Coalition Agreement. The review is under way and will examine the system as David Mowat: To ask the Secretary of State for a whole. I have asked the chair of the review panel to Education what timetable he has set for the abolition of look specifically at the issue of how best to support the Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency; contact between children and grandparents and he has what plans he has for the transfer of its functions; and if agreed to address this in the final report, expected in he will make a statement. [10936] 2011. Mr Gibb: We intend to introduce legislation to abolish Personal, Social, Health And Economic Education the QCDA, and in the meantime Department Officials are working closely with the QCDA on the orderly Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Education winding down of its functions. pursuant to the answer of 12 July 2010, Official Report, We are committed to ensuring that national curriculum column 570W, on personal, social, health and economic tests continue to be delivered effectively, and therefore education, what the (a) prefix and (b) title is of each currently envisage that these functions would be needed file held by his Department on personal, social and after closure. health education; and if he will make a statement. Where QCDA is presently engaged in activity that [10624] supports the administration of examinations (such as Diploma Awarding) we would wish to retain such functions Mr Gibb: PSHE embraces a large number of topics until these activities are no longer required or can be including sex education, drugs and alcohol, financial transferred. Our view is that Government or its agencies capability, health and safety and work-related learning. should in principle not be involved in this kind of work The Department has files on all of these as well as on in the future, which is properly the domain of awarding general PSHE policy. bodies. Primary Education: Capital Investment School Leaving

