Vol. 757 Thursday No. 74 11 December 2014

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD) OFFICIAL REPORT

ORDER OF BUSINESS

Questions General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath ...... 1913 Trade Balance ...... 1915 Passports...... 1918 Food Poverty ...... 1920 Business of the House Motion on Standing Order...... 1923 Insurance Bill [HL] Membership Motion ...... 1923 Economic Leadership for Cities Motion to Take Note ...... 1924 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Question for Short Debate ...... 1963 Global Development Goals Motion to Take Note ...... 1977 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade Question for Short Debate ...... 2010

Grand Committee Female Genital Mutilation Question for Short Debate ...... GC 523 Sharia Law Question for Short Debate ...... GC 537 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme Question for Short Debate ...... GC 550 Drug Policy Question for Short Debate ...... GC 557 Tuberculosis Question for Short Debate ...... GC 572

Written Statements ...... WS 121 Written Answers ...... WA 363

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The first time a Member speaks to a new piece of parliamentary business, the following abbreviations are used to show their party affiliation: Abbreviation Party/Group CB Cross Bench Con Conservative Con Ind Conservative Independent DUP Democratic Unionist Party GP Green Party Ind Lab Independent Labour Ind LD Independent Liberal Democrat Ind SD Independent Social Democrat Lab Labour Lab Ind Labour Independent LD Liberal Democrat LD Ind Liberal Democrat Independent Non-afl Non-affiliated PC Plaid Cymru UKIP UK Independence Party UUP Ulster Unionist Party

No party affiliation is given for Members serving the House in a formal capacity, the , Members on leave of absence or Members who are otherwise disqualified from sitting in the House. © Parliamentary Copyright House of Lords 2014, this publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Open Parliament licence, which is published at www.parliament.uk/site-information/copyright/. 1913 General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath[11 DECEMBER 2014] General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath 1914

Lord McColl of Dulwich (Con): My Lords, is the House of Lords Minister aware that the first half of the Hippocratic oath is all to do with protecting doctors and that there Thursday, 11 December 2014. is no mention of patients until way down the page? 11 am Furthermore—I used to read this out to my medical students—it contains a promise to supply “all the Prayers—read by the Lord of Sheffield. financial needs of those who taught me medicine”. None of them did. General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath Question Baroness Jolly: My Lords, I think that doctors have always been very good at looking after their own 11.06 am interests. Asked by Lord Trefgarne Noble Lords: Oh! To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether general practitioners working within the National Health Service are bound by the Hippocratic Oath, and if Lord Howarth of Newport (Lab): My Lords, does so, whether they will place a copy of the said oath the noble Baroness acknowledge that many general in the Library of the House. practitioners and other medical professionals have sworn the Hippocratic oath and regard it as a very Baroness Jolly (LD): My Lords, there is no requirement serious statement of principle? Does she acknowledge for doctors to take an oath in the UK. Some medical the view widely held among medical professionals that schools may choose to include an oath in their graduation to perform the role assigned to them in the Assisted ceremonies, but that is not a requirement. When a Dying Bill would not be consistent with the principles doctor requests registration with the General Medical of the Hippocratic oath? Council, before they can submit payment, and therefore as the final mandatory step, they must sign a declaration, Baroness Jolly: That is an interesting point. The part of which reads: Government believe that any legal change should be “I have read Good Medical Practice and understand my actions made by Parliament rather than by government. However, may be judged against the standards and principles it contains”. doctors may choose to opt out of providing a medical procedure if it conflicts with their personal beliefs or Lord Trefgarne (Con): My Lords, I am most grateful values. The Assisted Dying Bill makes provision for a to my noble friend for that reply. Is it not the case that person not to participate in anything authorised by the GP contract, with or without the Hippocratic the legislation to which they hold a conscientious oath, is now not fit for purpose, despite its 208-page objection. length? Does my noble friend not therefore agree that it is time the contract was considered from top to bottom, particularly as regards the provision of out- Lord Purvis of Tweed (LD): My Lords, while the of-hours and evening services? GP contract is separate for and the modern Hippocratic oath is consistent with the ethos and the Baroness Jolly: My Lords, the 2004 contract has been meaning of the proposals in the Assisted Dying Bill reviewed and renewed on an annual basis, and has that have been debated in this House, does my noble proven to be a fairly robust document. The Government friend the Minister agree that the principle of the oath are not at the moment minded to change its basis. As being taken in its modern form, consistent with the for out-of-hours services—the nub of the Question—GPs duties of the General Medical Council, is a fundamental can decide whether they opt out. Where they do opt part of the service provided by doctors? Will she out, the providers are inspected by the CQC and the assure noble Lords that the ethos of the oath is a local CCG. fundamental part of the training? On a wider front, could other professions that provide essential services Lord Walton of Detchant (CB): My Lords, does the benefit by learning and stating the principles of good Minister accept that although there are several absolutely professional conduct? admirable principles embodied in the Hippocratic oath, its archaic language is totally inappropriate to the Baroness Jolly: My Lords, patients trust doctors 21st century? For example, I do not believe that the with their lives and well-being and need to have confidence noble Lords, Lord McColl and Lord Kakkar, would that they are competent in their field and abide by be prepared to swear that they would not cut for high ethical standards. Therefore, doctors must be stone—and many doctors would be unwilling to honour registered with a licence to practise from the GMC. their teacher as they do their parents. Is the Minister aware that the full original Hippocratic oath is fully reprinted in the Oxford Medical Companion, which I Baroness Finlay of Llandaff (CB): Do the Government had the privilege to edit many years ago—and of recognise that yesterday’s vote in the National Assembly which there is a copy in the Library? for that rejected the principles of the Assisted Dying Bill is compatible with the 77% of general Baroness Jolly: The noble Lord is absolutely right. I practitioners who do not want that Bill to come in, congratulate him on his editorship. I had to rely on and with the view of a high percentage of doctors who Wikipedia. are looking after such patients full-time? 1915 General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath[LORDS] Trade Balance 1916

Baroness Jolly: That is the case. this fundamental economic weakness? We have no policy on import substitution and we give no incentive Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Lab): My Lords, going to companies to provide their staff with international back to the point raised by the noble Lord, Lord trade and export qualifications. How can any country Trefgarne, will the noble Baroness repeat the words of achieve long-term economic success and stability if the noble Earl, Lord Howe, when this issue was raised this level of trade deficit continues indefinitely? a couple of weeks ago—namely, that the core part of the 2004 contract that the noble Lord complained about was negotiated in the 1990s by the previous Lord Livingston of Parkhead: I commend the noble Conservative Government? Will she confirm that? Lord for his enthusiasm for exporting, although I think that he does the UK some disservice. We are the As far as the oath is concerned, the noble Baroness sixth largest exporter in the world—the second largest will be aware that part of it states: exporter of services. I agree with him that it has not “Whatsoever house I may enter, my visit shall be for the been a key priority for past Governments, but it most convenience and advantage of the patient”. certainly is for this Government. With regard to import Would Hippocrates be surprised by how few home substitution, while I would not refer to it in these visits are now done by doctors? terms, there is for instance the recent announcement by the Prime Minister of a Reshore UK service within Baroness Jolly: I cannot say whether or not Hippocrates UKTI to encourage manufacturers to come back to would be surprised. However, doctors—certainly, those the UK. That is just one example of the many things in the out-of-hours service—are committed to home we are doing to help our position in the long term on visits where it is decided that they are clinically appropriate. the balance of trade.

Lord Cormack (Con): My Lords, in my former Lord Tomlinson (Lab): Will the Minister do the constituency, a well respected GP said to me that no House a favour by reminding us what the balance of doctor can truly know his patient unless he knows him payments deficit is at present, and then perhaps address at home as well as in the surgery. Does she agree? the original Question about when we are likely to be in surplus? Baroness Jolly: I really do not have the experience on which to draw. It sounds like a good idea, but how practical it is I do not know. Lord Livingston of Parkhead: The original Question was on the balance of trade, not the balance of payments; Lord Patel (CB): My Lords, does the noble Baroness they are, of course, two quite different things. The agree that part of the problem with GP contracts is balance of trade is in deficit to around £30 billion; it is that GPs are independent practitioners who can negotiate a deficit of about 2% of GDP, which is significantly their contracts, whereas hospital doctors, when they better than under the previous Government, when it apply for a job, have to comply with the job description was on average 2.5% of GDP. As the UK is growing for that job? much faster than its partners it is difficult to forecast exactly when it will come to zero. Certainly the OBR expects to see a significant improvement going forward, Baroness Jolly: That is probably an issue for the but I am reminded of the words of J K Galbraith, who BMA, the GMC and others to sort out. said that the only purpose of economic forecasts is to give astrology a good name. Trade Balance Question Lord Anderson of Swansea (Lab): There has traditionally been a deficit on our balance of trade, 11.14 am but always this has been counterbalanced by a large Asked by Lord Empey surplus on our service industries. Will the Minister therefore pay tribute to them, including the creative To ask Her Majesty’s Government when the industries and the City, for ensuring that? ’s balance of trade will be in surplus. Lord Livingston of Parkhead: The noble Lord is The Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation correct that services have been and remain a very and Skills & Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord strong surplus for the UK. It has to be recognised that, Livingston of Parkhead) (Con): My Lords, the UK increasingly, services and goods are becoming balance of trade will depend on a number of factors, intermingled. I know that when Rolls-Royce sells a jet including the exchange rate and economic performance engine, almost half the value is a service. One of the of our trading partners. This Government will continue things that we should cease doing to a degree is to make supporting our exporters a key priority. separating off goods and services, because increasingly they are the same. I commend our creative industries, Lord Empey (UUP): Does the Minister agree that it our professional and financial services, our aerospace is more than 30 years since our balance of trade was sector and, indeed, our growing motor vehicle industry last in surplus and that the policies of successive which, of course, is the second largest producer of Governments have been totally inadequate in tackling cars in the whole of Europe. 1917 Trade Balance[11 DECEMBER 2014] Passports 1918

Lord Howell of Guildford (Con): My Lords, my noble number of exporters wish to remain in the EU but I friend has reminded us that this country is a huge exporter also recognise that they wish to remain in a reformed of services—I think he said that we are the second EU—and that is what we on this side of the House are biggest in the world. That will increase more and more fighting for. as information and data will play the key role rather than actual physical products. Free trade in services is Lord Stoneham of Droxford: At the start of this what we have not got—particularly in Europe but Government, only 30% of components in our successful throughout the world. Will my noble friend reassure car manufacturing sector were sourced in the UK. us that huge efforts will be made to free up the service Can the Minister tell us how the Government’s industrial trade so that our exports can prosper even more in the strategy has been seeking to improve this performance? future? Lord Livingston of Parkhead: The Government’s Lord Livingston of Parkhead: I certainly confirm industrial strategy brings together academia, the that that is a key priority: both extending the single Government and also businesses in producing a long-term market to services, which we are pushing for in the commitment to the next generation of technologies EU, and the trade and services agreement, which is a and industries. I know that the motor vehicle industry plurilateral agreement between many countries. The in particular welcomes this. I mentioned earlier the UK is championing that. As such a large producer of Reshore UK proposal. These things together are helping services, we certainly support both those measures to significantly, both with companies coming back to the increase trade. UK and, for instance, companies such as Gestamp, a Spanish company that recently announced a significant Lord Kakkar (CB): My Lords, as business ambassador investment in the UK. for life sciences and healthcare, may I ask what assessment Her Majesty’s Government have made of the contribution Passports of the life sciences industry to the UK economy? Question Lord Livingston of Parkhead: First, I thank the 11.22 am noble Lord for his contribution to life sciences, which Asked by Baroness Rawlings is very much appreciated. The life science sector is hugely important. From pharmaceuticals onwards, To ask Her Majesty’s Government for what reasons the UK has a very strong position. The appointment British parents living abroad must wait for a minimum of George Freeman as the Minister responsible shows of eight weeks after having applied for their newborn how important it is, and the measures taken on R&D baby’s first passport before they receive it. allowances and tax relief on the exploitation of IP in the UK will carry on supporting this industry. I was in The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Boston recently, talking to a number of life science Office (Lord Bates): My Lords, it is necessary for the companies that are thinking of coming to the UK. safety and protection of the child that we undertake a full and careful assessment of each application. First-time Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top (Lab): My Lords— passport applications for children are subject to additional checks and overseas applications can require documents Lord Stoneham of Droxford (LD): My Lords— to be verified in the country of issue with the relevant issuing authority. The Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Stowell of Beeston) (Con): My Lords, it is the turn of the Labour Benches Baroness Rawlings (Con): My Lords, I thank the and then it will be right if we come back over to the Minister for his helpful and sensible answer. Since I Liberal Democrats. put down the Question, luckily, the eight-week advised wait for a newborn baby’s passport did not occur; it Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top: My Lords, does arrived nine days after application and the Home the Minister recognise that in the north-east we still Office is to be commended. However, I would still like have the highest proportion of manufacturing in the to ask the Minister for his reassurance that a minimum country as part of our economy? However, the large eight-week wait is not the norm but something of the companies there, such as Nissan and now Hitachi, see past for low-risk areas, so as to alleviate the anxiety of membership of the European Union as absolutely new parents? critical to their ability to trade, particularly with Europe. They want to be in the north-east because of the Lord Bates: My Lords, we are always pleased to hear quality of the workforce and because it is English about a satisfied customer of the passport services, speaking, but they want the clear access to Europe. especially this year. That is good news. The reality is Are not the Government potentially putting this at that delays can occur for three reasons. Sometimes risk, and will the Minister fight within his Government they are caused by the passport service, and we are for this country to stay in Europe? trying to bear down on that and improve on it. Sometimes the cause is the applicant not filling in forms or Lord Livingston of Parkhead: The north-east, indeed, providing the necessary documents. Sometimes it is is one of our manufacturing powerhouses and is part the country from which parents are applying for the of the UK that actually has a trade surplus with the overseas passport not giving in the documents in rest of the world. The Nissan factory is producing sufficient time. I agree that we should be doing much more cars than the whole of Italy. I recognise that a better. 1919 Passports[LORDS] Food Poverty 1920

Lord Spicer (Con): Does my noble friend happen to know whether the documents are going to give out or know whether the communications problems between whether I am going to be dead first. Is there no way the Passport Office in Liverpool and the Passport that these things can be kept on record? Office in London have been sorted out yet? Lord Bates: Documentation is, of course, a critical Lord Bates: Yes, for overseas passports it is Durham element of this. The is arguably the and Liverpool and we have put in an extra 1,100 staff most prestigious travel and residence document in the to clear the backlog and improve our performance. Of world because of the security and steps we take to those, so far 500 have been appointed and the rest will maintain its integrity. We cannot do that without be appointed in the next few months. having documents verified in-country to ensure that we award passports to people who are entitled to Lord Rosser (Lab): At the peak of the summer receive them. That is a key part of what we are trying holiday season, the Passport Office had a backlog of to do. more than half a million passport applications. Thousands of people who had booked and paid for holidays were Lord Lexden (Con): My Lords, will the passport left uncertain whether they would be able to travel. In service remain for ever in the Home Office or will it be an editorial on 10 July on the great passport backlog, re-established as an arm’s-length body under new and the Times wrote: perfect conditions? “The Passport Office has failed. The minister responsible … has failed”. Lord Bates: The most important thing we have to The Times was right. What guarantees can the do is to get a grip on the situation to ensure that the Government give that there will not be the same problems that led to delays last year—an increase of shambles in the first half of next year? some 1 million applicants over what was normally forecast and expected—are dealt with, that people get Lord Bates: There was a failure. That is why the Home the service that they expect and that we keep the Secretary intervened to annul agency status and to security of our borders as our highest priority. bring the problem into the Home Office to get a grip on it. That is why the delay in the process time for Lord Reid of Cardowan (Lab): My Lords, the Minister applications—which had sunk as low as 20%, which is has admitted that the real problem last year, in his appalling and for which we apologise—is now above words, was that there were a million more applications 50% and heading towards 60% to 70%. That is as a than normal. It was nothing to do with agency status. result of the actions that have been taken and the grip Has he thought through the law of unintended that the Home Secretary has on the situation. consequences? One of the reasons why the asylum figures and deportation of foreign prisoners were so Baroness Finlay of Llandaff (CB): Can the Minister difficult is that, after a long series of judicial appeals, outline what powers an ambassador or consulate has someone could go to their MP. When the MP applied in the event of an urgent need to repatriate a family with to the Home Office Minister, the case had to be a newborn baby, because of either illness or tragedy? opened again. Does the Minister think that bringing this back into the Home Office and thus permitting Lord Bates: Where there are exceptional cases then that has had anything to do with the escalation of the it is possible to apply for emergency travel documentation. asylum and immigration problem? Of course, such a matter is dealt with through the local embassy and the local consulate. Lord Bates: That is a possibility. I defer to the noble Lord’s deep expertise in this area. The problem that Lord Dholakia (LD): My Lords, has the agency happened with the numbers was an issue of forecasting status of the Passport Office now been resolved? In that and therefore ensuring that we had the right number case, where does the ultimate responsibility for delays of staff. We are now confident that we have the right et cetera lie? number of staff to deal with that. Where issues are raised with a then they should Lord Bates: The ultimate responsibility now lies also apply to the ombudsman, which can deal with with the Home Office. We have taken that decision. these matters if it thinks there has been maladministration. Sometimes in the history of government it has been the case, when there was a problem, that we push it out and call it “agency status”. Here we have brought it Food Poverty in-house to get a grip on it. That is clearly happening. Question

Baroness Gardner of Parkes (Con): May I ask the 11.29 am Minister what the position is regarding records, in Asked by The Lord Bishop of St Albans view of his last statement? Every time I have to apply for a right of abode every time I get a new passport—I To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment still have only my Australian passport—I am asked to they have made of the recommendations of the provide all the original documents of my husband’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Food Poverty’s birth, his parents’ marriage and my marriage. I do not recent report, Feeding Britain. 1921 Food Poverty[11 DECEMBER 2014] Food Poverty 1922

Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD): My Lords, this they have overshadowed the 76 other recommendations report is a serious contribution to an important and in the report. I ask my noble friend to urge Ministers wide-ranging debate, which recognises the multiple in the eight different departments responsible to read factors behind demand for emergency food assistance. the report and its recommendations with great care. As a country, we have enough food to go round. We agree that it is wrong that anyone should go hungry at Lord Wallace of Saltaire: My Lords, I pay tribute to the same time as surplus food is going to waste. There the enormous amount of work that the noble Baroness, is a moral argument, as well as a sustainability one, to together with others, has put into this inquiry. I know ensure that we make the best use of our resources. that she has been committed to these issues for some years. Perhaps I might draw particular attention to the The Lord Bishop of St Albans: I thank the Minister chapter on resilience in this report, which talks about for his reply. I pay tribute to my colleague, the right the problems of families who do not have the skills or reverend Prelate the Bishop of Truro, for co-chairing the confidence to cook. I note that the Trussell Trust has inquiry.When the most reverend Primate the Archbishop been providing courses on cooking for some of those of Canterbury launched the report, he said that a party in order to help with diet, so that they eat well and -political approach will not solve a problem such as spend less. this because of its complexity. I wonder whether the Minister would agree with that sentiment and whether, Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale (Lab): My Lords, therefore, a genuine cross-party approach can be adopted noble Lords will be aware that the noble Baroness, to implementing the recommendations of the report. Lady Jenkin, and I have taken part for four years now In particular, will the Government liaise and work in the Live Below the Line extreme poverty initiative closely with voluntary agencies, with the food banks every spring, and I welcome very much her statement and with industry to address the pressing problem of here today and the way that it was received in the House. food waste and redistribution, whereby millions of I also chair the Cash for Kids charity in the west of tonnes of perfectly good food are going to waste at Scotland and have done for three years. This year, we great cost, at a time when hundreds of thousands of experienced a 12% increase in the number of families people are still hungry? and children applying for Christmas grants for food vouchers, cash or gifts to ensure that they have some Lord Wallace of Saltaire: My Lords, the Government pleasure on Christmas Day.It seems to me that, regardless are very happy to do that. After all, the whole food of what debates take place in 2015 on welfare benefits, bank movement is a major civil society initiative. I the economy or other issues, it would be an absolute entirely agree with the right reverend Prelate that this tragedy if that figure were to be increasing again this is a long-term problem and that we should not approach time next year. Therefore, I hope that the Government it in a partisan manner. Perhaps I might quote from will indeed take this report and our discussions with the report: NGOs and charities throughout the land on board, to “How a society protects the poorest from what appears to be a ensure that the Government, the public sector and the fundamental change in the way economies of the Western world are operating – which results in cuts in their living standards”— third sector can work together to serve those families who are still going to be in need, regardless of the that is, those of the poor— initiatives that we take on welfare benefits or other “faster than other groups – calls for developing a political agenda aspects of the economy in the immediate future. which can only be delivered over decades”.

Baroness Corston (Lab): My Lords, will the Minister Lord Wallace of Saltaire: I thank the noble Lord accept that the number of families using food banks for that. The report is also addressed to the utility rose considerably during the recent half-term? What companies and to problems such as having mobile does he think is the reason for that? phones on “pay as you go” tariffs meaning that you pay more. The poor pay more due to a whole range of Lord Wallace of Saltaire: My Lords, I have been structural reasons and the report therefore identifies a told by a friend who is involved in the food bank large number of targets to be addressed. It talks about movement that demand for food banks has dipped debt, addiction, utility pricing, low pay, housing costs when schools go back. The Government take some and mental health. The problem of low pay and the comfort from the fact that the expansion of free minimum wage, and how we increase pay, turn around school meals in primary schools is clearly, therefore, a troubled families and rebuild local social networks, are help in this regard, whatever the Daily Mail may have all part of the issues we need to address. said in attacking the whole initiative. Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (LD): My Baroness Jenkin of Kennington (Con): My Lords, Lords, I declare an interest as chair of the All-Party noble Lords may be aware that I have been a member Parliamentary Food and Health Group, and I must of this inquiry, which over the past few months has say that we have had so much evidence over the years travelled from Birkenhead and South Shields to Cornwall on why the national diet is inadequate, with malnourished and Salisbury to take evidence, as well as indeed people, obese people and so on. The noble Baroness, taking evidence from a large number of witnesses and Lady Jenkin of Kennington, correctly identified that organisations in London, many of whom do outstanding responsibility for food in the national diet is spread work in their local communities. I would like to take across eight government departments. Does my noble this opportunity to say how much I regret the wording friend agree that the time has come for a national food of my remarks at the launch on Monday, not least because strategy? 1923 Food Poverty[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1924

Lord Wallace of Saltaire: We do not need just a Economic Leadership for Cities national food strategy. The Government are well aware Motion to Take Note of the complexities of this, which is why I am answering this Question on behalf of the Cabinet Office. This is a 11.38 am large, long-term problem. I was struck to read in the report that there are 1,000 food banks in Germany Moved by Lord Shipley and 2,000 in France. It is not just a British problem. That this House takes note of the case for enabling Baroness Scotland of Asthal (Lab): My Lords, now economic leadership for cities. that the report has identified a gap, particularly in relation to children when they are not in school, can Lord Shipley (LD): My Lords, I am grateful to have the noble Lord, with that knowledge, assure us that this opportunity to debate the case for enabling economic the Government will address the issue with urgency? leadership for cities in the UK. I am grateful, too, to those noble Lords who will contribute today from all Lord Wallace of Saltaire: My Lords, that takes a parts of this House. In particular, we look forward to great deal of consideration and the Government certainly hearing the maiden speeches of three Members on will do so. The report recommends that free school these Benches, each of whom has had personal experience meals should be provided in the holiday period. That as a council leader in driving economic growth and involves a lot of implications and cost, which the whose contribution to our debate will be very valuable. Government of course will have to consider. My purpose today is twofold. First, it is reflective; that is, I want to look back at what the Government The Countess of Mar (CB): My Lords, does the has done and what our cities have achieved since 2010. noble Lord agree that many of these people are living Secondly, it is about looking forward. We are experiencing in multioccupancy buildings, with either shared cooking a sea-change in our understanding of the economic facilities or none, and have extreme difficulty in providing importance of our cities; and by “cities” I mean the proper square meals for their families? Can that be conurbation cities belong to—in essence, their travel- taken into account when people are criticising them to-work areas. We are experiencing a rising self-confidence for not being able to support themselves? in our cities as local leaderships grasp the opportunity to do more to generate wealth and jobs and thus to Lord Wallace of Saltaire: My Lords, I agree with reduce their reliance on London and the south-east. I that. Another of the recommendations in this excellent am much encouraged by this, and, for the avoidance of report, which I encourage noble Lords to read in full, any doubt, I do not mean for this debate to be exclusive: is that landlords should be expected to supply basic we should acknowledge the crucial role of shire counties cooking facilities and equipment. There was also some and rural areas in wealth generation and the crucial good material on encouraging people to grow their role of London as a world city whose success means own food. I have had some association with the charity that it represents one-fifth of the UK economy. We in Shipley that deals with people who have mental may note that London has suffered less in the recession, health problems, runs a series of allotments and indeed but our aim should be to raise growth levels in other encourages people to grow their own food and then cities, whose tax revenues are very important to the cook it themselves. There is a whole range of issues rest of the UK, as well as London. It is, of course, now that we need to address, some of which the Government hugely expensive to live in London, with the result can address but quite a lot of which civil society is at that there are many reports of young people moving least as well equipped as government in addressing. out to other cities in the UK as employment clusters grow there, where the cost of living is cheaper and the Business of the House quality of life is excellent. Motion on Stand Orders I welcome the interim report by the Independent Commission on Economic Growth and the Future of 11.38 am Public Services in Non-Metropolitan . It says Moved by Baroness Stowell of Beeston that a handful of shires are now ready for devolved That Standing Order 46 (No two stages of a Bill decision-making about public services and tax. It makes to be taken on one day) be dispensed with on Tuesday this debate on the economic leadership of cities even 16 December to allow the Taxation of Pensions Bill more important, because cities depend on rural areas to be taken through all its remaining stages that day. and rural areas depend on cities. They complement each other, and they need to work closely together. Motion agreed. This is not about creating lots of independent city- states; it is about empowerment of our cities within a Insurance Bill [HL] national framework so that they can grow faster and Membership Motion generate and retain higher tax revenues. It is about bringing local government closer together across 11.38 am boundaries so that it does not operate as geographical Moved by The Chairman of Committees silos. Transport, skills and jobs, for example, all transcend an individual council’s boundaries in urban areas. That Lord Sherbourne of Didsbury be appointed This in turn means that governance structures are a member of the Special Public Bill Committee in needed to which central government can effectively place of Lord Hodgson of Astley Abbotts, resigned. devolve. Such governance structures must have popular Motion agreed. support. They need a direct link with voters, they must 1925 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1926 be inclusive of other political parties, and they must Clyde Valley cabinet has been established. I turn to the be able to demonstrate a clear capacity to share risk growth deals. The Government have committed £12 billion and investment and to deliver better outcomes. Simply over six years from 2015-16 to 2020-21 for local growth. dividing up the available cash in Whitehall and posting In the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced out cheques will not be enough. £1 billion of funding from that allocation for local We have learnt a lot since 2010 about what works enterprise partnerships to be allocated in January. and what does not. For example, we have learnt that I conclude from all this that the pace of devolution devolution is a process, not an event, and that it is a within England is quickening. The speed and unity two-way process. We have learnt that we must learn behind the announcement about Greater Manchester from doing things and that we cannot wait to move at has been particularly impressive. The context is now the speed of the slowest. We have learnt that achieving one in which there seems to be general agreement that growth in our cities is so very important because they there is a relationship between growth and devolved have been underperforming for far too long and because powers. One has only to read all the reports published it is through the tax generated by growth that they will by organisations such as Centre for Cities, IPPR North, be able to afford the public services that they aspire to. ResPublica, the City Growth Commission, the Local By any method of comparison that we might choose Government Association and the interim report of the with similar cities across Europe, UK cities underperform. Independent Commission on Economic Growth and Seven out of our eight core cities in England outside the Future of Public Services in Non-Metropolitan London are below the national average in GDP per England to realise this. But these were all preceded by capita. Bristol is above, but Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, the visionary report, No Stone Turned: In Pursuit of Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield are Growth by my noble friend Lord Heseltine and by the below. UK cities represent 60% of jobs and output work of the noble Lord, Lord Adonis, who led the but, interestingly, they account for 73% of highly skilled North East Independent Economic Review, which made jobs; they could, however, do much more. Similar second the case for devolved powers to drive growth and skills -tier cities in other countries are economically much and for a , and talked about the stronger than ours. One of the problems is that, unlike importance of clusters. those European counterparts, powers have been stripped There is now a public appetite for devolution within away from local government outside London over England; opinion polls show that. There may not be recent decades. This has impacted on growth, so it is any more money for devolution unless it is raised no surprise that cities outside London have been locally, but there can be more effective joined-up delivery performing comparatively poorly. For example, in 2010, of public services, which would save money locally Manchester had a GDP per head half that of Munich across Whitehall’s 50 spending lines and enable savings and a fifth lower than that of Marseilles. to be redirected into investment and growth. Devolution Having identified the problem, I want to pay tribute starts with a desire to take on the greater responsibilities to the leadership on this issue shown by the Deputy Prime that come from having more powers. Just expressing a Minister and his ministerial colleagues, who in 2011 wish for more powers is not enough. As Jim O’Neill, took the first initiative to strengthen our cities through the chairman of the City Growth Commission, said city deals and who have led those city deals and local recently, local leaders aspiring to take on greater growth deals since. The initiative was a vital step responsibilities need to demonstrate that their councils because it put cities centre stage. It said that cities were and joint structures have the capacity to take control important and it put the onus on them to come up from Whitehall. That capacity-building is important. with deliverable proposals that they wanted to implement. May I make a plea here over words? I hear lots of It was a subtle but vital change in approach. Defining demands for devolution of powers and freedoms, but those cities’ increasing responsibilities has unleashed a it is not just about that; it is also about responsibilities. rising confidence which can only get stronger. That is because you can have all the freedoms and Cities were prepared for it, of course, because English powers you like; the real question is what you plan to core cities have been pressing the case for investment do with them and how you will measure your success. and further devolved powers for at least a decade, and We have moved on a long way from the passing of had done a lot of the necessary preparatory work. So the Localism Act 2011, which gave a power of general the Government are committed to devolving power. competence and helped to create the framework in They appointed a Minister for Cities, introduced city which city deals, growth deals and devolution deals deals and growth deals for local enterprise partnerships, have been able to take place. It is clear that this is and now devolution deals, of which Greater Manchester indeed a cross-party initiative at Westminster, as each is the first, I hope, of many. There were 28 city deals; of the main parties commits itself to the implementation 95% of the first wave actions are on track or have been of greater devolution. The crucial point now is this. completed, while 82% of wave two actions are on Cities are thinking about their “functional economic track or have been completed. Examples of action geography” when making economic decisions. They are taken include growth hubs, innovation centres, earn-back working across local authority boundaries for the benefit programmes, gainshare schemes for the additional of their area as a whole, and they see growth as a national tax raised, freedoms to borrow against future central task of local government rather than just thinking business rate income and localised youth contracts in terms of local government being about provision of and apprenticeship schemes. In governance, several services. combined authorities have been established, with others One of the consequences of the Scottish referendum on the way. Three joint committees have been established is that demands for further devolution within England and two more are to come shortly. The Glasgow and have increased. We should note, however, that devolution 1927 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1928

[LORD SHIPLEY] of central government grant. We should accept and within England is not dependent on what happens plan for differential devolution and ensure that city over devolution to Scotland; it would be happening regions integrate with each other, particularly in transport. anyway, but it may well be speeded up. I would make In their 2011 report, Unlocking Growth in Cities, the this further point: there is a huge difference between Government stated: Scotland, which already had a Parliament, significant “Cities are the engines of economic growth and they will be devolved powers and debated independence for two critical to our economic recovery”. years, and English regions and sub-regions, which I hope we can agree. Recently, the City Growth have no directly elected structures other than through Commission rightly said that sustainable growth and their councils, many fewer devolved powers, and with deficit reduction cannot be delivered from the centre. I a few honourable exceptions have not been thinking hope we can agree. The House of Commons Communities much about the detail of devolution at the sub-regional and Local Government Committee said this July that level. Defining what is wanted in detail, with clarity in cities such as London and the core cities were ready to governance and resourcing, is an essential prerequisite take greater control over their financing and borrowing to successful devolution, whether it is urban or rural. powers. Areas to which any fiscal powers were devolved One of the indirect benefits of city deals is that they should, it said, can have the effect of raising the aspirations of an area “demonstrably function as an economic unit”. as a whole. I want to give an example briefly from my I hope we can agree. own part of the country. In October, some 300 north-east I conclude that cities need greater control of their business leaders met in Newcastle to acknowledge the funding streams and clear powers and responsibilities. role of those who have helped to build the IT sector in They need fiscal powers and the powers to build up the area into the thriving sector that it has now become, their own resources, and devolving powers to cities supporting some 32,000 jobs, with a further 2,000, I should be the start of a much more ambitious process understand, expected to be added to the sector very of devolution for the whole of England. I beg to move. shortly. Tech-based entrepreneurship is thriving in the area, fed by active early-stage investment and incubators, 11.54 am dynamic universities and a thriving corporate technology Lord Lyell (Con): My Lords, I begin by thanking sector. Of course, one of the world’s largest business my noble friend for setting the seal and the pattern for software firms, Sage, was founded and remains head a great debate today, with numerous maiden speakers, -quartered in the city. Crucial to this success are the on matters of enormous importance. Your Lordships’ growing indigenous independents now coming together House also has somebody like me, an amateur. as a cluster to drive the local agenda for skills, collaboration Now, 11 November 1967 was quite an interesting and innovation in IT. day for me. I happened to be in London at the weekend The north-east IT network, Dynamo, has established and I went down to Buckingham Palace to the Guard that the north-east’s current problem in IT is filling Mounting. There was a horde of young gentlemen vacancies. Some 2,000 jobs were filled this year; for there in blue outfits. It was clear from the way they instance, Accenture hired 150 staff and the Government spoke that they came from elsewhere. They were from Digital Service expanded to 450 desks locally. Many Liverpool. They were attending an afternoon event. I local firms are now growing beyond 100 staff, some joined them. We had a tremendous day out. They said opening offices in other cities to tap new labour markets. I must go up to Liverpool so in 1968 I went to Some of the growth is being absorbed by the boomerang Liverpool. I had been there only once, in 1957 when I Geordies, experienced locals who sought work away was a young soldier. I went in April 1968 and I walked but are returning home as globalised markets offer for three and a half miles from another afternoon career challenges on their doorstep. It is most encouraging. event back to the station. I was interested in huge Indeed, to IT in the north-east we can add clusters in areas of what I would call inner Liverpool—not Kirkdale the automotive industry, pharmaceuticals, the process or Kirkby or Huyton—that were being renewed and industries and the offshore, subsea and renewables were capable of being redeveloped. industries. In a recent edition of the Observer, I read an Every schoolboy in Scotland, England or elsewhere article about Bristol, about its creative edge and about will know the history of Liverpool, with its huge port young people moving out of London to Bristol to centre. It was and still is a great centre for commerce and share in its creative buzz. Clusters seem to be growing ideas. I read a great deal to try to prepare. But I knew of in our cities, and that is a very good thing. I conclude one thing in Liverpool: the enormous docks. The that Whitehall must now look increasingly to cities for pattern of trade has changed noticeably, certainly in innovation and growth. my lifetime and especially over the past 20 or 30 years. In conclusion, what of the future? The Autumn Now we have enormous containers and other methods Statement was very helpful, in particular, in outlining of transporting goods, all kinds of apparatus, but they the things that are planned to put the north of England arrive and they come from all over the world. Liverpool at the centre of growth. What we need now are cities is not sleeping at all. I understand that there is a that know what they want. That includes comprehensive £350 million project to improve the deep-water quay city region strategies in transport, housing, skills and so that the world’s largest container ships can come to land use. They should understand how they will generate Liverpool, to Merseyside, to carry on the great tradition more resources locally. Secondly, the Government need of the Port of Liverpool. to devolve fiscal powers. There is a danger that we will What is the geography? Liverpool, with a new port achieve devolution of functions only when we need of that nature, is far nearer to the manufacturing greater fiscal devolution and three to five years’ funding centre of the Midlands than other ports around the 1929 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1930 coast elsewhere. Time is money, so save it. The city of understanding of their local impact. I certainly agree Liverpool has carried out economic leadership off its with that. But he asserted that local authorities have been own bat. I understand from a Financial Times survey relegated to service providers—increasingly, commissioners that between 2010 and 2012, when it was difficult of services—and that local economic leadership has throughout the United Kingdom, the city of Liverpool all but disappeared. This is too sweeping an assertion, created 12,800 private sector jobs. There was a loss of doubtless many noble Lords here today will know of about 5,000 jobs in the public sector because of cuts in the engagement of their local council in regeneration various government departments. That shows the activities and a partnership working with the local wonderful capacity of the city of Liverpool, and cities business —driven in many instances by the like it, of two words: “can do”. support of RDAs. It belies the leadership role of the As I an amateur, I know of one thing. The main Core Cities Group over some 15 years, I believe, and in industry that comes to my mind and is splattered particular its work which culminated in amendments throughout the newspapers, not just the financial press to the Localism Bill—as it then was—agreed by an but other sectors, is the enormous motor works at all-party consensus, which allowed Ministers to transfer Halewood. There must be something in the spirit of the local public functions from central government to people who work there—and of the city—and their local and combined authorities. attitude. I understand that it is very nearly a three-shift As we know, a range of city deals followed, not system, producing Jaguars, Range Rover Evoques and homogeneous arrangements, underlining the diverse other enormously high-quality vehicles that go all needs of cities—and there are more to come. Important over the world, revitalising industry in Liverpool. That as they are, however, it is difficult to maintain that is enormously encouraging. such arrangements are transformational; step change I spent a happy evening in Liverpool in May this is required if the true potential of our towns and cities year. Since April 1968, the waterfront, down at the is to be realised. We should remember that the Secretary docks—Albert Dock and Kings Dock—has changed of State still holds the whip hand in these deals, being unbelievably. Why? It is the people of Liverpool. I required to determine whether any transfer of functions have a great close tie with the city. I was taken ill in would promote economic development or wealth creation 2006 and I received telegrams and good wishes from or increase local accountability. people I had not necessarily met in the course of my What should change entail? It raises issues of funding, job. My great affection does not always clash with the powers and coverage. Again, as my noble friend Lord noble Lord, Lord Alton, but never mind. It is a great Adonis has proposed, we should devolve funding of institution that has looked after me. Those men in blue £30 billion over the next five years to combined authorities, in November 1967 encouraged me to go and take a local authorities and LEPs to cover key economic look at what this great city does in the north of levers—housing, transport, skills and business support. England, what it can do and what it will do in the Of course, how funding is devolved is important and future. I very much look forward to hearing what my we must not replicate the past with endless bidding noble friend the Minister will say about this part of processes and bureaucracy, nor allow the Treasury to the north of England, which I will be passing through strangle such initiatives. today on my way home. I thank my noble friend for introducing the debate. This agenda brings with it the thirst for more taxes to be devolved to English cities. City Centred campaigns Noon for council tax, stamp duty land tax, business rates, annual tax on enveloped buildings and capital gains Lord McKenzie of Luton (Lab): My Lords, we property disposal tax to be devolved. It properly asserts should congratulate the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, on that this would be Exchequer-neutral because central securing this debate for us this morning, and the noble grants to cities would be cut. Lord, Lord Lyell, on his clear attachment to and love We would go some way along this path by giving of Liverpool—although I am advised that he is an control over the full revenue from business rates, which Everton supporter. I also look forward to the three we would in any event reform, to powerful new city maiden speeches we will hear today. The notion that and county regions which come together in combined local councils—particularly cities; and I am happy to authorities. It would be an incentive to do so, but we accept the definition of the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, would not insist on their needing to have an elected for that term—with strong local leadership can be a mayor. force for economic progress is, of course, not new. But moving forward on this agenda has been given impetus It is important that there is scope within the system by what my noble friend Lord Adonis has set out in to address the differing needs and resources of local his report, Mending the Fractured Economy: the link authorities and scope for a safety net for local economic between economic growth and the living standards of shocks. This will be especially important in the near term, ordinary people has been broken, and this dictates a given the current local authority funding arrangements, fundamental reform in order to secure more balanced which have hit the poorest areas the most. Of course one growth. This converges with the recognition that the way to devolve economic power and funding would be scale of spending cuts facing local authorities will to relocate more civil service posts outside London. most effectively be delivered by the chance to join up, So far as combined authorities are concerned, we reconfigure and innovate at local level. can look to Greater Manchester as a beacon. It in As the noble Lord, Lord Heseltine, concluded in his particular has been leading the way, and we should report No Stone Unturned: In Pursuit of Growth, too congratulate it and indeed the Government on its new many decisions are taken in London without a full deal with the Treasury. The opportunity to promote a 1931 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1932

[LORD MCKENZIE OF LUTON] At the bottom of the stairs he mercifully administers northern powerhouse is obviously to be welcomed. It the coup de grace: “My Lord, I’m sure you will be will build on some of the existing strengths of these safer sitting here”. Many new Members are confused regions, including in science and technology, and it by the geography of the , but I chimes with my noble friend Lord Adonis’s proposals managed to get confused over the geography of this for a long-term innovation strategy. Chamber. Noble Lords will be pleased to know that I However, these opportunities are not just about big will not be putting my name forward for overseas cities, however important, nor just about the north. visits in the foreseeable future; I fear that I could be We need to mend the link between growth and living lost to the House for ever. standards across the UK, so we will propose that local I turn to the Motion being debated today, which I authorities covering any part of the country—Norwich am grateful to my noble friend Lord Shipley for tabling. or Luton included—will be able to become combined I want to spend a short time reflecting on Greater authorities, again with devolution of powers and funding. Manchester’s journey towards achieving greater control We would devolve funding to all local areas that over the decisions that affect us all locally. It is a journey reform their LEPs and create formal governance structures that has been made in partnership with government, across local authorities at regional level, so that every recognising not only the economic potential of English part of the country would have the chance to make its city regions but their leaders’ capacity to make the right decisions over how to invest in skills, infrastructure decisions for those places. Greater Manchester’s 10 leaders and business. have an unrivalled history of collaboration, characterised by consistent leadership and hard work over many years, Lord Popat (Con): My Lords, I am afraid that the first through the Association of Greater Manchester noble Lord’s time is up. Authorities, established in 1986, and then through the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the first in the country, marking a new phase in our collective Lord McKenzie of Luton: I am sorry, I shall wind ambitions. The combined authority provides us with up now. All the evidence shows that the economic strong and effective governance and has statutory benefits of devolving powers to local areas are too responsibilities for transport, economic development great to ignore. Devolving powers to cities is a start and regeneration. As a Liberal Democrat vice chair of but not the end. the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities, I was uniquely placed to help frame and deliver those 12.06 pm unique opportunities. Lord Goddard of Stockport (LD) (Maiden Speech): Our leadership has evolved from a “bottom up” My Lords, listening to other Peers’ maiden speeches approach—it is vital that Members understand that—to has been quite a revelation for me; some have been meet the Greater Manchester agenda and ensure the amusing, some quite touching. Anyone who had the ownership and commitment of the 10 leaders. We have privilege of hearing the maiden speech of the noble worked out which functions are best delivered at the Lord, Lord Farmer, must have been moved by his Greater Manchester level and which are best delivered highly personal story. On the other hand, I now know at local level. We also have been able to develop a that there are seven Smiths in the House—a quite highly effective partnership with business leaders, helping useless fact but one that I cannot get out of my head. I to shape the strategic direction and oversee the delivery thank everyone who has made my introduction and of key growth functions. There is no equivalent my stay here so welcoming: my long-suffering supporters, comprehensive partnership anywhere else in the country. my noble friends Lord Lee of Trafford and Lord In March 2012 I was one of the four leaders from McNally, and my mentor, my noble friend the one and Greater Manchester who pitched for, and were successful only Lord Addington. in securing, the first city deal in the country. That city I also thank the officers, the staff and of course the deal secured a broad-ranging set of arrangements to legendary doorkeepers. On my second day in the House, deliver jobs and growth to Greater Manchester. Three I decided to come in early—be my own man. I took aspects of that merit particular attention. my place on the third row, in prime position. The House began to fill up. To my surprise, a doorkeeper The earn-back model is a ground-breaking tax- came across to me. “Lord Goddard?” he politely asked. increment financing scheme which means that £1.2 billion “Yes, I am.” “Lord Goddard of Stockport?” “Yes, of investment made by our councils can be earned yes.” He actually knows who I am after one day in the back as real economic growth is delivered, to then be House. “Lord Goddard of Stockport, the Liberal reinvested in further schemes. Democrat Peer?” By now, I am the emperor penguin, The Greater Manchester Investment Framework chest out and proud as punch: “Yes, I am that Member”. combines different government funding streams into a The doorkeeper leans in and whispers in my ear: single pot, making it easier for investors to access the “Perhaps the noble Lord will wish to follow me across finance they need. Because the fund is a loan, not a the Floor to the Liberal Democrat Benches. You are grant, it can be recycled to make better use of scarce actually sat in the Labour Benches”. resources. New skills pilots will deliver an extra 6,000 As the realisation of my predicament dawns on me, apprenticeships via small and medium-size businesses. I slowly follow him down the steps and across the The devolution agreement, signed in November, is Floor of the Chamber. I can see the Members politely quite simply an agreement designed to drive growth smiling at my mishap right around the Chamber. I go and reform public services in the quickest possible from emperor penguin to Donald Duck in 30 seconds. way. 1933 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1934

I recognise that the full devolution of Greater However, today’s debate goes beyond cities. Two-thirds Manchester’s public spending will take many years to of Bradford district is rural. The commission on the deliver. Our road map proposes that the functions and future of public services in non-metropolitan England resources for public services be devolved in a staged has already noted that these areas account for half of manner to enable the city region to be financially our country’s population and economic growth. The sustainable and economically successful, providing early fact is that all people can benefit from decisions being wins for both Greater Manchester and the Government. made closer to them, whether they are from a big city Finally, I thank Sir Howard Bernstein, chief executive or a rural community. of Manchester City Council, and Eamonn Boylan, When it comes to economic leadership, certain chief executive of Stockport Council, for their support powers are ripe for devolution—such as skills. That over many years. Today Sir Howard and I share a wider will be crucial for low-wage, low-skilled economies smile, following our beloved Manchester City’s win in such as Bradford. Getting people the right skills should Rome last night against all the odds. As my mother help keep employment levels stable as the area’s used to say to me, “Do good things for others and populations grow. The evidence for a local approach sometimes good things will happen to you”. Thank you. to skills is convincing. Pilot schemes that are run in my part of the world help nearly three in five young 12.12 pm people who take part to go into education, training or Baroness Eaton (Con): MyLords,itismygreat employment. That is more than twice the success rate pleasure to congratulate my noble friend Lord Goddard of the national scheme. In just 18 months, a council-led of Stockport on his excellent maiden speech. He will youth job scheme created 105,000 jobs, instead of be a very welcome addition to the Liberal Benches and 7,500 from the national equivalent. also to the whole House. His work in local government Beyond skills, research by Ernst & Young shows and his wide experience of partnership working, that applying lessons from community budget pilots particularly in the Greater Manchester Combined could save up to £20 billion in five years. However, local Authority, will be of great value to us, especially in areas, including cities, do not just need more local decision deliberations such as this one. He is most welcome. -making; they also need more financial freedom. That is I declare an interest as a former chairman of the what “economic leadership” means—giving local areas Local Government Association, a current LGA vice- the freedom to raise and spend money at a local level. president and a previous leader of Bradford Metropolitan Last week, the Chancellor announced a business rates Council, where I am still a councillor. I know that review, which is something that the Local Government all councillors here today, and those who have been Association and the business community have called for. councillors, fully appreciate the importance of today’s We must ensure that councils are properly involved in debate, and I thank the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, for the consultation. The Local Government Association has initiating it. proposed devolving the setting of business rates and discounts to local authorities. It also proposes that 100% Bradford, as most noble Lords probably do not of business rates income—including business rates growth know, is the fourth-largest metropolitan district in —be retained by local government. The reforms proposed England, after Birmingham, Leeds and Sheffield. It by the Local Government Association would set councils has the eighth-largest economy in the United Kingdom, on the path to greater self-sufficiency and would give creating more than £8 billion of added value. And councils greater financial certainty in their future. Bradford is not alone. The potential of the United Kingdom’s cities is enormous. The City Growth The cities agree that, while policies such as city Commission has already reported that, if the UK’s deals, the regional growth fund and the Localism top 15 metro areas realised their full potential, they Act 2011 have made important moves towards localism, could add almost £80 billion to our economy by 2030. they still do not deliver the economic leadership and Of course, this is not just about individual cities but security needed for cities to control their own destinies. about networks of cities, in the north and in the south, There is now a real opportunity to push this agenda coming together to drive economic growth. Already forward, and this is the perfect time for all political we are seeing more powers for Greater Manchester, parties to push forward with this important reform. and the Chancellor, in his speech on the Autumn Statement, said that his, 12.18 pm “door is open to other cities who want to follow its cross-party Lord McFall of Alcluith (Lab): My Lords, I welcome lead”.—[Official Report, Commons, 3/12/14; col. 314.] the introduction by the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, of Throughout debates on cities, Core Cities is mentioned this important debate, and the maiden speech of the noble as if it indisputably represented the largest economically. Lord, Lord Goddard of Stockport, which was very While in no way trying to undermine the efficiency thoughtful and amusing. I am sure that he will make a and effectiveness of Core Cities, I point out that, at the great contribution to the House. time, it was formed as an interest group of one political My reflections will be on the issue of the Scottish persuasion. Economic reality is a little more complex. referendum and from my experience as a Member of As an example of complexity, Leeds city region, an Parliament in the other place for 23 years. In Scotland, area of a combined authority, is polycentric: Bradford, the most important question was that of the currency. which is within that combined authority, has a population The SNP proposals were described by Jim Sillars of of over 500,000 people. The role of Bradford and that party as “stupidity on stilts”, and Paul Krugman other cities such as Wakefield and Huddersfield, which commented: are not members of Core Cities, should not be “If Scottish voters really believe that it’s safe to become a underestimated. country without a currency, they have been badly misled”. 1935 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1936

[LORD MCFALL OF ALCLUITH] project management was needed to drive it. This is not We can see that today, with oil at $65 a barrel—the just about satisfying local needs; it is about powering White Paper had Scotland breaking even at $115 a those with the ambition for their areas, and the skill barrel. sets to realise their potential. I conclude by saying that Yet almost 45% of people in Scotland voted yes, if we take the concept of subsidiarity to its natural and there were many reasons for that. In my campaigning, conclusion, we will not end just with devolution to I found a few: first, people wanted a fairer, more socially cities alone. just Scotland; they thought, “We couldn’t do any worse, so why shouldn’t we vote yes?”; and they had 12.23 pm lost faith in the ability to bring change through the Lord Scriven (LD) (Maiden Speech): My Lords, I ballot box. The fundamental issue is that there is an rise before you today with a sense of pride—pride in increasing distance between the political process and the fact that I come from a very humble background: the people, but the referendum demonstrated that born in a council estate in Huddersfield, the son of a people are interested in politics—we saw tremendous refuse collector and a hospital cleaner—but also with turnouts of 85% to 90%. So there is a clear desire for a sense of nervousness. As I look round the House at increased devolution and a recognition of the special all the experience, the wisdom and the knowledge, I characteristics of other nations and regions in the UK. understand that in my five minutes I have to share However, there is a remoteness to our politics, some of my experience as leader of Sheffield City whether in Westminster, Holyrood, Cardiff or Stormont. Council. What I have witnessed, with Holyrood, is devolution I thank noble Lords for the warm, generous and to Scotland but not devolution within Scotland. Let open welcome they have given me, for the advice they me give my own experience of how difficult devolution have given me, and for playing to my male vanity: within Scotland is. As MP for West Dunbartonshire, I never in the past 25 years have I been called “young witnessed the closure of the J&B bottling plant in man” so often as in the past two months. I thank 1997. Instead of letting Diageo depart simply with them, too, for their advice on giving this, my maiden warm words of regret and a cheque for the local speech. I have been given two recurring themes: keep it community, I held its feet to the fire and established a short and sharp and keep it non-controversial. Those task force, which I chaired, comprising local enterprise who know me know that I will struggle in the next four companies, local authorities, trade unions, local companies minutes, but I will do my best. I also want to thank all and the community, as well as Diageo. the staff who work diligently, quietly but effectively to Tying down that local public/private partnership make your Lordships’ House work so well, and I give was not without its difficulties, but in 2011 I departed, my personal thanks to the doorkeepers. after 14 years as chair, of what has become known in I thank my noble friend Lord Shipley for introducing the local area as Lomondgate. What is the audit of the debate. Why have I chosen this debate in which to that? Four hundred and thirty jobs were lost by the make my maiden speech? I am steeped in localism and J&B closure; at the end of 2013, the audited accounts local government and I love my adopted home city of showed that we now have 702 full-time equivalent jobs Sheffield, where I have lived for 18 years—a city that is on that 40-acre site—that is 2% of West Dunbartonshire’s green, open, welcoming, industrious and nonconformist. resident workforce. We have contributed £182 million I suppose that is why I chose that city as my adopted gross value added regionally and £65 million nationally. home. As a former leader of Sheffield City Council, I The major achievements include: attracting the BBC understood that, in a global world, city areas are key to us as a production location for “River City”, which to growth. The Royal Society of Arts points out that is Scotland’s equivalent of “EastEnders”; attracting 62% of all economic growth across the world in the Aggreko, a company that started almost in a back next 10 years will come from city areas. There are room in Dumbarton in the 1980s but is now a FTSE examples from across the world of cities such as 100 company, with 400 jobs; and bringing in housing Boston, Hamburg and Bilbao, which have been given and leisure investment of more than £40 million, powers and autonomy, reinventing themselves and accompanied by capital investment of £62 million. growing. They all have greater powers, autonomy and Independent economic forecasts estimate that, by financial control than city areas in the UK. 2019, there will be 1,971 gross full-time equivalent In the UK, our journey has just started, but there is jobs accommodated on that site. That is a net cumulative further to go. I shall explain how Sheffield’s journey regional gross value added of £510 million, plus started and some of the things that we have done in £192 million contributed nationally. What does that the past couple of years. The debate on city area mean in terms of public funding? Public funding for versus rural area or town area can become sterile. The that project was less than £500,000, so the net return real issue is not one of lines on maps or administrative on investment is more than £1,000 for every £1 of boundaries but of where real businesses are located public money. That is a tremendous outcome. and of where real people travel to and from work: that And what are the lessons? This would never have is the economic area. Sheffield city region comprises been achieved if it had been left at national level. The areas as diverse as the Derbyshire Dales and the city of public/private partnership had to be locally devised Sheffield, and political leaders drawn from the Liberal and driven, and Diageo had to fulfil its community Democrat, Labour and Conservative Parties—even, responsibility. If Westminster or Holyrood—or even initially, an English Democrat mayor—who understood the local authority—had been running it, they would that for our people and businesses to succeed we have been too remote and that would not have happened. needed a certain skill set, infrastructure and plan to To end up with this successful outcome, day-to-day enable businesses to grow. 1937 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1938

