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Monday Volume 583 23 June 2014 No. 11

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 23 June 2014

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2014 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Open Parliament licence, which is published at www.parliament.uk/site-information/copyright/. HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT

MEMBERS OF THE CABINET

(FORMED BY THE RT HON.,MP,MAY 2010)

PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt Hon. David Cameron, MP DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL—The Rt Hon. , MP FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. , MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt Hon. , MP CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS,INNOVATION AND SKILLS—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WORK AND PENSIONS—The Rt Hon. , MP AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR JUSTICE—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR EDUCATION—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR HEALTH—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT,FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR —The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—The Rt Hon. Edward Davey, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR TRANSPORT—The Rt Hon. Patrick McLoughlin, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,MEDIA AND SPORT AND MINISTER FOR EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR —The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WALES—The Rt Hon. David Jones, MP LEADER OF THE AND CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER—The Rt Hon. Lord Hill of Oareford, CBE

DEPARTMENTS OF STATE AND MINISTERS Business, Innovation and Skills— SECRETARY OF STATE AND PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE—The Rt Hon. Vince Cable, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. , MP (Minister for Universities and Science) The Rt Hon. , MP § Matthew Hancock, MP § (Minister for Skills and Enterprise) Lord Livingston of Parkhead (Minister for Trade and Investment) § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Jenny Willott, MP § Viscount Younger of Leckie — MINISTER FOR THE CABINET OFFICE AND —The Rt Hon. , MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. , MP (Minister for Government Policy) The Rt Hon. , MP § The Rt Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES— Nick Hurd, MP (Minister for Civil Society) Joseph Johnson, MP § Communities and Local Government— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Eric Pickles, MP SENIOR MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Baroness Warsi § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Nick Boles, MP , MP Stephen Williams, MP Kris Hopkins, MP Baroness Stowell, MBE ii HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

Culture, Media and Sport— SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,MEDIA AND SPORT AND MINISTER FOR EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. Sajid Javid, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— Edward Vaizey, MP Helen Grant, MP § MINISTER FOR WOMEN—The Rt Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITIES Jenny Willott, MP § Helen Grant, MP § Defence— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Philip Hammond, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Mark Francois, MP (Minister for the Armed Forces) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Dr Andrew Murrison, MP Philip Dunne, MP , MP Lord Astor of Hever, DL Duchy of Lancaster— LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS AND CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER—The Rt Hon. Lord Hill of Oareford, CBE Education— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Michael Gove, MP MINISTER OF STATE— The Rt Hon. David Laws, MP § (Minister for Schools) Matthew Hancock, MP § (Minister for Skills and Enterprise) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— , MP Elizabeth Truss, MP Lord Nash Energy and Climate Change— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Edward Davey, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Gregory Barker, MP The Rt Hon. Michael Fallon, MP § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—Baroness Verma Environment, Food and Rural Affairs— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Owen Paterson, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— , MP Dan Rogerson, MP Lord de Mauley, TD Foreign and Commonwealth Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. William Hague, MP SENIOR MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Baroness Warsi § MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. , MP (Minister for Europe) The Rt Hon. Hugo Swire, MP The Rt Hon. Hugh Robertson, MP Lord Livingston of Parkhead § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Mark Simmonds, MP Health— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Jeremy Hunt, MP MINISTER OF STATE— Norman Lamb, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Jane Ellison, MP Daniel Poulter, MP The Rt Hon. Earl Howe HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont. iii

Home Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Theresa May, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. , MP (, Criminal Justice and Victims) § Norman Baker, MP (Minister for Crime Prevention) (Minister for Security and Immigration) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— , MP Lord Taylor of Holbeach, CBE International Development— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Justine Greening, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Alan Duncan, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—Lynne Featherstone, MP Justice— LORD CHANCELLOR AND SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Chris Grayling, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Simon Hughes The Rt Hon. Damian Green, MP (Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice) § Lord Faulks PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Shailesh Vara, MP , MP Law Officers— ATTORNEY-GENERAL—The Rt Hon. , QC, MP SOLICITOR-GENERAL—Oliver Heald, QC, MP ADVOCATE-GENERAL FOR SCOTLAND—The Rt Hon. Lord Wallace of Tankerness, QC Leader of the House of Commons— LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS AND —The Rt Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Tom Brake, MP Northern Ireland— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Theresa Villiers, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Andrew Robathan, MP Privy Council Office— DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL—The Rt Hon. Nick Clegg, MP Scotland Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Alistair Carmichael, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. , MP Transport— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Patrick McLoughlin, MP MINISTER OF STATE—Baroness Kramer PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Robert Goodwill, MP Stephen Hammond, MP Treasury— PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt Hon. David Cameron, MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt Hon. George Osborne, MP CHIEF SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Danny Alexander, MP FINANCIAL SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Nicky Morgan, MP EXCHEQUER SECRETARY—, MP ECONOMIC SECRETARY—, MP COMMERCIAL SECRETARY—Lord Deighton, KBE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP LORDS COMMISSIONERS— Anne Milton, MP David Evennett, MP , MP § Mark Lancaster, MP Sam Gyimah, MP , MP iv HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

ASSISTANT WHIPS— Joseph Johnson, MP Mark Hunter, MP Jenny Willott, MP , MP , MP , MP Harriet Baldwin, MP Wales Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. David Jones, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Stephen Crabb, MP § Baroness Randerson Work and Pensions— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Iain Duncan Smith, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Esther McVey, MP Steve Webb, MP The Rt Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Lord Freud Ministers without Portfolio— The Rt Hon. , QC, MP The Rt Hon. , MP The Rt Hon. John Hayes, MP Her Majesty’s Household— LORD CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt Hon. Earl Peel, GCVO, DL LORD STEWARD—The Earl of Dalhousie MASTER OF THE HORSE—Lord Vestey, KCVO TREASURER—The Rt Hon. , MP COMPTROLLER—The Rt Hon. Don Foster, MP VICE-CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt Hon. Desmond Swayne, MP CAPTAIN OF THE HONOURABLE CORPS OF GENTLEMEN-AT-ARMS—The Rt Hon. Baroness Anelay of St Johns, DBE CAPTAIN OF THE QUEEN’S BODYGUARD OF THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD— The Rt Hon. Lord Newby, OBE BARONESSES IN WAITING—Baroness Northover, Baroness Jolly, Baroness Williams of Trafford LORDS IN WAITING—Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, TD, Lord Gardiner of Kimble, The Rt Hon. Lord Wallace of Saltaire, Lord Popat, Lord Bates § Members of the Government listed under more than one Department

SECOND CHURCH ESTATES COMMISSIONER, REPRESENTING CHURCH COMMISSIONERS—The Rt Hon. Sir Tony Baldry, MP HOUSE OF COMMONS THE SPEAKER—The Rt Hon. John Bercow, MP CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—The Rt Hon. Lindsay Hoyle, MP FIRST DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—Mrs Eleanor Laing, MP SECOND DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—The Rt Hon. Dawn Primarolo, MP Mr David Amess, MP, Hugh Bayley, MP, Mr Joe Benton, MP, Mr Clive Betts, MP, Mr Peter Bone, MP, Mr Graham Brady, MP, Annette Brooke, MP, Martin Caton, MP, Mr Christopher Chope, MP, Katy Clark, MP, Mr David Crausby, MP, , MP, Jim Dobbin, MP, Nadine Dorries, MP, Sir Roger Gale, MP, Mr James Gray, MP, Mr Dai Havard, MP, Mr Philip Hollobone, MP, Mr Jim Hood, MP, The Rt Hon. George Howarth, MP, Sir Edward Leigh, MP, Dr William McCrea, MP, Miss Anne McIntosh, MP, Mrs Anne Main, MP, Sir Alan Meale, MP, Sandra Osborne, MP, Albert Owen, MP, Mark Pritchard, MP, Mrs Linda Riordan, MP, John Robertson, MP, Andrew Rosindell, MP, Mr Adrian Sanders, MP, Jim Sheridan, MP, Mr , MP, Mr Andrew Turner, MP, Mr Charles Walker, MP, Mr Mike Weir, MP, Hywel Williams, MP SECRETARY—Matthew Hamlyn HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), Sir Paul Beresford, MP, Mr Frank Doran, MP, Ms Angela Eagle, MP, The Rt Hon. Andrew Lansley, MP, John Thurso, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Robert Twigger ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Elizabeth Otto ADMINISTRATION ESTIMATE AUDIT COMMITTEE Dame Janet Gaymer, DBE (Chair), Ms Angela Eagle, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, John Thurso, MP, Stephen Brooker, Barbara Scott SECRETARY OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE—Ben Williams LIAISON COMMITTEE The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Beith, MP (Chair), Mr Graham Allen, MP, Mr Adrian Bailey, MP, The Rt Hon. Kevin Barron, MP, Dame Anne Begg, MP, Mr Clive Betts, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Malcolm Bruce, MP, Mr William Cash, MP, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, MP, Mr Ian Davidson, MP, DavidTCDavies, MP, MP, James Duddridge, MP, Mrs Louise Ellman, MP, Natascha Engel, MP, Dr Hywel Francis, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, The Rt Hon. Margaret Hodge, MP, Mr Bernard Jenkin, MP, Miss Anne McIntosh, MP, Andrew Miller, MP, Mr George Mudie, MP, Sir Richard Ottaway, MP, Mr Laurence Robertson, MP, , MP, Mr Graham Stuart, MP, John Thurso, MP, Mr Andrew Tyrie, MP, The Rt Hon. Keith Vaz, MP, Mr Charles Walker, MP, Joan Walley, MP, Mr , MP, Mr , MP CLERKS—Andrew Kennon, Philippa Helme MANAGEMENT BOARD Sir Robert Rogers, KCB (Clerk of the House and Chief Executive), David Natzler (Clerk Assistant and Director General, Chamber and Committee Services), John Pullinger, CB (Director General, Information Services), Andrew Walker (Director General, HR and Change), John Borley, CB (Director General, Facilities) Myfanwy Barrett (Director of Finance), Joan Miller (Director of Parliamentary ICT) (External Member), Dame Janet Gaymer, DBE (External Member), Barbara Scott (External Member) SECRETARY OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD—Tom Goldsmith

SPEAKER’S SECRETARY—Peter Barratt SPEAKER’S COUNSEL—Michael Carpenter, CB SPEAKER’S CHAPLAIN—Rev. Rose Hudson-Wilkin

PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS—Kathryn Hudson PARLIAMENTARY SECURITY DIRECTOR—Paul Martin, CBE

23 June 2014

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

IN THE FOURTH SESSION OF THE FIFTY-FIFTH PARLIAMENT OF THE OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND [WHICH OPENED 18 MAY 2010]

SIXTY-THIRD YEAR OF THE REIGN OF HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 583 SECOND VOLUME OF SESSION 2014-2015

Mike Penning: When the coalition Government came House of Commons to office, the WCA backlog did not suddenly happen; the problem already existed. However, we take responsibility Monday 23 June 2014 for what we are doing. [Interruption.] There is no point in Labour Members’ shouting us down. They have short memories, but their backlog existed. If they do The House met at half-past Two o’clock not wish to admit that, perhaps we can see the documents, which will enable us to know the facts. We have carried out 1 million incapacity benefit assessments, and 700,000 PRAYERS people are currently being helped into work or are looking for work. [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): Does my right hon. Friend agree that it would have been cynical if we had simply turned our back on all the existing claimants Oral Answers to Questions and not considered them too? That, of course, has been the cause of much of the backlog.

Mike Penning: I entirely agree. If we had not assessed WORK AND PENSIONS those 1 million incapacity benefit recipients, those people would have been left, as the Labour party left them for The Secretary of State was asked— 13 years. At least they now have an opportunity to look for work, and those who are not capable of going to Work Capability Assessment work, or seeking work, are receiving the assistance that they require. 1. Rosie Cooper (West ) (Lab): What steps he is taking to improve the administration of the work 22. [904382] Pat Glass (North West Durham) (Lab): capability assessment. [904358] Leaked memos reported by the BBC on Friday show that ESA is one of the largest fiscal risks that the The Minister of State, Department for Work and Government currently face. What is the Minister going Pensions (Mike Penning): I am committed to continually to do about that? improving the administration of the work capability assessment. I am pleased to say that since the announcement in the House during our last Question Time, the backlog Mike Penning: No Government of any description has fallen from 766,000 to 712,000. talk about leaked documents, but I can say that the information in that document was not new. I had released Rosie Cooper: On 10 June, the Minister admitted to most of it earlier, and I believe that the BBC worked up the Select Committee that 712,000 work capability the story for its own benefit. assessments were outstanding. That number includes 234 recipients of incapacity benefit who are to be assessed Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): The Minister said for employment and support allowance, and 84,000 that the WCA problems were long-standing. Is there a incapacity benefit recipients who have not yet been process whereby the last Government’s figures could be migrated. My constituents would like to know who is at made available to the House? Who entered into the fault, Atos or the Minister. Atos contract? 3 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 4

Mike Penning: There is no doubt that the Atos contract Mike Penning: Clearly Her Majesty’s Opposition have was taken out by the last Labour Administration. I a short memory as to what happened when they were in would love to know exactly what the backlog was, but, government. This problem started under Labour, Atos as an incoming Minister, I am not allowed to see the was in place under Labour—[Interruption.] Opposition figures. Perhaps Her Majesty’s Opposition would be Front Benchers are saying “No, not us”; then they happy to release them. If those documents were published, should release the documentation that proves what the we would all know exactly what the backlog was before backlog was before the last election. the present Administration came to power. Personal Independence Payments Dame Anne Begg (Aberdeen South) (Lab): The backlog does not involve only ESA. There are also huge backlogs 2. Ann McKechin (Glasgow North) (Lab): What steps of decisions relating to personal independence payments he is taking to improve the claims and decision-making and . Only 7,000 universal credit claimants process for personal independence payments. [904359] have been dealt with, although at this stage the number should be about 1 million. In comparison with figures 12. Fiona O’Donnell (East Lothian) (Lab): What such as those, the passport fiasco pales into insignificance. steps he is taking to improve the claims and decision- Does the Minister not think that his Department has making process for personal independence payments. bitten off far more than it can chew? [904370]

Mike Penning: No, I do not. As the Chair of the 16. Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): What steps Select Committee knows, there is no universal credit he is taking to improve the claims and decision-making backlog, so her statement about that is not particularly process for personal independence payments. [904375] helpful. I think that we need to concentrate on ensuring that benefits go to the people who deserve them. That is The Minister of State, Department for Work and what is most important. Pensions (Mike Penning):Yet again I am committed to improving our performance and that of our contract Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): providers. I want to make sure the right decisions are Can the Minister confirm that Atos Healthcare will not made as soon as possible. With that in mind, I have receive one penny of compensation from the taxpayer looked, particularly working with Macmillan, at how for the early termination of its contract? we can reduce waiting times for terminally ill people waiting for PIP. That stood at 28 days when I first met the Work and Pensions Committee, and I said that was Mike Penning: There is no doubt that the contract unacceptable. It is inside 10 days now, and I want it to was taken out by the last Labour Administration. Her become lower. Majesty’s Opposition called for me to sack Atos. If we had done so, we would have had to pay it a huge Ann McKechin: As the Minister of State is aware, by amount of compensation, but, instead, it will pay substantial his own Department’s statistics it will take 42 years to damages to the Government when the contract is clear the current backlog. In the meantime people are terminated. running out money, and they are becoming more stressed and more ill as a result of his Department’s failure to 20. [904379] Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): Judge Robert get a grip on a payment which his Government introduced. Martin has said that Her Majesty’s Courts and When will the backlogs be reduced to a decent level, as Tribunals Service has seen a huge reduction in the people have a right to entitlements in this country? number of work capability assessment appeals, not because of the quality of decisions, but because of the Mike Penning: It is really important that we get the huge backlog and the quality of the service that is decisions right and that the right people get those being provided. payments. I said before the Select Committee that I promise to do that within my own Department’s Mike Penning: Iamafraidthatthatisfactuallyincorrect. administration, and we are addressing that. There was a I read Judge Martin’s comments, and I do not think real performance issue as to how many people were that that is quite what he said. There has been a reduction coming through the schemes. I am addressing that now of more than 80% in the number of people who are with the providers, and it will improve, and not in the appealing. That is because better decisions are being length of time the hon. Lady mentions, which is made, which is right and proper for everyone. scaremongering.

Stephen Timms (East Ham) (Lab): It is high time that Fiona O’Donnell: An awareness campaign last week Ministers took responsibility for their failings. It was by the MND Association and MND Scotland informed their decision, after the election, to migrate all recipients us that about half of people diagnosed with motor of incapacity benefit to employment and support allowance. neurone disease die before 14 months. They do not fit That was the decision that triggered the delays and into the Minister’s definition of “terminally ill”, so how backlogs about which we have heard. Now, the memos long does he think those people should wait for their that were leaked last week have revealed that ESA claim to be assessed? “is not delivering more positive outcomes for claimants” Mike Penning: Now I have addressed the issue of the than incapacity benefit did, and the Work programme terminally ill, we are particularly addressing progressive has proved hopeless, with a 94% failure rate. How long illnesses. We want to look at that very quickly. As soon will Ministers allow this shambles to continue? as we can get that situation addressed, I will come 5 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 6 before this House and say so, but the priority must be Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): What is the that the people who need it get it, and the people who Government’s target for how long people will have to do not need it, do not get it. wait for these benefits by the time of the next general election? As the Minister tries to restore order from this Nick Smith: Some Blaenau Gwent constituents have chaos, will he be in a position soon to tell those in the waited months and months for assessment. Why did the queue how much longer they will have to wait? Minister’s Department not properly pilot what has become this fiasco? Mike Penning: One of the things we are trying to do is communicate much better with people who are waiting, Mike Penning: It is interesting that yet again a Labour which is the most important thing we can do. What we Member uses the word “fiasco”, and I know the Public do not want to do is build up promises, so that people Accounts Committee Chairman, the right hon. Member think they will be assessed quicker than they will be. On for Barking (Margaret Hodge), made a similar comment. PIP in particular, we will make sure that the providers It was not actually in the PAC report, however, so this are doing the job we are asking them to do, and that we was a made-up comment that was not in the report. are acting as fast as we can and taking the correct [Interruption.] Well, it was not in the report, and how decisions. On the first point, I cannot give a time scale on earth can we be talking about something that was at this time, and it would be wrong for any Minister to not in the report? At the end of the day, we need to stand before the House and do so. make sure we address this situation. I have admitted that the waiting time is too long, and we will get it Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): The down. We will do something about it; the previous Government did not bother to pilot PIP properly, Atos Administration did not do so. made misleading statements in its bid, Ministers have presided over a 42-year backlog in cases, and each Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): I was recently decision costs £1,500—more than the benefit of some able to inform a constituent that they were about to £1,120 that many receive. Reassessments have had to be receive a cheque for over £5,000—welcome news until postponed while sick and disabled people wait for a we realise it is an arrears payment for a personal decision, including cancer patients, who according to independence payment claim submitted some 300 days Macmillan are experiencing anxiety, financial worries earlier. The Minister tells us he is addressing the matter; and worsening health. Is it not time that the Minister what is he doing to stop disabled people being out of acknowledged that it is another catalogue of DWP pocket by so much for so long? chaos and that the £1 billion savings promised by 2015 will not be achieved, while sick and disabled people are Mike Penning: What we are doing is making sure we living with the worry and hardship that he has caused? speed up the process on our side and the contractors doing the assessments speed up their side. As I have said Mike Penning: I do not accept many of the points before, if necessary there will be a cash incentive for that the hon. Lady makes, but what I do accept is that it them to make sure that they deliver, which will be paid is unacceptable for people who are in desperate need to only when they deliver faster. wait, which is why I acted with Macmillan really fast to bring the time down from 28 days to inside 10 days for Miss Anne McIntosh (Thirsk and Malton) (Con): I people with terminal illness. We are now looking at the congratulate my right hon. Friend on reducing the time other cases and working with as many of the charity taken to handle these claims, but what is he doing to and other groups as we can to make sure that we get the reduce the time taken for the appeals mechanism procedure, figure down. If they work with us, we can work on this so that that part can be speeded up as well? together. The Opposition keep moaning about the policy, but the previous Administration left people on the Mike Penning: The appeals process is a matter for my disability living allowance for years, with only 7% of colleagues at the Ministry of Justice, and I intend to them ever having a face-to-face assessment. That was write to them today, but ever fewer people are going an appalling situation. to appeal, particularly on PIP—it is much lower than predicted—and there has been more than an 80% reduction Employment Figures on work capability assessment. There is more to be done, but if the judges have less work to do on appeals, I will be very happy about that. 3. (Central Devon) (Con): What assessment he has made of recent trends in employment figures. Nigel Mills (Amber Valley) (Con): I also welcome the [904360] improvement in the process. What lessons have the Government learned for rolling out other new assessment 4. Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): What schemes, perhaps including a replacement for Atos in assessment he has made of recent trends in employment respect of WCA? figures. [904361]

Mike Penning: One of the things we will look at very 15. Oliver Colvile (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) carefully is making sure that the contract bids are not (Con): What assessment he has made of recent trends just judged on the lowest price, but on whether the in employment figures. [904374] contractor can produce the capacity that is required. That is exactly what we are doing; when we release a The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain new contract, we look at whether the contractor has the Duncan Smith): The recent trends are remarkable: there capacity and the skills to produce quality decisions. are more people in work than ever before, youth 7 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 8 unemployment is down 91,000 since the election, the Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): Is the Secretary claimant count for 18 to 24 year-olds has fallen for of State aware that a disabled unpaid voluntary worker 30 consecutive months, and we have seen the largest has been told by the Department for Work and Pensions annual fall in long-term unemployment since late 1998. that as from now she will be in the same category as I also note that in the constituency of my hon. Friend part-time workers who have a job? Is this a way of the Member for Central Devon (Mel Stride), the claimant padding out the number of people in employment? count is down 33% and the youth claimant count is down 41%. Mr Duncan Smith: I do not know what this case is, but if the hon. Gentleman would like to write to me Mel Stride: As my right hon. Friend has pointed out, about it, I will deal with it specifically— youth unemployment in my constituency is substantially down since the last election, not least due to his efforts Mr Skinner: I have done. to ensure that work always pays. However, does he agree with me that approaches to incentivising work are always Mr Duncan Smith: Well, I have not seen the letter, but best if they are universal, unlike the Opposition’s proposal I will once I have ferreted it out. We are not padding for means-tested youth allowances, which would punish anything out—we do not need to, because there are hard-working families and those people who do the about 600,000 vacancies now in jobcentres up and right thing? down the country and we are doing our level best to help people of all descriptions, including those who Mr Duncan Smith: Yes, the reality of what we have have disabilities, most of whom would genuinely like to been trying to do is to make sure that people can get seek and find work. We are working with them to help into the jobs that are available. What they do not them get the kind of job that can change their lives, need—and what is quite ridiculous about the Opposition’s rather than parking them for many years in a row, as proposal—is to try to take everybody who is below Labour did. level 2 up to a level 3 qualification. Some people who do not even have a GCSE in maths, for example, are Lucy Powell (Manchester Central) (Lab/Co-op): With expected now to do training courses to take them to so many young people still in unemployment, especially level 3 before they go into work. The reality is that we long-term unemployment, does the Secretary of State are getting them work-ready and giving them the training not think it anomalous that young people can get they need. That is why there are record employment support in higher education but not in further education? levels of some 30.5 million, which beats what we were Mr Duncan Smith: That is not true really, because left by the last Government. young people can get help in further education. Under jobseeker’s allowance, traineeships allow up to 30 hours’ Mr Amess: Will my right hon. Friend join me in training per week—we have made that more generous, welcoming the 29% decrease in the number of 18 to because under the previous Government the figure was 24-year-olds claiming jobseeker’s allowance in the only 16 hours. For others, two to eight weeks’ full-time constituency I represent, and does he agree that it is training is allowed, depending on the duration of the further evidence of the success of our long-term economic jobseeker’s allowance. It is one thing to come up with a plan? policy, but another to come up with a policy answering a question that nobody has ever asked. Mr Duncan Smith: It is worth noting that under the last Government, youth unemployment increased by Hywel Williams (Arfon) (PC): Employment rates in nearly a half—up almost 300,000—and long-term youth Wales are about the same as elsewhere in the UK, which unemployment increased by 74,000. Since then, excluding is very welcome, even if historically rather anomalous. full-time students, youth unemployment has come down However, we have a large number of people who are to 7.9%, which is the lowest figure since 2008. Youth involuntarily employed part-time, because they cannot unemployment is down 98,000 on the year, and get the hours required. Is it fair or even reasonable for down 91,000 since the election, and long-term youth the Government to insist that people take on hours unemployment is down 25,000 on the year. That is when those hours are just not available? getting the job right. Mr Duncan Smith: The jobcentres do not force anybody Oliver Colvile: Plymouth, as my right hon. Friend to take on something that is not there; the jobcentres knows, is a low-wage, low-skills economy. Does he are working will all those individuals. I welcome the support the Government’s proposal to give Plymouth hon. Gentleman’s welcome for the figures from Wales, the city deal for a marine energy park, which will create because it has been particularly successful, having had more than 10,000 new jobs and help provide jobs for the some very difficult times, particularly in the valleys. I young unemployed? welcome that improvement in employment. Jobseekers go to the advisers, who help them to find those jobs and Mr Duncan Smith: I absolutely agree with that; it is take the hours that are available. No one will be punished the right thing to do and it shows how this Government or penalised for trying to take a job or for working with are investing in providing in an area the right kind of the advisers and only taking the jobs that are there. jobs for the right kind of people. Even in a difficult area such as my hon. Friend’s, the claimant count is down by Universal Jobmatch 27% and the youth claimant count is down by 30% on the year. This kind of investment helps us to get people 6. Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con): What into real jobs, not jobs subsidised by the Opposition’s assessment he has made of the performance of proposals. Universal Jobmatch. [904363] 9 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 10

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Mark Lazarowicz: I am interested in the Secretary of Duncan Smith): Universal Jobmatch revolutionises the State’s answer. In 2011 he announced that a million way jobseekers look for work. Since it was launched in people would be claiming universal credit by April November 2012, we have seen 6.9 million jobseekers 2014, when the true figure was just 6,000. What went so register on the site; 4.3 million average daily job badly wrong with his projections and what are his searches; over 560,000 jobs available; and more than current milestones for the delivery of universal credit? 550,000 companies set up an account. It has been a successful transformation. Mr Duncan Smith: I think I made that clear before, but I will repeat it again. Back in 2012, I was not happy Stephen Mosley: My right hon. Friend will be delighted with the plan for the roll-out, because it mirrored too to hear that more than 5,500 jobs within 5 miles of much the roll-outs that used to happen under the previous Chester are being advertised at the moment, which is a Government—[Interruption.] We hit the bump. [Laughter.] massive testament to the number of new jobs that have It is interesting that Opposition Members sit there been created under this Government. However, Universal laughing, because I remember the tax credit fiasco. Jobmatch depends on accurate data, so what steps is he They launched tax credits and people suffered. People taking to ensure that all the jobs on the site are described did not get their payments and were out of pocket. That accurately, are real and are available for jobseekers? has not happened with universal credit. In answer to the hon. Gentleman, I simply say that we deliberately set a Mr Duncan Smith: We regularly talk to all the employers. pathfinder and we are expanding it now, with 90 new New employers are seen by advisers in the jobcentres in sites. Universal credit is rolling out carefully, and we are the local area. Fraudulent jobs are rare on the site; it is ensuring that all those who are eligible get the money estimated that fewer than 0.1% of these vacancies have that is due to them when it is due. It is not the disaster been fraudulent since go-live, and those have been removed. that we had under the previous Government. We constantly monitor the Universal Jobmatch system and we crack down on abuse. In addition, employment Sir Nick Harvey (North Devon) (LD): What progress advisers are meeting all those employers they are not is the Secretary of State making in his discussions with aware of or who have just come up on the system for the other Government Departments about the various forms first time. of state support they give in the era of universal credit? I am thinking of free school meals, which could be Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): The problem considerably improved. Is the matter all sorted? If it is is that that is just not happening, and perhaps the not, how is he getting on? Secretary of State should accept that. For example, I saw a job advertised in my constituency today for a care Mr Duncan Smith: I believe it is getting sorted. Very assistant in a care home that has just closed down. Jobs soon, the Department for Education will be able to are being wrongly categorised. Among sales assistants, make announcements about its preferred options for we find jobs for account executives, for which qualifications universal credit, and we will be able to accommodate are needed. What exactly is happening with Universal them regardless of what it asks for. Jobmatch? Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): That is very interesting. Mr Duncan Smith: The problem is not what the hon. In 2011, the then employment Minister, the right hon. Lady describes. It is with Labour Members, who cannot Member for Epsom and Ewell (Chris Grayling), said bear the idea that, when they were in government, they that the Department would consult on new eligibility had an archaic system that worked only from 8am to criteria for passported benefits such as free school meals 6pm. Our system works for 24 hours. It works while people’s computers are shut down. It nominates jobs, “in good time to take decisions to meet our overall timetable to introduce universal credit by October 2013.”—[Official Report, and advisers can offer advice online. This is a major 7 November 2011; Vol. 535, c. 66W.] success story. The problem is that Labour does not get it. We are getting more people into work, higher levels The Schools Minister has only just admitted that it of employment and falling levels of unemployment. In would cost an extra £750 million to give free school fact, we have some of the lowest levels in the European meals to the children of all those whom he eventually Union. expects to be on universal credit. Can we clear this up this afternoon? Do the Government intend to give free Universal Credit school meals to everyone on universal credit, or do they intend to introduce a new means test for free school 7. Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) meals? If the Secretary of State cannot give a proper (Lab/Co-op): What recent progress he has made on the answer this afternoon, as I suspect from the way he is universal credit programme; and if he will make a performing, will he at least tell us when he will make up statement. [904364] his mind? The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Duncan Smith): Universal credit is on track to roll out Mr Duncan Smith: It is interesting that the hon. against the timetable set out last year. The claimant Gentleman does this publicly—he was told the answer commitment is in place across all jobcentres. Universal to this the other day when he came to my office to talk credit is live in 14 sites, and from today further expansion to me directly. Just in case he does not know how free is under way across the north-west, with couples and school meals work, let me tell him that they are means-tested families joining at a later stage. Based on the case load today: there is no change to that. projections, there are, at the moment, around 11,000 people making those claims on universal credit. Chris Bryant: No, they are not. 11 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 12

Mr Duncan Smith: Yes, they are, because they are set Steve Webb: We are keen to avoid discrediting automatic against means-tested benefits. I wish the hon. Gentleman enrolment with trivially small amounts of money. My would get his facts right and learn something about the hon. Friend can imagine the newspaper headlines if we benefits system. We have a system that will enable us to had required a firm to set up a pension scheme so that deliver the free school meals to those who are eligible the employee and employer combined put 8p a week for them, and not to those who are not eligible for them. into a pension. We would have been laughed out of The reality is that the mess that the Opposition left us is court. We have reformed auto-enrolment, and it is being cleared up and they cannot bear it. They do not going extremely well. It has a good, strong reputation, even know whether they support universal credit. They and I want to protect it. flip-flop more on every policy than any other Opposition ever have. Gregg McClymont (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East) (Lab): What the Minister does not tell the House, of course, is that Library figures show Workplace Pensions that someone earning just below the raised threshold for auto-enrolment could save up to £20,000 over a working lifetime—quite a decent nest egg, I am sure 8. Julie Elliott (Sunderland Central) (Lab): What that we would all agree. So why have the Government estimate he has made of the number of people below deliberately removed 1.5 million people—the majority the threshold for auto-enrolment in a workplace pension. of whom are low-paid women—from auto-enrolment? [904365] Although that sum is not enough to buy a Lamborghini, does the Minister agree that millions of people are The Minister of State, Department for Work and losing out? Pensions (Steve Webb): We estimate that around 2.7 million individuals, aged 22 to pension age, who have earnings Steve Webb: On the contrary, the Pensions below the earnings threshold for auto-enrolment are Commission—the hon. Gentleman often refers to the not saving in a qualifying workplace pension in the Pensions Commission, one of whose members is now a private sector. About 1.6 million of those individuals Labour peer—recommended that low earners needed are earning between £5,772 and £10,000 and have the an 80% replacement rate. Someone on the wage that he right to opt in. Employers must tell workers about this just gave gets an 80% replacement rate based on the right. state pension alone, so we are delivering—[Interruption.] That is after tax and national insurance. [Interruption.] Julie Elliott: I thank the Minister for that answer, but They are paying national insurance at £10,000 a year, so does he agree that it would be right to extend pension they get about an 80% replacement rate without needing auto-enrolment to all low-paid workers who are missing to be automatically enrolled. Setting up auto-enrolment out at the moment? for tiny amounts of saving is simply inappropriate.

Steve Webb: I am grateful to the hon. Lady, but let me Jobseeker’s Allowance: Sanctions explain why I disagree with her. She would enrol people at, for example, £6,000 a year—that is the policy of the 10. Mr Stephen Hepburn (Jarrow) (Lab): What Labour Front-Bench team. At current contribution levels, assessment he has made of the effect of sanctions on someone earning £6,000 a year would be putting 8.8p a claimants of jobseeker’s allowance. [904368] week into a pension. If they did that for 35 years, they would end up with a pension of £1.93 a week. That does The Minister of State, Department for Work and not seem a sensible policy to me. Pensions (Esther McVey): Sanctions have always been part of the benefits system and are imposed only where claimants fail to meet reasonable requirements. Sanctions 21. [904381] Graham Jones (Hyndburn) (Lab): Does the Minister agree that the Government have stealthily play an important role in encouraging compliance: 70% been depriving more low-paid women of pension of claimants say that sanctions are useful for them to contributions every year? Is it not time that that was follow the rules. put right? Mr Hepburn: Can the Minister explain why more than 50% of benefit claimants in my constituency whose Steve Webb: No, on the contrary, the people we are benefits have been sanctioned have had the decision excluding from auto-enrolment are those for whom we overturned? In the meantime, they had to live for weeks think the default should be not to save in a pension, on nothing—unlike that lot over there, who stuff their because they will get a state pension typically of £7,500. nests. Is it not true that this scheme is nothing more If they are earning £6,000 now, should the Government than a con? The Government say that they are cutting take money out of their pay packet, when they are benefits. They are cutting benefits, but they are taking earning £6,000, to top up a pension of £7,500? That them off the most vulnerable people in the country and does not make any sense. leaving them out for ever.

David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): The Pensions Esther McVey: There are a couple of points I need to Minister has made some welcome changes to the way in answer, because what was said was inaccurate. The which smaller pots will be managed, with aggregation, figure for the overturns is 10%, not the high number the pensions following workers and so forth. If that works hon. Gentleman alluded to. At the same time, people on well, will there be scope in the future to review this sanctions are still on benefits and have an underlying limit? qualification to them. The hon. Gentleman is incorrect. 13 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 14

Perhaps he does not like the fact that the number of Employment Trends: Private Sector people in work has gone up significantly under this Government and the number needing to claim benefits 13. (Macclesfield) (Con): What assessment has gone down significantly. he has made of recent trends in employment in the private sector. [904371] Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): Sanctions as a principle are a very fine part of the benefits system. May I urge The Minister of State, Department for Work and the Minister to maintain a system of sanctions and not Pensions (Esther McVey): There are more people in to listen to the Labour party? It is clear that it is the private sector jobs than ever before, up more than Conservative party that has become the party of labourers 2 million since the 2010 election. and that Labour is the party of layabouts. David Rutley: Given the strong growth in self-employment in recent years and innovative schemes such as the Esther McVey: My hon. Friend makes a very good Pop-Up Business School, which has helped people in point. As I have said, sanctions have always been a part Macclesfield start their own business, what steps are the of the benefits system, because it is about compliance. I Government taking to encourage the unemployed actively would welcome an announcement today from Opposition to explore opportunities in self-employment? Front Benchers on whether they would remove sanctions. That would be very interesting. Esther McVey: My hon. Friend, who is a Harvard graduate and has been a senior executive in many Benefits Claimants: Appeals high-flying companies, has a huge interest in people setting up their own business. This Government introduced 11. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): If he will the new enterprise allowance, which has led to 2,000 take steps to reduce (a) the number of benefit people a month setting up new businesses. We have claimants who appeal against decisions and (b) the done videos with people such as Levi Roots to reach out length of time it takes to have such appeals heard. into different communities, and the link-up, start-up [904369] programme enables employers to speak to people who hope to be able to set up their own business.

The Minister of State, Department for Work and Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op): What Pensions (Mike Penning): Appeals on all benefit decisions is the right hon. Lady doing about the trends that show have dropped by 79% in the first quarter of this year that more and more people are working in small and compared with the same period last year. The introduction medium-sized companies in the service sector, which of mandatory reconsideration and the decision assurance demands high skills? What are we doing to equip young call is having a positive impact. people in particular with the right skills for a good life in the future? Mr Hollobone: My right hon. Friend will be as concerned as I am that some of the waits for first-tier tribunal Esther McVey: I will be glad to answer that question appeal hearings for Kettering constituents have been up for the hon. Gentleman. We are taking significant steps to 40 weeks, which is more than twice the national to allow more than 1 million young people to earn and average. What success is he having with the Ministry of learn through apprenticeships. Equally, through sector-based Justice to get the appeal waiting times down? work academies, we are helping people to get a job and then to progress in that job. We have put in place work Mike Penning: One of the first things we can do to get experience to help young people to find out what a appeal waiting times down is to have fewer people business entails and then to get a job in it, so there is needing to appeal. I accept that it is taking too long in considerable support to get young people into work, Kettering and perhaps in other parts of the country. which is why youth unemployment has fallen for nine That is for another Department, but I will contact it consecutive months, with 100,000 fewer people in that today. group than at the election. Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): How many people Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): A constituent of mine are now employed on zero-hours contracts? has had an application for the personal independence payment refused—a decision that I regard as perverse. I Esther McVey: Roughly the same number who were wrote to the Minister personally to draw to his attention employed on zero-hours contracts under the Labour how bad the decision was, but received a reply from a Government in 2000. I know that Opposition Members civil servant. I wrote to the Minister because I thought like to say that the number has significantly increased, he was interested in creating an efficient system. Will he but I believe that they were taken to task for getting that please do me the courtesy of replying to my letter and information wrong. Local councils such as Doncaster, addressing his mind to the case of my vulnerable constituent, where the Leader of the Opposition resides, have the who has been so badly affected? highest number of zero-hours contracts. Mike Penning: I have a personal policy that I write to Homelessness all Members of Parliament—from both Houses—if they write to me. If a civil servant wrote back, that is wrong. 14. Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): What I will reply and perhaps the hon. Gentleman would like assessment he has made of the effect on homelessness to come to see me at his leisure to discuss his constituent’s among under-35-year-olds of the extension of the case. shared accommodation rate. [904372] 15 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 16

The Minister of State, Department for Work and The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Pensions (Steve Webb): The Department has commissioned Duncan Smith): Our reforms have ended a situation in an independent review of the changes to local housing which migrant workers had indefinite access to jobseeking allowance, including the extension of the shared benefits, which we inherited from the previous Labour accommodation rate. The final report of that review is Government. Since April, we have banned access to due to be published this summer. housing benefit. From July, migrant workers will have their claims to jobseeker’s allowance stopped if they Dr Huppert: I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. have claimed for six months and cannot show that they The situation worries many of my constituents, and a have found employment. I intend to tighten this up recent study by Crisis showed that in many parts of the further still. country such as Cambridge only a tiny fraction of shared houses are available for people to rent. When he Mr Ruffley: I am grateful for that reply. I congratulate considers the review, will he change the broad rental the Secretary of State on the tougher habitual residence market areas and ensure that people can find somewhere test and the new minimum earnings guarantee. Has he to live if they wish to be in Cambridge, or received support from European partners for his tougher any other location? approach to curb benefit tourism, and are they taking further steps to move the approach forward? Steve Webb: My hon. Friend has made repeated representations about the broad rental market area for Mr Duncan Smith: I am in discussions with colleagues his constituency. We have used targeted funding to from various countries in the . Many provide additional local housing allowance rates in of them, including the Dutch and the Germans, have areas of pressure, so although the general increase made it clear that they essentially support our direction in the LHA rate is 1%, four of the five LHA rates for of travel and that some kind of change must be made to Cambridge, including that for shared accommodation, the regulations. The German Chancellor made Germany’s increased this April by 4%. position clear, saying that the EU is “not a social union” and there cannot be de facto immigration into David Wright (Telford) (Lab): What specific meetings other EU social systems. has the Minister had with his colleagues in government with responsibility for housing to discuss schemes such Retirement Advice as foyer projects, which link training initiatives with housing and support for young people? 19. Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North) (Lab): What estimate he has made of the number of people who will Steve Webb: The hon. Gentleman raises the valuable receive face-to-face guidance at the point of retirement work of foyer projects. My noble Friend Lord Freud, in 2015-16. [904378] the Minister for welfare reform, leads on housing benefit for the Department, and I will ensure that he is aware of The Minister of State, Department for Work and those projects, if he has not already held specific meetings Pensions (Steve Webb): From April 2015, we expect over about them. If the hon. Gentleman would like to give us 300,000 individuals who retire each year to be able to further details, we will be happy to look at them. take advantage of the new pension flexibilities and access the offer of free guidance. The Government have Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): The under-35 recently consulted on the delivery framework for the shared accommodation rate is a particular problem for guidance, to ensure that it is designed to give consumers fathers who do not live with the mother of their children, the support they need to make informed choices in the but want their children to stay with them at weekends, way they choose to access it. when it is simply not suitable for children to be in the sort of accommodation with other young men that Kelvin Hopkins: How will the Government ensure people get under the rate. Has the Minister examined absolutely that retirees who cash in their annuities are that situation? not exploited by private sector financial vultures in the guise of advisers? Steve Webb: The hon. Lady will be aware that, in exceptional cases, housing benefit can be topped up, but Steve Webb: The hon. Gentleman raises an important she will also know that the same issue could arise under point. We already hear anecdotal examples of people the shared accommodation rate for under-25s. However, getting cold-calls that say, “This is your Government if two single people choose accommodation together, guidance offer.” We want to make it clear that that is the combined total of their shared accommodation not based on Government guidance, because that has rates is larger than one family’s standard rate for a not started yet. We are trying to make sure that instead two-bedroom flat, so two people coming together can of people making retirement choices with no information rent a larger property than a family requiring two or advice, which often happens, they will have a right to bedrooms. go to a reputable provider and get information and guidance from someone who does not have a commercial interest in selling them something. Benefit Entitlement: Foreign Workers Topical Questions 18. Mr David Ruffley () (Con): What steps he is taking to introduce stricter criteria on T1. [904383] Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) eligibility benefit for applications from foreign workers. (Con): If he will make a statement on his departmental [904377] responsibilities. 17 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 18

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain On universal credit, 600,000 claimant commitments Duncan Smith): Today I welcome the National Audit have been signed. There are 6.9 million people registered Office’s positive response to the report on the child for Universal Jobmatch. The Work programme— maintenance scheme, which simplifies the system and [Interruption.] She does not want to hear this because helps parents work together in the best interests of their these are all records of the success of welfare reform. children. There will be further to come on this soon. Through the Work programme, 550,000 people whom Already we know that twice as many parents intend to the previous Government wrote off and who never got pay direct, even before the second stage of our reforms a job are now back in work, and through auto-enrolment and ahead of expectation. under the Minister of State, my hon. Friend the Member for Thornbury and Yate (Steve Webb), 3.6 million people Rehman Chishti: What support are the Government have moved into a workplace pension. This is a Government giving to older workers and their employers in Medway who are reforming welfare. The Opposition have no to assist them into work and to build a fairer society? policies, no purpose and no prospects.

The Minister of State, Department for Work and T5. [904387] Mr (South Swindon) Pensions (Esther McVey): I, along with the pensions (Con): This morning I was with the staff and students Minister, my hon. Friend the Member for Thornbury of Farleigh college of further education in my and Yate (Steve Webb), recently published the “Fuller constituency, which offers excellent education and Working Lives—A Framework for Action” document, training opportunities to young people with autism which sets out the support that we are going to give to and other complex conditions. What more can my right older workers. That includes a new health in work hon. Friend do to ensure that we reach the goal of full service, Jobcentre Plus tailored support, guidance and a employment by ensuring that increased opportunities toolkit for employees, and from next week the right to exist for young people with learning disabilities and request flexible working hours. autism?

Rachel Reeves (Leeds West) (Lab): At the start of this The Minister of State, Department for Work and year 3,780 people were claiming universal credit. The Pensions (Mike Penning): I think the whole House would most recent numbers show that 5,610 people are receiving agree that we need to give everyone the opportunity to the benefit. At this rate of progress, how long will it be live their dreams and have their aspirations, and that is until the 7.7 million households that are supposed to exactly what this Government want to do. I would love receive this Government’s flagship benefit, as the Secretary to come and see the scheme that my hon. Friend is of State originally set out, are receiving it? talking about, so that I can see for myself what it is delivering. Mr Duncan Smith: We have already made that clear. To date around 11,000 people are on the pathfinders. T2. [904384] Nic Dakin (Scunthorpe) (Lab): In last We have started a roll-out to another 90 sites beyond week’s Westminster Hall debate, the Minister said of the 10 sites where the pathfinder took place. There will the closure of living fund that be further changes and enhancements, and we expect “there really should not be concern.”—[Official Report, 18 June 2014; and believe, according to the plan that we laid out, that Vol. 582, c. 91WH.] everybody eligible will be on the benefit by 2017. How will he ensure that the concern being expressed by current ILF recipients that they will lose their independence Rachel Reeves: I think that is the first time I have not is unfounded? heard the Secretary of State say that his project is on time and on budget, but we still hear total and utter Mike Penning: I also said during that Westminster complacency. At the present rate of progress, it will take Hall debate that, for nearly three years, new recipients a staggering 1,052 years before universal credit is fully of ILF have been dealt with by local authorities. There rolled out. So what do we have? Universal credit delayed, have not been any major problems. We are confident personal independence payments delayed and employment that this will roll out correctly and we intend to roll it and support allowance delayed. Does not the Secretary out as soon as possible. of State realise that his incompetence is not only wasting tens and hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayers’ T7. [904390] Mr (Braintree) (Con): money, but causing untold pain and hardship for some Unemployment in Braintree between May 2010 and of the most vulnerable people in our country? May 2014 has dropped from 3.4% to 2%, and youth unemployment in that same period has dropped from Mr Duncan Smith: As I said, we are rolling out 6.3% to 3.8%. There remains a challenge, however, in universal credit to 90 sites and we will deliver it safely that the unemployment rate is not falling as fast for and carefully, unlike what the Labour Government did young women as it is for young men. What are the with tax credits. To answer the hon. Lady’s general Government’s policies doing to help young women to question about what we are doing, this Department and get back into work? this Government have undertaken the biggest welfare reform programme ever and we are getting more people Esther McVey: I am pleased to say that unemployment into work—there are record numbers in work and record is falling right across the country and across all age falls in unemployment; and we are getting more young groups. Employment is up as a consequence. We are people into work and more young people who have doing significant things. We now have record numbers been long-term unemployed back into work. The benefit of women going into work, and at record rates. Our cap means that 42,000 people have been capped, as a policies, more than anything, are supporting young result of which 6,000 have moved into work. girls. 19 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 20

T3. [904385] Mr Andrew Love (Edmonton) (Lab/Co-op): system has a full set of checks and balances. There is a It is all very well for the Minister to say that, but more mandatory reconsideration almost immediately of that than 200,000 young people have been out of work for decision, and then there is the opportunity to appeal. over a year, which has consequences for the possibility The purpose of a sanction is to help to remind the of their finding work in the future. Youth individual that this taxpayers’ money comes with an unemployment is falling more slowly than overall obligation to co-operate; to find work by seeking work. unemployment, so what is she doing to help the youth of this country get back into employment? T6. [904389] Lyn Brown (West Ham) (Lab): Why will the Government not pay universal credit payments to Esther McVey: It is quite incredible that the hon. the main carer of children in a family rather than the Gentleman should ask that question, considering that main earner? youth unemployment shot up by 45% under the Labour Government, and that we have managed to get more Mr Duncan Smith: Let us pause and get this absolutely young people into work. As I have said, youth right. The reality is that what the Opposition are now unemployment has fallen for nine consecutive months; saying is utterly illogical. [Interruption.] Let me give it is 100,000 fewer than at the general election. He the hon. Lady the figures. What is fascinating is that would be better off reading about what we have done, if 93% of cohabiting couples and 98% of married couples he wants to know how to get young people into work. share their finances, so most of those people will reach a conclusion. The second point is that we have put Tracey Crouch (Chatham and Aylesford) (Con): Will safeguards in place within universal credit so that the the Minister provide the House with an update on the payments can be nominated as an exception if the carer implementation and delivery of the mesothelioma is to receive the money. Right now, this is about a compensation payment scheme? household getting more money than under the existing systems. This is a benefit that benefits more people, and, Mike Penning: I am really proud that the coalition honestly, the idea of micro-managing everybody’s lives Government have introduced this new scheme. It is now from Westminster is the kind of absurdity that the fully funded and it is rolling out on time. Payments will Labour party tried when it was in government. be made on time to the people who need those funds so much, through no fault of their own, and we are all very Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con): It is welcome proud of that. that youth unemployment has fallen by some 59,000 in the past three months, but I understand that there has T4. [904386] Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck (South Shields) been an underspend of some £50 million on the Youth (Lab): My local citizens advice bureau has been contacted Contract budget. Can my right hon. Friend reassure the by a young single woman who has been hit by the House that that money will be spent on supporting bedroom tax. After paying her rent and utility bills, she young people into work? has just 84p a day left to spend on food and toiletries. With eight households for each available one-bedroom Esther McVey: Absolutely, I can. All the money that property in my area, moving is simply not an option. we said that we would be spending on youth schemes—we How can the Secretary of State continue to try to justify are doing just that. a policy that results in such extreme poverty? T8. [904391] Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): It is Mr Duncan Smith: We have given local authorities a great shame that Tory Members of Parliament between £300 million and £400 million for discretionary criticised the Trussell Trust and Oxfam—in fact, some payments. It is their job to ensure that individuals with might say threatened them—for daring to suggest a particularly difficult circumstances can be helped with link between food poverty and the social security that money. The overall policy is very simple. It is about system: the cuts, the delays, the misapplied sanctions people who are living in accommodation that they do and the abolition of the social fund. Will the Secretary not fully utilise, and about others, including the quarter of State now accept his responsibility for what has been of a million left by the last Government in overcrowded a 54% increase in the need for food aid in just one year, circumstances and the 1 million people on waiting lists. and commit to working positively with those I do not think that the hon. Lady has ever got up and organisations to see how his Department can help to asked a question about those people. The reality is that address the root causes of food poverty? this policy will help them to get the accommodation they need to improve their lives, and not waste it on Mr Duncan Smith: Inequality is at its lowest since people who do not need it. 1986. There are 500,000 fewer people in relative poverty than at the election; 300,000 fewer children in relative Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): I hear repeated poverty than at the election; 200,000 fewer pensioners concerns that there may be targets for benefit sanctions in relative poverty than at the election; and 450,000 at jobcentres. Will the Secretary of State confirm that fewer workless households than at the end of 2010. We that is not the case, and send a clear message to advisers have done more to help people who are hard up than that they should not be seeking to sanction people the hon. Lady’s Government ever did. inappropriately to hit some sort of target? Their aim is to help people. Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): What impact has the Government’s long-term plan had on long-term Mr Duncan Smith: I can assure my hon. Friend that unemployment, and what representations have the there is no target on benefit sanctions, that the advisers Government received on long-term unemployment from give benefit sanctions as a last resort, and that the the Opposition? 21 Oral Answers23 JUNE 2014 Oral Answers 22

Esther McVey: I thank my hon. Friend for asking in every area of operation. Is his failure to roll out that question because we have seen the biggest annual universal credit just a cover-up of another DWP crisis fall in long-term unemployment since 1998—108,000 in the making? fewer people on long-term benefits. That is a significant change. When we came into office we said that we Mr Duncan Smith: Isn’t that interesting? What a would help those whom the Labour Government left revealing statement. We have endlessly offered the behind and forgot about. We have set up the Work Opposition Front Bench team the opportunity to visit programme and other schemes, and the consequences jobcentres where universal credit is rolling out, but only are more of them in work. one spokesman went—[Interruption.] No, the shadow Secretary of State never went and is refusing to go. Now T9. [904392] Heidi Alexander (Lewisham East) (Lab): she would rather visit citizens advice bureaux than the Last week I met a constituent who received her people who are actually delivering universal credit. Surely husband’s personal independence payment only after that is the most pathetic excuse I have ever heard. he had passed away. Will the Minister guarantee that no one else will suffer that deeply distressing situation Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): I in the future? have a number of very sick constituents who have been pushed into severe financial hardship as a result of Mike Penning: Of course I cannot guarantee that, but unacceptable delays in the PIP process. Some of them we need to do everything we possibly can on this. are now dependent on food banks. I listened carefully to Perhaps the hon. Lady will pass on our thoughts to her the Minister earlier, but will he set out a timetable for constituent for her loss. It is very import that we get the clearing the backlog for all applicants, not just the scheme to run faster, but the quality needs to be right. terminally ill? What interim support will he offer to I am very sad when that sort of thing happens, but I those having to wait more than 28 days? cannot possibly guarantee to the House that it will not happen again. We just have to make sure that it does not Mike Penning: I repeat that it is taking too long. I happen very often. accept that and am determined to get the time down. We are working with the providers to ensure that we get Mr David Winnick (Walsall North) (Lab): I have been it down. I will look into individual cases if the hon. here since the beginning of Question Time and may I Lady wants to bring them to me, but we are doing tell the Secretary of State that I have been sickened—there everything we possibly can. I would rather see people is no other way to describe my feelings—by his complacent being assessed than left without any assessment, as the indifference to the agonising hardship suffered by the previous Administration did, or with paper-based most vulnerable in our society? He should be ashamed assessments. of the policies he is pursuing. Andrew Gwynne (Denton and Reddish) (Lab): Mr Duncan Smith: The only sickening thing is the last Underlying the overly positive spin that Ministers have Government plunging the economy into such a crisis put on the employment figures is the fact that for the that more people fell into unemployment and hardship first time ever the majority of families living below the as a direct result of the incompetence of the people poverty line are in work. What are the Government whom the hon. Gentleman has progressively supported. going to do to make sure that work is always a route out of poverty? (Shrewsbury and Atcham) (Con): Mr Duncan Smith: Nothing is more revealing than Under this Government, how many more women are when the Opposition start claiming that we somehow now in employment? have to spin the fact that there are more people in work now than when we came into office. We will soon break Esther McVey: The rate is the highest it has ever been, through the barrier and have the highest proportion at nearly 68%. The number and rate of women in of people in work. Unemployment is falling, youth employment is the highest we have ever seen. unemployment is falling, and adult unemployment is falling. We do not need to spin facts, because facts in Mr Andy Slaughter (Hammersmith) (Lab): After nine this case tell us that our welfare reforms are working. months, fewer than 200 people in Hammersmith and Fulham are on universal credit. This morning the shadow Several hon. Members rose— ministerial team visited Hammersmith’s citizens advice bureau to hear directly from my constituents about the Mr Speaker: Order. I am sorry, but as usual demand catastrophic failure of the Secretary of State’s Department exceeds supply and we must move on. 23 23 JUNE 2014 Points of Order 24

Points of Order Mr Speaker: I cannot wait any longer. We have got to hear you, Mr Sheerman; the nation must hear you.

3.33 pm Mr Sheerman: On a day like today when such serious Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): On a point of issues are being debated in Question Time, when so few order, Mr Speaker. The Minister of State, Department Conservative Back Benchers are here, and when time for Work and Pensions, the right hon. Member for for the business runs out and there are a number of Wirral West (Esther McVey), contradicted my hon. pent-up questions from Labour Members about Friend the Member for Jarrow (Mr Hepburn) earlier serious issues such as the fact that the students’ when he asked about the sanctions rate. She said that disability allowance is being taken away, what can we the number of successful appeals was around only do to add to the length of the session so that Members 10%. According to the Trussell Trust’s “Below the in all parts of the House get a fair crack of the whip? Breadline” report, the average success rate was 58% over the period from 22 October 2012 to 30 September Mr Speaker: My appetite for hearing hon. and right 2013, and in the three months to 30 September 2013 it hon. Members ask questions is insatiable. I would was 86%. How can we put on the record whether those happily run the session on for longer, but I am afraid figures cited by the Trussell Trust are correct and where that it is not within my power. Not only is the hon. the Minister managed to get the figure of 10% from? Gentleman here every day during working hours, but I sometimes fondly imagine that he probably sleeps here The Minister of State, Department for Work and as well; I do not know. He knows that his request is Pensions (Esther McVey) rose— unfortunately beyond my powers, but he has made his point with his usual alacrity, and it is on the record. Mr Speaker: The Minister is welcome to respond if Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): On a point she so wishes. of order, Mr Speaker. During Question Time, the disability Minister, the Minister of State, Department Esther McVey: Further to that point of order,Mr Speaker. for Work and Pensions, the right hon. Member for I gave the official statistics, and I was correct. Hemel Hempstead (Mike Penning), stated that he had inherited the current backlog in ESA claims from the Mr Speaker: Well, we will leave it there for today, but previous Government. How can we put on record the knowing the hon. Lady— fact that his predecessor told the Work and Pensions Committee that a small backlog in 2011 was going to Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op) rose— be eliminated by the summer of 2011? The two statements clearly cannot be consistent. Mr Speaker: Order. Patience, Mr Sheerman. A man of your seniority should have acquired gravitas and Mr Speaker: The evidence is that the hon. Lady has stoicism. We are coming to you, man. Be calm, be found her own salvation. She asked how it could be happy—it is Wimbledon. Relax. done and at the same time she did it. It is on the record, and we will leave it there. Mr Sheerman rose— 25 23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 26

Deregulation Bill The prohibition was originally included at the explicit request of the Scottish Executive because operation and [Relevant documents: Fourteenth Report from the Joint safety matters on tramways are a devolved matter. Until Committee on Human Rights, Session 2013-14, on now, this has not been an issue as there were no tramways Legislative Scrutiny: (1) Criminal Justice and Courts in Scotland, and in practice the power would never have and (2) Deregulation Bill, HC 1293; and Second Report been exercised. However, now that the Edinburgh tramway of 2014 from the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral has entered public service, the prohibition is no longer Commission, Work of the Committee in 2013, HC 1173 appropriate. This is a devolved matter, so the consent of of Session 2013-14.] the Scottish Parliament is needed. Scottish Ministers will support the legislative consent motion required to [2ND ALLOCATED DAY] remove the prohibition. Further consideration of Bill, as amended in the Public The RAIB is already a UK-wide organisation. Its Bill Committee inspectors investigate accidents and incidents on all mainline services, including in Scotland, and currently New Clause 4 undertake investigations of tramway accidents in England and Wales. RAIB inspectors already have the required REMOVAL OF RESTRICTION ON INVESTIGATION OF investigative expertise and the necessary powers to conduct TRAMWAY ACCIDENTS IN SCOTLAND BY RAIB a thorough investigation and make recommendations to ensure that lessons are learned. Should there be an ‘(1) The Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 is amended as follows. accident or incident on the Edinburgh tramway, it is therefore appropriate that RAIB inspectors should be (2) In section 14 (extent of Part 1: investigation of railway accidents by Rail Accident Investigation Branch), omit able to undertake an investigation. subsection (2) (which prevents the Part from applying to If the prohibition on undertaking investigations of tramways in Scotland). tramway accidents or incidents in Scotland were not (3) In consequence of subsection (2), omit section 1(3).” removed, RAIB inspectors would have no statutory —(Tom Brake.) power to investigate, so the safety implications of any Part 1 of the Railways and Transport Safety 2003 does not accident or incident might not be fully exposed, and currently apply to tramways in Scotland and so the Rail Accident there might be repeat incidents if the root causes are not Investigation Branch cannot investigate tramway accidents there. addressed. Although the new clause is only small, the This amendment removes that restriction. implications for the continued safety of our rail network Brought up, and read the First time. of perpetuating the prohibition are significant. The RAIB has already shown its considerable value 3.37 pm in contributing to our having one of the safest rail The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of networks in the world. I of course hope that it will the House of Commons (Tom Brake): I beg to move, never be necessary for RAIB inspectors to be deployed, That the clause be read a Second time. but we must not be complacent. This is an opportunity to remove a small legislative anomaly, enabling RAIB Mr Speaker: With this it will be convenient to discuss inspectors to apply their considerable experience and Government new clause 25—Civil penalties for parking expertise consistently across the whole of the United contraventions: enforcement. Kingdom. Amendment 61, page 7, line 22, leave out clause 10, Mr (Wokingham) (Con): What has the clause 11 and clause 12. accident experience of tramways in England been over Government amendment 13. the past year, and will the power include the ability to Amendment 1, page 26, line 4, clause 35, leave out investigate pedestrians and drivers of third vehicles or paragraphs (a) and (b) and insert “in paragraph (a) bicycles that get caught by trams? leave out from “if new and important evidence” to “discovered” and insert Tom Brake: I am afraid that I do not have figures to “where secondary investigations have enabled more new, hand on accidents relating to trams in England and significant, or important evidence to become available, having Wales, but I will write to my right hon. Friend on that particular regard to— subject. I assume that any investigation of an accident (i) enhancing and preserving the rights of those affected would assess its causes—for instance, if it involved a by a maritime accident to learn from the proceedings vehicle driving on to the tramlines—and would make of such reinvestigations and conclusions drawn from recommendations about how to deal with such issues. them; and Government new clause 25 relates to changes in the (ii) future safety issues and measures.”.” use of CCTV for issuing parking tickets by post. The Government amendments 36 to 49, 51, 24 and 26. Government are concerned that the use of CCTV for on-street parking is no longer proportionate, and that Tom Brake: This group of amendments covers local councils over-employ it to deal with contraventions accident investigation, parking contravention, driving, when it would be more appropriate and fair for such and private hire vehicle licensing. contraventions to be handled by a civil enforcement New clause 4 and amendment 24 deal with rail accidents officer. We have therefore committed ourselves to ban and, specifically, tram investigations in Scotland. They the use of CCTV for on-street parking enforcement. will remove a prohibition in the Railways and Transport That was announced in September and re-stated in Safety Act 2003 that prevents the Rail Accident Investigation December 2013 as part of a package of measures Branch from investigating tram accidents in Scotland. designed to support high streets. 27 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 28

[Tom Brake] 3.45 pm

Under existing measures, when a CCTV camera is James Duddridge: Before the Minister moves on, will used by a civil enforcement officer to identify a parking he confirm when the power will come into effect, and offence, a penalty charge notice can be issued to the what will happen to councils that perhaps have a longer-term offender by post. In practice, that means that drivers contract with a provider that falls outside the period? may receive a parking ticket through the post several weeks after an incident, which makes it difficult to Tom Brake: I thank my hon. Friend for that intervention. challenge the alleged contravention. It is a very good point, which I think it would be more appropriate to respond to in writing. Clearly, there may The Government are concerned that a proliferation well be contractual issues. If local authorities have of CCTV cameras for offences such as parking may entered into contracts for, say, a five-year period, there undermine public acceptance of their wider beneficial may be implications, so rather than giving him an use. To introduce the change, we need to amend legislation off-the-cuff response, I will write to him on that point. to prevent local authorities from relying so heavily on CCTV for parking enforcement. Amendment 61 would remove from the Bill the three clauses that relate to taxis and private hire vehicles. That is not a course of action that the Government James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend East) (Con): intend to adopt. On the contrary, we consider that the The right hon. Gentleman has made it clear that the taxi and private hire vehicle clauses will have significant new clause relates to parking, but will he confirm that benefits, both in terms of cost savings for the trade and CCTV cameras can still be used for issuing fines via the convenience for passengers, and we are determined to post for other offences, such as parking on zig-zag lines see those benefits realised. in front of schools? Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green): Will the Tom Brake: I will come on to that point in a few Minister explain why he has not listened to what the moments. travelling public want? There is huge concern about New clause 25 will amend part 6 of the Traffic these clauses. He has not consulted the Local Government Management Act 2004 to prevent the automatic issuing Association, nor has he listened to the public or the by post of fines for parking offences, and instead require evidence, and as a result, he is going to put public safety that notification of penalty charges is given by a notice at risk. attached to the vehicle. Tom Brake: I cannot agree with that at all. We are not The new clause includes a wider power to cater for an putting public safety at risk, and I think the people who outright ban on CCTV if that is considered necessary in have concerns about safety do at least have to future. However, the Government intend to protect the consider, where, of course, all the measures apply, and I use of CCTV cameras where there is a strong safety am not aware of significant issues being raised in relation argument for doing so. Their use will therefore be to safety in London. banned in all but the following limited circumstances: when stopped in restricted areas outside a school; when Clause 10 concerns the circumstances in which a stopped where prohibited on a red route or clearway; private hire vehicle driver’s licence is required. Its purpose when parked where prohibited in a bus lane; or when is to allow people who do not hold a private hire vehicle stopped on a restricted bus stop or stand. driver’s licence outside London and Plymouth to drive a licensed private hire vehicle when the vehicle is off duty. At a stroke, that will lift the burden that many Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab): What families currently face of having to run a second car so discussions has the right hon. Gentleman had with the that other family members can drive for domestic purposes. Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government I have heard arguments to the effect that this will be about his statement at the weekend that local authorities unsafe and that the Government are being reckless in are not able to make a profit from CCTV cameras, and taking forward the policy, but I do not agree with that. what does he think about that? (Slough) (Lab): There was a case Tom Brake: I have not had any discussions with the in the local Slough magistrates court on these issues Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government very recently, and those who were charged were found since his announcement at the weekend. It is very clear guilty and fined extensively. The comments from the that local authorities cannot issue parking fines to raise magistracy are interesting. The court said that they funds for other purposes, but that they can use the regarded this as a very serious set of offences, putting money from parking fines to invest in transport and the public at risk and depriving legitimate drivers of some environmental measures. The Government are income. They were particularly concerned that the trigger concerned that the family of local authorities as a incident involved a lone female being collected late at whole has a surplus of about £630 million in funds night from Wexham Park hospital. Is that not evidence raised through parking tickets. We believe that we have that these sorts of changes are required? taken a sensible and proportionate approach by ensuring the power has the ability to exempt key parts of the Tom Brake: I do not think that what the hon. Lady road network so that we reach the right balance of fair has described is evidence that what the Government are enforcement in the right places. proposing—a relatively small number of changes to the I now move on to amendment 61 on taxis and private way that private hire vehicles can operate—will have an hire vehicles. impact on safety. 29 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 30

Grahame M. Morris (Easington) (Lab): On that point, checks every three years, and that facility will still be does the Minister acknowledge the concerns of police available. Moreover, the new Disclosure and Barring and crime commissioners and organisations such as the Service allows taxi and PHV drivers to sign up to an Suzy Lamplugh Trust about rogue or unlicensed taxis? updating service that will allow licensing authorities to This deregulation is likely to compound that problem. make inquiries about the drivers they licence, should they feel the need to do so. Tom Brake: I certainly agree with those organisations Clause 12 allows private hire vehicle operators to that we need to be concerned about rogue, unlicensed subcontract bookings to operators licensed in a different taxis, but I do not think that anything the Government district. It will apply in England and Wales, outside are putting forward today will increase the likelihood of London and Plymouth. Once again, the clause has been there being rogue, unlicensed taxi operators. For instance, opposed on safety grounds, with arguments that a private hire operator passing on a job to another will enforcement will be difficult. I stress that that measure be passing the job on to an operator who is, of course, already applies in London—I am not aware of any licensed. enforcement issues—and the principle of subcontracting, albeit to an operator in the same district, is already Several hon. Members rose— enshrined in provincial legislation. I cannot see how allowing PHV operators to subcontract journeys across Tom Brake: I will make some progress. borders will generate safety issues. Operators will be allowed to subcontract bookings only to other operators Safeguards will be in place, the main one being that who are properly licensed, and those operators will have the law will continue to prohibit people who do not to fulfil their bookings using properly licensed drivers hold a PHV driver’s licence from acting as a PHV and vehicles. driver. It was with safety in mind that we decided to alter the position in London by introducing the reverse burden of proof: where a driver without a PHV licence Grahame M. Morris: The Minister says that he is not is caught driving a licensed PHV with a passenger on aware of any enforcement issues, but may I remind him board, the Bill places the onus on the driver to show that the real public safety concern is the number of that the vehicle was not being used as a hire vehicle at bogus, unlicensed taxis that operate—particularly in the time. We believe that that approach will make the London—and pose a threat to the welfare of women job of enforcement more straightforward for local travelling home late in the evening? Last year there were authorities. 250 assaults and 56 rapes. Measures that will make that situation worse by making the system more difficult to Clause 11 will standardise the duration of taxi and enforce—that is what the Government propose—should private hire vehicle drivers’ licences at three years, and surely concern the right hon. Gentleman and the whole private hire operator licences at five years. Shorter House. licence durations will be permitted, but only according to the circumstances of a given case and not on a blanket basis. That will apply in England and Wales, but Tom Brake: Again, I agree that the Government, not in London or Plymouth. I have heard arguments local authorities, the police and campaigning organisations about the adverse safety implications of clause 11, and should do everything they can to ensure that women about licensing authorities losing their ability to monitor and other users of private hire vehicles use only licensed drivers sufficiently. The three-year licence duration applies vehicles, and that there is a strong clampdown on those to more than 50,000 taxi and PHV drivers in London, who are operating illegally. Again, I do not think that and outside London just under half of licensing authorities anything the Government are proposing in these clauses set that duration for their drivers, so that measure is will have the effect that the hon. Gentleman seems to be already common. We recognise that local authorities saying they will. take their taxi licensing responsibilities seriously, which is commendable. Graham Jones (Hyndburn) (Lab): Will the right hon. Gentleman confirm that a local authority cannot take Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): The National enforcement action against taxis that are licensed in Association of Licensing and Enforcement Officers, the another area, and that relaxing this policy will only add National Taxi Association, and the National Private to that problem? Hire Association are totally opposed to these clauses. Why is the Minister not listening to those who have to Tom Brake: As I have said, if, for instance, an operator enforce the regulations or who are part of the delivery cannot do a job in an outside area and passes on the of our taxi services? responsibility to another licensed operator, that operator will be licensed, and there will be enforcement associated Tom Brake: The Government have listened to and with that licence. Enforcement authorities will be able taken on board concerns expressed by a range of to check the operator’s records for any given booking to organisations, and have also heard support for the ensure that it has been undertaken lawfully. measures we are proposing. We think it important not To sum up, these are tried and tested measures. We to place a burden on private hire vehicle drivers that believe there are adequate safeguards in place. We requires them to have a second vehicle in their family to acknowledge, of course, that the Law Commission review enable them to get around. Safety is vital when licensing is a significant landmark to those who have a keen or taxi and PHV drivers; that is why local authorities are vested interest in the evolution of taxi licensing and allowed to take into account the criminal records of regulation, but the key point is that that review will not driver’s licence applicants. Best practice guidance advises deliver tangible change in the next year, whereas these licensing authorities to undertake formal criminal record measures will. They in no way undermine or nullify the 31 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 32

[Tom Brake] UK, the Royal College of Physicians and the Freight Transport Association. Our amendments will ease Law Commission’s review; they are simply the first the burden on motorists who currently need to make steps on a long deregulatory journey, which will continue unnecessary applications every three years. They will when the Government find an opportunity to take also ease the burden on GPs, who have to complete the forward the Bill that will arise from that review. The administrative work, and the DVLA, where applications Government are firmly of the view that clauses 10 to 12 are processed. should remain part of the Bill, and that amendment 61 Let me turn to marine investigations and the Opposition’s should be resisted. amendment 1. Hon. Members have referred to the campaign—which was supported by the National Union Graham Jones: The Minister says these measures will of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers—by the relatives be helpful, but Hyndburn borough council currently of those lost in the sinking of the MV Derbyshire. I cannot take enforcement action against taxis from another recognise that the amendment is intended to ensure that authority, such as Rossendale, and his proposals will a future campaign of a similar type that uncovered new only aggravate the situation. Will he confirm that that is evidence would lead to the reopening of the formal the case? investigation into the relevant accident. However, hard cases make bad law. Tom Brake: At the risk of repeating myself, I do not think that any action the Government are taking will 4pm put people at risk. No one questions the valuable outcome of the reopening Let me respond to a couple of earlier interventions. It of the formal investigation into the Derbyshire, or the was suggested, for instance, that we have not consulted. commitment of the campaigners to improving maritime We have indeed consulted: we conducted a targeted safety, but the amendment would enable anyone who consultation earlier this year and also tapped into the disagreed with the findings of an investigation to search extensive consultation conducted by the Law Commission for new evidence and, regardless of how trivial that during its comprehensive review. Nor is it true that no evidence might be, compel the Secretary of State to one wants the measures we are proposing. For instance, reopen the investigation. In the Government’s view, that the Private Hire Reform Campaign is highly supportive would do nothing to advance the cause of maritime of all these measures, and after extensive consultation, safety. the Law Commission recommended all three of them in Let me repeat the advice given in Committee about its most recent comprehensive review of taxi legislation. how the Secretary of State would approach the decision on whether to reopen an investigation. Each case for Grahame M. Morris rose— reopening would be considered on its merits. The points for consideration would include, but not be limited to: Tom Brake: I am afraid that I will move on now to the likelihood of lessons being learned that would improve Government amendments 13 and 51, which deal with the safety of marine operations and ship design; the the duration of driving licences granted to drivers with likelihood of being able to identify the true cause or relevant or prospective disabilities. The Road Traffic causes of marine accidents, where those causes were Offenders Act 1988 provides that drivers with relevant particularly uncertain prior to the evidence being found; or prospective medical conditions may be issued only and the likelihood of uncovering information that would with time-limited driving licences with a maximum provide a deeper understanding of the causes of other duration of three years. That means that drivers with marine accidents. Let me reassure hon. Members that I relevant medical conditions need to reapply for their agree that the reopened formal investigation into the licence at least once every three years. In many cases, MV Derbyshire was valuable and led to real improvements where a medical condition is well controlled or progressing in maritime safety. If similar circumstances applied only slowly, a three-yearly review is unnecessary. Our again, I am convinced that the Secretary of State would amendments will enable the Driver and Vehicle Licensing reopen the investigation. Agency to issue licences with a duration of up to 10 years. Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): A Every licence application will still be considered on a more general point about marine accidents is relevant case-by-case basis, and licences will still be issued for here. All of us who represent marine communities know shorter periods where that is appropriate. Only drivers just how hard it is for bereaved families to come to with conditions that are considered low-risk and unlikely terms with their loss in the event of marine accidents, to progress quickly will get a licence of longer duration, and that is made all the harder when they do not know so road safety will not be compromised. A driver will what happened, and when unanswered questions remain. still have a legal duty to tell the DVLA of any condition Anything that makes it harder, more costly and more that he or she has developed or that has deteriorated, bureaucratic for the families to get the answers they and it is an offence to fail to do so. Doctors and other need must be a retrograde step. I ask the Minister to third parties, such as the police, can also notify the look more carefully at not just this single instance, but DVLA when patients or drivers who have a notifiable at the framework, and to think again about how he medical condition, or do not tell the DVLA about it, takes forward the regulations on this issue. It is a huge come to their attention. comfort to bereaved families to find out what actually happened to their loved ones. When the DVLA consulted on this proposal, 81% of respondents said they supported it. Those expressing Tom Brake: Of course it is. I have just stated the support included the Royal Society for the Prevention parameters that will be used to establish whether it is of Accidents, the Association of Chief Police Officers, appropriate to reopen an investigation. We would, of the RAC Foundation, the Epilepsy Society, Diabetes course, want to ensure that the families had the answers 33 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 34 that they wanted and deserved, so that they could get Tom Brake: If the hon. Gentleman will bear with me, closure. We are arguing only about whether there should I shall do so later. Let me now end by urging Members be a mandatory requirement on the Secretary of State not to press amendments 1 and 61 to a Division. to reopen formal inquiries, irrespective of the value of any new evidence that comes forward, and however Mr Gordon Marsden (Blackpool South) (Lab): I rise small it is. to speak briefly on Government new clause 25 and more specifically to our amendments 61 and 1, which John McDonnell (Hayes and Harlington) (Lab): I relate to taxis and maritime issues respectively. hope to catch the Speaker’s eye later and contribute to First, I shall comment about what the Minister said the debate. The Minister may be convinced, but it is the about the CCTV measure. The short notice of the seafarers and their families who need convincing, and introduction of the amendment—it appeared only at they are not convinced. Will he clarify the process from the end of last week—suggests that it was a political hot here onwards? Will there be detailed regulation and potato, passed between the Department for Transport consultation? If the legislation is agreed to today, how and the Department for Communities and Local do we go forward towards implementation? Government. There have long been rumours that the DCLG intended to scrap the use of CCTV even in Tom Brake: I shall respond to that shortly, but let me sensitive areas, in contrast to the wishes of DFT Ministers. restate that I do not believe that anything we are proposing Over the weekend, press coverage of the issue was would have got in the way of the MV Derbyshire almost entirely dominated by the Secretary of State for inquiry. All the evidence surrounding that shows that Communities and Local Government. Perhaps the Minister under these proposals, the Secretary of State would still will enlighten us on whether DFT Ministers decided to have reopened the investigation. All we are talking support what my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, about is whether there should be an automatic trigger, Northfield (Richard Burden) has called a “pickled policy”, irrespective of the nature of the evidence that comes or whether this is simply an example of what the forward. That is the only point that is in dispute, and I Government’s frequent use of the Alice in Wonderland am absolutely certain that if the current Secretary of principle of sentence first and trial afterwards. State or any future Secretary of State felt that the evidence brought forward could, in any shape or form, It concerns us greatly that the measure was introduced lead to further safety improvements being identified, so late in the day. It is at odds with the consultative they would want to proceed with a formal inquiry. I approach adopted by the Department for Transport. A think most Members would agree that if, 100 years range of organisations, including Living Streets, the from now, a formal investigation was automatically Local Government Association, the British Parking triggered under this legislation by something that happened Association, the Freight Transport Association, Disabled today, that would not be likely to make a significant Motorists UK, the Parliamentary Advisory Council for contribution to improving safety. Transport Safety and Guide Dogs for the Blind, have Amendments 36 to 49 make minor technical made their concerns known, yet the Government published improvements to the drafting of schedule 2. Amendments the new measure before seeing those responses. 36, 37 and 39 make drafting changes to render the There are of course legitimate concerns that councils language more consistent. Amendments 40 and 43 relate have been using cameras as a routine means of parking to new section 128ZZA, which allows the registrar to enforcement; that is wrong. There have also been problems cancel a requirement to undergo an emergency control where stickers, such as resident permits and blue badges, assessment when it is appropriate to do so. The policy have not been visible and drivers have wrongly been intention was to cover all ECAs, but cross-references issued with tickets; that is an occurrence that we should were missed, so the Bill does not cover the ECAs that make as infrequent as possible. It is understandable that are required in relation to licences for trainee instructors. drivers become frustrated when the first they hear of Amendments 40 and 43 simply extend the new section an infringement is a letter through the post, without to cover ECAs in connection with licences. the opportunity to discuss the circumstances with an Amendment 41 amends new section 133B(2A), which enforcement officer. So we agree with the Select Committee concerns the ability to retake failed ECAs. It inserts on Transport that there should be greater oversight of references to assessments required in relation to licences the way in which local authorities use cameras to institute for trainee instructors, which will ensure that the ability penalty charges, but that could be done through statutory to retake a failed assessment applies to all assessments, and operational guidance, which is exactly what the regardless of the stage at which they were originally groups I just mentioned would have liked. ordered. New section 133B(5A) states that a person CCTV remains vital for parking and for traffic and applying to undergo a further ECA cannot do so until safety enforcement in certain areas where the use of after a further six months, or any other such period parking officers is not practical: schools, bus stops, bus prescribed by regulations. Amendments 38 and 42 simply lanes, junctions and pedestrian crossings all come into allow a person to retake an ECA before the end of the that category. We hear from the Government response six-month period in cases in which that is appropriate. to their consultation that those areas are to be exempted Amendments 44 to 49 make consequential amendments and that CCTV could still be used in these circumstances, to the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 to reflect but that is not on the face of the Bill and we would amendments made to the Act by schedule 2 of the Bill. welcome confirmation that this is the case and that Let me now conclude my remarks— plans will be put into practice. John McDonnell: Will the Minister answer the question Mr Redwood: Does the hon. Gentleman understand that I asked earlier, about the process involving marine that there are times when a camera-based system can investigations? get the wrong end of the stick? A constituent of mine 35 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 36

