Monday Volume 547 25 June 2012 No. 19

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 25 June 2012

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2012 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Parliamentary Click-Use Licence, available online through The National Archives website at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/information-management/our-services/parliamentary-licence-information.htm Enquiries to The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU; e-mail: [email protected] HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT

MEMBERS OF THE CABINET

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

DEPARTMENTS OF STATE AND MINISTERS 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. Nick Clegg, MP FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. William Hague, MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt Hon. George Osborne, MP LORD CHANCELLOR AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR JUSTICE—The Rt Hon. Kenneth Clarke, QC, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT AND MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. Theresa May, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE—The Rt Hon. Philip Hammond, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS,INNOVATION AND SKILLS—The Rt Hon. Vince Cable, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WORK AND PENSIONS—The Rt Hon. Iain Duncan Smith, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—The Rt Hon. Edward Davey, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR HEALTH—The Rt Hon. Andrew Lansley, CBE, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR EDUCATION—The Rt Hon. Michael Gove, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT—The Rt Hon. Eric Pickles, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR TRANSPORT—The Rt Hon. Justine Greening, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT,FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. Caroline Spelman, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—The Rt Hon. Andrew Mitchell, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR NORTHERN IRELAND—The Rt Hon. Owen Paterson, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND—The Rt Hon. Michael Moore, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WALES—The Rt Hon. Cheryl Gillan, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,OLYMPICS,MEDIA AND SPORT—The Rt Hon. Jeremy Hunt, MP CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY—The Rt Hon. Danny Alexander, MP LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS AND CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER—The Rt Hon. Lord Strathclyde MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO—The Rt Hon. Baroness Warsi

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. David Willetts, MP (Minister for Universities and Science) John Hayes, MP (Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning) § Mark Prisk, MP The Rt Hon. Greg Clark, MP § Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint (Minister for Trade and Investment) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Norman Lamb, MP Edward Vaizey, MP § Baroness Wilcox Cabinet Office— MINISTER FOR THE CABINET OFFICE AND PAYMASTER GENERAL—The Rt Hon. Francis Maude, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Oliver Letwin, MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES— Mark Harper, MP Nick Hurd, MP Communities and Local Government— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Eric Pickles, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Greg Clark, MP § The Rt Hon. Grant Shapps, MP (Minister for Housing and Local Government) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Andrew Stunell, OBE, MP Robert Neill, MP Baroness Hanham, CBE ii HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

Culture, Media and Sport— SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,OLYMPICS,MEDIA AND SPORT—The Rt Hon. Jeremy Hunt, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— John Penrose, MP Hugh Robertson, MP (Minister for Sport and the Olympics) Edward Vaizey, MP § Defence— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Philip Hammond, MP MINISTER OF STATE—Nick Harvey, MP (Minister for the Armed Forces) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Gerald Howarth, MP The Rt Hon. Andrew Robathan, MP Peter Luff, 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 Strathclyde Education— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Michael Gove, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Sarah Teather, MP Nick Gibb, MP John Hayes, MP (Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning) § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Tim Loughton, MP Lord Hill of Oareford Energy and Climate Change— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Edward Davey, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Charles Hendry, MP Gregory Barker, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—Lord Marland Environment, Food and Rural Affairs— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Caroline Spelman, MP MINISTER OF STATE— The Rt Hon. James Paice, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Richard Benyon, MP Lord Taylor of Holbeach, CBE Foreign and Commonwealth Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. William Hague, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Jeremy Browne, MP The Rt Hon. David Lidington, MP (Minister for Europe) The Rt Hon. Lord Howell of Guildford PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Henry Bellingham, MP Alistair Burt, MP Government Equalities Office— MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. Theresa May, MP § MINISTER FOR EQUALITIES—Lynne Featherstone, MP § Health— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Andrew Lansley, CBE, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Paul Burstow, MP Simon Burns, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Anne Milton, MP Earl Howe Home Office— SECRETARY OF STATE AND MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. Theresa May, MP § MINISTERS OF STATE— Damian Green, MP (Minister for Immigration) The Rt Hon. Nick Herbert, MP (Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice) § Lord Henley (Minister for Crime Prevention and Antisocial Behaviour Reduction) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Lynne Featherstone, MP (Minister for Equalities) § James Brokenshire, MP HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont. iii

International Development— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Andrew Mitchell, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Alan Duncan, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—Stephen O’Brien, MP Justice— LORD CHANCELLOR AND SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Kenneth Clarke, QC, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Lord McNally The Rt Hon. Nick Herbert, MP (Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice) § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Crispin Blunt, MP Jonathan Djanogly, MP Law Officers— ATTORNEY-GENERAL—The Rt Hon. Dominic Grieve, QC, MP SOLICITOR-GENERAL—Edward Garnier, 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 LORD PRIVY SEAL—The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—David Heath, CBE, MP Northern Ireland— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Owen Paterson, MP MINISTER OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Hugo Swire, 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. Michael Moore, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. David Mundell, MP Transport— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Justine Greening, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Theresa Villiers, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Norman Baker, MP Mike Penning, 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—Mark Hoban, MP EXCHEQUER SECRETARY—David Gauke, MP ECONOMIC SECRETARY—Chloe Smith, MP COMMERCIAL SECRETARY—Lord Sassoon PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Patrick McLoughlin, MP LORDS COMMISSIONERS— Michael Fabricant, MP Angela Watkinson, MP Jeremy Wright, MP Brooks Newmark, MP James Duddridge, MP ASSISTANT WHIPS— Philip Dunne, MP Stephen Crabb, MP Robert Goodwill, MP Shailesh Vara, MP Bill Wiggin, MP Mark Hunter, MP Greg Hands, MP Jenny Willott, MP iv HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

Wales Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Cheryl Gillan, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—David Jones, MP Work and Pensions— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Iain Duncan Smith, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Chris Grayling, MP Steve Webb, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Maria Miller, MP Lord Freud 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. John Randall, MP COMPTROLLER—The Rt Hon. Alistair Carmichael, MP VICE-CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt Hon. Mark Francois, 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—Lord Newby, OBE BARONESSES IN WAITING—Baroness Garden of Frognal, Baroness Northover, Baroness Rawlings, Baroness Stowell, Baroness Verma LORDS IN WAITING—Earl Attlee, Lord De Mauley, TD, Lord Wallace of Saltaire § Members of the Government listed under more than one Department

SECOND CHURCH ESTATES COMMISSIONER, REPRESENTING CHURCH COMMISSIONERS—Sir Tony Baldry, MP HOUSE OF COMMONS

THE SPEAKER—The Rt Hon. John Bercow, MP

CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—Lindsay Hoyle, MP FIRST DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—Nigel Evans, MP SECOND DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—The Rt Hon. Dawn Primarolo, MP

PANEL OF CHAIRS 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, Philip Davies, MP, Jim Dobbin, MP, Nadine Dorries, MP, Sir Roger Gale, MP, Mr James Gray, MP, Mr Mike Hancock, MP, Mr Dai Havard, MP, Mr Philip Hollobone, MP, Mr Jim Hood, MP, The Rt Hon. George Howarth, MP, Mr 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, Mrs Linda Riordan, MP, John Robertson, MP, Andrew Rosindell, MP, Mr Lee Scott, MP, Jim Sheridan, MP, Mr Gary Streeter, MP, Mr Andrew Turner, MP, Mr Charles Walker, MP, Mr Mike Weir, MP, Hywel Williams, MP SECRETARY—Simon Patrick

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), Sir Paul Beresford, MP, Mr Frank Doran, MP, Ms Angela Eagle, MP, MP, John Thurso, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Robert Twigger ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Joanna Dodd

ADMINISTRATION ESTIMATE AUDIT COMMITTEE Alex Jablonowski (Chairman), Ms Angela Eagle, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, John Thurso, MP, Stephen Brooker, Mark Clarke SECRETARY OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE—Gosia McBride

LIAISON COMMITTEE The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Beith, MP (Chair), Mr Graham Allen, MP, The Rt Hon. James Arbuthnot, 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, The Rt Hon. Stephen Dorrell, 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, The Rt Hon. Greg Knight, MP, Miss Anne McIntosh, MP, Andrew Miller, MP, Mr George Mudie, MP, Richard Ottaway, MP, Mr Laurence Robertson, MP, Mr Graham Stuart, MP, Mr Robert Syms, MP, John Thurso, MP, Mr Andrew Tyrie, MP, The Rt Hon. Keith Vaz, MP, Joan Walley, MP, Mr John Whittingdale, MP, Mr Tim Yeo, MP CLERKS—Andrew Kennon, Philippa Helme

MANAGEMENT BOARD Robert Rogers (Clerk of the House and Chief Executive), David Natzler (Clerk Assistant and Director General, Chamber and Committee Services), John Pullinger (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), Alex Jablonowski (External Member), Barbara Scott (External Member) SECRETARY OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD—Matthew Hamlyn

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

PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS—John Lyon, CB PARLIAMENTARY SECURITY DIRECTOR—Peter Mason

25 June 2012

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

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

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

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 547 THIRD VOLUME OF SESSION 2012-2013

the Minister doing to move people off the employment House of Commons support allowance and not on to another benefit, but into work? Monday 25 June 2012 Chris Grayling: Of course, the purpose of the Work programme is to provide specialist back-to-work support. The House met at half-past Two o’clock Those moving off ESA have early access to the Work programme, and those still on it can volunteer for the PRAYERS programme at any time, if they are not mandated to it. Mr Peter Lilley (Hitchin and Harpenden) (Con): [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] Given that there are now 400,000 more jobs in the economy, the bulk of which have been taken by people who, by and large, are not eligible for benefits, because Oral Answers to Questions they are workers from abroad, might not loss of entitlement to benefit—for good cause—spur some people to get jobs and thus result in more jobs going to British people?

WORK AND PENSIONS Chris Grayling: I absolutely agree with my right hon. Friend. I have made it clear that I would like employers in this country to offer opportunities to local workers, The Secretary of State was asked— but those workers need to be there—they need to be Employment and Support Allowance (Appeals) keen, energetic and wanting that work. I hope and expect that our Work programme providers will provide 1. Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab): that energisation. How many people have found work following a refusal of an appeal for employment and support allowance. Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (Lab/ [113178] Co-op): The Minister will know that, as well as the people looking for work following a refusal of appeal, The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions many people win their appeal. Having won an appeal, (Chris Grayling): The Department does not hold statistics however, they then have another work capability assessment, specifically on destinations after appeals, but we carried but the information that led to their appeal being won is out a detailed report, published earlier this year, on the not made available to the people undertaking the second destinations of people on jobseeker’s allowance, income WCA. Will he look at this situation in order to prevent support and ESA. Individuals found fit for work by the people from going through a cycle of assessment, followed tribunal may claim jobseeker’s allowance. Jobcentre by appeal, followed by assessment? Plus will provide employment support, or the claimant can access support through the Work programme at a Chris Grayling: The hon. Gentleman will know that time that is right for them. the system set up by the previous Labour Government set a prognosis time for an individual—an estimate of Natascha Engel: Our experience in Derbyshire is of how long before they could return to work. It is that, people moving from the employment support allowance rather than anything else, which guides the timetable for on to jobseeker’s allowance, and not into work. What is repeat assessments. I have taken steps to stretch that 3 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 4 timetable post-appeal, but I do not want to leave people new pensioners? If that is the case, is it possible to stranded on benefits for the rest of their lives if we can explain it in plain and straightforward language so that possibly help them find employment. everyone can understand it?

Mr David Ruffley (Bury St Edmunds) (Con): The Steve Webb: I am grateful to my hon. Friend. We need Minister will be aware of the 1996 personal responsibility to explain what are often very complex matters in Act, passed by President Clinton, which limited an simple language. The simple truth is that today’s pensioners individual’s entitlement to out-of-work benefits to a have got the best deal in a generation through the period of five years over their lifetime, and which, restoration of the earnings link, which will be real cash according to American research, cut the welfare roll by in their pockets year after year, and that the new system 60%. Will he follow that model? will cost no more than was going to be spent in any case. We are taking a planned budget, simplifying the system, Chris Grayling: I studied that model carefully. One but not treating anyone adversely. reason why we have adopted various programmes requiring people to undertake full-time work is to create a sense Peter Aldous: I am grateful to the Minister for that of urgency for them in finding employment. I am not answer, but there is real anxiety among current pensioners convinced, however, that government is good enough at that with the introduction of the single-tier pension managing data to manage, for long periods—many they will become second-class citizens. Will he give an decades—at a time, the kind of systems set up in the assurance and take that point on board? United States.

Stephen Timms (East Ham) (Lab): The Minister did Steve Webb: I do appreciate that point. It is often not not provide the data that my hon. Friend the Member well understood that pensioners coming down the track— for North East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) asked for. tomorrow’s pensioners—are due to receive substantially He holds the parliamentary record for the abuse of higher pensions on average without our reform because statistics, having been rebuked for three separate offences the state system has been maturing. Our reforms are not by the UK Statistics Authority. Will he now sort out the doing that—it is in the system anyway—but our reforms shambles in his Department, do what he promised in do take the money and simplify so that today’s workers January and lift the Work programme data ban? have a simpler system into which to retire.

Chris Grayling: The right hon. Gentleman does talk a Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): Will the Minister lot of nonsense sometimes. First, he cannot add up—I give an undertaking that those coming down the track— have not been rebuked three times by the Statistics [Interruption.] I am already there; I am one of those Authority. Secondly, the Work programme is progressing pensioners being discriminated against. Will he give an well, and I will publish further data on it soon. undertaking that those who would be entitled to a higher pension than his flat-rate pension would provide Stephen Timms: Until today, the Government have will get the entitlement that they have paid for and not told us that benefit reform plus the Work programme his lower flat-rate pension? would sort out the welfare system, but this morning the Prime Minister said that they will not be enough. Will Steve Webb: I can reassure the right hon. Gentleman Ministers now sort out this chaos? Would not lifting the that the next generation of pensioners will be well ban on data be a good place to start? looked after and specifically that the starting point for our calculation will be what people have in the bank—that Chris Grayling: Let me give the right hon. Gentleman is to say, rights already accrued—and specifically, therefore, one piece of data: 80,000 fewer people are on out-of-work if people are heading for a pension of more than £140 benefits today than when his party was in power. at the point we change it and have got that in the bank, it will be respected. State Pension Gregg McClymont (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and 2. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): What steps Kirkintilloch East) (Lab): We are hearing from all sides he is taking to introduce a flat-rate state pension for today concern and anxiety about the move to a flat-rate, new pensioners. [113179] single-tier state pension. In order to end that anxiety and to answer these questions, will the Minister confirm 17. Peter Aldous (Waveney) (Con): What steps he is that a White Paper will be published on this reform? taking to introduce a flat-rate state pension. [113197] Will he tell us when it will appear?

The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions Steve Webb: I am pleased to give the hon. Gentleman (Steve Webb): The Chancellor confirmed in Budget the assurance that a White Paper is under active preparation 2012 that the Government will introduce a simpler, and will be produced. single-tier pension for future pensioners set above the basic level of the means test to better support saving for Work Capability Test (Cancer) retirement—and I am pleased to say that the Prime Minister has reiterated that commitment today. 3. Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): What Mr Hollobone: Will the Minister assure the House that, his policy is on the application of the work capability were such a scheme to come in, existing pensioners test to people with cancer; and if he will make a would not be permanently disadvantaged relative to statement. [113180] 5 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 6

The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions Mary Macleod: Starting new businesses could generate (Chris Grayling): We are committed to supporting people real growth for the UK economy and create more jobs. I who are diagnosed with cancer in the most sensitive, recently held a seminar in Hounslow on entrepreneurship fair and appropriate way. We are currently analysing for women to encourage them to accept the start-up responses from our informal consultation on the effects challenge. What is my right hon. Friend doing to encourage of cancer treatment and will publish a consultation jobseekers to become entrepreneurs, and to help them response later in the summer. However, we have already acquire the skills that will enable them to succeed? put in place changes that have increased the range of cancer patients who receive ongoing unconditional support. Chris Grayling: I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the work that she has done, not only in holding the Helen Goodman: My constituent was treated for breast seminar but in organising an extremely successful jobs cancer in July 2010. She was deemed fit for work by fair to help her unemployed constituents to find work. I Atos before the post-op results were received. The tribunal believe that, through the launch of the new enterprise found in her favour and awarded her employment and allowance, we have created a mechanism that will allow support allowance in January 2012. However, her ESA unemployed women in particular, and also unemployed entitlement was stopped in April because of the introduction older workers, to move into self-employment. They of the Government’s 365 day rule. She was reassessed in have a wealth of experience to bring to it, and I hope May 2012 and found fit for work again. Her employer that the allowance will create a bridge, supported by has held her job open but cannot re-employ her until mentoring, to enable them to do so. she is deemed fit for work by her doctor. This is obviously extremely bad for her health. Will the Minister agree to Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): Training and benefit meet me about this case? levels are inexorably linked by the Government. This morning the Prime Minister said that regional variations Chris Grayling: It is obviously very difficult to talk in benefit rates would affect areas such as mine in about an individual case, and I am afraid that I make it Wales, the north of England and Scotland much more a matter of policy that Ministers do not become involved than areas elsewhere. Will the Minister tell us whether in individual cases. What I would say is that it is he supports that, and whether it is supported by his extremely important that we provide support for all hon. Friend the Pensions Minister? cancer sufferers who can potentially return to work to do so at the earliest opportunity. That is much better for Chris Grayling: I congratulate Opposition Front them than being stuck at home on benefits. Benchers: this is one area in which they have made a major contribution to the debate. It was the Labour Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): party that began the argument about the regionalisation As a result of the Government’s review, will the Minister of benefits. It was entirely sensible for the Prime Minister confirm that there is now much better understanding of to take up that challenge, and we should have a proper cancer treatments, and that many people undergoing national debate about whether this is the right approach oral chemotherapy, for example, will now be placed for the future. automatically in a support group, which did not happen previously? Stephen Lloyd (Eastbourne) (LD): I welcome what the Minister has said about training. Does he agree, Chris Grayling: It is absolutely our intention to include irrespective of certain quite loud noises off that have for the first time people going through oral chemotherapy been heard recently, that the coalition is making the in the support group. The actual detail will be resolved fundamental changes that will ensure that work always in the review that is being carried out at the moment. pays in future? That is a policy that I heartily endorse. We shall publish the outcome later in the summer. I stress again that this Government have broadened the Chris Grayling: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. range of cancer patients in the support group who The universal credit, which my right hon. Friend the receive long-term unconditional support until they are Secretary of State is pioneering and which will be potentially able to make a return to work. launched next year, will make a huge difference. As for the skills agenda, one of the coalition’s other achievements Jobseeker Training is the big expansion of apprenticeships. That is making a real difference to the prospects of unemployed people, 4. Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con): particularly young unemployed people, giving them a What recent discussions he has had on training for chance to build up skills that can lead to a lasting jobseekers. [113181] career.

The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): The recent (Chris Grayling): I have regular meetings with the Minister scandal involving the unpaid jubilee steward has exposed for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, the fact that some companies out there, under the guise my hon. Friend the Member for South Holland and of offering training to Work programme participants, The Deepings (Mr Hayes), at the Department for Business, are exploiting them as cheap or unpaid labour. What Innovation and Skills to discuss provision for the checks does the Minister carry out on companies that unemployed. We believe that we have forged a closer use Work programme participants? partnership between the two Departments than has existed in the past. We want to ensure that all unemployed Chris Grayling: I must say that I think it is pretty people who have a skills gap receive the support that poor when the eventuality of a bus arriving two hours they need in order to fill that gap and return to work. early is turned into a scandal by the Labour party. In 7 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 8 fact, as part of a training and development programme, 19. Angie Bray (Ealing Central and Acton) (Con): a group of volunteers were participating in a national What recent assessment he has made of the benefits for experience that would build skills which could take jobseekers of undertaking work experience. [113199] them into other employment. I think that the hon. Lady should welcome that and not criticise it. The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Duncan Smith): Early analysis shows that approximately Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con): What half of participants are off benefit within 21 weeks of support is available to 16 and 17-year-olds who are starting a work experience placement. I am delighted released from young offender institutions such as the that, despite a campaign run by anarchists and members one in Werrington, in my constituency, to ensure that of the Labour party, just like hon. Gentlemen on the they receive the training that they need so that they can Benches opposite me, to try to blight the chances of get back on the right track? these young people, employers continue to come forward to join this excellent scheme. Young people have Chris Grayling: That is an important issue. One of overwhelmingly shown that they want this valuable the challenges that we face is that 16 and 17-year-olds experience by continuing to volunteer to do their part. are often not on benefits. Together with the Department for Education, we are introducing a new programme, which will begin in autumn and will be funded by Stephen Hammond: It is good news that young people Payment by Results, to engage, support and develop the and people on work experience schemes come off them skills of that particular cohort of young people. We within 21 weeks. How does that compare with the new cannot abandon them, as has happened far too often in deal set up by the previous Government? the past. Mr Duncan Smith: It compares very favourably. First, Benefit Claimants (Medical Assessments) it is better. Secondly, it costs a lot less. Labour paid huge sums of money up front, whereas we pay the jobseeker’s 5. Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): What steps allowance. The key point is that not once has any he plans to take to improve the quality of medical Opposition Front-Bench Member got up to defend this assessments of benefit claimants. [113183] work experience programme, which many of their colleagues attack and try to destroy. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Maria Miller): We asked Professor Harrington Stephen Metcalfe: Will my right hon. Friend remind to carry out a series of reviews of the work capability us how long a young person can stay on the work assessment, and have implemented the recommendations experience scheme before they lose their benefit, and of his first review. We are continuing to work closely how that compares with the situation under the previous with him, and are ensuring that lessons learnt from the Government? assessment are built into the design of the new personal independence payment. Mr Duncan Smith: This is the interesting bit, because Kevin Brennan: Why are so many of these assessments the previous Government legislated for work experience overturned on appeal? before they left office and now attack it, but they allowed people only two weeks, which was not enough Maria Miller: As the hon. Gentleman will know, there time for them to get the experience they needed. We were problems with the system that we inherited. It was have given people two months, and a third month if the a harsh system, which we have been working hard to employer offers them either an apprenticeship or a job. make work better, and I hope he will join us in supporting Professor Harrington’s work in this area, which is leaving Eric Ollerenshaw: Does the Secretary of State agree us with a work capability assessment that better serves that, much like work experience for students in education, the people of this country. work experience for the unemployed plays a vital role in their securing the right habits in order to secure full-time Work Experience employment eventually? 6. Stephen Hammond (Wimbledon) (Con): What recent assessment he has made of the benefits for jobseekers of Mr Duncan Smith: Yes, and one interesting fact is undertaking work experience. [113184] that although the ex-Deputy Prime Minister, Lord Prescott, attacked the scheme that had some difficulties in relation 11. Stephen Metcalfe (South Basildon and East Thurrock) to young people learning and training, it turns out that (Con): What recent assessment he has made of the the vast majority of them wanted to do it. Moreover, benefits for jobseekers of undertaking work experience. they got an experience that has allowed them to go after [113190] jobs at the Olympic park paying over £9 an hour, which they would not have had an opportunity to do if the 13. Eric Ollerenshaw (Lancaster and Fleetwood) (Con): Opposition had had their way. What recent assessment he has made of the benefits for jobseekers of undertaking work experience. [113193] Jackie Doyle-Price: Clearly, young people in particular will benefit from being able to acquire and demonstrate 18. Jackie Doyle-Price (Thurrock) (Con): What recent skills that are of value in the workplace. Does my right assessment he has made of the benefits for jobseekers of hon. Friend agree that we should be doing everything undertaking work experience. [113198] we can to encourage employers to give similar placements? 9 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 10

Mr Duncan Smith: I agree with my hon. Friend. One by talking about figures that he has been punting for of the big problems we had was that some people, several months now. Has he carried out any further including the Labour party and those anarchists, have assessment since the pilot project that produced those tried to stop those companies from doing that. I sometimes figures, which is nearly a year old now, given that the get confused as to who the anarchists are and who the only other published assessment, of mandatory work Labour party members are when I look at the Opposition experience, suggested that it did not work? line-up, but the reality is that this is good for the young people who do it; it is good in terms of their experience; Mr Duncan Smith: We published these figures two and they actually ask for it in the first place. months ago, but if the hon. Lady really wants to press me, I hear anecdotally from those in the Work programme Angie Bray: When travelling around my constituency, that it is even better. I have been very struck by how enthusiastic young people are to get work experience. Does my right hon. Friend agree that, despite what the cynics say, young people are Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): very keen to get work experience because they know The Secretary of State may be interested to hear that that it helps prepare them for a real job? Birmingham Labour went into the local election campaign promising work experience, so it is wrong to say that the Opposition are against it. However, the purpose of all Mr Duncan Smith: I agree. Actually it is so good that this is to get people into work, and that requires a skills they volunteer for it; I wonder whether we should run a base. Has he assessed how much of the extra training of work experience programme for those on the Opposition some people within companies is merely replacing what Front Bench. they are already doing, and how much is genuinely new commitment by companies to the training of young Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op): It people? is very difficult for Opposition Members to get a word in on this one. Is not the Secretary of State being rather silly, because most people know that if the work experience Mr Duncan Smith: We believe that the programmes is of high quality and does not displace other people’s brought forward to us, and which these young people jobs, we are all in favour of it? Is it not about time that are volunteering for, constitute genuine experience that all of us on both sides of the House made sure that we they will gain and that the companies were not necessarily had decent schemes for young people, which are of high providing before. Of course, I fully accept that we want quality and lead to jobs? to ensure that those are high quality, and I congratulate the hon. Lady, not for the first time, on genuinely Mr Duncan Smith: I respect the hon. Gentleman and looking at this issue from the point of view of the I am grateful for those comments; I wish that everybody problem and how we solve it. I wish there were more else on his side of the House approached this issue with people doing that, but the trouble is that Opposition the same attitude. Work experience has resulted in about Front Benchers absolutely do not attack those who half those going on to it getting off the benefits roll. spend their time trying to destroy the work experience They want to do it—this is really important—and what programme. they are getting from it is experience they cannot otherwise get. Employers say to people time and again, “We can’t Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): We introduced employ you because you don’t have experience,” yet mandatory work experience under the flexible new deal they could not get that experience. Surely this has got to and we support, as we have heard from a number of my be a good thing for them and a good thing for all of us. hon. Friends, proper work experience that leads to jobs. However, why did the Secretary of State scrap our Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): I, too, scheme and instead pour millions into a mandatory support good quality work experience that genuinely work activity scheme that his own Department says has enhances employability, but as the Secretary of State no impact? Should he not sort out this shambles before seeks to roll out this initiative, what steps are his Department announcing his next set of half-baked changes? taking to ensure that high quality is maintained and that such work experience does not become a way for Mr Duncan Smith: I see that the Opposition have employers to churn cheap labour at the bottom? discovered one word that they can now all say because it is not too long for them: shambles. The only shambles Mr Duncan Smith: Of course, the hon. Lady is absolutely that we see is what is going on on their Front Bench. right, and the Minister of State, Department for Work The reality is that we did not persist with the two-week and Pensions, my right hon. Friend the Member for work experience programme because all the young people Epsom and Ewell (Chris Grayling), is absolutely focusing told us that it did not work—they needed more time. on this issue with Jobcentre Plus. If we hear of any That is what you do: when you hear the truth from programmes that are not in that category, we will not people who need your support, you act on it, like we allow young people to go on them. However, the key did, and give them that extra time. thing to bear in mind here is that this gives young people a real chance to get something they can sell to an Social Security (European Commission) employer. We should all back that, and I wish that more people were like the hon. Members who have just spoken. 7. Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): What recent Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): The questioners discussions he has had with his EU counterparts on the on the Government Benches asked about recent assessment influence of the European Commission on UK social of work experience, but the Secretary of State responded security policies. [113185] 11 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 12

20. Neil Parish (Tiverton and Honiton) (Con): What businesses, including bids that are social enterprise recent discussions he has had with his EU counterparts models. I, and DWP officials, have met social enterprise on the influence of the European Commission on UK organisations, and I have also announced that funding social security policies. [113201] of up to £10,000 is available to support employee-led proposals, including social enterprises. That money can The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions be used for expert advice and support, including legal (Chris Grayling): I continue to have concerns about the and accountancy support. efforts of the European Commission to increase its influence over the social security policies adopted by Ian Lavery: Many social enterprises feel as though national Governments. I am working closely with European they have been totally excluded from the consultation at colleagues to resist encroachment on our national welfare Remploy. The consultation period has been an utter systems, and last week met with some of them to shambles; it has been chaos and confusion from day discuss this. I am determined that social security should one. As a result, will the Minister consider restarting the remain a national matter, and will continue to resist consultation period in the best interests of the disabled efforts by the EU to interfere. people at Remploy?

Richard Graham: I am very grateful to the Minister, Maria Miller: The hon. Gentleman and I have a who has almost answered my question. Does he share shared objective of wanting to make sure that we work my view that social security policy should be left entirely together with people affected by these announcements, to member states, and what does he believe that we can and I do not think he would want to create any situation do in practice to ensure that that is the case? where we had to continue with this period of uncertainty for any longer than we already have. He is wrong to say Chris Grayling: I think that it has to be overwhelming that we should rerun this consultation; it is going forward pressure from member states. The Austrians, for example, in the way that it should. We have received 65 expressions are now facing a case in the European Court that would of interest for Remploy businesses, and I am looking have a similar impact on them as the court cases we are forward to working with those individuals and those facing in this country. I increasingly find that other organisations to see how many of those bids we can member states are recognising that this is a problem. take forward. The best way for us to deal with it quickly is to work together to get the Commission to rethink policy totally Mr Sharma: Will the Minister advise the House as to on this front and to do what member states believe is how many organisations have been consulted so far and right. how many people were involved in that consultation?

Neil Parish: My experience, Minister, of the European Maria Miller: The process that we have been undertaking Commission is that it always wants to seek more powers, involves all the individuals affected by the announcements so I welcome your answer but I think you need to that we have made. I have made it plain to the Remploy redouble your efforts to make sure that we do not hand board that communication through this period of 90 days over social security policy to the Commission. is very important; we have put a great deal of emphasis on that. Under the previous Administration, 29 factories Mr Speaker: May I point out gently to the hon. were closed and none of them was taken forward outside Gentleman that I have provided no answer and am Government control, whereas we are working hard and making no efforts, but that the Minister might be able we have received 65 expressions of interest for Remploy to answer? businesses to move outside Government control. The House should welcome that. Chris Grayling: I am absolutely clear that we have to get the Commission to change. It is, after all, part of a Paul Maynard (Blackpool North and Cleveleys) (Con): collection of member states, all of which believe that Does the Minister recall that the Sayce review stated the current direction of travel is wrong. We have to win clearly that there was “total consensus” among disabled battles in the Commission, the Parliament and the charities and organisations that Remploy factories were European Court. I will not hesitate to take legal action “not a model for the 21st century”? in the European Court wherever we have grounds for Does the Minister agree that placing a concrete cap on arguing that the Commission is acting against the terms the aspirations of disabled people, as some Labour of the Lisbon treaty and its predecessors. Members wish to do, is morally wrong?

Remploy Maria Miller: I have to applaud my hon. Friend for saying things that Labour Members sometimes do not 8. Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): What progress has agree with. He is very courageous in that. The Government been made in transferring Remploy factories to social have set out their commitment to equality. It would not enterprises. [113187] be right for us to see an increase in the amount of money being spent on segregated employment if we 16. Mr Virendra Sharma (Ealing, Southall) (Lab): have equality at the centre of our thoughts—and we do. What progress has been made in transferring Remploy factories to social enterprises. [113196] Separated Parents

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work 9. Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): What steps he is and Pensions (Maria Miller): Within the commercial taking to help separated parents resolve maintenance process Remploy has encouraged any proposals for the and contact problems. [113188] 13 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 14

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work Maria Miller: My hon. Friend is potentially selling and Pensions (Maria Miller): It is unacceptable that short our announcement today. Indeed, working with only 50% of children in separated families benefit from all the leading charitable and third sector organisations an effective child maintenance arrangement. That is in the sector, we are looking for new ways to ensure that why we are fundamentally reforming the chid maintenance we have the appropriate support in place for families, system, and it is also why we recently launched our whether through telephony, local face-to-face support consultation on shared parenting. or a web application. Perhaps Mrs Bone might like to take a look at that and give me her views, too. Charlie Elphicke: To turn to the issue of contact, does the Minister agree that it is a fundamental right of every Work Capability Assessments (Appeal Tribunals) child to know and have a relationship with both parents, and that parents who stand in the way of that right are abusing the rights of their children? 10. Pamela Nash (Airdrie and Shotts) (Lab): How many people are waiting for appeal tribunals on the Maria Miller: I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the outcome of work capability assessments. [113189] work he has done in this area and for his private Member’s Bill. He is absolutely right that all the evidence 14. Mrs Madeleine Moon (Bridgend) (Lab): How shows that children who maintain contact with both many people are waiting for appeal tribunals on the parents have a much better outlook on life. We are outcome of work capability assessments. [113194] considering not only shared parenting in our consultation, but how we can help more families to work together on The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions child maintenance outside the statutory system in a way (Chris Grayling): At 31 December 2011, the latest date that will help them work together on all the issues for which data have been published, 63,500 appeals around a child’s life. were outstanding in which the work capability assessment was a factor, down from 84,100 in October 2010. There Catherine McKinnell (Newcastle upon Tyne North) are always a number of live appeals at the various stages (Lab): Does the Minister think that making it more of processing before being listed for a tribunal hearing. difficult and more expensive for parents to access their maintenance payments will make life easier or more Pamela Nash: The fact that 63,500 people are in difficult for children of separated parents? limbo is a disgrace, and waiting for appeal results is damaging people’s health, particularly those who have Maria Miller: The hon. Lady will know that today we mental health problems. What is the Minister doing to have announced a £15 million scheme to put in place try to rectify the situation, and when can we expect the sort of support that I know she would want for waiting times for appeals to be at a reasonable level? separated parents, so that they can work together more effectively. I do not agree with her that our proposals Chris Grayling: I think that the hon. Lady has will do anything other than make life better for children misunderstood the situation. There will always be people in separated families by ensuring that more money is who are waiting for appeals. If they put in an appeal flowing to them, whether that is inside the statutory submission today, they will not have a tribunal hearing system or outside it. this afternoon. There is always a gap to allow everyone involved to prepare for the hearing itself. We are doing Tessa Munt (Wells) (LD): To return to the point everything we can to reduce the backlog of appeals, as made by my hon. Friend the Member for Dover (Charlie we inherited a massive backlog two years ago from the Elphicke), does the Minister agree that it is essential previous Government. The figures I have just set out that children automatically have access to both their show that we have succeeded in reducing that. We have parents, and that should not be the case only when it is reduced it as far as possible, but there will always be proven to be unsafe? Up until now, the Government’s people in the pipeline waiting for appeals, because they wording has been that it should happen when it is safe, simply do not happen on the same day as the application but it should be only when it is unsafe that it should not. goes in.

Maria Miller: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Mrs Moon: My constituent, Mrs W, was placed in a There should be a presumption of a meaningful relationship work capability assessment group on 7 April. She appealed with both parents post-separation, and the proposals and waited until September when she was successful, we are working on for child maintenance will underline like 40% of those who appeal. Shortly afterwards, she that by helping parents to realise that it is their responsibility was recalled for a further assessment. Will the Minister to work together to support their children, whether they consider giving work capability assessments tribunals are in a relationship together or whether they are living the ability not just to assess the rightness of decisions at apart. the time they are made but to decide when the assessments need to be made, cutting the number of people in the Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): The Minister revolving door, waiting for appeals? announced today that £14 million is being spent, partly on an app that can be downloaded by couples who are Chris Grayling: The hon. Lady will know that when thinking of splitting up, the present system was set up by the previous Government, “to help them through the painful process of separation.” they built in a system of prognosis times, which set a Will she confirm that the first two people to download rough estimate of the next time an assessment should it were the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister? be held. As I said, I have now taken steps to lengthen 15 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 16 that period when somebody has been through an appeal, Minister’s speech today, will he commit the Government but she should be under no illusion: the system she talks to consider reducing the benefits cap from £26,000, about is the one set up by her own party. which my constituents think is still far too high?

Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): The Minister should Mr Duncan Smith: I shall certainly relay my hon. know that, at the end of last year, more than twice as Friend’s views to the Prime Minister as part of the many people as the Courts and Tribunals Service’s overall review. When we made the changes to housing target figure were having to wait more than six months benefit, we were attacked by the Opposition for “social for appeals, at a cost to the Ministry of Justice of more cleansing”and all those dangerous things we were supposed than £40 million in the first year of this Government. to be dealing in—[Interruption.] No, no, by the right When the tendering process for assessments for personal hon. Member for Birmingham, Hodge Hill (Mr Byrne) independence payments begins, will he seek options to and his team. On the one hand, his team accuse us of ensure that any contractor that partners with the social cleansing; on the other, he accused me the other Government takes its share of the risk and of meeting day of not cutting deep enough on housing benefit. The the costs of decisions that are overturned on appeal? only shambles here is their position on housing benefit.

Chris Grayling: The decision-making process lies within Jack Dromey (Birmingham, Erdington) (Lab): A million Jobcentre Plus and the decision makers work to a young people are out of work. Now, the Prime Minister template established by the Department for Work and wants to deny housing benefit to under-25s, pushing Pensions, but the reality is that under the Human Rights thousands into becoming homeless and punishing workers Act 1998, passed by the previous Government, the on low pay or in an apprenticeship who need housing courts have decided that everyone has a right to appeal, benefit to keep a roof over their head. Does the Secretary and if people do not like the decision made, whether it of State agree with the chief executive of the YMCA, is right or wrong, a large number will choose to appeal. whosaysitis We will do everything we can to get the decisions right, “difficult…to think in our 168-year history of a proposal more but we will not be able to stop people appealing. detrimental and having a negative impact”, and the chief executive of Crisis, who says that the Unemployment and Housing Benefit Costs Government are being “irresponsible” and should concentrate instead on creating badly needed jobs and 21. Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): If building badly needed affordable homes? he will estimate the likely change in unemployment and housing benefit costs in 2015 compared with estimates Mr Duncan Smith: We are doing all those things. The made in the 2010 autumn statement. [113202] housing benefit changes are necessary to bring back under control a budget that was spiralling under the The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain Government the hon. Gentleman supported. In almost Duncan Smith): In 2015-16, we expect to spend around 10 years, we saw that budget rise from about £11 billion £220 billion on benefits and personal tax credits. That to £21 billion. That was madness, and it was their lack includes an estimate of spending on jobseeker’s allowance of control and their creation of the local housing allowance and housing benefit which, taking account of the latest that led to that problem, so we will take no lectures assumptions from the Office for Budget Responsibility, from him or his hon. Friends about what is right or is around £1.4 billion higher than was expected in 2010. wrong in relation to housing benefit.

Mr Bain: Is not the truth that just one in eight of Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab/ housing benefit recipients are unemployed and that Co-op): How many young people under 25 does the 93% of new claimants are in households struggling in Secretary of State think will lose their jobs as a result of low-paid work, with falling real wages but paying soaring the measures that his Prime Minister is proposing? rents to largely private sector landlords? Instead of forcing 380,000 young people under 25 back in with Mr Duncan Smith: I am not aware that any would lose their parents or onto the streets, should not the Government their jobs. I am aware that, as I said to my hon. Friend be dealing with surging rent rises, building social housing the Member for Shipley (Philip Davies), the housing and introducing a proper living wage, to deal with the benefit changes that we have introduced are already leading biggest squeeze on living standards for 90 years? to a large number of those who were not in work now seeking work. That is the difference between us and the Mr Duncan Smith: Can I remind the hon. Gentleman Opposition—we believe that these changes should be which Government introduced the local housing allowance, about helping people to become independent; they think as a direct result of which rents rocketed? As for our welfare is about making people dependent on them. changes to housing benefit, the latest report, published about a week ago, shows that only about 1% of those Topical Questions affected have to move; a third have now said that they will seek work, which is a positive effect; and something T2. [113205] Mr Marcus Jones (Nuneaton) (Con): If near a half have not seen any rent rises or negotiated he will make a statement on his departmental them downwards, so rents have been falling. responsibilities.

Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): I congratulate my right The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Mr Iain hon. Friend on introducing the benefits cap. Can he Duncan Smith): Today I am announcing the Department’s give more details of what has happened since housing plans better to support jobseekers allowance claimants benefit was capped? Also, in the light of the Prime who are members of Her Majesty’s reserve forces. We 17 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 18 plan to amend the JSA regulations with effect from next Chris Grayling: I am pleased to say that there are month so that claimants who are in the military reserve 80,000 fewer people on out-of-work benefits today than can attend their required 15-day annual training camp there were at the time of the general election. It is worth without having to terminate their claim. This will mean the Opposition noting that as regards youth unemployment, that Jobcentre Plus can actively encourage claimants to when we take into account all the policy changes that join the Territorial Army without facing unnecessary have taken place, and if we strip out the ways in which and burdensome administration difficulties. the previous Government hid people and kept them off the unemployment register, youth unemployment is down Mr Jones: I thank my right hon. Friend. In Nuneaton as well. and the north of Warwickshire, unemployment has decreased since the last general election. Not being T3. [113206] Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): A complacent, my hon. Friend the Member for North constituent has contacted me about a Work programme Warwickshire (Dan Byles) and I are running a jobs fair placement that is both unsupervised and offers no this Thursday, where a number of local and regional training. Is not the Minister worried that Work programme companies will be offering 220 jobs and 50 apprenticeship providers, such as A4e, deem that satisfactory? placements. Will my right hon. Friend welcome this and give a message of support and encouragement both to Chris Grayling: If the Work programme providers do those companies and to the people in our constituencies not deliver the right support, they will not be successful looking for work? and they will not be paid. That is the joy of the system The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions that we have put in place. The previous Government put (Chris Grayling): I am very much aware of the event hundreds and hundreds of millions of pounds up front being held by my hon. Friend and his colleague. This is into the pockets of providers. We make the providers another great initiative by Members on the Government put their own money up front in a commitment to Benches. There have been a number of extremely successful deliver support to the long-term unemployed, get them jobs fairs. This one is poised to be another, with really into work and help them stay there. good jobs on offer to unemployed people. I commend my hon. Friend enormously. I am grateful to all the T9. [113212] Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): Does the organisations taking part. It is a credit to the community Minister agree that pensions tax and pensions means- in his area that they are coming together to help the testing help destroy our pensions system? What are the unemployed. Government doing to ensure that it always pays to save for a pension? Mr Liam Byrne (Birmingham, Hodge Hill) (Lab): This morning the Secretary of State said on the “Today” The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions programme that universal credit is on time and on (Steve Webb): My hon. Friend is right that at the budget. Can he confirm that to the House? moment there is a concern that if people save small amounts of money, all they do is deprive themselves of Mr Duncan Smith: Yes. means-tested benefits. That is why our state pension reform is absolutely essential to ensure that when people Mr Byrne: That is very interesting. The Minister with do save they are better off as a result, and we look responsibility for unemployment told the House that all forward to that being a firm foundation for auto-enrolment out-of-work benefits were supposed to be treated as when it starts later this year. universal credit applications from October 2013. The DWP newsletter from last month says that that now will T4. [113207] Mr Dave Watts (St Helens North) (Lab): not happen until mid-2014—nine months late. The project Is not the problem with the Government’s benefit to is supposed to cost £2 billion, but answers to my right work programme the fact that due to economic policies hon. Friend the Member for East Ham (Stephen Timms) and failures there are no jobs for people to go to? For say that it is £100 million over budget. Universal credit every five vacancies, there are so many people chasing is not on time and it is not on budget, and the Secretary them that there is no chance of them getting work. of State does not know what is going on in his own When will the Government do something about growth Department, so is it any surprise that the Prime Minister so that people can get back into jobs? had to announce another revolution in welfare reform this morning? The last one appears to be collapsing into Chris Grayling: We are working extremely hard to chaos. support our economy and to support businesses to Mr Duncan Smith: Universal credit is on time and on encourage them to grow and develop. We have had budget. This is so typical of the right hon. Gentleman. some very good news in the past few weeks at Ellesmere He knows that universal credit is a programme that will Port, with Jaguar Land Rover, and in the north-east be introduced over four years. He needs to go and check with the investments in Redcar. Those developments his figures again. There is something rather pathetic are all good news for jobs. Since the election, there are about the way he pauses on little figures and seems to 400,000 more people in work in this country. Our think that that spells something. Universal credit will challenge is to ensure that we get young British unemployed do more to get people back to work and it will rectify people into those jobs and that we have fewer people the mess that the previous Government left. It is on coming from overseas and getting them. time and it is on budget. Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con): May I press the T7. [113210] Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): Minister on the answer he gave earlier to my hon. How many fewer benefits are there for people who are Friend the Member for Southend West (Mr Amess)? out of work than there were at the last general election? Notwithstanding the difficulties of those facing youth 19 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 20 unemployment, can he confirm that the youth Steve Brine (Winchester) (Con): Having had a very unemployment figure today is lower than it was under useful meeting with Winchester Mencap on Friday, may the last Government? I tell the Minister that it is particularly concerned that some of the flexibility of incapacity benefit should be Chris Grayling: When we take into account all the build into employment and support allowance, as in the policy changes, I can indeed confirm that. The Opposition experience of many people with a learning disability, keep saying that long-term youth unemployment has any paid work offered often peters out after only a few gone up under this Government, but the previous months? Government hid the true picture of youth unemployment by moving people onto a training allowance. They did Chris Grayling: These are issues that we are very not then show up in the figures and that masked the sensitive to. We do everything we can to ensure that the true picture. We are being open and honest and telling support we provide to people with different forms of the truth about the challenges that we face. challenge and disabilities, through the Work programme and work choice, delivers the best possible and most T6. [113209] Huw Irranca-Davies (Ogmore) (Lab): As tailored support. We will always engage with the charities Member of Parliament for Ogmore, I have a direct and involved and discuss how we can enhance the support democratic interest in knowing how many of my we provide. constituents who are ex-incapacity benefit and are now on jobseeker’s allowance have been referred to the Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): The Work programme. Has the Minister now lifted the ban food bank in Plymouth has seen the number of people on disclosure of that information, as he promised in using it increase by 700 since April. It has clear evidence January, and if not, why not? that the reason for this is the problem in the transition from contribution-based to income-based benefits, which Chris Grayling: We have already published the referral in some cases lasts between four and eight weeks. Families numbers to the Work programme and we continue to are being left without money and are having to resort publish estimates of the number of referrals to the to the food bank, or in some cases, the skips behind Work programme. Every single person on employment supermarkets. What is the Secretary of State doing and support allowance has access to the Work programme in his Department to ensure that that gap is reduced today, and every single person who moves from employment significantly? and support allowance to jobseeker’s allowance has access to the Work programme within three months. Mr Duncan Smith: I accept the hon. Lady’s point and will look at the situation carefully to ensure that that Mr David Ward (Bradford East) (LD): While we must does not happen. I will say that when we came into all welcome the public acclaim given to the Olympians office food banks were not allowed to put their literature taking part in the Paralympics, does the Minister agree in jobcentres; the previous Government did not allow that those with learning difficulties who have their own that and did not want them anywhere near jobcentres. special Olympics are seldom given the same level of We have since allowed them to put their literature in acknowledgement for their skills and abilities? jobcentres. Jobcentre advisers are also telling people about that, so some of that expansion is due to the fact The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work that people did not even know about this before we told and Pensions (Maria Miller): My hon. Friend is right to them about it, which I think is fairly reasonable. raise this issue. However, the Paralympics will give this country a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to showcase David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): Given the the talents of disabled people. I recently had the privilege increasing evidence of market failure in the private of speaking to Channel 4 about how it will be covering pensions system and the Financial Services Authority’s this event and to meet some of the six disabled people recent estimate that between 30 % and 50% of private who are now trained commentators who will be showcasing pension pots now go on charges, will the Government this amazing event. consider putting a cap on charges before auto-enrolment comes in? T8. [113211] Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (Lab/Co-op): Perhaps my earlier question was Steve Webb: I am pleased to say that the early evidence not clear, because I did not get a clear answer from the from auto-enrolment—firms are already choosing schemes Minister, so I wonder if he could answer my question —is that average charge levels are coming down very this time. With the number of people who go through a dramatically, compared with the stakeholder charge process of work capability assessment, followed by caps that used to be in force, for example, with a norm appeal, followed by assessment again, will he undertake of around 0.5% for last firms, which is radically below to ensure that the information on which tribunals the levels we have seen in the market in the past. decide that people are not fit for work is made available However, we need to keep this under review and have to those making the decisions for the following work reserve powers to cap charges if we think they are capability assessment, so that people do not get caught becoming a problem as auto-enrolment is rolled out. in that cycle? Mrs Jenny Chapman (Darlington) (Lab): In their Chris Grayling: Yes, I get what the hon. Gentleman is efforts to get people back into work, will Ministers talking about. We are currently working with the tribunals please make more of an effort to work with colleagues service to get written decisions passed back to Jobcentre in the Treasury on tax credits? Constituents of mine are Plus for decision makers. That will be introduced within taking three-month contracts, ringing up to get the the next month. forms, which then take six or seven weeks to arrive, and 21 Oral Answers25 JUNE 2012 Oral Answers 22 when they are returned they are being refused the tax hope that as a result of the work being done we can, as credit because there is only four weeks of the employment Liz Sayce’s recommendations suggest, set those factories left. This is putting people off taking temporary work free from Government control. I remind him of the and really is—I use the word again—a shambles. comments made by the right hon. Member for Neath (Mr Hain) back in November 2007: Mr Duncan Smith: The hon. Lady knows that we are “The reality is that without modernisation Remploy deficits not yet responsible for tax credits, although under universal would obliterate our other programmes to help disabled people credit they will eventually come in. I will certainly relay into mainstream work.”—[Official Report, 29 November 2007; her comments to the Treasury and ensure that that does Vol. 468, c. 448.] not happen. I agree with her that everything we do to We agree with that statement. promote work, even part-time work, is very important. George Freeman (Mid Norfolk) (Con): The Labour Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): Can party has been critical of the proposed regionalisation the Minister confirm that over 800,000 new jobs have of benefits. Will the Secretary of State remind the been created in the private sector since the election and House which senior politician first recommended the that one of the fastest growing sectors in the sector is idea? cyber-security, as it is in my constituency, where there is an insatiable desire to hire young people who have skills, Mr Duncan Smith: I understand that it was the right particularly in ethical hacking? hon. Member for Birmingham, Hodge Hill (Mr Byrne), who actually called for a debate, but as soon as we got a Mr Duncan Smith: My hon. Friend is absolutely debate he told us that we were debating the wrong right. The point she should make, quite rightly, is that thing, which is rather strange. these are new and growing industries where there are real threats to computers and people using them, and Emma Reynolds (Wolverhampton North East) (Lab): that is why the industry is growing. More than that, in Many of my constituents have raised concerns with me the past three months we have seen a fall in unemployment about the forthcoming bedroom tax, especially given the and a rise in private sector employment, even though we lack of affordable alternative housing in Wolverhampton. have been moving more people from incapacity benefit, Specifically, can the Secretary of State reassure me that ESA and lone parent benefits to jobseeker’s allowance, individuals or families with disabilities who are in adapted so it has been a success in difficult times and we should housing, and who have waited some time to secure it, applaud that. will not be subject to reductions in their housing benefit as of April next year? John Cryer (Leyton and Wanstead) (Lab): Of the 54 existing Remploy factories, how many does the Minister Chris Grayling: We have ensured that local authorities expect still to be running at the end of this Parliament, have a substantial amount of money in discretionary whether they are called Remploy or go under another funds to take into account the kind of situation that the name? hon. Lady describes, but the reality is that in the social rented sector we have about 1 million spare rooms, and Maria Miller: The hon. Gentleman will know that we at a time when people are queuing up on waiting lists are in the middle of a commercial process, and therefore throughout the country, it makes no sense for the taxpayer I do not know the answer to his question. However, I to pay for that. 23 25 JUNE 2012 Flooding 24

Flooding preparations and work of front-line responders, including the police, the fire service, the Environment Agency and local authorities, and through the more than £2 billion 3.31 pm of investment being made by the Government, however, Mary Creagh (Wakefield) (Lab) (Urgent Question): we are better prepared for flooding than ever before. To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will update the House on Mary Creagh: I thank the Secretary of State for flooding. updating the House on the flooding in the north of England over the weekend, and I echo her tributes to The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural the emergency services and voluntary sector, who worked Affairs (Mrs Caroline Spelman): Over recent weeks we to evacuate homes and keep people safe. I also thank have seen extraordinary amounts of rainfall, culminating the Environment Agency and local authority staff, who in the flooding earlier this month when parts of Sussex worked throughout Friday night to ensure that flood experienced almost two months’ rainfall in just 36 hours, defences were activated in places such as my constituency and most recently over the past weekend. of Wakefield, which was flooded in 2007, and the Some areas in Cumbria, Lancashire and west Yorkshire Lower Aire valley in Leeds. saw a month’s worth of rain in 24 hours, but Cumbria Will the right hon. Lady join me in paying tribute to had the highest rainfall, at 210 mm, with 200 mm in businesses that have offered help to businesses affected? Honister, compared with between 80 mm and 100 mm Hon. Members on both sides will be relieved that no elsewhere in the region. That extreme rainfall caused lives were lost, but the severity of the floods has meant rivers to rise to unprecedented levels in some cases, and that the communities affected face months of disruption to flooding being experienced on Friday and overnight and upheaval. What contact did the right hon. Lady into Saturday. have with the Cabinet Office civil contingency secretariat? I do understand the devastation that is caused to What detailed information does she have on the number people whose homes and businesses are flooded; it has of homes and businesses affected in the areas of Hebden happened to me. We expect the number of properties Bridge, Mytholmroyd and Todmorden? affected to be at least 1,200 as final numbers are collated What will happen to those who have been made throughout the impacted areas. My thoughts go out to homeless by the floods, and what housing arrangements all those who have suffered flooding, especially those in are in place—particularly for the frail elderly and the the worst affected areas, including Crawshawbooth, disabled? What contact has the right hon. Lady had Todmorden, Hebden Bridge and Mytholmroyd. I know with the Secretary of State for Communities and Local that local communities rallied round as the recovery Government about the recovery effort? I see that the operation began in earnest, and I hope that all will be Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local able to return to their homes as soon as possible. Government, the hon. Member for Bromley and Chislehurst I should also like to take this opportunity to praise (Robert Neill), is here. Which Government Minister the excellent response from our front-line emergency will lead on the flood recovery and on providing support services. I am delighted to report that, thanks in no for the affected communities? small part to their efforts, there was no loss of life and Following the floods of 2007 and 2009, the Government few serious injuries. I am also very grateful for the set up a flood recovery grant as a one-off payment to diligent work of the Met Office and the Environment councils to help households seriously affected by the Agency staff in the Flood Forecasting Centre. Their floods. Do the Government intend to help councils and forecasts, from the middle of last week, foresaw the communities in that way this time? If so, when can event unfolding and meant that much work was possible communities expect that help? in advance to lessen its impact. When Wakefield suffered from floods in 2007, the Teams of Environment Agency and local authority loan sharks were out on the streets there the very next staff were out before the flood waters arrived, clearing day. What contact has the right hon. Lady had with the drains, testing defences and preparing flood basins. Department for Work and Pensions to ensure that crisis Flood warnings were issued to more than 7,000 properties, loans are available to families left destitute by the floods, and flood warning sirens sounded in Todmorden and to ensure that families do not fall prey to loan sharks? Hebden Bridge. What estimate has the Department for Communities Protecting our communities against flooding is a and Local Government made on the cost of flood vital area of the work of government, and I am pleased recovery to local authorities? Is the Bellwin scheme to say that the Environment Agency estimates that likely to be activated by the floods? In 2007 and 2009, 11,000 properties were protected in the areas affected central Government covered 100% of local authority through a combination of flood defences, maintenance costs under the Bellwin scheme. Is the right hon. Lady work, storage basins and temporary measures. For every planning to do the same again? What contact has she property flooded, another 10 or so were not. had with the Department for Education to ensure that In Carlisle, the defences built following the 2005 children whose schools have been flooded continue to floods have now prevented a repeat of that devastating receive their education? Will she review the flood warnings event twice: in 2009 and this weekend. On Saturday, given by the Environment Agency and local authorities, river levels in Carlisle were actually higher than they as issues have been raised about the timeliness of the were in 2005. warnings? In our changing climate, we will never be able to When I spoke to representatives of the Association of prevent flooding completely, as we have seen over this British Insurers this morning, they said that the initial past weekend and earlier in June. Through the excellent estimate was that about 500 properties had been flooded 25 Flooding25 JUNE 2012 Flooding 26 and that the likely cost to insurers was in the low tens of The local authority has primary responsibility for millions of pounds. Can the Secretary of State give an ensuring that schools are safe to return to and, in turn, estimate of the value of uninsured losses? What support informing parents. will the Government give to the under-insured or uninsured? We now have available a sophisticated system of Will she encourage the loss adjusters to get into the flood warnings. Perhaps it is helpful for me to make all affected areas as quickly as possible to provide help to Members of the House aware of the new facility whereby people? anyone in a flood-affected area can register to receive a Every £1 invested in flood defences saves £8 in costs text message flood warning. There has been a very further down the line. This weekend, we had a reminder substantial uptake of this service. However, it often once again that floods are the greatest threat that climate increases after an event has occurred, so the Environment change poses to our country. The right hon. Lady Agency plans to proceed with text message flood warnings mentioned how much the Government are investing on an opt-out basis in future. Where households do not in flood defences, but that is a 30% cut from the 2010 have a mobile phone to receive a text, it can be received baseline. In the light of what has happened, will she in digital form on a landline, so no one should be undertake to review the figure? Will she reassure the unaware of a flood warning. In addition, I commend to House that she will resist any pressure from the Treasury the House the use of flood wardens who can knock on to cut flood defence spending in next year’s comprehensive people’s doors to forewarn them, especially in the case spending review? Communities that have been devastated of the vulnerable and the elderly. Communities that by flooding should not have to go through that terrible have been flooded often subsequently seek volunteers in experience again. this role. Mrs Spelman: I certainly join the hon. Lady in paying On flood insurance, we are at an advanced stage in tribute to the businesses that have helped with the intensive and constructive negotiations with the insurance situation on the ground—as they always do, in my industry on alternative arrangements for when the statement experience. Every time I have visited a flood situation of principles expires this time next year. As the hon. I have found that the whole community has rallied Lady will be aware, in 2008 the insurance industry round, and I applaud that. notified her party, when in government, that the statement The Department has a procedure for dealing with of principles would come to an end. Her party in flooding at three levels of risk: low, medium and high. government did not find a successor to the principles Civil contingencies arrangements are not triggered at but, as she will have heard me say, we are well on our the medium risk of flooding, which is what we faced way to doing so. The average insurance premium is this weekend. We have arrangements in hand that cover roughly £300 a year, while the average estimated claim all flooding eventualities. They were activated the week in this regard is so far estimated to be £15,000. That before last in Sussex and over the weekend in the shows the benefit of households being insured. north-west and west Yorkshire. The current state of On flood defences, I do not accept the hon. Lady’s play is that 1,200 homes have been registered as flooded, figure of a 30% cut. She is not comparing like with like. but the number could still rise as it becomes more If we compare how the previous Government funded flood accurate over time. I have a breakdown by community, defences in their last four years in office with our if the hon. Lady is particularly interested, but without a commitment to fund flood defences for the four years doubt the most affected communities are Todmorden, that succeeded their loss of power, we see that the Walsden and Callis Bridge, with 540 properties flooded, reduction is just 6%. When she considers the mess her followed by Hebden Bridge, with 245 properties flooded, party left the Government in, she will recognise that that and Mytholmroyd and Sowerby Bridge, with 145 properties was no mean achievement. In addition, a new method flooded. The numbers then reduce, but the flooding of partnership funding whereby third parties come in to extends across a very wide area. help to get some of these new flood defences built has Homelessness is principally a responsibility of the brought an extra £72 million into such works in its first local authority. The local authority in each of these year of operation. areas takes a lead role in the provision of homes for those affected. I have been in contact with the Secretary Several hon. Members rose— of State for Communities and Local Government to make sure that our actions are joined up across Whitehall. Mr Speaker: Order. There is a statement by the Prime Under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, Minister to follow. I do not expect exchanges on this we make specific grants available to assist local authorities, urgent question to continue beyond 4 o’clock, so if the with £21 million-worth of grants provided this year and level of interest is to be accommodated, there is a a higher figure to be provided in subsequent years of premium on brevity from Back Benchers and Front this Parliament. Benchers alike. On crisis loans, in the first instance the flood-affected can turn to a local authority for help through social Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con): The Environment funds. As I am sure the hon. Lady is aware, the trigger Agency has invested millions of pounds in Calder Valley’s for the Bellwin formula is 15% of a local authority’s flood defences over recent years, but nothing could have income, and current estimates from the Department for stopped what happened with the onslaught of water on Communities and Local Government, through the Secretary Friday night. My wife and I saw first hand, from the of State, suggest that it is unlikely to be triggered in this valley bottom to up to 1,000 feet above these communities, case. The scheme is there to deal with a catastrophic a month’s rainwater coming down the country lanes situation facing a local authority, and any final decision in waterfalls and torrents. Will my right hon. Friend on this will not be made until we know the full extent of join me in saying to the communities of Todmorden, the damage. Hebden Bridge and Mytholmroyd that our thoughts 27 Flooding25 JUNE 2012 Flooding 28

[Craig Whittaker] Mrs Spelman: As I have indicated, good progress has been made. I spoke to the annual general meeting of the are with them, and will she explain what extra help may Association of British Insurers last month to indicate to be available to them to make sure that they quickly get the insurers that we were close to reaching agreement back on their feet? on a basis that will guarantee the universality and affordability of insurance. Mrs Spelman: Through my hon. Friend, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to those communities. I know how Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): I was in Rossendale they feel, having had to evacuate my home for 10 months last Friday night and I have never seen rain like that after flooding. It takes a long time and a great toll on before in the United Kingdom. It was shocking. Will people’s mental health to get things back to the state my right hon. Friend assure me that when there is that they were in before the flood occurred. There are warning that flooding is likely, one person in the north-west, two practical things to say. First, the completion of the or in any other region where flooding might occur, is third phase of the flood defences in Todmorden will responsible for rapidly co-ordinating the emergency help to protect more properties. Secondly, the community resources? in Hebden Bridge might like to consider the partnership funding model, which might bring useful assistance. My Mrs Spelman: I can give that assurance to my hon. hon. Friend is right that when a month’s rain falls in Friend, who, with his military background, will know 24 hours, virtually no infrastructure can prevent flooding the importance of a command and control structure. completely. The response is linked to the severity of the risk. There is a very clear structure involving silver and gold commands, Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): Is the Secretary of led respectively by the police and the local authority, State confident that post-2013 flood risk insurance will which ensures that wherever such an event takes place—he be available and affordable to those who are most is right that we are seeing extreme weather events with affected by the floods? increasing frequency—a tried and tested procedure clicks into place. We practised that structure last year in Exercise Watermark. Mrs Spelman: Yes, I am confident of that because we have reached an advanced stage of negotiation with John Healey (Wentworth and Dearne) (Lab): Which the insurance industry to secure universal and affordable of the flood-hit areas has the Secretary of State visited? flood insurance. It is often misunderstood, but the There was nothing in her statement about the actions statement of principles was no guarantee of the affordability she will take, and little that showed that the Government of insurance. We understand how important that is, and understand that, when the waters recede, so does public will make a statement shortly. and media interest, but the problems that families and firms face simply do not. It can take months to get Andrew George (St Ives) (LD): It seems that the heavens those problems, including insurance claims, sorted out, are opening with distressingly increased regularity and so will she call in the insurance companies and ensure intensity. Given that the science of forecasting is improving that claims are speeded up, as the Labour Government and the growing responsibility of the Environment Agency, did after the 2007 floods? what more can be done to ensure that that science is harnessed and that mobile defences are put in place to Mrs Spelman: The right hon. Gentleman did not hear respond to it? what I said. I know from personal experience exactly what flooding feels like, having been flooded out of my Mrs Spelman: My hon. Friend is right that the capacity home for 10 months. I visited the flooding in Sussex the to forecast has improved. The Department for Environment, week before last, but there is a clear procedure for Food and Rural Affairs gives the Flood Forecasting Ministers, which I imagine he knows. Ministers are not Centre £2.9 million per annum, which continues the welcome in the immediate emergency because we might funding position from before we came into government. get in the way of the emergency services doing their job. The accuracy of the forecasting means that we can give We wait to be advised by them on the right time to visit. communities vital hours in which to give advice to Had the urgent question not been asked today, I could home owners on how to protect themselves and their have been on site. The Under-Secretary has kindly possessions. I suggest that communities that face flooding agreed to go to the north-west and west Yorkshire, regularly, which substantial parts of Cornwall do, consider because there is no substitute for hearing from the technical provisions, such as text messaging, backed up ground in the aftermath, as the clear-up operation takes by flood wardens who knock on doors personally. I saw place, what, if anything, we could learn to do better. people in Sussex resist moving even when all the advice had been given to them. There is no substitute for the Simon Hart (Carmarthen Westand South Pembrokeshire) human touch. (Con): Has the Secretary of State been able to measure the impact of the habitats directive on the Environment Yvonne Fovargue (Makerfield) (Lab): Many of my Agency’s ability to maintain main rivers and prevent constituents have benefited from the flood defences put flooding? in place by the last Government. However, they are now looking to renew their insurance premiums for a further Mrs Spelman: The Environment Agency has drawn year. I am pleased to hear that the negotiations are at an praise not just from the local communities that were advanced stage. However, given that people have to take flooded this weekend, but from those that were flooded out insurance now for 2013, when will the matter be the week before last in Sussex. In my experience, including decided? of the severe flooding event in Cornwall in 2010, the 29 Flooding25 JUNE 2012 Flooding 30 agency constantly strikes a balance to ensure that the the valleys in places such as Cornwall and Cumbria, forces of nature, which we admire on a fine day when such action poses a significant challenge. The community the rivers are not bursting their banks, can be contained, of Hebden Bridge had not qualified under the old and as far as possible directed not to do damage, to the approach of 100% of state-funded flood defences, but it built community in the event of such adverse weather has the opportunity under partnership funding to get conditions, which we see more frequently. the flood defences that are much needed.

Barry Gardiner (Brent North) (Lab): Does the Secretary Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): I of State agree with the Environment Agency’s assessment am sure the Secretary of State knows that today is the that it should spend an additional £20 million on flood fifth anniversary of the dreadful flooding in Hull. In the defences each year? Instead of disputing whether there light of that and Hull residents’ experience of getting is a 6% or 27% cut, does she not realise that the failure insurance at a reasonable cost, without excessive premiums to invest that money costs Great Britain plc far more in or excesses, can the Secretary of State assure me that the costs of clearing up after floods? the new agreement will open up the insurance market in areas such as Hull? Mrs Spelman: We would all like to spend more money on flood defences—there is a very good return on Mrs Spelman: Yes, I can give the hon. Lady that investment: for every £1 of taxpayers’ money spent, assurance; details will follow shortly. As I said, however, there is an £8 return—but the reality of the situation is having inherited a situation in which the previous that the Labour party left the nation’s finances in a very Government failed to come up with a successor to the bad state. When in government, the hon. Gentleman’s statement of principles, I am proud that we have found party indicated that it would cut capital by 50%. In the a way forward with the insurance industry that, above circumstances, therefore, he should see a 6% reduction all, guarantees that universal and affordable insurance as a significant improvement on what his party pledged. remains available to all, including her constituents. In addition, I could not underline more the importance of the new approach to funding flood defences, which is Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): The flooding in west to encourage partnership funding to bring in extra Sussex has been of great concern, but will my right hon. resources, so that more homes can be protected. In its Friend join me in welcoming the Government’s significant first year, partnership funding has brought in an extra investment in the upper river Mole flood alleviation £72 million—much of that from local government. That scheme, which is now starting to protect homes and means we will exceed our aim to protect better at least businesses in Crawley constituency? 145,000 more homes in the lifetime of this Parliament. Mrs Spelman: Yes, I welcome it, and, through my Neil Parish (Tiverton and Honiton) (Con): I welcome hon. Friend, I would like to pay tribute to the emergency the Secretary of State’s statement on using partnership services, volunteers and communities following that funds to create better flood defences. May I echo the severe flooding incident in Sussex. Almost two months’ words of my colleague who said that the dredging of rain fell in 36 hours. It was encouraging that the equipment rivers and tributaries by the Environment Agency can we provided, within the county and across county help a great deal in the long run with flooding? boundaries, was brought into play in that time of need, as the procedures required. Mrs Spelman: There is no doubt that the judicious management of our watercourses can help substantially Mr Speaker: I am grateful to the Secretary of State in times of very heavy rainfall. Given the steepness of and colleagues. 31 25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 32

G20 Summit secure the second. The G20 also reaffirmed its commitment to reduce global imbalances, with deficit countries 3.56 pm strengthening their public finances and surplus countries taking further actions to increase demand and move The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): The G20 towards greater exchange rate flexibility. In particular, needed to address the five big threats to the global we welcomed China’s commitment to allow market economy: first, the problems in the eurozone; secondly, forces to play a larger role in determining movements in the mountain of debt and persistence of imbalances in its exchange rate, and to continue reform and increase the world economy; thirdly, the lack of growth; fourthly, transparency in its exchange rate policy. This is an the rise of protectionism; and fifthly the failure to important advance for the G20 in dealing with global regulate our banks properly. I shall take each briefly in imbalances, which was of course one of the underlying turn. causes of the crisis in 2008. First, I turn to the eurozone. Britain is not in the In a debt-driven crisis where many countries lack the eurozone, and we are not going to join it, but, given that fiscal space to stimulate their economies, the most powerful 40% of our trade is with the eurozone, its future affects tools for growth that we have are monetary activism our future. It is in our national interest for it to resolve and structural reform. The G20 agreed that monetary its difficulties. As a full member of the EU and a policy should continue to support the economic recovery, significant net contributor to its budget, it is not only and every G20 country has put on the table specific vital but right that we speak plainly about what needs to structural reform commitments to strengthen global happen. demand, foster job creation and increase growth potential. In the short term, we need rapid action by the core of The Los Cabos growth and jobs action plan includes the eurozone, including the European Central Bank, to mechanisms to hold G20 members accountable for restore financial stability and confidence to the countries delivering on the reform commitments made. Vitally for on the periphery of the eurozone as they undergo their us, this includes completing the European single market. vital structural reforms. That needs to be reinforced in The G20 did not just focus on growth in the largest the medium term by improvements to the governance of economies, as it also reaffirmed its vital commitment to the eurozone that recognise the remorseless logic of supporting private sector-led growth in the poorest being in a currency union. countries as the best way of helping people to lift This clearly was a G20 summit, not a eurozone themselves out of poverty. Britain led a significant summit, but none the less the eurozone countries made breakthrough on two of the biggest barriers to successful some steps towards both those goals. First, they agreed private sector development in developing countries. First, to take all necessary policy measures to safeguard the we drove forward the G20’s anti-corruption plan, including integrity and stability of the eurozone, including breaking securing agreement on important new principles that the link between sovereign debt problems and bank will deny to all G20 countries entry by corrupt officials instability, and secondly they committed to taking further or those who corrupt them. Secondly, on the inability of steps towards fiscal and economic integration, including farmers to access the technology that makes their farming through a banking union. viable, Britain made a substantial contribution to the Britain does not want to stand in the way of these AgResults initiative, which will harness the creativity of measures towards closer integration of the eurozone, the private sector to help put new technology in the but we will not be part of them. We did not join the hands of the world’s poorest farmers. We will be building eurozone precisely because we did not want to give up on this further at our special event on hunger, which the kind of sovereignty over our national economy that will be held at the Olympics in London this August. is essential to making a currency union work. And we Fourthly, on trade, we expressed our deep concern have been clear that whatever long term decisions are about rising instances of protectionism around the world. made about the governance of the eurozone, the rules The President of Argentina had a number of arguments that govern the single market must always protect the during this summit—not just with me—and it was interests of all its 27 members. This is a red line for made very clear to her that recent behaviour by Argentina Britain and is vital to our national interests. The eurozone on both investment and trade protectionism was not now needs to get on with implementing the agreements acceptable. At this G20, free trade again won the day. reached at the G20, and I will work at the European We extended our commitment to avoid any new Council this week to ensure that the eurozone takes protectionist measures until the end of 2014, and agreed these steps in a way that protects the UK’s interests. to roll back new protectionist measures that have arisen, To deal with the wider risks of contagion to the including new export restrictions. global economy, the G20 also welcomed the commitments Most significant of all, the US and the EU reached a to increase the resources available to the IMF by more groundbreaking political agreement to move forward than $450 billion. It is a basic principle of the IMF that with a deep but credible trade agreement with a clear the help it offers is for countries not for currencies. and agreed timetable. The EU-US high-level working Indeed, almost all the IMF’s 50 programmes are for group will now produce recommendations for taking countries outside the eurozone. No country has ever this forward by the end of the year. The EU and US lost money lending to the IMF, and Britain’s contribution make up half of the world’s gross domestic produce, so is a loan on which interest is payable, and will be used completing a deal here could provide an enormous only if troubled economies meet strict conditions to get boost to growth across the world. That means, of course, their economies back on track. jobs and growth in Britain. Secondly, I turn to debt and imbalances. As at the Fifthly, on financial regulation, this G20 maintained G8, there was absolute agreement that deficit reduction the political impetus behind the reform of regulation and growth were not alternatives—you need the first to across the global economy. We endorsed the strengthening 33 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 34 of the Financial Stability Board in holding all G20 That sounded familiar to me—and then I realised why. countries to account for delivering on their commitments, The Prime Minister had said exactly the same after the which was specifically recommended by the UK report last failed summit, in Cannes in November. On global on global governance at the Cannes summit last year. growth, the Cannes summit communiqué said We also agreed to push forward with completing the “should global economic conditions materially worsen”, implementation of Basel III. countries In the margins of this summit, I had useful discussions “agree to take discretionary measures to support domestic demand”. on some of our key foreign policy priorities. On Syria, The list of the countries concerned included Germany. where the regime continues to pound civilian areas with Well, global conditions have worsened, most evidently mortars, attack helicopters and snipers, the EU is today, in Britain, which is only one of two countries in the G20 as a result of UK efforts, extending sanctions to ban to have gone into a double-dip recession. If that any EU companies from insuring ships taking arms to communiqué meant anything, it meant that this G20 Syria. We will continue work with our international summit should have been a coming together of the partners, including through the UN to stop the appalling world leaders with a real plan to boost global demand, slaughter and help forge a political transition to a but what did we get? The Mexico communiqué is a democratic future that protects the rights of all its cut-and-paste job which effectively repeats the same communities. words that we heard at Cannes, almost word for word. Finally, on the Falkland Islands, I took the opportunity Perhaps the Prime Minister will be able to tell me to emphasise the importance of the planned referendum whether the words or the commitments of the international to President Kirchner. The islanders have had to put up community have changed. As far as I can see, it is more with endless attempts at endless summits to put a question words and no action. People will be asking—and rightly mark over their future. They want to determine that so—how much worse the economy has to get. future themselves. No one should be in any doubt that, The tragedy,of course, is that the international community as far as the British Government are concerned, it is the are divided, between those who want a decisive move Falkland islanders who will determine the sovereignty towards growth and jobs, like President Obama and of the islands. I believe that their view will be respected President Hollande, and those whose answer to the failure by this House, this country and, indeed, by the world. of the last two years is simply more of the same—the I commend the statement to the House. same austerity that is not working—like the German Chancellor and our Prime Minister. Maybe the Prime 4.3 pm Minister will be able to tell us whether, with Britain now in a double-dip recession, he was arguing at this summit Edward Miliband (Doncaster North) (Lab): I thank for anything different from what he argued for last the Prime Minister for his statement. Let me start with November. From his statement, it certainly does not the foreign policy issues that he raised. On the Falklands, sound that way. there is support on the Opposition Benches for the absolute need to protect the principle of self-determination On the eurozone, the Prime Minister said: for the islanders, and we should always stand up for “These are significant agreements; now the Eurozone countries that. need to get on and implement them.” On the issue of Syria, there is deep concern on all But is not the reality that there is no agreement on the sides about the continued failure of the Annan plan to main issues of substance—how to recapitalise European deliver a cessation of violence. Given the urgency of banks, how the European Central Bank can stand behind having an immediate end to the escalating hostilities, member countries, and how to prevent the escalation of does the Prime Minister agree that it is now vital for the problems in the bond markets? It is more of the same— international community to unite around the need for more kicking the can down the road—and there is no the toughest sanctions against Syria? In his press conference plan for growth in Europe either. after the summit, the Prime Minister said that President Of course the Prime Minister cannot be part of the Putin has been explicit that he is not locked in to Assad solution, but he is part of the problem. No wonder he remaining in charge in Syria, but Russia’s Foreign Minister was looking for something else to talk about during the Lavrov said that was not his Government’s position. summit, and of course he found it, although, strangely, Does the Prime Minister still believe this to be the case, it was omitted from his statement—the tax affairs of and does he believe that there is a case for persuading Jimmy Carr. On Wednesday he could not have been Russia to take a tougher stance? clearer: Jimmy Carr was “morally wrong”. On what he called the “Gary Barlow situation”, he said—I am not I shall now turn to the main business of the summit, making this up, I promise, Mr Speaker— the economy. The G20 last met in Cannes in November. Since then our country has gone into a double-dip “As soon as I get in front of a computer I will have a look at it.” recession, world growth has slowed, and the eurozone On Thursday, the now-familiar sound of screeching crisis has deepened. If ever there was a time for the tyres could be heard. The U-turn was well and truly international community to come together and act, this under way. The Prime Minister said: was it, but frankly—I think that the Prime Minister “I am not going to give a running commentary on different may himself really recognise this—all that we got from people’s tax affairs. I don’t think that would be right.” the summit was more of the same: drift and inaction in [Interruption.] Members ask about the G20. Tax avoidance the face of a global crisis. is certainly an issue at the G20 summit. The Prime Minister claimed at his press conference Later, when the Prime Minister’s spokeswoman was afterwards that the summit had asked whether he had had a chance to catch up with the “made important progress on the Eurozone, on the lack of global “Gary Barlow situation”, she said: growth and on the rise of protectionism.” “He has been very busy.” 35 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 36

[Edward Miliband] resemblance between Syria and Bosnia. If that is so, will the Prime Minister do his utmost to make sure that By Sunday, even the Prime Minister was saying “I think the Damascus of 2012 does not become the Sarajevo I’ve said enough.” That is certainly true. of 1914? There is one important lesson to be learnt from the last week. In the midst of an economic hurricane, this The Prime Minister: As ever, the Father of the House global summit should have produced action, not words. makes a very important point. One of the crucial things The reality is that this is a Prime Minister who has come we want to see for the future of Syria, whatever the back from the summit with nothing for Britain: nothing outcome, is that there is proper protection of minorities, to turn around a double-dip recession, nothing to help including Christian minorities, in that country. We do Britain’s families, nothing to ensure growth in the world not want to see sectarian conflict. It has become increasingly economy. No wonder he wanted to spend the summit clear that there will not be a prosperous and safe future talking about Jimmy Carr. for Syria with Assad still in charge. That is why the political transition that Annan’s plan involves is so The Prime Minister: Oh dearie me. important and why we should keep pushing it. First, let me thank the right hon. Member for Doncaster North (Edward Miliband) for his support over Afghanistan. Mr Peter Hain (Neath) (Lab): Can the Prime Minister I welcome that. On Syria, I agree that we should continue explain how Britain will retain its influence in the G20 to back tough sanctions. On Russia, I had useful given that his Government are isolating themselves conversations with President Putin. Clearly the stance from the main power brokers in the European Union? that the Russians take is a matter for them, but we As Russia and China follow America in becoming believe that there is a real case for getting together and superpowers, and as Russia flexes its muscles and India working to implement, in particular, the parts of the rises too, surely we should be right at the centre of the Annan plan that are about political transition, and we EU so that we are listened to more, instead of being will continue to make those arguments. followers on the margins of the EU? On the economy, I do not over-claim— The Prime Minister: If by that the right hon. Gentleman Ed Balls (Morley and Outwood) (Lab/Co-op): Tell us means, “Should we join the euro and just go along with about Gary Barlow. everything that is suggested?”— [Interruption.] Well, that is what would follow, and I do not accept that for a The Prime Minister: I will tell you about that in a moment. Britain can play a strong role in the EU, but minute. I am trying to remember the words that you are where there are things we do not want to join, such as and are not allowed to use in the House, Mr Speaker. the Schengen no-borders agreement and the single currency, Britain should stay outside them. I would not over-claim for this summit—clearly, it was a G20, not a eurozone, summit—but I would say to the In terms of our relations with the rest of the world, right hon. Gentleman that there are some battles that the Government have done a huge amount to increase we have to fight every year, and the battle to prevent the our relations with China and India, as trade flows in the rise of protectionism is just such a battle. This year, we last few years show: in the last two years, exports to have moved forward the date before which no one can China up 72%, exports to India up 93% and exports to put in place protectionist measures by another year, Russia up 109%. We are making a difference where it to 2014. Frankly, I wish that had gone further, but the counts. idea that we fight this battle once and the fight is over is quite wrong. Sir Malcolm Rifkind (Kensington) (Con): The Prime Minister referred to the part of the G20 declaration The right hon. Gentleman’sproblem with the communiqué headed —of course, he did not say whether or not he would have signed it—is that what he wants is more spending, “Intensifying the fight against corruption”, more borrowing and more debt. The fact is that, while which endorsed the there might be some countries that could afford to “denial of entry to our countries of corrupt officials, and those spend more, because of the mess he left, Britain is not who corrupt them”. one of them. I have to remind him that he left us with a As these measures were inspired by the tragic case of deficit that was bigger than those of Greece, Portugal Sergei Magnitsky, who died in a Russian prison having and Spain. He quoted President Hollande, but he might exposed massive corruption by Russian state officials, is remember President Hollande’s statement in which he it not ironic that the next chair of the G20 will be said that the national debt is the “enemy” of the left. Russia, and that President Putin will be chairing the What a pity it is not an enemy of the left politicians sitting next conference, in St Petersburg? Will my right hon. across from us. The right hon. Gentleman says we are Friend encourage President Putin, who presumably part of the problem: frankly, he created the problem. endorsed this declaration, to ensure that those responsible As for the issue of Jimmy Carr and all the rest of it, for the death of Magnitsky and this massive corruption we learned from what happened in respect of Ken are brought to justice before President Putin chairs that Livingstone that it is Labour politicians who are involved conference a year from now? in tax avoidance, and now we know a new rule: they will stand up for tax avoiders wherever they are. The Prime Minister: My right hon. and learned Friend makes an important point. The section of the communiqué Sir Peter Tapsell (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): On about corruption is indeed important, and all the countries Syria: last week, in answer to a parliamentary question, that have signed up to it should make sure that they put the Foreign Secretary agreed that there was some it in place. One of the strengths of the G20 is that, 37 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 38 because it is not bringing together countries that necessarily Richard Ottaway (Croydon South) (Con): May I welcome share all the same democratic or human rights values, it the Prime Minister’s attack on protectionism and support is an opportunity to try to push some of those agendas for free trade, particularly the US-EU trade agreement with colleagues sitting round the table. timetable? Does he agree that these are the two largest trading blocs in the world, and together will create an Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): The Prime Minister enormous bloc that will have a profound effect on jests about what words are allowed and not allowed in growth and trade across the world? this Chamber; on the Opposition Benches, we would quite like to hear one word more often from his lips: The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right “growth”. to raise this issue—it is half the world’s GDP. There are Further to the question from the right hon. and a huge number of difficulties in getting these talks learned Member for Kensington (Sir Malcolm Rifkind), properly under way; there will be concerns about farm the problem of corruption in Russia is manifest. On subsidies and about hidden protectionism on both sides. 7 March, this House unanimously agreed a resolution, But the pressure from European member states on the supported by the Government, calling on them to introduce European Commission—and, indeed, from the Commission legislative proposals to make sure that those involved in itself—and, I believe, from business in the US on the the murder of Sergei Magnitsky and the corruption that American President, is to get a deal done, because in the he unveiled were banned from this country. When will end, it would be very good for all of us. those legislative proposals be introduced? Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): Now that the The Prime Minister: I have to say to the hon. Gentleman Prime Minister has had his Jimmy Carr moment, would that the word I am waiting for from him, because he it not be a good idea to publish a list of all those using introduced a point of order claiming that I had misled tax avoidance schemes, including those closer to home the House, is “sorry”. To be fair to him, he has said and those who inhabit millionaires’ row? sorry to everybody else—you, Mr Speaker, I think, and to the House in general—but the person he accused of Mr Speaker: Order. I feel sure that the hon. Gentleman doing something wrong he has yet to say “sorry” to. So, was seeking to relate his question to the European until I get that apology, I think I will leave off the summit. answers. Mr Skinner: That is where it all happened. Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) (LD): The communiqué was clear that, as a way of Mr Speaker: Yes, and I know that that is what the Prime agreeing further growth, there should be investment Minister will deal with in his reply. in infrastructure, particularly in housing, which would bring both jobs in general and deal with youth The Prime Minister: I was hoping, for once, that the unemployment in particular. Can the Prime Minister hon. Gentleman would stand up and applaud what I say anything about the priority our Government will had said about tax avoidance and aggressive tax avoidance. give to those matters in this country, in order to get I thought, for once, we might be on the same side. youngsters off the dole and houses built for them to live in? Mr Speaker: And better still—I beg your pardon to the hon. Gentleman and to the House—to the G20 The Prime Minister: My right hon. Friend raises an summit. That would be helpful. important point. Because we have credibility in financial markets and our interest rates are less than 2%, we are Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): I am very able to use the strength of our balance sheet to help grateful for the Prime Minister’s statement, particularly make sure that houses get built, that infrastructure goes after he made such an excellent speech on welfare ahead and that we help our economy in that way. We are reform earlier today.Could he confirm that the referendum looking at the best way to make this happen. for the Falkland Islands will be binding and solemn? As referendums are such a good idea for people, why can Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green): Given we not have one in this country about our relationship the lack of any discernible progress on ending harmful with the European Union? fossil fuel subsidies since the first G20 pledge on that three years ago, and given the silence about it again The Prime Minister: That was an excellent link, if I today, what would the Prime Minister say to the 1 million may say so. What is so important about the Falkland people whose petition was handed to him last week Islands referendum, which is very much an initiative asking for an immediate end to those subsidies? Does that has come from the Falkland islanders themselves, he really think they are the best use of $100 billion is that it will give the opportunity for the rest of the globally every single year? world to see what the people who live there actually want—lots of countries that are not particularly focused The Prime Minister: The hon. Lady makes a very on this issue may, in the past, have gone along with important point, and there is huge pressure on countries proposals from Argentina without really considering that have big fossil fuel subsidies to end them. A number that. When they see it in glorious technicolour, I hope of countries—such as Nigeria and, I believe, Pakistan—have that will make a difference. taken some steps to end the subsidies. It is obviously a difficult and painful process for those Governments to Luciana Berger (Liverpool, Wavertree) (Lab/Co-op): go through as they change the structures of their economy, The Prime Minister will be aware that last week the but we should be encouraging them. Rio+20 conference also took place. As the leader of 39 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 40