The area contains 1.8 million people, with an output city has the highest retention rate of graduates of the of £28 billion per year. There are 700,000 jobs in the two universities of any city in the country. Recently area and 47,000 businesses. It is our real economic Sheffield City Council committed to the aspiration of area, not designed by a bureaucrat or by a line drawn becoming the fairest city in Britain—a reference not to on a map but by people who live, work and invest in its natural or physical beauty, as some would say it is that area. In the past four years, we have achieved a that already, but to greater equality of wealth and number of things. Thanks to my right honourable opportunity into the future. friend the Deputy Prime Minister, who happens to be The question of economic leadership for cities is the MP for Sheffield Hallam, through the city deal complex. The proposals made by the Government and and the Local Growth Fund more than £500 million others have, perhaps naturally, reflected a focus on the of public money has been handed back to the area to creation of unitary authorities and new kinds of city enable us to have autonomy and control. The key mayors. There is a paradox, it is thought, that most of areas that have come up are skills, skills and skills, the larger cities are seeking greater economic devolution infrastructure, access to finance, transport and housing. but have turned down by referenda the possibility of We have used that money to make sure that local mayoral systems. I believe that there is wisdom in the control, local decisions and local knowledge were used cities which declined to have a mayor, according to to design schemes such as the Sheffield city infrastructure their local circumstance. Local democracy is a vital fund, where more than £221 million of public money part of economic leadership. That leadership needs to was put in one pot, leveraging in an extra £500 million be broadly based, using the gifts of all. That broad base to enable investment in 15 infrastructure schemes. A is better served often in a medium-sized city through a £130 million skills bank has been created to enable council leader and cabinet model of leadership than local employers to create a demand-led skills scheme, through the creation of the new office of an elected so that people are skilled up for existing jobs and jobs mayor. New structures of government should not be a that will exist in the area in the future. condition of greater investment or devolution of powers. As time is short, I end by saying that, as I sit down, I do so with the sense of pride I felt as I stood up, but The strengthening of economic leadership for the with fewer nerves, thanks to the gracious way that future will rest in the long term on the widest ownership noble Lords have listened to my speech. I hope to play of the democratic process locally, which encourages a full and active role in your Lordships’ House and local people to guide and lead their own communities. promise to keep my future interventions short and This in turn will stimulate the vital integration of skilled sharp. However, I cannot promise that I will always be migrant and ethnic-minority communities in the life non-controversial or conformist. As the saying goes, of the city. A new forum for engagement between civil “You can take the boy out of Sheffield, but you can’t society and the Muslim community began recently in take Sheffield out of the boy”. South Yorkshire and is an excellent example of this. Investment in transport and infrastructure is vital 12.29 pm across the region. There needs to be excellent leadership in manufacturing, finance and chambers of commerce. The Lord Bishop of Sheffield: My Lords, I take this The city region needs to be able to compete in global opportunity of formally welcoming the noble Lord, Lord markets. Its ability to project a vibrant and positive Scriven, of Hunters Bar, to your Lordships’ House and image is enhanced through sporting connections, tourism I congratulate him on such an excellent maiden speech. and developing a global brand. We saw a brilliant It was my privilege to work with him in his time as illustration of this in Yorkshire earlier this year in Le leader of Sheffield City Council. He was and is held in Grand Départ, which has had a significant effect on great respect by the faith communities and many across the local economy and morale. the city and region. As he said, he is a native of West Yorkshire and, like me, was called to live in South Sheffield Cathedral has recently celebrated its centenary, Yorkshire. It will be apparent to many already that he together with the centenary of the diocese I serve. This brings significant experience of leadership of one of has been marked by a £3 million reordering of the our major cities. I know that he will be an excellent medieval church to make it truly a place for all people advocate in this House for Sheffield and its region, and contributing to building confidence across the and for the north of England in the years to come. I whole region. thank him for his short, sharp, non-controversial maiden Economic leadership for the long term depends to a speech and, in particular, for his emphasis on the reality high degree on investment in education and skills of the city region and on collaboration across different locally. Earlier this year, I made a visit to the Sheffield perspectives. It was a speech so deeply steeped in local College, a fine example of a further education college experience, yet with a truly international perspective. which has reshaped its curriculum by listening to the I warmly welcome the debate. The economic flourishing needs of local industry. There is a specific focus on the of our cities and regions is key to the economic needs of local manufacturing, the digital industry, prosperity of our country, as so many have said. The tourism and sport. I hope that the present Government city I know best, Sheffield, as you have already heard, and the next Government and all parties will have the is poised and well placed to take advantage of the new courage to continue to develop an ever stronger and deal for cities. It has a long history of manufacturing more coherent vision for local democracy leading to and craft, particularly in the steel industry. There is a the economic growth of the cities, working through flourishing partnership between manufacturing, local parish, district and city councils, which can enable government, the universities and the voluntary and even more citizens to give of their time and skills for faith sectors. The quality of life for many is high. The the flourishing of our great cities. 1939 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1940

Lord Popat: My Lords, this is a time-limited debate, for constitutional change leads to the submergence of so when the clock shows five minutes, please sit down. the concerns of those who work in cities but live in That will give the Minister a chance to respond to this small communities around them—and to governance very important debate. without consent—then I would not board that band -wagon. I say yes to partnership and yes indeed to 12.35 pm devolution, but with super-authorities I am not so sure. I hope that my noble friend on the Front Bench, who Lord True (Con): My Lords, I declare an interest as understands suburban communities very well, will leader of a London borough. I guess I am a sort of make it clear that these will not be imposed—by our city dweller. I thank my noble friend Lord Shipley for side, at least—whether by statute or by the effective introducing this important debate. We have heard two blackmail of conditional resourcing. remarkable maiden speeches already from my noble I underline this issue for London. We already have a friends and I am looking forward with confidence to a regional super-authority in London. The most slow- third one. moving, bureaucratic and least accountable parts of It is true that the road to the city across the centuries London government are the Molochs of the GLA’s has been the road to the hope of a better and fuller transport and planning departments. Co-operation life. We see that in waves of demographic movement and partnership work well across London and are even today in many a megalopolis in the developing developing further from boroughs upwards. It would world. Cities must be centres of new enterprise and we be folly if, in a constitutional spasm, we were to must encourage and cherish successful businesses and identify more devolution with more central powers for business leaders who we need to keep our cities great. a mayor, or sanction new governance that enables the However, no city is immune from change. The greatest piling of ever more taxation on already heavily taxed cities of England before 1700 were, after London, suburban communities. Norwich, Bristol, Newcastle, Exeter, York and Great In conclusion, I agree with the right reverend Prelate. Yarmouth, in that order. Of course we can regret past There is a spiritual element, in the largest sense, to the decline in places such as Lowestoft or Nottingham, conundrum of city revival. After all, cities were once which shaped my childhood. But for Lowestoft or identified by their cathedrals and enhanced by local Yarmouth you cannot put the herring or the gas back philanthropy. People today are crying out for a sense in the North Sea. In Nottingham you cannot reverse of being rooted, with some idea of permanence and the war on tobacco, the fall of lace from fashion, the security. The spirit of place matters enormously in sourcing of textiles from the developing world, or the that. It is a great motivating force and a binding environmental movement’s successful felling of “king element. Whatever change we may contemplate in our coal”. cities and their surrounds, do not let us stifle that spirit History shows that cities cannot stand still in resentful of place, wherever it is found, or fail to hear the nostalgia. Today they must diversify, embrace new diverse voice of smaller communities. technologies and invest in education and skills, as other noble Lords have said, working with employers, 12.41 pm such as in the new enterprise and education campus Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top (Lab): My Lords, we plan in our own authority. I welcome so much that this is a very timely debate. I welcome it enormously. I the Government have done in assisting that through particularly welcome the fact that it comes from someone city deals, partnerships, educational reform, support else from the north-east. The case for more economic for small business, infrastructure investment and much opportunity for our cities is irrefutable. The intellectual else. It is quite a long time since the Government took case is there and has been made in different ways by such a committed interest in our cities. people from different sides of the House already. I While I agree with much that other noble Lords, want to come at this in a very different way. including my noble friend Lord Goddard, have said, I As many will know, I never represented a city in the have some concerns. I share the views of the noble and other place. In fact, I live in a part of County Durham, right reverend Prelate on this. I do not share the rather which I think is an amazing place. I am very privileged faddish obsession with new statutory political structures to live there. I was born in Sunderland. We were in what seems, at times, a rather hasty response to the always really proud that it was a bigger city than referendum in Scotland. I do not think the answer to Newcastle. I say all of that because there are rivalries city decline is more law about local government structures. and issues around what we mean when we talk about Waste, churn, conflict and cost have followed almost cities here. We have to be very flexible around that. I every past statutory interference in local government want to talk about why we have not before now done structures. what we have done and what that balance between the I agree with my noble friend Lord Shipley that we centre and the locality has to take account of in our need more joint working, co-operation and bottom-up country. partnership, but there are mechanisms already for This debate is very important in the context of that. We also need local flexibility and freedoms and other important areas of debate in this country. One is not single institutional models pedalled in clever the size and role of the state. There is a real argument professorial lectures and imposed by statute. Each city to be had about that. The Chancellor has raised it; he must choose for itself, but it is ridiculous, for example, is trying to tell us that he has not really raised it, but it in my own city of Nottingham to say that it cannot is absolutely there: what sort of state do we want, solve its economic problems unless the suburb of West where we do want power to lie and how are we going Bridgford is put under the same authority. If the fad to develop that? We cannot sort that out today. I am a 1941 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1942 bit worried that the Government want to sort it out on Lord, Lord Tope, who are not only parliamentarians the back of a fag packet before January, but there is a but have long experience in local government. Secondly, lot to think about and a lot to do about that. I add my thanks for the advice, professionalism, kindness The other issue is the one that we are being told will and good humour of the staff in this place. The be sorted out on the back of a fag packet before doorkeepers have already been mentioned, but I, too, January, which is devolution. Devolution is a huge would like to add my thanks for the many times that challenge to us. It is a particularly huge challenge they have rescued me from the labyrinthine corridors because we live in a very small country, where we see and staircases of this magnificent building. Who knows, daily on our televisions and read in our newspapers I might not even be here today if it were not for their what the world of the media thinks about what is good advice on finding some of the best routes. going on in different places and comparing them. One On my own background, I was born in Liverpool, of the great challenges for those of us who are committed which is a great and proud city. We have already heard to effective local government with new fundraising in the debate about Liverpool and its achievements. I powers is what is described all the time as the postcode am a teacher and have taught in a variety of settings: lottery rather than as an issue of democratic decision- primary, secondary and adult. I have taught modern making. I can tell noble Lords that that is what languages, including English as a second language, Governments run away from. When I was Local and economics. I have also taught in a number of Government Minister between 1997 and 2001 we would different locations, in London, Paris, the west coast of agree to do a particular thing. For example, we agreed Scotland and Bristol. In addition, I have served as a that the police would be given autonomy over how councillor in the London borough of Kingston upon they spent their grant. The headlines after nine months Thames and of course Bristol. It is a great privilege, in were all about how many police were being taken off a debate on cities in this House, to be able to talk the beat. At the end of the year the Home Secretary about Bristol in the week of the 150th anniversary of said, “I’m going to ring-fence the money around numbers the Clifton Suspension Bridge. of policemen and not let them decide—they’re not Bristol is a city of innovation and technical excellence: going to spend it on policemen, they’re going to spend whether we talk about the suspension bridge, Concorde, it on back-office stuff”. So we have the huge challenge Airbus or Wallace and Gromit, it is testimony to the of how we are seen as doing things. I do not see that as high concentration of technical expertise, which is easy. underpinned by two world-class universities. Bristol is We live in a global world where the public have less the most economically successful city in England, with and less confidence in what that global world means the exception of London. Bristol is also the European and how it affects their individual position and their Green Capital and a place where many of the new community. They used to trust Governments and green industries and organisations choose to have politicians to sort out for them what they needed, if their base and headquarters; it is a very green city. you like, in order to live in their community in the way So it is with great pride that I wish to speak in this that they wanted to live. That trust has gone. We have debate. Yet, coming even from a successful city like to recreate the trust in different ways; we do, and local Bristol, the question is constantly being asked: why cannot government does. Because we are a small country, we cities take their own decisions, invest in infrastructure, have problems in terms of the way in which the press invest in housing, and invest in the growth that is and media report it. All the maiden speeches today, really going to address the needs of their people? As which I welcome, are from Liberal Democrat leaders my noble friend Lord Shipley has said, the IPPR who lost their seats after the election. That is the other report really outlines the case for economic improvement thing that happens. When you get into Government, in performance in English cities. They have lagged your local government base slowly starts to erode, and behind the average GDP per capita. Only Bristol has therefore the confidence of Government to give more bucked the trends. This, of course, is in stark contrast powers to local government disappears as local to other cities in Germany, Italy, Sweden and France, government is then going to be running what they did. which are at the forefront of economic growth and I have lots more to say, but my time is up. We have have outperformed even capital cities. to think of the broader things. Of course we want The report of the City Growth Commission more economic power for local government, but how recommends a range of powers that could be devolved are we going to do it and how are we going to hold our to what are called “metro areas”; and I agree with nerve, particularly in devolving more financial powers? what has been said today: there should be no tight imposition on what those boundaries should be. However, 12.47 pm there is a recommendation about financial flexibility and this, as other speakers have said, is the key to Baroness Janke (LD) (Maiden Speech): My Lords, giving powers, whether it is to our regions, county it is a great privilege and honour to join your Lordships’ regions, city regions or whatever configurations emerge. House. I stand today as a former leader of Bristol City The London Finance Commission and the Communities Council, not as one who has lost her seat. I am still a and Local Government Select Committee have outlined councillor in Bristol and I stand here in the hope of ways in which revenue and taxes could be raised at sharing some of the ambitions and hopes for that local level and add to the rates of economic performance great city with your Lordships in the debate today. of our cities or city regions. First, let me thank your Lordships for the warm In conclusion, the many reports of such groups as welcome that I have received here. I include my supporters, Core Cities, the Centre for Cities and the City Growth the noble Baroness, Lady Maddock and the noble Commission and others that have been mentioned 1943 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1944

[BARONESS JANKE] However, as the noble Lord, Lord Shipley said, the provide ample evidence to support major change. As I core cities underperformed the national average on have said already, it is important that new configurations, GDP per head. There are still large areas of deprivation whether they are federations of existing local authorities, where poverty is all too evident and there is a shortage county regions or city regions, should be voluntary of solid private sector activity aside from discount and locally inspired. One size will not fit all. The stores, fast food outlets and betting shops. All the ambitious and visionary proposals that are coming main parties are persuaded that devolution will help, forward from all parts of the country are a huge spurred on by Scotland and perhaps by what has encouragement and are opportunities that we must happened in London. City deals offer new opportunities seize. I hope that the constitutional debate will give us for these cities to make further progress, with the the opportunity to move forward on these major issues. Manchester city region setting the pace. I welcome I thank my noble friend Lord Shipley for raising the these moves: they are overdue and I hope they can be debate, and I thank noble Lords for their attention. widened. For example, Exeter is a city that I know, and it is beginning to do quite well. It needs to get help, encouragement and recognition for its contribution. 12.52 pm However, the condition of a lot of these cities Lord Monks (Lab): My Lords, it is a pleasure to remains fragile. The core cities are still heavily dependent follow the noble Baroness, Lady Janke. She has just on public expenditure, not just the local authority but made an excellent start to her House of Lords career, the hospitals and universities as well. After the Autumn as indeed have our other two debutants today—if one Statement, if we are going back to a state that is the can refer to the noble Lords, Lord Goddard and Lord same size as it was in the 1930s, what kind of guarantees Scriven, as debutants on these occasions. As part of and assurances can the Government provide that her background, the noble Baroness described her devolution will not be a devolution of responsibility great wealth of local government experience that she with a big shortage of resources? brings from just about every corner of the country. That will make an enriching contribution to the work 12.56 pm of this House as we proceed on this important issue of devolution within England. She remains a member of Lord Wei (Con): My Lords, I, too, thank the noble Bristol City Council, and first-line experience will Lord, Lord Shipley, for taking a lead and introducing therefore be brought to our deliberations. We look this debate. I congratulate the noble Lords, Lord forward to many more well informed contributions Goddard and Lord Scriven, and the noble Baroness, from her in the years to come. Lady Janke, and on their fine maiden speeches. I Our great cities, which boomed in the 19th century, declare an interest as a non-executive director of the had a lousy 20th century. There were two world wars, Manchester-China Forum. a prolonged depression in the 1920s and 1930s, and In the limited time we all have, I want to echo other even in the post-war recovery, much of the rebuilding speakers today in setting out and agreeing with the was shabby and ugly—and industrial decline set in. historic case for city regions to have greater leadership Very few new industries emerged in that period. Then and responsibility in running their own economic there was the collapse—in some cases the partial collapse affairs. Indeed, in my view, Britain became great largely —of many of the cities’ staple industries in the 1980s. because of the rise of its modern industrial towns and The result was some of the worst city centres in cities and their ability to project and trade in and with Europe outside the Soviet bloc. One had only to go to, the world. After a century or more of centralisation, say, Rotterdam or Hamburg—industrial cites both—to events at home and abroad are giving rise to the see the graphic differences. rebirth of the city cluster as the premier organising In the 1990s, the cities began to improve—quickly force and source of growth in the world today. in some places, more slowly in others. As has been said I have witnessed this at home in and around , by the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, and my noble friend Lord one of the fastest growing and most creative places McKenzie, the noble Lord, Lord Heseltine, deserves now in the world. I have witnessed this first hand in a mention in despatches for his contribution on my travels to places like China, which have been built Docklands, Liverpool, Manchester after the bomb, on strong cities with a degree of fiscal devolution and and now Hull. What a record that is. A new spirit talented city governance. I have also witnessed this began to emerge; remember Glasgow’s “Miles Better”, over the last few years in the Greater Manchester area, and Manchester’s impressive but perhaps improbable where I produced a report on the potential of the city bid to host the Olympic Games? At least it stirred region, and others like it, to do more together to London into action. attract and support two-way trade and engage with In the more benign economic conditions that followed international investors. There is no doubt in my mind, after 1993, big improvements became evident. Substantial in light of the success of the model built in Manchester, public expenditure was a significant factor, enabling London, and elsewhere, that providing greater autonomy public/private deals on property; a retail and entertainment to city regions to oversee their own economic development boom; expanding universities; and inward migration and inward investment can enable us as a country to flows for the first time in a long time began to play a engage more with the world and grow our economy big part. Since the financial crisis of 2008-09, the cities overall. have shown significant resilience in the face of the Of course, there is always more we can do to spread pressures: perhaps the pressure was greater in the this model of strong, internationally engaged cities and smaller towns surrounding the newer city centres. to encourage co-operation between our many metros 1945 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1946 to attract firms and investment. We could do a lot Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD): My Lords, this is a more to harness local diasporas, which could provide timed debate. I note the wealth of experience and great connectivity with the world, including many expertise on this fascinating subject. However, we are international students who now study in most of our now almost five minutes behind where we should be. If great cities and should be encouraged to help us noble Lords make sure that they finish when four connect even more with other cities around the world minutes is still being shown on the Clock, that will to help our businesses find new markets and create allow the Minister time to speak at the end. local jobs. Beyond this direct model of enabling economic 1.01 pm autonomy within city regions for trade, and other ideas Baroness Hollis of Heigham (Lab): My Lords, as a such as granting tax-raising powers—already mentioned councillor in the late 1960s, I helped woo a major by others in this debate—there would be a positive company to Norwich with a package of site, planning impact on the social economy as well from greater consent, key worker housing, roads and training. Sedgwick fiscal and political devolution to city leaders, which became the second largest reinsurance company in the would spur enhanced levels of social innovation and world. Some 15 years later, another major financial ultimately social venturing. company wished to relocate in order to expand. I tried In our media-dominated age, it has become increasingly hard. I offered a site, housing and TLC, but highways difficult to get new, big ideas birthed at the centre—I and planning consent were for the county. The company know that, having been involved in one or two—and did not want the hassle of negotiating with two very then tested and piloted from within the Whitehall different authorities, so it walked. I lost 600 good jobs industrial complex. City regions, which by necessity for Norwich and for Norfolk. What was the difference? will have to do more with less, need to innovate and It was the disastrous 1974 local government reorganisation, pool their own resources, and try out new ideas and with its alpha male obsession with size. Despite our solutions that fit local needs and have the potential to cathedrals, university, research parks, international airport improve the state of the nation as a whole. In this light, and 600 years of unitary status, Norwich became a I welcome the use of city deals, most notably that district council, the largest in the country, and larger recently agreed with Greater Manchester, which seek than a dozen or so unitary authorities. to reward a city region’s ability to deliver matched Today, we are still the regional capital of East investment, growth and efficiency through joined-up Anglia, providing half of Norfolk’s jobs—and half of and innovative approaches, such as the earn-back scheme. those jobs are in knowledge-intensive industries—as In the model of cities competing and at times well as most of the leisure, retail and media services collaborating to develop new social economy solutions for Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. Our economic to thorny social problems, Whitehall ideally ceases to multiplier effect stretches far beyond our formal functions. be the monopoly provider and commissioner of policy Like other mid-sized cities, we think that we are focused, and practice. Instead, it will curate and learn, highlight energetic, fast, innovative and entrepreneurial. We and spread best practice, rather than seek to dictate its strive to do all this within the constricted boundaries, practices dogmatically. It should focus more on foreign functions and revenues of a district council. We are policy, more nuanced immigration control, defence fettered, and yet we are the key city of East Anglia. and the reduction of monopolies and oligarchies so This debate from the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, is that consumers and workers alike can get a better deal. superbly timed. Cities drive our economy. They are where things happen, but that potential is not limited Devolving greater powers to cities economically is to the great core cities. Mid-sized cities like Norwich not a total panacea and there will be risks. Over the and Luton are also key. They contribute £162 billion years, voters have shown a wariness of local kingpins to the national economy alongside the £173 billion of who might go AWOL if given too much power, so the the eight core cities. Some have a manufacturing or centre and others will need to play a role in fostering maritime identity, such as Coventry and Plymouth. broad-based local leadership and utilising emergency Some share interdependent economies, such as powers if corruption or incompetence threaten to Southampton and Portsmouth. Yet others are self- undermine a city region—as we have seen perhaps in contained, travel-to-work centres like Norwich and Tower Hamlets. An independent process that would Sunderland. All of us are driving growth and turning trigger such interventions will be needed to avoid around the life chances of the deprived, the ill educated, undue central interference. the ill housed and the overlooked. Alongside this there is a risk that having different What do mid-sized cities such as ours need to grow tax levels and other policies across the country might our local economies? It is, of course, unitary status, as make doing business more complex and costly, although do Cambridge and Oxford, if we are to fulfil our both the Americans and Chinese seem to have found potential to transform our knowledge economy into ways of coping with this. These risks, though, are knowledge jobs. Who, in the recent Pfizer bid for worth running, because unless we do something, the Astra-Zeneca, spoke for Cambridge? Nobody.Combined current unsustainable economic inequalities and the authorities really work only where there are shared political instability that they engender will continue. It goals. Despite this, Norwich has formed a Greater is time to incentivise city regions to have greater powers. Norwich Growth Board, a partnership that will drive Finally, I would be interested to learn from the Minister forward our city deal to spin off new businesses from what the centre is thinking of doing and how it will our research park, plan our wider growth programmes reshape itself as more powers are transferred to city for 13,000 more jobs and 3,000 more homes, and attract regions over the years. the £2.5 billion private sector investment we need. 1947 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1948

[BARONESS HOLLIS OF HEIGHAM] co-operative societies were brought together—at that Over and beyond unitary status, we need additional time, by the way, there were 1,000 individual Co-ops in economic powers and flexibilities, which have already the country and now there are fewer than 20. All been cited in this debate. First, we should localise the amalgamated by agreement, but it has not been easy. ineffective Government Work Programme. Secondly, In my view, one has to keep in mind the sensitivity of we need commissioning powers for the wider public people who patently are seen publicly as having lost services, irrespective of elected mayors, to work with out on the argument. People do not forget that they the private sector and public agencies. Thirdly, all have lost out and they wait for the opportunity to get publicly held land within a city should be brought into back at the other people. a single property board to make the best use of In London in the 1980s, a reorganisation took development sites. Fourthly, on finance, ring-fenced place, and at that time the structures that we are funding should be removed in order to encourage new talking about now were regional authorities. It was an funding models, along with funding for five years for attempt by the then Government to try to co-ordinate greater stability. I could go on. what was going on. What happened, of course, was Above all, we need a culture change within Whitehall that the Labour GLC became very Bolshy. It used to and at Westminster. They need to understand that local have great posters, which you could see across the river government is about local difference, so they should from here, simply pointing out the number of people respect our sense of place and encourage diverse structures, who were unemployed in the London area. That irritated as the noble Lord, Lord True, said. They should stop Mrs Thatcher so much that she decided that when her being hung up on size and stop trying to impose on us time came—and it did—she would abolish not just the the macho model of elected mayors. As a leader, I Labour GLC but all the other economic entities. could do everything a mayor does, and consensually. I make no complaint—I am watching the clock and Trust us: we are better at doing most of this than I will sit down before it gets to the number five central government. Finally, that utterly insulting phrase, because, as a former Chief Whip, I know my place in “earned autonomy”, should be banished from the this House. All I want to say is that I wish those who Westminster and Whitehall mindset. My Lords, I wish. are going to make the decisions well. Having already committed myself to sit down, I will not drop any 1.06 pm other pearls of wisdom. Thank you. Lord Graham of Edmonton (Lab): MyLords,itisa joy and a pleasure to take part in this debate. I 1.12 pm congratulate the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, on giving Baroness Mobarik (Con): My Lords, the subject of us the opportunity to talk about these issues. He and I this debate, enabling economic leadership in cities, can share a pride in Newcastle, of course, and in particular be interpreted in a number of ways, but the aim is in Newcastle United. My mind goes back to the 1920s, clearly a constructive discussion on how we encourage when I was born. One never loses the link with where economic activity in our cities and give people the one was born. You follow the history and activities of tools, the skills and the space to flourish. With ever your area over the years. more people moving to cities, it is clear that our I also want to congratulate the staff of the Library economic future is dependent on these urban centres. on producing the document for today’s debate. Quite As we well know, where you have a critical mass of frankly, over the 30 years that I have been in this House, people, there is a growth in creativity and economic I have had to call upon the service of the Library many activity; thus cities should be nurtured. I think it is times. It has always been good, but I cannot recall such precisely this sentiment which is the driver behind the a comprehensive and helpful document as the one for city deals agenda currently being implemented. The this debate. The name attached to it is Russell Taylor, who drive towards localisation, and the understanding that compiled it. I just want to say that we are all indebted local communities themselves best understand what to him. they need for economic growth, is a really positive and I was the leader of the London Borough of Enfield ambitious step. in the 1960s. When the reorganisation of local government Twenty-six city deals have been announced and took place, we finally had Southgate, Edmonton and each of these has its own unique formula or mix of Enfield. Edmonton was solidly Labour, Southgate priorities in deciding how to spend funds and create was solidly Conservative—although they called themselves an environment for growth. In the limited time available ratepayers—and Enfield was sometimes Labour and to me, I shall make a few points on my own city of sometimes Conservative. One of the lessons I learnt Glasgow and on the £1.2 billion Glasgow and Clyde was this. When you are trying to weld together a Valley city deal. It is hoped that this will create 29,000 common purpose, you have got to be prepared to give jobs over the next 20 years and unlock a further as well as to take. It is not easy. What was reinforced £3.3 billion of private investment across the city region. for me at the time was how much pride there is in The proposals as to how this money will be used are territory. We wanted to get Edmonton and Enfield in available for those interested. Up to 20 major infrastructure with Tottenham, along with the Lee Valley Regional projects across the city region, including rail and road, Park, but we did not get it. However, I am very pleased have been proposed. Among several employment schemes to say that, 50 years later, that has been taken care of. there is a £9 million scheme proposed that will work The other thing that I want to emphasise is that with more than 4,000 vulnerable and unemployed there are problems with an amalgamation of any kind. residents currently in receipt of employment benefit, The House knows of my background with the co-operative along with life science research and medical technology movement. In Tyneside in the 1960s, 31 separate projects. This is an exciting time for the city. 1949 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1950

For this strategy to be the kind of success that we years, and the city centres certainly look a lot better would wish for, true leadership and vision are required than they did 20 years ago, but there is still much to make the most of it. This is an opportunity for deprivation, dereliction and lack of economic activity. generations to come and should not be squandered. First and foremost, there has to be complete transparency We need to emulate in our key cities the performance in implementing these projects. A fair chance must be of European cities and the performance of our own given to the SME community to benefit from contracts, cities back in Victorian times. Relative to the national as ultimately they are the real drivers for future economic economy, they should be leaders, whereas at the moment and job growth. Part of our consideration has to be many of them are followers. To do that, I commend about public procurement so that some of the benefits the reports of my noble friend Lord Adonis and the of this injection of public funding filter down to noble Lord, Lord Heseltine, who has been praised SMEs. A lot of thinking and discussion has taken much in his absence. That sometimes requires bringing place in Scotland on the subject of public procurement— together a city region rather than observing the local certainly, as far as my own involvement is concerned, boundaries, such as they are at the moment. Issues of for the past decade and a half—but I know for a fact transport, planning, housing, skills, employment, training that it goes much further back than that. We are sadly and regeneration require crossing what are very tight still far from the ideal situation of a fair bite of the boundaries within our urban areas. In my own area of cherry for SMEs, but perhaps that discussion is for housing, you need a wider area of approach than another time. current city boundaries allow. This can be done. You can create combined authorities and co-operating councils I would suggest that we offer affordable space in the without necessarily unravelling the whole of English heart of the city for small-scale manufacturers such as local government; you can do so without recreating weavers, potters and all manner of artisans. When do regional structures or metropolitan counties; you can young people see someone making something with do so without requiring a mayor in each of these their hands and then selling it for a profit? These are areas; and you can do so without any net increase in basic principles to encourage enterprise and at the central government spending. But it will work effectively same time bring back vibrancy, creativity and industry only if those combined authorities are supported by to the city centre. I would add that along with affordable the local authorities within their area, and by business industrial and commercial space must come better within their area, and—more importantly perhaps—only public transport and affordable, accessible parking. In if the Treasury is prepared to let go of a lot of things, Glasgow, those at the helm of the revival of the city including the expenditure identified in the various have to take into consideration the current prohibitive reports and control of business rates. Not only the access to the city by their draconian use of parking Treasury but all Whitehall departments have to eschew meters and other road regulations. According to a their ring-fencing, their requirements, their stipulations, BBC report on 2 September 2014, Glasgow city imposed their minimum standards and so forth. It is not only £3.2 million of bus lane fines in 2013, one of the the political and administrative apparatus; the media highest figures in the UK. I refuse to believe that there and the public at large need to get rid of their obsession were so many people in Glasgow deliberately breaking about the postcode lottery, because there will be different the law. solutions in different parts of the country and quite I would suggest that, when we come to implement rightly so. That is what local democracy is about. these major projects, true leadership means talking to ordinary people in the street—the workers and the small More specifically, we have to allow the new city businesses. We have become too accustomed to dancing regions and local government generally, contrary to to the tune of interest and lobby groups. While there is existing Treasury rules, access to borrowing powers so most definitely a place for these groups as experts on that they can genuinely invest in housing and infrastructure many social and environmental issues, there is also in their own areas. It means a genuine absence of something to be said for speaking to those who simply strings on block grants and it means that there are at work, live and breathe in the city. least some discretionary powers of local taxation. I am grateful to the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, for That is what happens in all those European cities we securing this debate and I congratulate the Government are seeking to emulate. on the city deals initiative. I am confident that true We must also recognise that partly because of the leadership at the local level will bring rich rewards to dominance of London and the south-east in our whole our cities and communities. structure, any move to city regions will require a significant redistributive process from the centre. London 1.17 pm has twice the level of value added per head even than Lord Whitty (Lab): My Lords, I find myself in this Manchester. That means some serious redistribution House agreeing with the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, far will still be needed. The recognition of the dominance too often, to the consternation of my friends in the of London means that the strategy within which we north-east, and I am very glad that he initiated this are attempting to recreate our cities also has to do debate. I also find myself slightly out of place in that I something about the overheating of London and the have only ever lived in either London or the English south-east. As my noble friend Lady Hollis said, it countryside and my football team is Millwall. Nevertheless, also has to do something about the other parts of I have developed a great love for the English cities, England. I would add Exeter to her list of areas that although over most of my lifetime there has been a sad require unitary status. Unless we do something for the relative decline of those cities, as my noble friend Lord shires and the small towns of England, the cities will Monks said. That has turned around a little in recent not prosper. We need a balanced approach. 1951 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1952

[LORD WHITTY] connected to the internet operate as efficiently as a This debate is about economics and devolution of city—but without the traffic jams and bad air pollution democratic powers. But the terminology of devolution that we suffer from in cities? is going to undermine the importance of this debate. We know how important cities are for a nation’s This is not the same as legislative and political devolution economic growth. In the UK, cities occupy 9% of the to Scotland and Wales, and the constitutional arguments land but provide 61% of the output. But do we need should not be mixed up with the arguments about different economic leadership in each of our cities? If economic autonomy. economic leadership means inspiring young people to contribute to the economy, I am thoroughly in favour 1.22 pm of it. If it means the ability to come up with new taxes, I am against it. The most valuable economic leadership Lord Borwick (Con): My Lords, I declare an interest comes from the family. No economic leadership from in the register that my wife is the statutory Deputy any city could ever compete with taxpayers deciding and a local councillor in London. what to do with their own money. So I welcome this debate, and thank the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, as I know first-hand that great cities 1.26 pm need great economic leadership. I find it particularly interesting to debate this issue Lord Snape (Lab): My Lords, first, I congratulate here in the House of Lords, where cities are perhaps the three maiden speakers from the Liberal Benches underrepresented relative to the countryside. This is on their contributions. I look forward to hearing from partly because of our age profile, as young people go all three of them in future. I particularly single out—I to cities. But the truth is that the cost of houses means hope without upsetting the other two—the contribution that many noble Lords cannot live in London. Indeed, of the noble Lord, Lord Goddard of Stockport. As the cost of living in cities is generally higher than some noble Lords know, Stockport is my home town. outside them, partly because of higher housing costs. It is traditional never to criticise a maiden speech and For that reason, the London living wage is higher than I hope the noble Lord will not think that I am breaking the minimum wage. that tradition when I say, as a former chairman of Stockport County Football Club, that his espousal of The Government’s emphasis is on building new the cause of Manchester City will not be universally garden cities; one to be built in Bicester was announced satisfactory in the town itself. recently. I declare another interest in a property company building homes there. Garden cities will certainly have In the short time open to me, I wish to make just less air pollution than bigger city centres, where levels two points. My first is to express concern, not about of dangerous PM2.5 particles are much higher. Perhaps the motives behind the debate today—I congratulate we can give the Green Party some credit for helping us the noble Lord, Lord Shipley, on the fluent way in to focus on building new towns that will be cleaner which he moved it—but I have never believed that and greener. devolving power without resources is a sensible way to run things. We have been here before. It was a Conservative A city is only as good as its people and we have to Government who created the ensure that the younger generations are capable of councils, as my noble friend Lord Graham reminded economic leadership so that our great cities compete us. Of course, that was partly out of a political motive globally. That is why I am so happy about the work as the Conservative Party could not win the big cities being done to improve economic and business competence at that time and thought that by extending the electorate among young people. I have been very impressed by a and taking in the suburbs it might be able to do so. fantastic charity called Young Enterprise, which does When that proved to be fruitless, it promptly abolished exactly that. It operates in nearly half the schools in the metropolitan county councils using the excuse of the entire country, teaching children to operate small the abolition of the GLC. The previous Labour businesses. That is exciting because more young people Government decided that some of the powers we are should be encouraged to go out and get some real discussing today could perhaps be administered by the experience, take some risks and see how far their new regional development authorities. The incoming coalition ideas go. That way, we will be bringing through a Government abolished the RDAs and replaced them much bigger and more talented group of people, with partly with the LEPs—in my view a totally undemocratic knowledge of economic leadership. group; only 50% of them comprise women and as far There are reasons why we are not yet seeing enough as I am aware there are no women at all in the West young people coming through with the right leadership Midlands LEP.There is nothing particularly democratic skills. They should experience leadership in school. about that. But between supply teachers, a lack of autonomy for My second point is about resources. As I have good teachers, a wide variety of first languages and indicated, if there is no money to do these things, there large class sizes, children do not get the leadership is no point creating a structure to do them. I was they need. It is extraordinarily difficult for a teacher to struck by the contribution from the noble Lord, Lord both teach the material and inspire the students. This True. Like him, I am rather against Whitehall and is something that people just do not talk about enough. Westminster dabbling in local government. I was a We know that cities work well. They make people councillor during the passage of the Local Government more efficient. As they get more efficient, they become Act 1972 referred to by my noble friend Lady Hollis. If more prosperous. Will cities become the new heartlands the electors had felt differently, I might have been a of Conservative voters? But what is a city? Could a member of Stockport Council whole group of people and businesses in the countryside before the noble Lord, Lord Goddard, but democracy 1953 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1954 prevailed and my candidacy was rejected. But I do not It is really important that rural areas and non- feel that the structures set up by the 1972 Act were metropolitan areas stay very much on the agenda in necessarily more efficient, democratic or fiscally responsible terms of this wish and momentum towards devolution, than the authorities that they replaced. I remain to be which I welcome strongly. Non-metropolitan rural areas convinced that the devolution of powers that is behind have specific problems that maybe metropolitan areas this debate will work without adequate financing. do not have; transport, getting to work, access to services It is traditional in your Lordships’ House not to get —particularly in rural areas—the digital divide and, too involved in politics, although what we in the other in particular, affordable housing. Apart from those place called the Front Bench below the Gangway on specific areas, there are a lot of similarities. That is the Government’s side is pretty adept at it when it why the solution towards devolved government is equally comes to attacking my own party. This Government important in that part of our kingdom as it is in have waged a fiscal war against local government, and metropolitan areas. It is quite clear that cities such as they show no signs of relenting. In the West Midlands, Manchester have the capability for devolution to take I am not alone in expressing my concern that the place. I welcome that they are ahead and moving Chancellor of the Exchequer says that in future greater forward. But I believe strongly that, after those initial Birmingham—a greater Birmingham authority or a larger metropolitan areas, rural areas and shires are greater Birmingham structure—will have an elected equally able and competent fiscally, in terms of their mayor. I remind your Lordships that it is less than administrations and in their strength of culture and three years since the citizens of Birmingham, including identity, to move forward on this agenda as well. I give me, voted not to have an elected mayor. Flouting the example of Cornwall where I live. We already have democracy in that way is something that we ought to a unitary authority—a competent and very successful regret in this House. I see the Whip and I will sit down administration that is able to move this forward. in a moment. I voted on the wrong side: I voted for an In the last few seconds of my speech, I ask the elected mayor. The fact is that, according to the LGA, Minister whether she will guarantee that there will be by the end of this Parliament the real-terms reduction no discrimination between metropolitan and non- in government funding to the city of Birmingham will metropolitan and rural areas, and that there will be a be 41.5%. In the borough of Sandwell, where my road map for such local authorities and areas. It is former constituency lies, it is 39%. These freedoms—the quite clear that we ignore non-metropolitan areas at freedoms spoken about in this debate—are valueless our peril. They should not be an afterthought. They without adequate and proper funding, and that is not have a great role to play in the economic future of this what we will get under a Conservative/Liberal Democrat country. Administration. 1.35 pm 1.31 pm Lord Hunt of Chesterton (Lab): My Lords, I welcome Lord Teverson (LD): My Lords, I also congratulate the debate of the noble Lord, Lord Shipley—and my three city and urban colleagues on their maiden indeed the arrival of his new colleagues on the Lib speeches. Certainly if I ever thought of looking back at Dem Benches. But I was surprised, from his opening my own, I am never going to again, given their erudite remarks, to hear that somehow the clocks started in speeches. 2010. In 2010, as you will recall, the Lib Dems did not It was not seen—or not noticed—much this week, demur from the coalition Government’s reduction, or but an OECD report came out which talked about taking away, of the regional economic organisations. inequality of incomes nationwide across all OECD This of course is another example of stop-go—and club members—the developed nations. It pointed out now we are going again with more funding and providing very strongly, perhaps controversially, that the greater more impetus to these areas. the income inequality within an economy, it forgoes It is, however, excellent that the House of Lords is economic growth over that period and thereafter. It debating the issues of urban areas. We had a discussion calculated that in the UK over 1990 to 2010, we lost on planning a month or so ago. I believe it would be some 10% of growth because of inequality. advisable for the House of Lords to have a Select If this is controversial in terms of population incomes, Committee to review all the relevant aspects of the I guess it is not in terms of regional disparity. It is development of urban areas. There has been a circular quite obvious that where we do not have economies note from the Chairman of Committees, the noble Lord, fully functioning within our nation state, we are losing Lord Sewel—and if noble Lords are minded like me economic output, incomes and jobs and creating that this should be a very topical and appropriate area unemployment. In the short time I have in this debate, for the House of Lords, I ask them to write in with I want to talk not about the metropolitan areas but their views, as I am doing. If they would like to copy about that other 91% of our land mass: the non- me in with what they say, I would be very pleased. metropolitan and rural areas. These include important Another important feature of this discussion is that cities like Norwich and Exeter—its economy is vibrant the Government Office for Science has been producing at the moment. It is perhaps important to realise that documents. Maybe these have the statistics that have those non-metropolitan areas provide some 56% of been referred to. For example, in August it produced England’s economic output. That leaves only 44% for The Evolving Economic Performance of UK Cities: City the metropolitan areas, but four-10ths of that is London. Growth Patterns 1981-2011. There are interesting and That illustrates what a great issue this is. I do not dispute surprising results in it. There are statistics of employment, it at all in terms of other non-London metropolitan population, output and productivity. The biggest areas, particularly the northern challenge. qualitative change seems to have been in small and 1955 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1956

[LORD HUNT OF CHESTERTON] 1.41 pm medium-sized cities, and these seem to be the ones most successful in employment, health, environment Lord Adonis (Lab): My Lords, I congratulate the and output. The largest cities have either grown, like noble Lords, Lord Goddard and Lord Scriven, and London, or have, as it were, reduced in northern areas the noble Baroness, Lady Janke, on their excellent —northern cities—as mentioned by the noble Lord, maiden speeches. They add lustre to the distinguished Lord Shipley. group of former and current leaders of local authorities Whether or not they are growing or not, there seems in the House who play such a big part in our debates, to have been a significant growth in inequality in these and who will promote even more forcibly in future the large cities—also inequality in health. Indeed, Sir Michael cause of cities in our deliberations. Marmot has pointed out that the mortality for males I note that the past or current leaders of Newcastle, between one part of London and another may be affected Bristol, Luton, Sheffield, Bradford, Norwich, Cambridge, by as much as 20 years. In fact—this might have been Stockport and Sutton have all spoken. Indeed, Sheffield raised earlier—as Jonathan Glancey wrote in his powerful has been doubly blessed by having both its Lords essay in the book on London’s environment, the morality spiritual and Lords temporal taking part in our debates. of London is more like that of piracy than civic duty. I As the noble Lord, Lord True, noted, the spiritual applaud Sheffield for remarking that this is an important dimension to our cities—of course, the definition of area which cities should think about. a city historically is a place with a cathedral—is an Over the past 20 years in the medium-sized cities important part of their life and vibrancy. One might mostly in southern England—Telford, for example, is also add sport—most football teams are city-based; I counted in the north in these statistics—there has been have nothing against cricket but it is very notable a substantial rise in population and in output. For that football has had a great revival in the past 20 years— example, the economics of these areas has been associated and universities and places of learning, which are with services, commerce and retail. But a clutch of predominantly based in cities. northern cities have experienced a much lower population growth and output growth, as the noble Lord, Lord The Library Note that my noble friend Lord Graham Shipley, explained. referred to as excellent says that although cities account for only 9% of land use, they account for 54% of the The surprising result of these government reports is population, 59% of the country’s jobs, 61% of output, the question of whether high-tech cities are the future. 73% of highly skilled jobs and 60% of new businesses. Surprisingly, it shows that in the high-tech Meccas of However, I hope that we are not going to see in future, Oxford and Cambridge, where Nobel prizes abound, as we have not seen in this debate, a pitting of the rural the average income and growth rate have in fact not against the city. As many noble Lords emphasised, been very impressive. The argument given is that a lot without strong cities we would not have strong rural of these people work in the public sector and, as noble areas. We need to see regional growth—cities and their Lords all know, if you work in the public sector you hinterlands working together and forging much stronger have pretty low pay. The cities that are in fact growing partnerships together in future. As my noble friend fastest in population and productivity in income are Lady Hollis said, cities drive growth, in neighbouring those such as Milton Keynes and Crawley. areas as much as in the city regions. We need to ensure The other feature of these high-tech cities—I have much stronger collaboration in future between the some experience in this area, having been a city councillor urban areas, the suburban areas and the rural areas— in Cambridge and set up a company—is that quite a which, to be frank, have too often in the past seen their few companies have been set up and then all sorts of interests as being in conflict. If we are to have a takeovers have occurred. Very few significant companies successful economy and society in future, they need to have grown, so it is very far from the Silicon Valley align their interests much more strongly than has phenomenon. ARM is of course a great company in sometimes been the case. Cambridge, as is Oxford Instruments in Oxford. In fact, if you are involved in running a company in Cambridge The noble Lord, Lord Shipley, in his excellent you will get endless e-mails from people in London introduction to this debate—I pay tribute to the work saying, “Can I invest in your company?”. However, that he has done with the Deputy Prime Minister and you know that it is a trap; they want to raise the value others on city deals—said that what we are about is of the company and then sell it off. It is all a kind of emphatically not forging independent city states but gambling operation as opposed to a long-term investment enabling cities to grow faster and bring wider benefits using companies to develop services and products. to their wider regions. I entirely endorse that approach, The word “start-up” in the English language now just as I very much endorse the words of the noble almost means a company that is on a path to making a Lord, Lord True, that the last thing we want to see is a lot of money for someone who then sells it off. repeat of the great error of the 1960s and 70s—my noble friend Lady Hollis referred to this—which was the belief that endless local government reorganisation Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD): My Lords, we are itself would produce better-run cities and more growth. very short of time. We need to see more collaboration between authorities, but not an endless redrawing of boundaries. Indeed, Lord Hunt of Chesterton: The other important feature we are just about to celebrate the 50th anniversary of of the cities is that we have not yet developed enough the ; the last thing that we need to of the citywide companies, such as those in France, see is more navel-gazing and redrawing of lines on that are developing cities around the world. maps. 1957 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1958

As many noble Lords said, though, although there together through partnership arrangements of the kind is great potential in our cities, unless that potential is that we have seen in Greater Manchester with combined realised we face a bleak future. The challenges are authorities. We also need more funding to be devolved, enormous. We went through the middle period of the and we need the capacity for our local authorities to 20th century with almost all our cities in decline, in raise more of their own funds and share more in the terms of their ability to sustain jobs but also in terms proceeds of growth. The measures that the noble of the quality of their cityscapes and, for the most Lord, Lord Heseltine, set out in his report, and which part, their city institutions. There was also some spiritual I set out in my report, all move in the same direction in decline that went with that, in the sense of a great loss this respect: we need to see more devolution of functions of faith in the capacity of cities to regenerate themselves that are crucial to growth, particularly functions in and to be a driver of growth and enterprise in the way relation to skills, transport and economic development, that they had been in the Victorian period. passed down to local authorities or groups of local authorities. The funding needs to follow those functions. My noble friend Lord Monks put it well when he We are going to have some very difficult debates about said that although there has been some revival—he how funding will be devolved in that respect. referred to the revival of many city centres—it is, as he put it, still very fragile in many areas. In too many We also need to see that there is more fiscal capacity cities the city centre has been rebuilt but, if you go just at the local, city and regional level. My report sets out a mile or two outside it, you still have council estates proposals, which have been endorsed by Ed Miliband that are in a poor state with very high levels of and Ed Balls, for significant devolution of business unemployment. There are many areas of great wealth rates so that the full growth in business rates, allowing in most of our cities but, cheek by jowl, some of the for redistribution, takes place within an existing system; very poorest areas of our country are located there, so that the full proceeds of growth in business rates are too. secured by local authorities; and so that other local property taxes, specified in Tony Travers’ report, are In reviving cities—I put London fairly and squarely devolved as well. in that camp, alongside Manchester; they are two of our greatest success stories—the challenges of growth My time is up; I will say just one thing in conclusion. are as great in many respects as the challenges of Unless we have a programme of systematic devolution decline. Our growing cities have a huge problem of a of functions, funding and fiscal powers over the next shortage of housing and weak infrastructure, and 20 years, the problem will not be simply that we will be transport systems that have been underinvested in for unable to tackle our individual city problems, great as a large part of the 20th century and simply cannot they are; we will not provide that strong and visionary cope with the numbers when these cities are growing. leadership in our cities, without which there will be no We are seeking to address, at one and the same time, future for them. the challenges of past economic failure and weakness, We have so many leaders and past leaders of local which need to be addressed systematically, and the authorities here, all of whom have a vision for their mobilisation to the fullest extent of the resources of cities and their localities. One cannot have vision when our cities, such as the great enterprising side of our it comes to politics without having power. Local leaders cities that the noble Lord, Lord Wei, referred to—the need the capacity to set out visions of growth, of jobs Shoreditch and Tech City clusters that are replicated and of revival and regeneration for their cities, but across so many of our cities. We are seeking to address they will not be able to set those out with any conviction the problems of the past but also to equip our cities and carry local support behind them unless they also with the infrastructure without which they will not be have the powers necessary to deliver policy programmes able to flourish in future. and visions. We need, therefore, to see from Government —and any Government which follows this one—not That can happen, in our judgment—and I think simply aspirations for more devolution but real, solid this judgment is shared across the House—only if proposals for devolving functions, powers and, there is more devolution of responsibility to the cities increasingly, tax-raising powers as well. in terms of being able to take charge of their own destiny. With that devolution of responsibility must come the devolution of funding and some element of 1.51 pm fiscal devolution, too, so that cities are actually able to Baroness Williams of Trafford (Con): My Lords, I take advantage of more of the proceeds of growth thank my noble friend Lord Shipley, who brought than has been the case in the past. In the second half forward the debate today, for his work on devolving of the 20th century, not only did we centralise functions new powers to our cities and regions. My noble friend too much on Westminster and Whitehall but we centralised was involved in the city deal negotiations and—together too much funding on Westminster and Whitehall and with my noble friend Lord Heseltine, who is not here we largely removed the fiscal base of local government, today—he played a key role in helping to secure a which is why our local authorities have a smaller share number of agreements. I would like to place on record of their spending covered by locally raised taxes than my thanks to him for his crucial role in these discussions. almost any other democracy in the world. The debate He is a key figure on this agenda, and has been for is now taking place about how we can start to reverse many years, and it is fitting that he was leading today’s that trend. debate. In my view, all three of these need to proceed in It is also fitting that the noble Lord, Lord Adonis, tandem. We need more powers devolved to our local is here today. I pay tribute to the work that he has done authorities, and to groups of local authorities working over the years in getting us to where we are today. 1959 Economic Leadership for Cities[LORDS] Economic Leadership for Cities 1960

[BARONESS WILLIAMS OF TRAFFORD] My noble friend Lord Shipley also talked about He has been very much part of the cross-party approach underperforming cities. The figures are stark when that has in fact led to this, as has my noble friend Lord one compares the different regions of this country Heseltine. This cross-party approach—which has not with the south-east. The north-west is the second most been talked about much today, but is actually very productive region outside the south-east, but its much seen here today, with all the noble Lords who productivity lags behind by some £30 billion, and that are from cities and from local government—has enabled figure is not shrinking, so something does need to be some of the big shifts in devolution that culminated in done. This is a radical proposition, but it will be done the announcement by the Chancellor in November of by increment. We hope it will help to enable areas devolution to Greater Manchester. I do not think that, outside the south-east to punch above their weight without the other parties, this could have happened and to unlock their potential to do so and to shrink and I must place that on record. that gap. I must also declare not just an interest in this matter My noble friend also asked about the government but a very great enthusiasm because, like my noble commitment to devolution to cities. I do not think friend Lord Goddard, I was at the start of what has there needs to be any greater demonstration of this become the first devolution deal for Greater Manchester, Government’s commitment to devolution to cities, and it is a great pleasure to talk about it today. I pay certainly in starting with Greater Manchester. I do not tribute to all noble Lords who have made their maiden think that, by this time next year, every single city in speeches. I am delighted that so many—my noble the country will have a devolution deal; there needs to friend Lord Goddard, the noble Lord, Lord Scriven, be a step-by-step process where this agenda is advanced. and the noble Baroness, Lady Janke—have chosen to My noble friend also talked about the pace quickening. make them in this debate. All are from a local government I would like to see a sort of point of no return, background, which is great. whereby—a hopefully successful—devolution to Greater My noble friend Lord Shipley’s comments were Manchester paves the way for other cities and, indeed, very helpful and very constructive, as were those of many rural areas to follow. noble Lords. He talked first about not disempowering London. I think this is a crucial point. In the conversations My noble friend also talked about responsibilities—I that we were having in local government 10 or 15 years think we have covered this—and also about functional ago, we did have a bit of a tendency to whinge about economic geography. Certain things have to be done at how much London got and how we were so badly scale and across local authority boundaries. In fact, done to. I think the narrative has moved on in a far that already happens, as it did with the regional more mature way, to be not about how much London development agencies with things like transport. It is has got and how much it has grown—because, actually, very difficult to deal with transport in a single local that bodes well for all of us in this country—but how authority area, because it transcends authorities and cities outside London can punch above their weight in authority boundaries. He also talked about Newcastle’s terms of progressing growth and unlocking their growth success and introduced what for me is a new term, “the potential. I think that was a very good point to make boomerang Geordies”. I may be one of them, because at this stage. I left Geordieland 30 years ago; I may return after my Many noble Lords, including my noble friend Lord retirement—I do not know. Shipley, have talked about not creating city-states and My noble friend Lord Lyell talked about his walk about the link with the rural areas and the inner cities. through Liverpool in November 1967 and about the As the noble Lord, Lord Adonis, said, we should all renewal that it has enjoyed. He talked in particular collaborate to create a better economic outlook for about the port and the waterfront. I declare an interest, our country. My noble friend also talked about how which is outlined in the register, in that I was executive this is not just about posting out cheques from Whitehall director of Atlantic Gateway. There is no doubt that —if any noble Lord has studied the devolution deal the recent developments of the superport in Liverpool, for Manchester, that is very clear. It is based primarily which is being developed in response to the expansion on a proposition to government about growth, based of the Panama Canal, will provide a fantastic post- on making better use of the funding that would be Panamax terminal that will be able to receive those coming down to Greater Manchester anyway. It is massive vessels that will cross the world. It will enable about not just using it more efficiently but getting to round-the-world shipping again and a huge potential the point where city regions like Greater Manchester in logistics and distribution and, going back to some are not recipients of public funds but actually become of the papers that have been produced in the last few net contributors to the Treasury. months, it will very much enable those east-west links This is very much about accountability. Several to be taken forward. noble Lords have asked, “Do we want a mayor? Do we have to have a mayor?” What I think the Government My noble friend also talked about private sector expect is a very clear accountability and leadership employment. He mentioned Halewood and the Range role. Certainly, in Greater Manchester, the advent of a Rover Evoque; if he has been there recently, he will mayor in 2017 is not going to create another layer of have seen them all lined up, waiting to be shipped off. I government. It was very clear that that was what understand that you now have to wait six months for a Greater Manchester did not want, and in fact the Range Rover Evoque, such is the demand for them. Government did not want to create another layer of However, it also has such great potential to revitalise bureaucracy but to enhance what was already there, to that area of Liverpool and indeed the whole Liverpool create clear leadership. city region. 1961 Economic Leadership for Cities[11 DECEMBER 2014] Economic Leadership for Cities 1962