Diana R. Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mrs Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Education what plans he has for the Primary Capital whether he plans to bring forward proposals to raise the Programme; and if he will make a statement. [8539] participation age in education and training to 17 years by 2013 and 18 years by 2015. [11017] Mr Gibb: Funding allocations to support local delivery of the Primary Capital Programme have already been Mr Gibb [holding answer 26 July 2010]: We have no confirmed for the current financial year. plans to introduce the increase in the participation age In the context of the Government’s fiscal consolidation to 17 years any earlier than 2013, or to introduce the plans and emerging policy, we have commissioned a increase to 18 years earlier than 2015. We set out in comprehensive independent review of all of the “The Coalition—our programme for government” our Department’s existing capital expenditure to inform plans for education policy over the coming months and 1227W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1228W years, making clear our aspiration to maximise will make recommendations to help shape the decision opportunities for all young people. We are currently of future capital investment in schools, to ensure that developing plans for specific policy areas to ensure we investment represents good value for money and strongly achieve this. supports the Government’s ambitions to reduce the deficit, raise standards and tackle disadvantage. The Schools: Capital Investment cancellation of Building Schools for the Future does not represent the end of capital investment in schools. Ed Balls: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether schools capital allocations are made to local Schools: ICT authorities which are not part of the Building Schools for the Future scheme. [8498] Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education if he will provide assistance to schools affected Mr Gibb [holding answer 14 July 2010]: Schools by the reduction in the Harnessing Technology Grant capital allocations are made to all local authorities to enable them to maintain their ICT commitments. whether they are, or are not, in the Building Schools for [9462] the Future programme. These include devolved allocations at local authority and school level, targeted allocations, Mr Gibb: As part of a range of savings, the Harnessing and the strategic primary school programme. Technology Grant is to be reduced by 50% in the current financial year. ICT infrastructure is now well- Schools: Cricket embedded in schools. Local authorities have been notified of the changes and they are best placed to manage the John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for reduction, in consultation with their Schools Forum, to Education what recent assessment he has made of the support a sustainable funding model based on local adequacy of support for cricket in state schools. circumstances. [11139] Schools: Management Mr Gibb [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The annual PE and Sport survey collects data from maintained Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for schools in England relating to schools’ provision for PE Education how many expressions of interest there have and sport. Over the period in question, the percentage been in the free schools scheme in the (a) Bristol, (b) of schools providing cricket for their pupils increased South Gloucestershire and (c) Bath and North East from 85% in 2003/04 to 89% in 2008/09. This makes Somerset local authority areas. [7389] cricket the fifth most popular sport provided by schools, behind only football, dance, athletics and gymnastics. Mr Gibb: The Department has received one proposal from the Bristol local authority area from Parents’ John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Voice in North-West Bristol seeking to establish an Education what recent assessment he has made of all-age school. At this stage no proposals have been trends in participation in cricket as part of (a) PE received from the South Gloucestershire, or the Bath activity and (b) school sport in state schools in the and North East Somerset local authority areas. period from 2003 to 2010. [11140] Science: GCSE Mr Gibb [holding answer 26 July 2010]: The annual PE and Sport survey collects data from maintained Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for schools in England relating to schools’ provision for PE Education if he will take steps to ensure that all schools and sport. Over the period in question, the percentage offer the possibility for students to study three separate of schools providing cricket for their pupils increased science subjects at GCSE level. [10879] from 85% in 2003/04 to 89% in 2008/09. Mr Gibb: The Government believes it important that Schools: Dudley all pupils have the opportunity to study the three separate sciences. We are currently considering what more needs Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for to be done in addition to what is already in place to Education (1) what plans he has to refurbish primary enable all pupils to have access to these GCSEs, including, and secondary schools in Dudley North constituency; for instance, looking at incentives to encourage more [8399] top science graduates into teaching. (2) what recent representations he has received on Sixth Form Education: Finance the Building Schools for the Future programme from (a) Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, (b) bodies Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for and charities in Dudley borough and (c) residents of Education what his policy is on provision of funding Dudley. [8400] for (a) sixth form colleges, (b) secondary schools with sixth forms and (c) other post-16 providers; and if he Mr Gibb: The Secretary of State has not received any will make a statement. [10051] recent representations from Dudley metropolitan borough council, bodies and charities in the borough and residents Mr Gibb: The total investment in 16-18 learning in of Dudley. 2010-11 will be £8.2 billion, which will fund around On 5 July the Secretary of State for Education announced 1.6 million places. As announced at the end of May, the a review of the Department’s capital programmes including spending on 16-18 core participation funding for 2010-11 investment in primary and secondary schools. The review will be maintained and protected from any in-year 1229W Written Answers27 JULY 2010 Written Answers 1230W spending cuts. At present, funding is provided to all Programmes was ring-fenced, within this grant, for the three types of provider through the 16-18 national original centres in the most deprived areas. On 24 May, funding formulae. The learner responsive model (for the Chancellor announced that revenue funding for schools and colleges) is managed by the Young People’s Sure Start, including former Sure Start Local Programmes, Learning Agency (YPLA) as one of its key roles. The will be protected from in-year cuts in 2010-11: and both Department also funds 16-18 Apprenticeships where ring fences maintained this year. Questions about future funding is calculated through the employer responsive funding and the existence of any ring fences in future model (for work based learning) managed by the National years will be dependent on the outcome of the spending Apprenticeship Service (NAS), as part of the Skills review. Local authorities have a statutory duty to ensure Funding Agency. sufficient provision of children’s centres to meet local The levels of funding from 2011-12 will be determined need - and it is important, in the current financial as part of the spending review this autumn, and climate, that we make sure we are getting the most out considerations surrounding the current funding of every pound spent. methodology and formula will continue to form a part Temporary Employment of that process. We have already taken steps to reduce bureaucracy in 16-18 education and simplify the 16-18 Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Education funding process by ensuring that funding follows the how many temporary staff are employed by (a) his choices of young people. From the academic year 2011-12, Department and (b) the education service. [5489] core allocation budgets for school sixth forms and colleges will be based on the equivalent of lagged pupil Tim Loughton: As at 30 June 2010 (latest information numbers. We will also ensure that local authorities can available), there were 13 temporary staff employed directly focus on their strategic role as champions of young by the Department, and therefore on its payroll. The people, taking action where they identify significant Department also has a call-off contract with two issues in terms of gaps in supply or quality, particularly employment agencies, and on the same date, there was in ensuring access among the most vulnerable groups. 16 agency staff working in the Department. Sixth Form Education: Public Expenditure Information for the Department’s non departmental public bodies is a matter for them and is not held Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for centrally and can be obtained only at disproportionate Education whether capital expenditure by sixth form cost. colleges will be included within the remit of his recently The Department has no agencies. announced review to advise on capital expenditure. Young People: Information [8664] Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gibb: The Secretary of State announced that Education what assessment he has made of the effect of capital expenditure by sixth form colleges will be included recent changes to local authority funding on the Secretary in the recently announced review. of State’s responsibility to ensure the provision of statutory Sure Start Programme, Finance information, advice, guidance and support to young people in England. [4162]

Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Gibb: The Government announced the local whether he plans to ring-fence funding for continued government contribution to cross-government savings provision of local Sure Start programmes. [6799] on 10 June 2010. These savings include £311 million in the Department for Education’s Area Based Grant (ABG) Sarah Teather [holding answer 8 July 2010]: Sure to local authorities in 2010/11. This reduction does not Start Local Programmes were the first stage in the imply a direct cut to services funded by ABG, which delivery of the Sure Start Children’s Centre service. include the provision of statutory information, advice They provided services for fewer than half of the under and guidance to young people. The overall impact on fives living in the 20% most deprived wards in England. total local government expenditure will be a 3.6% reduction, The Government decided from 2003 to move toward a and we expect local authorities to manage this reduction national programme of Sure Start Children’s Centres across all their services, whether the initial funding offering a universal, mainstream service for children source is formula or area-based. I am not expecting cuts under five and their families. to fall disproportionately on IAG services over others—these Funding for Sure Start Children’s Centres is part of are critical services for young people. The Government the Sure Start, Early Years and Childcare Grant, which believe that local authorities do have scope to make is ring-fenced. Funding for former Sure Start Local efficiencies this year. WRITTEN ANSWERS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE ...... 1051W EDUCATION—continued Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations...... 1051W Children: South Yorkshire ...... 1213W Air Force ...... 1051W Communications Skills ...... 1213W Air Force: Deployment ...... 1052W Departmental Official Cars...... 1214W Armed Conflict: Children...... 1052W Departmental Security...... 1214W Armed Forces: Food...... 1052W Departmental Travel...... 1214W Armed Forces: Health Services...... 1053W Education Maintenance Allowance ...... 1214W Armed Forces: Housing...... 1053W Free School Meals ...... 1215W Armed Forces: Injuries ...... 1053W Free School Meals: Enfield...... 1218W Armed Forces: Mental Health Services...... 1054W Free School Meals: North East...... 1219W Armed Forces: Officers...... 1056W Free Schools: Greater London...... 1222W Armed Forces: Uniforms ...... 1056W GCE A-levels: Disadvantaged ...... 1222W Armed Services: Discharges...... 1056W GCSE: Disadvantaged...... 1224W Commonwealth Organisations ...... 1057W Grandparents: Parental Responsibility ...... 1225W Defence Estates...... 1057W Personal, Social, Health And Economic Education...... 1225W Defence Estates: Public Appointments ...... 1058W Primary Education: Capital Investment...... 1225W Defence: Procurement ...... 1058W Public Expenditure ...... 1226W Departmental Billing ...... 1059W Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency...... 1226W Departmental Buildings...... 1060W School Leaving ...... 1226W Departmental Communication ...... 1060W Schools: Capital Investment ...... 1227W Departmental Internet...... 1060W Schools: Cricket...... 1227W Departmental Legal Costs...... 1061W Schools: Dudley...... 1227W Departmental Location ...... 1061W Schools: ICT...... 1228W Departmental Official Cars...... 1061W Schools: Management...... 1228W Departmental Pay...... 1063W Science: GCSE...... 1228W Departmental Private Education ...... 1063W Sixth Form Education: Finance...... 1228W Departmental Stationery ...... 1064W Sixth Form Education: Public Expenditure ...... 1229W Departmental Travel...... 1064W Sure Start Programme, Finance ...... 1229W Departmental Utilities...... 1064W Temporary Employment...... 1230W EU Law ...... 1065W Young People: Information...... 1230W Ex-servicemen: Mental Illness ...... 1065W Gurkhas: Pensions...... 1066W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS...... 1072W Industrial Capabilities: Defence...... 1057W Agricultural Wages Board ...... 1072W Low Flying ...... 1066W Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Devolution...... 1075W Low Flying: Wales ...... 1067W Agriculture: Subsidies...... 1075W Nepal: Armed Forces...... 1068W Bovine Tuberculosis: Disease Control...... 1077W Piracy ...... 1068W Bovine Tuberculosis: Wales...... 1077W Portsmouth Dockyard: Security ...... 1068W Coastal Erosion: Listed Buildings...... 1077W RAF Menwith Hill ...... 1069W Departmental Communication ...... 1077W Somalia: Piracy...... 1069W Departmental Electronic Equipment ...... 1078W Submarines...... 1069W Departmental Internet...... 1078W War Graves...... 1069W Departmental Lighting...... 1078W Departmental Official Hospitality ...... 1078W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER...... 1070W Departmental Operating Costs ...... 