[Luciana Berger] Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): The OECD has predicted that economic demand in America what he calls the “greenest Government ever”, can he will rise this year at 2.3%, but in Britain it will rise at share with us what representations he made in Mexico only 0.2%. Can the Prime Minister explain why? about that other crucial conference? The Prime Minister: There some quite significant The Prime Minister: Obviously it is difficult to be in differences between the American economy and the two places at once, so I did the G20 and the Deputy British economy. One of the biggest differences is that it Prime Minister was at the Rio+20 summit. We discussed is a reserve currency and we are not a reserve currency. it a great deal in advance, and I think it did make some Another big difference is that we had an 11% budget useful progress in terms of sustainable goals. I am also deficit, which was bigger than the deficits of Greece, going to be working, through this high-level panel to Spain and Portugal. That is the legacy that the hon. which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appointed Gentleman’s party left, and until Labour Members me, to make sure that we put in place the right replacements apologise for that legacy, no one is going to take them for the millennium development goals and that they seriously. take into account sustainable concerns as well. Several hon. Members rose— Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): Does my right hon. Friend agree that events in the eurozone have Mr Speaker: I call Mr Ellis. [Interruption.] predictably proven that the creation of the single European currency was a disastrous mistake? Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. The Prime Minister: It would have been a mistake for us to join the single currency, because we did not want Mr Speaker: Order. I did not want to hurry the hon. to give up the necessary sovereignty to make a single Gentleman, but we can hear his question when he has currency work. We have to respect the fact that there are calmed down and when he is ready. countries in the eurozone that want to make it work, and we have to allow them that opportunity. It would Michael Ellis: Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. clearly be in our interests if we had a working single Does my right hon. Friend agree that the rather ridiculous currency on our doorstep, rather than a dysfunctional posturing by the Argentines at the G20 summit tries to one, which, I am afraid, is slightly what we have at the hide the fact that it is they who are the real colonialists, moment. So we have to make our own choices, and because they wish to ignore the democratic wishes of other EU countries must make their own choices, but the Falkland Islands people themselves? the key point—this is where I agree with my hon. Friend —is that a single currency will not work unless it has at The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right. least the underpinnings that other single currencies, At the heart of the UN charter is the concept of such as our own, have: a central bank right behind it; a self-determination, which is why I think that the referendum means of supporting the weaker parts of the union at is important. In many ways, we do not need it to happen various times; and some sort of joint debt issuance. in order to know the wishes of the Falkland islanders, Those are the sort of things that all single currencies, which have always been clear, but none the less I think the world over, have. To that extent, I agree with him. that it will underline that and people will be able to see Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): At the that it is not Britain that is behaving in a colonialist way G20, how did it feel for the Prime Minister to be one of but that we are simply doing what the Falkland islanders only two leaders to have their domestic economies in want us to do. recession? Mark Hendrick (Preston) (Lab/Co-op): On the basis The Prime Minister: What it feels like at the G20 is of what authority is the Prime Minister lecturing the that you are around a table with people from other eurozone when two and half years of his Government’s countries that have large budget deficits but not as large policies have driven this country into a double-dip as the ones that we were left. We were left with an 11% recession? budget deficit and with the biggest banking bust that had taken place anywhere. So I would say that there is The Prime Minister: I think that as a net contributor considerable sympathy for that around the table, and a to and full member of the European Union we have lot of people around the table talk about the complete every right to say what we think is necessary to fix the mess we were left in. crisis. The hon. Gentleman talks about what has happened over the past two years, but I would make the point that Mr David Burrowes (Enfield, Southgate) (Con): The 400,000 more people are in work than at the last general German Foreign Minister recently wrote in The Times: election. Unemployment was down this quarter and “Anyone who wants new flash-in-the-pan stimulus packages employment was up, and there are 840,000 more private financed by yet more borrowing has learnt absolutely nothing sector jobs. It is tough and difficult but a rebalancing of from the crisis.” our economy is taking place that involves more Who was he talking about? manufacturing and more exports and that is leading to private sector job growth. The Prime Minister: I cannot possibly think, but I can think of some people sitting opposite me who do Conor Burns (Bournemouth West) (Con): The Prime believe that the way to get out of a debt crisis is to Minister referred in his statement to the changes of borrow more—that is their policy. governance in the eurozone and the remorseless logic 41 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 42 of being in a currency union. Those of us who have Jonathan Ashworth (Leicester South) (Lab): Did not consistently called this right over the past 20 years have the G20 communiqué argue that advanced economies serious reservations about asking countries such as should pursue fiscal consolidation at a pace appropriate Greece, Spain and Portugal to make the democratic to support recovery? Why, then, is the Prime Minister sacrifices that we ruled were unacceptable to the United pursuing fiscal consolidation at a pace that has contributed Kingdom. Does he share our concern that when countries to a double-dip recession? find they cannot change the policies of their Government through the ballot box, it could lead to profound instability The Prime Minister: We are pursuing fiscal consolidation in Europe? at a pace that is right for the British economy, which is why our interest rates are as low as they are. The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a very good point, but the point that I would make in response Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): Was is that it is not for us to tell those countries what to do. the Prime Minister surprised to hear quite a lot of If countries want to join a currency union, understand questions about stand-up comedians but that neither that to make that currency union work they have to give Tony Blair nor the Leader of the Opposition have ruled up all sorts of sovereignty and freely enter into that out joining the euro? bargain, that is a matter for them and not a matter for us. It is for us to decide whether we want to do that, The Prime Minister: To be fair to the Leader of the which we do not, and—and, frankly, it is all right to do Opposition, he has said that whether or not they will this—to give advice about what would make a eurozone join the euro depends on how long he is Prime Minister, work better than it is working today. whereas the shadow Chancellor has said that they will Stewart Hosie (Dundee East) (SNP): The communiqué not join the euro “in his political lifetime”, which gives reads: us an interesting conflict—[Interruption.] For once, the shadow Chancellor has said something from a sedentary “We are committed to adopting all necessary policy measures to strengthen demand, support global growth and restore confidence” position with which I agree. He said that his political lifetime could be quite short—here’s hoping. and “enhance job creation”. I welcome monetary activism as one of the tools to help Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab/ achieve that, but can the Prime Minister explain to the Co-op): On a more serious note—[Interruption.] House how his Government’s austerity programme will do anything other than weaken demand, weaken growth Mr Speaker: Order. This outbreak of amity is very and suppress demand for labour? welcome, but I am sure that Members are united in wanting to hear Mr Mark Lazarowicz. The Prime Minister: I make this simple point to the hon. Gentleman: if we did not have a credible plan for Mark Lazarowicz: On a more serious note about the dealing with our debts and our deficit, our interest rates euro, Greece now has a new Government, which indicates would not be below 2%. It is worth remembering that that it will accept the bail-out but wants some flexibility when this Government took office, Spanish and British in how it is implemented. What will the G20 and other interest rates were at the same level. Our rates are now institutions do to meet that request? Of course Greece below 2%, which is helpful for growth, for business and must accept its responsibilities, restructure its economy for home owners, and the Spanish have interest rates and all the rest of it, but at the same time is it not close to 7%. That is the point. The idea that if a country important that we show flexibility, so that we do not run spent more, borrowed more and added to its debts, it the risk of the new Greek Government collapsing along would stimulate its economy is probably wrong. with the deal and, as a result, bringing down not only Greece, but many others in the world community? Several hon. Members rose—

Mr Speaker: Order. I gently say to the hon. Member The Prime Minister: The hon. Gentleman asks an for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) that if he wishes to conduct important question. It will be a decision for the Greeks a running commentary on our proceedings, he is welcome to make in collaboration with the members of the to apply for a job at Wimbledon over the next fortnight, European Union that have extended that money to where his services might—or, alternatively, might not—be Greece, of which we are not one, and of course the required. International Monetary Fund. The problem is that any delay in the terms of the memorandum effectively means Kwasi Kwarteng (Spelthorne) (Con): What assessment more money going from those predominantly eurozone has my right hon. Friend made of France’s deficit members to Greece, so those discussions have to be had; reduction plan? but other countries that are on track with the programmes that have been put in place will, I think, feel very uneasy The Prime Minister: I look carefully at what the about one country getting special terms. In the end, it French are both doing and saying and it seems to me will be a matter for the eurozone members and Greece that their plans to reduce their structural deficit are, if to hammer this out between them. anything, more aggressive than our plans to reduce our structural deficit. I hear from the Opposition that we Alec Shelbrooke (Elmet and Rothwell) (Con): I should learn lessons from France, and the fact is that congratulate my right hon. Friend on facing down the the French have a deficit reduction programme, it is Argentine President and pointing out that we will not quite aggressive and they refer to the national debt as be bullied or have any silly stunts. Does that not contrast the enemy of France and the enemy of the left. starkly with either giving away huge European rebates 43 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 44

[Alec Shelbrooke] well-being, and we are measuring those things for the first time in this country, which is giving something of a or cosying up to African dictators, and show once again lead to others. that if we want someone to stand up for sovereignty and British interests, we need a Conservative Prime Minister? Mel Stride (Central Devon) (Con): I warmly welcome my right hon. Friend’s support for free trade at the G20, The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend and like him I believe that the free movement of peoples for his question. It seemed to me important to try to is important to free trade, but does he agree that it was a make that point, not just to Argentina but—almost great dereliction of responsibility by the previous more to the point—to other countries, which sometimes Government not to introduce transition arrangements go along with motions proposed at various international in relation to those states that joined the EU in 2004? gatherings that are against the interests of the Falkland islanders because they have not heard their voice. People The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important are now going to hear that voice, and I hope the world point. It was the Conservative Opposition who warned will listen. that it was a bad decision to allow unencumbered access to British labour markets from countries such as Poland. Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): Is not the We well remember being told, “You can’t talk about these Prime Minister’s influence in and prescription for the things”, that it is somehow racist to discuss immigration, world economy fatally undermined by the first double-dip and all the rest of it. Year after year we had to put up recession in 37 years in this country? with that nonsense, and to get a half-baked apology now is simply not good enough. The Prime Minister: The point about what we are saying about the world economy is that, in fact, we are Sir Gerald Kaufman (Manchester, Gorton) (Lab): It part of the consensus on the need to stop the march to was interesting to see that the Prime Minister treats protectionism, to regulate the banks properly, to have correspondence from the President of Argentina in the credible fiscal plans so that interest rates are kept down, same way as he treats correspondence from Members of and to have proper monetary activism and structural the House. Will he make it clear beyond any equivocation reforms to deliver growth. That is what the world signed that not only is the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands up to at the G20 and it is a consensus that the Labour not open for negotiation, but it is not open for discussion party is completely out of. in any forum whatever, and that the wishes of the people of the Falklands to remain British will prevail? Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) (Con): Given that the Leader of the Opposition seems to have identified The Prime Minister: I can certainly give the right hon. the President of France as his special friend, does my Gentleman that assurance. The referendum of the Falkland right hon. Friend agree that it is worth reminding the islanders will help us to deliver that in practice as well as right hon. Gentleman of the words of President Hollande, in theory. Let me say to the right hon. Gentleman that if who said that growth cannot be generated by means he writes me a letter, I shall try to respond to it very of further public spending, because that needs to be speedily. reined in? Mrs Anne Main (St Albans) (Con): I share my right The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right— hon. Friend’s concerns about the sovereignties and powers that is exactly what the President of France said. He that may be given over by some of the weaker countries. knows that a credible plan to reduce the deficit is I am concerned that we are not having a debate about necessary to generate growth in any country, and that what sort of chimera will be created by those who will one is fatally undermined by the lack of that credibility. mop up those powers and sovereignties, and I urge my It is only the left in this country that thinks we can right hon. Friend to speak up strongly on the European borrow our way out of debt. Council this week. May we have a debate when he returns from the Council, to inform the House exactly Joan Walley (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab): May I how we are being protected against this newly created register the deep disappointment that the Prime Minister large superstate? did not make the extra journey to attend the Rio+20 Earth summit? Given his remarks about growth, may I The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important ask how he is making the links between the need to go point. Of course there will be consequences if the beyond GDP and the importance of natural capital in eurozone members go ahead and form a more integrated the arguments and the growth objectives on the G20 eurozone, and it is very important that we protect agenda? Britain’s interests, particularly our interest in having a fair and open single market. On the issue of how we The Prime Minister: That is a perfectly fair question. debate these things in Parliament, the Backbench Business My judgment was that having done the G8 and NATO Committee took over all the days for Back-Bench debates summits, then the G20 and an important bilateral visit including, as I understand it, the time that was previously to Mexico—we should be linking up with the fastest- allotted by the Government for European debates in growing economies in the world—it was better to ask advance of European summits. So if the Backbench the Deputy Prime Minister to attend the Rio summit, Business Committee wants to put in such debates, I am which I believe made some important progress. This sure Foreign Office Ministers would be only too happy Government believe that, as well as GDP, we should be to answer those debates, which would help inform me thinking about other measures of sustainability and before I go off to European Councils. 45 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 46

Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) (Con): Does The Prime Minister: The deficit has been reduced by my right hon. Friend agree that it is grossly hypocritical a quarter in two years. of the Argentine Government to demand talks on the Falklands, while at the same time refusing to accept a Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): letter from the Falkland Island Government about talks? The Argentine Government and the media often repeat the claim that Argentina wants the Falkland Islands The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a good back. Does my right hon. Friend agree that no one can point. There are a number of things about which the have something back that has never been theirs? Argentina Falkland islanders would like to have proper discussions has never had legal possession of the Falkland Islands, with Argentina—about the links between the Falklands and unless it is the wish of the Falkland islanders and countries in Latin America; ordinary conversations themselves, it never will do. that the Falkland Islands should be having with neighbouring countries. What is absolutely clear is that The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend puts it very well; for that to happen, countries need to respect the sovereignty I could not have put it better myself. The key point is of the Falkland Islands and the decision that people self-determination, and that is what the referendum will there make. prove. Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con): What benefits might my constituents see from an EU-US free Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): Does the Prime trade agreement? Minister agree that the relative strength of the German economy is partly derived from the fact that it has a The Prime Minister: If we expanded trade between sensible approach to public finances, and that we should Britain and America as part of the EU expanding its continue to promote that across Europe? Does he also trade with America, the benefits would be more goods agree that the importance of the European Central and services and more jobs in the UK, and more Bank needs to be further enhanced? opportunities to export. We might find particular advantages to Britain in some of the services fields, The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important where we have very good companies that do not always point. Of course, there is an enormous amount of get full access to US markets. In that way my hon. pressure on Germany to do more to back the eurozone, Friend’s constituents would benefit. and I understand and support some of that pressure, but we should remember that the German economy is Mr Marcus Jones (Nuneaton) (Con): Despite the so strong because it went into the recession with a economic headwinds of the eurozone crisis, in the west budget surplus, whereas we had a budget deficit, and it midlands in the past year 4,000 jobs were lost in the had spent the previous 10 years getting more competitive, public sector, but 81,000 jobs were created in the private building up its industry and making sure its economy sector. Does that not vindicate the Government’s strategy was balanced. Sadly, under the last Government we of reducing the deficit and keeping interest rates low? spent too much time imitating Greece, and not enough time imitating Germany. The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important point. As I said, there are 400,000 more people in work Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): It seems that 655 than there were in May 2010. Of course we have seen Argentines lost their lives in the Falklands war. Does some job reductions in the public sector, but they have my right hon. Friend agree that if Argentina were to been more than made up—several times made up—by restore proper sea and air links to the Falkland Islands, the jobs that have increased in the private sector. That is the families and loved ones of those in the Argentine the sort of rebalancing that our economy needs. cemetery would be able to visit it properly, which is what should happen? Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con): Will my right hon. Friend encourage business to look also beyond the EU to secure growth and future orders, and will he The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important ensure that Government policies are designed to support point. There is the air link with Chile. Obviously, if business to do that and to break down often hidden there were better relations, there could be air links with protectionism in other markets? Argentina, but that has to be on the basis that Argentina respects the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands and the The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right. decision that the people of the Falkland Islands are Part of the Government’s strategy is to link Britain with going to make. Another reason why the referendum is some of the fastest growing countries in the world, and important is that it will put that beyond doubt, and that is why I have personally taken trade missions to perhaps that will allow better conversations to take almost all of the G20 countries now, apart from Brazil place. and Argentina, and I hope to go to Brazil later this year. One of the most effective ways to break down trade Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): Is it not right that barriers is through the EU trade deals. We have done international problems such as tax avoidance should be one with Korea; we now need to do one with Japan, and dealt with internationally at meetings such as the G20 there are many others in the pipeline. summit, particularly as in the UK tax avoidance by individuals and corporations increased massively during Gloria De Piero (Ashfield) (Lab): The Prime Minister the past decade? Is it not wrong and morally repugnant has talked a lot about eradicating the debt. At the start for anyone to attack, belittle or undermine the Prime of the Parliament he said he would eradicate it by the Minister in dealing with this, particularly as the Leader end of the Parliament. How is that timetable going? of the Opposition did in his remarks earlier? 47 G20 Summit25 JUNE 2012 G20 Summit 48

The Prime Minister: I thank my hon. Friend for what sides of the House can help link UKTI to small and he says and make the simple point that tax evasion is medium-sized enterprises in their own constituencies. I illegal and should be pursued properly. Of course there think that the figure is that if one in five of our SMEs are things that people do to minimise their tax bill, that currently export moved to one in four, that would whether it be investing in a pension or an ISA, but as probably eradicate our trade deficit. That is an important the Chancellor has said, and I totally agree, there are agenda and I urge all Members of Parliament to help some aggressive tax avoidance schemes that should businesses in their constituency in this way. be roundly condemned, and that is exactly what the Government are doing. Mr John Baron (Basildon and Billericay) (Con): Given that no amount of moving the eurozone debt around Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con): The Prime Minister the system, between bank and Government, can hide or has put support for British exports at the heart of conceal its scale, does the Prime Minister agree that the Britain’s economic recovery. What comfort can industries most important thing eurozone Governments can do to in my constituency that export globally take from the narrow the gap between what is spent and earned is Prime Minister’s work at the G20? introduce sweeping supply-side reforms and free up small businesses from the dead-weight of regulation? The Prime Minister: I very much enjoyed the visit that I made to my hon. Friend’s constituency and to The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right. BAE Systems where his constituents are doing excellent Whether it is trying to make the eurozone work better, work in building the Typhoon aircraft, and we go on trying to increase growth in the European Union or supporting the sales of that aircraft. There are a number trying to compete with the rest of the world more of important contests at the moment, and the Government effectively, all those pathways lead back to supply-side are absolutely behind BAE Systems in all of those. reform, structural reform and deregulation initiatives to help make European countries more competitive. That is what Britain is standing up for in Europe. At the Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): summit this Thursday and Friday I very much hope Manufacturers in my constituency have told me of the that in the growth plan there will be the very strong important help that they have had from UK Trade and commitments we secured at the last two European Investment recently—for example, the setting up of Councils for these deep structural changes: completing webinars in British high commissions and embassies to the single market in services, in digital and in energy. All speak to customers overseas. What more can we do to these can add to our GDP and mean jobs and livelihoods help British business sell even more around the world? for people in our constituencies.

The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend Mr Speaker: I am grateful to the Prime Minister and for his question. He heard the figures earlier; some Members of the House for their succinctness, which massive increases during the last two years to different enabled 41 Back Benchers to question the Prime Minister countries. UKTI is doing a good job. Members on both in 34 minutes of exclusively Back-Bench time. 49 25 JUNE 2012 Bills Presented 50

Point of Order CHILDREN (ACCESS TO PARENTS)BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) 4.46 pm Charlie Elphicke presented a Bill to require courts, Mr Michael McCann (East Kilbride, Strathaven and local authorities and other bodies, when determining or Lesmahagow) (Lab): On a point of order, Mr Speaker. enforcing issues of residence and contact, to operate During Work and Pensions questions, the Minister of under the presumption that the rights of a child include State, the right hon. Member for Epsom and Ewell the right to grow up knowing and having access to and (Chris Grayling) said in reply to a question from my contact with both of the parents involved in the residence right hon. Friend the Member for East Ham (Stephen or contact case concerned; and for connected purposes. Timms) that he had not been rebuked by the UK Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Statistics Authority for misusing statistics. His memory Friday 30 November 2012, and to be printed (Bill 33). might have failed him, because he was chastised for using misleading statistics on nationality and national insurance data, on work capability appeals and, while in ENERGY COMPANIES (MINIMUM TARIFFS)BILL opposition, on violent crime. How can the record be Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) corrected? Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, Iain McKenzie, Mr Andy Slaughter and Susan Elan Mr Speaker: I think that the hon. Gentleman has just Jones, presented a Bill to require energy companies to done it. I hope that he will rest content with his efforts. provide the cheapest available tariff to customers aged 75 or over; and for connected purposes. BILLS PRESENTED Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 18 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 34). PUBLIC DEBT MANAGEMENT BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) FINANCIAL LITERACY (CURRICULUM)BILL Ben Gummer, supported by Steve Baker, Karen Bradley, Damian Collins, Matthew Hancock, Margot James, Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Paul Maynard, Priti Patel, Mr Dominic Raab, Nicola Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, Blackwood, Mr Marcus Jones and Jacob Rees-Mogg, Mr George Mudie, Mr Andrew Love and Pat Glass, presented a Bill to limit government budget deficits; to presented a Bill to make provision for the inclusion of introduce a ceiling on public debt; and for connected financial literacy in the national curriculum; and for purposes. connected purposes. Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 9 November 2012 , and to be printed (Bill 29). Friday 18 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 35).

PORTS ACT 1991 (AMENDMENT)BILL WILD ANIMALS IN CIRCUSES BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Charlie Elphicke presented a Bill to make provision for the Ports Act 1991 to cease to have effect or application Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, in certain circumstances; and for connected purposes. Angela Smith, Iain McKenzie, Mr Andy Slaughter Susan Elan Jones and Jim Fitzpatrick, presented a Bill Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on to prohibit the use of wild animals in circuses; and for Friday 30 November 2012, and to be printed (Bill 30). connected purposes.

HUMAN RIGHTS ACT 1998 (REPEAL AND Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on SUBSTITUTION)BILL Friday 18 January, and to be printed (Bill 36). Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Charlie Elphicke, supported by Nadhim Zahawi, WATER COMPANIES (SOCIAL TARIFFS)BILL Matthew Hancock, Priti Patel, Mr Dominic Raab, Karen Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Bradley, Guy Opperman, Nicola Blackwood, Chris Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, Heaton-Harris, Charlotte Leslie, Stephen Barclay and Iain McKenzie, Mr Andy Slaughter and Susan Elan Harriet Baldwin, presented a Bill to repeal the Human Jones, presented a Bill to require water companies to Rights Act 1998 and related legislation; to make provision provide social tariffs for low income families; and for for a bill of rights and responsibilities to apply to the connected purposes. United Kingdom; and for connected purposes. Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 18 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 37). Friday 1 March 2013, and to be printed (Bill 31).

PROPERTY BOUNDARIES (RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES) WATER COMPANIES (MINIMUM TARIFFS)BILL BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, Charlie Elphicke presented a Bill to make provision Iain McKenzie, Mr Andy Slaughter and Susan Elan for the resolution of disputes concerning the location or Jones, presented a Bill to require water companies to placement of the boundaries relating to the title of an provide the cheapest available tariff to customers aged estate in land; and for connected purposes. 75 or over; and for connected purposes. Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 30 November 2012, and to be printed (Bill 32). Friday 18 January 2012, and to be printed (Bill 38). 51 Bills Presented25 JUNE 2012 Bills Presented 52

COMMERCIAL LOBBYISTS (REGISTRATION AND CODE OF and Charlie Elphicke, presented a Bill to amend the CONDUCT)BILL Gambling Act 2005 to regulate remote gambling on a Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) point of consumption basis; to require all operators selling into the British market, whether in the United Thomas Docherty, supported by Paul Flynn and Iain Kingdom or overseas, to hold a Gambling Commission McKenzie, presented Bill to establish a public register licence to enable them to undertake transactions with of organisations and individuals that carry out lobbying British consumers and to advertise in the United Kingdom; of Parliament, the Government and local authorities to provide that all relevant operators contribute to the for financial gain; to introduce a code of conduct for Horserace Betting Levy; and for connected purposes. those on the register; to introduce sanctions for non- registration and non-compliance with the code of conduct; Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on and for connected purposes. Friday 25 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 44). Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on LAND VALUE TAX BILL Friday 1 February 2013, and to be printed (Bill 39). Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) ARMED FORCES (PREVENTION OF DISCRIMINATION) Caroline Lucas, supported by Mr Adrian Sanders, BILL Kelvin Hopkins and Martin Horwood, presented a Bill Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) to require the Secretary of State to commission a programme of research into the merits of replacing the Thomas Docherty, supported by Mrs Mary Glindon, Council Tax and Non-domestic rates in England with Ms Gisela Stuart, Derek Twigg and Sandra Osborne, an annual levy on the unimproved value of all land, presented a Bill to provide that certain offences committed including transitional arrangements; to report to Parliament towards members of the armed forces shall be treated as within 12 months of completion of the research; and aggravated; and for connected purposes. for connected purposes. Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 1 February 2013, and to be printed (Bill 40). Friday 9 November 2012, and to be printed (Bill 45).

EXECUTIVE PAY AND REMUNERATION BILL MICRO BUSINESSES AND ENERGY CONTRACT ROLL- Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) OVER BILL Thomas Docherty, supported by Sheila Gilmore, Katy Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Clark and Ian Lavery, presented a Bill to require that Caroline Lucas presented a Bill to require the Secretary companies’ remuneration committees have employee of State to make provision to limit energy contract representation; to require that companies hold an annual rollover for micro businesses to 30 days; and for connected binding shareholder vote on purposes. executive remuneration; and for connected purposes. Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 25 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 46). Friday 1 February 2013, and to be printed (Bill 41). LANDLORD ACCREDITATION BILL TRAIN COMPANIES (MINIMUM FARES)BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Caroline Lucas presented a Bill to require local authorities Thomas Docherty, supported by Sheila Gilmore, Iain to operate landlord accreditation schemes; to set those McKenzie, Katy Clark, Geraint Davies and Graeme schemes according to minimum standards; and for Morrice, presented a Bill to require train companies to connected purposes. offer customers the cheapest available fare as a first Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on option; and for connected purposes. Friday 1 March 2013, and to be printed (Bill 47). Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Friday 1 February 2013, and to be printed (Bill 42). FOOTBALL (FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY)BILL Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) HOMEOWNERS’MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES BILL Damian Collins, supported by Dr Thérèse Coffey, Philip Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) Davies, Thomas Docherty, Paul Farrelly, Mrs Mensch, Thomas Docherty, supported by Mr Andrew Love, Penny Mordaunt, Steve Rotheram, Mr Adrian Sanders, presented a Bill to require that mortgage interest rates Jim Sheridan, Mr Gerry Sutcliffe and Mr John paid by homeowners change by at least the same percentage Whittingdale, presented a Bill to require a football club as mortgage interest base rates; and for connected purposes. playing in the top four tiers of English and Scottish professional football to disclose the identity of its owner, Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on the identity of the owner of its home playing ground, Friday 1 February 2013, and to be printed (Bill 43). training ground, any intellectual property associated with the club or a third party stake in its players and the OFFSHORE GAMBLING BILL identities of outstanding creditors; to require all creditors Presentation and First Reading (Standing Order No. 57) of a football club to be compensated equally should the Matthew Hancock, supported by Miss Anne McIntosh, club go into administration; and for connected purposes. Brandon Lewis, Simon Hart, Mr Gerry Sutcliffe, Mr Don Bill read the First time; to be read a Second time on Foster, Sandra Osborne, Ben Gummer, Nicholas Soames Friday 25 January 2013, and to be printed (Bill 48). 53 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 54 Administration Bill Electoral Registration and Administration It is worth going through, once again, the principles of Bill the annual canvass, which were, to some extent, rehearsed last week in relation to clause 4 when we talked of the [Relevant documents: The Tenth Report from the Political importance of proactive methods for encouraging and Constitutional Reform Committee, Session 2010-12, registration, and of the exercise by individuals of the on Individual Electoral Registration and Electoral business of re-registering their presence on the electoral Administration, HC 1463, and the Government’s response register. More often than not, the business of registering thereto, Cm 8245.] to vote is seen as an exercise in democratic participation, and as a right, enshrined in law and hard won over the [2ND ALLOCATED DAY] centuries by many who made huge sacrifices to secure Further considered in Committee it, but the House should remember that it is also a duty and a responsibility. [DAWN PRIMAROLO in the Chair] We live in a society in which the relationship between the individual and the state is governed by democracy. Clause 4 ordered to stand part of the Bill. We have, of course, government by consent, but implied in the concept of democracy and government by consent Clause 6 is the view that vital to the process is majority participation in the most important decision of all—who should govern POWER TO AMEND OR ABOLISH THE ANNUAL CANVASS our nation. That is why Labour Members were so appalled by the Government’s initial proposal that citizens 4.52 pm should have the right to opt out of the democratic process, and it is why in turn it is right that there should be a Angela Smith (Penistone and Stocksbridge) (Lab): I civic penalty for refusing to acknowledge the responsibilities beg to move amendment 22, page 5, leave out line 27. inherent within the concept of government by consent. The Second Deputy Chairman of Ways and Means Registering to vote, therefore, is an important part of (Dawn Primarolo): With this it will be convenient to the democratic culture of our country, and I repeat discuss the following: what I said last week: we should always bear in mind the importance of perspective when considering the process Amendment 24, page 5, line 27, at end insert— of electoral registration. If we consider it important ‘(2A) If the Minister considers it appropriate to proceed with that citizens of this country see registration as an important the making of an order under subsection (2), the Minister must right and an important duty, we should ensure that our lay before Parliament— approach to registration encourages the regular exercise (a) a draft of the order, and of such a duty and the active involvement of the citizen (b) an explanatory document explaining the proposals. in the process by way of the regular renewal of that (2B) Sections 15 to 19 of the Legislative and Regulatory right. That is why we have tabled amendment 22, which, Reform Act 2006 (choosing between negative, affirmative and along with amendment 23, would remove the Minister’s super-affirmative parliamentary procedure) are to apply in right to abolish the annual canvass. relation to an explanatory document and draft order laid under subsection (2) but as if references to section 14 of that Act were At this point it is interesting to consider what the references to subsection (2).’. Minister said about the arrangements for 2014 before Amendment 23, page 5, leave out lines 28 and 29. he conceded that an annual canvass was required. He said: “Effectively, what we are going to do is a modified canvass, Amendment 25, page 5, line 32, after ‘section’, insert which focuses the resources exactly where you need to work ‘with the exception of an order made under subsection (2)’. harder. We will write to everybody individually who is on the 2013 Amendment 27, in clause 7, page 6, line 7, leave out register and ask them to register individually. Where we have any ‘give a copy of the report to the Minister’ and insert households where there is nobody on the register, they will receive the household form in the usual way. They will send it back. You ‘lay a copy of the report before Parliament’. will then approach each of the people on that form individually to Amendment 28, page 6, line 9, leave out subsection (4) register. Where electoral registration offices have information that and insert— people have moved, so for example from the day-to-day, already-used council tax records, housing benefit records, they will write to ‘(4) The report must be laid before Parliament no sooner than people directly to see who is at the household and then chase three months beginning with the day on which the Commission is them up.” consulted, and no later than five months beginning with that same day.’. It is clear that the Minister was planning what he refers to as a “modified canvass” in 2014 based on the 2013 Amendment 29, in clause 8, page 6, line 28, at end register—compiled, of course, from a full annual canvass insert— in October of the latter year. ‘(3A) The Minister may only make a pilot scheme once written The Minister needs to answer these key questions. Is approval from the Electoral Commission has been received. what I have just mentioned the kind of arrangement (3B) Any such written approval must be published by the that he envisages for the future under clause 6(1) and Minister.’. which he plans to introduce via the provisions in clause 6? Amendment 26, in clause 10, page 7, line 34, at end If that is the case, the House would appreciate some insert detail about when he thinks the arrangement might be ‘, with the exception of an order made under section 6(2)’. introduced. Are we talking about 2015 or 2016? Does he have plans to mix and match the approaches so that Angela Smith: Clause 6 and the amendments to it there are modified canvasses, with a full canvass perhaps deal with the possibility of amending or abolishing the every five years? The Committee would like to know annual canvass, and with the arrangements for the before making its mind up about clause 6, given that it accountability relating to any such decision. gives the Minister the right to make those changes. 55 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 56 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Angela Smith] It is therefore absolutely apparent that Liberal Democrat Members do place faith in the annual canvass and see If the Minister is considering a mixed approach, it that it has an important role to play in maximising stands to reason that he would be conceding the Opposition completeness of the register. argument that the abolition of the annual canvass was likely to lead to a long-term drop-off in the numbers 5pm registered. Moreover, it is also likely to lead to distortions in the accuracy of the register. An annual canvass is a Amendments 22 and 23 lie at the heart of Labour’s good way of spot-checking that the assumed stability belief that we need a proactive approach to citizenship of a given majority on any register is based on sound and a belt-and-braces approach to electoral registration. continuing evidence. We believe, too, that there is no need for major concern over the potential cost and efficiency of the annual Finally, I draw attention to the views of the Electoral canvass. It has been mooted by the Minister that the Commission. It is urging the Minister to confirm the cost of an annual canvass, if it is based on a form being commencement date for the new individual registration filled in by the head of the household followed by provisions, and it is recommending that the date be invitations to register being sent to every household 1 July 2014. That begs a few questions. If we commence member listed on every form, would be in the region of individual registration on 1 July 2014 with the modified £50 million. However, as we move away from paper-based canvass arrangements outlined by the Minister, which approaches to this activity, it is entirely feasible for the I cited earlier, when will the full canvass, which most annual check on registration to take place online. I am Members have assumed will take place, commence? Are confident that Members believe that, in the long term, we looking at February that year? If not, when exactly electoral registration processes should be moved online are we going to move into the transition phase? What once it is secure and safe to do so. In those circumstances, period will elapse before the Government move to the a full annual canvass of the electoral register would not first phase of individual electoral registration in transition be an expensive or inefficient process to undertake. Just and the use of the carry-over provisions? All those as at the moment individuals get regular reminders questions are worthy of answers and underline how online about various important matters such as the crucial it is for the Government to get on with the job of need to renew insurance or TV licences, then equally it publishing an implementation plan. should be possible to make provision for annual online The Opposition believe that commencement should reminders to renew registration of the right to vote. take place only when the Electoral Commission indicates That, surely, is where we all want to get to in order to that completeness is at such a level that we can feel ensure that the resources provided for registration can secure about participation at the ballot box. It is therefore be concentrated on the hard to reach. The key point is doubly important that we get that information on the that the possibility of cheap and efficient online processes Floor of the House sooner rather than later. To go back would make the annual canvass easier to maintain in to the main point of the discussion, are we going to get terms of cost and administration. a full canvass, as we understand it under the old system, The amendments relate to clauses 7, 8 and 10, as well at all in 2014, or is the Minister intending to proceed as clause 6, and are all designed to strengthen the role of only on the basis of a modified canvass? I look forward Parliament in scrutinising any proposal by the Minister to his response on those points. to amend the annual canvass. For the reasons I have outlined, we believe that it is important that any decisions The annual canvass has an important role to play in taken are exposed to the strongest possible scrutiny by our democracy, and Labour Members believe that it is Parliament. Moreover, we believe that the Minister crucial that registration should be brought regularly to should be able to proceed with pilot schemes related the attention of the people. However, we are not the to changes in canvassing arrangements only with the only ones who believe that. Take the comments made by written approval of the Electoral Commission, hence the Deputy Prime Minister himself, alongside the right amendment 29 to clause 8. This is a matter of major hon. Member for Bermondsey and Old Southwark concern to the Committee. Labour Members expect the (Simon Hughes), in “Liberal Democrat Voice”in November Minister to make a full and considered response to the 2010, when they said to Lib Dem members: points made in the debate. “In the light of today’s news that 3.5 million voters are missing from the electoral register, and in view of the forthcoming boundary Mr Mark Williams (Ceredigion) (LD): I concur with changes based on the number of voters on the electoral roll as it many of the sentiments expressed by the hon. Member stands next month, a timely e-mail reminder today to Liberal Democrat members from Nick Clegg and Simon Hughes: for Penistone and Stocksbridge (Angela Smith), but as regards her quoting of the Deputy Prime Minister and I’m sure you will agree that we as Liberal Democrats need to my right hon. Friend the Member for Bermondsey play our part in helping to ensure that everybody who should and Old Southwark (Simon Hughes), I think that the have the right to vote is in a position to exercise that right come aspirations they alluded to are shared by everybody in next May.” the Committee. They went on to say: As the Minister and others will be aware from the “Once you have made sure your form is safely completed Liberal Democrat submission to the consultation on please take a moment to check family and friends have filled out this issue, we believe that the annual canvass is important theirs too. Getting half a dozen of your friends signed up to vote and that it should continue. I want to ask the Minister could make the difference in a tight election next May. about his reasoning for the discussions that have taken Making democracy work is something all politicians should be place so far and what tests or standards will have to be committed to, and we are proud to encourage Liberal Democrats passed before the annual canvass is abolished. I understand to play our part.” the point in the explanatory notes that in years to come 57 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 58 Administration Bill Administration Bill the annual canvass may no longer be needed because of We have a massive turnover all the time, and the the online opportunities for registration, to which the Government’s proposed housing benefit changes, which hon. Lady alluded. I am a bit more of a sceptic about will be introduced at the same time as proposals in the that because I represent a rural area where the internet Bill, will also lead to an increased movement of people— is not universally available. It will also be difficult to they will certainly move out of the area, but I am not deem the register perfect at any point as it is constantly sure whether they will come in—so the coalition’s social changing. What test would have to be passed to deem cleansing policies will have an effect on the need for the the annual canvass no longer useful? canvass. The Prime Minister’s latest essay—he wants to The Bill gives electoral registration officers a new duty knock off housing benefit given to anyone under 25—is to maintain the all-important accuracy and completeness, also likely to increase turnover in my area. which I welcome. How will they fulfil that duty without It is worth reporting that, last year, for the whole of a canvass? In other words, how will the Minister ensure Camden, the annual canvass added 27,000 electors, but that that duty on electoral registration officers is tested? also deducted 27,000 electors, which reflects the massive The Bill provides for the Electoral Commission to be turnover in both my constituency and the Hampstead consulted if the annual canvass is to be abolished. That and Kilburn constituency. It also indicates that the is clear. However, I understand that the Electoral annual canvass is important from the point of view not Commission has concerns about why it would not be just of numbers, but of accuracy—it is the principal consulted if the annual canvass were to be reinstated. means by which people who are no longer entitled to The Government have said that it is conceivable that vote disappear off the register. The Government and that might have to be undertaken in a short time frame. some outside the House who are fanatical about their However, the Electoral Commission has said that it proposals seem to ignore that. has often been required to respond to Cabinet Office The annual canvass is the bedrock of the current consultations in a limited time frame and that it does system—it is not peripheral; it is at the heart of it. Any not believe that the requirement to consult would delay other means that the Government propose to improve the process unduly. More importantly, it is essential that electoral registration, both so that the 6 million people there is a mechanism for external scrutiny of any step who are entitled to be on the register get on it, and so that is taken in a short time frame. that the register is accurate, must be introduced only to On Second Reading, I expressed concerns about the augment the annual canvass. The canvass still does an abolition of the canvass. I noticed my hon. Friend the important task, and is likely—this is my opinion, and Deputy Leader of the House wincing slightly when I no more—to carry it out more effectively than the proposals. made that point. He said that there is an obligation, if it It seems totally improper to suggest that the annual is necessary, to reinstate the canvass. That reassured me, canvass could disappear before we know the overall but I am concerned about the mechanisms by which effects of all the new changes. Even if the Opposition such a reinstatement would have the consent of the have tabled no amendment to that effect in Committee, Electoral Commission. I also have questions about why we should perhaps table one on Report. I would hope the annual canvass may need to be abolished. all hon. Members agree that an annual canvass must be carried out if the numbers come down as a result of I am heartened by what Ministers have said about the the changes, and that we cannot accept a reduction in data-matching pilots and by the aspiration for online the number of people on the registers. voting. However, we have a long way to go and, in the interim, I believe that we still need the annual canvass. Government Members have once or twice quoted judges who have said that registration is currently like something we might find in a banana republic. I suspect Frank Dobson (Holborn and St Pancras) (Lab): The that most banana republics would like to give a Minister, annual canvass has been, and for the moment still is, the without parliamentary approval, the right to end an principal method by which we keep the electoral register annual canvass. Nothing should be left to the Minister’s up to date and accurate, in so far as it is up to date and discretion. If anything, the decision should come straight accurate. I do not think that anyone believes that the to the House from the Electoral Commission. current situation is satisfactory, but what we want is improvement, not reduction. Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): Any hon. My constituency is rather strange in nature, not simply Member who has played the role of election observer in because it has elected me in eight successive elections, different parts of the world will know that electoral but because it has a huge electorate. It numbered some observation organisations apply themselves to one key 87,000 people at the last general election and I understand thing: ensuring the accuracy of the electoral register. As from the registration officer that the total is now 94,000 my right hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and St electors. That gives me 26,000 more electors than the Pancras (Frank Dobson) said, the canvass is an integral Deputy Prime Minister and, remarkably, 26,000 more part of the electoral system, not only to ensure that than the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, the there is no fraud—cases in certain communities have hon. Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper). been highlighted—but to ensure that the register is as Equally different is the turnover of electors, which in accurate and up to date as possible. As an ex-local my constituency is phenomenal. It has always been councillor and an MP, I think it would give the person high, partly because of the large number of students elected at a local council or other election confidence if and young people in the area. People arrive and get a they knew that the majority of electors were registered job, and then they decide that they would be better off to vote. I accept that the annual canvass is more difficult doing the same job in Lincoln, Scunthorpe or Bolton, to undertake in certain parts of the country than in usually because the cost of renting or buying a house others, but it will concentrate people’s minds on ensuring would be much lower. that they are on the electoral register. 59 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 60 Administration Bill Administration Bill 5.15 pm ago, seven district councils were responsible for electoral On leaving it to the individual, having had many registration in County Durham. I have to say that their years’ experience as a local councillor, a Member of performance was patchy—some were good and some Parliament and an election agent, I know that modern were bad. One benefit of the new county council taking life is busy and that people ignore forms when they responsibility for the register is a uniformity of approach. arrive. It might come as a big surprise to many hon. The county council put in extra effort when it was Members to learn that most of our electors do not sit formed and contracted a company to do a full canvass around waiting for their electoral registration form; to ensure that the register was as accurate as possible. they do not see it as important. Likewise, it is not top of That process—credit to the county council for doing people’s list of things to do when they move house, it—put an extra 12,000 people on to the electoral register. along with the electricity and everything else. I must thank the council, as that affected the size and the distributions when the parliamentary constituency In the communities described by my right hon. Friend boundaries and the new county council wards were the Member for Holborn and St Pancras, there is a redrawn. With 12,000 added through an intensive canvass, massive turnover in the electorate, but even in rural it shows what can be done in a rural county such as constituencies such as mine there are areas of huge County Durham. I am not sure what would happen if turnover, owing to demographics and the type of housing. that were not done in a constituency such as that of my In parts of Stanley, in my constituency, which has right hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and St Pancras, many private sector landlords, the housing turnover is for example. As I say, this has proved to be useful for the remarkable—it can change two or three times a year. I process. do not have his general problem with massive turnovers, but we have pockets of high turnover, and ensuring that The county council went down the road of ensuring they are on the electoral register is not the first thing as full a canvass as possible for another reason. I and people do when they move from one social landlord to others had noticed that entire streets or parts of them another. were missing altogether from the register. Was it that That leads to another issue. Unfortunately, some of people living there suddenly decided in sequential order those private sector tenants are in the poorest parts of that they were not going to register? I do not think so. It my constituency, and are the people who need representation was the consequence of errors made in the data inputting, the most. They need to ensure that they cast their so the canvass helped to identify the streets affected. I democratic vote at the parish, town or, in the case of was aware of the problem and so were councils, and Durham, county council election, and for their MP at I believe that the gaps were raised by all political parties. a general election. It is important that we hear their The annual canvass is important for areas such as mine voices. I am not sure whether this is the Conservative that have elections only every four years. Political parties party’s thinking, but I fear that the areas most disadvantaged out canvassing can sometimes spot mistakes and draw by there not being an annual canvass will be among the them to the attention of the electoral returning officer. poorest in the country. That will have a knock-on effect Having an annual canvass becomes more important on the redrawing of constituency boundaries and the where elections are not annual, when these problems are nonsense we will have to go through every five years likely to be less visible to the various political parties because of this coalition Government’s proposals. It is that are standing. just as important, however, that the redrawing of local An annual canvass is important, too, for care homes county, district and town council boundaries provides and residential homes, some of which, alas, have quite a an adequate indication of the local electorate. large turnover, with residents coming in and out of respite care and, unfortunately, with people dying during Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): I support my the year. If we are not careful, the register will get badly hon. Friend’s emphasis on the annual canvass. I used to out of shape in respect of people living in residential work as agent for my right hon. Friend the Member for and sheltered accommodation and in care homes. It Holborn and St Pancras (Frank Dobson), and I well might be said that it affects only 30 or 40 people at a remember the fluid population and our efforts to support time in each care home, but if we add that up across voting, electoral registration and the annual canvass— County Durham, it means a lot of individuals. I am not efficient though the canvass, organised by Camden council, criticising any individuals running care homes and similar was. Does he agree that it is important to work with the organisations, but when a resident unfortunately dies it private sector, particularly in these fast-changing times, is not the top priority to write to the electoral registration to support data matching, particularly in respect of officer to say that someone has passed on and that they records that could support electoral registration? Such are going to re-register the new individual living there. data matching could only boost electoral registration This is another example, therefore, of where an annual and get more people involved in the democratic process. canvass helps. In my experience, the residential care manager or owner can be quite helpful in ensuring that Mr Jones: I agree with my hon. Friend, although data the information provided is as accurate as possible. It is matching has its limitations, given the turnover in the obviously not nice for any political party to send direct constituency of my right hon. Friend the Member for mail, as we all do, to homes where people are deceased, Holborn and St Pancras and in pockets of my constituency. so an annual canvass could be an effective way of We cannot leave it entirely to data matching, which is a helping to ensure that that is prevented. useful tool but it will not get over the key problem of My right hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and ensuring that the local register is as accurate as possible. St Pancras Friend touched on the issue of students. My On the use of the private sector, let me provide the constituency does not contain a large student population, example of the new Durham county council. Before the but the city of Durham certainly does, and any Member formation of the unitary county council three years whose constituency contains a large number of students 61 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 62 Administration Bill Administration Bill will know that there is quite a high turnover. I am Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes an excellent point, thinking not just of the halls of residence that exist in and I was about to make the following observation: if parts of Newcastle that I know very well, and in parts of we want to clamp down on fraud, we must ensure that Durham, but of the fact that students move around and the register is as accurate as possible. The only way of may not stay in the same house for two or three years. doing that is by knocking on doors and actually talking Members of that large population—who, I hasten to to people in the communities concerned. If we have a add, are using local services—are not reflected in any of more accurate register, that will lead to less electoral the data, not only in terms of voting but in terms of fraud. electoral boundaries. They are nowhere to be seen. I I do not understand why this measure has been proposed. think that the annual canvass has helped in that regard. I will support any step that helps to ensure the register is Durham county council undertook an exercise to ensure up to date, such as data matching, but the annual canvass that its register was as up to date as possible, and found should be our fall-back position. Whatever system we that the number of voters in the city of Durham had use—telephone calls, data matching or even door knocking increased by nearly 4,500. I suspect that most of them —will we never achieve 100% elector registration, but were students. the canvass will help us spot homes that are being used My right hon. Friend also mentioned welfare benefit for electoral fraud. changes. People with an extra bedroom are to lose their We sometimes find that there are children as young as right to a proportion of their housing benefit, which I five or six on the electoral register, because parents have expect to increase the amount of movement, certainly misunderstood the form and entered their names on it. in my constituency. I do not know what will happen in [Interruption.] Well, I am sure they do vote in some parts of London, where people are on a kind of merry- places, but knocking on doors and conducting the go-round, moving constantly from one type of social annual canvass is a way of preventing that. I therefore housing to another. That increase in movement will do not understand why the annual canvass is not seen as make the annual canvass more important. In parts of an exercise that should be welcomed. From speaking to my constituency, such as Stanley and Chester-le-Street, the individuals who carry it out, it appears to be difficult there is a large concentration of private sector landlords. to do, however. Indeed, in the constituency of my right Once the benefit changes come into effect, people will hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and St Pancras it move, because they will no longer be able to afford to must at times be near-impossible to keep track, and to live in their homes. How can we reflect that in the gain access to some of the properties. register? Angela Smith: Does my hon. Friend agree that it What I am going to say now may sound strange, but is important to maintain the annual canvass because it is a fact. In the north-east of England, the legacy of although a local authority might know who the council those infamous old days of the poll tax remains. People tax payers are within a household, there might also be used not to register because they thought that that lodgers living there? If the annual canvass is abolished, would be a way of getting out of paying the tax. In such people may well not get on to the electoral register. parts of my constituency that thinking remains, and people still refer to council tax as “the poll tax” . That Mr Jones: My hon. Friend makes a very good point. did a lot of damage to people’s awareness of the civic I do not think I have a single high-rise block in my duty to register, which I have always found to be very constituency—the highest buildings are about four strong among older members of the population. They storeys—but there are such blocks in the part of Newcastle tend always to send in the forms and to vote, but that I used to represent, and the turnover of residents was poll tax legacy is still there. I suspect that the only way often very high. Finding out who pays the council tax of tackling it is to knock on people’s doors and ask gives an idea of who is living in any given household, them who lives in their houses. however. We must also recognise that modern-day families There is another issue, which does not affect my and lives can be very complicated. constituency. I was very saddened by the way in which the last Government reacted to the Daily Mail agenda. 5.30 pm Mine was one of the few constituencies that experimented We all know from our experiences of canvassing for with all-postal ballots, which were very successful. our political parties that even getting into some tower According to the Electoral Commission’s report, there blocks can be difficult. One advantage councils have was, overall, a very small amount of fraud, and the is that they can gain access, so they can get inside and fraud that did occur was concentrated mainly in certain talk to people, but that can be done only if we have an types of community in such places as Birmingham and annual canvass. Bradford. In one county council by-election in my Some people say we should use the telephone for constituency there was a 67% turnout under the postal canvassing, but in certain parts of my constituency ballot system. Sadly, however, the last Government and telephone ownership is still quite low. Ownership of the Electoral Commission took fright following headlines mobile phones is sometimes higher than use of static that focused—rightly—on fraud that had taken place in lines with numbers that people can declare in their local some inner-city, mainly Asian, communities. telephone directory. That presents a problem, too. I want to end where I began. We in this country pride Mark Tami (Alyn and Deeside) (Lab): My hon. Friend ourselves on having the mother of Parliaments and a is making a powerful case. The key is finding a way of long democratic tradition, and any Member who has increasing turnout. If turnout increases, fraud becomes performed election monitoring duties around the world far more difficult, because it is not so easy to influence will know that one of the key points we always emphasise the result. Low turnouts, and low registration, make is the importance of the accuracy of the register. Any fraud easier. step that leads to our register not being as accurate as 63 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 64 Administration Bill Administration Bill possible will damage both our electoral processes locally Ministers, who would decide whether it was appropriate and the international reputation of our country as to take such action, an important safeguard that the being somewhere where we ensure elections are free and House really should not ignore. fair and everyone has their democratic right to vote. Angela Smith rose— The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): I am delighted Mr Heath: The hon. Lady made the assertion, I think, to serve under your chairmanship this afternoon, that Ministers would take such action by decree; so she Ms Primarolo, and to return to what is a very important can now justify that. Bill. We have reached clause 6, and it is important for Members who have not had the opportunity to study Angela Smith: There is no need for us to justify the Bill in as much detail as they might like to realise anything in this regard. Through our amendment, we that the clause is qualified by those that follow, so they are saying that we believe that the super-affirmative and need to be read together. regulatory reform procedures should be deployed if The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge there is any plan to abolish the annual canvass. In the (Angela Smith) has tabled a series of amendments end, there is a provision in clause 6 to abolish the this afternoon, none of which has an explanatory annual canvass. All we are asking for is the strongest memorandum. Back-Bench Members—for example, the possible scrutiny of any such decision—a reasonable hon. Member for Hendon (Dr Offord)—could manage thing for any Opposition to ask for—and that any an explanatory memorandum but apparently, the official report made by the Electoral Commission be laid before Opposition could not. That is a great shame, given what Parliament and not just sent to the Minister. the Procedure Committee has asked us to do, but never mind—let us address the issues. Mr Heath: I wish that that was what the hon. Lady had put forward in her amendments, but she goes rather A casual observer of this debate would believe that further than that. On that specific issue, a super-affirmative the Government are proceeding willy-nilly with the procedure is set out in the Legislative and Regulatory abolition of the annual canvass and that the Labour Reform Act 2006—it is rarely used in this jurisdiction—and party has a principled opposition to abolition, whereas the reason for it is to make sure that proper consultation in fact, neither of those propositions is correct. First, takes place on a proposal, so that Parliament is in the we have made it abundantly clear that we do not intend best possible position to make up its mind on an issue. to get rid of the annual canvass, certainly in the immediate That is set out clearly in the Bill, because before any future. In fact, only one Government have abolished the order can be brought forward there has to be a report annual canvass: the last Labour Government, who abolished from the Electoral Commission. So a form of super- it in 2006 for Northern Ireland. So, we are talking about affirmative procedure is set out in this proposal. It the canvass for Great Britain only, not for the whole of allows Parliament—both Houses of Parliament—to take the United Kingdom, because Labour did not feel that a decision, having had the evidence placed before it. all these pressing arguments in favour of the annual canvass applied when they peremptorily removed it in My hon. Friend the Member for Ceredigion Northern Ireland’s case. We must therefore listen to (Mr Williams) made an important point in supporting their arguments in that context. what we are proposing when he said that the annual canvass serves a valuable purpose. I believe that too, Mr Kevan Jones: Will the Minister give way? as do the Government. He accepts that there may be circumstances in which we would want to change, but he wants to know what hurdle the House and the Mr Heath: Of course I will give way to the hon. Government would wish there to be. I have to say to Gentleman—who voted for the removal of the annual him clearly that the only argument for abolishing the canvass. annual canvass—this is unlike what happened in Northern Ireland under the previous Government, where it was Mr Jones: I am not taking any lessons from the Liberal peremptorily done—is because we believe, with evidence Democrats, who, frankly, promised a lot of things and to back this up from the Electoral Commission and then voted against them in this place. Come on—the from others, that other arrangements, which have been Minister knows why that was done in Northern Ireland: trialled through pilot schemes, are more effective, or it was a question of the practicalities of doing the certainly no less effective, than the annual canvass in canvass. To draw an analogy between that and today’s ensuring both the accuracy and the completeness of the proposal is absolute nonsense. register. That is the Government’s intention, as it has been throughout this legislation. We are aiming to Mr Heath: I am afraid that it is simply incorrect to ensure both completeness and accuracy. We often do say that the argument was about anything other than not hear about the second point from the Opposition, the introduction of individual electoral registration. although I accept that the hon. Member for North That was the argument and the reason why the previous Durham (Mr Jones), who has a lot of experience in this Government acted as they did, and they made no field, rightly mentioned it. So often we hear a lot about attempt to bring the provision back. completeness from the Labour Front Benchers, but Setting aside that argument, we have also had assertions little about accuracy. that Ministers intend to remove, by decree, the annual canvass. However, anyone who actually reads the legislation Angela Smith: The Minister is yet to answer the key can see clearly that the procedure as set out first requires points we raised in tabling these amendments and speaking a report of the Electoral Commission—uniquely—and to them. First, if the Government are so confident of affirmative resolution. Therefore, it is Parliament, not their arrangements for making a change to individual 65 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 66 Administration Bill Administration Bill registration, why do they not publish the implementation If the Government are so confident that the new plan and put it in the Bill? Secondly, given previous methods of putting all this together, which they described comments made by the Deputy Leader of the House in their evidence to the House of Lords as providing a and the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, the more efficient means of obtaining information rather hon. Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper), it would than a more effective one, and believe that the system be good to hear exactly what the Government mean by will result in registers exceeding the numbers presently “annual canvass”. Labour Members take that to mean arrived at by the household canvass, will they guarantee the usual, traditional approach, which involves writing not to proceed until they have the registers up to the to every household and then, under individual registration, level that the previous household canvass produced? invitations to register on the basis of the members of any household whose details are returned to the electoral Mr Heath: I repeat again to the right hon. Gentleman registration officer. What exactly will the annual canvass that we are not getting rid of the household canvass and in 2014 consist of? it is very difficult to answer his question, which is based on the premise that we are removing it, when we are not Mr Heath: I am not exactly clear what the hon. Lady doing so. Incidentally, were the circumstances to occur even means by her first question. [Interruption.] Iam in which this part of the Bill was used to remove the sorry, but I do not know what an “implementation duty for an annual canvass—as I have said, that would plan” is in the context of primary legislation. The Bill is happen only if we, the Electoral Commission and clear about what we are proposing. The implementation both Houses of Parliament were satisfied that other of that is not a matter that is normally set out in mechanisms were in place that would be as effective or primary legislation—the intent and the outcome is what more effective than the annual canvass—the situation is there. She mentions the canvass, and I would have would continue to be monitored. If, despite the advice thought that it was abundantly clear what we mean: of the Electoral Commission and the best intentions of there is the basis of the canvass, with which we are all Ministers and this House, it unexpectedly proved that familiar, but it will have additional purposes and additional the proportion of the population that registered was mechanisms under what we are proposing—in order to substantially reduced, there is provision within the Bill improve its accuracy and its completeness—which we to reinstate the canvass. Unfortunately, amendment 23, have already set out. So additional data matching will tabled by the hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge, take place—the sort of thing that the hon. Member for would remove that power. The right hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent (Nick Smith) was talking about. It will Holborn and St Pancras (Frank Dobson) asked a specific inform the canvass and ensure that the right questions question and I can give him an absolute assurance that are asked to the right people in the right places, to make the power to reinstate the canvas is in the Bill, should it sure that as many people as possible who are entitled to be needed. vote are put on the register. Frank Dobson rose— Angela Smith: The Minister is being generous with his time. May I therefore press the point? Will the Mr Heath: I will give way to the right hon. Gentleman, annual canvass promised in 2014, on which the general of course, and I hope that I do so charmingly. election in 2015 will be based with the carry-over provisions that have been made available, be carried out in the Frank Dobson: The hon. Gentleman has said that traditional way understood by every Member of this there is a power to reinstate the canvass, but is there an House? obligation to reinstate it if the new system is not working?