My noble friend also talked about the Liverpool with employer need and therefore with those learning waterfront, which is the most wonderful asset—Liverpool institutions, those skills will just not be there and we is so lucky. As somebody—I think it was Noel Gallagher will have to import them from elsewhere, whether that —once said, “Manchester’s got everything apart from is from home or abroad. a beach”, and it is true. Manchester has plenty of I am very conscious that I am running out of time assets, but Liverpool has that beautiful waterfront. He and that I am not even half way through what I also talked about governance. Here I pay tribute to wanted to say. The noble Lord, Lord McFall, I think, Mayor Joe Anderson, who has shown such strong made a point about the Glasgow and Clyde Valley city leadership in Liverpool, and to how Liverpool and deal, which I think is one of the largest ever under the Manchester work so brilliantly together to take forward city deals—we wish it well. that whole agenda for growth in the north-west. I pay tribute to my noble friend Lord Scriven’s The noble Lord, Lord McKenzie, talked about not maiden speech. It was uncontroversial, coming from a allowing the Treasury to stymie progress. The proposition controversial man, as he promised us he is, and a between local government or groups of local governments young man—you sometimes feel very young when you and the Treasury has to be crystal clear so that there is come here. He mentioned the Sheffield city deal, which no room for manoeuvring as regards what was promised we wish well. and what was promised to be delivered. As far as I I will just try to pick up on some more points. My know from Greater Manchester, which was the first noble friend Lord True talked about avoiding faddish deal to be done, the expectations and the expectations political structures in bringing forward devolution. I of the outcomes are very clear. The noble Lord also totally agree with that; to come back to a point I made talked about how local authority cuts hit the poorest earlier, Greater Manchester was very much against doing most. In fact, as I said in answer to a question the other that—I realise that I am now completely out of time. I day, the bottom 10%—in terms of the most deprived thank noble Lords who have taken part in this debate— local authorities—receive on average 50% more money, so I must disagree with him on that. He also asked A noble Lord: Two more minutes. whether any area will be allowed devolution. There is a challenge to groups of local authorities to put forward Baroness Williams of Trafford: Oh, I have two more propositions to government, and I think that the minutes. Government do not rule anything out as regards what I totally agree with that, and in fact, Greater they want to see put before them. As far as I know, Manchester was very clear that it did not want a there is no bar to propositions going to government. layering-on of structure, so it has decided to go to the I come to my noble friend Lord Goddard. I would model of having an 11th leader until 2017, when it will say that we were “partners in crime”, but I do not elect a mayor, but it will still keep that core of 10 local mean that. We served on the Association of Greater authority leaders. The noble Lord also asked about Manchester Authorities for some time, both as deputy the imposition of local structures. That is not true in leaders, and we led the journey to become a combined the sense that, as I have said, it is a proposition to authority that took place in 2011—I had gone by then, government; whether it is agreed or not will be the result but he was still there. In his very amusing maiden of a dialogue between local authorities. Therefore nothing speech he also talked about going to the wrong Benches. will be imposed upon anyone unless they want it. I nearly did that, but realised my mistake when I did The noble Baroness, Lady Armstrong, talked about not recognise any of the faces on the Labour Benches. being born in Sunderland. I was brought up in Hetton- He talked about the collaboration we enjoyed. That le-Hole, so we have more in common than she thinks. collaboration, which was mentioned by the noble Lord, You could not vote Tory there if you wanted to, Lord Adonis, and other noble Lords, has been absolutely because—well, they did not want to. The noble Baroness essential to our getting where we are today. We would also talked about the size of the state and asked a not be here if we did not collaborate. crucial question about where we want it to lie. I think Another noble Lord made a very good point, which that trust has to be given by central government to I want to bring out. I think it was the noble Lord, local government. It is no small wonder that central Lord Graham of Edmonton— government have taken what is probably the best and most worked-up proposition forward first. Hopefully, Lord Graham of Edmonton: Yes, it was. that will lead incrementally to such trust being built up Baroness Williams of Trafford: It was, and there he between central and local government. The coalition is. He talked about a common purpose, and having are a Government who want to decentralise, not to sometimes to swallow the fact that you do not get create more state intervention—the noble Baroness everything that you want. That has been key to how clearly does not agree with me there. She talked about we have worked together. If there was ever a handy tip the back of a fag packet. This is not the back of a fag I could give local authorities that wanted to achieve packet; it has taken years. devolutionary status, it would be that: collaborate, But I realise that my time really is up now. I thank co-operate, allow for the fact that you might have to all noble Lords, and I will write to anyone whom I compromise slightly, but you will get there in the end. have not answered fully. My noble friend Lady Eaton talked about skills and The Deputy Speaker (Baroness Fookes) (Con): My about local areas being best placed to respond to local Lords, the time allowed for this debate has now elapsed, need. That is crucial in devolution deals, and it is and I must put the Question that the Motion be agreed. interesting that skills were mentioned in the first devolution deal we got. If local authorities do not engage both Motion agreed. 1963 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[LORDS] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1964

AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Not all the steps to combat these factors imply increased Question for Short Debate financial help. If the 80 countries that currently—and disgracefully—criminalise homosexuality were to reform that policy, we would take a massive step forward and 2.10 pm reduce one enormous barrier to testing and treatment around the world. There is no question but that that Asked by Lord Fowler could have a profound effect. I very much hope that To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action in this debate the Government will underline their they are taking to support the Global Fund to determination and commitment to do as much as they Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. can to persuade those countries to reform their legal processes. Just as certainly as that, sustained and increasing Lord Fowler (Con): My Lords, one of my major financial help is necessary from the nations of the purposes in raising this short debate is to emphasise a world. Here I pay tribute to the Government for crucial point about public health across the globe. honouring the important pledge, made by Andrew Currently there is vast concern about Ebola, and Mitchell when he was Secretary of State for International rightly so. It must be met with all the resources at our Development, to add a further £0.5 billion for the disposal. But at the same time we must not forget the Global Fund, as long as other nations join in. There is even greater challenge posed by the three diseases that a slight question about that at the moment, because the Global Fund was formed to fight—AIDS, TB and the total aimed at has not been reached. malaria. Having just praised the Government, if I had a The figures for deaths tell their own story. In 2013 criticism of them it would be that that message about an estimated 1.5 million people died from HIV/AIDS; the increased aid should be made loud and clear. At 584,000 people died from malaria, and an additional the recent international AIDS conference in Melbourne, 1.1 million people died from tuberculosis. The burden where there were Ministers and civil servants—it is by is heaviest in sub-Saharan Africa, where an estimated far the most important meeting in the AIDS calendar—we 90% of all malaria deaths occur, and—this is perhaps could manage no Minister or civil servant from DfID, the most disgraceful statistic—in children under five. and as far as I know, unless he attended very secretly, So, currently, three diseases account for more than no British high commissioner. And that was in a 3 million deaths a year, to add to the mountainous Commonwealth country. We need to explain to the totals over the past 25 years. AIDS is an example: the world what we are doing and why, and not allow other death toll so far is 35 million people. In addition, countries to paint us in terms of the British policy of 36 million people are living with HIV, and in 2013 the Victorian years. almost 200 million cases of malaria, and 9 million new tuberculosis cases, were detected. I shall make one last point. With AIDS, antiretroviral drugs have saved millions of lives, but I wonder whether Having said that, I do not want to downplay or we should put all our eggs in one basket. I believe we understate the progress made, or the vast contribution should take heed of the warning given today by the that the Global Fund, and the President’s fund from review of drug resistance set up by the Prime Minister. the United States, have made. Without them the world Drug resistance can have a profound effect on HIV, would be in even greater crisis. The latest figures for TB and malaria. According to Jim O’Neill, who headed the Global Fund show that 7.3 million people are on the review, drug-resistant infections already kill hundreds antiretroviral therapy for AIDS. It has tested and treated, of thousands of people a year globally, and by 2050 or helped to test and treat, more than 12 million that figure could be more than 10 million. people for TB, and has distributed 450 million insecticide- treated nets to protect families against malaria. We There will be further reviews, and I see that it is have therefore made vast progress since those dismal said, and emphasised, that the role of vaccines to and tragic days in the 1980s, when AIDS patients died prevent infections, in particular, will be examined. I and there was absolutely nothing we could do about it. declare an interest at this point, as a board member of I pay tribute to the clinicians, the nurses, the volunteers, the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, a non-profit and all those working for NGOs, throughout the organisation, based in New York, dedicated to developing world, who have made this progress possible. a vaccine for AIDS. It has been consistently supported Now we come to what is perhaps the most difficult by both parties—although this Government’s recent challenge for any Government. In spite of the progress decision to cut help from £10 million a year to £1 million made, much more needs to be made, and it needs to be a year in one slash has not exactly helped. I could say made urgently. As UNAIDS says in its latest report, more, but I will not, unless I am provoked, because the only about three-fifths of countries have risk reduction point I am making is a rather broader one than that. programmes for sex workers, and 88 countries report Vaccines can take, and almost always have taken, that fewer than half of men who have sex with men decades to develop. This is not necessarily a natural know their HIV status. Most countries fail to provide area for Governments, with their four-year time limits— drug substitution therapy, or access to sterile needles and perhaps even less so for Ministers, whose time and syringes for people who inject drugs—even though limits are usually rather shorter than that. That is why that is something we started in this country back in the it is so significant that the President’s fund in the 1980s. Again, most disgracefully of all, antiretroviral United States, which obviously has a much longer treatment for children lags very substantially behind timescale, is now devoting a small part of its substantial that for adults. resources to research into prevention and vaccines. 1965 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[11 DECEMBER 2014] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1966

That is an extraordinarily important move and underlines due to their unequal status, which constrains women’s the importance of prevention. Following that, I wonder ability to negotiate condom use. It is therefore vital to whether the Global Fund should not do exactly the develop a range of HIV prevention tools that can be same thing and provide a more certain source of used by diverse populations, such as female-initiated finance as well as underlining the crucial importance microbicides. Will the Government continue their support of prevention as well as treatment. That is the point to product development partnerships and other about moving in that direction. approaches that are developing products targeted at The Global Fund has made amazing progress but it such groups as women in low-income countries? is dependent on government resources from and around As I said earlier, sex workers are also at great risk the world. The message for all those Governments is: from an increased number of sexual partners, greater for goodness’ sake, don’t stop now, for we are dealing exposure to sexual violence and the economic incentive with three of the main killer diseases in the world today. to offer unprotected sex. Will the Government pledge their support for promoting health services and harm reduction globally as the most effective approach for 2.20 pm addressing HIV and other diseases among sex workers Lord Cashman (Lab): My Lords, I thank the noble and drug-using populations? Lord, Lord Fowler, for initiating this extremely important Much has been said in earlier debates about men debate and, indeed, for his long and distinguished who have sex with men, but the sad truth is that they record on these very important issues. are 13 times more likely to be living with HIV than The Global Fund is a 21st century partnership. It the general population. The current slide towards works because it combines Governments, civil society, criminalisation in certain countries of people accessing the private sector and people affected by these diseases. HIV services does no good whatever. These include The genuine nature of this partnership ensures that countries within the Commonwealth, such as Uganda, there is unquestionable success. We should be proud where a Bill is pending. Therefore, I would be interested that the UK contributed £1 billion to the fund in to know what the Government are doing to promote—we December 2013. This contribution will save a life have to promote this; we cannot impose it—a change every three minutes. of direction as regards homosexuality within these HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria disproportionately affect countries. Will they follow the recommendation of the certain groups known as key populations. Despite report of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on HIV progress within general populations accessing antiretroviral and AIDS to significantly increase the funding of drugs for HIV treatment, key populations are being advocacy groups within these countries that need the left behind in terms of access. TB disproportionately resources, such as the network or the affects those working or living in overcrowded conditions, Stop TB Partnership? such as prisoners and labour migrants, particularly Finally, and probably most importantly, will the mining communities in South Africa. Also at risk are Government desist from trying to prevent the Global people living with HIV. They are over 20 times more Fund working in so-called middle-income countries, likely to develop TB, and one in five AIDS deaths is where the poorest and marginalised are those most in from TB alone. HIV poses an increased risk to groups need and where the Global Fund must continue to including young women, men who have sex with men, work if we are to eradicate malaria, TB and HIV? transgender people, who are often forgotten, injecting Make no mistake, the weight and influence of the UK drug users, those in prison, migrant or mobile workers on the Global Fund board is significant. Many middle- and sex workers. income countries are facing a perfect storm of bilateral Recently, the excellent report of the All-Party donors and the Global Fund pulling out of funding Parliamentary Group on HIV and AIDS, Access Denied, very rapidly before national Governments have the published last week, highlighted as a key issue the lack time, support or money to replace essential HIV funding of political prioritisation of key populations. Problems and programmes. I thank noble Lords and look forward happen, particularly in so-called upper middle income to the noble Baroness’s response to my questions. countries, when global funders withdraw support and this happens before domestic Governments are able to 2.26 pm pay market prices for antiretroviral drugs. So will the Lord Chidgey (LD): My Lords, I add my Government encourage the Global Fund to reassess congratulations to the noble Lord, Lord Fowler. I also its decision to withdraw funding from key population congratulate him on consistently pursuing these issues groups in middle-income countries unless there is clear and the work he is doing month after month, year evidence of how funding for services and treatment after year. We owe him a great debt for that. I applaud will be provided to key populations? Will the Government the remarks made by the noble Lord opposite on pledge to work with the pharmaceutical industry and middle-income countries and the Global Fund. I cannot multilateral organisations to make newer and more remember his name. I do not watch television. You effective ARV drugs available and affordable to all, know where I am coming from. The noble Lord raised including marginalised populations and people living an important issue. In that context, we should remind in middle-income countries? ourselves that the Global Fund is a 21st century The sad reality is that HIV/AIDS, malaria and TB partnership designed to accelerate the end of the do not discriminate. HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of AIDS, TB and malaria epidemics. It is a partnership death among young women of reproductive age in between Governments, civil society, the private sector Africa, and the region’s young women twice as likely and people affected by the diseases. The genuine nature of to contract HIV as their male peers. This is partly the partnerships it fosters is critical to the fund’s successes. 1967 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[LORDS] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1968

[LORD CHIDGEY] Finally, I want to talk a little about DfID’s role. We The Global Fund mobilises and invests nearly $4 billion must recognise that our Government, as a major supporter a year to support programmes run by local experts in of the Global Fund, should be congratulated on the more than 140 countries. Following on from the points work they do. Accordingly, the UK has significant made by the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, thanks to the influence on the Global Fund board. DfID has made Global Fund, 7.3 million people are on antiretroviral a move to close programmes in middle-income countries treatment, 1.3 million of whom have been put on the and focus its efforts on a smaller group of low-income treatment this year. Some 12.3 million people have and fragile states. We should be using our influence on been tested and treated for TB, 1.1 million of whom the Global Fund to ensure that it continues to support have been tested this year. Some 450 million mosquito programmes in countries that receive from few or no nets have been delivered, 90 million of which were other external donors, and not try to influence the delivered over the course of this year. This has contributed fund to focus its efforts on the same countries that to tens of millions of lives being saved in the decade DfID currently targets. since the Global Fund was founded. The Global Fund I hope that our Minister will commit to work with UK has set a number of goals in relation to its work on representatives on the Global Fund board and with the HIV, TB and malaria. These goals are due for delivery Global Fund to develop a more gradual taper of support in 2016. It has already achieved 100% of its HIV goal, for countries with increasing domestic resources. It is 115% of its malaria goal, but only 58.5% of its TB important to remember that access to treatment is still goal. The fund provides over 80% of international being denied to too many people, with a total of financing for TB, over 20% of all HIV funding and 29 million now estimated to be eligible. As a final 50% of global malaria spend. As the noble Lord, Lord quote, Michel Sidibe, the executive director of UNAIDS Cashman, mentioned, the UK contributed £1 billion has said: to the fund in December 2013. This contribution will “HIV has transformed from a death sentence to a chronic save a life every three minutes. condition”, I want to talk a little about the UK Government’s that is treatable, enabling millions of people to live pledge. They made a renewed commitment to Gavi to long, healthy lives. However, this is far from enough to invest up to £200 million a year for the period 2016 end AIDS by 2030, let alone ever. to 2020 to ensure that 76 million children can access live- saving immunisation programmes. The UK’s contribution 2.33 pm will save another 1.4 million lives and will help Gavi to Lord Lexden (Con): My Lords, in political affairs move closer to its overall replenishment target of—would there are always a number of things that cannot be you believe?—$7.5 billion. repeated too often. As regards global health issues, it Despite the shift in the burden of disease, and indeed is impossible to overemphasise either the importance the population, from low to middle-income, funding of the work done by my noble friend Lord Fowler over allocations from the Global Fund appear to be moving the past 30 years or the value of the leadership that he in the other direction, as the noble Lord, Lord Cashman, has provided and continues to provide to politicians mentioned. The application of new funding methodology across party dividing lines who have committed themselves in Kyrgyzstan—a country with significant HIV and to doing all they can to support those on the front TB burdens—has resulted in an almost 50% cut in line—the doctors, scientists, academic authorities, health total funding for HIV prevention and treatment. Funding workers and volunteers—leading a battle against three for HIV and harm reduction programmes in Ukraine diseases, malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS, that wreak is predicted to fall by about $30 million from 2014 to such havoc in large parts of the world today. Some of 2015, on top of a 71% reduction in domestic funding us taking part in the debate had the great good fortune for the HIV epidemic. to hear a few days ago from a number of experts who Another eastern European country, Romania, was have dedicated themselves selflessly to releasing as allocated no HIV funding for 2014-16 because it was many as they can from suffering and achieving immensely perceived that there were no political barriers to providing impressive results, particularly in Africa. services for people living with infectious diseases, and However, there are those who succumb to the illusion there is no political will for funding harm reduction. that the battle is far advanced and final success is in Despite countries having greater GDP, it does not sight. My noble friend Lord Fowler is tireless in pointing necessarily mean that they are choosing to invest more out how much remains to be done. He has made that resources in disease-control programmes. I cannot say clear again today, as he did in his recent influential—and, this loudly enough: a reduction in Global Fund support I am sure, best-selling—book, in which he stressed the can result in the closure of key programmes. That essential uncomfortable truth that we all need to bear threatens a resurgence of disease in countries where constantly in mind. This is how he put it: there has been a general reduction in rates over recent “The central problem that the world faces with HIV and years. HIV and TB are prevalent in middle-income AIDS today is this: it is the millions of people infected with HIV countries in our neighbourhood. They are infectious who, in spite of the medical advances and all the money poured diseases and do not respect national boundaries. Growth in, remain untreated”. of these diseases in central Asia and eastern Europe There are millions of people united with us in the could impact on the broader region. If we inadvertently brotherhood of man who desperately need the treatment facilitate a reduction of disease control in countries to hold their HIV in check but who are denied it. just because their GDP has increased to place them in That fundamental point was underlined in the a different World Bank income category, we risk a authoritative report published on World AIDS Day resurgence in the epidemics. last week by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on 1969 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[11 DECEMBER 2014] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1970

HIV and AIDS, referred to by the noble Lord, Lord Some Commonwealth countries glory in oppressing gay Cashman. How welcome he is in this debate and the people, as we heard from the noble Lord, Lord Cashman, others that will follow. The all-party parliamentary in relation to Uganda. As for the Commonwealth as a group calculates that less than two-thirds of adults with whole, does it want to be seen as upholding or blatantly HIV and three-quarters of the children living with it ignoring fundamental human rights? It cannot dodge today are not receiving the treatment they require. that question. Immense progress has been made, not least through the Global Fund, to which I, like other noble Lords 2.39 pm pay tribute, in extending access to the treatment that contains and controls HIV, and yet so much more Baroness Barker (LD): My Lords, I, too, want to remains to be done. The all-party report last week thank the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, for today’s debate. estimated that 55 million people will need HIV treatment It is an opportunity to thank this Government for by 2030. their continuing commitment—a commitment started It would be an immense tragedy if this country, by the previous Labour Government—to funding for which has made such a marked contribution to the international aid. In times of austerity, there are those progress so far should falter now. However, without cheap political point-scorers who will say that international adequate funding our contribution is bound to falter, aid is a luxury which we cannot afford. They could not and the inimitably long period of experiment and trial be more wrong. As today’s report on anti-microbial needed to find an HIV vaccine will be extended further. resistance shows, health issues are now global, and That, I think, is the main cross-party message that this investment in the health of people in countries around important debate seeks to deliver. Surely we cannot the globe is an act of self-preservation for people here, allow the defeat of pandemics that condemn millions too. Any political party that says it will cut foreign aid to misery to be set back and weakened because of is not acting in the best interests of its own citizens. short-term factors in Britain connected with the coming That said, tackling these three big issues is very general election. Rather, the main parties must stand complicated. We have all sorts of different actors: firmly together, explaining, as my noble friend Lord academics, national Governments, researchers, scientists Fowler constantly does, why the skills of our doctors and not least the people themselves. By far the agents and the breakthroughs achieved by our research scientists with the biggest impact are the global funders: the UK must continue to be placed at the service of mankind and the United States Governments are the biggest as a whole. We belong at the centre of the Global contributors to them. They have the most profound Fund, this remarkable international partnership that impact on what happens to everybody else. brings together Governments and the private sector. I, too, want to echo the points that have been made The all-party report is entitled Access Denied.In by a number of speakers about the Global Fund’s her speech in response to it on World AIDS Day, my current strategy towards middle-income countries. It noble friend Lady Northover, who understands these is right that the Global Fund has gone through a issues so fully, referred to the need to address the process of refining its funding models. It is important numerous barriers that limit access to medicines. One that it should fund work in countries in ways which of the most formidable of these barriers is the are compatible with the development of proper national criminalisation of homosexuality in so many countries. health systems in those countries, including basic health In nearly 80 countries—too many of them members of systems, such as access to clean water. However, it is the Commonwealth—it is a crime to be gay. In an unfortunate reality that, having gone at such a circumstances of such grotesque discrimination, gay pace, the Global Fund is withdrawing funding from people with HIV are not going to draw attention to middle-income countries, such as Ukraine and Vietnam. themselves by seeking treatment, assuming that it is It is having a devastating impact on those countries, available. We have referred to this intolerable barrier not least on their marginal communities. to treatment—indeed, to simple human equality and I want to echo what was said by the noble Lords, dignity—often in our debates on global health and Lord Cashman and Lord Lexden: it is groups within Commonwealth affairs in recent years. Like my noble those countries that can have the biggest impact on friend Lord Fowler and the noble Lord, Lord Cashman, their own Governments. I would therefore encourage I believe that we should emphasise this again and the noble Baroness to commit to working with civil again. The statistics are stark. In Caribbean countries society groups to achieve that. I say that because of where homosexuality is not against the law, of every the searing experience I had of standing in a top AIDS 15 men who have sex with other men, one is infected clinic in New Delhi watching a line of women queuing with HIV.In Caribbean countries where it is a crime to up for their HIV and TB treatments. They were among be gay, the rate of infection is one in four. the most powerless people I have ever seen. Recognising It is, of course, the Commonwealth countries that that they are in the position that they are in through are most prominent in our minds. They are closest to absolutely no fault of their own makes a compelling us, united by ties of kinship, friendship and history. case not to abandon them, just because they live in a The Commonwealth’s collective institutions produced country the economy of which is increasing. clear evidence in 2011 that where homosexuality has I am proud to be part of the group that produced been decriminalised, HIV infection had failed. To the the Access Denied report. It covers a number of matters infinite sadness of us all, that has not led to widespread in tremendous detail, not least the matters of intellectual reform, even though the criminalisation of homosexuality property rights and TRIPS agreements. I am not going is plainly incompatible with the Commonwealth’s new to talk about that in great depth today, but I would charter, to which all its members nominally subscribe. welcome the opportunity to do so some other time. 1971 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[LORDS] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1972

[BARONESS BARKER] As has been said, the Global Fund invests some The Global Fund, as noble Lords have said, is an $4 billion a year, of which the UK provides nearly important player when it comes to research. Underlying £1 billion as its share. This is a cost-effective partnership, the whole of the work to deal with these diseases is the bringing together Governments, civil society, the private issue of research, funding for basic research, funding sector, philanthropists and patients affected by the for translational research, and funding for new medicines. diseases. It mobilises programmes run by local experts We had the experience in India of talking to generic in 140 countries, avoiding duplication or overlapping. manufacturers who explained to us, as the commercial As your Lordships know, HIV and TB are closely people that they are, that there was no market for linked and TB is the leading cause of death worldwide paediatric formulations for HIV. That makes it even for people living with HIV.Last year, the Global Fund more important that Governments and funds, such as provided that all applications for support from countries the Global Fund, continue to make the sorts of structural with high incidences of both diseases should present investment over a long term which enables other people integrated programmes to qualify for assistance. This to maximise their efforts. is a great step forward in the response to TB, because Noble Lords will know that in the last 50 years country HIV programmes have often been significantly there have been no new drugs for TB. There have been more developed than their counterparts that address loads of new drugs for allergies and so on, because TB. TB patients will benefit from the greater resourcing, they are diseases of the west and there is a market. In expertise and reach of country HIV programmes. For the case of drugs for TB, there largely is not a market. some reason, DflD currently does not integrate TB It is therefore really important that the Global Fund into any of its bilateral HIV programmes. This needs continues to fund research. to change. I would like my noble friend, when she In answering the Question asked by the noble Lord, comes to wind up, to say that we will follow the Global Lord Collins, on 1 December, the Minister made some Fund’s example by requiring recipients of our bilateral remarks about the funding of research which have assistance for HIV/AIDS also to integrate their TB/HIV caused some alarm among the lobby groups and civil programming. society groups that work in this area. Will she commit There is also a case for the co-ordination of delivery to meet a cross-party group from both Houses along systems for malaria diagnosis and treatment with with some of those groups so that we can talk about programmes for TB and HIV. The APPG on Malaria that? and Neglected Tropical Diseases points out in its latest I think that we all understand that, now more than report that, ever, there is cause to be efficient and effective in “HIV and malaria frequently co-exist and the treatments most the way in which resources are deployed, but there are commonly used for each are now known to interact with each some decisions that we need to take, not just for the other”. present moment but for years to come, which will, I This would not be the case, I hope, with the first ever hope, bind future Governments. As the noble Lord, vaccine against malaria, RTS,S, developed over the Lord Fowler, epitomises in his work, this is something last 20 years by GSK with additional funding by the for the long haul. Things that are for the long haul require Gates Foundation in one of the product development exceptional political commitment. Will the noble Baroness partnerships which are proving to be so successful in make that commitment so that we can all rest safe in addressing the lack of commercial incentive to undertake the knowledge that the investment which has been R&D for vaccines, diagnostics and drugs for neglected made over the last 30 years will not be lost? diseases of the developing world. Does my noble friend the Minister think that we are likely to be able 2.45 pm to eliminate these three diseases by 2030? On malaria, the APPG says that the Medicines for Malaria Venture Lord Avebury (LD): My Lords, I begin by joining in has, the congratulations which have been expressed to the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, on his outstanding record “the strongest anti-malaria … development pipeline that has ever over several decades campaigning against homophobia existed”. and for the eradication of HIV/AIDS. He continues The rollout of the RTS,S vaccine before the end of the with this work effectively here in your Lordships’ decade will be a significant milestone on the road to House, in his book, AIDS: Don’t Die of Prejudice, and eradication. However, targets are needed for the post-2015 in his many speeches and articles on what the world agenda, which is to be discussed shortly. needs to do to eradicate a scourge that my noble friend For HIV/AIDS, the fast-track approach of UNAIDS rightly describes as the greatest public health threat in to ending the epidemic by 2030 is supported by a the world today. strong consensus, according to UNAIDS, which has The noble Lord rightly castigated the 80 countries identified headline intermediate targets for 2020. It that criminalise homosexuality and the noble Lords, recalls that African countries committed in the 2001 Lord Cashman and Lord Lexden, mentioned Uganda Abuja declaration to spend 15% of their budgets on in particular as having an anti-homosexuality Bill health, but only six of them have met that commitment. currently before its Parliament. It was not for this Additional funding—the amount not specified—would reason, I think, that we cancelled our budgetary aid to be needed from donor countries; presumably, as the Uganda, but perhaps we ought to review our non- third-largest donor to the Global Fund, we are entitled humanitarian aid to all the 80 countries to see whether to ask our EU partners to step up to the plate and any pressure can be brought to bear on them through contribute proportionately to their national income, fiscal means. as we do. 1973 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[11 DECEMBER 2014] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1974

In conclusion, I am sorry to note that there was not Of the 28 countries DfID lists as partners, 14 are on a word about DfID in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, the list of high-burden TB countries and two are on still less any mention of our commitment to the Global the list of high-burden drug-resistant TB countries. Fund over the next five years as we embark on the In which case, I am concerned as to why TB is not post-2015 agenda. The fund’s three-year pledging cycle identified as a health priority in any of those countries. does not fit with our five-year , but it Does the Minister accept that DfID could better integrate would be useful to hear from my noble friend what its TB/HIV programme in its bilateral arrangements Mr Osborne has pencilled in for the 2016 round. and help to build the capacity of national TB programmes? Further, there is a £2 billion a year funding gap for TB 2.51 pm that the Global Fund cannot fill. TB is an infectious Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab): My Lords, I, too, disease that does not recognise national boundaries. thank the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, for initiating the Failure to control the disease in one country can and debate. I also thank him for his lifetime commitment will lead to resurgence in others that have successfully to the battle against HIV and AIDS, and, more tackled the disease. importantly, against the prejudice and stigma that all The Global Fund helps countries purchase drugs, too often hinder treatment and prevention. diagnostics and vaccines to tackle the three diseases. The Global Fund mobilises and invests nearly $4 billion However, for many conditions, such as paediatric HIV, a year to support programmes run by local experts in as we heard from the noble Baroness, Lady Barker, more than 140 countries. As noble Lords have said, and TB—particularly drug-resistant TB—we do not thanks to the Global Fund, 7.3 million people are on have drugs of sufficient quality. I conclude by stressing antiretroviral treatment. About 12.3 million people have the point I made on Monday in Grand Committee: been tested and treated for TB. Some 450 million there is a strong case for DfID to scale up its investment mosquito nets have been delivered. Of the goals it set in R&D for TB, HIV and malaria to develop the in relation to its work on HIV, TB and malaria for treatments needed to eliminate these three diseases. I, delivery in 2016, the fund has already achieved 100% too, would welcome the meeting suggested by the of its HIV goal, 115% of its malaria goal, but, regrettably, noble Baroness, Lady Barker, to raise these issues and only 58.5% of its TB goal. As we have heard, despite the concerns of many people. the huge progress on malaria in particular, still more needs to be done. I was shocked to hear yesterday a 2.57 pm DfID scientific adviser state that half the children in The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department high-risk areas still sleep without nets. for International Development (Baroness Northover) The fund is short of its TB targets because countries (LD): My Lords, I also thank my noble friend Lord do not have the capacity to run programmes of the Fowler for putting this issue once again on the Order scale of those for HIV and malaria. As the noble Paper, for his passionate and informative introduction Lord, Lord Chidgey, said, the fund provides more of it, and for his long campaigning history in this field. than 80% of international financing for TB, more He makes the point that, although progress has been than 20% for HIV and 50% for global malaria. As my made, there is still much to do. I fully agree with that. I noble friend Lord Cashman said, the UK contributed also congratulate him on the publication of his book £1 billion to the fund in December 2013, saving a life AIDS: Don’t Die of Prejudice, as was noted by my every three minutes. Again as we have heard, the UK noble friends Lord Lexden and Lord Avebury. The has pledged £1 billion to the Global Fund for the next concerns he raises in that book and elsewhere—the 2014-16 round, but this funding is capped at a total of noble Lord, Lord Cashman, and my noble friend Lord 10% of the total sum raised. The US contribution, Lexden referred to this—about the discrimination and which is huge, is also capped at 33% of the total funds bigotry that surround this issue are, as noble Lords pledged. have indicated, of tragic significance. Sadly, as the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, said, the Various noble Lords addressed the legal and societal Global Fund is still short of its funding target. Given barriers to human rights in this field. I can assure its importance to the global response to these three them that the Government are at the forefront of diseases, what action have the Government taken to promoting human rights around the world. We regularly ensure others step up to the mark in this round of engage with Governments that violate these rights. We funding? Also, if these fail, will the Government commit also support civil society groups that advocate for the to disbursing the full £1 billion, regardless of whether relevant groups. I have just come from a meeting with other countries pledge or not? As the noble Lord said, Stonewall and the Kaleidoscope Trust. We explored the Global Fund has led the way on integrating TB how best to support voices in this area. I assure noble and HIV programmes as recommended by the World Lords that we will continue to engage in as effective a Health Organization. When I raised in an Oral Question way as we possibly can. last December just how integrated DfID’s bilateral Clearly, the level of prejudice is very striking. I saw HIV programmes were, the Minister agreed to write to that at first hand, when I visited South Africa recently. me. In fact, in her subsequent letter the noble Baroness Representatives of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans stated that DfID, -gender community told me of the difficulty they had, “responds to partner countries’ health priorities”, even in an environment where the law would seem to including tackling TB/HIV co-infections. The noble protect their rights, in accessing specialised services Baroness assured me that DfID will ensure that this geared to their needs. I learnt also of the terrible plight approach is followed where we have bilateral TB/HIV of rape survivors in South Africa and southern Africa, programmes. about 30% of whom become infected with HIV, and 1975 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[LORDS] AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria 1976

[BARONESS NORTHOVER] infection rates are twice as high as in young men. The who risk rejection from society. It is enormously Global Fund, with UK support, has made a strong challenging. AIDS, TB and malaria remain among the commitment to the health of women and girls, and we biggest causes of death and illness in developing countries. are very pleased that that is the case. It is increasing its In 2013 alone HIV/AIDS killed 1.5 million people, own capacity and building capacity at country level to malaria killed 584,000 people and TB killed 1.5 million mainstream women’s and girls’ concerns into programme people. design. But the power dynamics within societies that Progress has been made: new HIV infections are underlie these problems will not be easily tackled, and declining in many of the worst-affected countries; we look to the Global Fund to redouble its efforts. Of there has been a significant reduction in malaria incidence course, programmes such as the use of microbicides and deaths; and the world is on course to halve TB are also relevant here, as the noble Lord, Lord Cashman, deaths by 2015, compared with 1990 levels. Clearly, said. the Global Fund has played a major part in this and There were a number of specific issues that noble that is why we are so strongly supportive of it. As my Lords mentioned. The noble Lord, Lord Fowler, noble friend Lord Chidgey spelt out, since 2002, Global mentioned the AIDS conference in 2014. That happened Fund-supported programmes have kept 7.3 million to be held in the same week in July as the Girl Summit people alive with HIV therapy, distributed 450 million —which I hope the noble Lord was acutely aware insecticide-treated nets, and detected and treated of—and at which Malala spoke, among others, as I 12.3 million TB cases. These efforts to end the AIDS referred to yesterday. It was a stunning occasion and I epidemic accelerated last year, with increases of 20% was very glad to be able to be there. I was also happy in the number of people being treated for HIV and to go to Australia; my noble friend will have to ask the malaria through Global Fund-supported programmes, previous Chief Whip about why I was not allowed to. and smaller increases in numbers being treated for TB. Nevertheless, I was the beneficiary, therefore, of being That is a truly remarkable achievement. able to attend the Girl Summit here, in Simon Hughes’s The UK has played, and continues to play, a critically constituency. FCO colleagues from the high commission important part in these successes. I can assure the noble in Canberra attended the meeting in Australia on Lord, Lord Collins, that we are very active in seeking behalf of the United Kingdom. The noble Lord will others’ help; that is one of the reasons why we have know how committed we are in terms of the Global used the help as we have, in order to lever the other Fund and as far as tackling HIV, malaria and TB is assistance that needs to come in internationally. We concerned. worked with the Global Fund to develop a new funding The noble Lords, Lord Cashman and Lord Chidgey, model that prioritises investments in countries with and my noble friend Lady Barker challenged us on low incomes and a high burden of disease—countries lower-income countries. We support the Global Fund’s such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where new funding model, which funds the most cost-effective over 11% of all global malaria deaths take place. The interventions where the need is greatest, which is in the model has increased allocations to these countries by low-income, high-burden countries; but we do ask the 40%. It is worth noble Lords bearing that in mind, as fund to focus more heavily on key populations in the we seek to tackle the high burden of very poor countries middle-income countries, where they are investing. I that the Global Fund has identified. hear what noble Lords say; but it is also important One year ago, the UK pledged up to £1 billion to that we all galvanise here, to ensure that Governments the Global Fund for 2014-16, but our contribution themselves—such as the Government of India, where does not end there. For example, last year the UK the noble Baroness, Lady Barker, saw what she saw worked with the Global Fund and others to pool our and I have seen it, too—step up to provide those procurement of insecticide-treated nets—the most effective services. They cannot simply be underpinned because intervention to prevent deaths from malaria—and used we have the Global Fund; we must make sure that we our market power to drive sustainable reductions in are not neglecting the poorest in the poorest countries prices. Noble Lords rightly highlighted the challenge for the sake of those countries in which something of cost here: that is saving $140 million over two years. more can, and must, be done. The Global Fund is now rolling out similar approaches The noble Lord, Lord Cashman, referred to harm across a range of commodities. Savings will be used to reduction. Clearly, we are firmly committed to supporting enable the Global Fund to reach more people with harm reduction to reduce HIV transmission in injecting life-saving interventions. drug users. My noble friend Lord Fowler referred to However, although these achievements are impressive that as well. The United Kingdom has indeed—no —and I think they are worth noting, as noble Lords doubt, chivvied along by my noble friend Lord Fowler— flag up what else needs to be done—clearly we are not led in this regard. complacent. Improvements are not uniform in all We are supporting market shaping, which I think countries; we have heard that referred to in this debate. we have spoken about before. The noble Lord, Lord Resistance to effective medicines is indeed a growing Cashman, and my noble friends referred to ARVs. We threat and devastating rebounds can occur quickly if are working with others to try to ensure that we have there is any let-up in prevention and treatment efforts. got reduction in prices, to get ARVs to as many people One issue in particular that is concerning is the who need them as we possibly can. impact of the AIDS epidemic on women and girls. My noble friend Lord Avebury and the noble Lord, The noble Lord, Lord Cashman, referred to this. Every Lord Collins, asked about bringing together TB and hour, 50 young women are newly infected by HIV.The HIV. We are well aware of that as a co-infection and it 1977 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1978 is part of our ongoing work. In 2011, when we reviewed improving access to clean water and reducing extreme this, that was one of the issues we particularly focused poverty, the lives of more than 2 billion people have on. As noble Lords will know, we are working through been transformed. But of course much remains to be UNITAID, UNAIDS and also the Stop TB Partnership done. Progress has been inconsistent: around 1 billion and are seeking further product development research people still live on less than £1 a day; millions of girls and market shaping for TB vaccines as well as HIV miss out on secondary school; safe sanitation is absent drugs and diagnostic tools. for hundreds of millions; and too many die or suffer My noble friend Lord Avebury invited me to suggest from the impact of violent conflict. what the Chancellor might do in the future—in the year, So in 2015, we will not only celebrate the significant, I think, beyond the general election—which is an if incomplete, success of the MDGs—and, indeed, the interesting suggestion. I am afraid that I cannot foresee 10th anniversary of the G8 summit in Gleneagles, which exactly what will happen in that general election, though did so much to prioritise change in Africa—but the perhaps he can. But he will know that the Department global community through the United Nations will, I for International Development’s budget is ring-fenced hope, agree a new set of goals, the sustainable development until 2015-16, and therefore the commitment that he goals, which will be the engine for development over might have wanted to see in the Autumn Statement the next 15 years, with the aim of eradicating extreme was already in place in terms of the funding for DfID. poverty and delivering basic human rights for all. I am extremely happy to meet Peers and CSOs in Much of our political debate in the UK and globally the way my noble friend Lady Barker suggested, and if over 2014 has been dominated by fears about migration, the noble Lord, Lord Collins, wants to join, I am very security, economic uncertainty, our climate and our happy to talk about that and our support for research. planet. These fears cross national boundaries and are I hear what noble Lords are saying about drug-resistant shared by people of different cultures and nationalities, diseases. I have a personal interest in this issue, in that and their solutions are truly global, not national. one of my children is currently being treated in hospital Surely we can agree, though, as we look ahead to 2015, for such a thing. It brings into focus exactly what Jim that fundamental to tackling these fears, to help ensure O’Neill is saying. Looking at this whole area will be a more peaceful, stable, prosperous and equitable world exceedingly important. for future generations, is the need to lift those living in The Global Fund has made a fantastic difference. extreme poverty or in fear of extreme weather conditions, We have been a major support of it in terms of or lacking in basic human rights or provisions, out of tackling TB, malaria and HIV.We will continue in that those conditions and into a better future. way. We welcome people’s engagement in ensuring that we are focusing as we should. We listened carefully Surely a world that is more equitable, where more to what noble Lords are saying but they should not have opportunities, where women and men have the doubt our commitment in this area. same rights and opportunities, where those marginalised as a result of their physical condition, their identity, Global Development Goals their sexuality or location are recognised as having the Motion to Take Note same basic rights as others, would be a world in which it would be easier to deal with these great fears and 3.11 pm uncertainties of our times. While the SDGs are ultimately Moved by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale about justice and solidarity, they are also about tackling these great fears of the 21st century and helping all of That this House takes note of the case for us live better, safer and more fulfilling lives. establishing new global development goals in 2015. For the first time, in 2015 the global community has Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale (Lab): My Lords, a unique opportunity to bring together in one set of I should start by referencing the register of interests, in agreements goals about our climate, environment, which my interests in a number of development and development and inequality with the financial mechanisms charitable organisations are recorded. and partnerships that are required to deliver those On 8 September 2000, the member states of the goals. For the first time—because any agreement will United Nations agreed the millennium declaration be built on years of consultation and involvement, with and set out the millennium development goals, which the record of what works and what does not, with aspired to transform the lives of those living with access to 21st century technology and the means of poverty, disease and lack of basic human rights around accountability to ensure delivery and results—these the world at the start of the 21st century. Those goals will surely be built upon greater ownership and present affirmed their collective responsibility to uphold partnership than ever before. Tackling inequality must the principles of human dignity, equality and equity, run like a thread through the new SDGs to ensure that and they set out key values that should underpin their all have access and rights. Reducing inequality between collective action to support peace, development and and within nations is fundamental to eradicating extreme human rights. poverty. Those values of freedom, equity and solidarity, Just as tackling economic inequality will affect the tolerance, non-violence, respect for nature and shared delivery of every SDG, so too will the position of women. responsibility were to drive the international community It is undoubtedly the case that on a local, national and to action in the hope of eradicating many of the worst international level, where women’s participation is conditions in the world by 2015. In the 15 years that guaranteed and women leaders can flourish, development have followed, much has been achieved. By tackling is more successful and sustainable. The participation disease, achieving gender parity in primary education, and empowerment of women, and the eradication of 1979 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 1980

[LORD MCCONNELL OF GLENSCORRODALE] As Saferworld, with its particularly strong research gender inequality in relation to property ownership, and campaigning over recent months, and UNICEF, income and basic rights will be fundamental if the with its campaign on violence against children, have SDGs are to have the impact we demand. shown, implementing and agreeing this goal is going Earlier this year, I experienced in the Philippines, as to be perhaps one of the toughest challenges of all. so many others experience every year of their lives, There will be many states in the UN that will see such how extreme weather events and natural disasters can a commitment as a threat to their national sovereignty destroy years of hard work in economic and social and as opening the door to interference and intervention development. Programmes that develop and strengthen from Europe and North America. The UK can play a resilience to such events must be built into the delivery key role this year in reassuring these nations that this of these SDGs so that the most affected and sometimes goal and this understanding are instead about delivering most marginalised communities can plan their justice for those who live in the worst conditions in the development for the future, safe in the knowledge that worst places on earth. their work will reap results for future generations. Current projections are that, by 2030, more than Across all this, the principle of universality of rights 50% of those living in extreme poverty will be living in will underpin the 2015 agreement on sustainable the most violent and fragile places. As many of us development goals, and the rallying cry will be, “Leave know from our experience in these places, access to no one behind”. However, I should like to focus schooling, access to health services, access to clean particularly on two key aspects that will no doubt be water and access to justice can be almost non-existent. controversial and challenging in 2015 but must be The United Nations cannot only be about peacekeeping central to the final commitment if it is to make a and other uniformed forms of security around the difference for the poorest people on the planet. The world. The member states and their global leaders United Nations Secretary-General published on must address these fundamental issues on the rule of 4 December his synthesis report, The Road to Dignity law, with strong but accountable and open institutions, by 2030: Ending Poverty, Transforming All Lives and and they must give priority to those living in fear of Protecting the Planet. It brings together all the work violence, with the impact of conflict around them carried out so far on the SDGs and sets out six every day. essential elements that must guide the work to strengthen, In conclusion, I want to stress the important role of prioritise and deliver an agreement by September 2015. the United Kingdom. As a permanent member of the These elements—dignity, people, prosperity, the planet, United Nations Security Council, a leading member justice and partnerships—are our pipelines to peace in the European Union and an active participant in and sustainable development. the Commonwealth, the IMF, the World Bank, the G8 However, the delivery of the goals that we agree will and the , we are uniquely placed to influence, even be achieved only if we invest seriously in capacity in lead, this debate. I hope that the Government will do regional and continental organisations, and in national so, and I will ask four questions here today. First, what institutions and governments in the developing world. mechanisms have been set up to integrate and then This includes: proper taxation systems and revenue promote our intervention towards the best possible authorities that can collect and disperse funds; courts agreement on sustainable development goals in September and justice systems that protect the weakest and assert 2015? Secondly, what response have we given to the the fair and transparent rule of law; strong parliaments report of the UN Secretary-General, published last that hold Governments to account and government week on 4 December? Thirdly, what will we demand at ministries that can deliver in education and health, the European Union Council meeting next Tuesday, and in the creation of jobs; and reliable, independent given its responsibility to help shape the best outcome data collection on which to base decisions and measure in 2015? Fourthly, will we insist that commitments on success. Therefore, as part of the agreement on financing peacebuilding, on inequality, on gender and on resilience that will run alongside the newly agreed sustainable to extreme events be upfront in the final agreement? If development goals after 2015, there must be genuinely we do, we will help to usher in an era of transformation concerted and consistent effort to invest in capacity that will deliver a safer, more prosperous and more and a willingness, in those nations where the vast just 21st century. I beg to move. majority of the extreme poor live, to support that capacity building and respect, accountable, open, fair 3.23 pm and transparent systems and institutions that put people Viscount Eccles (Con): My Lords, I am sure that before those in power. everybody in the House is truly grateful to the noble The second key aspect is peace and security. The Lord, Lord McConnell, for introducing this subject. draft sustainable development goals include, for the We do not have enough debates—at least not in my first time, a firm commitment to peacebuilding and a view—about development, aid and the best way of recognition of the importance of freedom from conflict going about these connected, but different, activities. and violence if those living in the most extreme poverty I am grateful to him for his synoptic view of the scene. and with the worst level of human rights are to see I confess that I approach the subject with a certain their living conditions transformed. Draft goal 16 of humility—and that perhaps makes me not the best the 17 published by the United Nations last Thursday possible person to follow the noble Lord—because I states that the goal is to, am a retired practitioner. I have to remember that I “promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, was a practitioner in the 1980s and 1990s and that the provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable world has moved on, but in those days I was deeply and inclusive institutions at all levels”. involved with aid and economic development. 1981 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1982

My interest in the subject arose a long time ago. With our experience as front-line operators, how There were two economists, Tom Bauer and Thomas should we think about the millennium goals and the Balogh: they were both immigrants—which is interesting aid programme? For my part, I think about striking a —and both became Members of your Lordships’ House. better balance in our aid programme between aid and They used to debate the philosophy of aid and economic development, as well as the contributions to development passionately on the Floor of this House, the development goals. I will illustrate that briefly in a way that I have not seen us debating lately. Bauer by taking the example of tea. The Commonwealth was a market man. He believed in economic opportunities Development Corporation was responsible for starting —a seizing of opportunities to trade and invest achieving the Kenya Tea Development Agency, which now has a satisfactory return. His philosophy has been more than half a million growers and 64 tea factories. demonstrated to work in certain places, such as Malaysia It has definitely been a sustainable enterprise and and Brazil. His conclusion was that there was no Kenya is now the third largest producer of tea in the reason to suppose that development could not be world. But after that we went elsewhere. achieved all over the world in much the same way as it I shall also mention Malawi, which is not a word- was achieved in western Europe and in the United for-word accurate experience, but a good illustration. Kingdom during the industrial revolution. Malawi with its 17 million people is not abounding in economic potential. It is a difficult place with no Balogh was much more a top-down Government- access to the sea, and market players find it difficult to to-Government aid supporter. He was an adviser for a achieve returns there. So we started a tea property. We number of years to . The aid orthodoxy did our due diligence and saw that we had land with of today is much more on the Balogh theme than the good soil, that water was available and that the climate Bauer theme. As I said before, we do not have that was right—all of which would allow tea to be grown much debate about it; we seem to hold similar views successfully. Tea needs a medium-term capital input. about the orthodoxy, which is probably something Tea plants are trees, but they are allowed to grow to that makes me unsuitable to follow, because I am a only 30 inches high. However, they need time to develop, Bauer man, not a Balogh man, and therefore in a so you cannot pluck the leaves for tea for some years. minority—a quite familiar position. You also need to build a tea processing factory, and My second interest in the subject arises because therefore you must have capital. However, capital in 30 years ago, I started about a dozen years with what Malawi was then and still is in very short supply. was then the Commonwealth Development Corporation. We set up a nursery for the tea plants and for At that time, it was a classic development finance woodlots—because without timber for fuel, you cannot institution: state owned and funded by Treasury capital, operate a tea factory. Immediately, we were creating funding private sector economic opportunities and jobs. We needed to make a road because you can bet making modest profits that were liable to corporation your life that a lorry cannot get in and out of a remote tax. What it did was, in general, unattractive to fully place easily. Again, that is economic development and market players, either because of the political risk or it creates jobs. Then there was the matter of housing the risk of low returns. Therefore, what the CDC was and gardens for the people working on the plantation, doing then was filling gaps—doing things that other as well as the school and the clinic, both of which we people did not quite want to do. That is my definition would build. We needed communications in the form of a development finance institution: for it to be a of mobile telephones to contact the market in Mombasa DFI, it has to be prepared to do things that the market and sell the tea . Lastly, women are very important in is not prepared to do—and of course to do them tea plantations because they are much better at plucking successfully. the leaves than men will ever be. I should like to say in conclusion that this kind of My third interest, which is much smaller, is with the activity is a way of fulfilling from the bottom up the Hospital for Tropical Diseases—this relates back to millennium development goals. If I had to choose the previous debate. CDC had some 250 people in between aid and economic development, I judge that 65 different locations, many of them tropical, and we the contribution of economic development is the greater. needed the services of HTD. After retirement, I did quite a lot of work for HTD, including fundraising in 3.32 pm order to move the hospital into more satisfactory premises. Lord Judd (Lab): My Lords, I thank my noble friend Lord McConnell for introducing this debate. I was, therefore, a bottom-up player in both senses. His commitment to these issues is impressive, and I I respected and knew about millennium goals, in the was particularly pleased that he emphasised the sense that although I was pre-millennium, we were still indispensability of solidarity. He is a living example of aiming at much the same things that were codified in what solidarity means. We are having this debate in the 2000. The problem is that bottom-up players cannot context of another debate that is taking place about cope with millennium goals: they simply do not have the 0.7% of GDP. Of course it is clear to me that if we the time. They are too big, too abstract and too distant are going to opt for 0.7% at least and maintain it, we from their lives. Take mobile phones in Ghana, tea in have to be very clear about our objectives and what the Malawi or marine offloading facilities in Papua New money is for. Guinea: while you are carrying out those projects and Against that background, there is also a certain making sure that they are sustainable and generate amount of discussion about the relative merits of returns, it is difficult to take time to think about the disaggregated targets and global targets. I believe that great, wide issues of the millennium goals. there is a matrix of interrelated issues and that we 1983 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 1984

[LORD JUDD] Of course, there are specific issues to be effectively need both. Perhaps I may make two points to set the addressed. UNICEF UK underlines that, while poverty context. We cannot give too much priority to peace, and its lifelong physical and mental stunting effect on security, conflict prevention and conflict resolution. children is bad enough, there are still the issues of Often, conflict disrupts any chance of meaningful trafficking, exploitation, violence, torture and child development. We also desperately need security sector soldiers. I sometimes wonder how on earth we can live reform so that those who are responsible for ensuring with ourselves when we are able to contemplate trips into security are accountable and treated with respect, and space for the rich or, indeed, garden bridges across the have a culture to which human rights are absolutely Thames, when millions upon millions of children are central. I also happen to believe that the recent arms going prematurely to their graves, never having had the trade treaty is highly relevant because the availability opportunity to begin to be what they might have been. and circulation of arms across the world is undoubtedly Age International graphically brings home that by aggravating conflict and increasing its damage. 2050 there will be more people over 60 in the world The UN Secretary-General recent report on post-2015 than children under 15. Today’s 868 million older development spoke of “dignity”, “people”, “prosperity”, people will have become 2 billion. It estimates that “the planet”, “justice”and “partnership”. The objectives 71% of those who die of non-communicable diseases were to end poverty and fight inequality, to ensure are over 60, and some 80% of non-communicable healthy lives, knowledge and the inclusion of women diseases occur in low-income and middle-income countries. and children, to grow a strong, inclusive—I emphasise Like other NGOs, VSO brings home that women are that word—and transformative economy, to protect two-thirds of the people globally who live in extreme our ecosystems for all societies and for our children, poverty. While women undertake two-thirds of the and to promote safe and peaceful societies and strong world’s work and produce 50% of the food, they earn institutions. We should seek to capitalise global solidarity only 10% of the income and own only 1% of the for sustainable development. Perhaps in its concern property of the world. for justice, it would have been good to see even more I am convinced that if we talk about 0.7%, we must effectively spelt out the importance of peace and the talk as passionately about what is necessary to make inescapable significance of fair and just international effective use of it. The people of Wales, Scotland, financial and trade systems, as well as the need for England and desperately need a human rights to be seen at all times as the cornerstone peaceful, stable world. For our own economic security, of any lasting well-being. health and well-being it is absolutely essential. That is Saferworld, of which I am a trustee, has argued that why we should have the post-2015 goals at the centre while the disciplined and essential concentration on of our concerns—in whatever party we are—as we disaggregated indicators with benchmarks so that progress approach the general election. can be ensured at national level is important, it is equally vital to emphasise the indispensability of a 3.42 pm shared set of common and universal indicators. They are central to creating a monitoring system that enables Lord Chidgey (LD): My Lords, I, too, congratulate the evaluation of progress at a global level. the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, on securing this debate on the case for establishing new development As the principal NGOs stress in the excellent briefs goals in 2015. The noble Lord’s contribution to this with which they have supplied us, rooted as they are in House, particularly in the All-Party Group on the Great their authority of engagement and experience, what is Lakes Region of Africa and other all-party groups, is now clear beyond doubt is the inseparability of sustainable highly regarded and gives insight into the challenges development from climate change issues. Christian that face Governments. It also engages with NGOs Aid, Oxfam, Bond and the others all speak out and civil society in the international efforts to deliver unequivocally on this, and they are certainly right. the MDGs by 2015. Already the poorest and most vulnerable people of the world—women, children, the elderly and sick—are I declare my interests, which your Lordships may suffering acutely from floods, landslides, coastal erosion, recall include being the elected chair of the Africa drought, famine and conflict. We may not be able to All-Party Group, the UK director of the advisory stop climate change—our unforgiveable inaction and council for the Association of European Parliamentarians prevarication for too long has accentuated this—but with Africa, and a director of the advisory board of we can still moderate it. However, we can do so only Transparency International in the UK. with urgent and decisive action. In my remarks, I plan to stress the importance of What the World Wildlife Fund has said is certainly strengthening democracy in the developing world to challenging. Its report stated that, deliver sustainable development goals post-2015, particularly strengthening parliaments and their ability “currently we are consuming globally 1.5 times what our planet to establish transparency, accountability and probity can replenish. If everyone globally had the same living standards as the UK, we would need three times the resources that our in their dealings with the executive arms of their planet can provide. However it is the biodiversity in low income Governments. Before I do that, I should like to refer to countries that has experienced the greatest decline over the last a number of the issues raised with me and with other 40 years, averaging 58% and reaching 83% in Latin America. A colleagues by various aid and development organisations. major contributory factor to this decline is from the high consumption patterns in wealthier countries, which relies on the exploitation of Colleagues have mentioned the Bond organisation. natural resources in the low income countries. By taking timber, In its paper, Inequality in a Post-2015 Framework,it fish and agricultural products such as soy and palm oil, we are points out that the new post-2015 sustainable development exporting our environmental impacts”. goals offer a critical opportunity to tackle extreme 1985 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1986 social, economic and structural inequalities, which accountability mechanism, incorporating commitments perpetuate poverty and social exclusion across the to monitor, evaluate and report on progress, applying world. Saferworld has raised its concerns about security, to all countries, to all participants and to all people. and UNICEF is campaigning vigorously to tackle That brings me to engagement with parliaments. violence against children. Throughout the United Nations Development The Bond organisation argues that the three dimensions Programme, through the Paris and Accra conferences, of sustainable development—economic, social and through the fourth High-Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness environmental—should be reflected in the target and in Busan, and now through the first High-Level Meeting goal headlines in a balanced way. There is a call to of the Global Partnership for Effective Development tackle inequality and ensure that no one is left behind, Co-operation in Mexico City, there has been a running with the belief that a post-2015 framework needs to be dialogue on the role of parliaments in the development specifically aimed at reducing inequality within and process. It has to be said that in some quarters of civil between countries, as noble Lords have mentioned, society, NGOs and the aid establishment, there has and to tackle its underlying causes. Interestingly, in a been a strong resistance to recognising any role at all recent address to the United Nations, the Pontiff, Pope for parliaments—the assumption being that donor Francis, raised inequality as a moral issue, condemning and recipient nations need only work with them to the “economy of exclusion” and its consequences, in achieve the aid and development goals. views echoed around the world by religious and political Let us be clear: the only body that has the authority leaders alike. to approve and ratify state development—the only body that has a mandate from the people over In addressing inequality as we seek to achieve the development and state expenditure—is the parliament new SDGs by 2030, life chances and opportunities to and the elected representatives of the country concerned. be rewarded for your efforts and to realise your potential Only parliaments can insist on transparency, accountability should not be determined solely at birth or be dependent and probity from the executive branch of government solely on ethnicity or gender, age or geography. In that in actions taken on behalf of the people. That is why regard, I would be interested in the Minister’s views on the brief on democratic governance issued by the how the UK Government think that the framework United Nations Development Programme in January for the post-2015 development goals can best tackle 2013 is encouraging. inequality. Will the Government champion the proposed In setting out the role of parliaments in defining and inequality goal in next year’s negotiations? What promoting the post-2015 development agenda, the preparations are under away across Whitehall to respond UNDP makes the point that parliaments have often to a global goal to reduce inequality? been sidelined in discussions on official development As Health Poverty Action stresses in its case for assistance—ODA—resulting in low accountability for new global development goals in 2015: budgeting of aid and its allocation to MDG achievement. “Tackling inequality is fundamental to addressing poverty. The need for country ownership, government This requires inequality to be mainstreamed across the framework, accountability and national policy was not sufficiently as well as a stand-alone goal on inequality”. taken into account during the design and implementation of the MDGs and must now be highlighted as a The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said requirement to ensure that a new set of objectives is in its recent report that we are running out of time to attained. Those are not my words. They are the words prevent catastrophic climate change, where average of the United Nations Development Programme. We temperature rises exceed 2 degrees, as the noble Lord, should listen to them. Lord Judd, so eloquently described for us. Many developing countries are already experiencing the impacts Parliaments are at the forefront of these imperatives, of climate change and environmental degradation through because the play a critical role in meeting those increased floods and droughts and uncertain weather requirements through their lawmaking, budgeting, and patterns. oversight functions. There are substantial opportunities for the new 3.50 pm framework to promote win-win outcomes by setting Lord Low of Dalston (CB): My Lords, I join other targets for actions that have benefits for environmental noble Lords in congratulating the noble Lord, Lord and other development outcomes. These include cutting McConnell, on securing this debate, which could not waste, technology transfer and renewable energy. Will be more timely given the stage we have reached in the the Government support and champion a stand-alone negotiations towards a new set of development goals goal on climate change in the new framework? What to replace the millennium development goals in 2015. should a green thread look like in goals such as I declare my interests as president of the International economic growth and governance? How can the United Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment Kingdom be assured that the Government’s proposed and vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group reduction in the number of goals and targets in the on Global Education for All. I would like to focus on framework will still achieve environmental sustainability what role Ministers are playing in ensuring that the and contribute to action against climate change and post-2015 framework secures a good quality education sustainable development? for all and leaves no one behind by including and The Bond Beyond 2015 UK group puts forward a prioritising children and adults with disabilities. strong case for accountability and participation, calling I would like to start by commending Ministers on for a more comprehensive system, with the post-2015 the way in which they have so far championed the concept framework underpinned by a robust and comprehensive of “leave no one behind”, which was such a powerful 1987 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 1988