[Mr Redwood] 4.15 pm was prosecuted for moving into a bus lane; they did so James Duddridge: I always tell my constituents not to to get out of the way of an emergency vehicle, but the believe everything that is in the papers, but Guido council still went ahead with the prosecution. Fawkes carried a number of stories in an online blog about the unions lobbying on these issues and financial Mr Marsden: The right hon. Gentleman raises an interconnections between members of Her Majesty’s instance of which he has the full details but I do not. I loyal Opposition and the unions on this matter. Was will not comment on the particular point but will comment there any evidence behind those rumours and is there on the general point, which is as I have just said: these anything to be declared? matters are best dealt with by discussions with the enforcement officer before the ticket is issued. To that Mr Marsden: Not on my part, I do not think; I think extent, I think we are at one. the only thing to be declared is the hon. Gentleman’s attempt to pursue something on a blog that, as various Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North) (Lab): The reality is people know, may or may not have some foundation. In that if we relax legislation of this kind, especially when this case, it obviously does not have much foundation. the exemptions are not on the face of the Bill, certain people will take advantage of the situation—drive in bus lanes because they think they might not get caught, Kelvin Hopkins: A primary union concerned with this for example. There were cases some years ago in which issue is the National Union of Rail, Maritime and CCTV of cars in bus lanes picked up many vehicles that Transport Workers, which is not affiliated to the Labour were driven by criminals on the run for other causes. party, sadly. Once a criminal, always a criminal, and such people will take advantage. Mr Marsden: My hon. Friend makes the point for me. Mr Marsden: My hon. Friend raises an interesting point that underlines why the Government should have The truth of the matter is that once again, an ideological given much more careful consideration to the thoughtful imperative to be seen to be cutting red tape is resulting proposals and sometimes quite detailed comments in vital principles of good governance being relegated. submitted by the various groups before bringing forward Although we have rightly had a long drawn-out process these measures as part of this rag-bag Bill. from the Law Commission’s proposals to consider all the interests involved—I shall come on to some of those We do not object to the Government’s amendments in due course and perhaps put the hon. Gentleman’s reining in the use of CCTV in place of everyday traffic somewhat paranoid mind at rest—it has been marred enforcement but, as is obvious from the comments we by the Government’s rushed and risky proposals. These have already heard today, the whole House would welcome plans have been poorly drafted and badly consulted on answers from the Minister, so we can ensure that vital and they could put the travelling public in danger. spots such as bus routes and school runs continue to be protected by CCTV and we know the details of how Taxis and private hire vehicles play a vital part in that will be assured in legislation. connecting people’s lives. They provide a wide range of services—everything from trips to the airport to early Amendment 61 would remove clauses 10 to 12. The morning trips back from nightclubs. They are an essential Deputy Leader of the House will not want to hear this, means of transport for a wide range of people without but we strongly oppose the Government proposals on access to a car, particularly in cut off or rural locations. changing taxi and minicab law simply and crucially For young people—sometimes for recreation, but also because it will put passengers at risk. I listened carefully for work, training or family commitments—and for to his opening comments: he said the Government are older people, they are a lifeline, providing mobility and determined to see the reforms implemented, which reminded social cohesion. me of the old speaker’s note, “Argument weak here, shout like mad”—although, to be fair, being a Liberal Previous work, including that of the Transport Democrat, he did not shout. He really ought to take Committee in 2011, showed that the regulation governing note of what Members have said today, particularly the the trade is often complex and contentious. We, therefore, interventions from my hon. Friends the Member for like so many organisations outside this House, hoped Slough (Fiona Mactaggart) and for Hyndburn (Graham that the DFT would approach reform in an inclusive, Jones) about the particular concerns that women have comprehensive and balanced way, especially looking to —my hon. Friend the Member for Slough referred to an use the expertise of users, taxi operators and local awful case—and about the vital issue of enforcement. councils in piloting a new course. Sadly, that has not On the basis of the reassurances he has given today, the been the case. Opposition to these measures is widespread: Minister cannot guarantee that the Government will be the police, industry bodies and members of the trade able to enforce the current safeguards. The issue is one themselves are warning that they have severe safety of enforcement. implications. Yet Ministers have introduced the specifics The Minister talked about the “targeted consultation”—a of the plans late in the passage of the Bill, leaving wonderful phrase. We were told by Harold Wilson some little opportunity for real engagement with industry while ago that a week is a long time in politics. Perhaps stakeholders. the Minister, being a Liberal Democrat, thinks that Despite the excellent speech made on 29 April in 10 days is an eternity, but 10 days is in fact the amount Westminster Hall by my hon. Friend the Member for of time that was allowed for this “targeted” consultation. Birmingham, Northfield—he has been steadfast and I doubt whether many people listening today will be vocal on the threat that this part of the Bill poses to particularly impressed with that process. vulnerable taxi drivers, and even today has been meeting 37 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 38 delegations from a range of organisations concerned taxi drivers all put useful points. Why have the Government about the proposals—it is still not clear why these ploughed ahead with these reforms? Was the review measures were not included in the Bill on Second Reading, simply a waste of money? so they could have been debated more fully. Is this a My next point deals with the one made by the right reflection of their on-the-hoof nature, or a conscious hon. Gentleman. Ministers would also let minicab operators attempt to avoid the criticism that would inevitably subcontract a job to firms in another area, which means follow? the customer booking the taxi could not be sure of the The context of today’s discussion is important. We individual or the firm picking them up. Customers should consider the questions that the rise of new would lose their right to select a firm based on a strong services such as Uber pose about the impact of new reputation for safety. Many vulnerable people may start technologies on the trade. The Government must be to lose confidence in their travelling habits if they do clear about what priorities they set for private transport not believe they have a safe cab company whose services companies, and surely those should be safety and security. they can rely on. These proposals also have implications That is quite the opposite of the piecemeal reforms further down the line, for the supply chain in taxis and being introduced in the Bill. What is needed is a far cabs. We are talking about things being made in the more comprehensive look at the regulation and enforcement UK, with jobs and livelihoods provided in the UK, and of the taxi and private hire trade. That is exactly what a valuable force for social cohesion. That force will be the Law Commission announcement about the need for under threat if the general public lose confidence in the a new national framework underlined, so why on earth methods of regulation and licensing. are this Government cutting the ground from beneath the Law Commission’s feet with these ill-thought-through James Duddridge: In Southend, I have a regular contract proposals? with AC Taxis, as it is convenient; the firm is a good In the detail of the clauses we are opposing, the supplier and well trusted in the area. If it had to Government plan to allow people without a licence for outsource some of its work, I would expect it, as a a minicab to drive one when it is off duty. That could or reputable firm, to outsource to another reputable firm. will greatly increase the potential for rogue minicab It may well outsource to Rochford Taxis, also an excellent drivers, who appear no different from legal drivers on supplier, but I would not expect it to go to a random the streets and could threaten vulnerable passengers, firm to contract out the work. The company would be including women, who enter their vehicles. It will be protecting its reputation, and it would be in its interest nearly impossible to enforce these rules; it will be difficult to behave in a decent and good way. to monitor whether a minicab is in service or off duty, and whether the driver is a minicab licence holder or Mr Marsden: The hon. Gentleman is right about not. The Minister may respond, as he has before, by that, and he is right to defend the reputation of the talking about London—several times in his speech I company he has had dealings with and knows to be thought he was grasping at London like a drowning reputable. However, the basis on which we have to man grasping at straws—but other areas of the country proceed in legislation is not what the best would do, but do not have the same resources for enforcement, and what the worst might do. That is the point I am trying the sad truth is that rapes and sexual assaults committed to make. The Law Commission has made it clear that by people purporting to be private hire drivers are not any such arrangements would need to be subject to uncommon. The changes to the law are rightly an issue enforcement officers’ having the ability to impound of public concern. vehicles and issue penalties in other areas, so that jobs could be passed between firms more accountably. Mr Redwood: If the licence is the guarantee of safety The taxi and minicab hire industry in this country is and the person driving the minicab would need the locally and closely regulated by councils, which is where permission of a licence holder, is that not the continued regulation should stay. At the moment, minicabs and guarantee? [Interruption.] taxis can, quite rightly, be driven only by someone who has undergone criminal, medical and background checks by the local authority. By trying to micro-manage the Mr Marsden: As my hon. Friends ask from a sedentary changes from Whitehall, the Government risk jeopardising position, “How do you know?” I could also talk about people’s safety. Members here are quite right to emphasise the transfer of these licences but, as I am sure the right issues such as women using taxis late at night. The Suzy hon. Gentleman will appreciate, this is about resources Lamplugh Trust commented on the proposals, saying and enforcement. The truth is that we would not know. that it knows, from the sexual assaults on women each The proposed measures might damage the entire year, that posing as a legitimate minicab driver is what legitimate taxi industry, too. Greater Manchester’s police some particularly dangerous sexual predators do. The and crime commissioner has said that there is a clear trust stated that danger that they will lead to an increase in unlicensed “moves to allow any individual to drive licensed minicab when it private hire drivers taking business illegitimately and is ‘off duty’ will provide greater opportunity for those intent on that the measures are a backward step for law enforcement. preying on women in this way. We are also concerned about the I say again that this move is unnecessary. Why have the proposal to require licensing authorities to renew licenses on a Government not listened to the Law Commission, which three-year basis rather than annually, should they wish to: we led an extensive consultation on a complex issue, receiving think that checks on drivers should be as rigorous and frequent as 3,000 written responses from across the trade? The necessary”. process involved a series of 84 meetings over four That is what we think as well. It is also what the Local months, an industry survey and meetings—one of which Government Association and the police and crime I attended at Blackpool club—where scores of commissioner for Northumberland, Vera Baird, have 39 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 40

[Mr Marsden] 4.30 pm Grahame M. Morris: My hon. Friend is making an said. Sixteen police and crime commissioners from all excellentargument.Doesheagreethatthe22recommendations political parties and none have gone on record to voice from the MV Derbyshire report support his argument their opposition to the process and the proposals that that we should not downgrade the Secretary of State’s have resulted. Incidentally, they include three former powers? Members of this House: Tony Lloyd, Vera Baird and Jane Kennedy. Mr Marsden: I do agree, but as importantly, so do There is real anger from people who feel that their most of the people involved in the MV Derbyshire voices have been ignored in the process. Government campaign and, indeed, the Minister, , who guidance on consultation stresses the importance of opened the inquiry. adequate time and engagement and transparency with key stakeholders, yet Ministers settled for a short Kelvin Hopkins: I strongly support what my hon. period of consultation to give them a cloak for enacting Friend says. In more recent times, we have had new these controversial and piecemeal reforms. As I have technology, which might not have been available when said, the Government would dilute the safety checks by an accident happened. We now might be able to investigate ending mandatory minicab licence renewal. As we have and find the causes of ships sinking or whatever, because seen all too often, the Government pay lip service to of new technology. localism, but when they want to beef up their so-called red-tape challenge, any mention of localism goes out of Mr Marsden: My hon. Friend is absolutely right; it is the window. What we then get, as we have with this an iterative process, which simply exposes the weakness proposal, is clodhopping centralism, dreamed up in of the Minister’s argument. short order to fit their soundbites, ignoring the concerns of all those who have looked at the matter in depth, and Dr Whiteford: The hon. Gentleman is making a strong posing real safety concerns for people, not least women, case. I commend him for bringing amendment 1 to the who use taxis and private hire vehicles especially at Floor of the House, because in a context where it is night. I urge all Members who take seriously the safety increasingly difficult for families to get the legal aid that of our roads and the vulnerable passengers in our they need to take such things forward, it should not be community to back this amendment and to delete these left to them to launch their own investigations. It is an clauses. extremely costly, difficult and distressing process. Finally, I come to amendment 1, which would amend clause 35. Today, the House has an opportunity to Mr Marsden: The hon. Lady makes an absolutely change these ill-conceived and potentially dangerous valid point. Context is all, particularly in this case, plans to row back the rights of seafarers and their which was crucial to the duty being put into law. MV families as they seek to find answers to the causes of Derbyshire sank in 1980 and was only found in 1994. marine accidents, and to learn lessons that could save That example prompted reinvestigation many years after lives. I listened carefully to what the Minister had to say, the original incident. and felt that he was, from time to time, straining to The duty that the Government want to scrap was convince himself rather than the rest of us. He said that used in 1998 to reopen the formal investigation into the hard cases make bad law, which is perfectly correct. loss of the Derbyshire in September 1980. The Derbyshire Although I shall refer to the MV Derbyshire, it is not disappeared south of Japan during Typhoon Orchid. the simple thrust of why we have made this proposal. All on board—42 crew and two passengers, who were He said that he would be convinced—he used the words wives of crew members—lost their lives. She remains “would be”—that the Government’s proposals are adequate. the largest UK ship ever to have been lost at sea. The truth is that it is not good enough for any individual A major union-funded search for the vessel in the to be convinced that the Government’s proposals are 1990s, supported by the International Transport Workers good enough; it is important to have a framework that Federation—a global organisation, with affiliates in ensures they are good enough. The Minister said that Britain, including the RMT, Unite, the National Union hard cases make bad law, but I say, having heard him of Seamen, Nautilus International and the Transport draw on examples from 100 years ago and beyond to the Salaried Staffs Association and broader support from time of the Titanic, that ludicrous examples make bad the Public and the Commercial Services Union, the argument. No one has, at any stage, proposed such a Communication Workers Union, the GMB and others— distance in time. was required to make that breakthrough in discovering Clause 35 seeks to abolish the duty that obliges the the wreck of the Derbyshire. That effort identified the Secretary of State automatically to order that a marine wreck in 1994 and led to the introduction of the duty in accident investigation case be reheard. This duty was the 1995 Act to establish the necessary evidence and enshrined in the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, which place the legal obligation on the Government to reopen followed years of campaigning by unions and the families the investigation. of those affected by accidents at sea. A number of After nearly 20 years of campaigning, the investigation serious maritime incidents demonstrate how important into the cause of the loss was reopened in 1998, and this duty is. The causes of major incidents involving great credit for that decision goes not just to the great loss of life have sometimes been found on the organisations I mentioned but to my hon. Friend the second investigation and after some time. That, of course, Member for Garston and Halewood (Maria Eagle), includes shipwrecks, which are often discovered following who galvanised the local campaign and ran an all-party painstaking research and the physical trawling of the group on the subject, and of course to John, now Lord seabed. Prescott, who, as Secretary of State for Transport, 41 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 42 invoked the powers for the reinvestigation because he “We are talking about something similar to a judicial inquiry, drew on his awareness of the struggle that unions and with all the formality and costs associated with it. It is not just families had undertaken to find the missing ship. He has about money, but about taking up the time of a huge number of recently described the Government’s attempt to remove people. If it is a worthwhile exercise, because it will help safety or clear someone’s name, it is obviously worth doing, but it is the duty as a massive insult to those who campaigned pointless and expensive if it happens many years later.”––[Official for the truth about the Derbyshire. Report, Deregulation Public Bill Committee, 11 March 2014; The steadfast way in which the friends and family c. 311.] group that set up the campaign, based in and around Perhaps the hon. and learned Gentleman did not intend , and the poignant memories brought back by it, but he seemed to suggest that there should almost be the 20th anniversary this year of the finding of the ship a statute of limitations on the timescale that influences testify to the huge importance of the power to reinvestigate, a Government’s response. I am sorry to say that grief, not just to find out new facts but, as the hon. Member support and the ability to find the truth are not always for Banff and Buchan (Dr Whiteford) said, to support amenable to an automatic, time-limited cut-off point. and recognise the loss of those who were affected. All There is also a circular problem inherent in the this has been reflected in the wording of amendment 1. Government’s proposal. It is not clear how the Secretary The reinvestigation absolved the crew of any blame of State can be expected adequately to assess the existing for the loss of the vessel and led to significant improvements evidence in order to suspect a miscarriage of justice in the safe operation of bulk carrier class ships and the without the sort of rigorous, independent work carried understanding of typhoon conditions. For those reasons, out by the marine accident investigation branch. The the claim made in Committee by the Solicitor-General, work will now be undertaken by the branch only if the who is not in his place, that if a wreck is discovered Secretary of State requests it because he already suspects many years after an accident, safety insights would be a miscarriage of justice. irrelevant or out of date, really does not hold water. It has been claimed that the removal of the duty can That argument was disproved by the case of the Derbyshire. be described simply as tidying up in order to synchronise Maritime accidents may be relatively rare, but they are the 1995 Act with other recent guidance. However, recent tragic events and it is crucial to understand them as MAIB guidance has made it very clear that its remit lies fully as we can. only in dealing with the reporting of the circumstances Although it relates to a different mode of transport, of an accident and not an investigation of its root the recent search for the Malaysian flight MH370 cause. The MAIB is not—I repeat, not—responsible for demonstrates that even in today’s technologically advanced enforcement or prosecution of any responsible bodies. world there are circumstances in which even our greatest Those functions are still underpinned by the 1995 Act. efforts struggle to match the vastness of the oceans our There is one other factor to take into account: ships and planes traverse. Who knows when future reinvestigation inevitably might mean that difficult evidence on that incident will emerge as to the plane’s truths are unearthed about the adequacy and focus of final fate? It might take months, years or even decades. previous assessments by officials and the Department when making an initial judgment. Any Minister should Kelvin Hopkins: It may indeed be technology that has be able to pursue the process subsequently without fear not yet been developed that will solve those problems. or favour. Under the element of discretion that the Government propose, that ability might be, or could appear to be, hampered, but retaining the existing duty Mr Marsden: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. In protects those in government—of whatever party—from the context of this debate, the MH370 incident shows any suggestion of partiality with regard to taking forward that in other circumstances, where such incidents might the reinvestigation process. affect British ships and citizens, Ministers must have The Government’s impact assessment cites a human flexibility and the power to reopen inquiries. [Interruption.] rights argument in defence of the clause, claiming that The Minister says that that is absolutely right, but I will the possibility of the future automatic investigation of go on to demonstrate that the inadequacies of his an accident could have an impact on the career prospects clause as drafted would not allow that to happen. If any of survivors. However, the Derbyshire reinvestigation such tragedy were to occur in British maritime in the showed the value of being able to step back from an future, we must have the law in place to guarantee that initial rush to judgment on the culpability of crew for men and women working on our ships, and the families the accident, because new evidence eventually established who rely on them, get the answers, however long the unrelated causes. recovery of evidence takes. I have been hugely impressed by the work of campaigners The Government’s preferred approach in this such as Paul Lambert, who represents the families who Deregulatory Bill is to retain a discretionary power—a lost loved ones in the MV Derbyshire accident. They weaker section of the 1995 Act—to rehear such a case if still feel that this is a key issue, as does Mark Dickinson, the Secretary of State suspects that a miscarriage of the general secretary of Nautilus International, who justice may have occurred. That is simply an unacceptable takes a keen interest in the case, not least because, as a weakening of the Secretary of State’s ability to protect member of the International Transport Workers Federation, seafarers and their families. It downgrades rights from a he helped to co-ordinate the search for the Derbyshire duty to a mere choice. in 1994. I am pleased that amendment 1 has been signed Sadly, that was reflected by some of the Solicitor- by many hon. Members, several of whom hope to speak General’s comments when defending the change in in the debate. Some have been contacted by constituents Committee. In response to a challenge from by my hon. who have been affected by tragedies, while others represent Friend the Member for Derby North (Chris Williamson), coastal communities. Some are simply loth to see an the Solicitor-General said: important safeguard sacrificed so unthinkingly. 43 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 44

[Mr Marsden] Kelvin Hopkins: Legislation must take account of possible unintended consequences, not just what seems On Second Reading, my hon. Friend the Member for to be a nice idea on the surface. Stoke-on-Trent South (Robert Flello) emphasised the importance of maintaining the thrust of the existing duty. My hon. Friend the Member for Hayes and Mr Redwood: I agree, and that is what we are debating Harlington (John McDonnell) is to be applauded for today. I am on the side of the Minister on this occasion. frequently, tirelessly and with determination raising this He might find that remarkable, but it seemed to me that and related maritime matters inside and outside the he made a reasonable and moderate case. The language House. As hon. Members might suspect, there is a real in the Bill and in the Government amendments does worry that several aspects of the Bill show that the the job, so I am trying to reassure the Opposition, who Government, in their bid to be seen as shedding regulation, seem to be giving a long-winded and misguided risk blinding themselves to the value of apparently interpretation of what the Government intend. I would minor existing legislative provisions and specifications. say the proposals are too modest overall. I would like to However, the example of maritime investigations shows see more deregulation coming forward in these important that the need for such detail has been vindicated by the areas, but in no way do I wish to jeopardise safety or blood, sweat and tears of those caught up in such give people a bad ride in their taxi. tragedies, and the bitter years of struggle to uncover their causes. Julie Hilling: I do not know whether the right hon. Regrettably, our attempt in Committee to delete clause 35 Gentleman realises that taxi drivers, private hire vehicle in its entirety was defeated. However, in an attempt to drivers and the rest of the people in the trade are not build consensus, we have tried to recognise the Government’s asking for other drivers to be able to drive their cars; in argument that the Secretary of State should have the fact, they are saying that family members should not be flexibility to avoid the costs of reinvestigation when it is allowed to do so. absolutely clear that new evidence will be of little or no value to determine the causes of the accident, and if no Mr Redwood: Some are with the hon. Lady and some interested parties are calling for a reinvestigation. However, are with the Government. She cannot generalise quite amendment 1 would ensure that if there was a reasonable as wildly as she does. I understand that some associations possibility that new evidence would provide significant take that line, but if one talks to taxi drivers and private new information about the causes of an accident, answers vehicle drivers, one finds people on both sides of the for the surviving families or safety lessons for today, the argument. I do not want to go into those sensitive duty to reopen the investigation would be retained. issues; I just offered a little support to the Minister It is imperative that we retain a stronger power than because the language captures exactly what everybody that in the Bill so that the Secretary of State’s default in the House wishes to achieve—better safety and security. setting is to reopen investigations. We owe it to those who have died or been injured not to remain silent on I want to concentrate on the issue of car parking. I that point. We must send a clear message to Ministers am grateful that the Government have brought forward, and civil service administrations of now and the future, again, an extremely modest proposal to deal with the and to the men and women who do such valuable and fact that many motorists feel they are picked on by vital work in our maritime economy today, that justice councils that have turned parking controls into a way and safety will always come first, which is why I urge of making easy money out of them. The proposal goes hon. Members on both sides of the House to reject only a little way in the direction I would like the clause 35 as it stands by voting for amendment 1. Government to take. I understand the Minister’s difficulties, because we need quite a lot of local decision making, 4.45 pm but the idea behind his proposal is that simple camera Mr Redwood: We have just heard 37 minutes of the enforcement is not always the right way to go. I gave an Opposition spokesman, the hon. Member for Blackpool example in an intervention to show how camera South (Mr Marsden), largely misunderstanding the enforcement of a bus lane proposal could be very Government’s modest proposals or exaggerating their misleading and unfair to the individual concerned, who consequences. Let me reassure him that I, too, would was trying to keep out of the way of an emergency wish to see an inquiry into a maritime disaster reopened vehicle. That is not always captured by the fixed position as soon as there was significant new evidence and a of the camera, which concentrates on the bus lane. hope of getting closure for the troubled families, or There could be similar problems with parking enforcement. safety recommendations to save people who venture on The problem, which is a large one for many electors, the seas in the future. I am quite sure that is what the comes from too many parking restraints and restrictions Minister said and, as I understand it, that is exactly that have not been well thought through. Once again, what the Bill achieves. Members have rightly defended good parking controls. Similarly, in the case of taxis, none of us here wish to I am very much in favour of good parking controls. I endanger people using taxis, as some Opposition Members agree that we need to stop people parking on blind seem to think the Government wish to do, but the bends, near pedestrian crossings or in places where their proposals are nothing to do with that. They are to do vehicle could obstruct the line of sight and endanger with the possible use of a hire car vehicle by the family safety. I also agree that we need parking restrictions on of the licensed user for their own family purposes, but roads where the parking would get in the way of the not plying for hire. It seems a perfectly reasonable and flow of traffic, because that not only impedes the traffic modest proposal so that families who do not have a and stops people getting to work or taking their children large income do not have to run two cars, which they to school, but can create danger by causing frustration might find difficult to do. among motorists. 45 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 46

It makes sense to have sensible parking restrictions Julie Hilling: I am pleased to be able to take part in that ensure that the flow on roads is reasonable, junctions the debate. I must declare that I am a proud member of have good sight lines and are safe, bends have the best Unite the union, which has an interest in the taxi trade, sight lines possible, and so forth. That should be common although, sadly, it has not briefed me on this issue. ground in the House, and I do not think the Minister is A few weeks ago, my two Bolton colleagues and I trying to stop councils doing that or enforcing those attended a meeting in my constituency which had been sensible restrictions strongly and fairly, as we want. But called by the National Association of Licensing and the type of parking restriction that we may well be Enforcement Officers. In attendance were people from talking about here, where some relaxation is needed, is the Law Commission, the Local Government Association, where a piece of road which the council designates as the National Taxi Association, the National Private safe and fair for people to park on at certain times of Hire Association, Unite, the GMB, the police and crime day or certain days of the week and not others is subject commissioner for Greater Manchester and councillors to such complicated regulation that sometimes a law-abiding from a number of Greater Manchester authorities, including motorist cannot work out from the local signs and Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Trafford, Stockport and practices whether the parking regulation applies or not. Salford. It was interesting that those attendees from a For example, do the parking restrictions apply on bank vast range of different backgrounds all spoke with one holidays? Often, the sign is silent on that point. Is the voice. They did not understand why the clauses affecting sign clear about whether different rules apply on Sundays? taxis were being rushed through in the Deregulation Is the sign close enough to the parking area in question? Bill. They wanted them to be withdrawn, and replaced Are there different restrictions on different sides of the by holistic legislation that focused on the Law Commission same street, as sometimes happens in London? Do we review. At a meeting of such a diverse group of people, know where one set of restrictions ends and another it is unusual for everyone to speak with one voice. begins? We know that there are already problems in the There can also be variable bus lane times, and it can system. In the north-west, for instance, Rossendale has be difficult to keep up with the changing regulations. licensed more than 1,000 hackney carriages, most of This shows that there are circumstances in which a which are being used not in Rossendale but elsewhere. council thinks it perfectly reasonable to allow parking Where are the checks being carried out, and by whom? in a particular area or use of a bus lane at certain times We do not have national standards, so a taxi that is but not at others. The motorist could be in genuine licensed in Rossendale but does not reach the standards doubt about the restrictions, or perhaps feel that they required by the authorities in Bolton could be driving were unfair or frivolous because they did not fall into around Bolton. In that situation, a passenger in Bolton the category of restrictions that are essential to ensuring who wanted to complain about that taxi could not do that traffic can flow and that safety sightlines are so to officers in Bolton, as they would have no right to maintained. inspect the vehicle or check the driver. We can use this little debate to probe the underlying In Sheffield, North East Derbyshire district council problem that we are trying to address. We can also use it has licensed a Sheffield-based operator that uses hackney to allow the House of Commons to tell councils that carriages licensed by Gedling borough council, so in some of them are overdoing parking restrictions or are effect no council has regulatory control. Sheffield council chopping and changing the regulations too often during is particularly powerless when there are complaints the day or on different days of the week. Perhaps those from Sheffield residents about taxis overcharging or regulations have not been properly thought through. poor driver behaviour. The interesting question for me Perhaps the enforcement is unfair, or too sharp. If is why Rossendale, for example, is licensing so many taxi someone has been delayed by three minutes while paying drivers. Why are firms going to Rossendale or Gedling for something in a shop, they could find that they have for licences? Is it because the regimes in those places are committed an offence because they could not get back much easier to get through, or because it is cheaper to to their car within the given time on their ticket. People get the vehicles licensed there? What is it about the often have to be quite prescient in those circumstances. system in those places? When the system as a whole is They need to know exactly how long it will take them to fractured, there are all sorts of ways for disreputable get to the shop, find their goods, queue to pay for them drivers and companies, or people who are simply trying at the till and get out again. They do not want to to make the quickest buck they can, to get through it. overpay for what can be quite expensive parking, but if There is also the question of whether operators should they get it slightly wrong, they can end up with a big be able to make journeys across local area borders. We fine. That is why people think that this is a nasty lottery need to look holistically at what we do about those in which the councils are the only winners, and camera cross-border journeys to ensure that there can be enforced parking restrictions can be even worse for the enforcement of regulations. No matter where a taxi is individuals concerned. licensed, if it is operating in Bolton, why can Bolton So, one cheer for the Government for realising that enforcement officers not be allowed to enforce regulations this is a big issue and coming up with their modest on that vehicle? I am not sure that the answer is necessarily proposal on camera enforcement, but may we please to say that it is not possible. We need a framework in have some more, because this does not solve the overall which it can happen, whereby local authorities can get problem? Solving the overall problem will help parades remuneration to enable them to carry out checks when of shops and town centres in places where trade is not licensing has been carried out by a different authority. good. This irritating, over-bureaucratic, over-regulated The situation is complex and is made much worse by parking is one reason that people do not bother even to this legislation. try to park in those areas, because they think they are The issue came to my attention when the parents of a going to end up with a fine for behaving perfectly 13-year-old girl came to one of my constituency surgeries reasonably. because they were concerned about a specific incident 47 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 48

[Julie Hilling] Some authorities might argue that other authorities license vehicles that they would deem to be substandard that had happened to her. She had taken a taxi. To start because they have a higher threshold. Does she accept with she was going to Bolton, but part way through the that the age and condition of the vehicle is also of journey she received a call from her friend to say they paramount importance to local people? needed to meet elsewhere. It appears that at some point on the journey the taxi driver turned off all his monitoring 5pm equipment, including his GPS. The 13-year-old was taken to quite a remote estate in the constituency. The Julie Hilling: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. taxi driver parked up and said that he was just waiting When a vehicle can be licensed in one authority and the for a friend to bring him his mobile phone charger. driver in another, and both can operate somewhere else, Fortunately, the girl started to get agitated. She had told we have a ridiculous situation in which nobody can the driver that she was 16, because her mum had said enforce standards because the vehicle will never be that she should tell people that she was a little bit older, driven in the authority where either licence was granted. thinking that it would offer her protection. In fact, in He is absolutely right that we have no equality of these circumstances it appears to have done the opposite. standards across the piece. It is a ludicrous situation, The girl became concerned about the questions the taxi and it is ludicrous that the Government intend to deregulate driver was starting to ask her about her social life and further. It makes no sense whatsoever. so on. Fortunately, she had the nous to get out of the I wrote to the Secretary of State about my 13-year-old taxi. She played a ruse and said she wanted to pop over constituent. In response, I was told that legislation to a nearby shop and buy some cigarettes, of all things. obliges a local authority to satisfy itself that any person The taxi driver agreed, saying they could share them, to whom it grants a taxi or public service vehicle licence and she got out of the taxi and ran like hell. Fortunately, is a fit and proper person to hold such a licence, but “fit she met a bystander who listened to her, took her to the and proper” is not defined in legislation and it therefore local McDonald’s, called the police and waited with her falls to the local authority to decide. Why do the until they turned up. Government think that further deregulation will keep It turned out that the taxi driver had a record of past my constituents safe? misdemeanours. He was taken through the tribunal When I first read the clause that allows family members system and lost his licence, so is now unable to operate to drive an off-duty taxi or private hire vehicle, I could in Bolton. But, like me, the girl’s parents were horrified see no problems with it and thought it seemed a sensible to learn that although the driver is banned in Bolton, he idea. I asked the operators and others involved about could become a taxi driver anywhere else, depending on that when we met. I was not wholly convinced by the whether another local authority did a police check. answer and so asked whether the taxi markings could be Because he was not prosecuted, a police check might removed. I was told that that would be extremely difficult not throw up the fact that he was a danger to the for taxis operating in my local authority—I guess this travelling public and, it would appear, to young women would be the case for all taxis operating outside London— in particular. because they are clearly marked as taxis. Another issue I asked the Department for Transport a written question that was raised was what would happen in areas where about the proportion of local authorities in England taxis are allowed to use bus lanes. What would happen and Wales that require a disclosure and barring service if an off-duty taxi used a bus lane? How would we check on applicants before issuing a taxi or private hire enforce proper usage? I was then convinced by their vehicle licence, and I received this response: arguments. “The Department for Transport does not hold this information. As we talked through those matters, I realised that in Local authorities are under a statutory duty to ensure that any person to whom they grant a taxi or private hire vehicle driver’s all our areas we already have a massive problem with licence is a ‘fit and proper person’. As part of this process they unlicensed taxis touting for business, particularly late at can undertake”— night. I am no longer often in city centres late at night, note the word “can”— but I have been in the past. It has to be said that one can become quite desperate when looking for a taxi. In “criminal record checks on applicants but we do not keep details particular, young people who have perhaps been drinking of the assessment policies and procedures adopted by local authorities.”—[Official Report, 28 April 2014; Vol. 579, c. 522W.] more than they should will not be rigorous about checking the identity of the driver or the car; they are simply That “can” seems totally inadequate. delighted to be getting a lift home. We should not I have asked questions about whether all local introduce any measures that weaken regulation and authorities carry out police checks, but as no one holds make it more likely that people will get into a vehicle the information, we do not know the answer. That is that is not being driven by the licensed driver. another reason why we need holistic legislation that ensures that licensing authorities carry out proper checks Graham Jones: My hon. Friend is making a powerful on drivers. We need a system in which a person who is argument, and one that I think the general public will banned by one local authority is banned, full stop. The have a lot of sympathy with. Does she agree that there changes proposed in the Bill will make the situation are also implications for police enforcement? In my worse, not better. area, taxi drivers are sometimes drug couriers, and the police find them. If we are going to deregulate who can Graham Jones: My hon. Friend makes a powerful drive the vehicle, the question of who is the mule—is it point. Does she accept that that principle applies not the driver or the person taking the car?—is a serious only to the licensee but to the condition of the vehicle? problem for police enforcement. Who is driving that We have varying licensing conditions for vehicles themselves. vehicle? Who is the person who last had it? 49 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 50

Julie Hilling: My hon. Friend makes a powerful point the legislation on taxis, private hire vehicles and hackney yet again. I absolutely agree that we need clarity on who carriages. Incredibly, there was near-unanimous support is the driver of the vehicle, particularly one that is across the Chamber, even from Government Members marked as a taxi, and what the vehicle is involved in, who seemed to agree that the reforms were poorly whether it be legitimate or illegitimate trade. drafted, rushed, and involved risk and unintended All the people who came to the initial meeting—drivers, consequences. Taxis and private hire vehicles form an trade union representatives, operators and enforcers—said essential part of our national transport system. Indeed, that nobody in the industry was calling for the right for for many of our elderly and disabled constituents, they family members to be able to drive the cars. They are all are often the only form of public transport; that applies happy with the current situation, because they understand particularly to those of us who represent rural or semi-rural how it protects them, their family and their trade when areas. I fear that in the rush to deregulate, changes are their vehicle is used for business, not pleasure. I find it being proposed that may well endanger public safety. difficult to understand where the proposal came from, Those concerns are being expressed not only by me because the trade is not calling for it. It might be very and by other Labour MPs but by, among others, Unite, generous of the Minister to say, “A driver won’t have to my union; the RMT; the GMB, which represents thousands have a second car because his wife can drive his”, but of drivers of private hire and hackney vehicles all over they do not want that. the country; the National Association of Licensing and There are real problems with the current system. I Enforcement Officers; the Local Government Association; wholeheartedly ask the Minister seriously to consider and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. I have met all those removing these nonsensical provisions from the Bill, to bodies, or they have been in contact with my office to make sure that we have holistic legislation based on the express their worries about the nature and implications Law Commission report, and to support our amendment. of these proposals for the deregulation of private hire We need a national register of drivers. We need national vehicles. standards for drivers and vehicle operators before we Opposition Members have expressed a particular concern ever allow them to sub-contract. We need robust licensing about clause 10, which will enable people who do not policies in all licensing authorities. We need a clear duty hold a private hire vehicle licence to drive that vehicle and method for local authorities to share data with the when off duty. The reform will surely lead to an increase police and other local authorities. We need the local in the number of unlicensed drivers posing as legitimate authority where taxis are operating to be able to undertake drivers, if there is very little that policing or licensing checks and enforcement wherever the driver or the authorities can do, in practice, to identify bogus drivers. vehicle is registered, and for the enforcement body to be Following the Westminster Hall debate, I conducted recompensed for that enforcement. a consultation exercise with taxi and private hire vehicle The Government should, as soon as possible, initiate drivers in my constituency. One of my findings was that a proper national system for taxis and private hire passengers very rarely, if ever, ask drivers to show their vehicles. That would be welcomed by the profession and licence badge. Drivers made it clear that they felt that by everybody involved in it, including licensing bodies, the operation of unlicensed taxis in their area risked local authorities, and, most importantly— damaging the reputation of, and confidence in, the firms they worked for. Mr Redwood: Is the hon. Lady telling the House that I want to draw the Minister’s attention to the concerns the current licensing system is poor and allows through voiced by some 19 police and crime commissioners people it should not? Is she really sure that councils around the country, including mine, Ron Hogg, the would welcome a national system? police and crime commissioner for County Durham and Darlington. His view is that an inevitable consequence Julie Hilling: I thank the right hon. Gentleman for of this deregulation will be an increase in the number of his intervention because it allows me to reiterate what I people attacked after a night out. said. Yes, the National Association of Licensing and For the sake of the record, I want to make the Enforcement Operators has called for a more rigorous Minister aware of police figures showing that, in London policy. It welcomed the Law Commission report and alone, 214 women were sexually assaulted last year after the notion of holistic legislation that could introduce getting into an illegal minicab or an unlicensed taxi, and some of the things the Government want but also 54 were raped. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, a leading created a robust system to ensure that we do not have independent women’s safety charity, shares my concerns. rogue operators, rogue drivers, or people who are a risk It has said that clause 10 to the travelling public. “will provide greater opportunity for those intent on preying on I call on the Government to introduce holistic legislation women in this way.” and to remove these three piecemeal and ridiculous None of us wants our constituents to be put at risk—I clauses from the Bill to ensure that the travelling public do not believe that the Minister does, either—but passenger are safe and not put more at risk. safety and public confidence in the taxi and private hire vehicle industry should not be undermined by the Grahame M. Morris: I urge the House to support Government’s mad dash to deregulate. amendments 61 and 1, and to reject clause 35. I will not There are concerns about clause 11, which will set rehearse the strong arguments comprehensively and standard durations of three years for taxi and private ably made by my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool hire vehicle driver licences, and of five years for private South (Mr Marsden) about the safety of seafarers. hire vehicle operator licences. The industry and trade I want to say a few words about the Government’s unions expressed concerns on that point during the proposals on taxi deregulation. In April, I held a limited time available for the consultation. The National Westminster Hall debate on their proposed reforms to Private Hire Association and the Institute of Licensing 51 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 52

[Grahame M. Morris] might be nurses or home care workers travelling back from employment. They might have a preferred operator have said that the clause will remove flexibility from because they know they will be transported safely. A councils, and there are already concerns about how disabled passenger might know their preferred provider effectively drivers are scrutinised. to be competent in assisting disabled passengers, and Although local authorities impose licence conditions they may have confidence and comfort in the knowledge on private hire vehicle drivers and operators that require that a particular provider will take them home safely. them to report criminal convictions and changes to My consultation found that drivers appreciated those their medical status within a specified period, in practice concerns, and as a consequence, were overwhelmingly such conditions are often ignored. Even in the case of opposed to the reforms. Particularly in relation to driver licences, although the police are supposed to subcontracting, there is a risk in passing jobs from one inform the local authority of any recordable convictions— company to another. It is not the wonderful panacea indeed, the police have the discretion to inform the local that some advocates of deregulation, such as the right authority of minor matters—information is often given hon. Member for Wokingham (Mr Redwood), who is haphazardly. no longer in his place, would have us believe. The House Some local authorities get information directly from really should think about some of the consequences, their local police force, but—for the Minister, it is a big including the unintended consequences, of the proposals. but—in very few instances do local authorities receive information from police forces outside their area. My Graham Jones: My hon. Friend makes a powerful hon. Friend the Member for Hyndburn (Graham Jones), point. People might be expecting a vehicle that is perhaps who is sitting alongside me, made that very point. It is five years old at most, and that has been crash-tested for important, because one of the Bill’s provisions will safety, from an operator they are familiar with and a allow subcontracting, so a taxi or private hire firm local authority that has a very robust licensing system; might come from another area and be covered by a but the vehicle that turns up may be from another different police force. authority, or could even have been licensed in the far I remind the House that effective implementation will ends of the United Kingdom. It could have no age require local authorities to sign up to the Disclosure restrictions on it, and be poorly MOT-tested, or its tests and Barring Service in order to receive information may not have been as frequent as they would have been about convictions during the term of a licence. The under the local authority. The vehicle may not be as Minister has said that he does not see any problem, but robust or as sound—it is only as good as it was on the the service is relatively new, and how it will work in date on which it got its MOT—as a vehicle that their practice is not yet known. We know that local authorities local authority would permit. People could end up with have inadequate control over, or powers for, effective a vehicle that is unsatisfactory, compared with what policing or enforcement, so how will the extension of they would expect in their local authority area, because cross-border work that the provision will bring in be of the cross-border taxi proposal. properly licensed and controlled? The lack of confidence in clause 11 is further evidence, I believe, of the rushed Grahame M. Morris: I am grateful to my hon. Friend and piecemeal nature of the reforms. for that intervention. He makes a very sensible point. Apart from choice and preference, and whether a cab or 5.15 pm a private hire vehicle is adapted for the disabled, there One of my principal concerns relates to the Government are also issues about levels of maintenance, and different proposal to allow private hire vehicles to subcontract standards in different local authority areas. and book an operator in a different licensing area. On the Opposition side of the House, and on my When I re-read in Hansard the Minister’s response in part, there is agreement about the need for reform of the Westminster Hall debate, and indeed on Second the industry. However, there is consensus across the Reading and in Committee, I saw that he said that the trade that this piecemeal approach is not what is needed. change would give customers more choice—that was What is different since the Westminster Hall debate a part of his justification—and that it might be advantageous, couple of months ago is that the Law Commission has in that passengers could ring up their local provider if now reported. In his opening statement, the Minister they did not know who to call. However, passengers said that the Law Commission agrees with clauses 10 to may well not want to use the subcontractor that has 12; well, that is not quite the whole truth, is it? What the been sent to their door. At the moment, they have some Law Commission has advocated—and for the life of degree of control over that. me, I cannot understand why the Government are not Quality is an issue, and in some cases, the name of a following through on this—is a comprehensive review company is important—a Government Member raised to get rid of the inconsistency in standards across the that point during the Minister’s opening statement. country that my hon. Friend the Member for Hyndburn People may book on that basis, and may choose not and others identified, and to deal with the concerns to book others on the same basis. A customer might about inadequate enforcement. The idea that we can choose a local operator because of their local knowledge, cherry-pick three proposals for deregulation and that because they like those particular drivers and feel there will be no consequences flies in the face of what comfortable with them, or because they have experienced the Law Commission is about, and seems rather contrary. problems with another operator. A member of the As my hon. Friends have indicated, the Law public might call a specific operator because they feel Commission’s July 2013 interim statement said that if that they are reliable and safe to travel with. I am reforms were to be implemented, they must be underpinned thinking specifically about women travelling home. They by tougher powers for licensing officers. I do not see might not be travelling back from a night out; they why the proposed reforms are so urgent that the 53 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 54

Government should bypass meaningful consultation; in The deregulation of the taxi industry could also lead to doing so, they are undermining the work of the Law rogue taxi drivers, criminals posing as drivers, passengers Commission that they initiated. being ripped off, and people being unsure whether the We must have a holistic approach; changes to regulation taxi they have flagged down is legitimate. should be considered in the context of the legislation as Ministers should surely follow the 2011 proposals of a whole, rather than in a piecemeal fashion. Failure to experts on the cross-party Select Committee on Transport, do so not only disregards the trade and other stakeholders, who advised the Government to listen to users—particularly but may put passenger safety at risk. The reforms look those in vulnerable groups—those in the trade, and set to endanger the travelling public and ignore stakeholders. local authorities, and to keep the situation simple and I do not believe that they are fit for purpose, and they local. Instead, clauses 10 to 12 show a systematic attempt should be removed from the Bill. to water down standards and rules that were designed to serve and protect the public. Caroline Lucas: I rise to reinforce some of the arguments I come back to the sense that this is being driven that hon. Members have made about amendment 61, to by—I do not know: is it being driven by ideology or which I have added my name. Many people in my something else? During the debate of the hon. Member constituency have raised this issue with me, and there is for Easington in Westminster Hall, I just observed that real concern about public safety. Nothing that I have the boss of the minicab giant Addison Lee had made an heard from the Government this afternoon has put my individual donation of £500,000 to the Conservatives mind—or, I am sure, my constituents’ minds—at rest. last year—it was reported as the third largest donation Taxi companies in my constituency have also raised in the three months to the end of September. Government concerns. I come back to a theme to which other hon. Members immediately started jumping up to point out Members have returned time and again: nobody really that Addison Lee does not currently operate outside knows what is driving these measures. People are not London and so has no particular interest. However, asking for them; on the contrary, organisations that are Addison Lee is on record as saying that it would very watching the proposals are sounding the alarm. They much like to operate outside London. I will leave it include the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which we should there; I simply say that when we are searching for a surely listen to closely. Given that no counter-argument reason to understand why the Government are pursuing is coming from other organisations to balance the this policy, one cannot help but notice that there has discussion, it strikes me as incredibly perverse for the been a very large donation from Addison Lee. Government to push ahead with these measures and fly in the face of so much advice suggesting that there are John McDonnell: I convene the RMT group in dangers involved. Parliament. I raised these issues at the RMT conference this morning and we had a discussion about their I was particularly moved to hear the hon. Member implications. for Bolton West (Julie Hilling) again tell the House the story of her 13-year-old constituent—she raised that On the taxi and minicab issue, the RMT represents topic in the Westminster Hall debate secured by the only the black cabs in London, which has been prayed hon. Member for Easington (Grahame M. Morris) a in aid as operating the system that will now be rolled few weeks ago. It was horrifying to hear that story then, out elsewhere. I want to dissuade the Minister from the just as it was today. The bottom line is that people with view that the RMT is happy with the regime in London disabilities, young women, those worried about how at the moment. In fact, in the RMT’s view, there should they will get home at night, and those without access to be further regulation, with annual testing. The figures a car will be watching for the implications of clauses 10 have already been given for assaults and rapes, which to 12, and they are worried about them. are occurring even in the capital city’s regulated regime. Brighton and Hove has 1,800 drivers who serve our What worries me is exactly what others have said. city well. Many of them have said that they are worried From the point of view of the union and a number of about the Government’s attempts to rush through changes other organisations that have been cited, everyone thought to the regulations, and that the measures will be bad for that we were on a journey over the last couple of years: the travelling public and the city, and potentially dangerous. the Law Commission would conduct its investigation The Government proposals seem rushed and are another and review; there would be adequate consultation; a example of unthinking, anti-regulation, small-state ideology comprehensive Bill would be produced; and then we that has no basis in evidence or common sense and, as would establish a regime that, although perhaps not has been said, risks putting public safety at risk. everyone would be happy with it, would at least be nationally comprehensive, effective, properly enforced We have had nothing close to meaningful consultation, and readily understandable. There is therefore a lack of and the Government even failed to discuss these changes comprehension of why the measures have been introduced with councils before tabling the clauses. The Local in such haste. In fact, I am led to believe that one of the Government Association put it politely, but states clearly: informal consultations on some of the legislation lasted “We are disappointed that the LGA was not made aware of only 10 days and was conducted by e-mail. these proposed clauses until they were brought before the Deregulation Bill Committee.” There may well be some association between donations, speed and amendments, but to be frank, what concerns Where is the speed coming from? Why do we have to me most is getting the legislation right, and I just do not pre-empt other processes to get these measures into think that the measure will prove effective. I think it will statute so fast? cause more problems than it is worth. I also think it There is concern that the proposals could lead to will prove deeply unpopular as it is rolled out. If there is women being put at risk of assault or attack by unlicensed a lack of safety, particularly for women, the Government and unregulated drivers when they travel late at night. will reap the whirlwind. They will face a backlash, 55 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 56

[John McDonnell] I asked the Minister in an intervention what would happen if the Government went ahead with this and because what they are doing flies in the face of all the what would be contained in the detail of the regulations, expert evidence that has been presented. Everyone who but I have yet to hear a response. I hope the Minister practises on the ground, right across the country, is will respond in detail later. I would like to see something saying that this is not the way to go about it, so I along the lines of amendment 1, tabled by my hon. caution the Government: they are making a mistake Friend the Member for Blackpool South. That would at today and may well want to think again before the day least provide some protection for the involvement of is out. interested parties, particularly the relatives. It would On marine investigations, again, people are slightly also give some commitment that, if information emerges bewildered about why the measure is included in this from which we might learn lessons regarding the future Bill. I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool safety of seafarers, that should be a relevant factor in South (Mr Marsden), who sits on the Front Bench, for the considerations. taking us through the history and in particular the I hope that this legislation does not go through Derbyshire incident. I, too, want to go back to that tonight, but if it does, I urge that a proper and detailed incident, because I find it extraordinary. I remember the consultation be held with all those in the seafaring campaign about the Derbyshire and I remember that industry and all those who work in the maritime sector, key period when a number of the unions and others so that the regulations can be considered in detail. We were raising the problems with that type of ship. From need to learn the lessons not just from the Derbyshire 1975 to 1997, nearly 400 of them went down and we lost but from other cases and from those who have been something like 1,300 seafarers. The Derbyshire was one involved in the campaigns. of those ships. There was an issue with design and safety. Let me repeat that the current regulations came from At the time, there were all sorts of insinuations about Conservative legislation, which I supported at the time it being the crew’s fault. The RMT undertook its own and helped to campaign for outside this place. I simply investigation, along with Nautilus and the International cannot understand why the Conservative party is stepping Transport Workers Federation, as my hon. Friend said. back tonight from what has proved to be an effective They found the ship and discovered the real causes. piece of legislation that was implemented on a cross-party However, the investigation would not have been reopened and consensual basis. My hon. Friend the Member for but for a piece of legislation introduced in 1995 by—who? Blackpool South mentioned the role of Lord Prescott By a Conservative Government. Until then, the system in ensuring that the inquiry was reopened; he used the was not satisfactory. The Derbyshire relatives, the unions legislation that the Conservative Government had and others had to campaign because reopening an introduced. I ask Members to think again before approving inquiry was left to the whim of a Minister. That was this measure, which has a significance beyond a deregulation unsatisfactory. A Conservative Government thus changed Bill; it drives to the heart of our maritime industry and the legislation to provide for an automatic reopening of to the protection of seafarers as they risk their lives on an inquiry when new evidence was found. behalf of our economy. 5.30 pm We have heard the argument that inquiries should not Kelvin Hopkins: We have heard a series of excellent be reopened on the basis of slight or insubstantial speeches from my hon. Friends, which I think have evidence. None has reopened in that way. No inquiries comprehensively demolished the Government position have resulted from people coming forward with evidence on just about every front. I do not wish to repeat the relating to a ship sunk a century ago and demanding an fine arguments made by my hon. Friends and other inquiry. What people want is the confidence they never Members on the Opposition Benches; rather, I shall say had before the Conservative Government introduced a few words about perhaps the lightest of the relevant the legislation: that when new information becomes issues—parking and parking enforcement. available, an inquiry will automatically be reopened. I do not believe anyone has spoken up today for those The people most affected—the relatives—have an most affected by parking. Those who watched the news important role to play. The point was made about reports last night no doubt saw some drivers, typically closure. The Derbyshire relatives wanted to know what male drivers, saying, “We don’t want too much parking happened to the 42 seafarers and the two wives who regulation. We’d like a bit less regulation and a bit more went down. Until they knew, there would always be freedom.” It was all a bit “Jack the Lad”. On the other allegations, there would always be uncertainty. They just hand, we heard a middle-aged woman saying, “I want wanted to know what happened to their relatives. At to see the parking laws enforced properly, because we least the legislation gave them some potential for closure. do not want to be affected by it, and if people break the law they should face the penalties of the law.” I strongly I can understand why, if we are scrutinising legislation, agree with her. we might want to remove elements of regulations that are no longer needed and no longer effective, but everyone I am sure we have all had postbags bulging with in the sector and everyone who represents seafarers is complaints about parking problems, and it is nearly saying that these regulations are desperately needed, always from people who have been abused by people because they provide confidence and security to the who have parked irregularly. The right hon. Member for families in the whole sector and to seafarers themselves Wokingham (Mr Redwood) kept confusing the rules on that when an incident has occurred and new information parking and where people can park with the enforcement has come to light, there will automatically be an of those rules. We are talking about enforcement. If investigation. It will not be left to the discretion of an rules are not enforced, it means that people are getting individual Minister and decided on a whim. away with breaking the law. 57 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 58

Mr Redwood: I did not confuse them at all. I drew the Kelvin Hopkins: The right hon. Gentleman may distinction. I said that the reason people are fed up with remember that I was not always in favour of everything the enforcement is that, in many cases, they do not that new Labour did. In fact, I wanted to go a great deal think the rules are fair. further. I called myself a democratic socialist, rather than new Labour. Kelvin Hopkins: If the right hon. Gentleman wants to challenge those rules, that is fine, but we are talking Julie Hilling: Does my hon. Friend recall that the about the enforcement of the rules that exist. To most then Tory Opposition continuously argued against people, I think, the rules are probably reasonable, but regulation of banks and other financial institutions? the enforcement sometimes falls down, and I think that using CCTV to enforce those rules is absolutely right. I Kelvin Hopkins: My hon. Friend is right. I think that do not want the rules to be weakened, and I do not want we are now recognising the mistakes of the past and, the enforcement to be weakened. I want to help people perhaps, seeing the supertanker beginning to turn. I who are affected badly by parking. For example, people want it to turn much faster, and move towards the more park across my neighbour’s driveway when football civilised society that we had before the deregulatory matches are on. It is completely unacceptable that he society that we have seen for the last 20 or 30 years. should be blocked into or out of the driveway by other I think that I have made my point. I think that the Bill people parking across the it; that is simply not on. is dogmatic, and that bits of deregulation have been put These problems may not be as important as the in to give it some kind of meaning. I think that the investigation of accidents at sea, or the potential dangers Government are profoundly mistaken. The speeches involved in the licensing of private hire vehicles, but made by Opposition Members have demolished the they do affect people and people are concerned about Government’s arguments, and I look forward to seeing them. I want strong enforcement of the parking rules to the Government defeated in the Lobbies. continue. As the right hon. Member for Wokingham said, we may sometimes challenge the way in which the Graham Jones: I want to speak about the Government rules operate, but they should be enforced none the less. measures on the deregulation of taxi licensing. My hon. I entirely agree with what was said by my hon. Friend Friend the Member for Easington (Grahame M. Morris) the Member for Bolton West (Julie Hilling) about the made a valuable point when he said the light-touch need for a national register. There is no reason why we approach is not necessarily the best one. In this case, should not have one. We have automatic number plate certainly, while we have the localisation of taxi licensing, recognition on a national basis. It ought to be very easy we can see a plethora of problems in taxi licensing that for the police to find out quickly who someone is and will not be resolved and, indeed, will be made considerably what his or her car is by means of an electronic register. worse by the measures. They could do a lot of damage to taxi licensing and the respect taxi drivers have in the I also agree with what the hon. Member for Brighton, taxi licensing industry if quality and standards for the Pavilion (Caroline Lucas) said about the Bill. I was a fare-paying passenger start to erode. I will therefore member of the Joint Committee that subjected it to vote against these amendments tonight if a Division is pre-legislative scrutiny. I thought then that it was driven called, and I want to explain why I cannot support by dogma, and I still think that. The Government want them. to say “We are the great deregulating Government,” so they must introduce deregulation Bills, but I am a On the issue of non-drivers being able to drive cars, I regulator: I want more regulation in certain circumstances; mentioned earlier one concern that I have in Lancashire. I want life to be made more civilised; I want ordinary We work with Lancashire police and we get taxi drivers people to be protected by regulation. I do not want who are involved in criminal activity—fortunately not freedom for people who will make life miserable for many, but a significant number none the less. The police other people, and that may mean more regulation. I am work with the local authority to deal with criminality a re-regulator, not a deregulator. I shall certainly vote through taxi licensing. Occasionally taxis are used for against the Bill tonight, not just because it is dogmatic, couriering drugs around. The police have a difficult job but because of what is in it. trying to determine who was responsible for the drugs in a particular vehicle, and that will be made more difficult when there are other drivers of a vehicle in Grahame M. Morris: Does my hon. Friend agree that which the police find drugs or other illegal items. Having the banks collapsed not because there was too much various individuals driving a particular vehicle may regulation, but because there was too little? The Government throw considerable doubt on such matters. My constituents are advocating deregulation and a light touch. would expect me to raise the point as to the need to be clear about who is driving a vehicle, who is in a taxi, and Kelvin Hopkins: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. I who is licensed to drive that taxi, and where. will not get on to the subject of the banks, Madam All these things are crucial, because, certainly in my Deputy Speaker, because you would stop me if I did, area, if we are to have a taxi industry that the public but I think that they are too unregulated now. We have respect, we need a taxi policy the public have confidence banks in public ownership which are still not behaving in, and I do not think the public will have confidence in themselves because they are not sufficiently regulated. a taxi policy that opens the door to criminality. For my constituents, there is no worse form of criminality than Mr Redwood: Does the hon. Gentleman recollect that the transportation of drugs in taxis. I must emphasise the whole of banking regulation was completely changed that this does not happen frequently, but when it does by the incoming Labour Government, who introduced happen—and it does happen—it is worrying. Not knowing new agencies? I presume that he is criticising them. who is driving a vehicle is therefore of some concern. 59 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 60

[Graham Jones] rather ridiculous that that local authority is licensing taxis in Scotland. I do not think that a taxi driver from As I have said, having non-drivers, so to speak, Scotland would ply his trade in that area. Essentially, driving taxis is certainly of concern to my local constabulary, there is a race to the bottom. and I am sure there are many other reasons why people What is aggravating the situation is that local authorities’ will feel uneasy about that, too, not least the issues revenues have been taken away by the Government’s mentioned to do with the abuse of taxis—having the austerity cuts, and they are chasing revenue. Local plates on the sides of taxis and non-drivers driving in authorities therefore see taxi operators as a means to an bus lanes and so forth—or having rogue drivers in those income, which means that they want to increase the age taxis thinking they can take a chance and pick up a fare threshold of the vehicles and relax the inspection regime. even though they are not a licensed taxi driver. There is We are talking about consumers of local authority a host of issues around individuals who are not licensed services in what is a marketplace, so a race to the to drive taxis but who may drive the vehicle as a taxi bottom in taxi licensing is taking place. Local authorities where the plate is on the side and they think they can get near me have raised the age threshold for vehicles away with it. considerably and reduced inspections, allowing them I have grave concerns about the three and five-year to take place in the private sector, which gives rise to licences, primarily because it will remove local authority questions about whether the inspection process is robust control. Situations may also arise where people on three enough. There is deep concern about the age of such and five-year licences may have been involved in issues vehicles. My local authority frequently carries out MOT that would have led to a suspension in one area where tests on vehicles, and that testing must be done through the licence applies but it has not done so and they carry the local authority MOT testing station. We have a very on operating with the licence in other areas, and they do high standard, and the age limit for such vehicles is not have to appear before the committee for a fresh seven years. I doubt whether my constituents want licence. That it may be accepted and a given that they 20-year-old charabancs with 400,000 miles on the clock carry on with that licence is worrying. We are trying to turning up, driven by someone with a five-year licence raise the standards of taxi operators, taxi licences and who may have a conviction for violent assault or carrying taxi vehicles, and this erodes that. The fact that taxi drugs, and who can ply his trade in Hyndburn simply drivers will not be compelled to come back before the because he is licensed from another authority. local authority licensing committee regularly will open This provision will make the situation far worse the system up to those who would take advantage of the because the customer will not be in control. They will longevity of their licence to carry on plying their trade, phone up their local, trusted company, but the job will albeit legally in the authority that they licence from, but be subcontracted to a local authority in which the perhaps not up to the standard of the local authority in standards may not be as high, or far lower, and where which they are operating. the licensing conditions may be far more relaxed. The driver who turns up may well be a sex offender, or have 5.45 pm some sort of criminal record. The vehicle may well be The third and final issue I wish to discuss is 20 years old, with many thousands of miles on the subcontracting. As my hon. Friend the Member for clock, and it might have been tested at an MOT station Easington said, people might phone through to their where the methods are not quite as robust or reliable. Of favourite operator whom they know and trust, and that course, a vehicle’s MOT test is only as valid as the day operator could subcontract to another licensed firm in of the test and not the day after, so if we do not have another local authority area, and a vehicle that they are regular MOTs or other inspections, a vehicle’s condition unfamiliar with or unsure of could arrive at their door. cannot be as guaranteed as that of others where there is That raises all sorts of issues. Is it possible, as was a more robust testing regime. This comes back to the asked, to turn that taxi away, or does it have to be issue of choice; the customer is not in control. The accepted? Most people would probably assume that it customer will phone their favourite taxi firm and the was a taxi from the company they had phoned, and taxi will roll up from a taxi firm operating in a local would get in it. authority area with poorer standards, so what will we Hyndburn wants a local authority taxi licensing policy get? We will get poorer conditions. The fare-paying that reassures the public that the taxis are of a good public will not appreciate the proposal being put forward standard, that that standard is properly, professionally in their name because it devalues the service they receive. and regularly maintained by the local authority, and I am concerned that this provision is being introduced that the taxi drivers are reputable and meet a standard without any support, apart from among those on the determined by local people through localism and the Government Benches—although I sometimes doubt local authority. Other authorities might adopt standards whether it has any support there, because it does not that are a little bit lower—or in some cases, a lot make sense to anyone who is aware of the taxi industry. lower—and perhaps the people of Hyndburn do not A wider discussion needs to take place. The Law wish to have such taxis on their roads. However, this Commission is looking into taxi licensing issues that go provision will simply allow those taxis to turn up, beyond those in the three provisions today, yet the because the job is subcontracted to another local authority, Government have sought to bring forward these proposals and the paying passenger might be none the wiser or ahead of the Law Commission’s findings. That seems might simply feel obliged to take the taxi. bizarre, if not perverse or daft. We should have waited There is some variation in taxi licensing across the for the Law Commission to report because a restructuring United Kingdom. One local authority not far from me of taxi licensing needs to take place. The Law Commission’s was licensing taxis in Aberdeen. Anybody who knows input would have been valid and we would have sought my constituency knows that it is in the centre of the to iron out not only the problems the Government are United Kingdom, in the north of England, so it is exacerbating today, but some of the others that exist in 61 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 62 taxi licensing. So, with deep concern, I will be unable to The hon. Member for Blackpool South, like other support the proposals on taxi licensing. The Government Opposition Members, made a number of comments have got real problems with them, and they will have to about how we are putting passengers at risk and how examine them again and repeal them, because they are that risk could be greatly increased, but they did not in danger of presenting the paying public with drivers illustrate that with any examples. He attacked me for and vehicles they are not happy with. This is not the using London as an example—I believe he said I was public’s choice and they are being put in a very vulnerable praying it in aid—but London does have rather a big position. People will be upset to realise that the Government private hire vehicle market and so everything that he are not on their side, seem to be on the side of the taxi says is going transpire as a result of the measures we are operators and are, in essence, bringing a danger or a introducing would have already happened in London. threat to the customer’s door. The evidence shows that it has not. Let me make one further point. We talk about taxis, but we should not forget to mention things such as Grahame M. Morris: May I remind the Minister that minibuses and the importance of crash safety test standards. there were 54 rapes and more than 200 assaults in When can talk about minibuses on motorways taking London last year? Does he not think that should concern school kids, but let us up the ante a bit. It really does him and the whole House? matter that the right operator—the trusted one—turns up at the door. Let us suppose that 12 school kids are in Tom Brake: Clearly it concerns me, the Government a minibus where the seats have not been welded in to a and the whole House. The issue is that the hon. Gentleman crash safety test standard. Let us suppose that they are seems to be linking those very serious cases and what the whizzing down the motorway and are suddenly involved Government are proposing without actually producing any in an accident. Let us suppose that the favourite operator, evidence to suggest that there is a link between the two. which would normally have taken those children, has proper welded-in seats in a proper crash safety tested Graham Jones: Will the Minister give way? minibus. In such circumstances, lives could have been saved, and the Government will look at this legislation Tom Brake: I am going to make a bit more progress. and think that they have made a terrible mistake by The hon. Member for Blackpool South called on the sublicensing to other areas. Such a tragedy would cost Government to have a more comprehensive look at this lives in order for us to arrive at a sensible point, which is issue, but the Bill provides an opportunity to introduce why the Government ought to row back from the position the three measures which, as he will have heard me say, they are in. the Law Commission supports. We are introducing those three measures. He will know, as will other Opposition Tom Brake: First, I wish to respond to the points made Members, that Bills, unlike buses, do not come along in by the hon. Member for Blackpool South (Mr Marsden), threes; Bills come forward relatively infrequently and if who is not in his place. He started by discussing CCTV there is an opportunity to take small steps in relation to exemptions, which he wanted included in the Bill. I taxis, we should take them. made it clear in my opening remarks precisely what the exemptions were, but to avoid doubt I will simply repeat Mr Marsden: I am listening with care to what the them. CCTV cameras can still be used in relation to Minister is saying, but so much of the thrust of the criticism restricted areas outside a school; red routes or clearways; that has been made has been about how the Government bus lanes, where parking is prohibited; and cases where have put the cart before the House. When were these a vehicle is stopped at a restricted bus stop or stand. measures put into this Bill? That is very clear. Tom Brake: I will address that shortly. The hon. Gentleman attempted a joke at the Government’s expense Richard Burden (Birmingham, Northfield) (Lab): The about whether the Department for Communities and Minister has indicated where he intends exemptions to Local Government and the Department for Transport be made, but he has not answered the questions my hon. had spoken about these matters. The consultation was Friend put to him. Where will those exemptions be issued jointly in December by both Departments, and listed? Where will they be codified? Under what regulations the announcements that Members will have seen in the will they be introduced? When will those regulations be press at the weekend were supported by both Secretaries laid? of State and both Departments. Clearly, Departments are working hand in hand on this issue, as they should be. Tom Brake: I thank the hon. Gentleman for his The hon. Gentleman has stated that we did not listen intervention and I am sure we will shortly provide the to the Law Commission, but it supports the three clarity he seeks. measures. He, like a number of Members, asked about My hon. Friend the Member for Rochford and Southend enforcement, which will be dealt with in the usual way. East (James Duddridge) raised the issue of CCTV and For example, where journey bookings are subcontracted parking, and asked when we would introduce regulations across licensing boundaries the operator that takes the and commence the provision. Clearly we will do that as initial booking will retain liability and licensing authorities soon as is practicable after . He also suggested can investigate any issues in the usual way, so local that we could restrict CCTV use through statutory authorities retain their licensing duties. guidance. There is a need to legislate; the difficulty at the moment is that local authorities are not supposed to Graham Jones: The Minister rightly says that the use CCTV other than in exceptional circumstances, licence will be administered by the local authority, but but its use is proliferating. We need to respond to that the vehicle that turns up at the door may well not be because CCTV is now being used routinely. licensed by the local authority, and nor may the driver. 63 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 64

[Graham Jones] John McDonnell: The reason why the Conservative Government introduced the legislation was that the The operator might be, but the driver and the vehicle decision was at the discretion of the Minister. This may well not be licensed by the local authority where measure returns it to the discretion of a Minister—it the original booking is made. does not matter which party is in power—in whom the public no longer have confidence. Tom Brake: I will come to that matter shortly in response to another intervention, and I hope that the Tom Brake: As the hon. Gentleman will have heard hon. Gentleman will be satisfied with my answer. me say in relation to miscarriages of justice, there is no Moving on to the issue of marine safety, the hon. flexibility. There will be an automatic reopening of the Member for Blackpool South suggested that I had used inquiry. I hope that he agrees that there must be some a bad example when I referred to something that had assessment of whether or not new evidence should happened 100 years ago, although I think that he, or trigger a formal reopening of an inquiry. Surely the someone from his party, went on to do the same. The evidence must pertain to the incident. It has to be of a issue is that, under his suggested amendment, if a wreck nature that is likely to lead to safety improvements. were discovered 100 years from now, regardless of whether it represented substantial new information or had any John McDonnell rose— impact on an investigation, there would be an automatic reopening of an inquiry. That is something for which we Tom Brake: I will give way one final time. want to provide flexibility. John McDonnell: That is precisely why I support the 6pm amendment. However, if the amendment is not suitably The hon. Gentleman said that Ministers must have drafted, the usual process is that Government consult flexibility to reopen inquiries, and that is exactly what on the detail of regulation. People will be involved in we are trying to achieve. We are giving the Secretary of that, and we can hopefully arrive at a consensus. Today State the flexibility to reopen an inquiry. However, there the Minister is saying that there will be no regulation is no flexibility in relation to miscarriages of justices, for that will guide Minister and therefore no consultation. which an inquiry will have to be formally reopened. We are back where we were before 1995. Mr Marsden: I hesitate to say that the Minister is misrepresenting the words of our amendment. I invite Tom Brake: I am repeating myself rather a lot, but I Members to look at its words. As I said, there will not say again that we are not back where we were. I have be an automatic reopening of an inquiry, whether it is made it clear that, under our proposals, the MV Derbyshire in 10, 20 of 100 years’ time. inquiry would have happened. I thank my right hon. Friend the Member for Tom Brake: I am afraid that my advice says that the Wokingham (Mr Redwood) for his support. I was not hon. Gentleman’s amendment widens the remit rather quite as surprised as he thought I might be in receiving than closing it down. Perhaps he should go back and support from him. He expressed the view that the look at precisely what he is proposing. It is clear that the Government had not gone far enough in relation to Secretary of State will still be required to reopen a deregulation. The Opposition saying that we have gone formal investigation where there are grounds for suspecting too far and my right hon. Friend saying that we have a miscarriage of justice. It is also worth pointing out not gone far enough probably means that the Government that what we are talking about has no impact on the have got it about right. work of the marine accident investigation branch; that My right hon. Friend went on to highlight other is completely separate to this issue. problems with parking, with which we, as Members of The hon. Member for Hayes and Harlington (John Parliament, are all too familiar. I apologise if I have not McDonnell) asked whether there would be regulations been brave enough to venture into the other areas that for marine investigations. The answer is no, there would he would like to discuss in relation to parking, but first, not be regulations. That is something that would be I would be ruled out of order, and secondly, we all know implemented. We have set out the circumstances in that when it comes to parking issues, it is a lose-lose which we would expect the Secretary of State formally situation whatever decision is taken. to reopen an inquiry. We would of course consider any specific requests that were received from relatives or John Hemming (Birmingham, Yardley) (LD): Does trade unions that were affected by that decision-making the Minister agree that one concern of citizens is the use process. The measure would come into force two months of fines to raise funds? I checked 1297, after Royal Assent. which for these deregulatory purposes can be found in the volume of statutes from 1235 to 1770, and it is John McDonnell: The Minister should recognise that clause 14 that is, in part, being reinstated by this Bill. he is now taking the law back to what it was when it was completely ineffective. The Conservative Government Tom Brake: I did not know that Magna Carta touched had to amend the legislation, and the Derbyshire relatives on the matter of parking, but I am better informed as a had to campaign for 20 years to ensure that they got justice. result of my hon. Friend’s intervention. Tom Brake: I simply do not agree with that. I said Still on parking, my right hon. Friend the Member that, under our proposals, the MV Derbyshire case is for Wokingham touched on complicated parking signs one that would have been reopened. I must disagree and rules. Local authorities should ensure that signs are with the hon. Gentleman on his analysis of the impact appropriate for parking restrictions. If they are not, of this measure. drivers may complain to their council. If they receive a 65 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 66 ticket, they have a free appeal to the local council and cannot fulfil that job, they are simply told to find then a free appeal to the adjudicator if the council another operator, so the risks that he tried to highlight decides against them. I am sure that he is aware of that in the job being passed on to another operator are and will have referred many a constituent to the adjudicator already there when the reliable firm says, “Sorry, we in relation to disputes over parking tickets. The Government can’t do that job for you. Go and look in the phone announced over the weekend that local residents and book to find another operator.” What we propose would local firms will be able to demand a review of parking allow that local reliable firm, which one would expect to in their areas, including charges and the use of yellow lines. want to set up a business relationship with another We then had a contribution from the hon. Member reliable, not local firm, to work with it in partnership to for Bolton West (Julie Hilling) who described a distressing fulfil those jobs appropriately. Irrespective of these incident involving a young constituent of hers. I am arrangements, all firms must be licensed. That is the sure that we all wish to convey our sympathy to her basis on which their reliability is confirmed. constituent for what was clearly a very traumatic incident. I do not know whether she has pursued with her local Graham Jones: The Minister says that an individual authority its participation in the disclosure and barring who is unable to order a private hire vehicle from their service, which may have been able to identify a problem favourite firm is in the same position if the company with that particular driver. The hon. Lady went on to locates a private hire vehicle from another local authority. say that what we propose in this Bill will make matters On many levels, that is wrong. When that individual worse. Again, I dispute that. We have had many comments flicks through the “Yellow Pages”, as the Minister describes from the Opposition saying that the Government will it, they can choose to look for a company in their area. make matters worse, but they have offered little to This proposal will allow the company to take charge, substantiate those allegations. and that taxi could come from another area with different The hon. Lady referred to the risk of the public using standards. The choice is therefore removed from the an unlicensed taxi. The measures to allow off-duty use fare-paying customer. Does the Minister accept that the of private hire vehicles relates not to taxis but to PHVs customer is in control when they look through the or mini cabs. In London no issues have been reported to “Yellow Pages”, but not when the job is passed from the Department by Transport for London. As I have one operator to another who locates a taxi from outside stated on a number of occasions, the Law Commission the area? recommended this measure. In fact, it may go further as it calls for off-duty use of taxis, too. Tom Brake: Yes, when people use “Yellow Pages”, they may well be in control of their choice of private Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): Is it correct that a hire firm, but I thought the point that the hon. Gentleman person who runs a licensed taxi company, for example, and other hon. Members were making was that there is responsible for everyone who drives for that company? was a risk in a job being passed on by a local reliable If so, that person has the responsibility to ensure that firm to another operator. I would suggest that the risk his or her drivers act properly and are properly checked. of simply going to the phone book is much greater than using a local reliable firm whose reputation relies on delivering a good service, whether it does so directly or Tom Brake: Certainly, that is my understanding. The by subcontracting to another firm in an area where it operator is licensed as such and needs to check all the cannot operate. With our system, security is enhanced, drivers who are used by that firm. rather than damaged in the way he suggests. Graham Jones: The Minister says that there has been no safety issue in London. What assessment has he 6.15 pm made outside London of police stop checks of taxi The hon. Member for Easington referred to the need vehicles in local authorities that have less regulation for a comprehensive, nationwide review and reform of than others? We are all aware that in some local authorities private hire. He is probably well versed in private hire a high proportion of taxis stopped by the police are in and taxi matters. He will understand how difficult it is breach of roadworthiness rules, and those vehicles must to get a comprehensive, nationwide review of services. be repaired. What assessment has he made of vehicles’ I suspect that there have been attempts under our roadworthiness? Government and under Labour Governments to get that comprehensive review under way. It is not Tom Brake: I personally have not made such an straightforward, and it is not something that happens assessment, but I am sure that the hon. Gentleman, as a overnight. We have an opportunity in the Bill to introduce Member of Parliament, has regularly requested that some small measures, supported by the Law Commission. sufficient enforcement action is taken and that suitable We have chosen, rightly, to proceed with them now, and checks are made. I am sure that his local authority will that is the right action for the Government to take. want to pursue that actively and that the police and The hon. Gentleman also referred to the Disclosure crime commissioner in his area will want to emphasise and Barring Service. There is an automatic update it as well. We expect those checks to be carried out now, system. It is an optional service for local authorities, irrespective of anything proposed in the Bill. which can judge whether to use it. Crucially, three-yearly The hon. Member for Easington (Grahame M. Morris) licence renewal is seen as best practice. That applies in dwelt on subcontracting, as did other Members, and London and half of all authorities outside London. talked about what would happen if people used the local reliable firm that they knew and liked, but the job Grahame M. Morris: The Minister is being generous was passed on to another operator. At the moment, if in giving way. Although he uses London as the example someone wants to use their local reliable firm and it where these changes are already in place, does he 67 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 68

[Grahame M. Morris] New Clause 25 acknowledge that the enforcement regime is rather different CIVIL PENALTIES FOR PARKING CONTRAVENTIONS: because of the unique arrangement between the ENFORCEMENT Metropolitan police and Transport for London? That ‘(1) Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004 (civil arrangement is not replicated elsewhere in the country. enforcement of traffic contraventions) is amended as follows. (2) After section 78 (notification of penalty charge) insert— Tom Brake: If, as the hon. Gentleman suggests, that is “78A Notification of penalty charge: parking contraventions in England an issue—clearly, several Members have raised it during (1) Regulations under section 78 must include provision the debate—it is a prime case for the police and crime requiring notification of a penalty charge to be given commissioner to get involved in, to try to ensure consistency by a notice affixed to the vehicle where the charge is across their patch. in respect of a parking contravention on a road in a The hon. Member for Brighton, Pavilion (Caroline civil enforcement area in England. Lucas) said that the Government have made no counter- (2) The regulations may, however, provide that the requirement argument in support of the proposals. Again, I simply does not apply in circumstances specified in the regulations (which may be framed by reference to the refer her to the fact that the Law Commission supports type of contravention, the circumstances in which a our three proposals on taxis. contravention occurs or in any other way) and, where The hon. Member for Hayes and Harlington called the regulations so provide, they may make any such for a comprehensive Bill. Of course we want the Law alternative provision for notification as is authorised Commission to deliver a comprehensive Bill, and nothing by section 78.” that we have done in relation to these measures stops it (3) After section 87 insert— doing so. He referred to marine investigation and MV “87A Power to prohibit use of devices etc: parking contraventions Derbyshire. I have taken quite a lot of interventions in England from him on that issue. I simply say again that the (1) The Secretary of State may by regulations make Government are clear that if such an incident happened provision to prohibit the use by civil enforcement officers of a device of a description specified in the again, under our proposals the case would definitely be regulations, or of records produced by such a device, reopened. in connection with the enforcement of parking The hon. Member for Luton North (Kelvin Hopkins) contraventions on a road in a civil enforcement area wants parking laws enforced properly; well, so do I, and in England. so do the Government. Local authorities will be able to (2) The prohibition may be— enforce them properly by using traffic wardens, and (a) general, or nothing that we are doing will stop them doing so. I (b) limited to particular uses specified in the regulations. hope he will agree that, as I stated in my opening (3) The regulations may provide that a general or limited remarks, the issue is that local authorities have generated prohibition does not apply in circumstances specified a surplus of £635 million by issuing parking tickets. in the regulations (which may be framed by reference to the type of contravention, the circumstances in which a contravention occurs or in any other way). Kelvin Hopkins: Does the Minister accept that, by (4) Regulations under this section may amend this Part or reducing CCTV surveillance of parking, he will reduce any provision made under it.”’—(Tom Brake.) the number of convictions and make it easier to get This new clause deals with the enforcement of parking away with parking illegally? contraventions in England under Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004. It provides that, subject to certain exceptions, regulations under section 78 must provide for notification of a penalty charge Tom Brake: That depends on how local authorities to be given by a notice affixed to the vehicle (which means that a respond. If they use traffic wardens, there is no reason civil enforcement officer must be present to affix the notice). It why what the hon. Gentleman has suggested will happen. also confers a power which would enable regulations to be made to He suggested that a national register is needed. I do not restrict the use of CCTV or other devices in parking enforcement. know whether he has investigated that and can demonstrate Brought up, read the First and Second time, and added that it would increase safety and what the associated to the Bill. price tag might be. Of course, the Bill is about deregulation, not, as he would like, more regulation. New Clause 15 The hon. Member for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) talked about our taxi policy opening the door to criminality, FOOTPATHS: PROVISIONS TO STOP UP OR DIVERT DUE TO and I dispute that anything we are introducing would PRIVACY, SAFETY OR SECURITY do so. He made that comment without backing it up with ‘(1) The Highways Act 1980 is amended as follows. any evidence. He referred at some length to subcontracting, (2) In section 118 (Stopping up of footpaths, birdleways and which we have dealt with. He wants taxis of a good restricted byways), in subsection (1) after “on the ground that it standard; so do we, and that is what the licensing regime is not needed for public use”, insert “or the public need could is for. reasonably be provided by an alternative public right of way or highway nearby”. I think that I have dealt with all the points made, and (3) After subsection (1) insert— I simply conclude my remarks by urging the Opposition “(1A) When making a determination under subsection not to press their amendments. (1A) the council and Secretary of State shall have Question put and agreed to. regard to the presumption that footpaths should not pass through farmyards, gardens, commercial premises New clause 4 accordingly read a Second time, and or other land where privacy, safety or security are an added to the Bill. issue.”. 69 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 70

(4) In section 119 (Diversion of footpaths, bridleways and New clause 19—Presumed extinguishment of intrusive restricted byways), subsection (6A) after “a public right of way,”, byways open to all traffic in limited circumstances— insert “, and the presumption that paths should not pass through farmyards, commercial areas, gardens or other land where ‘In section 116 of the Highways Act 1980, after subsection (1), privacy, safety or security is an issue.”’—(.) insert— Brought up, and read the First time. “(1A) Where a byway open to all traffic passes through the curtilage of a residential dwelling including the gardens and driveways of the premises, a working farmyard or forestry yard Bill Wiggin (North Herefordshire) (Con): I beg to or other operational business or working industrial premises it is move, That the clause be read a Second time. presumed that diversion of the highway so that it does not so pass will make the path more commodious and that the highway Madam Deputy Speaker (Dame Dawn Primarolo): is unnecessary unless the court is satisfied that— With this it will be convenient to discuss the following: (a) the privacy, safety or security of the premises are not New clause 17—Presumed diversion of intrusive public adversely affected by the existence or use of the path; or rights of way in limited circumstances— (b) the path or way provides access to a vital local service ‘In section 119 of the Highways Act 1980, after subsection or amenity not otherwise reasonably accessible. (6A), insert— (1B) In exercising the powers under this section, the authority “(6B) Where a path or way passes through the curtilage of a and the court shall have particular regard to the presumption residential dwelling including the gardens and driveways of the that a byway open to all traffic should not pass through the premises, a working farmyard or forestry yard or other curtilage of residential premises including the gardens and operational business or working industrial premises— driveways of the premises, a working farmyard or forestry yard (a) subsections (6) and (6A) above shall not apply; and or other operational business or working industrial premises. (b) the Secretary of State or council shall confirm a public (1C) A “byway open to all traffic” means a highway over path diversion order unless he, or as the case may be, which the public have a right of way for vehicular and all other they are satisfied that the privacy, safety or security kinds of traffic, but which is used mainly for the purposes for of the premises are not adversely affected by the which footpaths and bridleways are so used.”.’ existence or use of the path. This new Clause would create a presumption that byways open to (6C) Where the premises have been unlawfully extended to all traffic should be diverted so as to not pass through residential or encompass the path or way subsection (6B) above do not apply. business premises unless the byway does not impact on the privacy, (6D) In exercising the powers under this section, the Secretary safety or security of the premises, or provides access to a vital local of State and the council shall have particular regard to the service or amenity not otherwise accessible. presumption that public rights of way or highways should not pass through the curtilage of residential premises including the Bill Wiggin: I draw the House’s attention to my entry gardens and driveways of the premises, a working farmyard or in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. forestry yard or other operational business or working industrial premises.”’ New clause 15 is all about safety. I want to see a fall in This new Clause will facilitate statutory guidance to allow for the the number of deaths that take place every year as a diversion of rights of way that pass through domestic or business result of rural accidents, as I am sure does every Member. premises on the grounds of privacy, safety or security. I am passionate about the safety of those who use the New clause 18—Presumed extinguishment of intrusive countryside. My recent ten-minute rule Bill proposed public rights of way in limited circumstances— greater detail in the recording of agricultural accidents. After discussions with the Health and Safety Executive, ‘In section 118 of the Highways Act 1980, after subsection (6), insert— I am delighted that my proposals have been accepted. I must thank the Minister of State, Department for Work “(6A) Where a path or way passes through the curtilage of a residential dwelling including the gardens and driveways of and Pensions, my right hon. Friend the Member for the premises, a working farmyard or forestry yard or other Hemel Hempstead (Mike Penning) for his support in operational business or working industrial premises a council discussions with the HSE. shall make and the Secretary of State or the council shall confirm I believe, however, that further measures are necessary. an order stopping up a path or way unless he, or as the case may As a farmer, I am alarmed at the risks created by be, they are satisfied that— footpaths passing through fields or farmyards. A 21st- (a) the privacy, safety or security of the premises are not century farm is dangerous. Equipment is often operated adversely affected by the existence or use of the path; or at higher speeds, is incredibly heavy and has risky blind spots. Livestock can be unpredictable, territorial and (b) it is possible to divert the path or way such that the privacy, safety or security of the premises are not easily provoked, for instance by a dog. The death of adversely affected by the existence or use of the path; Roger Freeman, caused—or not—by a Brown Swiss or bull in 2010, and the subsequent negligence trial, has (c) the path or way provides access to a vital local service brought the issue back into the public eye. To quote a or amenity not otherwise reasonably accessible. letter from the Ramblers to me, (6B) In exercising the powers under this section, the Secretary “The case has really highlighted the necessity to re-examine of State and the council shall have particular regard to the legislation around bulls being kept in fields with footpaths.” presumption that public rights of way or highways should not Recently, I have been contacted by two constituents pass through the curtilage of residential premises including the who have been unable to fulfil their role as parish gardens and driveways of the premises, a working farmyard or forestry yard or other operational business or working industrial footpath officers, for fear of their safety on local footpaths. premises.”’ My constituents report being chased from routes by dairy cows. They were particularly harassed when This new Clause will facilitate statutory guidance to allow for the extinguishment of rights of way that pass through domestic or accompanied by a dog and describe the cattle as “extremely business premises on the grounds of privacy, safety or security if a persistent and worrying.” Nobody—neither walkers nor diversion is not possible and the right of way does not provide farmers—should be placed in a position where their access to a vital local service or amenity not otherwise accessible. safety is at risk. 71 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 72

[Bill Wiggin] talking about not rights of way, but people killing themselves, or being seriously hurt or injured. That is Equally, farmers cannot be placed in a position of what we are trying to avoid. We are trying to make sure responsibility for the safety of walkers among livestock. that every person who walks or works in the countryside No farmer can say with complete confidence that their is safe. cattle would always be 100% safe, including if, for No one should feel besieged in their own home. example, they had been stung by a wasp. Farmers are Rights of way should not affect someone’s right to therefore incredibly vulnerable to claims of negligence safety. I am therefore asking again for flexibility, as I in accidents where the only evidence is from the victim fear that if privacy is not considered as reasonable or hearsay. This pressure can foster resentment against grounds for safely altering a footpath, more people’s those who use footpaths, creating an atmosphere of lives will be plagued by intrusion. Common sense must walkers versus farmers. Such a division can only be again prevail. unhelpful. The priority for all must be safety. I read with interest the 2010 “Stepping Forward” Traditional rights of way cannot be held to be a report by Natural England’s stakeholder working group greater priority than the safety of those using them. on unrecorded rights of way. Although the group did The risks are very real: 24 people have been killed by not address the safety and privacy of routes, I believe cattle in the past four years. We cannot continue to turn that my new clause is in the spirit of its recommendations. a blind eye to the issue. The right to walk in the The report praised surveyors for taking use of land into countryside does not mean the right to die walking. We account in footpath diversions. In its evidence to the must therefore be flexible and allow alterations of rights Bill Committee in February, the group indicated that it of way to favour safer routes. Common sense on this has discussed diversions in greater depth since 2010. In issue must prevail. her evidence, Sarah Slade of the Country Land and I must also raise deep concerns about privacy and Business Association emphasised her support for making security in the countryside. One of the great pleasures people’s lives easier through diversions. My new clause of the British countryside is that it is free to be enjoyed is a natural progression from the group’s recommendations. by all. In this day and age, however, the access provided I strongly believe that all interested parties would regret by footpaths is at odds with society’s fear of strangers. missing this opportunity to ease the risks and conflicts The privacy and security of a family home is something created by footpaths. we treasure, yet both of those values must be sacrificed The stakeholder group’s guidance, which I suspect by those who have a footpath running through their the Government hope to make statutory, will not overrule home or garden. A footpath allows strangers to come the tests that determine changes to footpath routes, so it on to their property and close to their family at any is not equal to the task in hand. Nor will it deal with the hour of the day or night. The feeling of security in one’s standard objection of—please forgive the wording—“not home is a luxury that most people take for granted. An substantially less convenient”, which is the excuse given Englishman’s home may be his castle, but for those with when a footpath may be a few metres longer than it was a footpath through their property, there is no security previously. New statutory guidance may therefore help, behind their walls. but it will not solve the problem. The desire to protect one’s privacy and security is entirely legitimate and rational. It is natural to be wary Bob Stewart: Obviously, I am no expert, and I am of strangers. In January, the Intrusive Footpaths campaign listening very carefully to what my hon. Friend says, but undertook a survey of home owners’ experiences of is there no way that a public right of way could be footpaths. The results present a shocking picture. The changed as things stand, or do we have to legislate for IFC found that footpaths through private property have that? been the cause of two suicides, 12 nervous breakdowns and numerous cases of financially crippling disputes. Bill Wiggin: There is a way in which a change can be Families affected in this way should be supported by made at minimal cost, but if there is a single objection, appropriate legislation, not abandoned to cope with the the balance of favour, as it were, goes against the owner consequences. of the property. Additionally, the process can cost a vast amount. What makes me sad is that this should be Mr Brooks Newmark (Braintree) (Con): I am listening not a fight between the landowner and the person to my hon. Friend, but Opposition Front Benchers are objecting—the walker or whoever it might be—but chuntering. Unfortunately, people who live in urban about safety. If people think that a route can be better, areas do not appreciate that people who live in rural we should make it as straightforward as possible to areas have footpaths that go within 5 or 10 yards of achieve that. their front doors. It puts enormous stress on people, particularly those who live by themselves, when strangers 6.30 pm walk past their front door. Does my hon. Friend agree I am only calling for greater provision in existing that it is important that the Minister takes note of the highways legislation. The Bill’s aim is to reduce the stresses put on families who feel that their privacy is burden of legislation on day-to-day life, and my new being invaded? We are not talking about footpaths that clause would dramatically improve the quality of life of are miles away from people’s front doors. many farmers, home owners and walkers. Ignoring safety and privacy can change rights of way from a delight to Bill Wiggin: My hon. Friend is right, and I am sure he a risk. When considering my new clause, hon. Members will seek to catch your eye, Madam Deputy Speaker, must understand that its vital element is safety, and that and share his expertise with the House. The key thing we should consider privacy and security as necessary for Opposition Members to remember is that we are parts of safety. 73 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 74

Over the past six years, the working group has sometimes illegally, including in the mass trespass of Kinder investigated many issues to do with rights of way, yet it Scout. I mention that to set out to the hon. Member for has not addressed the subject of the deaths that occur North Herefordshire (Bill Wiggin) the depth of feeling on them. I am saddened that safety has not been the among Labour Members that causes us to oppose new group’s focus while fatalities have continued. Such deaths clause 15. are completely unnecessary, because diversions must In government, Labour has demonstrated that depth offer an effective, simple and cheap option to protect of feeling by long supporting public access to the walkers. Diverting footpaths does not mean closing off countryside and the wider natural environment. In 1949, the countryside for walkers; nor does it mean forcing the post-war Labour Government passed into law a walkers on to roads. It can simply mean changing the requirement to record public rights of way on a legally route of a right of way to the edge of a field. Walkers’ conclusive document known as the definitive map and enjoyment of the countryside would not be lessened by statement. Labour’s 1987 manifesto for government their following the perimeter of fields, but they would outlined commitments not only to offer all people more be less likely to disturb livestock, and it would be easier freedom to explore the open countryside, but to strengthen and more cost-effective if a farmer wished to fence off the protection of our national heritage. The Countryside that footpath for safety, as only one extra length of and Rights of Ways Act 2000 was one of the most fencing would be required. successful and supported pieces of legislation in this To encourage that ideal scenario, farmers must be area, and it strengthened and consolidated the aims of supported when they try to keep the public safe, yet our original National Parks and Access to the Countryside under the existing system they are penalised. A landowner Act 1949. involved in a disputed diversion can face costs of tens of thousands of pounds. At the moment those costs are Mr Newmark: I am listening carefully to the hon. borne by the landowner. It is irresponsible that the Lady, but I do not think that any Government Member power to allocate full cost recovery lies with county disputes the right to go about the open countryside; councils, which are not famed for their parsimony. In that argument was won a long time ago—congratulations fact, that is probably the worst possible sort of arrangement. on winning it. We are concerned about the right of Delay and excessive costs without a cap simply add to individuals effectively to intrude on people’s private everybody’s misery. Farmers who want permanently to property and to get— alter footpaths on their land to protect the general public and maintain a right of way are delivering a key Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con): Rubbish. public service. If a farmer can show that their altered route improves safety, has proper signposting and is Mr Newmark: Excuse me—[Interruption.] Does my away from a road, they should be supported, rather hon. Friend wish to intervene? than demonised, by councils. The Government could provide funding for safe Madam Deputy Speaker (Dame Dawn Primarolo): footpaths. The money could come from the rural Order. There can be only one intervention, and it should development programme, funded from pillar two of the be a short intervention. common agricultural policy. That option would reduce the burden of disputes involving farmers and councils, Mr Newmark: Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. but without that assistance, farmers could be forced to We are talking about the right of an individual to walk copy the image that I am sure we all saw in on someone’s property, and how to find a way forward, on 10 May: two long pieces of metal fencing lining a with local councils, on moving a path slightly, so that footpath across the centre of a field in Frome. Is that people can get to their destination. not a terrifying image of the future for rights of way if common sense does not prevail? It is our duty to Chi Onwurah: This is all about individuals’ rights to preserve the Great British countryside for all who are walk on private property, just as I walked over the Duke lucky enough to visit it, and to live and work there. Part of Northumberland’s land yesterday. I do not want to of that preservation is providing support for those who belittle or trivialise cases in which property owners farm our countryside. Farmers already want the best experience significant stress, but there are already powers protection for themselves and those who walk on their that permit landowners and land managers to apply to land, so I urge the House to support the safety, security a local authority to make an order to divert or close a and privacy on footpaths that new clause 15 would public path that crosses their land, so additional legislation bring. is not required.

Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): I Bill Wiggin rose— am sure, Madam Deputy Speaker, that you will be pleased to learn that members of my constituency Labour Chi Onwurah: I know that other hon. Members wish party and I took part yesterday in what we call, in a to speak, but I give way to the hon. Gentleman. comradely fashion, a red ramble. We walked from the site of the battle of Newburn Ford to Wylam, the Bill Wiggin: Will the hon. Lady tell us her party’s birthplace of the great engineer George Stephenson. We proposals to ensure that the family of Roger Freeman walked most of the way across the land of the Duke of know that no other family will suffer the pain and Northumberland. Unfortunately, we did not see any red misery that they have been through? squirrels, but we enjoyed the unequalled beautiful countryside, and views of the Tyne. As we walked, we Chi Onwurah: The Bill’s measures on this subject discussed the role of the Labour movement over hundreds derive from the Natural England stakeholder working of years in fighting for the right of public access, group. I think that the hon. Gentleman would agree 75 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 76

[Chi Onwurah] by several constituents, who are extremely frustrated with the existing process designed to protect their family that finding a consensus between users, landowners and and property. That is what my new clauses are about. local authorities, and between Ramblers and the Country Following on from this are concerns with potential Land and Business Association, is such an achievement infringements on the privacy of residents and their that it should not be jeopardised. If he wants further expectation of being able to relax without strangers proposals to be brought forward, he should work with appearing in the same contained space. Pathways across the stakeholder working group to deliver consensus on land can also potentially reduce the value of the property. them. It is imperative that the measures agreed by the That, by the way, is probably the least of my concerns, working group are implemented as soon as possible. We but it has been raised by my constituents. Finally, do not want them to be jeopardised by the new clauses farmyard operations put the public potentially at risk in the group, especially because those new clauses raise because of the limited space through which these routes several important questions. For example, who would pass. decide that a public right of way was intrusive? Why are the measures necessary when there are already powers Susan Elan Jones (Clwyd South) (Lab): I could accept that permit landowners to apply to a local authority, as what the hon. Gentleman says if he were referring to I set out? Who would define what “limited circumstances” hustling, for example, but the fact that he does not seem were? to address is that many rights of way are very historic. A presumption in favour of a diversion would take When I was taken by my grandfather to the footpath powers away from local authorities and reduce the that went from Esclusham Above to Esclusham Below, ability of communities to have a say. Is this in accordance I did it in the knowledge that he went with his grandfather. with the localism agenda, which I thought all Members Such rights are intrinsic in our rural areas. That is what on the Government Benches agreed with? Local we are frightened about. communities, through their local councils, should have the ability to shape their local area. We should support 6.45 pm the rights of all to access the countryside and to maintain existing rights of way, especially as the local countryside Mr Newmark: Yes, yes. I am totally sympathetic with offers our citizens benefits in terms of health, exercise what the hon. Lady says. I am not trying to change and mental well-being. historic rights of way. My intention is to create more flexibility in the system to allow paths that go right past people’s front doors and their gardens to be moved Mr Brooks Newmark (Braintree) (Con): I shall speak slightly. I am not looking to stop people’s access to to new clauses 17, 18 and 19. those ancient rights of way. Many people up and down the country, especially in In order to solve these problems, the owner of the rural areas, face the daily personal stress and blight of land in question must seek an order to divert or extinguish their properties caused by highly intrusive public rights the right of way through a modification consent order of way across their land, including the gardens of or an application for public path order. This guidance family homes and working farmyards, as well as commercial applies where a public right of way passes through a premises. The new clauses that I propose set out how garden which forms part of the curtilage of a residential local authorities should respond to requests to divert or dwelling, a working farmyard or forestry yard, or other extinguish rights of way, to applications under the right operational business or working industrial premises. to apply introduced by the Countryside and Rights of The interests of the landowner must be weighed against Way Act 2000, or negotiation under the new modification the overall impact on the public as a whole—a point consent order process set out in paragraph 5 of schedule 7 that Opposition Members emphasised—and the privacy, to the Bill. Specifically, my new clauses 17, 18 and 19 security and safety of the landowner are all considerations address and amend sections 119, 118 and 116 respectively to which due weight should be given. Furthermore, if of the Highways Act 1980. the public right of way is extinguished, it should be It might be helpful for the Minister to have a little diverted elsewhere in order to reduce inconvenience to context and background to my new clauses. The existence the public. of public rights of way within private property raises Now that I have laid out at least some of the rationale several concerns, many of which have been highlighted for my new clauses, let me touch briefly on each new to me by my constituents. Most important among them clause in turn. New clause 17, entitled “Presumed diversion is the security of the family and property of the landowner, of intrusive public rights of way in limited circumstances”, in particular the security of young children. Having in amends section 119 of the Highways Act 1980 and their back yard a public footpath that anyone can access facilitates statutory guidance to allow for the diversion is worrying for parents and impacts on the daily life of of rights of way that pass through domestic or business their families. premises on the grounds of privacy, safety or security. New clause 18, entitled “Presumed extinguishment of Mr Andrew Turner: Is my hon. Friend aware that intrusive public rights of way in limited circumstances”, people who own such footpaths can apply for them to amends section 118 of the 1980 Act and facilitates be moved? I do not see why he is proposing an alternative statutory guidance to allow for the extinguishment of method. rights of way that pass through domestic or business premises on the grounds of privacy, safety or security if Mr Newmark: As my hon. Friend the Member for a diversion is not possible as the right of way provides North Herefordshire (Bill Wiggin) pointed out, there access to a vital local service or amenity not otherwise are issues of safety and security. This is not a subject accessible. Finally, new clause 19, entitled “Presumed that I knew anything about until it was raised with me extinguishment of intrusive byways open to all traffic in 77 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 78 limited circumstances”, is an amendment to section 116 We very much sympathise with people’s genuine concerns of the Highways Act 1980 and creates a presumption about the problems that can arise from footpaths running that byways open to all traffic should be diverted so as through private gardens and farmyards and recognise not to pass through residential or business premises that we need to find an acceptable solution, but we do unless the byway does not impact on the privacy, safety not believe that these new clauses are the best way to go or security of the premises or provides access to a vital about this. Measures are already being developed that local service or amenity not otherwise accessible. will make a significant difference to the way in which I am sure that the Minister will agree that although it requests for diversions and extinguishments of rights of is essential that we respect the ancient rights provided way will be dealt with by local authorities. We are working by footpaths and byways that the hon. Member for towards making effective the “right to apply” provisions Clwyd South (Susan Elan Jones) spoke about in her in the Bill. That will enable a landowner to make a intervention, it is important that we also respect the formal application for the diversion or extinguishment privacy, safety and security of individuals and their of a public right of way; with that will come the right to property. That is the narrow path that I am trying to appeal to the Secretary of State if the authority rejects navigate. I hope the Minister will acknowledge that new the application or fails to act on it, so local authorities clauses 17, 18 and 19 are drafted both to be reasonable will not be able simply to rebuff or ignore representations to landowners and to respect the rights of individuals to from a landowner, as they can at present. I hope that my have access to byways, especially if those byways provide hon. Friends will see that as a positive development. access to a vital local service or amenity not otherwise Moreover, the right to apply will be supplemented by accessible. In this spirit I look forward to his response guidance that will effectively act as a presumption to to new clauses 17, 18 and 19 as well as to new clause 15, divert or extinguish public rights of way that pass which is proposed by my hon. Friend the Member for through the gardens of family homes, working farmyards North Herefordshire. I end by thanking my constituent or commercial premises where privacy, safety or security Roger Duffin for raising this important issue and for his are a problem. That guidance has been developed in guidance in enabling me to draft a constructive solution agreement with the rights of way stakeholder working to a sensitive problem. group. Mr Newmark: The Minister was actively listening Tom Brake: I thank my hon. Friends the Members for and I appreciate his response, but I would ask him to be North Herefordshire (Bill Wiggin) and for Braintree sensitive to the cost of appeal. Many of these people are (Mr Newmark) for tabling their new clauses and allowing not wealthy and it is important that we keep costs to an us to discuss the important topic of rights of way and absolute minimum. the impact that these can have. We recognise that all four amendments seek to address Tom Brake: Costs can be a significant issue, and the the issue of intrusive public rights of way.The Government Government and local authorities will clearly want to have been giving very careful consideration to this, in ensure that they are kept to a minimum. discussion with the rights of way stakeholder working My hon. Friend the Member for North Herefordshire group. The work done by the group has been invaluable asked whether the guidance would be statutory. This is in pulling together the potentially divergent views of a deregulation Bill, the purpose of which is to minimise landowners and ramblers. the statutory burden rather than increase it. We believe The Government acknowledge that for householders, that the combined effect of the right to apply and the farmers and others, an intrusive footpath can have a guidance will have the desired effect, and we should see substantial impact on their quality of life or on their how the measures work out in practice before seeking to ability to run a business. We understand that while this add to the legislative burden. is not a widespread problem, where it occurs it can A draft of the guidance has been deposited in the cause severe difficulties, and in a significant number of House Library.We recognise that it needs further refinement cases people have been put through years of considerable and it remains open for comment. The rights of way inconvenience and stress, as my hon. Friend the Member reforms will also give local authorities more scope to for North Herefordshire mentioned. deal with objections themselves, rather than having to It is not clear to me whether my hon. Friend feels that submit every opposed order to the Secretary of State as his amendment would help prevent incidents involving at present. We believe that the provisions will make a dangerous cattle on footpaths, unless it is envisaged that significant difference, and until we see how well the the presumption that paths should not pass through “right to apply” provisions work alongside the new other land where safety is an issue could be used to guidance, making further legislation would be premature. close or divert rights of way that run through fields The new clauses would create new regulation where it where cattle are present. That would clearly be a radical may prove to be unnecessary and create more problems and sweeping measure that could potentially lead to the than they resolve. closure or diversion of innumerable rights of way with The issue of intrusive public rights of way is emotive. questionable justification. The issue of cattle attacks on I can appreciate why it arouses strong feelings and why public rights of way is being addressed separately by the those affected feel so strongly that something needs to Government, and there is no suggestion from any of the be done. While putting the terms of a presumption on parties involved that primary legislation is required to the face of the Act might seem like a way of making sort out the problem to which my hon. Friend rightly sure something happens, it carries a high risk that referred. It is clear, however, that there has to be a the presumption will not work as intended and, unlike change in the way in which both legislation and policy the guidance, it would not be possible readily to make operate if people are to get a satisfactory hearing, and changes in response to unforeseen circumstances or to that is what the Government are doing in the Bill. take account of new developments. 79 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 80

[Tom Brake] Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Hepburn, Mr Stephen Bryant, Chris Heyes, David As the draft guidance on diversions and extinguishments Buck, Ms Karen Hillier, Meg has been developed by the stakeholder working group, Burden, Richard Hilling, Julie there is a strong consensus around it, which means that Burnham, rh Andy Hodge, rh Margaret it is far more likely to be complied with. We welcome Campbell, rh Mr Alan Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Campbell, Mr Ronnie Hoey, Kate the fact that a new working group is likely to be set up Caton, Martin Hopkins, Kelvin through the Department for Environment, Food and Champion, Sarah Howarth, rh Mr George Rural Affairs, which will look at some of the other Chapman, Jenny Hunt, Tristram complex issues, such as green lanes—another very difficult Clark, Katy Irranca-Davies, Huw issue to which to find a consensual solution. We firmly Clwyd, rh Ann Jackson, Glenda believe that solutions arrived at in that way, based on Coaker, Vernon James, Mrs Siân C. agreement and mutual interest, will result in less conflict Coffey, Ann Jamieson, Cathy and less need for enforcement in the long run. Cooper, Rosie Jarvis, Dan The proposed new clauses also do not strike the Cooper, rh Yvette Johnson, Diana correct balance between public and private interests, Corbyn, Jeremy Jones, Graham Crausby, Mr David Jones, Mr Kevan which is critical to the agreement reached on the guidance Creagh, Mary Kane, Mike by the stakeholder working group. Legislative solutions Creasy, Stella Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald imposed without a consensus tend to result in more Cruddas, Jon Keeley, Barbara disputes and legal challenges and there is no stakeholder Cryer, John Kendall, Liz consensus around the legislative changes proposed here. Cunningham, Mr Jim Khan, rh Sadiq The new clauses would be quite a fundamental change Cunningham, Sir Tony Lavery, Ian to the current legislative status quo, which should not Danczuk, Simon Lazarowicz, Mark be made in the absence of either public consultation or David, Wayne Lewell-Buck, Mrs Emma stakeholder agreement, so I regret that I must urge my Davidson, Mr Ian Lewis, Mr Ivan hon. Friends not to press their amendments. De Piero, Gloria Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Denham, rh Mr John Love, Mr Andrew Bill Wiggin: I thank my right hon. Friend the Minister Dobson, rh Frank Lucas, Caroline for his helpful and constructive comments; it is useful to Docherty, Thomas Lucas, Ian know that the Government are looking at the risks. I Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Mactaggart, Fiona also welcome the formation of a new working group. It Doran, Mr Frank Mahmood, Mr Khalid does not come as a terribly big surprise that the Government Doughty, Stephen Mahmood, Shabana are unwilling to accept new clause 15. However, on Dowd, Jim Mann, John Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon behalf of my hon. Friend the Member for Braintree Dromey, Jack McCabe, Steve (Mr Newmark), I thank the Minister for looking at our Dugher, Michael McCann, Mr Michael concerns seriously and promising to keep a watching Durkan, Mark McCarthy, Kerry brief on how things progress. Eagle, Ms Angela McClymont, Gregg I say to the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Eagle, Maria McDonagh, Siobhain Central (Chi Onwurah), who answered for the Labour Edwards, Jonathan McDonald, Andy party, that rights of way are of course emotive and Efford, Clive McDonnell, John vital, but keeping people alive is more important. Until Elliott, Julie McFadden, rh Mr Pat Labour Members recognise that, they are not fit to be in Ellman, Mrs Louise McGovern, Alison government. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the clause. Engel, Natascha McGovern, Jim Evans, Chris McKechin, Ann Clause, by leave, withdrawn. Field, rh Mr Frank McKenzie, Mr Iain Fitzpatrick, Jim McKinnell, Catherine Clause 10 Flello, Robert Miller, Andrew Flint, rh Caroline Mitchell, Austin PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLES: CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH Fovargue, Yvonne Moon, Mrs Madeleine DRIVER’S LICENCE REQUIRED Francis, Dr Hywel Morden, Jessica Amendment proposed: 61, page 7, line 22, leave out Gapes, Mike Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Clause 10, Clause 11 and Clause 12.—(Mr Marsden.) Gardiner, Barry Morris, Grahame M. Gilmore, Sheila (Easington) The House divided: Ayes 206, Noes 285. Glass, Pat Mudie, Mr George Division No. 12] [6.58 pm Glindon, Mrs Mary Munn, Meg Godsiff, Mr Roger Murphy, rh Paul AYES Goodman, Helen O’Donnell, Fiona Abbott, Ms Diane Beckett, rh Margaret Green, Kate Onwurah, Chi Abrahams, Debbie Begg, Dame Anne Greenwood, Lilian Pearce, Teresa Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Benn, rh Hilary Griffith, Nia Perkins, Toby Alexander, Heidi Berger, Luciana Gwynne, Andrew Phillipson, Bridget Ali, Rushanara Betts, Mr Clive Hain, rh Mr Peter Pound, Stephen Allen, Mr Graham Blackman-Woods, Roberta Hamilton, Mr David Powell, Lucy Ashworth, Jonathan Blears, rh Hazel Hanson, rh Mr David Qureshi, Yasmin Austin, Ian Blenkinsop, Tom Harman, rh Ms Harriet Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Bailey, Mr Adrian Blomfield, Paul Harris, Mr Tom Reed, Mr Jamie Bain, Mr William Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Havard, Mr Dai Reed, Mr Steve Balls, rh Ed Brennan, Kevin Healey, rh John Reeves, Rachel Barron, rh Kevin Brown, Lyn Hendrick, Mark Reynolds, Emma 81 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 82

Reynolds, Jonathan Tami, Mark Grayling, rh Chris McPartland, Stephen Ritchie, Ms Margaret Thomas, Mr Gareth Green, rh Damian McVey, rh Esther Rotheram, Steve Thornberry, Emily Griffiths, Andrew Menzies, Mark Ruane, Chris Trickett, Jon Gummer, Ben Metcalfe, Stephen Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Turner, Karl Gyimah, Mr Sam Miller, rh Maria Sawford, Andy Twigg, Derek Halfon, Robert Mills, Nigel Seabeck, Alison Twigg, Stephen Hames, Duncan Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Sharma, Mr Virendra Umunna, Mr Chuka Hammond, rh Mr Philip Mordaunt, Penny Sheerman, Mr Barry Vaz, Valerie Hammond, Stephen Morgan, rh Nicky Shuker, Gavin Whitehead, Dr Alan Hancock, Matthew Morris, Anne Marie Skinner, Mr Dennis Williams, Hywel Harper, Mr Mark Morris, David Slaughter, Mr Andy Williamson, Chris Harrington, Richard Morris, James Smith, rh Mr Andrew Wilson, Phil Harris, Rebecca Mosley, Stephen Smith, Angela Winnick, Mr David Hart, Simon Mowat, David Smith, Nick Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Harvey, Sir Nick Mulholland, Greg Smith, Owen Woodcock, John Hayes, rh Mr John Munt, Tessa Spellar, rh Mr John Wright, David Heald, Oliver Murray, Sheryll Straw, rh Mr Jack Wright, Mr Iain Heaton-Harris, Chris Murrison, Dr Andrew Stringer, Graham Tellers for the Ayes: Hemming, John Newmark, Mr Brooks Stuart, Ms Gisela Susan Elan Jones and Henderson, Gordon Newton, Sarah Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Nic Dakin Herbert, rh Nick Norman, Jesse Hinds, Damian Nuttall, Mr David Hoban, Mr Mark Offord, Dr Matthew NOES Hollingbery, George Ollerenshaw, Eric Adams, Nigel Clark, rh Greg Hollobone, Mr Philip Opperman, Guy Afriyie, Adam Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Holloway, Mr Adam Ottaway, rh Sir Richard Aldous, Peter Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Hopkins, Kris Paice, rh Sir James Amess, Mr David Coffey, Dr Thérèse Horwood, Martin Parish, Neil Andrew, Stuart Collins, Damian Howarth, Sir Gerald Patel, Priti Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Colvile, Oliver Howell, John Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bacon, Mr Richard Crabb, Stephen Hughes, rh Simon Pawsey, Mark Baker, Norman Crockart, Mike Hunt, rh Mr Jeremy Penning, rh Mike Baker, Steve Crouch, Tracey Huppert, Dr Julian Penrose, John Baldry, rh Sir Tony Davey, rh Mr Edward Hurd, Mr Nick Percy, Andrew Baldwin, Harriett Davies, Glyn Jackson, Mr Stewart Perry, Claire Barclay, Stephen Davies, Philip James, Margot Phillips, Stephen Barker, rh Gregory de Bois, Nick Jenkin, Mr Bernard Pickles, rh Mr Eric Barwell, Gavin Dinenage, Caroline Jenrick, Robert Pincher, Christopher Bebb, Guto Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Johnson, Gareth Poulter, Dr Daniel Bellingham, Mr Henry Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Johnson, Joseph Prisk, Mr Mark Benyon, Richard Doyle-Price, Jackie Jones, Andrew Pritchard, Mark Beresford, Sir Paul Duddridge, James Jones, rh Mr David Pugh, John Bingham, Andrew Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Jones, Mr Marcus Raab, Mr Dominic Birtwistle, Gordon Dunne, Mr Philip Kawczynski, Daniel Randall, rh Sir John Blackman, Bob Ellis, Michael Kirby, Simon Reckless, Mark Blackwood, Nicola Ellison, Jane Knight, rh Sir Greg Redwood, rh Mr John Blunt, Crispin Elphicke, Charlie Kwarteng, Kwasi Rees-Mogg, Jacob Bone, Mr Peter Eustice, George Lamb, Norman Reevell, Simon Bottomley, Sir Peter Evans, Graham Lancaster, Mark Reid, Mr Alan Bradley, Karen Evans, Mr Nigel Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Brady, Mr Graham Evennett, Mr David Latham, Pauline Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Brake, rh Tom Fabricant, Michael Laws, rh Mr David Robertson, rh Hugh Brazier, Mr Julian Farron, Tim Leadsom, Andrea Robertson, Mr Laurence Bridgen, Andrew Featherstone, Lynne Lee, Jessica Rogerson, Dan Brine, Steve Field, Mark Lee, Dr Phillip Rosindell, Andrew Brokenshire, James Foster, rh Mr Don Lefroy, Jeremy Rudd, Amber Brooke, Annette Fox,rhDrLiam Leslie, Charlotte Ruffley, Mr David Browne, Mr Jeremy Francois, rh Mr Mark Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Russell, Sir Bob Bruce, Fiona Freeman, George Lewis, Brandon Rutley, David Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Freer, Mike Lewis, Dr Julian Sanders, Mr Adrian Buckland, Mr Robert Fuller, Richard Lilley, rh Mr Peter Sandys, Laura Burley, Mr Aidan Garnier, Sir Edward Lloyd, Stephen Scott, Mr Lee Burns, Conor Garnier, Mark Lopresti, Jack Selous, Andrew Burrowes, Mr David Gauke, Mr David Loughton, Tim Shapps, rh Grant Burstow, rh Paul George, Andrew Luff, Sir Peter Shelbrooke, Alec Burt, rh Alistair Gibb, Mr Nick Lumley, Karen Shepherd, Sir Richard Byles, Dan Glen, John Macleod, Mary Simpson, Mr Keith Cairns, Alun Goldsmith, Zac Main, Mrs Anne Skidmore, Chris Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Gove, rh Michael Maude, rh Mr Francis Smith, Chloe Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Graham, Richard Maynard, Paul Smith, Henry Carmichael, Neil Grant, Mrs Helen McCartney, Karl Smith, Julian Carswell, Mr Douglas Gray, Mr James McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Sir Robert 83 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 84

Soames, rh Sir Nicholas Walker, Mr Robin Bailey, Mr Adrian Glass, Pat Soubry, Anna Wallace, Mr Ben Bain, Mr William Glindon, Mrs Mary Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Weatherley, Mike Balls, rh Ed Godsiff, Mr Roger Spencer, Mr Mark Webb, Steve Barron, rh Kevin Goodman, Helen Stephenson, Andrew Wharton, James Beckett, rh Margaret Green, Kate Stewart, Bob Wheeler, Heather Begg, Dame Anne Greenwood, Lilian Stewart, Rory White, Chris Benn, rh Hilary Griffith, Nia Streeter, Mr Gary Whittingdale, Mr John Berger, Luciana Gwynne, Andrew Stride, Mel Wiggin, Bill Betts, Mr Clive Hain, rh Mr Peter Sturdy, Julian Williams, Mr Mark Blackman-Woods, Roberta Hamilton, Mr David Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Williams, Roger Blears, rh Hazel Hanson, rh Mr David Syms, Mr Robert Williams, Stephen Blenkinsop, Tom Harman, rh Ms Harriet Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Williamson, Gavin Blomfield, Paul Harris, Mr Tom Teather, Sarah Willott, Jenny Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Havard, Mr Dai Thornton, Mike Wilson, Mr Rob Brennan, Kevin Healey, rh John Thurso, John Wollaston, Dr Sarah Brown, Lyn Hendrick, Mark Tomlinson, Justin Wright, Jeremy Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Hepburn, Mr Stephen Tredinnick, David Wright, Simon Bryant, Chris Heyes, David Turner, Mr Andrew Yeo, Mr Tim Buck, Ms Karen Hillier, Meg Tyrie, Mr Andrew Young, rh Sir George Burden, Richard Hilling, Julie Uppal, Paul Zahawi, Nadhim Burnham, rh Andy Hodge, rh Margaret Vara, Mr Shailesh Tellers for the Noes: Campbell, rh Mr Alan Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Vickers, Martin Anne Milton and Campbell, Mr Ronnie Hoey, Kate Walker, Mr Charles Mark Hunter Caton, Martin Hopkins, Kelvin Champion, Sarah Howarth, rh Mr George Chapman, Jenny Hunt, Tristram Question accordingly negatived. Clark, Katy Irranca-Davies, Huw Clwyd, rh Ann Jackson, Glenda 7.10 pm Coaker, Vernon James, Mrs Siân C. It being later than three hours before the moment of Coffey, Ann Jamieson, Cathy interruption, the proceedings were interrupted (Programme Cooper, Rosie Jarvis, Dan Order, 14 May). Cooper, rh Yvette Johnson, Diana The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Questions necessary Corbyn, Jeremy Jones, Graham for the disposal of the business to be concluded at that Crausby, Mr David Jones, Mr Kevan Creagh, Mary Kane, Mike time (Standing Order No. 83E). Creasy, Stella Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Cruddas, Jon Keeley, Barbara Clause 33 Cryer, John Kendall, Liz Cunningham, Mr Jim Khan, rh Sadiq REDUCTION OF BURDENS RELATING TO THE USE OF Cunningham, Sir Tony Lavery, Ian ROADS AND RAILWAYS Danczuk, Simon Lazarowicz, Mark Amendment made: 13, page 25, line 32, at end insert— David, Wayne Lewell-Buck, Mrs Emma “(aa) the duration of driving licences to be granted to Davidson, Mr Ian Lewis, Mr Ivan drivers with relevant or prospective disabilities;”— De Piero, Gloria Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn (Tom Brake.) Denham, rh Mr John Love, Mr Andrew Dobson, rh Frank Lucas, Caroline Clause 35 Docherty, Thomas Lucas, Ian Donohoe, Mr Brian H. MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Doran, Mr Frank REMOVAL OF DUTY TO ORDER RE-HEARING OF MARINE Mactaggart, Fiona Doughty, Stephen ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS Mahmood, Mr Khalid Dowd, Jim Mahmood, Shabana Amendment proposed: 1, page 26, line 4, leave out Doyle, Gemma paragraphs (a) and (b) and insert Dromey, Jack Mann, John “in paragraph (a) leave out from “if new and important evidence” Dugher, Michael Marsden, Mr Gordon to “discovered” and insert “where secondary investigations have Durkan, Mark McCabe, Steve enabled more new, significant, or important evidence to become Eagle, Ms Angela McCann, Mr Michael available, having particular regard to— Eagle, Maria McCarthy, Kerry (i) enhancing and preserving the rights of those affected Edwards, Jonathan McClymont, Gregg by a maritime accident to learn from the proceedings Efford, Clive McDonagh, Siobhain of such reinvestigations and conclusions drawn Elliott, Julie McDonald, Andy from them; and Ellman, Mrs Louise McDonnell, John (ii) future safety issues and measures.”.”—(Mr Marsden.) Engel, Natascha McFadden, rh Mr Pat Question put, That the amendment be made. Evans, Chris McGovern, Alison The House divided: Ayes 211, Noes 284. Field, rh Mr Frank McGovern, Jim Fitzpatrick, Jim McKechin, Ann Division No. 13] [7.11 pm Flello, Robert McKenzie, Mr Iain AYES Flint, rh Caroline McKinnell, Catherine Fovargue, Yvonne Miller, Andrew Abbott, Ms Diane Ali, Rushanara Francis, Dr Hywel Mitchell, Austin Abrahams, Debbie Allen, Mr Graham Gapes, Mike Moon, Mrs Madeleine Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Ashworth, Jonathan Gardiner, Barry Morden, Jessica Alexander, Heidi Austin, Ian Gilmore, Sheila Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) 85 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 86

Morris, Grahame M. Smith, Angela Evans, Graham Lansley, rh Mr Andrew (Easington) Smith, Nick Evans, Mr Nigel Latham, Pauline Mudie, Mr George Smith, Owen Evennett, Mr David Laws, rh Mr David Munn, Meg Spellar, rh Mr John Fabricant, Michael Leadsom, Andrea Murphy, rh Paul Straw, rh Mr Jack Farron, Tim Lee, Jessica Nash, Pamela Stringer, Graham Featherstone, Lynne Lee, Dr Phillip O’Donnell, Fiona Stuart, Ms Gisela Field, Mark Lefroy, Jeremy Onwurah, Chi Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Foster, rh Mr Don Leslie, Charlotte Pearce, Teresa Tami, Mark Fox,rhDrLiam Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Perkins, Toby Thomas, Mr Gareth Francois, rh Mr Mark Lewis, Brandon Phillipson, Bridget Thornberry, Emily Freeman, George Lewis, Dr Julian Pound, Stephen Trickett, Jon Freer, Mike Lloyd, Stephen Powell, Lucy Turner, Karl Fuller, Richard Lopresti, Jack Qureshi, Yasmin Twigg, Derek Garnier, Sir Edward Loughton, Tim Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Twigg, Stephen Garnier, Mark Luff, Sir Peter Reed, Mr Jamie Umunna, Mr Chuka Gauke, Mr David Lumley, Karen Reed, Mr Steve Vaz, rh Keith George, Andrew Macleod, Mary Reeves, Rachel Vaz, Valerie Gibb, Mr Nick Main, Mrs Anne Reynolds, Emma Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Glen, John Maude, rh Mr Francis Reynolds, Jonathan Whitehead, Dr Alan Goldsmith, Zac Maynard, Paul Ritchie, Ms Margaret Williams, Hywel Gove, rh Michael McCartney, Karl Rotheram, Steve Williamson, Chris Graham, Richard McIntosh, Miss Anne Ruane, Chris Wilson, Phil Grant, Mrs Helen McPartland, Stephen Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Winnick, Mr David Gray, Mr James McVey, rh Esther Sawford, Andy Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Grayling, rh Chris Menzies, Mark Seabeck, Alison Wishart, Pete Green, rh Damian Metcalfe, Stephen Sharma, Mr Virendra Woodcock, John Griffiths, Andrew Miller, rh Maria Sheerman, Mr Barry Wright, David Gummer, Ben Mills, Nigel Shuker, Gavin Wright, Mr Iain Gyimah, Mr Sam Milton, Anne Skinner, Mr Dennis Tellers for the Ayes: Halfon, Robert Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Slaughter, Mr Andy Susan Elan Jones and Hames, Duncan Mordaunt, Penny Smith, rh Mr Andrew Nic Dakin Hammond, rh Mr Philip Morgan, rh Nicky Hammond, Stephen Morris, Anne Marie Hancock, Matthew Morris, David NOES Harper, Mr Mark Morris, James Adams, Nigel Burley, Mr Aidan Harrington, Richard Mosley, Stephen Afriyie, Adam Burns, Conor Harris, Rebecca Mowat, David Aldous, Peter Burrowes, Mr David Hart, Simon Mulholland, Greg Amess, Mr David Burstow, rh Paul Harvey, Sir Nick Munt, Tessa Andrew, Stuart Burt, rh Alistair Hayes, rh Mr John Murray, Sheryll Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Byles, Dan Heald, Oliver Murrison, Dr Andrew Bacon, Mr Richard Cairns, Alun Heaton-Harris, Chris Newmark, Mr Brooks Baker, Norman Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Hemming, John Newton, Sarah Baker, Steve Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Henderson, Gordon Norman, Jesse Baldry, rh Sir Tony Carmichael, Neil Herbert, rh Nick Nuttall, Mr David Baldwin, Harriett Carswell, Mr Douglas Hinds, Damian Offord, Dr Matthew Barclay, Stephen Cash, Sir William Hoban, Mr Mark Ollerenshaw, Eric Barker, rh Gregory Chishti, Rehman Hollingbery, George Opperman, Guy Barwell, Gavin Clark, rh Greg Hollobone, Mr Philip Ottaway, rh Sir Richard Bebb, Guto Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Hopkins, Kris Paice, rh Sir James Bellingham, Mr Henry Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Horwood, Martin Parish, Neil Benyon, Richard Coffey, Dr Thérèse Howarth, Sir Gerald Patel, Priti Beresford, Sir Paul Collins, Damian Howell, John Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bingham, Andrew Colvile, Oliver Hughes, rh Simon Pawsey, Mark Birtwistle, Gordon Crabb, Stephen Hunt, rh Mr Jeremy Penning, rh Mike Blackman, Bob Crockart, Mike Huppert, Dr Julian Penrose, John Blackwood, Nicola Crouch, Tracey Hurd, Mr Nick Percy, Andrew Blunt, Crispin Davey, rh Mr Edward Jackson, Mr Stewart Perry, Claire Bone, Mr Peter Davies, Glyn James, Margot Phillips, Stephen Bottomley, Sir Peter Davies, Philip Jenkin, Mr Bernard Pickles, rh Mr Eric Bradley, Karen de Bois, Nick Jenrick, Robert Pincher, Christopher Brady, Mr Graham Dinenage, Caroline Johnson, Gareth Poulter, Dr Daniel Brake, rh Tom Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Johnson, Joseph Prisk, Mr Mark Brazier, Mr Julian Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Jones, Andrew Pugh, John Bridgen, Andrew Doyle-Price, Jackie Jones, rh Mr David Raab, Mr Dominic Brine, Steve Duddridge, James Jones, Mr Marcus Randall, rh Sir John Brokenshire, James Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Kawczynski, Daniel Reckless, Mark Brooke, Annette Dunne, Mr Philip Kirby, Simon Redwood, rh Mr John Browne, Mr Jeremy Ellis, Michael Knight, rh Sir Greg Rees-Mogg, Jacob Bruce, Fiona Ellison, Jane Kwarteng, Kwasi Reevell, Simon Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Elphicke, Charlie Lamb, Norman Reid, Mr Alan Buckland, Mr Robert Eustice, George Lancaster, Mark Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm 87 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 88

Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Thornton, Mike This amendment is consequential on amendment 43. Robertson, rh Hugh Thurso, John Amendment 41, page 72, line 2, leave out from Robertson, Mr Laurence Tomlinson, Justin “assessment” to end of line 3 and insert Rogerson, Dan Tredinnick, David Rosindell, Andrew Turner, Mr Andrew “— Ruffley, Mr David Tyrie, Mr Andrew (i) under section 125(2C) or 129(1B), or Russell, Sir Bob Uppal, Paul (ii) as mentioned in section 125(5)(a)(ii) or 129(5ZA),”. Rutley, David Vara, Mr Shailesh This amendment amends new subsection 133B(2A), inserting Sanders, Mr Adrian Vickers, Martin references to section 129(1B) and section 129(5ZA) to ensure that Sandys, Laura Walker, Mr Charles the ability to re-take failed emergency control assessments applies Scott, Mr Lee Walker, Mr Robin to assessments taken in connection with licences as well as to those Selous, Andrew Wallace, Mr Ben taken in connection with registration. Shapps, rh Grant Weatherley, Mike Amendment 42, page 72, line 15, at end insert— Shelbrooke, Alec Webb, Steve “unless the Registrar considers it appropriate for the Shepherd, Sir Richard Wharton, James application to be made at such earlier time as may be Simpson, Mr Keith Wheeler, Heather specified by the Registrar.” Skidmore, Chris White, Chris This amendment makes the same change for Part 2 of Schedule 2 Smith, Chloe Whittingdale, Mr John to the Bill that amendment 38 makes for Part 1 of Schedule 2. Smith, Henry Wiggin, Bill Smith, Julian Williams, Mr Mark Amendment 43, page 72, line 37, at end insert— Smith, Sir Robert Williams, Roger “Part 5 has effect as if after section 133D there were inserted— Soames, rh Sir Nicholas Williams, Stephen “133E Direction to disregard emergency control assessment Soubry, Anna Williamson, Gavin requirement Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Willott, Jenny (1) This section applies where a person has been Spencer, Mr Mark Wilson, Mr Rob required— Stephenson, Andrew Wollaston, Dr Sarah (a) under section 125(2C) or 129(1B), or Stewart, Bob Wright, Jeremy (b) as mentioned in section 125(5)(a)(ii) or 129(5ZA), Stewart, Rory Wright, Simon to submit himself for an emergency control assessment. Streeter, Mr Gary Yeo, Mr Tim Stride, Mel (2) At any time before the assessment takes place the Young, rh Sir George Sturdy, Julian Registrar may withdraw the requirement (in which Zahawi, Nadhim Swayne, rh Mr Desmond case this Part applies as if the requirement had never Syms, Mr Robert Tellers for the Noes: been imposed). Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Mark Hunter and (3) At any time after the assessment takes place the Teather, Sarah Amber Rudd Registrar may direct that the requirement is to be disregarded for the purposes of this Part (and accordingly any condition that the person holds an Question accordingly negatived. emergency certificate is to cease to apply). (4) Notice of— (a) the withdrawal of a requirement under subsection Schedule 2 (2), or (b) a direction under subsection (3), DRIVING INSTRUCTORS must be given to the person on whom the requirement was Amendments made: 36, page 62, line 13, leave out imposed.”” This amendment extends what was new section 128ZZA so that the “authorise the person to apply” Registrar’s powers under the section cover emergency control and insert “require the person”. assessments in connection with licences. The new section is inserted This amendment is a drafting improvement to make new after section 133D to reflect its revised content. The amendment section 124(3)(a) of the Road Traffic Act 1988 more consistent which inserted new section 128ZZA is removed by amendment 40. with the new system for registering driving instructors. Amendment 44, page 73, line 21, leave out “In”. Amendment 37, page 62, line 36, leave out “applicant” This amendment is consequential on amendment 47. and insert “person”. Amendment 45, page 73, line 23, after “2006,” insert This amendment is a drafting change to improve the cross-reference “is amended as follows. between new section 125(3D) and 125ZA(4)(ba) of the Road (2)” Traffic Act 1988. This amendment is consequential on amendment 47. Amendment 38, page 65, line 26, at end insert— Amendment 46, page 73, line 25, at end insert— “unless the Registrar considers it appropriate for the ( ) in the second column, for “for registration as disabled application to be made at such earlier time as may be driving instructor” substitute “to be registered in specified by the Registrar.” respect of driving instruction”;”. This amendment will enable the Registrar to allow an application Amendments 46, 47, 48 and 49 add further consequential to undergo a further emergency control assessment under section amendments to Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Road Traffic Offenders 133B(4) to be made before the end of the six month period referred Act 1988, to reflect the amendments to the Road Traffic Act 1988 to in new section 133B(5A). made by Schedule 2 to the Bill. Amendment 39, page 66, line 39, leave out “applicant” Amendment 47, page 73, line 26, at end insert— and insert “person”. “(3) In the entry for section 133C(4) of the Road Traffic Act This amendment is a drafting change to improve the cross-reference 1988, in the second column, omit “disabled”. between new section 125(2D) and 125(5A) of the Road Traffic (4) In the entry for section 133D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, Act 1988. in the second column, for “disabled persons” substitute “persons Amendment40,page69,line30,leaveoutparagraph22. required to hold an emergency control certificates”.” 89 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 90

See amendment 46. Amendment 63, in clause 55, page 41, line 26, at end Amendment 48, page 73, line 32, at end insert— insert— (aa) in the second column, for “for registration as disabled ‘(14) The power conferred by subsection (1) may not be driving instructor” substitute “to be registered in exercised until after the BBC’s Royal Charter has next been respect of driving instruction”;”. reviewed.” See amendment 46. Government amendments 20 and 22. Amendment 49, page 73, line 33, at end insert— ‘(3) In the entry for section 133C(4) of the Road Traffic Act Helen Goodman: I want to speak to the amendments 1988, in the second column, omit “disabled”. in my name and that of my hon. Friend the Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central (Chi Onwurah), as well (4) In the entry for section 133D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, in the second column for “disabled persons” substitute “persons as to the Government amendments. required to hold emergency control certificates”.”—(Oliver Clause 54 puts a duty on the Secretary of State to Heald.) review the sanctions on those who own a television but See amendment 46. fail to pay the licence fee. Our amendment would require the Secretary of State to lay the review’s terms of reference before both Houses. Clause 55 gives the Secretary Schedule 9 of State a power to decriminalise sanctions on those who fail to pay the licence fee. Our amendment would REGULATION OF THE USE OF ROADS AND RAILWAYS prevent this power from being used before the completion Amendment made: 51, page 122, line 26, at end insert— of the next review of the BBC’s royal charter. The BBC is a universal service, and the licence fee is a “PART A1 universal payment for anyone with a television. The licence fee is not a tax; it is a guarantee of the BBC’s DURATION OF DRIVING LICENCES TO BE GRANTED TO independence. The BBC is the most trusted source of DRIVERS WITH RELEVANT OR PROSPECTIVE DISABILITIES news in the United Kingdom, with 58% of people rating it as their most trusted news source. A1 Part 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 (licensing of drivers of vehicles) is amended as follows. Kelvin Hopkins: Does my hon. Friend agree that the A2 In section 99 (duration of licences of drivers of motor BBC is trusted not just in Britain but across the world, vehicles of classes other than any prescribed class of goods vehicle or any prescribed class of passenger-carrying vehicle), in and when other broadcasting services are compared to subsection (1)(b) (duration of licence to be granted to person it, they take it as flattery or a compliment? suffering from relevant or prospective disability), for the words from “of not more than” to “may determine” substitute “as the Helen Goodman: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Secretary of State may determine which shall be a period— The BBC is now one of the great British brands and it (i) of not more than ten years and not less than one exports across the world. year, ending on or before the seventieth anniversary of the applicant’s date of birth, or In the evolution of British broadcasting, the licence fee has gained broad support. Nearly everyone in the (ii) where, at the time the licence is granted, there are less than three years until that seventieth anniversary UK uses the BBC each week—it has 97% reach—which or where the licence is granted on or after that helps to explain why support for the licence fee is at anniversary, of not more than three years and not 53%, up from only 31% in 2004, and is ahead of the less than one year”. 17% support for subscriptions and the 26% support for A3 In consequence of paragraph A2, in section 100(1)(b) (appeals advertising. It is the top choice for funding the BBC relating to licences: determination under section 99(1)(b))— across all ages and all socio-economic groups, whether (a) for “three” substitute “ten”; people are in Freeview, Sky or Virgin households. (b) after “or less” insert “or, where sub-paragraph (ii) of Not just the public but other broadcasters appreciate section 99(1)(b) applies, for three years or less”.”— the licence fee, since they have built their business (Oliver Heald.) models using finance from advertising, sponsorship and This amendment increases the period for which a driving licence for subscription on the assumption that the BBC will not non-vocational drivers suffering from a relevant or prospective enter those markets and that, as a result, the size of disability can be granted from a maximum of three years to a those markets will be fairly stable. Labour believes that maximum of ten years, ending no later than the driver’s 70th the licence fee is the best funding model. birthday. Once a driver is over 67, the maximum is three years. Kelvin Hopkins: I apologise for intervening again so Clause 54 quickly, but I want to reinforce my hon. Friend’s point. The fact is that we have quality television across the piece in Britain because of the BBC. If it were not for TV LICENSING: DUTY TO REVIEW SANCTIONS the BBC, standards might drop severely.

Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): I beg to Helen Goodman: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. move amendment 62, page 40, line 13, at end insert— No one wants people to go to prison for non-payment ‘(3) The Secretary of State must lay the terms of reference of a of the licence fee. Last year, 165,000 people failed to review under subsection (1) before each House of Parliament.” pay, and 51 were jailed for non-payment of the associated fines, even though people can pay by instalment. Clearly, Madam Deputy Speaker (Dame Dawn Primarolo): we need some sanctions to ensure payment. The question With this it will be convenient to discuss the following: is whether the current sanctions are the right ones. That Government amendments 14 and 15. is why we have agreed to a review of the sanctions. 91 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 92

[Helen Goodman] The review also needs to look at the cost of collection now and at any alternatives. Obviously, we do not want Our amendment 62 would require the Secretary of the costs of collection to rise. Similarly, it is important State to lay the review’s terms of reference before Parliament, to look at the costs to the courts now, and again, we because we want a proper, analytical and unbiased would not want those costs to rise if we changed the review. I wrote to the Solicitor-General’s colleague, the system. Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, My understanding is that although licence fee evasion the hon. Member for Wantage (Mr Vaizey), who has cases make up around 10% of magistrates court criminal responsibility for communications, about this matter on cases, the vast majority are heard uncontested and in 7 April. bulk, with an average presentation time of three minutes. Such a review should cover the impact of a change on They account for less than 0.3% of court time, so I hope the level of licence fee evasion. It would be helpful to very much that this is not a major plank of the have historical data on evasion rates. According to the Government’s policy justification. TV licensing database, the statistics on the socio-economic We also think it would be a good idea to look at other background of unlicensed properties show that 38% are relevant experiences to see whether that would improve ABs, 29% are C1s, 13% are C2s, 8% are Ds and 11.5% the quality of forecasting the effects of changing the are Es. Those figures are broadly in line with the socio- system, such as the DVLA, subscription channels, utilities economic background of UK properties as a whole. and the council tax. We understand that the DVLA has That does not translate to the socio-economic status of had to write off around one third of all unpaid fines for those prosecuted or imprisoned for non-payment of the non-renewal of vehicle tax, as it is too hard to collect. licence fee, but it indicates that there is higher evasion Of the two-thirds they pursue, less than half are paid. among better-off households. That does not augur well for the BBC licence fee. The review should cover the impact on the BBC’s Currently, the BBC cannot stop people who do not finances. Without that information, we will not know pay the licence fee using its services, so it is more the full impact of evasion. Estimates suggest that a 1% vulnerable to payment evasion than its competitors, increase in non-payment might lead to a £35 million such as Virgin and Sky, which can disconnect non-payers, loss to the BBC. It has said: or the utilities, which can install prepayment meters. “If Licence Fee evasion were to double to around 10%, the Furthermore, around 10% of households have missed BBC would have an estimated…£200 million less per annum for or made only partial payments on a utility bill. If content and services—equivalent to the combined budget of BBC4 and our two children’s channels, CBeebies and CBBC, for licence fee evasion were to increase to that level, it example. Due to low rates of evasion at present, an additional would result in a reduction of around £200 million to £6.7m was available to spend on BBC content in 2012/13.” the BBC’s revenue. We also think it would be helpful for Obviously, if evasion went up, such investment would the Government to look at any international experience. no longer be possible. All those are factors that we would want to see in the The review needs to look at the impact of new terms of reference for a good review. technology and the possibility of ending the BBC’s Amendment 63 is even more important. We need to universal offer. Currently, the BBC cannot switch off look at the BBC’s finances in the round. The royal the signal, so what would happen if it could? charter review is the opportunity for a complete assessment of the role and strategy of the BBC. Changing financing 7.30 pm without reference to strategy and role risks producing The review also needs to look at alternative sanctions. an unsustainable position. We do not want to see a Should those be a mixture of criminal and civil penalties? salami-slicing of the BBC’s position or the insidious Licence fee evasion currently attracts a level 3 penalty, undermining of this great national institution, which, if which is in line with other criminal offences, such as I may say, Mr Deputy Speaker, seems to be the intent of using a vehicle untaxed or without insurance. The maximum some of the Minister’s more right-wing colleagues, who fine for non-payment is £1,000, although magistrates are not even sitting in the Chamber today, even though take account of a person’s income and employment they initiated the whole debate. The impact on other status. The average fine levied last year was about £170, broadcasters matters as well. The royal charter review is and it was significantly lower for the unemployed. In an opportunity for them and the public to engage fully contrast, civil penalties tend to be fixed at a single level with the issues. for all affected. The mix we have of large and small broadcasters, I am sure the Minister knows that under the Legal public service and commercial, has produced the best Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012, television in the world. It is a credit to our country, a the Government intend to raise maximum fine limits huge economic success, and a powerhouse of creativity. across category 1 to category 5 offences. Increasing It is also a delicate balance and not a trinket to be maximum fines is the Government’s decision. However, played with. That is why any change to the licence fee the magistrates court sentencing guidelines will consider must be properly considered at the time of the royal that when they are finally being tweaked. charter review. The Government amendments are relevant to this Mark Field (Cities of London and Westminster) (Con): particular point. We are content with Government I wish to speak briefly on this matter. I have a lot of amendments 14, 20 and 22, but I would be grateful if sympathy with the Opposition’s views, and the hon. the Solicitor-General could give the House an explanation Member for Bishop Auckland (Helen Goodman) is of Government amendment 15. Why are the Government right: we have a lot to be proud of. I am always wary of unwilling to set the penalties on this occasion? Are they using the phrase, “It is the envy of the world”, but we thinking of establishing a new quango, or would it be have a superb television service and largely, the British an extra duty that he would give to Ofcom? Broadcasting Corporation is responsible for that. 93 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 94

There are those on the Government Benches—I have that we can rely on. As a result, if the BBC is to play as some sympathy with some of my, as the hon. Lady important a part in public life in the decades to come, it would put it, “right-wing colleagues”—who worry about must be wise to the fact that there will have to be the political bias of the BBC. Even its former director- changes to its funding mechanism, without immediately general, Mr Mark Thompson, has referred to that. accusing the House, and others who wish it to survive None the less, I do not think any of us can deny that the well into the 21st and future centuries, of being aggressively BBC does a very good public service with its broadcasting, anti what it does. and it is one that is recognised throughout the world. I hope that the Solicitor-General will have some My concern is this: we are living in a fast-changing proposals regarding what I have said, and particularly world and the notion that the BBC’s licence fee can that he will ensure that the good will towards the BBC remain in aspic as the only model of funding is one that in the hearts of many of our fellow countrymen remains would be dangerous for the BBC, as well as for all of us, intact. Some of the BBC’s antics are the sorts of things necessarily to hold close to our hearts. that have allowed people who would otherwise oppose Criminalisation is also something that I want to the amendments to hold the views expressed in one or speak about briefly. When my late mother died, she was two of them, although as we see, they will not necessarily living alone. She had been widowed for some years, and be discussed to any great extent. she died in September 2010. I took on the responsibility Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, for allowing me to for looking after her affairs in the home in which she make a brief contribution. I look forward to an interesting had lived prior to it being sold, which took place some debate, which I expect will take place not just on the months later. I was appalled by the experience that I Floor of the House but will make up an important part had, which I am sure is one shared by many hundreds of of discussions on the renewal of the charter in 2016 and thousands of our fellow countrymen in a similar position. beyond. Literally on a fortnightly basis, we got threatening letters from the BBC’s licensing department, saying that we were committing a criminal offence by not having a Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): It is a delight to licence. There is a sense, I am afraid, in which the BBC support the amendments tabled by my hon. Friend the regards every single home as being fair game, whether Member for Bishop Auckland (Helen Goodman), and anyone is living there or, indeed, using a television set. It an enormous shame that those who drafted the original certainly was not terribly good public relations, not just clauses are not present to take part in the debate that for me personally, but, I suspect, for many other people they began. who go through that particular rigmarole. There is a sense that the BBC feels it has the right to claim, almost The Solicitor-General (Oliver Heald) rose— with menaces, moneys, when the particular circumstances of my mother having passed away made it even more Chris Bryant: I do not really think the Solicitor-General upsetting to get one letter after another in this way. should be replying to a debate on broadcasting, but I am happy to give way. David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con): My hon. Friend makes an important point by talking about his mother’s The Solicitor-General: I am sure the hon. Gentleman circumstances. My constituents, too, have had similar will accept that we did have a debate in Committee, in experiences with the TV licence and the point they are which the hon. Gentleman who tabled the amendments trying to make is that these approaches by the BBC are was a very active member, and he was satisfied with the overly aggressive. That has helped the push towards the Government’s approach. introduction of the amendments. Chris Bryant: Of course—it stands to reason that the Mark Field: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. For hon. and learned Gentleman was present; otherwise, he those of us who are broadly supportive of the BBC and would not have been able to speak to the amendments. its values, it is very upsetting to see that aggressive That is a rather redundant, kind of tautologous point— approach, particularly in circumstances such as the [Interruption.] No, the debate is not finished and I am ones that I have pointed out, which affect, as I said, sorry that the Solicitor-General is adopting that approach. many tens of thousands of our fellow countrymen on a The honest truth is that the Government have approached day-to-day basis. The notion is put across that somehow, this whole issue in completely the wrong order. The if we lose the money, we will not be able to have amendments tabled this evening are the only way we CBeebies and BBC4, but again, there has to be a sense can correct that order because we are putting the cart of prioritisation in the BBC, which has a very privileged before the horse. position with its money—some £2.5 billion a year—that Surely we should decide what the point of the BBC is it is able to rely on in order to make the excellent and how it should be financed, and then decide on programmes to which we have all referred. sanctions should those things not be met—not the I hope that we will have a sensible debate—in fairness other way round. Under the Bill, however, before any to the hon. Member for Bishop Auckland, she has review of the licence fee and the next charter, it has been presented some sensible proposals—on how our British decided in principle that there should be a change to the Broadcasting Corporation will be funded. The only arrangement on sanctions for not paying the licence fee. warning sign is that we are increasingly living in a world That is completely the wrong way round. The Government of pay-per-view and a proliferation of channels. Like have caved in to some frankly preposterous Back-Bench me, the hon. Lady grew up at a time when, until 1982, campaigning, and it is a shame that those campaigners there were only three channels. A fourth channel then are not present to see the end of this debate and listen to emerged, and suddenly we had a plethora of channels the next stage. The discussion is far from over. 95 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 96

[Chris Bryant] Chris Bryant: I completely disagree with the hon. Gentleman who I know is fair minded. If he were to If the Education Secretary were here and looking for return to the previous debates, I think he would say that a list of British values, I would tell him that I would put the fundamental argument made by those proposing the BBC and British broadcasting at the top of that list. these measures is that the licence fee should pay only for I have spoken to politicians from India who said that high-end broadcasting. Frankly, I think of that as getting the style of broadcasting that we invented in this country the poor to pay for broadcasting for the rich. That is and exported around the world inspired them to have why I believe in a licence fee that is paid by every free and independent broadcasting in their country. I household and guarantees something for everybody. have known politicians from Chile, Argentina and Spain who talked of sitting under the kitchen table and hiding Kelvin Hopkins: I agree very strongly with my hon. while listening to British broadcasting on the radio—largely Friend. The licence fee promotes social cohesion, and through the World Service as it was in the past—because the alternative would promote social division. He is they believed that was the only way they could get an making the point extremely well. independent source of news. Chris Bryant: Absolutely. I am not opposed to the David Rutley: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? idea of ending present licensing offences per se, although I think there are dangers in that which I will come to in Chris Bryant: In one moment. a moment. However, doing it in this order, and in a The BBC is not just about independent news; it is Deregulation Bill that has nothing to do with broadcasting about a long tradition of being able to tell a story about or licensing, is particularly bizarre. On the whole I British society in a way that incorporates the whole of dislike Christmas tree legislation, which is what the Bill human experience. That tradition probably stretches has become, and these proposals are wholly inappropriate. way back to Chaucer, Shakespeare, Marlowe and all the If we had a broadcasting Bill, I would be happy to see rest, and I believe that the modern BBC sits solidly and these matters debated in the round and in the context of squarely slap bang in the middle of that tradition, and broadcasting. I think we would have a fuller Chamber— is itself a British value. The fact that it is funded by the better viewing figures perhaps, and not just BBC executives licence fee is part of that—everybody gets to pay for who are doubtless following every second of this debate. and share in it, and everybody gets something out of it. As we consider current offences and whether they I know there are people who believe that the licence fee should be swept away, we must bear in mind the fact should pay only for high-minded broadcasting—perhaps that broadcasting always tends towards monopoly as for news, classical broadcasting and the like. that is its fundamental nature. It is very expensive to make a programme, but it is more or less as expensive 7.45 pm to show that programme to one person as it is to show it to 5,000, 2 million or 5 million people. The Solicitor-General: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? Mark Field: Will the hon. Gentleman give way?

Chris Bryant: In a moment. Chris Bryant: If the hon. Gentleman will let me finish Many of my constituents are on low incomes and in a this argument, I will give way. deprived community, but they are happy to pay the I think it appropriate, especially in markets of the size licence fee because it guarantees something for everybody. we have in the United Kingdom, to ensure that a pot of For them, the sport on television, which would probably money is available for local, British programming— be commercially available elsewhere, is public service programmes made in this country that reflect its interests, broadcasting; “EastEnders”is public service broadcasting. not just in terms of news and current affairs, but drama, The quality that is brought by ordinary broadcasting to comedy, religion, and all the different genres. That is an everyday lives is part of what people in my constituency essential part of ensuring that monopoly does not always believe to be public service broadcasting. triumph. David Rutley rose— The hon. Member for Cities of London and Westminster (Mark Field) referred to the £2.7 billion that the BBC is The Solicitor-General rose— guaranteed as though that were an enormous amount of money. It is nothing compared with Sky, which has Chris Bryant: I will give way first to the hon. Member £7 billion a year; and how much programming does it for Macclesfield (David Rutley) because I said I would. produce that is then exported round the world on behalf of Britain? To what extent does it sell Britain abroad? David Rutley: The hon. Gentleman misses the point. How much does it reflect the whole of British society? It No Government Member in this debate or in Committee is difficult enough to get a Sky journalist to travel was questioning the values of the BBC. outside the M25, let alone all the way down to Wales, for heaven’s sake. That is why I believe we must have an Chris Bryant: Yes they were. alternative in the public sector to the monopoly that will otherwise be set up. David Rutley: No, not the values. Some might have questioned some of the services, but not the values or Mark Field: I had hoped to agree with what the hon. the news services and values that are espoused there— Gentleman said about this measure being in a Christmas absolutely not. The key issue is whether the late-payment tree Bill. I agree with him fundamentally that it would approach should be decriminalised, and that is what all be better to have it in a proper broadcasting Bill, but the Government Members were keen to do. difficulty is that we focus our minds on the BBC only 97 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 98 when the renewal of the charter comes up, which is not David Rutley: I have been following the hon. Gentleman’s necessarily the best time to look at these things in the argument as closely as I can. He makes the point about broadest sense. However, I disagree with what he said how important it is to ensure proper programming and about Sky. Ultimately, we are all consumers of Sky. It is how important the licence fee is, but what we are talking the market that decides, and if there were no market for about in this debate is whether it should be a criminal it, Sky would not have £7 billion in its coffers. We have offence to pay the fee late or to be unable to pay it. £2.7 billion in the BBC, which I think does a terrific job, There are many other worthy providers of great public given that amount of money, but it is right that the services that do not have that right. That is what we are market should prevail to a certain extent. discussing.

Chris Bryant: Perhaps what the hon. Gentleman says Chris Bryant: It is not, actually. What we are discussing reflects his constituency, but for the majority of the is the order in which the Government should proceed—in time that I have been a Member of Parliament, the only other words, whether they should first decide what the way that my constituents could get BBC 3, BBC 4 or, in future sanction should be and then review the licence most parts of it, BBC 2, let alone Channel 4, was to pay fee, or whether they should first review the licence fee Sky. It had an absolute monopoly on digital television and the charter and then decide what the sanction in the south Wales valleys. Because of the mixture of should be. I believe the latter is the only logical and platforms, the geography, the various ways in which, for commonsensical way of proceeding. That is why I am instance, mansion block flats in London work and all strongly supportive of the amendments that my hon. the rest of it, it is important that we have a public Friend the Member for Bishop Auckland has tabled, service broadcaster with a commitment and a statutory because that is precisely what they do. It would be requirement to deliver to every household and provide extraordinary if the Government were to oppose our something for everybody: the 83-year-old who only amendments this evening. I know that the Solicitor-General likes listening to Chaucer and Mantovani—if there is a is sometimes a very reasonable man—[Interruption]— person who only likes that combination—and the 18-year- although he has not got his reasonable face on now, old who is only interested in the kind of things that are I see. shown on BBC 3. That is an important commitment and we need that The Solicitor-General: It is because you would not combination, because as somebody once put it to me, if givewaytome. we are to have one 800 lb gorilla in the forest, in the shape of Sky, it is a good idea to have a second 800 lb Chris Bryant: I give way to the hon. and learned gorilla in the forest, because that is safer for everybody. Gentleman. The competition we have in the UK between public service broadcasting and the commercial sector is positive. The Solicitor-General: The debate we have been having, We were wrong in the past to campaign against having in Committee and with my hon. Friend the Member for ITV and the commercial sector and all the rest. It is North West Leicestershire (Andrew Bridgen), is about right to have that mixture. The two feed off each other, enforcement of the licence fee, not about the principle. and Sky is now finally learning that it is a good idea to produce programmes of its own. Chris Bryant: I have read all the debates, which were The licence fee is a phenomenal success for this actually about fundamental principles as well, and the country. The £2.7 billion that the hon. Gentleman talks fundamental principle for me is that we should do the of is basically an investment in production, which is whole policy in the round, rather than doing it piecemeal why programmes are sold all around the world. We are in a deregulation Bill. the only country in Europe that manages to be a net exporter of programming. That might be because of That takes me to the key point about sanctions. our history, but I think it is also because we have a Whatever regime one moves to—whether one decriminalises strong BBC. I also think that the alternatives to the or not—one needs some form of sanction if one is not licence fee that are experienced elsewhere in Europe, fundamentally to undermine the licence fee. As I understand which many people tout—for instance, Germany has a it, the Government do not want to undermine the mixture of a licence fee and advertising, others have a licence fee. They still support it—[Interruption.] From public service broadcasting model based just on advertising, the look on the Solicitor-General’s face, I see that he is and the Netherlands has a fixed amount of income not so sure about that. However, broadly speaking, tax—are more flawed than the licence fee. To paraphrase given that the majority of people in this country support Churchill, yes, the licence fee may be terrible—for all the licence fee and believe that although it might not be the reasons that I am sure people can adduce: it is not perfect—they may support decriminalisation—it is none progressive, it bears down unequally, it affects everybody, the less the best way to finance the BBC, it is only whether they are rich or poor, and all the rest of it—but common sense for us to ensure that some of form of it is better than all the alternatives. sanction is available. As my hon. Friend the Member for Bishop Auckland Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): pointed out, we would need only a very small increase Will the hon. Gentleman give way? in the rate of licence fee evasion to see a significant fall in BBC income. I can imagine Government Members Chris Bryant: I am not going to give way, because the then being the first to say, “You can’t cut spending on hon. Gentleman was not here for the beginning of the programming in my area,” or “You can’t cut the regional debate. I would normally be very generous, but he was current affairs programme,” or “You can’t cut spending not here even for the beginning of my speech, let alone on orchestras,”or “Youcan’t cut spending on programmes the moving of the amendment. that are produced and delivered in my part of the 99 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 100

[Chris Bryant] Clearly, the Government will not take up the invitation of the hon. Member for Bishop Auckland (Helen country.”However, I say to them that if the Government Goodman) and say what the outcome of the review and make it easier for people to evade the licence fee, because the penalties will be—something I thought she said. She they have not put in place sanctions— asks why the Government are unwilling to set the penalties now; the answer is that we have not yet had the Andrew Bridgen rose— review. Whether one particular body will have the duty of setting the variable fees is another issue for the Chris Bryant: I am not going to give way to the hon. review; we want a proper review that will look into all Gentleman. He was not here for the beginning of the aspects of the issue. As to what analysis has been done debate. End of story, I am afraid. of the potential impacts—positive and negative—of switching to a civil rather than a criminal enforcement, If the Government do not put proper sanctions in or of having the option of both, we are having a review place, they are in danger of cutting the overall income precisely to determine that. The whole point is that we for the BBC. On the whole, I think the idea of a do not want to prejudge the review. summary review of the licence fee, as well as the way in which Governments have sometimes tended to proceed Helen Goodman: My question was not why the with a new royal charter, is problematic in a modern Government will not decide the penalties at this juncture—I democracy. It has meant going through the back door completely accept what the Solicitor-General said about of Buckingham palace, rather than in through the front that—but why the Government were offloading the door of this palace in Westminster. On the whole, I task of setting the penalties on to another body. would prefer a proper debate in the round. If there are going to be changes after the next charter review and The Solicitor-General: There will clearly need to be a the next licence fee review, that is the time for us to mechanism to effect the change; someone will have to make proper decisions about how we ensure that the decide what the variable penalties should be, and I shall licence fee is not undermined but that some of the come on to that in a moment. I do not think it right, egregious examples we have all heard of—people being however, to prejudge who or which body should do the been sent to prison for what is a minor offence—are setting. The hon. Lady suggested one particular body, dealt with too. but we are happy to let the review look into these issues As I have said before, in many ways I agree that the and come up with its thoughts on what sort of regime licence fee is terrible—it bears down heavily on the should or should not be approved. poor, just as it bears down on the rich—but it also The amendments are designed to achieve two objectives. means that the poor have an opportunity to get quality Under amendment 62, television. There are very few things in this country “The Secretary of State must lay the terms of reference of a about which one can genuinely say with one’s hand on review” one’s heart, “We do it better than anyone else in the world,” but I honestly think we do broadcasting better of the TV licensing enforcement regime than any other country in the world. By proceeding in “before each House of Parliament.” the wrong order, because of how the Government have Those would be key papers for the review, and there mishandled this debate, there is a danger that we will would be others. What normally happens, and what we undermine the licence fee and break something that is propose, is that those papers are deposited in the Libraries fundamentally a British value—good public service of both Houses. It would be unusual to lay them before broadcasting. the House. That would be the normal and best way forward, and it would achieve the same effect as the amendment—that is, it would ensure that the House of 8pm Commons was fully aware of the details. The Solicitor-General: We have had a short but lively Amendment 63 looks to ensure that the power to debate, and I would like to put it on record that no decriminalise the failure to have a TV licence via secondary Government Member said that the BBC was not a legislation, either by replacing the criminal regime with fantastic institution, or anything of that sort. Our debate a civil regime, or by enabling the imposition of civil was not about the licence fee, although the charter penalties for such offences, would not be exercised until review is coming up, and that will have a process of its after the conclusion of the charter process. As previously own; it was about enforcement. mentioned, this power would need to be exercised in the My hon. Friend the Member for North West light of the review’s findings, and considering the full Leicestershire (Andrew Bridgen)—I pay tribute to the impacts, costs and benefits to licence payers, to the way he put his case—made the point that there are court system—where, as the hon. Lady said, changes many poor and vulnerable people who struggle with the are being made—and to businesses of any changes to licence fee, and they can be criminalised and even sent the enforcement regime. That would be considered in to prison for failure to pay it. He clearly felt concerned the context of the charter review. about them, and made his case in that way. It was not At this stage, it would be premature to put restrictions developed as some kind of veiled attack on the BBC. I on the timing of when the power may be exercised, think it right to look at decriminalisation. Even the given that the charter review has not yet started, and the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) seemed to Government have not set out the detail of the process accept that at one point, and he even seemed to accept and the timing. The Government therefore resist the that it would be right to have a review of the sort amendments on the following grounds. First, the key proposed by the Government. Again, I do not see much papers will be deposited in the Library in the normal cross-party disagreement there. way and, secondly, we do not want to restrict what 101 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 102 should or could happen, in terms of decriminalisation, that some commitments have been made about the time by aligning the legislation with the timing of the charter scale for the review; that is in the legislation. We know review, although the legislation would be in the context when the charter review will take place, and we know of the review. that nothing will happen until the review has been My hon. Friend the Member for Cities of London completed, taking into account all the various points I and Westminster (Mark Field) made the point that we have made. That should satisfy the hon. Gentleman. are living in a changing world. That is true, both as The hon. Member for Bishop Auckland mentioned regards the courts and how they go about enforcing, variable fees; they are provided for in the Government and about the media and broadcasting world. It is also amendments, which also deal with the question of extent true in respect of how we look at enforcement. Given and the Crown dependencies. I commend Government that so many public services have civil enforcement and amendments 14 and 15 and 20 and 22, and urge the that it can be effective, it is certainly right, I think, at hon. Lady to withdraw the amendment. this point to have a review, and to try to move away from the aggressive approach that my hon. Friend Helen Goodman: I did not find the Solicitor-General’s mentioned. The point was made by my hon. Friend the arguments very convincing. He seems to want to retain Member for Macclesfield (David Rutley), and I have the freedom to fiddle around with the way in which the encountered the issue in my constituency postbag and licence fee operates before we have seen the results of at surgeries. Elderly people who feel that they have paid the royal charter review. None the less, I do not wish to their licence fee—they often have—can be threatened press either amendment 62 or amendment 63 to a vote, with bills, letters about going to court and so forth, yet although I suspect that amendment 62 may be re-examined it is often the TV licensing authorities that have made in another place. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the the mistakes. A civil approach, where at least the threat amendment. of court is not frightening elderly, vulnerable and poor Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. people, might be a better way forward. It is certainly something worth reviewing. On the issue of excellence Clause 55 and free markets, it is right that both can deliver. TV LICENSING: ALTERNATIVES TO CRIMINAL SANCTIONS Chris Bryant: I got a bit confused with all the different Amendments made: 14, page 40, line 24, after “be” reviews we seem to be talking about. We are talking insert “— about a review of the charter, which is coming along; (a) ” and a review of the system of sanctions, which may lead This amendment is a drafting amendment related to to recommendations on what needs to change and on amendment 15. the use of the secondary legislation included in the Bill. Amendment 15, page 40, line 25, at end insert All I am saying is that the latter should not come before “, or the former. (b) such amount, not exceeding a maximum amount specified in the regulations, as may be determined by a body so The Solicitor-General: I hope the hon. Gentleman specified.”—(Oliver Heald.) would accept that we are where we are. That may not be In the event of the Secretary of State deciding to make regulations novel, but it is true. [Interruption.] It does. The Bill had replacing the TV licensing offences with a civil penalty regime, this within its scope the enforcement arrangements for the amendment would allow the regulations to provide for the amount licence fee. My hon. Friend the Member for North West of the penalty to be determined by a body specified in the Leicestershire—not me—was concerned about the issue, regulations, subject to a maximum amount specified in the which garnered considerable support in the House. He regulations. was persuasive in saying that it was right to review this area and take the powers at this convenient opportunity, New Clause 3 in case the review comes to the same conclusion as him. [Interruption.] The hon. Member for Rhondda is very LIMIT ON INDEMNITY REQUIRED UNDER OUTER SPACE experienced in these matters and has had a role in the ACT 1986 leadership of House operations, so he understands these ‘(1) The Outer Space Act 1986 is amended as follows. things. This is not such a novel and surprising thing. It (2) In section 3 (prohibition of unlicensed activities), after is actually a good opportunity to tackle an issue that subsection (3) insert— has arisen in Parliament. “(3A) An order under subsection (3) may— (a) provide that section 10(1) does not apply to a person to Chris Bryant: What I think I understand by that—I the extent that the person is carrying on activities hope the Solicitor-General will confirm whether I am that do not require a licence by virtue of the order; right, or will correct me if I have it wrong—is that his (b) specify the maximum amount of a person’s liability Government would or could bring in and use the secondary under section 10(1) so far as the liability relates to the legislation before the charter review happened. Is that carrying on of activities that do not require a licence his intention? by virtue of the order.” (3) In section 5 (terms of licence), after subsection (2) insert— The Solicitor-General: It is certainly not the intention “(3) A licence must specify the maximum amount of the to do anything that does not take into account the full licensee’s liability to indemnify Her Majesty’s context—[Interruption.] The hon. Gentleman laughs, government in the United Kingdom under section 10 but there is a full context to the charter review. It is in respect of activities authorised by the licence.” difficult when the process has not been set out and (4) In section 10 (obligation to indemnify government against nobody is aware of the full details, so one needs to be claims), after subsection (1) insert— wary of tying one’s hands too much. All I am saying is “(1A) Subsection (1) is subject to— 103 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 104