5.45 pm Mr Heath: I do not think that Parliament is normally Mr Heath: Yes. The canvass that would have been required to do anything, and this will be a power for carried out in 2013, which we have moved to early 2014, Parliament, not for Ministers. We would be treading a will be done in the traditional way. The hon. Lady strange constitutional path if this Parliament were to knows that we are taking advice from the various political require any future Parliament to make any enactment. parties and others about the exact date that will be most The power is there to reinstate the canvass without the effective. That will be a full household canvass and need for further primary legislation in order to enable during 2014, after the European elections, we will move the then Government, whoever they are, to react promptly on to the other components of the proposals so that we and effectively if necessary. I honestly do not believe have the use of all available material and can, as I have that will apply because there are no circumstances in repeatedly said, make the register as complete and which the annual canvass would be removed without accurate as possible. its being absolutely clear, from all the information to hand, that it would not have a detrimental effect on the Frank Dobson rose— completeness and the effectiveness of the register.

Mr Heath: I thought that the right hon. Gentleman Mr Kevan Jones: The effect of a more efficient method made a late but very compelling argument for the may be different in different areas. In my more rural equalisation of parliamentary constituencies, and I am static communities, the result of removing the annual grateful to him for that. I invite his participation. canvass might not be a greater drop in accuracy than in my right hon. Friend’s Holborn and St Pancras constituency. Frank Dobson: I seem to attract snotty remarks from The Liberal Democrats seem to vote through whatever those on the Government Front Bench. All I can say to this coalition Government want, but what would the the hon. Gentleman is that I have been snotted at by Minister say if a future Government received an indication better men than him. that registration dropped in constituencies held by their 67 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 68 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr Kevan Jones] Amendment 24 deals with the mechanism within Parliament. As I said, the mechanism proposed is unique opponents? There would be no onus on the Government because of the requirement to have the advice of the of the day or on Parliament to insist on the annual Electoral Commission before starting. I hope that the canvass being reinstated in a certain constituency. House is satisfied that the two-stage process—a report by the Electoral Commission followed by the normal Mr Heath: I repeat: this is a power for Parliament and affirmative procedure in both Houses—provides sufficient I expect Parliament to use it sensibly because I believe— scrutiny and safeguards. contrary to all the evidence—that most Members of Parliament want our democratic system to work as Amendment 23 would remove the ability to reinstate effectively as possible. Yes, the hon. Gentleman is right the canvass, which seems a little perverse, given the that there are differences between constituencies. The comments made by the right hon. Member for Holborn electorate in my constituency is almost the same as the and St Pancras. I hope that the House will reject it. electorate in the constituency of the right hon. Member Under clause 6(5), an order to amend or abolish for Holborn and St Pancras, but demographically the the annual canvass would include provision to create two are very different and a comparison between them further secondary legislation. I think that makes sense. would be almost meaningless in those terms. The right If amendment 25 were made, it would prevent subsequent mechanism in his constituency might be completely wrong orders, so everything would have to be in primary for mine and there may be better and more effective legislation. I do not believe we need to use such an measures we can deploy—as long as we are clear that unwieldy method and that regulation and subordinate our intention is to have in every constituency a register legislation are better. On reflection, I suspect the hon. that is as complete and as accurate as we can manage. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge will agree with me that that is not the most sensible way of setting Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab) rose— about our business. Mr Heath: The hon. Gentleman was not here for Clause 7 sets out the requirement, when a proposal is the early part of our discussion of the amendments, but made, for a report by the Electoral Commission containing I happily give way to him. an assessment of the extent to which registration officers are currently able to ascertain those unregistered people Chris Ruane: I thank the hon. Gentleman for giving who are entitled to be registered and those who are way so graciously. Earlier, he said, “We would not move registered but are not entitled to be so; the extent to forward unless we—no, not just we: the Electoral which proposals in the order meet that objective; and Commission and both Houses—were satisfied.” Let us the merits of alternative methods of meeting it. If imagine that on one side there was the Government and amendment 27 were made, that report, instead of going both Houses—one of them, this place, in an unholy to the relevant Minister, would go direct to Parliament. alliance and the other stuffed with Liberal and Conservative That does not necessarily make sense, because if such a peers—and on the other side the Electoral Commission proposal were to meet with a negative response from saying, “No, things are not right.” Who would win? the Electoral Commission, it would not proceed to Mr Heath: I do not remember any Government of Parliament—Ministers would not entertain the suggestion. any complexion introducing proposals on electoral law If the report were positive, however, it would be presented on which there was not a measure of agreement with to Parliament and would necessarily form part of the the Electoral Commission, but the whole purpose of process. In any case, I would expect the Electoral the Bill is to ensure that the first word—not the last Commission to publish such a report, irrespective of word—lies with the Electoral Commission. The commission whether it was to be presented to Ministers or to has the duty in the first instance to assess any proposal Parliament; the report would appear on the website and and to do so in the light of the evidence from pilot be available for general view and consideration. The schemes run in the interim. It is inconceivable to me amendment is therefore unnecessary. that a Minister would put forward a proposal using the Amendment 28 would set arbitrary limits on the mechanism in the Bill that did not have the full approval time the Electoral Commission had to produce a report. of the Electoral Commission. A future Government could It is unnecessary to place such a restraint on the decide to write their own primary legislation and abolish commission. the canvass overnight—that is exactly what the Labour Amendment 29 relates to the important matter of the Government the hon. Gentleman supported did—but commission’s role in relation to schemes to pilot proposed we do not intend to do that, because we think there is changes to the annual canvass. If we are to have a a better mechanism, based on evidence and on the successful system, the pilots are extremely important. views of the Electoral Commission, and that is what Without them, proper evaluation of schemes proposed we have proposed. by registration officers for their areas will be impossible. Let me go though the amendments in the group. This covers the point raised by the hon. Member for Amendment 22 would remove the possibility of the North Durham about, in effect, horses for courses. The Government proceeding with the abolition or the instigation comes from the registration officer for the amendment of the annual canvass. We have no immediate area, it is agreed by the Minister, and Parliament must intention of doing either, but I believe that that is a agree it by the affirmative resolution procedure. To valuable power to be available to both Houses, provided insert yet another hurdle into the process is unnecessary there are safeguards and it is used on the advice of the because, in practice, the Electoral Commission would Electoral Commission. It would be a great shame to be play a part in the design of any pilot scheme and would unable even to consider following the example set in be responsible for evaluating it in due course. At the end Northern Ireland if that is the best way to achieve of the day it is Ministers who are responsible to the completeness and accuracy of the register. House for schemes that are introduced. 69 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 70 Administration Bill Administration Bill 6pm versions of the annual canvass could be available in the Lastly, on amendment 26, removing the requirement future. It would have helped the Committee if we had for such an order to be subject to the affirmative resolution had more detail from the Minister about what some of procedure or, indeed, any parliamentary procedure is a those alternatives might be. It is clear that Ministers are mistake, and I urge Members not to proceed with it. thinking through some of these proposals. Nothing in what we have heard today gives us the confidence to The amendments do not add to what is a very thorough believe that the part of clause 6 that gives the Minister evaluation process. I repeat that our sole intent is to the right to abolish the annual canvass is anything other have a complete and accurate register so far as that can than a threat to the democratic process in this country. be achieved. We should use every possible means to do that. It would be quite wrong to lose arbitrarily the The Committee is being asked to agree something usefulness of the annual canvass, but we should not completely in the dark. In his response, the Minister seek to preserve that in perpetuity if there are better indicated that in early 2014 there would be a full annual ways of doing the same thing more efficiently and more canvass, and I thank him for that. He also made it clear effectively. That is why the procedure with all its safeguards that it would be carried out in time for the European is in the Bill. I urge the hon. Member for Penistone and elections, which take place in June that year, as we Stocksbridge to withdraw the amendments. understand it. The local elections in 2014 are likely to take place at the same time. He then indicated that the Angela Smith: In drawing the debate to a close, I new individual registration process would commence begin by pointing out that amendment 22 deletes the shortly afterwards. proposal to give the Minister the power to abolish the May I take it that the Electoral Commission’s annual canvass. Amendment 23 is consequential on recommendation is that the commencement date for the amendment 22. That should be clear to everybody. It is new IR process should be 1 July 2014? We have had no therefore duplicitous of the Minister to suggest— response to that, but from what the Minister said, there is clearly a plan to go ahead with implementation of IR Mr Heath: I beg your pardon? in the late summer of 2014. However, no information has been laid before the Committee today and no Angela Smith: I withdraw that remark. It is misleading commitment has been given that the data-matching of the Minister to suggest that amendment 23 takes pilots which are part of the legislation will be completed away the power of Parliament— and evaluated by the Electoral Commission before commencement of the new provisions. The Temporary Chairman (Mr Lee Scott): Order. Will It is reckless to commit to a new system of electoral the hon. Lady withdraw that comment, please? registration and to commit to commencement in 2014 when we have no certainty that the pilot schemes designed Angela Smith: I withdraw the comment. It is unfair of to test whether the new processes work will have been the Minister to suggest that the Opposition are in any completed. It is the Opposition’s view that the new way trying to deny Parliament the power to reinstate an scheme for individual registration should be introduced annual canvass, when in fact we are trying, through only when the Electoral Commission is satisfied that it amendment 22, to ensure that the Minister is not given will guarantee a high level of completeness and accuracy. the power to abolish the annual canvass in the first Nothing that we heard today gives us confidence that place. that will be the case. My right hon. Friend the Member for Holborn and Mr Heath: Mr Scott, I should have welcomed you to St Pancras (Frank Dobson) and my hon. Friend the the Chair. I apologise for not having done so. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) made good I am grateful to the hon. Lady for giving way. We contributions in which they described in detail the would have understood her amendments more clearly complexity of people’s lives and the impact that an had she produced an explanatory memorandum. annual canvass may have in reducing levels of completeness Amendment 23 does abolish the power to reinstate. I precisely because of those complexities. My hon. Friend accept entirely her intention that it should be read along the Member for North Durham referred in particular to with amendment 22. the problem of registering students. Last week we had a debate about student registration. Angela Smith: There has been very little by way of My hon. Friend the Member for Sheffield Central (Paul explanation from the Minister in his response to the Blomfield) pointed out that there are 31,800 students amendments that would give us any confidence in the living in his constituency alone. Without the annual potential alternatives to the annual canvass that have canvass it is entirely possible, for all the reasons outlined been repeatedly mentioned from the Government Benches. in the debate, that registration in a constituency such as We have had references to alternatives that may be Sheffield Central could be substantially reduced. Given developed in the future, which may at some point in the that the majority in Sheffield Central stands at only future give the House the confidence to agree to a 165, it is obvious that before we make any radical ministerial proposal to abolish the annual canvass. It changes to our electoral registration processes we should would have helped the Committee in its deliberations if ensure that we have guarantees that any new system the Minister had outlined clearly what some of those works properly, is based on sound evidence and is alternatives might be. guaranteed and given the stamp of approval by the As I indicated in my initial comments on the Electoral Commission. amendments, the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, We have heard a lot today about how the new system the hon. Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper) will work, but we have not heard the detail. We have had suggested previously in oral evidence that modified superficial reassurances that it will work, but we have 71 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 72 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Angela Smith] It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Scott. heard nothing of the detail. We have had no significant The issue of disability concerns many hon. Members reassurance on whether new systems will eventually be and, as demonstrated by the Government in bringing so robust that we will be able to abolish an annual forward the legislation, the issue of effectual electoral canvass. registration also concerns the majority of hon. Members. The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Mr Mark Therefore, the amendment seeks to address two concerns Harper): I wanted to check this information before I for Members. First, it seeks to introduce a better system responded to the hon. Lady, but the assessment of the of individual electoral registration, which identifies every data-matching pilots to test the confirmation process by person eligible to vote, and it seeks to identify the needs the Government and the Electoral Commission will be of disabled voters participating in the electoral process. done by June 2013, well in time for us to have a clear The Bill introduces an opportunity to achieve that by picture before we commence the IER process. seeking information at the time of registration. Recording disabled voters’ access needs at the point Angela Smith: I thank the Minister for that, but can of registration can be used to improve the accessibility he confirm that all the data-matching pilots and necessary under the current system during the transition to IER testing will be complete before the Government move and over the longer term. To put the issue in some ahead with the new scheme? context, it is worth establishing how many people it could affect. There are more than 10 million disabled Mr Harper: The only one that we have to have tested people in the UK, with each parliamentary constituency before we move ahead is that to do with confirmation. containing approximately 15,000 disabled voters. That The pilots that we will be doing, subject to the approval is almost a fifth of the total electoral roll. Polls Apart of Parliament, to see whether some of the data matching research has found that despite existing legislation aimed can help us to identify people not on the register concern at improving the accessibility of election material, the things that we would want to know if we proposed to experience of many disabled people has been that get rid of the canvass. As we do not propose to do that, insufficient provision is made to provide information, we do not need to have that information before we move forms and notices relating to the electoral process in ahead with IER. We will know the results of the alternative formats. Where this information is not available confirmation testing pilots by June 2013. or is not sufficiently signposted, the election process can Angela Smith: The key point is that the new register, be considerably more difficult for these people to access. and the one used for the boundary review in 2015, will The Electoral Commission has responsibility for not be as complete as it should be, because those people monitoring the extent to which the electoral registration carried over for the general election will not be carried officers comply with a series of performance standards. over for December 2015. I therefore do not take a great One such standard is focused on accessibility, more deal of reassurance from that. specifically on the extent to which EROs have taken We have had a lengthy debate. The Opposition will into account the different needs of voters in their local not seek to press the amendment to a vote. We believe community. The commission’s first analysis of EROs’ that the House of Lords will engage in a lengthy and performance against the standards in 2009 highlighted detailed debate on the issues that we have raised today, a lack of consideration of the need to provide documents and on that basis we beg to seek leave to withdraw the in alternative formats and raised concerns that attention amendment. by EROs had been focused primarily on the provision Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. of documents in various languages. I am concerned at the evidence that the provision of accessible formats to Clause 6 ordered to stand part of the Bill. voters has not had the same focus, as the lack of it Clauses 7 and 8 ordered to stand part of the Bill. excludes disabled people who require information in a format other than the standard print from the electoral Clause 9 process. The Electoral Commission’s subsequent assessment against the standard has revealed a worrying trend that EROs’ performance on accessibility has remained poorer PILOTING REGISTRATION PROVISION than for any other standard. Dr Matthew Offord (Hendon) (Con): I beg to move It can be said that we are currently placing the amendment 32, page 7, line 29, at end add— linguistic needs of people whose first language is not ‘(7) An order under this section may require registration English above those for whom English is their first officers to record at the point of registration— language but who, as a result of an accident or complication (a) a voter’s access needs in relation to any document at birth, are being disfranchised from the electoral which is required or authorised to be given to voters process. Consequently, individual registration has a potential or displayed in any place for either registration or to transform disabled people’s experiences of the electoral election, and process if their access needs are recorded at the point of (b) a voter’s access requirements to the polling station.’. registration. The amendment seeks to achieve that by introducing a pilot project that can be rolled out on a This amendment would allow for pilots which could assist disabled national basis. The Government would need to ensure people both to register to vote and to cast their vote. It would that such a pilot would be properly evaluated before any achieve this by allowing electoral registration officers to establish the level of demand for (a) documents in alternative formats and roll-out of the proposal goes nationwide. I am pleased (b) additional accessibility measures at polling stations. It is to be able to inform the Minister that the Electoral estimated that there are approximately 15,000 disabled potential Commission is prepared to carry out such an evaluation voters per Parliamentary constituency. if the amendment is agreed. 73 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 74 Administration Bill Administration Bill 6.15 pm groups such as Scope, which have already impressed it on the Government. However, if it is asserted that that Mr Kevan Jones: I congratulate the hon. Gentleman power already exists in other legislation, I can tell the on tabling the amendment. How will electoral officers Minister that the amendment would specifically ensure be able to identify the individuals? Will it be through the that the registration process itself is used to identify and canvass, which is the main issue, or another method? meet access needs. No other legislation provides for the registration process to be used for that purpose. Given Dr Offord: It will be through the canvass. I hope, as that, I believe the registration process to be the most I continue with my speech, that it will become clearer effective mechanism for achieving both improvements to the hon. Gentleman and the Minister what I seek to for disabled people and benefits for electoral staff. achieve by tabling the amendment. The introduction of individual registration allows Mr Robert Buckland (South Swindon) (Con): I commend blind and disabled electors to specify at registration the my hon. Friend for tabling the amendment and wish format in which they wish to receive the information, that I had had time to sign it, because I am with him including Braille, tape, large print, easy read, and so on. entirely—in spirit if not on the Order Paper. Is not the That would mean that a blind elector could specify function of this probing amendment, as he says, to when registering to vote that they would need to receive identify the need to husband our existing resources far a polling card in a Braille or other format, or that they more effectively, rather than taking a more scatter-gun would require an audio postal vote application form. approach that will not address the fundamental needs Allowing individuals to specify what format they need of disabled people? enables EROs to plan more effectively and meet the needs of a variety of disabled people who all encounter Dr Offord: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his different barriers. Gathering data on voters’ preferred intervention. He is entirely right. This will be an opportunity formats would enable EROs to send forms and information to define what people need so that we can ensure that in that appropriate format and avoid having to make EROs’ resources are used most effectively and that the assumptions about voters’ needs. For instance, while electoral registration process is suitable for blind and Braille is used by some blind people, other formats may partially sighted people. be just as important for blind and partially sighted people, including large print. It may be asserted that such a provision already exists in the Bill, under the power to make regulations in The registration form could also capture requirements clause 2. That will give the Secretary of State the power to enable physical access to the polling station or for the to prescribe the type of evidence that a person must support that voters may need in casting a vote. Provided provide to establish eligibility to register to vote. The that such information is shared with a returning officer, Government could argue that that includes a power to it could be used to ensure that those needs are met in ensure that access needs are recorded at registration, the run-up to polling day and on polling day itself. It but I believe that the clause is limited to prescribing should be obvious, for instance, which voters may need evidence that is needed to establish eligibility and, therefore, a large print ballot paper and how many copies need to cannot be used to achieve the same purpose as my be provided at one or other polling station. amendment. Recording information on access needs could not I believe that the Minister is a considerate man. If he only be used to inform planning by electoral administrators, chooses not to accept the amendment, will he please but is consistent with the Government’s goals in introducing explain where he believes the power currently lies for the individual registration to encourage individuals to take Government to carry out a pilot scheme in order to responsibility for registering themselves to vote. It should provide assurances about how information, forms and also be up to an individual to specify what alternative notices relating to the electoral process in alternative format they prefer. It is well known that the transition forms will be provided to blind and disabled people at to IER is taking place in a climate of significant pressures future elections, and will he indicate when that will be on electoral budgets. Providing alternative formats involves achieved? some cost, but it is important to recognise that such a provision would not place any additional duties on Mr Kevan Jones: May I welcome you to the Chair, EROs other than those they already have. Rather than Mr Scott, and say what a pleasure it is to serve under increasing costs, such a measure would allow existing your chairmanship for the first time? I congratulate the resources to be used more effectively. hon. Member for Hendon (Dr Offord) on tabling the I have tabled the amendment to support the amendment. It has two aspects: first, it is clearly about recommendation made by the Electoral Commission people’s right to vote, and secondly, it rightly raises the for a scheme to be piloted that would involve EROs issue of registration in the first place. It is often assumed asking for individual access needs of electors at the that people who are disabled, partially sighted or who point of registration. Piloting that would provide valuable have no sight will fill out the registration forms when guidance to EROs on the most suitable system for they receive them or have someone else do it for them, maintaining registration forms and their associated access so what he proposes is very important. needs records, as well as allow the Government to assess The key point, to return to the previous debate, the merits for such a provision to be rolled out. relates to the annual canvass, because the only way of I hope that the Minister decides to accept the amendment, finding some of these individuals is to knock on doors because I remain unaware of the validity of any claim and assess their needs. The hon. Gentleman mentioned that under the current legislation the Government already the format of ballot papers and the information people have sufficient powers to introduce the pilot—a view receive on how to register. He said that there are potentially supported by the Electoral Commission and disability around 15,000 disabled people in each parliamentary 75 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 76 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr Kevan Jones] electoral process. They are—I think he would agree with this—a constituency that has a lot of issues that local constituency, so we are not talking about a small number councils, MPs and others need to take into account. of individuals. It has long been one of my gripes that in The one way they can hold their elected officials, whether certain areas where I have acted either as an agent or a councillors or MPs, to account is through the ballot candidate, many returning officers have only recently box, but if they cannot cast their vote or do not know taken note of accessibility to polling stations, let alone how to do that, or if it is physically impossible for them of the suggestion for making registration information to access that process, that constituency is hindered. and ballot papers more accessible. I support the amendment. It would be a valuable The reason for having a pilot is that it would show thing to pilot the hon. Gentleman’s suggestions in areas some new methods for achieving that and indicate so that lessons could be learned. It would be a useful whether they could be rolled out nationally. We also process to have ongoing pilots because they would need to think a little out of the box on this. I know the provide a body of evidence for electoral returning officers, Electoral Commission has done that before, but it has not only showing new ways of doing things but, in some always shied away from postal voting and e-voting, for cases. making them mandatory to ensure that, as he example, which for many partially sighted people would said, people are asked about disability, because if they be better than going to a polling station. My mother is are not how will a returning officer or anyone else know partially signed but does not read Braille, so the suggestion what the individual’s needs are? that she could vote by computer, for example, would be a good one for her. 6.30 pm Such pilots would be worth doing. We had a pilot The amendment would provide a very valuable lesson, in Durham several years ago and, overall, texting, a full and I hope that the Government do not push it aside, postal ballot and e-voting were very successful. The but look at it as part of the pilot process so that we Electoral Commission’s report was very positive, but obtain evidence that can then be rolled out, and so that unfortunately, as I said in the previous debate, it got some of those new methods, either for e-voting or for cold feet because of some of the headlines about electoral getting information to people on registration, become fraud. I think that allowing the possibility of electronic a normal part of electoral registration and, at elections, voting for disabled people would be a step forward and voting. that what the hon. Gentleman proposes would be a way of trialling it in certain areas. Angela Smith: I congratulate the hon. Member for It would be important to involve not only the major Hendon (Dr Offord) on tabling a very important national charities so that they can talk about this, but amendment, which we support for all the reasons that the many local voluntary groups that support disabled he and my hon. Friend the Member for North Durham individuals in the home. Care workers and local authorities (Mr Jones) have outlined. could certainly play a role in this, and housing associations The measures are supported by Age UK, Mencap, and others could identify where there might be large the Royal National Institute of Blind People, Scope and concentrations of people with physical or visual Sense, and by the Electoral Commission, which importantly impairments, which would be very valuable. I wonder reminds us, however, that the Government would need whether part of the pilot could put an onus on electoral to ensure that the pilots were properly evaluated before registration officers to work with care homes, sheltered any wider roll-out of the proposal. The commission has accommodation and local charities and support groups also made it clear that it would be prepared to carry out to be able to identify these people, first to ensure that such an evaluation. they are registered in the first place—I am sure that The Bill provides an opportunity to go as far as we many should be but are not—and secondly to explain possibly can in securing opportunities to improve the process to them. significantly participation in the democratic process by When canvassing, it never ceases to amaze me how disabled and older voters, and the amendment would many people I come across who clearly need a postal or do so in two parts. It outlines proposals for pilots on the proxy vote because of a physical disability but who do format used in the initial registration process, and, on not have them, either because they do not understand the need for a variety of formats when it comes to how the process works or because they think that they registering to vote, the obvious example is that of partially would somehow have to struggle to the polling station sighted and blind citizens. and know that physically they could not get there. There are those beyond the partially sighted and the Therefore, the pilot could be not only for testing the blind, however, who will not be able to sign registration different methods for providing information in the largest forms or documents for one reason or another—perhaps type and Braille or for e-voting and other things, as the because they have a physical disability that makes it hon. Gentleman said, but—the Minister should take hard for them to write or to use a pen. We have to this on board—for explaining to many disabled people remember also that, beyond the more severe and profound the different ways in which they can vote, because from disabilities that unfortunately many citizens have to my experience I do not think that many understand cope with, there are those who suffer from the more postal voting or recognise that they can apply for it. minor disabilities, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia, which I remember that under the old system someone had mean that in many instances the completion of a form to tick a box and get a doctor or state-registered nurse would be a major obstacle to claiming the right to register to sign it, which was a bit of a palaver, but this would be to vote. a way of extending access to a group of people who, as Many people suffering from, for instance, dyslexia the hon. Member for Hendon rightly identified, are find the use of IT incredibly helpful in overcoming their perhaps not at the top of people’s priorities in the disability. It is surprising, but I saw it when I was the 77 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 78 Administration Bill Administration Bill local authority cabinet member for education in Sheffield, partially sighted and all the people whom we have been where I was lucky enough to witness the introduction of talking about. Labour Members have constantly made interactive whiteboards in classrooms and the use of IT representations in this Committee about the removal of tablets for participation in classroom learning. It was the entitlement to a postal vote for those citizens who incredible to see how helpful IT could be in overcoming are carried over to the register for the 2015 election. something that to many of us seems a minor disability, One of the major problems in our democracy is that but which to those who suffer from it can be a major many polling stations are not accessible to the physically obstacle to participation in the right to vote. disabled. The obvious thing to do is to use new-build Over and above that, I have also seen how individuals public buildings, such as schools, as they would be on the autistic spectrum benefit significantly from access totally accessible. However, schools are increasingly to IT, and we in this House need to acknowledge that a resistant to being used as polling stations, partly because wide range of formats could undoubtedly be adapted it disrupts the school day. There are also concerns about and used in the registration process. security, given that strangers are allowed to wander on Polls Apart research has found that many disabled and off the school premises to exercise their right to voters experience difficulty in receiving information, vote. forms and notices relating to the electoral process in a There is a major issue about accessibility to polling format that they can access, so the evidence is not just stations. I do not pretend that the amendment would anecdotal but on the record. The Electoral Commission deal with the whole problem, but it would at least place has recognised its existence and would like Parliament the onus on the Government. We are not talking about to act on it. party politics, but something profoundly important—the On polling stations, every Member will be more than onus on the Government to ensure that they do their aware of the problems experienced by a range of people utmost to deal with problems of physical access to with disabilities when claiming the right physically to polling stations. register their vote on polling day, and I am sure that we, as politicians involved in election campaigns, have all Mr Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that the number taken voters to polling stations in our cars to exercise of polling stations is important as well? On accessibility, their right to vote. We know what it is like to see voters we should not go down the road taken by Newcastle coping with crutches, wheelchairs and sometimes, because city council when the Liberal Democrats were in charge—to of infirmity due to age or disability, just the sheer effort save money, it reduced the number of polling stations. of walking from the car to the polling station. When I went back to my old ward to canvass during elections, I was amazed at how few polling stations The partially sighted and the blind, equally, are presented there were and at the distances that certain people had with problems when physically presenting themselves at to travel to cast their votes. the polling station in order to claim the right to vote. Angela Smith: Again, my hon. Friend makes a valuable Mr Kevan Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that a point. I represent the city of Sheffield and the borough surprising number of elderly people, in particular, who of Barnsley in Parliament. As anybody who knows south become housebound through age or disability do not Yorkshire will be aware, it is probably one of the hilliest know about their right to a postal vote? As part of the areas in the country; Sheffield is probably the hilliest assessment proposed by the hon. Member for Hendon city in Great Britain. As my hon. Friend is well aware, it (Dr Offord), should they not have that explained to is built on seven hills; there are constant arguments them and be given help to apply for a postal vote? about who lives in the hilliest part. The key point is that the arguments about access to Angela Smith: I completely agree. Back in 2004, polling stations in the city are often entirely about how south Yorkshire was selected as the pilot area for elections far away people are from their nearest polling station. in which every vote was cast by post; we had an all-out The issue is not physical distance, but about whether postal ballot, as we called it. Not only did participation people have to climb up a hill to exercise their right to increase, but the process was particularly beneficial to vote. That is a major issue in my area. Indeed, in this those voters who, however accessible the polling station year’s elections, the problem was so acute in one of the was, were never going to be physically able to get to it in polling districts that the local authority agreed to have the first place. a new polling station in a funeral parlour, which raised It is an indictment of our democracy that so many a few eyebrows locally. The local authority was desperate disabled voters should have to rely on lifts from political to increase levels of participation and given the difficulties parties to exercise their democratic right to vote. That due to the hilliness of the district, it was felt that the is not healthy, and my hon. Friend is absolutely right funeral parlour was the best solution to enable people when he makes the point that we should do whatever is to participate in the democratic process. necessary to encourage the disabled to access postal On the main point, there is a major issue of accessibility votes and proxy voting so that they secure their right to to polling stations in terms of distance and terrain. My a say in who their elected representatives are. hon. Friend is right: we need to maximise the number of One disappointing feature of the Bill and an important polling stations in the first place, but we also need to part of the debate is that, when it comes to the carry-over think more carefully about how accessible those polling provisions for the general election in 2015, postal votes stations are. will not be carried over to the register. That is worrying Finally, I want to make a few comments about e-voting. for democratic participation in the next general election, The House has an ambition to move eventually towards and more concerning is that its impact will probably be a system of e-registering for the right to vote. Online felt more deeply and profoundly by the disabled, the registration has to be the way forward in the long term. 79 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 80 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Angela Smith] —they can consult it now, although they do not necessarily do so. The evidence that local authorities have of people I take the point made about broadband and rural areas, with disability or impairment will enable them to do a but many broadband problems are not to do with rural more complete job of ensuring inclusion. areas but with where BT has made infrastructure investments. Some of the urban areas in my constituency Mr Kevan Jones: I totally agree. Another source that do not have superfast broadband, whereas some of the local authorities could use is the blue badge scheme, rural areas do. which most administer. Nevertheless, in the long term, e-registering is the way forward as we move towards the comprehensive Mr Heath: Precisely. As the hon. Gentleman will electronic age. Equally, if we accept that e-registration is know, in the Bill there is a duty on electoral registration a legitimate way of encouraging the completeness of the officers to use a variety of means with the sole duty of electoral register, e-voting also has to be the way forward. ensuring that the register is as complete and accurate as My hon. Friend outlined some of the many ways in possible. which we could introduce e-voting on a comprehensive I shall slightly disappoint the hon. Member for Hendon scale. Whichever system people choose to use—voting by saying, as he anticipated, that I do not believe that online via the PC at work or voting by mobile phone or the amendment is necessary, because the Bill already iPad—it must be right for us to begin properly to pilot provides for what he wants. Clause 9 allows for the access to e-voting. E-voting immediately improves new registration system to be piloted in advance of accessibility to voting, particularly for disabled people. commencement, and there is no reason why it should People with dyslexia and dyscalculia would also benefit not include the information that is collected from application from e-voting procedures. forms. The clause enables electoral registration officers to propose pilot schemes in their areas to test how the 6.45 pm new system will work in practice. We expect that to test Pilot work has been done on e-voting. There are the robustness of the individual electoral registration concerns about security, but I am sure that they can be digital service in advance of nationwide implementation. overcome. We live in an age when people can transfer There is no obstacle to a proposal’s using the power in money from one bank account to another through a the Bill in order to include the collection of a voter’s mobile phone—well, they can with certain banks. Pingit accessibility needs. That would be a very good use of is an innovation. If the banking system feels that e-banking that power. is secure, it is about time that we as a country recognised that e-voting offers a credible, secure way forward for Mr Kevan Jones: I accept that these powers are in the improving accessibility for disabled people to the democratic Bill, but I think that what the hon. Member for Hendon process. We support the amendment and, like the hon. (Dr Offord) is trying to get at is that this should not Member for Hendon, we hope that the Government necessarily be left to local EROs. Yes, they might take it accept it in the spirit intended. into account, but in order to get the body of evidence, it would be helpful if the Government said to particular Mr Heath: I genuinely welcome what the hon. Member areas, “Could you pilot this proposal on disabled people?”, for Hendon (Dr Offord) had to say about the amendment, so that lessons could be learned from the pilots. If it is for two reasons. First, he makes an extraordinarily just left to EROs, some of the better ones might do it, important point about our electoral law and arrangements but we might not get the data or learn the lessons that —that they should be inclusive. Secondly, on a personal are needed. note, he probably does not know, although some do, that in a former life I was an optician who had a lot to Mr Heath: This involves two things. First, we need to do with the visually impaired. I set up the all-party have pilots to see how we can most effectively secure the group on eye health and visual impairment because I information; the Electoral Commission might want to thought the issue needed a higher profile. So the issue of take a view on that. Secondly, we need to ensure that accessibility is dear to my heart—certainly as far as the that is reflected in the secondary legislation—the regulations visually impaired are concerned, although of course it that specify what needs to be collected. There is already goes wider than that and other disabled groups are quite a long list of things that are specified; indeed, the involved. hon. Member for Caerphilly (Mr David) has complained Providing accessibility to the registration process is that it is too long. Despite his reservations, I think that important, and the hon. Member for Penistone and accessibility issues would be a useful addition. Provisions Stocksbridge (Angela Smith) made points about the elsewhere in the Bill provide specific powers to add voting process as well—whether at a polling station or other requirements. For example, new paragraph 3ZA(1)(a) by other means. It is nice that everybody in the House to the Representation of the People Act 1983 provides wants progress on the issue. What we have put in train the power that the hon. Member for Hendon is concerned by virtue of the Bill will allow and provide for yet more about. It seems that his view is shared by the Electoral work to be done to make sure that the register is as Commission, which slightly worries me, but I will come complete as possible, and that includes the needs of back to that. people with disabilities. The hon. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) Chris Ruane: If a local authority offered to pilot such mentioned the importance of the canvass but added an initiative, would it receive additional funding? that other means must be available. I entirely agree. The suggestions on data matching in the Bill provide electoral Mr Heath: We want to make sure that every authority registration officers with a wider palette of opportunities has the funding it needs to do the job properly. As the to consult the register of blind and partially sighted people hon. Gentleman knows, there is a duty on local authorities 81 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 82 Administration Bill Administration Bill to make available to electoral registration officers the urban areas or urban areas rather than rural areas; it is funding that is necessary for them to do their job. He often partly about what is available and partly about the also knows that some authorities do that very well but ingenuity and resolution of the ERO in doing the best some, frankly, do not, and in those cases the ERO ought job within the confines of the resources. There is a lot to be saying, “You,Mr Chief Executive”—or Mr County more that can be done. Treasurer, or whatever—“are not providing the resources The hon. Member for Hendon will recognise, I hope, necessary to do the job effectively.” We will support that we are not only fully seized of the issue he raises every time EROs who lack the resources to do the job but determined that we can and should do better for properly. people with disabilities. We need to work closely with organisations that represent those people to make sure Chris Ruane rose— that the draft secondary legislation that the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, my hon. Friend the Member Mr Heath: I will give way once more to the hon. for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper), has published—it is a Gentleman. good job he has done so—takes these issues into account as comprehensively as possible. I am prepared to give a Chris Ruane: If such a pilot is of national significance clear commitment that the Government are more than because it could influence national policy, and it is happy to consult those organisations further—with the above and beyond what an ERO or a local authority is Electoral Commission and with anybody else, including already doing, surely it is incumbent on the Government, the hon. Member for Hendon himself if he so wishes—to in a time of cuts, to recognise that and make additional make sure that we have done that and that when the funding available to it. final regulations are approved by this House they meet the requirements that he has put forward. Mr Heath: I repeat that every electoral registration It is right that we take whatever steps we reasonably officer has a duty—a very important duty—to make can not only to ensure that our arrangements are as sure that the register in their area is as complete and as inclusive as possible, but to bring in innovation where accurate as possible. That is their duty, irrespective of possible. The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge this Bill. is right that some aspects of modern technology are hugely beneficial to people with disabilities. We will test Dr Offord: I am gratified by some of the Minister’s that as part of the registration process, as she knows. I comments, if not all. I hope that I made it clear that I do think that that is another huge advance. Those are not believe that the amendment would be an additional things that we ought to do, if we can. financial burden on EROs. I said that although providing alternative formats would introduce some costs, it is important to recognise that no additional duties would 7pm be placed on EROs. It would be more cost-effective in Finally, I say to the hon. Member for Hendon that we terms of the money that they spend in relation to do not think that there is a difficulty with the powers in registration rather than costing local authorities more. the Bill in giving electoral registration officers and the I would very much hope that local authorities would Electoral Commission the opportunity to do this work. be willing to take out a pilot scheme. If there is any difficulty, I undertake to look at the powers again to ensure that there is no gap. We are certainly Mr Heath: I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman’s prepared to introduce something else if necessary, but intervention. We have previously provided additional on my reading of the powers it is not. On that basis, I resources for pilot schemes where that is justified. However, hope that he will withdraw his amendment so that we as he says, his suggestion would simply encourage EROs can discuss the matter again before the Bill reaches its to do their job more effectively using the information conclusion. that they ought to have available, and that is why it commends itself to me. Dr Offord: I am grateful for Members’ contributions and want to make a few comments about them. On the whole, the Bill is good news for people with disabilities, because it deals with a number of issues The hon. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) that some of us have argued for some time ought to be mentioned annual registration of the right to vote. We dealt with. For instance—this is not the subject of the currently have that. As I am sure he is aware, the Polls amendment, Mr Scott, but I hope that you will forgive Apart survey at the last general election showed that me for responding to a point raised by the hon. Member 67% of polling stations presented one or more access for Penistone and Stocksbridge—we have provided barriers to disabled people that might have prevented additional time within the timetable, exactly as Scope them from voting and that 47% of postal voters experienced and others argued, to enable access issues to be better at least one access problem. Even with the current incorporated. The hon. Lady rightly mentioned issues system of annual registration, we are experiencing problems. to do with polling places. It would be wrong to go into Any change to that system will not increase the access detail on that in the context of this part of the Bill, of disabled and partially sighted people. because it is the subject of a clause in part 2. However, The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge making sure that the polling places review is more (Angela Smith) represents an area of the world that I closely aligned with UK parliamentary elections, thereby know well, as I stood in Barnsley East and Mexborough allowing it to examine the accessibility of proposed many years ago and tramped up and down the hills locations, ought to ensure that we do a better job than of Sheffield, Hallam as we attempted to win that seat, we do at the moment. I agree that in some areas access unsuccessfully, in 2001. She made a good point in to polling stations is not desperately good and ought to asking what disability is. One person’s disability is not be better. That is not confined to rural areas rather than another person’s. She mentioned dyslexia, which on 83 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 84 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Dr Offord] Chris Ruane: We have had promises from IT companies before that everything will be all right, but the systems face value I would not consider to be a disability. However, have failed at the first hurdle after we have spent billions if I suffered from it, I would probably view it differently. of pounds on them. We have a political deadline to I can think of at least four Members of this House who meet, because the Conservatives want to win the next have a visible disability and each one of them has very general election on the back of the Bill. Does my hon. different needs. I will not name names, but I am sure Friend agree that that must not stand in the way, and that Members can imagine that people who are partially that the IT system must be in place properly before we sighted have different access needs from those who are move forward? in a wheelchair. I met a physical disability group called Disability Angela Smith: My hon. Friend makes an important Action in the Borough of Barnet, which is located in the point, especially given that the new register will be used constituency of my hon. Friend the Member for Finchley for the boundary review in December 2015. It is critical and Golders Green (Mike Freer). One of the issues it that the data-matching arrangements work. He is right raised is the siting of polling stations. One polling that the IT systems procured by Governments for public station in my constituency is located in a portakabin in sector services often prove to be lacking, inefficient and a pub car park. There have been occasions when disabled not fit for purpose. The outcome of such problems is people have been required to vote outside the polling usually a backlog, causing frustration and anger for station because they were not able to access the ballot people up and down the country who do not get the box directly. That is incredible in this day and age. I had services to which they are entitled. hoped that my amendment would address such issues. That is not a problem just with central Government. I was gratified by the Minister’s response, particularly When I was in local government, we introduced a new on the register of visual impairment. Along with the IT system to process housing benefit. It was introduced intervention of the hon. Member for North Durham by the former chief executive of the council, who is now about blue badges, that reminded me that there are the top civil servant in the country and is very competent opportunities for electoral registration officers to identify indeed. Even so, it was impossible to get an IT system people who may need assistance. I believe that we need that worked in the right way from day one. Sheffield city political will in our local authorities to ensure that those council ended up with one of the most severe backlogs opportunities are taken. I hope that the Bill goes some that I have ever seen in processing the benefits that were way towards achieving that. due to the people of the city. I believe that the Minister has more than left the door My hon. Friend the Member for Vale of Clwyd open. I will be watching the passage of the Bill and will (Chris Ruane) is right that it is crucial to the democratic be pleased if any concessions can be achieved elsewhere. process that any IT system is tested thoroughly before He used the word “assurance” and I hope to hold him people use it to register their right to vote. It is crucial to account on that. I would like to be part of any that the right to register is given priority over anything process to take the proposal forward. On that basis, I else. If the IT system is found wanting, the partial say categorically that he has assured me at this stage. register that results should not be used for the boundary I will seek leave to withdraw the amendment, with the review in 2015. provision that he maintains his gaze on this matter. If the House is to have confidence in the Minister’s I assure him that I will. I beg to ask leave to withdraw verbal reassurances, it must have the detail on how the the amendment. changes are to be introduced. We must have concrete Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. evidence in an implementation plan that every process Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the that is required for the new system, including the data- Bill. matching and confirmation processes, will be up and running efficiently and properly before we move on to Angela Smith: Clause 9 allows for flexibility and using the new system. Given that the boundaries in the contingency in the way that individual registration is 2020 general election depend on our getting this right, implemented and it allows for the Government to test the House is entitled to a proper response from the changes to our system before rolling out individual Minister and to reassurance that the details will be registration nationwide. However, we have had no concrete made available soon. details so far on how the changes will be phased in. As I indicated in the debate on clause 6 and the related Mr Heath: This is an area in which the official amendments, many questions about implementation Opposition are probably world experts: IT systems that remain outstanding. That is why the Opposition want go wrong. The Government are grateful for their experience, to take this opportunity to place on the record our which was garnered through many years, of the criminal agreement with the Electoral Commission, which has justice IT system that never worked, and the NHS system made it clear today that it is essential that the Government that never even got off the starting blocks, despite publish a detailed implementation plan as soon as possible millions of pounds being spent. We know from their to show what needs to be done to deliver the changes example just how poor IT systems can be when they fail outlined in the Bill. to function. Last week, the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, However, to take us into IT systems that go wrong on the hon. Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper) said the basis of clause 9, which introduces the opportunity that he was confident that there would be no backlog in to trial and pilot to ensure that things are robust before voter registration because the IT system to be used for they go live, is odd. It is important that we ensure data-matching purposes would be properly tested before that we pilot registration provisions; that the verification widespread implementation. system is sufficiently robust before we roll out individual 85 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 86 Administration Bill Administration Bill electoral registration; and that we test the IER digital Amendment 34, page 5, line 15, at end insert— service before it goes live in 2014 so that it can cope with ‘(9) Regulations under subsection (2) must require registration the transition. That is exactly the reason for clause 9. officers to include on invitations given under subsection (1)— The clause enables the draft orders for the pilots to be (a) a clear statement to the effect that the edited electoral introduced for the consideration of the House to ensure register is available for general sale and is used by that it is satisfied, and so that we can properly evaluate organisations for commercial activities, as well as for the outcome once the pilots are concluded. Incidentally, other civic purposes; and the orders can be brought forward only at the proposal (b) clear instructions on how to opt out of the edited of the registration officer responsible for the area. We electoral register.’. have learned many lessons from the data-matching pilots The amendment is intended to ensure that it is clear to people who carried out last year. They were used to make improvements are invited to apply for registration that the edited register may be sold, and to ensure that people know how to opt out of the edited to the system and to simplify the proposals for the register. transition process before the Committee. The proposed pilots could have the same impact as the data-matching Amendment 17, page 5, line 16, at end add— pilots. ‘(3) Government departments with responsibility for welfare payments, pensions, driving licences, revenue collection, National Understanding how such things work and what can Insurance and passport applications must inform all individuals go wrong is crucial to any change of such magnitude. who apply for these benefits or services of their possible Clause 9 is therefore important because it provides the entitlement to join the electoral register.’. legislative framework that will enable pilots to take place. They will ensure that the system has the confidence Angela Smith: This debate focuses on the arrangements not only of those who operate it, but of those who use established by clause 5. Clause 5 lays out in principle it. They need confidence that the system is robust and the arrangements for issuing invitations to register to that it has been pressure tested. That is the reason for unregistered persons known to electoral registration the proposals. officers, via either an annual canvass or any other The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge means. It is important that arrangements are made for (Angela Smith) made an important point on setting the pursuit of such individuals, and the Opposition are out an implementation plan. The Government are pleased that the clause now includes provisions for a still consulting and working closely with the Electoral civil penalty—there was initially no suggestion of a civil Commission and taking the advice of the political penalty for failing to register to vote. The Government parties. When we have concluded that process, we will considered opt-outs from the duty to register, but we set out an implementation plan for all to see, but that is are pleased that they have changed their view and not the purpose of the measure. The clause will ensure acknowledge that they have listened. that we properly test and evaluate the proposed system We have said that the annual canvass should remain to ensure it works, which has not happened so often in as the cornerstone of this country’s approach to electoral the past. Only when it works satisfactorily and has been registration, but we do not oppose the clause. It gives seen to do so can we make progress. the green light to the establishment of regulations for I hope that that answers the hon. Lady’s points to the hard-to-reach individuals, or for individuals who need satisfaction of the Committee. to register outside an annual canvass because, for example, Question put and agreed to. they are moving from one borough to another. Clause 9 accordingly ordered to stand part of the Bill. 7.15 pm My hon. Friend the Member for North Durham Clause 5 (Mr Jones) mentioned some of the pressures experienced by people when they move property.They might be starting INVITATIONS TO REGISTER a new job as well as moving home, or their children Angela Smith: I beg to move amendment 12, page 4, might be starting at a new school. They will need to line 32, at end insert— register with doctors and dentists, and with new telephone companies and energy suppliers. It is said that the stress ‘(1A) A local authority must include a statement about the importance of electoral registration in its annual communication of moving house is second only to the stress of changing with residents relating to the payment of council tax.’. job or losing a family member—it certainly ranks highly in that respect—and many people move home each day. The Temporary Chair (Mr Lee Scott): With this it will The likelihood is that they will not have registering to be convenient to discuss the following: vote at their new address high on their list of priorities. Amendment 13, page 4, line 32, at end insert— Hon. Members probably rate registration as a high priority when they move property, but that is because ‘(1B) There will be a duty on local authorities to ensure that individuals are invited to register when those individuals move we are politicians—we do not reflect the general population. into the area of the local authority and register for council tax I know from my experience of canvassing door to purposes.’. door in election campaigns that people often fail to Amendment 16, page 5, line 15, at end insert— register their vote. One can knock on someone’s door ‘(9) Regulations under subsection (2) must require registration and establish that they would indeed support one’s officers to include on electoral registration forms a clear political party, but then find that they are not the people explanation that the electoral register is used for other civic registered as living at the address. Inevitably, they have purposes. moved from elsewhere, and then of course one must go (10) There should also be a clear explanation that the electoral through the rigmarole of advising them that if they register is used for assessing an individual’s credit worthiness and want to register their right to vote, they must do so at ability to sustain mortgage repayments.’. their old address. 87 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 88 Administration Bill Administration Bill The Opposition feel that that situation can be improved. want to downsize or upsize; or to be in a particular In many instances, people move but do not immediately school catchment area. People move for all sorts of want to re-register their right to vote. I was one such reasons. individual when I first moved to Sheffield way back in It is important to ensure, therefore, that under regulations 1994. I stayed with family at that time, because I was arising from clause 5 electoral registration officers bear busy trying to get my foot in the door and find work. I a responsibility for chasing these changes and, in so did not buy my first home in Sheffield until six or seven doing, play an important part in ensuring the greater months after moving, which meant I was not on the accuracy and completeness of the electoral register. electoral register for the city for a significant period. Furthermore, as with amendment 12, the coupling of I was a member of a political party, but registering the the invitation to register with a council tax communication right to vote was not my highest priority at that time— will help to remind citizens of the relationship between getting a wage and somewhere to live were far more the right to vote and the decisions of elected representatives. important. It is important constantly to bear in mind the relationship The system can be improved. The Opposition believe between the right to vote and have a say, and the that every possible means must be used to encourage payment of tax. It goes to the heart of our democracy. the completeness of the electoral register. To that extent, It is also important to remember that a duty to chase we believe that the regulations sanctioned by clause 5 the registration of people who have moved property will should be supplemented with various new obligations enable electoral registration officers to ensure that a which, taken together, will help to maximise opportunities citizen’s registration is not duplicated in more than one for a higher level of completeness of the electoral register. local authority area, in cases where the individual has Amendment 12 would make it compulsory for councils simply moved from one house to another. It should be to include a statement about the importance of registration easy for the Government to accept amendment 13, in council tax demands. Council tax demands are the because it is not controversial, would involve no extra one occasion every year when a local authority cost and would be a valuable addition to the armoury communicates with most residents. The detail of the of the registration process. communication is not always welcomed by those who Amendment 16 would require electoral registration receive it—not many welcome the council tax demand officers to include on all registration forms key information that pops through the letter box every April. Most people designed to raise awareness of the importance of look at the final figure and at the monthly payments, registration. This refers to the link between the register and make a derogatory statement about the quality of and the availability of mortgage and credit facilities, as the services provided and the money they pay annually. well as jury service. The latter reflects the earlier point Interestingly, when people are asked what they get for made during our debate on clause 6. Voter registration their council tax, many say, “All I get is my bins emptied.” is not only a right but a duty, and jury service is one of I suspect that many Members have heard that time and the key duties of any citizen. It underpins our commitment again. On one level, that proves that when people get to democracy and the rule of law, and our commitment the council tax communication they do not read the to justice and the right of individuals to be tried by their details about how the income raised is spent. peers. Were the amendment accepted as a potentially valuable Most Members, if not all, will know how much addition to making the register more complete, I would access to credit and mortgage facilities relates to the recommend that the statement about council tax payers’ applicant’s ability to verify their identity. We all know right to register in a borough be placed in a prominent about the difficulties arising if an applicant for a mortgage part of the communication and in bold print. That or loan cannot prove where they live. It makes things very would make it clear to people that they have overlooked difficult. There is also the business of having to produce this matter and should register their right in order to the last three months’ utility bills and wage slips, and all have a say over how the income they hand over to the the rest of it. Most of us will experience that at some council is spent. It would involve no extra cost to local point because, when one has moved house but not long authorities, because the communication goes out every lived in the new property, finance houses demand such year anyway, and would have the advantage of reminding extra information before providing access to a loan. It is voters of the relationship between their choice of elected a good thing in our society that financiers—the banks representatives and the spending priorities and choices and building societies—run those rigorous identity checks of those representatives. At the very least, then, the before making available access to finance. amendment would strengthen the relationship between Callcredit, the UK’s second largest consumer credit voters and their local authorities. If used effectively in reference agency, has pointed out that if the register is council tax communications, it could also help to improve depleted, credit reference agencies’ ability to provide levels of voter registration. services to companies, local authorities and Government Amendment 13 would give councils a duty to invite Departments in order to guard against fraud and identity people to register when it contacts them mid-year to set theft will be significantly hampered. It is important to up council tax payments, when an individual or individuals emphasise this point. One of my first pieces of casework move into a new residence. From our experience of as an MP involved a fraud case and the theft of the election campaigning, we all know that in real life there identity of someone who sadly had passed away. Their is always a degree of churn in electoral registration, identity was stolen via utility bills from their property. because people have a habit of moving properties. Even Access to finance was almost secured, but was stopped in the most stable and enduring of communities, however, at the very last minute following checks run by the where there is little movement—my hon. Friend the postal service on delivery of the loan agreement. It is Member for North Durham said that his area was important to ensure, therefore, that the register is as complete particularly stable, and so is mine—people move. They as possible in order to minimise fraud and allow people move for work, family and social reasons; because they access to finance. 89 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 90 Administration Bill Administration Bill The amendment will not place a burden on local sector agencies such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing authorities or electoral registration officers. It is already Agency and the Passport Service to have a duty or the practice of some local authorities to refer to the responsibility to make young people, or anybody applying importance of registration in securing credit and mortgage for a driving licence or a passport, aware of the importance facilities. of electoral registration.