[LORD LOW OF DALSTON] successful intergovernmental negotiations next year—in part of the report produced by the UN high-level panel particular, whether the Secretary-General has done co-chaired by the Prime Minister. I add to this a strong enough to push forward the “leave no one behind” welcome for DfID’s new disability framework, which principle, which was somewhat lacking from the UN was launched last week at an event I chaired. I believe open working group’s final report. this will help to keep driving this agenda forward as it With regard to education specifically, I am also relates to disability. I also welcome the fact that the conscious that twin negotiations are happening in Government have maintained their commitment to parallel next year with the Education for All process, spending 0.7% of gross national income on overseas led by UNESCO, and other negotiations on education aid. I look forward to supporting the Private Member’s as part of the main post-2015 sustainable development Bill on this issue, which I hope will shortly reach this goal negotiation. There is thus a real risk of confusion, House. duplication and mismatch between what these two The UK’s commitment to 0.7% has enabled us to negotiation processes come up with. What is the UK’s become a leading donor to support education for the position on that? What do the Government want to most marginalised children and young people in the see happen? The obvious answer is that what the two world. Between 2011-12 and 2014-15, DfID will support processes produce in terms of education, goals and 11 million girls and boys in school and a further targets should become one and the same thing, but 1 million of the most marginalised girls to receive a that is not what happened last time with the Education basic education. Education is fundamental to ending for All goals and the millennium development goals. the poverty, discrimination and exclusion faced by Millennium development goal 2, on universal primary disabled people in developing countries. Yetit is estimated education, was only one of the Education for All goals that in most countries disabled children are more that covered secondary education, adult literacy, quality likely to be out of school than any other group of of education, early childhood and so on, which has children. In Nepal, it is estimated that 85% of all resulted in a loss of focus on primary education but children out of school are disabled. In Ethiopia, less much less on other areas of education. I would welcome than 3% of disabled children have access to primary hearing the Minister’s views on these negotiation processes education. In some countries, being disabled more and how the Government are ensuring that the goals, than doubles the chance of never enrolling in school. targets and indicators agreed reflect the need to ensure Disabled children are also less likely to remain in both that all people get a good quality education and school and transition to the next grade. The exclusion that no one is left behind from development and aid of disabled children not only denies their human right efforts. to education but makes it impossible for the world to After months of deliberation, the open working reach the millennium development goal of universal group outcome report includes 17 proposed goals, primary education, which was due to be achieved next including one on inequality. However, many countries year. Fifty-eight million children of primary age are are pushing for these to be reduced to possibly between still out of school around the world, and progress has 10 and 12, so that the goal on inequality is thought to all but stalled. It is estimated that disabled children be at risk. Oxfam has estimated that seven out of may make up over one-third of the out-of-school 10 people now live in countries where inequality is population. growing fast, so I strongly support the retention of a Disability has long been neglected as a niche area of goal on inequality and I very much hope that the development, deemed by many to be too complex or Government will as well. too small an issue to be core to development efforts. The millennium development goals failed to mention 3.58 pm disability at all, yet we now know that disabled people make up an estimated 15% of the global population— The Lord Bishop of Sheffield: My Lords, I welcome approximately 1 billion disabled people. Disability is this debate. With others, I passionately support the both a cause and a consequence of poverty. Fully case for establishing new global development goals in 80% of disabled people live in developing countries, 2015. I note with appreciation the part played by the and the UN calls them “the world’s largest minority”. Government and the Prime Minister in the international The ongoing negotiations towards post-2015 dialogue, and I offer my sincere thanks to the noble development goals, to replace the millennium development Lord, Lord McConnell, for tabling this debate. I welcome goals, therefore represent a unique opportunity to the passion and learning displayed in this House today. reverse the neglect of disabled people by ensuring that I share the view that much has been achieved through the new framework explicitly includes disability as a the millennium development goals. Extreme poverty core issue, and that the framework leaves no one behind, has been reduced by as much as half; there has been by measuring the achievement of targets by whether clear progress in the battles against malaria, tuberculosis they are being achieved for all, including marginalised and HIV; access to drinking water and sanitation has social groups such as disabled people, girls and women, been improved; the participation of women politically the poorest or those living in vulnerable locations. has increased; and 90% of children in developing Last week, as we have heard, the UN Secretary-General regions are attending primary school. published his synthesis report, The Road to Dignity by These are major achievements and should be celebrated 2030: Ending Poverty, Transforming All Lives and and communicated much more effectively than is the Protecting the Planet. I would be grateful to hear the case at present. There is a story to be told here. I have Minister’s comments about this crucial report and the had conversations even in this House questioning the extent to which she feels it lays the groundwork for value of our overseas aid and what it can achieve. It is 1989 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1990 vital that the story be told to build hope and to present ways of responding to human and natural disasters the case for change. My first call to the Government, and building resilience in the poorest communities. to the charities and to the media is to use 2015, the end Fourthly and finally, there should be a renewed focus on of the millennium development goals period, as an global equity with a stand-alone goal of a fair global opportunity to tell the story more imaginatively and economic system and with targets on illicit financial to describe in clear and imaginative ways the change flows and on global tax justice. that has happened. I ask the Minister in reply to offer Many years before the Christian era, the remarkable us some reflection on the ways in which the Government prophet Isaiah of Jerusalem shared a radical vision of will communicate all that has happened. what it would mean to end poverty and live in peace. The is part of the worldwide He prophesied: Anglican communion. and other senior leaders “they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears are daily in touch with churches all over the world. into pruninghooks”. Two days ago, I heard a vivid presentation from eight Conflict resolution, as other noble Lords have said, is of our senior Anglican women leaders, who recently closely related to sustainable prosperity. spent 10 days living and working in Kerala in India We are citizens of one world. Much has been achieved; with Christian Aid. They were inspired by the progress we need to tell that story. However, there is still much they saw there, particularly in gender participation to be done. We need to set goals for gender justice, for and its effect on development, and they inspired others. global equity, to leave no one behind, and to close the Last year I had the privilege of spending time with a gap still further between rich and poor. church in the West Indies and observed it still wrestling with extremes of poverty and deprivation and the 4.05 pm rebuilding of a society still profoundly affected by generations of past slavery. Baroness Jenkin of Kennington (Con): My Lords, I, too, am most grateful to the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, As to communication, the new global development for securing this debate, and congratulate him on goals clearly call for a fresh way of seeing the world. the timing, which comes just a few days after the For much of the 20th century, development has been UN Secretary-General’s much anticipated synthesis about the rich giving to the poor in charitable aid. The report. There can be no more consistent and committed world was seen and described for these purposes in a friend of international development than the noble series of binary categories: rich and poor nations; the Lord. one-third or two- thirds world; the global north and The topic of today’s debate is very similar to that of the global south; the haves and the have-nots. These one I initiated in October last year, and the intervening binary categories are now outdated, though they still year has been both momentous and challenging for have a powerful hold on our minds and our vocabularies. the world, with a number of highs and lows. In June, Our mental maps of the way the world is and the way the UK hosted the Global Summit to End Sexual it could be both need to be redrawn. The vision for the Violence in Conflict, and here I take the opportunity new global development goals needs to be and is of to pay tribute to my noble friend Lady Helic, who was one world that is interdependent, developing and searching the inspiration behind the event and who remains for pathways to sustainable, equitable growth and the committed to driving the agenda forward. We look flourishing of all. forward to hearing from her in this Chamber before The threat of climate change, the desire for sustainable long. growth, digital communications and the movements In July the UK hosted the first and very successful of peoples have all contributed to this sense of one Girl Summit, aimed at mobilising domestic and world and the desire for a good globalisation. It is a international efforts to end female genital mutilation vision profoundly rooted in the Judaeo-Christian vision and child, early and forced marriage within a generation. of the world: a family of diverse nations, cherishing UNICEF co-hosted the event, and I declare my interest peace, seeking justice, nurturing wisdom and looking and pride as a board member of UNICEF UK. The for the flourishing of all. noble Lord, Lord Judd, has said much of what I had Finally, I highlight four vital themes for the new intended to say about the current UNICEF campaign global development goals, also pointed to by others. I on ending child violence. The emergence of the Ebola support and commend these four key principles developed outbreak and the rising threat of extremism have by Christian Aid in a most helpful briefing paper demonstrated the need to continue with a sustainable which I commend to your Lordships’ House. First, I development agenda to ensure that the risk of disease have already mentioned the need to battle the evil and terrorism are lessened through education and giant of climate change and to seek carbon reduction equality for both men and women. as a major goal immediately and for the next generation. I take this opportunity also to thank the many If we fail to place this sustainable development front NGOs and their staff and partners who are working in and centre, the effects on life on earth will be profound. the field to beat Ebola, and in particular to commend Secondly, I would urge that gender justice must be a Restless Development, of whom I am proud to be a stand-alone goal. There must be targets to end violence patron, whose efforts in Sierra Leone are growing day against women and girls, increase participation and by day. Its 1,700 volunteer mobilisers have gone through ensure economic justice for women. Thirdly, I support extensive training, equipping them with vital skills to with others the principle that no one should be left behind bring life-saving messages to more than 3 million in the eradication of poverty and the pursuit of justice. people in the largest social mobilisation ever to take In particular, the world needs still better and swifter place in Sierra Leone. 1991 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 1992

[BARONESS JENKIN OF KENNINGTON] and Reproductive Health, I would be remiss not to To return the topic of the debate, no speech about focus a few remarks on sexual and reproductive health the successor agenda can be delivered without referencing and rights and the significant economic and social the historic impact of the MDGs. In 1990, a decade gains for individuals and families. before they were launched, more than 12 million children There are 225 million women and young girls living died each year before reaching the age of five; in 2013, in developing countries who want to avoid pregnancy fewer than seven million did. As other noble Lords but are not able to use modern contraception. The mentioned, maternal and child mortality has fallen by consequences are huge: 754 million unintended almost 50% since 1990, and 2.3 billion people have pregnancies, 28 million unplanned births and 20 million gained access to clean drinking water during that time. unsafe abortions every year. Investing in SRHR has The reason the MDGs have been so successful is one of the highest rates of return in international that they served to focus world attention on a handful development. For every additional dollar invested in of goals: eight of them, to be precise, articulated in preventing an unintended pregnancy, nearly $1.50 is 374 words. They communicated to the world that saved in pregnancy-related care. Additional savings accrue these eight objectives would be the world’s priorities across all sectors, from healthcare to education and between 2000 and 2015, and as a result, billions of employment. As Governments and international agencies dollars in development funds flowed into efforts to consider and negotiate the goals for 2015 and beyond, tackle the challenges. That said, there is much more I urge them to prioritise universal access to SRHR. to do, and we should not be distracted from the need To sum up, the UK objective for post-2015 is to to finish the job. agree a simple, inspiring, measurable set of goals centred International development combined with globalisation on eradicating extreme poverty. The goals should have has opened up many doors into and out of the developing sustainable development integrated across the framework, world, as other noble Lords have said, and significant and should include what is referred to as the golden progress has been made to reduce the number of thread—conflict and corruption, justice and the rule people living in poverty. However, the opportunities of law, property rights, and open and accountable have not always been equally shared. Many people are government. These goals should be supported by a still locked out. Many women, children and disabled new global partnership that ensures that together we people, as the noble Lord, Lord Low, so eloquently mobilise a range of actors with sufficient resources said, and many others have been prevented from taking from both public and private organisations. advantage of the progress that has been made. The 17 goals and 169 targets produced by the Open Working Group are too diffuse, and the UK’s priority I mentioned the Girl Summit and I pay tribute to should be to define a more concise and compelling goals the Secretary of State for her commitment to gender framework. We should beware a kitchen-sink approach empowerment and to advancing the rights of girls and that seeks to appease all the interest groups. In a world women as a top priority. I also welcome the fact that of increasing resource constraints, such an approach the UK is campaigning for a dedicated gender goal would be a recipe for disaster. The danger that countries that addresses the causes of gender inequality and will cherry-pick, or be subsumed, or throw up their gender-sensitive targets integrated in that goal. hands and do nothing at all, must be avoided. Never Earlier this year, in September, I was in a remote before has the world had to face such a complex village in Zambia, where two young girls were reporting agenda in a single year. This unique opportunity will to the village elders what their hopes, worries and not come again in our generation. It must not be wasted. concerns were. They were the only girls in the room—and I was the only woman in the room. The chief and the 4.13 pm other elders were, I thought, rather dismissive of what the girls wanted. I said to them, “I think that you Lord Cashman (Lab): My Lords, I too thank my should take these women, these young girls, on to your noble friend Lord McConnell for this debate, and for council in order to better reflect what girls really want the enormous dedication that he has given over the in their community”. They said they would—and I years to this important subject. I would like to bring to hope they did. the debate my experience as a former member of the Development Committee of the European Parliament, Of 163 million illiterate young people in the world, as the European Parliament’s rapporteur on the mid-term 63% are female. Each year almost 5.5 million girls review of the MDGs, and as the leader of the delegation aged 16 to 19 give birth, effectively ending their chances to the UN on the post-2015 MDGs. of getting an education and earning a living. The I shall start by going away from my text and saying World Bank study of 100 countries showed that every that if we bring forward the achievable and the attainable, 1% increase in the proportion of women with secondary we shall leave behind the majority of those who look education boosts a country’s annual per capita income to us to ensure that no one is left behind. Arguably, the growth by about 0.3%. MDGs have raised awareness of ending global poverty As we know, DfID’s record on assisting women as an urgent challenge and a priority for global action. throughout the world has been exceptionally strong. Assessments of the progress made in attaining the Due to the department’s focus on the women and girls current MDGs show that, in the new post-2015 development agenda, more than 14 million women framework, a strong linkage between poverty eradication, now have access to financial services, almost 3 million fighting inequalities—all of them—and the promotion girls are in primary education and more than 4 million of sustainable development, as well as a single and women are using modern methods of family planning. universal set of goals with differentiated approaches, As an officer of the APPG on Population, Development are crucial. 1993 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1994

Poverty reduction is uneven and inequalities exist Government are preventing that at the moment as within countries, let alone between countries. This they bypass the EU representatives in the negotiations represents a major challenge, especially with the dubious in New York. It is one thing to complement influence, concept of labelling countries “middle income”according quite another to undermine it. I look forward to the to their GDP rather than real poverty, gender and detailed response of the Minister on these issues. inequality indexes. Access to early childhood development, The draft conclusions are to be adopted imminently. education and training of the highest attainable quality They are very ambitious, especially when it comes to for every child, young person and adult is an essential human rights and fighting inequalities. These conclusions prerequisite for breaking cycles of intergenerational need our support. However, I am again reliably informed poverty and inequality. Yet sadly, as has been said, that there are suggestions that the UK Government little progress has been made regarding gender equality want to remove references to fighting inequalities. and the empowerment of women. Globally, women Sadly, I must end on this note: it is regrettable that on and girls constitute a majority of those living in 25 November, Conservative Members of the European extreme poverty. Gender equality and women’s rights Parliament voted against such an approach as I have are necessary conditions for the success of the post-2015 outlined in a plenary session of the European Parliament global development framework. It is staggering—indeed, in Strasbourg. I hope, indeed, that this is not a foretaste shameful—that every day an estimated 800 women in of what is to come. the world die due solely to complications during pregnancy or childbirth. 4.20 pm Ownership of all the millennium development goals and the post-2015 development goals is essential. The Lord Avebury (LD): My Lords, I agree with the EU and its member states, such as our own country, noble Lord, Lord Cashman, that if we reduce the are the largest donors of development aid and should number of goals and the number of tasks, we may be remain the driving force during the next phase of the in danger of losing some very important principles. I negotiations under the UN, promoting in particular also agree with him on the need to tackle inequality, as the human rights-based approach, based on equality, a fan of the Equality Trust, and on the proposition non-discrimination, participation and inclusion in the that he carefully enunciated that unequal societies are design and implementation of the post-2015 framework. not happy societies. Many of the evils that we suffer in A human rights-based approach is the only way forward. the developed world are a product of our failure to That is why I welcome the inclusion of the promotion tackle inequalities in our own society. of a human rights-based and people-centred approach I also regret that, although the Secretary-General among the SDGs proposed by the UN open working refers to this in his report, The Road to Dignity by group, reinforcing the principles of the universality, 2030, published last week, there is an omission in the indivisibility and interdependence of all human rights main goals, and even in the subsidiary tasks that are of all people, without discrimination on any grounds, set out before us in the SDGs, of any reference to starting with the fundamental right to dignity of all the greatest threat to the objectives of ending poverty, human beings, with particular attention paid to: the addressing climate change and keeping the rise in human rights of women and girls, including the promotion global temperature below 2 degrees centigrade, which of universal access to sexual and reproductive health is the inexorable rise in the number of human beings. I and rights; the protection of and respect for the rights do not see any explicit recognition of that in the of migrants and minorities, including LGBTI people Secretary-General’s report. and people living with HIV; and the importance of In the draft sustainable development goals, also respecting and promoting the rights of disabled people. published last week by the UN open working group, Now is not the time to fail. That is why, sadly, I have goal 13 is to take, to express real concern about the approach and attitude “urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts”. taken by the Government in advance of the UN This is recognised as the primary responsibility of the September summit at both EU level and in New York. UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and We have achieved much before because the EU took a I think there needs to be stronger linkage between the single approach after long and timely discussions. two strategies. Is it really possible to achieve 7% GDP That is not happening now. I am reliably informed— growth in the least developed countries, and should we although I hope the Minister will inform me that I am not distinguish between growth that requires consumption reliably misinformed—that the Government’s intention of energy, such as manned space travel or Formula 1 is to reduce the number of goals proposed by the open or nice garden bridges over the River Thames, and working group, and to cluster them. That would not beneficial growth, such as the development of tidal be helpful. power which could provide 42% of Scotland’s electricity? The UK Government are also not happy with the On the continued growth of the human race, goal universality of the framework, which means that it 3.7 calls for, would apply—this is extremely important—to all states “universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services, and that targets would be fixed for every single state, including for family planning, information and education, and including the United Kingdom. I cannot see the problem the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and with such an approach: that which we demand of others, programmes”. we should demand of ourselves and for ourselves. If we coupled that with goal 5, which aims to, To have weight in the debate at the UN, where there “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”, will be much opposition, it is important that the EU women would have the right to control their own speaks with one voice on the issue. The United Kingdom fertility, and have access to the means of doing so. As 1995 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 1996

[LORD AVEBURY] The APPG on Child Health and Vaccine Preventable the noble Baroness, Lady Jenkin, said, 225 million Diseases, of which I am co-chair, would like to see in women in the world do not have access to the means of the next 15 years the adoption of a more holistic controlling their own fertility. I am very glad to see approach to child health, integrating the vaccination that that is part of the new SDGs. In the developed programmes with the delivery of the WASH agenda world people have control of their own fertility. The for clean water, sanitation and hygiene, where there is problem is that there are religious and cultural obstacles still huge potential for disease prevention. Half the girls to women’s equality in sub-Saharan Africa and the who drop out of school in sub-Saharan Africa do so Islamic world that will not be easily overcome. There is because WASH is not provided. Many more drop out good evidence to show that as women get better or miss school when they reach the age of menstruation educated they will begin to take control of their own for the same reason. We would like to see hygiene fertility, but where there is a long history of male added to goal 6. This would be the place to refer to the dominance, that is not going to be easy to achieve. co-ordination of the delivery of the WHO antigens I entirely agreed with the noble Lord, Lord Judd, with the WASH programme. when he said that conflict prevents any meaningful We also believe that there is tremendous potential development. The emergence of extremist organisations in product development partnerships. I mentioned in such as al-Shabaab, AQAP, the Daesh and Boko Haram the previous debate the example of GSK’s development, should be recognised explicitly as a major obstacle to with the help of the Gates Foundation and many women’s emancipation. Former members of the others in the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative, of the Secretary-General’s high level panel in an open letter world’s first anti-malaria drug RTS,S. In phase three in September stressed: trials, the drug reduced incidence of the disease by a “Freedom from fear and violence is the most basic human quarter in six to 12 week-old infants at first vaccination, entitlement, and people demand peace and good governance as a and by half in young children aged five to 17 months core component of their well-being, not an optional extra”. at first vaccination. In July, GSK sought an opinion The nearest we get to this is goal 16, calling for from the European Medicines Agency on the quality, “peaceful and inclusive societies”, but the language safety and efficiency of the drug. Assuming that the does not spell it out. The necessity of combating reply is positive, the WHO is likely to issue a policy ideologies of hatred, murder, and the subjection of recommendation before the end of next year, allowing women, and blasphemously claiming to be the true African countries to develop schedules for the delivery voice of Islam, needs to be on the final version of the of RTS,S and for their national regulatory agencies to SDGs presented to the General Assembly for approval consider applications from the manufacturers. Children next September. could receive the vaccine by 2016, saving hundreds of My grandfather, who was born in 1834, had 12 children. lives. They had large families in the 19th century because There is broad reference to multi-stakeholder they expected high infant mortality. That is no doubt partnerships at the very end of the open working group’s one of the factors behind the huge birth rates today in draft list of sustainable development goals. My final many less developed countries. But we know what plea to my noble friend, when she comes to wind up, is needs to be done to complete the reduction by two-thirds, whether DfID would consider proposing that a reference between 1990 and 2015, in the under-five mortality to PDPs, which have such enormous potential, be rate—goal 4 of the MDGs—in the countries that have added to goal 17 as a shining example of what these not got there and to take the process much further. partnerships can achieve. The WHO recommends 11 antigens for universal infant use and this should be incorporated in the post-2015 4.30 pm agenda. Lord Hannay of Chiswick (CB): My Lords, 2015 is That goal should be achievable even for the poorest set to be an important year for the UN in what is countries with the help of the Global Alliance for already proving to be an exceptionally testing period Vaccines and Immunisation, to which I am proud to for the organisation. Two major sets of decisions will say, this country is one of the largest contributors. But need to be taken next year: those on the policy framework can my noble friend explain why in the five years 2011 to succeed the millennium development goals, which to 2016 we contributed £1.3 billion, and now that has we are debating today, and those on climate change. been reduced to £1 billion in the next funding round Those two sets of decisions will have crucial implications for the years 2016 to 2020? If I may refer to the for all the world’s citizens, whether they live in developed previous debate, the Chancellor has had no difficulty or developing countries. That is what makes today’s in signing up to the renewal of the contribution to the debate in the name of the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, former fund for AIDS, TB and malaria, so he ought to so timely, topical and welcome, certainly to me. Inadequate be able to do the same for GAVI. policy prescriptions—or, worse still, failure to agree I note that Germany, Canada, Norway and the on anything meaningful at all in either of these Netherlands have all announced larger increases in the negotiations—would have seriously negative consequences pledges they intend to make at the replenishment for the world’s prosperity and its security for a long conference chaired by Chancellor Merkel in January. period ahead. Are we really going to be the only country to give less When the millennium development goals were set this time, when the Secretary of State says that, 15 years ago in 2000, many regarded them, with a cynical “Investing in immunisation is one of the most cost-effective shrug, as just more warm words from an organisation ways of saving lives and improving living standards, health and not short of that commodity. Some still take that view. the global economy”? This morning I read an article in Prospect magazine, 1997 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 1998 which suggested that the setting of these goals was a effective monitoring of the way in which both developed pretty worthless exercise—an article that completely and developing countries, and both donors and recipients, ignored the distinction between the specificity of the fulfil the commitments they have undertaken. millennium development goals of 2000 and the discredited, Our own record in recent years, in particular the very general goals set in previous decades. action taken by the coalition Government to ensure, In any case, I think the millennium development even in a period of austerity, that we achieved the goals have turned out to be a lot more significant than target of 0.7% of gross national income for our official that prognosis. They set a course that has seen many development aid, is one of which we should be proud; millions of people lifted out of poverty in some of the but it is not unchallenged. No doubt, as the political world’s poorest countries, which have also seen remarkable debate hots up before the election and concentrates on improvements in education and health. However, those future public spending projections, it will come under benefits have been too narrowly spread, too heavily threat again. I very much hope that this House will now concentrated in the rising economies of Asia, leaving match the action taken in the other place by passing what has been called the “bottom billion” of the world’s into law our commitment to the figure of 0.7% and population—most of them in Africa—largely unaffected. that when she replies the noble Baroness will say that Daily we are reminded by events—by the Ebola epidemic the Government—as they did in the other place—will in west Africa and by the chaos and threats of genocide lend their support to such a measure. I suggest, too, or violence in the Middle East and in parts of Africa—of that it would be good if all three main parties in how far the world still has to go and how fragile any Parliament were to make sticking to that commitment progress made on development issues can prove to be a non-partisan objective in their manifestos. After all, if basic security cannot be addressed. I join those who it is a lot easier to sustain the commitment to 0.7% than have underlined that point in numerous contributions. it ever was to reach it in the first place. If we can do that, we will be well placed to give the lead in the The case for setting out recalibrated goals for the debates over the 2015 development goals that will take period ahead seems, to me, unanswerable. For example, place in the European Union, at the G8, at the G20 the Ebola outbreak has highlighted how important it and, of course, at the United Nations, for final decision. is not only to conduct high-profile campaigns such as I hope that we will be there, giving that lead. those against malaria, AIDS and tuberculosis, as the previous debate underlined, but to give far more emphasis 4.38 pm to general provision of public health facilities. Baroness Hodgson of Abinger (Con): My Lords, like In other areas that so far have been either neglected others, I congratulate the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, or inadequately treated—for example, removing on raising this very important issue today. As the UN discrimination against the disabled, on which I support Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon himself has said, the every word that my noble friend Lord Low said, and millennium development goals have been the most discrimination against women and girls—clear objectives successful global anti-poverty push in history. During need to be set out. In some cases, which have emerged the past 14 years, we have witnessed enormous progress in prominence only since 2000—for instance, bringing in tackling some of the world’s most prevalent ills and the benefits of the digital economy and the revolutions providing for the needs of those in the very poorest in communications technology to a wider range of and most disadvantaged communities. As other noble countries and a wider range of social groups within Lords have said, the setting of these ambitious and them—the challenge is to define sensible and sustainable measurable targets has resulted in a worldwide halving goals. Those are the challenges that I see in 2015 and I of the numbers living in extreme poverty. Fatal diseases hope that whichever Government emerge from next have been tackled and millions more people today May’s general election will measure up to them. have access to sanitation, clean water and primary education. It is important, therefore, that the progress However, we also need to realise that if we cannot made is strongly acknowledged and celebrated, but respond effectively to the challenges of the climate this is not a job finished; this is work in progress. change conference in Paris at the end of next year, much of what we set out to achieve in the form of Although the targets were projected to be met by development goals will prove to be unrealisable. A 2015, still around 700 million people across the world world beset by coastal flooding from rising sea levels, live in abject poverty and without many of the things desertification and catastrophic climatic events will such as healthcare and secondary education that we in not be a world capable of achieving sustainable the UK take for granted. As Amina Mohammed, Ban development. A world in which civil and sectarian Ki-moon’s special adviser on the post-2015 development strife spreads across whole regions, uncontrolled by planning acknowledges, the world has changed radically the rules-based institutions that we have so laboriously in the last 15 years and we must now expand on built up since the end of the Second World War and progress, build on existing momentum and learn the the end of the Cold War, will fare no better. So the lessons that the MDGs have given us. This is not the agenda that we face goes a lot wider than the simple moment to give up the fight. setting of development goals. If a new policy framework The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in his of development goals is to be worth while, I suggest recently released synthesis report, stressed the need for that we will need to ensure, in addition, that it does a renewed global partnership for development between not just consist of words on paper, but that the the rich and poor nations in the context of the post-2015 commitments subscribed to in New York in 2015 are agenda. Thus we need to look ahead, establish new implemented and monitored. Surely, there needs to be goals and finish the job in hand. This will need a new 1999 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 2000

[BARONESS HODGSON OF ABINGER] In some countries, violence has become a pandemic approach, which needs to include caring for the and, where conflict occurs, rape is all too often used as environment and protecting the world that we live in a weapon of war. Sexual violence destroys lives, shatters —as the secretary-general has made clear, you cannot families and breaks up communities. I therefore have true economic development that does not recognise congratulate on his initiative to end the importance of the earth’s natural systems, because sexual violence in conflict. He has put the spotlight on climate change causes crops to fail and people to to a war crime that has been ignored for years. starve in poor countries. Today in war, 90% of the casualties are civilian—mostly At Rio+20, member states agreed to launch a process women and children; yet, women are nearly always to develop a set of sustainable development goals—the excluded from the peace processes. Some 125 million SDGs—to build upon the MDGs and converge with women and girls have undergone FGM and one in the post-2015 development agenda. Whereas the MDGs nine girls in developing countries is married before the concentrated just on developing countries, to really age of 15. The reality of this usually means that their create a sustainable agenda we will need to treat people education is finished and their prospects curtailed; as active partners in development rather than passive many are condemned to a life of domestic servitude. beneficiaries of aid. It will need all countries, both Still, every day globally, around 800 women die in developing and developed, to commit to good governance, childbirth. rule of law and the fight against corruption, with targets This was brought home to me when I visited Mali and indicators relevant to every country and region. It last week. Mali is one of the poorest countries in the will need everyone to be engaged to help deliver this: world; it has a very high illiteracy rate and many Governments, civil society, all ages—the young and women are married off at an extremely young age. old—and especially the marginalized groups, because Most girls there have undergone FGM and, as there is we must ensure that no one is left behind, regardless of little access to contraception, they will end up having a age, gender or ability. It is only by working together large number of children. It is hard for the women that we can deliver a truly transformational approach. there to do anything but just concentrate on their Some of the MDGs have delivered more progress survival and that of their children. than others, but one of the areas in which we still have Too many countries today still have a patriarchal a significant way to go is that of gender equality and society, with men dominating all the leadership positions, the empowerment of women, which was millennium and with the societal norms and values working against development goal number three. Globally, women are women. I therefore welcome the recommendation of disproportionately impoverished and, as the noble the open working group—established to develop the Lord, Lord Judd, told us, make up two-thirds of those sustainable development goals for future consideration still living in extreme poverty, form 60% of the working by the UN General Assembly—for a standalone goal poor but earn only 10% of the world’s income and on gender equality and the empowerment of women, own less than 2% of the world’s property. Sixty-one a goal that so many of us have been calling for. per cent of the 123 million young people who lack basic reading skills are women. A survey of 63 developing This new gender goal—goal number 5—unlike that countries also found that girls are more likely to be out of the MDG, has targets aiming to create policies and of school than boys among both primary and lower laws to ensure an end to discrimination and the elimination secondary age groups. of violence and harmful practices, such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation. They also aim Why is gender equality so important? It is because to ensure women’s full participation in decision-making women have the ability to transform their communities at all levels and in ownership of land and economic if they are given the right tools and support. As resources. In particular, I welcome the reference to Brigham Young once famously said: universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare “You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a and reproductive rights, on which there has been pushback woman; you educate a generation”. from some countries in recent years. This goal also I find it incredible that there is still no country in the emphasises the need to address stereotypes, mindsets world where women are equal in political, economic and attitudes that reinforce traditional gender roles. I and social terms, not even in the developed West. This am delighted that not only has own Government is a missed opportunity. Even here at home, it is Equalities Office stated its support or this: it has also projected that by equalising men’s and women’s economic been championed by our Secretary of State for participation rates we could add more than 10% to the International Development and very much welcomed size of the British economy by 2030. In developed by NGOs and women’s groups. countries, gender wage gaps also persist. Only one in We all hope that this strong and explicit goal on five parliamentarians worldwide is a woman; and VSO gender equality will remain in the final post-2015 tells me that on current rates of progress women will framework. However, we are not there yet and inter not be equally represented until 2065 and will not -governmental negotiations will continue into next make up half the world’s leaders until 2134. Domestic year when the final post-2015 development agenda is violence everywhere is often all too commonplace, to be adopted at the summit scheduled for September with 35% of women across the world having experienced 2015. Therefore, things can still change—and slip violence. A woman who has to fight for her existence backwards—and some fear that global leadership is at home has no prospect of working towards greater not strong enough. We look to the UK to provide a rights, higher status within society or helping her strong lead by setting out an inspirational vision for community. the future, so that agreement can be reached for a 2001 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 2002 renewed global partnership for development, which As I have said, these new and possibly alarming will enable us all, together, to meet the challenges figures have been disputed, partly on the grounds that facing us around the world today and help to transform background assumptions might not remain unchanged the lives of those who live in poverty. over the lengthy projected period. For example, education and even climate change might alter the outcomes. But 4.47 pm it is accepted that, over time, the UNFPA population Viscount Craigavon (CB): My Lords, in thanking projections, which are updated every two years, have the noble Lord, Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale, been broadly accurate. I mention all this, and the new for this opportunity to bring us up to date on the increased projection, partly to remind us that the language and methodology of development goals, I common supposition that the size of the population is wish to concentrate on what I believe to be one of the somehow magically sorting itself out into a kind of most important areas. That is the population factor, natural equilibrium is almost certainly not the case. In which in many parts of the world is the key element—but sub-Saharan Africa in particular there is still a large, not the only contributor—affecting development. It is unmet need for modern contraceptive services. also a key to sustainability in the long term. I shall That brings me to the recent Guttmacher Institute focus on two aspects of this. The first is the recent report, also supported by UNFPA, on the costs and responsible prediction, endorsed by the United Nations benefits of reproductive services. The commonly accepted Population Fund—UNFPA—that world population figure for unmet need is around 200 million women is not expected to level off this century, as previously wanting to avoid pregnancy but not being able to expected, but will reach a much higher total before access contraception. Here the figure is confirmed in beginning to come down in the next century. some detail as around 225 million. That is apparently The other aspect I will highlight is the recent report one-quarter of all such women of reproductive age by the Guttmacher Institute—again, together with the and is the same for the whole range of reproductive UNFPA—called Adding It Up, which deals with the services and related health benefits. The report quantifies costs and benefits of investing in sexual and reproductive the investment needed to provide proper health services health. I am hoping that in both of these areas, the and the savings that would be made by so doing. The final version of the development goals will be framed situation varies widely region by region. Providing all to emphasise the importance of these aspects. women with the healthcare they need would be cost- On the first, I have always tried to avoid trading effective. The general conclusion is that for every numbers in population matters. The concept of world £1 invested in contraceptive services, £1.50 is saved in population has limited use, as there are so many consequential outcomes. regional and local variables. A new prediction in a Finally, I urge that the ultimate version of the new recent paper in Science, with UNFPA support, is that development goals should emphasise the need for the present world population of 7.2 billion will increase greater investment in sexual and reproductive health to 9.6 billion in mid-century and to almost 11 billion services. These investments are cost-effective, save lives by the end of the century. This is against the more and are the cornerstone of sustainable development. conventional scenario until now that the figure would level off at around 9 billion in the mid-century and 4.53 pm thereafter decrease. The use of talking in these terms is Lord Collins of Highbury (Lab): My Lords, I, too, then to look at how and why the figures have changed. thank my noble friend Lord McConnell for initiating Not everyone would support the new hypothesis leading this timely debate. The EU is calling 2015 the European to that change. All these predictions are expressed in Year for Development, with the intergovernmental terms of the probability of their being right. negotiations commencing in January and with a view What has changed is that the remarkable rate of to finalising work in July ahead of the September fertility decline in both Asia and Latin America has summit to determine global plans for the next 15 years. not been copied in Africa, and in particular in sub-Saharan As my noble friend said, last week the United Nations Africa. In some African countries, decline has stopped. Secretary-General published an advance copy of his The ideal family size there seems to remain on average synthesis report which draws upon the Open Working about 4.6 children, and the level of meeting the unmet Group proposals for 17 goals and 169 targets. Six need for contraception seems to have remained essential elements are identified, although the Secretary- unimproved for the last 20 years. These are generalisations, General does not detail explicitly how these elements but they include populous countries such as Nigeria. should be used in the negotiations. I ask the Minister The figures are merely signposts to highlight where what initial assessment the Government have made of things are and are not changing, whatever the cause. the implications of the UN Secretary-General’s report. The same paper also deals with the related but I share the concerns of my noble friend Lord Cashman. opposite matter largely in developed countries, and Given that the Secretary of State and the Prime Minister that is the potential support ratio—roughly the number have both commented on a number of occasions that of workers per retiree. Where there have been fast 17 goals and 169 targets are “too many”, what will the declines in population numbers, support for the older Minister’s priorities be in the post-2015 negotiations? members of a population is put under pressure. The Which goals would she be happy to see either merged most extreme projected case is Japan, where the proportion or discarded from the final list? will be 1.5 workers for each retiree. Both fast declines As my noble friends have said, our country’s and fast increases in population produce their own commitment to the world’s poorest and most vulnerable pressures, but in both rational human intervention is is not just morally right; it is in Britain’s national possible, if not simple. interest. Just as important is how our actions can help 2003 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 2004

[LORD COLLINS OF HIGHBURY] route out of poverty. But there are 168 million child shape global opinion. We need to convince those who labourers working across the world, and those who are able to do much more and empower others to work in developing countries often work in ill defined stand on their own two feet. We need global agreement jobs in the so-called grey economy. Formal employment on tax transparency, need to ensure that companies would better ensure workers’ rights and avoid exploitation pay their tax in-country, and need to support Governments at the hands of unscrupulous companies. We need to to collect their own taxes to reduce aid dependency stop clothing made by people working in horrendous and foster good government. If we are to unlock conditions reaching our markets and we must demand development, the UK must push for bold and visionary action from major companies to stamp out child labour global agreement on development over the next 15 years. from their supply chains. Labour will reverse this As we have heard in today’s debate, there are three Government’s decision to withdraw funding from the vital areas that are the greatest areas of inequality that International Labour Organization and we will work the world faces. First, we must set new global priorities with the International Trade Union Confederation to to give everyone universal access to healthcare. Secondly, ensure that those who want to work hard can get on. climate change is a development issue and must form Finally, as we have heard in the debate, almost half an integral part of global effort over the next 15 years. the world’s wealth, totalling $110 trillion, is now owned Finally, we must protect human rights, as my noble by just 1% of the population. Seven out of 10 people friend Lord Judd so ably argued, working to help live in countries where economic inequality has increased eliminate exploitation, to protect the rights of women in the past 30 years. As we have also heard, gender and girls and to protect workers’ rights. inequality is the most persistent form of prejudice but inequalities can occur across urban/rural divides or Ensuring that everyone in the world has access to have different ethnic, religious or racial group dimensions. affordable healthcare is essential to end poverty. It is Discrimination on the grounds of disability is also a deeply unfair that 3 million people die every year critical factor fuelling inequality, as was pointed out because of a lack of vaccine for preventable illnesses. by the noble Lord, Lord Low. Given that inequality is As we heard in the previous debate, there have been an issue of pandemic proportions—which goes beyond 1.5 million AIDS-related deaths, when we have treatments simply ensuring that no one is left behind—I ask the that could have kept those people alive. Three-quarters Minister whether her Government are willing to commit of those living in low-income countries lack access to to the need for a stand-alone goal on inequality in the decent healthcare. In India, a middle-income country, post-2015 agenda. the situation is the same. Universal health coverage reduces inequality and would prevent 100 million people a year from falling into poverty. It is the bedrock of 5.02 pm human development. This year the Ebola virus has killed thousands across west Africa. The UK’s response The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department to the humanitarian health crisis has been strong. for International Development (Baroness Northover) However, the main issue here was health systems not (LD): My Lords, I, too, thank the noble Lord, Lord being resourced or strong enough to deal with the McConnell, for securing this debate. He has a formidable issue. Universal health coverage, whereby there is access record in this field, as have all others who have participated for all without people having to suffer financial hardship in the debate. I knew that it would be an extremely well when accessing it, is the key way that we can make informed and deeply thoughtful debate, and it has countries more resilient to health concerns such as proved to be so. What shines through is an understanding Ebola before they become widespread emergencies. of why this is so important. The right reverend Prelate UHC is a clear and quantifiable goal. Will the Minister urges us on in communicating what has been achieved support UHC in the language of the health goal in the since 2000, even with the financial crash of 2008 onwards, SDGs? in the relief of poverty. He is surely right. As noble Lords know, the year ahead of us is I turn now to climate change, which hits the world’s absolutely key—as the noble Lord, Lord Hannay, poorest people the hardest. It causes severe weather made clear, not only on MDGs but on climate change events. The poor live in areas that are most affected by and many other issues. A key moment, and the climate change and lack the resilience to cope with culmination of the subject of this debate, will be the drought, flood and food insecurity. Given the clear summit in September 2015, where the world will seek links between climate change, inequality, poverty and to come together to agree a new set of sustainable economic development—the most recent example, which development goals to take us to 2030. We believe that my noble friend Lord McConnell referred to, being the international community has a duty to produce an Typhoon Hagupit, or Ruby as it is known in the inspiring framework that will put us on a sustainable Philippines—yet again it appears that those who had development pathway to eradicate extreme poverty the least were those who have lost the most. Does the within a generation, building on the successes of the Minister agree that a post-2015 agenda without a MDGs. stand-alone goal on climate change will undermine The United Kingdom has played an active role in the potential of the entire agenda? the post-2015 development process to date. From my right Empowering countries to stand on their own two honourable friend the Prime Minister’s co-chairmanship feet is not just about new powers for more Governments; of the high-level panel to the recent Open Working it should result in changes for working people as well. Group on Sustainable Development Goals, we have Decent jobs under decent conditions for decent pay been extremely active. With the formal intergovernmental are a vital part of development, providing a permanent consultations on post-2015 running from January to 2005 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] Global Development Goals 2006

July 2015, and with the report of the UN Secretary- Leaving no one behind must be, in our view, a key General on post-2015 released last week, today has to the new goals. The noble Lord, Lord Judd, flagged been a timely opportunity to reflect on the progress an ageing world population. We know that around the the international community has made so far. world, as the world of work changes and as cities grow, there is a serious danger of older people, possibly First, I will touch on the work of the open working increasingly infirm, being left out as economies may group. Over 13 sessions, member states in the group grow. Women are so often left behind, as we have discussed a range of issues and inputs into the post-2015 heard. LGBT people may be left behind. Those with agenda, and ultimately its July report proposed a disabilities may be left behind. I thank the noble Lord, framework of 17 sustainable development goals and Lord Low, for his tribute for what we have done in 169 targets. The UK Government have welcomed the terms of disabilities, particularly what my right honourable breadth and balance of this report and there are a friend has done to ensure that we number of extremely positive aspects to it. There is a include those with disabilities. As the noble Lord, strong focus in the proposals on the eradication of Lord Low, notes, 15% of the global population has a extreme poverty, a welcome goal on gender equality, disability and 80% of those with disabilities live in peaceful and inclusive societies, and access to justice. developing countries. That is why leaving no one behind There are some useful objectives on environmental is so essential. sustainability and we will continue to work so that this is integrated within the agenda. Many noble Lords will recall the high-level panel’s proposal that no post-2015 target should be considered As my noble friend Lady Jenkin pointed out, the achieved unless met by all relevant social and economic power of the MDGs was in their simplicity, and the groups and we are pleased that this has been reinforced ability for planning and finance ministries to take in this latest report. Building on this, the report also them in their entirety and to help define their national emphasises the importance of data to the post-2015 plans, rather than to pick and choose which targets agenda. The UK has been clear throughout that a data were most politically expedient. We have heard from revolution is needed better to collect, use and open up statistical experts and implementing ministries in data for maximum effect, bringing together all those developing countries that turning the current 169 targets who are relevant in this area. The noble Lords, Lord into meaningful, measurable and manageable action McConnell and Lord Judd, and others have noted on the ground would be nearly impossible. Making that as being a vital tool in this regard. long lists—and we know this very well in this House—can result in whatever is missed out not being counted. I note what the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, said This is why there is an argument for an over-arching in his opening remarks—others echoed this—about inclusive approach. Over the coming months, we look how essential it is that women are central to these forward to working with other member states, civil goals. My noble friends Lady Jenkin and Lady Hodgson society and technical experts to ensure that what we put the case extremely effectively for why women and agree in September is a genuinely workable framework. girls must be front and centre. The UK Government have argued strongly for a dedicated goal that addresses As the noble Lord, Lord Hannay, said, what we the causes of gender inequality, as well as for gender- surely cannot allow is failing to agree something sensitive targets and indicators throughout. meaningful. As noble Lords have noted, the UN Secretary-General released his report, The Road to I am also very glad that climate change and the Dignity by 2030. Tasked with synthesising the many environment have been integrated into the whole process contributions to the post-2015 discussions to date, the of these goals, as there was a danger that the issue was Secretary-General has called on member states to just going to be running alongside. That integration is strive, with the highest level of ambition, to end poverty, clearly essential, as noble Lords have pointed out; the transform all lives and protect the planet. As the noble noble Lords, Lord McConnell, Lord Judd, Lord Hannay Lord, Lord McConnell, and others have said, he set and Lord Collins, my noble friend Lord Chidgey and out the six essential elements that member states should others have all emphasised it and numerous NGOs strive towards: dignity, people, prosperity, planet, justice, have made that case, as the noble Lord, Lord Judd, and partnership. The elements can provide a helpful noted. Those in developing countries, as we have just organising framework for the negotiations to come, heard from the noble Lord, Lord Collins, are indeed and they point towards a focused outcome on post-2015. the most vulnerable to climate change. It is also a It is important that the final framework is inspiring matter of global security, as noble Lords have said. It and that we can communicate it. That certainly provides is impossible to consider eradicating poverty by 2030 food for thought. without addressing climate change, so we firmly believe that the framework must include measures in this We have also been clear on the need for a framework regard. that can be monitored and implemented—again, as the noble Lord, Lord Hannay, said. I note the Secretary- On peace and security, the noble Lord, Lord Hannay, General’s proposal for a technical review of targets to who is a member of another UN high-level panel, knows ensure that each is framed in language that is specific, a great deal about the need to integrate development measurable and achievable. One of the downsides of for global security, and this is all consistent with that. the MDGs was in effect the use of averages, which left The noble Lord, Lord McConnell, and others mentioned many behind—although that was never intended. The this, and it will indeed be critical to ensure that peace UK remains a strong advocate of the principle “leave and security, the ruler of law, access to justice and no one behind” and it is notable that the Secretary- inclusive economic growth are reflected in the final General’s report also supports this approach. outcome. 2007 Global Development Goals[LORDS] Global Development Goals 2008

[BARONESS NORTHOVER] Lord Eccles, who has such a long and distinguished The noble Lord, Lord Collins, mentioned universal history on the economic side of development, not health coverage. Health, including sexual and reproductive least through the CDC. We fully recognise that people health rights, is a prerequisite for human and economic are pulled out of poverty through the economic development and we are strongly supportive of universal transformation of their countries. I absolutely agree health coverage as an essential means to achieve health with him. Our focus on human development, so that outcomes. people have the education and skills to participate in The noble Lord, Lord Low, rightly talked about the our globalised world, underpins much of what we do. need to integrate. He flagged education, which of It is one of the reasons why we support the development course needs to be properly integrated. We do not of health systems, so that economies can power ahead. want processes that duplicate but ones that are mutually It is also why we ensure that we focus on governance, supportive, and we will have to look right across the that that is strengthened so that, for example, countries board as far as that is concerned. can draw in taxation that they need to support their human development. The noble Lord, Lord Collins, My noble friend Lord Chidgey mentioned working mentioned the importance of taxation. It is also why with parliaments. Indeed, we support the need for we seek the reduction in tariff barriers, to ensure that effective monitoring and accountability at all appropriate countries can trade with each other. The CDC, with levels for this framework and that very much includes which of course the noble Viscount is so very familiar, parliaments, which play a pivotal role. helped fund the expansion, for example, of the mobile On universality, I reassure the noble Lord, Lord money in Kenya, including those who were outside the Cashman, that the UK is clear that the next framework banking sector, enabling them to be brought within should be universal and all countries should have the economy so that it could move forward. Human responsibilities in it, so it will apply to the UK. Discussions development goes hand in hand with, and underpins, are continuing at the moment between departments in economic development, so I do not see a contrast preparation for that. between our approach in terms of underpinning human There is more to the post-2015 agenda than goals development and focusing on economic growth. and targets alone, of course. In July next year there The noble Lord, Lord Cashman, was concerned will be a major conference in Ethiopia at which the about the reduction and clustering of the goals. I will international community will decide how best to finance come to this in a little bit more detail in a moment. We the new framework, and the Secretary-General’s report clearly welcome the breadth and balance of the report acknowledges the importance of an ambitious set of of the Open Working Group, but we are concerned means of implementation, including overseas development about whether 17 goals and 169 targets are sufficiently assistance and other resources. focused and whether actually they then lead to leaving I thank those who have paid tribute to the UK on things out, because you can be pretty sure they are not reaching 0.7% of GNI devoted to overseas development. going to be as comprehensive as you would wish. I think that the UK should be proud of reaching that We are moving forward into the next stage. There goal, especially at a time of austerity. I assure the will be the intergovernmental negotiations, co-facilitated noble Lord, Lord Hannay, that the Government are by the permanent representatives of Kenya and Ireland fully committed to supporting my right honourable in New York, that help to define the final post-2015 friend Michael Moore’s Private Member’s Bill, which framework. The United Kingdom will be an active will enshrine this, and I am delighted that my noble participant in this process, and we will continue to friend Lord Kirkwood will be leading the Bill through work closely with other member states within and the Lords, supported right around the Chamber, I beyond the EU and with civil society and other key hope. It is enormously helpful to hear the voices in stakeholders to press for the ambitious framework we support of the Bill. From the Government, of course, need. I shall be strongly supporting it. The noble Lords, Lord McConnell and Lord Cashman, It is because we have met 0.7% that we have been spoke about the EU. We have advocated for a proactive able to become such a significant donor for multilateral EU approach to the post-2015 discussions, and, having organisations, such as the Global Fund and Gavi. I worked closely with other EU member states and the heard what my noble friend Lord Avebury said about commission, we are confident that the EU commission Gavi. I would gently point out that the United Kingdom on post-2015 will reflect joint priorities and assist us is the largest donor to Gavi. Although, of course, I am as we try to secure an inspiring and implementable absolutely delighted to hear about other countries framework. The EU can be a very powerful group if increasing their level of commitment, that has to be its members work together—the noble Lords are measured against the enormous commitment that the absolutely right. That is why we have been working so United Kingdom Government have already put in. It closely together to try to have a common approach. I is extremely important, and my right honourable friend assure noble Lords that a great deal of effort has gone the Secretary of State has recently announced up to into that. £1 billion in direct funding contributions for 2016-20. It was interesting to listen to the list of organisations That is in addition to our existing long-term commitments. that the noble Lord, Lord McConnell, mentioned, in I fully recognise the contributions that Gavi makes, as which the United Kingdom plays a leading part. The my noble friend outlined. organisation he did not mention, which of course also Significant progress has clearly been made over the influences this discussion, is the G77. He will know past year in terms of what is being brought forward that those different organisations have conflicting internationally. I will engage with my noble friend approaches. 2009 Global Development Goals[11 DECEMBER 2014] UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade 2010