(a) any limit on the amount of a person’s liability that New clause 11—Extending of Sunday trading hours— is specified in a licence, and ‘(1) The Sunday Trading Act 1994 is amended as follows. (b) any order made under section 3(3).” (2) In Schedule 1, paragraph 2(3), leave out “six” and insert (5) The Secretary of State may vary any licence under section 4 “eight”. of the 1986 Act that is held at the time when this section comes (3) In Schedule 1, paragraph 2(3), leave out “6 p.m.” and insert into force so as to specify the maximum amount of the licencee’s “8 p.m.”.” liability under section 10 of that Act. New clause 12—Suspension of restriction of Sunday (6) A variation under subsection (5) is to be made by giving trading hours— notice in writing to the licensee. ‘(1) Paragraph 2(1) of Schedule 1 to the Sunday Trading Act (7) The power under section 15(6) of the 1986 Act may be 1994 (which restricts Sunday opening at large shops) does not exercised so as to extend to any of the Channel Islands, the Isle apply during the suspension period. of Man or any British overseas territory any provision made by this section (subject to any specified exceptions or (2) But Schedule 3 to that Act (which restricts loading and modifications).” —(Oliver Heald.) unloading at large shops on Sunday mornings) is to apply during the suspension period to any shop to which it would apply during Section 10 of the Outer Space Act 1986 requires people carrying that period were it not for the disapplication made by out certain space activities to indemnify the UK government subsection (1). against claims arising out of the activities. The new clause makes provision for limiting the amount of the liability under the (3) “The suspension period” means the part of the Glasgow indemnity. 2014 Commonwealth Games period which— Brought up, and read the First time. (a) begins with Sunday 27 July 2014, and (b) ends with Sunday 3 August 2014. The Solicitor-General: I beg to move, That the clause (4) Where a shop worker gives an opting-out notice in the be read a Second time. pre-Games period that relates to work at an exempted large shop, section 41(3), of the Employment Rights Act 1996 has effect as if the notice period in relation to the shop worker were the period Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): With this it which— Section 42(2) of that Act accordingly has effect in will be convenient to discuss the following: relation to the shop worker as if the reference to three months Government new clause 6—Power of HMRC to disclose were a reference to the notice period as it is modified by information for purposes of certain litigation. subsection (1). (a) begins with the day on which the notice is given, and Government new clause 7—Combining different forms (b) ends two months after that day, or with Sunday 3 August of subordinate legislation. 2014 (if that is later). Government new clause 20—Tenancy deposits. (5) Where the opting-out notice includes an express statement Government new clause 21—Short-term use of London to the effect that the shop worker objects to Sunday working only accommodation: power to relax restrictions. during the suspension period, the shop worker is to be treated for the purposes of that Act as having given an opting-in notice at Government new clause 22—Electoral Commission: the end of that period. changes to facilitate efficient administration. (6) The “pre-Games period” is the period which— Government new clause 23—LGBC for England: changes (a) begins with the day on which this Act is passed, and to facilitate efficient administration. (b) ends with Sunday 3 August 2014. Government new clause 24—Poisons and explosives (7) An “exempted large shop” is a shop to which paragraph precursors. 2(1) of Schedule 1 to the Sunday Trading Act 1994 would apply New clause 8—Replacing homes lost through the Preserved during the suspension period were it not for the disapplication Right to Buy— made by section 1(1). (8) In this section— ‘(1) Within one year of this Act receiving Royal Assent, the Secretary of State shall lay before each House of Parliament a (a) “opting-in notice”, “opting-out notice” and “shop plan to— worker” each have the same meaning as in the Employment Rights Act 1996, and (a) replace the homes lost through the Preserved Right to (b) “suspension period” has the meaning given in section Buy; 1(3).” (b) review the effectiveness of the current Right to Buy policy. New clause 13—Suspension of restriction on Sunday trading hours— (2) Before making any further changes to Right to Buy, the Secretary of State must carry out and publish an assessment of ‘(1) Paragraph 2(1) of Schedule 1 to the Sunday Trading Act the impact of Right to Buy policy on affordable housing supply 1994 (which restricts Sunday opening at large shops) does not since 2012.” apply during the suspension period. (2) But Schedule 3 to that Act (which restricts loading and This new clause would require the Minister to produce a plan to unloading at large shops on Sunday mornings) is to apply during replace affordable homes lost in England as a result of Right to the suspension period to any shop to which it would apply during Buy, review the effectiveness of current policy and carry out an that period were it not for the disapplication made by subsection assessment of changes since 2012 before making further policy (1). changes. New clause 10—Repeal of the Sunday Trading Act (3) “The suspension period” means the part of the Rugby World Cup 2015 period, which— 1994— (a) begins with Sunday 20 September 2015, and ‘(1) The Sunday Trading Act 1994 is amended as follows. (b) ends with Sunday 25 October 2015. (2) Paragraph 2(1) of Schedule 1 to the Sunday Trading Act (4) Where a shop worker gives an opting-out notice in the 1994 (which restricts Sunday trading at large shops) is repealed. pre-Rugby Cup period that relates to work at an exempted large (3) Section 2, subsection (5) of that Act and Schedule 3 to the shop, section 41(3) of the Employment Rights Act 1996 has Act (which restricts loading and unloading at large shops on effect as if the notice period in relation to the shop worker were Sunday mornings) are repealed.” the period which— 105 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 106

(a) begins with the day on which the notice is given, and Amendment 70, in clause 76, page 52, line 4, after (b) ends with Saturday 31 October 2015. “75”, insert (5) Section 42(2) of that Act accordingly has effect in relation “sustainable development” means development that meets the to the shop worker as if the reference to three months were a needs of the present without compromising the ability of existing reference to the notice period as it is modified by subsection (1). communities and future generations to meet their own needs; and (6) Where the opting-out notice includes an express statement that contributes to the principles that the nation and areas within to the effect that the shop worker objects to Sunday working only it should live within their environmental limits, should achieve a during the suspension period, the shop worker is to be treated for sustainable economy and should seek to ensure a strong, healthy the purposes of that Act as having given an opting-in notice at and just society.” the end of that period. This defines sustainable development in terms recommended by the (7) The “pre-Rugby Cup period” is the period which— Communities and Local Government Select Committee 2011 (a) begins on Friday 17 July 2015, and inquiry into the National Planning Policy Framework, which drew on the 2005 UK Sustainable Development Strategy. (b) ends with Friday 11 September 2015. Government amendments 76, 19, 21 and 77. (8) An “exempted large shop” is a shop to which paragraph 2(1) of Schedule 1 to the Sunday Trading Act 1994 Amendment 3, in clause 80, page 53, line 38, at end would apply during the suspension period were it not for the insert disapplication made by section 1(1). “, subject to the condition in subsection (2) of that section;” (9) In this section— This amendment is consequential on amendment 2. (a) “opting-in notice”, “opting-out notice”and “shop worker” each have the same meaning as in the Employment Government amendments 25, 50, 52 to 54 and 57. Rights Act 1996, and (b) “suspension period” has the meaning given in section The Solicitor-General: This is a substantial group 1(3).” that covers a range of issues, from zero-carbon homes New clause 14—Further exemption to Sunday trading to outer space and back again via the right to buy. Let hours: garden centres— me begin with new clause 3. ‘(1) The Sunday Trading Act 1994 is amended as follows. In their growth review, published in March 2011, the (2) In Schedule 1, paragraph 3(1), after paragraph (k) at end Government set out their intention to reform the Outer insert— Space Act 1986 by introducing an upper limit on liability “(l) any garden centres.” for United Kingdom operators. The aim was to help to level the playing field for United Kingdom companies Government new schedule 2—Poisons and explosives competing for international business. UK space operators precursors. have long argued that the unlimited liability placed on Amendment 84, page 11, line 18, leave out clause 17. them by section 10 of the Act is very difficult to manage Government amendment 12. in terms of financing. Given the global nature of the Amendment 85, page 24, line 11, leave out clauses 30 space industry, that could result in work being lost to and 31. countries from outside the United Kingdom. The licensing regime enables the UK Government—among other Amendment 79, in clause 30, page 24, line 14, leave things—to offset some of the unlimited liability to out from “State” to end of line 17 and insert which they are exposed under the terms of the United “in relation to England may include a requirement that applies Nations liability convention. only where a planning authority makes compliance with the requirement a condition of a grant of planning permission.” Section 10 of the Act requires licensees to indemnify the Government against any proven third-party costs Government amendments 80 to 83. resulting from their activities. That is an unlimited Amendment 2, in clause 30, page 24, line 42, at end liability on licensees. As it is not possible to insure insert— against unlimited liability, licensees are required to obtain ‘(2) This section and section 31 shall not come into force until third-party liability insurance both during the launch the Secretary of State has laid a Zero-Carbon Housing Strategy and while the satellite is in operation, with the UK before both Houses of Parliament.” Government a named beneficiary. If a claim were to Government amendments 16 to 18. exceed that amount, the Government could seek to Amendment 64, page 50, line 30, leave out clauses 73 recover the balance under section 10 of the Act. to 76. In the growth review, the Government set out their This amendment removes the requirement on persons exercising a intention of reforming the Act by introducing an upper regulatory function to have regard to the desirability of promoting limit on liability for UK operators. A two-part approach economic growth. has been undertaken. Part 1—the announcement by the Amendment 66, in clause 73, page 50, line 33, leave Minister for Universities and Science of a reduction in out “economic growth” and insert “sustainable the compulsory insurance requirement from ¤100 million development”. to ¤60 million—was well received. Part 2 involves a legislative change that will cap the unlimited liability at Amendment 67, page 50, line 35, leave out “economic ¤60 million for the majority of missions. The chosen growth” and insert “sustainable development”. route for the achievement of that change would give the Amendment 69, page 50, line 37, leave out “only”. Secretary of State the power to set or vary the liability This amendment makes it clear that a person exercising a limit through the licensing regime, which will provide regulatory function under this section must take regulatory action flexibility, and, we hope, lead to a level playing field. It when needed. may also help with the development of smaller satellite Amendment 68, in clause 75, page 51, line 29, leave technology. CubeSats, for instance, offer lower-cost and out “economic growth” and insert “sustainable possibly lower-risk access to space, along with growth development”. opportunities for the UK. 107 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 108

[The Solicitor-General] The Solicitor-General: I do not agree. I think that my hon. Friend makes a huge contribution in the House, New clause 6—which deals with mesothelioma—and although I do not always agree with him. amendment 19 introduce a power to enable Her Majesty’s It was made clear in the briefing the Government Revenue and Customs to supply, without the need for a published in 2007 that there was no intention of affecting court order, the work history of deceased persons to prior deposits. It was also never the intention that their personal representatives and some dependants. landlords who had protected deposits and who had That would be for the purpose of making a personal given their tenants information about that protection injury claim for the benefit of the deceased’s estate, or should then have to reissue the same information about making a claim under fatal accidents legislation. The the deposit protection each and every time the tenancy change will benefit the families and dependants of the was renewed, although the same deposit would continue deceased. It will enable them more quickly and easily to be protected in the same scheme from one tenancy to to prove their claim for compensation against the the next. That, however, was the result of the Court of person or organisation liable for the injury or death, Appeal’s decision in the case of Superstrike Ltd v. including compensation for loss of dependency on the Marino Rodrigues. As a result of that decision, a large deceased. As I know that that proposal has all-party number of landlords were at risk of court action and support, I do not intend to deal with it at greater length, open to a financial penalty, despite having done what but I will of course be happy to say more about it if that the sector and successive Governments considered to be is required. the right thing. Our proposals are broadly similar to those made by my hon. Friend, and will protect landlords 8.15 pm who follow Government and tenancy deposit scheme advice from financial penalties and delayed possession New clause 7 forms part of the Government’s good proceedings by providing a grace period and making law initiative, and would allow different forms of other provision. subordinate legislation to be combined in a single statutory instrument when that is appropriate. Rules, regulations New clause 21 deals with short-term lets. It is aimed and orders could be combined in one statutory instrument. at an outdated, 40-year old law that restricts householders The rationale is that, currently, different forms of statutory in London from being able to temporarily let out their instrument cannot generally be combined unless an Act homes, or even a spare room, for less than three months gives an express power for the purpose. That remains without having first secured planning permission for the case even if they implement a single policy, or relate change of use. Currently, failure to secure planning to the same subject matter. permission in Greater London for short-term letting can result in a fine of up to £20,000. That is not the case The use of a variety of forms of statutory instruments in the rest of England, where property owners can let to give effect to a single policy can result in a bewildering out their homes on a short-term basis without needing combination of different instruments, and can make permission to do so. things harder for users of legislation. Allowing different forms to be combined should create a much more During the 2012 Olympics while we were all encouraging coherent legislative story and policy narrative, while—we visitors to come to London and join in the celebrations, hope—reducing the number of administrative burdens some people who welcomed visitors into their homes and the amount of parliamentary time that is wasted. were subject to enforcement action from London boroughs. That was not universal, but I do applaud the boroughs New clause 20 concerns tenancy deposits. At this that entered into the spirit and encouraged residents to point, let me thank my hon. Friend the Member for let out their homes or a spare room. Wimbledon is on at Shipley (Philip Davies). I have let him down once or the moment, of course, and Londoners have traditionally twice during the Bill’s passage by not accepting his rented out spare rooms and homes to people visiting the proposals, but on this occasion I want to thank him for capital for the championships. The new clause enables tabling new clause 16. I also thank him for subsequently the Secretary of State to make regulations to give withdrawing it in favour of the technically correct new London residents more of the freedoms enjoyed in clause 20, with which, I understand, he is satisfied. other parts of the country. It was never intended that the tenancy deposit protection I have discussed this with my right hon. and learned legislation should apply to a deposit received prior to Friend the Member for Kensington (Sir Malcolm Rifkind). the date on which legislation came into force in He made the point that sensitive handling is needed to circumstances in which the tenancy subsequently rolled ensure that regulations covering companies that sub-let over and continued as a statutory periodic tenancy. regularly are not circumvented by these changes. The regulations have to be properly dealt with in a sensitive Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): For the purpose of way. clarification, I refer |Members to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. Let me also make it Toby Perkins (Chesterfield) (Lab): I entirely agree clear to the Minister that not only am I satisfied with with what the Minister says about the sensitivity of this the Government’s new clause, but it is, quite predictably, matter and the importance of getting it right. The far better than the one that I originally tabled, and for London property market’s problem at the moment is that I am extremely grateful. certainly not that it is too long term. With that in mind, does the Minister think there has been sufficient The Solicitor-General: I thank my hon. Friend for consultation and enough opportunity to consider the displaying his customary modesty. full implications, given that the proposal has been brought forward long after all the pre-legislative scrutiny has Philip Davies: I have much to be modest about. been finished? 109 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 110

The Solicitor-General: Clearly the regulations need to independent members to its audit committee and other be carefully considered and proper consultation is needed committees. These changes are supported by the Electoral to ensure that the effect of the measure, which is to give Commission and the Local Government Boundary more freedom to individual householders, is respected Commission. while giving proper recognition in the policy to the I shall now turn—briefly—to the subject of poisons difficulties the hon. Gentleman mentions, which my and explosives precursors. New clause 24 introduces the right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Kensington new schedule inserted by new schedule 2, which abolishes also brought to my attention. the statutory requirement for a poisons board under the Poisons Act 1972 and introduces a common licensing Mark Field: I endorse the view stated earlier that a system for poisons and explosive precursors to streamline process of consultation began as recently as February the regimes and bring them into line with the latest EU on this issue and has not yet come to a close, so it feels a regulations. little strange that this measure has been rushed through in this Bill. That is the tenor of the concerns expressed I am sure the hon. Member for Brighton, Pavilion by my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for (Caroline Lucas) will wish to comment on new clause 8 Kensington (Sir Malcolm Rifkind) as well. Why does and the preserved right to buy and the idea that within the Minister think there is a different regime for London? one year of Royal Assent a plan should be laid to Why was that put into place some 40 years ago and why replace homes that have been sold under right to buy is the time suddenly now right for it to be changed? and review the effectiveness of it. Since the revitalisation of right to buy, 19,500 households have achieved their home ownership aspirations, but this is not just about The Solicitor-General: As I think was said in another buying; it is also about building. More than £419 million part of the country today, London is a super-city: it is from the right-to-buy sales has been ring-fenced to fund an enormous city and it does have unique circumstances. new homes, and I assure the hon. Lady that the Government The Government recognise the necessity of working are committed to keeping the reinvigorated right-to-buy with the London boroughs to design the provision to scheme under review. ensure we achieve the right balance between increasing the freedoms for Londoners and protecting London’s The impact assessment sets out a wider perspective housing supply.We would not want that to be undermined. on right to buy and how the policy will work. The We are trying to ensure that speculators are not able to Department for Communities and Local Government buy homes meant for Londoners and rent them publishes quarterly statistics on right-to-buy sales in permanently as short-term lets. England and annual statistics on preserved right-to-buy, and live data tables are on the Department’s website. Ms Karen Buck (Westminster North) (Lab): Is the The hon. Lady will be pleased to know that, on future Minister aware that central London authorities such as stock transfers, the Department for Communities and Westminster, as the hon. Member for Cities of London Local Government has recently published a stock transfer and Westminster (Mark Field) will know, Kensington manual. So the Government have set out their position and Chelsea, Camden and Islington, backed almost very clearly and the intention is that for transfers completing unanimously by the amenity and neighbourhood after 30 September 2014, net proceeds from preserved associations in those boroughs, have all expressed right-to-buy sales are, within three years, to be used to extremely strong reservations about these proposals, fund new affordable housing at no greater subsidy cost precisely because of the fear that they will lead to a loss than under the main affordable homes programme. of residential stock in what are already highly stressed neighbourhoods? Caroline Lucas: Not enough of that money is properly ring-fenced, and it has been estimated that only about The Solicitor-General: Yes, the Government are aware one in every seven homes sold through right to buy has of that, and we have tried to respond, first of all by been replaced by more affordable housing. Is the Minister making the point, as the Department has done, that the as shocked as I am to discover that in one London London boroughs must be fully involved in the process borough, a third of the council homes sold in the 1980s and also by allowing the regulations to be subject to the are now owned by private landlords, some of whom affirmative procedure, which means that the hon. Lady own dozens of properties that they now rent back at and other colleagues will have an opportunity to consider very high rents? the detail of the changes and whether they are appropriate. Turning to Government new clauses 22 and 23, the The Solicitor-General: Of course we can always ask Electoral Commission and the Local Government for more, but the point I would make to the hon. Lady is Boundary Commission are independent bodies established that that one in seven figure is misleading, because the by Parliament and overseen by the Speaker’s Committee money we are talking about is from extra sales, over and on the Electoral Commission. Currently, both bodies above the profile, and as far as that is concerned, this have to provide a five-year corporate plan. The Committee very considerable sum has been set aside. We are confident has reviewed governance and suggested a five-year corporate that over the next three years we will get the sorts of plan should be produced in the first financial year of a results I described. Parliament, and the duty to update it and produce a On new clauses 10 to 14 on Sunday trading, I am new plan on an annual basis should be removed, although afraid this time I am going to disappoint my hon. the Committee would retain the right to request updated Friend the Member for Shipley, although I will not go plans outside this cycle. Value for money studies would on at great length as I am hoping he might have a take place at the beginning of the five-year period, not chance to speak about this. The interests of smaller annually, and provision would be made to allow the retailers, the working hours of employees, the effect of Local Government Boundary Commission to appoint extra lorry traffic and the need to have some family day 111 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 112

[The Solicitor-General] I need not address the remaining minor and technical amendments at this stage. I am sorry to have taken up consideration lead the Government to the view that the so much of the House’s time, but this is a big group of current balance does not need changing, although it amendments. was for the Olympics, and very successfully so. Toby Perkins: I begin by drawing the House’s attention Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): Does the to my declaration of interests. Solicitor-General agree that with 77% of the public The fact that the Solicitor-General had to whistle supporting the current regime, it would be madness to through so many new clauses and amendments says a change the plans in place now? tremendous amount about the Bill and the way the Government have approached it. We have 49 minutes to 8.30 pm debate 43 different new clauses, amendments and new The Solicitor-General: I would never describe my schedules. It is an absolute disgrace and an affront to hon. Friend the Member for Shipley’s plans as mad, but democracy that this House is being asked to whistle on this occasion I do not agree with them. through the approval of very important measures that Turning to Government amendment 12 and the this Government have brought before us at a moment’s amendments to remove clause 17, we had a lively debate notice. about insolvency practitioners in Committee. Of course, The Bill was originally an unambitious, predominantly the profession deserves a great deal of credit for the inconsequential list of minor changes to the way we sell good work it does in rescuing struggling businesses that yarn and chocolate liqueurs that most people would not still have a viable future, saving jobs and preserving much mind or particularly appreciate, mixed in with a value in the economy.As the hon. Member for Chesterfield few substantially more dangerous provisions. However, (Toby Perkins) said in Committee, the World Bank rates it has morphed almost daily into a leviathan of a Bill our Insolvency Service the seventh best in the world, with a multitude of ill-thought-out, scarcely consulted and it is a service that other countries admire. This has on clauses, the aims of which are unclear, the consequences been achieved through innovative policy developments, of which are uncertain, the benefits of which are unproven, and we believe that the one we are discussing now—the and the coherence of which is absolutely impossible to system of partial authorisation introduced by clause 17 fathom. If this is the final piece of legislation this —is a positive development for the sector, for the profession, Government introduce, it will be a fitting climax for for creditors and for insolvent companies and individuals. them: unloved, owned by no one, with few advocates, The proposed system will reduce barriers to entry by whose central purpose has long since been obscured, enabling would-be insolvency practitioners to qualify in and who exist now only to be seen to be doing something, respect of only corporate or personal insolvency; if they in the hope that, if they hang around for a bit, the polls want to, they can continue to do both, but those who might take a turn for the better if only they wait long wish to specialise will benefit from shorter training enough. periods and lower training costs. That will increase The ultimate summary of the Government’s approach competition and bring down fees, and the profession was heard when the Solicitor-General said in response will benefit too. If a firm decides to fund someone to the very reasonable criticisms of his previous Bill that through qualification, it will cost them less than it does we are where we are. In fact, the Deregulation Bill could now. The amount of money involved is substantial: be the “we are where we are” Bill. Virtually no one is BPP, the leading provider of professional training, charges speaking up for it or offering much in the way of £3,470 for each of the three courses needed for the support for it. professional examinations, and there are many fees on We oppose clause 17 because we believe it will dumb top of that, so we are talking about significant sums—not down the profession. As the Solicitor-General rightly hundreds of pounds but thousands. The Government said, we have one of the best insolvency professions in have heard arguments against partial authorisation, but the world. The Bill will de-professionalise what is a very have decided to continue with the policy. successful profession. It will give an advantage to large Amendment 85, which would remove clause 30, is insolvency firms, working against the smaller firms and misguided. It is intended primarily to halt the Government’s new entrants to the market that both sides of this proposed changes to the Planning and Energy Act 2008 House profess to support. In Committee, we warned and is based on a misunderstanding of what we are that this change would represent a regulatory move, doing. It would bring to an end all the excellent work we rather than a deregulatory one. Throughout their response, have undertaken with industry and many interested the Government were unable to come up with any bodies in the sustainability, access and environmental serious support for the Bill. sectors to rationalise the plethora of local standards by The Solicitor-General said that the purpose of the regularising them through the building control system. Bill—its benefit—was to save money. When he was It would also leave in place the considerable range of asked about that in Committee, he said that it costs excessive and ill-considered costs imposed on the housing £4,000 for each of these exams, and if someone only has industry by some local authorities. These standards are to do two of them, they will save £4,000. He was also holding back development and are a mess. very critical of the insolvency profession, and then On journalistic materials, I did promise earlier that suggested that that saving will be passed on to the we would introduce extensions to the power of the customers of insolvency practitioners. Many practitioners criminal procedure rules to cover the procedure for have been in the industry for some 20 years. The idea making certain sorts of applications, ensuring that that, 20 years later, they are going to give some sort of journalists do not lose any of the statutory protections discount because back then they saved themselves £4,000 they currently have. bears no scrutiny. 113 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 114

In Committee, the Solicitor-General described responses opinion tremendously. All those things mean that this to the consultation on this change as “mixed”. That was Bill is entirely the wrong place for such measures to be an extraordinarily generous euphemism. Excluding the introduced. Secretary of State, just one out of seven recognised On new clauses 20 and 21, the Labour party is, as we professional bodies in the field supports partial licences, said previously, absolutely committed to greater security and 75% of small firms undertake both corporate and for tenants and a long-term approach to the private personal insolvency procedures for commercial reasons, rented market. It is revealing that at a time when the so it is the large players that are likely to be able to Labour party is proposing policies that will give tenants adopt partial licences. If any of the benefits that the more security and certainty in their tenure, the Government Solicitor-General has laid out actually come to pass—I are introducing something that specifically encourages strongly suspect they will not—they will exclude small more shorter-term lets. Just because their priorities are players from the insolvency market and make it very wrong, it does not mean that, individually, there is no much the preserve of large companies. He is setting out merit in these new clauses, but they need to be considered to dumb down the profession rated by the World Bank carefully. The hon. Member for Cities of London and as the seventh best in the world, judged on the basis of Westminster (Mark Field) has made a strong case, and the amount returned to creditors and the speed of the London Members from across the House are deeply process—two key aspects we would expect an insolvency concerned that the London letting market does not regime to have. When I asked a turnaround specialist suffer from the problem of being too long term. I am from Germany who was working in Chesterfield why he very concerned that there should be proper consultation was working in the UK rather than back in his homeland, on these new clause. he told me, “Because your insolvency regime is so much We think that the proposal made by the hon. Member better than ours.” He gave a list of reasons why we for Brighton, Pavilion is important. We are very conscious should be proud of what we have. Amazingly, this that the Green party leader of Brighton council recently Government are coming to this House to make changes slammed the entire principle of right to buy, describing that would de-professionalise something that is it as the tremendously successful and which do not enjoy the support of the industry.The major trade body representing “biggest privatisation programme this country has ever seen.” insolvency practitioners calls for clause 17 to be not Right to buy is important. We need to help people who amended but scrapped, yet the Solicitor-General says otherwise would not be able to access the housing he is doing this on behalf of the industry. This is a market, as with so many in Cameron’s Britain; in 1997, bizarre set of circumstances. it took the average family three years to save for a deposit on a home but now it takes about 22 years. The Solicitor-General will be creating a three-tier Given that catastrophic record of this Government, in system where, rather than there being one set of exams, particular, it is important that right to buy is available, people will operate in three different ways. The implications but it is also important that these properties are replaced. for Scotland, whose insolvency regime is very different, have not been laid out. Our amendment would delete As I have said, this group contains a huge number of the clause. Even if one accepts the Government’s arguments measures. We will seek to divide the House on amendments on personal insolvency specialists not needing corporate 84 and 2. It is entirely wrong that Members have had so insolvency, saying in reverse that people who do corporate little time to discuss this group, but in order to give insolvency, which will often involve aspects of personal people the opportunity to discuss their proposals, I will insolvency, do not need to have studied personal insolvency leave my comments there. is bizarre. We think the Government are very misguided, as does the industry, and we strongly call on them to Several hon. Members rose— do the right thing, support our amendment and drop this clause. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): We have six speakers and 17 minutes left. I know that my hon. Friend the Member for Stalybridge and Hyde (Jonathan Reynolds), the hon. Member for Philip Davies: I will be brief and do not intend to put Brighton, Pavilion (Caroline Lucas) and the hon. Member any of my new clauses to the vote. My new clauses 10 to for Shipley (Philip Davies) want to discuss their proposals, 14 deal with Sunday trading. They would completely and despite the lack of scrutiny that these clauses will liberalise the Sunday trading laws—that is what I would get, I will ensure that they get an opportunity to do so. prefer—extend the current arrangements or put them However, I shall quickly speak on those measures from on a more temporary basis. This country’s Sunday the Front Bench. trading laws are out of date and absurd—they are On Sunday trading, I support entirely what the Minister completely unjustifiable. People talk about defending said, and I will not be supporting new clauses 10 to 14 small shops, as the shadow Minister did, and say, “This for the following reasons: the Government promised measure helps small shops.” He has to realise that the that their emergency legislation for the Olympics was world has moved on. The small convenience shops that not a Trojan horse leading to further liberalisation are open on a Sunday are not Mr Miggins’s pie shop or of Sunday trading hours; the importance of Sunday Mrs Miggins’s greengrocers; the small convenience stores trading legislation for employees; the broad, cross-party being protected by the current Sunday trading laws are coalition supporting our current legislation in this Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s Local and Morrison’s Local. area; the impact these proposed changes would have on Companies such as Tesco are probably quite pleased small businesses and the convenience sector, which with the current arrangements, because they do not is very much under pressure; and the fact that these have to open their bigger stores, which sell goods at measures are being proposed in the way that they are, much lower prices. They can close the big stores and without any consultation on an issue that divides force everyone to go along to their small shops, where 115 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 116

[Philip Davies] My final amendment is about garden centres, which cannot open on a Sunday. I want people to think about everyone has to pay a hugely inflated price for their that, because most garden centres are very small businesses. shopping. Companies such as Asda cannot compete. They might be big in area, but they are often small The Labour party keeps saying, “We are concerned one-man bands. I do not see why they should be lumped about the cost of living.” There is a cost of living crisis in with companies such as Asda, Tesco or Morrisons, in this country, and what does it do? It opposes the when they are only small businesses. I will leave my measure that would have a massive effect on reducing remarks there. the prices in the shops for people who shop on a Sunday. People are forced to go to higher priced shops Caroline Lucas: I have tabled a number of amendments such as Tesco Express rather than shop at a bigger store. in this group, but given that we are so pressed for time, It is absurd. I will speak to just one of them, new clause 8, which I hope to press to a vote. 8.45 pm I am deeply concerned about the lack of affordable I would like the arrangements in Scotland to be put housing, which is yet another indictment of this in place here. Scotland has full liberalisation. Has the Government, who have turned their back on “generation sky fallen in? There are many religious people, including rent”. Housing is undoubtedly at the heart of the concerns Catholics and Protestants, in Scotland. They seem quite of my constituents in Brighton. That message comes happy with the current arrangements. Has anyone heard across clearly from conversations on our city streets, in of any big issues? my surgeries and from the e-mails and letters I receive. In addition to tackling things such as letting fees, Mr David Nuttall (Bury North) (Con): Does my hon. housing standards and security of tenure in the private Friend agree that the choice as to whether someone rented sector, it is absolutely crucial that we ensure an attends church or goes shopping is the same choice adequate supply of affordable housing. Yet this coalition’s regardless of the number of hours that larger shops can slapdash, ill-thought-out approach to right to buy is remain open? undermining this. The Bill, as currently drafted, would reduce the eligibility period for the right to buy from Philip Davies: My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and five years to three years. Giving local authority tenants I know that he is a church warden. Most church services and some housing association tenants the opportunity on a Sunday are at 10 or 11 o’clock in the morning to buy their home at a discounted price is not a bad when the shops are open. thing in itself, but only on the strict condition that it does not jeopardise affordable housing supply, including Gavin Shuker rose— the ability of housing associations to build new affordable housing. Philip Davies: I will press on because various people The new clause would require the Government to wish to speak. If we extended the Sunday trading hours produce a plan to replace affordable homes lost in there would be more opportunity for people to go to England as a result of right to buy, review the effectiveness church at 10 or 11 o’clock on a Sunday morning. of current policy and ask for an assessment to be carried out of changes since 2012 before further policy Gavin Shuker rose— changes are made. Around 1.8 million households are waiting for a social home, which is an increase of 81% Philip Davies: I will not give way because others wish since 1997. The reality of right to buy is about much to speak. I am trying to ensure that other Members can more than families being able to own their home. Last get in. year, it was revealed that rich landowners are cashing in, buying up multiple ex-council properties and renting Then we hear that this is all about protecting the them back to people on endless housing waiting lists. In workers. Again, that is an absurd argument. First, what one London borough, as I said earlier, a third of council about those people who want to work on a Sunday? I homes sold in the 1980s are now owned by private am talking about young people who are desperate to get landlords, some of whom own dozens of properties. a foot on the ladder and cannot get a job on a Sunday. The current regulations are depriving them of that. Far too often, the rich, not the poor, are the real What a ridiculous situation. The Minister and shadow beneficiaries of housing benefit. Currently, only one in Minister say it is absolutely fine for people who work in every seven homes sold through right to buy has been a Tesco Express to work every hour that God sends on a replaced, and I find it astonishing that the Government Sunday. They can work from 6 am to 11 pm, yet if they are so complacent that they are not even monitoring the worked in a big Tesco, they would have to be protected number of homes replaced following the preserved right from working those long hours. It is a completely absurd to buy. Housing associations say that, in fact, the number argument. With the high street facing competition from is likely to be even less than one in seven. It is inexcusable the internet, we must give our shops the opportunity to that Ministers have not even consulted housing associations, compete. People can shop at all hours on the internet— which provide 2.5 million homes to more than 5 million [Interruption.] I will be two seconds, Mr Deputy Speaker. people. I am coming to a close. People can shop for any amount We are a rich country. If we are serious about tackling of time at Waitrose on the internet, or have their goods the housing crisis, we need a major programme of direct delivered at any hour on a Sunday, but they cannot go capital investment to build sustainable council housing, into a Waitrose to shop. Workers can take the orders and the constraints on borrowing faced by local authorities online, but they cannot work in a shop. It is a completely should be lifted, so that councils can better meet demand absurd situation. for new homes. We must not inhibit the ability of 117 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 118 housing associations to build more homes. This would The UK’s housing stock is the least efficient in Europe. ease pressure on the private market and, in turn, help As a result, we have some of the worst fuel poverty rent levels and housing prices. Instead, we have the statistics in Europe—only Estonia does worse than we appalling situation where we are paying housing benefit do at the moment—because our housing stock is so old. to private landlords at extortionate market rates for A great deal of the discussions that take place here are good houses that once belonged to the taxpayer. It is a about the challenge of retrofitting, whether through scandal. supplier obligations or things such as the green deal. Today, house prices speak for themselves. In my Surely that puts a premium on us to ensure that the new constituency, the average one-bedroom flat costs nearly build standards are as high as possible. six and three-quarter times the median household annual The Labour Government introduced the zero-carbon income, and three-bedroom houses cost more than 12 times. homes policy, with the intention of implementing it by That is why I hope that people will support my new 2016. It was an excellent policy, with a clear implementation clause. framework that allowed the private sector to produce the plans to deliver it. This Government have successfully undermined that policy. The definition was changed Mark Field: I think I speak on behalf of the hon. substantially some time ago, and that was further diluted Member for Westminster North (Ms Buck) and my in the Queen’s Speech. I am afraid that I do not have a right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Kensington great deal of faith in this Government’s Department for (Sir Malcolm Rifkind) when I express some concerns Communities and Local Government to deliver zero-carbon about what appears to be the anomalous situation in homes, but even if the Government tried to do so, what London with the short-term letting of residential properties. would happen between now and 2016? These proposals have caused enormous concern among Many people will take a localist view, to which I am communities in the heart of our capital. sympathetic. The constituency I represent covers a The Greater London Council (General Powers) Act substantial part of the green belt between Greater 1973 was originally introduced to ensure that London’s Manchester and Derbyshire, and if that green belt permanent housing stock would be protected from strong comes under pressure from new build, I believe we market pressure to convert homes into visitor should be able to argue that the standard should be as accommodation, and was deemed wholly necessary to high as possible for those homes. However, I appreciate deal with the acute housing shortage that London was that that would widen the debate too much, and I hope then experiencing. At that time, London had a population that a focus on preventing clause 30 from coming into of some 7.5 million and declining. Its population now effect until zero-carbon homes are in operation will stands at 8.2 million and, as all London MPs know, command as much support as possible. increases at a breath-taking annual rate. It needs to be Of course, if the Government are sincere in backing recognised that allowing greater flexibility to change zero-carbon homes, they have nothing to fear from my use from permanent residential occupation to short-term amendment—it would make no difference to a Government letting will have significant implications for London’s committed to delivering an ambitious zero-carbon homes stock of permanent housing. It may make it impossible policy in 2016. However, the issues of sustainability, for our local authorities to meet their targets for new efficient use of energy, and fuel poverty, as well as homes. public acceptance of new build housing, which affects My constituents have very good reason to believe all of us, are so important that I will, with your permission, that a loosening of the rules governing short lets, as set Mr Deputy Speaker, seek to divide the House on my out in this somewhat ill-thought-through new clause 21, amendment, as well as appeal to the other place to give will make it much harder to keep their buildings safe, the matter the due attention it deserves. secure and well maintained. It risks undermining a sense of community that can be all too difficult to build Ms Buck: I want briefly to reinforce the points made in an essentially transient urban population. In fact, by the hon. Member for Cities of London and Westminster London’s hyper-mobility and hyper-diversity get greater (Mark Field) relating to concerns about the impact that year by year. It will make it far more difficult for local the relaxation of the rules on short-term letting proposed authorities to deal with noise and antisocial behaviour. by new clause 21 will have. Above all, it threatens to make central London homes, Most of the inner-London local authorities, across already traded by many people as some sort of global the parties, and the amenity and residential associations currency, into little more than assets to be exploited for in Westminster have raised three main objections to the maximum profit. relaxation of the rules. The first relates to the loss of residential stock. As we have heard, the pressure on Jonathan Reynolds (Stalybridge and Hyde) (Lab/Co-op): inner-London residential stock is already acute, and the I will be a little briefer than I would have ideally liked, amount of money involved in the hotel and tourism but I am extremely obliged to you, Mr Deputy Speaker, trade is such that the sector is already eroding extremely for giving me the opportunity to speak to amendment 2, rapidly. A further relaxation of the rules is likely to lead which stands in my name. It would prevent the Government to a further diminution of stock in areas such as Lancaster stopping local authorities specifying a higher standard Gate, Bayswater, Maida Vale and St John’s Wood in my of energy efficiency in new build properties until after constituency and, of course, in south Westminster. the zero-carbon homes policy came into effect. To be The second issue is the cost involved and the resources clear, the Bill is intended to prevent local authorities needed for enforcement. We already know from Westminster from having autonomy, and my amendment would ensure council that, as the rules stand, an average of about 500 that local authorities must adhere to as high a standard enforcement actions have been taken against short-term as possible. lets. The Government’s proposed rule change is likely to 119 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 120

[Ms Buck] Question agreed to. New clause 3 accordingly read a Second time, and make it even more difficult and even more expensive for added to the Bill. local authorities to enforce the rules. They will have to The Deputy Speaker then put forthwith the Questions demonstrate not that a property is being let short term, necessary for the disposal of the business to be concluded but that it is in habitual short-term use, which is a much at that time (Standing Order No. 83E). more difficult and higher bar to overcome, and it is likely to lead to a burden on council tax and resources. New Clause 6 The third issue relates to residential properties such as mansion blocks, which are very attractive properties POWER OF HMRC TO DISCLOSE INFORMATION FOR for the purpose of short-term letting. The rapid turnover PURPOSES OF CERTAIN LITIGATION of tenants resulting from short-term lets means that a sense of neighbourliness and community is being eroded. ‘(1) The Commissioners for Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs may disclose information held by them— It also leads to a higher incidence of antisocial behaviour, such as problems with noise and rubbish collection. (a) to a person who is entitled to bring proceedings under the fatal accidents legislation or for whose benefit That is not necessarily because the tenants or holidaymakers such proceedings may be brought, for use in connection are antisocial, but simply, in common with boarding with the proceedings or in reaching a settlement without houses, bed and breakfasts and hotels, because the the need to bring proceedings; situation generates more of that kind of behaviour. (b) to a person who is entitled to bring proceedings for That will also lead to additional problems, and there are damages for personal injury for the benefit of the real concerns. estate of a deceased person, for use in connection Of course, we do not want to have to take enforcement with the proceedings or in reaching a settlement action. The classic example, raised on the back of the without the need to bring proceedings; Olympics, is that people might want to do a home swap (c) to a person who has made or who wishes to make or let their property for a fortnight. an application for a payment under the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme on the basis that he or she is eligible for such a payment under section 3 Mr Andy Slaughter (Hammersmith) (Lab): I think of the Mesothelioma Act 2014 (eligibility of that all inner-London MPs will agree with my hon. dependants for payments under the Scheme), for use Friend and her fellow Westminster MP, the hon. Member in connection with the application. for Cities of London and Westminster (Mark Field). (2) “The fatal accidents legislation” means— The consequences may be unintended, but they will put more pressure on the private and rented market, where (a) the Fatal Accidents Act 1976; at the moment nobody is able to get a property with (b) the Fatal Accidents (Northern Ireland) Order 1977 decent rent. This will simply make things more difficult (S.I. 1977/1251 (N.I. 18)); and more complicated in that market. (c) section 4 of the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011.’—(The Solicitor-General.) Ms Buck: I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend—those This amendment allows Revenue and Customs officials to disclose are exactly what the consequences will be. No one wants information HMRC holds to persons entitled to make claims under enforcement action to be taken against someone who fatal accidents legislation, to persons entitled to bring proceedings lets their home for a few days or a couple of weeks, or for personal injury for the benefit of a deceased person’s estate or to persons claiming to be eligible under section 3 of the who does a home swap, but there will be unintended Mesothelioma Act 2014 for a payment under the Diffuse consequences in a high-value, high-turnover and high- Mesothelioma Payment Scheme. pressured area such as central London. Kensington and Brought up, and added to the Bill. Westminster councils have made it clear that it is not those sorts of letters against whom they would take enforcement action, but the persistent trade in short-term New Clause 7 lets. I hope the Government will think very carefully when they draw up the regulations for the enforcement COMBINING DIFFERENT FORMS OF SUBORDINATE of this particular provision. LEGISLATION ‘(1) Any provision that may be made by order, regulations or Mr Nuttall: Whether Sunday is special or not is a rules made by statutory instrument may be made by any other of personal choice everyone must make for themselves. Let those forms of legislation made by statutory instrument. us not forget that for some people, choosing to go (2) Subsection (1) does not affect the procedure for making the shopping on a Sunday evening may be what makes instrument. Sunday special for them. Personally, I hope that they (3) A reference in any enactment or other instrument to an will choose to go to church on a Sunday morning, but order, regulations or rules under an enactment (however that is a matter for them. I hope that, regardless of the expressed) includes a reference to provision made under it number of hours that a larger shop remains open, because of subsection (1). individuals will decide for themselves whether to go to (4) Subsection (1) does not apply in relation to any power of church or to go shopping. It is a matter for them and— the Welsh Ministers to make provision by statutory instrument.’—(The Solicitor-General.) 9pm This clause allows powers to make an order, regulations or rules to be used to make a combined instrument. At the moment it is It being one hour before the moment of interruption, sometimes necessary to make several instruments on a single topic the debate was interrupted (Programme Order, 14 May.) because the enabling powers are expressed differently. In The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Question already appropriate cases, using a single instrument would allow the proposed from the Chair (Standing Order No. 83E), legislation to be set out in a more coherent way and in one place. That the clause be read a Second time. Brought up, and added to the Bill. 121 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 122

New Clause 20 (ii) in accordance with the same authorised scheme as when the requirements of section 213(3), (5) and (6) were last complied with in respect of it. TENANCY DEPOSITS (2) The requirements of section 213(3), (5) and (6) are treated ‘In Chapter 4 of Part 6 of the Housing Act 2004 (Tenancy as if they had been complied with by the landlord in respect of Deposit Schemes), after section 215 insert— the deposit held in connection with the periodic tenancy. “215A Statutory periodic tenancies: deposit received before 6 April 215C Renewed fixed term or contractual periodic tenancies: 2007 deposit received on or after 6 April 2007 (1) This section applies where— (1) This section applies where— (a) before 6 April 2007, a tenancy deposit has been (a) on or after 6 April 2007, a tenancy deposit has been received by a landlord in connection with a fixed received by a landlord in connection with a shorthold term shorthold tenancy, and tenancy (“the original tenancy”), (b) on or after that date, a periodic shorthold tenancy is (b) the requirements of section 213(5) and (6) have been deemed to arise under section 5 of the Housing Act complied with by the landlord in respect of the 1988 on the coming to an end of the fixed term deposit held in connection with the original tenancy, tenancy. (c) a new fixed term or periodic shorthold tenancy (“the (2) If, on the commencement date— new tenancy”) comes into being on the coming to an (a) the periodic tenancy is in existence, and end of the original tenancy or a tenancy that replaces (b) all or part of the deposit paid in connection with the the original tenancy, fixed term tenancy continues to be held in connection (d) the new tenancy is not one that is deemed to arise with the periodic tenancy, under section 5 of the Housing Act 1988, section 213 applies in respect of the deposit that continues to (e) the new tenancy replaces the original tenancy, and be held in connection with the periodic tenancy, and any (f) when the new tenancy comes into being, the deposit additional deposit held in connection with that tenancy, with the paid in connection with the original tenancy modifications set out in subsection (3). continues to be held— (3) The modifications are that, instead of the things referred to (i) in connection with the new tenancy, and in section 213(3) and (5) being required to be done within the (ii) in accordance with the same authorised scheme as time periods set out in section 213(3) and (6)(b), those things are when the requirements of section 213(5) and (6) required to be done— were last complied with in respect of it. (a) before the end of the period of 90 days beginning with (2) The requirements of section 213(5) and (6) are treated as if the commencement date, or they had been complied with by the landlord in respect of the (b) (if earlier) before the first day after the commencement deposit held in connection with the new tenancy. date on which a court does any of the following in (3) The condition in subsection (1)(a) may be met in respect of respect of the periodic tenancy— a tenancy even if— (i) determines an application under section 214 or (a) it replaces an earlier tenancy, and decides an appeal against a determination under (b) the tenancy deposit was first received in connection that section; with the earlier tenancy (either before or after 6 April (ii) makes a determination as to whether to make an 2007). order for possession in proceedings under section (4) For the purposes of this section, a tenancy replaces another 21 of the Housing Act 1988 or decides an appeal tenancy if— against such a determination. (a) the landlord and tenant under the later tenancy are the (4) If, on the commencement date— same as under the earlier tenancy, and (a) the periodic tenancy is no longer in existence, or (b) the premises let under the later tenancy are the same or (b) no deposit continues to be held in connection with the substantially the same as those let under the earlier periodic tenancy, tenancy. the requirements of section 213(3), (5) and (6) are treated as if 215D Sections 215A to 215C: transitional provisions they had been complied with by the landlord in respect of any (1) Sections 215A to 215C are treated as having had effect deposit that was held in connection with the periodic tenancy. since 6 April 2007, subject to the following provisions of this (5) In this section and sections 215B to 215D “the section. commencement date” means the date on which section(Tenancy (2) Sections 215A to 215C do not have effect in relation to— deposits)of the Deregulation Act 2014 is fully in force in England and Wales. (a) a claim under section 214 of this Act or section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 in respect of a tenancy which 215B Statutory periodic tenancies: deposit received on or after 6 is settled before the commencement date (whether or April 2007 not proceedings in relation to the claim have been (1) This section applies where— instituted), or (a) on or after 6 April 2007, a tenancy deposit has been (b) proceedings under either of those sections in respect of received by a landlord in connection with a fixed a tenancy which have been finally determined before term shorthold tenancy, the commencement date. (b) the requirements of section 213(3), (5) and (6) have (3) Subsection (5) applies in respect of a tenancy if— been complied with by the landlord in respect of the (a) proceedings under section 214 in respect of the tenancy deposit held in connection with the fixed term have been instituted before the commencement date tenancy, but have not been settled or finally determined before (c) a periodic shorthold tenancy is deemed to arise under that date, and section 5 of the Housing Act 1988 on the coming to (b) because of section 215A(4), 215B(2) or section an end of the fixed term tenancy, and 215C(2), the court decides— (d) when the periodic tenancy arises, the deposit paid in (i) not to make an order under section 214(4) in respect connection with the fixed term tenancy continues to of the tenancy, or be held— (ii) to allow an appeal by the landlord against such an (i) in connection with the periodic tenancy, and order. 123 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 124

(4) Subsection (5) also applies in respect of a tenancy if— change of use of the premises (with the result that planning (a) proceedings for possession under section 21 of the permission is required). This amendment allows the Secretary of Housing Act 1988 in respect of the tenancy have State to make secondary legislation specifying circumstances when been instituted before the commencement date but this does not apply (so that planning permission is not required). have not been settled or finally determined before Brought up, and added to the Bill. that date, and (b) because of section 215A(4), 215B(2) or 215C(2), the court decides— New Clause 22 (i) to make an order for possession under that section in respect of the tenancy, or ELECTORAL COMMISSION: CHANGES TO FACILITATE (ii) to allow an appeal by the landlord against a refusal EFFICIENT ADMINISTRATION to make such an order. ‘(1) Schedule 1 to the Political Parties, Elections and (5) Where this subsection applies, the court must not order the Referendums Act 2000 (the Electoral Commission) is amended tenant or any relevant person (as defined by section 213(10)) to as follows. pay the landlord’s costs, to the extent that the court reasonably (2) Paragraph 15 (five-year plan) is amended as set out in considers those costs are attributable to the proceedings under subsections (3) and (4). section 214 or (as the case may be) section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. (3) In sub-paragraph (1), after “paragraph 14” insert “in respect of the first financial year to begin after the day on which (6) Proceedings have been “finally determined” for the purposes Parliament meets for the first time following a parliamentary of this section if — general election,”. (a) they have been determined by a court, and (4) After that sub-paragraph insert— (b) there is no further right to appeal against the determination. “(1A) The Speaker’s Committee may require the Commission to submit a plan under sub-paragraph (1) when the Commission (7) There is no further right to appeal against a court determination submit such an estimate as is mentioned in paragraph 14 in if there is no right to appeal against the determination, or there is respect of a financial year other than one mentioned in that such a right but— sub-paragraph.” (a) the time limit for making an appeal has expired (5) In paragraph 16 (annual examination of Commission by without an appeal being brought, or Comptroller and Auditor General), in sub-paragraph (1)— (b) an appeal brought within that time limit has been (a) after “paragraphs 14 and 15” insert “in respect of any withdrawn.”’—(The Solicitor-General.) year when both an estimate under paragraph 14 and Where the tenancy deposit protection requirements have been a five-year plan under paragraph 15 are submitted to complied with by a landlord for a tenancy, this amendment means them,”; they do not need to be complied with again for a replacement (b) for “in each year” substitute “before the Committee tenancy. Where those requirements did not apply to the first consider the estimate and plan”. tenancy, and a replacement statutory periodic tenancy is still in place, the amendment provides extra time for compliance. (6) In the cross-heading preceding paragraph 16, for “Annual examination” substitute “Examination”.’—(The Solicitor- Brought up, and added to the Bill. General.) Currently, there is an annual requirement for the Electoral New Clause 21 Commission to produce a five-year plan and for the Comptroller and Auditor General to provide an audit report on the Commission. SHORT-TERM USE OF LONDON ACCOMMODATION: The new clause alters this so that the requirements to produce a POWER TO RELAX RESTRICTIONS five-year plan and an audit report apply in respect of the first year ‘(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations made by of a new Parliament and subsequently as required by the Speaker’s statutory instrument make provision for circumstances in which Committee. the use as temporary sleeping accommodation of any residential Brought up, and added to the Bill. premises in Greater London does not involve a material change of use by virtue of section 25(1) of the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act 1973. New Clause 23 (2) Regulations under this section may also make provision for and in connection with enabling the Secretary of State or a local LGBC FOR ENGLAND: CHANGES TO FACILITATE planning authority to direct that provision included in the EFFICIENT ADMINISTRATION regulations by virtue of subsection (1) does not apply to ‘(1) Schedule 1 to the Local Democracy, Economic particular residential premises or to residential premises situated Development and Construction Act 2009 (Local Government in a particular area. Boundary Commission for England) is amended as follows. (3) Regulations under this section may amend the Greater (2) In paragraph 5 (committees), for sub-paragraph (3) London Council (General Powers) Act 1973. substitute— (4) Regulations under this section may— “(3) A committee established under this paragraph to review (a) make different provision for different purposes; the economy, efficiency or effectiveness with which the (b) include incidental, supplementary, consequential, Commission has used its resources, or any sub-committee of transitional, transitory or saving provision. such a committee, may include up to two people who are not also (5) A statutory instrument containing regulations under this members of the Commission (“independent members”). section may not be made unless a draft of the instrument has (4) The Commission may not appoint as an independent been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of member anyone who would be ineligible for appointment as a Parliament. member of the Commission because of paragraph 1(3). (6) In this section, “local planning authority” has the same (5) An independent member must be appointed on such terms meaning as in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (see and conditions, including terms and conditions as to section 336(1) of that Act).’—(The Solicitor-General.) remuneration, as the Commission may determine. Section 25 of the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act (6) Except as provided by sub-paragraph (3), only a member of 1973 provides that the use as temporary sleeping accommodation the Commission may be a member of one of its committees or of residential premises in Greater London involves a material sub-committees.” 125 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 126

(3) Paragraph 12 (five-year plan) is amended as set out in Brought up. subsections (4) and (5). Question put, That the clause be added to the Bill. (4) In sub-paragraph (1), after “paragraph 11” insert “in respect of the first financial year to begin after the day on which The House divided: Ayes 208, Noes 274. Parliament meets for the first time following a parliamentary Division No. 14] [9.1 pm general election”. (5) After that sub-paragraph insert— AYES “(1A) The Speaker’s Committee may require the Commission Abbott, Ms Diane Edwards, Jonathan to submit a plan under sub-paragraph (1) when the Commission Abrahams, Debbie Efford, Clive submits such an estimate as is mentioned in paragraph 11 in Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Elliott, Julie respect of a financial year other than one mentioned in that Alexander, Heidi Ellman, Mrs Louise sub-paragraph.” Ali, Rushanara Engel, Natascha (6) In paragraph 13 (annual examination by Comptroller and Allen, Mr Graham Evans, Chris Auditor General), in sub-paragraph (1)— Ashworth, Jonathan Farrelly, Paul (a) for “For the purposes of paragraphs 11 and 12” Austin, Ian Field, rh Mr Frank substitute “For the purpose of assisting the Speaker’s Bailey, Mr Adrian Fitzpatrick, Jim Committee to discharge their functions under Bain, Mr William Flello, Robert paragraphs 11 and 12 in respect of any year when Balls, rh Ed Flint, rh Caroline both an estimate under paragraph 11 and a five-year Barron, rh Kevin Fovargue, Yvonne plan under paragraph 12 are submitted to them,”; Beckett, rh Margaret Francis, Dr Hywel (b) for “in each year” substitute “before the Committee Begg, Dame Anne Gapes, Mike consider the estimate and plan”. Benn, rh Hilary Gardiner, Barry (7) In the cross-heading preceding paragraph 13, for “Annual Berger, Luciana Gilmore, Sheila examination”substitute “Examination”.’—(The Solicitor-General.) Betts, Mr Clive Glass, Pat This new clause enables the Local Government Boundary Blackman-Woods, Roberta Glindon, Mrs Mary Commission for England to appoint independent members to its Blears, rh Hazel Godsiff, Mr Roger audit committee. It also changes the current annual requirement for Blenkinsop, Tom Goodman, Helen the production of a five-year plan and an audit report to a Blomfield, Paul Green, Kate requirement in respect of the first year of a new Parliament and Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Greenwood, Lilian subsequently as required by the Speaker’s Committee. Brennan, Kevin Griffith, Nia Brought up, and added to the Bill. Brown, Lyn Gwynne, Andrew Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Hain, rh Mr Peter Bryant, Chris Hamilton, Mr David New Clause 24 Buck, Ms Karen Hanson, rh Mr David Burden, Richard Harman, rh Ms Harriet POISONS AND EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS Burnham, rh Andy Harris, Mr Tom Campbell, rh Mr Alan Havard, Mr Dai ‘Schedule (Poisons and explosives precursors) introduces a Campbell, Mr Ronnie Healey, rh John common system for regulating the possession etc of non- Caton, Martin Hendrick, Mark medicinal poisons and explosives precursors.’—(The Solicitor- General.) Champion, Sarah Hepburn, Mr Stephen Chapman, Jenny Heyes, David This amendment introduces the new Schedule inserted by new Clark, Katy Hillier, Meg schedule NS2. This abolishes the statutory requirement for a Clwyd, rh Ann Hilling, Julie Poisons Board under the Poisons Act 1972 and introduces a Coaker, Vernon Hodge, rh Margaret common licensing regime for poisons and explosives precursors in Coffey, Ann Hodgson, Mrs Sharon order to streamline the regimes established under the Poisons Act 1972 and under EU Regulation 98/2013 (on the marketing and use Cooper, Rosie Hoey, Kate of explosives precursors). Cooper, rh Yvette Hopkins, Kelvin Corbyn, Jeremy Howarth, rh Mr George Brought up, and added to the Bill. Crausby, Mr David Irranca-Davies, Huw Creasy, Stella Jackson, Glenda New Clause 8 Cruddas, Jon James, Mrs Siân C. Cryer, John Jamieson, Cathy Cunningham, Mr Jim Jarvis, Dan REPLACING HOMES LOST THROUGH THE PRESERVED Cunningham, Sir Tony Johnson, Diana RIGHT TO BUY Danczuk, Simon Jones, Graham ‘(1) Within one year of this Act receiving Royal Assent, the David, Wayne Jones, Mr Kevan Secretary of State shall lay before each House of Parliament a Davidson, Mr Ian Kane, Mike plan to— De Piero, Gloria Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald (a) replace the homes lost through the Preserved Right to Denham, rh Mr John Keeley, Barbara Buy; Dobson, rh Frank Kendall, Liz (b) review the effectiveness of the current Right to Buy Docherty, Thomas Khan, rh Sadiq policy. Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Lammy, rh Mr David (2) Before making any further changes to Right to Buy, the Doran, Mr Frank Lavery, Ian Secretary of State must carry out and publish an assessment of Doughty, Stephen Lazarowicz, Mark the impact of Right to Buy policy on affordable housing supply Dowd, Jim Lewell-Buck, Mrs Emma since 2012.’—(Caroline Lucas.) Doyle, Gemma Lewis, Mr Ivan This new clause would require the Minister to produce a plan to Dromey, Jack Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn replace affordable homes lost in England as a result of Right to Dugher, Michael Love, Mr Andrew Buy, review the effectiveness of current policy and carry out an Durkan, Mark Lucas, Caroline assessment of changes since 2012 before making further policy Eagle, Ms Angela Lucas, Ian changes. Eagle, Maria Mactaggart, Fiona 127 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 128

Mahmood, Shabana Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Collins, Damian Hunter, Mark Mann, John Rotheram, Steve Colvile, Oliver Huppert, Dr Julian Marsden, Mr Gordon Roy, Lindsay Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hurd, Mr Nick McCabe, Steve Ruane, Chris Crockart, Mike Jackson, Mr Stewart McCann, Mr Michael Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Crouch, Tracey James, Margot McCarthy, Kerry Sawford, Andy Davies, Glyn Jenkin, Mr Bernard McClymont, Gregg Seabeck, Alison Davies, Philip Jenrick, Robert McDonagh, Siobhain Sharma, Mr Virendra de Bois, Nick Johnson, Gareth McDonald, Andy Sheerman, Mr Barry Dinenage, Caroline Johnson, Joseph McDonnell, John Shuker, Gavin Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Jones, Andrew McFadden, rh Mr Pat Skinner, Mr Dennis Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Jones, rh Mr David McGovern, Alison Slaughter, Mr Andy Doyle-Price, Jackie Jones, Mr Marcus McGovern, Jim Smith, rh Mr Andrew Duddridge, James Kawczynski, Daniel McKechin, Ann Smith, Angela Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Kirby, Simon McKenzie, Mr Iain Smith, Nick Dunne, Mr Philip Knight, rh Sir Greg Ellis, Michael Kwarteng, Kwasi McKinnell, Catherine Smith, Owen Meacher, rh Mr Michael Ellison, Jane Lamb, Norman Spellar, rh Mr John Miller, Andrew Elphicke, Charlie Lancaster, Mark Straw, rh Mr Jack Mitchell, Austin Eustice, George Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Stringer, Graham Moon, Mrs Madeleine Evans, Graham Latham, Pauline Stuart, Ms Gisela Morden, Jessica Evans, Mr Nigel Laws, rh Mr David Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Evennett, Mr David Leadsom, Andrea Morris, Grahame M. Tami, Mark Fabricant, Michael Lee, Jessica (Easington) Thomas, Mr Gareth Farron, Tim Lee, Dr Phillip Mudie, Mr George Thornberry, Emily Featherstone, Lynne Lefroy, Jeremy Munn, Meg Trickett, Jon Field, Mark Leslie, Charlotte Murphy, rh Paul Turner, Karl Foster, rh Mr Don Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Nash, Pamela Twigg, Derek Fox,rhDrLiam Lewis, Brandon O’Donnell, Fiona Twigg, Stephen Francois, rh Mr Mark Lewis, Dr Julian Onwurah, Chi Vaz, Valerie Freeman, George Lidington, rh Mr David Pearce, Teresa Whitehead, Dr Alan Freer, Mike Lilley, rh Mr Peter Perkins, Toby Williams, Hywel Fuller, Richard Lloyd, Stephen Phillipson, Bridget Williamson, Chris Garnier, Sir Edward Lopresti, Jack Pound, Stephen Wilson, Phil Garnier, Mark Loughton, Tim Powell, Lucy Winnick, Mr David Gauke, Mr David Luff, Sir Peter Qureshi, Yasmin Winterton, rh Ms Rosie George, Andrew Lumley, Karen Gibb, Mr Nick Macleod, Mary Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Woodcock, John Reed, Mr Jamie Glen, John Main, Mrs Anne Wright, David Reed, Mr Steve Goldsmith, Zac Maude, rh Mr Francis Wright, Mr Iain Reeves, Rachel Gove, rh Michael Maynard, Paul Reynolds, Emma Tellers for the Ayes: Graham, Richard McCartney, Karl Reynolds, Jonathan Nic Dakin and Grant, Mrs Helen McIntosh, Miss Anne Ritchie, Ms Margaret Susan Elan Jones Gray, Mr James McPartland, Stephen Grayling, rh Chris McVey, rh Esther NOES Green, rh Damian Menzies, Mark Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Metcalfe, Stephen Adams, Nigel Brady, Mr Graham Griffiths, Andrew Miller, rh Maria Afriyie, Adam Brake, rh Tom Gummer, Ben Mills, Nigel Aldous, Peter Brazier, Mr Julian Gyimah, Mr Sam Moore, rh Michael Amess, Mr David Bridgen, Andrew Halfon, Robert Mordaunt, Penny Andrew, Stuart Brine, Steve Hames, Duncan Morgan, rh Nicky Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Brokenshire, James Hammond, Stephen Morris, Anne Marie Bacon, Mr Richard Brooke, Annette Hancock, Matthew Morris, David Baker, Norman Browne, Mr Jeremy Harper, Mr Mark Morris, James Baker, Steve Bruce, Fiona Harris, Rebecca Mosley, Stephen Baldry, rh Sir Tony Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Hart, Simon Mowat, David Baldwin, Harriett Buckland, Mr Robert Harvey, Sir Nick Mulholland, Greg Barclay, Stephen Burns, Conor Hayes, rh Mr John Munt, Tessa Barker, rh Gregory Burns, rh Mr Simon Heald, Oliver Murray, Sheryll Barwell, Gavin Burrowes, Mr David Heaton-Harris, Chris Murrison, Dr Andrew Bebb, Guto Burstow, rh Paul Hemming, John Newmark, Mr Brooks Bellingham, Mr Henry Byles, Dan Henderson, Gordon Newton, Sarah Benyon, Richard Cairns, Alun Herbert, rh Nick Norman, Jesse Beresford, Sir Paul Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Hinds, Damian Nuttall, Mr David Bingham, Andrew Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Hoban, Mr Mark Offord, Dr Matthew Birtwistle, Gordon Carmichael, Neil Hollingbery, George Ollerenshaw, Eric Blackman, Bob Carswell, Mr Douglas Hollobone, Mr Philip Opperman, Guy Blackwood, Nicola Chishti, Rehman Hopkins, Kris Paice, rh Sir James Blunt, Crispin Clark, rh Greg Horwood, Martin Parish, Neil Bone, Mr Peter Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Howarth, Sir Gerald Patel, Priti Bottomley, Sir Peter Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Howell, John Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bradley, Karen Coffey, Dr Thérèse Hughes, rh Simon Pawsey, Mark 129 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 130

Penning, rh Mike Stewart, Rory but, in each case, only if the substance or mixture is not Penrose, John Streeter, Mr Gary excluded. Percy, Andrew Stride, Mel (4) A “regulated poison”— Perry, Claire Sturdy, Julian (a) is a substance listed in Part 2 of Schedule 1A in a Phillips, Stephen Swayne, rh Mr Desmond concentration higher than the limit (if any) set out Pickles, rh Mr Eric Syms, Mr Robert for that substance in that Part, and Pincher, Christopher Teather, Sarah (b) includes a mixture or another substance in which a Poulter, Dr Daniel Thornton, Mike substance listed in that Part is present in a Pugh, John Thurso, John concentration higher than the relevant limit, Raab, Mr Dominic Tomlinson, Justin Randall, rh Sir John Tredinnick, David but, in each case, only if the substance or mixture is not Reckless, Mark Turner, Mr Andrew excluded. Redwood, rh Mr John Uppal, Paul (5) “Reportable substance” means a reportable explosives Rees-Mogg, Jacob Vara, Mr Shailesh precursor or a reportable poison. Reevell, Simon Vickers, Martin (6) A “reportable explosives precursor”— Reid, Mr Alan Walker, Mr Charles (a) is a substance listed in Part 3 of Schedule 1A, and Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Walker, Mr Robin (b) includes a mixture or another substance in which a Robertson, Mr Laurence Wallace, Mr Ben substance listed in that Part is present, Rogerson, Dan Weatherley, Mike Rosindell, Andrew Webb, Steve but, in each case, only if the substance or mixture is not Ruffley, Mr David Wharton, James excluded. Russell, Sir Bob Wheeler, Heather (7) A “reportable poison” is— Rutley, David White, Chris (a) a substance listed in Part 4 of Schedule 1A in a Sanders, Mr Adrian Whittingdale, Mr John concentration higher than the limit (if any) set out Sandys, Laura Wiggin, Bill for that substance in that Part, and Selous, Andrew Williams, Mr Mark (b) includes a mixture or another substance in which a Shelbrooke, Alec Williams, Roger substance listed in that Part is present in a Shepherd, Sir Richard Williams, Stephen concentration higher than the relevant limit, Simpson, Mr Keith Williamson, Gavin but, in each case, only if the substance or mixture is not Skidmore, Chris Willott, Jenny excluded. Smith, Chloe Wilson, Mr Rob (8) For the purposes of this section, a substance or mixture is Smith, Henry Wollaston, Dr Sarah “excluded” if— Smith, Julian Wright, Jeremy Smith, Sir Robert Wright, Simon (a) it is medicinal, or Soames, rh Sir Nicholas Yeo, Mr Tim (b) it is contained in a specific object. Soubry, Anna Young, rh Sir George (9) A substance or mixture is “medicinal” if it is— Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Zahawi, Nadhim Spencer, Mr Mark (a) a medicinal product as defined by regulation 2 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/1916), Stephenson, Andrew Tellers for the Noes: Stewart, Bob Amber Rudd and (b) an investigational medicinal product as defined by Stewart, Iain Anne Milton regulation 2 of the Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1031), (c) a substance to which Part 12 of the Human Medicines Question accordingly negatived. Regulations 2012 or Part 6 of the Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004 New Schedule 2 applies by virtue of an order under section 104 or 105 of the Medicines Act 1968 (whether applying subject “POISONS AND EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS to exceptions and modifications or not and, in the case of an order under section 104, whether the Abolition of Poisons Board substance is referred to in the order as a substance or 2 (1) The Poisons Board is abolished. an article), or (2) As a result— (d) a veterinary medicinal product as defined by (a) in the Poisons Act 1972, omit section 1 and Schedule 1, regulation 2 of the Veterinary Medicines Regulations and 2013 (S.I. 2013/2033). (b) in Part 6 of Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information (10) A “specific object” is— Act 2000 (other public bodies and offices: general), (a) an object that, during production, is given a special omit the entry for the Poisons Board. shape, surface or design that determines its function Establishment of common regulatory system to a greater degree than does its chemical 3 The Poisons Act 1972 is amended as follows. composition, or 4 For section 2 substitute— (b) an article that contains explosive substances or an explosive mixture of substances designed to produce “2 Regulated substances and reportable substances heat, light, sound, gas or smoke or a combination of (1) This section defines some key terms used in this Act. such effects through self-sustained exothermic (2) “Regulated substance” means a regulated explosives chemical reactions, including— precursor or regulated poison. (i) pyrotechnic equipment falling within the scope of (3) A “regulated explosives precursor”— Council Directive 96/98/EC on marine equipment, and (a) is a substance listed in Part 1 of Schedule 1A in a concentration higher than the limit set out for that (ii) percussion caps intended specifically for toys falling substance in that Part, and within the scope of Council Directive 88/378/EEC (b) includes a mixture or another substance in which concerning the safety of toys. a substance listed in that Part is present in a (11) See also section 9B (which contains power to disapply concentration higher than the relevant limit, requirements of this Act in specified circumstances). 131 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 132

2A Power to amend Schedule 1A (4) A person commits an offence if the person supplies a ‘(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations— regulated substance to a member of the general public without first ensuring that a warning label is affixed to the packaging in (a) amend Schedule 1A (whether to add, vary or remove a which the substance is supplied. substance or concentration limit or make any other change), and (5) A “warning label” is a label clearly indicating that it is an (b) amend section 2 in consequence of any amendment offence for members of the general public to acquire, possess or made under paragraph (a). use the substance in question without a licence (or recognised non-GB licence). (2) The power in subsection (1) to add a concentration limit includes power to add a concentration limit in any Part of (6) A person does not commit an offence under subsection (1), Schedule 1A (whether for an explosives precursor or a poison). (3) or (4) if the requirements of that subsection do not apply to the person’s case by virtue of regulations made under section 9B. (3) In determining the distribution of substances as between the various Parts of Schedule 1A, regard must be had to the (7) Before 3 March 2016, subsections (1) and (5) have effect as desirability of restricting Parts 3 and 4 to substances that meet if the references to possession and use of the substance were each of the following criteria— omitted. (a) they are in common use, or are likely to come into 3B Supply of regulated poisons other than by pharmacists common use, for purposes other than the treatment ‘(1) A person commits an offence if the person supplies a of human ailments, and regulated poison to a member of the general public other than in (b) it is reasonably necessary to include them in one of the circumstances described in subsection (2). those Parts if members of the general public are to (2) Those circumstances are— have adequate facilities for obtaining them.” (a) the person is lawfully conducting a retail pharmacy 5 For section 3 substitute— business, “3 Activities prohibited without a licence (b) the supply is made on premises that are a registered (1) A member of the general public commits an offence if he pharmacy, and or she does anything listed in subsection (2) without having a (c) the supply is made by or under the supervision of a licence, or a recognised non-GB licence, to do that thing with pharmacist. respect to that substance. (3) A person commits an offence if the person supplies a (2) The things are— regulated poison to a member of the general public without (a) importing a regulated substance, complying with the record-keeping requirements before (b) acquiring a regulated substance, delivering the poison. (c) possessing a regulated substance, (4) The record-keeping requirements are— (d) using a regulated substance. (a) the person must make an entry (or cause an entry to be made) in a record to be kept by the person for the (3) For the purposes of this section— purposes of this subsection stating— (a) “acquiring” means taking into your possession, (i) the date of the supply, custody or control, (ii) the name and address of the member of the general (b) “importing” means bringing into Great Britain from a public, country or territory outside the United Kingdom, (iii) the name and quantity of the regulated poison (c) “member of the general public” means an individual supplied, and who is acting (alone or with others) for purposes not (iv) the purposes for which it is stated by the member connected with his or her trade, business or of the general public to be required, and profession or the performance by him or her of a public function, (b) the person must ensure that the member of the general public signs the entry. (d) “possessing” means having in your possession, custody or control, and (5) A person does not commit an offence under subsection (1) (e) “using” includes processing, formulating, storing, or (3) if the requirements of that subsection do not apply to the treating or mixing, including in the production of an person’s case by virtue of regulations made under section 9B. article. 3C Reporting of suspicious transactions, disappearance and thefts (4) A member of the general public does not commit an offence under subsection (1) if the requirements of this section ‘(1) A supplier must report any relevant transaction that it do not apply to his or her case by virtue of regulations made makes or proposes to make if the supplier has reasonable under section 9B. grounds for believing the transaction to be suspicious. (5) This section does not apply to the possession or use of a (2) A “relevant transaction” is a transaction involving the regulated substance at any time before 3 March 2016. supply of a regulated substance or a reportable substance to a 3A Supply of regulated substances customer, whether an end user or a customer higher up the supply chain and whether a business or a private customer. ‘(1) A person commits an offence if the person supplies a regulated substance to a member of the general public without (3) A relevant transaction is “suspicious” if there are reasonable first verifying that the member of the general public has a licence, grounds for suspecting that the substance in question— or a recognised non-GB licence, to acquire, possess and use that (a) if it is a regulated explosives precursor or reportable substance. explosives precursor, is intended for the illicit (2) In order to verify that someone has a licence or recognised manufacture of explosives, or non-GB licence, it is sufficient for these purposes to— (b) if it is a regulated poison or a reportable poison, is (a) inspect the person’s licence, and intended for any illicit use. (b) inspect the form of identification specified in that (4) In deciding whether there are reasonable grounds for licence. suspecting such a thing, regard must be had to all the circumstances of the case, including in particular where the (3) A person commits an offence if the person supplies a prospective customer— regulated substance to a member of the general public without first entering details of the transaction (or causing details of the (a) appears unclear about the intended use of the substance, transaction to be entered) in the licence, or recognised non-GB (b) appears unfamiliar with the intended use of the licence, of the member of the general public. substance or cannot explain it plausibly, 133 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 134

(c) intends to buy substances in quantities, combinations (9) Examples of terms and conditions that may be specified or concentrations uncommon for private use, include, for any substances with respect to which the licence is (d) is unwilling to provide proof of identity or place of granted, terms and conditions about— residence, or (a) storage, (e) insists on using unusual methods of payment, (b) use, including large amounts of cash. (c) maximum quantities, (5) A person carrying on a trade, business or profession that (d) maximum levels of concentration, and involves regulated substances or reportable substances must (e) reporting of disappearances or thefts. report the disappearance or theft of any such substances if the disappearance or theft— (10) The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision about the procedure for applying for and determining (a) is from stocks in the person’s possession, custody or applications for the grant or amendment of licences under this control in Great Britain, and section, including provision as to— (b) is significant. (a) who may make an application, (6) In deciding whether a disappearance or theft is significant, (b) the form and manner in which an application is to be regard must be had to whether the amount involved is unusual in made and any documents or evidence that must all the circumstances of the case. accompany it, (7) A duty under this section to “report” something is a duty (c) the amount and payment of any fees, to give notice of it to the Secretary of State in accordance with such requirements as may be specified by the Secretary of State (d) the supply of any further information or document by regulations made under this subsection. required to determine an application, (e) notice and publication of any decision about an (8) A person who fails to comply with subsection (1) or (5) application, and commits an offence. (f) the procedure for an internal review of any such (9) A person does not commit an offence under subsection (8) decision. if the requirements of subsection (1) or, as the case may be, (5) do not apply to the person’s case by virtue of regulations made 4B Recognised non-GB licences under section 9B.” ‘(1) The Secretary of State must publish a list from time to 6 Omit section 4. time of recognised member States (if there are any). 7 After that section insert— (2) A member State is “recognised” for these purposes if licences granted by the competent authority of that State in “4A Licences accordance with the Precursors Regulation are recognised in the (1) The Secretary of State may grant a licence to a person on United Kingdom under Article 7(6) of that Regulation. application by that person in accordance with this section. (3) References in this Act to a “recognised non-GB licence” are (2) The licence may permit the person to do one or more of the to— things listed in section 3(2) with respect to one or more of the (a) a licence granted in accordance with the Precursors regulated substances. Regulation by the competent authority of a member (3) The term for which a licence is granted must not exceed 3 State that is included in the list (or latest list) years, but this does not affect— published under subsection (1), or (a) a person’s right to apply for a further licence to take (b) a licence granted under relevant Northern Ireland effect on expiry of that term, nor legislation. (b) any power of the Secretary of State under the terms (4) “Relevant Northern Ireland legislation” means— and conditions of the licence to vary, suspend or (a) regulations made under the Explosives Act (Northern revoke the licence before expiry of that term. Ireland) 1970 (c.10 (N.I.)) by virtue of the Explosives (4) The Secretary of State may charge applicants a fee for (Northern Ireland) Order 1972 (S.I. 1972/730 (N.I. processing applications for the grant or amendment of a licence 3)), or for the replacement of any lost, damaged or stolen licence. (b) any legislative instrument that implements the (5) The amount of any fees to be charged under subsection (4) Precursors Regulation in Northern Ireland, and must be specified in regulations made under subsection (10), and (c) any legislative instrument that replaces or supersedes the amount specified must not exceed the reasonable cost of (with or without modification) anything falling processing such applications. within paragraph (a) or (b) or this paragraph. (6) In deciding whether to grant or amend a licence with (5) In this section— respect to a substance, the Secretary of State must have regard to (a) references to the Precursors Regulation are to Regulation all the circumstances of the case, including in particular— (EU) No 98/2013 of the European Parliament and of (a) the use intended to be made of the substance, the Council of 15 January 2013 on the marketing and (b) the availability of alternative substances that would use of explosives precursors, and achieve the same purpose, (b) references to a legislative instrument are to— (c) the proposed arrangements to ensure that the (i) an Act or instrument made under an Act, or substance is kept securely, (ii) any Northern Ireland legislation or instrument (d) any danger to public safety or public order that may be made under Northern Ireland legislation.” caused by possession of the substance, and 8 Omit sections 5 and 6. (e) whether the applicant is a fit and proper person to 9 For section 7 substitute— possess the substance. “7 Regulations about poisons and explosives precursors (7) But if there are reasonable grounds for doubting the (1) The Secretary of State may make provision by regulations legitimacy of the use intended to be made of the substance or the about— intentions of the user to use the substance for a legitimate purpose, the Secretary of State must in any event refuse the (a) the importation, supply, acquisition, possession or use application so far as it relates to that substance. of substances by or to any person or class of person, (8) A licence may be granted or amended subject to such terms (b) the storage, transportation and labelling of substances, and conditions as may be specified in the licence. (c) the containers in which substances may be supplied, 135 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 136

(d) the addition to substances of specified ingredients (ii) in Scotland, to imprisonment for a term not for the purpose of rendering them readily exceeding 3 months or to a fine not exceeding distinguishable as such, level 5 on the standard scale (or both). (e) the compounding of substances, and the supply of (2) A person guilty of an offence under section 3A(3) or (4) is substances on and in accordance with a prescription liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 2 on duly given by a doctor, a dentist, a veterinary surgeon the standard scale. or a veterinary practitioner, or (3) A person guilty of an offence under section 3B(3) is liable (f) the period for which any records required to be kept for on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the the purposes of this Act are to be preserved. standard scale. (2) A person who contravenes or fails to comply with any (4) A person guilty of an offence under section 3C(8) is liable regulations made under this section commits an offence. on summary conviction— (3) A person does not commit an offence under subsection (2) (a) in England and Wales, to imprisonment for a term not if the requirements of the regulation in question do not apply to exceeding 3 months or to a fine (or both). the person’s case by virtue of regulations made under section 9B. (b) in Scotland, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding (4) References in this section to “substances” are to regulated 3 months or to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the substances and reportable substances.” standard scale (or both). 10 After section 7 insert— (5) A person guilty of an offence under section 7(2) is liable on “7A Proof of lack of knowledge summary conviction— (a) to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale, (1) This section applies to the following offences— and (a) an offence under section 3(1), (b) in the case of a continuing offence, to a further fine not (b) an offence under section 3A(1), (3) or (4), exceeding one-tenth of level 4 on the standard scale (c) an offence under section 3B(1) or (3). for every day subsequent to the day on which the (2) In any proceedings for an offence to which this section person is convicted of the offence during which the applies, it is a defence for the accused to prove that the accused contravention or default continues. neither knew of nor suspected nor had reason to suspect the (6) In the case of proceedings against a person for an offence existence of some fact alleged by the prosecution that it is under section 3A, 3B or 3C, or an offence under section 7(2) in necessary for the prosecution to prove if the accused is to be connection with the supply of a regulated substance or a convicted of the offence charged. reportable substance, where the act in question was done by an (3) This is subject to subsection (5). employee— (a) it is not a defence that the employee acted without the (4) Subsection (5) applies where, in any proceedings for an authority of the employer, and offence to which this section applies— (b) any material fact known to the employee is deemed to (a) it is necessary, if the accused is to be convicted of the have been known to the employer. offence charged, for the prosecution to prove that some substance or mixture involved in the alleged (7) Notwithstanding any provision in any Act, or Act of the offence was the regulated substance that the Scottish Parliament, prescribing the period within which prosecution allege it to have been, and summary proceedings may be commenced, proceedings for an offence under this Act may be commenced at any time— (b) it is proved that the substance or mixture in question was that regulated substance. (a) within the period of 12 months next after the date of commission of the offence, or (5) Where this subsection applies— (b) in the case of proceedings instituted by, or by the (a) the accused must not be acquitted of the offence direction of, the Secretary of State, within the later to charged by reason only of proving that the accused end of— neither knew nor suspected nor had reason to suspect (i) that 12-month period, and that the substance or mixture was the particular (ii) the period of 3 months next after the date on which regulated substance alleged, but evidence sufficient in the Secretary of State’s (b) the accused must be acquitted of the offence charged opinion to justify a prosecution for the offence if— comes to the Secretary of State’s knowledge. (i) the accused proves that the accused neither believed (8) For the purposes of subsection (7)(b)(ii), a certificate nor suspected nor had reason to suspect that the purporting to be signed by the Secretary of State as to the date substance or mixture was a regulated substance, on which such evidence came to the Secretary of State’s or knowledge is to be conclusive evidence of that fact. (ii) the accused proves that the accused believed the (9) A document purporting to be a certificate signed by a substance or mixture to be a regulated substance person specified in subsection (10) stating the result of an such that, if it had in fact been that regulated analysis made by that person is admissible in any proceedings substance, the accused would not at the material under this Act as evidence of the matters stated in the certificate, time have been committing any offence to which but either party may require the person to be called as a witness. this section applies. (10) The persons are— (6) Nothing in this section affects any defence that it is open to a person accused of an offence to which this section applies to (a) a public analyst appointed under section 27 of the raise apart from this section.” Food Safety Act 1990, or 11 For section 8 substitute— (b) a person appointed by the Secretary of State to make analyses for the purposes of this Act. “8 Penalties (11) In the application of this section to Scotland, subsections (1) A person guilty of an offence under section 3(1), 3A(1) or (7) and (8) have effect as if the references to the Secretary of 3B(1) is liable— State were references to the Lord Advocate. (a) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a 8A Offences by bodies corporate etc term not exceeding 2 years or a fine (or both); ‘(1) If an offence under this Act is committed by a body (b) on summary conviction— corporate and is proved to have been committed with the consent (i) in England and Wales, to imprisonment for a term or connivance of, or to be attributable to any neglect on the part not exceeding 3 months or to a fine (or both), of— 137 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 138