Mr Mark Williams: I welcome the tone of the hon. Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con): Will the Lady’s remarks. She has talked about good practice by hon. Lady make it clear that it would be equally referencing credit agencies. How would she ensure that inappropriate for these agencies to register people when that good practice is disseminated across the country? they are not British? Angela Smith: I would ensure it through the amendment. Local authorities should be under an obligation to draw Angela Smith: Of course, but the system we have now local residents’ attention to the fact that access to and the one we want to put in place would provide finance and mortgages might depend on whether they safeguards on that score. Anyone applying for a passport are on the electoral register. Some local authorities has to prove nationality before being granted one. I take already do that. Southwark council makes it clear on its the hon. Gentleman’s point, but there should be sufficient website, on the page referring to the annual canvass safeguards in any registration system to ensure that under the heading, “What do I need to do?”, that only British nationals with the right to vote are allowed “If you are not on the register you may find it difficult to go on to the electoral register. Indeed, that lies behind obtaining credit for a loan or mortgage”. many of the issues that we are discussing today. That is a simple, straightforward sentence making it Many other legislatures across the world use such a clear that if someone does not register to vote as a method of ensuring that the registration of eligible resident of the borough, they might be denied access to citizens is maximised—the United States, for example. finance. Once again, Opposition Members can see no reason why To show that I am not being partial, I shall mention a the Government would want to resist amendment 17 Conservative borough. Basingstoke and Deane council in any way, as it is perfectly sensible. It is a practical, makes it clear on its website that access to finance will common-sense way of extending awareness of registration depend on registering to vote. Not every local authority and of the duties and responsibilities that go with being does that, but it is a straightforward, lost-cost option. an adult citizen in Great Britain. It provides a perfectly Local authorities would simply have to make it clear sensible and practical way forward for maximising awareness when they send out the forms for the annual canvass of those rights and responsibilities. I look forward to that registering is important not just for the right to hearing the Government’s response, particularly to hearing vote but for accessing finance. That can also be put on that they are ready to accept all our amendments in the local authority websites. As far as we are concerned, group. there is no excuse for local authorities not making that point clear to its residents. It is a simple reference on a Mr Mark Williams: It is a privilege to follow the hon. form or on a website page; it is a simple request, and I Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge (Angela Smith). am sure that the Government will want to accede to it. Her amendments specify the steps that local authorities That applies to all our amendments in the group, as not should pursue to register more people. Amendment 16 one of them involves extra cost or any significant extra specifically reminds applicants of their civic duties. burden on the work of local authorities or electoral This raises the key issue of what information should be registration officers. included in the communication, and she listed some reasonable mechanisms and steps that should be taken. 7.30 pm I guess the substance of the debate will be whether these Amendment 17 is designed to extend the opportunities provisions need to be written directly into the Bill or for getting through to those hard-to-reach individuals whether, as clause 5 specifies, they can be made by for individual registration purposes. The Electoral Reform regulation. That will be the focus of my brief contribution. Society strongly believes that when Government I believe it is good that clause 5 allows the Electoral Departments such as the Inland Revenue and those Commission to standardise forms, which is my reading responsible for welfare payments, pension payments, of that particular clause and it applies to some of the driving licences, national insurance and passport issues the hon. Lady mentioned. We heard on Second applications have contact with the people who apply for Reading, as we usually do, from the hon. Member for those things, it would be very useful if those agencies Vale of Clwyd (Chris Ruane), who talked about the were required to make a registration form available. excellent experience in the county of Denbighshire. He That is particularly relevant to 17 and 18-year-olds who mentioned the good work that had been undertaken apply for their first driving licence, for instance. It is there and the documents that had been created, which typically the younger generations who do not think that led to impressive rates of registration. seriously about registering to vote. They have far more I would like to hear more from the Government interesting things on their minds for the most part. As about the onus they intend to place on the Electoral things stand, the responsibility for their registration lies Commission—in preference to writing provisions directly with their parents or the head of the household. into the Bill—in respect of the substance of those forms There is a real risk under the new system that those and the prominence in them of various messages, not young people will not get themselves registered. We know least the civic duty and the penalty. The Bill as it stands from the low level of participation of young people in says that the Electoral Commission should provide that elections that there is a high risk of that happening. It is information, but will the Minister ensure that it must therefore entirely sensible for Departments and public provide it? We need additional clarity about the penalty 91 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 92 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr Mark Williams] I was surprised to see how many amendments the Government had accepted. I had thought that we had and the implications if the application is not complied done a reasonable job, but that co-operation has taken with. Will he confirm whether the Electoral Commission the Select Committee to a better place in the way in will be mandated to put information about the civil which we should, responsibly, seek to amend Bills. There penalty on the forms? If we are to have good practice, can be nothing more important than what we have tried will the usability of those forms be tested? Critically, if to do in respect of the right to vote, the registration of we are to rely on regulation rather than place these the vote, and the invitation to vote. It may sound very matters directly on the face of the Bill, when will those dry and technical, but the truth is that those issues are regulations be laid out? Critically, too, what detail will fundamental to our democracy. If we get this wrong, all they specify? In short, what is the Electoral Commission’s the high-falutin’ phraseology about our freedoms and role in these matters; what is its role in disseminating liberties, and our right to create our own Governments good practice; and what is its role in insisting on that and dispose of them, will be rendered useless. good practice? The hon. Lady cited some good examples We need only read the history books, such as those of good practice undertaken by local authorities from that deal with the Jim Crow laws in the United States, to both political parties—I wish she had said from all political know that, even when there is a nominal right to vote, if parties—but the reality is that that is not universal. I am registration is not got right—if, indeed, it is deliberately interested—I suspect the hon. Lady and the Minister twisted so that it is difficult for people to vote—everyone are, too—in ensuring that best practice is pursued. is denied their right to democracy. As Lyndon Johnson is quoted as saying in a famous book by Robert Caro, Mr Kevan Jones: I agree with hon. Gentleman, who which I would recommend to anyone, if people are makes a good point. I recall that Derwentside district given the right to vote they are given access to the whole council used to be responsible for registration in the panoply of the power of Government, and can then Derwentside part of my constituency. It was clear from exercise their ability to change law by whatever means looking at the register that there were gaps of entire they wish to employ: through their political parties, and streets or parts of streets. That showed me that not a through other organisations. We have seen how vital it great deal of attention was being paid by the registration is for registration to be exercised in a responsible and officer to information that could be seen just by flicking comprehensive way in countries such as South Africa, through the register. which, in recent years, has done a tremendous job in fulfilling that requirement. However, we also need to look a little closer to home. Mr Williams: I concur with the hon. Gentleman. I When we talk about registration, I always think of the think we have nothing to be scared about in the old Shire hall in the middle of my city of Nottingham. Government’s legislation or in respect of the good Three blocks can be pulled out of the steps of the hall, practice that some local authorities are exhibiting. I am and that is where the old tripod gallows used to be. It concerned that we spread good practice, and I believe was used at the time of the Pentrich rebellion, only six clause 5 provides us with the mechanism to do that by generations ago, to execute people who were demanding requiring returning officers in the first instance to send the right to vote—demanding the right, in our own the invitations to register and then by providing a country, to exercise the mandate that would decide who secondary power to make regulations about the substance should be the Government. of the initial applications. Further to that, the regulations I go to those stratospheric lengths only to demonstrate “may confer functions on the Electoral Commission”. that we are debating an extremely serious matter. We I hope that the Minister can flesh out the role he believes are not merely discussing the dry technicalities that the Electoral Commission should play in these matters. electoral registration officers, who are almost always extremely capable and conscientious public servants, put into law and into our democratic process. We are Mr Graham Allen (Nottingham North) (Lab): It is a discussing a fundamental issue. great pleasure to serve under your chairmanship for the first time, Mr Weir. 7.45 pm Before I deal with this important clause and set of As well as engaging with Government and producing amendments, let me say a few words about the role a great many changes and evolutions in the original of those who have served on my Select Committee, the proposals, my Committee decided to table a couple of Political and Constitutional Reform Committee. I believe probing amendments that would keep the Government that it did an exemplary job in examining not just on their mettle, but would not be pressed to a vote. I clause 5 but all the other clauses, and I fear that had it hope that the Minister will approach our amendments not done so, and had the Government not engaged with in that spirit. The first is amendment 34, to which is it as they did, this Committee stage would have been appended an explanatory statement enabling any Member much more fraught. It is because the Select Committee who should wander innocently into the Chamber and managed to clear away a lot of the undergrowth—a lot wonder what we are doing to understand exactly what of the detail—during its close discussions with the the debate is about. The amendment does what it says Government that the real, strong political issues that on the tin. As the explanatory statement says: should be debated on the Floor of the House are being “The amendment is intended to ensure that it is clear to people so debated. Not only the hon. Member for Isle of Wight who are invited to apply for registration that the edited register (Mr Turner), who is present, but other members of the may be sold, and to ensure that people know how to opt out of Select Committee have participated in the first two days the edited register.” of this Committee stage, and will probably participate That is crystal clear. I hope that we do not all suffer the in the third. wrath of the Chair of the Procedure Committee, but 93 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 94 Administration Bill Administration Bill take his edict seriously, and begin to attach explanatory Clause 5 covers regulations governing electoral statements to all our amendments so that everyone can registration officers. It is important to give clear steers, understand the business a little more readily. either in the Bill—as suggested by my Front-Bench colleagues The edited register is available for general sale, and is —or in regulations. I would be interested to hear the used by organisations for the purpose of commercial Minister’s comments on that. As the hon. Member for activities such as marketing, as well as for campaigning Ceredigion (Mr Williams) said, there are onuses on purposes by all of us here who are members of political EROs to do certain things, but there must be consistency parties. It is also used for purposes such as the tracing in this regard, as well as the will to do those things. The of missing persons. I am sure that Members who are in Bill states: the Chamber have received a number of representations “A registration officer in Great Britain must give a person an from certain bodies about that. Electors who do not invitation to apply for registration in a register maintained by the want their details to appear on the edited electoral officer if— register need to opt out. (a) the officer is aware of the person’s name and address, When my Committee conducted its pre-legislative (b) the person is not registered in the register, and scrutiny of the Bill, it recommended the abolition of the (c) the officer has reason to believe that the person may be edited electoral register. We did not feel that it was entitled to be registered in the register.” appropriate for personal details gathered by the Government Under current legislation, there are certain onuses on for electoral purposes to be sold to commercial EROs. The Representation of the People Act 1983 was organisations. Sadly, on this occasion the Government amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006, did not accept our recommendation, and that is why I which added a new section, 9A, setting out the steps am pressing the Minister tonight. I want to understand that must be taken by EROs to identify people eligible this thinking and to establish whether he wishes to for registration as electors. The steps include: think about the issue further, either now or at a later “(a) sending more than once to any address the form to be used stage. The Government did, however, say in their response for the canvass under section 10 below; that they were (b) making on one or more occasions house to house inquiries “aware of and considering the finely balanced arguments on the under subsection (5) of that section; future of the edited electoral register.” (c) making contact by such other means as the registration officer thinks appropriate with persons who do not have an entry My Committee feels that while the edited version of in a register; the register continues, it is important for people who are being invited to register to realise that it may be sold—I (d) inspecting any records held by any person which he is permitted to inspect under or by virtue of any enactment or rule am sure that many do not know that—and that it could of law; be used for commercial purposes. It is also important for them to know exactly how they can opt out of the (e) providing training to persons under his direction or control in connection with the carrying out of the duty.” edited register. It may be claimed that many of those steps are already I hope that the Minister will take the opportunity to in place, but I come back to a point made earlier: the respond to the points that I have made, and to tell us key is how they are implemented by local EROs. whether he has had any further thoughts of the sort that he outlined in his initial response to my Committee. Chris Ruane: Although some of these steps have been in place since as far back as 2006, many have not been Mr Kevan Jones: May I also say, Mr Weir, what a taken up. This Bill presents us with an opportunity to pleasure it is to serve under your chairmanship? make sure EROs take up their past duties, obligations I want to record my thanks to the hon. Member for and laws as well as their future ones. Nottingham North (Mr Allen) and his Committee for the work they have done. They have improved the Bill Mr Jones: I thank my hon. Friend for that intervention. substantially, which demonstrates the power of Select He has done a lot of good work in highlighting low Committees when it comes to pre-legislative scrutiny. I registration across constituencies in the UK, and what think that we should see more of that, because it would he says is right, as I know from my own experience in not only give Bills a smoother passage in this place, but County Durham. We could see obvious mistakes on the allow external agencies to ensure that their voices were register, such as large gaps in streets—numbers 12 to 15 heard. I also think that the Minister should be commended might be entirely missing, for example. A member of for the spirit in which he has accepted the Committee’s the council staff should have said, “Wait a minute; it report. can’t just be a matter of chance that all the residents in Clause 5 deals with the maintenance of the register, that sequence of addresses haven’t registered. A mistake a topic we touched on earlier in the context of ensuring must have been made.” Another example involved a it is as accurate and up to date as possible. As my sheltered accommodation property. It was run by a local hon. Friend the Member for Nottingham North said, councillor, but it was not included on the register at all. this goes to the heart of our democracy. People must The new county council has made a determined effort have the democratic right to be on the register. My to address such mistakes through a canvass, and we hon. Friend referred to Lyndon Johnson, and I, too, added about 12,000 people to the electoral register. have just finished reading the latest version of Robert That was a result of Durham county council looking at Caro’s fourth book on Johnson, which I recommend as council tax records and other resources and of door-to-door essential reading to all Members. It is important to canvassing, which will still be key. ensure that citizens have the right to vote for their local My constituency has quite a stable population, but, representative, whether at parish, district or county as I said earlier, in certain parts of it—including parts council level or in parliamentary or European elections. of Stanley and Chester-le-Street—and especially in 95 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 96 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr Kevan Jones] information should automatically be used to get them on to the register. In my constituency, two organisations areas with a lot of private landlord accommodation, the that are separate from the council—Derwentside Homes names on the register change fairly often. The Electoral and Cestria Community Housing—now run all previous Commission report says: council stock. I am sure that they would be happy to “Incompleteness and inaccuracies on the registers are strongly co-operate in ensuring that people are on the register associated with population movement.” when they move in. As the Minister and others have That comes as no great surprise. My right hon. Friend said, there is a lot of information there—it is a question the Member for Holborn and St Pancras (Frank Dobson) of the will to deal with it. talked earlier about the transitory nature of much of his Another issue, which I mentioned earlier, is people in constituency’s population, and any Member representing residential care. Again, local councils have the power to a constituency with a large student population could deal with this. Many such people make a contribution make the same point. to their fees. However, to judge by the experience of The Electoral Commission report also makes it clear residential care homes and sheltered accommodation that there is a decline in registration in the most densely in my constituency, unfortunately, the register is often populated urban areas. It states that that decline may be outdated. Because of the nature of such places, there is “as much as 10–15 percentage points over the lifetime of the quite a regular turnover—if I may tactfully put it that registers.” way. However, social services and care providers could That, too, will come as no great surprise to anyone who work with the electoral registration officer to ensure has been involved in local government or in elections. that people are registered. Moreover, there is nothing All EROs must make the accuracy of the register a more upsetting than people getting letters addressed to top priority, and we must take steps to ensure that recently deceased relatives. Such a provision would be a measures that are already in place are put into effect. way of taking off the register those who are no longer We will wait and see whether that is pursued through entitled to be on it because, unfortunately, they are no the Bill or through regulations. If these amendments are longer with us. not agreed to, there must be regulations that deal with The point was also made, in the context of this matter. amendment 16, about the broader civic duty to vote. It My experience in local councils tells me that we must is difficult to convince people that there is such a duty. do more than just rely on local EROs. Councillors must Some of my older female constituents remember fighting have the political will to take these steps, as must the for the vote and make sure they are registered and vote chief officer. It must be seen as a key priority, for the every time. It is not the same with younger voters; sadly, reasons my hon. Friend the Member for Nottingham the struggles that a lot of women went through to get North outlined. the vote are perhaps not recognised by younger generations. Trying to promote that civic notion would be very As amendment 12, tabled by my Front-Bench colleagues, difficult. makes clear, the new council tax bill that is sent out every year presents a golden opportunity. Durham county As I said earlier, people in my constituency and council is running a trial that enables people to tick a others thought that a way to avoid paying the old poll box if they want to apply a postal vote. Again, the good tax was to get themselves off the register. I have to say councils are doing that, and I think the Minister will that most constituents who come to see me never use agree that good councils will use such measures. This the phrase “council tax”; they still call it the poll tax. aim is to ensure that councils that are not mandated to The system that we have had up to now has worked use that process will in fact do so, as permitted under for good councils, but unless the Bill or regulations existing law. force councils to take such action, I doubt whether anything will actually happen. 8pm Another issue is the training of electoral registration It never ceases to amaze me that when new housing officers. In my experience, some of them are very good estates are built, people are not automatically registered. and see it as their role to ensure that the register is as up I accept what my hon. Friend the Member for Penistone to date as possible, and take pride in doing so. Others—and and Stocksbridge said earlier—that when people move other councils—see it as something of an afterthought. into a new house, there are more important things to That issue needs to be looked at. do than making sure they are on the electoral register. Amendment 17 is a common-sense provision that They have to change their children’s school, sort out examines some of the other ways in which central their electricity and bank details, and so on. However, Government, who interact with many of our constituents, moving home provides a good opportunity to address can help in the electoral registration process. I am big this issue. About 10 years ago I moved into a new fan of Directgov, through which, two weeks ago, I house, and, as I discovered on doing so, people soon renewed my driving licence. It is a simple way to pay car receive a demand from the local council. That provides tax or to renew a driving licence. The one thing that an opportunity to ensure that people are registered, people have to provide is an address, and, as part of the whether by letter or e-mail. Indeed, increasingly, people process the website could ask whether people are registered are registering to pay council tax and other bills by at that address. When I moved house a couple of years e-mail and other such services. That would ensure that ago, I had to go through that process to change my a resident on a new housing estate is registered. address. The Government could easily make use of that The situation with new council housing and social opportunity, and the same point applies with passports, housing residents—again, it varies from authority to as was mentioned earlier. It is about making sure that authority—also never fails to amaze me. When residents the mechanisms exist to capture such information. Directgov move in, local councils know who they are, and that would be an excellent way to ensure that people are 97 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 98 Administration Bill Administration Bill registered. Perhaps the Minister can say whether it is The penalty has been mentioned, and I welcome the currently possible to register through Directgov. Once a work of the Committee and the Government in ensuring number has been generated, it links together a person’s that the penalty is set out. Again, the test will be whether interactions with Government. That would be a simple or not it provides an incentive for people to register. My way to address this issue. hon. Friend the Member for Bassetlaw (John Mann) Another issue is the contents of the form and the has asked a question on this, and it was answered by the invitation to vote. We need to think a little bit outside hon. Member for South West Devon (Mr Streeter) on the box in deciding how we are going to deal with this behalf of the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral issue. In 11 years as a Member of Parliament, I have Commission. His answer stated that, based on the data noted, as most Members have, that the way in which that were available in March 2010, only people interact with MPs has changed. The days of “67 prosecutions were initiated in relation to a failure to provide getting large postbags of handwritten letters are coming information in response to the…annual canvass.”—[Official Report, to an end. We receive an increasing number of e-mails, 26 October 2010; Vol. 517, c. 166.] including, surprisingly, from older people. Councils have The Bill’s penalty for not registering will not be meaningful the e-mail addresses of those people who register for and effective unless it is enacted and enforced. However, council tax through that method. Perhaps that could be it is important to include it in the Bill as a sanction; used as another way of encouraging people to register. again, it can be publicised to ensure that people know We do not necessarily have to use the old-fashioned, that there is a potential sanction for not registering to traditional form through the door. Here, however, we vote. return to my earlier point about the will of individual The Government have got it right overall on the councils and officers to adapt to some of these ideas. armoury they will give local returning officers to ensure My hon. Friend the Member for Penistone and that the register is as accurate as possible. The proof of Stocksbridge also talked about using the electoral register the pudding will be in how that is actually used. As I to reduce fraud. That would make a big difference to said, the Bill provides a lot of ways in which councils the ability of local registration officers to spot individuals can ensure that people are registered, but councils are who are registering illegally, or those who are using the not using them. I will be interested to hear how the existing register for identity fraud purposes. That is an Minister is going to ensure that the provisions—and his increasing problem: as recent figures show, such fraud hope that councils and returning officers will use some runs into hundreds of millions of pounds a year. Making of these different ways of not only interacting with the provision in respect of the actual need to have an public, but using the information they already have—will accurate register lets people know that this is important mean that the register is as accurate as possible. It in reducing fraud. would be sad to miss this opportunity to ensure not I am not sure that many people know that, as has only that more people are registered to vote, but that the been mentioned, being on the electoral register helps registration is accurate as possible. them to establish credit worthiness. Those who move addresses often may find that difficult to get, but at least 8.15 pm this is a way of giving information that agencies can use. Chris Ruane: As has been mentioned by my hon. Most people think that being on the register is just Friend the Member for North Durham (Mr Jones), about voting. We need to work out how we get the local government has many ways of contacting electors. message across that it is important to register for that It can do so by way of housing benefit, council tax, purpose, too. disabled parking badges, the people it puts in residential care, the home helps who visit people in their homes, Angela Smith: In addition, the use of verification contact when people are placed in council and social procedures when goods are being ordered online is housing, contact when enforcement and registration is becoming increasingly obvious. The use of postcode carried out in respect of houses in multiple occupation and address details is one of the important aspects of and contact when new houses, be they private sector or the secure procedure when ensuring that the right people public sector, are built. Local authorities are not extending get the right goods when ordering online. the invitation to register to many people who use those things. A lot more can be done, but it will take time, Mr Jones: My hon. Friend rightly says that people effort and resources, and that has been used in the past are increasingly using the internet for things such as as an excuse not to act. This Bill and other Bills are ordering goods online. Again, I doubt whether many bringing about huge constitutional changes, which could young people know that being on the electoral register dramatically alter the constitutional landscape, and local is an important source for those types of thing, so that authorities need to do everything in their power to is another good reason why the amendment is important. maximise the registers in their areas by using the previous The terminology is perhaps a bit loose in terms of civic legislation and this Bill. responsibility—I am not sure that many people see it The Government also hold databases, as outlined in from that point of view—but we could set out a practical amendment 17; they relate to reason for young people to register. “welfare payments, pensions, driving licences, revenue collection, I mentioned driving licences earlier, and new drivers National Insurance and passport applications”. provide an obvious opportunity in this regard. I am not All those offer an opportunity for national or local suggesting that everyone applies for their licence when government to extend that invitation to register to they are 17, but new licences are an obvious way to people using those things at critical moments in their engage young people and ensure that they are registered life. We need to address an issue about sharing national to vote and know the importance of that. We should Government databases with local authorities, but there not miss that opportunity. is no issue involved in using local databases within the 99 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 100 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Chris Ruane] perhaps a case for using the private sector. Experian has built the databases and knows exactly where the unregistered remit of a local authority. Local authority databases are, so perhaps there is an opportunity for its involvement can be used for the purpose of registration, and we need if local authorities are too lazy or if there is political to examine ways in which we can improve those channels interference. of communication between national Government and A number of the amendments would put the onus on local government to open up those databases. I realise the local authority to explain why it is important for an that people have concerns about losing databases; individual to be on the register. More needs to be done Department for Work and Pensions databases have and I agree with my hon. Friend the Member for North been found on roundabouts in the past, and that caused Durham that the question of civic duty might fall on a national outrage as it hit the national press— deaf ears. Having said that, I am very glad that the Government, who initially talked about downgrading Mr Kevan Jones: They were never found. the civic duty to a lifestyle choice, listened to the avalanche of complaints from across the country, from the civic Chris Ruane: Indeed, as my hon. Friend reminds us. sector and from Opposition parties and decided to keep We need to keep that in perspective, because although the civic duty. The explanation from Ministers, from losing those databases was bad, I am sure that new political parties and from the ERO of the reasons why systems can be implemented to allow secure access to someone should be on the electoral register and the those databases for the purpose of registration. benefits that it brings in getting a mortgage and credit is important. If members of the local population are not I also want to talk about the rights and responsibilities on the register, they will not have access to proper credit of Assembly Members, MPs, councillors, MSPs and and will be forced into the hands of loan sharks. Members of the Legislative Assembly in Northern Ireland in respect of putting pressure on electoral registration A great deal more education and explanation are officers to ensure that the existing legislation and this needed from EROs and us. I am pleased that a lot of Bill are monitored, not only by the Electoral Commission, progress has been made. I pay tribute to the Ministers, but by us as parliamentarians—as elected representatives. whom I have hounded over the past two and a half Last week, I e-mailed 250 Labour Members with a years with hundreds of written parliamentary questions specific list of questions that the Electoral Commission and oral outbursts in Committee and in the Chamber. I had designed for MPs to put to their ERO. I have make no apology for that. A group of dedicated MPs circulated those questions to Labour MPs and asked from all parties have pursued the issue and progress has them to go to see their ERO with their Assembly been made, specifically on the issue of fixed penalty Member, with their local group leader to put pressure notices. I pay tribute to Ministers for that but I maintain on the ERO to ensure that everything is being implemented. that the whole Bill is unnecessary. These things could That should also be examined in this Bill to ensure that have been done with all-party support, through Labour’s elected representatives at least have that invitation to Political Parties and Elections Act 2009. I did not work with EROs to maximise the register. I have done support it—I voted for it, but it was not in my heart— this in my constituency, where we have a fantastic ERO, but I accepted it as a political reality and necessity. Gareth Evans, who has increased the registration in my These things could have been achieved with all-party constituency from 47,000 to 57,000 in a two or three-year parliamentary consensus in 2015. period. That is excellent and I pay tribute to Gareth for I recently asked in a parliamentary question why Labour’s his work on that. Act was negated and the 2015 deadline was brought On the invitation to register, we also need to ensure forward to 2014. The answer was that it was imperative that there is no political interference by politicians who to go through all this turmoil and upset and to take up do not want people to be registered. Liberal Democrat all this parliamentary time because there is great concern Members will be aware—I have mentioned this in the out there among the Great British public, 36% of whom past—that when the ex-Liberal leader of Islington council believe that there is electoral fraud, that meant we must was asked by the Labour group to have a registration tackle the issue. I also asked how many cases of electoral drive to get the unregistered on to the register, he said, fraud there were, and the Minister replied that there “No, we are not doing that. Keeping people off the were a couple a year. register is how we win elections.” If there is such a degree of political interference within a local authority, Mr Kevan Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that the it needs to be tackled. The case might have been isolated, Electoral Commission’s report on the pilots a few years if high profile, but we need measures to tackle political ago, which was buried following outcry from the Daily interference if it occurs. Mail and others, said that in most of the pilots—including e-voting, text voting and, to give an example from my Such interference could be tackled in a number of constituency, full postal voting—fraud was negligible? ways. There does not necessarily need to be political interference; there could be political, bureaucratic or administrative incompetence. If the job is not being Chris Ruane: My hon. Friend is reading my mind— done and the mustard is not being cut, a solution is needed to allow registration to take place. I ask the Mr Jones: I hope not. Minister to consider, in the final analysis, transferring the rights of a local authority’s underperforming electoral Chris Ruane: The question I drafted on the train from registration department to that of a neighbouring authority Rhyl to Euston this morning expands on my hon. that is achieving or letting the Electoral Commission Friend’s point. It asks what assessment the Minister has carry out the registration in emergency circumstances. made—he might want to think about this overnight—of Alternatively—I say this as a Labour Member—there is the reasons why 36% of the British public think that 101 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 102 Administration Bill Administration Bill there is electoral fraud, on the impact of Ministers and the opportunity to take a decision before leaving office. Government MPs talking about electoral fraud and on There are those, particularly in the electoral community, its coverage in the media— including the Electoral Commission, who argue that having an edited register acts as a disincentive to people The Temporary Chair (Mr Mike Weir): Order. I ask registering, but we have seen no convincing evidence of the hon. Gentleman to come back to the amendments. I that. On the other side of the argument, some argue have been rather lenient, but he is going very wide of the that it provides significant wider social and economic subject now. benefits, and in the previous Government’s consultation, 7,447 of about 7,600 responses favoured the edited Chris Ruane: You have been very lenient, Mr Weir, register’s retention for those reasons. On balance—it is and have let me rabbit on for a few minutes. a finely balanced decision—the Government believe I give the Government credit for their recognition that keeping the edited register from which voters can of representations from both sides of the House, civic choose to opt out is the right decision. I know it will be society, the police, the Electoral Reform Society, Unlock disappointing to some and welcomed by others, but Democracy, the courts and so on. They have listened, that is the decision the Government have made. but this was all unnecessary. If they had stuck to The group of amendments have a theme of inserting Labour’s 2015 timetable, we would not have been discussing various prescriptions about what local authorities should the matter today and would perhaps have been discussing do and the information on the forms. A general point is the economy, growth or other such issues. that putting that sort of stuff in the Bill is not the right approach. In many cases, there is detail in some of the Mr Harper: It is a great pleasure to serve under your secondary legislation we have already published in draft, chairmanship, Mr Weir. and I think that that sort of specific provision is better I should acknowledge the very charitable comments—for there than in the Bill. him—made by the hon. Member for Vale of Clwyd My hon. Friend the Member for Isle of Wight (Chris Ruane). It was pleasant to have such a polite (Mr Turner) is no longer here, unfortunately, but in an outburst, compared with some of his previous ones. I intervention on the hon. Member for Penistone and acknowledge straight away that he is right that we all Stocksbridge (Angela Smith), he referred to British have a responsibility to help get these matters right. As citizenship, and I think it worth stating for the record Members of Parliament, we are in a very powerful that the franchise for parliamentary elections consists position when it comes to talking to our electoral of British citizens, Irish citizens who are resident in the registration officers, asking what they are doing and United Kingdom, Commonwealth citizens who are resident checking that they are doing everything that is necessary. here and either have or do not need leave to remain and, The same applies to senior councillors. I often hear of course, British citizens who live overseas and are anecdotal evidence that EROs say that they have trouble registered to vote; and for local elections, to that list is getting the resources to do the job properly, but the added European Union citizens resident in the United EROs and returning officers are often the more senior Kingdom. It is a complicated franchise and perhaps not officers in the council. Councillors are very interested in what would have been produced had we started with a ensuring that the electoral register is done properly and clean sheet of paper, but as I have said before, we have we as Members of Parliament have an opportunity, reached that position because of our complicated history, which the hon. Gentleman is right to say that we should and when Parliament has considered the matter previously, take, to ask EROs what they are doing. When the Bill it has decided to stay in broadly the same place. Given becomes law, as I hope that it will, it will be incumbent my hon. Friend’s comment, I thought it important to on us all to talk to our EROs, to check that they are make that clear on the record. doing all the work and to ask how they are progressing Amendment 12 is about putting a statement on in implementing the provisions. registration in the council tax communication. My first I thank the hon. Members for Vale of Clwyd and for point—I think the hon. Lady alluded to this—is that I North Durham (Mr Jones) for what they said about the am not sure that the council tax document is read cover Select Committee chaired by the hon. Member for to cover by every voter, even though this year many will Nottingham North (Mr Allen) and the excellent work it have been able to read that their council has frozen their did in pre-legislative scrutiny. I also thank the hon. council tax, thanks to the policies of this Government, Member for North Durham for what he said about our which I am sure would have come as very welcome response to that scrutiny. There is not much point in its news. As well as not being enormously well read, the being done only for us to ignore all of it, and we made a document tends to be looked at, if it is looked at by number of significant changes before we introduced the anyone, by the head of the household or the person who Bill. I should also praise the hon. Gentleman for mentioning pays the council tax. I suspect it does not reach into accuracy as well as completeness. They are of equal every part of the home. importance and the Government have focused on both. The hon. Lady is right to say that councils and registration officers have to contact people who are not 8.30 pm on the register. That is why we are continuing the It is relevant to amendment 34, standing in the name annual canvass and placing a new obligation on registration of the Chairman of the Political and Constitutional officers to invite unregistered people to register when Reform Committee, to confirm that the Government they become aware of them, which applies all year have concluded that the edited version of the electoral round. In the second set of data-matching pilots, later register should be retained. We have discussed whether this year, we will look for good ways to spot such it should be abolished with interested parties on both people. The hon. Member for Vale of Clwyd made the sides of the debate and received numerous representations. point that local authorities have access to council tax The previous Government consulted, but did not have data. If the database lists someone who pays council 103 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 104 Administration Bill Administration Bill tax but that person is not registered to vote, under the Mr Jones: May I make a suggestion concerning the proposals registration officers have a legal duty to use registration form? There should be a simple tick-box for that information to write to that person to invite them people to register for a postal vote. In some cases, they to join the electoral register. As the hon. Gentleman have to register to vote, and on a different form register rightly said, all the other databases the local authority for a postal vote. A tick-box on the registration form has can be used as well. That may be a good way of would be much easier. promoting electoral registration and some local authorities may think it effective, but it is not necessarily something Mr Harper: Let me conclude my previous thought we want to specify in the Bill. I therefore urge the hon. and I will come to that. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge to withdraw Some local authorities already use the register for the the amendment. other purposes for which it can be used—for example, Amendment 13 would give local authorities a duty to to run credit checks, or when people want credit for a invite people who move into the area and register for mobile phone—as a positive method of encouraging council tax purposes to join the electoral register. Local people to be registered. This is where is it important to authorities have access to their council tax records and give EROs the power to consider their local circumstances. so are aware of such people, and the Electoral Commission’s Depending on the area, depending how many people guidance states that when they send out council tax move, how often and the kinds of people, there are bills, they should send rolling registration forms, but different messages that may work with different groups again, that will capture only the bill payer—the person of people. The ERO should have the opportunity to do who pays the council tax—and will not help to identify that. The Electoral Commission will be doing some other people. However, the hon. Lady is right about the work with us on this. When the commission suggests need to find ways to capture people who move home, as that certain things should be on the form and should be they are the group of people who are least likely to be mandated, we have the powers to do that. registered and there is a direct link between the length On postal votes and the point made by the hon. of housing tenure and electoral registration. We are Member for North Durham, a separate form must be looking at various solutions, in particular solutions completed. In order to prevent fraud, people have to relating to the sorts of transaction people engage in provide identifiers, such as date of birth and a signature when they move home. Registering for council tax may for the electoral registration officer—[Interruption] The be one of those transactions, but again, I am not sure hon. Member for North Durham says, “On one form.” that we want to specify it in the Bill. If we are moving towards allowing people to register Amendment 16, to which the hon. Lady spoke as electronically, a postal voter would still have to provide well, is about putting on electoral registration forms a hard copy signature, so the process cannot be made completely seamless. However, the hon. Gentleman makes “a clear explanation that the electoral register is used for other a good point. Some local authorities may want to civic purposes” collect all the information, including date of birth, at and alluding to the financial checks for which the one time. I will take his suggestion and see whether electoral register is used. Having seen the draft secondary there is anything in our regulations which would prevent legislation that we published last week, the hon. Lady that. It may be one of the things that we can ask the will know that the IER forms will carry a statement Electoral Commission and some of our stakeholders about the processing of the data that the individual to investigate to see whether that would be helpful for supplies, which will set out clearly what the information voters. is used for, both on the full register—for purposes such as credit checks and fraud prevention—and on the Mr Jones: I am grateful for the Minister’s response. edited register. I accept that a signature and date of birth are needed, Several hon. Members spotted that we intend to but surely those could be provided on one form. That work with the Electoral Commission on designing the would save council administration and encourage people forms. Several Members spotted that in clause 5 there is who want to apply for a postal vote to do so more easily. a power to give that responsibility to the Electoral Commission. When the Electoral Commission designs Mr Harper: I recognise the hon. Gentleman’s suggestion, forms, it carries out user testing in order to produce and, as I said, I will take it away and look at it. We will forms that are clear, brief and to the point, and to make sure that there is nothing that prevents such a ensure that they are properly understood and properly suggestion, and we will also investigate it with our completed. We want to use that work to decide what stakeholders, including the commission, administrators should be on the form and whether there should be and a lot of the groups, particularly focusing on those some other documentation with the forms. When the who might find a postal vote helpful. We can perhaps Electoral Commission has done that work, we have the trial some of that and see whether it is effective. That is powers in clause 5 and in paragraph 18 of schedule 4 to a helpful suggestion from the hon. Gentleman. require registration officers to provide that information. Amendment 17 links Government Departments with We would want to do that if, for example, there are responsibility for welfare payments, pensions, driving aspects of the forms that the Electoral Commission licences, revenue collection and national insurance with identified as effective. information about the electoral register. I agree with The information could also be in the campaigns that that up to a point and we will already be doing some of are run by the Electoral Commission or the local authority. that. However, it would not be helpful to mandate that, I live in London, in the borough of Lambeth, and I given that most voters are already on the electoral have seen some of the council’s advertisements, which register and quite a lot of people do not move about all focus— the time. We do not want to insist on making every 105 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 106 Administration Bill Administration Bill transaction with each of those Departments more complex. see them not vote is not very encouraging, so I think However, I agree with the hon. Member for Penistone that we can all do a better job on that. However, as I and Stocksbridge about signposting and making that said, I am more hopeful about younger voters engaging kind of linkage more effective. directly. There is some evidence that if we can engage The hon. Member for North Durham mentioned with voters directly, rather than relying on one person in driving licences, and we are working with the Department the household, we might all be pleasantly surprised. for Transport on that. He also mentioned Directgov, and the Government Digital Service, which is working 8.45 pm with us on developing the online registration tool, is Last but not least, let me turn to amendment 34, also responsible for Directgov, so they will work seamlessly tabled by the Chair of the Political and Constitutional together. Where Departments deal with people who Reform Committee, the hon. Member for Nottingham move about or new voters, we are considering signposting North (Mr Allen), on behalf of a number of its members. and giving people prompts. If we did that electronically In passing, I congratulate him and my hon. Friend the and people needed only to tick a box, potentially they Member for Hendon (Dr Offord) on the explanatory could be redirected straight to the site where they could statements to their amendments, which were very helpful register online. For some voters, that would be an to Members. The hon. Gentleman can explain to his effective way of driving up registration. Front Benchers how to produce such statements, because they did not manage to produce any for their amendments, Mr Jones: Directgov would be a good system, because meaning that we had great difficulty following what the identifier is down to the individual, and it allows they were on about, which caused a little altercation one to do a whole range of things. To be able to register earlier in the debate. As we would expect from a Chair to vote through it, accepting that a form may be required of a Select Committee, he offers an exemplar of good to obtain a signature later, would be much easier for a parliamentary procedure. lot of people, especially when they move house. A lot With regard to the hon. Gentleman’s specific request, can be done through Directgov in one place, which is in our draft secondary legislation, which I hope he will always useful. note we have published while the Bill is still going through the House—that was one of the questions I Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman makes some good was asked when I appeared before his Committee, and points. Once we have an online method of registering in we have already done that in a number of areas—we the first instance, that will be very effective. It already have said that the application forms will include a works very well in a number of local authorities for statement on the processing of data, so that it will be re-registering each year. I have just received my form in very clear what the information and the full register my constituency of the Forest Dean and I was able to and the edited register can be used for. The Electoral re-register in a matter of minutes on my BlackBerry, Commission will ensure that the forms are as user-friendly putting in the code and ticking the opt-out box for as possible. the edited register. That worked very smoothly and a Of course, if people are to be able to opt out of the confirmation e-mail arrived. Many local authorities edited register, it is important that that is a very clear already do that. What they cannot do, because they are choice for them. Again, some local authorities currently not empowered to do so, is effect new registrations in have very clear forms and are clear about what the data that way. Once we can do that, many people will move are used for, but some do not. Some, I am told—I have to that, either doing it themselves, or, if they need seen evidence of this—slightly misrepresent what the assistance, through an assisted digital method. It is information is used for in order to encourage people to important that people have that assistance and I think opt out, and some do not provide very clear information that is where people will start going. on what the decision is about. We are looking at that, The hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge, and the Electoral Commission will do some user testing like Members beforehand, raised concerns about younger to make sure that the forms are clear and that people voters, particularly attainers—16 and 17-year-olds who are clear about what the register is used for and what get registered. I have been to Northern Ireland and seen the decision to opt out is about. The hon. Member for how they register young people directly in schools. The Nottingham North is absolutely right that it is very chief electoral officer’s staff do a presentation, focusing important that they do so. on the civic side and the need to register to have a vote Part of our thinking behind keeping the edited register and to have one’s say, but they are not above looking at was making sure that the information on voters’ decisions some of the other reasons that young people might to opt out is not more widely available. That is acceptable. want to be registered to vote, such as credit. Northern If they are not sure and they are not given a clear Ireland has a voter ID card and electoral staff run also decision, that is clearly not a satisfactory position, so we through some of its practical uses, such as proof of age. will be working closely with the Electoral Commission Interestingly, as I have said in debates before, now that to ensure that the forms are clear and straightforward. younger voters are engaged with directly, a higher percentage On that basis, I urge the hon. Members for Penistone of them are registered to vote than in Great Britain, and Stocksbridge and for Nottingham North, respectively, where we rely on mum and dad to do that. to withdraw and not press their amendments. So, I am a bit more hopeful. Having spoken to young people when I visit schools, as I am sure have many Angela Smith: May I echo the comments of other Members, I think that such direct engagement is a way Members in the Chamber and say that it is a pleasure to to get them not just to register to vote but to use their serve under your chairmanship, Mr Weir? vote. One of the depressing points is that young people, Indeed, it was a pleasure to listen to the contributions even when registered, are the least likely to cast their from my hon. Friend the Member for Nottingham vote. In a sense, getting lots of people registered just to North (Mr Allen), who chairs the Select Committee. As 107 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 108 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Angela Smith] Mr Allen: I beg to move amendment 33, page 5, line 12, after ‘penalty’, insert ‘of £500’. other Members have said, he did a superb job in the The amendment would provide that the fine for failing to comply report that the Committee produced. I also appreciated with a requirement to make an application to be on the electoral his comments about the importance of the registration register would be set at £500. process to democracy—a point we have made repeatedly from the Front Bench over the two days in Committee. The Temporary Chair (Mr Mike Weir): With this it He mentioned the sacrifices that have been made in the will be convenient to discuss the following: name of democracy by people in the Nottingham area Amendment 14, page 5, line 14, at end insert— in the past. I would add to that record the campaign waged by the Levellers, no less, many of whom were shot in the ‘(7A) The civil penalty shall be £100.’. churchyard in Burford in Oxfordshire. And to that list Amendment 15, in schedule 3, page 19, leave out we can add the suffragettes. The history is long and it is lines 9 and 10. one that we should be proud of in some ways. My hon. Friend the Member for North Durham Mr Allen: It is a great pleasure to speak again on these (Mr Jones) outlined perfectly the importance of extending very important issues and, in particular, on the amendments the ways in which people can register to vote, particularly before us, regarding the civic duty that we all have to online, and talked about the importance of the amendment vote, and the question of what a society does when, in a relating to credit and mortgage facilities. voluntaristic democracy, some individuals consistently I put on the record once again the long and arduous refuse to play by the rules, to play their part and to campaign that my hon. Friend the Member for Vale carry out their share of the democratic duty that should of Clwyd (Chris Ruane) has waged not so much to get fall on all of us. this legislation and approach on the statute book, as to We have heard a lot about the sacrifices that people get it right. My hon. Friend talked about the rights have made, and I will not go over those issues again, and responsibilities of elected Members, and I join the but, when one looks at the history books and sees what Minister in underlining the responsibilities of elected sacrifices people made to achieve the vote, one finds representatives at every level on that score. My hon. that it adds great resonance to our debate. We have all Friend is absolutely right. I and my colleagues from the had the experience of people who say, “Well, I don’t city of Sheffield have done exactly as he has recommended bother. I don’t even register. A plague on all your houses in the past, and it has had an impact on the work —it doesn’t mean anything to me.” As far as I am carried out by our local electoral registration officer. concerned, that is breaking the social contract that we I have been quite heartened by the Minister’s response all have when we commit to serving our democracy. If to the four amendments before us in my name and that we do not maintain, hone and develop that social of my hon. Friend the Member for Caerphilly (Mr David). contract, we leave the door open for those who would It has been made absolutely clear that there is a place take away our very democracy. one way or another—via secondary legislation, guidance Therefore, on behalf of the Political and Constitutional issued by the Electoral Commission or its work in Reform Committee, I am taking what might at first designing the necessary forms for the new process—for sight appear to be a rather draconian view. It is that, in the points that we have made in our amendments, and extreme circumstances, after many warnings and much that the Government take them seriously and have discussion, there should be a power—a reserve power—to listened to them, so the Opposition’s response has to be fine those who deliberately flout the rules and regulations that we will watch very carefully to see how the Minister’s of registration. comments play out as the process unrolls, unwinds and is implemented over the next few months and years. Jonathan Edwards (Carmarthen East and Dinefwr) On amendment 17, the signposting principle that the (PC): How did the hon. Gentleman’s Committee come Minister outlined, particularly in relation to new voters up with the figure of £500? and people who move, is important, and the Opposition take his points about young people. The point about Mr Allen: I do not think that any science was involved electoral registration officers, or their staff in a big in coming to that figure; the Committee felt that it should authority area such as Sheffield, Leeds or Manchester, be pitched at a reasonable level. If it were pitched going into a school to educate young people and encourage lower—at a parking or traffic-offence level—it might be them to participate in the democratic process—perhaps regarded less seriously. Where it is actually pitched is a as part of citizenship classes—is a very important one matter for debate and for the Government, but I hope which makes a valuable contribution to the debate, but that they will listen to people who say that, on the very it will require resources. rare occasions when a prosecution takes place, such Electoral registration officers and their staff will have offences should be met with an adequate fine. to feel that they have the time and money to spend on undertaking such work. In a city such as Sheffield, there I am not suggesting that everyone who fails to register are almost 180 schools, 27 or 28 of which are secondary, should be fined £500. We heard that in a whole year in so we are talking about a significant commitment on this country, people were prosecuted for non-registration the part of EROs and their departments to make the only 67 times. That is not quite one in a million, but process work, but I take the Minister’s point and accept such prosecutions are a very rare occurrence. However, that citizenship classes in schools could benefit enormously we need the power to fine so that people understand from such engagement with the local democratic process. how seriously we take the matter. On that basis, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the I congratulate the Government again on how they amendment. have moved on a number of these issues. I am delighted Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. to be joined by a member of my Select Committee, my 109 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 110 Administration Bill Administration Bill hon. Friend the Member for Edinburgh East (Sheila send out to get them to register, then that in itself is a Gilmore), who participated in our debates and made good thing, and it will mean that the threat of deploying sure that so many of our proposals were put in a way a fine is not acted on. that allowed the Government to accept them and take As the Minister said, members of the Select Committee the Bill forward. are trying to be as good as we can in giving the Committee Like the other Committee members, my hon. Friend an explanatory statement of the amendments so that will remember the early days when it appeared that our Members can wander into the debate and know exactly electoral system was almost being marketised or what we are talking. The statement is straightforward. commodified by some of the phraseology around at the We hope that the deterrent would be used only very time. Our right to vote—our democracy—is, in the sparingly and rarely, if ever, but it says, in effect, that the Committee’s opinion, a civic duty and I am delighted concept of registering to vote is not about marketisation that the Government have reaffirmed that. It is not a or convenience but about values—the values of which consumer choice; it is not a punt, a bet or going down we in this place must be the guardians at every conceivable the shops—it is about how we run our society. There are opportunity. The amendment is about the right of every alternatives to democracy; it is important that it is qualified individual in this country to vote for the healthy and strong and that everybody participates in it. governance of their choice, and we believe that it would safeguard and extend the possibility of all of us enjoying Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): From my hon. Friend’s that right. perspective, would the £500 represent more of a preventive measure, which, hopefully, garners so much registration Mr Richard Shepherd (Aldridge-Brownhills) (Con): that it would never have to be used? A lower figure The burden of the argument in the earlier part of the might mean that many more people would not register speech by the hon. Member for Nottingham North and would be taken to court. (Mr Allen) seemed to be that there should be a fine for Mr Allen: My hon. Friend makes an important point. not voting. If I have misunderstood that, I apologise. If someone is fined for failing to register, that is a In the long history of these islands, people have symbol of failure for us all—Government and non- sought to accomplish the very thing that we represent Government Members, those on Select Committees here—a representative democracy that is their check on and those who are not. We want everybody in our autocratic government and all the things that go with it. democracy to participate. Many of us have said on I profoundly believe in exercising the right to vote. I visits to schools and other places, “Yes, of course, in a have never not voted, with the exception of the time when partisan way we care about the way you vote, but we I was abroad as a student, when it was not possible to come and do these things because we feel you’ve got to vote as such a person. However, I also believe that with exercise your rights in a democracy and as a citizen.” a sense of liberty goes the right not to vote. This is a The lessons that we give to our children, particularly clear choice of citizens. When I first stood for election teenagers, when we talk to them in those terms apply to during the 1980s, most of the polls in my area, which is everybody. in the west midlands and is not the wealthiest of regions It would be a failure if we fined people every time, but any more, we had turnouts of between 79% and 81%. as my hon. Friend said, there needs to be a preventive, As we know, the collection of data for the electoral deterrent effect that encourages people to vote who register—the very thing that we are talking about—is might otherwise say, “Well, nothing will happen if I under-recording numbers because of movements or don’t, so I’m not going to bother.” If the thought that deaths. Therefore, 79% to 81% is a very good turnout. something might happen is in the back of their mind, a Only in the most recent years has the turnout collapsed. lot of people will be encouraged to register who otherwise Whoistosaywhy? would not do so. If they then choose not to vote or decide to go to the polling station and spoil their ballot, Mr Allen: May I reassure the hon. Gentleman, whose that is their decision, but they are enabled to make that record is second to none in this House in the service of decision by the very fact that they are on the register, democracy, that nothing in my amendment indicates and disabled from doing so if they are not on the that someone should be fined for not voting? The register or encourage others not to be on the register. sanction would apply to people who do not register and should apply only in rare cases as a way of encouraging 9pm individuals to get on the register. People may then choose to not vote, to spoil their ballot paper or to vote Mr Mark Williams: I, too, welcome the Government’s for the party of their choice. direction of travel on the penalty.Does the hon. Gentleman agree that rather than becoming too hung up about the figure, we should consider how to communicate the fact Mr Shepherd: I stand for a complete register. I do not that there is a penalty at all? It is about the size of the know that I would go as far as to force people to register, font and the prominence given to the wording in the unless it was for census purposes. I see the failure of the documentation that is sent out as much as the scale of census as often as not. the fine. Ian Mearns: Will the hon. Gentleman muse on the Mr Allen: At the risk of summoning the ghost of my new Boundary Commission rule that a minimum number hon. Friend the Member for Vale of Clwyd (Chris of electors has to be found in a ward, and that if the Ruane), the hon. Gentleman makes that point far more number is even one short, a whole other electoral ward articulately, and perhaps more often, than I do. If we must be brought in to make the constituency up to the can persuade people to vote because they have got this correct size? We could therefore have a situation in message clearly from the panoply of paperwork that we which that happens because of the non-registration of 111 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 112 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Ian Mearns] Mr Allen: The penalty is not the first but the last resort. People can do a range of administrative things, one person. That is how the rules are written, as I including visits, letters and calls, which hon. Members understand them. In that scenario, the registration of use within political parties to get people out to vote, one voter becomes vital. before a fine is levied. The penalty will enable people to register. It would not be fixed in the sense that a Mr Shepherd: I would think that the truth of the bureaucrat will say, “I see Mrs Smith hasn’t registered. matter is that the rough must be taken with the smooth. Send her a £500 fine.” It will be the last in a very long It is the particularisation that I do not like. chain of events. I agree that having a correct census is fundamental to a democracy, and yet that is not universal. There are Wayne David: My hon. Friend makes the point extremely not many fines in relation to the census and we still do well. He mentions in passing his proposal for a £500 not have a complete one. However, I am very cautious fine. The official Opposition are proposing a £100 fine. about the idea of forcing anyone to do anything in their Both probing amendments were tabled because we relationship with the democratic process, whether it is are disappointed that the Government, despite the voting for parties or anything else. Australia has a fine encouragement we have given them, have not proposed for not voting, in theory, but I do not think that that is a figure for the fine. We are told that the figure will be in appropriate for us. It would be an inhibition on liberty. regulations in the not-too-distant future. If I do not wish to be part of a process, as a free-born As I have mentioned regulations, Mr Weir, may I Briton, surely I have that right. That is the essence of make a point in passing? The Minister referred a number what being British was about once upon a time. of times to the draft regulations placed in the Library I am not going to get excited, because I have been here last Monday. I went to the Library after our debate last a long time and I have heard all the passing nostrums. I Monday and was told that the regulations were placed am not saying that this is a nostrum, because the hon. there at 4.1 pm, or 22 minutes before the debate began. Member for Nottingham North is trying to address a As he well knows, it is impossible for any reasonable genuine worry; I do not doubt that. However, I have the person to discuss such regulations with such access. In sense that I am free born and that I may do what I wish, addition, the existence of the draft regulations is more with my view of public officials, because that is entirely theoretical than real—only two appeared, when the a matter for me, and that I should not be required to others would have been directly relevant to the debate. register with the possibility of a penalty if I do not vote. We must wait for the publication of the other draft That seems to me to be the other side of the coin regulations, but the communication placed in the Library to liberty. was clear that there are no draft regulations in six important areas. Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): To follow on from the point that has just been made, I believe that in a Mr Allen: The hon. Member for Aldridge-Brownhills democracy everybody should be able to choose whether (Mr Shepherd) spoke of affronts to liberty, but does my to exercise their right to vote, but to do that they have to hon. Friend agree that it is an affront to liberty that be on the register. That is what this debate is about. Ministers can set the level of the fine by diktat outwith People must be on the register so that they are able to the processes of the House? All Governments have choose whether to vote in an election. introduced such provisions—I am not making a partisan The Government are committed to continuing with point—but we should take that power by amending the the fine under the current legislation of £1,000 for Bill this evening. All hon. Members would understand households that refuse to co-operate with the electoral that, and the Government would have the ability to registration officer. However, they have had second adjust the fine over the years, because of inflation or thoughts on whether it is appropriate to introduce a fine because a different view is taken of the offence. or civil penalty for individuals who refuse to co-operate. Wayne David: My hon. Friend makes his point very Like other hon. Members, I welcome that change, clearly. That is precisely what we would have liked: full because initially the Government suggested in the draft parliamentary scrutiny, with the figure having been Bill that registration would be a matter of personal presented to us in the Bill or at least in regulations that choice. Many argued that to register is a civic duty and we could have considered in parallel. In fact, we put responsibility, and that there should be a civil penalty that request to the Government months ago, so I am attached for individuals who do not co-operate. disappointed—not from a partisan point of view but in I also welcome the fact that the Government intend the interest of scrutiny and democracy—that it has not to use the fine sparingly. Their impact assessment states: been possible. There are several gems in the regulations. “Currently the criminal offence of not responding to a household I do not want to digress, but there is a reference to “agile registration form is used to encourage compliance and thus methodology”. That is a new one on me. Perhaps the maintain the completeness of the electoral register. It is sparsely Minister could write to me about what it means with applied in practice and 150 prosecutions are actually initiated regard to verification. annually. It is intended that the new civil penalty will be used in the same way thus the propensity to issue fines should not increase,” 9.15 pm which is perfectly reasonable. The important thing is the We do not know the size of the civil penalty the declaration—I take the point made by the hon. Member Government have in mind. The Minister was reported for Ceredigion (Mr Williams) on that. It is important to as saying that it would be something like a parking fine, make such a stipulation prominent, so that people are but that does not take us very far forward. As I said on aware of their responsibility.The threat—the incentive—to Second Reading, in Westminster local authority, the comply is important, not the penalty. higher-rate parking fine is £130 and the lower-rate £110; 113 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 114 Administration Bill Administration Bill in my own area of Caerphilly the higher rate is £75 and referred was not uncontroversial. We voted against it by the lower rate £30; and next door, in Rhondda Cynon way of a reasoned amendment because it did not include Taff, the higher rate is £50 and the lower rate £25. I provisions on individual electoral registration. They could go on, but the point is that there is a tremendous were put in only when the Bill went to the other place, national variation. We know that these fines will not so I think we have done very well. Let me clarify what vary, but to say that they will be like a parking fine does we have done. We have added to the secondary legislation not tell us much at all. and put in provisions setting out the steps the registration officer should take before insisting on a penalty and we Ian Mearns: The variation around the country makes have set out some information about the penalty, to it difficult to draw a comparison. There is little preventive which I shall return in a few moments. or deterrent measure within the level of fines suggested; Let me explain, as the hon. Member for Caerphilly otherwise, these parking tickets would not be issued on mentioned it, that “agile methodology” is a way of a day-to-day basis. developing information technology—the way it is done in the private sector—in order to avoid complicated and Wayne David: That is right. A balance has to be massive IT systems that cost a fortune, do not work and struck. We had hoped to debate whether the Government then have to be scrapped. We have learned much from had struck that balance, but unfortunately we cannot how the previous Government operated; this is the way come to that decision. Perhaps before the end of the in which this Government will develop IT systems, and debate the Minister will tell us what level of fine the I think that they will be much more successful. Government have in mind. Picking up on the point raised by my hon. Friend the Member for Aldridge-Brownhills (Mr Shepherd), let Mr Harper: I want to say one or two words about the me be clear from the beginning that we are talking draft secondary legislation. I do not apologise for when about registration; we are absolutely not talking about I laid it in the Library, because we are not debating it; imposing a penalty for not voting. Voting is voluntary we are debating the Bill. I put it in the Library so that and it will remain voluntary. While this Government are Members could see it. I know I said this last week, but I in office, there will be no proposals to change that. I am will repeat it, because the hon. Member for Caerphilly always disappointed when people do not vote, but they (Wayne David) needs to think it through: I will take absolutely have the right not to, and it is our job as no lectures from him about secondary legislation. Two politicians to give them reasons for going out to vote or similar Bills delegating significant powers to Ministers use their postal vote and to ensure that there is no on electoral matters were introduced in the previous obstacle to their doing so. If they do not vote, it will be Parliament. I shall tell the House when the previous because we have not given them sufficiently compelling Government published the secondary legislation. It never reasons either to vote for us or against us, depending on published any in draft during the parliamentary passage their point of view. That remains the case. of the Bill. The first any Members saw of any secondary It is worth setting out—it is a bit of a stand part legislation was after royal assent. I have published the debate, but it is relevant to the amendments—how we draft secondary legislation while the Bill is still before have arrived at this point. Members will know that it is this House, let alone the other one, and I have said that not now and will not be in the future a specific offence the rest of the secondary legislation will be published by not to register to vote in the first instance. The current the autumn, before the Bill has finished its passage position is that if people do not respond to the household through the other place. It might not be perfect and we form or, indeed, other inquiries that the electoral registration might not be paragons of virtue, but we are doing an officer makes—this is the current way of getting on the awful lot better than the previous Government. He electoral register—it is a criminal offence with a penalty ought to think about that before makes that point again. of up to £1,000. We have no plans to change that; it will remain in place. Chris Ruane: Does the Minister accept that the difference The question we faced with the invitation to register between the two previous Bills, which, I admit, were was whether to have a penalty. The hon. Member for certainly not perfect, and this Bill is that the former Caerphilly is quite right that when the draft Bill was were not highly politicised? The 2009 legislation had first published, it did not include a penalty. Several hon. cross-party support, but this Bill is highly contentious. Members have touched on the public policy reasons We believe it to be highly politicised and the Conservative justifying a penalty. Some aspects of registration affect party’s ticket to winning the next election and the one other people. First, the register provides the source of afterwards. There is polarity there, which is why we jurors, and it is important to have balanced juries made need to see the fine print. up of a proper cross-section of adult electors. Secondly, electoral registers can affect boundary changes—not Mr Harper: I am not going to labour the point— just parliamentary boundary changes, but local ones as well, as highlighted by several hon. Members. That is The Temporary Chair (Mr Mike Weir): Order. Before why we decided it made sense to have a civil penalty, the Minister gets too far into this, let me remind the which was also in response to the Select Committee’s Committee that we are not debating the secondary report and some of the evidence that was taken. legislation at this point. Let us debate what is before the As for the amendments—the Select Committee’s Committee. The Minister can reply if he wants to, but I amendment 33 and amendment 14 from the hon. Member hope he will shortly bring us back to the main subject. for Caerphilly—regardless of the amounts specified, I do not believe it sensible to put the civil penalty directly Mr Harper: That is a good steer, Mr Weir. Let me in the Bill, as this would be better done through secondary make the point in passing that the 2009 Act to which legislation. I hesitate to correct the hon. Member for the hon. Member for Vale of Clwyd (Chris Ruane) Nottingham North (Mr Allen), the Chairman of the 115 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 116 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr Harper] Those who receive parking fines can usually reduce them by paying promptly, but they cannot reduce them Select Committee, but these matters are not at the to zero. In this instance, everyone who incurs a civil diktat of the Minister. All the Bill’s powers are made by penalty—and we hope that the number will be no more Ministers, but they all have to be approved by way of than the 100 a year or so who incur criminal penalties—will affirmative resolutions by both Houses. There is proper be able to reduce the amount to zero by registering to parliamentary control over the exercise of that Executive vote. If they register as a result of incurring the penalty, power. the electoral registration officer will be able to waive it. I hope that both hon. Members will withdraw their The purpose is to persuade people to register, not to amendments; as I said, it is not appropriate to put the issue fines. The Bill will prevent registration officers figures directly on the face of the Bill rather than from keeping the money, so that they are not tempted, implement them through secondary legislation. As for and so that people do not think that they are issuing the how we get to the figure for the penalty, I am afraid that fines in order to use them as a revenue generation the hon. Member for Caerphilly is going to remain exercise, which would be just as bad. disappointed for today, as I do not propose to pluck a We will specify—and have set out in draft regulations— figure out of the air. The process we want to adopt is what registration officers must do. They must issue the one that we have done all the way through—we are invitation, send reminders and send a door-to-door going to listen to people. We have explained how we will canvasser, and they must be satisfied that the individual go about this. We think that the analogy with parking has received the invitation and still resides at the address fines is sensible. The hon. Member for Caerphilly observed involved. Only when they have done all that can they that there was a range of parking fines across the tell people that they will issue a notice, and that if they country, but the range is fairly narrow. A parking fine is do not register after that, a penalty will be incurred. not £500; it is about £40 at the lower end and £130 at the higher end. Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con): The Minister There are some good arguments in favour of setting touched on an important point earlier. He will know the fine at the higher level, for instance to reflect the that some London boroughs, in particular, have given importance of the matter and to ensure that it is a parking attendants an incentive to issue tickets by offering proper deterrent, but there are also arguments in favour payment by results. Will he include in secondary legislation of setting it at the lower level. Unlike the £1,000 fine a methodology that would preclude such activities in issued by magistrates who can take into account the areas where the level of registration is usually low in the circumstances of voters—both the extent to which they first instance, so that there is no incentive to fleece the believe them to be culpable and their financial resources— taxpayer? this will be a fixed penalty. It should also be borne in mind that although the criminal penalty involves a Mr Harper: I am not sure whether my hon. Friend maximum fine of £1,000, the fines that are actually was present when I said this, but we have included in the issued are usually much lower. During the 2011 canvass, Bill the important provision that any revenue from fines the London borough of Hounslow successfully prosecuted does not go to the ERO and is not kept by the local 10 people for not providing the information required, authority. It must go to the centre. The purpose of the but the average fine issued was £125. That was because fines is to encourage people to register to vote, not to magistrates were able to take various factors into account. generate revenue for local authorities. Therefore, the This penalty will be fixed throughout the country, and process of issuing a penalty will come with a cost to, when it is issued it will not be possible for the electoral and a burden on, the local authority. We do not want registration officer to alter it. this to become a means of revenue generation for local We have listed a number of factors that should guide authorities, as some people think is the case in respect the arguments in favour of a higher or lower level, given of parking and speeding fines. I am confident our broadly the same range as that which applies to parking proposals strike the right balance. fines, and we will do some targeted work with our stakeholders and consider their responses. I suspect 9.30 pm that some will favour a reasonably high number for Chris Ruane: Many constituencies with large numbers encouragement purposes, while others will be a little of unregistered voters cover some of the poorest areas concerned about the potential impact. of the country, where cuts in other areas will loom large. I have listened carefully to the arguments that have EROs will be under a lot of pressure. If they legitimately been advanced today. I think that the hon. Member raise finance through fines, should they not be allowed for Caerphilly’s proposal is at least in the ball park of to keep a proportion of that, to reflect the additional the parking fine system, while the figure suggested by work they will have to do? Will every step be monitored? the hon. Member for Nottingham North on behalf of Further, will there be an increase in bureaucracy, and if his Select Committee is rather on the high side. We will so, how will it be paid for? draw our conclusions, and Members will be able to see what we have come up with. Mr Harper: I shall make two points in response to the I should also say, in response to a point made by both hon. Gentleman’s questions. First, some of our stakeholders the hon. Member for Caerphilly—who referred to the are concerned that many people who are not registered impact assessment—and the hon. Member for Nottingham to vote may well be poorer people; they do not want North, that this is not the first course to which electoral people without much money being hit with fines and registration officers should resort. We do not want them being financially penalised. We thought about this matter running around the country handing out fines like when drafting the legislation, and my view was that confetti; indeed, in an ideal world we would not want it was better to make sure there was not a financial fines at all. incentive. Everyone who gave us feedback, including 117 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 118 Administration Bill Administration Bill EROs, said they wanted a penalty. They do not want to Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. issue any penalties, however; rather, they want to be able Clause 5 ordered to stand part of the Bill. to write a scary notice on the form saying, “If you don’t Schedule 3 agreed to. do this, something will happen, so you can’t just ignore this form and put it in the bin.” That goes back to a point made by the hon. Member for Ceredigion Schedule 5 (Mr Williams). TRANSITIONAL PROVISION TO DO WITH PART 1 We will work with the Electoral Commission on how to set out the description of the penalty so that it has Wayne David: I beg to move amendment 21, in the desired effect. It will test that in the design of forms, schedule 5, page 27, line 21, at end insert— through user testing. If we come up with forms that ‘(6) The Government shall report to Parliament annually are effective in this regard, we will be able to make it within two months of the end of the financial year on what mandatory that they are used, which is important because money had been made available to local authorities to meet costs at present authorities do these things in a variety of of transition to the new register and what safeguards have been put in place to make sure the money has been spent on the ways. specified task.’. I will refer specifically to the amendment and then more Chris Ruane: On this question, may I refer the Minister generally to schedule 5. On the financing of individual to the example set by Denbighshire county council, electoral registration, our concern is whether sufficient which stated in the middle of its form for registration, finance is being provided. The explanatory notes that “If you do not fill this form in, you will be fined accompany the Bill indicate that: £1,000”? The warning has to be prominent and at the “A total of £108m was allocated at the Spending Review in centre of the page, so that the recipients of these forms 2010…This includes £85m resource funding in 2014/15 to fund clearly understand that they must fill them in. registration officers to make contact with each potential elector individually” Mr Harper: The Electoral Commission will consider who hopes to be on the register. such issues when addressing the design of the form, and The petitioners of individual electoral registration I am sure the points the hon. Gentleman raises will be and those who work in the field have concerns. I cite in taken into account. particular the comments of the chief executive of the Having set out why I do not think the level of the fine Association of Electoral Administrators, Mr John Turner. should be stated in the Bill, and having drawn attention I know there has been discussion between the Government to the draft secondary legislation and the approach we and the association, which I welcome. However, Mr Turner plan to take in coming up with that figure—rather than made the following important point in his written evidence just making it up, we will listen to what stakeholders to the Select Committee: have to say—I hope the amendments will be withdrawn “It is our view that the successful implementation of the new so we can allow the clause as currently drafted to stand system will depend on the relevant funding going directly”— part of the Bill. I emphasise the word “directly”— “to electoral services.” Mr Allen: First, may I name-check another member This is critical. He continues: of the Select Committee, the hon. Member for Epping “Any funding needs to continue post 2015 and should not simply Forest (Mrs Laing), for her attendance and contribution? be seen as one-off capital funding.” She made an epic contribution, and she was extremely Our concern is essentially in line with his comments. We helpful to me when I was indisposed, in making sure the are worried, for example, that there will be insufficient Committee carried out its scrutiny duties effectively. resources to provide electoral registration officers with Secondly, may I give credit to the Government, as they the necessary new guidance and training, particularly in have moved on this issue? At the outset, there was not respect of data management. We recognise that it will to be any fine whatever, and it takes courage, and some be necessary to enhance the skills and knowledge base cost, to listen, and the Government should be commended of officers, and we are concerned that money is not in this Chamber and outside it for having done so. provided for that. In other words, a comprehensive There is more to do, of course, but we are now in a training re-vamp is needed, along with a comprehensive position from where we can move forward. skills analysis, in order to inform the appropriate provision There were a couple of references in the debate to of training and support for electoral administrators. Robert Caro’s mammoth biography of Lyndon Baines In addition, there is also the fear, as I said, that the Johnson, who, from a very difficult position, became money allocated by the Government will not eventually the leading promoter of civil rights, including civil get through to where it is needed. We have tabled this rights legislation. At the beginning of those enormous amendment because, ideally, we would like these resources volumes, the scene is set by a black woman in the south to be ring-fenced, so that the whole transition period seeking to get registered to vote. We need to remember, and the implementation of a new system is properly particularly in discussing registration and clause 5, that financed with money that is guaranteed. The only way she was prohibited from participating in the democracy that electoral registration officers can plan effectively of the United States not by being prevented from voting, and do what is necessary is if they know exactly how but because she could not even register in order then to much money is coming through. participate in the voting process. That is why this clause is important, and why I hope the Minister will listen to Sheila Gilmore (Edinburgh East) (Lab): One additional the arguments that have been made tonight. In order to problem that will be faced, which has been discussed a ensure that he listens even more carefully than he normally lot in the course of the debate, is the differential involved does, I will withdraw my amendment. in how various areas will find carrying out this process. 119 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 120 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Sheila Gilmore] We strongly endorse those points. May I set this out in a genuine sense, through an We already know how different that can be, even within anecdote? My mother is 86 years of age and she has a parts of an area, but certainly between different areas. postal vote. [HON.MEMBERS: “Hear, hear.”] She will We have to be confident that this will be provided for. very pleased. She has had her postal vote for many years and, as far as she was concerned, when she filled Wayne David: That is a good point, because one of in the form to have a postal vote it was for the rest of our concerns about the Government’s approach to this her life. I hope that she will get through the Government’s legislation is that it will not be a comprehensive one data-matching exercise, as otherwise she will be asked right across the country. We feel that where there is a to reapply for a postal vote at the ripe old age of 86—it perceived need for more resources to be allocated, those will be a fairly detailed application, too. It is unreasonable resources will not, in fact, be allocated to where they are to put such a burden on elderly people and the Government required. I would welcome the Minister’s comments should, at the very least, ensure that the carry-over is on that. the same as it is for other voters. That leads me to a specific question I have about the devolved institutions—the Scottish Parliament and 9.45 pm the Welsh Assembly. I made inquiries the other day with We are not making a partisan point. A number of the Welsh Assembly Government as to whether or not people have said to me that the Mayor of London, any agreement had been reached with central Government Boris Johnson, owed his success in the recent mayoral about an appropriate allocation of resources to the election to postal votes. My point is simply that it Assembly, because local government is devolved. I was makes sense for all of us who are concerned about concerned to be told that no such agreement had been democracy, participation and access for elderly and reached with the Cabinet Office. So people in Wales are disabled people to the electoral system that they should not sure exactly what sum will be made available and have the same facility for postal and proxy votes as whether or not the Welsh Assembly Government will everybody else. They should not be singled out. have the ability to do what they believe is necessary within the confines of Wales. So I would welcome any My second point about schedule 5 concerns the reference comments the Minister wishes to make about Wales to the carry-over for the boundary review of 2015, or and Scotland. rather to the lack of a carry-over. In the transition to IER, there is concern that the new register will be at its In the second half of my comments, I wish to refer most vulnerable at the very start. That concern has been more generally to schedule 5, which relates to the transition expressed by a number of experts and academics and to the new system. The amendments that we tabled last reflects the experience in Northern Ireland. Concern Monday have already been discussed, but we have concerns has also been expressed by the all-party Political and about this schedule in particular. It is a vital part of the Constitutional Reform Committee. It has been suggested Bill, and we are very concerned about postal votes and that the lack of carry-over represents what the Electoral the number of electors who will be on the register when Commission fears most of all. the next boundary review takes place in December 2015. It is most unfortunate that the Government have It is not my intention to repeat the arguments I used a introduced IER before the second set of pilots, which week ago, but I would just like to make a couple of we discussed in Committee the other day. It would have points, the first of which relates to postal votes. Strong been far better if the results of those pilots had emerged representations on postal votes have been made by a and confirmed that, as we hoped, there would not be a number of organisations. I particularly wish to cite the problem. We could then all have proceeded happily. most recent joint circular given to Members of Parliament Many people have said that it is quite likely, as was the by Mencap, the Royal National Institute of Blind People, case with the first tranche of pilots, that that second Age Concern, Scope and Sense. Those organisations say: tranche will show that there is a problem with IER, “We believe that an appropriate balance must be struck between particularly at the start of the new system. We are safeguarding individual registration against electoral fraud and concerned about that. ensuring accessibility. We remain concerned about the risks involved in the arrangements currently in place for dealing with postal To illustrate once again that we are not taking a partisan votes during the transition to IER. Postal votes are disproportionately approach, let me refer to a number of other organisations used by disabled and older voters.” and academics who have made representations. In particular, That is a very important point and, despite their listening I want to point out the evidence given to the Political exercise, the Government have not truly taken on board and Constitutional Reform Committee by one of the the points made by all those organisations which have most distinguished academics in this area, Dr Stuart united to speak with one voice to set out their concerns Wilks-Heeg, senior lecturer in social policy at the university in moderate and reasonable ways. of Liverpool and executive director of Democratic Audit. Those organisations have supported our amendments 18 He said: and 19, saying that our approach “If we do see a large number of people drop off the registers, even if in all likelihood they are not going to vote, that will have a “would give those people wishing to use postal votes time to profound implication for the redrawing of boundaries under the register under the new system before the next election.” new rules that have just gone through. If there is going to be a Our concern is that many of these postal voters will not political effect, that is where we could see it very, very significantly, be able to vote at the next election. The circular goes on because if the kind of groups we expect to drop off the register to say that our approach are the ones that we start to see drop off the register, it really could have profound effects for the redrawing of constituency “would have allowed for disabled and older people, who boundaries next time round.” disproportionately make use of postal votes, time to familiarise themselves with the new system and ensure that they remain He is not grinding any political axe; that is an objective eligible for postal voting at the next election.” evaluation of where we are. 121 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 122 Administration Bill Administration Bill Dr Wilks-Heeg referred to particular groups who the boundaries? Can he see any reason why Liberal were at risk of not being included in the electoral Democrats in particular should vote for it, given that it register, particularly as the new approach starts. Those would be one of those rare occasions when turkeys vote groups include young people, disabled people, people for Christmas? from black and ethnic minorities, people in public and private rented accommodation and people who, for one reason or another to do with their lifestyle, are very Mr David: My hon. Friend’s concern for the Liberal mobile. If we look at the United Kingdom as a whole, Democrats is touching, although I cannot say that I we find that the greatest concentration of such people share it. To answer his first question frankly, yes, at the can probably be found in central London. It has start of the legislative process, strong words were used, already been suggested that, under the legislation passed not least by me, because we were worried by the overtly last year, London will be under-represented. If the Bill and crudely partisan nature of the Bill of that time. is passed unamended, they will be further under- But—and it is an important “but”—the Government represented. modified their position. I give them credit for doing so. As my hon. Friend implies, if they have made concessions Having quoted an academic, I will now quote John in a host of areas already, why not go the whole hog and Turner, chief executive of the Association of Electoral let us have a proper consensual approach? Administrators—again, someone with no political axe to grind and someone with whom, commendably, the I listened intently to what the Minister said in the Government have been working. In his evidence to the debate on our amendments last Monday. He did not Political and Constitutional Reform Committee, he said: produce any convincing arguments why the timetable “At the risk of provoking any of you, can I also make a point that we established in legislation when we were in power about the December 2015 register? If you have that sort of drop could not be followed, and why we need to move hastily and your friends at the Boundary Commission then have to do towards the Bill. If the Government do not take heed of the next boundary review on the next system, it is going to make what we are saying from the Opposition Front Bench, another major difference to the way in which parliamentary let them at least take note of what many people outside boundaries are drawn, given that the 2015 register, with these the House have said—the Electoral Commission, academics potential drops, will be that which is used to settle the new and the cross-party Select Committee. Many people constituency boundaries for 2020.” drawn from a range of different organisations have There is another entirely objective view. It is notable— made the same point: this is probably the most important commendable—that, having received that sort of evidence, change to our electoral system since the advent of skilfully and objectively presented, the Committee reached universal suffrage. It is far too important to be the victim a powerful conclusion regarding constituency boundaries. of crude partisanship. We want a consensual approach All hon. Members know, but I underline the fact that that will unite all democrats. the Committee, although chaired by a Labour Member, is a cross-party body. It concluded: Finally, the Bill is important in terms of people’s “For the next parliamentary constituency boundary reviews to ability to decide whether to cast their votes or not, but it be fair and representative, electoral registers across the country is important in other respects as well. This underlines need to be at least as complete—and as consistently complete—as the civic responsibility point—people need to be on the they are now. The Government needs to ensure that its proposals electoral register for reasons other than to vote. One of will achieve this end. the most important reasons is that those who are eligible There is a risk that the electoral registers in December 2015 for jury service are drawn from the electoral register. will be particularly varied in their levels of completeness: this When we talk about the completeness of the register, matters because they will be used under current legislation as the we are not talking only about our democratic system basis for the next boundary review. We recommend using instead and the voting system, important though it is. We are the registers as they stood on or before general election day in talking also about the criminal justice system and its May 2015.” credibility. That is a perfectly reasonable position expressed by the Select Committee. I hope that Government, given that We all saw the terrible riots which scarred English they have rightly been congratulated on making a number cities last summer. That is all the more reason to ensure of moves—perhaps even concessions—on key areas, that all groups in our society are effectively represented will consider doing so again, even at this late stage. on our juries. The last thing we want is an electoral The strongest thing to happen now in the interests of register which contains a disproportionately large number democracy would be cross-party agreement on this of white middle-class people who are in turn represented important measure to modify and modernise our electoral on the juries that are selected. That is no way to enhance registration system. That requires political consensus. the credibility of our criminal justice system. Throughout this process, we have been more than happy It is important to recognise that electoral registers are to engage in dialogue with the Parliamentary Secretary. used to establish people’s creditworthiness. Whether He has listened to our concerns and there has been they may have a mortgage is quite often defined by their movement on some of them, but until now, on the presence on the electoral register. Also, it is seldom crucial issue of the potential impact on boundaries, the mentioned that the police make great use of the electoral Government have decided not to listen. We are concerned register. It is important for the development of our not only that a number of people will not be able to society, as well as for our democracy. In a modern vote, but that they will not be able to exercise their democracy, being on the electoral register is a civic duty democratic rights in a host of different ways. and a civic responsibility. That is why we want accuracy in our electoral register. Although we all want accuracy, Mr Kevan Jones: Does my hon. Friend agree that this it is important to recognise that standing alongside it provision is the last remainder of what was essentially a there must be completeness as well. Those are the twins gerrymandering Bill and that not removing it will affect that should go together in the legislation. 123 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 124 Administration Bill Administration Bill [Mr David] Godsiff, Mr Roger Morris, Grahame M. Goggins, rh Paul (Easington) Despite the debates that we have had, our concern is Goodman, Helen Mudie, Mr George that the Government place far too much emphasis on Greatrex, Tom Murphy, rh Paul accuracy at the expense of completeness. We want to Green, Kate Murray, Ian see the two going together. That is important not just Greenwood, Lilian Nandy, Lisa Griffith, Nia Nash, Pamela when we reach a fully fledged individual electoral Gwynne, Andrew O’Donnell, Fiona registration system, but in the transition system. Schedule 5 Hanson, rh Mr David Onwurah, Chi is a vital part of the legislation. It takes us through the Harris, Mr Tom Owen, Albert transition and ensures that when individual registration Havard, Mr Dai Pearce, Teresa is introduced it has the support of the people of this Healey, rh John Perkins, Toby country, including potential and actual electors. I hope Hendrick, Mark Phillipson, Bridget that the Committee will consider the schedule carefully Hepburn, Mr Stephen Pound, Stephen and give careful consideration to the amendments for Heyes, David Qureshi, Yasmin which we argued passionately last Monday— Hilling, Julie Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Hodge, rh Margaret Reeves, Rachel 10 pm Hoey, Kate Reynolds, Jonathan Hopkins, Kelvin Riordan, Mrs Linda Proceedings interrupted (Programme Order, 23 May). Howarth, rh Mr George Ritchie, Ms Margaret The Chair put forthwith the Questions necessary for Hunt, Tristram Robertson, John the disposal of the business to be concluded at that time Irranca-Davies, Huw Robinson, Mr Geoffrey (Standing Order No. 83D) Jamieson, Cathy Rotheram, Steve Jarvis, Dan Roy, Mr Frank Amendment proposed: 20, page 27, line 44, leave out Johnson, rh Alan Roy, Lindsay ‘second’ and insert ‘third’.—(Mr David.) Johnson, Diana Ruane, Chris Question put, That the amendment be made. Jones, Helen Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Jones, Mr Kevan Seabeck, Alison The Committee divided: Ayes 206, Noes 276. Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Sharma, Mr Virendra Division No. 23] [10pm Keeley, Barbara Sheerman, Mr Barry Khan, rh Sadiq Shuker, Gavin AYES Lammy, rh Mr David Skinner, Mr Dennis Lavery, Ian Slaughter, Mr Andy Abbott, Ms Diane Creasy, Stella Lazarowicz, Mark Smith, rh Mr Andrew Abrahams, Debbie Cruddas, Jon Leslie, Chris Smith, Angela Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Cryer, John Lewis, Mr Ivan Smith, Nick Alexander, Heidi Cunningham, Alex Lloyd, Tony Smith, Owen Ali, Rushanara Cunningham, Mr Jim Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Straw, rh Mr Jack Allen, Mr Graham Cunningham, Sir Tony Lucas, Caroline Stringer, Graham Anderson, Mr David Curran, Margaret Lucas, Ian Stuart, Ms Gisela Ashworth, Jonathan Dakin, Nic MacShane, rh Mr Denis Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Austin, Ian Danczuk, Simon Mactaggart, Fiona Tami, Mark Bailey, Mr Adrian David, Wayne Mahmood, Shabana Thornberry, Emily Bain, Mr William Davidson, Mr Ian Malhotra, Seema Timms, rh Stephen Balls, rh Ed De Piero, Gloria Mann, John Trickett, Jon Banks, Gordon Denham, rh Mr John Marsden, Mr Gordon Turner, Karl Barron, rh Mr Kevin Dobson, rh Frank McCann, Mr Michael Twigg, Derek Bayley, Hugh Docherty, Thomas McCarthy, Kerry Twigg, Stephen Beckett, rh Margaret Donohoe, Mr Brian H. McClymont, Gregg Umunna, Mr Chuka Benn, rh Hilary Doran, Mr Frank McDonagh, Siobhain Vaz, Valerie Berger, Luciana Dowd, Jim McDonnell, John Walley, Joan Betts, Mr Clive Doyle, Gemma McFadden, rh Mr Pat Watson, Mr Tom Blackman-Woods, Roberta Dromey, Jack McGovern, Jim Watts, Mr Dave Blears, rh Hazel Dugher, Michael McKechin, Ann Whitehead, Dr Alan Blenkinsop, Tom Eagle, Ms Angela McKenzie, Mr Iain Wicks, rh Malcolm Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Eagle, Maria McKinnell, Catherine Williamson, Chris Brennan, Kevin Edwards, Jonathan Meacher, rh Mr Michael Wilson, Phil Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Efford, Clive Mearns, Ian Winnick, Mr David Brown, Mr Russell Elliott, Julie Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Bryant, Chris Ellman, Mrs Louise Michael, rh Alun Woodcock, John Buck, Ms Karen Engel, Natascha Miliband, rh David Wright, David Burden, Richard Esterson, Bill Miller, Andrew Wright, Mr Iain Campbell, Mr Alan Evans, Chris Mitchell, Austin Campbell, Mr Ronnie Farrelly, Paul Moon, Mrs Madeleine Tellers for the Ayes: Caton, Martin Field, rh Mr Frank Morden, Jessica Graham Jones and Chapman, Jenny Fitzpatrick, Jim Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Susan Elan Jones Clarke, rh Mr Tom Flello, Robert Clwyd, rh Ann Fovargue, Yvonne NOES Coffey, Ann Francis, Dr Hywel Cooper, Rosie Gardiner, Barry Adams, Nigel Andrew, Stuart Cooper, rh Yvette Gilmore, Sheila Afriyie, Adam Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Crausby, Mr David Glass, Pat Aldous, Peter Bacon, Mr Richard Creagh, Mary Glindon, Mrs Mary Alexander, rh Danny Baker, Norman 125 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 126 Administration Bill Administration Bill Baker, Steve Garnier, Mark Lilley, rh Mr Peter Sandys, Laura Baldwin, Harriett George, Andrew Lloyd, Stephen Selous, Andrew Barclay, Stephen Gibb, Mr Nick Lopresti, Jack Shapps, rh Grant Barker, Gregory Gilbert, Stephen Lord, Jonathan Shelbrooke, Alec Baron, Mr John Glen, John Lumley, Karen Simmonds, Mark Barwell, Gavin Goldsmith, Zac Macleod, Mary Simpson, David Bebb, Guto Goodwill, Mr Robert Maude, rh Mr Francis Skidmore, Chris Beith, rh Sir Alan Gove, rh Michael Maynard, Paul Smith, Miss Chloe Bellingham, Mr Henry Graham, Richard McCartney, Jason Smith, Henry Bingham, Andrew Grant, Mrs Helen McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Julian Birtwistle, Gordon Gray, Mr James McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Smith, Sir Robert Blackman, Bob Grayling, rh Chris McVey, Esther Soames, rh Nicholas Blunt, Mr Crispin Green, Damian Mensch, Louise Soubry, Anna Boles, Nick Greening, rh Justine Menzies, Mark Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Bone, Mr Peter Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Mercer, Patrick Spencer, Mr Mark Bradley, Karen Griffiths, Andrew Metcalfe, Stephen Stanley, rh Sir John Brady, Mr Graham Gummer, Ben Miller, Maria Stevenson, John Bray, Angie Gyimah, Mr Sam Mills, Nigel Stewart, Bob Bridgen, Andrew Halfon, Robert Milton, Anne Stewart, Iain Brine, Steve Hames, Duncan Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Stewart, Rory Brokenshire, James Hammond, rh Mr Philip Moore, rh Michael Streeter, Mr Gary Browne, Mr Jeremy Hammond, Stephen Mordaunt, Penny Stride, Mel Bruce, Fiona Hancock, Matthew Morgan, Nicky Stuart, Mr Graham Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Harper, Mr Mark Morris, David Stunell, Andrew Buckland, Mr Robert Harrington, Richard Morris, James Sturdy, Julian Burley, Mr Aidan Harris, Rebecca Mosley, Stephen Swales, Ian Burns, Conor Hart, Simon Mowat, David Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Burns, rh Mr Simon Harvey, Nick Munt, Tessa Swinson, Jo Burrowes, Mr David Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Murray, Sheryll Syms, Mr Robert Burt, Lorely Hayes, Mr John Murrison, Dr Andrew Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Byles, Dan Heath, Mr David Neill, Robert Thurso, John Cable, rh Vince Heaton-Harris, Chris Newton, Sarah Timpson, Mr Edward Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Henderson, Gordon Norman, Jesse Tomlinson, Justin Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Hendry, Charles Nuttall, Mr David Tredinnick, David Carmichael, Neil Herbert, rh Nick O’Brien, Mr Stephen Truss, Elizabeth Carswell, Mr Douglas Hinds, Damian Offord, Dr Matthew Turner, Mr Andrew Clappison, Mr James Hoban, Mr Mark Ollerenshaw, Eric Uppal, Paul Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Hollingbery, George Opperman, Guy Vaizey, Mr Edward Coffey, Dr Thérèse Hollobone, Mr Philip Ottaway, Richard Vara, Mr Shailesh Collins, Damian Hopkins, Kris Paice, rh Mr James Vickers, Martin Colvile, Oliver Horwood, Martin Parish, Neil Walker, Mr Robin Cox, Mr Geoffrey Howell, John Patel, Priti Wallace, Mr Ben Crabb, Stephen Hughes, rh Simon Pawsey, Mark Ward, Mr David Crockart, Mike Huhne, rh Chris Penrose, John Watkinson, Angela Crouch, Tracey Huppert, Dr Julian Percy, Andrew Webb, Steve Davey, rh Mr Edward Hurd, Mr Nick Phillips, Stephen Wharton, James Davies, Glyn Jackson, Mr Stewart Pincher, Christopher Wheeler, Heather Davies, Philip James, Margot Poulter, Dr Daniel White, Chris de Bois, Nick Javid, Sajid Prisk, Mr Mark Whittingdale, Mr John Dinenage, Caroline Jenkin, Mr Bernard Pugh, John Wiggin, Bill Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Johnson, Gareth Raab, Mr Dominic Williams, Mr Mark Doyle-Price, Jackie Johnson, Joseph Randall, rh Mr John Williams, Roger Drax, Richard Jones, Andrew Reckless, Mark Williams, Stephen Duddridge, James Jones, Mr Marcus Redwood, rh Mr John Williamson, Gavin Dunne, Mr Philip Kawczynski, Daniel Rees-Mogg, Jacob Willott, Jenny Ellis, Michael Kelly, Chris Reid, Mr Alan Wollaston, Dr Sarah Ellison, Jane Kirby, Simon Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Wright, Jeremy Ellwood, Mr Tobias Knight, rh Mr Greg Robertson, Hugh Wright, Simon Elphicke, Charlie Kwarteng, Kwasi Robertson, Mr Laurence Yeo, Mr Tim Eustice, George Laing, Mrs Eleanor Rogerson, Dan Young, rh Sir George Evans, Graham Lamb, Norman Rosindell, Andrew Evans, Jonathan Lancaster, Mark Ruffley, Mr David Tellers for the Noes: Evennett, Mr David Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Rutley, David Mark Hunter and Fabricant, Michael Latham, Pauline Sanders, Mr Adrian Greg Hands Fallon, Michael Leadsom, Andrea Farron, Tim Lee, Jessica Question accordingly negatived. Featherstone, Lynne Leech, Mr John Field, Mark Lefroy, Jeremy Amendment proposed: 18, page 31, line 6, leave out Foster, rh Mr Don Leslie, Charlotte ‘first’ and insert ‘second’.—(Wayne David.) Francois, rh Mr Mark Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Question put, That the amendment be made. Freeman, George Lewis, Brandon Fullbrook, Lorraine Lewis, Dr Julian The Committee divided: Ayes 205, Noes 275. 127 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 Electoral Registration and 128 Administration Bill Administration Bill Division No. 24] [10.16 pm Miliband, rh David Shuker, Gavin Miller, Andrew Skinner, Mr Dennis AYES Mitchell, Austin Slaughter, Mr Andy Moon, Mrs Madeleine Smith, rh Mr Andrew Abbott, Ms Diane Evans, Chris Morden, Jessica Smith, Angela Abrahams, Debbie Farrelly, Paul Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Smith, Nick Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Field, rh Mr Frank Morris, Grahame M. Smith, Owen Alexander, Heidi Fitzpatrick, Jim (Easington) Straw, rh Mr Jack Ali, Rushanara Flello, Robert Mudie, Mr George Stringer, Graham Allen, Mr Graham Fovargue, Yvonne Murphy, rh Paul Stuart, Ms Gisela Anderson, Mr David Francis, Dr Hywel Murray, Ian Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Ashworth, Jonathan Gardiner, Barry Nandy, Lisa Tami, Mark Austin, Ian Gilmore, Sheila Nash, Pamela Thornberry, Emily Bailey, Mr Adrian Glass, Pat O’Donnell, Fiona Timms, rh Stephen Bain, Mr William Glindon, Mrs Mary Onwurah, Chi Trickett, Jon Balls, rh Ed Godsiff, Mr Roger Owen, Albert Turner, Karl Banks, Gordon Goggins, rh Paul Pearce, Teresa Twigg, Derek Barron, rh Mr Kevin Goodman, Helen Perkins, Toby Twigg, Stephen Bayley, Hugh Greatrex, Tom Phillipson, Bridget Umunna, Mr Chuka Beckett, rh Margaret Green, Kate Pound, Stephen Vaz, Valerie Benn, rh Hilary Greenwood, Lilian Qureshi, Yasmin Walley, Joan Berger, Luciana Griffith, Nia Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Watson, Mr Tom Betts, Mr Clive Gwynne, Andrew Reeves, Rachel Watts, Mr Dave Blackman-Woods, Roberta Hanson, rh Mr David Reynolds, Jonathan Whitehead, Dr Alan Blears, rh Hazel Harris, Mr Tom Riordan, Mrs Linda Wicks, rh Malcolm Blenkinsop, Tom Havard, Mr Dai Ritchie, Ms Margaret Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Healey, rh John Williamson, Chris Robertson, John Brennan, Kevin Hendrick, Mark Wilson, Phil Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Hepburn, Mr Stephen Winnick, Mr David Rotheram, Steve Brown, Mr Russell Heyes, David Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Roy, Mr Frank Bryant, Chris Hilling, Julie Woodcock, John Roy, Lindsay Buck, Ms Karen Hodge, rh Margaret Wright, David Ruane, Chris Burden, Richard Hoey, Kate Wright, Mr Iain Ruddock, rh Dame Joan Campbell, Mr Alan Hopkins, Kelvin Seabeck, Alison Tellers for the Ayes: Campbell, Mr Ronnie Howarth, rh Mr George Sharma, Mr Virendra Graham Jones and Caton, Martin Hunt, Tristram Sheerman, Mr Barry Susan Elan Jones Chapman, Jenny Irranca-Davies, Huw Clarke, rh Mr Tom Jamieson, Cathy Clwyd, rh Ann Jarvis, Dan NOES Coffey, Ann Johnson, rh Alan Adams, Nigel Burley, Mr Aidan Cooper, Rosie Johnson, Diana Afriyie, Adam Burns, Conor Cooper, rh Yvette Jones, Helen Aldous, Peter Burns, rh Mr Simon Crausby, Mr David Jones, Mr Kevan Alexander, rh Danny Burrowes, Mr David Creagh, Mary Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Andrew, Stuart Burt, Lorely Creasy, Stella Keeley, Barbara Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Byles, Dan Cruddas, Jon Khan, rh Sadiq Bacon, Mr Richard Cable, rh Vince Cryer, John Lammy, rh Mr David Baker, Norman Campbell, rh Sir Menzies Cunningham, Alex Lavery, Ian Baker, Steve Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Cunningham, Mr Jim Lazarowicz, Mark Baldwin, Harriett Carmichael, Neil Cunningham, Sir Tony Leslie, Chris Barclay, Stephen Carswell, Mr Douglas Curran, Margaret Lewis, Mr Ivan Barker, Gregory Clappison, Mr James Dakin, Nic Lloyd, Tony Baron, Mr John Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Danczuk, Simon Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Barwell, Gavin Coffey, Dr Thérèse David, Wayne Lucas, Caroline Bebb, Guto Collins, Damian Davidson, Mr Ian Lucas, Ian Beith, rh Sir Alan Colvile, Oliver De Piero, Gloria Mactaggart, Fiona Bellingham, Mr Henry Cox, Mr Geoffrey Denham, rh Mr John Mahmood, Shabana Bingham, Andrew Crabb, Stephen Dobson, rh Frank Malhotra, Seema Birtwistle, Gordon Crockart, Mike Docherty, Thomas Mann, John Blackman, Bob Crouch, Tracey Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Marsden, Mr Gordon Blunt, Mr Crispin Davey, rh Mr Edward Doran, Mr Frank McCann, Mr Michael Boles, Nick Davies, Glyn Dowd, Jim McCarthy, Kerry Bone, Mr Peter Davies, Philip Doyle, Gemma McClymont, Gregg Bradley, Karen de Bois, Nick Dromey, Jack McDonagh, Siobhain Dugher, Michael McDonnell, John Brady, Mr Graham Dinenage, Caroline Eagle, Ms Angela McFadden, rh Mr Pat Bray, Angie Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Eagle, Maria McGovern, Jim Bridgen, Andrew Doyle-Price, Jackie Edwards, Jonathan McKechin, Ann Brine, Steve Drax, Richard Efford, Clive McKenzie, Mr Iain Brokenshire, James Duddridge, James Elliott, Julie McKinnell, Catherine Browne, Mr Jeremy Ellis, Michael Ellman, Mrs Louise Meacher, rh Mr Michael Bruce, Fiona Ellison, Jane Engel, Natascha Mearns, Ian Bruce, rh Sir Malcolm Ellwood, Mr Tobias Esterson, Bill Michael, rh Alun Buckland, Mr Robert Elphicke, Charlie 129 Electoral Registration and 25 JUNE 2012 130 Administration Bill Eustice, George Kwarteng, Kwasi Robertson, Mr Laurence Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Evans, Graham Laing, Mrs Eleanor Rogerson, Dan Thurso, John Evans, Jonathan Lamb, Norman Rosindell, Andrew Timpson, Mr Edward Evennett, Mr David Lancaster, Mark Ruffley, Mr David Tomlinson, Justin Fabricant, Michael Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Rutley, David Tredinnick, David Fallon, Michael Latham, Pauline Sanders, Mr Adrian Truss, Elizabeth Farron, Tim Leadsom, Andrea Sandys, Laura Turner, Mr Andrew Featherstone, Lynne Lee, Jessica Selous, Andrew Uppal, Paul Field, Mark Leech, Mr John Shapps, rh Grant Vaizey, Mr Edward Foster, rh Mr Don Lefroy, Jeremy Shelbrooke, Alec Vara, Mr Shailesh Francois, rh Mr Mark Leslie, Charlotte Simmonds, Mark Vickers, Martin Freeman, George Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Simpson, Mr Keith Walker, Mr Robin Fullbrook, Lorraine Lewis, Brandon Skidmore, Chris Wallace, Mr Ben Garnier, Mark Lewis, Dr Julian Smith, Miss Chloe Ward, Mr David George, Andrew Lilley, rh Mr Peter Smith, Henry Watkinson, Angela Gibb, Mr Nick Lloyd, Stephen Smith, Julian Webb, Steve Gilbert, Stephen Lopresti, Jack Smith, Sir Robert Wharton, James Glen, John Lord, Jonathan Soames, rh Nicholas Wheeler, Heather Goldsmith, Zac Lumley, Karen Soubry, Anna White, Chris Goodwill, Mr Robert Macleod, Mary Spelman, rh Mrs Caroline Whittingdale, Mr John Gove, rh Michael Maude, rh Mr Francis Spencer, Mr Mark Wiggin, Bill Graham, Richard Maynard, Paul Stevenson, John Williams, Mr Mark Grant, Mrs Helen McCartney, Jason Stewart, Bob Williams, Roger Gray, Mr James McIntosh, Miss Anne Stewart, Iain Williams, Stephen Grayling, rh Chris McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Stewart, Rory Williamson, Gavin Green, Damian McVey, Esther Streeter, Mr Gary Willott, Jenny Greening, rh Justine Mensch, Louise Stride, Mel Wollaston, Dr Sarah Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Menzies, Mark Stuart, Mr Graham Wright, Jeremy Griffiths, Andrew Mercer, Patrick Stunell, Andrew Wright, Simon Gummer, Ben Metcalfe, Stephen Sturdy, Julian Yeo, Mr Tim Gyimah, Mr Sam Miller, Maria Swales, Ian Young, rh Sir George Halfon, Robert Mills, Nigel Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Tellers for the Noes: Hames, Duncan Milton, Anne Swinson, Jo Mr Philip Dunne and Hammond, rh Mr Philip Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Syms, Mr Robert Mark Hunter Hammond, Stephen Moore, rh Michael Hancock, Matthew Mordaunt, Penny Hands, Greg Morgan, Nicky Question accordingly negatived. Harper, Mr Mark Morris, David Schedule 5 agreed to. Harrington, Richard Morris, James The occupant of the Chair left the Chair (Programme Harris, Rebecca Mosley, Stephen Hart, Simon Mowat, David Order, 23 May). Harvey, Nick Munt, Tessa The Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair. Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Murray, Sheryll Progress reported; Committee to sit again tomorrow. Hayes, Mr John Murrison, Dr Andrew Heath, Mr David Neill, Robert Heaton-Harris, Chris Newton, Sarah Business without Debate Henderson, Gordon Norman, Jesse Hendry, Charles Nuttall, Mr David Herbert, rh Nick O’Brien, Mr Stephen Hinds, Damian Offord, Dr Matthew DELEGATED LEGISLATION Hoban, Mr Mark Ollerenshaw, Eric Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Hollingbery, George Opperman, Guy Order No. 118(6)), Hollobone, Mr Philip Ottaway, Richard Hopkins, Kris Paice, rh Mr James Horwood, Martin Parish, Neil IMMIGRATION Howell, John Patel, Priti That the draft Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 Hughes, rh Simon Pawsey, Mark (Authority to Carry) Regulations 2012, which were laid before Huhne, rh Chris Penrose, John this House on 30 April 2012, in the previous Session of Parliament, Huppert, Dr Julian Percy, Andrew be approved.—(Stephen Crabb.) Hurd, Mr Nick Phillips, Stephen Question agreed to. Jackson, Mr Stewart Pincher, Christopher James, Margot Poulter, Dr Daniel Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Javid, Sajid Prisk, Mr Mark Order No. 118(6)), Jenkin, Mr Bernard Pugh, John Johnson, Gareth Raab, Mr Dominic DATA PROTECTION Johnson, Joseph Randall, rh Mr John That the draft Data Protection (Processing of Sensitive Personal Jones, Andrew Reckless, Mark Data) Order 2012, which was laid before this House on 14 May, Jones, Mr Marcus Redwood, rh Mr John be approved.—(Stephen Crabb.) Kawczynski, Daniel Rees-Mogg, Jacob Kelly, Chris Reid, Mr Alan Question agreed to. Kirby, Simon Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Knight, rh Mr Greg Robertson, Hugh Order No. 118(6)), 131 Business without Debate 25 JUNE 2012 132

REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS Policing (Devon and Cornwall) That the draft Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2012, which was laid before this House on 14 May, be approved.—(Stephen Crabb.) do now adjourn.—(Stephen Crabb.) Question agreed to. 10.30 pm Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing Order No. 118(6)), Dan Rogerson (North Cornwall) (LD): I am grateful for this opportunity to raise policing in the Devon and INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Cornwall force area. Many people do not consider the That the draft International Fund for Agricultural Development police in detail until such time as we need to call on (Eighth Replenishment) Order 2012, which was laid before this their support, services and advice. Complaints against House on 14 March 2012, in the previous Session of Parliament, the police are occasionally brought to the attention of be approved.—(Stephen Crabb.) MPs. As with all services, there is a tendency to focus on Question agreed to. negative reports—people do not often take the trouble to come to their MP’s surgery to express their admiration and gratitude for a service—but hon. Members appreciate ESTIMATES and are incredibly grateful for what police officers, Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing police community support officers and police staff do Order No. 145), in their constituencies to ensure that there is a great That this House agrees with the Report [20 June] of the deterrent to crime and community engagement on tackling Liaison Committee.—(Stephen Crabb.) and resolving problems confronting that community, Question agreed to. and that those who commit crimes are detected. Devon and Cornwall is the largest force area in PETITION England—it is more than 180 miles from one end to the other. Fortunately, it is also one of the safest places to live and work. Recorded crime has been low in recent Sunday Trading (London Olympic and Paralympic years in the area compared with other parts of the Games) country, although in recent months, there are signs of a reverse in that trend. Perhaps we can expect that at 10.29 pm times of economic hardship—sadly, we have seen crime Nic Dakin (Scunthorpe) (Lab): The petition of residents rise in such circumstances in the past. That reverse is at of the Scunthorpe county constituency states: an early stage, and we must keep it under close review. The Petition of residents of Scunthorpe, Oliver Colvile (Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport) Declares that the Petitioners are opposed to the changes to (Con): Does the hon. Gentleman recognise that Charles Sunday trading hours brought in by the Sunday Trading (London Olympic and Paralympic Games) Act, as the Petitioners believe Cross police station in my constituency is one of the that the changes put unfair pressure on shop workers, who value busiest police stations—if not the busiest—in the whole shorter working hours on Sundays as they allow people to spend of England, principally because of drug and alcohol more time with their families. abuse? The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to bring forward legislation to reverse the Dan Rogerson: The hon. Gentleman makes a good point changes brought in by the Sunday Trading (London Olympic and on one of the pressures on the police. That problem Paralympic Games) Act and ensure that Sunday Trading Regulations requires close cross-agency working, including health are not suspended during the London Olympic and Paralympic and social services, and local housing officers. The Games. police have a great demand made of them from cross-agency And the Petitioners remain, etc. working and they also have a huge contribution to make. [P001100] As I was saying, Devon and Cornwall police cover a huge area. It is mix of urban areas, as the hon. Gentleman pointed out—it includes Plymouth and other larger settlements—and rural areas. Another characteristic of the force is that its officer base is at the higher end of the age profile, which is somewhat driven by the high number of transfers into the force area. That brings with it the benefit of experience and a range of skills, but it also changes the characteristics of the force. Officers have raised that with me. Devon and Cornwall police are highly thought of: according to studies, 68.7% of those who responded said that the force was good or excellent, placing it second out of the 42 forces, and 90% expected to be treated respectfully by the police, again putting them second. As I have said, it is also one of the safest places—in fact, in the top 10—in the country. We are, however, in a time of deficit reduction, and the Liberal Democrats and our Conservative coalition partners have signed up to doing the right thing, which 133 Policing (Devon and Cornwall)25 JUNE 2012 Policing (Devon and Cornwall) 134 is to tackle the deficit left to us by the previous Government. however, like to see a mechanism that shows that some Sadly, no one from Her Majesty’s Opposition is with us, progress is being made on the funding due to Devon but they have admitted the need to tackle the deficit. Of and Cornwall. If that £4.9 million were to be made course, though, they are now in the happy position of available, it would equate to 100 officers, which would being able to claim that they would not make a single make a huge difference to the programme of change cut to a single service when they are being debated in and to the cuts being delivered as a result of deficit isolation, while claiming that they would still tackle the reduction. deficit, if over a slightly longer period. Under the area cost adjustment, areas seen to be high The Government, on the other hand, must deal with cost—I could stray into the controversial topic of regional deficit reduction as it manifests itself on the ground, pay, but I will resist the temptation—are given extra which means cuts in public spending. The police service, funding. This spreads out from London as one heads like other services, has had to bear its share, although, westward. Sadly, it peters out around Dorset, so the as was made plain to me by officers and former officers, Devon and Cornwall force does not benefit from area some feel that it has been made to take more than its cost adjustment, whereas other forces in the south-west share of the burden of deficit reduction. In Devon and do. Yet again, I would suggest, there is an element of Cornwall, as in other forces, it will mean a cut in police unfairness there. staff—the number of officers—and therefore in the We face the challenges of policing across a diverse, force’s ability to deliver the full range of services they geographically widespread peninsular environment, the have been delivering in recent years. funding for which is, sadly, deficient in a number of respects. I fully accept that this is an historic issue—it is Mr Adrian Sanders (Torbay) (LD): An unintended one that this Government have inherited, but I look to consequence that could have severe implications in Devon them to consider some of the issues so that they might and Cornwall is the simultaneous cutbacks in the Ministry be resolved in the future. of Defence police force, which will put pressure on the The cuts manifest themselves in planned cuts to civilian police force to move into areas that, in the past, the sworn officer base from 3,580 in 2010 to 2,810 in they relied on the MOD force to police. Dartmouth is 2015—a 21.5% reduction, with 700 fewer officers. At an example, and so too is Plymouth. I am extremely the same time, there is a reduction in police staff of worried that there might be a double-whammy effect about 500. This puts pressure on the ability to deliver from the necessary austerity measures. such services as specialist traffic police and accident investigation—not during the middle of the day, but Dan Rogerson: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. perhaps over weekends and late at night, reducing the There has been close working between MOD police and ability to examine the scene of an accident in detail. We the local constabulary, and as those pressures are brought could be looking at some reduction in the excellent to bear on the MOD police, changes in working practice community policing performed by the neighbourhood will be inevitable. teams, and another stretched resource is response cover. Perhaps the cuts in Devon and Cornwall are compounded That is particularly challenging in rural areas, as response by one or two aspects of the funding formula. First, times can be affected when areas are stretched. There the formula does not take into account, as some other are also more specialist areas of work—in diversity, for public funding formulae do, the huge influx in the example—and there will inevitably be a reduction in the number of visitors. In the summer, the population of vehicle fleet infrastructure and estate. As I said earlier, Devon and Cornwall increases dramatically. I no longer we accept that some of these cuts had to come because represent the town of Newquay, which is in the constituency of the strategy for dealing with deficit reduction. It is of my hon. Friend the Member for St Austell and important, however, to look at how we can support the Newquay (Stephen Gilbert), but I did once, and I saw at chief constable and those who have to deal with these first hand the huge explosion in population. That was issues on the ground. welcome, because of the money it brought to the local It would be fair to say that, because of the financial economy, but it also increased the pressure on policing. challenges, police morale is pretty low. They are doing a In the health service, bills can be re-charged to primary fantastic job, but they are concerned about the future of care trusts in the areas from which patients originate. Of the service and about their own careers. A few months course, it is not so easy for the policing formula to ago, I attended a meeting in Launceston—I pronounce charge local police authorities for the work carried out it that way for the benefit of those taking notes of our on behalf of citizens who happen to be in the south-west proceedings—and more recently in Bodmin, when I had of the United Kingdom for that period. As the Government discussions with a number of officers who work on the consider police funding, however, there might be an front line. They are feeling it pretty hard at the moment. opportunity to make the base formula take that issue They are concerned about the level of reduction in the into account. number of officers and about one or two other changes Secondly, there is the issue of the funding formula as under consideration at the moment and how they might currently constituted and its assessment of the funding impact on them. level that each force should receive. As I understand Let me refer briefly to the pensions issue; it is not my it, Devon and Cornwall force could receive an extra main focus this evening, but as with those working in £4.9 million were they to receive their full allocation, as public services elsewhere, this is a matter of concern— one would expect, under the formula. The reason they particularly to officers who have served for some time do not is the damping mechanism, which ensures that and are worried that things might change during their forces seen to be overfunded do not lose out in short period of service. With the Winsor review in mind, there order on a lot of funding to benefit forces such as is concern about pay, particularly about how a mechanism Devon and Cornwall in the correct manner. I would, based on incremental points and length of service is 135 Policing (Devon and Cornwall)25 JUNE 2012 Policing (Devon and Cornwall) 136