The MDGs were, largely, drawn up by one hand: by commercial activity on the one hand and government a Member of this House, the noble Lord, Lord Malloch- assistance on the other. Today, however, most of us accept Brown, from the Benches opposite. The MDGs had a that a combination of both will deal with global inequality simplicity, and they had an effect. As the noble Lord, and deprivation. I hope that our debate here in the Lord Hannay, indicated, that was not widely anticipated. House of Lords has taken that agenda forward into However, that is what happened, so all now recognise 2015 with some style and quality. I thank noble Lords the importance of their replacement. It is excellent very much. that the world has engaged in this area. The risk is that what is produced does not have the clarity and purpose Motion agreed. of those first goals, in which case it will not guide and will not have the effect that we all wish. Of course UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade those first MDGs had limitations. We are in the final Question for Short Debate stages now, and I welcome this debate and the engagement of all noble Lords here, who have such huge expertise 5.25 pm and influence. I hope that all will apply that expertise and influence to ensure that what replaces the MDGs Asked by Lord Sheikh is directed at ending extreme poverty by 2030. That is To ask Her Majesty’s Government what plans why leaving no one behind, and the desegregation of they have to encourage more bilateral trade between data so that we know whether people have been left the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka. behind, is so critical. As the noble Lord, Lord Collins, pointed out, it is Lord Sheikh (Con): My Lords, I am grateful for the both morally right to address poverty and in our national opportunity to bring this important subject before interest to do so. The challenge is to secure the bold your Lordships’ House. I have been a friend of Sri Lanka and visionary agreement that he so rightly seeks, as we for several years and have visited the country on two all do. We live in interesting and risky times; there is so recent occasions. I have met and spoken to several Sri much to play for here. We must ensure that we work Lankan government Ministers in London as well as in together, and internationally, to build on the remarkable Sri Lanka, including the President, Mr Mahinda achievements of the MDGs and put in place something Rajapaksa. I have previously raised issues relating to that learns from them and is inclusive, and which Sri Lanka in your Lordships’House. I am a vice-chairman renders the horrendous poverty and deprivation, to of the All-Party Group on Sri Lanka, and I have which the noble Lord, Lord Judd, so eloquently pointed, supported the Conservative Friends of Sri Lanka. I a thing of the past. have also enjoyed a highly successful relationship with the Sri Lankan high commission here in London, in 5.22 pm particular with the former high commissioner, Dr Chris Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale: My Lords, I Nonis, who has been an outstanding representative of predicted on Twitter this morning that we would have his country. He elevated the stature of Sri Lanka in the a top-quality debate here this afternoon, and I was not United Kingdom. wrong. I am very grateful to all noble Lords who The observations I have made throughout this time participated in our debate for the quality of the have reinforced my view that Sri Lanka is, and should contributions and the way in which we have covered so be, regarded as one of our most important bilateral many issues in depth, but with real focus and passion, trading partners. Trading links between the UK and too. I am particularly delighted to have my noble friend Sri Lanka date back to colonial times. We introduced Lord Cashman here, who contributed his experience commercial plantations to Sri Lanka—first coffee, in the European Parliament in this debate; perhaps we then tea and rubber. Over the years the Sri Lankan have missed that element in recent years in the many export product base has diversified significantly, most debates we have had to move this agenda forward. I thank notably with articles of apparel and clothing accessories. the Minister for her responses and for her reassurances The UK has increasingly imported a wide variety of and information about the Government’s position. items, including electrical equipment, bicycles, jewellery, I will make one other point in closing the debate. I ceramics and toys. In return, we export to Sri Lanka met two teenage girls on a visit to the Central African items such as iron and steel, machinery, paper, beverages, Republic six weeks ago, who were in an internally plastics and pharmaceutical products. displaced persons’ camp. However, they somehow Both our political and economic ties have worn struggled to get out from that camp and go to school extremely well over the past 200 years. Today, Sri Lanka each day before they returned home to collect water is a major emerging economy in south Asia. It is a and perform other duties for their families, who lived market of over 20 million people, but its geographical in the camp all day, as they had for many weeks and location means that it can in fact reach a market of months. If they had been sitting in the Public Gallery over 1.6 billion people. It also serves as a logistical today, they would have been very proud to see the way trading and shipment hub for the region. Over the past in which we conduct ourselves in our debates. While decade Sri Lanka’s gross domestic product has grown there is a consensus of commitment, we are able at an overall rate of 6.4%. It grew by an astonishing openly to debate and discuss the priorities and the way 7.2% in 2013. Sri Lanka now has one of the fastest in which we will take this forward. growing economies in the region and is expected to To refer back to the contribution made by the noble grow by 7.5% this year. The Sri Lankan stock market Viscount, Lord Eccles, we have come some way since is on target to finish among the top 10 performing those old debates, which were polarised between stock markets in the world this year. It now has a GDP 2011 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade[LORDS] UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade 2012

[LORD SHEIKH] statutes, offering many companies a legal framework per capita of $3,200, and the Sri Lankan Government with which they are already familiar. Sri Lanka is the aim to increase this to $4,000 per capita by 2016. In highest rated country in south Asia in the World Bank’s short, Sri Lanka undoubtedly holds massive potential rankings for ease of doing business. Sri Lanka also for UK investors. has free trade agreements in place with India, Bangladesh We must acknowledge that for nearly three decades and Pakistan. These can reduce import tariffs for Sri Lanka was torn apart by a civil war. Thankfully, some goods into those countries and thus help build that came to an end in 2009. The country has since the Sri Lankan economy further and allow British made significant progress, including meeting many products to make their way through the supply chain. international obligations and engaging with the United Another key consideration is infrastructure. Following Nations on post-conflict matters. A commission was the end of the civil war, Sri Lanka is seeing a rapid and established to strengthen the process of reconciliation wide spread of infrastructure development. Connectivity and the Sri Lankan Government are currently is being vastly improved through several major road implementing its recommendations. I have been assured projects linking urban and rural communities. The that the Government are committed to the realisation Government are also improving and upgrading urban of all human rights to prevent further conflict. I infrastructure facilities and basic services in towns and believe that now is the time for any Tamil diaspora cities. which left the country to be encouraged to return and However, further modernisation is needed and the be resettled so that it may once again contribute to the opportunities for British businesses are vast. The well-being of the country. Sri Lanka’s future is Sri Lankan Government have launched a major undoubtedly looking bright. infrastructure initiative, entitled Five Hub Programme, Fortunately, we already have a foothold in the which will provide opportunities for us to be involved. country. We are already one of the top five investors in There is also an increasing demand for greater expansion Sri Lanka. The bilateral trade between the two countries in the leisure and tourism sector, including hotels and has increased by 70% since the turn of the millennium, retail. This is and will continue to be a key growth area and we are its number one EU trading partner. In for British investors. 2013, UK exports to Sri Lanka were valued at Another key area for further investment is education. £167 million. It should be noted that the balance of The Sri Lankan workforce lacks critical job-specific trade has risen significantly in favour of Si Lanka in skills, which could serve to undermine both private recent years. In the longer term, we must look to sector growth and public infrastructure development address this imbalance. I would be grateful if my noble in the future. We must expand even further our role in friend the Minister could clarify what action is being providing and investing in higher education and skills taken to achieve this. training, helping the Sri Lankan workforce to fill the As important as the volume of trade between the skills gap and become more responsive to the needs of UK and Sri Lanka is the strategic significance of the the global market. In particular, I believe we could do type of trade. We are one of Sri Lanka’s closest more to build university-to-university contacts and business partners for higher education and professional become involved in creating colleges of excellence. training as well as for partnerships in the technology There are also calls for greater facilitation of business sector. These are vital skills that will help Sri Lanka to visas for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to travel to the build and strengthen its economy in the long term and UK. I hope that our Government will undertake to anchor the UK as a key partner in trading. There are look at this. I ask my noble friend the Minister whether already more than 100 British companies with operations that can be considered. in Sri Lanka that cross a wide range of sectors. These Finally, I commend UK Trade & Investment’s recent include HSBC, GlaxoSmithKline and Rolls-Royce. trade mission to Sri Lanka, which I understand included When I visited Sri Lanka, I was able to visit the representatives of 21 British companies. I look forward Brandix factory near Colombo, which makes garments to learning more about its findings and hope to see for Marks & Spencer. I found the operations to be more of these delegations in the future. very eco-friendly, with excellent working conditions The future potential for Sri Lanka is huge, but it which were commended by all. I have spoken on this will be reached only through continued and expanded point previously in your Lordships’ House. Sri Lanka bilateral trade with countries such as ours. also has many of its own home-grown success stories. During my trip, I also visited Millennium Information 5.37 pm Technologies, a fast growing Sri Lankan company Lord Naseby (Con): My Lords, it is a particular which was acquired by the London Stock Exchange pleasure to join this debate and I thank my noble friend Group in 2009. Its systems power several stock exchanges for instigating it. I go back 50 years with Sri Lanka, and depositories around the world. having worked there in 1963 for the Reckitt and Colman Aside from our historical ties and the strong Sri Lankan Group as a marketing manager, visiting every conceivable economy and business base, there are many other market in the year I was there. When I came back, I reasons for us to promote and further bilateral trade. wrote a pamphlet in 1967 called Helping the Exporter. English is widely spoken across the country, providing It even had to have a reprint, although there are not many western countries with an easy means of too many copies left nowadays. Before I came to the communication with potential workers. The literacy House I was a director of one of the major advertising rate in Sri Lanka now stands at about 92%. The agencies specialising in overseas trade, so I think I have commercial law of Sri Lanka is based primarily on a reasonable heritage to comment on trade between the principles of English commercial law and English two countries. 2013 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade[11 DECEMBER 2014] UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade 2014

The first thing I want to say is that Sri Lanka is very Then, of course, next door there is a big brother, relevant to our country. The population is roughly but a very much changed big brother. Modi’s India is 30% of the size of our own. I will not cover the same there with a link for Sri Lanka to be the hub for goods areas as my noble friend, but it is right to re-emphasise and services on their travels eastward to drop in to the that growth since peace in 2009 has been roughly brand new port at Colombo city. There is the additional between 6.5% and the 8% at which it is currently new port down at Hambantota and the revitalisation running. I congratulate Her Majesty’s Government on of Galle harbour, by kind permission of the Dutch. the trade mission that was put together at the end of All that means that this is a real opportunity for growth. November. I think our high commissioner, who I I have been a tourist in Sri Lanka on a number of know is on his last few months there, put together a occasions. I was a tourist in the very early days when if really good programme, and the feedback from the you were on the shore you ate fish curry and if you chamber of commerce in Colombo was very positive. were up country you ate chicken curry. Today, there Indeed, I shall quote one sentence from the welcome. are wonderful hotels. I looked at the figures, which are Thankfully the high commissioner has put “Ayubowan” astonishing. This year, it is estimated that there will be which is the traditional welcome in Sri Lanka. He 1.6 million tourists and there has been a steady increase says: in the amount of money that tourists spend. “With a Free Trade Agreement with China to be signed shortly adding to the existing FTAs with Pakistan, India, South Sri Lanka is really becoming a middle-income country, Asia and Asia Pacific, Sri Lanka could act as a regional hub to although there are obviously poor parts of it; I think I over 3 billion potential customers”. know where they are as well. The real estate market is That is what it is all about. moving in Colombo and surrounding areas and that is a positive move. Are there risks? Of course, in every I also inevitably did some research into, for me, a commercial world—and I was in it for quite a long relatively new area, looking in some depth, not at the time—there are risks. There is one simple thing that political scene, which I think I know backwards, but at Her Majesty’s Government can take on board, which the trade and commerce side. An excellent article is supported 100%, I am pleased to say, by our high appeared by a man called Jon Springer of Forbes commission. If we want to do more trade with Sri Lanka, Asia. He picks out a number of key determinants why we have to speed up the process of issuing visas to Sri Lanka has such good opportunities for the UK to those coming on a short-term visit to do business. export there. Although the Foreign Office claims that it is to save First, he picks out government stability. It is true money that visas have to be processed in Chennai, that that in 2009, once peace was there, there was stability is a nonsense. We even built a building in Colombo to on the ground. Added to that, there is now a railway do the processing. It is sitting there idle. What would system all the way to Jaffna. There are new roads, both be the net extra expenditure for a couple of officers to up to Jaffna and down to the south-west. There is process the proper visas, maybe just for business visitors? electricity, without permanent cuts, which was the That really needs to be looked at. That is my plea to situation for many years and certainly when I worked my noble friend on the Front Bench. there. There is good electricity on tap. I would call that There are some other handicaps. I will highlight a rising peace dividend. three. One is the Small Business, Enterprise and My noble friends mentioned the stock market. No Employment Bill going through your Lordships’ House. wonder Sri Lanka is proud if our stock market is using Parts 7 and 8 and Schedule 3 require that shareholders software from Sri Lanka. I would be jolly proud if that holding 25% or more, or having some control over a happened. A friend of mine, a Tamil, is a director of company ownership, have to be kept in a register and one of the major companies, MAS, a major clothing that register must be made public. Admittedly, this manufacturer exporting all over the world. It exports applies only to UK companies, but I have to tell my here to Marks and Spencer and other retailers. I went noble friend on the Front Bench, as one who has round not only his factories, but the housing developments worked and lived in that part of the world, as far as for some of their people. They are extremely well the Middle East and south-east Asia are concerned, done. Yesterday, I went to Human Rights Day in the nobody wants to have their public or any other public Foreign Office, where there was talk about the need for look at a register. That leaves them open to creative the corporate sector to show a proper response to its journalism and, I am sorry to say, one or two creative workers and others for whom it is responsible. In NGOs. There is ample provision to check on fraud, passing, I say to my noble friend that I thought money laundering and other provisions. However, I yesterday’s initiative, Human Rights Day, was very think my noble friend will have to pass on a message good indeed. to his noble friends that that will cause a huge problem John Springer also picked out a comment that I had for trade. also seen from Ceylon Asset Management, which, I I am sure there are those in the Chamber who admit, is at the far end: wonder why I have not even mentioned politics. I have “We expect 25% growth in the equity market on average per to mention it on a couple of issues, though. Here in year for the next five years. If you think about it, that isn’t that the UK there is a challenge from the part of the Tamil much space on 7 to 8% growth in the economy annually. What diaspora that just pours out propaganda. I must get people don’t realise is that on a per capita basis, Sri Lanka is twice one or two things a week, telling me that dreadful as rich as India”. things are happening every day, and, more importantly, I think that is probably blowing a trumpet a bit, but that Eelam is still on the agenda—that is, the independence nevertheless, there is positive note there. of the north and possibly the east. Frankly, that does 2015 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade[LORDS] UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade 2016

[LORD NASEBY] of arms—including shotguns, assault rifles and not help anybody. What I find so disappointing about ammunition—granted licences for export to Sri Lanka the Tamil diaspora is that the amount of money and in the first six months of 2014, as set out in data from investment that is going into the Jaffna region is so BIS, and as report in the Observer on 8 November? I tiny that it is almost embarrassing to record how low ask the Minister—if he can help me—what criteria it is. were used in deciding that this was a suitable transaction. Add to that the news we had yesterday or the day In economic terms Sri Lanka enjoys good annual before about torture in Guantanamo Bay. There are growth, as we have heard. Since the end of the civil allegations of torture in Sri Lanka. On my last visit, I war, by and large trade has increased in both exports did my level best to check with all the independent and imports between Sri Lanka and both the European authorities whether there was any evidence of torture, Union and the United Kingdom. Of course, I welcome particularly the ICRC, which said that there was none. the expansion of trade and welcome the proposals in However, we keep getting the odd report, without this debate by the two speakers who have already substantiated evidence, that there is torture. We need made their contributions. Obviously, tourism is an to take all those with a pinch of salt. immediately attractive product—hardly surprisingly, There are also claims that there is religious intimidation. given the beauty of the country. I can beat the noble I say to my noble friend that there is not. There is Lord, Lord Naseby: I was in Sri Lanka before he ever diversity of faith there. Certainly the Sri Lankan stepped on to that island. When I was a boy living in Government are not stirring it up one way or the other. Chennai and then Madras, my mother took me to Should we not reflect that mosques were burned down Ceylon, as it was then, before the noble Lord ever in Luton, Bletchley and Birmingham? We do not went there as a young adult. Of course, those we must know who perpetrated that situation but we know that be envious of today are those lucky fellow countrymen it is wrong. I believe that the Government in Sri Lanka of ours who were there to see England win the fifth will be equally keen to find out who is responsible one-day match, held over two days near Kandy. More there. seriously, it is in other areas of possible trade that, no Overhanging it all is the OHCHR situation in Geneva, doubt, progress can be made. The higher education which, frankly, is not recognised by the Sri Lankan and technology fields, where there seem to be considerable Government. Perhaps more importantly, it is not opportunities, are of great interest. recognised by a number of Commonwealth countries, Sri Lanka enjoys preferential access to the EU including India and Australia. We will have to see how market under the generalised scheme of preferences. objective it is, but sadly the UN does not have a great However, the generalised scheme of preferences-plus history of objectivity in what has happened in Sri Lanka. status was temporarily withdrawn in 2010 and remains I conclude by saying that we have a new high withdrawn. As I understand it, 36% of Sri Lanka’s commissioner going from here to Sri Lanka. I hope exports go to the European Union: it is its largest that he will have really good knowledge of commercial market. Why did the withdrawal of the “plus” status matters and will deal with that with energy. Sri Lanka happen in the first place, and why does it remain has a presidential election on 8 January. I do not know withdrawn today, nearly four and a half years later? who will win; I wish whoever does all possible success. The answer of course—although it may be uncomfortable I know those elections, as does the Opposition Whip; I to say so—is in Sri Lanka’s response to the legitimate am sure it will be a fair and full election. I thank those concerns of the rest of the world about the behaviour who have enabled me to take part in this excellent of its Government and its military towards minority debate. groups both during and after the end of its terrible civil war. Sri Lanka’s Government—again, I am afraid 5.48 pm to say so—appear to have done all within their powers to block any effort to discover what went on and what Lord Bach (Lab): My Lords, I start by congratulating may still be going on. The frustration of world opinion the noble Lord, Lord Sheikh, on securing the debate. I about this blockage has resulted in the setting up of an thank him and the noble Lord, Lord Naseby, for their inquiry by the United Nations Human Rights Council, speeches. The only regret is that the debate was listed, instigated by the United Kingdom, among others, as it probably had to be, at the end of a long list of under the auspices of OHCHR, which was referred to debates on the last Thursday sitting before Christmas. in passing by the noble Lord, Lord Naseby. The The United Kingdom is proud of being a trading Sri Lankan Government have just gone on blocking: nation. It is important that, in general, the Government there is no access for the investigative team and a encourage and help British exporters. In a former life I reported threat by the Minister for Mass Media in Sri was the Minister for DESO, which is now part of Lanka that legal action may well be taken against UKTI. I hope that I did my bit to assist at home and, those who testify before the Commission, if they breach especially, abroad. British trade means more economic the terms of the Sri Lankan constitution. This attitude activity at home; British exports mean more and better has led to the respected House of Commons Foreign jobs for workers in this country. I congratulate the Affairs Committee, under all parties and under the Minister on having one of the best jobs in government. chairmanship of a very distinguished Conservative That is my starting point, but it is always vital to Member of Parliament, to the following conclusion, connect the general truth that trade is good with the in paragraph 37 of its recent report: real world as we find it. Defence exports in particular “Given the time that has passed since the launch of the are, rightly, closely looked at. My first question to the international inquiry, and the constraints placed on the OHCHR Minister is this: why was more than £8 million-worth team, we believe that the Government should be ready to consider 2017 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade[11 DECEMBER 2014] UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade 2018 all possible options, including sanctions, to convince Sri Lanka to rehabilitation. Sri Lankan presidential elections have allow access. We recommend that the Government negotiates been called for next month. We have encouraged the with its EU partners to remove GSP status from Sri Lanka, if the Government of Sri Lanka to invite international observers Government of Sri Lanka does not allow the OHCHR investigating team into the country and uphold the right of human right so that the elections can be fairly assessed. We understand defenders to engage with the UN human rights system”. that Sri Lanka’s Election Commission has invited the What is Her Majesty’s Government’s view on that Commonwealth and the South Asia Association for recommendation? I ask again whether it was wise for a Regional Cooperation to observe. We welcome these licence to be granted for the arms exports from the moves. United Kingdom in 2014. I want to pick up on a couple of points made by the We have heard about the presidential elections due noble Lord, Lord Bach. The first was on the subject of on 8 January next, which the world hopes will be fair arms. As he will know from his history, the British and, of course, non-violent. However, the Financial Government have a rigorous policy of assessing all Times argued in June that the growing tensions between export licences to each country, including Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Buddhist majority Singhalese population very much on a case-by-case basis. We seek not to and the minority Muslim population are likely to export equipment where we assess that there is a clear affect the country’s business climate. Muslims in Sri risk that it might be used for internal repression, Lanka are among that country’s most successful would provoke or prolong conflict within a country, or commercial operators; surely it is in Sri Lanka’s economic would be used aggressively against another country. and human interest to ensure that its minority population The equipment concerned included antennae for military is treated with respect and equality. That surely means transport, carbon fibre tows, some software to do with assisting and not blocking the OHCHR commission, internet access, and things such as sporting cartridges. so that if wrong has been done it can be admitted and On these cases, which we reviewed carefully, we decided properly dealt with; and if it has not been done, that that export licences could be granted. It is also something can be independently verified. Only in that way can that we will keep under review, as we do with all the country move forward. I look forward very much countries. to hearing what the Minister has to say. The noble Lord, Lord Bach, also raised the recommendations of the Foreign Affairs Committee. The UK Government’s position on this is that it is 5.57 pm premature to do anything more prior to the UN The Minister of State, Department for Business, reporting on the matter, and we are expecting the Innovation and Skills & Foreign and Commonwealth UN’s report in March 2015. When we receive it, it will Office (Lord Livingston of Parkhead) (Con): My Lords, be appropriate for the Government to take a view of I thank my noble friend Lord Sheikh for initiating this which, if any, of those recommendations should be important debate and for his wider contribution to the taken up. relationship between Sri Lanka and the UK. I have to I turn to the subject of trade. The UK has strong admit that I was concerned this morning when I came family, historic, and—particularly today, even if I am in and saw the annunciator saying that the final QSD a Scotsman—sporting ties. Of course, both countries today was on the subject of trade with Syria. It is a are members of the Commonwealth. We have a strong relief for all of us that this was incorrect. I also thank commercial relationship. In Colombo, the Council for the other noble Lords for their contribution to this Business with Britain actually boasts 151 members debate. We may have been lacking something in quantity, across a wide range of sectors. Britain is Sri Lanka’s but it has been more than made up for in quality. I largest export market in the EU and the EU is itself wish to ask my noble friend Lord Naseby whether he the largest market for Sri Lankan goods. In 2013, will give me a copy of his guide to exporting. It would bilateral trade was more than £1 billion. While my be interesting for our team to see what, if anything, noble friend Lord Sheikh pointed out that this was has changed since it was written. weighed heavily in Sri Lanka’s favour, we have started Trade is important not only to the prosperity of the to see some change. Last year, Britain saw an increase UK but to Sri Lanka and its people. However, the of 14% in goods and exports to Sri Lanka. Commercial UK’s commitment to free trade goes hand in hand contracts worth $3 billion to Britain were signed in with our commitment to human rights. That point has 2013, as a result of the order by Sri Lankan Airlines been made volubly. I appreciate that there are divergent for 13 Airbus aircraft with—I am delighted to say— views on this issue. Let me set out the Government’s Rolls-Royce engines. There are therefore, in a number position. The UK co-sponsored the United Nations of areas, positive signs of improved British performance. Human Rights Council resolution in March this year. We are Sri Lanka’s leading business partner—as This resolution requested that Sri Lanka make progress was mentioned by a number of noble Lords—in the on human rights and reconciliation. As my noble field of higher education and professional training. friend Lord Naseby mentioned, it also mandated the Some 28 British universities offer access to their Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights qualifications through local education providers in to undertake an investigation into alleged violations of Sri Lanka. A further two universities are currently international law by both sides of Sri Lanka’s conflict. considering establishing their first satellite campuses To echo the comments of the noble Lord, Lord in Sri Lanka. It also hosts—and this hurts me, as a Bach, we continue to urge Sri Lanka to co-operate and member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants—the ensure the protection of those providing evidence to largest number of Chartered Institute of Management the investigation, and to implement the recommendation Accountant members outside of the UK anywhere in of its own internal commission on resettlement and the world. 2019 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade[LORDS] Wales Bill 2020

[LORD LIVINGSTON OF PARKHEAD] also as a regional hub. We will encourage exporters to The British Council has been operating in Sri Lanka look beyond the standard markets of the EU and the since 1950. More than 200 staff deliver services across US and try to support them both across the UK through the country, including teaching English to more than our regional trade advisers and on the ground in 12,000 students a year at the British Council teaching Sri Lanka through the high commission and UKTI. centres. However, there are more opportunities—that Finance and credit insurance are also important issues has been made very clear by all the speakers in the for exporters, particularly in countries like Sri Lanka. debate—and more that we can do and are doing to Last year, UK Export Finance provided almost help UK exports. As my noble friends Lord Sheikh £100 million of support to Sri Lanka. It has the and Lord Naseby commented, UKTI held a recent further capacity and desire to support business with trade mission entitled, “Putting British Business on Sri Lanka going forward. the Front Foot”. That was just at the end of November. My noble friends Lord Sheikh and Lord Naseby During the three-day event, delegates from 21 British raised the perennial issue of visas. While I appreciate companies met potential Sri Lankan business partners that the perception of visas is an issue, some 99% of from all parts of the country. They were briefed on business visas were issued in under 15 days. For business new business opportunities and they heard from British people coming here, there is also an option for a companies. It is always very important to hear from five-day visa. We will continue to listen as issues arise, British companies actually operating in Sri Lanka so but with visas it is always important to separate issues that they understand the position on the ground. of policy from those of process and perception in UKTI Colombo has already been able to assist with order to try to establish what exactly the issue is. new business worth £15 million as a result of this trade However, we absolutely will listen if there are issues on mission and a further £17 million deal is now close to a day-to-day basis going forward. finalisation. In addition, a major British company is It is important to make the point that UK companies now considering entering the Sri Lankan market, and should not let some of the real difficulties of doing we very much welcome that. business in Sri Lanka blind them to what are also real Sri Lanka is actually the highest rated country in opportunities, but they should also not let those south Asia in the World Bank’s ease of doing business opportunities blind them to the difficulties. UKTI is index. That is good, but we think that there are here to help them with both. opportunities to improve the position still further. It In conclusion, the Government want to build an can be done through a number of things. First, there even stronger bilateral trade relationship with Sri Lanka should be a reduction in unnecessary red tape, albeit in exports, in imports and in investment. At the same that that is true across much of the UK and Europe. time, we will continue to urge Sri Lanka to make There could also be improvements to security of contracts, progress on the important matters of human rights protection from what is apparently arbitrary decision- and reconciliation. In that way, and together with making, and better transparency and governance. We trade, Sri Lanka can secure long-lasting peace and are encouraging the Government of Sri Lanka to take prosperity for all the people of that country. I know steps to make it easier for British companies to do that that is what all noble Lords most definitely wish business there and to reduce the barriers to foreign to see. investment. We believe that Sri Lanka and Britain can also build further trade relationships through the Commonwealth by utilising the expertise and drive found in organisations such as the new Commonwealth Wales Bill Enterprise and Investment Council, which I am delighted Returned from the Commons to say is being partially funded by this Government. The Government will also look to hold further The Bill was returned from the Commons with the trade missions to Sri Lanka so that companies can amendments agreed to. understand the scale of the opportunities, as they are indeed immense not only within the country itself, but House adjourned at 6.07 pm. GC 523 Female Genital Mutilation[11 DECEMBER 2014] Female Genital Mutilation GC 524

having it. However, there have been no prosecutions Grand Committee here. The reasons given are that a girl will not go into court and give evidence against her parents about Thursday, 11 December 2014. abuse carried out on her. In parts of Europe where girls have given evidence against their parents, they have never returned to their parents’ home after the Female Genital Mutilation case was over. The communities from which they, their Question for Short Debate parents or even their grandparents have come are known for the closeness of their families. Appearing in 1pm court and stating openly under oath what a mother or Asked by Baroness Rendell of Babergh even a father did to them would be a betrayal many could not face carrying out. But to put an end to To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps FGM such evidence almost certainly must be given. they are taking to encourage prosecutions of offenders Perhaps we have to find a way to expand the law, to under the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003. change the law, if we are to make successful prosecutions happen in future. Baroness Rendell of Babergh (Lab): My Lords, in I have talked to surgeons from France who have the past 30 years there have been two Acts of Parliament carried out reversals of mutilation. Such reversals now concerning the law on female genital mutilation. The include restoring parts of the genitalia, which used to second one, in 2003, superseded and expanded the be considered impossible. The time will come, it is first, making the maximum punishment for carrying hoped, when complete restoration can be achieved. out genital mutilation 14 years’ imprisonment. In the One fine surgeon well known to me in London carries past year, at last, and for the first time, FGM has been out reversals but has yet to restore sensation to the very much to the fore. Those of us who have always clitoris. But are we really to look forward to the repair believed that schools have a major part to play in of a hideous, brutally perpetrated wound—a repair detecting which children are at risk of FGM have seen carried out with great difficulty and enormous skill—as teachers alerted to identifying those in danger. Nurses the only certain solution to the problem of FGM? and midwives—many of whom knew nothing about What kind of a society uses circumcisers who are the risk, and who had among their patients those who ignorant of medicine and surgery to deliberately maim were likely to have been mutilated and those who young women and girls, who can only be restored to would be liable to be—have now been taught what to health and a normal life by the operations of a highly look out for. Young girls subjected to FGM as small skilled surgeon? children or recently in their teens have come forward, The number of cases of FGM cutting in this country, told their stories to newspapers and magazines and in Europe and in Africa vary. Indeed, I may say that been featured in the many campaigns intended to put they vary wildly. At present we hear of 66,000 cases in an end to what has long been known as a cruel and the UK with a further 24,000 at risk, while a few revolting practice. months ago I heard the figures of 133,000 and then of This week, as part of the Government’s reducing 137,000. In Africa the figure is 3 million, but is liable and preventing crime strategy, mandatory reporting of to change according to who arrives at it. FGM begins. The Home Office particularly wants to hear from health professionals, the judiciary, social The Home Office, the Department of Health and workers, criminal justice practitioners, service providers the Department for International Development now and local authorities. Sanctions are to be applied if recognise that tackling violence against women and professionals fail to report FGM. This is an important girls, which includes FGM, requires a sustained, robust step forward, but those of us who have worked against and dynamic cross-government approach, and that FGM have long been convinced that the best way of every department needs to play its part in addressing stopping it would be to prosecute the perpetrators. FGM. We hear less these days about the supposed One single successful prosecution would do much. cultural value of FGM or about not interfering with With a law in place allowing no mercy on perpetrators ancient traditions. Foot binding in China had to be of FGM, making no excuses for them and banned, as did such practices as neck lengthening uncompromisingly calling their action a crime and which result in disablement. We now hear less, if child abuse, a newcomer to the UK who had never anything, about the value to society of the tradition of previously heard of FGM, on learning what it was FGM and the need to retain it. and what the law was, would refuse to believe that The Department of Health is working to improve there had been no prosecutions. the information collected by the NHS on FGM. Health In many countries where the law is similar prosecutions staff may now have to include a type of so-called happen and are successful. There have been more than female circumcision in their attentions. This, which 100 successful prosecutions in France, in Italy and in appears to be Islamic in origin, is now being practised Sweden, and there have been successful prosecutions in the UK, according to information reaching the in countries in east Africa as well. In Kuria East, in FGM National Clinical Group. It claims to be close to central Africa, the parents of a 13 year-old girl were male circumcision and involves cutting the area around prosecuted for employing a so-called circumciser to the clitoris. It appears to have its origin in the Caribbean. cut her and were sent to prison for three years. In Claims are made that it brings enhanced pleasure to France, girls are routinely examined by their doctors men and women but, whether or not that bears any to check if they have had FGM or are in danger of relation to the truth, the fact is that it too is illegal GC 525 Female Genital Mutilation[LORDS] Female Genital Mutilation GC 526

[BARONESS RENDELL OF BABERGH] it. Their initial response was exactly as the noble Earl here. It is just another variation on a damaging cutting predicted. However, when I said to them, “If the fact procedure, which every victim would be better off that you allowed your young child to be sensitively without. examined—however much you may baulk at it—saved The Department for International Development five, 10, 20, 100 or who knows how many other has established a £35 million programme to address children from being mutilated, would you feel differently?”. FGM in Africa and beyond, which aims to end FGM At which point they said, “If you put it like that, yes; I in one generation. The Home Office’s action plan, the could not possibly refuse something that might save Call to End Violence against Women and Girls, has other children from this horrendous practice”. renewed its focus on protecting potential victims. The I know that the Minister and everyone in his Home Office aims to use this plan to work closely with department and the Department of Health are very partners across government to help secure an FGM concerned about this—none of us doubt that. None of conviction. The Home Office has launched a statement us wants to see this practice continue. We all think that which sends out a strong message to anyone involved it is barbaric. However, although progress is being in the practice of FGM. This statement is set out on made, we have not yet, as we have heard, obtained a leaflets, of which 37,000 have gone out. conviction. I ask the Minister to consider—I use that The Home Office continues to work closely with word very carefully—mandatory targeted examination. the Crown Prosecution Service to ensure that the If one is considering it one is not necessarily saying Government are doing everything they can to secure a that it is going to happen, but the fact that the Government prosecution. The Director of Public Prosecutions’ say that they may need to consider it would send a assessment is that it is now only a matter of time message to families who might be considering cutting before a perpetrator is brought to justice. A doctor is their children. They might suddenly realise that they due to appear at the Central Criminal Court in January, could be held to account. As far as I can see, this is a and if this case goes ahead it will be the first instance win-win situation for the Government. Even if it stopped of a prosecution under the Female Genital Mutilation a handful of children being cut, it would have achieved Act 2003. One successful prosecution might arguably something. do more than cautionary leaflets. This case is long I shall keep my speech very short because I have awaited and I hope it may take place, whatever the previously gone on and on about the barbarity of the outcome, because 133,000 or 137,000 young women practice. We do not need to hear those arguments and girl children’s future lives depend on it. The publicity again because we all share the same feelings about the which it gives rise to alone will spread the news of practice. I simply ask whether the Minister will consider what FGM is as nothing else can. the possible mandatory targeted examination of children.

1.09 pm 1.13 pm Lord Berkeley of Knighton (CB): MyLords,itisan The Lord Bishop of St Albans: I, too, thank the honour to follow the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell of noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, for highlighting this Babergh, who has espoused the cause of halting FGM important area and giving us yet another opportunity for at least as many years as I have months. When I to air some of these complex but vitally important entered your Lordships’ House, I very much felt that I matters. I pay tribute to her determination in trying to did so to represent music, culture and the arts, but keep this issue in the public domain. I also thank Her what I discovered from listening to debates about Majesty’s Government for the splendid, recently published FGM so appalled me that I became quite passionate action plan. It is encouraging that many people want in my own espousal of this cause. It is an appalling to make an impact on this problem, across all the practice, and what really staggered me was that it is parties. That is the secret. We need to get cross-party happening in ; I simply could not believe support and expand it much more widely. it. It is bad enough that it is happening in the way that Yesterday marked the end of a 16-day campaign, it is in many countries—and I know that there are the origins of which lie with the Women’s Global charities tackling that—but that this is going on in this Leadership Institute. The 16 Days of Activism Against country is completely staggering. I gather that some Gender Violence campaign began on 25 November—the children are brought to this country to be subjected to International Day for the Elimination of Violence FGM. Does the Minister have any figures not just on against Women—and ended yesterday, 10 December, the people who live here who are being cut but on the which was Human Rights Day. A specific part of this ones who are possibly being brought here for that campaign is to target the ending of FGM. purpose? It would suggest that there is not a sufficient Within my own sphere of operation within the fear of the law. Anglican Communion, the Mothers’ Union, which When this issue was recently debated in your Lordships’ has more than 4 million members worldwide, has House, the noble Earl, Lord Howe, was asked about participated in this campaign. Indeed, in my own the discrepancy between this country and France, diocese of St Albans we have recently had a debate on which the noble Baroness has just referred to. He said, gender-based violence, including the horror of FGM. with considerable justification, that France is a very In response to that, we have committed ourselves as a different country from this one and that the idea of diocese to campaign on this issue and to try to raise it mandatory examination here would offend civil liberties across all sorts of different bodies and groups. As a and the mothers of young girls would be very upset. It direct result of that and other initiatives, in the last few is a fair point. I therefore undertook to ask several days I have tabled a number of Questions to Her friends with young children how they would feel about Majesty’s Government on the subject of FGM. GC 527 Female Genital Mutilation[11 DECEMBER 2014] Female Genital Mutilation GC 528

This debate is specifically about encouraging an area with a large number of people of other cultures. prosecutions under the 2003 Act—something which, In many ways, they were quite separate from what we as we have already heard, has not so far been accepted as the norm. As well as making a push on accomplished, although I understand that that may convictions, which will send out a strong signal, I hope change shortly. I also note that under the Serious that we can find ways of engaging much more with the Crime Bill, which is now having its Second Reading in leaders of these communities. the other place, we have been beefing up the legislation It is very often, I am told—I have no direct experience in several areas relating to this. For example, the scope of this—the older women in the communities who for prosecuting someone for assisting an offence of push for this as the norm; it is not just men who see FGM overseas is being extended to all residents of the this as an issue. In particular, we need community UK, not just permanent residents. There will be a leaders who are willing to say publicly that they not guarantee of lifelong anonymity for anyone who is only do not agree with it, but that they would be alleged to have been the victim of FGM, which is willing to marry someone who has not had FGM. more likely to make victims feel willing to come forward. There have been one or two such statements and these There will be a new offence of failing to protect a girl will dig right into the culture and help us move forward. from risk of FGM on the part of someone with So, as well as making a push on the legal opportunities, parental responsibility for her, and female genital the prosecutions, I hope that we will not lose sight of mutilation protection orders will be introduced. Those some very useful material in the national action plan are all things which I warmly welcome. It is intended about dealing with cultural issues at the same time. that they will help to prevent vacation cutting, while allowing the child to stay with her family and not be 1.20 pm taken into care. I know that a number of your Lordships will share Lord Morris of Aberavon (Lab): My Lords, I, too, my regret that one amendment was lost earlier in the congratulate the noble Baroness on raising this issue. passage of that legislation. It sought to add to FGM On Tuesday the House debated judicial review and its protection orders the words: importance in ensuring that Ministers act according “For the purpose of determining whether an operation is to law. In a country without a Bill of Rights, this is an necessary for the mental health of a girl or woman, it is immaterial essential cog to uphold the rule of law, as the House whether she or any other person believes that the operation is decided overwhelmingly. In my short speech I talked required as a matter of custom or ritual”. about how a government department that I was I did not take part in the debate at that stage but I responsible for reacted to an adverse decision of the understand that the amendment was rejected because courts, and the non-statutory inquiry I set up, as some people believe that it is already covered in the Attorney-General, following criticism of the Director 2003 Act. However, in my mind it highlights that, of Public Prosecutions and the Crown Prosecution while we are busy trying to pass more legislation, Service. somehow we are not getting convictions under the I am confident that the current Director of Public existing legislation. We have already heard that there Prosecutions, whom I know, with her long experience have been a number of prosecutions in France, and I of prosecuting, can be relied upon to fulfil the proper think that just last month there was a successful tests for prosecution: the public interest one and the prosecution in Uganda. I found myself wondering evidential one. But you cannot make bricks without whether what we need is not more legislation but to straw. I think that the public interest test is clear. work out where the blocks are. In particular, for However, there seems, from the paucity of prosecutions, example, do we need to get people from the CPS to go to be substantial difficulties in the presentation of to France to discover what the problems have been in evidence. Do the difficulties lie with the families, with working through this? Are there other blockages? If the victims, with the medical profession? If it is with Uganda is achieving prosecution, surely it cannot be the medical profession, where is the Hippocratic oath? beyond our wit to do the same. If this is going on, it is If there is fault, where are the disciplinary procedures clearly established, because the evidence is there in of the medical profession? some cases. I hope that we can take a close look at why According to the Times, yesterday the Home Secretary we do not seem to make more progress. said: However, I want to underline that, as well as hoping “Doctors who perform cosmetic vagina surgery could be to get prosecutions, we need to work really hard on committing a criminal offence”. changing culture. Law is a blunt instrument. We have She added that that would be a matter for the courts to loads of laws on drugs and substance abuse and we try decide. However, if there are hardly any cases for the to enforce them, but, in that and other areas, we need courts to decide, how is the rule of law being complied to keep trying to get behind the issue which is causing with? The Home Secretary also said that, the problem in the first place. We need to look at how we can help those very often traditional societies. I “prosecutions were already possible under 2003 legislation which hear the point being made by my noble friends about strengthened the ban on FGM”. sending out signals, but in some of these communities Well, it is good to know the obvious. In my view, it is very few people are able to speak English, some of high time that there was a high-powered inquiry, with them do not listen to any radio stations that we listen the co-operation of the medical profession, as to where to, and some of them are not able to read what we and what the problem is. would call a usual English newspaper. The question is In my time as Attorney-General I had regular whether some of these signals are being heard. I spent meetings with the Director of Public Prosecutions, some years working in Walsall in the West Midlands in week in, week out, when we discussed significant and GC 529 Female Genital Mutilation[LORDS] Female Genital Mutilation GC 530

[LORD MORRIS OF ABERAVON] information has been sent and training given to schools, important cases. However, the decision to prosecute or doctors, nurses and midwives. Midwives are especially not was for the DPP alone. Given the concern that so important because girls who had this mutilation at a few cases are coming before the courts, and that there very young age are now having babies and coming to are prima facie cases that the rule of law is being our maternity hospitals and obstetric departments to flouted, how many times has the issue been raised in have their babies, so that is a point when we can the regular meetings of the Attorney-General and the identify that they had it done. They are not necessarily director? I have no doubt, given the significance of very old. concern over this issue, that had I been in that chair, I Despite all this, and the passage of the summer would have raised it with my DPP, and I am sure that holidays when we know girls have been taken abroad my DPPs would have raised it with me. to have this torture done—there is no other way of describing it—we have no prosecutions. What has 1.24 pm happened to mandatory reporting? Was it not going to Baroness Tonge (Ind LD): My Lords, I, too, would be a duty of doctors, teachers, nurses and other groups like to congratulate the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, to report it if they discovered a girl who had this done? not just for raising this issue but for raising it again How is the training of professionals progressing? What and again. We appreciate that because it reminds us all plans are there for prosecuting community leaders and that we still have not done very much about this even family members? As the Bishop mentioned, grannies problem. I can remember in the early 1990s my very like me in other cultures and societies will be the first clinical experience of this, so it is as recent as that. people who will be promoting traditional practices. A patient had come to me for advice because she was What plans are there for prosecuting those people? planning to get married. She was a very intelligent girl, I have written here, because I was angry when I was at university, from Somalia as it happens, and we writing it this morning, “Stop pussyfooting around”. I know now that that is where the practice goes on. She apologise for the language, but we really have got to came and I examined her and I honestly did not know stop it. All the child protection legislation that we have what I was looking at. I did not know whether she had had over the years surely covers this. It is the most a congenital abnormality or what, and she told me grotesque form of child abuse. It is horrible and violent. about FGM. The patient herself explained it to me. In It causes untold physical damage to a woman and, we all the years of obstetric, gynaecological and general should remember, a huge charge on the National medical training and all the practice I had had up to Health Service. We must remember all these things. that time I had never seen a case or heard about it. I Surely the legislation is already there, as it is child think that really shows how recent the problem is, even abuse. If a family member sexually abuses a young for the medical profession. girl, he goes to prison. Why does he not in this case? It In 2000, when I was in the other place, the All-Party should be the same for FGM. Parliamentary Group on Population, Development We do not need to have the child as a witness and Reproductive Health produced a report. We did a standing in court. It is the parents’ responsibility and survey of attitudes to try to find out what was going if this has happened to the child, my view is that those on in this country. Out of the 240 doctors, nurses, parents should be prosecuted. I know that it will cause clinics, schools and a range of facilities that we asked, terrible hardship, fear and damage to a few families we had only a 22% response. People just did not know but maybe we have to have a few families go through about it. That was 14 years ago. Here I must pay this to make the point that it is illegal. It is grotesque another tribute to the NGO Forward which is headed child abuse. It must not happen and we must see a stop by Naana Otoo-Oyortey because she, like the noble to it. Baroness, has never left this subject alone. She comes back to us time and again. That survey showed there 1.30 pm was very little knowledge and training, despite the fact Baroness Smith of Basildon (Lab): My Lords, I that in 2002 and 2003 Ann Clwyd, whose Private associate myself with the tributes paid to the noble Members’ Bill I supported, extended the prohibition Baroness, Lady Rendell, first, for giving us the opportunity to the practice of girls being taken abroad to have this to have what has been a very thoughtful debate on this done. Despite all of this and despite the efforts of the issue and, secondly, for her tireless campaigning on an noble Baroness and others, by 2012 there were still no issue that—let us be honest—is so awful that most of prosecutions in the UK. us do not even want to think about it. However, we A meeting was arranged with in 2012, have to think about it and take action on it so her the then Director of Public Prosecutions, who was campaigning, and the way that she has drawn the extremely enthusiastic and got a big group of people wider public’s attention to this issue, is something together to investigate why there were no prosecutions, that she should be very proud of and we are very and this action plan has been carried through by his grateful for. successor. So things have been done at all levels. At the I also welcome the Minister who is responding to Girl Summit the Prime Minister said he was committed this debate. As we have heard, there have been some to prosecutions. Again this year the Serious Crime debates that were responded to by the Department of Bill, as we have heard, is planning to extend prosecutions Health. During the many debates on the changes that to people who are habitually resident here and not we were making to legislation on the Serious Crime normally resident. I expect the lawyers to explain the Bill, it was the Home Office responding. It is appropriate distinction to me. So things are happening all the time that we also have a response from the Ministry of on this. Also this year we have been assured that Justice, as there are specific issues related to that GC 531 Female Genital Mutilation[11 DECEMBER 2014] Female Genital Mutilation GC 532 department. That just shows how important it is for within criminal law. I will not go into the detail now those three departments, and others, to work together but all the advice that we have received from lawyers and be co-ordinated on this. with expertise in this field tell us that this will make the The scale of this problem is hard to comprehend. gain of such an order more difficult, for some of the We have had some figures from the noble Baroness, reasons that we have explained before. That is part of Lady Rendell, but there are thousands of young women why we have had a lack of prosecutions for those who and girls in this country who have been mutilated. For have committed FGM. those who think that it happens somewhere else over The Minister’s experience will tell him that lawyers there, it does not; it is happening here. There could be dealing with family court cases and issues are not the a young girl somewhere in the UK today who is being same as those who deal with criminal law. We welcome mutilated. It is that serious. The euphemism that we the orders that prevent this happening and we welcome sometimes use of girls being “cut” belies the horror of the Government’s support, but we just want them to what is really involved, which I think is the point made be as effective as they possibly can be, because a child’s by the noble Lord, Lord Berkeley of Knighton. It was future depends on us getting this right. We want to right that the noble Baronesses, Lady Tonge and Lady ensure that there are no barriers for someone to seek Rendell, were also clear about the horrors of what is an order to protect a young girl from being mutilated. involved. When we spoke about this in debate on the We want to make it as easy and straightforward as Serious Crime Bill, I think that I was the first person possible, without any loopholes or problems. So before to appear on “Yesterday in Parliament” in a programme the Serious Crime Bill finishes its passage through that was given a certificate and a warning before it Parliament, could the Minister bring his legal expertise went out. I thought that it was important to say to look again at this issue to ensure that we have got it exactly what is involved, and in somewhat embarrassing right, because we have serious doubts that the orders graphic detail. as currently proposed will get as many prosecutions as they could if they were wholly within family law We are talking about thousands of young girls and courts and not within a criminal prosecution, although women. The noble Baroness, Lady Tonge, made the it is a civil measure? point about these girls having children. It is estimated that up to 60,000 girls have been born in England and Wales to mothers who had FGM, which means that Lord Faulks: Does the noble Baroness mean orders they have been sealed up after they have been cut and rather than prosecutions? that the process of birth, where they have to be operated on beforehand, is extremely difficult. Whatever the numbers, we are talking about thousands. The process Baroness Smith of Basildon: I am not talking about known as infibulation sounds quite a normal word for prosecutions—I am talking about the FGM orders something that will continue to cause pain and trauma that are currently civil orders that the Government throughout the life of that woman. It is a mutilation have placed within criminal law to keep all FGM that leaves permanent scars, on the mind as well as on legislation the same. It is a very different process from the body. prosecuting afterwards. The lack of prosecutions should concern us all. It My second point is that we wanted these FGM would be fine if we thought that there was a lack of orders to be based on the same principles as forced prosecutions because the law had been so successful marriage orders, which have been significantly successful. that it was preventing this happening. However, we One aspect on which I sought clarity from the Minister know that that is not the case and that thousands of at Third Reading—I have also spoken privately to the young girls every year undergo FGM here in the UK. Minister and have not yet got an answer—is whether legal aid would be made available for those seeking an I would like to raise two issues because it seems to FGM order as it currently is with forced marriage me that the purpose of legislation here is twofold. We orders? The Minister was unclear on that in the House have such legislation in place, first, to try to prevent and although I have spoken to him since it seems that such mutilation occurring and, secondly, to take action there is still a lack of clarity in the Government over against those who break the law. We had discussions in whether these orders would attract legal aid. It seems debate on the Serious Crime Bill on female genital impossible to me that they could proceed in any way mutilation orders, which the Government introduced without legal aid. in response to our proposals for such orders. They During the passage of the LASPO Bill, because of seek to protect young women from this vile practice the changes made to legal aid by the Government, before it happens, so they are similar to the forced there was a specific provision was made for forced marriage orders in their aim being prevention. By marriage orders, in paragraph 16 to Schedule 1. No recognising all the problems in getting evidence for a such provision has yet been made for FGM orders. I criminal prosecution, they take the route that this is a find it strange that the Government would consider civil measure to protect a young girl rather than a bringing in such orders without providing these young criminal measure. girls or those acting on their behalf to prevent them The Minister was not in the debate because it was being mutilated with the ability to bring something not his Bill, but I am sure that he will be aware of the before the courts and have legal aid. Are the Government discussions that we had. We have concerns about the intending to make legal aid available? If not, or if the process that the Government have chosen. Rather position remains unclear, how does the Minister expect than placing such orders clearly and firmly in family the orders to be obtained and how many does he think law in a civil process, they are placed in a civil process that there will be? GC 533 Female Genital Mutilation[LORDS] Female Genital Mutilation GC 534

[BARONESS SMITH OF BASILDON] girls abroad, and, to reflect the serious harm caused, it We do not think that the Government are wrong increased the maximum penalty for any of the female on the orders. On prosecutions, we believe that they genital mutilation offences from five to 14 years. share our objectives to stamp out this practice and However, there has been increasing public concern hold those responsible to account. We believe that at the failure to achieve a successful prosecution. that is a genuine commitment from the Government. Records indicate that no cases were referred to the However, the laws that we have at the moment are not CPS for a decision on whether to bring proceedings working as well as they should, or were intended to do. until 2010. In the last couple of years, a small number We have an opportunity in the Serious Crime Bill to be of cases have been reported to the police, which they make changes and get it right, but as the right reverend have duly investigated. Some of those cases have since Prelate said, we need to have a cultural change as well. been referred by the police to the CPS for advice. If it was made clear that successful prosecutions could However, the prevalence of FGM here—a study, part- be made under the existing law, that would help to funded by the Government and published in July drive a cultural change. If the expectation was that 2014, revealed that approximately 60,000 girls are at this was something that could be prosecuted, that risk of FGM in the UK—clearly should give rise to would have an impact in those communities. far more investigations and prosecutions than are We all want to see those responsible for mutilating taking place. the genitals of young girls being prosecuted, and we want to see this twin-track approach whereby we The CPS can, of course, only consider prosecuting prevent it happening in the first place and make a cases of FGM which have been referred to it by the difference to the lives of these girls. police following an investigation. However, the real problem has always been persuading victims to come forward at all. There are a number of challenges faced 1.39 pm by the police in investigating cases of FGM. Many victims may be too young or vulnerable, or too afraid Lord Faulks: My Lords, I join other noble Lords in to report offences or to give evidence in court. As thanking the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, for securing referred to by the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, the this important debate and for introducing it so effectively consequence of giving evidence and coming forward and economically. The fact that she has returned to can be complete ostracisation from family or community: this subject so many times is a tribute to her tenacity they may seem to pay a very high price. There may be on what is such an important issue for all of us. This evidential problems and other difficulties if cases are issue is very much in the news now; coverage of it has reported many years after the event. And of course exploded. However, that was a long time coming and FGM may take place out of the jurisdiction, leading is due to many people, including those such as the to challenges in obtaining reliable and admissible evidence. noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, who have kept the matter high on the agenda, and I pay tribute to her The CPS has been working closely with the and to other speakers who have an equal interest in Government, police, medical professionals and the this important subject. third sector to address some of these challenges, and is There is, I think, complete agreement that this is an now in a much stronger position to bring successful abhorrent crime that affects some of the most vulnerable prosecutions against those who perpetrate this practice. girls and women in our society. The Government are The DPP wrote to the Ministry of Justice and to committed to preventing and ending the harmful and Home Office Ministers in February 2014 proposing unacceptable practice. I agree that successful prosecutions changes to strengthen the legislation. The proposals are a key part of stamping out FGM and would send were informed by a review of cases referred to the CPS out a strong message on the rule of law, something to by the police in which prosecutors had been unable to which the noble and learned Lord, Lord Morris, referred. charge and prosecute. A number of areas were identified There is a prosecution due in January. It is probably in which legislation could be strengthened. not appropriate to comment on what one hopes the As has already been mentioned, in July 2014, the outcome of the case would be, but, whatever happens, Prime Minister hosted the UK’s first Girl Summit. At the publicity that will attend that prosecution should, the summit, a package of measures was announced, I hope, send a strong message in itself. including commitments to strengthen the law and The DPP announced the first prosecutions of FGM improve the enforcement response. There has been in March of this year. The first defendant is charged reference to legislative changes included in the Serious with carrying out FGM. The second defendant is Crime Bill. While I readily concede that legislation is charged with intentionally encouraging an offence of not of itself the answer, it is nevertheless important FGM and aiding and abetting, counselling or procuring that there is the appropriate legislative framework. an offence. I am sure that it is a source of frustration Some of the cases referred to the CPS highlighted, in to all noble Lords that while FGM has been a specific the context to which I referred earlier, that a prosecution criminal offence for 29 years—the original Act—no for FGM committed abroad could not be brought if prosecutions were brought. Indeed, the noble Baroness, those involved were not, at the material time, permanent Lady Rendell, played a significant part in the Prohibition UK residents as defined in the Female Genital Mutilation of Female Circumcision Act 1985. The Female Genital Act 2003. Clause 67, which was included on its Mutilation Act, which she steered through this House, introduction, extended the reach to habitual as well as extended significantly the protection that the law affords permanent UK residents. Many textbooks have been to victims of this unacceptable practice. The Act created written about the different between “habitually” and extraterritorial offences to deter people from taking “permanent”. I will not deal with the issue now, but it GC 535 Female Genital Mutilation[11 DECEMBER 2014] Female Genital Mutilation GC 536 certainly covers those who seek to say that they were and funding community engagement work to raise not permanently resident here. This means that it will awareness of the issue. We are ensuring that NHS in future be possible to prosecute a non-UK national acute hospitals routinely record information relating for an offence under Sections 1 to 3 of the 2003 Act to FGM and use it to support social services and where that person is only habitually resident in this police, as well as sharing it to provide appropriate country. healthcare for girls and women. More amendments were added on Report. It was The Home Office has launched an e-learning tool thought that victims were reluctant to come forward so that all practitioners are able to undertake an because they did not want to be identified in the introduction to FGM. There are reforms to social media, so lifelong anonymity is granted by Clause 68. work, education and practice to protect children from We hope that will help to encourage people. I pay FGM and other forms of abuse. There is also work to tribute to those who are courageous enough not only tackle FGM internationally, and DfID has announced to come forward but to identify themselves—there are a £35 million programme. The right reverend Prelate one or two. We hope that that will be followed. referred to our response to the Select Committee’s Clause 69 creates a new offence of failing to protect report and the action plan. I think that all noble Lords a girl from the risk of FGM and would make someone will agree that we have done all we can to grapple with who has parental responsibility for a girl who has been this issue, although progress is frustratingly slow. mutilated aged under 16, and is in frequent contact The noble Lord, Lord Berkeley, asked whether this with her, or who has assumed responsibility for such a country was in some way particularly attractive to girl, potentially liable if they knew, or ought to have those who might wish to perpetrate this crime on known, that there was a significant risk of FGM. young girls. Of course, one of the problems is that this Of course, we are very keen to see the criminal law is a largely hidden crime. However, the Government being used, but ideally one would want to prevent are committed to trying to stamp it out. They do not FGM happening at all. So, following a consultation keep data on this matter but we are convinced that launched at the Girl Summit, Clause 70 introduces the what we are doing will not do anything other than civil order referred to by the noble Baroness, Lady discourage it because of all the publicity and the Smith, to protect those at risk of FGM. She said that various steps that we are taking. she is concerned that in the particular court in which As to the question of compulsory examinations, such an order can be obtained the relevant experience which the noble Lord raised on a previous occasion, I may not be there for those who might seek an order understand why he thinks that that is important. At and it would be better obtained elsewhere. We will the moment, the Government are not convinced that consider that matter and I will pass on the concern introducing medical examinations to identify FGM that she has expressed. However, what is important is should be compulsory. I say “at the moment”; there that wherever it is appropriate to seek such an order are no current plans but the Government’s mind is not there is the relevant experience. We will work with the closed to these things. However, I do not want to legal profession and others to ensure that the provisions mislead Parliament or the noble Lord by saying that are widely publicised and understood so that they can they are actively considering that course. be proceeded with. The noble Baroness asked about legal aid. I inquired There is very active engagement with foreign specifically on this. The position is that we are considering jurisdictions. We are learning from other countries, the question of legal aid. I hear what she says about including France and common law jurisdictions in that. It is a matter which will be considered, I hope, in Australia. short order. The noble and learned Lord, Lord Morris, mentioned Safeguarding professionals are key to reporting discussions between the DPP and law officers. As he FGM. The Government have committed to consult on will well know, they have regular meetings on a range how best to introduce a new mandatory reporting of matters, including violence against women and duty to ensure professionals report cases of FGM to girls. There was reference to Keir Starmer and his the police. Alerting the police to actual cases will allow interest. Although I do not have personal knowledge them to investigate the facts of each case and increase of this, I am sure that such conversations continue the number of perpetrators apprehended. under the current Government, and we know that The CPS has appointed lead FGM prosecutors for there is a trial coming up in January. each CPS area in England and Wales and local police/CPS I know that there was a debate about whether there FGM investigation protocols have been agreed with should be a new criminal offence of inciting or the 42 police force areas. That deals to some extent encouraging FGM generally, as opposed to specifically. with the point made by the right reverend Prelate At the moment—indeed, it is the subject of one of the about the need to skill up prosecutors and the police prosecutions—the Government think that prosecutions to make sure that there is not just legislation but some should relate to a particular offence rather than more practical understanding of the problems that are to be generally, but I entirely take the point that it is important confronted here. that community leaders outlaw this. Following the The Government have published multiagency practice Girl Summit, 350 community and faith leaders from guidelines on FGM, highlighting the risk factors that all major religions have condemned this practice, and teachers, nurses, GPs, police officers and social workers we hope that that will continue. should be looking out for during their work—matters The noble Baroness, Lady Smith, quite rightly pointed on which the noble Baroness, Lady Tonge, was keen to to the fact that this issue goes across government. Of establish we were making progress. We are supporting course, the Department of Health, DfID, the Department GC 537 Female Genital Mutilation[LORDS] Sharia Law GC 538