(a) a director, manager, secretary or other similar officer of (d) is so intended, contained or prepared and is present in the body corporate, or a concentration that is no higher than a specified (b) any person who was purporting to act in any such limit. capacity, (4) Nothing in subsection (2) or (3) is to be read as limiting the that person, as well as the body corporate, is guilty of the provision that may be made under subsection (1). offence and liable to be proceeded against and punished (5) In this section— accordingly. (a) “the exclusions” means the exclusions in section 2 for (2) The reference in subsection (1) to a director, in relation to a substances that are medicinal or contained in a body corporate whose affairs are managed by its members, is a specific object, reference to a member of the body corporate. (b) “the requirements of this Act” means the requirements (3) If an offence under this Act is committed by a Scottish of section 3, 3A, 3B or 3C or of regulations under partnership and is proved to have been committed with the section 7, consent or connivance of, or to be attributable to any neglect on (c) “specified” includes described, the part of— (d) references to a substance also include a mixture, and (a) a partner, or (e) references to a group of substances includes a group (b) any person who was purporting to act in that capacity, comprising all the substances listed in Schedule 1A.” that person, as well as the partnership, is guilty of the offence 15 For section 10 substitute— and liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly.” “10 Regulations 12 (1) Section 9 (inspection and enforcement) is amended as (1) Any power to make regulations under this Act includes follows. power— (2) For subsection (4) substitute— (a) to make different provision for different purposes, (b) to make incidental or supplemental provision, and “(4) An inspector appointed by the General Pharmaceutical Council under article 8(1) of the Pharmacy Order 2010 may at all (c) to make transitional, transitory or saving provision. reasonable times— (2) Any power to make regulations under this Act is (a) enter any registered pharmacy to ascertain whether an exercisable by statutory instrument. offence under section 3A, 3B, 3C or 7(2) has been (3) An instrument containing regulations under this Act is committed by a pharmacist or a person carrying on a subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either retail pharmacy business; House of Parliament.” (b) enter any suspicious premises to ascertain whether 16 (1) Section 11 (interpretation) is amended as follows. either of the following offences has been (2) Omit subsection (1). committed— (3) In subsection (2), omit the definitions of— (i) an offence under section 3B, or “the board” (ii) an offence under section 7(2) in relation to “local authority’s list” contravention of any regulations that relate solely “Poisons Rules” to regulated poisons. “prescribed” (4A) “Suspicious premises” are premises in which the “sale by way of wholesale dealing”. inspector has reasonable cause to suspect that an offence (4) In that subsection, insert the following definitions in the mentioned in subsection (4)(b) has been committed. appropriate place alphabetically— (4B) An inspector appointed by the General Pharmaceutical ““Great Britain” includes the territorial sea of the Council under article 8(1) of the Pharmacy Order 2010 may also United Kingdom other than the part adjacent to make such examination and inquiry and do such other things Northern Ireland;”, (including the taking, on payment, of samples) as may be ““licence” (other than in the expression “recognised necessary for ascertaining any of the things mentioned in non-GB licence” and in section 4B) means a subsection (4)(a) and (b).” licence granted under section 4A;”, (3) Omit subsections (5) to (7). ““member of the general public” has the meaning 13 After section 9 insert— given in section 3;”, ““mixture” means a mixture or solution composed of “9A Application of PACE powers two or more substances;”, 14 After section 9A (inserted by paragraph 12) insert— ““recognised non-GB licence” has the meaning given “9B Power to disapply requirements or exclusions in in section 4B;”, specified circumstances ““regulated substance”, “regulated explosives (1) The Secretary of State may by regulations provide— precursor” and “regulated poison” have the meanings given in section 2;”, (a) that some or all of the requirements of this Act do not ““reportable substance”, “reportable explosives apply in circumstances specified in the regulations; precursor” and “reportable poison” have the (b) that either or both of the exclusions do not apply in meanings given in section 2;”, and circumstances specified in the regulations. ““substance” means a chemical element and its (2) The power in subsection (1) may be exercised in relation to compounds in the natural state or obtained by a substance or group of substances, in relation to persons or a any manufacturing process— class of persons or in any other way. (a) including any additive necessary to preserve its (3) When exercising the power in relation to a substance or stability and any impurity deriving from the group of substances, the regulations may for example provide process used, but that the requirements or exclusions in question do not apply to (b) excluding any solvent that may be separated the substance, or substances in the group, where the substance— without affecting the stability of the substance or changing its composition;”. (a) is intended for use for a specified purpose, or (5) In that subsection, in the definition of “retail pharmacy (b) is contained in a specified substance, mixture or article, business”, for “section 132(1) of the Medicines Act 1968” or substitute “regulation 8 of the Human Medicines Regulations (c) is prepared in a specified manner or form, or 2012 (S.I. 2012/1916)”. 139 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 140

(6) After subsection (2) insert— Name of substance and Chemical Abstracts Concentration limit “(3) In relation to a regulated substance or a reportable Service Registry number (CAS RN) (weight in weight) substance, any reference to the substance is a reference to the substance or the mixture, as the case may be. Mercury (CAS RN 7439-97-6), compounds — (4) References in this Act to supplying something— of, the following— nitrates of mercury; oxides of mercury; mercuric cyanide (a) include any kind of supply or making available, oxides; mercuric thio cyanate; ammonium whether in return for payment or free of charge, but mercuric chlorides; potassium mercuric (b) do not include supply involving export to a person iodides; organic compounds of mercury outside the United Kingdom.” that contain a methyl (CH3) group directly 17 After Schedule 1 (which is omitted by paragraph 1 of this linked to the mercury atom Schedule) insert—Hexamine (CAS RN 100-97-0)Sulphuric acid Oxalic acid (CAS RN 144-62-7) 10% w/w (CAS RN 7664-93-9)Acetone (CAS RN 67-64-1)Potassium Phenols (phenol; phenolic isomers of the 60% w/w of nitrate (CAS RN 7757-79-1)Sodium nitrate (CAS RN 7631-99- following—cresols, xylenols, phenols or, for 4)Calcium nitrate (CAS RN 10124-37-5)Calcium ammonium monoethylphenols); compounds of phenols compounds of nitrate (CAS RN 15245-12-2)Ammonium nitrate (CAS RN with a metal phenols with a 6484-52-2) in concentration of 16% by weight of nitrogen in metal, the relation to ammonium nitrate or higher equivalent of 60% w/w of phenols “SCHEDULE 1A Phosphorus, yellow (CAS RN 7223-14-0) — Strychnine (CAS RN 57-24-9); its salts; its — REGULATED SUBSTANCES AND REPORTABLE SUBSTANCES quaternary compounds Thallium (CAS RN 7440-28-0), salts of — PART 1

PART 3 REGULATED EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS REPORTABLE EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS Name of substance and Chemical Abstracts Concentration limit Service Registry number (CAS RN) (weight in weight) Hexamine (CAS RN 100-97-0)

Hydrogen peroxide (CAS RN 7722-84-1) 12% w/w Sulphuric acid (CAS RN 7664-93-9) Nitromethane (CAS RN 75-52-5) 30% w/w Acetone (CAS RN 67-64-1) Nitric acid (CAS RN 7697-37-2) 3% w/w Potassium nitrate (CAS RN 7757-79-1) Potassium chlorate (CAS RN 3811-04-9) 40% w/w Sodium nitrate (CAS RN 7631-99-4) Potassium perchlorate (CAS RN 7778- 40% w/w 74-7) Calcium nitrate (CAS RN 10124-37-5) Sodium chlorate (CAS RN 7775-09-9) 40% w/w Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAS RN 15245-12-2) Sodium perchlorate (CAS RN 7601- 40% w/w Ammonium nitrate (CAS RN 6484-52-2) in concentration of 89-0) 16% by weight of nitrogen in relation to ammonium nitrate or higher

PART 2 PART 4

REGULATED POISONS REPORTABLE POISONS

Name of substance and Chemical Abstracts Concentration limit Concentration Service Registry number (CAS RN) (weight in weight) limit (weight in weight or, where Aluminium phosphide (CAS RN 20859- — Name of substance and Chemical Abstracts Service specified, total 73-8) Registry number (CAS RN) caustic alkalinity) Arsenic (CAS RN 7440-38-2); its — Aldicarb (CAS RN 116-06-3) — compounds, other than those listed in Part Alpha-chloralose (CAS RN 15879-93-3) — 4 of this Schedule Ammonia (CAS RN 7664-41-7 and CAS RN 10% w/w Barium (CAS RN 7440-39-3), salts of, — 1336-21-6) other than barium sulphate (CAS RN 7727-43-7) and the salts of barium listed in Arsenic, compounds of, the following— — Part 4 of this Schedule) calcium arsenites; copper acetoarsenite; copper arsenates; copper arsenites; lead Bromomethane (CAS RN 74-83-9) — arsenates Chloropicrin (CAS RN 76-06-2) — Barium, salts of, the following—barium — Fluoroacetic acid (CAS RN 144-49-0); its — carbonate; barium silicofluoride salts; fluoroacetamide Carbofuran (CAS RN 1563-66-2) — Hydrogen cyanide (CAS RN 74-90-8); — Cycloheximide (CAS RN 66-81-9) — metal cyanides, other than ferrocyanides and ferricyanides Dinitrocresols (DNOC) (CAS RN 534-52-1); — their compounds with a metal or a base Lead acetates (CAS RN 15347-57-6); — compounds of lead with acids from fixed Dinoseb (CAS RN 88-85-7); its compounds — oils with a metal or a base Magnesium phosphide (CAS RN 12057- — Dinoterb (CAS RN 1420-07-1) — 74-8) Drazoxolon; its salts — 141 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 142

Question put, That the amendment be made. Concentration limit (weight in The House divided: Ayes 213, Noes 273. weight or, where Name of substance and Chemical Abstracts Service specified, total Division No. 15] [9.13 pm Registry number (CAS RN) caustic alkalinity) AYES Endosulfan (CAS RN 115-29-7) — Abbott, Ms Diane Elliott, Julie Endothal (CAS RN 145-73-3); its salts — Abrahams, Debbie Ellman, Mrs Louise Endrin (CAS RN 72-20-8) — Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Engel, Natascha Fentin (CAS RN 668-34-8), compounds of — Alexander, Heidi Evans, Chris Formaldehyde (CAS RN 50-00-0) 5% w/w Ali, Rushanara Farrelly, Paul Formic acid (CAS RN 64-18-6) 25% w/w Allen, Mr Graham Field, rh Mr Frank Ashworth, Jonathan Fitzpatrick, Jim Hydrochloric acid (CAS RN 7647-01-0) 10% w/w Austin, Ian Flello, Robert Hydrofluoric acid (CAS RN 7664-39-3); — Bailey, Mr Adrian Flint, rh Caroline alkali metal bifluorides; ammonium Bain, Mr William Fovargue, Yvonne bifluoride (CAS RN 1341-49-7); alkali metal Balls, rh Ed Francis, Dr Hywel fluorides; ammonium fluoride (CAS RN Barron, rh Kevin Gapes, Mike 12125-01-8); sodium silicofluoride (CAS RN 16893-85-9) Beckett, rh Margaret Gardiner, Barry Begg, Dame Anne Gilmore, Sheila Mercuric chloride (CAS RN 7487-94-7); — Benn, rh Hilary Glass, Pat mercuric iodide; organic compounds of Berger, Luciana Glindon, Mrs Mary mercury except compounds that contain a methyl (CH3) group directly linked to the Betts, Mr Clive Godsiff, Mr Roger mercury atom Blackman-Woods, Roberta Goodman, Helen Blears, rh Hazel Green, Kate Metallic oxalates — Blenkinsop, Tom Greenwood, Lilian Methomyl (CAS RN 16752-77-5) — Blomfield, Paul Griffith, Nia Nicotine (CAS RN 54-11-5); its salts; its — Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Gwynne, Andrew quaternary compounds Brennan, Kevin Hain, rh Mr Peter Nitrobenzene (CAS RN 98-95-3) 0.1% w/w Brown, Lyn Hamilton, Mr David Oxamyl (CAS RN 23135-22-0) — Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Hanson, rh Mr David Paraquat (CAS RN 4685-14-7), salts of — Bryant, Chris Harman, rh Ms Harriet Buck, Ms Karen Harris, Mr Tom Phenols (as defined in Part 2 of this — Burden, Richard Havard, Mr Dai Schedule) in substances containing no more Burnham, rh Andy Healey, rh John than 60%, weight in weight, of phenols; compounds of phenols with a metal in Campbell, rh Mr Alan Hendrick, Mark substances containing no more than the Campbell, Mr Ronnie Hepburn, Mr Stephen equivalent of 60%, weight in weight, of Caton, Martin Heyes, David phenols Champion, Sarah Hillier, Meg Phosphoric acid (CAS RN 7664-38-2) — Chapman, Jenny Hilling, Julie Clark, Katy Hodge, rh Margaret Phosphorus compounds, the following— — Clwyd, rh Ann Hodgson, Mrs Sharon azinphos-methyl, chlorfenvinphos, Coaker, Vernon Hoey, Kate demephion, demeton-S-methyl, demeton-S- Coffey, Ann Hopkins, Kelvin methyl sulphone, dialifos, dichlorvos, dioxathion, disulfoton, fonofos, mecarbam, Cooper, Rosie Howarth, rh Mr George mephosfolan, methidathion, mevinphos, Cooper, rh Yvette Irranca-Davies, Huw omethoate, oxydemeton-methyl, parathion, Corbyn, Jeremy Jackson, Glenda phenkapton, phorate, phosphamidon, Crausby, Mr David James, Mrs Siân C. pirimiphos-ethyl, quinalphos, thiometon, Creasy, Stella Jamieson, Cathy thionazin, triazophos, vamidothion Cruddas, Jon Jarvis, Dan Potassium hydroxide (CAS RN 1310-58-3) 17% of total Cryer, John Johnson, Diana caustic alkalinity Cunningham, Mr Jim Jones, Graham Cunningham, Sir Tony Jones, Mr Kevan Sodium hydroxide (CAS RN 1310-73-2) 12% of total caustic alkalinity Danczuk, Simon Kane, Mike David, Wayne Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Sodium nitrite — Davidson, Mr Ian Keeley, Barbara Thiofanox (CAS RN 39196-18-4) — De Piero, Gloria Kendall, Liz Zinc phosphide (CAS RN 1314-84-7) — Denham, rh Mr John Khan, rh Sadiq Dobson, rh Frank Lammy, rh Mr David Note: for circumstances where requirements of this Act do not Docherty, Thomas Lavery, Ian apply to a specified substance or mixture, see regulations made under section 9B.”—(The Solicitor-General.) Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Lazarowicz, Mark Doran, Mr Frank Lewell-Buck, Mrs Emma See the explanatory statement for new clause NC24. Doughty, Stephen Lewis, Mr Ivan Brought up, and added to the Bill. Dowd, Jim Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Doyle, Gemma Love, Mr Andrew Dromey, Jack Lucas, Caroline Clause 17 Dugher, Michael Lucas, Ian Durkan, Mark MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Eagle, Ms Angela Mactaggart, Fiona AUTHORISATION OF INSOLVENCY PRACTITIONERS Eagle, Maria Mahmood, Shabana Amendment proposed: 84, page 11, line 18, leave out Edwards, Jonathan Mann, John clause 17.—(Toby Perkins.) Efford, Clive Marsden, Mr Gordon 143 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 144

McCabe, Steve Roy, Lindsay Collins, Damian Huppert, Dr Julian McCann, Mr Michael Ruane, Chris Colvile, Oliver Hurd, Mr Nick McCarthy, Kerry Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Cox, Mr Geoffrey Jackson, Mr Stewart McClymont, Gregg Sawford, Andy Crockart, Mike James, Margot McDonagh, Siobhain Seabeck, Alison Crouch, Tracey Jenkin, Mr Bernard McDonald, Andy Sharma, Mr Virendra Davies, Glyn Jenrick, Robert McDonnell, John Sheerman, Mr Barry Davies, Philip Johnson, Gareth McFadden, rh Mr Pat Shuker, Gavin de Bois, Nick Johnson, Joseph McGovern, Alison Simpson, David Dinenage, Caroline Jones, Andrew McGovern, Jim Skinner, Mr Dennis Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Jones, rh Mr David McKechin, Ann Slaughter, Mr Andy Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Jones, Mr Marcus McKenzie, Mr Iain Smith, rh Mr Andrew Doyle-Price, Jackie Kawczynski, Daniel McKinnell, Catherine Smith, Angela Duddridge, James Kirby, Simon Meacher, rh Mr Michael Smith, Nick Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Knight, rh Sir Greg Miller, Andrew Smith, Owen Dunne, Mr Philip Kwarteng, Kwasi Mitchell, Austin Spellar, rh Mr John Ellis, Michael Lamb, Norman Moon, Mrs Madeleine Straw, rh Mr Jack Ellison, Jane Lancaster, Mark Morden, Jessica Stringer, Graham Elphicke, Charlie Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Stuart, Ms Gisela Eustice, George Latham, Pauline Morris, Grahame M. Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Evans, Graham Laws, rh Mr David (Easington) Tami, Mark Evans, Mr Nigel Leadsom, Andrea Mudie, Mr George Thomas, Mr Gareth Evennett, Mr David Lee, Jessica Munn, Meg Thornberry, Emily Fabricant, Michael Lee, Dr Phillip Murphy, rh Paul Trickett, Jon Farron, Tim Lefroy, Jeremy Nandy, Lisa Turner, Karl Featherstone, Lynne Leslie, Charlotte Nash, Pamela Twigg, Derek Field, Mark Letwin, rh Mr Oliver O’Donnell, Fiona Twigg, Stephen Foster, rh Mr Don Lewis, Brandon Onwurah, Chi Vaz, Valerie Fox,rhDrLiam Lewis, Dr Julian Pearce, Teresa Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Francois, rh Mr Mark Lidington, rh Mr David Perkins, Toby Whitehead, Dr Alan Freeman, George Lilley, rh Mr Peter Phillipson, Bridget Williams, Hywel Freer, Mike Lloyd, Stephen Pound, Stephen Williamson, Chris Fuller, Richard Lopresti, Jack Powell, Lucy Wilson, Phil Garnier, Sir Edward Loughton, Tim Qureshi, Yasmin Winnick, Mr David Garnier, Mark Luff, Sir Peter Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Gauke, Mr David Lumley, Karen Reed, Mr Jamie Wishart, Pete George, Andrew Macleod, Mary Gibb, Mr Nick Main, Mrs Anne Reed, Mr Steve Woodcock, John Reeves, Rachel Glen, John Maude, rh Mr Francis Wright, David Reynolds, Emma Goldsmith, Zac Maynard, Paul Wright, Mr Iain Reynolds, Jonathan Gove, rh Michael McCartney, Karl Ritchie, Ms Margaret Tellers for the Ayes: Graham, Richard McIntosh, Miss Anne Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Nic Dakin and Grant, Mrs Helen McPartland, Stephen Rotheram, Steve Susan Elan Jones Gray, Mr James McVey, rh Esther Grayling, rh Chris Menzies, Mark NOES Green, rh Damian Metcalfe, Stephen Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Miller, rh Maria Adams, Nigel Brady, Mr Graham Griffiths, Andrew Mills, Nigel Afriyie, Adam Brake, rh Tom Gummer, Ben Moore, rh Michael Aldous, Peter Brazier, Mr Julian Gyimah, Mr Sam Mordaunt, Penny Amess, Mr David Bridgen, Andrew Halfon, Robert Morgan, rh Nicky Andrew, Stuart Brine, Steve Hames, Duncan Morris, Anne Marie Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Brokenshire, James Hammond, Stephen Morris, David Bacon, Mr Richard Brooke, Annette Hancock, Matthew Morris, James Baker, Norman Browne, Mr Jeremy Harper, Mr Mark Mosley, Stephen Baker, Steve Bruce, Fiona Harris, Rebecca Mowat, David Baldry, rh Sir Tony Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Hart, Simon Mulholland, Greg Baldwin, Harriett Buckland, Mr Robert Harvey, Sir Nick Munt, Tessa Barclay, Stephen Burns, Conor Hayes, rh Mr John Murray, Sheryll Barker, rh Gregory Burns, rh Mr Simon Heald, Oliver Murrison, Dr Andrew Barwell, Gavin Burrowes, Mr David Heaton-Harris, Chris Newmark, Mr Brooks Bebb, Guto Burstow, rh Paul Hemming, John Newton, Sarah Bellingham, Mr Henry Byles, Dan Henderson, Gordon Norman, Jesse Benyon, Richard Cairns, Alun Herbert, rh Nick Nuttall, Mr David Beresford, Sir Paul Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Hinds, Damian Offord, Dr Matthew Bingham, Andrew Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Hoban, Mr Mark Ollerenshaw, Eric Birtwistle, Gordon Carmichael, Neil Hollingbery, George Opperman, Guy Blackman, Bob Carswell, Mr Douglas Hollobone, Mr Philip Paice, rh Sir James Blackwood, Nicola Chishti, Rehman Hopkins, Kris Parish, Neil Blunt, Crispin Clark, rh Greg Horwood, Martin Patel, Priti Bone, Mr Peter Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Howarth, Sir Gerald Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bottomley, Sir Peter Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Howell, John Pawsey, Mark Bradley, Karen Coffey, Dr Thérèse Hughes, rh Simon Penning, rh Mike 145 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 146

Penrose, John Streeter, Mr Gary authority make compliance with it a condition of a grant of Percy, Andrew Stride, Mel planning permission. See also amendment which inserts a definition Perry, Claire Sturdy, Julian of “planning authority”. Phillips, Stephen Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Amendment 80, page 24, line 25, leave out from Pickles, rh Mr Eric Syms, Mr Robert ‘‘before’’ to end of line 26 and insert Pincher, Christopher Teather, Sarah “a planning authority may make compliance with an optional Poulter, Dr Daniel Thornton, Mike requirement a condition of the grant of planning permission.” Pugh, John Thurso, John Raab, Mr Dominic Tomlinson, Justin This amendment is consequential on amendment 79. Randall, rh Sir John Tredinnick, David Amendment 81, page 24, line 27, leave out “local”. Reckless, Mark Turner, Mr Andrew This amendment is consequential on amendment 79. Redwood, rh Mr John Uppal, Paul Rees-Mogg, Jacob Amendment 82, page 24, leave out lines 40 to 42 and Vara, Mr Shailesh insert— Reevell, Simon Vickers, Martin Reid, Mr Alan “ “planning authority” means— Walker, Mr Charles Robathan, rh Mr Andrew (a) a local planning authority within the meaning Walker, Mr Robin Robertson, Mr Laurence of that Act (see section 336(1)); Wallace, Mr Ben Rogerson, Dan (b) the Secretary of State (in the exercise of Weatherley, Mike Rosindell, Andrew functions of granting planning permission);”. Webb, Steve Rudd, Amber This amendment defines “planning authority” so as to include both Ruffley, Mr David Wharton, James a local planning authority (as defined by section 336(1) of the Russell, Sir Bob Wheeler, Heather Town and Country Planning Act 1990) and the Secretary of State. Rutley, David White, Chris This ensures that, where the Secretary of State is exercising Sanders, Mr Adrian Whittingdale, Mr John functions in relation to the grant of planning permission, he can Sandys, Laura Wiggin, Bill provide for an optional requirement to apply. Selous, Andrew Williams, Mr Mark Amendment 83, page 24, line 42, at end insert— Shelbrooke, Alec Williams, Roger “ “planning permission” has the same meaning as in Shepherd, Sir Richard Williams, Stephen that Act (see section 336(1)).”—(The Solicitor- Simpson, Mr Keith Williamson, Gavin General.) Skidmore, Chris Willott, Jenny This amendment is consequential on amendment 79. It defines Smith, Henry Wilson, Mr Rob “planning permission” as having the same meaning as in the Town Smith, Julian Wollaston, Dr Sarah and Country Planning Act 1990. Smith, Sir Robert Wright, Jeremy Soames, rh Sir Nicholas Amendment proposed: 2, page 24, line 42, at end Wright, Simon insert— Soubry, Anna Yeo, Mr Tim Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline ‘(2) This section and section 31 shall not come into force until Young, rh Sir George Spencer, Mr Mark the Secretary of State has laid a Zero-Carbon Housing Strategy Zahawi, Nadhim Stephenson, Andrew before both Houses of Parliament.”—(Jonathan Reynolds.) Stewart, Bob Tellers for the Noes: Question put, That the amendment be made. Stewart, Iain Anne Milton and Stewart, Rory Mark Hunter The House divided: Ayes 209, Noes 272. Division No. 16] [9.25 pm Question accordingly negatived. AYES Amendment made: 12, page 14, line 33, after “(general))” Abbott, Ms Diane Burnham, rh Andy insert “— Abrahams, Debbie Campbell, rh Mr Alan () in subsection (1) (fees for grant or maintenance of Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Campbell, Mr Ronnie recognition of professional body), in paragraph (b) Alexander, Heidi Caton, Martin (power to refuse recognition, or revoke order of Ali, Rushanara Champion, Sarah recognition, where fee not paid), after “391(1)” insert Allen, Mr Graham Chapman, Jenny “or (2)”;”.—(The Solicitor-General.) Ashworth, Jonathan Clark, Katy This amendment allows the Secretary of State to revoke or refuse Austin, Ian Clwyd, rh Ann recognition of a professional body recognised for the purpose of Bailey, Mr Adrian Coaker, Vernon authorising partially authorised insolvency practitioners, where the Bain, Mr William Coffey, Ann body has not paid a fee in connection with the grant or maintenance Balls, rh Ed Cooper, Rosie of its recognition. Barron, rh Kevin Cooper, rh Yvette Beckett, rh Margaret Corbyn, Jeremy Begg, Dame Anne Crausby, Mr David Clause 30 Benn, rh Hilary Creasy, Stella Berger, Luciana Cruddas, Jon OPTIONAL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS Betts, Mr Clive Cryer, John Amendments made: 79, page 24, line 14, leave out Blackman-Woods, Roberta Cunningham, Mr Jim from “State” to end of line 17 and insert Blears, rh Hazel Cunningham, Sir Tony Blenkinsop, Tom Danczuk, Simon “in relation to England may include a requirement that applies Blomfield, Paul David, Wayne only where a planning authority makes compliance with the Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Davidson, Mr Ian requirement a condition of a grant of planning permission.” Brennan, Kevin De Piero, Gloria Clause 30 confers power on the Secretary of State in making Brown, Lyn Denham, rh Mr John building regulations to include requirements (referred to in the Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Dobson, rh Frank clause as “optional requirements”) that apply only where a local Bryant, Chris Docherty, Thomas planning authority decides they should apply. The amendment Buck, Ms Karen Donohoe, Mr Brian H. means that such a requirement will apply only where a planning Burden, Richard Doran, Mr Frank 147 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 148

Doughty, Stephen Mahmood, Shabana Vaz, Valerie Woodcock, John Dowd, Jim Mann, John Whitehead, Dr Alan Wright, David Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon Williams, Hywel Wright, Mr Iain Dromey, Jack McCabe, Steve Williamson, Chris Dugher, Michael McCann, Mr Michael Wilson, Phil Tellers for the Ayes: Durkan, Mark McCarthy, Kerry Winnick, Mr David Nic Dakin and Eagle, Ms Angela McClymont, Gregg Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Susan Elan Jones Eagle, Maria McDonagh, Siobhain Edwards, Jonathan McDonald, Andy NOES Efford, Clive McDonnell, John Elliott, Julie McFadden, rh Mr Pat Adams, Nigel Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Ellman, Mrs Louise McGovern, Alison Afriyie, Adam Doyle-Price, Jackie Engel, Natascha McGovern, Jim Aldous, Peter Duddridge, James Evans, Chris McKechin, Ann Amess, Mr David Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Farrelly, Paul McKenzie, Mr Iain Andrew, Stuart Dunne, Mr Philip Field, rh Mr Frank McKinnell, Catherine Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Ellis, Michael Fitzpatrick, Jim Meacher, rh Mr Michael Bacon, Mr Richard Ellison, Jane Flello, Robert Miller, Andrew Baker, Norman Elphicke, Charlie Flint, rh Caroline Mitchell, Austin Baker, Steve Eustice, George Fovargue, Yvonne Moon, Mrs Madeleine Baldry, rh Sir Tony Evans, Graham Francis, Dr Hywel Morden, Jessica Baldwin, Harriett Evans, Mr Nigel Gapes, Mike Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Barclay, Stephen Evennett, Mr David Gardiner, Barry Morris, Grahame M. Barker, rh Gregory Fabricant, Michael Gilmore, Sheila (Easington) Barwell, Gavin Farron, Tim Glass, Pat Mudie, Mr George Bebb, Guto Featherstone, Lynne Glindon, Mrs Mary Munn, Meg Bellingham, Mr Henry Field, Mark Godsiff, Mr Roger Murphy, rh Paul Benyon, Richard Foster, rh Mr Don Goodman, Helen Nandy, Lisa Beresford, Sir Paul Fox,rhDrLiam Green, Kate Nash, Pamela Bingham, Andrew Francois, rh Mr Mark Greenwood, Lilian O’Donnell, Fiona Birtwistle, Gordon Freeman, George Griffith, Nia Onwurah, Chi Blackman, Bob Freer, Mike Gwynne, Andrew Pearce, Teresa Blackwood, Nicola Fuller, Richard Hain, rh Mr Peter Perkins, Toby Blunt, Crispin Garnier, Sir Edward Hamilton, Mr David Phillipson, Bridget Bone, Mr Peter Garnier, Mark Hanson, rh Mr David Pound, Stephen Bottomley, Sir Peter Gauke, Mr David Harman, rh Ms Harriet Powell, Lucy Bradley, Karen George, Andrew Harris, Mr Tom Qureshi, Yasmin Brady, Mr Graham Gibb, Mr Nick Havard, Mr Dai Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Brake, rh Tom Glen, John Healey, rh John Reed, Mr Jamie Brazier, Mr Julian Goldsmith, Zac Hendrick, Mark Reed, Mr Steve Bridgen, Andrew Gove, rh Michael Hepburn, Mr Stephen Reeves, Rachel Brine, Steve Graham, Richard Heyes, David Reynolds, Emma Brokenshire, James Grant, Mrs Helen Hillier, Meg Reynolds, Jonathan Brooke, Annette Gray, Mr James Hilling, Julie Ritchie, Ms Margaret Browne, Mr Jeremy Grayling, rh Chris Hodge, rh Margaret Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Bruce, Fiona Green, rh Damian Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Rotheram, Steve Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Hoey, Kate Roy, Lindsay Buckland, Mr Robert Griffiths, Andrew Hopkins, Kelvin Ruane, Chris Burns, Conor Gummer, Ben Howarth, rh Mr George Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Burns, rh Mr Simon Gyimah, Mr Sam Irranca-Davies, Huw Sawford, Andy Burrowes, Mr David Halfon, Robert Jackson, Glenda Seabeck, Alison Burstow, rh Paul Hames, Duncan James, Mrs Siân C. Sharma, Mr Virendra Byles, Dan Hammond, Stephen Jamieson, Cathy Sheerman, Mr Barry Cairns, Alun Hancock, Matthew Jarvis, Dan Shuker, Gavin Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Harper, Mr Mark Johnson, Diana Skinner, Mr Dennis Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Harris, Rebecca Jones, Graham Slaughter, Mr Andy Carmichael, Neil Hart, Simon Jones, Mr Kevan Smith, rh Mr Andrew Carswell, Mr Douglas Harvey, Sir Nick Kane, Mike Smith, Angela Chishti, Rehman Hayes, rh Mr John Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Smith, Nick Clark, rh Greg Heald, Oliver Keeley, Barbara Smith, Owen Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Heaton-Harris, Chris Kendall, Liz Spellar, rh Mr John Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Hemming, John Khan, rh Sadiq Straw, rh Mr Jack Coffey, Dr Thérèse Henderson, Gordon Lammy, rh Mr David Stringer, Graham Collins, Damian Herbert, rh Nick Lavery, Ian Stuart, Ms Gisela Colvile, Oliver Hinds, Damian Lazarowicz, Mark Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hoban, Mr Mark Lewell-Buck, Mrs Emma Tami, Mark Crockart, Mike Hollingbery, George Lewis, Mr Ivan Thomas, Mr Gareth Crouch, Tracey Hollobone, Mr Philip Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Thornberry, Emily Davies, Glyn Hopkins, Kris Love, Mr Andrew Trickett, Jon Davies, Philip Howarth, Sir Gerald Lucas, Caroline Turner, Karl de Bois, Nick Howell, John Lucas, Ian Twigg, Derek Dinenage, Caroline Hughes, rh Simon Mactaggart, Fiona Twigg, Stephen Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Huppert, Dr Julian 149 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 150

Hurd, Mr Nick Percy, Andrew Wright, Simon Tellers for the Noes: James, Margot Perry, Claire Yeo, Mr Tim Amber Rudd and Jenkin, Mr Bernard Phillips, Stephen Young, rh Sir George Mark Hunter Jenrick, Robert Pickles, rh Mr Eric Zahawi, Nadhim Johnson, Gareth Pincher, Christopher Johnson, Joseph Poulter, Dr Daniel Question accordingly negatived. Jones, Andrew Pugh, John Jones, rh Mr David Raab, Mr Dominic Jones, Mr Marcus Randall, rh Sir John Clause 59 Kawczynski, Daniel Reckless, Mark Kirby, Simon Redwood, rh Mr John CRIMINAL PROCEDURE: POWERS TO MAKE CRIMINAL Knight, rh Sir Greg Rees-Mogg, Jacob PROCEDURE RULES Kwarteng, Kwasi Reevell, Simon Amendments made: 16, page 43, line 24, leave out Lamb, Norman Reid, Mr Alan paragraph (a) and insert— Lancaster, Mark Robathan, rh Mr Andrew “() in paragraph 7, after “paragraph 4 above” insert “that Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Robertson, Mr Laurence relates to material that consists of or includes Latham, Pauline Rogerson, Dan journalistic material”; Laws, rh Mr David Rosindell, Andrew () in paragraph 8, for “such an order” substitute “an order Leadsom, Andrea Ruffley, Mr David under paragraph 4 above that relates to material that Lee, Jessica Russell, Sir Bob consists of or includes journalistic material”; Lee, Dr Phillip Rutley, David () in paragraph 9, for “Such a notice” substitute “Notice Lefroy, Jeremy Sanders, Mr Adrian of an application for an order under paragraph 4 Leslie, Charlotte Sandys, Laura above that relates to material that consists of or Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Selous, Andrew includes journalistic material”; Lewis, Brandon Shelbrooke, Alec () in paragraph 10, for “this Schedule” (in each place Lewis, Dr Julian Shepherd, Sir Richard where it occurs) substitute “paragraph 8”.” Lidington, rh Mr David Simpson, David Clause 59(3) allows Criminal Procedure Rules to supply the Lilley, rh Mr Peter Simpson, Mr Keith procedure on an application for a production order under Lloyd, Stephen Skidmore, Chris Schedule 1 to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. This Lopresti, Jack Smith, Henry amendment, with amendment 17, excepts any application which Loughton, Tim Smith, Julian relates to material that consists of or includes journalistic Luff, Sir Peter Smith, Sir Robert material, as defined by section 13 of the 1984 Act, and ensures Lumley, Karen Soames, rh Sir Nicholas that the procedure for such applications continues to be dealt Macleod, Mary Soubry, Anna with in Schedule 1. Main, Mrs Anne Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Amendment 17, page 43, line 2, at end insert Maude, rh Mr Francis Spencer, Mr Mark Maynard, Paul Stephenson, Andrew “, other than proceedings for an order under paragraph 4 above that relates to material that consists of or includes journalistic McCartney, Karl Stewart, Bob material.”—(The Solicitor-General.) McIntosh, Miss Anne Stewart, Iain McPartland, Stephen Stewart, Rory See the explanatory statement for amendment 16. McVey, rh Esther Streeter, Mr Gary Menzies, Mark Stride, Mel Clause 70 Metcalfe, Stephen Sturdy, Julian Miller, rh Maria Swayne, rh Mr Desmond POWER TO SPELL OUT DATES DESCRIBED IN Mills, Nigel Syms, Mr Robert LEGISLATION Milton, Anne Teather, Sarah Amendment made: 18, page 49, line 13, at end insert Moore, rh Michael Thornton, Mike “or by the National Assembly for Wales constituted by the Mordaunt, Penny Thurso, John Government of Wales Act 1998.”—(The Solicitor-General.) Morgan, rh Nicky Tomlinson, Justin Morris, Anne Marie Tredinnick, David This amendment ensures that the power to spell out dates described Morris, David Turner, Mr Andrew in legislation cannot be used to amend subordinate legislation made Morris, James Uppal, Paul by the National Assembly for Wales. Mosley, Stephen Vara, Mr Shailesh Mowat, David Vickers, Martin Clause 79 Mulholland, Greg Walker, Mr Charles Munt, Tessa Walker, Mr Robin EXTENT Murray, Sheryll Wallace, Mr Ben Amendments made: 76, page 53, line 26, after “(10)” Murrison, Dr Andrew Weatherley, Mike insert Newmark, Mr Brooks Webb, Steve “,(Short-term use of London accommodation: power to relax Newton, Sarah Wharton, James restrictions)”. Norman, Jesse Wheeler, Heather This amendment provides for the new clause inserted by Nuttall, Mr David White, Chris amendment to extend to England and Wales. Offord, Dr Matthew Whittingdale, Mr John Ollerenshaw, Eric Wiggin, Bill Amendment 19, page 53, line 27, after “Sections” Opperman, Guy Williams, Mr Mark insert Paice, rh Sir James Williams, Roger “(Power of HMRC to disclose information for purposes of Parish, Neil Williams, Stephen certain litigation)”. Patel, Priti Williamson, Gavin This amendment provides for the new clause inserted by Paterson, rh Mr Owen Willott, Jenny amendment NC6 to extend to England and Wales, Scotland and Pawsey, Mark Wilson, Mr Rob Northern Ireland. Penning, rh Mike Wollaston, Dr Sarah Amendment 20, page 53, line 27, after ‘Sections’ Penrose, John Wright, Jeremy insert ‘”54,55,”. 151 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 152

This amendment extends clauses 54 and 55 (TV licensing) to the (3) In the Insolvency Act 2000, omit section 4(3) and (4). whole of the United Kingdom. (4) In Schedule 6 to the Mental Capacity Act 2005, omit Amendment 21, page 53, line 27, after “70” insert paragraph 31(2).”—(The Solicitor-General.) “, (Combining different forms of subordinate legislation)”. This amendment makes amendments that are consequential on the This amendment ensures that the new clause mentioned in it repeal (by Part 6 of Schedule 6 to the Bill) of provisions allowing extends to England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. individuals to be authorised to act solely as nominees or supervisors in voluntary arrangements. Amendment 22, page 53, line 28, at end insert— ‘( ) Her Majesty may by provide for any of the provisions of section 55 to extend, with or without Schedule 12 modifications, to any of the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.”—(The Solicitor-General.) OTHER MEASURES RELATING TO ANIMALS, FOOD AND This amendment allows the provisions of clause 55 to be extended THE ENVIRONMENT to the Channel Islands or Isle of Man. Amendments made: 52, page 140, line 29, after “subsection (1)” insert Clause 80 “(like the power in subsection (1) of section one of this Act)”. The amendment equates the Bill’s existing amendment to the COMMENCEMENT Destructive Imported Animals Act 1932 (making explicit that the Amendments made: 77, page 53, line 30, after power to make control orders for other destructive non-indigenous “Sections” insert animals under section 10(1) includes power of revocation and “,(Short-term use of London accommodation: power to relax amendment) to the power to make similar orders for musk rats restrictions)”. under section 1(1). This amendment provides for the new clause inserted by Amendment 53, page 141, line 12, leave out “The amendment (which confers a power to make regulations) to come Secretary of State” and insert into force on the day on which the Bill is passed. “Lantra (the company registered in England and Wales with the Amendment 24, page 53, line 39, after “35” insert company registration number 2823181)” . “and (Removal of restriction on investigation of tramway Following a DEFRA consultation (undertaken with the Scottish accidents in Scotland by RAIB)”. and Welsh Governments), this amendment makes Lantra (the UK’s Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental This amendment has the effect that the new clause inserted by industries), rather than the Secretary of State, the successor to the amendment NC4 will come into force 2 months after the Bill Council for Small Industries in Rural Areas as an appointer of a receives Royal Assent. member of the Farriers Registration Council. Amendment 25, page 54, line 4, after “70” insert Amendment 54, page 141, line 14, leave out “, (Combining different forms of subordinate legislation)”. sub-paragraph (3).—(The Solicitor-General.) This amendment ensures that the new clause mentioned in it comes This amendment is consequential on amendment 53. As the into force 2 months after the Bill is passed. Secretary of State is no longer to have the power to appoint a Amendment 26, page 54, line 8, after “Parts” insert member of the Farriers Registration Council, this amendment “A1,”—(The Solicitor-General.) removes the requirement for the Secretary of State to consult the Scottish Ministers before making an appointment. This amendment has the effect that the new Part added to Schedule 9 to the Bill by amendment 51 will come into force 2 months after the Bill receives Royal Assent. Schedule 15

Schedule 6 SCHOOLS: REDUCTION OF BURDENS Amendment made: 57, page 155, line 21, leave out INSOLVENCY AND COMPANY LAW paragraph 2 and insert— Amendment made: 50, page 92, line 18, at end 2 (1) Omit sections 110 and 111 of the School Standards and insert— Framework Act 1998 (which require the governing bodies of ‘(1) The following repeals are made in consequence of certain schools to adopt home-school agreements), and the italic paragraphs 18 and 19. cross-heading before those sections. (2) In the Insolvency Act 1986— (2) In consequence of sub-paragraph (1)— (a) in section 1(2), omit “or authorised to act as (a) in section 138(4)(a) of that Act, omit “, 110(10)”; nominee,”; (b) in the Learning and Skills Act 2000, in Schedule 9, (b) in section 2(4), omit “, or authorised to act as omit paragraph 85; nominee,”; (c) in the Education Act 2002, in Schedule 7, omit (c) in section 4(2), omit “or authorised to act as paragraph 9; nominee,”; (d) in section 7(5), omit “or authorised to act as (d) in the Education Act 2011, in Schedule 13, omit supervisor,”; paragraph 10(9).”—(The Solicitor-General.) (e) in Schedule A1— Paragraph 2 of Schedule 15 currently provides for the requirement (i) in paragraph 28(1), omit “, or authorised to act as that governing bodies of certain schools (maintained schools, city nominee,”; technology colleges, city colleges for the technology of the arts and Academy schools) adopt home-school agreements to cease to apply (ii) in paragraph 31(2), omit “, or authorised to act as in England. The amendment substitutes a new paragraph 2 which nominee,”; provides for the requirement to cease to apply in both England and (iii) in paragraph 33(1), omit “, or authorised to act as Wales. nominee,”; (iv) in paragraph 39(6), omit “, or authorised to act as Third Reading supervisor,”. Queen’s and Prince of Wales’s consent signified. 153 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 154

9.36 pm remains that there is, alas, a certain amount of regulation that is burdensome, bureaucratic and sometimes counter- The Minister for Government Policy (Mr Oliver Letwin): productive and that often has adverse effects on growth I beg to move, That the Bill be now read the Third time. and—this matters very much to the hon. Lady—the I start by thanking all those responsible for bringing ability of our country to satisfy social and environmental the Bill in good order through Committee, in particular concerns. my hon. and learned Friend the Solicitor-General, my I draw the House’s attention briefly to measures such right hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary, Office of as clause 1, which gives self-employed people the ability the Leader of the House of Commons, and all those not to be governed by health and safety at work laws who participated. I specifically acknowledge the role under most circumstances; the sensible measures on played by my hon. Friend the Member for North West taxi and private hire vehicles, which were widely welcomed Leicestershire (Andrew Bridgen), who helped to draft by those around the country who are being unnecessarily the amendment on BBC licensing, and by my hon. constrained; the significant changes being made to alcohol Friends the Members for Stone (Sir William Cash) and and entertainment licensing; and the considerable advances for Harwich and North Essex (Mr Jenkin), who helped on poisons that have just been made on Report. enormously with the section on the Defamation Act 2013. I want to end with a word on poisons. A part of my personal journey in the red tape challenge began when I Before saying a few words about the Bill, I will say discovered that in this country we operated a system—this something that I know the Solicitor-General would is germane to the hon. Lady’s point—whereby someone have liked to say at the end of Report, before he was would pay a small fee and send a piece of paper to an timed out. I see the hon. Member for Stalybridge and office; there the paper was stamped, which cost the Hyde (Jonathan Reynolds) is in his place, and he will taxpayer a certain amount; it was then sent back and know that the Queen’s Speech outlined the steps we will the person was allowed to sell all sorts of very poisonous take to deal with zero-carbon homes and establish substances. However, people had to send the same piece allowable solutions. We are aware that within that of paper and the same fee if they wanted to sell things framework, the decision on the commencement date for such as household bleach. It was an entirely purposeless amendments to the Planning and Energy Act 2008, exercise, which had gone on for years and years. It which restrict the ability of local authorities to impose neither served the purpose that we wish it to serve—that their own special requirements, must be made in such a of regulating properly the sale of extremely dangerous way that the ending of those abilities to set special substances— requirements knits properly with the start of the operation of standards for zero-carbon homes and allowable solutions. Kelvin Hopkins rose— I hope that will make the hon. Gentleman—and, indeed, my hon. Friends who are concerned about the same question of timing—rest easy. Mr Letwin: I am terribly sorry, but I need to bring my remarks to a close. The Bill goes to the House of Lords in a condition which, despite the splendid rhetoric from those on the That system did not stop the sale of extremely dangerous Opposition Front Bench, is similar to that in which it substances properly, but it did impede the ability of entered this House. There have been significant discussions corner shops to sell perfectly innocuous substances in Committee and on Report—some things have been easily, so we are changing that. One of the measures added, some things changed, and some dropped—but introduced on Report will help to do that by getting rid broadly the Bill goes as it came, and does what it set out of the poisons board. I therefore hope that the House to do, which, as I explained on Second Reading, is not will welcome a modest but highly useful contribution to in any way to substitute for the enormous amount of the enormously important task of making this country work that has been going on across Government for the an easier place to do business, so that we can fulfil our past three or four years to lessen the burden of regulation long-term economic plan. by removing regulations from the statute book, improving regulations, changing guidance, and reducing the complexity 9.43 pm of bureaucracy that surrounds guidance, orders, codes of practice and so on. Nevertheless, this Bill makes a Chi Onwurah: I echo the Minister’s thanks to all contribution to that process and helps in a significant those involved in bringing the Bill to Third Reading, way to reduce costs. I remind the House of some few particularly colleagues involved in trying to give it the items in the Bill that are of great significance. proper scrutiny it deserves. This Bill has given a fascinating insight into the Caroline Lucas: I am grateful to the Minister for Government’s priorities and how they develop policy. giving way, but does he not accept that a Bill that is so On Second Reading I described it as a Christmas tree ideologically based—it is essentially evidence-free, simply Bill, but one without the presents, and indeed, the saying that all regulation is bad and that the free market Minister is an unlikely Santa Claus. By Committee is always good—does not do justice to protecting people stage, so much had been added to the Bill that a or the environment? colleague said to me that it was more like the Blackpool illuminations than a Christmas tree, and since then Mr Letwin: The hon. Lady makes an odd point, in there has been yet another festooning—I believe the the sense that if the purpose of the Bill were to suggest Government are trying to go for Las Vegas. that all regulation were bad, it would have a much wider My understanding is that when they were putting this scope than it does. There will remain after this Bill Bill together, Cabinet Office Ministers were hawking many thousands of pages of regulation, much of which themselves around Whitehall for regulations that were is well intentioned and well aimed. Our contention supposedly choking the economy. What they came back 155 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 156

[Chi Onwurah] Chi Onwurah: As the hon. Gentleman well knows, the Law Commission excellently pursues the identification with, however, was a Bill that deregulated the sale of of regulations that are obsolete and need to be removed, knitting yarn, but was more about removing burdens but given what the Government have placed in this Bill, from Ministers than from the entrepreneurs and business I dread to think what sort of a ragbag of unthought-through people we seek to support, and of course it had the measures would appear in an annual Bill. It is clear that customary attacks on working people’s rights that we this Government have run out of ideas. This zombie have come to expect from this Government. Parliament is not short of time—in fact, we have so much of it that I hear rumours that the recess may be Kelvin Hopkins: My hon. Friend has described the moved by a week yet again—so it is particularly strange Bill kindly as a Christmas tree. I think “a dogma-driven that Ministers are rushing through proposals in this way. ragbag” would be better. The Minister just suggested We will continue to oppose several other clauses in that household bleach is not a poisonous substance; I the other place. Clauses 1 and 2 are unwarranted attacks would like to see him convince us of that argument. on employee rights, and Ministers have been unable to produce any evidence or facts to make an economic Chi Onwurah: The Minister shows a lack of case for the provisions. As my hon. Friend the Member understanding of what is considered poisonous by many for Luton North (Kelvin Hopkins) suggested, it is simple in households across the country, and that goes with a dogma. Also, clause 1, which deals with health and lack of understanding of what the country actually safety regulations, will create unwelcome confusion that needs to improve the situation of working people. may endanger lives. Clause 17, on insolvency practitioners, is another clause that we oppose. My hon. Friend the When the Bill was introduced to Parliament, Ministers Member for Chesterfield made many excellent points estimated that it would save business £10 million over about it earlier, and I shall not repeat them. 10 years—20p for each and every business in the country. As my hon. Friend the Member for Hartlepool (Mr Wright) Despite those misgivings, we shall not vote against observed on Second Reading: Third Reading, as we remain hopeful that the problems “It takes four fifths of a second for the British economy…to that I have highlighted will be rectified in the other generate that potential saving”.—[Official Report, 3 February 2014; place. However, it is clear that the electorate will have to Vol. 575, c. 97.] wait until 2015 for a Government who will take action to end the cost-of-living crisis, improve child care, build Over the weekend, the Prime Minister’s enterprise adviser, the houses that we need, end the abuse of zero-hours Lord Young said: contracts, and give guarantees of work to young people “Of course there’s a cost of living crisis”, and the long-term unemployed. That is where our policy so it has taken him four years to come round from development has focused: not on ad hoc tinkering with “They’ve never had it so good,” to “Of course there’s a knitting yarn, but on real action that will deliver real cost of living crisis.” We Opposition Members have prosperity for hard-working people in this country. been saying it for years, and I hope the Prime Minister will now listen. Several hon. Members rose— We need a Bill to help businesses that cannot get the finance they need and to help people who are struggling Mr Speaker: Order. Three hon. Members are seeking with energy bills and the cost of living. Families have to catch my eye. It would be good if all of them could be lost £1,600 a year since the general election, yet this Bill, accommodated, but we shall see. Economy is required. by its own estimate, will benefit each person in this country by 18p. I think Britain deserves better. It deserves 9.50 pm better than a Bill contrived to meet the Prime Minister’s Andrew Bridgen: Having worked on the Löfstedt review vainglorious goal to leave government, come what may, of health and safety reform and served on both the with fewer regulations than when he entered government— Committee that subjected the Bill to pre-legislative scrutiny not fewer zero-hours contracts, not fewer youth and the Public Bill Committee, I can tell the House that unemployed, but simply fewer regulations. no one is happier than I am to see the Bill reach its final On its way through the House, we have seen various stages. It will serve as a further lever to economic measures tacked on to Bill. Despite a comprehensive growth, and it builds on the Government’s enviable and ongoing process of scrutiny of the area, we had reputation for reducing obsolete, redundant and unnecessary three new clauses rammed into the Bill over a 10-day legislation. I am thinking particularly of the duty of consultation and far too much that we could not discuss care for non-financial regulators to take account of today. We had 49 minutes to debate 43 amendments, as economic growth as a game-changer. It will change the my hon. Friend the Member for Chesterfield (Toby relationship between business and the regulators, and Perkins) put it: there is certainly much that we will need will lead to better regulation. Health and safety reform to return to in the other place. is good news for our economy, for our wealth creators and for jobs. The “use of land” provisions have brought James Duddridge: Given the need to return to the about an accord between landowners and ramblers subject a number of times, would the hon. Lady support which has been welcomed on all sides and which should an annual deregulation Bill, perhaps driven off the back streamline the process of moving public footpaths for of Law Commission work? I know from having served the benefit of both landowners and those who use these on the Joint Committee over 11 months ago that there greatly valued rights of way. seem to be a number of other issues that the Government Clauses 51 and 52 were originally tabled as new have not been able to include even at late notice, but clauses in my name and that of my hon. and learned that should be included in future. Friend the Solicitor-General. My original proposal was 157 Deregulation Bill23 JUNE 2014 Deregulation Bill 158 supported by 149 Members on both sides of the House, I am also opposed to the Bill because of its reforms who formed a coalition across the political spectrum—a relating to taxis and public hire vehicles which, as has rainbow coalition. Such a number of supporters for a been said today, will put the travelling public at risk. Back-Bench amendment to a Government Bill is There will be no effective control over who will be unprecedented in recent years, and I thank all the plying that trade. Last year there were 200 incidents of Members involved. Of course, I also thank the Government attacks on people travelling in private hire cars in London, for adopting the measure. where this type of legislation already applies. For 20 years, the Magistrates Association has been Thirdly, it is a disgrace that we are tearing up legislation calling for the decriminalisation of non-payment of introduced by a Conservative Government that ensured television licence fees. It believes that a higher level of there was a proper investigation into the sinking of the compliance can be achieved without recourse to the Derbyshire and brought at least some comfort to the courts. The BBC itself said that it did not want people relatives of the victims. What we are doing now is to go to prison, but the fact remains that last year ensuring that if another such accident occurs, whether 51 people did go to prison, as opposed to 48 the or not an inquiry is opened or reopened will be based previous year. An e-mail that I received from a barrister on the whim of a Minister. That is a step backwards, stated: and it means we have not learned the lessons the “During my time in Court I was struck by the number of poor Conservative Government did learn in 1995, when they people up before the bench who were receiving a criminal conviction put this legislation in place. for not paying their television licence. Most of them were guilty For those reasons, I will seek to oppose this Bill at only because they were very poor. They did not seem to be feckless people, just people who were down on their luck. Prosecuting every possible opportunity. them was (and is) shameful and remains a blot on our legal system.” 9.56 pm The BBC has responded to the proposal for Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con): I want to say a few decriminalisation by saying that it will lead to an increase words about clause 44, which gives individual schools in evasion and a reduction in its income, so I hope that the ability to set their own term times and potentially the review will include consideration of the experience reduce summer holidays from six to four weeks. I of Scotland, where the number of prosecutions for understand the rationale for that measure both from an non-payment decreased from 2,827 in 2004-5 to just 34 educational point of view and from the perspective of in 2012-13, owing to greater emphasis on alternatives to giving schools greater autonomy, but there is concern prosecution such as fiscal fines as a result of the Criminal that the measure could have a significant adverse impact Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007. I understand on the tourism industry, in particular on family seaside from the latest evasion figures issued by TV Licensing attractions such as Pleasurewood Hills and Africa Alive! that the number of evaders in Scotland is 66,000, and in my constituency. the rate of evasion is 5%—exactly the same as it is in England, although we criminalise 180,000 of our fellow Such businesses tend to be concentrated in specific citizens every year. The BBC has been guilty of spin on areas, very often on the coast, and they are an important this topic, and trying to spin politicians is a dangerous component in the local economy. A good summer season game to play. is vital to the viability and profitability of many such businesses. Cutting the traditional summer holiday by a Let me sum up the debate by saying that the Bill third could be extremely damaging to many local economies builds on the Government’s achievements in cutting the around the country. To properly assess the impact of needless red tape that has been allowed to build up on the proposal, will my right hon. Friend the Minister the statute book for many years. I hope that, in the case consider carrying out an impact assessment while the of BBC licence fee non-payment, it will remove a blot Bill is being considered in the other place? from our legal system. Question put, That the Bill be now read the Third 9.54 pm time. John McDonnell: I thank the Minister for his courtesy The House divided: Ayes 190, Noes 6. and for the constructive way in which he dealt with the Division No. 17] [9.58 pm development of amendments 16 and 17, meeting representatives of the National Union of Journalists, AYES editors and others to avoid what could have been a Adams, Nigel Bridgen, Andrew disastrous incursion into the freedom of speech and of Afriyie, Adam Brooke, Annette written material. None the less, I oppose the Bill overall Aldous, Peter Bruce, Fiona and will be shouting against it. I will seek to vote Andrew, Stuart Buckland, Mr Robert against it, if only with a few others, for three reasons. Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Burns, Conor I believe that the health and safety legislation with Bacon, Mr Richard Burrowes, Mr David regard to the self-employed means that people will be Baker, Norman Burt, rh Alistair put at risk. It will cause absolute confusion. Only during Baker, Steve Byles, Dan Baldry, rh Sir Tony Cairns, Alun the debate did we receive from the Minister a list of Baldwin, Harriett Campbell, rh Sir Menzies supposedly dangerous categories of employment, where Barwell, Gavin Carmichael, Neil people who are self-employed will still have the health Beresford, Sir Paul Clark, rh Greg and safety legislation applied to them, but whole areas Bingham, Andrew Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey of employment were left out, including the docks and Blackman, Bob Coffey, Dr Thérèse some parts of the maritime sector, which are particularly Bradley, Karen Collins, Damian dangerous. I think this will cause absolute confusion Brake, rh Tom Colvile, Oliver and will, sadly, result in loss of limbs and loss of life. Brazier, Mr Julian Crockart, Mike 159 Deregulation Bill 23 JUNE 2014 160

Crouch, Tracey Lloyd, Stephen Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Whittingdale, Mr John Davies, Glyn Lopresti, Jack Syms, Mr Robert Wiggin, Bill Dinenage, Caroline Loughton, Tim Teather, Sarah Williams, Mr Mark Doyle-Price, Jackie Macleod, Mary Thornton, Mike Williams, Stephen Duddridge, James Maude, rh Mr Francis Thurso, John Williamson, Gavin Dunne, Mr Philip Maynard, Paul Uppal, Paul Wollaston, Dr Sarah Ellis, Michael McCartney, Karl Vara, Mr Shailesh Wright, Simon Ellison, Jane McIntosh, Miss Anne Vickers, Martin Young, rh Sir George Elphicke, Charlie McPartland, Stephen Walker, Mr Robin Zahawi, Nadhim Eustice, George Menzies, Mark Wallace, Mr Ben Evans, Graham Metcalfe, Stephen Wharton, James Tellers for the Ayes: Evennett, Mr David Miller, rh Maria Wheeler, Heather Anne Milton and Fabricant, Michael Mills, Nigel White, Chris Amber Rudd Farron, Tim Moore, rh Michael Featherstone, Lynne Mordaunt, Penny NOES Field, Mark Morgan, rh Nicky Foster, rh Mr Don Morris, Anne Marie Corbyn, Jeremy Williams, Hywel Fox,rhDrLiam Morris, David Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Francois, rh Mr Mark Morris, James Lucas, Caroline Tellers for the Noes: Fuller, Richard Mosley, Stephen McDonnell, John Kelvin Hopkins and George, Andrew Mowat, David Morris, Grahame M. Jonathan Edwards Goldsmith, Zac Mulholland, Greg (Easington) Graham, Richard Munt, Tessa Grant, Mrs Helen Murray, Sheryll Question accordingly agreed to. Green, rh Damian Murrison, Dr Andrew Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Newmark, Mr Brooks Bill read the Third time and passed. Griffiths, Andrew Newton, Sarah Gyimah, Mr Sam Norman, Jesse Business without Debate Halfon, Robert Nuttall, Mr David Hames, Duncan Offord, Dr Matthew Hancock, Matthew Ollerenshaw, Eric WELSH GRAND COMMITTEE Harper, Mr Mark Opperman, Guy Ordered, Harris, Rebecca Paice, rh Sir James That— Hart, Simon Parish, Neil Harvey, Sir Nick Patel, Priti (1) the matter of the Government’s Legislative Programme as outlined in the Queen’s Speech as it relates to Wales be referred to Hayes, rh Mr John Paterson, rh Mr Owen the Welsh Grand Committee for its consideration; Heald, Oliver Pawsey, Mark Heaton-Harris, Chris Penrose, John (2) the Committee shall meet at Westminster on Wednesday 16 Hemming, John Perry, Claire July at 9.30am and 2.00pm to consider the matter referred to it Hollingbery, George Phillips, Stephen under paragraph (1) above; and Hollobone, Mr Philip Pincher, Christopher (3) the Chair shall interrupt proceedings at the afternoon sitting Hopkins, Kris Poulter, Dr Daniel not later than two hours after their commencement at that Horwood, Martin Pugh, John sitting.—(Mr Lansley.) Howarth, Sir Gerald Reckless, Mark Howell, John Rees-Mogg, Jacob COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Hughes, rh Simon Reid, Mr Alan Hunter, Mark Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Ordered, Huppert, Dr Julian Robertson, Mr Laurence That James Morris be discharged from the Communities and Jenrick, Robert Rogerson, Dan Local Government Committee and Alec Shelbrooke be added.— Johnson, Gareth Rosindell, Andrew (Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) Jones, Andrew Ruffley, Mr David Jones, Mr Marcus Russell, Sir Bob Kawczynski, Daniel Rutley, David PUBLIC ACCOUNTS Kirby, Simon Selous, Andrew Ordered, Knight, rh Sir Greg Shelbrooke, Alec That be discharged from the Committee of Kwarteng, Kwasi Skidmore, Chris Public Accounts and Mr be added.—( Geoffrey Lancaster, Mark Smith, Henry Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Smith, Julian Latham, Pauline Smith, Sir Robert Leadsom, Andrea Soubry, Anna PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Lefroy, Jeremy Spencer, Mr Mark Ordered, Leslie, Charlotte Stephenson, Andrew That be discharged from the Select Committee on Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Stewart, Bob Public Administration and Mr be added.—( Geoffrey Lewis, Brandon Stewart, Iain Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) Lewis, Dr Julian Stewart, Rory Lidington, rh Mr David Stride, Mel Lilley, rh Mr Peter Sturdy, Julian 161 23 JUNE 2014 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 162 England) Severe Eating Disorders (North-East and also from individual nurses and doctors, such as Dr England) Caroline Reynolds, the consultant psychiatrist at REDS, who have provided assistance to people with this terrible Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House disease. Does the hon. Lady think it would be right for do now adjourn.—(Mr Evennett.) the mental health trust and NHS England, together and collectively, to review their decision and, going forward, 10.9 pm address how they will recommission the service when Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) Severe the present contract ends? eating disorders are a significant and growing issue for too many of our constituents. I pay tribute to the Chi Onwurah: The hon. Gentleman makes an excellent all-party parliamentary group on body image and the point, and I certainly believe that the decision should Backbench Business Committee for the excellent debate and must be reviewed. It is clear that a number of hon. in February on severe eating disorders, which helped Members have been contacted by concerned constituents. raise awareness about this terrible group of mental Indeed, the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed illnesses. I am also indebted to the many concerned (Sir Alan Beith), who cannot attend this debate, asked people who have written to me, some with heartbreaking me to say that he also had constituents who are affected. testimony; to the campaigning group, the North East Given that admissions in the north-east are 30% Eating Disorder Action Group; and to the charity, above the national average, and that the Royal College NIWE eating distress service, for sharing their concerns. of Psychiatrists recommends that six beds per million of This evening, I will focus my remarks on the treatment the population are needed for average admission rates, of severe eating disorders in the north-east, and in the north-east’s 2.8 million people need 23 beds. I will particular on the proposed closure of the Richardson return to that figure, but first a word about the threatened unit in the Royal Victoria infirmary hospital in my unit that hon. Members have already referred to. constituency, the impact it is having on sufferers and The Richardson eating disorder service is operated their family and friends, and the sorry catalogue of by Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation mistakes and omissions by NHS England, which has Trust. It is in the centre of Newcastle, with excellent brought us to the point where very ill and vulnerable transport links. It is acknowledged to be an outstanding patients from Tyneside are being forced to go for treatment unit, rated excellent by the Royal College of Psychiatrists to Norwich, Glasgow and London while suitable beds and the Care Quality Commission. It has just won go empty in Newcastle. Beat’s clinical team of the year award. A stable, vastly The term “eating disorders” refers to a range of experienced staff has been treating adult in and out-patients conditions, including, though not limited to, anorexia, since 1997, and it has saved many lives. One sufferer said: bulimia and binge eating. They affect 1.6 million people “I have suffered from anorexia nervosa for over 12 years and in the UK, more than 90% of whom are women, unfortunately during that time I have required many admissions although the incidence in men is on the rise. Severe to medical and eating disorder units”. eating disorders carry the highest mortality of any She names a number of them before going on to say: mental illness. We should think of that when we consider “The admission to the Richardson was by far the most successful. the situation of those suffering from these disorders, I made such huge strides towards recovery and was the healthiest and the emotional turmoil that places on their carers. I have been since this all began.” Do they really deserve to have the stress of travelling hundreds of miles added to that? Mrs Mary Glindon (North Tyneside) (Lab): In the Unfortunately, eating disorders are on the increase. light of what my hon. Friend says, and the fact that the The number of hospital admissions is rising across the unit’s model of partial hospitalisation of out-patient country, but in the north-east, at 6.5 per 100,000, they services has been so successful, does she not agree that are 30% above the national average. NHS England should look at that model and perhaps reconsider its decision on the specification of specialised Catherine McKinnell (Newcastle upon Tyne North) services? (Lab): I congratulate my hon. Friend on securing this really important debate. The point she is making reflects Chi Onwurah: My hon. Friend makes an excellent the concerns of a few of my constituents who have point. Indeed, if the criteria on which this decision was contacted me. A couple wrote to me and said: made were publicly available, we could perhaps tell “No one associated with the unit can understand the decisions which models NHS England considered and what it being taken at a time when the incidence of eating disorders is hoped to achieve. Unfortunately, there is no transparency, increasing. Our daughter relies on the excellent treatment and which is one of the key issues. support provided by the dedicated team at the RVI’s unit. We have no doubt that her own health and those of others would suffer if Problems started in 2010, when commissioned adult this service was withdrawn.” eating disorder in-patient beds were tendered and the contract was awarded to Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Chi Onwurah: My hon. Friend makes an excellent NHS Foundation Trust, although it did not then operate point. Again, the testimony of those most intimately an in-patient unit. It quickly established a 10-bed unit in involved speaks to the excellence of the unit and the Darlington, but on a site with poor transport links to concern of people in Tyneside. the north. For clarity for those Members who may not be familiar with the north, Newcastle is to the north of Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): I congratulate the Darlington. hon. Lady on securing this debate. Like her, I have had The award was a shock to many people, not simply many letters of support from constituents who have because of the result, but because of the lack of been helped by the Richardson eating disorder service, consultation. I should like to ask the Minister a specific 163 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 23 JUNE 2014 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 164 England) England) [Chi Onwurah] It has been announced that the unit will be closed down, because it was said—cynically and cruelly—that question: against what criteria were proposed services it was not being used locally. If it was not being used considered to be better than award-winning ones already locally, it was because NHS England was sending local on offer in the Richardson? If he does not know, I hope people hundreds of miles away. Freedom of information that he will promise to find out. Was cost the driving requests submitted by NEEDAG show that Darlington’s factor? What was the evidence basis for the centralising 15 beds are full; that there are eight in-patients from the of these critical mental health services? north-east in London, Sheffield, Leeds, Glasgow and The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Norwich; and that five patients have managed to win guidelines specifically state that for severe eating disorders, beds in the Richardson. patients should be treated near their homes, with the support of family and friends. These are often young, Guy Opperman: We all understand the need for and vulnerable people, who are not yet independent of their importance of centralised specialist services, whether family, either financially or emotionally. As one told they be stroke services or those under discussion, but me, given the number of people per capita in the north-east who suffer from this terrible disease, is there not a “Seriously ill anorexics are often cognitively impaired as a result genuine case to be made for the two services to co-exist? of severe starvation and separation from loving support, together with that the challenge to dangerous and entrenched behavioural traits is often too much to bear.” Chi Onwurah: The hon. Gentleman makes an excellent point. That is indeed the case. The number of in-patient Given the lack of consultation, the north-east specialised admissions in the north-east as a result of severe eating commissioning group was instructed to strengthen its disorders is 30% above the average, which suggests that relationships with stakeholders and report any other about 23 beds are required. It would be possible to meet substantial changes or developments to the NHS scrutiny the NICE guidelines and retain the services in Darlington committee. and in Newcastle, yet not meet the increasing demand NEEDAG, formed by carers and patients concerned for in-patient beds. There are a total of 28 in-patients about the threat to the Richardson, hoped that at least from the north-east, but NHS England says that only 15 five of the beds in the Richardson would continue to be beds are needed; that clearly goes against the 23 calculated used by those in the north of the region, given overall in accordance with guidelines. regional demand. However, in April 2012, the commissioner NHS England argues that it is investing in the north-east, increased the number of beds at Darlington to 15—again, and that it is opening an intensive day unit in Newcastle without any consultation, scrutiny or performance data that will reduce demand for in-patient care, but it has by which to make judgments. When challenged, I am provided absolutely no evidence to support its claim. told that the commissioner said they were not obligated One parent said: to consult anyone. I hope that the Minister will correct “For my daughter the thought of going back to the local them on this point. It is possible that the top-down community mental health teams fills her with dread.” reorganisation of the NHS instituted by this Government A day centre does not address the issues of isolation may have led to them forgetting their obligations under and support when in-patient care is needed. the NHS constitution. Patients are so worried that two of them have decided When Darlington was full, commissioners started to take both the trust and the commissioners to judicial sending very ill patients out of the area, instead of to review, based on the lack of consultation transparency. the Richardson, saying that every commissioned bed in They are applying for legal aid, so we will be in the England, no matter where it was, had to be filled before ridiculous situation of spending public money to both a patient from Tyneside could be sent to Newcastle. defend and attack a decision taken without the most That is how we have arrived at the ridiculous and tragic basic public consultation. situation of our national health service sending vulnerable Having written to the Minister of State, Department Tyneside patients to Glasgow, Norwich and London of Health, the hon. Member for North Norfolk (Norman when there are empty beds in the Richardson unit in the Lamb) on the subject in the past, I know that he is centre of Newcastle. sympathetic to the plight of sufferers of severe eating The impact on vulnerable young people of being disorders and their families and friends. Both he and separated from their families undoubtedly makes it the Secretary of State have criticised sending patients more difficult to recover—hence the NICE guidelines. hundreds of miles for treatment. I want the Under-Secretary The cost of visiting for families is enormous, both of State for Health, the hon. Member for Central financially and emotionally. One parent wrote: and North Ipswich (Dr Poulter), to answer the “This will then have an effect on our family’s mental health as questions I have already asked and the following two in we are all struggling to come to terms with the condition and to particular. help M recover. I would refuse to let M be admitted so far away First, does the Minister support the concentration of from home and would rather give up my full time job to look after mental health services? In the case of heart surgery for her in the familiar and safe surroundings of home.” children, we are told that concentration saves lives, Another parent who fought to win a place for their because surgeons must be operating on many patients daughter at the Richardson said: to retain their skills, but the mind does not physically work in the same way as the heart. Does he believe that “We were very angry to have been put in the position of having to fight for a bed for our dangerously ill daughter at a time when there is something to be gained from making mental all our energy was needed to comfort and support her through a health into a production line? Why is it not possible to very difficult time. The added pressure and anxiety it caused the maintain beds in Darlington and Newcastle? Why is whole family was dreadful.” NHS England not following NICE advice? If the situation 165 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 23 JUNE 2014 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 166 England) England) is about saving money, is this truly a cost saving, or We are also aware that eating disorders afflict young merely moving costs from the NHS to the sufferers of women at perhaps the most formative period of their this terrible condition and their family and friends? Is it lives. The peak age of onset of anorexia is 15. For not outrageous that NHS England should be moving bulimia it is two or three years later. On average, people costs on to the most vulnerable and risking lives by with anorexia will recover, if they recover at all, after doing so? about six years of care. That highlights the importance Secondly, on transparency, how can the Minister of good out-patient services in delivering better care. If possibly support a process whereby there is no consultation we can stop people getting to the stage where they on decisions that are so important to the lives of patients become so unwell with anorexia, with better support and their carers? Is that not in itself a reason to reverse through talking therapies and other interventions as the decision, given that the commissioners did not part of good community-based care, that is a clear consult the people to whom they are accountable and in priority for mental health services and one that whose interests they are paid—and often paid very commissioners are taking very seriously in the hon. well—to commission services? Lady’s part of the country, as she outlined. I will leave the last words to someone more intimately Eating disorders span the transition between child concerned with this than I am, who wrote to me: and adolescent and adult services. This has sometimes “My friend’s beautiful and talented daughter has battled this led to unacceptable variations in care and fragmented terrible condition for many years with the help of the Richardson services, as we heard. So how do we deal with this? and the support of friends and family every single day that she Early diagnosis is key. We have to make sure that has been in there. I truly believe that if the unit near to home treatment is available to minimise the effect of these closes and she feels far from this lifeline of support, she will give distressing conditions. But alongside this, and perhaps up her fight and that could be the end not only of her dream to before this, we need to attack the causes as well. Eating take up her place at University but possibly, it’s not too dramatic to say, her life.” disorders are often blamed on the social pressure to be thin, as young people in particular feel they should look 10.27 pm a certain way. In reality, the causes are much more complex than that. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health There are several risk factors—having a family history (Dr Daniel Poulter): I congratulate the hon. Member for of eating disorders; depression or substance misuse; Newcastle upon Tyne Central (Chi Onwurah) on securing being criticised for eating habits, body shape or weight; the debate and not only raising important issues about being overly concerned with being slim, particularly if the provision of services for people with eating disorders combined with pressure to be slim from society or for a in her constituency, but doing so in the context of an job; and having an obsessive personality or an anxiety important national debate, because many of us are disorder. Other key causes of eating disorders are sexual aware that there has not always been a genuine parity of or emotional abuse, the death of people who are close esteem between mental and physical health. If we are to and other stressful situations. There are also issues have a holistic health service that focuses on better specific to particular eating disorders, which I will not supporting people in their own communities, mental go into today.There are clear differences between anorexia, health will play an important part. In the north-east bulimia and binge eating disorder. Binge eating disorder and elsewhere, it is vital that we try, in the first instance, has the added complication of the binge eating cycle, to prevent people who have anorexia or other eating leading to increased blood sugar and potential links to disorders from becoming so unwell that they need to be diabetes. admitted as in-patients. That clear priority is not mutually exclusive to this debate, because it is clearly what good It is important that such disorders are not looked at medicine and health care—whether for physical or mental in the context of the mental health service in isolation. health—is all about. When we know that the cause of death may often be Eating disorders mainly affect young people, and I due to cardiac arrest in the case of anorexia, and when shall say a little about that as I address the specific we know that there may be links between binge eating concerns in the north-east that the hon. Lady outlined. disorder and diabetes, it is important that an holistic Anorexia particularly affects women under the age of approach is taken to the care of people who become 25, from the early teens onwards. Research tells us that very unwell. There is a link between the physical and the there might be more than 1 million people in the UK mental health services that are available to patients, and who are directly affected by an eating disorder. I know from conversations that local commissioners are looking at that in the way they deliver care. Worse still, as the hon. Lady highlighted, anorexia kills more people than any other mental health condition, Last year, the Home Office launched a report of its and the longer a patient is unwell with anorexia, the body image campaign, which highlighted the need to more likely the condition is to be fatal. Even before ensure that young people have healthier and happier people begin to lose weight, they are failing to put on futures where a wider spectrum of healthy male and the bone mass that will sustain them as adults, and the female body shapes is represented. I am sure we would disease is linked to osteoporosis and other conditions in all support that. later life associated with bone fracture. As the disease I assure the hon. Lady that children and young progresses, it becomes life threatening, particularly due people’s mental health, particularly in the north-east, is to the muscle wasting that occurs to the internal organs, a priority for the Government. That is why we have especially the heart. There can come a point, sometimes invested £54 million in the four-year period from 2011 quite quickly, when as muscle mass deteriorates, it is to 2015 in the children and young people’s improving lost preferentially from the heart. That increases the access to psychological therapies programme, or children risk of heart attacks, which can often, tragically, be the and young people’s IAPT services. This provides training cause of death in such cases. in a number of evidence-based psychological therapies, 167 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 23 JUNE 2014 Severe Eating Disorders (North-East 168 England) England) [Dr Daniel Poulter] will be supplied in this context by the newly commissioned services at Benfield House, which specifically focuses on not just the more common cognitive behavioural therapy providing high-quality day services and real support for or CBT, but systemic family therapy and interpersonal young people and their families. psychotherapy. Given the complexity of the causes of eating disorders, Chi Onwurah: I considered the importance of continuity that more holistic basis to the way that children and of care and the unique nature of in-patient care young people’s IAPT services work to get early intervention requirements, and the Richardson unit had both out- in place, and the £54 million supporting that deployment patients and in-patients, and that continuity of care was in the north-east and elsewhere, will, we hope, make a very important. Please will the Minister address the difference in the years ahead. We must recognise that we issue of the Richardson unit? are coming from a baseline where there was no parity of Dr Poulter: In the brief time available to me now, I esteem in terms of how the NHS prioritised eating will come on to the Richardson unit specifically. The disorders or how the NHS commissioned services for hon. Lady outlined the decisions made in 2010 and why eating disorders. This investment in that early intervention they were made. We must recognise that under the will bring real improvements to the quality of care of criteria brought in by this Government, there are now people with eating disorders in the north-east and elsewhere. strengthened criteria for public engagement in future We know that early intervention is key. It is also important decisions about commissioning. In future, they will that we get a firmer understanding of the scientific have to be clinically led by local clinicians and made on basis and the research that underpins good treatment. the basis of strong public engagement. I would hope The South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation that those decisions would not necessarily have been Trust has conducted a £2 million programme of research taken in the same way had they been made under the specifically on the treatment of anorexia, which will criteria introduced by this Government. improve treatment and care throughout the country. I invite the hon. Lady to have a further meeting with In the north-east, child and adolescent mental health the Minister of State, Department of Health, my hon. services have been transformed by the introduction of Friend the Member for North Norfolk (Norman Lamb), the children and young people’s IAPT services, which I when she will be able to raise more of those concerns outlined earlier, in the areas covered by three CCGs, with him directly, but it is important to recognise that namely Teesside, Newcastle, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough there is now a change in the way in which consultations and Easington. Between them, they commission CAMH are carried out. That was not there at the time, and that services for 61% of young people in the region already is part of the reason why there was not the transparency under other CCGs, and the other CCGs have agreed to that the hon. Lady wanted and desired; transparency follow them. Steps are being made in early intervention, that we would all find desirable, but unfortunately the in providing better support for people with eating disorders criteria were laid down by the previous Government. in the north-east. People often felt done to, rather than done for and cared for. That is why we have changed and improved Tessa Munt (Wells) (LD): I recognise the similarities the criteria. between what is happening in the north-east and in the As well as offering that meeting with my hon. Friend, south-west. We have young people being discharged I want to say that it is completely unacceptable for from services when they reach the 18-week threshold or patients to be travelling long distances for their treatment because they have reached a body mass index of 18, yet and care at specialist centres and units. That is not good the Minister has accepted that this is a complex condition health care. We know that part of the recovery for which sometimes takes five or six years to recover from. people with eating disorders is having a community-based package where there is a strong link with family support. Dr Poulter: That is absolutely right, and it is important On the basis of that, my hon. Friend and I will raise that there is a strong link between what happens in the with NHS England the specific issues arising from this community and what happens at the specialist centre. debate, and I would also like the hon. Lady to meet my We know that there are advantages to commissioning hon. Friend to discuss this further. I hope she finds that specialist beds for eating disorders. We know that there reassuring, and that she also finds reassuring the important is good evidence supporting the fact that that delivers early intervention measures that have been put in place better care for patients. But it is important that there is a in her constituency. strong link between that and what happens to the Question put and agreed to. patient and the young person when they are discharged from that care, and that there is proper support in the 10.39 pm community for those people afterwards. That is what House adjourned. 1WS Written Statements23 JUNE 2014 Written Statements 2WS

continued support for these countries, and the need for Written Statements a robust response should Russia take retaliatory action following the signature of these agreements. Monday 23 June 2014 Southern Neighbourhood The UK’s objective is to ensure that member states remain united on a political solution to ending the crisis FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE in Syria. We will emphasise the need to maintain pressure on the regime, support the opposition and address the humanitarian situation. On the political track, the UK Foreign Affairs Council/General Affairs Council strongly believes that the Geneva principles and process are the only viable, internationally agreed mechanism, endorsed by the P5 and Arab League, for a settlement The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): My to end the conflict. We will urge member states to hold right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and to the principles of the Geneva process while making a Commonwealth Affairs will attend the Foreign Affairs practical effort to change the regime’s calculations, including Council on 23 June, and I will attend the General by using sanctions. On humanitarian aid, in support of Affairs Council on 24 June. The Foreign Affairs Council United Nations Security Council Resolution 2139, the (FAC) will be chaired by the High Representative of the UK will encourage member states and the institutions European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to ensure aid can be delivered across borders to those Baroness Ashton of Upholland, and the General Affairs who most need it. The UK will also seek to discuss the Council (GAC) will be chaired by the Greek presidency. 30 June deadline for the regime to destroy its chemical The meetings will be held in Luxembourg. weapons, and to emphasise the importance of member FOREIGN AFFAIRS COUNCIL states working closely together to curb foreign fighters. Introductory remarks Ministers will discuss the situation in Libya ahead of Baroness Ashton is expected to cover the 8 June the 25 June elections. The UK will encourage member elections in Kosovo, which took place in an orderly and states to do all they can to support a lasting, inclusive transparent manner, and to acknowledge a historic political settlement and fair, transparent and accountable moment in Afghanistan’s history, with the second round elections. We will encourage member states to support of the presidential elections having taken place on international efforts to respond to the Libyan Government’s 14 June. Ministers are expected to agree a new EU request for assistance in addressing the destabilising civilian strategy for Afghanistan, focused on supporting impact of weapons proliferation. the Afghan Government over the next three years. We Iraq do not expect substantive discussion of these topics. Ministers will discuss the situation in Iraq. The UK is Ukraine gravely concerned at the deteriorating security and ongoing Ministers will have a substantive discussion on the violence. The UK will emphasise the importance of a situation in Ukraine following the presidential elections united response to this threat from Iraq’s leadership, of 25 May, which were conducted largely in accordance and call for member states to offer increased humanitarian with international standards in the face of great odds. assistance to Iraq, given the hundreds of thousands of The UK will stress the importance of continued, people fleeing the violence. The UK will also call for co-ordinated, political and practical support to President member states to show solidarity with the Government Poroshenko and the Government of Ukraine and, in of Iraq as it combats terrorism, and for member states parallel, continued pressure on Russia to stop provoking to make a strong statement about the threat from Islamic instability in eastern Ukraine. The State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL). Conclusions are expected will encourage member states, in line with recent G7 to express serious concern over the situation, support statements, to stand ready to intensify targeted sanctions, the fight against terrorism, and call for the rapid formation and implement significant additional restrictive measures of a new Government which can work together to to impose further costs on Russia should events so address the challenges Iraq faces. require. Ministers will reaffirm non-recognition of Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and endorse the progress GENERAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL already made by the Commission in delivering the The General Affairs Council will focus on: the package of consequences responding to this illegal enlargement and stabilisation and association process; a annexation: the UK will encourage the Commission to report on following up European Council conclusions; pursue the remaining elements of the package in a the preparation of the 26 and 27 June European Council; timely fashion. the European semester process; the EU strategy for the The UK will seek to agree the EU crisis management Adriatic and Ionian region; the application of article 10 concept on establishing the civilian common security of protocol 36 to the treaties; and the forward-looking and defence policy mission that the UK, Sweden and 18-month programme of the Council. Poland advocated at the April FAC. The mission is Enlargement and Stabilisation and Association Process intended to address both urgent and longer-term stability- related needs, including in the fields of security sector The GAC will consider the recommendation from reform, support of police, and rule of law. Ministers the Commission to agree EU candidate status for Albania. will look forward to signature of the EU/Moldova and The UK remains a strong supporter of EU enlargement EU/Georgia association agreements on 27 June, and to all the countries of the western Balkans, including their hope to sign the remaining chapters of the EU/Ukraine Albania, once conditions have been met. We are looking association agreement. We expect Ministers to emphasise very closely at the reforms Albania continues to pursue, 3WS Written Statements23 JUNE 2014 Written Statements 4WS including in the areas the Council set out in December There is a good degree of convergence between the 2013. We will take a final view on Albania’s progress UK’s priorities and those of Italy. The first six months just ahead of the June GAC. of the programme will be dominated by institutional Report on following up European Council conclusions refresh of the European Parliament and Commission. The GAC plays an important role in ensuring that Three priorities have been identified for the Italian the actions mandated in European Council conclusions presidency: “Growth”, “Migration”and “Mediterranean”. are delivered. We expect the Greek presidency to deliver We welcome areas of the anticipated programme that a report on the implementation of European Council reflect the growth and jobs agenda, such as progress on conclusions during their presidency. This will likely the digital single market, better regulation and trade cover all strands of EU business, from the economic, to agreements. energy and climate, and defence, trade and foreign Latvia and Luxembourg have yet to release details of policy. Areas such as the Single Market Act I, are likely their presidency programmes. to be singled out for their adoption during the Greek Under any other business, the presidency will seek presidency. views on whether there should be sessions of the General Preparation of the June European Council Affairs Council where the agenda is dedicated to cohesion The GAC will prepare the 26 and 27 June European policy in order to allow greater scrutiny at a political Council, where the Prime Minister and other EU leaders level of its implementation over the 2014-20 financial will attend a dinner in Ypres on 26 June to commemorate perspective and its contribution to the Europe 2020 the outbreak of the first world war, before travelling on strategy. to Brussels for the Council meeting on 27 June. The June European Council agenda is expected to include: the future justice and home affairs programme; TRANSPORT economic issues, including conclusion of the European semester and better regulation; climate and energy including a Commission report on EU energy security; and external Roads Reform relations issues (likely to include Ukraine). We also look forward to signature of the EU/Moldova and EU/Georgia association agreements at the European Council, and The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport hope to sign the remaining chapters of the EU/Ukraine (Mr Robert Goodwill): In our response to the consultation association agreement. The issue of the EU’s strategic on transforming the Highways Agency into a Government- priorities and institutional changes is also likely to be owned strategic highways company (April 2014), discussed by leaders. Government committed to publishing further details European Semester about the governance regime for the new company, to provide important context to the roads reform legislation The GAC will consider the country specific in the Infrastructure Bill. recommendations (CSRs), published by the Commission Today I am publishing a suite of documents that set to all non-programme EU member states on 2 June, as out details of the key elements that together will form a part of the European semester process. CSRs will also cohesive and robust governance framework for the new be considered by the Employment, Social Policy, Health company. This will allow it the autonomy and flexibility and Consumer Affairs Council on 19 June and the to operate, manage and enhance the network on a Economic and Financial Affairs Council on 20 June. day-to-day basis and deliver more efficiently, while ensuring The advice to the UK is to continue reducing the it acts transparently, remains accountable to Government, deficit, tackle youth unemployment, reform the housing road users and taxpayers, and continues to run the market and invest in infrastructure. This is generally in network in the public interest. line with the Government’s long-term economic plan The documents being published today are: and reflects the advice of others. “Transforming our strategic roads—a summary” EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian region —An introduction to roads reform that summarises the reasons The GAC will receive a presentation by the Commission for change, what this involves, how the new regime will of its communication and action plan for the EU strategy work and the benefits the change will deliver for road for the Adriatic and Ionian region. The strategy will be users and the nation as a whole. considered in more detail during the Italian presidency. “Strategic Highways Company: draft Licence”—An outline Application of Article 10 of Protocol 36 to the Treaties draft of the licence for the company, in which the Current plans are for the General Affairs Council to Secretary of State will issue statutory directions and consider an item on protocol 36 of the treaty of the guidance, setting objectives and conditions around how functioning of the European Union. This relates to the the company must act. UK’s decision to opt out of all police and criminal “Setting the Road Investment Strategy: Now and in the justice measures adopted before the entry into force of Future”—A draft description of the elements that will the Lisbon treaty, and subsequent discussions. form a road investment strategy (RIS), and further 18-month programme of the Council information about the process for developing the first The GAC is expected to take note of the presidency and future RIS documents. programme for the next 18 months. The new presidency I am also publishing further information about the trio of Italy, Latvia and Luxembourg will begin on purpose and content of the framework document and 1 July with the Italians holding the presidency until articles of association for the company and how these 31 December 2014. The Italians are due to publish their will be developed. These elements are not directly relevant presidency programme shortly; the programme is expected to the legislation, but will form important parts of the to be partly shaped by the inherited Greek agenda. governance regime for the new company. 5WS Written Statements23 JUNE 2014 Written Statements 6WS

Taken together with the measures in part 1 of the Work and Pensions to publish two independent reports Infrastructure Bill, this governance regime will provide on how the personal independence payment (PIP) a strong, certain framework for managing our roads. It assessment is working. The first is due within two years will strengthen accountability, drive efficiency and increase of PIP starting in April 2013. On Thursday 10 April transparency and create far more certain conditions for 2014, I announced that Paul Gray CB had been appointed investment, enabling the supply chain to gear up for the to carry out the first independent review of the PIP Government’s ambitious plans for the future. This will assessment. The terms of reference for this independent support the economy, promote jobs and skills and review were published on gov.uk on 21 May. ultimately transform the quality of our national infrastructure and the quality of service for road users. Today the Government will publish a call for evidence We look to move to the new model with minimal to inform the first independent review of the PIP assessment, disruption. being undertaken by Paul Gray. As the Bill remains subject to parliamentary approval, This call for evidence will be one of several methods these documents remain subject to change. used to gather information during the review. Evidence A copy of each of these documents will be placed in submitted will be used to inform Paul Gray’s report to the Libraries of both Houses the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, which and will be available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/ will be laid before Parliament before the end of 2014. collections/roads-reform. This call for evidence seeks evidence from both organisations and individuals who have information WORK AND PENSIONS that is relevant to how the PIP assessment is operating.