[Dan Rogerson] and good will. We are very fortunate to have a band of officers who are committed, who want to make a real going to be changed, while a skills threshold will also be difference in their communities, and who want to protect introduced. For someone at the top of the constable the public and community safety. I hope that when we scale, that could represent a reduction in pay if they do reach the end of this period of change, we shall have a not qualify for the skills threshold. In the longer term, police service that is fit for purpose and does the best there is the problem of moving towards a different that it possibly can with the resources that we are able to framework, while those serving for some time are also give it, but which also motivates its members to give of worried about possible loss of earnings through a structural their best. change that does not reflect their policing career and their abilities. 10.48 pm George Eustice (Camborne and Redruth) (Con): Police The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick officers have raised such concerns with me as well. Is the Herbert): I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member hon. Gentleman saying that he disagrees with the Winsor for North Cornwall (Dan Rogerson) on securing the proposals, or does he accept that such measures are debate. I note that, while my hon. Friend has been here necessary to modernise and reform the police force and to speak with conviction about the importance of local make it more responsive to the needs of today? policing and his own police force, supported by others on our side of the Chamber, no Labour Members are Dan Rogerson: I bow to the hon. Gentleman’s present on either the Front or the Back Benches to take understanding. He may be more of an expert on these part in this short debate. issues than I am. However, I have been guided by My hon. Friend began by referring to the importance discussions with serving officers, among whom there is of the police service, and the importance of ensuring a range of opinion. Some feel strongly that the status that its members—both staff and officers, as he made quo should continue, while others are open and sympathetic clear—feel appreciated. I strongly agree. It is important to change as long as it reflects performance and the that this House constantly repeats that we value the reality with which they live from day to day. They fear British police service, that it is, indeed, the finest service that the proposed reforms may not entirely pass that in the world, and that we appreciate the role police test. I wanted to share the views of those local officers officers play—which we do. It is also true that, as my with the House for the Minister’s benefit. hon. Friend recognised, we are having to take some One issue that has been brought to my attention is difficult decisions to deal with the economic deficit, and that of the starting salary, which will rise as a trainee policing must play its part. I will come on to that. moves towards becoming a constable, but may still be My hon. Friend made it clear that the Devon and lower—at least at the beginning—than that of a police Cornwall force can be proud of the fact that it is community support officer. Points have been made about delivering for local people one of the lowest crime rates their respective roles. There is also the issue of unsocial in the country. It has, in fact, the fourth lowest crime hours. It has been pointed out to me that the new way of rate of all forces in England and Wales. That is not to rewarding officers for working at night may create say that there are not particular challenges, including perverse incentives. For example, officers who had been the more recent ones to which my hon. Friend referred. rostered to do evening work for which they were to have It remains true that Devon and Cornwall is a relatively been be rewarded might be worse off if some of those safe place to live, however, and that is thanks to the hours were shifted to the daytime so that they could work of the police force and its partner agencies that make a court appearance. That strikes me as a rather help to deliver reductions in crime. It is also true that strange state of affairs. the force is highly thought of. It has higher satisfaction We are understandably asking the police service, as rates than other forces. Those who work in the Devon we are asking other public services, to bear down on and Cornwall force can be proud of that. cost and deliver the most efficient service possible, and Police forces have to play their part in our effort to to deal with cuts in numbers. We should ensure that reduce the deficit, and Devon and Cornwall is no exception. other changes that we are calling on the service to make We have had to reduce central funding for police forces at the same time pass the test—that they constitute the by 20% in real terms over the four years of the spending most efficient use of resources, that they will provide review, but it is important to note that not all funding incentives and rewards for good performance, and that for the police service comes from that central fund; they will not act as a disincentive and further undermine some of it comes from local sources, and the police the morale of the service. authority increased the precept by 2% for this year. The key points that I hope that the Minister will take Were the precept to continue to increase for the next on board relate to funding. The damping mechanism two years—that will in future be for the elected police means that some areas are being overfunded and some and crime commissioner for Devon and Cornwall to underfunded, a process with which we are all too familiar decide—the real reduction in resources would be 14%, in Devon and Cornwall in the context of other public or about 5.5% in cash terms. That is a challenging services. There is also the issue of the area cost adjustment reduction, but it is manageable. Even if the precept were versus the huge costs of delivering a service across a not increased, the real reduction would be 16%, so it is rural area such as ours. not a 20% reduction, as some have claimed. No force in Given all the changes that we are asking police forces England is suffering that level of reduction in funding, to make in order to bring about some kind of modernisation in fact. of the service, I should like to be reassured that we are Forces must find ways to make that reduction in listening closely to those on the ground who will have to spending while protecting the quality of their service. live with those changes, so that we maintain their trust The Devon and Cornwall force is determined to do 137 Policing (Devon and Cornwall)25 JUNE 2012 Policing (Devon and Cornwall) 138 that. It has made a particular commitment to try to a 5.4% fall in police officer numbers, which is about the protect neighbourhood policing, which is highly valued same as Devon and Cornwall, but it successfully delivered by the public. That is a visible and available form of a 9% reduction in crime in the last year. Wiltshire has policing, in which Devon and Cornwall has to make reduced overall crime by 5%, while at the same time some progress in comparison with other forces. officer numbers fell by 5.9%. So it can be done, and it is My hon. Friend said that police officers feel they are being done by other forces. Of course, the circumstances contributing more than their fair share in dealing with of each force are different, but it is important that that the deficit. I do not accept that. Savings have had to be performance be maintained. made across the public sector, including in services with My hon. Friend mentioned the various issues relating which the police work. Police officers will therefore be to the funding formula. Other forces make the point aware that other services have had to contribute savings. about visitors and I am certainly willing to have a look None of these decisions is easy, but the national priority at that, although it might be difficult to adjust the funding must be to reduce the deficit, which this Government formula and to work out how that could be done. are successfully doing. However, this issue does affect other forces as well. It is true that the reduction in spending in Devon and Cornwall will mean a reduction in police numbers. That Tessa Munt (Wells) (LD): Will the Minister give way? is not desirable, of course. None of us wants police forces to have to reduce police numbers—albeit from a Nick Herbert: I am afraid I have only two minutes peak, it must be said. That is a reality, however. Every left, if my hon. Friend will forgive me. force is seeking to ensure that those reductions do not On damping, which my hon. Friend the Member for impinge on the front-line service. North Cornwall mentioned, the Government are consulting It is pleasing that the senior leadership of the force stakeholders about our decisions on damping for the are clear that they are determined to maintain that final two years of this spending review period. Devon quality of service provision. Indeed, I note that on and Cornwall should make their representations known, 12 March, the assistant chief constable of Devon and if they have not already done so; they have until 29 June. Cornwall, Paul Netherton, said: We are looking at this issue and there are some forces, “We have delivered an even better service than before, and we such as Devon and Cornwall, that lose through the are getting to more jobs faster than before. In terms of service to damping process, while others gain. These are therefore the public, we have improved, despite having to deal with the very difficult decisions to take, but our long-term ambition consequences of a very challenging budget situation.” remains to move away from the application of damping It is important that that service quality be maintained, towards the full application of the formula, which would but it is also important that crime continues to be be fair and right. The question is how to do that in a fair tackled. My hon. Friend rightly drew attention to his manner when there have to be spending reductions for concern that there were signs that crime has increased forces. over recent months in Devon and Cornwall, and the Overall, Devon and Cornwall have a spend of £181 per latest official figures showed a slight increase. That is in head of population, including central costs, which is contrast to the majority of forces in England and similar to the forces’ peer average of £178. So overall, Wales, so it is not possible to link that increase with the the force is not losing in terms of spend. reduction in force numbers and police numbers, because that has happened to other forces as well, yet they have On the morale of police officers, we are committed to continued to reduce crime. ensuring that police officers remain the best paid among the emergency services—and so they should be, reflecting Devon and Cornwall know that they face a challenge the unique nature of the job they do—and committed and that they need to get back on top of crime and to valuing police officers. We will ensure that changes deliver the reductions in crime that we saw in the are negotiated properly, and the Government will follow previous three years. At a time when the force is the proper negotiating procedures and ensure that we restructuring, yes, that is challenging, but the force’s treat officers fairly and value them as we should. My senior leadership and everybody who works in it know hon. Friend said that we are fortunate to have the that they have to rise to that challenge. We will expect policing and the police service that we do in this country, the elected police and crime commissioner representing and so we are, not least in Devon and Cornwall. the people of Devon and Cornwall from November to attend to that in ensuring that the force’s past performance Question put and agreed to. is restored. I should note that of those forces that are most similar to Devon and Cornwall—so there is a fair size 10.59 pm comparison—Cambridgeshire, for example, has experienced House adjourned.