1079W Constituencies: Wales ...... 1071W Departmental Security...... 1079W Constituency Size ...... 1071W Departmental Training ...... 1079W Constituency Sizes...... 1070W Departmental Travel...... 1079W Iraq Conflict: Legal Opinion ...... 1072W Environment Agency ...... 1080W Legislation: Public Consultation...... 1072W EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council...... 1080W Referendum: Timing...... 1070W Flood Control: Finance...... 1080W Urban Constituency Sizes: Scotland...... 1070W Floods: Gloucestershire...... 1081W Food: Labelling ...... 1082W EDUCATION...... 1195W Food: Standards ...... 1083W Academies ...... 1195W Food Standards Agency...... 1082W Academies: Billing ...... 1197W Forests: Stockton on Tees ...... 1084W Academies: Conditions of Employment ...... 1198W Genetically Modified Organisms ...... 1084W Academies: Dudley...... 1198W Hill Farming: Birds...... 1091W Academies: Ealing ...... 1198W Hydroelectric Power ...... 1091W Academies: Enfield...... 1198W Pheasants: Animal Welfare ...... 1092W Academies: Faith Schools...... 1199W Phytophthora Ramorum ...... 1093W Academies: Finance...... 1199W Phytophthora Ramorum: Cornwall...... 1093W Academies: Manpower ...... 1200W Rural Payments Agency: Costs ...... 1094W Academies: North Tyneside...... 1200W Sustainable Development Commission...... 1094W Academies: Redundancy...... 1200W Trade Unions...... 1095W Academies: Sponsorship...... 1201W Water Companies ...... 1095W Academies: Warrington ...... 1201W Academies: West Midlands...... 1201W HEALTH ...... 1166W Bedfordshire and Luton Education Business Partnership: Abortion: Death ...... 1166W Finance ...... 1201W Accident and Emergency Departments...... 1168W Building Schools for the Future Programme...... 1202W Accident and Emergency Departments: Patients ...... 1168W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Cumbria...... 1206W Alcoholic Drinks: Labelling...... 1171W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Darlington ...... 1206W Asbestos: Diseases ...... 1171W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Ealing...... 1207W Care Quality Commission: Fees...... 1172W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Greater London ..... 1207W CJD ...... 1172W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Leeds...... 1208W Cystic Fibrosis: Prescriptions...... 1173W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Liverpool ...... 1208W Departmental Billing ...... 1173W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Stockton-on-Tees ... 1208W Departmental Internet...... 1174W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Sunderland...... 1209W Departmental Parliamentary Questions...... 1174W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Telford ...... 1210W Departmental Travel...... 1175W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Wandsworth...... 1211W Doctors: Working Hours ...... 1175W Building Schools for the Future Programme: Warrington ...... 1211W Epilepsy: Nurses ...... 1176W Children: Protection ...... 1212W Foetal Tissue...... 1176W Col. No. Col. No. HEALTH—continued HOME DEPARTMENT—continued Food Standards Agency...... 1177W Police: Powers ...... 1123W Food Standards Agency: Public Consultation ...... 1177W Police: Race Relations...... 1123W General Practitioners...... 1177W Police: Scotland ...... 1124W General Practitioners: Registration...... 1177W Police: Training...... 1124W Health Services ...... 1181W Rape ...... 1125W Kidney Patients ...... 1182W Risk Assessment ...... 1125W Kidneys: Transplant Surgery ...... 1181W Risk Assessment: Domestic Violence...... 1125W Long Term Care ...... 1182W Stop And Search: Greater London ...... 1125W Mental Health: Children...... 1183W Telephone Tapping ...... 1126W Mental Health Services: Finance ...... 1183W Terrorism: Arrests...... 1126W Mental Health Services: Prisons ...... 1183W UK Border Agency...... 1126W Mental Illness: Prisoners...... 1183W Vetting and Barring Scheme ...... 1127W National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence...... 1184W Violent and Sex Offender Register: Offences Against Children..... 1127W National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence: Yvonne Fletcher ...... 1128W Consultants ...... 1184W NHS ...... 1184W WORK AND PENSIONS...... 1128W NHS: Chaplains ...... 1185W Arthritis: Costs ...... 1128W NHS: Essex...... 1186W Children: Maintenance ...... 1128W NHS: Higher Education ...... 1193W Council Tax Benefits...... 1129W NHS: VAT ...... 1193W Departmental Contracts...... 1129W NHS White Paper: Personnel...... 1184W Departmental Lost Property...... 1129W Organs: Donors ...... 1193W Departmental Manpower ...... 1130W Pensions...... 1193W Departmental Official Cars...... 1130W Self-harm...... 1194W Departmental Official Hospitality ...... 1130W Departmental Operating Costs ...... 1131W Departmental Secondment ...... 