Personal Independence Payment The call for evidence runs until Friday 5 September 2014. The Minister of State, Department for Work and I will place a copy of the call for evidence in the Pensions (Mike Penning): Section 89 of the Welfare Libraries of both Houses. It will also be available on the Reform Act 2012 commits the Secretary of State for Government’s website: www.gov.uk/DWP later today.

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Jeremy Wright: Final bids to run the Community Written Answers to Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) are expected at the end of June 2014, and will be rigorously assessed against Questions robust quality, legal, commercial and financial criteria. In the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire, bidders were required to declare that their organisation, directors or Monday 23 June 2014 partners or any other person who has powers of representation, decision or control had no convictions in relation to criminal offences such as conspiracy, corruption, bribery or fraud and that their organisation JUSTICE had no convictions for criminal offences relating to the Bronzefield Prison conduct of their business or profession and acts of grave misconduct. As set out in the Invitation to Negotiate, bidders are required to notify the department of any Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice changes to the position set out in their declarations or whether (a) the prison governor or (b) another official anything that may affect their continued participation gave permission for the performance of Sister Act in in the competition and the department reserves the HMP Bronzefield in February and March 2014. 1 right to undertake a full re-assessment and, if grounds [201121] for rejection exist, exclude the bidder from further participation in the competition. Simon Hughes: Former employees of the Trusts have transferred to the new organisations, namely the National The MOJ also undertook extensive due diligence of Probation Service (NPS) and the 21 Community bidders on a range of matters, including integrity and Rehabilitation Companies. A small number of chief legal compliance issues. As a consequence we have a executives have taken early retirement or are due to do robust and diverse market. so over the next few weeks. There have also been a number of departures at Assistant Chief Officer (ACO) Criminal Injuries Compensation level. These were part of the normal turnover of staff; details of these are not held centrally. Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Cemeteries how many applications were made to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority’s Hardship Fund in Dr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 2013-14; and what proportion of such applications (1) what estimate his Department has made of the were successful. [200718] number of local authorities which have adopted powers under the London Local Authorities Act 2007 to re-use Damian Green: The Criminal Injuries Compensation graves where burial rights have been extinguished since Authority received 10 applications under the hardship that Act came into force; [200636] fund in 2013-14, of which four were successful. (2) what estimate his Department has made of the People who did not meet the fund’s earnings criteria number of grave spaces that have been created in London lodged the six remaining applications. The fund is there since the introduction of the London Local Authorities to support low-paid workers and four of these six people Act 2007. [200635] earned too much to be eligible, while the other two lost no income as a result of the injuries they sustained. Simon Hughes: The Ministry of Justice has not made an estimate of the number of grave spaces created since European Convention on Human Rights the introduction of the London Local Authorities Act 2007 or the number of local authorities who have used powers under the Act to re-use graves. However, as the Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if Ministry of Justice has responsibility for burial law and he will place in the Library a copy of the Government’s policy, I am keeping the issue of burial space under written submission to the European Court of Justice active review including considering what legislative changes which was the subject of the hearing before the Court might be necessary to address a shortage of graves. in April 2014 about the EU application to accede to the European Convention on Human Rights. [201111] Chief Scientific Advisers Damian Green: The European Court of Justice held a Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice hearing on 5-6 May 2014 before a full court in proceedings how many meetings he has had with his Department’s under article 218 (11) of Treaty on the Functioning of Chief Scientific Adviser in the last 12 months. [200792] the European Union regarding the ’s request for an Opinion on the compatibility of the draft Mr Vara: As was the case under previous Accession Agreement with the EU Treaties. Administrations, details of internal meetings are not normally disclosed. I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to him on 10 December 2013, Official Report, column 123W. Community Rehabilitation Companies My subsequent letter to the European Scrutiny Committee of 20 December 2013, as referenced in the Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Committee’s Twenty-ninth Report of session 2013-14 whether a criminal conviction is a disqualification for a of 8 January 2014, clarifies the basis on which documents Community Rehabilitation contract. [201106] in the proceedings are confidential. 1.[Official Report, 25 June 2014, Vol. 583, c. 1MC.] 3W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 4W

My most recent letter to the European Scrutiny Jeremy Wright: The victims of serious violent and Committee of 18 June 2014 outlines that the UK’s oral sexual offences, where the offender has been sentenced submissions supported the compatibility of the draft to 12 months or more, may opt into the statutory victim Accession Agreement with the EU Treaties, and sought contact scheme, operated by the National Probation to encourage the Court to robustly test the draft Accession Service. Where they do so, they will be informed of a Agreement and its implications while steering clear of Parole Board review and offered the opportunity to making any findings that prejudge the content of the make a victim personal statement (VPS). The VPS internal EU rules. provides victims with a valuable opportunity to tell the Parole Board how the offence has affected them or their Fraud: Sentencing family, both at the time it was committed and since, and how they think the offender’s release would affect them. The VPS can contribute to a better and more informed Jim Dowd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice hearing, as it may enable more robust questioning of how many custodial sentences have been passed for the offender about the offence, remorse and victim convictions for fraud in the last five years for which empathy. figures are available; what the average length of those The independent Parole Board is responsible for the sentences was in each such years; and what plans he has conduct of parole hearings. The normal practice is that to bring forward legislative proposals to increase the the offender will not be present when the victim reads maximum sentence for fraud. [200327] his/her VPS, but there may be circumstances where he/she will be. In many cases, the victim does not wish Jeremy Wright: The number of offenders sentenced the offender to be present during the reading. While the to immediate custody for fraud offences, in England conduct of an individual hearing is for the chair of the and Wales, from 2009 to 2013 (the latest data available), panel of the Parole Board, the chair cannot insist that can be viewed in the table. Average custodial sentence the prisoner attends to hear the VPS being read if lengths have increased from 12.2 months to 14.9 months he/she does not wish to do so. No estimate has been over the last five years. made centrally of the proportion of offenders present The maximum penalty for fraud is a 10-year custodial at the hearing when the VPS is read out. sentence. There are no immediate plans to increase the maximum sentences for fraud, but we keep all maximum Personal Independence Payment: Appeals sentences under review. Under this Government, if convicted of fraud, you Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice are more likely to go to prison and for longer. how many refused claims for personal independence Offenders sentenced to immediate custody for fraud offences, England payment have (a) been appealed and (b) been and Wales, 2009-131, 2 successfully appealed to date. [200966] Outcome 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Mr Vara: The First-tier Tribunal-Social Security and Sentenced 14,688 15,481 14,887 12,222 12,095 Child Support (SSCS), administered by HM Courts Of which: and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), hears appeals against Immediate custody 2,654 2,657 2,947 2,631 2,535 Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) decisions Average custodial 12.2 13.4 14.9 14.6 14.9 on a range of benefits including personal independent sentence length payment (PIP). (months)3 This information is published in Tribunals Statistics 1 The figures given in the table relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. Quarterly, available at the following link: When a defendant has been found guilty of two or more offences it https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tribunal- is the offence for which the heaviest penalty is imposed. Where the statistics-quarterly-january-to-march-2014 same disposal is imposed for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is Prison Accommodation the most severe. 2 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice data have been extracted from large administrative data systems what new prison accommodation is planned to come generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their on stream and in which locations before May 2015. inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are [201235] used. 3 Excludes life and indeterminate sentences. Jeremy Wright: We will always have enough prison Source: places for those sent to us by the courts and continue to Justice Statistics Analytical Services—Ministry of Justice. modernise the prison estate so that it delivers best value Parole for the taxpayer. This Government has a long term strategy for managing the prison estate which will provide more adult male prison capacity than we inherited from Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice the previous Government. (1) in what circumstances offenders can choose not to Over 2,000 further places for adult male prisoners attend a parole board meeting when a victim reads a will become available before May 2015, including new victim personal statement; [201333] house-blocks at HM Prisons The Mount, Thameside, (2) what estimate he has made of the proportion of Parc and Peterborough. The remainder of the places offenders present at parole board hearings when a will come from re-opening refurbished or mothballed victim personal statement is read. [201334] capacity. 5W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 6W

Prisoner Escapes returned from overseas. All prisoners are managed according to the risk they pose, taking into consideration all relevant information and intelligence that is identified. : To ask the Secretary of State for Justice on how many occasions the Royal Prerogative of Mercy The National Offender Management Service (NOMS) has been granted in relation to offences occurring as a has long recognised the threat posed by terrorists and result and in the course of escaping from or breaking extremists, and has considerable experience in managing out of prison in the last 25 years; and if he will make a this threat. The Prison Service will continue to use its statement. [200853] well established and effective three-tiered response: to identify behaviour that may indicate extremism, to report it using established intelligence systems, and to manage Jeremy Wright: We do not centrally hold data on the it through disruption and intervention. number of occasions the Royal Prerogative of Mercy has been exercised for the time period in question. Prisoners: Sanitary Protection Consequently, the information requested could be obtained only at disproportionate cost, as it would involve a Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for manual trawl through the records of every prisoner who Justice whether a full range of sanitary products is has formed part of the prison population for the last 25 provided free-of-charge to female prisoners. [200773] years, to identify, firstly, if they have ever escaped from prison custody and secondly, if a request to exercise the Simon Hughes: Women should be given any items Royal Prerogative of Mercy was successful. required to meet essential personal needs for their first 24 hours in custody, including toiletries, clean clothing Prisoners: Radicalism and a towel. Women also must have easy access to a choice of sanitary provision. Tampons with applicators must be one of the choices. Dr Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what steps his Department is taking to prevent the spread of All prisons across the female custodial estate provide Islamic extremism among the prison population. Interlude tampons and sanitary towels to women free of [201335] charge. Other brands of sanitary products are available for women to buy via the National Product list. Jeremy Wright: We are alert to the risks posed by Prisons: Employment individuals who may wish to radicalise others, and we are committed to tackling radicalisation in the prison Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State environment as an important element of our responsibility for Justice what proportion of prisoners were recorded to protect the public and reduce re-offending. as having had some involvement in purposeful activity; NOMS has in place a wide-ranging programme of and how many were recorded as unemployed in each work to manage individuals convicted of terrorist or prison in England and Wales as at 31 December 2013. related offences. This programme focuses on: increasing [201108] the counter-terrorism intelligence infrastructure working with partner agencies; ensuring provision of an effective Jeremy Wright: This information is not available centrally Chaplaincy which can challenge extremist ideology; and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. structured risk assessment tools and bespoke interventions; Work in prisons is a key priority to ensure prisoners staff briefing and training, and robust processes for the are engaged purposefully whilst they are in custody. It management of offenders on release. also gives them the opportunity to learn skills and a NOMS contributes to the cross-Government CT strategy work ethic which can increase their chances of finding CONTEST, and works alongside other Departments to employment on release, a key element to reducing manage the threat posed. As with all significant criminal reoffending. threats, a multi-agency approach is taken to ensure that The number of prisoners working in industrial activity information and learning is shared between agencies. across public sector prisons increased from around 8,600 in 2010-11 (the first year for which figures are Dr Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what available) to around 9,700 in 2012-13. This delivered an assessment his Department has made of the potential increase in the total hours worked in industrial activities risks of imprisoned extremists returned from terrorist from 10.6 million hours to 13.1 million hours. Private operations overseas (a) radicalising the Muslim prison sector prisons have also been supporting this agenda population and (b) recruiting other prisoners to and have reported that they delivered over 1.5 million commit terrorist acts in the UK or overseas. [201336] prisoner working hours in commercial and industrial workshops in 2012-13 which provided work for over Jeremy Wright: I am responding to this question as I 1,200 prisoners. am the Minister responsible for the prison estate. We In addition there are substantial numbers of prisoners are well aware of the risks posed by individuals who who work to keep prisons running on tasks such as return to the UK having gained experience, through cooking, serving meals, maintenance and cleaning. training or participation, in terrorism overseas. At the Figures for public sector prisons are published in the current time clearly those travelling to and from Syria NOMS Annual Report Management Information are of particular concern. Addendum: The Prison Service works closely with the Police and https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ other Agencies in all areas of Counter Terrorism work; attachment_data/file/225225/mi-addendum.pdf including where individuals are held in custody having Figures for 2013-14 will be published in July. 7W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 8W

Our reforms to the Incentives and Earned Privileges number of departures at assistant chief officer (ACO) national policy framework came into effect in adult level. These were part of the normal turnover of staff; prisons on 1 November 2013. Prisoners will be expected details of these are not held centrally. to engage in purposeful activity, as well as demonstrate a commitment towards their rehabilitation, reduce their Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice risk of reoffending, behave well and help others if they (1) how many non-disclosure or compromise agreements are to earn privileges. have been included in the departure packages of former Information on purposeful activity in each prison employees of probation trusts since 1 January 2014; and category of prison was published annually in the [201123] Prison Performance Digest up until 2011-12 and can be (2) how many (a) chief executives, (b) deputy chief found at the following location: executives and (c) assistant chief officers of probation https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ trusts who left their posts since 1 January 2014 had attachment_data/file/163299/prison-performance-digest-2011- non-disclosure or compromise agreements as part of 12.xls their departure packages. [201124] Please note that figures are not available after 2011-12. Purposeful activity was formerly a performance indicator Jeremy Wright: There have been no non-disclosure or for prisons, but was discontinued at the start of 2012-13. compromise agreements included as part of the departure The indicator was not used in the day-to-day management packages of the trust chief executives who have taken of prisons and NOMS had concerns over the burden on early retirement. The terms of departure for other former the front line of collecting the information. Indicators trust staff were agreed through their own local introduced into prison SLAs in respect of rehabilitation, arrangements. resettlement and work in prisons provide a better demonstration of efforts to prepare prisoners for release and reduce reoffending. Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) how many former employees of probation trusts Figures have been drawn from administrative IT systems, received payouts of (a) up to £5,000, (b) up to £10,0000, which, as with any large scale recording system, are (c) up to £15,000, (d) up to £20,000, (e) up to £30,000, subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. (f) up to £40,000, (g) up to £50,000, (h) up to £75,000, Prisons: Staff (i) up to £100,000 or (j) £100,000 or more since 1 January 2014; [201231] Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State (2) how many probation trust employees who left for Justice which places of detention on the prison their jobs received higher than contractual payments estate have (a) a member of staff assigned to the role since 1 January 2014; [201232] of foreign national co-ordinator and (b) more than (3) how much former employees of probation trusts one foreign national co-ordinator; how many such have received in severance pay since 1 January 2014. co-ordinators there are across the prison estate; and at [201236] what salary grade they are paid. [201107] Jeremy Wright: Prior to 1 June, probation staff in Jeremy Wright: While prisons are required to ensure England and Wales were employed by the 35 probation that systems are in place to both facilitate the identification trusts. Employment data of the kind requested were of foreign national prisoners and to meet their distinct held by the individual probations trusts. They were not needs, there is no mandatory requirement for prisons to collected centrally and it would not be possible to have a designated foreign national co-ordinator. It is for obtain the information without incurring disproportionate Governors and Directors to decide how best to allocate cost. their staffing resources, dependent upon the make-up and needs of their population and their staffing resource. While some will choose to assign dedicated staff to a Secure Colleges: Leicestershire foreign national co-ordinator role, in either a full or part-time capacity, others will have in place an arrangement Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice that spreads responsibility for this work among a number pursuant to the answer of 16 June 2014, Official Report, of staff. Information on the arrangements in place at column 469W, on Secure Colleges: Leicestershire, what each prison is not recorded centrally. steps have been taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing Probation Trusts of the cohort. [201375]

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Jeremy Wright: The requirements set out within the how many (a) chief executives, (b) deputy chief tender for the design and build of the Secure College executives and (c) assistant chief officers of probation pathfinder took into account departmental experience trusts have left their posts since 1 January 2014. of providing safe custodial environments. The initial [201122] design for the Secure College pathfinder was evaluated against these requirements as well as design, operation Jeremy Wright: Former employees of the trusts have and security considerations. transferred to the new organisations, namely the National The Ministry of Justice will be working with Wates, Probation Service (NPS) and the 21 community the preferred design and build bidder, over the coming rehabilitation companies. A small number of chief months to refine the initial design. This will include executives have taken early retirement or are due to do ensuring that different groups of young people can be so over the next few weeks. There have also been a accommodated discretely, if needed, within the site. 9W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 10W

The safety and wellbeing of young people is central Table 2: Percentage of appeals decided in favour of the appellant in to all plans for the design and operation of the Secure 2013-14, the latest period for which figures are available College pathfinder. Appeal type Percentage Overall 37 Social Security Benefits: Appeals

England DLA 41 Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for ESA 43 Justice (1) what proportion of appeals to the Tribunals Service from appellants in (a) Coventry, (b) the West IS 25 Midlands and (c) England relating to (i) disability JSA 19 living allowance, (ii) employment and support allowance, Tax credit 19 (iii) income support, (iv) jobseeker’s allowance and (v) Overall 39 tax credits were successful in the latest period for which 1 Includes employment and support allowance and employment and figures are available; [200753] support allowance (incapacity benefit reassessment). (2) what average length of time was taken by the 2 West midlands includes appeals heard at Birmingham, Coventry, Tribunals Service to administer a First-tier Tribunal Hereford, Kidderminster, Leamington Spa, Nuneaton, Shrewsbury, Solihull, Stoke, Walsall, Wolverhampton and Worcester venues. Social Security and Child Support appeal in respect of Note: (a) disability living allowance, (b) employment and The above data are taken from management information in line with support allowance, (c) income support, (d) jobseeker’s published statistics. Although care is taken when processing and allowance and (e) tax credits in (i) Coventry, (ii) the analysing the data, the details are subject to inaccuracies inherent in West Midlands and (iii) England in the latest period for any large-scale reporting system and is the best data available. which figures are available. [200752] A significant increase in ESA appeals received by the tribunal resulted in increased waiting times for appeals. Mr Vara: The First-tier Tribunal—Social Security In 2011-12, ESA appeal receipts at Coventry were 1,896; and Child Support (SSCS), administered by HM Courts west midlands 18,957; and England 145,625. In 2012-13 and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), hears appeals against these rose to 3,025, 33,958 and 200,850 respectively. To Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) decisions meet the increased demand, HMCTS increased the on a range of benefits. capacity of the tribunal by, among other things, recruiting Table 1 shows the average length of time to complete additional judges and medical members, increasing the appeals in respect of employment and support allowance number of venues used, extended opening times and (ESA) in (a) Coventry, (b) the west midlands and (c) introduced more efficient processes. England between April 2013 and March 2014, the latest During 2013-14, the tribunal has experienced a reduction period for which figures are available. in ESA appeal receipts (2,569 in Coventry, 18,969 in the Table 2 shows the proportion of appeals which were west midlands, and 190,047 in England). The reduction decided in favour of the appellant in (a) Coventry (b) in receipts and the increased capacity within the tribunal the west midlands and (c) England in respect of (i) has enabled HMCTS to focus on reducing outstanding disability living allowance (DLA), (ii) ESA, (iii) income workloads. As at the end of March, for the tribunal support (IS), (iv) jobseeker’s allowance (JSA), and (v) overall, this stood at 78,347, a reduction of 143,254 tax credits between April 2013 and March 2014, the (65%) from June 2013. latest period for which figures are available. Action taken to address waiting times specifically at Table 1: Average length of time to administer ESA1 appeals between Coventry have included offering appellants hearings at April 2013 and March 2014, the latest period for which figures are alternative venues in Leamington Spa and Nuneaton available, 2013-14 and, from June 2013, the number of hearing rooms at Weeks Coventry doubled. Coventry 29 These measures have had a positive effect resulting in West midlands2 27 a reduction in the average waiting time for ESA appeals England 23 at the Coventry venue from 35 weeks in 2012-13 to 29 weeks in 2013-14. Table 2: Percentage of appeals decided in favour of the appellant in 2013-14, the latest period for which figures are available Typically, new appellants lodging new appeals which Appeal type Percentage would be heard at the Coventry venue are now being offered a hearing date between 13 and 14 weeks of Coventry DLA 45 receipt of the appeal. For the west midlands overall this ESA 48 would be between nine and 14 weeks. IS 27 JSA 24 Tax credit 12 Overall 44 Social Security Benefits: Medical Examinations West midlands2 DLA 36 ESA 39 Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for IS 32 Justice how many (a) appeals and (b) successful appeals against Atos assessments in (i) Nottingham JSA 23 and (ii) Ashfield constituency there were in each of the Tax credit 20 last three years. [201074] 11W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 12W

Mr Vara: The First-tier Tribunal—Social Security HEALTH and Child Support (SSCS), administered by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) hears appeals against Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) decisions Accident and Emergency Departments on a range of benefits including a person’s entitlement to employment and support allowance (ESA). Mr Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health While a work capability assessment (WCA) can be a what estimate his Department has made of the average key factor in an ESA decision, it is not the only travelling distance to a 24-hour accident and emergency consideration. Appeals are brought against ESA refusals, department for people in (a) Bury St Edmunds and not WCA decisions themselves. The Tribunal does constituency, (b) Suffolk and (c) England and Wales. not record information on those ESA appeals in which [200878] the WCA decision is a factor, and as such HMCTS does not hold the specific information requested. Information on appeals against ESA decisions is Jane Ellison: No estimate has been made by the published by HMCTS in Tribunal Statistics Quarterly. Department. NHS England has, however, published The most recent report for the period January to March best practice guidance “Planning and delivering service 2014, published on 12 June 2014, can be viewed at: changes for patients”. In the guidance, commissioners are reminded that where any changes are proposed to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tribunal-statistics- urgent and emergency care services, they need to provide quarterly-january-to-march-2014 analysis of travelling times and distances, identifying the impact on pedestrians and public and private transport users, as well as the ambulance service where relevant. Telephone Services

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Ambulance Services how many telephone lines with the prefix (a) 0845, (b) 0844 and (c) 0843 his Department (i) operates and (ii) sponsors; how many calls each such number has Jim Shannon: To ask the Secretary of State for received in the last 12 months; and whether alternative Health what steps he is taking to ensure that ambulance numbers charged at BT local rates are available in each crews and dispatch staff are able to access meaningful such case. [201387] supervision; and if he will assess the merits of introducing rapid response units similar to those operating in Northern Ireland. [200955] Mr Vara: There has been a 79% fall in the Department’s use of higher-rate numbers since 2009. Jane Ellison: Decisions about workforce issues, such The Department has received no revenue from higher as the supervision of ambulance staff, are a local rate telephone numbers for the period under review. matter and it remains up to ambulance trusts to decide The information held centrally for the public use of how this is managed. (a) 0845, (b) 0844 and (c) 0843 telephone numbers However, the Department expects trusts to ensure all operated (i) and (ii) sponsored by the Ministry of Justice their staff are supported in their roles and for there to are as follows: be effective management arrangements. Number Ambulance services, including emergency response services, are commissioned by clinical commissioning (a) 0845 numbers 32 groups, which have a responsibility to ensure that (b) 0844 numbers 2 appropriate services are provided to their populations. (c) 0843 numbers 0 It is the decision of individual ambulance trusts as to how resources are used to meet local demand. The majority of these numbers are operated by the County Court Business Centre (CCBC). The Department recognises that having a rapid response vehicle (RRV) to carry clinical equipment and Information on volumes for calls to higher-rate telephone get a clinician to the patient as quickly as possible is numbers for the last 12 months is not systematically beneficial to the care of a patient. collected by the service providers, and to obtain it would incur disproportionate costs. In addition, clinicians using RRVs to arrive first on the scene are able to conduct an assessment of the 19 higher rate numbers in the CCBC are in the patient to determine how they should be managed or process of being replaced by 0300 numbers. The four may be in advance of an ambulance to begin treatment 0845 numbers receiving the highest volumes of calls in and stabilisation prior to transport. the CCBC are being discontinued on 1 August 2014, and when inquirers call these numbers they are being We are aware that most ambulance trusts utilise advised to contact an alternative 0300 number. RRVs daily as part of their emergency response. As stated in previous answers to parliamentary questions, As part of the Urgent and Emergency Care Review, the Department’s approach is not to use higher rate being led by Sir Bruce Keogh, an ambulance task numbers and instead, wherever possible, to assign 0300 group has been established to look at new models of numbers, for which the tariff is similar to calling an 01 delivery of care. The first phase of the review was or 02 (geographic) number, whether the caller is using a published last November; and we expect NHS England fixed line or a mobile phone. to be publishing further reports later this year. 13W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 14W

Antidepressants Breast Cancer

Mr Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what guidance he has given to clinical commissioning with reference to the answer of 19 January 2012, Official groups on the use of the NICE breast cancer quality Report, columns 932-3W, how many companies hold standard when commissioning breast cancer services; licences for the manufacture or distribution of (a) Nitrazepam, (b) Flurazepam, (c) Loprazolam, (d) [200887] Lormetazepam, (e) Temazepam, (f) Clonazepam, (g) (2) what responsibilities NHS England has for Medazepam, (h) Midazolam, (i) Zopiclone, (j) Zaleplon, commissioning breast cancer services; [200870] (k) Zolpiden, (l) Eszopiclone, (m) SSRI antidepressants (3) what responsibilities clinical commissioning and (n) trycyclic antidepressants; and how many of groups have for commissioning breast cancer services; those licences were issued in the last three years. [201050] [200871] (4) what guidance he has given to clinical commissioning Norman Lamb: There are currently 15 products groups on their involvement with (a) strategic clinical authorised in the United Kingdom containing nitrazepam networks and (b) breast network site-specific groups. and 15 different companies authorised to manufacture [200886] and distribute them. Jane Ellison: The majority of treatments for cancer, There are currently two products authorised in the such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are commissioned UK containing flurazepam and one company authorised nationally by NHS England. Commissioning is informed to manufacture and distribute them. by a range of clinical reference groups established as a There are currently two products authorised in the primary source of advice on best practice, service standards UK containing loprazolam and two different companies for commissioned providers and forward strategy and authorised to manufacture and distribute them. innovation. There are currently eight products authorised in the Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) plan and buy UK containing lormetazepam and four different companies local community and non-specialised hospital cancer authorised to manufacture and distribute them. services in their local area. This includes the diagnosis, oversight of treatment and surgical management of There are currently 10 products authorised in the UK breast cancers. containing temazepam and six different companies NHS England is not aware of any formal guidance authorised to manufacture and distribute them. being given to CCGs on engagement with Strategic There are currently six products authorised in the Clinical Networks (SCNs) or breast network site-specific UK containing clonazepam and three different companies groups. However, it would expect that all health authorised to manufacture and distribute them. organisations would wish to be part of SCNs. As CCGs There are currently no authorised products in the are responsible for much of the commissioning of services UK containing medazepam. covered by the SCNs (e.g. cancer, stroke, mental health, and dementia care), they have an interest in their activities. There are currently 22 products authorised in the UK Breast network site specific groups are specialist groups containing midazolam and 10 different companies who focus on protocol development, improving care authorised to manufacture and distribute them. and the quality and outcomes of services within the There are currently 17 products authorised in the UK SCN area. It would not be expected for a CCG to containing zopiclone and nine different companies normally engage directly with that group but they would authorised to manufacture and distribute them. be part of a process to approve protocols and of any There are currently two products authorised in the escalation process if there were concerns about a particular UK containing zaleplon and one company authorised service within the SCN. to manufacture and distribute them. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) quality standards define clinical best practice for the There are currently 21 products authorised in the UK diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer to help clinicians containing zolpidem and 12 different companies authorised ensure that patients are given information about the to manufacture and distribute them. treatment options available and help in choosing the There are currently no authorised products in the best option to suit them. NHS England would expect UK containing eszopiclone. CCGs to take into account NICE quality standards when commissioning breast cancer services. There are currently 238 products authorised in the UK containing SSRI antidepressants and 57 different companies authorised to manufacture and distribute Cancer: Drugs them. Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for There are currently 16 products authorised in the UK Health how many people received funding through the containing tricyclic antidepressants and 11 different Cancer Drugs Fund in (a) Coventry North East companies authorised to manufacture and distribute constituency, (b) Coventry, (c) the West Midlands and them. (d) England in each of the last five years. [200879] One loprazolam, four lormetazepam, two clonazepam, two midazolam, three zopiclone, four zolpidem and 75 Norman Lamb: Prior to April 2013, information on SSRI products have been authorised in the last three the Cancer Drugs Fund was administered through clinical years. panels based in each strategic health authority (SHA) 15W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 16W and data on the number of patients who received funding Jane Ellison: The Public Health Outcomes Framework in each constituency and city were not collected. includes a chlamydia diagnosis rate indicator—one of Information on the number of patients funded in West three sexual health indicators in the framework. Public Midlands SHA and England in 2010-11, 2011-12 and Health England (PHE) encourages local authorities to 2012-13 is shown as follows: work towards achieving a rate of 2,300 diagnoses per 100,000 young adult populations. Number of patients funded: The National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) In In In Since October supports this aim through: 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 20101 Publishing chlamydia screening standards, to form the basis of West Midlands 292 1,658 1,534 3,484 local screening planning, delivery and quality assurance; SHA Producing guidance to support local commissioners and providers England 2,780 11,798 15,456 30,034 in the delivery of chlamydia screening, including forthcoming 1 Some individual patients may be double-counted where a patient publication ‘Achieving the diagnostic rate indicator’; has received more than one drug treatment through the Cancer Reviewing and summarising the latest evidence to inform Drugs Fund. evidence-based and cost-effective approaches to chlamydia screening; Source: Information provided to the Department by SHAs Collecting and publishing chlamydia data, at a national and local level, to monitor screening and detection activity; NHS England has had oversight of the Fund since April 2013 and publishes information on patient numbers Providing information to young adults on chlamydia, chlamydia screening and wider sexual health matters (e.g. condom use, routinely on its website at: contraception), including via a website; www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/pe/cdf/ Supporting the implementation of specific programmes to In 2013-14, 5,695 patients in the Midlands and East increase chlamydia screening rates, such as the ‘3Cs and HIV region and 19,282 patients in England received funding Programme’. This is currently being piloted across England to through the Fund. In addition, 28 individual cancer encourage the routine offer of chlamydia screening, alongside drugs fund request applications were approved by the information on contraception and condoms, to young adults Cancer Drugs Fund panel in the Midlands and East during primary care appointments; region with 278 applications approved nationally. A team of PHE sexual health facilitators, who are linked closely into local commissioner and provider sexual health networks, Jim Shannon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health with a focus on promoting chlamydia screening; and what assessment his Department has made of the Evaluating the impact of the NCSP, including development of effectiveness of Albumin Bound Paclitaxel, Bevacizumab different approaches to estimate and monitor prevalence, such as and Cabozantinib since the introduction of those drugs; mathematical modelling. and what discussions on this matter he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Assemblies. [200953] Clinical Commissioning Groups: Suffolk

Norman Lamb: We have had no such discussions. Mr Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence what estimate he has made of the cost to the public (NICE) has appraised the use of bevacizumab (Avastin) purse of running and administering the (a) West for a number of cancers including colorectal, breast, Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group and (b) East ovarian, non-small cell lung cancer and kidney cancer Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group. [200776] and has not been able to recommend the drug’s use as a clinical and cost-effective use of national health service Dr Poulter: NHS England advises that the final annual resources in any of these appraisals. reports 2013-14 for the West Suffolk and Ipswich and NICE is currently appraising the use of paclitaxel East Suffolk clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) albumin-bound nanoparticles (Abraxane) in treating show the following spend on administration costs: advanced pancreatic cancer with final guidance expected Statement of comprehensive net expenditure for the year ended 31 in January 2015. NICE is also appraising this technology March 2014-administration costs for use in the first-line treatment of metastatic melanoma, £ million with final guidance expected in May 2015. West Suffolk There are no plans for NICE to appraise cabozantinib Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical Clinical Commissioning Commissioning (Cometriq) for the treatment of thyroid cancer. Group Group

Chief Scientific Advisers Net administration costs 7.3 5.2 before financing Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many meetings he has had with his Department’s From 2013-14, the running costs allowance for CCGs chief scientific adviser in the last 12 months. [200789] is expected to be £25 per head of population per annum. At this level, running costs allowances will be consistent Dr Poulter: As was the case under previous with the requirement to reduce administration costs by Administrations, details of internal meetings are not one-third. normally disclosed. Chlamydia Cystic Fibrosis

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to encourage the uptake Health what (a) number and (b) proportion of adult of chlamydia screening. [201131] cystic fibrosis centres in England have (i) reached and 17W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 18W

(ii) exceeded the maximum capacity of 250 patients (2) if he will outline the process, criteria and guidelines recommended by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust in each of that his Department follows to evaluate foods for special the last four years. [201133] medical purposes for the UK market; what criteria his Department uses for such evaluations; and what guidance Norman Lamb: Information concerning the number his Department issues on foods for special medical of adult cystic fibrosis (CF) patients cared for by CF purposes. [201120] centres in England in each of the last four years is not available. These data have only been collected since the Jane Ellison: The Department’s role and the definition introduction of the tariff for CF services in 2011. of these products are set out in legislation. Information In the following table we have provided the number on this legislation is available at: and proportion of CF centres treating 250 patients or www.gov.uk/government/publications/food-supplements- more in each of the last three years. guidance-and-faqs It should be noted that the “Standards of Care”, www.gov.uk/government/publications/infant-formula-and- updated by CF Trust in 2011 does not state that 250 foods-for-particular-nutritional-uses-parnuts-notification- patients is the maximum number a CF centre should requirements treat, but rather that when a centre reaches 250 patients, Local authorities are responsible for enforcement of and anticipates that numbers will continue to rise, the the legislation and provide advice to businesses on development of alternative specialist centres should be compliance with legislation. considered.

Number of centres Proportion of Food Banks treating 250 patients centres treating 250 or more patients or more Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011 6 21 Health pursuant to the answer of 12 June 2014, Official 2012 6 21 Report, column 281W, on food banks, whether (a) he 2013 6 21 and (b) other Ministers in his Department plan to visit a food bank in order to assess the contribution of food Equitable Life Independent Inquiry banks to public health and nutrition. [201132]

Diana Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Dr Poulter: There are no current plans for Ministers Health what discussions he has had with the Scottish in the Department to visit a food bank, but this does Executive about the timetable for publication of the not preclude planned visits in their wider capacities or Penrose Inquiry. [201168] as constituency MPs. We would consider undertaking an official visit, if an invitation was received. Jane Ellison: The timetable for Lord Penrose to complete his report and publish it, is a matter for Lord Penrose himself to decide. Lord Penrose has publicly announced Food: Charitable Donations that he will publish his report in the autumn of 2014, but we do not know the exact date. We are keeping in Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for touch with the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Well Health with reference to the answer of 30 October 2012, Being of the Scottish Government. Official Report, column 146W, on food: charitable donations, and 7 March 2013, Official Report, column Exercise 1105, what assessment (a) his Department and (b) the Food Standards Agency has made of the compatibility Mr Sutcliffe: To ask the Secretary of State for Health of legislation to remove criminal and civil liability from what definition his Department uses of an adequate good faith food donors with EU food safety laws. amount of weekly physical activity. [200783] [201171]

Jane Ellison: The UK chief medical officers’ (CMOs) Jane Ellison: We are advised by the Food Standards guidelines for physical activity for adults is to be active Agency (FSA) that consideration was given to whether daily, up to at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity an exemption from European Union food safety law activity a week. Children and young people should be was available in respect of donations of food for charitable active for at least 60 minutes and up to several hours purposes in 2012. The FSA’s view at that time was that every day of moderate to vigorous intensity physical no exemption is available and as the FSA’s advice has activity. The guidelines were published in July 2011. not changed it does not consider that any further assessment More information can be found from UK CMOs’ report of the issue is necessary. on physical activity ’Start Active, Stay Active’. A copy The FSA published guidance on its website in July of the report has already been placed in the Library. 2013 on which charitable and community food provision does not require registration. This can be found at: Food http://multimedia.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/hall- provision.pdf Andrew Percy: To ask the Secretary of State for Food supply not requiring registration is exempt Health (1) on what criteria his Department differentiates from the requirements of food hygiene legislation although a food for special medical purposes and a food supplement; all such provision is still required to provide food that is [201119] safe. 19W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 20W

Gender Recognition Patients per full- All GPs full-time time equivalent GP equivalent per Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for 100,000 population Health how many patients are waiting for gender North East Essex 1,715 60.8 reassignment surgery; and what the average waiting Source: time for such surgery was in each of the last four years. The Health and Social Care Information Centre General and Personal [201373] Medical Services Statistics; Office for National Statistics: Mid-Year Population Estimates Norman Lamb: Information about how many patients are waiting for gender reassignment surgery and average Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health waiting times for such surgery is not held centrally. what steps his Department is taking to train and recruit more GPs in (a) Linton and Walton and (b) General Practitioners nationally. [200958] Dr Poulter: The Department set up Health Education Mr Jamie Reed: To ask the Secretary of State for England (HEE) to deliver a better health and health Health what correspondence he has received on care work force for England. HEE is responsible for concerns over the potential closure of GP surgeries in ensuring a secure work force supply for the future the last year. [200645] balancing need against demand, taking into account factors such as the age profile of the existing work force, Dr Poulter: A search of the Department’s ministerial the impact of technology and new drugs. correspondence database has identified 410 items of correspondence received since 1 June 2013 about concerns The Department has recognised the need to increase over the potential closure of general practitioner surgeries. the general practitioner (GP) work force and between The cost of a more comprehensive search would incur a September 2010 and September 2013, the number of disproportionate cost to the Department. full-time equivalent GPs has risen by 1,051. Additionally, the Department has included in the HEE mandate a requirement that Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to ensure GPs are accessible to “HEE will ensure that 50% of trainees completing foundation level training enter GP training programmes by 2016”. patients. [200858]

Dr Poulter: Through the Prime Minister’s Challenge Mr Jamie Reed: To ask the Secretary of State for Fund, more than 7.5 million people in England will Health what estimate he has made of the proportion of start to be offered increased access to local general patients who were able to see their preferred GP in the practitioner (GP) services, including seven-day opening most recent period for which figures are available. and appointments outside of office hours. The Fund is [201080] supporting over 1,110 practices covering every region as part of a pilot scheme. Dr Poulter: Data from the most recent GP Patient Survey found that 55% of patients have a particular The PM Challenge Fund is for one year and patients general practitioner (GP) that they usually prefer to are expected to see positive changes from services from speak to or see. Of those, 61.7% of respondents said June/July onwards. An interim evaluation report is due they could see or speak to their preferred GP ‘always or in November this year. The full and final report is almost always’ or a ‘lot of the time’. expected to be published in the early part of 2015-16. There will be a rolling programme of feedback on the pilots with case studies available from the summer Health Services: Reciprocal Arrangements onwards to help spread best practice across the country. In addition, the new GP contract introduced a new Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Enhanced Service, which includes a commitment to Health for what reason callers to NHS England’s EHIC same day phone consultations with a professional in the renewal line are assumed to agree to data-sharing if GP surgery where necessary for the most at risk in the they do not hang up, whilst other Government Departments population. require legal data-sharing gateways. [201255]

Mr Carswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Jane Ellison: The NHS Business Services Authority what guidance his Department issues on the ratio of (NHS BSA) administers the EHIC (European health GPs to patients; and what that ratio is in Tendring. insurance card) application system and telephone line. [200939] Applicants for EHIC cards are asked to agree to share their application details for the purpose of validating Dr Poulter: The Department does not issue guidance EHIC applications and claims (for which information is on the ratio of general practitioners (GPs) to patients. It shared with the Department for Work and Pensions and is for each GP practice to ensure they are able to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) and in order to provide services to all their patients as set out in their prevent and detect fraud and errors (for which information contract with NHS England. may be shared with NHS Protect and the Department The ratio of GPs to patients in Tendring is not of Health—International Division). The agreement of collected centrally. Figures for North East Essex Clinical customers to share their data is sufficient under the Commissioning Group, which includes the district of Data Protection Act. No personal medical or clinical Tendring, are shown in the following table. data is shared as part of this process. 21W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 22W

Callers to the EHIC telephone service are assumed to Arrangements for deciding the most appropriate way agree to share their application details. We acknowledge for individual patients to access NHS services based on that the current telephone message advising callers about their clinical needs is for local determination. data sharing could be clearer. The NHS BSA has undertaken that they will not share any further EHIC Medical Records: Disclosure of Information data which is gathered through the telephone service, until the message has been updated. Mr Godsiff: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Health: Business what steps he has taken to ensure that patient data extracted under care.data shared with countries inside the European Economic Area cannot be shared outside Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for that area. [200640] Health pursuant to the answer of 16 June 2014, Official Report, column 486W, on health: business, whether he Dr Poulter: The Data Protection Act (1998) allows plans to make an assessment of the overall (a) number personal data to be transferred to countries within the and (b) proportion of those companies which are European Economic Area (EEA) on the same basis as meeting all of the pledges they have signed up to. transferring data within the United Kingdom. Personal [201371] data can only be sent to a country or territory outside the EEA if an adequate level of protection for the rights Jane Ellison: Details of our Responsibility Deal partners, and freedoms of individuals when processing their personal the pledges they have committed to taking action on, data is ensured. their delivery plans and annual updates are all readily available on the Responsibility Deal website at: Every application for information will be considered by the Health and Social Care Information Centre https://responsibilitydeal.dh.gov.uk/partners/ (HSCIC), in line with the Data Protection Act, taking This information is published in full and the Department account of their location if it is outside the UK. does not therefore publish an assessment of partners’ achievements under the pledges. Recipients of data from the HSCIC must agree to certain terms and conditions of use, i.e. a data sharing contract, before any data are disclosed. Those terms Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for and conditions include measures intended to safeguard Health pursuant to the answer of 16 June 2014, Official the use of information that may identify individuals, Report, column 486W,on health: business, what assessment including: his Department makes of the annual updates; and what estimate he has made of the number of hours of officials’ limiting the use of information to a specific purpose, which must also be both legitimate, compatible and shared only for time spent assessing those updates. [201372] the benefit of the health and social care system; Jane Ellison: Officials review annual updates to prohibiting onward disclosure of information to an additional organisation; Responsibility Deal pledges on receipt and liaise with partners directly if any clarification is required. ensuring the security of the data once they are in the possession of another organisation that applied successfully for the data; The Department does not record separately the time and spent on reviewing annual updates to the Responsibility the right of HSCIC to audit where it is suspected the terms and Deal. conditions have not been complied with. The HSCIC announced on 17 June 2014 that a new, HIV Infection strengthened audit function will monitor adherence to data sharing agreements and halt the flow of data if Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Health there are any concerns exposed. This will include scrutiny what the cost per patient was of antiretroviral therapy of how the data are being used and stored by those for HIV in the latest year for which figures are available. receiving it. This will also monitor that data have been [200862] deleted when an agreement comes to the end. Any failure on the part of data users to abide by their agreements Jane Ellison: This information is not collected. In will entail no further release of data to them. 2012-13, the national health service in England spent an estimated £630 million on HIV services, including treatment. Monitor Approximately 60,721 people in England received NHS HIV treatment and care services in 2012. Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Magnetic Resonance Imagers whether guidance issued by Monitor is mandatory for NHS England to follow. [200737] John Woodcock: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what records his Department holds on numbers Jane Ellison: It is the National Health Service of magnetic resonance imaging scans being undertaken (Procurement, Patient Choice and Competition) (No.2) on behalf of the NHS at zoological or veterinary Regulations 2013 that place requirements on NHS England, premises. [201245] including requirements as to good practice in relation to procurement. Jane Ellison: The Department holds no information Enforcement of the procurement requirements by on the number of magnetic resonance imaging scans Monitor may only follow its investigation of a complaint undertaken on behalf of the national health service at that there has been a failure by a commissioner to zoological or veterinary premises. comply with the requirements. Guidance issued by Monitor 23W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 24W on the regulations, including guidance issued in April, Dr Poulter: The number (headcount basis) of qualified provides advice for commissioners on compliance with nursing staff made redundant, from national health the regulations. service trusts, during 2013 is estimated in the following table. NHS: Disclosure of Information In November 2013 there was a record full-time equivalent number of qualified nursing, midwifery and health Jim Shannon: To ask the Secretary of State for visiting staff in the NHS of 312,900. Health what steps the Government is taking to ensure that hospitals do not discourage whistleblowing by The 489 redundancies represent just 0.14% of the staff; and if he will take steps to issue a UK NHS-wide total qualified nursing workforce in hospitals and community health services. policy on that matter. [200954] The data used in this reply has been extracted from Dr Poulter: We have been absolutely clear that national the Electronic Staff Record (ESR) Data Warehouse health service staff who speak out in the interests of which is a monthly snap shot of the live ESR system. patient safety must be protected and listened to and This is the human resources and payroll system that that we expect all NHS organisations to have whistleblowing covers all NHS employees other than those working in policies in place that are compliant with the Public general practice, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Interest Disclosure Act 1998. On 5 March this year, the Trust and Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Secretary of State for Health, my right hon. Friend the Trust, and organisations to which functions have been Member for South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), wrote to transferred, such as local authorities. ESR was fully Chairs in NHS trusts and foundation trusts in England rolled out across the NHS in April 2008. The ESR data to express his strong views on this matter and to reiterate used in this response is not centrally validated and its the vital importance of fostering a culture of openness reliability is subject to local coding practice. and transparency in the NHS. Redundancies are identified as those individuals with In addition, the Department recently commissioned a reason for leaving of either voluntary or compulsory the Whistleblowing Helpline to update whistleblowing redundancy. Only those individuals coded as qualified guidance for the NHS. This revised guidance “Raising nurses, midwives or health visitors are included in the Concerns at Work—Whistleblowing Guidance for workers figures. Only redundancies from NHS Trusts are included and employers in Health and Social Care” was published in these figures; it is possible that qualified nurses were on 17 March 2014. This guidance transparently sets out also made redundant from other NHS bodies. the policies and processes for staff and employers in a single document and is available via their website or as a ESR reports based on the current organisation structure. hard copy. This guidance can be found on their website: This means that if organisations merged during 2013 it www.wbhelpline.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Raising- is possible that redundancies from, now defunct, Concerns-at-Work.pdf organisations are recorded as being from the newly Employment law and policy (of which whistleblowing created organisation. law and policy is a part), and health law and policy, are 2013 nursing redundancies devolved matters in Northern Ireland. In Scotland and Organisation (headcount) Wales employment law is not devolved, but health law is. Decisions about implementation of whistleblowing 2gether NHS Foundation Trust — policy in the NHS in each part of the United Kingdom Avon And Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership — are therefore a matter for each of those areas. NHS Trust Barking Havering And Redbridge University — Hospitals NHS Trust NHS: Negligence Barts Health NHS Trust — Birmingham And Solihull Mental Health NHS 12 Geraint Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Foundation Trust Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation — Health what funds have been provided from his Trust departmental expenditure limit to meet the costs of (a) Bolton NHS Foundation Trust 8 clinical negligence and (b) NHS litigation in this Bradford District Care Trust — financial year. [201347] Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust — Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust — Dr Poulter: £1.2 billion has been budgeted by the Calderdale And Huddersfield NHS Foundation — National Health Service Litigation Authority for the Trust current 2014-15 financial year. £1.1 billion of this is Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust 7 allocated to clinical negligence, by far the most significant Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS — proportion of which is funded by members’ contributions, Trust rather than allocated directly from the Department’s Camden And Islington NHS Foundation Trust — expenditure limit. Central Essex Community Services — Central London Community Healthcare NHS — Trust Nurses: Redundancy Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS — Foundation Trust Cheshire And Wirral Partnership NHS — Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Foundation Trust Health how many registered nurses were made City Healthcare Partnership — redundant by each NHS health trust in England in Colchester Hospital University NHS — 2013. [201092] Foundation Trust 25W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 26W

2013 nursing redundancies 2013 nursing redundancies Organisation (headcount) Organisation (headcount)

Countess Of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation — Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust — Trust Royal Liverpool And Broadgreen University — Coventry And Warwickshire Partnership NHS 6 Hospitals NHS Trust Trust Royal National Hospital For Rheumatic 6 Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 12 Disease NHS Foundation Trust Devon Partnership NHS Trust — Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS — Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation 7 Trust Trust Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS — Ealing Hospital NHS Trust — Foundation Trust East And North Hertfordshire NHS Trust — Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust — East Coast Community Healthcare Cic — Sandwell And West Birmingham Hospitals 5 NHS Trust East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust — Sheffield Health And Social Care NHS — East London NHS Foundation Trust — Foundation Trust Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children — Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation — NHS Foundation Trust Trust Guys And St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust — Community Health NHS Trust 5 Harrogate And District NHS Foundation Trust 6 Solent NHS Trust 7 Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust — South Essex Partnership University NHS — Homerton University Hospital NHS — Foundation Trust Foundation Trust South London And Maudsley NHS Foundation 6 Humber NHS Foundation Trust 6 Trust Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust — South London Healthcare NHS Trust — Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust — South Staffordshire And Shropshire Healthcare — Kent And Medway NHS And Social Care 5 NHS Foundation Trust Partnership Trust South West London And St Georges Mental — Kent Community Health NHS Trust 5 Health NHS Trust Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation — South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS 6 Trust Foundation Trust Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust — St Georges Healthcare NHS Trust — Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust 11 Staffordshire And Stoke On Trent Partnership — NHS Trust Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS — Foundation Trust Surrey And Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust — Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust — Sussex Community NHS Trust — Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust 5 Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust — Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation — The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust 5 Trust The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust 6 Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust — University College London Hospitals NHS — Liverpool Womens NHS Foundation Trust — Foundation Trust Locala Community Partnerships — University Hospitals Birmingham NHS — Foundation Trust Manchester Mental Health And Social Care 5 Trust Warrington And Halton Hospitals NHS — Foundation Trust Mersey Care NHS Trust — West Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust — Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust — York Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation — NHS Direct NHS Trust 139 Trust Norfolk And Norwich University Hospital — Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust — NHS Foundation Trust Total 489 Norfolk And Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust 31 “—“ Indicates fewer than 5. North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus — Note: North East London NHS Foundation Trust — Organisations not listed made no eligible redundancies during 2013. North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS — Source: Trust Electronic Staff Record Data Warehouse. Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust 6 Nursing and Midwifery Council Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS 26 Foundation Trust Northumberland Tyne And Wear NHS — Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Foundation Trust Health (1) if he will bring forward proposals to financially Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust — assist nurses employed by the NHS to pay the increased Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust — fee for the Nursing and Midwifery Council when they Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust — come into force later in 2014; [201093] Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust — (2) what discussions Ministers in his Department Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust — have had with the Nursing and Midwifery Council on Plymouth Community Healthcare Cic — its proposals to increase professional fees for nurses by Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust — £20 per annum later in 2014. [201094] Rotherham Doncaster And South Humber — NHS Foundation Trust Dr Poulter: The Nursing and Midwifery Council Royal Bournemouth And Christchurch — Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (NMC) is an independent body and it is therefore for Royal Devon And Exeter NHS Foundation — the NMC Council to determine the level of the annual Trust fee it charges for registration. On 26 March 2014, the 27W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 28W

NMC Council reviewed the level of this fee and agreed Norman Lamb: The following table provides details a proposal to increase it from £100 per annum to £120 of payments made to the devolved administrations in March 2015. The NMC is running a public consultation under the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) between 8 May and 31 July 2014, where its proposal is for the last three complete financial years. open to scrutiny. No decision on the proposed fee PPRS payments made by the Department of Health to the devolved increase has been made at present. administrations in resource terms Ministers keep the issue of professional regulation £000 under regular review and the Department has frequent Northern Ireland Scotland Wales contact with professional regulators, including the NMC. 2011-12 3,388.4 6,218.8 3,464.7 On 12 March 2014, I met with representatives of the 2012-13 2,998.8 7,562.1 4,077.5 NMC for a regular update meeting. This meeting was 2013-14 2,852.5 6,865.2 3,827.8 not specifically set up to discuss the NMC registration Source: fee, but during this meeting the NMC provided information Department of Health about its fee review process.

Parkinson’s Disease Plastic Surgery

Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for (1) what steps his Department is taking to ensure that Health how many NHS-funded cosmetic surgeries have clinicians making individual funding requests for been performed in each of the last four years; and what Parkinson’s disease medication are informed of the estimate he has made of the (a) number and (b) outcome within 40 days; and if he will make a statement; proportion of those surgeries which were not based on [200679] a mental health need. [201374] (2) what steps his Department is taking to reduce the time and resources that clinicians spend on administering Dr Poulter: This information is not available in the individual funding requests for treatments of Parkinson’s format requested. disease and other progressive conditions; and if he will make a statement; [200677] Public Health England (3) what recent assessment his Department has made of the (a) prevalence of additional health problems experienced by people with Parkinson’s Disease due to Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for delays in receiving Duodopa and (b) costs incurred by Health what (a) amount and (b) proportion of Public the NHS as a result of such delays; and if he will make a Health England’s marketing budget has been allocated statement. [200678] to each of the six Big Ambitions referred to in its 2014-15 business plan. [201129] Norman Lamb: We have made no such assessment. Jane Ellison: The core Public Health England (PHE) From April 2013, NHS England assumed responsibility marketing budget for 2014-15 is £53 million. The allocation for commissioning adult specialist neurosciences services, to each of the six big ambition areas is as follows: including the majority of services for patients with Parkinson’s disease, with some being the responsibility Budget for Percentage of of clinical commissioning groups. Ambition Campaign 2014-15 (£) total budget

NHS England has advised that it does not routinely Tobacco Smokefree 11,689,200 21.72 fund Duodopa (co-careldopa) for the treatment of Obesity Change 4 Life 9,360,000 17.39 Parkinson’s disease and is currently considering its clinical Dementia Vascular dementia 5,460,000 10.14 policy. programme and dementia Clinicians can submit individual funding requests for friends Best start Start4Life and Information 3,450,000 6.41 this treatment on behalf of their patients as per NHS in life Service for Parents England’s individual funding requests standard operating Alcohol Alcohol 2,000,000 3.72 procedure, which is at: Tuberculosis 00.0 www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/cp-04.pdf (TB) This process is monitored against the standard operating Total 31,959,200 59.38 procedure to ensure that referring clinicians are informed of outcomes in a timely manner. The current assessment of the evidence shows that a Once the commissioning position relating to this national marketing campaign on TB would not be a service area is agreed and service access criteria published, cost effective investment so there is no marketing budget NHS England has advised that the number of individual allocation to this ambition area. funding requests from clinicians may reduce. In addition to the individual campaign costs stated above an additional £3.3 million is also spent on call Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme centres and £2.6 million is also spent on infrastructure costs such as evaluation. The final budget will be subject Mr Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for to clearance by the Cabinet Office’s Efficiency and Health what payments his Department has made to the Reform Group. devolved administrations as a consequence of rebates PHE’s 2014-15 Marketing strategy is due for publication paid to it under the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation in early July and will provide more detailed information Scheme in each of the last three years. [200803] on the full marketing programme. 29W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 30W

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Dr Poulter: Revenue expenditure from the Department’s Health what (a) amount and (b) proportion of Public research and development budget is shown in the following Health England’s total budget has been allocated to (i) table: tobacco, (ii) obesity, (iii) alcohol, (iv) TB, (v) dementia and (vi) the Best Start in Life strategy for 2014-15. £ million [201130] 2009-10 885 Jane Ellison: Public Health England’s (PHE) financial 2010-11 960 reporting is currently based upon the directorates and 2011-12 952 teams around which their work is focused. The six areas 2012-13 985 of focus identified in the parliamentary questions are 2013-14 11,004 currently supported by individuals and teams across 2014-15 21,077 PHE’s various directorates (Operations, Health Protection, 1 Provisional. Health and Wellbeing, Knowledge etc.), so the total 2 Planned. cost of each of the above areas cannot currently be A budget figure for 2015-16 has not yet been set. This accurately provided. will happen as part of standard business planning later During the course of 2014-15, one of the priorities in the year. identified by PHE’s finance team is to enhance and Sexually Transmitted Infections tailor their inherited financial reporting arrangements so that it can report on their activities and priorities as Mr Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for well as its Directorates and teams. PHE will be able to Health (1) what progress has been made on the provide this information in the future, but it is unfortunately development of the HIV/STI national clinical audit; not available now. Once PHE has developed new financial and if he will make a statement; [201002] reporting arrangements they will ensure that this is published transparently. (2) what the current timetable is for the development of the HIV/STI national clinical audit; [201000] Radiotherapy (3) how many expressions of interest from eligible providers to develop the HIV/STI national clinical Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health audit NHS England has received to date. [201001] (1) with reference to the answer of 24 March 2014, Official Report, column 132W, on radiotherapy, what Jane Ellison: The Healthcare Quality Improvement reports he has received on the reasons NHS England Partnership (HQIP) commissions and manages the National has paid for Gamma Knife treatment at University Clinical Audit and Patient Outcomes Programme on College Hospital London (UCHL) for a patient with an behalf of NHS England. The HQIP has asked for acoustic neuroma referred to UCHL from Bournemouth expressions of interest from suitable providers who are and Poole Hospital; [200728] able to design and complete a one-year feasibility study to inform any future national clinical audit of HIV and (2) pursuant to the answer of 9 June 2014, Official sexually transmitted infections. The contract for the Report, column 61W, on radiotherapy, what reports he work will be awarded this summer. NHS England cannot has received of the reasons NHS England has paid for disclose the number of expressions of interest that have gamma knife treatment at University College Hospital been received at this stage as this is commercially sensitive London for a patient referred there from Plymouth information. Derriford Hospital by James Palmer, NHS England’s Clinical Director of Specialised Commissioning. Sugar [200731] Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Jane Ellison: For reasons of patient confidentiality, it Health pursuant to the answer of 12 June 2014, Official is not possible to comment explicitly on either case Report, column 293W, on sugar, what discussions he referred to. However, any primary care trust authorisations has had and what representations he has received on made for the gamma knife prior to 1 April 2013 were including sugar in the list of ingredients that companies honoured by NHS England and the invoice associated should work with caterers to reformulate in meals as with the agreed work was paid. University College part of the H4 pledge on Healthier Staff Restaurants; London Hospitals (UCLH) were required to forward and what response his Department gave in each such any referrals made after 1 April 2013 to NHS England, case. [201370] along the prescribed pathway, in accordance with the contract between the two. No invoices for work carried Jane Ellison: There have not been any discussions or out by Queen’s Square Radiotherapy Centre at its own representations made to the Secretary of State for Health, risk on behalf of UCLH have been paid by NHS my right hon. Friend the Member for South West England for referrals after 1 April 2013. Surrey (Mr Hunt), or any departmental officials, on including sugar in the list of ingredients that companies Research should work with caterers to reformulate in meals as part of the H4 Responsibility Deal pledge on Healthier Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Staff Restaurants. how much his Department has spent from its research There are 169 organisations currently signed up to and development budget over the last five years; and the H4 pledge which includes a requirement for employers how much such spending is planned for (a) 2014-15 to work with caterers to reformulate recipes to ensure and (b) 2015-16. [200997] staff meals are lower in fat, salt and energy. 31W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 32W

In addition, 11 catering companies have signed up to Lucy Powell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer take a range of actions to help people consume fewer what steps the Government is taking to ensure that calories, including through reformulation to reduce sugar childcare providers receive payments from National content. Savings and Investments on time. [201174]

Nicky Morgan: On 23 May, the Government published a further consultation on the delivery of child care TREASURY accounts within tax-free child care. The consultation will be open until 27 June and the Government will consider the responses alongside those to the first Bank Levy consultation before it makes its decision on the provision of child care accounts. Duncan Hames: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what revenues have been received under the Lucy Powell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer bank levy in each year since its introduction. [201157] what additional burdens the impact assessment identified for childcare providers operating tax-free Andrea Leadsom: The bank levy, a permanent tax on childcare scheme. [201210] banks’ balance sheet equity and liabilities, was introduced by this Government from 1 January 2011. Nicky Morgan: Information on burdens for child care It raised £1.6 billion in both 2011-12 and 2012-13. providers associated with the introduction of Tax-Free Childcare can be found in the Impact Assessment: Following a number of increases to the headline rate, the OBR now forecast it to raise £2.3 billion in 2013-14, https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ £2.7 billion in 2014-15 and £2.9 billion a year from attachment_data/file/318698/document2014-06-10-104244-1.pdf 2015-16. Coinage Chief Scientific Advisers Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to the answer of 1 April 2014, Official Mr Byrne: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Report, column 625W, on coinage, whether he has fixed how many meetings he has had with his Department’s the dates for the public consultation on the impact of Chief Scientific Adviser in the last 12 months. [200794] the introduction of a new one pound coin. [200779]

Andrea Leadsom: As was the case under previous Nicky Morgan: The Budget announced that the existing Administrations, details of internal meetings are not £1 coin will be replaced with a more modern and secure normally disclosed. design. After 30 years in circulation, the current coin has become vulnerable to counterfeiting. Children: Day Care There will be a public consultation this summer that will focus on how to manage impacts on industry and Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the other affected parties. The Government remains committed Exchequer what guidance and support (a) HM to this timetable, and to working with industry to Revenue and Customs and (b) National Savings and minimise costs and disruption. Investment will provide for parents who encounter IT The precise dates of the consultation period will be problems during the quarterly reconfiguration process published in due course. for tax-free childcare; and if he will make a statement. [200673] Credit: Interest Rates Nicky Morgan: On 23 May the Government published a further consultation on the delivery of child care Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Chancellor of the accounts within Tax-Free Childcare. The consultation Exchequer if he will take steps to mandate that APR will be open until 27 June and the Government will figures be displayed in cash terms. [200662] consider the responses alongside those to the first consultation before it makes its decision on the provision Andrea Leadsom: The Government believes it is of child care accounts. Following this decision the important for consumers to be able to compare the cost Government will work with stakeholders to develop of credit products easily. guidance to support parents, and assisted approaches The consumer credit directive (CCD) requires the will be provided to parents without access to the internet. APR to be stated in pre-contract credit information and in the credit agreement itself, as well as in advertising Lucy Powell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer where triggered. In addition, firms must state the total what guidance he has given on the role of employers in amount payable (TAP), which is the sum of the amount supporting the uptake and delivery of employer- borrowed and the total charge for credit (TCC). supported childcare. [201173] As the CCD is full harmonisation in the relevant areas, it is not open to member states to require disclosure Nicky Morgan: HM Revenue and Customs has published of the TCC in addition—although the consumer can extensive guidance to help employers run successful work this out as the difference between the TAP and the child care schemes, including the Employer Helpbook amount borrowed. Lenders can also include the TCC E18 ‘How you can help your employees with child care’. on a voluntary basis. 33W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 34W

As previously shared with the Public Accounts Andrea Leadsom: The Government has no plans to Committee, the Government raised the issue of how to alter the design or rules of the Equitable Life Payment present cost information with the European Commission Scheme, including those which relate to the level of as part of its current review into the implementation of payments. Decisions on the level of ex-gratia payments the CCD. took account of the fiscal situation and wider fairness concerns across all taxpayers. The payments for different Delegated Legislation types of policyholder were made on the basis of recommendations made by the Independent Commission Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the on Equitable Life Payments. Exchequer what steps his Department takes to ensure that delegated legislation brought forward by his Financial Markets Department is consistent with EU directives. [201212] Cathy Jamieson: To ask Chancellor of the Exchequer Nicky Morgan: In 2010, this Government committed what steps he is taking to improve regulation of the to ensuring the effective implementation of EU legislation UK securities market. [200646] so that British businesses are not put at a disadvantage relative to their European competitors. Andrea Leadsom: The Government has consistently This Department follows the Government’s Guiding taken action to improve regulation of financial markets Principles for EU legislation, which can be found at the since 2010. following link: The Government put in place a new architecture for https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ financial regulation through the Financial Services Act attachment_data/file/185626/bis-13-774-guiding-principles- 2012, with the aim of delivering stability, protecting for-eu-legislation.pdf consumers and enhancing the integrity of financial HM Treasury is committed to ensuring that no markets. The Financial Policy Committee in the Bank unnecessary legislative burdens are placed on UK businesses of England is responsible for protecting and enhancing when transposing EU law. financial stability, while the Prudential Regulation Authority is responsible for the prudential regulation of deposit-takers, Disciplinary Proceedings insurers and certain investment firms. The Financial Conduct Authority is responsible for protecting consumers, Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer promoting competition, and enhancing integrity in markets. (1) what proportion of staff within his Department who Following findings of attempted manipulation of have been subject to formal disciplinary proceedings in LIBOR in summer 2012, the Government took quick each of the last five financial years classed themselves action to make the administration of, and contribution as white British; [199894] to this key financial benchmark, a regulated activity. (2) what proportion of staff within his Department Furthermore, on 12 June 2014 the Government announced who have been dismissed following formal disciplinary further steps to raise standards of conduct in the financial proceedings in each of the last five financial years system with a joint review by the Treasury, the Bank of classed themselves as white British. [199916] England and the Financial Conduct Authority into the way wholesale financial markets operate. Led by Bank Andrea Leadsom: I refer the hon. Member to the of England Deputy Governor for Markets and Banking, answer given to her on 16 June 2014, Official Report, Minouche Shafik, the review will run for 12 months, column 433W, by the Minister for the Cabinet Office and will focus on those wholesale markets where the and Paymaster General, my right hon. Friend the Member bulk of concerns about misconduct have arisen-fixed for Horsham (Mr Maude). income, currency and commodity markets. The Terms of Reference for the Review have been published Dover Priory Station https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fair-and- effective-markets-review-terms-of-reference/fair-and-effective- Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer financial-markets-review-terms-of-reference how long he expects discussions to be ongoing between Mapeley, Network Rail and HM Revenue and Customs Financial Ombudsman Service on the sale of land on the western perimeter of the Priory Court site and the construction of new parking Sir Peter Bottomley: To ask the Chancellor of the facilities for Dover Priory railway station. [201340] Exchequer how much funding of the Financial Ombudsman Service came directly from the levy on the Mr Gauke: Previous replies have explained that further Office of Fair Trading licences on consumer credit discussions in relation to the land at Priory Court in firms in (a) 2011, (b) 2012 and (c) 2013; how this Dover are a matter for Mapeley who own the land. funding will be levied in future; and if he will make a While HMRC occupy the property under the STEPS statement. [200700] contract and will consider any reasonable proposals, resolution of commercial considerations are for Network Andrea Leadsom: The Financial Ombudsman Service Rail and Mapeley. (FOS) is an independent, non-governmental body and questions about its funding are a matter for the FOS or, Equitable Life Assurance Society: Compensation as the case may be, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), who approve the FOS budget and fee rules. This Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Chancellor of the question has been passed on to the FOS, and the FOS Exchequer if he will take steps to increase the compensation will reply directly to my hon. Friend by letter. A copy of paid to Equitable Life policyholders. [200648] the letter will be placed in the Library of the House. 35W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 36W

Financial Services These estimates are based on the Survey of Personal Incomes for which 2011-12 is the latest year available. Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Figures for 2008-09 are not currently available. Exchequer (1) what steps he is taking to improve regulation of the shadow banking sector; [200642] Insolvency (2) what assessment he has made of the effects of the shadow banking sector on the UK economy; [200643] Richard Fuller: To ask the Chancellor of the (3) what steps his Department is taking to ensure the Exchequer how many times HM Revenue and Customs stability of the shadow banking sector. [200644] has met with (a) the Ministry of Justice and (b) the Insolvency Service to discuss the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 reforms to Andrea Leadsom: When appropriately conducted, shadow insolvency litigation on creditors since 2012. [200898] banking can benefit the economy by increasing the availability of credit to a range of individuals or firms, Mr Gauke: HM Revenue and Customs regularly meet and provide a valuable alternative to bank funding. It with other Departments as a matter of course. provides credit and liquidity to the real economy and can improve efficiency and drive innovation in the financial system through firms developing expert knowledge in a Insurance: Unfair Practices particular area. However, the Government is aware of the risks shadow Jim Shannon: To ask the Chancellor of the banking activities pose to financial stability when things Exchequer what recent steps the Government is taking go wrong. The crisis showed that some shadow banking with banks and credit card companies to ensure PPI entities created pro-cyclical build-ups of leverage, did repayments are made in full. [201034] not fully transfer credit risk, were susceptible to rapid sell-offs, and were very complex. It also became clear Andrea Leadsom: It is important that consumers get that the shadow banking sector had very complex the redress which they are due. Ensuring that banks interconnections with the traditional banking system. provide appropriate redress for their customers is a matter for the independent regulator, the Financial Recognising the need to improve the transparency Conduct Authority (FCA) and supervision of the shadow banking sector, the Government has taken steps to improve the way shadow The Government is supportive of action taken by the banking entities are regulated. FCA to recompense customers for the mis-selling of payment protection insurance (PPI) and prevent cases Domestically, the Government has created new Financial of mis-selling in the future through regulatory action. Policy Committee (FPC) within the Bank of England The FCA has stated that it is keeping a close eye on how to ensure emerging risks and vulnerabilities across the the industry handles all PPI complaints and will be financial system as a whole are identified, monitored quick to challenge anything it thinks is unfair. and effectively addressed. In September last year, the Committee agreed as one of its medium term priorities I have asked the FCA to write to the Member in more the identification and management of potential systemic detail about action being taken in regard to PPI. A copy risks from shadow banking. of the response will be placed in the Library of the House. At the international level, the Government is actively supporting the effective regulation of the sector in EU policymaking, and the UK is instrumental in shaping Minimum Wage: Northern Ireland the global regulatory response at the Financial Stability Board. Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people are employed in the HM Revenue and Income Tax: Northern Ireland Customs national minimum wage enforcement team based in ; and how many complaints have been reeived by the Pay and Work Rights helpline relating to Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Northern Ireland-based employers in each year since Exchequer what change there was in the numbers of 2010. [200738] taxpayers in Northern Ireland who had employment income in the last four years for which figures are Mr Gauke: The Government takes the enforcement available. [201211] of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) very seriously. HMRC review every complaint that is referred to them Mr Gauke: Estimates for the number of taxpayers in by the Pay and Work Rights Helpline. In addition, by Northern Ireland with income from employment are collating and analysing data received from various sources, published in HMRC’s National Statistics Table 3.11 HMRC ensure targeted enforcement through robust which is available at the following internet address for risk assessment processes to identify employers across 2010-11 to 2011-12: the United Kingdom who are more likely to be not https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/income-and-tax- paying NMW. by-gender-region-and-country-2010-to-2011 HMRC deploys resources to risk, so work relating to Table 3.11 for 2009-10 and earlier can be found in the a specific geographical area may not always be undertaken internet address below from the National Archives website: by the NMW team based in that area. In addition, the http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20120609145917/ NMW Dynamic Response Team (DRT) provides a http://hmrc.gov.uk/stats/income_distribution/menu-by- multi-agency response to emerging risks, high profile year.htm#311 casework and compliance initiatives across the UK. 37W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 38W

Responsibility for the administration of the Pay and This report, along with accompanying tables, can be Work Rights Helpline (PWRH) sits with the Department found at: for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). At present, www.gov.uk/government/publications/help-to-buy-mortgage- the PWRH is not able to provide aggregated information guarantee-scheme-quarterly-statistics-october-2013-to-march- on calls relating to specific locations. 2014 The Government has also recently published statistics Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Chancellor of the on the completions supported by the Help to Buy: Exchequer what steps HM Revenue and Customs has equity loan scheme. Full statistics covering the period taken to to tackle the problem of employees being paid April 2013 to March 2014 have been published as well below the minimum wage in Northern Ireland. [200743] as the number of completions, by local authority, to April 2014: Mr Gauke: I refer the hon. Member to my answer www.gov.uk/government/publications/help-to-buy-equity- provided previously to his question of 30 April 2014, loan-scheme-and-help-to-buy-newbuy-statistics-april-2013-to- Official Report, column 725W. march-2014 www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/help-to-buy- equity-loan-scheme-monthly-statistics Money Advice Service and Financial Ombudsman Under both the Help to Buy: mortgage guarantee Service and the Help to Buy: equity loan schemes borrowers need to declare that the property will be their sole residence. Sir Peter Bottomley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the expected increase in the fees and levies on regulated consumer credit firms that will go towards the funding of the Revenue and Customs Money Advice Service and Financial Ombudsman Service in (a) 2015, (b) 2016 and (c) 2017 under the new Richard Fuller: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Financial Conduct Authority regulated fees and levies how many complaints have been made about HM Revenue regime. [200701] and Customs in each of the last five years; and how many such complaints related to mistakes in calculated Andrea Leadsom: The Financial Conduct Authority tax liability. [200897] (FCA) consumer credit regulatory regime is far better resourced and has wider objectives than the previous Mr Gauke: The following table shows the number of Office of Fair Trading (OFT) regime. The FCA is an complaints received by HM Revenue and Customs independent, non-governmental body, and it is entirely (excluding the VOA) for each of the years 2009-10 to funded by the fees it charges on the financial services 2013-14. The figure for 2013-14 will be published in the industry. As a result, specific questions around fees are HMRC Annual Report later this month. a matter for the FCA. Number of complaints The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) is funded by a combination of industry levy and case fees. The 2009-10 71406 FOS is an independent, non-Governmental body and 2010-11 76721 questions about its funding are a matter for the FOS or, 2011-12 74831 as the case may be, the FCA (who approve the FOS 2012-13 67956 budget and fee rules). The FOS budget is proposed by 2013-14 64729 FOS annually and approved by the FCA. The Money Advice Service’s (MAS) budget is proposed HMRC’s complaints database does not currently by MAS annually, based on demand for money and distinguish between complaints about mistakes in calculated debt advice, and approved by the FCA. Consumer tax liability from mistakes in other functions. HMRC is credit firms will pay the MAS levy once authorised by developing a robust process for learning from customers’ the FCA. The FCA has approved MAS’s 2014-15 budget, complaints which aims to reduce or eliminate mistakes but MAS’s budget for future years has not yet been made. determined.