[LORD FAULKS] telephone conversations with her. I still have the letter. for Communities and Local Government, the MoJ, She said, “We will look at this seriously. Do not table the Solicitor-General and the Department for Education the amendment. We will take it up later and look at are all concerned with this. There are regular meetings, it”. I had constant telephone calls from the noble an FGM unit has been established at the Home Office, Lord, Lord Lester of Herne Hill. He was then an and the Government’s cross-government strategy is adviser to . He said, “Don’t worry, we contained— will at look at this. We will look into what is happening to the women”. I am still waiting. They did nothing. I Baroness Tonge: I see that the Minister is drawing tried very hard to remind them that they had given me to a conclusion but I am bursting to ask him a question. this undertaking—well, they would not call it an Does he agree that female genital mutilation is grotesque undertaking; it was about stopping my amendment. child abuse? Therefore, why do we have to have all this Since then I have spoken to Ken Clarke and he said, extra wrapping around it? Why can it not just be dealt “Well, you know, it is their choice if they choose to go with like child abuse? I have had children brought to to Sharia councils”. Yes, it is their choice, and they do me in my clinics where teachers have suspected that go—and my noble friend Lady Cox will talk more sexual abuse has been going on. Why cannot the same about choice. But a choice can be made only if you thing happen with FGM? Why is it all so peculiar? know what the choices are. A choice cannot be made if you are told, “This is your choice”. It was very short- Lord Faulks: I do not think there is anything peculiar sighted of Ken Clarke not to look into it. about it. There is no doubt that it is a criminal offence. In fact, France does not have a specific offence of I also had discussions with the Ministry of Justice, genital mutilation; it simply has offences of assault particularly about the Sharia councils. As your Lordships and the like. Whether it is sexual abuse, assault or probably know, there are now more than 80 Sharia FGM, it is a criminal offence. So there is no special councils. As far as I know, they are not trained lawyers. precaution about this. One of the points correctly I think they are imams who have some training. The made by the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, is that we decisions—please correct me anybody who knows more— have left the exaggerated respect for cultural norms are ad hoc on that particular case. There is no record and traditions and we hear no more about that, I am kept. Nobody knows what previous decisions have glad to say. been. Nobody knows what the next decision will be. So women cannot get a divorce—the councils put Across departments, the Government are committed them off and put them off. This was also shown in a to doing everything we can to stamp this out. We hope programme on television where a woman went every its prosecution is a success, that more people come year to try to get a divorce but she could not. Some forward and that a complete consensus can be established women, of course, have a registered marriage, which to stamp out this abhorrent practice. This has been a means that they are subject to British law and can get passionate and well informed debate. The Government a British divorce, and they do. The problem there is if fully understand the concerns expressed here and outside they go to an Islamic country their husband can come and are resolutely committed to fighting FGM. and claim the children. This, of course, is unacceptable 1.56 pm to the mothers. In any case with Sharia, a seven year-old boy is given to the wife; girls are given at Sitting suspended. puberty. If the woman marries somebody else, it could be worse. Sharia Law The retired Bishop of Rochester, who has studied Question for Short Debate Sharia, has said clearly that Sharia is discriminatory against women, not only in relation to marriage and 2pm children, but in most aspects. A woman’s status does Asked by Baroness Flather not come up to more than half that of a man. Two To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is their women have to give evidence to equal a man’s evidence. assessment of the impact of Sharia law in the When a Sharia will is made, a woman gets half of United Kingdom, particularly on women. what a man gets. This is happening in our country today, here and now, and we are letting it happen. It is Baroness Flather (CB): My Lords, I have waited a not fair: these women have come here to be with their long time to have the opportunity to bring this issue to husbands; they have been allowed to live here legally. at least some of your Lordships’ notice. I am extremely We women spent the whole of last century trying to concerned about what is happening to British Muslim change women’s lives. We wanted equality—we are women. It is not about religious freedom or what we still fighting for it, but at least we do not have all these are trying to change, but what is happening in the things happening to us. everyday lives of British Muslim women. If we cannot I wrote to the noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, who protect British women, whether they are Muslim or said that we need to work with the Sharia councils. I not, then we are not providing the right kind of help. suppose she means that it is work in progress, but I In 2010, when we were discussing the Equality Bill, have not heard anything about what work has been I tried to table an amendment to try to stop Sharia law done with the Sharia councils. The most important impacting on women’s lives. I was told then that it was thing, if we cannot do without them, is that records too late and if I brought this new topic into the Bill it should be kept. If they keep records, then we can look would be likely that the Bill would fall. I had a letter at the records and see whether there is a similarity from the noble Baroness, Lady Royall, and several between cases, or whether different things are happening GC 539 Sharia Law[11 DECEMBER 2014] Sharia Law GC 540 in different ways. These women have no support from see my notes properly, so I am going to have to guess the community or the family, and only a third of at what I was going to say. I thank the noble Baroness, women have their marriages registered, because the Lady Flather, for calling this debate as it is an important men work hard not to get the marriages registered. subject to be discussed but I urge her to read back the It helps men in these ways. Polygamy allows them speech that she just made in Hansard. I say that to have two or three wives. Many women have said because it is important for us to work out what it is that they were absolutely taken aback to find that the that we are debating here today. If we are debating a man had two or three wives already. They have control series of headlines which regularly appear in the Daily over custody of the children. They do not need to Mail about what may have happened around the country, provide any financial support, and there is plenty of then that is a completely different debate. Invariably, evidence that no support has been provided for the as we have found out, those newspapers are incredibly women. They cannot be charged with bigamy, because good at headlines but carry very little factually. I urge the other women are also not registered—they are just the noble Baroness to look at a fantastic programme women in the household. I think that this is absolute made by Peter Oborne— abuse of the British system and it has to be looked at very carefully. Baroness Flather: The noble Baroness says I am If a man brings a woman into this country as his relying on headlines and newspaper reports. I am not. wife, it should be legally essential for him to register There is so much evidence which has been collected by that woman as his wife. Then, when the next wife various researchers and taken from women. These are comes, at least we will know how many wives he has. their own stories and views; this is not about headlines. Your Lordships may remember that I said some time I am sorry, I cannot accept that. It is an easy-peasy ago that we should not give benefits for an unlimited way to put it down. number of children, since those people who are in work cannot afford more than one or two children. At Baroness Warsi: I urge the noble Baroness to listen that time I did a radio interview and a man said, “I to an incredibly interesting programme by Peter Oborne, have three wives”. The interviewer asked him, “How “It Shouldn’t Happen to a Muslim”, where he unpicks do you manage three wives?” He said, “It is on a rota some of these stories about takeovers in Birmingham, basis”. There are wives living separately from the girls and boys at Leicester University, et cetera. household. One woman—my noble friend Lady Cox Let me take this back to what I think it is about: a will talk about this further—says that she lives in the distinction between Sharia and Sharia law. Sharia household, but she gets benefits which are used to pay exists in the United Kingdom in our multicultural the mortgage for the house. There is so much going on society. Noble Lords will be aware that only this year under the surface. Britain announced to a loud fanfare that we had The noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, feels that this is a become the first western country in the world to issue religious matter. No, it is not a religious matter. It is sukuks—Islamic, Sharia-compliant bonds with which not about praying to God. Did God really make us we raise funds to finance government, among other half as good as a man? We do not believe that any things. We announced that we would put in place more. Maybe at one time people did believe that, but Sharia-compliant student loans, start-up loans and we are not half of a man. We are also people; we are home loans to ensure that the Muslim community also persons. I think that if Muslims come to this could take full advantage of the opportunities this country, and if they bring a wife—or a husband—the country has to offer. We have Sharia in the form of marriage must be registered. Even just doing that will dietary requirements, with clear responsibilities in relation change many things in the system. Once the marriages to halal and to shechita under Jewish law. We have are registered, the men will be subject to a charge of very clear Sharia responsibilities in relation to births bigamy and subject to having to pay maintenance to and deaths—for example, the way in which circumcisions the wife if they divorce her. are conducted in hospitals around this country in Another thing, of course, is that a man can divorce accordance with people’s religious rights. Sharia, like a woman by saying, “I divorce you”. I cannot understand other religious practices, is therefore an everyday part how we can accept that today. Maybe 600 or 700 years of British life and has been for many years. ago it was fine, but it is not fine in this country today. However, what I think we are debating today is Communities are moving backwards. Things are whether we have Sharia law. As I am sure the Minister happening in schools which are unacceptable. They will answer, we do not. We have one system of law in are trying to segregate girls and boys. In Birmingham England and Wales; it is English law, and that is there was a takeover of schools and Leicester University paramount. Even within Sharia law as those discussions decided that girls and boys would sit separately when go—predominantly those discussions in the Daily Mail— somebody came to speak to them. What is so amazing there are two distinctions. There is a civil aspect and a is that the university council said this was all right. criminal aspect. A criminal penal code has never been Well, it is not all right; none of this is all right. We part of a discussion in the United Kingdom but civil need to protect all British women, whether or not they practices have been, predominantly in domestic situations are Muslim. when marriages break down, and so-called Sharia councils have been set up as an alternative arbitration 2.10 pm system for people to resolve their disputes. Baroness Warsi (Con): My Lords, I start by apologising The most important point that the noble Baroness for the fact that I may not sound completely coherent makes is that all women in this country deserve the today. I am suffering from a migraine and not able to same protection, irrespective of their religion. The GC 541 Sharia Law[LORDS] Sharia Law GC 542

[BARONESS WARSI] Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I do so as a noble Baroness says that this is an abuse of the system. vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on My argument would be that it is a failure of the system International Freedom of Religion or Belief. that Muslim women find themselves having to go There may be various institutions and aspects of before Sharia councils, because the mainstream system different faith traditions which embody gender in the form of the civil courts does not allow them the discrimination, both in policies and practices. If women support and protections that they deserve. are aware of the implications of these discriminations, Dealing with it on that basis, we must look at what make an informed choice and are happy to accept the mischief is. It is that Muslim women are not these provisions then they have every right to do so. protected in the same way as other women when their However, where women and girls involuntarily suffer marriages break down. There is a simple answer to as a result of such policies and practices, this should that: recognise their marriage. That would deal with be a matter of concern in a country committed to the the mischief and meet all the concerns that the noble eradication of unacceptable gender discrimination and Baroness raises today. If I conduct a Muslim marriage the promotion of gender equality. with a Muslim man which is recognised under English law, I am afforded exactly the same protections as any The concerns that I will highlight in this debate are other woman who conducts a marriage in this country. associated with the fundamental tenets inherent in This means that when my marriage breaks down, I do many interpretations of Sharia law, which are inherently not have to go to a Sharia council but to the civil discriminatory with regard to provisions for men and courts. That option has been presented to both this women. The establishment of Sharia courts or councils Government and previous Governments. It is a simple in this country has promoted the application of such amendment which can be made to allow for the gender-discriminatory provisions in ways which are recognition of such marriages. It would mean, effectively, currently causing considerable distress for many women. that if any further religious marriage were conducted, I am not relying on headlines but on talking to Muslim the man would be charged with bigamy. Both would women and their organisations. be legally recognised and we would therefore have the These provisions include unequal access to divorce. evidential basis on which to put a case of bigamy. That As has already been said, in many situations a husband is what it boils down to. can obtain a divorce merely by saying “I divorce you” If the Government can formally recognise a nikah three times. Women, on the other hand, have to obtain in the way in which many government papers have permission from a religious authority, often a Sharia submitted that it is possible to do, we will deal with council or court, and they may have to pay and fulfil this issue. If, despite having that civil protection, system other conditions. Sometimes their husbands will not and recognition, there is still a thirst out there for give them money, so they are trapped in the marriage. alternative dispute resolution, let us make sure that One Muslim lady described to me how, in theory, she the alternative dispute resolution has a code of conduct, knew she could obtain a divorce. However, she had to that there is a sense of training and education for pay for it and, as she could not obtain the money—her people who take part in it and that it is properly husband would not give it to her—she felt as though monitored. Let us also make it clear that the alternative she was in a room with an open door to freedom, but dispute resolution option is subject to English law. tied to a chair so that she could not walk out of that That is the way in which we can deal with this issue, door to enjoy that freedom. Conversely, the husband without any reference to the plethora of other issues usually does not have to pay anything to obtain his which are not part of this debate. divorce. Another lady, a devout Muslim, described how her 2.16 pm husband had divorced her. When she asked her imam Baroness Cox (CB): My Lords, I congratulate my for a divorce, he told her that she must bring her noble friend Lady Flather on initiating this debate on marriage certificate, but this was in her husband’s a very important subject. I appreciate the way in which possession. When she asked for it, he told her that it she opened it. She did not rely on headlines but on was with his family, back in their country of origin. some very substantive issues. I take the distinction When her family there went to his family to ask for the made by the noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, between certificate, they beat her younger brother because she Sharia and Sharia law. Sharia is much wider. It contains was bringing shame on the family by asking for a many aspects of ways of life, including times of prayer divorce. She is a devout Muslim, so she will not and so on, and no one can take issue with those. remarry without a religiously-sanctioned divorce. She However, what we are looking at today are those is trapped and, several years later, still very lonely in aspects of Sharia law which adversely affect women in this country. When I asked an imam from a major this country. mosque why a man does not have to pay, and indicated I take this opportunity to raise some of the concerns that it takes two people to divorce, I never received a that are reflected in my Private Member’s Bill, which is reply. currently in your Lordships’ House, with particular Another problem for many Muslim women is their reference to aspects of religiously-sanctioned gender lack of knowledge regarding the implications of having discrimination and threats to the fundamental principle only a religious marriage, without an accompanying of liberal democracy and of one law for all. However, legally registered civil marriage. This leaves them and first I emphasise my primary and fundamental their children without any rights in law if they are commitment to the essential freedom: freedom of divorced. Many say that they are not told that their religion and belief, as enshrined in Article 18 of the religious marriage does not simultaneously provide GC 543 Sharia Law[11 DECEMBER 2014] Sharia Law GC 544 for a legal marriage, while others say that their husbands- rights, and this is clearly not the case. It also ignores to-be and/or the families discourage them from obtaining the reality that many closed communities can put a a legal marriage. Of course, this leaves the husband great deal of pressure on families and individuals not free to practice polygamy without breaking the law to bring what they deem to be shame on the community. against bigamy. Another aspect of gender discrimination The chasm between the Government’s de jure position which often applies in the practice of Sharia law and the de facto reality for so many women and girls relates to polygamy. A husband is entitled to take up in this country today is resulting in widespread suffering, to four wives, provided he takes responsibility for intimidation and such gender discrimination as would making appropriate provision for them all. make the suffragettes turn in their graves. I hope that in the Palace of Westminster, where there are memorials Baroness Warsi: May I ask a question? to those suffragettes for their achievements in obtaining votes for women at a very high price, our modern-day Baroness Cox: No, I am sorry; this is a timed Parliament will not betray their sacrifices or their debate. If I have time at the end, I will answer. achievements. While respecting freedom of religion In many Muslim communities in this country polygamy and cultural diversity, I do not believe that we should is commonplace, although in this nation bigamy is allow that freedom to override the law of our land or legally forbidden. A report written by a courageous to deny women the knowledge of their rights and their Muslim woman named Habiba Jaan, Equal and Free? freedom—genuine freedom—to access those rights. 50 Muslim Women’s Experiences of Marriage in Britain At present, we are looking the other way while many Today, has just been published. In this report, Habiba women are suffering in our country. That is documented describes the marital situation of 50 Muslim women by Muslim women, not by headlines I have read. We in the West Midlands. Two-thirds of those who are have responsibility in our country to protect and promote married are in polygamous marriages. Some say that fundamental freedoms and gender equality. At the they did not know that they were a second or third moment, we are seriously failing to do so. wife when they were married. Of these, almost all said that their husbands fail to provide them with financial Baroness Warsi: Perhaps I may come back on one support, in contravention of Islamic teaching. Many issue that the noble Baroness raised. Does she accept of these women are desperately unhappy. that if we simply recognised a Muslim marriage—a A related aspect of these practices of polygamy and nikah—as a legal marriage, it would deal with all the unequal access to divorce is the number of children issues that she has raised today? which one man may have. Several Muslim women have told me that men in their communities may each have up to 20 children. This clearly paves the way for Baroness Cox: I thank the noble Baroness because children to grow up in dysfunctional families. Those that is just the point that I was making. It is more than children may become very vulnerable to disaffection, the point I was making, because I have been told that marginalisation and potential radicalisation. that has not been deemed acceptable at the moment. We have raised it in many discussions and I would My Private Member’s Bill, the Arbitration and strongly support the noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, if Mediation Services (Equality) Bill, seeks to address that could be accepted. The related point that I raised some of these problems by trying to ensure that women in my speech is that if any religious marriage—I am know their rights under law in this country, as well as not talking only about Islamic marriages—does not by providing more protection for victims of domestic bring in at the same time a legally registered marriage, violence and outlawing the operation of quasi-legal the woman ought at least to know the implications of courts. In another initiative last year, I moved an not having a legally registered marriage. At the moment, amendment to what was then the Anti-social Behaviour, they do not even know. They are often told by their Crime and Policing Bill. This would have made it a families that it is a legally registered marriage or think requirement for the celebrant of any religious marriage that if it is carried out in the UK, it will bring a legally which does not also provide for a legally registered registered marriage. At the moment, they are in a state marriage to ensure that both parties to the marriage of ignorance. The amendment that I moved would go are aware of the implications of that. The importance one step towards remedying that situation so that they of a legal marriage was also alluded to by the noble would at least know. They would not necessarily have Baroness, Lady Warsi. For some reason which I fail to freedom of choice because of the pressures put on understand, the Government did not accept that them by families and local communities, but it would amendment. be one step. If the suggestion of the noble Baroness, The heart-wrenching, award-winning documentary Lady Warsi, were to become an amendment I would film “Banaz: A Love Story” depicts the true story of a support it wholeheartedly. young girl who was murdered by men in her family for bringing what they saw as shame on the family. A 2.26 pm disturbing aspect of that film was the failure of the police to provide protection for Banaz, despite her Baroness King of Bow (Lab): My Lords, I wish to having made several visits to the police station to seek touch on three areas during this debate: first, the areas help. The Government do not support my Private where there are clearly no conflicts between the use of Member’s Bill or my amendment, on the grounds that Sharia courts and the law of this land; secondly, the they are unnecessary because every citizen in this areas where there clearly are conflicts between the use country ostensibly has access to the law of our land. of Sharia courts and the law of the land; and, thirdly—and However, this implies that every citizen knows their I realise that this will be disappointing to some people GC 545 Sharia Law[LORDS] Sharia Law GC 546

[BARONESS KING OF BOW] The obvious point is that, although Sharia gave in the debate—is the unfortunate conflation which I women in the seventh and eighth centuries more often hear between Sharia law, religious extremism entitlements than they previously had, today in some and persistent forms of Islamophobia. areas of Sharia, such as inheritance and divorce, it gives them less entitlement. As we all agree, everyone I start by saying that I admire virtually all the in Britain must be equal before the law. Thus, wherever world’s great religions because, by and large, their Sharia does not conflict with this requirement, Muslims original prophets exhorted their followers to be peaceful, should have exactly the same right as other religious empathetic and active citizens who treat others with groups in Britain, such as Christians and Jews, to seek humanity and humility. That is the theory. Nowhere is guidance from institutions within their respective faith. this clearer than in the teachings of the Prophet At the same time, equally obviously, they must always Muhammad and those around him at the birth of have the right to take any dispute to a British court. I Islam. Personally, I wish that we listened more to what do not think that any of us disagree on that. they had said, rather than less. I am Jewish—I should say that I am a Jewish atheist—but I studied Islam at It is important to flag up that Sharia is different university. I was very surprised to find that, as it turns things to different people. Different Islamic sects interpret out, by the standards of his time, the Prophet Muhammad Sharia rulings differently. Even within sects, opinions was basically a raving feminist when looking at the and rulings vary among scholars. Therefore, it is difficult situation surrounding him in the 7th century. The to use the broad-brush term “Sharia law”. One problem Prophet would never sanction what has been done in is the unregulated nature of the Sharia councils, to his name in recent times, whether to women in this or which attention has been drawn. This is where they any other country, or what is happening at the moment differ slightly from, for example, the similar religious to the enemies of Islamic State. Jewish councils. Nobody really knows the number of Sharia courts or councils in the UK but I wonder The disciple closest to Muhammad was his cousin, whether the Minister can give us the latest estimate. Ali ibn Abi Talib, who Muhammad himself brought The latest study in 2009 by Civitas suggested that there up and who was the first person to convert to Islam. I was evidence of at least 85 Sharia councils across mention him because he is considered one of the Britain, but the number could be far higher. foremost experts in Islamic jurisprudence, which is It is also very important to distinguish between the what we are debating today. It is amazing to look at actions of arbitrators or tribunals working on a formal the letter that he wrote to the emissary he was sending level and those operating informally, and the difference to govern Egypt in 658 AD, because it is a lesson to us between applying actual judgments and giving advice. all today. It holds lessons for us when considering the It is crucial to make it 100% clear, as the noble conflicting views in this debate. On the selection of a Baroness, Lady Warsi, did and as I think everyone chief justice to deliver judgments in legal disputes, he here accepts, that Sharia law is not part of the British gave the following instruction. He said that he should legal system, and there are absolutely no plans to choose, make it a part of our legal system. “one who cannot be intimidated … one who is not self-centred or The Sharia councils that have been in existence here avaricious, one who will not decide before knowing the full facts, since the 1980s have to operate as tribunals under the one who will weigh with care every attendant doubt … who will examine with patience every new disclosure of fact and who will Arbitration Act 1996. The Act allows for consenting be strictly impartial in his decision, one who flattery cannot adults to resolve disputes and conflicts, be they civil or mislead”. commercial, as long as they do not conflict with UK law. The same applies to the Jewish Beth Din courts. With regard to having patience at the disclosure of Jewish families have that right. My mother was brought every fact, I was interested to hear the proposal of the up in an orthodox Jewish family, although it was not noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, regarding marriage. That that orthodox because her mother had converted. is a very important thing to consider. There was a question over whether her parents’ marriage On bloodshed, he said—again, one can only wish was kosher, so to speak, and it was the Beth Din court that the leaders of Islamic State would follow Ali ibn that my family went to. I do not think that in a Abi Talib’s commands: tolerant society it is up to others to say, “No, you can’t go and seek counsel from your religious institutions “Beware! Abstain from shedding blood without a valid cause. There is nothing more harmful than this which brings about one’s and organisations”. It is not the choice that I would ruin. The blood that is wilfully shed shortens the life of a state. On make—as I said, I am an atheist and I take a secular the Day of Judgment it is this crime for which one will have to approach on all matters—but I absolutely believe that answer first. So, beware! Do not wish to build the strength of it is the right of those who are guided by their faith to your state on blood ... Before me and my God no excuse for wilful have that choice, and we have to ensure that that killing can be entertained”. choice does not conflict with the absolute need for Given that the founders of Islam were so keen that women in Britain not to be discriminated against Muslims were fair and just, and that they built their because they choose to use a Sharia council. legal system on fair and just principles, why is there In closing, I ask the Minister where we are up to in such uproar about Sharia in Britain today? Why does increasing the regulation around Sharia bodies, and it so often seem that so much of our debate is governed whether he is convinced that their activities currently by the Daily Mail? We have to weigh that Islamophobic fall within the Arbitration Act 1996. Is he also convinced hysteria against the problems and discrimination that that they uphold fundamental human rights for all have been shown to exist towards women within some citizens, and what further action does he believe is rulings of some Sharia councils. required to ensure that they are properly monitored, GC 547 Sharia Law[11 DECEMBER 2014] Sharia Law GC 548 so that neither women nor individuals from other they are true not just of one particular community but groups face any discrimination, intentional or otherwise, of many. Women have suffered terrible abuse and had for choosing to receive guidance and rulings from terrible dilemmas. Because of limits on time, all I their religious faith bodies? would say at this juncture is that she will know as well as I do—and as I am sure all noble Lords will agree—that 2.36 pm the faith in its actual learning and theory protects Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con): My Lords, I join women. It is unfortunate that we see practice failing other noble Lords in thanking the noble Baroness for with individual abuses or abuses in certain communities. initiating an important debate. It is important to reflect These have to be eradicated and the full force of the on where we are now. I am glad to see that both the law must apply. diversity and the gender balance in this House are Again, I need to make it absolutely clear that Sharia alive and kicking. We have had contributions in a ratio councils, Sharia courts—whatever name may be attributed of four to one: four women and one man. We have to them—have no part in the court system in this also had a healthy sprinkling of different religious country and no means of enforcing their decisions. If identities: contributions from—if I may sum the noble any of the decisions or recommendations made by Baroness up thus—a Hindu humanist; from a Muslim; Sharia councils or committees are illegal or contrary from a committed—and, I know, strong—Christian, to national law, national law will prevail every time and from a Jewish atheist. I suppose that with a debate and where it does not criminal sanctions should apply. such as one on Sharia it is entirely appropriate that Any member of any community should know that there is a slight bias towards a Muslim man responding they have a right to refer to an English court at any to bring it all into proportion. point, particularly if they feel pressured or coerced. I stress from the outset, in order to make it abundantly The noble Baronesses, Lady Cox and Lady Flather, clear—the noble Baroness, Lady King, made the same highlighted the fact that where women are vulnerable point—that Sharia law has no jurisdiction in the court they are not perhaps informed or educated. Therefore, systems of England and Wales: we do not recognise it. it is also important that we work with communities in There is no parallel court system in this country. identifying these women. As Minister for Communities Again reiterating what the noble Baroness said, we I am encouraged by the programmes and am laying have no intention of changing this position in relation greater emphasis on learning English, empowering to any part of England and Wales. I make that statement women in particular through language. There are some from the outset because it is important to get it on excellent programmes targeting these very vulnerable record—that that is the law of the land and the law of groups. I recently saw QED, a practical project in the land will prevail irrespective of what religious Bradford. Muslim women who came from abroad, as practice or community you may belong to. spouses of husbands, actually had the education and A question posed very ably—I would expect nothing knowledge but did not have the confidence to extend less—by my predecessor in this role of faith Minister themselves into the fabric of the country. It is projects is: what does Sharia and the distinction between Sharia such as that one about empowering women where a lot and Sharia law mean? As we have heard—the noble of our focus should be, and rightly. Baroness, Lady Cox, also alluded to this—Sharia can I also pay tribute to my predecessor in this role, the mean many things. Essentially, the first code of Sharia noble Baroness, Lady Warsi, for setting up the integration is: do not lie. That is perhaps a teaching and a learning roadshows. I am pleased to say that I will be nimble-footed for us all. It is also about halal food, and we see plenty from this debate because I am travelling up to Manchester of that. It is abstention from alcohol—I am teetotal, I immediately afterwards to conduct one of the integration can commit to that. It is also about service to charity roadshows. There we take some of the challenges and humanity. It is about welfare for all. If you look at facing different communities—in particular Muslim the diversity of our great country today, specifically communities—that come out of practice that is founded the Muslim community, the charitable nature of what not on the religion but unfortunately on interpretations they do is guided by Sharia law, which we are debating that are removed from the faith. I totally take what the today. As law-abiding citizens of our great country noble Baroness said. We need to tackle these head on. they reflect that code of conduct in their charitable giving—their alms giving—to the poor, the needy, Baroness Flather: Is the Minister saying that a across the country. We are at the forefront of that. woman who does not have a registered marriage and is That is something that, across the country, irrespective trying to get a Sharia divorce can get a divorce in of faith or religion, we should be proud of. British law? Can she go to court without a registered The noble Baroness, Lady King, asked specifically marriage? I do not think that that is correct. about Sharia councils. She talked about the figure of 85 in 2009. The Government have not made a specific Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: No, I am not saying assessment of Sharia in this country and are not that, and the noble Baroness is correct to point that involved in the administration—which she also asked out. The same common law principles would apply in about—of Sharia councils in any way. However, I that case. I would like to clarify one thing. The point emphasise again that the law of the land is supreme: was made on a couple of occasions about access regardless of our beliefs we are all equal under the law within Sharia for a woman to take a divorce. Again, of the country. this is the difference between theory and practice. The I move on to some of the pertinent issues that have avenue does exist. There is the concept of Khula which been raised. The noble Baroness, Lady Cox, gave some allows a woman to take a divorce without citing a quite specific examples. I totally relate to them and reason. The problem arises in certain communities GC 549 Sharia Law[LORDS] Food Hygiene Rating Scheme GC 550

[LORD AHMAD OF WIMBLEDON] men and women. It is right that we do not seek to because although some practise this very well, others interject in people’s religions from a government unfortunately do not make it available. That is where perspective, but where we see that there is good practice the focus should be. I want to be absolutely clear that, it should be shared across the country. That is certainly in the context of concerns about Muslim marriages the approach that the Government are taking. and Sharia councils, the Government believe that the I note that I have a minute to go, so I will make full key issue is raising the primacy of English law and the use of it by once again reiterating the Government’s importance of a clear understanding of how English commitment to ensuring that wherever we see abuse, law works. whoever the perpetrator and whoever the victim, the My noble friend raised the issue of recognising the Government will stand up strongly to provide protection. nikah in terms of the law of the land. She will know We have a strong record over the past four years of from her experience as a Minister, and she also speaks doing just that. Protecting religious identity is an very ably as a lawyer, that there are certain complexities important part of what defines our great nation, but that we need to address. This is far more than just a not to the detriment of the rule of law. Ultimately, simple issue, a simple adjustment to make. It would whatever religious practice one may follow and whatever need careful consideration before the Government religious community one may belong to, one thing could give any commitment. I am sure she appreciates prevails above all else, and that is the rule of law. that there are things that need to be discussed fully to balance out what the implications of that would be. I 2.48 pm have already alluded to the importance of communities Sitting suspended. coming together to effect real change. We can amplify the message of those communities where women are Food Hygiene Rating Scheme not empowered to speak up and help them to get their Question for Short Debate messages out, but we believe that building integration is ultimately the responsibility of everyone in society. 3pm This is a useful and timely debate. Let me assure the Asked by Lord Rooker noble Baronesses, Lady Flather and Lady Cox, and, indeed, all noble Lords, that, as they know, I am To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment personally committed to ensuring the eradication of they have made of the benefits of the mandatory some of the challenges we have seen, such as the evils display on food premises of the Food Hygiene of forced marriage. The Government have been very Rating Scheme certificate. serious about this. Indeed, as noble Lords will know, we took steps by criminalising this heinous activity. As Lord Rooker (Lab): My Lords, the food hygiene we have seen with FGM as well as with forced marriages, rating scheme with its distinctive black, green and the important thing is first of all to ensure that this is white certificates was launched in 2010. Indeed, I communicated effectively, and that people understand recall that on 10 December 2010, at the launch in the what the law of the land means. It is important to Bluewater shopping centre, six inches of snow fell make that accessible to all people and to educate while we were inside. people in that respect as well. This scheme, which is a partnership between the I wish to conclude my remarks today by thanking Food Standards Agency and the local authority, has, all noble Lords who participated in what has been a on a voluntary basis, been adopted by all local authorities very useful debate. I again underline the fact that what in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, defines our great country of Britain is that it allows except for one, which I will come to later. This is a people to practise, profess, propagate and preach their remarkable example of a good, well thought-out, cheap faith with great freedom and liberty across all boundaries. idea which benefits both consumers with information It does not matter who or where you are. and businesses with an incentive to raise standards in an easy way. Baroness King of Bow: Before the Minister draws There are three things to bear in mind. First, it is his remarks to a conclusion, could he give any further not gold-plating; a top 5 score is only “very good”, not clarification on what if any legislative changes would “excellent”, and the requirement is fully to comply be required to bring the activities of Sharia councils with legal regulation. Secondly, it is a virtually no-cost under further regulation at the present time? Or is it scheme. The score is worked out during the normal just a question of implementing guidance? environmental health officers’ inspection of the food premises, so it is not an add-on. Thirdly, it is about Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: There are no plans to food hygiene rather than the factors used by the Good legislate on Sharia councils in that sense. We believe Food Guide. that the rule of law should prevail, and I have With more than 50% of meals taken outside the re-emphasised that point. We see plenty of good practice home, food hygiene in the kitchen is important. There within the Muslim community. For example, many are more than 1 million food-borne illnesses, 20,000 Muslim communities employ a simple resolution to hospitalisations and, sadly, more than 400 deaths. The this question. Before any imam is sanctioned to perform scheme covers more than retail catering establishments, a nikah ceremony, the couple are asked to produce a such as cafes, sandwich bars and restaurants. It includes, certificate of registration. That is a good practice, and for example, school kitchens and the kitchens of care it means that the civil marriage is registered prior to homes. Military kitchens are included, as are the kitchens the Islamic marriage, ensuring protection for both in the Palace of Westminster. It is an open and transparent GC 551 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme[11 DECEMBER 2014] Food Hygiene Rating Scheme GC 552 scheme because all the information about the hygiene I am not alone. One of the strongest supporters of scores is on the FSA and local authority websites, the food hygiene rating scheme is the noble Lord, Lord classified by location, so you do not need to be in Young of Graffham. He saw the benefit to consumers ignorance. Parents can check the school kitchen score and businesses straightaway and said so in his seminal and families can check the hygiene score in granny’s report to the Prime Minister, Common Sense Common nursing home. Safety. I shall give two quotations from his report. A crucial factor, in addition to the cleanliness and Page 34 says: how food is stored, is the record-keeping. I once heard “It is clear that the FSA’s Food Hygiene Rating Scheme will do someone say they that had a 3, which is “generally much to improve existing standards without adding bureaucracy satisfactory”. They said that the hygiene was fine; it or burdens on business”. was only the paperwork preventing them getting a Page 35 recommends: higher score, as though it did not matter. The paperwork “Encourage the voluntary display of ratings, but review this and record-keeping are crucial so there is traceability after 12 months and, if necessary make display compulsory— of materials if there is an illness outbreak. particularly for those businesses that fail to achieve a ‘generally satisfactory’ rating”. So the scheme is pro-consumer and improves business performance at almost no cost, but it is not gold-plating The “generally satisfactory” rating is a 3. Indeed, the or the nanny state. It is a great example for the Cabinet noble Lord wanted to get local authorities joined up Office of nudge policy. The public can eat where they more quickly by legislating. The Food Standards Agency want, but can choose to discriminate based on reliable, board took the view that if we could get a really good national, standard information. This national, locally uptake in two to three years, we could achieve the aim operated scheme replaces lots of local schemes which more speedily via a voluntary route than by legislation, were operating across the nation. A score of 0 to and that is what has happened. 5 means the same across England, Wales and Northern Anyone can get a 4, which is “good”, or a 5, which Ireland. is “very good”, as I have seen from dozens of visits Notwithstanding the information on the websites, when I had the privilege to chair the Food Standards it is better if potential customers can see the score level Agency for four years between 2009 and 2013. It is not before they use an establishment. Noble Lords will based on size, poshness, or prices. The score is converted have seen many window stickers with a 5, which is very from the regular environmental health officer inspection, good. They will have seen rather fewer with 3, 2, 1 or 0. as was brilliantly explained by an officer from the I should add that anything less than a 0 means the Suffolk Coastal local authority when I was there at the place is shut down. The low scores mean that urgent launch of the scheme. It is clearly not fair on the good action is needed, which is carried out and regularly performers that the poor performers can seek to hide monitored. The rule of thumb that I have adopted is: the fact. Not everyone checks the website; not everyone if there is no certificate on the window an establishment is on the web. We need also to ensure that takeaways has less than a 5. I know establishments at home in have to give the score to telephone orders. Ludlow—the food capital of the Midlands—selling MPs and Peers can eat here in the Palace, in one of fast food, bacon butties, hot dogs, et cetera, scoring a a dozen restaurants, safe in the knowledge that the 5 which is proudly on the window display. Next door is kitchens scored 5 in both Houses, although this is not a posher restaurant with nothing on the door. The always displayed. They might want to think about website says that it is a lot less than a 5. That is why it constituents having the same right to know. Legislation is not displayed. Whenever I have checked, the ones was drafted a while ago to bring this about. I think without a sticker are generally less than a 5 score, but Ministers should add it to existing legislation: I do not not always. Earlier this week—in fact, at 7 am yesterday see why it should not be done on Report on the morning—I did a walkabout in the Victoria Street Deregulation Bill after Christmas—everything else has area. In 20 eating places, I found eight with a 5 score been put there. However, it will need to be tweaked, if andonewitha4proudly displayed. That left 11 without that is the case, to bring on board the only UK local any information on the door, so I checked them all on authority which refuses to join. the website. Amazingly, five of them had a 5 score. I remind noble Lords that all 400-plus local authorities Three had a 4; one each had a 3, a 2 and a 1 score. One in the UK have joined this UK-wide scheme, except of them without a score, in the new development in Rutland County Council. This leaves Wales as the Victoria Street, was literally sandwiched between two safest place to eat for consumer information and restaurants which both had a 5. You have guessed it, it Rutland as the least safe place to eat, for lack of had a lot less than a 5 and hence it was not displayed. customer information. Parents in Rutland cannot Food is a devolved area and the food hygiene rating access the scores of the school kitchens, families scheme is an excellent example of partnership in cannot access the kitchen scores in residential homes, devolution. At present, Wales has to be the safest et cetera. Rutland County Council leaders have been country in which to eat, because a year ago the Welsh asked about this more than once. I went to visit Government introduced legislation for mandatory display. personally to explain the benefits of the scheme for It is early days, but I am informed that compliance on consumers. They are doing the inspections; this is the scores has improved: low scorers wanted to improve point. The inspections are taking place, but not being because they had to display. The Northern Ireland a member of the scheme, they are not sharing the Government have introduced legislation for mandatory results with consumers or businesses. Most outlets in display and legislation is going through in Scotland most places are good scorers, so why deprive businesses which allows for mandatory display. I want to press in Rutland of the commercial advantage of showing the case for England to follow. the scores to potential customers? In fact, insurance GC 553 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme[LORDS] Food Hygiene Rating Scheme GC 554

[LORD ROOKER] will rock the world. It will make this a slightly easier companies might want to take a look at the premiums and safer place to go and buy a sandwich at lunchtime. for low scorers, but let us let the public decide. Surely, if we can walk away with that, it is a pretty The cost of mandatory display to the business, as good day here. one FSA official put it, is the time it takes to open the envelope received by all food businesses after the 3.13 pm environmental health officer’s inspection, walk to the window and put the sticker on display. Why should Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Lab): My Lords, I begin England wait any longer? We should have English by declaring myself as president of the Royal Society information for English consumers. for Public Health, which is relevant to this debate. I welcome the debate. I congratulate my noble friend 3.09 pm on it and on the excellence of his leadership of the FSA between 2009 and 13. With the noble Baroness, Lord Addington (LD): My Lords, there are points Lady Hayman, I had the privilege of taking a Bill when you prepare something and then somebody stands through your Lordships’ House which created the up and says it all and slightly better than you were FSA as a non-ministerial department, answering to going to say it, so it is an easy task to agree with the the Department of Health. Noble Lords will recall noble Lord, Lord Rooker—something I have managed that the reason this was done was because the BSE to do throughout the time we have been in the House outbreak and the way it was handled had led to a loss together. Sometimes I did not admit to it but, on this of confidence in a Minister-led government department occasion, I am quite prepared to do so. being able to give objective advice on food safety. The This is basically about making knowledge public. FSA has done a great job since it was established. It You have done a test, you have found out what is going has restored public confidence in official pronouncements on and you let the public see. That is what we are in relation to food safety and it must be congratulated talking about here, as far as I can see. It is possible that on the success of the scheme to which my noble friend I have missed something, but that seems to be the referred. essence of it—making sure that at a glance you can tell This is an important issue: food hygiene is not a what is going on. There is also the issue of letting the marginal nicety. We know that as a result of food public know what the scheme means. I think a bit of poisoning and so on, many people have a poor time effort needs to go into this. If you get a rating of 1, you of it. We also know that this is an area which may not know that is a bad score so possibly a bit of puts unmeasured pressure on our National Health information is required. You need to know that it is Service, in both primary and secondary care. It is 5 you are aiming for, not one, but that is a small therefore important that we do everything we can to quibble that can easily be corrected. You need to make make sure that in these outlets hygiene is of the highest sure that people know at a glance what it means. quality. The advantage of certificates being on display, as It is remarkable that, on a voluntary basis, this the noble Lord pointed out, is that it shows you have scheme has been adopted by virtually every local kept your kitchens clean, done your job and shown authority in the country except Rutland. I have no basic competence and you deserve a pat on the back doubt the noble Baroness will be able to inform the and a small commercial advantage for that. Consumers Committee of what is going on in Rutland, or is her have a right to know that, although they may prefer advice that it definitely is not safe to eat there? We the chilli at the kebab shop down the road, they are should be told. I assume that my noble friend ate in playing fast and loose with their digestive systems—so each of the 20 restaurants. He looks pretty good on it. let us let them know. This is not the nanny state; it is merely giving information about work that has been As the noble Baroness knows, we are debating the done. There is a very simple and good case for doing Deregulation Bill, which is proving to be of great that. interest. Mandation in this case would be warranted—as Let us look at the wonderful example of Rutland. It my noble friend said, it would cost virtually nothing—and is not a big county. I have this image of people would be of real advantage to the consumer. It is a wanting a sandwich and taking a short walk or driving pity that, given this wonderful scheme, not all food for two minutes across the border because they have outlets put out information for the public to see. come to Rutland to enjoy the views but it is not Does the noble Baroness agree that the voluntary recommended that they buy a sandwich there. It is scheme—and, it is to be hoped, the mandation of it ridiculous that somebody does not simply let the general and of public display—is but one aspect of the strategy public know when the work has been done. If there is to improve food hygiene? For example, the Royal another way of doing this easily and cheaply, I look Society for Public Health does invaluable work issuing forward to hearing about it. This is about taking certificates in food hygiene. These are aimed at first-line information we have and presenting it. We have a workers in the food industry. This year, in 11 months, scheme that seems to be working well. It is not offending 37,000 qualifications have been issued in food hygiene anybody terribly. The overwhelming majority of the and food safety in retail and in the catering sector country is using it in a form which is easy to interpret. more generally, of which 30,000 were at level 2, essentially “Devolution can work” seems to be part of the subtext to front-line staff. to what the noble Lord was saying. If we can get this I hope the noble Baroness accepts that, alongside going, we will make our lives a little easier and better my noble friend’s helpful suggestion, the work of the and reward those who have done things properly. This Royal Society for Public Health and other organisations is not a terribly difficult thing to do or something that in seeking to improve hygiene is an element in the GC 555 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme[11 DECEMBER 2014] Food Hygiene Rating Scheme GC 556 required overall strategy. It will be good to hear from hygiene ratings, and show significantly improved standards the noble Baroness about the Government’s overall in areas where the scheme is introduced. The FSA will approach to food hygiene alongside her response to be sending details of these findings to the council. my noble friend. The noble Lord, Lord Hunt, asked whether it is safe to eat in Rutland. The irony is that it is, but 3.17 pm nobody knows because they do not put the scores on Baroness Jolly (LD): My Lords, I am pleased to the doors. I should also reassure the noble Lord that answer this Question for Short Debate but I fear there the FSA is continuing to encourage Rutland County is a serious danger of an outbreak of consensus. At Council to join, so that local businesses and residents the outset I emphasise that public health protection can benefit. remains high on the Government’s agenda. Food poisoning continues to be a serious problem despite Four years on from the Bluewater launch at which the excellent work of the Food Standards Agency, the noble Lord spoke, I can report that there is information which works together with local authorities and the on the FSA website on more than 436,000 businesses—a food industry for consumers and food businesses. The humungous achievement and a great feat in itself. benefits of prevention are absolutely clear. Reducing More importantly, the scheme’s aims and objectives food poisoning requires an all-encompassing approach are being realised. It is working. It is driving up and those involved at every point in the food chain hygiene standards. Local authorities are reporting this must play their part. The Government must play their but there is also hard evidence from independently part, too, in helping all these players to take more conducted research. This shows that the scheme has responsibility to do everything they can to ensure that resulted in a significant increase in the proportion of our food is safe to eat. businesses with ratings in the top half of the FHRS scale and in those getting the top score. Importantly, it The food hygiene rating scheme—sometimes referred has also resulted in a significant reduction in those to as “scores on the doors”—plays a key part in this gettinga0or1.Businesses are all shifting the right and I strongly support this flagship initiative. Telling way. This is really good news in terms of reducing people about hygiene standards in food outlets in a consumer risk. way that is clear and easy to understand allows them to make better choices and gives them the power to Continued success will increasingly depend on vote with their feet. The transparency that the scheme consumer awareness, and the Government recognise provides puts those businesses not meeting the grade the importance of ensuring that ratings information is in the spotlight. For those with the highest standards, available at the right time and in the right place. it gives them the opportunity to show their consumers Ratings are all published on the FSA’s website. I can that they take food hygiene seriously. reassure your Lordships, for example, that the eateries To pick up on one point made by the noble Lord, in both Houses have all achieved the top rating. Most Lord Rooker, about insurance companies and premiums people make spontaneous choices, however, so having for good scores, they are already starting to offer the ratings at the point of choice is particularly important. better premiums for ratings of 3 or more. Perhaps A restaurant that looks promising from 100 yards Rutland should be listening to this. The FSA is linking away may not look quite so hot when you get to it and with those scores. With regard to his other point on look at the scores. Voluntary display at food outlets is the critical importance of paperwork, it is not about still relatively low but the FSA and local authorities just paperwork or red tape but ensuring that a food are working hard with businesses—from the smallest safety management system is in place. As the noble independents to the largest chains—to highlight the Lord said, if there should be some sort of outbreak benefits and encourage more of them to put stickers in you would have an audit trail. their windows. The FSA operates this scheme in partnership with I am confident that this work will help to increase local authorities and I am pleased to report that it is the visibility of the scheme and provide added incentives now running in all authorities in Wales and Northern to businesses to improve, and, more importantly, that Ireland, and all but one in England. The latest to join, people will start to question and draw their own the Royal Borough of Greenwich, launched it this conclusions if they do not see a sticker on display. year just in time for the tall ships festival in September. However, the noble Lord made an important point I know that the noble Lord, Lord Rooker, had a major about making the display compulsory. It is certainly hand in securing local authority support when he was reasonable to conclude that doing so will increase the at the helm of the FSA’s board. I commend him for scheme’s potential to drive up standards and increase this and congratulate him on his success. He asked public health protection. The FSA has a clear position what sort of work is being undertaken to encourage in favour of doing so. It has worked closely with the Rutland County Council to join. I know that he to introduce the legislation necessary worked really hard on Rutland—he has given us chapter for this in Wales, and is working on a Bill that is being and verse on that. However, the county council there considered by the Northern Ireland Assembly. The remains concerned that local businesses could be agency is now gathering evidence to demonstrate the disadvantaged by the scheme and wanted to see what case for similar legislation in England. It is monitoring impact it had elsewhere. This evidence as to what has the impact of the change in Wales and the early signs happened elsewhere is available across England and are promising. FSA monitoring data for the year since Wales. The FSA now has results from independently mandatory display was introduced show that businesses conducted research and evaluation work that highlight with compliance levels equivalent to ratings of 3 and the benefits that businesses are finding when displaying above have significantly increased. GC 557 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme[LORDS] Drug Policy GC 558

[BARONESS JOLLY] The report makes clear that the UK has experienced Any extra burdens on businesses that may result a recent fall in the use of traditional drugs. There are must also be considered. The scheme is certainly designed at least two explanations for this. One is a rapid rise in so that there is a level playing field and so that businesses the use of so-called new psychoactive substances, many are treated fairly, but ensuring that we do not add red of which are of course extremely dangerous, and are tape by putting the scheme on a statutory footing is in fact more dangerous than the original, traditional important. The FSA is exploring this. It will also look drugs. More particularly, the second reason is that, carefully at the impact on local authorities and monitor although the possession of illicit drugs remains a the impact of the new requirement for care homes to criminal offence, the police now focus fewer of their display the ratings given to them by the Care Quality resources on arresting drug users. Therefore, fewer Commission. I understand that there is a care home young people are criminalised and, as a result, many somewhere that proudly displays its sticker with one will quickly recover from their drug problem and star, and noble Lords might wonder why.The Government return to school or to work. It is interesting that our will consider this evidence once it is available. I am police have to compensate for the failure of our politicians, really pleased that the scheme is making a real difference. is it not? It is equipping consumers with knowledge about hygiene Nevertheless, the UK remains the overall highest standards in food outlets, and encouraging businesses user in Europe of the four most used drugs. This is an to raise their game and strive to achieve the highest incredibly important point. We are the hub for the ratings. This is just the sort of initiative that the distribution of new psychoactive substances across Government want. Europe. We have no reason to be satisfied with our I was pushed by the noble Lord, Lord Hunt, on the performance. What are the Government therefore doing Deregulation Bill. My team has told me that it is to promote an open debate on effective policies, which perfectly okay for me to say that I am going to go away we clearly do not have here? Which options are being and talk to colleagues in the Department of Health. actively considered? Deregulation is in the Cabinet Office, but I am sure Will the Minister also inform the House what the that the Department of Health can talk to the Cabinet Government’s response is to the recent change in US Office. Ultimately, in all this, improved public health drugs policy? The US policy shift was defined in the protection is the winner. recent statement by William Brownfield, the US Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International The Deputy Chairman of Committees (Lord Colwyn) Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. The US of (Con): My Lords, it is time for a cup of tea and a course drove the “war on drugs” for 50 years. Now the sandwich. The Grand Committee stands adjourned US is driving policy in the other direction, and is at until 4 pm. last in line with the fundamental objectives of the UN 3.26 pm conventions: the health and welfare of individuals. We have never had that before. Brownfield envisages changes Sitting suspended. in policy through shifting enforcement priorities, such as decisions not to arrest drug users and greater flexibility Drug Policy in interpreting the conventions. Question for Short Debate The Brownfield doctrine, as it has come to be called, is based upon four simple points: defending the 4pm integrity of the core of the conventions; allowing Asked by Baroness Meacher flexible interpretation of the treaties; allowing different national and regional strategies; and tackling organised To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action crime, which is fair enough. This is all incredibly new. they are taking to respond to the United Nations Do the UK Government agree with these four points? Secretary-General’s statement of 26 June 2013 on drug policy urging Member States to “conduct a In support of the doctrine of flexibility, we can wide-ranging and open debate that considers all point to one of the key architects of the 1961 convention options”. on narcotic drugs, Herbert May. We should not forget him. He argued in 1955—he was a man of foresight—that Baroness Meacher (CB): My Lords, I seek a response a central goal of the convention was to provide “greater from the Minister to my Question, but I must first flexibility”to the international system due to the likelihood congratulate the Government, and in particular the of changes in circumstances—surprise, surprise—as former Home Office Minister Norman Baker, on the well as medical and scientific innovations and research. production of the report Drugs: International Yes, Herbert May, this is precisely the argument behind Comparators. The report benefits greatly from fact-finding the new Brownfield doctrine. The modern world cannot visits and discussions with 11 countries. It is a great turn its back on the evidence of effective drug policies, pity that the executive summary omits the key findings nor can we turn our backs on the need for further of the report, most particularly that there is no clear experiments and evaluation of them. correlation between the “toughness” of an approach What does this mean in practice? For the UK, and the levels of drug use. This is probably the most much of the evidence is summed up in the Government’s significant finding, with very clear implications for excellent report, Drugs: International Comparators. drugs policy, and yet the executive summary makes On the basis of the evidence, the UK should be rolling no mention of it. The report also omits all the out heroin-assisted treatment clinics and decriminalising recommendations that I understand had been prepared the possession and use of all drugs. Heroin-assisted by officials. treatment clinics have been trialled and evaluated GC 559 Drug Policy[11 DECEMBER 2014] Drug Policy GC 560 extensively in Switzerland, and introduced in the Minister agree to consider this proposal and ask the Home Netherlands, Spain, Canada, Germany, Belgium and Office to undertake a serious study of the feasibility of Denmark with pilots in the UK. The European such a change? Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction Finally, I want to put on record that the APPG for reviewed recent studies of this approach and concluded Drug Policy Reform, which I chair, is working with that there is strong evidence for the efficacy of HAT, Latin American and European Governments to provide when compared with methadone treatment, for long-term guidance across the world—it sounds a bit ambitious—on heroin-dependent individuals who do not respond to interpreting the UN drug conventions for the 21st century. other forms of treatment. HAT achieves, in its words, The focus will be on the need to promote the central marked reductions in the continued use of illicit street purpose of the UN conventions for the health and heroin and, to a lesser extent, in the use of other drugs well-being of individuals and communities, and it will such as cocaine and alcohol. It also achieves improvements take account of the Brownfield doctrine. Can the in physical and mental health, as well as reductions in Minister give the Committee an assurance that the criminal activity, compared with levels prior to entering Government will support an open debate on that treatment. Would it not be wonderful if we could guidance when it is fully prepared? The US, Latin achieve that here? Will the Minister explain to the America and Europe are all moving forward. Will the Committee why the Government have only three pilots UK continue to be left behind? rather than rolling out this well tried and evaluated policy across the country? 4.08 pm The Portuguese model of decriminalisation of drug possession, which involves dissuasion commissions Lord Rea (Lab): My Lords, as the first speaker after and an increase in spending on treatment rather than the noble Baroness, I can do no better than say that I on prisons, has been extensively evaluated and found agree with practically everything that she said. I thank to be beneficial. The essence of the policy is that, her not only for bringing this subject to your Lordships’ instead of arresting and charging a person caught in attention today but for the tireless work that she has possession of a small quantity of any illegal drug, that done in looking at the international aspects of drug person will have their drug confiscated and will then policy and in bringing together players who are not be referred to the local commission for the dissuasion happy with the present policies. As she said, the 1971 Act, of drug addiction, composed of a lawyer, a doctor and based on the 1961 UN convention, aims to reduce or a social worker. The main aim of the commission is to eradicate drug use through legislation which treats explore the need for treatment and to promote healthy drug users as offenders rather than as patients needing recovery. treatment and care. Many people, now joined by the In the UK, a person found in possession of even a Secretary-General of the United Nations, question small quantity of an illicit drug is still far too often, the effectiveness of the war on drugs as currently despite attempts by the police to go in the right waged, with most funds going into enforcement rather direction, arrested and will have a criminal record, than the treatment of users. It has remarkably little with all the disadvantages throughout life that such a effect. record brings. Can the Minister explain to the Committee At the risk of repeating several speeches I have what the Government see as the advantages of the UK made over the years in your Lordships’ House, I first system over the Portuguese model? The evidence suggests became involved in the drug scene as a GP in a north that there is no advantage whatever. London practice in an area where drug use was pretty There are two other policies which merit an open rife. I practised in association with the UCH drug debate, as proposed by the UN Secretary-General. clinic, which had a methadone substitution programme. The first is a transfer of the primary responsibility for We found that drug abusers were very problematic drug policy from the Home Office to the Department patients and, despite the methadone substitution, we of Health. Most of our European neighbours did this had several deaths from heroin overdoses due to the some years ago, and it would make an awful lot of drugs having an unexpectedly high heroin content. sense if we followed suit. Of course, close liaison with Users were not satisfied with the methadone dose they the Home Office would be necessary to deal with were prescribed. certain aspects. It is worth noting that, although heroin use has Secondly, also very important is the rescheduling of fallen among younger people in this country recently, cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 2 to recognise death from heroin overdose continues at a high level. the fact—not an illusion—that cannabis has medicinal This occurs because the supply is totally unregulated, properties. That is all that this would mean. It makes of completely unknown strength and in the hands of a no sense to have Sativex, a cannabis-based medication, criminal system. It became clear to me when I was in available on the NHS while having cannabis in Schedule practice that most of the harm caused by drugs occurred 1, implying that it has no medicinal properties. We because of the unknown purity and strength of the know that patients with multiple sclerosis and those drugs. The need to regulate drug supply seems very suffering the side-effects of chemotherapy—very sick clear since the current punitive approach is not reducing people—go to enormous lengths, travelling to Europe the levels of demand or of drug abuse. Regulating the to pick up less than three months-worth of cannabis. supply of drugs needs to be in responsible hands, but They say that it is the only thing that helps their this is not easy when the substances are prohibited. symptoms. If they could just obtain the drug through I will leave that for the time being and go on to a simple prescription on the basis of their diagnosis, mention what we can perhaps do in the mean time to would that not be a reasonable policy? Again, will the ameliorate or reduce the number of deaths. One thing GC 561 Drug Policy[LORDS] Drug Policy GC 562