1131W HOME DEPARTMENT ...... 1096W Disability Living Allowance...... 1131W Alcoholic Drinks ...... 1096W Disability Living Allowance: Medical Examinations ...... 1132W Animal Experiments...... 1096W Disability Living Allowance: Mental Illness ...... 1132W Asylum ...... 1097W Employment: Lone Parents ...... 1132W British Nationality...... 1098W Ethnic Minority Employment Taskforce: Expenditure ...... 1133W Crime: Fraud ...... 1099W Funerals: West Midlands ...... 1134W Crime: Unemployment ...... 1100W Housing Benefit...... 1134W Criminal Records Bureau ...... 1101W Housing Benefit: Camden...... 1142W Death: Weapons...... 1101W Housing Benefit: Disability...... 1142W Departmental Billing ...... 1102W Housing Benefit: Doncaster...... 1142W Departmental Consultants ...... 1102W Housing Benefit: Greater London ...... 1143W Departmental ICT...... 1103W Housing Benefit: Peterborough ...... 1143W Departmental Lost Property...... 1103W Housing Benefit: Wigan...... 1145W Departmental Official Cars...... 1104W Industrial Injuries ...... 1146W Departmental Official Hospitality ...... 1104W Jobcentre Plus: Edinburgh ...... 1146W Departmental Operating Costs ...... 1105W Jobcentre Plus: Manpower...... 1146W Departmental Pay...... 1105W Jobcentre Plus: Temporary Employment ...... 1147W Departmental Regulation ...... 1106W Jobseeker’s Allowance ...... 1148W Departmental Stationery ...... 1106W Local Housing Allowance...... 1149W Departmental Temporary Employment...... 1107W Maintenance: Children ...... 1150W Departmental Training ...... 1107W Mortgages: Government Assistance ...... 1151W Departmental Travel...... 1108W Occupational Pensions...... 1151W Entry Clearances: Skilled Workers...... 1110W Office for Budget Responsibility: Employment...... 1152W EU Justice And Home Affairs ...... 1113W Pension Credit ...... 1153W Firearms: Greater London...... 1114W Pensioners: Bedfordshire...... 1153W Football: Security ...... 1115W Pensioners: Rutherglen ...... 1153W Hunting Act 2004 ...... 1115W Pensioners: Social Security Benefits...... 1154W Identity Cards...... 1115W Pensions: Index Linking ...... 1154W Independent Safeguarding Authority: Children...... 1115W Pensions: Uprating ...... 1155W Independent Safeguarding Authority: Darlington ...... 1116W Pensions: Working Mothers...... 1156W Independent Safeguarding Authority: Employment ...... 1116W Post Office Card Account: Rutherglen...... 1156W Khat ...... 1116W Poverty ...... 1156W Knives: Greater London...... 1117W Poverty: Children...... 1157W Members: Correspondence ...... 1118W Poverty: Lancashire ...... 1158W Multiple Temporary Event Notices ...... 1119W Social Security Benefits: Disability ...... 1158W National Referral Mechanism ...... 1119W Social Security Benefits: Married People ...... 1159W Police Community Support Officers: Powers ...... 1119W State Retirement Pensions ...... 1159W Police: Comprehensive Spending Review ...... 1119W Trade Unions...... 1160W Police: Criminal Proceedings ...... 1120W Unemployment...... 1160W Police: Domestic Violence...... 1120W Unemployment Benefits: Greater London...... 1161W Police: Manpower...... 1120W Unemployment Benefits: Peterborough ...... 1162W Police: North Yorkshire ...... 1121W Unemployment: Holborn ...... 1164W Police: Overtime...... 1122W Vulnerable Adults: Home Visits...... 1164W Police: Pay ...... 1122W Work Capability Assessment ...... 1165W Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. 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not later than Tuesday 3 August 2010

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CONTENTS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 1051W] [see index inside back page] Volume 514 Tuesday No. 39 27 July 2010 Part1of2

CONTENTS

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Oral Answers to Questions [Col. 845] [see index inside back page] Deputy Prime Minister Attorney-General Electoral Commission Committee Church Commissioners

Annual Energy Statement [Col. 867] Statement—(Chris Huhne)

European Investigation Order [Col. 881] Statement—(Mrs May)

Dog Control and Welfare [Col. 893] Motion for leave to bring in Bill—(Andrew Rosindell)—agreed to Bill presented, and read the First time

Backbench Business [2nd allotted day] Summer Adjournment [Col. 896] Motion—(Natascha Engel)—agreed to

Royal Assent to Acts passed [Col. 914]

Petitions [Col. 972]

Trigeminal Neuralgia [Col. 974] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Westminster Hall A11 (Dualling) [Col. 179WH] Burton upon Trent County Court [Col. 203WH] Hospital Services (North-East) [Col. 211WH] Ship-to-Ship Oil as Cargo Transfer [Col. 235WH] Strategic Transport (Cambridge) [Col. 243WH] Debates on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 79WS]

Petitions [Col. 13P] Observations

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 879W]

Ministerial Correction [Col. 3MC]