Revenue and Customs: Northern Ireland Mortgages: Government Assistance Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Andrew George: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the last assessment was carried out of Exchequer how many applications for the Help to Buy the perceived community background of HM Revenue scheme have been received in respect of Cornwall and and Customs staff recruited in Northern Ireland in the the Isles of Scilly from applicants who (a) reside in last 10 years. [200993] Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and (b) do not reside in either place. [201367] Mr Gauke: HMRC assesses annually the community background information relating to its Northern Ireland Andrea Leadsom: The Government publishes quarterly staff. This is done as part of the annual reporting official statistics relating to the Help to Buy: mortgage arrangements to the Equality Commission for Northern guarantee scheme. The first of these were published on Ireland and helps inform HMRC’s Equality Analysis 29 May 2014. work and Northern Ireland Equality Scheme. 39W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 40W

Tax Avoidance Total number of persons prosecuted for tax evasion Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make it his policy that public 2010-11 372 sector organisations should not be allowed to be 2011-12 501 associated with tax avoidance schemes. [201172] 2012-13 739 2013-14 880 Mr Gauke: “Managing Public Money”, is published HMRC is not able to supply a time series of full year by HM Treasury and provides advice and guidance to prosecution decisions and convictions resulting from central Government on the use of public funds. It their criminal investigations for years up to 2009-10. confirms that public sector organisations should not Complete, comparable data is only available from 2010-11 engage in tax evasion, or tax avoidance. onwards. Tax Avoidance: Northern Ireland Telephone Services

Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Valerie Vaz: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Exchequer what assessment HM Revenue and Customs how many telephone lines with the prefix (a) 0845, (b) has made of changes in the extent of (a) fuel 0844 and (c) 0843 his Department (i) operates and (ii) smuggling and (b) other organised revenue avoidance sponsors; how many calls each such number has schemes in Northern Ireland in the last three years. received in the last 12 months; and whether alternative [200991] numbers charged at BT local rates are available in each such case. [201390] Nicky Morgan: Estimates of the non UK duty paid market for petrol and diesel fuels in Northern Ireland Andrea Leadsom: HM Treasury do not use 0845, are published in ‘Measuring Tax Gaps 2012-13’. The 0844 or 0830 telephone numbers. non UK duty paid estimate covers both the illicit market and cross border shopping. These estimates cannot be Wind Power disaggregated into its component parts or by the type of illicit activity e.g. through smuggling or other fraud. Mark Hendrick: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer The excise duty losses due to the non-UK duty paid how much was paid under the Enterprise Initiative diesel market for 2010-11 were £110 million and for Scheme to members of each qualifying wind farm 2011-12 were £120 million. The excise duty losses due to co-operative in each of the last three years. [201095] the petrol non-UK duty paid market for 2010-11 were £30 million and for 2011-12 were £30 million. Figures Nicky Morgan: The information requested could be for 2012-13 will be published in the autumn. provided only at disproportionate cost. The information on other organised revenue avoidance schemes in Northern Ireland is not available. The figures cannot be disaggregated by country. UK figures are INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT available from “Measuring Tax Gaps 2012-13”. The methodologies for producing the estimates are Developing Countries: Carbon Emissions provided in the ‘Methodological Annex for Measuring Tax Gaps 2013’. Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Both documents can be accessed via the following International Development if she will make it her page on the HMRC website: policy to support the adoption of a target to introduce instruments and incentives for investments in low- http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/statistics/tax-gaps.htm carbon solutions in infrastructure, industry and other sectors in Open Working Group negotiations on the Tax Evasion Sustainable Development Goals. [201117]

Mr Raab: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Justine Greening: We have already been clear that we how many prosecutions have been brought for tax agree with the importance of instruments and incentives offences in each year since 2008-09. [201005] for investments in low-carbon solutions in infrastructure and industry, and welcome consideration of these in the Mr Gauke: HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is Open Working Group discussions on the SDGs. not a prosecuting authority. Where cases do proceed to The final targets in the post-2015 development framework the criminal courts, the prosecution is carried out by the will however be subject to international negotiations in relevant independent prosecuting authority. This is the the United Nations, in which the UK will play an active Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in England and Wales, role. the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) in Scotland, and the Public Prosecution Service for Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (PPSNI). International Development if she will make it her Please note that figures for tax evasion exclude those policy to support the adoption of a target to integrate cases prosecuted for money laundering, other prohibitions climate adaptation and emissions reductions into and restrictions and other non-fiscal offences. development plans and poverty reduction strategies in We can provide the following information in respect Open Working Group negotiations on the Sustainable of totals of tax evasion prosecutions. Development Goals. [201118] 41W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 42W

Justine Greening: The UK supports integrating climate Finally, the tri-departmental conflict pool is providing change adaptation and mitigation strategies into support to increase co-operation and dialogue between development plans and poverty reduction strategies. the Governments and the public and private sectors of This language is included in the most recent draft goals both countries on trade liberalisation. and targets list released by the co-chairs of the Open Working Group (OWG) on 2 June. Indian Subcontinent The final targets in the post-2015 development framework will be subject to international negotiations in the United Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Nations, in which the UK will play an active role. International Development (1) what recent discussions she has had with regional organisations in Pakistan Developing Countries: Sanitation and neighbouring countries about honour killings; [200670] Naomi Long: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what recent discussions she has had with International Development what steps her Department non-governmental organisations in Pakistan and is taking to ensure that the post-2015 development neighbouring countries about honour killings; [200671] framework includes a sustainable development goal on (3) what recent discussions she has had with her water and sanitation that includes universal access to counterparts in Pakistan and neighbouring countries sanitation by 2030. [200860] about honour killings. [200672] Lynne Featherstone: The UK Government is committed Justine Greening: Following the brutal murder of to supporting 60 million people to gain access to sustainable Farzana Parveen in Lahore on 27 May, I raised this water, sanitation and/or hygiene services in the developing issue at various levels in the Government of Pakistan. world. We are on track to achieve this target. The Foreign Secretary and senior HMG officials in The UK supports the inclusion of universal access to Pakistan have also publically and privately condemned sanitation as a target under a water related goal. This the appalling crime of ‘honour killings’ and called for language is included in the most recent draft goals and immediate action to bring the culprits of the 27 May targets list released by the co-chairs of the Open Working attack to justice. Group (OWG) on 2 June. HMG regularly engages with the Government and The final targets in the post-2015 development framework civil society in Pakistan on women’s rights and violence will however be subject to international negotiations in against women, including so-called ’honour killings’. the United Nations, in which the UK will play an active Across DFID’s programmes in Pakistan we are helping role. women and girls to live healthy and secure lives. Girl Summit Kashmir Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development whether Ministers from the Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for devolved Administrations have been invited to the Girl International Development what (a) unilateral, (b) Summit co-hosted by the Prime Minister and UNICEF bilateral and (c) multilateral projects her Department is sponsoring in Kashmir. [200750] on 22 July 2014. [200766]

Justine Greening: I confirm that Ministers from the Mr Duncan: UK aid to Kashmir is largely delivered devolved Administrations are being invited to Girl Summit through national programmes in Pakistan and India 2014. which the UK helps fund. This includes support to promote economic growth, improve maternal and new India and Pakistan born health and increase access to education. The tri- departmental conflict pool also funds joint programmes in Kashmir, supporting conflict prevention and peace Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for building. International Development what programmes and projects her Department funds which aim to promote It is not possible to disaggregate our multilateral trade and transit between India and Pakistan. [200747] support to Kashmir.

Mr Duncan: Through the South Asia Regional Trade and Integration Programme, DFID is working with the World Bank and Asian Development Bank to promote FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE trade in the region. This includes support to modernise procedures and infrastructure at the Wagah border post Bahrain between India and Pakistan (to reduce transit times and business costs), and to develop an electricity connection Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign between the two countries. and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make In Pakistan, DFID is also supporting, through the representations to the Government of Bahrain about World Bank, the development of a regional trade strategy the death of Syed Mahmood. [200652] with India, advice to small and medium enterprises on cross-border trading, and innovative youth programmes Hugh Robertson: We are concerned about the death aimed at reducing trade barriers between Pakistan and of Syed Mahmood on 21 May 2014. The Ministry of India. Interior has launched an investigation and we await 43W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 44W their findings. We urge the Government of Bahrain to The UK has repeatedly called on the Iranian Government ensure the investigation is thorough, transparent and to end all persecution of individuals on the basis of timely. their faith, and to guarantee the human rights of all Iranians. Chief Scientific Advisers Iraq Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many meetings he has Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State had with his Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser in for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent the last 12 months. [200788] offers of assistance his Department has made to the Government of Iraq. [200992] Mr Swire: I have regular meetings with the Department’s chief scientific adviser in my capacity as Foreign and Hugh Robertson: The UK was the first to deploy a Commonwealth Office Science Champion. However, as team to assess the humanitarian situation following the was the case under previous Administrations, details of Islamic State in Iraq and Levant’s attack on Mosul. On these internal meetings are not normally disclosed. 14 June 2014 the Department for International Development (DFID) announced £3 million of emergency India and Pakistan assistance to help around 500,000 displaced Iraqis, and a further £2 million was allocated on 17 June. Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions Italy (a) he and (b) Ministers in his Department have had with their (i) Indian and (ii) Pakistani counterparts on Mr Winnick: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign the increase of trade and transit between the two and Commonwealth Affairs what recent complaints he countries. [200751] has received on the handling of correspondence on passport delays by HM ambassador to Italy. [201003] Mr Swire: Ministers engage regularly with their counterparts in both India and Pakistan to discuss Mr Lidington: I am not aware of complaints on the these and many other issues. We welcome the recent handling of correspondence by our ambassador in Rome. meeting between the countries two Prime Ministers in Passport renewal is the responsibility of Her Majesty’s Delhi and subsequent exchange of letters. Passport Office under the responsibility of Home Office Ministers. Any related correspondence received in the Iran Foreign and Commonwealth Office is therefore transferred to that Office for response. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has Peacekeeping Operations made any representations to the Iranian Government on (a) the need to respect trade union rights and Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign International Labour Organisation conventions and and Commonwealth Affairs which UN peacekeeping (b) the detention and abuse of Shahrokh Zamani. missions established since 1990 do not have a human [200641] rights mandate. [200874]

Hugh Robertson: Independent unions and labour Mark Simmonds: 21 out of 51 peacekeeping missions organisations have been heavily repressed in Iran, and established since 1990 did not include a human rights many members have been jailed or harassed. The UK mandate to monitor and intervene. Of these 21, only has repeatedly called on Iran to fulfil its international the Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara and domestic obligations to allow freedom of expression (MINURSO) is still in operation. to all Iranians. Human rights mandates or components in peacekeeping We are aware of the detention of Shahrokh Zamani, missions vary depending on the context, and are common a member of the Founding Board of the Syndicate of in newer peacekeeping missions. The UK Government Paint Workers of Tehran, who was sentenced to prison has supported these human rights mandates wherever for “acting against national security by establishing and possible. This is part of our broader efforts to mainstream or being a member of groups opposed to the system”. human rights into the UN’s peace and security work. The UK has called for Iran to release all political prisoners. South Asia

Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much funding he has made of the progress made by the President of his Department allocated to the Conflict Pool for South Iran towards granting greater civil rights to religious Asia in each of the last three years. [201188] minorities; and if he will make a statement. [200881] Mark Simmonds: The Conflict Pool is part of an Hugh Robertson: The UK welcomed President Rouhani’s HMT settlement which is distinct from departmental comments in 2013 that all Iranians, including religious budgets. It is tri-departmentally managed by the Foreign minorities, should “feel justice.” Unfortunately, there and Commonwealth Office, Ministry of Defence, and has been little noticeable change in the approach taken the Department for International Development. In financial by Iran’s security and judicial authorities. year 2013-14, the South Asia allocation was £20 million. 45W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 46W

In the two preceding years, it was £15.5 million per James Brokenshire: No Minister or at annum. The allocation for this financial year will be laid the Home Office authorised the release of information before Parliament shortly in a written ministerial statement. about the forthcoming proscription to The Sun newspaper. Written Questions I have written in response to the point of order reiterating that we take parliamentary business very Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for seriously and always seek to follow Mr Speaker’s preference Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many that the House is informed first of the ’s parliamentary questions tabled to his Department in intention to proscribe terrorist groups. This was our the last parliamentary Session did not receive a substantive intent on this occasion. answer by the time of the 2014 prorogation; and when each such question was first tabled. [200591] Driving Offences: Insurance Mr Lidington: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office received 2,331 Commons written questions in the 2013-14 Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Session. All received a substantive answer before Home Department how many vehicles were seized by Prorogation. Questions tabled just before Prorogation, the police as a result of being driven without insurance which had invalid notice periods, were not able to be in (a) Dartford constituency and (b) England and answered. Wales in each of the last 10 years. [201324]

Damian Green: The Home Office does not hold this information. HOME DEPARTMENT The police have the power under the Road Traffic Act Asylum (1988) to seize vehicles driven without insurance. Enforcement of vehicle seizures is an operational matter Dr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for the for the police. Home Department what steps she is taking to speed up claims by asylum seekers. [200219] Entry Clearances Karen Bradley: Claims for asylum are increasing. In 2013 the number of asylum applications within the EU Mr MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for the was the highest it has been since 2002. The UK has Home Department how many family visas were experienced an increase of 30% between 2010 and 2013— granted (a) in each year since 2011 and (b) in the with an 8% increase between 2012 and 2013 alone. current year up to the latest available quarter for which We are committed to resolving these quickly, while figures are available; and what the (i) category of family continuing to improve the quality of our decision-making, visa and (ii) UK nation of residence of the sponsor of and we are making changes to our processes and each such visa was. [201341] management to make sure we do so. Bovine Tuberculosis Karen Bradley: The available information requested is given in the following table: Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Family entry clearance visas issued, by category. the Home Department what discussions her Q1 2014 Department has had with the National Farmers’ union (January on the details of the injunction relating to protestor Visa category 2011 2012 2013 to March) activities around the badger culls scheduled to take Family: Partner 33,496 30,411 23,557 6,825 place in Gloucestershire and Somerset in 2014. [200838] Family: Child 97 85 73 16 Family: Other 4,306 3,710 4,233 1,591 Damian Green: Home Office officials have had discussions Family: Partner (for 1,336 1,097 1,084 176 with officials from the Department for Environment, immediate Food and Rural Affairs and the National Farmers’ settlement) Union about the use of civil injunctions, in the context Family: Child (for 4,596 4,001 3,844 726 immediate of a broader engagement with both organisations, on settlement) the badger culling activity for 2014. Family: Other (for 1,892 1,588 899 296 Home Office officials have had discussions with officials immediate from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural settlement) Affairs and the National Farmers’ Union about the use of civil injunctions, in the context of a broader engagement Total 45,723 40,892 33,690 9,630 with both organisations, on the badger culling activity Source: Immigration Statistics, January - March 2014, Before Entry Volume 2, table for 2014. be_01_q Disclosure of Information The Home Office publishes quarterly statistics on entry clearance visa grants by category in table be_01_q Diana Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for the (Before Entry tables volume 2) within the ‘Immigration Home Department who within her Department authorised Statistics’ release. The numbers are broken down by the passing of information about forthcoming proscription nationality in table be_06_q_f (Before Entry tables volume orders to The Sun newspaper; and whether that 4). It is not possible to separately identify those granted authorisation was agreed by a Minister or special adviser visas under the old family rules and those granted visas in her Department. [201134] under new family rules implemented on 9 July 2012. 47W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 48W

A copy of the latest release, ‘Immigration Statistics places of worship takes place through local registration January - March 2014’ is available from the Library of services attached to local authorities and they are expected the House and from: to adhere to the guidance. https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office/ Modern Slavery Bill series/immigration-statistics-quarterly-release The figures provided relate to family members issued Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for the visas in the family immigration route. Statistics on the Home Department whether she expects to respond to dependants of migrants issued visas in other routes, the recommendations of the Report by the Joint such as the Points Based System, can be found within Committee on the Draft Modern Slavery Bill by the the published data at the above link. time of Second Reading of that Bill. [201114] The information requested in part (ii) on the UK Karen Bradley: The Government’s response to the nation of residence of the sponsor of each of the family report from the Joint Committee on the draft Modern visas of interest is not readily available and could be Slavery Bill was published on 10 June 2014. Copies of obtained only at disproportionate cost. Furthermore, the report are available in the House Library. The not all sponsors are based in the UK and not all response was also published on the gov.uk website: individuals granted a visa in the family route have a sponsor. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/draft-modern- slavery-bill--2 Police Community Support Officers Marriage Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for the Steve McCabe: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police community support Home Department what guidance her Department has officers there were in (a) Coventry, (b) Coventry North given to local authorities about churches and same sex East constituency, (c) the West Midlands and (d) marriage. [198732] England in each of the last five years. [201195]

Karen Bradley: Guidance on how to certify a building Damian Green: The following table contains the requested for religious worship and register for the solemnization data for police community support officers in: of marriages was issued on 18 February 2014 by the (a) Coventry Basic Command Unit, from 31 March 2009 to General Register Office and is available at: 31 March 2011. Figures at basic command unit level ceased to be collected from then to reduce the administrative burden on the https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ police. attachment_data/file/281332/D0550_F78L.pdf (b) figures for Coventry North East constituency are not The guidance sets out the different options that are collected by the Home Office. available for places of worship and registration for the (c) (d) The West Midlands police force, the West Midlands solemnisation of marriage. Registration of individual region and England, from 31 March 2009 to 30 September 2013.

Number of full-time equivalent1 police community support officers in Coventry2, West Midlands and England, 2009-13 Coventry Basic Command Unit West Midlands Police Force West Midlands Region3 England

31 March 20094 107 812 1,463 15,802 31 March 20104 106 811 1,466 16,200 31 March 2011 100 758 1,395 15,134 31 March 2012 — 711 1,300 13,578 31 March 2013 — 681 1,255 13,136 30 September 20135 — 656 1,213 12,425 1 This table contains full-time equivalent figures that have been presented to the nearest whole number. 2 Figures at basic command unit level ceased to be collected from 31 March 2012 following Lord Wasserman’s recommendation that the administrative burden on police forces be reduced. 3 West Midlands Region includes the following police forces: Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Mercia and West Midlands. 4 Figures for Coventry basic command unit for 31 March 2009, 2010 and 2011 are the sum of West Midlands M1, West Midlands M2 and West Midlands M3 basic command units. 5 Latest published figures. Source: Home Office

Radicalism they understand the threat of extremism and are equipped to deal with it effectively. This is done through regular : To ask the Secretary of State for the regional events, issuing briefings on specific issues, and Home Department what guidance her Department has sharing best practice across different authorities. The provided to local authorities (a) to help understand police, including police prevent co-ordinators, also work the threat from extremism and (b) relating to statutory closely with local authorities and share appropriate powers available to them to challenge extremist information with them. speakers. [199827] The Home Office issued advice in 2013 to help local authority prevent co-ordinators manage the challenges Karen Bradley: The Home Office provides ongoing posed by extremist speakers. This included an overview support for local authority prevent co-ordinators funded of the duties placed upon public bodies under the by the Home Office in priority areas (currently 30 local Equalities Act 2010 and the regulations that events authorities, based on assessment of risk), to ensure that must comply with. 49W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 50W

Additionally, the Department for Communities and John Thurso: The House of Commons has two Audit Local Government gave Blackburn with Darwen borough Committees with the same membership, one for each of council and Luton borough council funding to lead a its Estimates: the Administration Estimate Audit Committee national special interest group of local authorities across (AEAC) and the Members Estimate Audit Committee England affected by the activities of the English Defence (MEAC). The House of Commons Administration League and similar groups, which has supported them Estimate covers the staff of the House and its running in sharing knowledge about what works best in tackling costs (the “House of Commons Service”). The Members extremist groups. Estimate covers certain expenditure relating to members such as members pensions and “Short money”. Sovereignty: Scotland Information about the committees’ activities is recorded on the basis of financial year, rather than parliamentary Eric Joyce: To ask the Secretary of State for the sessions. Both committees met six times during the Home Department whether any UK citizens would financial year 2013–14. Committee members’ attendance involuntarily lose resident citizenship as a result of at these meetings is set out, and was the same for both Scottish independence. [198712] committees.

Karen Bradley: In the event of a vote for independence, Member Total number of meetings attended decisions about UK citizenship would rest with the UK Dame Janet Gaymer DBE (Chair) 3/3 Government; the basis for entitlement to Scottish citizenship Alex Jablonowski (Chair) 3/3 would be for the Government of an independent Scottish Stephen Brooker 6/6 state to decide. Angela Eagle MP 0/6 The UK has historically been tolerant of plural Right hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst MP 6/6 nationalities, and therefore it is likely that it would be John Thurso MP 5/6 possible for an individual to hold both British and Barbara Scott 5/6 Scottish citizenship. However, under current rules, British citizens living outside the UK cannot pass their British Information on previous financial years is in the nationality on more than one generation. So, the children committees’ annual reports which are at: of British citizens living in an independent Scotland http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a- would be British citizens, but their children and subsequent z/other-committees/administration-estimate-audit/publications/ generations would not be. http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a- The Government of the continuing UK would also z/other-committees/members-estimate-audit/publications/ need to consider whether all British citizens living in Individual members’ attendance has been recorded in Scotland could retain their British citizenship upon the annual reports only since financial year 2011–12. independence. This cannot be guaranteed and could be For earlier years this can be derived from the minutes of dependent on any residence requirements or proof of the meetings, which are also available on the Parliament affinity to the continuing UK. It is not possible to website. predict now what the decision of a future government of the continuing UK might be in this area. Palace of Westminster

Mark Hendrick: To ask the hon. Member for HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, representing the House of Commons Commission, what the cost to Clerk of the House date has been of the contract for the Independent Assessment of Options to Take Forward a Restoration Mr Simon Burns: To ask the hon. Member for and Renewal Programme for the Palace of Westminster Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, representing awarded to Deloitte Real Estate and AECOM together the House of Commons Commission, what the criteria with HOK in December 2013. [201103] were for the choice of members of the panel of selection to consider the appointment of the next Clerk John Thurso: The full cost of the Independent Options of the House and Chief Executive; and who selected Appraisal is expected to be £2,423,000, including VAT. those members. [201113] The cost incurred to 18 June 2014 was £2,213,000, John Thurso: The selection panel that will consider including VAT, and a sum accrued but not yet invoiced. the appointment of the next Clerk of the House was The cost is shared 60:40 between the House of Commons chosen by Mr Speaker and its composition was considered and the House of Lords. by the House of Commons Commission at its meeting on 16 June. The criteria for selection of panel members included party balance, gender balance and the need for ATTORNEY-GENERAL external independent input. Committees Crime

Mr Chope: To ask the hon. Member for Caithness, Emily Thornberry: To ask the Attorney-General if he Sutherland and Easter Ross, representing the House of will place in the Library the numbers of cases of (a) Commons Commission, how many meetings of the rape, (b) domestic violence, (c) child abuse and (d) Audit Committees has been held in each of the previous human trafficking referred by each police force in sessions of the current Parliament; and how many England and Wales to each regional division of the meetings each member has attended. [201083] Crown Prosecution Service in 2013. [201071] 51W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 52W

The Solicitor-General: Tables have been deposited in discussing with the incoming UKTI chief executive the Library of the House showing the number of requests shortly how best UKTI posts abroad can work even for a charging decision referred to the CPS from each closer with their counterparts in InvestNl. police force split by the categories requested. Telephone Services Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Attorney-General what Ireland how many telephone lines with the prefix (a) estimate he has made of the proportion of cases of 0845, (b) 0844 and (c) 0843 her Department (i) operates domestic and sexual violence that were prosecuted in and (ii) sponsors; how many calls each such number has each of the last five years; and what steps he is taking to received in the last 12 months; and whether alternative increase the prosecution rate for such crimes. [201158] numbers charged at BT local rates are available in each such case. [201388] The Solicitor-General: The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has no data on the total number of incidents of Mrs Villiers: My Department operates one telephone domestic violence and sexual violence that have occurred line with the prefix 0844 for the purpose of updating in each of the last five years and is unable, therefore, to staff in the event of an emergency situation. Details of provide an answer to the first part of the question. the number of calls to this line are not recorded and no Increasing the number of rape convictions continues alternative number is available at the BT local rate. My to be a priority for the CPS. On 6 June 2014, a Rape Department does not operate or sponsor any telephone Action Plan was jointly published by the police and lines with the prefix 0845 or 0843. CPS which sets out a series of actions designed to improve the criminal justice response in rape cases. This Terrorism followed a Rape National Scrutiny Panel led by the Director of Public Prosecutions and the National Policing Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for lead for rape, which considered the investigation and Northern Ireland with reference to the answer of 1 prosecution of rape cases including their referral from May 2014, Official Report, column 762W, on terrorism, the police to the CPS. The prosecution of domestic what steps she is taking to recover information for the violence also remains a high priority for the CPS and period 1987-97 for which records could not be found; prosecutors receive regular training, and are provided and if she will make a statement. [199283] with relevant guidance. The Rape Action Plan can be found on the CPS website at: Mrs Villiers: The review of departmental records I http://www.cps.gov.uk/publications/equality/vaw/ ordered in May is ongoing. rape_action_plan.pdf This includes seeking information on the use of the Royal Prerogative of Mercy (RPM) for the years 1987 to 1997 from Departments where relevant material might NORTHERN IRELAND be held. Tribunal of Inquiry Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland who the beneficiaries in Northern Ireland of the Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State Royal Prerogative of Mercy granted by means of a for Northern Ireland whether invoices for legal or other Warrant under the Royal Sign Manual were in the last work carried out in connection with the Savile Inquiry 25 years; and if she will make a statement. [200854] have been submitted for payment since January 2013. [200995] Mrs Villiers: As the hon. Member is aware, the assessment of my Department is that to release the names of Mrs Villiers: No invoices have been submitted for individuals granted the RPM years ago would not be payment in respect of legal work in connection with the appropriate, given the time that has passed since the Saville Inquiry. An invoice was submitted in March RPM was last used and the potential legal issues this 2013 for hosting of the inquiry website. would raise. There are, of course, means by which names of RPM recipients become public, including in Overseas Trade the course of legal proceedings, which is a matter for the courts. Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what discussions she has had with World War I her ministerial colleagues at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on how the UK’s overseas posts Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for may be used more effectively to promote Northern Northern Ireland what steps she is taking to support the Ireland trade and investment. [200760] progress of the First World War legacy project in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement. [200782] Mrs Villiers: I have regular discussions with ministerial colleagues, including in the Foreign and Commonwealth Mrs Villiers: The sits on the Office, on the importance of promoting Northern Ireland Department for Culture, Media and Sport Programme trade and investment. Board for First World War Centenary commemorations Our embassies abroad regularly work with InvestNl and plays a coordination role in ensuring the Government’s and the Northern Ireland Executive to assist with trade programme for the First World War commemorations missions led by Northern Ireland Ministers. I shall be is implemented in Northern Ireland in a manner that 53W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 54W promotes reconciliation and enhances prospects for a effects of membership of the EU on jobs in (a) Glasgow peaceful, shared future. This includes plans to implement North West constituency, (b) Glasgow and (c) Scotland. the Government’s commemorative paving stones project [200756] in the home towns of Victoria Cross recipients. I am working closely with the Irish Government to David Mundell: The Government does not collate participate in a series of joint commemoration events figures for the number of jobs in Scotland that depend for the centenary of the First World War, and the wider on UK membership of the EU. However, independent decade of centenaries. analysis published by the Centre for Economics and Business Research in March 2014 suggested that, in My officials also provide support for local centenary 2011, approximately 335,000 jobs in Scotland were commemoration plans by sitting on, and working closely associated with Scottish exports to the EU. The analysis with, the Northern Ireland First World War Centenary was not broken down to the level of individual UK Committee chaired by the right hon. Member for Lagan cities or by parliamentary constituency. Valley (Mr Donaldson). I receive regular updates on this work and lend it my full support. John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent estimate he has made of the level of investment in (a) Glasgow North West constituency, PRIME MINISTER (b) Glasgow and (c) Scotland that resulted from EU membership in each of the last five years. [200767] Climate Change: International Cooperation David Mundell: The Government does not collate Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Prime Minister if he will figures for the level of investment in Scotland that attend (a) Ban Ki Moon’s Climate Summit in results from UK membership of the EU. September 2014 in New York and (b) the European Council meeting in October 2014 to finalise the EU’s Jim Sheridan: To ask the Secretary of State for climate and energy goals for 2030. [201332] Scotland what assessment he has made of the net benefit to people in Scotland of the UK’s membership The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to the of the EU. [201064] answer I gave to the hon. Member for Brighton, Pavilion (Caroline Lucas) on 11 June 2014, Official Report, David Mundell: The Government does not collate column 176W. data which would allow calculation of a net benefit to It is my normal practice to attend Heads of Government the people of Scotland arising from the UK’s membership EU Council meetings. of the EU. However, independent analysis published by the Centre for Economics and Business Research in March 2014 suggested that, in 2011, approximately 335,000 jobs in Scotland were associated with Scottish SCOTLAND exports to the EU. Official Visits

Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for CABINET OFFICE Scotland what visits each of the Ministers in his Department have made since January 2013; and what Business Premises: West Midlands the purpose of each such visit was. [200493]

David Mundell: Details of Ministers’ visits are published Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet quarterly and can be found at: Office how many small and medium-sized enterprises have premises in (a) Coventry North East constituency, https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ministers- transparency-publications (b) Coventry and (c) the West Midlands. [201191] Public Expenditure Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland asked the authority to reply. what recent estimate his Department has made of the Letter from Peter Fullerton: potential effect of the adjusted funding arrangement in On behalf of the Director General for the Office for National the Scotland Bill on per capita spending in Scotland. Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary [201239] Question asking the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many small and medium sized enterprises have premises in a) Coventry David Mundell: The Scotland Act 2012 provides the North East constituency b) Coventry and c) West Midlands. Scottish Government and Parliament with new tax and [201191] borrowing powers. The effect of these powers on public The table below has been produced using extracts from the spending in Scotland will therefore depend on the decisions Inter Departmental Business Register (IDBR). It shows the count taken by the Scottish Government and Parliament. of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs are defined as enterprises with employment of less than 250) with premises in a) UK Membership of EU Coventry North East constituency b) Coventry and c) West Midlands in 2013. The figures in the table have been rounded to protect confidentiality. Please note that these numbers do not John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for include very small businesses, typically those below the threshold Scotland what recent assessment he has made of the for VAT and PAYE. 55W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 56W

Count of small and medium sized enterprises with premises in a) As for the original question, information on contracts that do Coventry North East constituency, b) Coventry, and c) West not guarantee a minimum number of hours is available from an Midlands, 2013 ONS survey of businesses carried out in January 2014. Information Number is not available for earlier years. The business survey showed that the industry which made greatest use of these contracts was North East Coventry 2,135 Accommodation and Food Services for each of the following Coventry 7,355 measures: West Midlands 171,025 proportion of businesses using these contracts (45 per cent); number of contracts (358,000); and Conditions of Employment proportion of workforce on these contracts (19 per cent).

Chris Ruane: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office which sector of the economy made greatest use Debts of employee contracts that do not guarantee a minimum number of hours in (a) 2010 and (b) the most recent year for which information is available. Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Minister for the [201281] Cabinet Office what change there has been in the level of household (a) borrowing and (b) debt since May Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the 2010. [200994] responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Letter from Glen Watson: responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have As Director General for the Office for National Statistics asked the authority to reply. (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question Letter from Glen Watson: asking the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions which sector of the economy made greatest use of employee contracts that do As Director General for the Office for National Statistics (ONS), not guarantee a minimum number of hours in (a) 2010 and (b) I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking the most recent year for which information is available. (201281) the Minister for the Cabinet Office what change there has been in Estimates of the numbers and characteristics of people in the level of household (a) borrowing and (b) debt since May 2010. employment on zero-hours contracts are available from the Labour (200994) Force Survey (LFS), a survey of people resident in households. The Office for National Statistics publishes details of the The LFS asks people in employment if their job has any flexible combined financial liabilities of households and non-profit institutions working arrangements and, if so, to identify them from a list of serving households (NPISH). NPISH is a relatively small contributor ″ ″ employment patterns. Zero-hours contract is listed and is described to the sector. The most recent analyses can be found in tables A53 as a contract ‘where a person is not contracted to work a set and A64 of the United Kingdom Economic Accounts (UKEA) number of hours, and is only paid for the number of hours that 2013 Q4, published on 28 March 2014. The UKEA is available on they actually work’. the National Statistics web site at: Further to this, in January 2014 the ONS undertook a survey http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/naa1-rd/united-kingdom- of businesses to obtain an employer-based estimate to complement economic-accounts/q4-2013/index.html the existing LFS employee-based figure. Results from this survey were published on 30 April 2014: Household ‘debt’ can be interpreted as the accumulated ‘Total http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/lmac/contracts-with-no- financial liabilities’ of the household and NPISH sector. These guaranteed-hours/zero-hours-contracts/art-zero-hours.html are predominantly made up of short and long term loans. The UKEA shows that for households and NPISH, the combined This adopted a slightly different definition to the LFS, and ‘Total financial liabilities’ in 2013 Q4 was £1,555.0 billion. This reported on the number of employee contracts that do not compares with a 2010 Q2 figure of £1,530.8 billion. Household guarantee a minimum number of hours, which provided work in and NPISH ‘Total financial liabilities’ have, therefore, risen £24.2 the survey reference period. This estimate includes, but is not billion between 2012 Q2 and 2013 Q4. exclusively, “zero-hours contracts” and covers some other contract types that do not guarantee a minimum number of hours. Household ‘borrowing’ can be interpreted as the ‘Net lending or borrowing’ of the sector. This measures the acquisition of According to the LFS for the three-month period October to ‘Total financial assets’ less ‘Total financial liabilities’ by the household December 2013, there were an estimated 583,000 people on a and NPISH sector within a period. As such, it is not a level but a zero-hours contract in the UK. For the ONS business survey, current budget of the household account. there were 1.4 million employee contracts that did not guarantee a minimum number of hours, which provided work in the survey If a household is a net lender it has acquired more financial reference period of the fortnight beginning 20 January 2014. This assets than financial liabilities in that period. It is effectively, is higher than the LFS figure for a number of reasons: saving. Likewise, if a household is a net borrower it has acquired more financial liabilities than financial assets in that period. In i. employers and employees will have differing perceptions and this instance it is overspending and effectively adding to its debt. awareness about the types of employment contracts used; ii. the employer survey will count employee contracts, not The UKEA shows that the combined net borrowing in 2013 people, and will provide higher estimates (as one person can have Q4 was £4.3 billion, meaning that the household and NPISH more than one contract); sector increased its debt on the quarter. The comparable data in 2010 Q2 saw the sector as net lenders of £6.5 billion, meaning in iii. employers in the business survey may report multiple contracts that quarter it reduced its debt. These data are only relative to the for each job; quarter prior. In the period between 2010 Q2 and 2013 Q4, the iv. the questions asked of respondents differed slightly, with household and NPISH sector were both net lenders and net the business survey asking about contracts not guaranteeing any borrowers on a number of occasions. hours, while the LFS question uses the term “zero-hours contracts”; Alternative data for household debt for Great Britain can be v. the LFS includes all people in employment (including the obtained from the ONS’ Wealth and Assets survey. Data are self-employed) while the business survey only includes employees. currently available for the periods 2008/10 - 2010/12. 57W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 58W

Employment: Dartford Letter from Peter Fullerton, dated June 2014: On behalf of the Director General for the Office for National Gareth Johnson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Office what assessment he has made of the number of Question asking the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many employed people worked from home in each of the last people in Dartford constituency in employment in each five years. (201033) of the last five years. [201322] Estimates of home workers are available from the Annual Population Survey (APS), a survey of people resident in households Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the in the UK. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have The APS follows the International Labour Organisation (ILO) asked the authority to reply. definition of employment and then asks respondents who are Letter from Glen Watson, dated June 2014: employees, self-employed, or unpaid family workers whether they work mainly: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question (1) in their own home; asking about the number of people in Dartford constituency in (2) in the same grounds or building as their home; employment in each of the last five years. (201322) The ONS compiles Labour Market Statistics for areas below (3) in different places using home as a base; the UK following International Labour Organisation (ILO) definitions (4) Somewhere quite separate from home. using the Annual Population Survey (APS). Those responding either 1, 2 or 3 are classified as ‘home Table 1 shows the number of people aged 16 years and over workers’. who were employed in Dartford constituency. These estimates are compiled from APS interviews held during the period April 2013 The table provided contains estimates for the total number of to March 2014, the latest available period and the 12 month persons in employment who are defined as home workers for the period ending in March for each of the previous four years. period January to December 2009 to 2013. As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject to a margin of uncertainty. As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject It is estimated that the true value for the total number of home to a margin of uncertainty. A guide to the quality of the estimates workers is likely to be within 2 per cent of the estimate given. is given in the table. Number of people in employment as home workers January to National and local area estimates for many labour market December each year, 2009-13 United Kingdom statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant count are available on the NOMIS website at: As a percentage of Number of home all people in http://www.nomisweb.co.uk workers (Thousand) employment

Table 1: Number of people aged 16 years and over employed in 2009 3,673 12.8 Dartford constituency 2010 3,671 12.8 12 months ending March: Employment level (Thousand) 2011 3,777 13.1 2010 51 2012 3,951 13.6 2011 47 2013 4,008 13.6 2012 51 Source: 2013 49 Annual Population Survey (APS) 20141 ***52 1 Coefficients of Variation have been calculated for the latest period as an indication of the quality of the estimates. See Guide to Quality as follows. Self-employed: Young People Guide to Quality: The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of an estimate, the smaller the CV value the higher the quality. The true value is likely to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an estimate of 200 Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Minister for the with a CV of 5% we would expect the population total to be within Cabinet Office how many and what proportion of 16 to the range 180-220. 24 year olds declared themselves self-employed in each Key: year between 2008 and 2013. [201337] *0≤ CV<5%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered precise ** 5 ≤ CV <10%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered reasonably precise Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the *** 10 ≤ CV <20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered acceptable responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have **** CV ≤ 20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered too asked the authority to reply. unreliable for practical purposes CV = Coefficient of Variation Letter from Peter Fullerton, dated June 2014: Source: On behalf of the Director General for the Office for National Annual Population Survey Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation Homeworking and Skills how many and what proportion of 16 to 24 year olds declared themselves self-employed in each year between 2008 and 2013. (201337) Jim Shannon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many employed people worked from home The table provides estimates from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) for the number and proportion of people aged 16 to 24 in each of the last five years. [201033] who report themselves as self-employed. Estimates are the period January to March 2008 to 2014 and are not seasonally adjusted. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the As with any sample survey, estimates from the LFS are subject responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have to a margin of uncertainty. These are indicated by the guide to asked the authority to reply. quality in the table. 59W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 60W

Number of self-employed people aged 16 to 24. Three months ending Table 1 shows the number of females aged 18 years and over March each year, 2008-14. United Kingdom, not seasonally adjusted claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for more than 12 months since All aged 16-24 May 2010 to May 2014, the latest period available. Self-employed As a percentage of all National and local area estimates for many labour market (Thousand) people in age group statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant 2008 148 2.0 count are available on the NOMIS website at: 2009 152 2.1 http://www.nomisweb.co.uk 2010 165 2.3 Table 1: Number1 of females aged 18 years and over claiming jobseeker’s 2011 169 2.3 allowance for more than 12 months 2012 173 2.4 Number of claimants (thousand— 2013 166 2.3 seasonally adjusted) 2014 185 **2.6 2010 Guide to Quality: May 55.8 The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of an estimate, the smaller the CV value the higher the quality. The true value is likely June 56.6 to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an estimate of 200 July 56.5 with a CV of 5% we would expect the population total to be within August 58.2 the range 180-220. September 59.2 Key: October 59.1 *0≤ CV <5%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered November 58.6 precise ** 5 ≤ CV <10%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered December 57.9 reasonably precise ≤ *** 10 CV <20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered 2011 acceptable **** CV ≤ 20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered too January 55.7 unreliable for practical purposes February 55.4 CV = Coefficient of Variation March 55.7 Source: April 55.9 Labour Force Survey. May 55.9 Shared Services Connected June 56.3 July 60.6 August 64.2 Paul Blomfield: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet September 67.5 Office what recent estimate he has made of potential October 71.9 savings to the public purse from the Shared Services November 77.0 Connected Ltd venture. [200758] December 83.0

Mr Maude: There has been cross-party agreement on 2012 the need for Shared Services for a decade but until recently all too little was achieved. January 91.5 February 100.3 Independent Shared Service Centres will deliver a March 108.8 lower cost better quality of service, helping us to deliver April 117.7 a faster, smaller and more unified Civil Service. May 120.9 Shared Service Connected Ltd will contribute to the June 125.8 savings delivered to the taxpayer by the transformation July 128.2 of back office functions, which will total over £400 August 130.0 million by 2015-16. September 131.7 October 132.0 Social Security Benefits: Females November 132.3 December 132.7 Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what changes there have been in the claimant 2013 count for women claiming for over 12 months since January 131.9 May 2010. [201197] February 132.7 March 132.5 2 Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the April 131.9 2 responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have May 131.6 2 asked the authority to reply. June 2013 133.0 July 20132 132.7 Letter from Peter Fullerton, dated June 2014: August 20132 131.7 On behalf of the Director General for the Office for National September 20132 130.6 Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary October 20132 129.6 Question asking the Minister for the Cabinet Office what changes November 20132 129.0 there have been in the claimant count for women claiming for December 20132 126.9 over 12 months since May 2010. (201197) The ONS compiles data on the number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance from the Jobcentre Plus Administrative 2014 System. January 20142 123.7 61W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 62W

Table 1: Number1 of females aged 18 years and over claiming jobseeker’s Import from rest of EU allowance for more than 12 months Tonnes (Thousand) Number of claimants (thousand— 2012 2013 2014 seasonally adjusted)

February 20142 121.4 January 3.8 3.9 3.4 March 20142 118.8 February 4.1 3.2 3.4 April 20142 115.9 March 4.4 2.9 3.3 May 20142 113.2 April 4.4 3.5 4.1 1 Computerised claims only. Computerised claims account for 99.8% of all May 5.3 3.9 — claims. June 4.3 3.3 — 2 Claimant count figures since April 2013 do not yet include claimants of universal credit. July 4.8 4.1 — Source: August 4.7 3.7 — Jobcentre Plus Administrative System. September 4.2 3.9 — October 5.1 4.4 — November 4.4 4.6 — December 3.8 4.2 — ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS Annual total 53.4 45.6 — Source: HM Revenue and Customs 2013 and 2014 data is subject to amendments Beef: Imports EU data based on EU 28.

Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Roger Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much beef representations he has received from environmental was imported into the UK from (a) the Republic of groups regarding beef consumption and the countries Ireland, (b) the rest of the EU and (c) non-EU from which the UK imports beef. [201345] countries in each of the last 18 months. [200990] George Eustice: As of 19 June, no such representations George Eustice: The following tables provide details have been received from environmental groups. of UK imports of beef and veal as recorded in the Official Overseas Trade Statistics for the period January Bovine Tuberculosis 2012 to April 2014. Imports from Irish Republic John Howell: To ask the Secretary of State for Tonnes (Thousand) Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many farms 2012 2013 2014 in Henley constituency have been subject to restrictions January 12.3 12.1 13.3 on cattle movements following a test proving the February 13.7 10.8 12.2 presence of TB in each of the last three years. [201008] March 14.9 13.0 16.2 April 12.9 11.9 13.5 George Eustice: Statistics on TB breakdowns are May 12.5 12.4 — available only at county and herd level. The following June 11.8 14.9 — figures show the number of herds restricted as a result July 11.3 12.2 — of positive bovine TB test results in Oxfordshire in each August 12.4 11.7 — of the last three years: September 13.8 14.9 — October 15.0 15.6 — Number November 14.0 15.1 — December 15.1 16.4 — 2011 30 Annual total 159.7 161.0 — 2012 29 2013 27 Imports from Non-EU Tonnes (Thousand) Bovine TB statistics are available at: 2012 2013 2014 https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/bovine-tb January 1.6 2.6 2.2 February 1.3 1.7 1.5 Chief Scientific Advisers March 1.2 1.4 1.5 April 1.4 2.3 2.1 May 2.1 2.6 — Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, June 3.1 3.5 — Food and Rural Affairs how many meetings he has had July 2.2 3.5 — with his Department’s chief scientific adviser in the last August 2.2 3.1 — 12 months. [200787] September 1.9 2.8 — October 2.2 3.5 — Dan Rogerson: The Secretary of State for Environment, November 2.0 2.5 — Food and Rural Affairs, the right hon. Member for December 1.7 2.0 — North Shropshire (Mr Paterson), meets his chief scientific Annual total 23.0 31.7 — adviser at least weekly, sometimes more frequently. 63W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 64W

Common Agricultural Policy Monitoring river water and seawater is driven by requirements under the EU water framework directive Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State (WFD). As psychotropic drugs have not been identified for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what as harmful chemicals under the WFD they are not assessment he has made of the regulatory effect of routinely monitored, although they may be detected in recent changes to the common agricultural policy on less specific investigations. farmers. [201043] The water industry has undertaken collaborative research into chemicals in sewage effluent through the UK Water George Eustice: In implementing the new Common Industry Research (UKWIR) Chemicals Investigation Agricultural Policy (CAP) in England a number of Programme. Some medicines were included in the first decisions have been taken around how the budget should programme of 2010-13, including fluoxetine. A second be spent. Chemical Investigations Programme, beginning in 2015, In October 2013 DEFRA published an evidence paper will look at the psychoactive medicines fluoxetine and alongside the consultation on CAP reform. This assessed sertraline in sewage effluent. the overall impact of the new CAP and the associated decisions being consulted on in England: Floods https://consult.defra.gov.uk/agricultural-policy/cap- consultation Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Throughout the consultation period we actively sought Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether garages, further evidence, and further analysis took place. Further boiler rooms and other non-habitable areas affected by assessments of impacts on farmers, the rural community flooding are eligible for the repair and renew grant. and DEFRA delivery bodies were made, and the findings [201376] of these have been included in publications setting out government decisions. These include: Dan Rogerson: The ‘repair and renew’ grant is available The December 2013 Government response to the consultation, to establish resilience and resistance measures in properties which included estimates of the aggregate impact of changes to to minimise the risk of damage caused by flooding. As Pillar 1 on Farm Business Income: it stands, the grant only applies to homes and businesses https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/common- affected by flooding and excludes non-habitable areas. agricultural-policy-reform-implementation-in-england; Floods: Christchurch A draft impact assessment of the new Regional Development Programme for England, published in December 2013 and updated in June 2014: Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when he expects attachment_data/file/319445/rdpe-ia-201406.pdf; work to all properties identified by the Environment The Government decision on the moorland rate including an Agency in Christchurch constituency as being suitable assessment of impact on farmers, published by DEFRA in May for Property Level Protection against flooding to be 2014: completed. [201380] https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/common- agricultural-policy-reform-implementation-in-england Dan Rogerson: As part of schemes funded through and local levy and flood defence grant in aid, work to The Government decisions on cross-compliance together with protect 10 properties in the Mudeford and Stanpit area a summary of the evidence, published by DEFRA in June 2014: is planned for 2015. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/common- Property-level protection measures were installed at agricultural-policy-reform-implementation-in-england 12 properties in Stony Lane, Christchurch earlier this We will continue to publish further evidence as final year. CAP implementation decisions are made. Food: Packaging Drinking Water: Contamination Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with reference to recent discussions he has had with food suppliers to the answer 196584 of 6 May 2014, Official Report, encourage them to reduce excess packaging; and if he column 41W,on drinking water, what plans his Department will make a statement. [201156] has to test for the levels of tranquillisers and antidepressants in drinking water; and if his Department will conduct a Dan Rogerson: The Secretary of State for Environment, study into levels of psychotropic drugs in UK river and Food and Rural Affairs, the right hon. Member for seawater. [201036] North Shropshire (Mr Paterson), has not had recent discussions with food suppliers specifically about packaging. Dan Rogerson: In 2012, the Drinking Water Inspectorate I spoke at the Fresher for Longer conference in February (DWI) published research looking at pharmaceuticals this year, and the Government is working with food likely to present the worst case scenario in drinking manufacturers and retailers to reduce food waste as water. Fluoxetine was included in the study, the outcome part of the Courtauld Commitment, which is targeting of which was that these pharmaceuticals presented no a further reduction of 1.1 million tonnes of food and concern for public health. The research is part of an packaging waste by 2015. We encourage the use of a ongoing risk assessment which is revisited in the event minimum level of packaging that protects products of new information. The DWI has also responded to from damage and ensures that it maintains its quality the earlier PQ (0019) on this matter. during its shelf life. 65W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 66W

Food: Recycling Amount of food waste recycled Tonnes Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Authority 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much food Gloucester City Council 796 2,788 2,386 waste was recycled by each district and metropolitan Guildford Borough 4,288 3,905 3,719 local authority in (a) 2011, (b) 2012 and (c) 2013. Council [201096] Hackney LB 1,459 1,517 1,781 Harborough District 1,448 1,313 681 Council Dan Rogerson: The number of local authorities in Harlow District Council 3,671 3,439 3,199 England carrying out separate food waste collections Hinckley and Bosworth 76 — — has increased from 69 in 2010-11 to 89 in 2012-13. In Borough Council addition, 79 authorities collected and recycled a ‘combined Hounslow LB 3,080 3,071 2,981 mixed garden and food waste’ in 2012-13. Isle of Wight Council — — 2,988 The following table shows the amount of separately Islington LB 174 147 154 collected food waste that was recycled by each authority, Knowsley MBC 800 887 669 excluding the amount rejected at collection or rejected Lambeth LB 625 682 320 at the gate by processors. Between 2010-11 and 2012-13 Leeds City Council MBC 1,007 939 841 the total amount of food waste that was separately Leicestershire County 150 286 231 collected and recycled increased by 86% from 134,000 Council to 249,000 tonnes. Luton Borough Council 505 428 401 Maidstone Borough 948 5,523 5,007 Amount of food waste recycled Council Tonnes Maldon District Council — — 1,497 Authority 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 Manchester City Council 658 215 5 MBC Aylesbury Vale District — — 4,005 Mendip District Council 2,886 3,087 2,937 Council Merton LB 2,274 3,142 3,933 Bath and North East 2,389 4,296 3,902 Somerset Council Mole Valley District 1,614 2,049 2,014 Council Bexley LB — 134 268 Newcastle-under-Lyme 2,419 3,214 2,949 Braintree District — 2,037 4,478 Borough Council Council North Devon District 7,680 5,192 — Brentwood Borough — 540 1,162 Council Council North Somerset Council 4,265 6,983 6,884 Bristol City Council — 461 10,176 Broadland District 824 797 797 Northampton Borough — 642 3,647 Council Council Bromley LB 6,964 2,960 11,147 Norwich City Council 673 2,410 2,309 Calderdale MBC 5,844 5,349 5,041 Nottingham City Council 1,064 807 — Central Bedfordshire 2,165 3,974 3,817 Oldham MBC 805 — — Chelmsford Borough 4 1,588 3,812 Oxford City Council 1,328 1,470 1,970 Council Pendle Borough Council 363 191 — Cheltenham Borough — 3,129 2,641 Peterborough City — — 2,249 Council Council Cheshire West and — — 6,052 Preston City Council 461 579 533 Chester Reigate and Banstead — — 2,712 City of London 218 176 105 Borough Council Corby Borough Council — — 693 Richmond upon Thames 1,709 2,591 3,887 Council of the Isles of 20 19 18 LB Scilly Royal Borough of 5,213 4,938 4,566 Croydon LB 210 6,034 10,503 Kingston upon Thames Daventry District — 320 1,131 Runnymede Borough 410 2,499 2,233 Council Council Derbyshire Dales District — — 848 Salford City Council — 341 — Council MBC Dorset Waste Partnership — 265 2,336 Sandwell MBC — 2,765 6,553 Dover District Council — 2,092 3,806 Sedgemoor District 3,056 4,288 3,873 Ealing LB 4,936 5,175 4,715 Council East Devon District 4,571 5,210 4,398 Sefton MBC 3,065 2,720 2,343 Council Shepway District Council — 2,708 3,535 East Lindsey District — — 1,281 Council Shropshire 360 — — East Northamptonshire — — 2,067 South Gloucestershire 1,947 5,426 5,034 Council Council Eastleigh Borough 2,425 2,248 2,147 South Hams District — 59 105 Council Council Elmbridge Borough 4,004 3,535 3,420 South Oxfordshire 1,871 5,378 5,033 Council District Council Epsom and Ewell 2,150 1,847 2,032 South Ribble Borough 107 42 — Borough Council Council Forest of Dean District — — 2,000 South Somerset District 6,026 5,781 5,236 Council Council 67W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 68W

Amount of food waste recycled for human consumption. DEFRA convened a ministerial Tonnes round table in July 2012 and requested WRAP to lead Authority 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 an industry working group to follow up on Southend-on-Sea 3,107 3,096 3,070 recommendations. As a key output of the group, WRAP Borough Council has recently published research, guiding principles and Spelthorne Borough — 1,059 2,077 good practice case studies to help industry take action. Council Further information is available at: Suffolk Coastal District 23 76 11 http://www.wrap.org.uk/content/foodredistribution Council Surrey Heath Borough 3,346 3,215 3,149 There will always be some unavoidable food waste. Council The Government’s Anaerobic Digestion Strategy is in Sutton LB 145 134 121 place to reduce the amount of organic material going to Tandridge District — — 1,577 landfill and drive the waste that is produced into energy Council recovery or recycling. Taunton Deane Borough 4,040 3,674 3,489 Council Telford and Wrekin 100 111 — Forestry Commission Council Tendring District Council — — 2,320 : To ask the Secretary of State for Tewkesbury Borough 2,954 2,859 2,619 Council Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what powers the Torbay Council 993 3,392 3,321 Forestry Commission has to (a) impose fines, (b) Tower Hamlets LB — 44 — restore woodland and (c) take other enforcement Uttlesford District 3,761 3,895 3,324 action where a landowner has carried out deforestation Council contrary to the Forestry Act 1967. [201063] Vale of White Horse 1,903 5,238 4,650 District Council Dan Rogerson: Only the courts have the power to Waveney District Council 90 377 640 impose fines on people convicted of felling trees without Waverley Borough 308 477 2,783 a licence where one is required under the Forestry Council Commissioners’ Power to control felling of trees in Part West Devon Borough 1,100 1,839 1,720 Council II of the Forestry Act 1967 (as amended). This can be West London Waste — — 741 up to £2,500 or twice the value of the trees, whichever is Authority the higher. West Oxfordshire District 1,414 3,713 3,402 Where it appears to the Forestry Commissioners that Council somebody has committed an offence by felling trees West Somerset District — 571 1,123 Council without a licence where one is required, the Commissioners Westminster City Council 64 8 — can serve them with a Restocking Notice requiring the Windsor and — — 882 area to be restocked. Failure to comply with the Maidenhead Borough requirements of a Restocking Notice can result in an Council Enforcement Notice being issued. It is an offence not to Woking Borough Council 2,975 3,093 2,971 obey an Enforcement Notice, which can mean a possible Wolverhampton MBC 677 3,552 3,951 fine of up to £5,000. Wychavon District 1,087 897 817 Council Where deforestation accompanied by a change of land use has not received the required consent and has a Food: Waste Disposal significant impact on the environment, the Forestry Commission can, under the provisions in The Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry)(England Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps he is and Wales) Regulations 1999, issue an Enforcement taking to enforce the waste hierarchy in managing food Notice requiring the land to be restored to its condition waste and to prioritise prevention and redistribution before the work started. for human consumption ahead of anaerobic digestion and composting. [201037] Forests

Dan Rogerson: In accordance with the waste hierarchy, Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for voluntary agreements with business and the Waste and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what progress Resources Action Programme’s (WRAP’s) Love Food his Department has made on placing the public forest Hate Waste Campaign encourage action by households, estate on a sustainable footing; and if he will make a food manufacturers, retailers and the hospitality and statement. [201377] food service sectors to prevent food waste. If surplus food cannot be prevented, the next best Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for option is to ensure it is redistributed for human Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans he consumption, and I have met with a number of companies has to bring forward legislative proposals to reform the and organisations which are looking at innovative ways Public Forest Estate in the present parliamentary to redistribute food. session. [201513] The Courtauld Commitment 3 supply chain target includes action on both prevention and redistribution. Dan Rogerson: I refer the hon. Members to the answer This dual target approach encourages redistribution as I gave to the hon. Member for Bristol East (Kerry the most desirable route for any surplus food suitable McCarthy) on 17 June 2014, Official Report, column 516W. 69W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 70W

Mangoes Sovereignty: Scotland

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs from which (1) what costs have been incurred under each cost countries other than India the import of mangoes to heading for the production and postage of anti-Scottish the EU is banned. [201026] independence pamphlets to be sent to every home in Scotland; [200770] Dan Rogerson: None. The ban only applies to mangoes (2) how much has been spent under each cost from India. heading by the Government in relation to the Scottish independence referendum. [200772] Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether any Greg Clark: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I phyto-sanitary and plant-disease expertise from the UK gave to the hon. Member for Angus (Mr Weir), on 19 has been involved in helping to address the shortcomings June 2014, Official Report, column 667W. identified by the EU Commissioner necessitating the recent ban on importation of mangoes from India. Transparency of Lobbying, Non-party Campaigning [200980] and Trade Union Administration Act 2014

Dan Rogerson: DEFRA’s Food and Environment John Robertson: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister Research Agency (Fera) has offered to deliver a technical what discussions he has had with charities on training programme for Indian plant health inspectors implementation of the Transparency of Lobbying, Non- to help address some of the issues raised in the previous party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration European Commission’s Food and Veterinary Office Act 2014 since that act received Royal Assent. [200761] (FVO) audits of the Indian plant health export certification systems. A plant health and seeds inspector from Fera Greg Clark: The Electoral Commission is producing will also be assisting the FVO when it undertakes its guidance to explain the rules on non-party campaigning. audit visit to India in September. The commission has held four roundtable discussions for charities and other campaigners across the UK and Electoral Commission officials have spoken at events hosted by charity sector umbrella bodies. DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER The commission will publish its full guidance on the new rules in the summer, in advance of the regulated Electoral Register period which starts on 19 September 2014. Unmanned Air Vehicles Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what progress has been made in rolling out Individual Electoral Registration across the country. [201014] Mr Watson: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister with reference to the Cabinet Manual, paragraph 5.38, Greg Clark: Individual Electoral Registration was whether the convention that the House of Commons launched in England and Wales, as planned, on 10 June should have an advance opportunity to debate 2014. This included the introduction of on-line registration. significant military action applies to the deployment of IER is due to be launched in Scotland on 19 September. unmanned aerial vehicles outside Afghanistan when The roll out of IER is proceeding as planned, to date. operated from RAF Waddington. [201155] Greg Clark: I refer the hon. Member to the answer Local Government: Tees Valley given by the Minister for the Armed Forces, my right hon. Friend the Member for Rayleigh and Wickford Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if (Mr Francois) to PQ 198710. he will place in the Library a copy of the Tees Valley City Deal. [201246]

Greg Clark: All City Deals are available on: CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT www.gov.uk A copy of the Tees Valley City Deal has been placed Broadband in the Library of the House. Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Polling Stations: Schools Culture, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the number of homes in the UK served by fibre to the home broadband services. [201059] Richard Burden: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many schools in England and Wales were closed Mr Vaizey: Ofcom monitors and publishes broadband for the local and European elections on 22 May 2014. coverage data for the UK indicated in its 2013 UK fixed [200775] broadband market report that superfast broadband was available to 73% of UK premises. Ofcom did not, Greg Clark: The information requested is not held however, publish a separate figure for the number of centrally. homes with fibre to the home broadband services. 71W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 72W

Hundred Years’ War: Anniversaries (2) how many electronic workstations were made available in each public library per thousand population Jim Dowd: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) Media and Sport what plans he has put in place to 2013-14; [200866] commemorate the 600th anniversary of the Battles of (3) what proportion of public libraries replenished Harfleur and Agincourt. [200865] their full lending stock within eight and a half years in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) Mrs Grant: The previous Secretary of State, the right 2013-14; [200867] hon. Member for Basingstoke (Maria Miller), announced (4) how many visits per thousand of the population in October last year a commitment of £10 million of were made to each public library’s website in (a) funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund for projects 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) 2013-14; marking some of the UK’s most important anniversaries [200869] and commemorative events including Agincourt 600. This will ensure that those moments which form a (5) what proportion of public libraries with a catchment central part of our national history are commemorated area of more than 40,000 resident population were and understood by people today. open at least 45 hours per week in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) 2013-14; [200888] National Lottery: Arts (6) whether National Public Library user surveys are still being taken. [200889] Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much lottery funding Mr Vaizey: The detail requested is not held centrally and from which year is being committed to Arts by this Department. However, the Chartered Institute Council England’s national portfolio organisations and of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) collect, national partner museums as part of their overall annually, from the individual library authorities settlement for the period 2015 to 2018. [200859] comprehensive information relating to library service provision in the United Kingdom, which includes data Mr Vaizey: DCMS allocates 13.956% of lottery income relating to the questions raised. Copies of CIPFA statistics to Arts Council England. It is for the Arts Council to are available in the House Library. make decisions about how to allocate this funding, and to which organisations. The Arts Council is currently Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for finalising how it will allocate funding from 2015-16 Culture, Media and Sport (1) how many public onwards, and is due to make an announcement on libraries were open at least five hours per week outside 1July. 9am to 5pm on weekdays in each of the years (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) 2013-14; Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for [200872] Culture, Media and Sport which Arts Council England (2) for what proportion of time public library service strategic programmes are designed specifically to points were unavailable to visitors because of (a) address the national lottery directions issued in 2007. emergency closures and (b) missed or cancelled mobile [200884] library stops in each of the years (i) 2010-11, (ii) 2011-12, (iii) 2012-13 and (iv) 2013-14; [200873] Mr Vaizey: Lottery distributors, including Arts Council (3) what proportion of public libraries open for more England, are required to take account of directions than 10 hours a week provided access to online issued under section 26 (1) of the National Lottery etc. catalogues in (a) 2010-11, (b) 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 Act 1993. It is for the Arts Council to determine how and (d) 2013-14. [200890] best to do so in designing its strategic programmes. Mr Vaizey: The detail requested is not held centrally Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for by this Department and nor is it collected by the Chartered Culture, Media and Sport what Arts Council England Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy as part of strategic funding programmes funded from the the annual public library statistics provided by individual National Lottery are designed wholly or primarily to library authorities. benefit national portfolio organisations and national partner museums. [200885] Tourism

Mr Vaizey: Arts Council England makes its funding Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, decisions, and establishes its funding programmes, Media and Sport what assessment has been made of independently of Ministers and Government. It seeks the likely effects of the Government’s proposed to ensure that its funding programmes support a wide Deregulation Bill on jobs in tourism. [200855] range of arts organisations and museums. There are no Strategic Programmes funded through the National Mrs Grant: At present, local authorities are required Lottery exclusively for National Portfolio Organisations to set term and holiday dates for only about 30% of or National Partner Museums. secondary schools and 70% of primary schools (around half of all registered pupils). The Deregulation Bill Public Libraries gives more schools the flexibility to make changes should they wish to, although the experience of the academies Helen Goodman: Toask the Secretary of State for Culture, programme, foundation schools and voluntary aided Media and Sport (1) how much was made available for (church) schools, suggests that only a small percentage purchasing public library items in (a) 2010-11, (b) of schools are likely to vary their term dates where there 2011-12, (c) 2012-13 and (d) 2013-14; [200868] is a compelling benefit to pupils’ education. 73W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 74W

The Department for Education has assessed the impact Nuclear Power Stations: Safety of the changes. Whilst there will be greater flexibility for schools, we will continue to expect that sensible Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for conversations between the local authority and schools Energy and Climate Change what the timetable is for on co-ordination will take place. Local authorities have the next periodic safety review of each of the UK’s told the Department for Education that they will continue nuclear power stations; whether an environmental to co-ordinate term dates for schools as they do now. impact assessment is required as part of the periodic Variations to term dates could also help businesses and safety review procedure; and what opportunities exist employers, for example, in areas of high-seasonal for public involvement in such reviews. [200777] employment where employees may welcome the chance to holiday outside of peak tourist periods. For example, Michael Fallon: The timetable for the next periodic Bishop Bronescombe School in St Austell, has a two-week safety reviews of each of the operating nuclear power half term in May/June to accommodate parents’ seasonal stations is included in the table. The nine stations are employment patterns. the seven advanced gas-cooled reactor (AGRs) sites, the A separate assessment of the specific impact on tourism- single pressurised water reactor at Sizewell B and the related jobs has not been carried out. The Department remaining operating Magnox reactor at Wylfa. for Education has discussed the changes to this policy with a variety of tourism industry bodies-including Station Submission to ONR ONR decision date ABTA and BALPPA. Hinkley Point B/Hunterston January 2016 January 2017 B UNESCO Dungeness B January 2017 January 2018 Hartlepool/Heysham 1 January 2018 January 2019 Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Heysham 2/Torness January 2019 January 2020 Media and Sport if he will place in the Library a copy Sizewell B January 2024 January 2025 of his Department’s response to the letter of 2 May Wylfa October 2013 September 2014 2014 from Mr Kishore Rao, the Director of the An environmental impact assessment is undertaken UNESCO Culture Sector, World Heritage Centre. by each licensee covering the radiological impact of [201110] routine discharges. Such assessments are carried out separate to the PSR submitted to ONR by the licensee Mr Vaizey: DCMS has not issued a formal response under Licence Condition 15, and are regulated by the to the letter of 2 May 2014. The letter has been passed appropriate UK environmental agency—the Environment to the planning authorities as part of that process. Agency, Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, or Natural Resources Wales—in each case. World Heritage Sites: South West While there is no legal requirement for public involvement in PSRs, the decision of whether to include public Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, involvement is taken at the discretion of each station Media and Sport what steps his Department is taking licensee. ONR completes an assessment of the licensee’s to ensure that the Dorset and East Devon coast submission prior to the decision date to ensure it meets continues to enjoy World Heritage status and remains the expectations set out in its guidance and that it in compliance with Article 4 of the World Heritage provides an adequate demonstration of the future safe Convention; and if he will make a statement. [201128] operation of the plant—see ONR guidance at: www.onr.org.uk/periodic-safety-review/ Mr Vaizey: The Dorset and east Devon coast world www.onr.org.uk/operational/tech_asst_guides/ns-tast-gd- heritage site continues to enjoy world heritage status 050.pdf and it is not currently under threat. The UK Government takes its responsibilities to conserve world heritage sites Wind Power: Seas and Oceans very seriously. The planning systems in place provide robust processes for assessing the potential impact of Mr Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy proposals on heritage assets and dealing appropriately and Climate Change what the radioactive forcing from with them. the increase in carbon dioxide concentration will be over the lifetime of Navitus Bay (a) if the project goes ahead and (b) if the project does not go ahead. [200458] ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE Gregory Barker: The Department does not undertake analysis or hold information of this nature relating to Natural Gas: Imports specific developments.

Roger Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Written Questions Energy and Climate Change if he will estimate the potential reduction in gas imports from the roll-out of Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for ground sourced heat pumps. [201247] Energy and Climate Change how many parliamentary questions tabled to his Department in the last parliamentary Gregory Barker: I have not made such an estimate. Session did not receive a substantive answer by the time However, we expect the impact of ground-source heat of the 2014 prorogation; and when each such question pump (GSHP) deployment on gas imports to be negligible. was first tabled. [200446] 75W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 76W

Gregory Barker: None. All questions in the last (2) how many cases of academy trusts acquiring parliamentary Session received a substantive answer. freehold interests on land for schools there have been in each of the last five financial years; [201052] (3) what the estimated value of the land is for which academy trusts have a freehold interest; [201053] EDUCATION (4) what estimate he has made of the value of the Academies: Capital Investment land for which academy trusts currently have leasehold interest. [201072] Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what criteria were used to assess Mr Timpson: When community schools convert to bids made under the 2014-15 Academies Capital academies, the freehold is retained by the local authority Maintenance Fund; and if he will make a statement. and a lease is granted to the academy trust. In some [200647] circumstances, where the school governors or supporting foundation already hold the freehold, the Secretary of Mr Laws: We received bids for the Academies Capital State for Education, my right hon. Friend the Member Maintenance Fund for 3,300 projects from 2,015 academies for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), may allow publicly- and have so far made awards to 1,134 academies, including funded school land to be transferred to an academy six academies in the hon. Member’s constituency. trust, which will have satisfied the Secretary of State as to its ability to operate a state-funded school. The criteria used to assess bids were set out in the guidance for the scheme. We assessed each eligible There are strict rules protecting publicly funded land application against these weighted criteria. The guidance used by academies, regardless of who holds the freehold. can be found at: This is set out in published guidance, which is available online: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/academies- capital-maintenance-fund-round-1-information www.gov.uk/government/publications/protection-of-school- playing-fields-and-public-land-advice Guidance for the second round of the fund, which is aimed at academies opened since December 2013, has A copy of the guidance has been placed in the House been published. The online application system will be Library. launched shortly. We will announce future arrangements The Department does not hold information about for maintenance funding in due course. the average value of land used for academies on a freehold or leasehold basis. Information about the number Academies: Land of academies that occupy land on a leasehold and freehold basis is not held centrally. Mr Godsiff: To ask the Secretary of State for Education with reference to the answer of 14 May Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for 2014, Official Report, column 635W, on schools: land, Education (1) under what circumstances he can in what circumstances he (a) would and (b) would not re-acquire freehold interest in land when an academy’s exercise his powers to protect public land when an funding agreement is terminated early; [201165] academy closes entirely. [200639] (2) how many times he has used his powers under schedule 1 of the Academies Act 2010 to ensure that Mr Timpson: The Secretary of State for Education, land is transferred from an existing governing body my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath directly to an academy trust; [201167] (Michael Gove), may need to make a determination in order to protect the public investment in the land where (3) what steps his Department has taken to protect the land ceases, or will cease, to be used for an academy. public assets and prevent academy trusts from selling The Secretary of State will consider a range of factors, freehold land in their possession; [201252] including: (4) what powers academy trusts have to dispose of 1. The degree of public investment in the land and the degree land on which they hold freehold interests while of any enhancement to the value attributable to that investment; retaining the proceeds; [201253] 2. The degree of private investment in the land and the degree (5) in what circumstances he would terminate a of any enhancement to the value attributable to that investment; leasehold agreement with an academy trust prior to the 3. The length of time that the land has been in public use; expiration of a 125-year agreement. [201254] 4. The value of the land at the date of determination. Additional protections for school playing fields would Mr Timpson: We have published guidance which sets continue to apply, as set out in published guidance, out how publicly funded land and school playing fields which is available at: are protected. This guidance is available at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/protection-of-school- www.gov.uk/government/publications/protection-of-school- playing-fields-and-public-land-advice playing-fields-and-public-land-advice A copy of the guidance has been placed in the House If land ceases, or will cease, to be used for an academy, Library. the Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for may need to make a determination in order to protect Education (1) what his policy is on the question of who the public investment in the land. The Secretary of retains ownership of the land in cases where freehold State will consider a range of factors including: interest in local authority land is granted to an 1. The degree of public investment in the land and the degree academy trust; [201051] of any enhancement to the value attributable to that investment; 77W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 78W

2. The degree of private investment in the land and the degree responsibility to ensure the quality of services regardless of any enhancement to the value attributable to that investment; of what arrangements it makes for the discharge of its 3. The length of time that the land has been in public use; functions. 4. The value of the land at the date of determination. Delegated social care functions are inspected by Ofsted, Information about the number of academies where in the same way as directly delivered local authority land has been transferred from a governing body to an social care functions, as part of its local authority academy trust is not held centrally and could be compiled inspection framework. In addition, regulations currently only at disproportionate cost. govern the fitness of third party providers and require their registration with Ofsted. Chief Scientific Advisers Dominic Cummings Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many meetings he has had with his Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser in the last 12 Education when Dominic Cummings’ security pass to months. [200786] the Department of Education was deactivated and withdrawn. [201169] Elizabeth Truss: As was the case under previous Administrations, details of internal meetings are not Matthew Hancock: In line with the practice of successive normally disclosed. Administrations, Government does not comment on Children in Care security matters. Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what requirements have been placed on Education when he expects to release funds to finance Dominic Cummings, as part of his contractual terms, the extension of staying put for young people leaving to obtain clearance for public statements or writings on care. [201078] matters of Government policy or the internal workings of Government. [201170] Mr Timpson: Local authority allocations for 2014-15 of the staying put implementation grant will be paid in Matthew Hancock: These requirements are outlined four instalments on or by 30 June 2014, 30 August 2014, in the relevant sections of the Civil Service Code and 30 November 2014 and 27 February 2015. can be found at Children: Social Services https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/civil-service- code/the-civil-service-code Mrs Lewell-Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Education what research has been undertaken by or on (1) whether Dominic Cummings has had any email behalf of his Department into the potential (a) contact with officials, Ministers or Special Advisers in benefits and (b) disbenefits to children of further his Department since he resigned his post as a Special delegation of children’s social care functions. [200876] Adviser; [201075] Mr Timpson: The proposals for the further delegation (2) when Dominic Cummings last had email contact of children’s social care functions build up on the with officials, Ministers and special advisers in his evaluation of the Social Work Practices pilot set in train Department; [201161] by the Children and Young Persons Act 2008. This (3) if he will release all email correspondence between identified evidence of positive change through the delegated officials, Ministers and special advisers in his Department arrangements for looked after children and care leavers and Dominic Cummings since Mr Cummings left the in the pilot authorities. As a result, the original freedoms Department; [201162] in Part 1 of the Children and Young Persons Act 2008 (4) whether Dominic Cummings has contacted were extended to all local authorities. officials, Ministers and special advisers in his Discussions with the pilot local authorities and some Department through their (a) official or (b) personal other councils, supported the argument that wider email accounts on official business since Mr Cummings delegation would, in some circumstances, benefit children. left the Department. [201163] The proposals in the consultation document, is published online at: Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ Education, what meetings (a) he, (b) Ministers in his attachment_data/file/304660/Powers_to_Delegate_Con_Doc.pdf Department and (c) officials in his Department have had with Dominic Cummings since Mr Cummings left Mrs Lewell-Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for his Department; and what the purpose of those Education what steps he plans to take to ensure that meetings was; [201077] third party providers taking on children’s social care functions under his Department’s proposals adhere to Matthew Hancock: Mr Cummings is an ex-employee quality standards set out in regulations. [201209] of the Department for Education. It is not uncommon for ex-employees to be in contact with Ministers and the Mr Timpson: Delegation of children’s social care Department. As the Secretary of State for Education, functions does not remove a local authority’s duties to my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath meet statutory obligations. It remains a local authority’s (Michael Gove) explained to the House on 16 June 79W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 80W

2014, many people seek to visit and contact the Department Name of school Local authority Faith designation for Education to exchange ideas with old friends and colleagues. St Mary’s Primary Herefordshire Christian School, Dilwyn First Aid: Education Tauheedul Islam Boys’ Blackburn with Muslim High School Darwen The Olive School, Blackburn with Muslim Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Blackburn Darwen Education what assessment his Department has made The Olive Tree Primary Bolton Muslim of the benefits of teaching emergency life-saving skills School in schools. [200676] Trinity School Kent Christian Tyndale Community Oxfordshire Christian Matthew Hancock: Emergency life-saving skills (ELS) School can be taught as part of personal, social, health and University Cathedral Cheshire West and Christian economic (PSHE) education. Free School Chester PSHE can help children develop essential social skills 26% of mainstream free schools have a faith designation, that evidence shows are important for children’s achievement as opposed to 34% of all state-funded mainstream across all subjects, and for their preparation for a healthy schools. and active life. Schools are encouraged to work with expert organisations GCSE to teach ELS, for example St John Ambulance who visited approximately 2,000 schools in 2013. Their ‘Teach Mr Bailey: To ask the Secretary of State for the Difference‘ website has over 7,000 registered users, Education what proportion of the age cohort achieved most of whom are teachers, and users downloaded over a A* to C grade in GCSE (a) mathematics, (b) 16,000 first aid lesson plans in 2013. English and (c) English literature by the age of (i) 19, Free Schools (ii) 20, (iii) 21, (iv) 22, (v) 23, (vi) 24 and (vi) 25 years in each of the last 10 years. [200649] Mr Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Timpson: The following tables show the proportion Education which free schools have been approved in of 18, 19 and 20-year-olds who had achieved A*-C each local education authority area excluding London grade in GCSE English and GCSE mathematics. The since 2010; and which such schools are (a) non- figures relate to academic age, that is age at the start of denominational and (b) of each religious the academic year, so young people of academic age 18 denomination. [200839] are those turning 19 during the academic year. The figures cover young people who were in the state sector Mr Timpson: There are 174 open free schools in at academic age 15. The data source used for this England. Published location information for all these analysis does not differentiate between English literature schools is available on the Department for Education’s and English language so the figures for English include website at: those that have A*-C in either subject. The Department https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ does not hold information on the attainment of people attachment_data/file/309965/List_of_open_free_schools_ older than academic age 20. The earliest data available and_free_schools_opening_in_2014_and_beyond_up....xlsx is for the cohort that was academic age 18 in 2004/05. 37 of those schools have a faith designation, of which, 20 are in areas other than London and can be Proportion achieving A*-C grade in GCSE mathematics by academic found in the following table, along with their religious age and cohort designation. Percentage Academic age Name of school Local authority Faith designation Cohort academic age Al-Madinah School Derby Muslim 18 in 18 19 20 Atherton Community Wigan Christian School 2004/05 49.3 49.4 49.4 Barrow 1618 Church Shropshire Christian 2005/06 48.6 48.7 48.8 of England School 2006/07 50.5 50.6 50.6 Becket Keys Church of Essex Christian 2007/08 52.7 52.7 52.8 England School 2008/09 54.6 54.7 54.7 Grindon Hall Free Sunderland Christian School 2009/10 56.5 56.6 56.7 Khalsa Secondary Buckinghamshire Sikh 2010/11 59.1 59.2 59.3 Academy 2011/12 61.9 62.0 — King’s School Hove Brighton and Hove Christian 2012/13 65.2 — — Krishna-Avanti Leicester Hindu Primary School Proportion achieving A*-C grade in GCSE English by academic age and cohort Leeds Jewish Free Leeds Jewish Percentage School Academic age Niskham Free School Birmingham Sikh Cohort academic Nishkam High School Birmingham Sikh age18in 18 19 20 St Michael’s Catholic Cornwall Christian 2004/05 55.9 56.0 56.0 Secondary School 2005/06 56.7 56.8 56.9 St Anthony’s School Gloucestershire Christian 2006/07 57.3 57.4 57.4 81W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 82W

Proportion achieving A*-C grade in GCSE English by academic age and cohort and teachers are best placed to make decisions about Percentage what professional development they require in order to Academic age meet the needs of their pupils. Cohort academic age18in 18 19 20 To support this, on 16 June 2014 the Department for Education issued new non-statutory guidance for schools 2007/08 58.9 58.9 59.0 and teachers on pupils’ mental health and behaviour. 2008/09 60.1 60.2 60.2 This guidance gives information, guidance and practical 2009/10 61.2 61.3 61.4 tools on how to build resilience and support good 2010/11 63.2 63.3 63.3 mental health. It also helps school staff identify those 2011/12 65.4 65.5 — pupils who may have emerging problems and provides 2012/13 69.0 — — guidance on appropriate routes of support. Source: DFE Young Person’s Matched Administrative Dataset. We put before Parliament a new 0-25 SEN and Disability Code of Practice. This makes it clear that schools Literature: GCSE should look to identify any underlying mental health needs that pupils have. The Code emphasises the importance Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for of staff development and provides a number of signposts Education what role he has had in designing the new to specific support. This includes further support for GCSE English Literature curriculum; and on what teachers and adults working with children and young dates he has had meetings about its design in the last 12 people, which is available through MindEd: months. [201054] www.minded.org.uk a website funded by the Department of Health that Matthew Hancock: The Secretary of State for Education helps adults identify and support children and young set out that new GCSEs should provide students with people’s mental health issues. fulfilling and demanding courses of study, with expectations that match and exceed those in the highest performing Science: Females countries. GCSE English literature subject content was developed drawing on the evidence gathered through its public consultation on GCSE English literature content, Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for which ran from June to August 2013, and from Ofqual, Education what steps he has taken to increase the the awarding organisations and other subject experts. proportion of girls taking separate science at GCSE. In the last 12 months, the Secretary of State has met [200798] Department for Education officials on a series of occasions to discuss evidence gathered during the consultation. Elizabeth Truss: The number of girls taking separate science GCSEs increased between 2010 and 2013 from Magna Carta 53,000 to 74,800 (41%) in biology, from 51,400 to 73,600 (43%) in chemistry and from 50,700 to 73,200 Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for (44%) in physics. Girls now make up approximately Education if he will estimate the cost of sending a copy 49% of all those taking each of the separate sciences, of the Magna Carta to every school. [201015] compared to approximately 45% in 2010. The Government is committed to increasing take-up Elizabeth Truss: Magna Carta and the emergence of of separate science GCSEs, including increasing the Parliament are included within the new history curriculum, proportion of girls as part of its commitment to improve to be taught in maintained secondary schools from overall take up of STEM subjects at A level and beyond. September 2014. The “Your Life” Campaign, launched in May 2014, To support teachers to commemorate the 800th brings together business, educators, civil society and anniversary, a range of projects and resources are being Government to show how science and mathematics provided by Parliament and others for primary and leads to exciting, successful careers. This will include a secondary school pupils. publicity campaign aimed at 14 to 16-year-olds, which We have no plans to send a copy of the Magna Carta will aim to change the way they think about science-based to every school and therefore have not made an estimate subjects from boring, specialist and niche to empowering, of what this might cost. exciting, enabling and for everyone. We are funding the Triple Science Support Programme Pupils: Mental Health to provide intensive support to schools with either no take-up or relatively low take-up of all three separate Steve McCabe: To ask the Secretary of State for science GCSEs, and more general support to all other Education what training is given to teachers at schools. We are also funding the Stimulating Physics maintained schools to (a) support the mental health of Network to increase progression to physics A level, their students and (b) spot the early signs of emerging especially of girls. Much of the work the network does mental health problems. [201292] focuses on improving engagement and interest of pupils in physics at GCSE. Mr Timpson: The Government believes that professional Excellent teaching is vital and we are offering bursaries development for teachers is important to help support worth up to £20,000 and teacher training scholarships and enable teachers to improve their practice, and an worth £25,000 to recruit more specialist science teachers. assessment of training and development needs must be We are also funding up to 50 local science learning included in teachers’written appraisal reports. Headteachers partnerships to provide CPD for existing science teachers. 83W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 84W

The Department for Business Innovation and Skills March Suffolk LA1, 2 England1, 2 funds the STEM Ambassadors programme, a nationwide network of over 27,000 volunteers from industry and 2012-133 150 8,630 academia, 40% of whom are women, who work with 1 Figures are rounded to the nearest 10 teachers. schools across the UK to raise awareness of the range 2 Includes Premature Retirements, Actuarially Reduced Benefits and Ill Health. 3 Provisional estimates. 2011-12 data will remain provisional until summer 2015 of careers that STEM qualifications can offer. and 2012-13 data is likely to remain provisional until summer 2016. Source: Pensioner Statistical System (PENSTATS). Special Educational Needs Teachers: Pensions Steve McCabe: To ask the Secretary of State for Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether special educational needs coordinators Education what recent assessment he has made of the are able to request funds from his Department for extra (a) feasibility and (b) cost to the public purse of assistance with SEN students in maintained schools. enabling supply teachers to contribute to the teachers’ [201299] pension scheme. [200849]

Mr Timpson: The Department for Education does Mr Laws: Supply teachers are able to participate in not give funds directly to local authority maintained the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS) where they are schools. Funds for extra assistance with students with employed by an ’accepted employer’. In the main, these special educational needs (SEN) come from schools’ are local authorities (LAs), academies and further education budgets and, if the extra cost is more than £6,000 per colleges. This includes supply teachers who are recruited year for an individual student, from local authorities in by a supply agency but then employed directly, under a the form of top-up funding for the school. Local authorities contract of employment, by the accepted employer. The can also give extra funding to schools with a LA, academy or further education college is responsible disproportionate number of pupils with SEN. Special for meeting a number of obligations that fall to employers educational needs coordinators should therefore seek under the teachers’ pensions regulations, not least of any additional funds required from the relevant local which is to pay the employer contribution to the TPS. authority. However, where supply teachers are self-employed or remain employed by the supply agency, and their services Teachers: Disciplinary Proceedings are provided under a ’contract for services’, it is not possible for them to participate in the TPS. This is Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for Education because the Department for Education cannot mandate how many teachers have had action taken against them that private sector employers participate in the scheme. under Teachers’ Standards for (a) undermining It is for LAs, academies and further education colleges fundamental British values, including democracy, the to determine how supply teachers are employed-which rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and can in turn enable access to the TPS under the current tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and arrangements. (b) failing to ensure that personal beliefs are not expressed in ways which exploit pupils’ vulnerability or might lead Teachers: Veterans them to break the law in the last two years. [201061] Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Laws: The National College for Teaching and Education how many members of the armed forces Leadership has prohibited two teachers following have been recruited into teacher roles under the Troops professional conduct hearings where the allegations-relate to Teachers initiative to date. [201290] to behaviours outlined in the question. Mr Laws: The Troops to Teachers undergraduate programme is a new programme, which started in January Teachers: Early Retirement 2014. 41 service leavers joined the Troops to Teachers programme in January 2014. Recruitment is almost Mr Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for complete for the second cohort of the programme and Education how many teachers took early retirement in more service leavers will start their training in September (a) Bury St Edmunds constituency, (b) Suffolk and 2014. The first successful graduates of the programme (c) England in each of the last five years. [200744] will be employed as teachers, subject to achieving Qualified Teacher Status and a degree, in 2016. Mr Laws: The following table provides the number of teachers in publicly-funded schools who took early retirement in Suffolk local authority and England in DEFENCE March 2008-09 to March 2012-13. This is the latest information available. Information for Bury St Edmunds Air Force constituency is not available.