[LORD REA] health consequences are serious. For example, Hepatitis is the use of needle exchange clinics, which greatly C, which is spread by injecting drugs, is rife in prisons. reduce the transmission of HIV. Luckily we have Research suggests that in some parts of the world the needle exchange clinics in this country. Not all countries infection rate in prisons is at least 10 times higher than do. I am glad to say that they continue to exist, as I am in the community generally. This is a harm that affects afraid they are still necessary. Another thing that can a segment of a country’s population. be done to reduce heroin deaths is to increase the use The harm caused by the criminality and violence of of naloxone, the opiate antagonist. Several drug clinics the drug trade is incalculable. In Mexico alone, 50,000 are now working with schemes to supply naloxone, people have been killed in the past five years due to with accompanying educational programmes. The noble drug and organised crime-related violence. Sick people Lord, Lord Ramsbotham, will perhaps amplify on suffer because the drug control system puts barriers in this when he speaks. the way of providing opiates for pain control and As the noble Baroness described, there is now some palliative care. The damage caused by the current light on the horizon. The recent Home Office report arrangements is also made clear in the report from the on international comparators, which she described, West African Commission on Drugs, chaired by Kofi has shown that less punitive policies can be more Annan and the former Nigerian President Obasanjo. effective in controlling the effects of drug abuse. Like It notes the progress that west Africa has made. It the noble Baroness, I hope that the Government can states: learn from the study of this document and start to “Civil wars have receded, democracy has gained ground and move with the times. our economies are growing. But a destructive new threat is jeopardizing this progress: with local collusion, international 4.15 pm drug cartels are undermining our countries and communities, and devastating lives”. Baroness Stern (CB): My Lords, I, too, thank the Do the Government intend to participate fully in the noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, for tabling this debate upcoming debate about global drug policy? The Minister and for her unflagging work to bring about a less will know that DfID is regarded around the world as damaging global drug control regime. In many parts the premier development body. It is widely admired of the world, she is seen as a leading engine of the and seen as a model. The Foreign and Commonwealth movement to bring about change, and her energy, Office is similarly highly regarded for its excellent commitment and strategic wisdom bring great credit human rights policy. to the United Kingdom and your Lordships’ House. Drug policy reform is essential both for ensuring This is a small debate, but it is a contribution to the further development in low and middle-income countries very big debates that the United Nations Secretary- and for protecting human rights. Will the United General has called for. Kingdom be in the forefront of the international The noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, has given us process that is now under way? Will it support what some very good news about the changed approach of DfID and the Foreign Office have done so successfully the United States Government, at last. I shall begin for many years? Will it be advocating an approach that with more good news. It was reported last week that aims to reduce harm and protect vulnerable people Iran is debating ending the use of the death penalty from violence and destabilisation? for drug offences. I declare an interest as chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Abolition of 4.20 pm the Death Penalty. Apparently 80% of Iran’s executions are for offences connected with drug trafficking, and Baroness Walmsley (LD): My Lords, I, too, pay the numbers are estimated to be large. We have the tribute to the amazing and valuable work of my noble figure of 331 executions for drug offences in Iran in friend Lady Meacher on making drugs policy more 2013. I was in Iran some years ago discussing criminal effective and relevant in today’s national and global justice reform. I attended a meeting with a group of situation. She has been indefatigable, and I admire her reform-minded young people. One man said, “We persistence. execute many drug traffickers in this country. We have I had been interested in drugs policy for many a very draconian approach, yet every year the number years before I met the noble Baroness, but I find of drug addicts increases and the volume of drugs myself very much in tune with her views. In 2001, I entering the country grows. There must be a better was asked to chair a Liberal Democrat policy way”. Indeed, there must be a better way than a working party on drugs policy. It was then that I first system that leads to the execution of drug traffickers. I met my noble friend Lord Paddick, who at that time want to acknowledge the excellent work done by the was a senior Metropolitan Police officer and was Foreign Office to try to ensure that the UK does not taking the lead in doing exactly what the noble Baroness support drug interdiction efforts that could lead to the has recommended—having his officers focus on the imposition of the death penalty. dealers rather than the users—and getting a lot of Of course, the execution of drug traffickers is just stick for it. one—a most egregious one—of a range of harms that The thrust of our report was that the use of illegal result from the current drug regime, which prioritises drugs should be treated as a health matter rather than interdiction and punishment over treatment and other as a criminal matter. Even at that time we had evidence social measures. The effect on the prisons of the world that the UK’s punitive regime was not working. Our has been disastrous. Prisons are full of an increasing objectives then, as now, were to reduce harm, address number of small-time drug users and low-level dealers, the crimes of those who destroy people’s lives by all crammed into overcrowded, violent prisons. The peddling drugs to them, and get the big drug money GC 563 Drug Policy[11 DECEMBER 2014] Drug Policy GC 564 out of organised crime. We were aware then, as we are such thing, have become very widespread, and this is now, that whole families are destroyed by drug use and worrying. I support a blanket ban, but at the same that addiction can be a major tragedy for families, time I believe that a health and diversionary especially when there are children in the household. So approach to users—not dealers—is the right approach, to say that the Liberal Democrats are soft on drugs is, for these as well as the more traditional illegal drugs. I and always has been, untrue: we have simply identified also support the pilot schemes for last-resort use of that the war on drugs has failed many of our citizens opiates for hard-core heroin users for whom other and we need to find a more effective strategy. methods have failed. I hope that the Government will We were aware even then that a major barrier to a seriously consider a rollout of the pilots that have been more imaginative approach was the usual narrow successful. interpretation of the UN convention. Our report Under this Government we have continued to try committed us to work with other countries to arrive at many innovative ways to discourage drug use and a consensus about how to move forward within the address its harms. However, the mood music is still convention. So the UN Secretary-General’s statement punitive and the responsibility is still within the Home of 26 June last year was particularly welcome to me, Office. I, like the noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, and it should be regarded as an open invitation to all would like to see a change in the tone of government countries to consider all options. That is why I am so rhetoric on drugs and a wholesale shift of responsibility pleased that the noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, has for users to the Department of Health, so that the worked with the leaders of many other countries who criminal justice system can be freed up to deal with the have courageously spoken out and said that we need real villains, the dealers. I also hope that this and new approaches. We should not be frightened that the future Governments will become more open-minded international community will condemn us if we do about talking to other countries about new approaches things differently. within the convention and new interpretations of our The recent publication by my right honourable international obligation, so that we can really start to friend Norman Baker MP of a research paper called fight drugs more effectively in the international community. Drugs: International Comparators was particularly This is what the Secretary-General wanted to see welcome. As he has said, we must look at the evidence resulting from his statement. without prejudice and consider carefully whether some of these new ideas might work for us in this country. 4.26 pm Of course, different cultures and circumstances apply Lord Ramsbotham (CB): My Lords, I declare an in different countries, and you can rarely transplant interest as chairman of the cross-party group on criminal ideas lock, stock and barrel. However, there is often a justice, drugs and alcohol. I agree with every word that germ of an idea that can be useful. It was clear from my noble friend Lady Meacher said. I thank her for the report that there is no correlation at all between obtaining this debate, and I salute her for her determined reduction in drug use and a punitive criminal justice attention to all aspects of national and international approach. Indeed, pragmatism and a health-based drugs policy. I want to comment on two things in approach are showing great results all over the world, particular and then give one example of where I think and that is how we should approach it here. the policy really needs to pull indecision together. I I was surprised to read that there is little evidence hope that the debate called for, when it happens, will that the special drug courts are reducing reoffending. I have as its objective the production of a clear, consistent had the opportunity to question Norman Baker about and continuous national policy which can be followed that at a meeting yesterday. It seems that here is a good by all those who have any responsibility for dealing idea which has not produced the results for which it with users and abusers of drugs. had the potential, merely because of the lack of treatment It first became clear to me that there was no national and diversion services that are needed to sit alongside policy when I was in the Army and we had to guard a drug court system. It is a great shame that the two prisons because of strikes by prison officers. One resources were not made available, since many of the of my military police sergeant–majors complained to judiciary were very enthusiastic about this approach. I me that he had seen two prisoners exchanging cannabis, believe it could have worked, given the availability of had taken them in front of the governor and had been the appropriate services. It has the potential, in particular, told to dismiss it because cannabis was common in for helping addicted women to address their drug prison. He said to me, “This is ridiculous—we kick habit and keep their children. out any soldier who is using drugs, yet this is going on I was also interested in the pragmatic idea of providing in our prisons”. clean needles in prisons, which is done in some other I then found, of course, that there was absolutely countries. Apparently the law prevents this here. However, no policy when I started inspecting prisons. Drug the law is currently failing abysmally to keep drugs out responsibility was in the hands of the director of of prison. Indeed, the saddest thing is that some nursing, which may have been a predicator of what offenders go into prison clean and come out as drug America has adopted, but it was absolutely pointless users. Of all the things that would encourage them to because no governor took any notice of what the go back to offending, that is it. I believe that we should director of nursing said. No prison had any common find a way to provide clean needles under the auspices policy on who was assessed when they came in. There of providing medical services. was no common policy on treatment, no common My main objective is to discourage young people treatment for withdrawal and no interest in people from taking up the use of drugs at all through information who might pick up stronger drugs on release and and education. So-called legal highs, which are no subsequently die. In fact, there was nothing, and there GC 565 Drug Policy[LORDS] Drug Policy GC 566

[LORD RAMSBOTHAM] level and has interested herself in the problem we are is still nobody in prisons who is responsible for making facing today in the United Kingdom and in a coherent certain that there is a common policy in every type of government strategy which will lead to a revolutionary prison. change of view. Going further, I ask whoever conducts the debate I wish to say a little about the entrenched view that called for to add two words to the words “wide-ranging drugs are a matter of criminality. People of my age and open”, and those words are “cross-party”. I feel and of up to 15 years younger than me need to go that one of the problems that we have suffered from is back and think about the 1960s, which was when the ping-pong between parties, which has led to nothing drugs hit the general consciousness. It was a time of more than inertia. The real tragedy of the inertia is student revolt and the introduction of the pill. At the that it leads to ruined and lost lives because delay in time, I was the headmistress of a girls’ school, and we doing anything will inevitably lead to that. Rather were completely ignorant of the drugs scene and than risk one party saying this and one that, could we absolutely terrified. We had the most terrible problems please have a cross-party consensus so that everyone in Oxford with undergraduates occupying the Examination will be able to follow the common national policy that Schools and smoking cannabis just for fun. We knew comes out of it? where the cannabis came from. There was a kind of I raise the issue of the use of Naloxone, which the route that started in Birmingham and came down to noble Lord, Lord Rea, mentioned, because we were Oxford and then London, and round and round it given a good briefing the other day in our cross-party went. What I remember most about that time was the group. The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs fear—the absolute terror that we felt and all parents gave advice to the Government on whether Naloxone felt. should be made more widely available in order to prevent future drug-related deaths and to help engage If I had any success as a headmistress it was entirely and educate those most vulnerable to suffering an because I had teenage children myself and therefore opioid overdose in May 2012. Its advice was that, first, nothing shocked me. I had one son who still does me a Naloxone is a safe, effective, evidence-based, World great deal of good, but he did me great good then by Health Organization-recommended drug with no being expelled from his public school for cannabis use. dependency-forming potential. Its only action is to The school did not admit that but I knew it. This save lives by reversing the effects of opioid overdoses, meant that parents realised that I was not going to be and it is already used by emergency services personnel. surprised or overreact or anything. The prevention of drug-related deaths, of which At that time, I must say, I was thankful that the use there were 1,957 in 2013, is one of the eight key and possession of drugs was a criminal offence. The outcomes for delivery in a recovery-orientated drug reason I was thankful was that I could threaten my treatment system, which is what we claim to have. pupils that if they were caught with possessing drugs Currently, Naloxone is available on prescription to or sharing drugs, if any drugs were found on school people at risk of opioid overdose, but it will have its premises, I would hand them over to the police because maximum effect on deaths if it is made available to they would have committed a criminal offence. This people with the greatest opportunity to use it and did restrain them. I felt at the time that the only way of those who can best engage with heroin users, such as preventing what started as recreational use but could their families and carers. They will, of course, have to so easily have become addiction—we did not know—was be educated in its use, but that is not impossible. threatening criminal action. So I started off from that Following the 2012 report, Scotland and Wales conducted point in the 1960s, and I was very slow to change my successful pilots and have since introduced national mind. I did not think about it very much; it just strategies for its use. England, which ran a programme, seemed self-evident that it was the using of the drugs has had no similar roll-out and none is planned until which had to be picked on and not the trafficking of October 2015, three years after the report. them. We hardly thought about trafficking and where However, it is not going to be a national strategy the drugs came from and the criminality that goes but will be left to local authorities. One of the organisations with drug trafficking. It vaguely passed our minds but in our cross-party group made a freedom of information it was not what we concentrated on; it was the use. I request to find out how much knowledge there was of think that what we now need, and what my noble Naloxone in the local authorities. It found that, of the friend has done so much to get us to think about, is a ones that replied, 60 local authorities had no plans complete change of attitude towards the use of drugs and had given no priority or money to Naloxone; compared with the trafficking of drugs. This, of course, 10 were thinking about it; and 60 have local strategies, has the wide international consequences with which some of which are good and some of which are poor. I he has been and is so greatly involved. merely rest on that because the lesson of Naloxone The first thing that made me change my mind was should be borne in mind when we are looking for a that I had a very good former pupil who later became common national strategy. a victim of MS; she wrote to me, saying that she spent hours of her life trying to negotiate with all her friends 4.32 pm to get hold of cannabis because cannabis-related drugs Baroness Warnock (CB): My Lords, I join others in were the only thing that gave her any relief. That expressing my extreme admiration for my noble friend seemed to me such an appalling, inhumane attitude Lady Meacher for bringing this debate. As has been towards cannabis that from that moment on I started said already, it is a tiny taster of the enormous debate to think that drugs with a medicinal use, at least, must we will have later. She has worked at an international be treated in a different way. GC 567 Drug Policy[11 DECEMBER 2014] Drug Policy GC 568

The other thing is that I have family connections I noticed that only last night when I was writing with Portugal, so I know quite a lot about what this as I was watching the television programme about happens in Portugal, and how it works. I am simply the appalling rise in prescription drug use in this defeated in trying to answer the question of why the country. That clearly has not worked either. Government do not give more attention to following Why is this so important? It is very simple. Millions what is in fact a strikingly successful model. of people in the United Kingdom take drugs. We can The final thing is, of course, you only have to look debate whether the number is going up or down or, at the prison population to see that the so-called war probably, staying vaguely the same, but the number is on drugs just does not work and, therefore, it is in the millions. The vast majority of the people who inevitable that we must change our minds. So I beseech take drugs in this country have minimal, if any, health the Government to take a strong and revolutionary or social consequences. They do not get arrested, they look at where we are and make some policy which is do not commit repeated acquisitive crimes and they coherent, consistent and well understood. do not visit A&E. The 350,000 chronic and chaotic drug users are the ones who cost us money and it is 4.39 pm those people we should be spending our £15.5 billion on, not the remaining people in the population who Lord Mancroft (Con): My Lords, I hope you can do not cause us any problems. spare me two minutes in the gap. I, too, risk—as the noble Lord, Lord Rea did—boring noble Lords by repeating what I have said in your Lordships’ House 4.42 pm many times before. Drugs are primarily a health problem, Baroness Smith of Basildon (Lab): My Lords, I add with significant social consequences, as we all know. It my thanks to the noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, for was for the historic reasons that the noble Baroness, the opportunity to have this debate today. She is a Lady Warnock, just told us about so very graphically doughty campaigner for drugs reform. She and I have that the establishment of the day, and the political had a number of discussions on different issues in establishment, decided to address what we now know your Lordships’ House and although we may not is a health problem by using the criminal justice system always agree on policy, I think that we have a very to restrict drugs, a pillar of this policy being the similar goal as regards the drugs issue. I, too, welcome Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Indeed, the international debate and believe that evidence-based policy is extremely comparators report says: important. A wide-ranging and open debate that considers “Our legislative response to drugs is based in the 1971 Misuse all the options can only be the way forward. If we do of Drugs Act, which continues to provide a flexible yet consistent not consider all the options we will be doing a disservice legislative framework to control emerging harmful drugs and target illegal suppliers”. to those who are affected by drugs and to their families. The problem is it does not actually work and that is I was also struck by the noble Baroness’s comments why we are having this debate today. on the new psychoactive drugs. We have recently had two areas of debate, in two different Bills, regarding We have been given evidence that drug use in the drugs. One of the Bills was on drug driving, and the United Kingdom has levelled out and is, perhaps, even other was the anti-social behaviour Bill, which deals falling. Most of the evidence comes from the national with the so-called and completely misnamed “legal crime survey. I have to tell the Government that no highs”. One of the things that struck me was the reasonable, intelligent, well informed person outside communications that I received from families who had either the House of Commons or the Home Office lost somebody. These family members had either died actually believes this to be true. Public opinion—well or been seriously ill from using these psychoactive informed opinion—has moved on significantly. We drugs. The situation is horrendous. If you talk to know that drug use is not falling. Virtually every other young people now and ask them whether they know piece of evidence tells us this. I ask your Lordships to where to get these drugs, most will say that they know push your minds back a bit; one of the reasons we where to find them. were given for sending soldiers into Afghanistan was to eradicate the poppy crop, but the United Nations Unusually for me, I made a few notes before I came tells us that in the 10 years since we have been there the into the debate. I wanted first to listen to the debate— poppy crop has increased fourfold, and 80% of the which has been very thoughtful—and then make a few Afghan poppy crop is aimed at the United Kingdom. observations. I have heard the noble Baroness, Lady Are we really pretending that a fourfold increase in Meacher, speak before about Portugal, and when she production is aimed at a falling market? That simply is first mentioned it I did not know about the Portuguese not realistic. At the other end of the equation, the examples. I have since read quite a bit about it. There numbers accessing treatment continue to rise, and is certainly a great deal of merit in such an approach, there is some evidence that the waiting lists are continuing and it seems to have successes. This should be fed into to rise too. any debate that the Government undertake about the kind of approach that could be taken to get people None of this would matter if the second plank of away from drugs, and reduce the associated criminality. the Government’s drug strategy was working. In the introduction to the 2010 drugs strategy the Home Although the debate is concentrated on the end-user Secretary said: and the value of treatment rather than a punitive “This strategy sets out a fundamentally different approach to approach, we also have to recognise the serious criminality tackling drugs and an entirely new ambition to reduce drug use that goes alongside drug dealing. Huge benefits and and dependence. It will consider dependence on all drugs, including profits are made by unscrupulous dealers and criminal prescription and over-the-counter medicines”. gangs, who use this money to fund their other activities. GC 569 Drug Policy[LORDS] Drug Policy GC 570

[BARONESS SMITH OF BASILDON] He concludes: It is a trade in absolute misery for others. It has to be a “So what may appear at first sight as ‘common sense’, or a criminal offence; we can never deny that it is such and more liberal-minded approach to drugs misuse—by treating it as it should be treated as such. The availability of drugs a health issue rather than a criminal activity—would most likely has to be taken into account, and the point has also result in drug policy becoming the responsibility of a department”— been made about prisons. Obviously, there have been he means the Department of Health— some massive police successes and some amazing seizures. “that isn’t very interested, has a wealth of competing priorities, In my own county, where we have ports and airports and a track record of seeking to disinvest from the very intervention and various ways of entering, there have been a number that the proposal is designed to promote”. of seizures of drugs, and yet this does not seem to have I am not offering that as my particular view, but I a serious impact on the drugs that are available on think that it has to be included in the mix if we are the ground. This is partly because of the new looking at evidence-based policy. compounds, the new psychoactive substances that can 4.49 pm be manufactured. Baroness Williams of Trafford (Con): My Lords, Perhaps I was naive as a teenager, but I would not along with other noble Lords, I thank the noble Baroness, have known where to get drugs. I saw a noble Baroness Lady Meacher, for tabling this Question. She has smile; I do not think I was particularly naive. Talking championed the importance of having a balanced and to youngsters in schools now, I am surprised by the evidence-based approach to drugs policy, which I strongly number of them who know far more than I do about support, and I am grateful to have the opportunity this. They have far more knowledge of what is available. today to set out the Government’s action on this They even tell me the prices, which seem to me to be policy. We have debated drug policy privately and extraordinarily low. This can only be a matter of publicly, and, as many noble Lords have said, we seek supply and demand. the same outcome—the restriction of the supply of The noble Lord, Lord Ramsbotham, referred to the and demand for drugs to keep our nation healthy. ping-pong of politics. That is a great shame in a Our 2010 drug strategy aims to tackle the harm number of ways. Being a party-political hack, I consider caused by drugs by balancing activity across three that, although sometimes it is impossible to reach strands: reducing the demand, restricting the supply, agreements between parties, there are areas where and building the recovery of those who have taken to there could be far more of that kind of cross-party drug use or are dependent on drugs. We are reducing discussion, which would be very helpful. the demand for drugs by preventing their use in the I am conscious of time, but I wanted to raise one first place through various strategies and methods. We further point. I felt very sympathetic to the comments are restricting the supply by tackling drug dealing on that were made in much of the debate, but I would have our streets, strengthening our response at the border to put an alternative point of view about removing and combating the international flow of drugs to the drugs policy from the Home Office and into the area UK by disrupting drug trafficking upstream. There of health. On face value, I would have considerable has been great progress in this area. sympathy with that, partly because we recognise that Many noble Lords, in different ways, referred to a treatment works. If you look at the figures, we have a proportionate approach to people caught in possession much better record on treatment in this country than of an illegal drug. Our law enforcement officers take a in many European countries. The number of opiate proportionate approach and the vast majority of people users receiving treatment in the UK is 60%, compared caught in possession of an illegal drug are not imprisoned, to only 12% in the Netherlands and 25% in Sweden. I with only 3% of offenders found guilty of drug possession recognise the enormous value of having health-based last year being sentenced to immediate custody. policies. It is vital that the police and the criminal justice I do not know whether other noble Lords saw a system have a range of measures available to them, recent article in the Guardian on 25 November. It was including community-based interventions and referral written by Paul Hayes, who is a former chief executive to appropriate treatment, as well as tools to deal of the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse, robustly with serious and repeat offenders, who cause which works between the Home Office and the the most harm in our communities. Department of Health. His view is that the only Building recovery is important and we are doing it reason why Governments put money into treatment by supporting individuals to recover from dependence programmes is the criminality which goes alongside so through timely and effective treatment, as well as much drug use. In the article, he writes that: through local services which encompass housing, “The government estimates that drug misuse causes £15bn worth employment and appropriate support to maintain a of harm to society—£13bn of this being the cost of drug-related stable family life and a life free from crime. For example, crime—dwarfing the £5bn of health harm from smoking”. we have maximised public health benefits for users His point is that that is one of the drivers which through the legal provision of foil, which came into puts money into treatment. There is that driver of the force in September 2014, and we have agreed the wider Home Office recognising that this involves aspects of provision of Naloxone, to which a number of noble community safety, for example. In contrast, the Lords referred, from October 2015. As the noble Department of Health sees ongoing treatments, which Lord, Lord Ramsbotham, pointed out, Naloxone can are essential for many drug addicts, as being perhaps reverse the effects of opiate overdose. We will work not the best use of their money. He writes: with local authorities, prisons and others to ensure “Put simply, the Home Office sees drug treatment as value for that it is available to those who need it and those who money, while the DH sees it as a wasted opportunity”. can administer it. GC 571 Drug Policy[11 DECEMBER 2014] Tuberculosis GC 572

There are positive signs that the balanced approach factors that affect drug use, including prevention, treatment is working. Despite the cynicism of the noble Lord, and wider social and cultural factors. It would be Lord Mancroft, on this point, there has been a long-term inappropriate to compare the success of drugs policies downward trend in drug use over the last decade. in different countries based solely on trends which are More people are recovering from their dependencies subject to differences in data collection. now than in 2009-10 and the number of heroin and The noble Baroness also talked about medicinal crack cocaine users in England has fallen to 294,000. cannabis which is not used to treat multiple sclerosis. A number of noble Lords referred to the international Other noble Lords made this point. Some years ago, I comparator study. The Government need to continue worked as a nutritionist with sufferers of multiple to consider further options by looking to others to see sclerosis, and I remember the campaigning that went where our learning and understanding can be enhanced. on then to try to make Sativex available. I am very The challenges that drugs present in the UK and other pleased that it is now available. We have no plans to countries are always changing and we need to stay legalise cannabis or to change our approach to its use abreast of developments around the world. That is as a medicine. I was not sure what medicinal cannabis why we recently published the findings of the international the noble Baroness was referring to in treatment for comparator study, which looked at responses to the things other than multiple sclerosis. misuse of drugs in other countries and makes clear The noble Baroness, Lady Stern, made a very important that this is a complex problem. Each country’s social, point about the death penalty. I personally and the cultural and legal context has shaped its responses, Government are absolutely against the death penalty and what works in one country can be inappropriate for all sorts of reasons. I think the noble Baroness will in another. understand that. The noble Baroness, Lady Meacher, has referred to The noble Lord, Lord Ramsbotham, asked what Portugal in the past and she referred to it again today. the Government are doing to get prisoners off drugs. The report on the decriminalisation work in Portugal The Ministry of Justice is taking various approaches, is clear that the decrease cannot be attributed to including piloting drug recovery wings, increasing the decriminalisation alone. Drug use has gone down and number of drug-free environments and developing outcomes have gone up, but there has of course been a and testing liaison and diversion services in police significant investment in treatment in Portugal. custody suites and courts. The study has made an important contribution to I am rapidly running out of time. It is important to the ongoing development of and debate on drugs mention the United Nations General Assembly Special policy, and it provides us with a strong body of evidence Session on Drugs in 2016. In addition to leading the on which to consider further responses to the evolving global response on new psychoactive substances, we challenges of drug misuse. It has also reinforced our continue to advocate for a balanced, evidence-based commitment to a balanced approach based on evidence, approach to drugs internationally. We agree with the and we will continue to advocate for this approach to UN Secretary-General that the UN General Assembly be pursued internationally. Special Session on Drugs will be a key forum for engaging in open dialogue on these issues. This event The noble Baroness, Lady Smith, has spoken about represents a unique opportunity to engage with all the inaptly named legal highs. She responded to the UN member states, international organisations and amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act that I proposed civil society on how we can improve the global approach the other day. We have added a number of new legal to drugs. highs, so they will now become illegal highs once the On that note, I thank all noble Lords. I will reply in measure is implemented. We have led the international writing if there are any points I have not addressed. It response to this challenge, putting in place a forensic would be great if we could have a cross-party approach early warning system, using innovative legislation to on this. ban more than 350 substances and galvanising international action with partners at the UN and G7. In December last year, we established an expert Tuberculosis panel to look at this matter. The panel considered all Question for Short Debate available options for how the UK’s response to new psychoactive substances can be enhanced beyond the 5.01 pm existing measures. I understand that the noble Baroness also contributed to this review, for which we are grateful. Asked by Baroness Suttie The panel made a large number of recommendations, To ask Her Majesty’s Government what plans which we are already taking forward, including developing they have to reduce the rate of tuberculosis in the proposals for a general ban, which we also talked United Kingdom over the next 10 years. about, similar to that introduced in other countries, such as Ireland. Baroness Suttie (LD): My Lords, I am very grateful We do not have much time left to deal with individual to have the opportunity this afternoon to raise the points that noble Lords made. The noble Baroness, extremely important subject of tuberculosis in the Lady Meacher, said that the ICS showed that there is United Kingdom, and I am very grateful to colleagues no link between tough penalties and drug use. However, for agreeing to take part in this debate. it does not say that there is no link or impact. It makes Like all 13 and 14 year-olds of my generation in the clear that approaches to drugs legislation and drugs UK, I had my BCG vaccination while I was at high possession are only one element in a complex set of school. I remember that we all compared our scars for GC 573 Tuberculosis[LORDS] Tuberculosis GC 574

[BARONESS SUTTIE] new and better medication and a vaccine that works. months afterwards. We believed at that time that TB, TB is infectious and airborne. When patients start like smallpox, could be eradicated from our society. treatment, they become less infectious. If there is a TB, or consumption, was supposed to be an illness of delay in diagnosis, they remain infectious for longer, poverty of times gone by. In Victorian Britain it was allowing the disease to progress, and develop more known as the “silent killer” and as many as one in four severe symptoms, thus exposing others to the risk of deaths were attributable to it. So high was the death transmission, so the first thing we must tackle is rate, in fact, that TB has been estimated to have killed delayed diagnosis. more people than any other infectious disease in human I am pleased that Public Health England and NHS history. England have, together with a number of other Shortly after I was appointed to this House, I stakeholders, drawn up a collaborative TB strategy for became involved with the APPG on TB. Much to my England. I also note that this strategy acknowledges: surprise, I quickly had many of my preconceptions “An additional factor that frequently delays diagnosis is the shattered, as I learnt that TB has not, in fact, disappeared lack of TB awareness among health professionals and appropriate and remains a very real problem. While great progress training among social care staff”. has been made against the disease in the West, globally In short, it is a problem that high-risk populations as TB is as deadly as ever. The latest estimates from the well as many healthcare professionals are currently World Health Organization are that the disease kills insufficiently well informed about TB. Earlier this year 1.5 million people every year. The Lancet estimates when I visited Romania with RESULTS UK, we went that TB kills more people than any other single infectious to a prison outside Bucharest which had an impressive agent worldwide. To put it in context, TB kills nearly TB education programme that far surpasses anything as many people every single day as have died from I have encountered in this country. Will the Minister Ebola since March. outline our existing TB awareness programmes, TB today is not the same disease it was 100 years particularly in prisons? We are not going to reduce ago. Our failure to develop new drugs or to properly delays in diagnosis unless we make people aware that apply the ones we have has given TB bacteria the TB is a genuine threat to public health across the UK. chance to evolve new, drug-resistant strains. The issue Of course, there are other ways to reduce delays of drug-resistant TB is particularly pertinent today, between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of following the first report from Jim O’Neill’s AMR the disease. Find & Treat screens up to 10,000 people a commission. The report estimates that antimicrobial year in the UK. It works with some of the hardest-to-reach resistance could cost the world economy $100 trillion people and yet has a treatment success rate higher over the next 35 years, and it cites TB as a major driver than the national average. In fact, the service is of such of that cost. In this context, it is no overstatement to sufficiently high quality that the clinical lead, Dr Alistair say that MDR TB is a threat to social and economic Story, who I met a few months ago, has been asked by well-being across the world. the World Health Organization to participate in a A growing percentage of global cases are resistant working group exploring how to eliminate TB in low- to our best drugs. Patients diagnosed with multidrug- burden countries. Yet the Find & Treat service is on an resistant or MDR TB face two years of treatment, uncertain financial footing and, although seeking to taking 14,000 pills, which are often associated with expand, is unable to do so. Will the Minister commit permanent and debilitating side-effects and which have to seeing the work of Find & Treat first-hand and only a 50% chance of cure. support it in its efforts to scale up? In June this year, I took part in a delegation to Find & Treat is also behind a project that I visited Romania looking into the Romanian experience of in North London known as Olallo. Olallo offers the treatment and prevention of TB. Romania has the accommodation and social support for homeless patients highest incidence of TB in the EU. At one clinic, I receiving drug-resistant TB treatments. Patients receive spoke to a young mother of two children who had free lodging, food, education and skills training to been diagnosed with MDR TB. She had already had support them in finding permanent employment. The half of one lung removed and was expecting an operation project is an exemplary demonstration of how we can imminently to remove a section of her other lung. She support those with chaotic lifestyles. As a model it was struggling with the harsh regimen of drugs for her could also save us money. The average cost of treating disease and constantly felt unwell and nauseous. She a TB patient in a hospital is £500 a day, and even more was also deeply worried for her two young children, in a negative-pressure isolation room, whereas hostel who were in the process of being tested to see whether accommodation with all the additional social support they, too, had MDR TB. can cost between £60 and £80 a night. Will the Minister Of course, this debate today is not about global TB; detail what the Government are doing to support and it is about TB in the UK. London is regarded as the expand projects like Olallo? TB capital of western Europe. Some parts of the Finally, I would like to speak briefly about TB capital have rates equal to those in sub-Saharan Africa. treatment. Every time I have spoken to a TB patient or The BCG vaccination with which we are all so familiar a healthcare professional, the conversation has turned provides far less protection than many think and to the terrible treatment burden and the awful side offers no protection at all to adults. effects. Patients have told me of the risk of hearing I would like to focus briefly on three key areas: loss, blindness, liver damage and suicidal urges. Healthcare education and awareness; testing and diagnosis; and experts have explained the very real dilemma of having tackling the problem at source—namely, developing to put an MDR TB patient on treatment, knowing the GC 575 Tuberculosis[11 DECEMBER 2014] Tuberculosis GC 576 misery that the drugs can bring. In the 21st century it TB is caused by bacteria. It is airborne and infectious, is simply unacceptable that a patient should face the transmitted when a sick patient coughs or sneezes. TB choice between a disease that could kill them and a has been estimated by the Lancet to be the deadliest treatment that could leave them permanently disabled. disease in the world. The World Health Organization I am proud that the UK Government are the second estimates that TB kills 1.5 million people every year. biggest public funder in global health research and Like many other bacteria, TB is increasingly resistant development in the world. Investments and product to our best drugs. development partnerships, such as Aeras and TB Alliance, We must not be complacent here in the UK. We are life-saving. The concordat between DfID and the have many demands on our NHS, but infections need Medical Research Council is practically unique in the controlling and preventing whenever possible. It is developed world and yet there is much more that can much easier to treat an infection in the early stages. and should be done. At the root of our global failure Here in the UK, there were 7,982 cases of TB in 2013. to develop TB drugs and vaccines is a simple truth: This is a reduction of 10.6% over the previous two people who suffer from TB are usually poor and do years. London, however, has the highest rate of any not offer a market of sufficient scale to incentivise capital city in western Europe. Birmingham’s rate is pharmaceutical companies to invest in research and even higher. Both are near the World Health Organization’s development. To put it more crudely, the commercial definition of a high-risk area. Before 2012, rates of TB market has failed TB patients. In the face of this in the UK rose steadily from the year 2000. Only market failure, Governments must act. The UK 15% of TB cases in the UK occurred in people who Government could do even more than they currently had entered the UK in the previous two years. TB do. We need to reclaim that thought-leadership and remains concentrated among the most deprived work with leading donors around the world to drive a populations. In 2013, 70% of cases were resistant in new global consensus on overcoming the market failure the 40% most deprived areas. Nearly half of cases in R&D for global health. were among the unemployed, while 10% had social The response to the global HIV epidemic has been risk factors, including a history of alcohol and drug one of the greatest examples of the world responding misuse, homelessness and imprisonment. More than a to a global health threat, and HIV has lots of advocates quarter of patients with TB in their lungs started and celebrity supporters. Ebola, too, has gripped the treatment more than four months after the onset of attention of the world’s media, and rightly so. symptoms. On average, patients in the UK wait 72 days I mentioned at the beginning of my remarks that between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis with TB was once known as the silent killer. If politicians, TB. This increases the severity of symptoms and increases the media and Governments continue to be largely the likelihood that patients will transmit the disease. silent as the disease kills millions every year we will never be rid of the disease, not in the UK and certainly There are two main reasons for this problem. not around the world. I very much hope that the Healthcare professionals in the UK often do not consider Government will lead the way to reverse this situation. TB in the first instance. Thus, patients can be misdiagnosed. Patients can be reluctant to come forward due to stigma, lack of awareness of the disease and 5.10 pm reluctance to access healthcare. In London, the Find and Treat service has overcome some of the challenges Baroness Masham of Ilton (CB): My Lords, I thank on the patient side. Find and Treat is a service based the noble Baroness, Lady Suttie, for this important debate. around a mobile X-ray unit in the back of a van which Many people think TB is a thing of the past. travels to hostels and other homeless places across the However, here in London, Newham has been named capital to screen marginalised and high-risk groups. I the capital of tuberculosis in Europe. With modern have visited this unit at work and I can tell your travel, the world is very small. I will mention a few Lordships that it is run by enthusiastic, dedicated points on the international scene before concentrating people. I assure your Lordships that if you had time on the UK. you would find a visit most interesting. The unit even I was very impressed and moved recently by a film has access for a wheelchair, which is unusual. Most on drug-resistant TB, shot in Africa. The 2014 WHO units for screening breast cancer do not have this report also states that the problem of drug-resistant facility. TB is worsening, with an estimated 480,000 new cases of MDR-TB in 2013. This, too, may be an underestimate, The service frequently employs previous service since estimates of the true burden of drug-resistant users to offer mentoring to current patients, offering TB across sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and eastern Europe all-important social care and helping previous service are impaired by the fact that drug-resistant testing and users develop employable skill and experience. Find treatment services are broadly unavailable at the majority and Treat accordingly has a higher treatment completion of healthcare facilities. rate than the UK national average, despite working with hard-to-reach, marginalised populations. The draft Of greater concern was that of the estimated half a collaborative TB strategy for England recommended million cases of multi-drug-resistant TB around the the scale-up of Find and Treat to become a national world only 136,000 were officially diagnosed. It is outreach service. This is welcome, but it must be done perhaps more dire to note that 9% of those with MDR correctly. are estimated to have extensively drug-resistant TB or, in other words, that close to 50,000 people worldwide TB is just one of several interlinked conditions have a form of the disease that we do not currently across the UK that suffer from delayed and incomplete have the necessary tools to treat. diagnosis. Some 30,000 people in the UK with HIV do GC 577 Tuberculosis[LORDS] Tuberculosis GC 578

[BARONESS MASHAM OF ILTON] mentioned, has the highest rates of TB of any capital not know their status. Half of all those with hepatitis city in western Europe—indeed, I believe, in the developed C do not know their status. Some 630,000 people with world—that the London Borough of Newham has type 2 diabetes do not know their condition and rates equivalent to Nigeria, and that England is set to 11.5 million people are considered to be at high risk of have a higher rate than the United States in 2015. developing type 2 diabetes. These conditions are linked. These statistics are all very impressive. Unlike other People with HIV are 20 to 30 times more likely to major cities such as New York, Barcelona and Paris, develop TB. People with diabetes are three times more London has not seen a reduction in TB rates, and likely to develop TB. Hepatitis C and HIV infection accounts for almost half of the approximately 8,000 cases are connected by similar methods of transmission. All nationally.As a Londoner, I find this topic very important, these conditions are found predominately in areas of and I am grateful to my noble friend for drawing high health inequalities. Many of these people are attention to it. unaware of their status and are not accessing healthcare. The evidence suggests that in London the majority HIV, hepatitis C, diabetes and TB can all be screened of new cases, around 75% or 80%, are due to the for in less than 15 minutes. reactivation of latent infections after TB has been I must declare an interest, as among the all-party acquired in a high-risk country outside the UK, but of health groups I serve on, I am a member of the course if that latent infection is reactivated it acts as a All-Party Parliamentary Group on HIV and AIDS, source of infection for those in close contact with that the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Global person, including their family and children. Tuberculosis, the All-Party Parliamentary Hepatology Group and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for I mentioned the North Central London TB service, Diabetes. Therefore, I agree with scaling-up Find and the NCL, which is an innovative service providing Treat to include these conditions. This would maximise holistic care to TB patients. It has seen reductions in the efficiency of the outreach service, making the most TB rates. It includes the outreach service, mentioned of a single contact with an individual to screen for by the noble Baroness, Lady Masham, of the mobile multiple conditions. It would reduce stigma related to X-ray and Find and Treat team based at University any single disease by making such tests part of routine College Hospital, as well as a TB link project, which health screening. It would target areas of high health demonstrates the importance of an integrated social inequalities, adapt a preventative approach to health care team. It has introduced a cohort review into and, most importantly, save money. The Find and London and the UK, based on a New York model of Treat budget is under £1 million a year. The lifetime TB control, and since 2007 it has had a united nursing, cost of HIV treatment in the UK has been estimated social care, outreach and administrative team. Lastly, at over £300,000 per person, so an outreach service it has concentrated non-in-patient services to two hubs would need to help prevent only three cases of HIV to in north central London—that is, the Whittington and break even. Most importantly, an outreach programme the North Middlesex—instead of previously having such as this would save life. had five sites. So this is a concentrated focus with consistent nurse leadership, avoiding the fragmentation We must do more to prevent these infections. I hope of the nursing team and better able to tackle inequalities that in the next 10 years there will be a vaccine and in the provision of care. more new drugs for TB, but I also hope that the Minister will commission her department to explore It has been mentioned that the national TB strategy the possibilities of an integrated national outreach is in preparation and I am advised that this needs to service for HIV, hepatitis C, diabetes and TB across result in changes to the current model of fragmented the country. I look forward to the Minister’s reply. care. However, as other noble Lords have said, it is important to acknowledge that success in TB control 5.20 pm must involve agencies other than the health service and must address the social factors involved, which Baroness Ludford (LD): My Lords, I thank my have also been mentioned. Homelessness is probably noble friend Lady Suttie most sincerely for giving us top of the list. It increases the likelihood of exposure the opportunity to debate this important subject. I to TB and also makes managing the care and treatment acknowledge an interest in that my husband is chairman of patients very difficult. Treatment is quite arduous of the board of the Whittington Hospital, which is and requires a sustained commitment from the patient, one of the hubs for the innovative TB Service North which may be difficult in adverse social circumstances, Central London, which I will mention later. I thank particularly homelessness. It is a good illustration of Dr Helen Booth, a consultant thoracic physician and why a co-ordinated approach between health and social TB clinical lead for that hub at the Whittington, for care is vital. briefing material. I also appreciate the briefing from Results UK, the NGO that my noble friend mentioned. Other factors include overcrowding, poor housing, I also draw on evidence from the London TB clinical poverty, poor access to health care, drug or alcohol leadership advisory group. dependency, HIV/AIDS and the social stigma which I have no health background or expertise except exists in certain individuals, cultural groups and society some involvement in diabetes, but the more that I in general. This can lead to people having great difficulties briefed myself on this subject, the more interested and with treatment compliance. alarmed I became. Having formerly had the privilege The rates of TB among the homeless community in of being the elected representative for London in the certain parts of London have been recorded as up to European Parliament for 15 years, I was naturally very 35 times higher than the national average. As the impressed with the fact that London, as has been disease attacks people with reduced immune systems, GC 579 Tuberculosis[11 DECEMBER 2014] Tuberculosis GC 580 the impact of rough sleeping, poor nutrition and We have always had excellent briefs from Public Health chaotic lifestyles increases the chances of developing England and the Local Government Association and TB in the first place. Members of the homeless community it is credible that so many experts are now thinking are less likely to present to primary healthcare when about how we are going to address what are clearly experiencing symptoms. It is a vicious spiral because very important problems. they are likely to remain infectious and transmit the Like the noble Baroness, I thought that TB had disease to others, develop more severe and difficult-to-treat been virtually eradicated. It clearly has not been and symptoms and increase the likelihood of developing we need to do something about it. Noble Lords have drug resistant strains. Again, this is an illustration of mentioned that the UK has one of the highest incidences the importance of taking a holistic view. in western Europe but if your Lordships look at the As I understand it, once a person is admitted, local authorities most affected, including my own hospitals cannot discharge people without a home Birmingham, there is a strong correlation between TB address, and a patient who cannot be discharged might and general poor health. For instance, if you look at cost the NHS more than £100,000 in bed fees alone. the list of the 20 local authorities with the highest Not only is this expensive but it blocks access to rates of TB per 100,000 population, which I think in-patient treatment for other patients. One estimate gives a safer comparator, many of them have other that I have been given is that the cost of providing a very real health issues as well. hospital bed for a week would provide secure I say to the noble Baroness, Lady Jolly, that there is accommodation for all patients without housing for a also an uncanny correlation between that list and the year. So provision of housing can help break the cycle. local authorities that have been affected worst by the My noble friend mentioned the Olallo project in funding formula switch. I ask her to reflect on this. It Euston, which is able to provide, on a more cost-effective is rather ironic that if you read down this list of local basis, food, room, training, language skills and social authorities, which includes Manchester, Birmingham, support for TB treatment which helps the patient to Southwark and Hackney, many of them have taken recover. I am invited to invite the Minister to visit this huge hits in the changes to the local government project if she has not had the chance to see the positive funding formula. I know that some of this resource impact of specialist accommodation. will obviously come from the Department of Health Not only do we need a focused approach in the and that it has been ring-fenced, although health health service but a multiagency approach between the experts tell me they think that not all the money has health service, housing authorities, the health and actually reached public health. We can begin to see well-being boards of local authorities and other agencies. why; because of the squeeze on other resources in This approach goes a long way to account for the local government. The substantive point I put to the success in New York, Barcelona and Paris, which have noble Baroness is given that, how can we ensure that achieved impressive and sustained reductions in infection the public health resources being allocated to local rates. Not only do these cities recognise the problem authorities are going to be spent on important issues but they have a unified, city-wide strategy to identify, such as TB? treat and prevent transmission of TB. The LGA and PHE produced a report called Tackling That is the challenge in London, which is starting Tuberculosis—Local Government’s Public Health Role. to be met. Significant progress has been made and It is an excellent piece of work and I endorse the fact now that the NHS and social care changes are bedding that it should be the local authority that leads this down there is a good prospect of success. A London work. The report has a lot of very good recommendations, TB control board has been established—I believe it such as that the scrutiny work of local government has been suggested that control boards should be could address TB issues. There are also substantive established nationally—which has on it all representative recommendations, such as driving improvement through stakeholders. It is important that London, as the the overview and scrutiny committees and health and highest prevalence area in the UK, is an integral part well-being boards. The report then says that: of the national TB strategy. “Local health service commissioners should prioritise the Finally, I quote from Dr William Lynn, who is the delivery of appropriate clinical and public health services for clinical lead for TB and chair of the London TB TB”, Clinical Advisory Group, he said, and that local leadership should be promoted at all levels, with a senior co-ordinator being appointed, “health and social care (including housing) must work towards common, agreed London Wide service delivery and make the “perhaps from the public health team”, resources available to establish the detection and treatment of to take responsibility for TB. It recommends that local latent TB as the benchmark standard of care. Without this we authorities: fear that we will continue to fail the population of our Capital City and TB rates will not fall”. “Encourage and empower the voice of people affected by TB”. 5.30 pm and use, “‘TB cohort review’ and other methods to collect data to inform Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Lab): My Lords, I, too, local needs assessment”. congratulate the noble Baroness, Lady Suttie, on securing It also says that they should: the debate and on her comments. I associate myself “Facilitate appropriate access to information and services for with her remarks about praising the work of the underserved populations, such as homeless populations … Assist all-party group on TB, which does excellent work. I with supporting an individual’s social needs … Review how third am grateful to it for a specific briefing on issues in sector organisations can help improve access to services and Birmingham, which I am particularly interested in. patient support”, GC 581 Tuberculosis[LORDS] Tuberculosis GC 582

[LORD HUNT OF KINGS HEATH] There are considerable inequalities in the distribution and, of TB cases in England with respect to age, ethnicity, “Ensure information about TB is cascaded into key teams—for sex, location and socio-economic status. TB today is example Children’s Services, Adult Services, Housing and Benefits, largely a disease of poverty and inequality. Underserved Citizen’s Advice”. and marginalised members of our communities have These are great recommendations. the highest rates of TB and the greatest risk of onward At the heart of this is a recognition that if we are transmission. The Chief Medical Officer has identified going to tackle TB effectively—to pick up the point the inequalities associated with TB as an important the noble Baroness, Lady Ludford, made about priority for England and the Health and Social Care London—you have to have one plan, an integrated Act 2012 has placed a duty on local government, programme and one body accountable for delivering clinical commissioning groups, Public Health England it. Can the noble Baroness, Lady Jolly, see a way and NHS England to reduce inequalities. through to getting that single point of accountability In response to the high rates of TB, Public Health through the local authority where it is absolutely clear England and NHS England will launch the Collaborative who is responsible for reducing TB rates in the area? Tuberculosis Strategy for England 2015-2020 in January. This is very relevant to Birmingham. Unlike London, The draft strategy was widely consulted on in the we have only one local authority, so it ought to be summer of 2014, with the active input and participation easier to get that kind of integration. None the less, we of a wide range of stakeholders and partners across have three clinical commissioning groups, at least three the Department of Health, the NHS, local government, NHS acute trusts which collectively provide a lot of Public Health England and the third sector. It is clinical and preventive services, many GP practices jointly developed to improve national TB control, and, because education plays such an important role with the aim of achieving a year-on-year decrease in in this, a lot of schools, academies and free schools as TB incidence and a reduction in health inequalities, well as the local education authority. It is clear—the with a particular emphasis on bringing improvements all-party group has also commented on this—that in the areas with the highest rates of TB. NHS England although the director of public health is taking this and Public Health England are committed to resourcing very seriously and giving leadership, at the moment it the implementation of the strategy, and precise funding has not been pulled together into one plan with a mechanisms are currently being finalised. The strategy commitment from everyone to sign up to it. That is will establish clear lines of responsibility for TB control really what is missing. There is a lot of good work with at a national and local level, and provide a framework lots of outreach programmes. Working with sex workers for the commissioning of TB services that takes into in the city is one example. TB professionals have also account all aspects of the patient pathway. conducted screening and health education in English Most cases of TB are found in large urban areas: as a second or other language, and through this route London, West Yorkshire, the West Midlands, Greater they have screened high numbers of people quickly Manchester, Leicester and Luton. The noble Lord, and raised awareness of the disease among high-risk Lord Hunt, inquired about the situation in London. I populations. So lots of good work is being done, but it have just asked my officials what role the London does not quite hang together at the moment. Assembly and the mayor have in all this, because that I want to put two other questions to the noble is the overarching body for all boroughs. Public Health Baroness, Lady Jolly. The noble Baroness, Lady Suttie, England London advises the mayor on all health mentioned the report published this morning on dealing issues via the Public Health England London director, with antimicrobial resistance. Of course, this is very who also chairs the London TB control board, so relevant to TB. I have just glimpsed the report. Can there is someone who has a handle on all this. the Minister say a little bit about any steps that the department is now going to take to find new treatments To follow up on the issue of funding, there is no TB to tackle multidrug-resistant TB? Finally, the Collaborative weighting in either the local authority or the NHS Tuberculosis Strategy for England 2014 to 2019 was funding formulae, but there are special TB tariffs for launched in March at a meeting organised by the TB care within the NHS tariff system. The majority of all-party group. The strategy aims to learn from successful cases are in deprived areas. TB is more likely to occur TB programmes internationally and adapt the learning among settled migrants, those with connections to to our specific circumstances in the UK. Will she give high-incidence countries, ethnic minority groups, the noble Lords a report on progress with the strategy and elderly and those with social risk factors including how she thinks it will be implemented? homelessness, a history of imprisonment or drug or alcohol use. The lifestyles of those most at risk often mask the symptoms of TB, which can cause problems 5.38 pm accessing and completing appropriate care. This in turn creates inequality in outcomes. Baroness Jolly (LD): My Lords, I am grateful to my noble friend for securing this important debate, which The noble Baroness, Lady Masham, inquired about has proved to be fascinating, and to all speakers for providing accessible health services to the homeless. their informed and thoughtful contributions. I, too, This particular group can face great inequalities in commend the work of the APPG on TB and declare accessing health services, yet their health can often that a couple of years ago I, too, went courtesy of suffer just from being homeless or living in poor RESULTS UK to see TB in Zambia. I have many quality temporary accommodation. Poor health, whether questions from noble Lords. Should I run out of time, physical, mental or both, can also cause a person to I will write and post a letter in the Library. become homeless in the first place. Homeless people GC 583 Tuberculosis[11 DECEMBER 2014] Tuberculosis GC 584 may often leave health problems untreated until they scoping BCG provision and accommodation for “no reach a crisis point, and then present inappropriately. recourse to public funds” TB patients and those with My noble friend Lady Suttie asked about the response chaotic lifestyles. from global health R&D and the licensing of newly My noble friend Lady Suttie inquired about general approved TB drugs. In 2012 Ministers of Health called prison awareness issues. Much is being done to raise on the WHO to develop a post-2015 global TB strategy awareness of TB in prisons in the UK and to help to in order to have a world free of TB and zero deaths, educate prisoners. This awareness-raising is arranged disease and suffering caused by TB. This is in recognition locally by health protection teams. of the need to address the disease globally; in 2013 it My noble friend made reference to the work of affected nine million people around the world. As my Find & Treat. My honourable friend Jane Ellison MP, noble friend has already told us, it has killed 1.5 million. the Minister for Public Health, met representatives of To achieve this reduction, the strategy sets out ambitious the Find & Treat service when they visited Parliament global targets for the reduction of TB incidence and in March this year. Dr Alistair Story, the service’s mortality and the individual costs of illness, with clinical lead, has been involved in the development of targets and milestones up to 2030. the TB strategy and its plans for the expansion of an The collaborative TB strategy contains 10 areas of outreach service, similar to Find & Treat, for the rest action which will underpin local prevention and control of England. I would be happy to join any noble Lords services. It makes provision for a whole-system, evidence- on a visit to Find & Treat and Olallo. based approach across the whole health and care The vast majority of TB cases can be cured when system. Implementation will be supported by a small the medicines are provided and taken properly. Active, team working with local and regional experts ensuring drug-sensitive TB disease is treated with a standard delivery through existing structures. This structure six-month course of four antimicrobial drugs with the will provide accountability, reinforced by national oversight support of specialist healthcare staff and additional provided by NHS England and Public Health England. support, as required, from social care support staff. A formal monitoring framework will be put in place Without such supervision and support, treatment with effect from 1 April 2015. It will monitor performance adherence can be difficult and the disease can spread at local and national levels. Public Health England or manifest in drug-resistant form. will provide annual monitoring reports on a suite of With regard to the issue of delayed diagnosis and indicators relevant to the control of TB at geographical what is being done to tackle it, poor access and late and organisational levels. diagnosis result in more advanced and complex disease, My noble friend Lady Ludford was talking about with greater mobility, mortality and cost. The Royal comparisons with major cities across the world. The College of General Practitioners has an e-learning TB strategy will address this issue. It should bring programme—which is available to all primary care organisational change and funding improvements, focusing staff—to raise awareness of TB, especially the signs on TB control. There is a focus on public health in and symptoms of TB disease. England because incidence is more than four times as As to R&D, the UK Government support a range high as in the US. of research programmes to promote the development The noble Baroness, Lady Masham, inquired about of new diagnostics, drugs and vaccines. The MRC is the incidence of multidrug-resistant TB in the UK and one of the main agencies through which the Government asked why it was lower in other European countries. support medical and clinical research. It receives its The incidence of MDR TB in the UK is not higher grant in aid from the Department for Business, Innovation than in the rest of Europe. However, the proportion of and Skills and supports a wide portfolio of research, multidrug-resistant TB cases in the UK has increased including the current UK-based research into new TB from 0.9% to 1.6%. drugs. My noble friend said that London is regarded as Through effective localised commissioning of TB the TB capital of western Europe. London has 35% of treatment services, we are able to place patient safety the UK total, with 2,965 cases reported in 2013—a at the forefront of the work in the UK. The collaborative decrease from the 3,403 cases reported in 2012. This TB strategy paves the way for this to happen. The concern is being recognised and work is currently measures contained in the strategy are comprehensive under way to draft the implementation plan for London and far reaching. To ensure that they are brought to that meets London’s needs. A number of CCGs and fruition, PHE and NHS England will oversight local authorities with the highest TB rates are already implementation, monitor progress and publish reports. working with Public Health England and NHS England The strategy will set out what needs to be done both at (London) to implement latent TB case finding, and a national and local level. It will be aimed at a range of with TB Alert, a third sector organisation, to raise key partners, including in health and social care and awareness within their communities. London has a TB the third sector at a local level, which will be empowered service specification with key performance indicators to ensure that the clinical priorities affecting their that are being used to ensure that TB service providers communities are effectively addressed. are able to meet local population need. London is also looking in depth at the mortality of TB patients, Committee adjourned at 5.51 pm.

WS 121 Written Statements[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Statements WS 122 Written Statements Asset Resolution (Consumer Credit Act) Statement Thursday 11 December 2014

The Commercial Secretary to the Treasury (Lord ABWR Nuclear Reactor Deighton) (Con): My hon Friend the Economic Secretary Statement (Andrea Laedsom)) has today made the following written ministerial statement. In February 2008, under the previous Government, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department Northern Rock was nationalised due to the financial of Energy and Climate Change (Baroness Verma) (Con): crisis. In January 2010 the previous Government My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for restructured the activities of Northern Rock between Energy and Climate Change (Edward Davey) has made Northern Rock plc, a newly created company which the following Written Ministerial Statement today: was subsequently sold to Virgin Money in 2011, and I have today laid before the House a draft statutory the existing company, which was renamed Northern instrument containing my decision, as Justifying Authority Rock (Asset Management) (NRAM). The balance under the Justification of Practices Involving Ionising sheet of NRAM is managed by UK Asset Resolution Radiation Regulations 2004, that the generation of (UKAR). electricity from the nuclear reactor design known as In 2012, UKAR identified certain Consumer Credit the UK ABWR is Justified. Act (CCA) regulated loans in the NRAM portfolio Justification is the first step in the regulatory process where the annual statements and other notices were for practices involving ionising radiation and is required not compliant with CCA requirements. The CCA by EU law. Before any new practice involving ionising regulations only applied to loans of £25,000 or less. radiation (such as a new design of nuclear reactor) can The period of non-compliance originates from changes be introduced in the UK, it must first undergo a to the CCA implemented in 2008, before the separation high-level, generic assessment to determine whether of NRAM and Northern Rock plc in January 2010. its economic, social or other benefits outweigh the The Economic Secretary to the Treasury at the time health detriment it may cause. this non-compliance was identified (Sajid Javid) informed As Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Parliament, and UKAR has remediated the interest I am the Justifying Authority and it is my responsibility paid and other charges fully to affected customers for to take these decisions. the period of non-compliance. This is another example Positive Justification decisions are made by way of of the significant cost to taxpayers of the failure of the statutory instruments. The draft statutory instrument previous regulatory regime. which I have today laid in draft before the House is After these mistakes were discovered, UKAR’s board supported by a decision document, copies of which commissioned Deloitte to conduct an independent have been deposited in the Libraries of the House. enquiry into the specific circumstances of the issue, The decision document sets out how I have considered and any implications for UKAR’s broader internal responses to the public consultations carried out by procedures and controls. The report can be found my department, how I have assessed the benefit of the here: class or type of practice against the radiological health http://www.ukar.co.uk/media-centre/press-releases/ detriment it may cause, and how I have come to the 2013/15-07-2013?page=6 decision that it is Justified. In 2012, UKAR also discovered that incorrect In summary, the basis for my decision is that there documentation had been sent to certain customers is a clear need for the generation of electricity by the with loans of more than £25,000. These errors also nuclear reactor design to which the decision relates, originate from when changes were implemented to the because of the contribution its deployment can make CCA in 2008, before the separation of NRAM and to the new nuclear programme through increased security Northern Rock plc in January 2010. While these loans of energy supplies and reduced carbon emissions. fell outside of the scope of the CCA, UKAR commenced Against this, the radiological detriment to health from declaratory proceedings in the High Court to determine this nuclear reactor design throughout its lifetime and whether customers who took out such loans are entitled the management of associated waste will be low compared to the same or similar rights and remedies as those to overall levels of radiation, and will be effectively customers who took out loans of £25,000 or less that controlled by the UK’s robust and effective regulatory were regulated under the CCA. This action was taken regime. I have therefore concluded that the reactor in order to provide clarity to UKAR and to its customers, design should be Justified. and details of the proceedings, including an estimate The draft statutory instrument containing the decision of the cost of remediation, were published in the is subject to the affirmative resolution procedure and Treasury’s Annual Report and Accounts for 2013-2014. will therefore be the subject of debates in both Houses The High Court has declared that the defendants to of Parliament. the proceedings are contractually entitled to the rights Copies of a statement to this effect, and of the and remedies applicable to a regulated agreements decision document, have been deposited in the Libraries under the CCA (2008). Accordingly, NRAM was in of the House and are available on my department’s breach of its obligations by issuing documentation website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance-for-operators- that did not comply with the CCA (2008), and by not of-new-nuclear-power-stations re-crediting the interest payments and default sums WS 123 Written Statements[LORDS] Written Statements WS 124 paid during the period of non-compliance. UKAR, involved in the enforcement of confiscation orders, and UK Financial Investments, on behalf of the Treasury, which includes the Home Office, the Serious Fraud will now carefully consider legal advice to establish Office and the Crown Prosecution Service, take every whether an appeal should be pursued. UKAR have action available to them to tackle outstanding debt estimated the cost of remediating affected customers including the addition of interest and imprisonment to be £261m plus any future interest accruing on these for those who do not pay. accounts before remediation is made. The cost of any The robust application of sanctions in relation to future interest amounts to approximately £3m per outstanding fine debt has resulted in a 13% reduction month. in gross debt relating to fine impositions since April UKAR has performed well, repaying more than 2012. The amount collected has increased in both £12bn of Government loans and actively managing 2013-14 and 2012-13 compared to 2011-12. Legislation the assets with the goal of ensuring value for money introduced in December 2013 allows HMCTS to obtain for the taxpayer. The OBR has forecast that UKAR data from HM Revenue & Customs and Department will have a positive impact reducing both Public Sector for Work and Pensions for the purposes of enforcing Net Borrowing and Public Sector Net Debt in the outstanding fines in a more efficient and effective way. current fiscal year. This would be true even if remediation To build on improvements made in recent years in costs were paid this fiscal year. the collection of criminal financial penalties, HMCTS UKAR will confirm whether an appeal will be is in the final stages of a procurement exercise to pursued in due course. There is no need for customers determine whether an external partner can bring the to take any action at this time. Further details for innovation and investment in technology that HMCTS customers can be found on the NRAM website: www. needs to further improve performance and efficiency. nram.co.uk. The continuing improvement the Agencies are making, combined with our future plans, will ensure that more Courts and Tribunals Service Trust criminals pay and that taxpayers get better value for Statement money.”

The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord Faulks) (Con): My honourable friend the Parliamentary Cyber Security Strategy Under-Secretary of State for Justice, Minister for the Statement Courts and Legal Aid (Shailesh Vara) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement. Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD): My Right Honourable “Her Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) friend the Minister for Cabinet Office and Paymaster has prepared a Trust Statement providing an account General () has made the following Written of the collection of revenues which are due to be paid Ministerial Statement: to HM Treasury. The Statement includes the value of In November 2011 we published the UK Cyber fines and confiscation orders imposed by the judiciary; Security Strategy and each year since then I have fixed penalties imposed by the police; the value of presented an annual report to Parliament on progress collections; the balances paid over to third parties against the Strategy’s objectives. I am pleased to present including victims of crime, the Home Office and HM the third of these reports to both Houses today alongside Treasury; and the balance of outstanding impositions. this statement. I am delighted that, for the first time, the Comptroller The Cyber Security Strategy set out the Government’s and Auditor General has been able to provide an vision of “a vibrant, resilient and secure cyberspace” unqualified audit opinion on the Trust Statement which and set out four objectives: recognises the quality and thoroughness of the work · Making the UK one of the most secure places in we have completed to address financial reporting issues the world to do business in cyberspace previously identified by the National Audit Office (NAO). · Making the UK more resilient to cyber attack The Trust Statement demonstrates that we have and better able to protect our interests in cyberspace continued to maintain strong collection performance · Helping shape an open, vibrant and stable levels with more than £518 million in financial impositions cyberspace that supports open societies collected from offenders during 2013-14. Victim Surcharge · Building the UK’s cyber security knowledge, receipts have increased by £28m from 2012-13 to 2013-14 skills and capability. (to around £38.5m in 2013-14), providing additional funds to help support the victims of rape, domestic To support the Strategy we put in place a National violence and families bereaved by murder and fatal Cyber Security Programme backed by £860 million of road traffic crimes. To aid in the provision of these investment to 2016. Through the Programme the vital services a proportion of the additional victim Government is working to: surcharge receipts has been allocated to Police and · further deepen our national sovereign capability Crime Commissioners for innovative local projects to to detect and defeat high-end threats; support victims. · ensure law enforcement has the skills and capabilities HMCTS recognises the importance of the needed to tackle cyber crime and maintain the confidence recommendations made by the NAO Value for Money needed to do business on the Internet; study on Confiscation orders and we are working with · ensure critical UK systems and networks are our partner enforcement agencies to address those robust and resilient; recommendations and ensure that criminals continue · improve cyber awareness and risk management to be deprived of the proceeds of crime. The agencies amongst UK business; WS 125 Written Statements[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Statements WS 126

· ensure members of the public know what they can My Right Honourable Friend the Secretary of do to protect themselves, and are demanding good State for International Development will attend the cyber security in the products and services they Development Foreign Affairs Council on 12 December, consume; my Right Honourable Friend the Secretary of State · bolster cyber security research and education, so for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs will attend we have the knowledge and expertise to keep pace the Foreign Affairs Council on 15 December, and I with this fast-moving issue into the medium-term; will attend the General Affairs Council on 16 December. and The Development Foreign Affairs Council and the · work with international partners to bear down on Foreign Affairs Council will be chaired by the High havens for cybercrime and build capacity, and to Representative of the European Union for Foreign help shape international dialogue to promote an Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, and open, secure and vibrant cyberspace. the General Affairs Council will be chaired by the We have made significant strides towards all these Italian Presidency. The meetings will be held in Brussels. goals this year and throughout the course of the Development Foreign Affairs Council Programme’s existence. The long-term economic plan Post-2015 agenda of this government continues to make the UK one of The UK remains at the forefront of the post-2015 the most secure places globally for cyber innovation discussions, building on the Prime Minister’s co-chairing and commerce. Notable highlights from this year include of the UN high-level panel. Ministers will discuss the the inauguration of the new CERT-UK (Computer EU’s approach to intergovernmental negotiations on Emergency Response Team) which coordinates our post-2015, including agreeing Council Conclusions, national response to significant cyber incidents. CERTUK and reflect on the UN Secretary-General’s synthesis has played a significant role already in protecting the report. The UK will use this discussion to make the Commonwealth Games and the NATO Summit in case for a more simple, inspiring and relevant set of Wales from cyber threats. The National Cyber Crime goals and targets. Unit has led global law enforcement operations in conjunction with the FBI and other counterparts to Gender target cyber criminals. We have also introduced a new The UK is an international leader on this agenda, scheme, Cyber Essentials, which sets a basic standard as demonstrated by hosting the highly successful girl for cyber security for all organisations in the UK. summit last summer. In response to the UK’s call for Much of this work is done in partnership with business the EU to show greater ambition on women and girls, and the academic community and we are grateful to the Commission will update Ministers on progress on our partners for their cooperation and efforts, as it is the current EU Action Plan on Gender Equality and clear that Government cannot deliver these goals on Women’s Empowerment, and set out a vision for its its own. successor. The UK will urge the new Development I refer honourable members to the accompanying Commissioner to take political leadership and deliver ‘Report on Progress and Forward Plans-December an ambitious Gender Action Plan 2016-20. 2014’ for details of achievements across all the objectives Ebola from the development perspective in the UK Cyber Security strategy and commend this to both Houses. The Commission and European External Action Service will update Ministers on the latest developments. The UK will reiterate the urgent need to maintain Dartford-Thurrock Crossing Charging momentum in tackling the immediate crisis, and focus Scheme on the social and economic impact of Ebola and on Statement regional preparedness. Ministers will also reflect on what could be done in the medium to long term to The Minister of State, Department for Transport support health systems and prevent future outbreaks. (Baroness Kramer) (LD): My Honourable Friend, the Migration, Refugees and Development Minister of State for Transport (John Hayes) has made the following Ministerial Statement: Ministers will discuss the inter-linkages between The Dartford – Thurrock Crossing Charging Scheme migration and development, and will agree Council account for 2013-14 is published today under Section 3(1)(d) Conclusions. The debate will inform a Commission of the Trunk Road Charging Schemes (Bridges and Communication due next year. The UK will be underlining Tunnels) (Keeping of Accounts) (England) Regulations the need for a Communication based on sound evidence 2003. A copy of the accounts will be placed in the and analysis. Libraries of both Houses. Foreign Affairs Council Syria Development Foreign Affairs, Foreign UN Special Envoy for Syria, Steffan De Mistura, Affairs and General Affairs Councils will brief Ministers on the Syria conflict and his plans Statement to de-escalate violence. The EU continues to support Mr De Mistura. Ministers will agree Conclusions that The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth condemn the awful human rights abuses being perpetrated Office (Baroness Anelay of St Johns) (Con): My Right by Assad, the instability that violence is creating in the Honourable Friend the Minister for Europe (Mr David region and the dire humanitarian situation. The UK Lidington) has made the following written Ministerial will argue for the EU to continue to support the statement: moderate opposition in their fight against both ISIL WS 127 Written Statements[LORDS] Written Statements WS 128 and Assad, calling for Assad to allow the free flowing of maintaining the credibility of the enlargement process, of aid to all who need it, and reiterating that Assad including addressing the concerns of many EU citizens cannot morally or practically be a partner in the fight around the impact of migration. We welcome recognition against ISIL. of this issue in the Package. Iraq/ISIL Rule of Law The priority of this discussion will be the EU Following an initial exchange of views at the November strategy on ISIL which is being developed following General Affairs Council and further discussions in the August Conclusions of the European Council COREPER, Ministers will consider the Presidency’s meeting. Ministers will discuss the strategy and their latest proposals to strengthen adherence to the rule of support for it. The UK hopes the EU strategy will help law within the EU. The Italian Presidency intends to the EU focus on areas where it can bring additional focus discussion on the role of the Member States, and value to the Coalition efforts and that it will ensure in particular how to establish further dialogue within EU activity is fully coordinated and aligned with other the Council to address emerging threats. Coalition efforts. There is also likely to be an assessment of the situation in Erbil and the EU response to the Strengthening inter-institutional annual and multi-annual Foreign Fighter threat. programming Ebola The Commission’s 2015 Work Programme is tabled for discussion at the General Affairs Council. The Ministers will take stock of the EU’s response to Italian Presidency has also indicated its intention to the Ebola crisis. The EU’s Ebola Coordinator and agree a high level Political Declaration on the Council’s Humanitarian Commissioner, Christos Stylianides, will intention to work with the Commission and European present a progress report. The UK will reiterate the Parliament on legislative programming in future years. importance of Member States delivering the funds They are yet to confirm whether a draft text will be and staff that they have pledged. Ministers will also issued in advance of discussions at the General Affairs discuss how the EU might respond to Ebola over the Council. medium and longer term, drawing on an EEAS- Commission paper. The UK will welcome the proposals Friends of the Presidency on Improving the Functioning for the EU to help rebuild countries affected by Ebola, of the EU but will stress that this must not detract from the Following the final meeting of the Friends of the current crisis response and that the EU’s long-term Presidency Group on improving the functioning of efforts must be coordinated with wider initiatives to the EU, the Presidency will present its report and the improve the global response to health crises. GAC will hold a discussion on the recommendations. Bosnia and Herzegovina Composition of the Committee of the Regions The High Representative is likely to brief Ministers The GAC will consider the current impasse on the on her joint visit with Commissioner Hahn to Bosnia Commission’s proposal of June 2014 to bring the and Herzegovina on 5 December, and on progress of a composition of the Committee of the Regions (CoR) new EU approach to inject momentum into Bosnia back in line with the Lisbon Treaty which capped and Herzegovina’s EU accession process. We want membership at 350. This was temporarily increased to conclusions to endorse the EU initiative, mandate 353 when Croatia acceded to the EU in July 2013. The Mogherini to negotiate the written commitment and UK strongly supports efforts to improve proportionality that once the written commitment is signed, the within the Committee of the Regions with a view to Stabilisation and Association Agreement will come reflecting the demographic reality of member states. into force. We also want to see GAC conclusions that We will encourage the Presidency to urgently facilitate refer to the Annual Enlargement Package and endorse agreement on a proposal that will allow the Committee’s the FAC’s decision on the EU’s approach to Bosnia mandate to be renewed in time and includes a commitment and Herzegovina. for a full review of the composition of the CoR during General Affairs Council its next mandate period. Enlargement and Stabilisation and Association Process Preparation of the December European Council The General Affairs Council will discuss the The GAC will prepare the 18 and 19 December Commission’s Annual Enlargement Package (AEP), European Council, which the Prime Minister will attend. published on 8 October, and agree Conclusions on the The December European Council agenda is expected enlargement strategy and the Western Balkans countries, to include strengthening growth, jobs and competitiveness Turkey and Iceland. The December GAC is the annual and investment, and external relations issues (likely to opportunity for the Council to take stock and give include Ukraine and Ebola). direction to the EU’s enlargement strategy and pre- accession reform priorities for individual countries. European Semester and Europe 2020 Mid-term Review The Government’s views on the Package were set out The GAC will discuss the Annual Growth Survey in my Explanatory Memorandum of 20 October 2014. (AGS), which marks the beginning of the European We will broadly welcome the Commission’s approach Semester process of social and economic co-ordination. in this year’s Package, reiterating our continued firm The AGS is published alongside the Alert Mechanism support for future EU enlargement on the basis of Report (AMR), the Joint Employment Report (JER) strict but fair conditionality, with countries moving and the Commission draft budgetary opinions on forward on merit as they meet the conditions. We will Eurozone Member States. It sets out broad EU level also take the opportunity to reiterate the importance economic and social objectives for the year ahead. WS 129 Written Statements[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Statements WS 130

Europe 2020 is the European Union’s ten-year strategy Operator Licensing and Roadworthiness for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. A mid-term Testing review of the strategy was launched with a public consultation in 2014 which ended on 31 October. The Statement mid-term review is due to be discussed in each Council formation before being summarised and presented at The Minister of State, Department for Transport the December GAC, ahead of the final presentation to (Baroness Kramer) (LD): My Honourable Friend, the the December European Council. Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport Follow-up to the June European Council (Claire Perry) has made the following Ministerial Statement: Ministers will have a thematic debate on the EU’s Strategic Agenda, focused on the subject: “The EU as I am today announcing the publication of two th a strong global actor”. I will set out the UK’s support related public consultations that will close on 5 March for the Strategic Agenda as set out in the June European 2015. Council, and highlight the role of Member States in HGV Periodic Testing and Inspections Exemptions setting EU foreign policy and the need for the EU to Goods Vehicle Operator Licensing Exemptions play an influential role in world. Consultation Historically certain heavier vehicles have been exempt from operator licensing and or road worthiness testing. Some of the current exemptions are proposed for Land Registration Rule Committee removal or modification either because of possible non-compliance with EU legislation or to correct (Triennial Review) anomalies between certain vehicles types that are currently Statement exempt and those that are not. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department The HGV testing scheme provides exemption for for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Neville-Rolfe) 37 classes of vehicle. We are proposing to remove or (Con): My Rt hon Friend the Minister of State for modify exemptions covering 10 categories of vehicle Business and Enterprise and Energy (Matthew Hancock) We are considering a modification to exemption has today made the following statement. number 15 in the current list of exemptions under The Coalition Government made a commitment to operator licensing. Vehicles using this exemption operate review public bodies, with the aim of increasing in direct competition with other non-exempt vehicles accountability for actions carried out on behalf of the and perform the same core function. Due to the state. The Triennial Review of the Land Registration commonalities between operator licensing exemptions Rule Committee (LRRC) is one of the Department of and annual test exemptions the consultations will run Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) reviews of non- in tandem. departmental public bodies (NDPBs) scheduled to The measures proposed are expected to improve commence during the first year of the second programme road safety, update the legislation to reflect modern (2014-15). This is not a review of the policy relating to practices and ensure a fairer and more uniform approach Land Registration to which the Government remains for operators. committed. I have placed copies of the documents in the Libraries The review will be conducted as set out in Cabinet of both Houses and they will also be available on Office guidance, in two stages. gov.uk. The first stage will: Identify and examine the key functions of the Land Registration Rule Committee and assess the requirement Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme for these to continue; Statement If continuing, then assess delivery options and where the conclusion is that a particular function is still The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department needed examine how this function might best be delivered, of Health(EarlHowe)(Con):MyhonfriendtheParliamentary including a cost and benefits analysis where appropriate; Under Secretary of State, Department of Health (George If one of these options is continuing delivery through Freeman) has made the following written ministerial the Land Registration Rule Committee then make an statement. assessment against the Government’s “three tests”: I am announcing today the level of payment due technical function; political impartiality; need for from members of the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation independence from Ministers. Scheme (PPRS) in 2015 to keep health service spend If the outcome of stage 1 is that delivery should on branded medicines within the levels agreed under continue through the Land Registration Rule Committee the Scheme. The PPRS payment percentage for 2015 as an NDPB, then the second stage of the project will will be 10.36%. be to ensure that they are operating in line with the The PPRS is a voluntary scheme agreed between recognised principles of good corporate governance, the Department of Health, acting on behalf of the using the Cabinet Office “comply or explain” standard UK Government and Northern Ireland, and the branded approach. pharmaceutical industry, represented by the Association When completed the report of the review will be of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), under placed in the Libraries of both Houses. sections 261 to 262 of the National Health Service Act WS 131 Written Statements[LORDS] Written Statements WS 132

2006. The current PPRS commenced on 1 January Police Integrity 2014 and lasts for five years, ending on 31 December Statement 2018. The PPRS allows patients access to the medicines they need while maintaining affordability for the NHS The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home and providing stability for industry in support of the Office (Lord Bates) (Con): My rt hon Friend the Government’s innovation and growth agenda. There is Secretary of State for the Home Department (Theresa an agreed, fixed limit on the vast majority of NHS May) has today made the following Written Ministerial spend on branded medicines with additional expenditure Statement: above this level paid for by the pharmaceutical companies. On 22 July, I gave a statement to the House on this Spend will stay flat in 2014 and 2015. Annual growth Government’s ongoing work to ensure the highest will be limited to 1.8% in 2016, 1.8% in 2017 and 1.9% standards of integrity in the police. I informed the in 2018. Small companies with less than £5 million of House that I would undertake a number of reviews, sales a year to the health service are exempted. including an end-to-end review of the police complaints In the interests of transparency we are publishing system and an independent review of the police our estimates of aggregate PPRS payments in 2014-15 disciplinary system, led by Major General (Retd.) and 2015-16. It must be stressed that these are only Chip Chapman. I am pleased to tell the House that estimates at this stage. The Department is committed these reviews have now concluded and the Government to publishing outturn quarterly aggregate sales and is today launching a public consultation on reforms to payments data for the PPRS on an ongoing basis. improve police complaints and discipline to better In England, PPRS payments are taken into account hold police officers to account and deal with misconduct in the allocations to NHS England through the Mandate. appropriately. All the payments will go back into spending on improving I have always been clear that I believe the vast patients’ health and care. majority of police officers in this country do their job The Department has published a document setting honestly and with integrity. They put themselves in out further details entitled “2014 Pharmaceutical Price harm’s way to protect the public. They are cutting Regulation Scheme: revised forecasts and profile of crime even as we reduce police spending. And the vast payment percentages”. Copies have been placed in the majority of officers do their work with a strong sense Library and are available to Hon. Members from the of fairness and duty. But as I have said before, the Vote office and to Noble Lords from the Printed Paper good work of the majority threatens to be damaged by Office. a continuing series of events and revelations relating to police conduct. This Government has carried out a radical programme Police and National Crime Agency of reform of the policing landscape. We have given Remuneration Review Bodies chief constables greater operational independence, by Statement scrapping national targets, whilst at the same time strengthening local accountability to the public through The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home the creation of directly-elected Police and Crime Office (Lord Bates) (Con): My rt hon Friend the Commissioners (PCCs). We have reformed police pay Secretary of State for the Home Department (Theresa and conditions, established the College of Policing to May) has today made the following Written Ministerial improve police standards and beefed up the Independent Statement: Police Complaints Commission to take on all serious I am pleased to announce that I have appointed and sensitive cases. Crime has fallen by a fifth under Anita Bharucha and Paul Leighton as members of the this government, according to the Crime Survey for Police and National Crime Agency Remuneration Review England and Wales. Bodies. These appointments will be to 31 August 2017, The reforms I am consulting on today will build on commencing on 11 December. this programme of reform. The reviews show that the Anita Bharucha is currently an independent police complaints and disciplinary systems do not management consultant and brings a wealth of experience meet the standards that both the public and the police to the role. Anita was a civil servant from 1993 to 2012 rightly expect. Those wishing to lodge a complaint and served in a number of departments including the find an opaque and bureaucratic system with insufficient Home Office, Cabinet Office, Northern Ireland Office, independence. The police see a system designed to and latterly as a Director in the Ministry of Justice. punish them, rather than one that provides feedback Paul Leighton is currently a Non Executive Director to help them improve performance. on the Prison Service Management Board for Northern The Government’s proposed reforms put the public Ireland and Chair of its Audit Committee. Among the at the heart of the system, replacing bureaucracy and extensive experience he brings to the role is an complexity with accountability and transparency. We understanding of the specific context of policing in propose giving Police and Crime Commissioners the Northern Ireland. Paul retired as Deputy Chief Constable powers to handle complaints in a way that makes of the Police Service of Northern Ireland in May 2009 sense for their local electorates. This includes PCCs and he has previously worked in policing in both taking on responsibility for how complaints appropriate Northern Ireland and the north east of England. for local resolution are dealt with, making sure that These appointments have been made in accordance issues are resolved quickly and effectively. We propose with the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner giving the IPCC new powers, strengthening its role as for Public Appointments. an independent oversight body and building on this WS 133 Written Statements[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Statements WS 134

Government’s commitment to transfer resources to Private Rented Sector enable the IPCC to investigate all serious and sensitive Statement cases. We suggest the introduction of police super- complaints, a feature of the financial markets regulatory landscape, to allow designated organisations to present The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department evidence of systemic problems to the Independent for Communities and Local Government (Lord Ahmad Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), and give a of Wimbledon) (Con): My hon Friend the Minister of voice to those who choose not to complain directly. State for Housing and Planning (Brandon Lewis) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement. It is impossible to separate the police complaints and disciplinary systems and the Government’s reforms The Government can announce that it has awarded also address the way in which police performance and the licence for the Private Rented Sector Housing misconduct matters are dealt with. I am grateful in Guarantee Scheme to PRS Operations Ltd, a subsidiary this regard for Major General (Retd.) Chip Chapman’s of Venn Partners LLP.Venn Partners’ bid was selected thorough investigation and analysis of the police through an open and competitive procurement process, disciplinary system, which is published today alongside following a period of thorough market engagement. the Government’s proposals. On 18 November I The Government is committed to expanding the announced proposals to hold police disciplinary hearings rented sector, including supporting the creation of a in public with independent, legally-qualified, chairs bigger and better private rented sector, in order to and the intention to legislate in this Parliament. In expand the provision of rented housing, boost economic addition, the Government is now seeking views on the growth, increase choice and improve quality for tenants. majority of the remaining Chapman recommendations, The private rented sector plays an increasingly important which include benchmarking to ensure consistency of role in the housing market. It is now the second largest sanctions; streamlining and integrating the performance tenure in England, with demand predicted to grow. management and misconduct processes; and consulting The Government’s £10 billion Housing Guarantees on merging the disciplinary systems for police officers Schemes - comprising the Affordable Housing Guarantee and police staff. Scheme and the Private Rented Sector Housing Guarantee Finally, the Government has already announced a Scheme – are working to reduce the cost of investing consultation on protections for police whistleblowers in new, additional affordable and private rented sector to ensure that concerns can be raised without fear of housing. Furthermore, the Private Rented Sector Housing disciplinary action. Today’s consultation document Guarantee Scheme will help create a new market for contains further proposals, including strengthening institutional investment in the private rented sector. the independent route for whistleblowing to the IPCC The Affordable Housing Guarantee Scheme, as and allowing the IPCC to conduct investigations in a operated by Affordable Housing Finance plc, has already way that protects the identity of the whistleblower. demonstrated considerable success – facilitating the investment of over £1 billion in new affordable housing, In addition, I am today announcing the commencement through the cheapest debt in the sector’s history. of the first triennial review of the Independent Police On 11 June 2014 a minute was laid before the Complaints Commission, part of the Government’s House setting out details of the contingent liability commitment to ensuring that public bodies continue created by the Private Rented Sector Housing Guarantee to have regular independent challenge. The review will Scheme. Under the Private Rented Sector Housing focus on examining whether the IPCC is operating Guarantee Scheme, the Department for Communities efficiently and whether its control and governance and Local Government will guarantee up to £3.5 billion arrangements continue to meet the recognised principles of debt on terms of up to 30 years for developers who of good corporate governance. I will inform the House commit to building new private rented sector housing, of the outcome of the review when it is completed. held long-term for private rent. These proposals are a key step of the Government’s Venn Partners are now able to receive applications reform of the policing landscape, ensuring that, where and we expect the first applications to be approved in the public have concerns about their contact with the 2015, subject to due diligence procedures. I am looking police, these will be dealt with in a transparent, fair forward to working with them to deliver the Scheme. and effective way. These reforms are vital for securing confidence in this system and in the work of the police. Smart Meters We will be consulting on these proposals for eight Statement weeks and will respond to the consultation before the end of the Parliament. The consultation document has been published as a command paper (Cm 8976) The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department and copies will be available from the Vote Office. A of Energy and Climate Change (Baroness Verma) (Con): copy of Major-General Chapman’s report will be My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for placed in the House Library. Both of these publications Energy and Climate Change (Edward Davey) has made can be found at www.gov.uk/government/publications? the following Written Ministerial Statement today. departments%5B%5D=home-office&publication_ I am pleased to announce the publication of the filter_option=consultations. I hope that those with an third DECC annual report on the roll-out of smart interest in these very important matters will take the meters, which fulfils DECC’s commitment to provide time to respond to the consultation. an update to Parliament on the past year’s progress. WS 135 Written Statements[LORDS] Written Statements WS 136

Smart meters give consumers greater control over Section 16 of the 2011 Act provides rights of appeal their electricity and gas use, changing the way we in relation to decisions taken by the Secretary of State think about energy and helping to transform the retail under the Act. One appeal was lodged under section energy market. By providing real-time information 16 during the reporting period. and bringing an end to estimated billing, the roll-out One judgment was handed down by the High Court will enable consumers to save money on bills, make in relation to an appeal under section 16 of the Act. In switching energy suppliers easier and faster, and help DD v Secretary of State for the Home Department to restore trust in the energy market. Smart metering [2014] EWHC 3820 (Admin), handed down on 20 November will also help reduce energy waste, with suppliers and 2014, the High Court dismissed a preliminary issue in networks having access to better information to support DD’s appeal against the revival of his TPIM notice. a sustainable energy supply. This preliminary issue related to DD’s submission that This annual report reflects on significant developments the revival of the TPIM notice breached Article 3 in 2014. It covers the work that government and ECHR. The remainder of the appeal will be heard in industry are undertaking to ensure that the smart March 2015 . This judgment is available at http:// metering system delivers the expected benefits to www.bailii.org/. consumers. Much of the framework underpinning the roll-out is now in place and responsibility for taking Women, Peace and Security key elements of the smart metering programme forward Implementation Plan is moving to industry and other delivery partners. For Statement consumers the programme is driving real progress. Around 900,000 smart and advanced meters are already The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth operating in homes and businesses, and the number of Office (Baroness Anelay of St Johns) (Con): My smart meters installed grows each month. Honourable Friend the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (James The annual report is being placed in the Library of Duddridge) has made the following written Ministerial the House and can be found at https://www.gov.uk/ statement: government/collections/annual-progress-report-on- I wish to inform the House that the Foreign and the-roll-out-of-smart-meters. Commonwealth Office, together with the Department for International Development and the Ministry of Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Defence, are today publishing an Implementation Plan for the UK’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace Measures and Security for 2014-17, which was published on Statement 12 June 2014 (HC Deb, column 72-4WS, 16 June 2014). The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home The National Action Plan sets out our priorities on Office (Lord Bates) (Con): My rt hon Friend the Women, Peace and Security for the next three years. It Secretary of State for the Home Department (Theresa is the guiding national policy document that provides May) has today made the following Written Ministerial the direction and vision to the Government and its Statement: partners as we work to ensure that women and girls Section 19(1) of the Terrorism Prevention and are at the centre of our efforts to prevent, respond to, Investigation Measures Act 2011 (the Act) requires and resolve conflict. the Secretary of State to report to Parliament as soon The Implementation Plan published today establishes as reasonably practicable after the end of every relevant baseline data and target indicators for the National three-month period on the exercise of her TPIM powers Action Plan. These will help us measure progress under the Act during that period. against outcomes at country level in the six focus The level of information provided will always be countries set out in the National Action Plan: Afghanistan, subject to slight variations based on operational advice. Burma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Libya, Somalia and Syria. This is the first time that the UK TPIM notices in force (as of 30 November 2014) 1 has published a detailed Implementation Plan for our TPIM notices in respect of British citizens (as of 30 0 work on Women,Peace and Security.The Implementation November 2014) Plan helps capture the diverse set of initiatives to TPIM notices extended (during the reporting period) 1 promote the protection and full participation of women TPIM notices revoked (during the reporting period) 0 that are taking place within the UK Government TPIM notices revived (during the reporting period) 0 across our development, defence and diplomacy work. Variations made to measures specified in TPIM notices 1 It is complemented by work undertaken through the (during the reporting period) Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative and Applications to vary measures specified in TPIM notices DFID’s Strategic Vision for Women and Girls. The refused (during the Implementation Plan also helps set the global standard reporting period) 2 by demonstrating the UK’s determination to monitor our progress in delivering on our commitments. During the reporting period one TPIM notice has We will report to Parliament annually on progress been extended. on all aspects of the National Action Plan, including The TPIM Review Group (TRG) keeps every TPIM in the six focus countries, beginning in autumn 2015. notice under regular and formal review. The next TRG I have deposited a copy of the Implementation Plan will take place in December. in the Libraries of both Houses. WA 363 Written Answers[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Answers WA 364 Written Answers Children: Poverty Questions Thursday 11 December 2014 Asked by The Lord Bishop of St Albans To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they Castes: Discrimination have carried out any forecasts of the level of child Question poverty between now and 2020; and if so, whether Asked by Lord Avebury they will be made public. [HL3230] To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they the Written Answer by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon have calculated the impact on child poverty of the on 6 May (HL6447) stating that the consultation on combined tax and benefit policy changes announced the implementation of the amendment to the Enterprise to date since May 2010. [HL3231] and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 amending section 9(a) in the Equality Act 2010 adding caste to the list The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of protected characteristics, agreed by Parliament for Work and Pensions (Lord Freud) (Con): The in April 2013, would begin in the autumn, whether Government does not produce forecasts of the number they will now issue the consultation. [HL3205] of children living in income poverty as the number of children in poverty is dependent on factors which Baroness Garden of Frognal (LD): We are currently cannot be reliably predicted, such as the median income. considering the form and timing of the public consultation The Government does measure annual child poverty in the light of ongoing caste discrimination litigation statistics through the National Statistics Households in the Employment Appeal Tribunal. We will await the Below Average Income (HBAI) series. Estimates of outcome of the judgment before deciding in what the number and proportion of children in relative and form to issue the public consultation. absolute low income in the UK have consistently been reported since 1998/99; these are available for each financial year up to 2012/13, the latest period for Child Sexual Abuse Independent Panel which estimates are available. Inquiry There has been no assessment of the impact on Question child poverty of the combined tax and benefit changes Asked by Lord Eames announced since May 2010. Available survey data does not allow the Government to robustly assess the To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they combined effects of tax and benefit policy on households have made a decision on the possible inclusion of with children. issues relating to Kincora Boy’s Home in East However, this Government has taken unprecedented Belfast in the inquiry into the exploitation of children steps to assess the effects of its policy decisions across in the United Kingdom. [HL3060] the distribution of household income, by publishing analysis of the cumulative effects of the tax and welfare The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home measures announced at each fiscal event since the June Office (Lord Bates) (Con): The Terms of Reference for Budget 2010. The latest analysis can be found in the Independent Panel Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse Chapter 2 of the attached report. have been published and the geographic scope is limited to England and Wales. The protection of children is a devolved matter, and it would be inappropriate for the Fraud inquiry panel to make recommendations for Northern Questions Ireland concerning the running of the child protection system there. Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark However, as the Secretary of State for Northern To ask Her Majesty’s Government what financial Ireland set out in her statement to Parliament on contribution the telephone companies make towards 21 October, the Government is determined that no combatting phone scamming crimes. [HL3438] stone should be left unturned to investigate serious allegations of institutional failure. She has also made clear that the Government, Ministry of Defence and The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home the Security Services will give the Inquiry the fullest Office (Lord Bates) (Con): We do not hold information possible co-operation. We currently believe that the on the cost of any industry initiatives to counter Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry is the best place phone scamming however Ofcom, the police and landline to do that in respect of Kincora and we will work providers are currently working together to reduce the closely with, the Chairman of the Inquiry, Sir Anthony time a caller can stay on the line which makes it much Hart to help to achieve that. more difficult for criminals to exploit phone lines for We will monitor carefully the extent to which the fraudulent purposes. Inquiry is able to make progress in respect of material Telephone companies and industry bodies work in relevant to Kincora and we will look at the situation a number of ways to combat phone scamming, often again if the Inquiry tells us it is unable to determine in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, such the facts. as the City of London Police who run the National WA 365 Written Answers[LORDS] Written Answers WA 366

Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB). The NFIB partners phone. This includes work with national and local with a number of telecommunications companies and partners to reduce the likelihood of individuals becoming industry wide organisations, including Ofcom to reduce a victim, or repeat victim, such as our current campaign the impact of this crime. with Avon and Somerset Police and Neighbourhood This Government takes this issue very seriously and Watch aimed at the vulnerable elderly. Through Action is working with partners across industry and law Fraud, we also provide information on the latest threats enforcement to raise awareness and improve the overall and protective advice. response to fraud, including those committed over the The Fraud Act 2006 established for the first time a phone. This includes work with national and local single offence of fraud. It makes no distinction in the partners to reduce the likelihood of individuals becoming method used to commit fraud and as such captures a victim, or repeat victim, such as our current campaign fraud committed over the telephone as well as fraud with Avon and Somerset Police and Neighbourhood committed in other ways. We keep the effectiveness of Watch aimed at the vulnerable elderly. Through Action legislation under review and have no current plans to Fraud, we also provide information on the latest threats make alterations to the Fraud Act. and protective advice. Law enforcement partners, such as the Economic The Fraud Act 2006 established for the first time a Crime Command of the National Crime Agency and single offence of fraud. It makes no distinction in the the City of London Police, the lead force for Fraud are method used to commit fraud and as such captures engaged in various operations with international fraud committed over the telephone as well as fraud connections. For example, the National Crime Agency committed in other ways. We keep the effectiveness of recently collaborated with the City of London Police legislation under review and have no current plans to on Operation RICO, a major investigation against make alterations to the Fraud Act. organised crime groups engaged in investment fraud Law enforcement partners, such as the Economic often conducted over the phone. A coordinated Crime Command of the National Crime Agency and international day of action in February resulted in 110 the City of London Police, the lead force for Fraud are arrests in the UK, USA, Spain and Serbia, and the engaged in various operations with international seizure of significant assets and cash. connections. For example, the National Crime Agency recently collaborated with the City of London Police on Operation RICO, a major investigation against Higher Education organised crime groups engaged in investment fraud Question often conducted over the phone. A coordinated international day of action in February resulted in Asked by Lord Storey 110 arrests in the UK, USA, Spain and Serbia, and the seizure of significant assets and cash. To ask Her Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the impact of massive open Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark online courses on traditional higher education. [HL3227] To ask Her Majesty’s Government what review mechanisms are in place to ensure that legislation to combat phone scamming is fit for purpose. Baroness Williams of Trafford (Con): The Government [HL3439] has not conducted a formal assessment of the impact To ask Her Majesty’s Government what discussions of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). they have had with international partners to help combat phone scamming. [HL3440] Horse Racing: Betting Question Lord Bates: We do not hold information on the cost of any industry initiatives to counter phone scamming Asked by Lord Lipsey however Ofcom, the police and landline providers are currently working together to reduce the time a caller To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is the can stay on the line which makes it much more difficult current status of their consultation on the reform for criminals to exploit phone lines for fraudulent of the Horserace Betting Levy in the light of the purposes. Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Autumn Statement announcement of the introduction of a racing right. Telephone companies and industry bodies work in [HL3463] a number of ways to combat phone scamming, often in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, such as the City of London Police who run the National Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Con): As a result of our Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB). The NFIB partners analysis of the responses to the two consultations it is with a number of telecommunications companies and clear that more detail is required as to how a replacement industry wide organisations, including Ofcom to reduce for the Levy would work. In order to enable a fair the impact of this crime. comparison between reform and replacement we will This Government takes this issue very seriously and work up the “racing right” proposal and engage is working with partners across industry and law constructively with stakeholders so that a fully informed enforcement to raise awareness and improve the overall decision can be made. We will consult early in the response to fraud, including those committed over the New Year. WA 367 Written Answers[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Answers WA 368

Immigration The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord Question Faulks) (Con): In March this year the Chancellor of the Exchequer provided a direct grant of £1 million to Asked by Lord Patten the Magna Carta Trust to support the celebration of the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta. To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to Applications for funding were invited by the Trust and the Written Answer by Lord Wallace of Saltaire on a list of projects that were successful is available at: 1 December (HL2989), why the Office for National http://magnacarta800th.com/projects/. Statistics makes no breakdown of Gross Domestic In addition to the direct grant of £1 million, Magna Product contributions by nationality based on the Carta projects have benefited from awards totalling information available. [HL3588] £21.8 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Successful projects range from £502,900 awarded to Salisbury Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD): The information Cathedral’s ‘Engaging with Magna Carta’ programme requested falls within the responsibility of the UK to £7,400 for the Walkern History Society’s self guided Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority to history trail. reply. The Ministry of Justice has also provided four Letter from Glen Watson, Director General for ONS members of staff to support the development of the to Lord Patten dated December 2014. Global Law Summit, to be held in February next year, As Director General for the Office for National a world-class legal conference which will address the Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your continuing relevance of Magna Carta to modern-world Parliamentary question asking Her Majesty’s Government legal and business issues. further to the Written Answer by Lord Wallace of Saltaire on 1 December (HL2989), why the Office for National Statistics makes no breakdown of Gross Minimum Wage Domestic Product contributions by nationality based Question on the information available. (HL3588) Asked by Lord Browne of Belmont ONS does not produce any breakdown of Gross To ask Her Majesty’s Government what recent Domestic Product (GDP) contributions by nationality steps they have taken to improve enforcement of because the majority of the data sources that are used the national minimum wage. [HL3354] in the GDP compilation do not request nationality as a survey based response. While a few GDP data inputs The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department do include a nationality based question in their survey for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Neville-Rolfe) response, this is not consistent across the inputs and (Con): HM Revenue and Customs enforces the National insufficient to present an overall GDP by nationality Minimum Wage for all workers and investigates every indicator. complaint made to the Pay and Work Rights helpline. In addition, HMRC conducts pro-active enforcement in sectors or areas where there is a higher risk of Islamic State workers not getting paid the legal minimum wage. Question The Government is taking a tough approach towards Asked by Lord Mendelsohn employers that do not comply with the National Minimum Wage (NMW) law, including through making their To ask Her Majesty’s Government how much non-compliance public. 55 employers have been named they estimate IS to have received in kidnap ransoms; so far and between them they owed workers a total of and what assessment they have made of the reported over £139,000 in arrears. Iraqi intelligence estimates that they have received The Government has also increased the financial $200 million. [HL3186] penalty percentage that employers pay for breaking minimum wage law from 50 per cent to 100 per cent of The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth the unpaid arrears owed to workers and the maximum Office (Baroness Anelay of St Johns) (Con): There is penalty from £5,000 to £20,000. This came into effect considerable speculation over how much the Islamic on 7 March 2014. We are introducing primary legislation State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and other terrorist so that the penalty can be calculated on a per worker groups have secured from kidnapping for ransom. In basis. October 2014 the UN Al Qaeda Sanctions Monitoring Team estimated that ISIL had received between Any worker who thinks they are not being paid US$35 and US$45 million in ransom payments in the what they are legally entitled to can call the Pay and preceding twelve months. Work Right Helpline on 0800 917 2368. Employers can also call the helpline for free advice if they are unsure of their obligations. Magna Carta Question Mobile Phones Asked by Lord Black of Brentwood Question To ask Her Majesty’s Government what funding Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark they are making available to organisations marking To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta; and they are taking to ensure people are not trapped in how those funds will be used. [HL3212] unfair mobile phone contracts. [HL3468] WA 369 Written Answers[LORDS] Written Answers WA 370

Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Con): Ofcom, the UK The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Regulator for Telecoms, oversees the General Conditions Office (Lord Bates) (Con): Final reports on the powers of Entitlement (GCEs), the rules under which Telecoms of entry review were laid before Parliament on companies must operate in the UK. GC 9.6 provides 27 November 2014. consumer protection in the event of mid-contract variations. Under GC 9.6, providers must give customers notice of contract modifications (e.g. price rises) likely Prisoners: Per Capita Costs to cause ‘material detriment’ to them and the right to Question exit the contract without penalty in response. Ofcom Asked by Lord Browne of Belmont published guidance at the start of this year clarifying these rules and further enabling competition in the To ask Her Majesty’s Government what was the market to deliver a choice of competitive tariffs for the average annual cost of incarcerating a prisoner in consumer in the UK. each year between 2011 and 2014. [HL3353] Major telecoms companies have also agreed to work with the Government and Ofcom on ways to The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord improve transparency in contracts in line with the Faulks) (Con): The average cost per prisoner has been principles underpinning the Ofcom guidance. The reducing year-on-year since 2009-10. Between 2009-10 Government and the Regulator will continue to work and 2013-14 there has been a real terms reduction of with the industry to promote further ways of ensuring 17% in the overall average cost per prisoner. that consumers have the best possible information to The Department routinely publishes average costs help them make informed choices about the per prisoner and prison place, based on actual net communications services they purchase. resource expenditure for each private and public sector prison and in summary form for the whole of the Offences against Children prison estate in England and Wales on an annual basis Question after the end of each financial year. This includes a Asked by Lord Ahmed breakdown of these costs by prison category and individual prison within each category. To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they intend to provide additional resources to the local The latest published information for the average authorities in Rotherham, Rochdale, Oxford, Derby cost of a prison place and average cost of a prisoner and any other local authority that has experienced for financial year 2013-14, together with other information child sexual exploitation cases and requires funding on the calculation of prison unit costs is published for victim support and child protection. [HL3369] alongside the Management Information Addendum to the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department Annual Report & Accounts. This can be accessed for Communities and Local Government (Lord Ahmad using the following link: of Wimbledon) (Con): The Government is determined https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/prison- that appalling cases of child abuse should be exposed and-probation-trusts-performance-statistics-201314 so that perpetrators face justice and the vulnerable are A copy of this and similar information for previous protected. The Government is clear that there is more financial years can also be found in the House library. to be done for victims and to minimise the risk of such terrible events occurring in Rotherham or anywhere Continuing to reduce prison unit costs is one of the else in the future. key targets for the Department and we are committed to delivering prison changes designed to modernise The Home Secretary has been chairing a series of the prison estate and further reduce prison costs. Secretaries of State meetings alongside colleagues from the Ministry of Justice, Department for Education, Communities and Local Government and Department Pupils: Travellers of Health, and the Attorney General and Solicitor Question General to analyse the failures identified in the Jay report and consider how all parties, including the Asked by Lord Storey criminal justice system, local government, the health To ask Her Majesty’s Government what action service and the voluntary sector, can work together they are taking to address the inclusion of Roma more effectively to support and protect victims of children in United Kingdom schools. [HL3226] child sexual exploitation. Powers of Entry The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Schools Question (Lord Nash) (Con): The Government has moved away from bespoke top-down programmes and initiatives Asked by Lord Marlesford aimed at ensuring the inclusion of individual ethnic To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to groups of pupils. Our approach is to set a clear expectation the Written Answer by Lord Taylor of Holbeach on that all schools ensure that all their pupils, regardless 7 July (HL824), whether they can now give a date of their ethnicity, are welcomed and fully integrated when the final departmental transaction reports on into school, and prepared for life in modern Britain. the review of powers of entry required by the The Department for Education continues to engage Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 will be laid before with the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) education Parliament. [HL3563] stakeholder group, chaired by Baroness Whitaker, to WA 371 Written Answers[11 DECEMBER 2014] Written Answers WA 372 disseminate good practice and encourage local action, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home particularly around how to improve GRT pupils’ Office (Lord Bates) (Con): Home Office Ministers and attendance and attainment. officials have meetings with a wide variety of international partners, as well as organisations and individuals in Security Guards the public and private sectors, as part of the process of Question policy development and delivery. Details of ministerial Asked by Baroness Smith of Basildon meetings are passed to the Cabinet Office on a quarterly To ask Her Majesty’s Government when Ministers basis and are subsequently published on the Gov.uk last met representatives of the private security industry; website: http://data.gov.uk/dataset/ministerial-data- and what issues were discussed. [HL3425] home-office.

Thursday 11 December 2014

ALPHABETICAL INDEX TO WRITTEN STATEMENTS

Col. No. Col. No. ABWR Nuclear Reactor...... 121 Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme ...... 130

Asset Resolution (Consumer Credit Act)...... 122 Police and National Crime Agency Remuneration Review Bodies...... 131 Courts and Tribunals Service Trust...... 123

Cyber Security Strategy ...... 124 Police Integrity...... 132

Dartford-Thurrock Crossing Charging Scheme ...... 125 Private Rented Sector...... 134

Development Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs and Smart Meters ...... 134 General Affairs Councils ...... 125

Land Registration Rule Committee (Triennial Review).... 129 Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures ...... 135

Operator Licensing and Roadworthiness Testing ...... 130 Women, Peace and Security Implementation Plan ...... 136

Thursday 11 December 2014

ALPHABETICAL INDEX TO WRITTEN ANSWERS

Col. No. Col. No. Castes: Discrimination...... 363 Magna Carta ...... 367

Child Sexual Abuse Independent Panel Inquiry...... 363 Minimum Wage ...... 368

Children: Poverty...... 364 Mobile Phones...... 368

Fraud...... 364 Offences against Children ...... 369

Higher Education ...... 366 Powers of Entry ...... 369

Horse Racing: Betting...... 366 Prisoners: Per Capita Costs...... 370

Immigration...... 367 Pupils: Travellers...... 370

Islamic State ...... 367 Security Guards ...... 371 NUMERICAL INDEX TO WRITTEN ANSWERS

Col. No. Col. No. [HL3060] ...... 363 [HL3354] ...... 368

[HL3186] ...... 367 [HL3369] ...... 369

[HL3205] ...... 363 [HL3425] ...... 371 [HL3438] ...... 364 [HL3212] ...... 367 [HL3439] ...... 365 [HL3226] ...... 370 [HL3440] ...... 365 [HL3227] ...... 366 [HL3463] ...... 366 [HL3230] ...... 364 [HL3468] ...... 368 [HL3231] ...... 364 [HL3563] ...... 369 [HL3353] ...... 370 [HL3588] ...... 367 Volume 757 Thursday No. 74 11 December 2014

CONTENTS

Thursday 11 December 2014 Questions General Practitioners: Hippocratic Oath...... 1913 Trade Balance...... 1915 Passports...... 1918 Food Poverty...... 1920 Business of the House Motion on Standing Order ...... 1923 Insurance Bill [HL] Membership Motion...... 1923 Economic Leadership for Cities Motion to Take Note ...... 1924 AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Question for Short Debate...... 1963 Global Development Goals Motion to Take Note ...... 1977 UK and Sri Lanka: Bilateral Trade Question for Short Debate...... 2010 Grand Committee Female Genital Mutilation Question for Short Debate ...... GC 523 Sharia Law Question for Short Debate ...... GC 537 Food Hygiene Rating Scheme Question for Short Debate ...... GC 550 Drug Policy Question for Short Debate ...... GC 557 Tuberculosis Question for Short Debate ...... GC 572 Written Statements...... WS 121 Written Answers...... WA 363