1, 2 1, 2 Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence March Suffolk LA England pursuant to the answer of 9 June 2014, Official Report, 2008-09 130 8,570 column 27W, on the Royal Air Force, whether any UK 2009-10 100 7,810 personnel other than Remotely Piloted Air System 2010-11 130 9,380 personnel are embedded in the 732nd Operations Group. 2011-123 180 9,780 [200598] 85W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 86W

Mr Francois: There are no UK personnel embedded Mr Francois: A copy of 2014DIN07-081 on Physical in the 732nd Operations Group. Training Policy For Army Reserves And Full Time Reserve Service will be placed in the Library of the Aircraft Carriers House.

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Army Reserve Defence which personnel aboard Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers will need to wear active noise Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for cancellation headsets; how many such headsets will be Defence if he will provide details of the current workforce required; and what the cost of such headsets will be. model for the Army Reserve that his Department is [200914] using to assess how long it will take to recruit the required number of 30,000 reserves; and when under Mr Dunne: The requirement for Active Noise Reduction the current model that target will be met. [200585] (ANR) headsets for personnel associated with operating F-35B on board Queen Elizabeth Class (QEC) aircraft Anna Soubry: I refer the hon. Member to the written carriers will be tailored to individuals’ noise exposure. statement and paper the Secretary of State for Defence, As with all flight operatives on aircraft carriers, this will my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and apply to personnel on the flight deck and not on other Weybridge (Mr Hammond), placed in the Library of areas of the ship. The noise exposure will be dependent the House on 19 December 2013, Official Report, column upon the operational employment of personnel, which 124WS. will be defined through the ongoing development of operating procedures. The design specification of the Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence headsets will be commensurate with the noise exposure, pursuant to the answer of 16 June 2014, Official Report, and in cognisance of The Control of Noise at Work column 364W,on reserve forces, what the current national Regulations, 2005. The preferred product is due to be recruitment rate to the Army Reserve is. [201369] ordered prior to the QEC entering service. Anna Soubry: I refer the hon. Member to the UK Armed Forces: Recruitment Armed Forces Quarterly Personnel report which is published by Defence Statistics. This shows reserve Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for trained and untrained strength figures, as well as movements Defence if he will estimate (a) the savings generated by into the Future Reserves 2020 populations. It is available each branch of the armed forces having separate on the www.gov.uk website at the following link: recruiting programmes and (b) the annual cost of each https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-armed- such programme. [200295] forces-quarterly-personnel-report-2014

Anna Soubry: Each branch of the armed forces has a Army: Recruitment distinctive brand that needs to be marketed separately in order to attract the best candidates. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Capturing the cost of recruiting across the armed Defence if he will estimate the (a) monthly and (b) forces is a complex and resource-intensive task. For total additional cost to date for paying Capita as if it financial year (FY) 2010-11, when both the recruitment was meeting quantity and quality standards for recruitments budget and recruitment targets were below normal levels, in the Recruiting Partnering Project. [200381]1 these calculations were not carried out. The costs of recruiting programmes for FYs 2009-10, 2011-12 and Anna Soubry: Between its launch in March 2012 to 31 2012-13 are set out in the following table. The cost of March 2014, the Army has paid Capita £100.380 million recruiting in FY 2013-14 will be available in early 2015. for the Recruiting Partnering Project. The Recruiting Partnering Project remains within the overall agreed £ cost of £1.360 million. Financial year Royal Navy Army RAF Total The Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge 2009-10 41,475,281 138,743,300 51,298,179 231,516,760 (Mr Hammond), set out on 14 January 2014, Official 2011-12 32,017,364 134,595,989 38,702,993 205,316,346 Report, column 716, the cost of Capita providing a new 2012-13 33,228,059 122,756,649 35,430,723 191,415,431 Information Technology platform as part of the Recruiting Partnering Project. At the time, these costs were expected As reductions have been made to force levels recruitment to be around £47.7 million directly linked to the change levels have been adjusted but not stopped as the Services of hosting provision. Since this statement, these costs are required to keep recruiting to maintain the right have reduced to around £42.9 million. skills. As previously stated by the Secretary of State on 14 January, there has been an additional cost of around Armed Forces: Training £1 million per month to run the Capita system. This includes costs for additional manpower. Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will place a copy of 2014DIN07-081 on Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Physical Training Policy For Army Reserve And Full Defence with reference to the National Audit Office Time Reserve Service in the Library. [200740] report, Army 2020, HC 263, published on 11 June 1.[Official Report, 1 September 2014, Vol. 585, c. 1MC.] 87W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 88W

2014, page 12, what his Department’s response is to the Project referred to on pages 36 and 37 of the National recommendation that it should reassess its targets for Audit Office report, Army 2020, HC 263, published on recruiting reserves. [200536] 11 June 2014. [200584]

Anna Soubry: I refer the hon. Member to the written Anna Soubry: The National Audit Office made a ministerial statement and paper the Secretary of State number of observations and recommendations in their for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for report into Army 2020. The Department will respond Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond), placed in to these in due course. Part of the reason the Army has the Library of the House on 19 December 2013, Official entered a recruitment partnership with Capita is to Report, column 124WS. The hon. Member will be aware harness the benefits of an integrated recruiting system that this is a five-year plan and I am confident that the to help the Army drive more effective end to end Army will reach this target. recruiting and training activity. As the Capita IT systems and applications and the recruitment partnering project Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for reaches full operating capability, and can interact with Defence with reference to the National Audit Office other IT tools available to the Army, we would expect to report, Army 2020, HC 263, published on 11 June see these benefits realised. 2014, page eight (1) if he will provide a breakdown of the costings used to work out that reserves cost around Army: Training 87% of the costs of regulars when mobilised; [200573] (2) when Ministers in his Department first Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence established that reserves cost around 87% of the cost of how many (a) male and (b) female recruits who regulars when mobilised. [200574] completed phase two training at Catterick Infantry Training Centre in each year since 2006 went on to join Anna Soubry: The figures used by the NAO in paragraph the trained strength; how many such recruits in those 11 of their report, Army 2020, HC 263, published on 11 categories were aged under 18 years when they enlisted; June 2014, were taken from Future Reserves 2020: The how many had undertaken phase one training at Independent Commission to Review the United Kingdom’s Harrogate Army Foundation College; and if he will Reserve Forces. I refer the hon. Member to paragraph make a statement. [200578] 97. This involved considerable work to develop a Regular: Reserve Cost Comparison Model. Anna Soubry: On 8 May 2014 the Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the right hon. Member Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond), Defence for what reasons his Department did not announced that a review of the exclusion of women in provide supporting ICT infrastructure for Capita’s new ground close combat roles, including the Infantry, Royal recruitment software as required under its contractual Armoured Corps and Household Cavalry would begin arrangements with Capita in relation to the Recruiting immediately, and report by the end of this year. Partnering Project. [200575] No female recruits currently undergo infantry training Anna Soubry: A number of factors contributed to the and therefore figures shown for the Infantry Training problems experienced with the information communication Centre relate to males only. technology hosting environment provided for Capita. The information requested is shown in the table. I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the Completion of phase 2 training is the point at which Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the recruits are deemed to have joined the trained strength. Member for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond), Phase 2 Under 18 on Army Foundation on 14 January 2014, Official Report, column 715, to the Completions entry (Male) College Starts (Male) hon. Member for Gedling (). (Male)

2006-07 2,300 950 230 Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 2,210 890 260 Defence with reference to the National Audit Office 2008-09 2,610 860 270 report, Army 2020, HC 263, published on 11 June 2009-10 3,370 980 310 2014, page 10, which Minister in his Department 2010-11 1,920 540 300 signed off on the decision not to provide supporting 2011-12 2,790 620 390 ICT infrastructure for Capita’s new recruitment 2012-13 2,760 740 520 software as part of his Department’s contractual 2013-14 2,450 560 320 arrangements with Capita in relation to the Recruiting Note: Partnering Project. [200576] Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in 5 are rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. Anna Soubry: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 21 January 2014, Official Report, column 111W. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what the full outturn cost of (a) building Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for maintenance, (b) staffing, (c) training, (d) salaries for Defence what steps his Department is taking to rectify recruits and (e) other costs were at Catterick Infantry the (a) inconsistent understanding of Army staffing Training Centre in each year since 2006; and if he will requirements, (b) limited use of management make a statement; [200579] information and (c) unsystematic approach to (2) what the full out-turn cost was of AFC Harrogate improvement in relation to the Recruiting Partnering in each year since 2006, including (a) building maintenance, 89W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 90W

(b) staffing costs, (c) training costs and (d) salaries for at a single location can often be split between a number recruits; and if he will make a statement; [200604] of different budgets which are not managed centrally. (3) what the anticipated out-turn cost of AFC For example infrastructure costs (including utilities) are Harrogate is for financial year 2014-15; and if he will managed by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation make a statement; [200606] through contracts which do not split out the costs for individual units operating on a particular site. Similarly, (4) what the anticipated out-turn cost of ITC equipment costs are managed across whole fleets of Catterick is for financial year 2014-15. [200623] items by Defence Equipment and Support, and not by individual location. For this reason the full running Anna Soubry: Financial data is held from financial costs of the Infantry Training Centre and the Army year 2007-08 onwards. The Ministry of Defence’s budgetary Foundation College cannot be provided in the format structure is organised into a number of different Top requested. However the costs attributable to the Army Level Budget areas. This means that the cost of activities can be provided from financial year 2007-08 onwards.

£ million Unit 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Army Foundation College 54.658 62.078 58.435 60.829 62.199 63.486 62.232 Infantry Training Centre 83.172 90.790 104.702 81.471 103.196 105.274 93.046

The Army’s anticipated outturn for the Army Foundation commenced phase two training at Catterick Infantry College Harrogate in 2014-15 is £66.204 million, and Training Centre had undertaken phase one training at for Infantry Training Centre Catterick is £90.793 million. Harrogate Army Foundation College in each year since 2006; and if he will make a statement. [200581] Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) male and (b) female recruits dropped Anna Soubry: No female recruits undergo infantry out of training at Catterick Infantry Training Centre training. The information requested for males is in the after completing phase one but before completing table: phase two in each year since 2006; how many such recruits in each category were aged under 18 years Male when they enlisted; how many had undertaken phase one training at Harrogate Army Foundation College; 2006-07 300 and if he will make a statement. [200580] 2007-08 300 2008-09 320 Anna Soubry: Infantry training at Catterick is comprised 2009-10 380 of the Combat Infantryman’s Course, which is a combined 2010-11 280 phase one and phase two course. For this reason it is not 2011-12 470 possible to provide the information requested for those 2012-13 630 who are recruited straight into Catterick. 2013-14 420 Note: Separate Phase one training prior to attending Catterick Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the is undertaken by those who attend the Army Foundation nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. College at Harrogate. The numbers in the table relate only to recruits who attended the Army Foundation Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence College and therefore all would have been under 18 on how many (a) male and (b) female recruits dropped enlistment. out of training at Catterick Infantry Training Centre No female recruits undergo infantry training and before completing Phase 1 in each year since 2006; how therefore figures shown relate to males only. many such recruits in each category were aged under 18 when they enlisted; and if he will make a statement. % % [200582] Junior Senior Junior Senior Junior entry Senior entry entry entry Total entry drop entry drop drop drop Anna Soubry: Infantry training at Catterick is comprised starts starts out starts out out out of the Combat Infantryman’s course, which is a combined phase one and phase two course. For this reason it is not 2006-07 3,410 300 40 3,110 950 13 28 possible to provide the information requested for those 2007-08 3,550 300 30 3,250 1,090 10 31 who dropped out of training before completing Phase 2008-09 4,020 320 40 3,700 1,060 13 26 1. The table shows all those who failed to complete the 2009-10 4,170 380 50 3,790 1,340 13 32 Combat Infantryman’s course. 2010-11 2,600 280 40 2,320 840 14 32 2011-12 4,050 470 70 3,580 1,260 15 31 No female recruits undergo infantry training and 2012-13 3,870 630 100 3,240 910 16 24 therefore figures shown relate to males only: 2013-14 1,950 420 40 1,530 680 10 35 Note: Discharged at ITC (Male) Under 18 on entry (Male) Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. 2006-07 950 320 2007-08 1,090 290 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 2008-09 1,060 210 how many (a) male and (b) female recruits who 2009-10 1,400 250 91W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 92W

Anna Soubry: The information is shown in the following Discharged at ITC (Male) Under 18 on entry (Male) table. 2010-11 840 90 2011-12 1,260 120 Male Female 2012-13 910 100 2006-07 280 20 2013-14 680 80 Note: 2007-08 300 30 Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the 2008-09 300 20 nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. 2009-10 420 40 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 2010-11 380 20 how many (a) male and (b) female recruits have 2011-12 420 10 commenced Phase 1 training at Catterick Infantry 2012-13 240 20 Training Centre in each year since 2006; and if he will 2013-14 170 10 make a statement. [200583] Note: Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the Anna Soubry: Infantry training at Catterick is comprised nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. of the Combat Infantryman’s course, which is a combined phase one and phase two course. The table includes all Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence those who commenced the Combat Infantryman’s course. how many recruits of each sex completed training at No female recruits undergo infantry training and AFC Harrogate in each year since 2006; how many therefore figures relate to males only. recruits of each sex commenced Phase 2 training (a) elsewhere and (b) at ITC Catterick; and if he will make Male a statement. [200603]

2006-07 3,110 2007-08 3,250 Anna Soubry: No female recruits undergo infantry 2008-09 3,700 training. The information requested is shown in the 2009-10 3,790 following table. 2010-11 2,320 2011-12 3,580 AFC AFC Phase 2 Phase 2 Phase 2 2012-13 3,240 Harrogate Harrogate starts starts starts ITC Completions Completions elsewhere elsewhere Catterick 2013-14 1,530 (Male) (Female) (Male) (Female) (Male) Note: Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the 2006-07 860 50 560 50 300 nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. 2007-08 890 50 580 50 300 2008-09 860 40 540 40 320 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 2009-10 960 80 580 80 380 how many recruits of each sex commenced phase 1 2010-11 840 60 560 60 280 training at AFC Harrogate in each year since 2006; 2011-12 800 20 330 20 480 how many recruits of each sex enlisted in an infantry 2012-13 1,100 80 490 80 630 role in that time; and if he will make a statement. 2013-14 1,040 70 620 70 420 [200601] Note: Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the Anna Soubry: No females currently serve in the infantry. nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. The information requested is shown in the following table. Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how many recruits are expected to commence Phase Commenced phase 1 training at AFC Enlisted in 1 training at AFC Harrogate in financial year 2014-15; Harrogate infantry role and if he will make a statement; [200605] Male Female All Male

2006-07 1,230 70 1,300 450 (2) how many recruits are expected to commence 2007-08 1,250 70 1,320 490 Phase 1 training at ITC Catterick in financial year [200607] 2008-09 1,290 100 1,390 540 2014-15; and if he will make a statement. 2009-10 1,320 100 1,420 540 2010-11 1,200 40 1,240 780 Anna Soubry: The number of recruits programmed to 2011-12 1,350 50 1,400 900 start training at AFC Harrogate and ITC Catterick in 2012-13 1,250 120 1,370 570 financial year 2014-15 is shown in the table. 2013-14 1,180 100 1,280 510 Note: 2014-15 Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in ‘5’ are rounded to the Establishment Number nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. AFC Harrogate 1,450 Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence ITC Catterick 2,750 how many recruits of each sex dropped out of training at AFC Harrogate before completing phase 1 in each Figures have been rounded to 10; numbers ending in year since 2006; and if he will make a statement. 5 are rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent [200602] systematic bias. 93W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 94W

Assets Mr Dunne: A breakdown of the Ministry of Defence civilian personnel employed at Her Majesty’s Naval Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Base Clyde, by job family, as at 9 June 2014, is provided Defence what assets his Department has sold and in the table. leased back over the last 12 months; what the sale price was of each asset so sold; and what estimate his Job family Number Department has made of the cost to the public purse of Business Management & Improvement 17 leasing back each such asset over the period of the Commercial 6 lease. [200903] Internal Communications and Media Relations 6 Dr Murrison: This information is not held centrally Corporate Support 59 and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Engineering and Science 97 However, normally the Ministry of Defence sells its Estates 13 assets with vacant possession, only leasing back properties Finance 11 for short periods pending relocation of the occupants. Health Professionals 11 Human Resources 2 AWE Information 26 Logistics 67 Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Programme and Project Management 26 Defence what facility rekit projects have taken place at Security, Health & Safety 931 the Atomic Weapons Establishment under the scope of Training and Education 13 the Nuclear Weapons Capability Sustainment Project; Total 1,285 and what the cost of each such project was. [200409] Mr Dunne: The term rekit is used by the Atomic A skills breakdown for Babcock, Serco, Rolls-Royce, Weapons Establishment (AWE) to mean the replacement Thales and other main contractors is a matter for or modernisation of process plant and/or equipment individual contractors and is not held by the Department. within an existing facility, including upgrading of building services. The following is a list of major facility rekits that have or are taking place at AWE. There are also a Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence number of more minor rekits underway which are not how many civilian personnel employed at HMNB listed. Clyde are resident in (a) Argyll and Bute, (b) West Depleted Uranium Upgrade Dunbartonshire, (c) other parts of Scotland and (d) Beryllium Facility other parts of the UK. [198729] Plutonium Capability Programme (A90) Enriched Uranium Facility (A45) Mr Dunne: As at 9 June 2014, the number of Ministry Explosive storage and processing Facility of Defence civilian personnel employed at Her Majesty’s Salts Sustainment Naval Base Clyde resident in Argyll and Bute, West Facility for assembly/disassembly of Warhead Dunbartonshire, other parts of Scotland and other The information relating to individual rekit costs for parts of the United Kingdom are provided in the table. each facility for the years 2003 to date is not centrally held and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Region Number1 AWE Aldermaston Argyll and Bute 423 West Dunbartonshire 457 Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Other parts of Scotland 385 Defence what the completion date is for refurbishment Other parts of the UK 15 of existing hydrodynamics research facilities at the Not known 5 Atomic Weapons Establishment Aldermaston; what Total 1,285 1 It should be noted that the recording of home addresses by Ministry of the cost is of the refurbishment; and what the expected Defence civilian personnel is not mandatory and the information above is not lifetime is of the new facilities. [200911] verified.

Mr Dunne: The refurbishment of the existing hydrodynamics research facilities at the Atomic Weapons Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Establishment Aldermaston is planned to be completed how many civilian personnel are employed at HMNB by summer 2016. Clyde by (a) his Department, (b) Babcock, (c) ABL The forecast cost of the refurbishment is £25.5 million. Alliance, (d) Serco, (e) Rolls Royce, (f) Thales and The refurbished facilities will have a range of expected (g) other main contractors. [198730] lifetimes, estimated at between 10 and 15 years. Clyde Naval Base Mr Dunne: As at 9 June 2014, 1,285 Ministry of Defence civilian personnel are employed at Her Majesty’s Katy Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Naval Base Clyde. Additionally there are approximately if he will provide a skills breakdown of the civilian 1,900 people employed in the Naval Base by contractors. personnel employed at HMNB Clyde by (a) his The precise number is a matter for the contractors and Department, (b) Babcock, (c) Serco, (d) Rolls-Royce, will fluctuate, depending on the tasks and the number (e) Thales and (f) other main contractors. [198728] of sub-contractors employed. 95W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 96W

Departmental Records Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the value of Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for purchasing AM-aluminium matting for landing pads Defence if he will place a copy of 2014DIN05-012 on for the JSF 35B. [200909] JSP 441 - The Defence Records Management Policy and Procedures: Publication of Version 4:3 in the Mr Dunne: High temperature resistant concrete was considered as the most appropriate surface for the UK Library. [200742] Joint Strike Fighter landing pads. AM-aluminium matting was considered but does not have the same durability Dr Murrison: A copy of the Defence Instruction for repeated use and would also result in a higher Notice 2014-DIN05-012 regarding JSP 441 will be placed maintenance burden. in the Library of the House. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for France Defence what risk assessment he has made of the safety of aircraft handlers and maintenance personnel due to Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for the noise produced by the Joint Strike Fighter. [200915] Defence if he will place in the Library copies of agreements with the French Government to (a) undertake joint Mr Dunne: Full assessment has been made regarding research at the Atomic Weapons Establishment Orion the noise levels of the Joint Strike Fighter. Personnel and Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique Laser Megajoule, noise exposure risk is managed in accordance with The (b) allow use of hydrodynamics research facility at the Control of Noise at Work Regulations, 2005 and will Atomic Weapons Establishment and (c) peer review include a combination of personal protective equipment technical and scientific data underpinning nuclear warhead and procedures to control daily noise exposure, normal certification. [200912] practice for personnel operating machinery such as helicopters, tanks and other aircraft. Mr Dunne: The agreements with the French Government Military Aircraft to undertake joint research described are detailed in article 1 of the TEUTATES treaty 2010, available at: Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ Defence (1) what deviations or exemptions from the attachment_data/file/228571/7975.pdf Military Air Systems Certifications Process were made for the Airseeker aircraft; when those deviations or Intelligence Services exemptions were made; and who authorised each such deviation or exemption; [200905] Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (2) whether the deviations or exemptions from the if he will restrict the use of fused multi-disciplinary Military Air Systems Certification Process that allowed intelligence at the forthcoming Joint and Combined the inaugural flight of the Rivet Joint aircraft on May Geo-INT event held by the Defence Geospatial Intelligence 27 2014 were the final form that will be used for all and Fusion Centre at RAF Wyton. [201076] operations. [200906]

Mr Francois: Sharing and fusing intelligence in an Mr Dunne: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I increasingly complex world is essential if we are to gave on 16 June 2014, Official Report, column 364W, to understand threats to UK interests. The Ministry of the hon. Member for Plymouth, Moor View (Alison Defence intelligence community works closely with Seabeck). international partners in the fulfilment of this aim. Any Ongoing work will progressively refine this release as intelligence sharing is conducted in accordance with additional information becomes available and further UK law. analysis is conducted.

Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) actual and (b) simulated flight hours pilots need to adjust from a fast jet with a Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for heads-up-display to one with only a helmet mounted Defence what the loudest decibel levels are that are display. [200916] produced by JSF 35B during operations aboard an aircraft carrier. [200899] Mr Dunne: The adjustment from a fast jet aircraft with a heads-up display to one with a helmet mounted Mr Dunne: The loudest operation to be conducted by display cannot be quantified in hours as pilots are the F-35B onboard an aircraft carrier is a Military trained to operate the aircraft as a whole. Power take-off. The measured aircraft sound level of a Military Power take-off is approximately 145 dB at Nuclear Weapons: Proliferation 135 degrees from the aircraft nose centre line, at a distance of 50 feet from the rear of the aircraft. The Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Military Power take-off is a standard operating procedure Defence what assessment his Department has made of and managing exposure to noise is an integral part of whether arrangements for defence nuclear co-operations normal embarked operations. This level of noise is which were agreed at the UK-France summit in January similar to that of the Harrier, F18’s, F15’s and the same 2014 summit comply with the (a) Comprehensive Nuclear- level as produced by an F-16. Test Ban treaty, (b) treaty on the Non-Proliferation of 97W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 98W

Nuclear Weapons and (c) other aspects of international shipyard until the results of the Scottish referendum law; and if he will place in the Library a copy of any are known. [201049] such assessments. [200908] Dr Murrison: No discussions have been held with Mr Dunne: Arrangements agreed at the UK-France BAE Systems about delaying the closure of Portsmouth summit in January 2014 are entirely consistent with all shipyard pending the results of the Scottish referendum. of our obligations under international law including the The Government is clear that Scotland benefits from Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban treaty and the treaty being part of the UK and the UK benefits from having on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. I am Scotland within it. The Government is not making withholding release of any assessments under the principle plans for independence as we are confident that the of legal professional privilege. people of Scotland will vote to remain within the United Official Visits Kingdom in the referendum. Tornado Aircraft Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what visits each of the Ministers in his Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Department have made since January 2013; and what Defence what event or risk involving a Tornado aircraft the purpose of each such visit was. [200481] led to the approval of the Collision Warning Technology Demonstrator Programme for that Anna Soubry: Details of Ministers visits and the aircraft; when that event or risk was identified; and purpose of each visit overseas are published quarterly where it is recorded. [199756] and can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ministers- Mr Dunne: The Collision Warning System (CWS) transparency-publications Technical Demonstrator Programme (TDP) Final Report Details of Ministers overseas visits and the purpose dated October 1996 details that the CWS TDP resulted of each visit from January to December 2013 are published. from a series of airborne collisions involving various The details from January 2014 to date will be published types of fast jets in the years prior to 1991. Although in due course. the TDP was evaluated using a Tornado GR1 test aircraft, the objective was to evaluate the CWS concept Procurement across all of the fast jet operational training environment. Travel Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether bidders for the Next Generation Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Estates contracts were invited to offer a blanket bid for Defence, how much his Department spent on all contracts. [201413] ministerial travel by (a) Government Car Service, (b) private hire vehicles, (c) taxis, (d) rail, (e) aviation Dr Murrison: The Next Generation Estate Contracts and (f) other means in each year of the current consist of six separate contracts which were advertised parliament. [157543] separately. Some companies chose to become involved in bids for more than one, but since the procurements Mr Francois: I apologise for the length of time it has were competed separately, the Defence Infrastructure taken to provide the hon. Member with a response to Organisation did not encourage a ‘blanket bid’. It was her question. I will write to the hon. Member with the left for tenderers to make their own commercial judgment information requested shortly. in this respect. Substantive answer from Anna Soubry to Maria Eagle: Shipbuilding: Portsmouth My predecessor undertook to write to you in response to your Parliamentary Question of 5 September 2013, Official Report, column 490W, about the cost of ministerial travel in the Ministry Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for of Defence (MOD) in each year of the current Parliament. The Defence what discussions he has had with BAE information requested is presented in the following table. I am Systems about delaying the closure of the Portsmouth sorry for the delay in replying.

£

(a) Government Car (b) Private hire (f) Other: MOD Financial year Service1 vehicles (c) Taxis (d) Rail2 (e) Aviation3 pool vehicles1

2010-11 39,419 0 147 5,095 120,843 131,622

2011-12 0 0 232 4,249 164,281 127,160

2012-13 0 0 0 3,149 122,223 99,928

1 Road transport for the Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond) is normally provided by the Metropolitan police. The Junior Defence Ministers have, in accordance with the Ministerial Code, given up their cars with a dedicated driver to reduce costs and now share central MOD pool vehicles with senior staff working in the MOD Main Building. The costs quoted represent a notional estimate of the use the Junior Defence Ministers have made of the shared vehicles. 2 Includes Eurostar. 3 Includes both international and domestic flights and some notional costs of travel in RAF aircraft, where available. 99W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 100W

Unmanned Air Vehicles The Department does not collect further education information relating to the devolved Administrations. Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence with reference to the answer of 10 February Richard Burden: To ask the Secretary of State for 2014, Official Report, column 474W, on unmanned air Business, Innovation and Skills if he will bring forward vehicles: guided weapons, if he will take steps to receive proposals to give employers the choice of (a) having parliamentary approval before the deployment of the either a direct Government contract for armed forces to the redeployment of armed drones apprenticeships and (b) accessing funding support abroad. [198710] through their chosen training provider. [200877]

Mr Francois: There is no intention for parliamentary Matthew Hancock: The Government has consulted approval to be sought before decisions on deployment on different options for routing apprenticeship funding or redeployment of individual items of equipment are via employers. The consultation closed on 1 May 2014. made, though the Ministry of Defence may of course We are currently analysing the responses and are committed notify Parliament of significant deployments, as it does to designing a system that works for employers of all at present. sizes and in all sectors. Next steps will be announced in the autumn. Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence with reference to the answer of 12 September Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State 2013, Official Report, column 798W, on Unmanned for Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the Aerial Vehicles, whether changes to the Reaper answer of 11 June 2014, Official Report, column 213W, Agreement pertaining to the UK Reaper Force on apprenticeships, if he will make it his policy to Squadron have been finalised; and whether this collect information centrally on how many individuals Agreement will remain in force following the cessation who started an apprenticeship in the 2012-13 academic of NATO International Security Force missions in year were existing employees or new employees. Afghanistan. [200600] [201338]

Mr Francois: The memorandum of understanding is Matthew Hancock: Information will be collected via still undergoing the review process. However, it will the Individualised Learner Record for the 2013/14 academic cover both the ISAF mission and any future wider year onwards on the length of time a learner has been NATO missions. with their employer prior to starting their apprenticeship.

Written Questions Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for the answer of 3 March 2014, Official Report, column Defence how many parliamentary questions tabled to 599W, on apprenticeships; what steps he has taken to his Department in the last parliamentary Session did introduce grading into new apprenticeships; and not receive a substantive answer by the time of the 2014 whether such grading will be mandatory. [201339] Prorogation; and when each such question was first tabled. [200443] Matthew Hancock: Grading is being introduced into new apprenticeships through the Trailblazer process. Anna Soubry: One question tabled to the Ministry of Groups of employers are coming together to design Defence in the last parliamentary Session did not receive apprenticeship standards and assessments. All new a substantive reply by the time of the 2014 Prorogation. apprenticeships must be graded, and we have made grading of the end-point assessment a minimum The tabling date for this question was 14 March 2014. requirement of the new apprenticeship programme. Having had their standards approved and published in March, the first phase of Trailblazer projects are now BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS working on their assessment plans, including implementation of the grading requirement. Apprentices Grading is important to ensure qualifications are aspirational for all—including those on track to pass who could benefit from being challenged to aim higher. Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many people started apprenticeships in (a) Swindon and (b) the Mr Nigel Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent United Kingdom in each of the last five years. [200658] representations he has received on steps to encourage Matthew Hancock: Information on the number of more firms to offer apprenticeships for the long-term apprenticeship starts in England by geography is published unemployed. [904373] in a Supplementary Table to a Statistical First Release (SFR): Matthew Hancock: No recent representations have been received on steps to encourage more firms to offer https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/fe-data- library-apprenticeships--2 apprenticeships for the long-term unemployed. https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ Despite that, we are taking forward action to do so. attachment_data/file/298401/apprenticeships-starts-by- Apprenticeships play a vital role in equipping people to geography-learner-demographics-and-sector-subject-area.xls lead successful and rewarding working lives, and are a 101W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 102W key pathway into work. Apprenticeships and the First Release ‘Student Support for Higher Education introduction of study programmes for the 16-19 age England’. The latest statistics are available at the following group are at the heart of our drive to equip people with link: the skills that employers need. Traineeships, which we http://www.slc.co.uk/media/694170/slcsfr052013.pdf introduced last year, provide an education and training A further breakdown for Warrington North constituency, programme with work experience, focused on giving Warrington LEA and the North West has been provided young people aged 16-23 the skills and experience they in the table for the academic year 2012/13. Equivalent need to get apprenticeships and other sustainable jobs. figures for the academic year 2013/14 will be available from November 2014. Australia Students in receipt of Disabled Students Allowance1 from Nottingham South constituency, Nottingham and the East Midlands; academic Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for year 2012/13; effective date: 13/11/2013 Business, Innovation and Skills what visits Ministers in Number of applicants paid his Department made to Australia in the last year; what Application type the primary purpose was of those visits; and who Post accompanied them on those visits. [200759] Full-time Part-time graduate Area application application DSA Total

Jenny Willott: Details of Ministers’ overseas visits are North West 7,030 350 550 7,940 published quarterly on the gov.uk website: Government 2 https://www.gov.uk/government/ Region publications?departments%5B%5D=department-for-business- Warrington 190 10 10 210 innovation-skills&publication_type=transparency-data LEA2 Information for January to March 2014 will be published Warrington 100 — 10 110 North shortly. Constituency2 1 Disabled Student Allowance may be paid to the Student or to a Chief Scientific Advisers Supplier on the student’s behalf. 2 Figures are derived from the Post Code of the applicant’s home address. Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Notes: Innovation and Skills (1) how many meetings he has 1. The effective date is that of the November 2013 Awards Statistical had with his Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser in First Release. The figures are therefore provisional and do not the last 12 months; [200784] include students who were awarded DSA after November 2013. 2. DSA payments may be made at any point during the Academic (2) how many meetings the Minister of State for (a) Year or after the end of the Academic Year. 3. Numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add to the Business and Enterprise, (b) Universities, Science and sum of the components due to rounding. Skills and (c) Skills and Enterprise has had with his 4. ‘—’ represents a number less than 5. Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser in the last 12 months. [200796] Engineering: Females Mr Willetts: As was the case under previous Administrations, details of internal meetings are not Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, normally disclosed. Innovation and Skills what progress his Department has made on increasing the number of women in engineering roles. [200799] Consultation Papers Mr Willetts: BIS funds or supports a range of activities Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State aimed at increasing the number of women in science for Business, Innovation and Skills how many and engineering roles. 55% of National Science and consultation documents his Department issued which Engineering Competition prize winners were girls, as received fewer than 100 separate responses in each of was the UK Young Engineer of the Year 2014. the last four years. [201214] BIS also funds STEMNET to run the STEM Ambassadors programme: a nationwide network of Jenny Willott: Data on consultation response rates is over 28,000 volunteers who visit schools to inspire not centrally held and could be provided only at young people, act as role models and bring STEM disproportionate cost. career opportunities to life. 40% of STEM Ambassadors are women. 91% of UK state secondary schools accessed Disabled Students’ Allowances: North West STEM Ambassadors between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2014. Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for BIS is also part of the ‘Your Life’ campaign that is Business, Innovation and Skills how many people are in designed to boost participation in science, technology, receipt of disabled students’ allowance in (a) the engineering and maths at school and beyond. Over 180 North West, (b) Warrington and (c) Warrington leading businesses and institutions have pledged to do North constituency. [200880] more to highlight the career opportunities open to those studying STEM subjects, committing to create Mr Willetts: Information on students awarded and over 2000 new entry level positions including paid Disabled Students’ Allowance is published annually apprenticeships, graduate jobs or paid work experience by Student Loans Company (SLC) in the Statistical posts. 103W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 104W

As one of our pledges under the Your Life campaign, Complainant believes they were given poor advice; and on 12 June 2014, the Minister for Skills and Enterprise, IP failed to deal with an IVA/Trust Deed in a timely way. my hon. Friend the Member for West Suffolk (Matthew Hancock), announced £30 million funding to increase Minimum Wage the supply of engineers, to encourage more women into the sector and to address engineering skills shortages in Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for smaller companies. The fund will enable engineering Business, Innovation and Skills what the budget for companies to establish training programmes to develop enforcement of the National Minimum Wage was in future engineers and boost the number of women in the 2013-14; and what that budget will be in (a) 2014-15 profession. £10 million of the fund will be directed to a and (b) 2015-16. [201385] call to ‘Developing Women Engineers’ and £10 million to a call to ‘Improving Engineering Careers’. Jenny Willott: The national minimum wage enforcement budgets for 2013/14, 2014/15 and 2015/16 in principal Insolvency were set out in parliamentary question 174284 on 7 November 2013, Official Report, column 351W. The 2014/15 budget was reviewed at the start of the Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for financial year and will be considered again at mid-year Business, Innovation and Skills how many complaints and may be subject to change. the Government has received on the England and Wales personal insolvency regime in relation to (a) Money Lenders bankruptcy, (b) individual voluntary arrangements and (c) debt relief orders in each year since 2010; and Pamela Nash: To ask the Secretary of State for what the nature was of such complaints. [200891] Business, Innovation and Skills how many telephone calls the Illegal Money Lending Unit helpline received Jenny Willott: The Insolvency Service (Agency) does from (a) Scotland, (b) England, (c) Wales and (d) not hold records that categorise complaints in this way Northern Ireland in each of the last four years. for 2009/10, 2010/11 and 2011/12. The Agency’s records [201228] are held in relation to complaints received in respect of the official receiver’s administration of bankruptcies Jenny Willott: The Illegal Money Lending Teams in and debt relief orders (DROs) from 2012/13 onwards. England, Scotland and Wales receive intelligence via Since June 2013, following introduction of the Insolvency the helpline and also through via the ″report a loan Practitioner Complaints Gateway, the Agency has shark″ web page on www.gov.uk, text messages, other maintained records of complaints made against Insolvency electronic media and referrals from enforcement and Practitioners (IPs) and their administration of individual debt advice agencies. voluntary arrangements (IVAs) and Trust Deeds (a Below is a breakdown of the number of calls received Scottish equivalent of IVAs)—no records are held for over the last four years and also the number of total IVAs alone. pieces of intelligence received via all communications The following table summarises complaint numbers channels. in respect of the official receiver or IP’s administration of bankruptcies, IVA/Trust Deeds and DROs. Number Telephone calls Total intelligence received IVA & Trust Debt relief England Wales Scotland England Wales Scotland Bankruptcy Deeds orders 2013/14 370 16 10 592 29 65 2012/13 193 — 0 2012/13 323 20 8 657 32 117 2013/14 154 183 7 2011/12 214 20 12 460 38 96 2010/11 1— 1— 1— 299 48 28 Records detailing the nature of complaints received 1 Breakdown of number of calls received unavailable. in relation to the official receiver’s administration of Trading Standards is a devolved matter in Northern bankruptcy and DRO cases have only been held since Ireland and so it is not possible to provide comparable 2013/14. The complaints are categorised as follows: data for there. Delay in taking action; Delay in replying to correspondence; Pamela Nash: To ask the Secretary of State for Delay in returning telephone calls; Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to the Personal conduct (of a member of staff); answer of 14 May 2014, Official Report, column 678W, on money lenders, how many actionable reports led to Misleading/incorrect information; a conviction in each of the last four years. [201229] Failure to inform/reply; Failure to act; Jenny Willott: The Illegal Money Lending Teams Incorrect action; and conduct complex and sensitive investigations. The length Quality of service by 3rd party acting for the Agency. of each investigation will be influenced by the circumstances of the specific case. In some instances convictions can The nature of complaints received in respect of an be delivered only through months of proactive intelligence IP’s administration of IVAs are categorised as follows: gathering and community engagement. Because of this, Complainant not receiving a completion certificate; some cases span across multiple years and so there is IP’s failure to deal with correspondence; not necessarily a direct link between the numbers of Complainant disputing payment protection insurance actionable reports and the numbers of convictions in compensation is asset in IVA; any one year. 105W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 106W

Below is a breakdown of the number of operations, of the last four years and the number of custodial arrests and prosecutions completed by the Illegal Money sentences handed down by the courts. Lending Teams in England, Scotland and Wales in each

Number Operations Arrests/Detainments Prosecutions Custodials England Wales Scotland England Wales Scotland England Wales Scotland England Wales Scotland

2013/14 74 29 9 107 4 7 55 2 7 25 2 0 2012/13 73 38 15 92 4 4 34 2 6 13 2 0 2011/12 57 37 14 62 13 17 17 4 6 11 4 1 2010/111 288 46 17 104 6 5 32 7 5 26 1 0 1 The England Illegal Money Lending Team was restructured in April 2011. Nine England regional teams were merged into a single national team covering the whole of England.

Postal Services made of the number of former BAE staff at the Portsmouth shipyard who have been recruited by Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for overseas ship-builders. [201062] Business, Innovation and Skills what discussions his Department has had with Royal Mail regarding the Michael Fallon: The local taskforce is working to redirection notices it provides to other postal operators. secure positive outcomes for all staff leaving BAE in [201400] Portsmouth. It is too early to draw conclusions. We recognise the importance of manufacturing and Jenny Willott: None. Matters relating to its operations engineering skills to the economy: these will be vital to and services, which includes its redirection service, are building the Solent area’s strengths in marine and maritime. the direct responsibility of Royal Mail’s management. BIS is working closely with industry, Jobcentre Plus, and Portsmouth council to support those employees Science: Finance impacted by BAE’s decision to close its shipyard in Portsmouth. Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, The Southampton and Portsmouth City Deal announced Innovation and Skills what assessment he has made of a £1 million DWP Rapid Response Service that will the effect of levels of public expenditure on science on support those recently made redundant. Government UK economic productivity figures. [200800] and local industry will invest £3 million in a Marine and Maritime Employer Ownership for Skills Programme, Mr Willetts: A number of academic studies find a responding to the immediate skills needs in small and positive link between research and development (R&D) medium-sized enterprises in the advanced manufacturing investment and economic growth. Much of the relevant sector. evidence was set out in a recent report for BIS ″Insights from international benchmarking of the UK science Additionally the existing UK-wide Talent Retention and innovation system1″ and the 2014 BIS Innovation Solution is available to help match skilled workers to Report2. engineering jobs in the UK and is currently advertising 693 vacancies in the south of England on its website.1 A further recent UK report estimated that public 1 investment in science yields a social rate of return of Active TRS vacancies listed on 18 June 2014. around 20%, through its impact on private sector Students: Finance productivity3. This means that for every £1 spent by Government on R&D, private sector output rises by 20 Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, pence per year in perpetuity. This effect could be larger Innovation and Skills pursuant to the written where additional public spending on R&D attracts statement of 16 June 2014, Official Report, columns additional private R&D spending. The same report and ″ ″ 70-1WS, on student support in England, how many of other studies have shown that there is a crowding-in the students who were unable to or chose not to effect of public investment on R&D. The effect is greater provide adequate evidence of residency were studying in industries that conduct significant R&D or collaborate at an alternative provider with designated courses; at with universities. which provider they were studying; for what 1 Available at: qualifications they were registered; and on what basis https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/science-and- his Department calculated that £65 million was due to innovation-system-international-benchmarking be paid to 1,333 students. [200842] 2 Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/innovation-report- Mr Willetts: The number of students who were unable 2014-innovation-research-and-growth to or chose not to provide adequate evidence of residency 3 Available at: who were studying at an alternative provider with designated http://sciencecampaign.org.uk/UKScienceBase.pdf courses and providers at which they were studying, was included in the data set placed in the Libraries of the Shipbuilding: Overseas Workers House to accompany the written ministerial statement on 16 June 2014. Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for A breakdown of the courses these students are studying Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has is data that is not held in the form requested. I have 107W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 108W asked the Student Loans Company to compile this data COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT and I will place a copy in the Libraries of the House as soon as it is available. Compulsory Purchase The £65 million figure given in the written ministerial statement is the amount of student support that would Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for have been paid in relation to the 5,548 students deemed Communities and Local Government what the average to be ineligible following the residency checking exercise. length of time is taken by his Department to issue a It was calculated using actual awards for students who Compulsory Purchase Order to a local authority. had approved applications and average award amounts [201047] for students whose applications had not reached the approval stage at the time payments were suspended. Nick Boles: Since May 2012 (when the National Planning Casework Unit took responsibility for this area of work) the average length of time to make a Sunday Trading Act 1994 decision on opposed planning Compulsory Purchase Orders is 10 to 11 weeks. Roger Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Compulsory Purchase: Haringey Business, Innovation and Skills what recent representations he has received from UK retailers on Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for the effect of the Sunday Trading Act 1994 on their Communities and Local Government (1) when he businesses. [201116] expects to reach a decision on whether Haringey Council will be issued with a Compulsory Purchase Jenny Willott: The Department for Business, Innovation Order in relation to the site of 1-3 Paxton Road, and Skills has received representations from a number London N17 0PB; [201048] of correspondents in the last 12 months on Sunday trading. These include representations from Asda Stores (2) when his Department received the application Ltd, Horticulture Trades Association and shopping from Haringey Council for a Compulsory Purchase centres advocating further liberalisation, as well as others Order to be issued for the site of 1-3 Paxton Road, such as the Association of Convenience Stores, some London, N17 0PB. [201046] large retailers, two individual stores and small groups, supporting the current Sunday trading rules or for Nick Boles: We are currently considering whether to further restrictions. confirm a Compulsory Purchase Order known as The London Borough of Haringey (Northumberland Development Project) (No 1) submitted by Haringey Telephone Services Council which includes the site of 1-3 Paxton Road. The Order was received in the Department on 5 September 2012. Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many premium This is a complex case. After the close of the inquiry rate type telephone lines were in use for members of the there were matters in respect of which further views of public to contact his Department in (a) June 2010 and the interested parties were sought and considered. This (b) June 2014. [201215] has delayed the decision in this case. We hope to issue the decision on this shortly. It is not Jenny Willott: The Department had no public facing appropriate to comment further as to do so may premium rate lines in use in June 2010 or June 2014. prejudice the Secretary of State’s decision. Equal Opportunities TNT Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what targets his Business, Innovation and Skills what discussions his Department has for increasing diversity; and what Department has had with Ofcom regarding the postal progress has been made on meeting those targets in the last year. [199921] service standards provided by TNT. [201401]

Jenny Willott: Ministers and officials in the Department Brandon Lewis: I refer the hon. Member to the for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) meet with answer given by the Minister for the Cabinet Office and officials from Ofcom, the independent regulator for Paymaster General, my right hon. Friend the Member postal services, on a regular basis to discuss a broad for Horsham (Mr Maude), on 16 June 2014, Official range of market issues. There have not been any specific Report, column 434W. discussions about TNT post’s service standards. Housing: ICT All postal operators are subject to regulatory conditions set by Ofcom. These regulatory conditions cover such Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for things as the security and confidentiality of the mail Communities and Local Government what steps he is that operators handle and ensure that effective complaints taking to ensure that newly built residential properties procedures are in place for consumers. More information have access to telephone and internet services. [201013] about Ofcom’s regulatory regime can be found on its website at: Nick Boles: Developers and internet providers www.ofcom.org.uk recognise the importance of telephone and internet 109W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 110W provision in new builds and that customers’ expectation post-implementation review will be carried out three to is these services will be available on the day they move five years after implementation of the policy which was in. My Department, with the Department for Culture, in July 2012. Media and Sport, is working with house builders and My Department routinely receives representations providers of telephone and internet services to ensure about standards arrangements in local government, newly built residential properties have access to and indeed, on a whole range of local government telephone and internet services. issues. We will have regard to representations and comments when we undertake our post Housing: Planning Permission implementation review. However, Ministers are clear that the new provisions John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for are a significant improvement on the old, discredited Communities and Local Government of how many regime. The Localism Act has clarified local authority plans arising from which authorities he predetermination rules allowing elected councillors to has rejected the proposed local development campaign and speak up on local issues. We have framework and required additional housing supply in reversed the petty culture of malicious and unfounded excess of that specified in the regional spatial strategy. complaints that wasted time and energy and [198800] undermined the good reputation of local government. We have increased transparency on councillors’ Nick Boles [holding answer 9 June 2014]: The interests, and put in place criminal sanctions for the Secretary of State for Communities and Local very rare instances of corruption. This is Government, my right hon. Friend the Member for complemented by the role of political parties in Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles), has not rejected ensuring good conduct, the law of libel, and the any local plan. ultimate sanction: the ballot box. The coalition Government has put local plans and local councils at the heart of planning. We have Noise: Pollution Control abolished the unpopular and ineffective top-down targets in regional strategies, shifting power and Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for responsibility for housing and planning to local Communities and Local Government what guidance councils and local communities. Regional strategies are his Department provides to music venues facing no longer relevant for local plans coming forward for potential closure from noise abatement notices as a examination. result of change of use of neighbouring buildings The Localism Act 2011 removed planning under permitted development rights. [200374] inspectors’ powers to impose changes on local authorities’ draft local plans. Instead, independent Nick Boles [holding answer 17 June 2014]: Under planning inspectors now report to the local authority nuisance law, it is for a local authority to decide on a and identify any conflicts between a draft local plan case by case basis whether or not a noise constitutes a and national policy and regulatory process. They are statutory nuisance. The ‘character of the locality’ is one able to recommend modifications to overcome these of a number of relevant facts that would be taken into issues if they are asked to do so by the council itself. account, and well-established music venues would The local authority is free to choose to accept the certainly be a consideration in assessing the inspector’s modifications and adopt the draft plan, or reasonableness of the activity being carried out. resubmit a new plan. This approach is aimed at encouraging a more collaborative process as the public The National Planning Policy Framework states that examination proceeds. existing businesses wanting to develop in continuance of their business should not have unreasonable restrictions put on them because of changes in nearby Local Government land uses since they were established. This policy is clearly material when considering planning Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for enforcement cases in relation to new land use changes Communities and Local Government (1) what nearby. Our new suite of planning guidance directly representations his Department has received from (a) addresses the issue of noise, including advice on noise local authorities and (b) others on sanctions available mitigation measures. This can be found online at: to councils under the Localism Act 2011 where http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/ councillors have been found to have been in breach of noise/noise-guidance/ the code of conduct under that Act; [199699] The licensing process also provides an adjudication (2) what representations his Department has received mechanism between local residents and licensed on the effectiveness of the role of the independent premises by which practical measures can be person under the Localism Act 2011; [199698] introduced to control and mitigate noise. Statutory (3) what plans he has to carry out a post- guidance recommends practical conditions such as implementation review of the local government closing doors and windows, the installation of acoustic standards framework in the Localism Act 2011. curtains or rubber speaker mounts. While recognising [199700] the need to tackle public nuisance, the guidance also advises that licensing authorities should be aware of Brandon Lewis [holding answer 12 June 2014]: As the need to avoid inappropriate or disproportionate stated in the impact assessment on the abolition of the measures that could deter events that are valuable to Standards Board regime (published in January 2011), a the community, such as live music. 111W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 112W

More broadly, it is also in the commercial interests of grow in line with inflation. No fares differential was any developer wishing to sell and market new applied to services using the high speed infrastructure. residential accommodation near an existing music This is an assumption which provides an appropriate venue or licensed premises, or indeed in any urban basis for modelling costs and benefits, but does not environment, to take into account nearby noise, and represent a prediction of future rail fares, which will be seek to address that via good internal design and affected by government policy, market and industry appropriate mitigation mechanisms (such as double changes across the GB rail network over many years. glazing). Planning Permission Mr Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he expects High Speed 2 will require a separate ticket pricing structure from regular rail Mr Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for services. [200850] Communities and Local Government what average length of time is taken by his Department to make a decision on a planning application referred to it. Mr Goodwill: The HS2 business case demonstrates [201044] that the project can deliver significant benefits for the country without any fares differential being required for Nick Boles: During 2013-14, 272 planning journeys using the high speed line. It is too soon to applications were referred to the Secretary of State know what fares will be set for travel on HS2 services. under the Town and Country Planning (Consultation) Government decisions about fares structures and regulation (England) Direction 2009. Records indicate that the will be taken closer to the commencement of HS2 phase average number of days it took to make a decision was 1 services in 2026. 21 days. Regeneration: Liverpool Mr Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to publish information on ticket pricing for High Speed 2. [200851] Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will undertake an assessment of the effectiveness and Mr Goodwill: There are currently no plans to publish progress of the Anfield regeneration project. [198911] information relating to the likely structure or level of ticket prices for journeys using the HS2 railway following Kris Hopkins [holding answer 9 June 2014]: This the opening of HS2 phase 1 in 2026 and beyond. local regeneration project is being overseen by Liverpool city council, and is not the responsibility of Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for my Department. Transport what form he expects the Chinese investment This Government cancelled the last Administration’s in High Speed 2 to take. [201342] controversial Pathfinder programme and its top down targets. Mr Goodwill: The 2013 spending review provided a Given my Department’s quasi-judicial role in the long-term funding commitment of £50 billion to deliver planning process, it would not be appropriate to HS2. We are continuously seeking ways to reduce costs comment at this stage on any current or pending to the taxpayer, and we are very open to proposals planning application. around including elements of private financing, including Chinese investment. Opportunities for external investment might exist in TRANSPORT relation to rolling stock and development and regeneration around stations. This could provide benefits to both Chief Scientific Advisers taxpayers and investors.

Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many meetings he has had with his Transport whether he expects Chinese workers to be Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser in the last 12 employed in the construction of High Speed 2. [201343] months. [200793]

Stephen Hammond: As was the case under previous Mr Goodwill: Contracts let for the construction of Administrations, details of internal meetings are not HS2 infrastructure and rolling stock will be open to normally disclosed. competition irrespective of country of origin, in accordance with EU and UK procurement legislation. High Speed 2 Railway Line Prospective bidders are welcome to work alongside British-based bidders. Mr Sheerman: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent estimate he has made of It will be for bidders to propose how they can best projected ticket prices for rail passengers using the deliver their proposals and the contribution of British High Speed 2 rail line. [200848] companies and supply chain will be of interest. HS2 Ltd is undertaking a range of initiatives to Mr Goodwill: In order to test the case for HS2, ensure businesses are aware of the opportunities and current fares were assumed to increase by RPI+1% their forthcoming requirements so that they can prepare, annually until 2036 after which fares are assumed to so as to compete effectively. 113W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 114W

Any non-EU overseas workers would of course be select the training which best meets their needs, which subject to the UK’s immigration regime and would be may be a course on vulnerable road users. required to comply with whatever regulations were in We welcome initiatives such as ’Exchanging Places’ force at the time. events where cyclists and drivers of HGVs and buses get to experience the others’ perspective, and encourage Large Goods Vehicle Drivers local authorities to consider such activities which can improve road sharing. Mark Lazarowicz: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to encourage local Telephone Services authorities to provide training for drivers of heavy goods vehicles to increase awareness of the dangers Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for faced by cyclists. [200680] Transport how many telephone lines with the prefix (a) 0845, (b) 0844 and (c) 0843 his Department (i) Stephen Hammond: In addition to licence acquisition operates and (ii) sponsors; how many calls each such tests which require drivers to demonstrate knowledge of number has received in the last 12 months; and whether vulnerable road users, the EU mandated Driver Certificate alternative numbers charged at BT local rates are of Professional Competence requires drivers of heavy available in each such case. [201389] goods vehicles to carry out five days of further training in every five-year period. Within the confines of the Stephen Hammond: The Department has three numbers directive, we would encourage drivers and employers to in use detailed in the following table:

Alternative numbers charged at the BT local rate are available in each Area/agency Number Comments Calls received in last 12 months case

Highways Agency 0845 7504030 This is the old Highways Agency Calls received in the 12 months HA only advertise the *0300 HAIL Information Line (HAIL) phone preceding discontinuance of the number (0300 1235000) now. number. The HA has paid for it number 11,244. to now operate as a diversion number to the new cheaper number (0300 1235000). It has been retained as it may appear on old literature but is not advertised anymore. The use of the HA 0845 number was discontinued in November 2013.

Highways Agency 0845 9556575 This is the national Highways 20,851 HA also advertise the local landline Agency switchboard number. number: 0121 335 8301.

VOSA (Vehicle Operators 0845 6005977 This number offers guidance on Due to replacement of our Both of these options are also Services Agency) MOT testing standards and an telephony systems, statistics are available via the VOSA National option to book MOT seminars. only available from December Number, *0300 123 9000, which is 2012 to present, in this time charged at standard geographic rate. VOSA received 3,345 calls via this number.

WOMEN AND EQUALITIES WORK AND PENSIONS

Compensation Domestic Violence Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Ministers for Women Work and Pensions how much has been paid in and Equalities what recent discussions the Government consolatory payments for claimants in (a) Preston and Equalities Office has had with the Home Office about (b) the rest of the UK in each of the last three years. ending domestic abuse and violence against women. [201097] [201226] Mike Penning: Information regarding the amount Nicky Morgan: I have regular meetings and discussions paid in consolatory payments to claimants in Preston is with my colleagues on this and other matters affecting not collated centrally and could be provided only at women and equality including attending the Violence disproportionate cost. The amount paid in consolatory Against Womenand Girls Inter-Ministerial Group, working payments to GB claimants in each of the last three with ministerial colleagues to co-ordinate policy on years is in the table. tackling this abhorrent crime. Also, officials from the Government Equalities Office work closely with Home Total paid in consolatory payments (£) Office colleagues on this policy area and recently co-hosted an event working with employers to recognise and 2011-12 673,000 support employees who are victims of domestic violence. 2012-13 700,000 115W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 116W

Esther McVey: We have targeted the resource we use Total paid in consolatory payments (£) nationally so that requests are processed as quickly as 2013-14 552,000 possible to minimise any undue delays, without Notes: compromising good quality decision-making. 1. The amounts are rounded to the nearest thousand. In addition we are currently reviewing the customer 2. The information provided is for GB. Information regarding Northern journey to understand where the pinch points are in the Ireland is a matter for the Northern Ireland Office. 3. The information covers payments made by the following DWP decision-making process in order to reduce the end to business areas: Jobcentre Plus, Child Support Agency, Disability and end journey time. Carers Service, The Pensions Service and Debt Management. Employment Schemes: Glasgow Employment John Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent discussions he has had Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the with Glasgow city council on the Glasgow Guarantee. number of employment opportunities resulting from [200754] the Commonwealth Games; and if he will make a statement. [201060] Esther McVey: The Secretary of State has not had recent discussions with Glasgow city council on the Esther McVey: It is estimated by the Organising Glasgow Guarantee. Committee, Glasgow 2014 Ltd, that up to 30,000 employment opportunities will be created by the Jobcentre Plus Commonwealth games. Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Employment and Support Allowance Work and Pensions which jobcentres (a) do and (b) do not have wifi access for jobseekers to use. [201099] : To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what progress his Department has made Esther McVey: The Digital Jobcentres project will on improving the employment and support allowance modernise the Jobcentre digital infrastructure by delivering appeals process. [904380] WiFi and Web Access Devices (WADs)across the Jobcentre network. From now until the end of October, we will be Mike Penning: Appeals against employment and support installing WiFi and new Web Access Devices (WADs) allowance decisions decreased by just under 90% in the across the Jobcentre network. first quarter of this year compared with the same period The following 39 Jobcentres already have WiFi available in 2013. for jobseekers to use: Our reforms to the appeals process mean claimants London Bridge are now contacted much earlier, with the decision explained Ashton under Lyme to them, and-through Mandatory Reconsideration-they Newport are given the opportunity to provide further evidence. Hammersmith This is helping to resolve disputes as early as possible, and avoids the need for costly and protracted appeals. Rusholme Rugby We are using feedback from the First tier Tribunal to improve our approach to decision-making as part of Poole the Department’s continuous improvement work, and Inverness where we identify improvements, we will make them. Newton Abbott Wigan Employment and Support Allowance: Bradford Chester Warrington Mr Ward: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Swansea (a) Pensions (1) how many cases in Bradford are Oldham pending and (b) being processed through his Department’s mandatory reconsideration mechanism; Motherwell [201011] Harrogate (2) how many cases in Bradford are awaiting Abertillery mandatory reconsideration of employment and Bath support allowance decisions. [201009] Bargoed Caerphilly Esther McVey: The information requested is not available. Sutton Ebbw Vale Employment and Support Allowance: West Yorkshire Altrincham Merthyr Tydfil Mr Ward: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Hyde Pensions what additional resources his Department is making available to reduce the time taken to process Tredegar requests for mandatory reconsideration of employment Stalybridge and support allowance decisions in West Yorkshire. Wolverhampton [201010] Stretford 117W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 118W

Scarborough Mike Penning: The available data on the number of Airdrie claims and decisions made up to 28 March 2014 have Coventry been published and are available from: Erdington https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ attachment_data/file/317425/pip-statistical-release-june-2014.pdf Rotherham Sheffield, Cavendish Court Between 8 April 2013 and 28 March 2014, 34,300 claims to personal independence payment had been Wakefield disallowed. Shotton Notes: Blackwood 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 100. Derby 2. Figures do not include claims withdrawn prior to a decision. By the end of October 2014, the remaining offices in the Jobcentre network will have WiFi installed and Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Work available for jobseekers to use. and Pensions how many claims have been submitted for personal independence payment in each month since its Jobcentre Plus: Middlesbrough introduction. [200969]

Andy McDonald: To ask the Secretary of State for Mike Penning: Further to the figures published on Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of 5 June 2014. The following table shows how many changes in the number of interpreters available at claims have been submitted for personal independence Middlesbrough Jobcentre in the last 12 months. payment: [200844] New claims not New claims made made under under Special Esther McVey: There have been no changes in the Special Rules for Rules for number of interpreters available at Middlesbrough Jobcentre Terminally Ill Terminally Ill All PIP New (James Cook House, 79 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough, People People Claims TS1 2BA) in the last 12 months. April 2013 3,000 200 3,100 May 2013 4,800 200 5,000 National Employment Savings Trust Scheme June 2013 23,000 900 23,800 July 2013 34,200 1,500 35,700 Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for August 2013 30,600 1,300 31,900 September 33,800 1,300 35,100 Work and Pensions how many people are enrolled in 2013 National Employment Savings Trust (NEST); how October 2013 35,600 1,500 37,100 many such people enrolled in NEST are making November 33,300 1,400 34,700 additional payments by direct debit each month; and 2013 what the average additional contribution by direct December 22,000 1,200 23,200 debit each month is. [201100] 2013 January 2014 38,000 1,600 39,500 Steve Webb: The National Employment Savings Trust February 2014 39,000 1,400 40,400 announced on 1 April 2014 that they have over a million March 2014 37,900 1,500 39,500 April 2013 to 335,100 13,900 349,000 members. March 2014 The Department for Work and Pensions does not Note: hold information about the number of scheme members 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 100, therefore totals may not sum due to rounding. making monthly additional payments by direct debit to 2. Whether a claim is a ‘New claim made under Special Rules for Terminally Ill NEST nor does it hold information on the average People’ has been determined at the point of registration: additional contribution by direct debit each month to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-independence-payment- NEST. official-statistics-june-2014 Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Mark Hendrick: To ask the Secretary of State for and Pensions what the average time to process a Work and Pensions how much is paid out in tax relief personal independence payment claim has been in each each month for savers within the National month since it was introduced. [200972] Employment Savings Trust; and what the average amount paid out in tax relief has been to a scheme Mike Penning: The information you have requested is member in each month. [201126] not currently available. Steve Webb: The Department for Work and Pensions Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for does not hold the information requested. Work and Pensions how many claimants for personal independence payments who require a home Personal Independence Payment consultation have waited longer than (a) one, (b) two, (c) three, (d) four, (e) five and (f) six or more months Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Work for such a consultation. [201021] and Pensions how many claims for personal independence payment have been refused to date. Mike Penning: The information you have requested is [200968] not currently available. 119W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 120W

Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Standards Work and Pensions what comparative assessment he has made of the average waiting time for claimants of Mr Ward: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and the personal independence payment who require a Pensions what his Department’s key performance home consultation in (a) Ashfield constituency, (b) indicators are for decisions that require mandatory [201022] Nottinghamshire and (c) the UK. reconsideration. [201012] Mike Penning: The information you have requested is Esther McVey: There is no statutory time limit. We not currently available. deliberately do not have one because each case will be considered on its merits. Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1) how many applications for personal independence payments were made by State Retirement Pensions: British Nationals Abroad individuals diagnosed with a terminal illness in each of the three months to June 2014; [201248] Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) how many decisions on applications for personal Work and Pensions what his policy is on the freezing of independence payments from individuals diagnosed state pensions for those living overseas. [200894] with a terminal illness were made in each of the three months to June 2014; [201249] Steve Webb: The UK state pension is payable worldwide. (3) what the average duration has been of the However, where a recipient is not ordinarily resident in assessment period for each claim for personal the UK, eligibility for annual up-rates is generally restricted independence payment from a person diagnosed with a to people living in a country which is a member of the terminal illness in each of the three months to June European Economic Area, including by extension 2014. [201251] Switzerland, or in a country with which the UK has a bilateral social security agreement that provides for Mike Penning: I refer the right hon. Member to the up-rating of the UK state pension. A list of these written answer I gave him on 18 June 2014, Official countries can be found at: Report, column 629W. Information on clearance times https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/state-pensions- is not currently available. Statistics on clearance times annual-increases-if-you-live-abroad are intended for future publication. Restricting the availability of annual up-rates to the UK state pensions in this manner has been the long Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for standing policy of successive Governments. This Work and Pensions when the contracts for personal Government has no plans to change it. independence payments assessments were awarded to Atos and Capita; and how many applications they were Mr Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Work forecast to have processed by (a) March 2014 and (b) and Pensions how many pensions are paid to British March 2015. [201250] citizens resident overseas. [201378]

Mike Penning: The start date for both ATOS and Steve Webb: Figures for the pension caseload are Capita contracts was 31 July 2012. published on the DWP tabulation tool at: No forecast figures are available for numbers of http://tabulation-tool.dwp.gov.uk/100pc/sp/ccgor/ccsex/ applications processed. a_carate_r_ccgor_c_ccsex_nov13.html No information is available on the nationality or Social Security Benefits citizenship of state pensions recipients. However, in November 2013, there were approximately 1.21 million Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for state pensions paid outside of Great Britain. Not all of Work and Pensions how many people are claiming (a) these will necessarily be to British citizens, but may be disability living allowance and (b) personal to anyone who has built up an entitlement to a state independence payment following an adverse effect to a pension, regardless of nationality. medical procedure. [200656] Unemployment: Young People Mike Penning: No data on causation of a health condition or disability are collected for disability living allowance or personal independence payment. Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether he expects EU funding Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of allocated to the Youth Guarantee to be drawn down in State for Work and Pensions what recent discussions he the UK. [201125] has had with the Secretary of State for Health on ensuring that people claiming benefits receive medical Esther McVey: There is no EU funding allocated to treatment that has been identified as enabling them to the Youth Guarantee. return to work; and if he will make a statement. [201057] Mr Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent estimate he has made of the Mike Penning: The Secretary of State for Work and level of youth unemployment in (a) the UK and (b) Pensions has not had any recent discussions with the Bournemouth East constituency; and if he will make a Secretary of State for Health on this subject. statement. [904366] 121W Written Answers23 JUNE 2014 Written Answers 122W

Esther McVey: Excluding full-time students, nationally Esther McVey: Statistics on how many people started there were 565,000 unemployed under-25s in February universal credit in March 2014 can be found at: to April 2014, a fall of nearly 100,000 since the 2010 https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/universal-credit- election. Latest figures show 5,700 unemployed under-25s statistics in Bournemouth East in January to December 2013, a fall of 900 compared to the same period in 2010. Work Capability Assessment

Universal Credit Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 11 June Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for 2014, Official Report, column 176W, on work Work and Pensions how many officials have acted as capability assessment, if he will make it his policy to set Senior Responsible Officer for the universal credit a target timescale for employment and support allowance and incapacity benefit reassessment work project since 2010. [201073] capability assessments in order to monitor and reduce Esther McVey: Five officials have acted as Senior the waiting times for those assessments. [201308] Responsible Officer for the universal credit project since 2010. Mike Penning: We are committed to completing work capability assessments as quickly as possible so that eligible claimants receive the appropriate rate of benefit. Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will publish the business case However it is important to get assessments right for the universal credit programme. [201234] rather than setting an artificial timescale for completion. We are working with the existing supplier to improve Esther McVey: In line with standard practice, as the processing times and reduce waiting times. In addition, universal credit business case includes details of a sensitive we are seeking a replacement supplier to undertake nature the Department will not be putting the business work capability assessments. case into the public domain. In the meantime we continue to rigorously monitor and manage the existing contract to ensure that both Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for quality and performance are maintained as part of our Work and Pensions how many people started to receive drive to improve the quality of decision making and universal credit in March 2014. [201242] process claims more quickly.

ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 23 June 2014

Col. No. Col. No. WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 1 WORK AND PENSIONS—continued Benefit Entitlement: Foreign Workers ...... 15 Retirement Advice ...... 16 Benefits Claimants: Appeals ...... 13 Topical Questions ...... 16 Employment Figures...... 6 Universal Credit...... 9 Employment Trends: Private Sector ...... 14 Universal Jobmatch ...... 8 Homelessness...... 14 Work Capability Assessment...... 1 Jobseeker’s Allowance: Sanctions...... 12 Workplace Pensions ...... 11 Personal Independence Payments ...... 4 WRITTEN STATEMENTS

Monday 23 June 2014

Col. No. Col. No. FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 1WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 5WS Foreign Affairs Council/General Affairs Council... 1WS Personal Independence Payment...... 5WS TRANSPORT ...... 4WS Roads Reform...... 4WS WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 23 June 2014

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 50W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT— Crime...... 50W continued Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences...... 51W Noise: Pollution Control...... 110W Planning Permission ...... 111W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 99W Regeneration: Liverpool ...... 111W Apprentices...... 99W Australia ...... 101W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT ...... 70W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 101W Broadband ...... 70W Consultation Papers...... 101W Hundred Years’ War: Anniversaries ...... 71W Disabled Students’ Allowances: North West ...... 101W National Lottery: Arts ...... 71W Engineering: Females...... 102W Public Libraries...... 71W Insolvency...... 103W Tourism...... 72W Minimum Wage ...... 104W UNESCO...... 73W Money Lenders...... 104W World Heritage Sites: South West ...... 73W Postal Services...... 105W Science: Finance...... 105W DEFENCE...... 84W Shipbuilding: Overseas Workers...... 105W Air Force...... 84W Students: Finance ...... 106W Aircraft Carriers ...... 85W Sunday Trading Act 1994...... 107W Armed Forces: Recruitment ...... 85W Telephone Services...... 107W Armed Forces: Training ...... 85W TNT...... 107W Army: Recruitment ...... 86W Army Reserve ...... 86W CABINET OFFICE...... 54W Army: Training ...... 88W Business Premises: West Midlands ...... 54W Assets...... 93W Conditions of Employment...... 55W AWE ...... 93W Debts ...... 56W AWE Aldermaston...... 93W Employment: Dartford ...... 57W Clyde Naval Base ...... 93W Homeworking ...... 57W Departmental Records ...... 95W Self-employed: Young People...... 58W France...... 95W Shared Services Connected ...... 59W Intelligence Services ...... 95W Social Security Benefits: Females ...... 59W Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft...... 95W Military Aircraft ...... 96W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT . 108W Nuclear Weapons: Proliferation ...... 96W Compulsory Purchase...... 108W Official Visits ...... 97W Compulsory Purchase: Haringey ...... 108W Procurement...... 97W Equal Opportunities ...... 108W Shipbuilding: Portsmouth ...... 97W Housing: ICT...... 108W Tornado Aircraft...... 98W Housing: Planning Permission...... 109W Travel ...... 98W Local Government...... 109W Unmanned Air Vehicles ...... 99W Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE—continued HEALTH—continued Written Questions ...... 99W Cancer: Drugs...... 14W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 15W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 69W Chlamydia...... 15W Electoral Register...... 69W Clinical Commissioning Groups: Suffolk...... 16W Local Government: Tees Valley...... 69W Cystic Fibrosis ...... 16W Polling Stations: Schools...... 69W Equitable Life Independent Inquiry ...... 17W Sovereignty: Scotland...... 70W Exercise...... 17W Transparency of Lobbying, Non-party Food ...... 17W Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Food Banks...... 18W Act 2014...... 70W Food: Charitable Donations ...... 18W Unmanned Air Vehicles ...... 70W Gender Recognition...... 19W General Practitioners ...... 19W EDUCATION...... 75W Health: Business...... 21W Academies: Capital Investment...... 75W Health Services: Reciprocal Arrangements ...... 20W Academies: Land ...... 75W HIV Infection ...... 21W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 77W Magnetic Resonance Imagers...... 21W Children in Care...... 77W Medical Records: Disclosure of Information ...... 22W Children: Social Services...... 77W Monitor ...... 22W Dominic Cummings...... 78W NHS: Disclosure of Information ...... 23W First Aid: Education ...... 79W NHS: Negligence ...... 23W Free Schools...... 79W Nurses: Redundancy ...... 23W GCSE ...... 80W Nursing and Midwifery Council ...... 26W Literature: GCSE...... 81W Parkinson’s Disease ...... 27W Magna Carta...... 81W Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme ...... 27W Pupils: Mental Health...... 81W Plastic Surgery ...... 28W Science: Females ...... 82W Public Health England...... 28W Special Educational Needs...... 83W Radiotherapy ...... 29W Teachers: Disciplinary Proceedings ...... 83W Research ...... 29W Teachers: Early Retirement ...... 83W Sexually Transmitted Infections ...... 30W Teachers: Pensions ...... 84W Sugar ...... 30W Teachers: Veterans ...... 84W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 45W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 73W Asylum ...... 45W Natural Gas: Imports...... 73W Bovine Tuberculosis ...... 45W Nuclear Power Stations: Safety ...... 74W Disclosure of Information ...... 45W Wind Power: Seas and Oceans ...... 74W Driving Offences: Insurance...... 46W Written Questions ...... 74W Entry Clearances...... 46W Marriage ...... 47W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Modern Slavery Bill ...... 48W AFFAIRS...... 61W Police Community Support Officers...... 48W Beef: Imports ...... 61W Radicalism ...... 47W Bovine Tuberculosis ...... 62W Sovereignty: Scotland...... 49W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 62W Common Agricultural Policy ...... 63W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION...... 49W Drinking Water: Contamination ...... 63W Clerk of the House...... 49W Floods...... 64W Committees...... 49W Floods: Christchurch ...... 64W Palace of Westminster...... 50W Food: Packaging ...... 64W Food: Recycling ...... 65W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 40W Food: Waste Disposal ...... 67W Developing Countries: Carbon Emissions...... 40W Forestry Commission...... 68W Developing Countries: Sanitation ...... 41W Forests ...... 68W Girl Summit...... 41W Mangoes ...... 69W India and Pakistan...... 41W Indian Subcontinent ...... 42W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 42W Kashmir...... 42W Bahrain ...... 42W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 43W JUSTICE...... 1W India and Pakistan...... 43W Bronzefield Prison...... 1W Iran...... 43W Cemeteries ...... 1W Iraq...... 44W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 1W Italy ...... 44W Community Rehabilitation Companies ...... 1W Peacekeeping Operations ...... 44W Criminal Injuries Compensation ...... 2W South Asia ...... 44W European Convention on Human Rights...... 2W Written Questions ...... 45W Fraud: Sentencing ...... 3W Parole...... 3W HEALTH...... 12W Personal Independence Payment: Appeals ...... 4W Accident and Emergency Departments ...... 12W Prison Accommodation ...... 4W Ambulance Services ...... 12W Prisoner Escapes ...... 5W Antidepressants ...... 13W Prisoners: Radicalism...... 5W Breast Cancer...... 14W Prisoners: Sanitary Protection...... 6W Col. No. Col. No. JUSTICE—continued TREASURY—continued Prisons: Employment...... 6W Financial Markets...... 34W Prisons: Staff...... 7W Financial Ombudsman Service...... 34W Probation Trusts ...... 7W Financial Services ...... 35W Secure Colleges: Leicestershire...... 8W Income Tax: Northern Ireland ...... 35W Social Security Benefits: Appeals ...... 9W Insolvency...... 36W Social Security Benefits: Medical Examinations..... 10W Insurance: Unfair Practices...... 36W Telephone Services...... 11W Minimum Wage: Northern Ireland ...... 36W Money Advice Service and Financial Ombudsman NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 51W Service ...... 37W Bloody Sunday Tribunal of Inquiry ...... 51W Mortgages: Government Assistance...... 37W Overseas Trade...... 51W Revenue and Customs...... 38W Telephone Services...... 52W Revenue and Customs: Northern Ireland...... 38W Terrorism ...... 52W Tax Avoidance ...... 39W World War I ...... 52W Tax Avoidance: Northern Ireland ...... 39W Tax Evasion ...... 39W PRIME MINISTER ...... 53W Telephone Services...... 40W Climate Change: International Cooperation ...... 53W Wind Power ...... 40W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES...... 113W SCOTLAND...... 53W Domestic Violence ...... 113W Official Visits ...... 53W Public Expenditure...... 53W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 114W UK Membership of EU...... 53W Compensation...... 114W Employment ...... 115W TRANSPORT ...... 111W Employment and Support Allowance ...... 115W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 111W Employment and Support Allowance: Bradford .... 115W High Speed 2 Railway Line ...... 111W Employment and Support Allowance: West Large Goods Vehicle Drivers ...... 113W Yorkshire ...... 115W Telephone Services...... 114W Employment Schemes: Glasgow ...... 116W Jobcentre Plus ...... 116W TREASURY ...... 31W Jobcentre Plus: Middlesbrough ...... 117W Bank Levy...... 31W National Employment Savings Trust Scheme...... 117W Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 31W Personal Independence Payment...... 117W Children: Day Care ...... 31W Social Security Benefits...... 119W Coinage...... 32W Standards...... 120W Credit: Interest Rates ...... 32W State Retirement Pensions: British Nationals Delegated Legislation...... 33W Abroad ...... 120W Disciplinary Proceedings...... 33W Unemployment: Young People...... 120W Dover Priory Station...... 33W Universal Credit...... 121W Equitable Life Assurance Society: Compensation .. 33W Work Capability Assessment...... 122W Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. No proofs of the Daily Reports can be supplied. Corrections which Members suggest for the Bound Volume should be clearly marked in the Daily Report, but not telephoned, and the copy containing the Corrections must be received at the Editor’s Room, House of Commons,

not later than Monday 30 June 2014

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CONTENTS

Monday 23 June 2014

List of Government and Principal Officers of the House

Oral Answers to Questions [Col. 1] [see index inside back page] Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

Deregulation Bill [Col. 25] As amended, further considered; read the Third time and passed

Severe Eating Disorders (North-East England) [Col. 161] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Statements [Col. 1WS]

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 1W] [see index inside back page]