1WS Written Ministerial Statements25 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 2WS

Taking forward work from the nuclear emergency planning Written Ministerial liaison group review of the UK’s national nuclear emergency arrangements in the light of the experience of dealing with the prolonged Japanese event—and implementing a new UK Statements national strategic framework for nuclear emergency planning and response. Ensuring that openness and transparency are enshrined in Monday 25 June 2012 the work we are taking forward to create the Office of Nuclear Regulation as a statutory body. Copies of the Government response will be placed in TREASURY the Libraries of both Houses or can be obtained from the DECC website.

Kaupthing Singer & Friedlander Ltd

HEALTH The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr Mark Hoban): Kaupthing Singer & Friedlander Ltd (KSF) was the UK subsidiary of the Icelandic bank Kaupthing Winterbourne View Hospital bank hf. On 8 October 2008, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) decided that KSF was in breach of its threshold conditions under the Financial Services and The Minister of State, Department of Health (Paul Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) and that it should be prohibited Burstow): I promised to update the House about ongoing from accepting any new deposits. activity in relation to Winterbourne View private hospital. Treasury officials have prepared a note on the events I am today publishing an interim report of the review around the failure of KSF, focusing on: the chronology which I set up to establish the facts and bring forward of events ahead of the failure of Icelandic banks in actions to improve care and outcomes of people with October 2008; why the FSA came to the decision that learning disability or autism and behaviours that challenge. KSF had breached its threshold conditions; the The interim report has been placed in the Library. discrepancies in reporting on whether Iceland would Copies are available to hon. Members from the Vote honour its obligations to UK depositors; and whether Office and to noble Lords from the Printed Paper the actions of UK authorities triggered the administration Office. of KSF Isle of Man (KSF IoM). This interim report does not cover what happened at The note clarifies that, while the Treasury used asset- Winterbourne View itself. I will be able to report on that freezing powers in relation to Landsbanki Islands hf, once current criminal proceedings against former staff another Icelandic bank, the use of these powers by the at the hospital are completed and all the evidence is Treasury did not have any direct impact on the failure published in the serious case review being conducted by of KSF, KSF IoM or Kaupthing Bank hf. South Gloucestershire council. I have placed copies of the document in the Libraries But there is already good evidence that the health and of both Houses. care system is not meeting the needs of people with learning disability or autism and behaviour which challenges, and there is an unacceptable gap between best practice and actual practice. ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE This interim report looks at the quality of the health and care support provided to the approximately Fukushima Nuclear Site 15,000 people in England with learning disabilities or autism who have mental health conditions or behaviour which challenges, and the quality of health and care The Minister of State, Department of Energy and services they receive. It draws on the reports of the Care Climate Change (Charles Hendry): Today I welcome the Quality Commission’s focused inspection of 150 hospitals findings and recommendations set out in Dr Weightman’s and care homes for people with learning disabilities, final report on the events at the Fukushima nuclear site widespread engagement with people with learning and publish the final Government response to this disabilities, people with autism, family carers, voluntary report. I commend Dr Weightman and his team on the groups, health and care commissioners, providers and depth and quality of their work. professionals, as well as the regulators, and other evidence submitted to the review team. As part of his report Dr Weightman invited Government to report back on the recommendations by June 2012. The main findings set out in the interim report are In December 2011, Government gave their initial response. that there are too many people in in-patient services for The Government response published today updates this assessment and treatment and they are staying there and sets out the work we have done or intend to do in for too long. This model of care has no place in the implementing Dr Weightman’s recommendations. This 21st century. Best practice is for people to have access to includes: the support and services they need locally to enable them to live fulfilling lives integrated within the community. Further strengthening our work with international partners on nuclear safety, particularly through the International In too many services there is robust evidence of poor Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The UK has recently joined quality of care, poor care planning, lack of meaningful the IAEA’s global response and assistance network for nuclear activities to do in the day, and too much reliance on emergencies, RANET. restraining people. 3WS Written Ministerial Statements25 JUNE 2012 Written Ministerial Statements 4WS

All parts of the system—commissioners, providers, Libraries of the House of Commons and House of workforce, regulators and Government—must play their Lords for the reference of Members and copies will be part in driving up standards of care and demonstrating made available in the Vote Office. It is also available zero tolerance of abuse. This includes acting immediately online on DFID’s website (www.dfid.gov.uk). where poor practice or substandard care is suspected. The annual report contains results which are both Our key objectives are to: clear and quantifiable. This has been possible because improve commissioning across health and care services for for the first time, this Government have established people with behaviour which challenges with the aim of systems which allow us to measure and track, in detail, reducing the number of people using in-patient assessment the results which UK aid is achieving. and treatment services; Over the last two years aid from Britain has quite clarify roles and responsibilities across the system and support simply transformed the lives of millions in the world’s better integration between health and care; poorest countries. This has included: improve the quality of services to give people with learning disabilities and their families choice and control; vaccinating over 12 million children against preventable diseases; promote innovation and positive behavioural support and reduce the use of restraint; and improving the land and property rights of 1.1 million people; establish the right information to enable local commissioners supporting 5.3 million children (2.5 million of them girls) to to benchmark progress in commissioning services that meet go to primary school; individuals’ needs, improve the quality of care, and reduce distributing 12.2 million bednets to protect people against the numbers of people in in-patient services for assessment malaria; and treatment. supporting 26 African countries to agree an Africa free trade The report sets out clear actions at a national level to area; support local improvement and ensure that we are able enabling 11.9 million people to work their way out of poverty to deliver these key objectives. by providing access to financial services; I will continue to update the House and will publish preventing 2.7 million children and pregnant women from the final report of the Winterbourne View review in the going hungry; autumn. reaching 6 million people with emergency food assistance; supporting freer and fairer elections in five countries; improving hygiene conditions for 7.4 million people. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT These results show what British aid can achieve. It is time that aid funded by the British people is easily and Departmental Annual Report and Accounts clearly identified as coming from the UK. For that reason, I am today launching a new UK aid logo which we intend, in future, to apply to things like The Secretary of State for International Development emergency grain packets, buildings and pumps. The (Mr Andrew Mitchell): I have today published and laid logo features the Union flag and will be instantly before Parliament, the Department for International recognisable across the world. The logo has been designed Development’s annual report and accounts for the year in-house at no additional cost to the taxpayer and will 2011-12. be introduced gradually as existing stocks run down. The report covers DFID’s activities during 2011-12 Both the annual report and our new logo are testament in line with the International Development (Reporting to the extraordinary results which British aid is achieving. and Transparency) Act 2006 and includes a full set of They are results of which this House and this country accounts for 2011-12. The report has been placed in the can be proud. 1W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 2W

local armed forces community, in the form of a written Written Answers to pledge. Usually these local partnerships are made between the armed forces in an area and the local authority, Questions joined by local business, organisations, charities and other public bodies as appropriate. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Local Monday 25 June 2012 Government Association hosted a successful Community Covenant Conference on 1 November 2011 for local authorities in England, which was attended by 150 delegates including representatives from the armed forces HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION community and voluntary and charitable sector. This Manpower was an opportunity to share best practice and encourage further local authorities to participate in the scheme. The strong interest from delegates demonstrated the Keith Vaz: To ask the hon. Member for Caithness, importance that local authorities are placing on this Sutherland and Easter Ross, representing the House of work. Similar events are expected to be held in Wales Commons Commission, how many people are and Scotland later this year. employed by the House authorities to deal with website for the House of Commons; at what grade each person Guidance is provided on the MOD website about the is; and what the total cost of the team is. [113237] form that a Community Covenant might take. However, the contents of a particular Community Covenant are John Thurso: The House of Commons web and intranet entirely a matter for the parties concerned. service currently has 18 full-time equivalent staff. This Armed Forces: Discrimination includes four staff at pay band ‘A’, nine at pay band ‘B’ and five at pay band ‘C’. Total staff costs for the team are some £860,000 per annum, including employer’s Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for national insurance and pension contributions. The costs Defence how much his Department has spent on are shared 75:25 between the Commons and the Lords. protecting the service community from discrimination in each of the last five years. [112582] The web and intranet service is responsible for the management and development of the Parliament website Mr Robathan [holding answer 18 June 2012]: This and intranet, social media and other digital communications information is not held in the format requested. channels, such as webcasting, on behalf of both Houses. The Armed Forces Covenant enshrined in law by this Government sets out the principles that those who serve in the armed forces, whether regular or reserve, those DEFENCE who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the Armed Forces provision of public and commercial services, and that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for for those who have given most, such as the injured and Defence what consideration Ministers in his Department the bereaved. have given to the findings of the report by Lord Ashcroft, Any discrimination against members of the armed The Armed Forces and Society. [112578] forces community is to be abhorred, and we will continue to be alert to any cases which are brought to our Mr Robathan [holding answer 18 June 2012]: We attention. thank Lord Ashcroft for his helpful report which provides When discrimination is experienced, the chain of an interesting perspective on the relationship between command, at a local level, will work closely with the the armed forces and society, and provides pointers to civil police or other bodies as appropriate to address the the areas requiring attention. problem. Armed Forces Community Covenant Armed Forces: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Mrs Glindon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Defence (1) what role Ministers in his Department have what steps his Department is taking to monitor the in determining the focus and outcomes of community incidences of post-traumatic stress disorder amongst covenant schemes; [112851] serving and former soldiers. [112868] (2) how many community covenant schemes have measures within them which aim to tackle or prevent Mr Robathan: I refer the right hon. Member to the discrimination against the service community. [112856] answer I gave to the hon. Member for Luton North (Kelvin Hopkins) on 12 June 2012, Official Report, Mr Robathan [holding answer 19 June 2012]: Iam column 448W. encouraged by the success of the Armed Forces Community The Defence Analytical Services and Advice (DASA) Covenant scheme. To date more than 50 Community publishes the “UK Armed Forces Mental Health Report” Covenants have been signed and more than 50 are four times a year, which includes the numbers of patients pending. attending a Ministry of Defence Department of Community Covenants are voluntary statements of Community Mental Health (DCMH) who were initially mutual support between the civilian community and its assessed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 3W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 4W

The latest report, for the period 1 October to 31 December Ministry of Defence (MOD) had reached with the HM 2011, was published on 3 April 2012, and can be found Treasury on how much the Department could assume on the DASA website, was available for planning purposes. www.dasa.mod.uk The inflation figure underpinning that agreement, under “Other Publications”and “Health/Medical Statistics”. and the planning assumption in Planning Round 12, Ex-Service personnel who require treatment for PTSD was based on the GDP deflator forecast produced by will receive it through their local NHS provider, and no the Office of Budgetary Responsibility. At the beginning central record is maintained of the numbers diagnosed of Planning Round 12 this was 2.5% for financial year with the condition. However, we continue to work closely (FY) 2012-13, and 2.7% for subsequent years. with the Department of Health to improve the whole Defence inflation stood at 4.2% in FY 2010-11, the range of mental health care available to ex-service personnel. latest year for which figures are available. The annual average was 3.8% over the period from FY 2005-06 to Armed Forces: Sexual Offences FY 2010-11. The difference between defence inflation (the rate of Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence cost growth of commodities purchased by the MOD) how many cases of (a) rape and (b) sexual assault and the GDP deflator is already accounted for in our were reported by members of the armed forces in each planning processes. of the last three years; and if he will make a statement. [111896] Diamond Jubilee 2012: Medals Mr Robathan: All allegations of rape and sexual assault made by members of the armed forces will be Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for thoroughly investigated by either the civil or service Defence how many Territorial Army (a) officers and police, depending upon who has jurisdiction. The number (b) other ranks have received the Diamond Jubilee of cases of rape and sexual assault reported by members Medal. [112897] of the armed forces to the service police in each of the last three years is shown in the following table: Mr Robathan: The number of Territorial Army officers and other ranks who have been issued with the Queens’ Rape Sexual assault Diamond Jubilee Medal to date is 9,269. Of those, 2,145 were officers and 7,124 were other ranks. 2010 25 41 2011 18 36 Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft 2012—14 June 2012 10 9 We do not hold details of cases investigated by the Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for civilian police. Defence how many pilots will be involved in the sea trials of the F35b aircraft. [109075] Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has made an assessment of the incidence of Peter Luff: We anticipate that initially a total of three (a) post-traumatic stress disorder and (b) depression or four UK test pilots will be involved in the first sea arising from (i) rape and (ii) sexual assault amongst trials of the F35B aircraft with additional operational members of the armed forces; and if he will make a pilots becoming involved as the programme progresses. statement. [111994] Final decisions will be taken nearer the time.

Mr Robathan: While every effort is made to provide Military Aircraft support to victims of rape and sexual assault among members of the armed forces, it is not possible, from the information available, to determine the incidence of Elizabeth Truss: To ask the Secretary of State for post traumatic stress disorder or depression. Defence with reference to the Strategic Defence and Security Review, what steps he plans to take to manage Defence: Procurement the transition within Combat Air capability from Tornado to Typhoon and the Joint Strike Fighter aircraft; when Mr Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for he expects the Tornado to reach its out of service date; Defence (1) pursuant to his oral statement of 14 May and what basing assumptions he has made for the Joint 2012, Official Report, columns 261-64, what rate of Strike Fighter and Typhoon. [112994] inflation was assumed in his Department’s assessment of a 1 per cent annual increase from 2015 to the Peter Luff [holding answer 21 June 2012]: As stated equipment and equipment support budget; [111691] in the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR), (2) what assessment he has made of the rate of we plan to have a fast jet fleet based around two types of inflation in the defence sector; [108992] modern and capable multi-role aircraft. (3) what rate of inflation was used as a basis for the We are reviewing, as part of normal business, how we conclusions of PR12. [108993] intend to manage the transition between Tornado, Typhoon and the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Mr Philip Hammond: The 1% real annual uplift in We plan to run down the Tornado force broadly in equipment and equipment support spend was first line with the build up of the Typhoon force, and the announced by the former Secretary of State for Defence introduction of the JSF at the end of the decade. This on 18 July 2012. It referred to an agreement that the will ensure we retain the operational capability we require. 5W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 6W

For planning purposes, the assumed out of service The Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. date for Tornado is 2019, but no firm decisions need to Friend the Member for Runnymede and Weybridge be taken before the next SDSR in 2015. As previously (Mr Hammond), the Minister for International Security announced, we plan to transfer the Typhoon Squadrons Strategy and the Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare currently at RAF Leuchars to RAF Lossiemouth and and Veterans have been invited and will attend the maintain Typhoons at RAF Coningsby. Decisions on unveiling of the Memorial. JSF basing will be made in due course. Approximately 200 Royal Air Force personnel will be directly supporting the event in a number of different NATO roles. The additional number of members of the Armed Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Forces and civil servants who have been allocated tickets Defence what recent discussions he has had with his by the Bomber Command Association is not available, NATO counterparts on improving and increasing as this information is not held centrally by the Ministry interoperability within NATO. [112715] of Defence. Mr Philip Hammond [holding answer 19 June 2012]: Improving interoperability, both between NATO allies and with non-NATO partners, was one of my priorities in the discussions I had with my NATO counterparts in COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT both the run-up to NATO’s Chicago summit in May 2012, and at the summit itself. An important element of Audit Commission: Redundancy Pay the Defence package endorsed at Chicago was the Connected Forces initiative, which aims to consolidate Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for and build upon interoperability gains by focusing on Communities and Local Government what estimate he expanding education, training and exercises (and their has made of the total cost of redundancy payments validation). following the abolition of the Audit Commission. [113821] RAF Brize Norton Robert Neill: The Audit Commission’s audited accounts Mr Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for 2010-11 and 2011-12 include payments and provisions what assessment he has made of hangar capacity at for redundancy costs of £45.8 million. It is expected RAF Brize Norton; and if he will make a statement. that another £3.9 million of redundancy costs will be [112316] incurred before the anticipated closure of the commission in 2015 (subject to legislation), bringing the total to Peter Luff: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave £49.7 million. Net of transition costs, the disbanding of on 16 May 2012, Official Report, column 169W. the Audit Commission is estimated to save the taxpayer around £650 million over the next five years. War Memorials Council Tax: Arrears Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will request the Bomber Command Association to invite Freddie Johnson, Bomber Command veteran, to Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for attend the unveiling of the Bomber Command Communities and Local Government what the level of council tax arrears is in each collecting authority (a) in Memorial in Green Park on 28 June 2012. [111996] cash terms and (b) as a proportion of total expected revenue. [113001] Mr Robathan: The allocation of tickets for the unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial is being co-ordinated entirely by the Bomber Command Association. Robert Neill [holding answer 21 June 2012]: Ihave today placed in the Library of the House a table, which I can however confirm that the Bomber Command shows each billing authority in England, the total arrears Association have already been in contact with Mr Johnson’s of council tax outstanding as at 31 March 2011, and the family regarding his attendance at the unveiling on 28 total net collectable debit for 2010-11. The data are as June 2012. submitted by all billing authorities in England on the Quarterly Return of Council Taxes and Non-domestic Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence rates (QRC4) form. (1) which (a) Ministers in his Department, (b) civil servants in his Department and (c) members of the The figures for arrears shown relate to all past years armed forces will attend the unveiling of the Bomber of council tax liability, whereas the net collectable debit Command Memorial in Green Park on 28 June 2012; figures relate only to the financial year 2010-11. [112174] Data on the total arrears of council tax outstanding (2) which (a) Ministers and (b) civil servants will be as at 31 March 2012 and the total net collectable debit attending the unveiling of the Bomber Command for 2011-12 will be published on 27 June 2012. Memorial in Green Park on 28 June 2012. [111999] The figures show that in total, there is £2.3 billion of uncollected council tax across England. The council Mr Robathan: There is no specific allocation of tickets with the biggest single amount of uncollected tax is for Ministry of Defence officials as this is a Bomber Liverpool with £108 million of arrears (equivalent to Command Association event. £500 for every dwelling in Liverpool). 7W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 8W

Every penny of council tax that is not collected Council Tax: Multiple Occupation means a higher council tax for the law-abiding citizen who does pay on time. Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for It is important that councils are sympathetic to those Communities and Local Government how many Valuation in genuine hardship, are proportionate in enforcement Office Agency tribunals have taken place concerning and do not overuse bailiffs. However, these figures show the council tax banding of houses in multiple occupation that there is a significant source of income for councils containing bedsits in each of the last three years. which councils could use to support frontline service or [113559] cut council tax bills. Robert Neill: The Valuation Office Agency does not record information that would enable cases relating to Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for houses in multiple occupation to be separately identified, Communities and Local Government how much so the information could be compiled only at council tax was uncollected in each local authority (a) disproportionate cost. in cash terms and (b) as a proportion of the total in I would add that, as the Minister for Housing and each of the last five years for which figures are Local Government, my right hon. Friend the Member available. [113002] for Welwyn Hatfield (Grant Shapps), stated in his answer of 27 February 2010, Official Report, columns 36-37W, council tax banding methodology has not changed under Robert Neill [holding answer 21 June 2012]: The this Administration, and the Valuation Office Agency’s Department for Communities and Local Government banding decisions are based on the facts in each case has published local authority level information on the and clear principles laid down in statute and case law. estimated council tax net collectable debit, council tax receipts, and receipts as a proportion of net collectable Council Tax: Pensioners debit, for each of the last five years at the following locations: Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010-11 Communities and Local Government what estimate he has made of the change in the number of pensioners http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ entitled to claim a reduction in their council tax bills 19332071.xls under his proposals in the Local Government Finance 2009-10 Bill. [113003] http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ 16203281.xls Robert Neill [holding answer 21 June 2012]: No estimate has been made and no change is being made to 2008-09 pensioners’ rights to claim council tax support. http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ 12641872.xls Families: Disadvantaged

2007-08 Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ Communities and Local Government if he will publish 1289701.xls the calculations his Department used to calculate the 2006-07 average cost of an intervention with a family involved with the Troubled Families Programme. [113419] http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/xls/ 1289781.xls Robert Neill: The workings which underpin this estimate The data are as submitted by all billing authorities in include commercially sensitive information, and so I am England on the Quarterly Return of Council Tax (QRC4) unable therefore to provide the detail requested. The form. estimate though is based on the unit costs of different kinds of interventions likely to be employed by local Subtracting receipts from net collectable debit gives a agencies when working with troubled families. figure for council taxes uncollected in the financial year to which they relate, however collection of council taxes Homelessness continues after the end of the year. This means that the amount uncollected will reduce and the final collection Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for rate achieved will be somewhere between the figures Communities and Local Government (1) what discussions shown here and 100%. he has had with his ministerial colleagues on the Information for 2011-12 will be published on 27 June. mechanisms used to (a) identify when policy will have an effect on and (b) co-ordinate policy on (i) homelessness The worst collection rate in England for 2010-11 is and (ii) homelessness among women; whether he has the London borough of Newham (a non-collection rate made a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of of 8.3% of net collectable debit), followed by Manchester, each Government Department’s mechanisms; and if he Salford, Southwark and Barking and Dagenham. will make a statement; [112749] In total, £612 million of council tax was not collected (2) what steps his Department is taking to support in 2010-11 across England. Every penny of council tax specialist accommodation projects for homeless and that is not collected means higher council tax for the vulnerable women; and if he will make a statement. law-abiding citizens who do pay on time. [112750] 9W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 10W

Grant Shapps: The Government secured £6.5 billion Andrew Stunell: The information is collated by calendar for Supporting People over the spending review period. year. Supporting People provides locally implemented services Information on the proportion of new dwellings built for vulnerable people including homeless families and in areas of risk of flooding in each year from 1989 can individuals, and women at risk of domestic violence. be found in the Department’s Live Tables at: Local authorities are responsible for assessing the needs http://www.communities.gov.uk/planningandbuilding/ in their area and allocating funding for Supporting People planningbuilding/planningstatistics/livetables/landusechange/ services accordingly. This might include specialist accommodation projects for homeless and vulnerable The National Planning Policy Framework contains women. strong planning policy on avoiding and managing risks from flooding. The framework makes clear that local Ministers within the Department for Communities plans, which are the keystone of the planning system, and Local Government regularly meet ministerial colleagues should apply a sequential, risk-based approach to the from other Departments to discuss a range of matters. I location of development to avoid where possible flood welcome St Mungo’s recent Rebuilding Shattered Lives risk to people and property and manage any residual campaign which intends to raise awareness and showcase risk. good practice on the issues faced by homeless and vulnerable women. I will consider these ideas with my ministerial colleagues at one of the Ministerial Working Pauline Latham: To ask the Secretary of State for Group on Homelessness meetings. Communities and Local Government how many homes have been built in each of the Thames Gateway Housing eco-quarters to date. [112611]

Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: The last Administration’s Thames Gateway Communities and Local Government how many full-time eco-quarter concept was never implemented. This equivalent staff in his Department have responsibility Government have ended the top down central management for (a) the NewBuy scheme, (b) the public land scheme, of the Thames Gateway and put power back in the (c) the new homes bonus, (d) homelessness, (e) Get hands of local people and their representatives. Britain Building Fund and (f) the self-build scheme. [110463] Housing: Demolition Grant Shapps: There are 205 full-time equivalent staff who work in the Department’s two Housing Directorates, Sheryll Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for although this excludes staff from elsewhere in the Communities and Local Government how many homes Department who assist housing and regeneration policy, were demolished under the housing market renewal including ministerial offices, communications and finance. pathfinder scheme, in each pathfinder area in each year, A further 866 full-time equivalent staff work for the prior to its termination. [112605] Homes and Communities Agency in total. Housing: Construction Oliver Colvile: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the Government’s targets were for demolition of homes Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for under the housing market renewal pathfinder scheme, Communities and Local Government what the quarterly prior to its termination, in each pathfinder area. [R] average number of homes built since May 2010 is in [112609] each (a) region and (b) local authority area; and what recent assessment his Department has made of the number of homes which need to be built in each quarter Grant Shapps: The last Administration’s Housing in order to meet housing needs in each (i) region and (ii) Market Renewal Pathfinder programme created large-scale local authority area. [110424] Whitehall targets for demolition and clearance across the midlands and the north of England. The centrally Grant Shapps: I have placed in the Library of the driven schemes were often resented by local communities House, a table showing the number new build homes and created as many problems as they solved. This completed for each local authority district area in each top-down approach has not worked, frequently resulting quarter of this period. in blighted areas where large scale demolition and clearance projects have been stopped in their tracks, leaving some Quarterly figures by Government region are available families isolated in abandoned streets. on the Department’s website in Live Table 217 at the following link: There was widespread public. controversy over an http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ obsession with demolition over refurbishment, the lack housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/housebuilding/livetables/ of transparency of the pathfinder quangos, large profits The Department does not hold data on housing need by developers, the demolition of our nation’s Victorian by Government region or local authority area, as this is heritage and perverse incentives being given to run a matter for individual local authorities. down neighbourhoods. The designation of areas for demolition effectively Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for increased deprivation in those areas; many social landlords Communities and Local Government what proportion prepared the ground by “voiding” and boarding up of new dwellings have been built in areas at risk of properties. In turn, this undermined the housing market flooding in each (a) region and (b) local authority as mortgage lenders were unwilling to lend in such area since May 2010. [110440] areas. Areas were effectively managed into decline—to 11W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 12W make the notional benefits of wholesale demolition of his statement that 10,000 homes were destroyed by more attractive, ensuring a larger windfall gain for the the housing market renewal programme and 1,000 state. homes were built. [111531] As the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Select Committee warned in 2005: Grant Shapps [holding answer 14 June 2012]: I refer “Concerns have been expressed about the scale of demolitions the right hon. Member to the answer I gave today, envisaged and the impact on vulnerable communities. Some demolition PQ 112609. is required but there is a risk that this initiative will be seen as a major demolition programme, which will repeat the mistakes of Listed Buildings: VAT previous clearance programmes that destroyed the heritage of areas and failed to replace it with neighbourhoods of lasting Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for value”(ODPM Select Committee, Empty Homes and Low-demand Communities and Local Government with reference to Pathfinders, HC 295-1, April 2005). his Department’s Right to Bid policy, what assessment Top-down targets were created by the Whitehall he has made of the potential effect of the Budget programme. Demolition output targets were demanded proposal to raise VAT on alterations to listed buildings of Pathfinder partnerships in their funding agreements on asset transfer to the community. [113818] with the Department for Communities and Local Government. The contracts explicitly stated that “grant Andrew Stunell: The Community Right to Bid will is payable...on condition that the Pathfinder achieves provide communities with a fairer chance to save local the Programme Targets specified for that year” and the assets by nominating them to be listed as assets of Department would suspend, withhold, reduce or withdraw community value by the local authority. When listed grants at any time if the targets were not met or “satisfactory assets come up for sale, the community can trigger a progress with the implementation”was not made (deposited six-month delay before it can be sold to provide more papers from Official Report, 6 October 2008, column time for community groups to make a bid. The condition 340W). and potential cost of any necessary or desired alterations to the buildings or land on the list of assets of community The National Audit Office review of the programme value does not form part of the right. in November 2007 observed that there had been 10,242 properties demolished compared to 1,078 new builds, Local Authorities: Assets and there were plans for a total of 57,100 properties to be demolished (NAO, ‘Department for Communities Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for and Local Government: Housing Market Renewal’, Communities and Local Government what discussions HC 20, 2007-2008, pp. 7, 19). It added: he had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer prior to “The demolition element of the programme has been controversial the 2012 Budget on the potential effect of the Budget and can carry particular value for money risks where the acquisition on his Department’s Right to Bid policy. [113832] of old properties, clearance of sites and development of new homes is more expensive than the refurbishment of existing Andrew Stunell: Ministers within the Department for properties”. (p.6) Communities and Local Government regularly meet The Audit Commission has subsequently published a colleagues from Her Majesty’s Treasury to discuss a review of the programme that projected there would be range of matters. 30,987 demolitions from 2002 to 2010-11 (Audit Commission, ‘Housing market renewal’, March 2011, Low Associates p.9). Full figures by type can be found in the Audit Commission report, while figures on individual areas Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for are available at: Communities and Local Government whether his http://www.audit-commission.gov.uk/housing/marketrenewal Department has received any representations from Low pathfinders/strategicreviews/Pages/Strategicreviewofprogress Associates since May 2010. [111594] 2010.aspx This Government has cancelled the Pathfinder Robert Neill: This information is not held centrally programme and is instead actively seeking to get empty and records could be searched only at disproportionate homes back into productive use. Unlike the Pathfinder cost. However, no use has been made of their services programme, we are not going to throw massive central since May 2010. taxpayer subsidies at razing properties where it would Details of ministerial meetings with external organisations be more economically, environmentally and socially are published on the Department of Communities and sustainable to improve and refurbish. Local Government website at this URL: http://www.communities.gov.uk/corporate/transparencyin government/ministerialdata/ Housing: Regeneration Details of permanent secretaries’ meetings with external organisations are also available and published here: Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.communities.gov.uk/corporate/transparencyin Communities and Local Government (1) how many government/staffdata/permanentsecretarydata/ homes were (a) demolished, (b) refurbished and (c) Non-domestic Rates built under the Housing Market Pathfinder renewal programme between 1997 and 2010; [111356] Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) with reference to the contribution by the Minister Communities and Local Government which grants will for Housing and Local Government of 19 April 2012, be incorporated into the local share of the new local Official Report, column 184WH, what the source was government business rates retention scheme. [113697] 13W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 14W

Robert Neill: I refer my hon. Friend to the ‘Business Grant Shapps: Data on Right to Buy sales of local rates retention scheme: The central and local shares of authority stock are published in Live Table 648 on the business rates A Statement of Intent’ published on 17 Department’s website at: May 2012, as slightly amended in the version published http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ on 13 June 2012, to include a footnote against the Bus housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/socialhousingsales/ Service Operators Grant (London Buses Portion), which livetables/ lists the grants that are to be included in the Business Wind Power: Planning Permission Rates Retention Scheme. A copy of which can be found in the Library of the House. Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State Parks: Standards for Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the quality and consistency Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for of decisions made by the Planning Inspectorate Communities and Local Government what plans his relating to wind turbine planning appeals. [111662] Department has for the future of the Green Flag for Parks award after the end of the current contract on 30 Robert Neill: The Planning Inspectorate currently August 2012. [113293] issue around 16,000 planning appeal decisions annually and Ministers see a small random sample of these Andrew Stunell: The Green Flag Award is the national across all types of development on a regular basis once benchmark for quality public green spaces. The Department they have been issued by the inspectorate. is fully supportive of the scheme and wishes to see it sustained beyond the end of the current contract. Last year the Department announced its intention to let the SCOTLAND Green Flag Award scheme to run under licence once the current contract ends. Work continues on this and Correspondence details of the licence offer will be made as soon as possible. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many letters to Ministers in his Department were Recruitment (a) not answered, (b) not answered within six months and (c) not answered within three months in (i) 2010-11 Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for and (ii) 2011-12; how many such letters were from hon. Communities and Local Government pursuant to the Members; and if he will make a statement. [109446] answer of 21 May 2012, Official Report, column 489W, on recruitment, to what extent his Department and its David Mundell: All letters received by Ministers in non-departmental public bodies and Executive agencies the Scotland Office were dealt with appropriately, and used name-blank CVs or the blind sift function on the no letters from hon. Members were not answered within Civil Service Resourcing e-recruitment system to recruit six months or three months. staff in the last year. [110962] The Cabinet Office publishes a report to Parliament on an annual basis on the performance of Departments Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and in replying to Members’ correspondence. The report for Local Government is not yet registered to use the Civil 2011 was published on 15 March 2012, Official Report, Service Resourcing recruitment system but expects to columns 30-33WS. Reports for earlier years are available do so before the end of the current financial year ending in the Library of the House. 31 March 2013. Devolution Right to Buy Scheme Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Ms Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent devolution issues the Advocate- Communities and Local Government what proportion General has considered; and if he will make a of former council homes sold under the Right to Buy statement. [113120] are occupied by (a) the original purchaser, (b) another owner-occupier and (c) a private tenant. [113441] David Mundell: My hon. Friend asked a similar question on 24 April 2012, Official Report, column 829W. Grant Shapps: Information on the ownership of former Since 24 April 2012, the Advocate-General for Scotland council houses sold under Right to Buy is not collected has received a total of 81 minutes notifying him of centrally. The Government consider that former social devolution issues, 10 of which related to civil matters. tenants who have bought their homes under Right to Buy should have the same freedoms as any other Regulation homeowner, including the ability to sell or let their home when they wish. Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what regulations his Department introduced Right to Buy: Bexley between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012; and at what cost to the public purse. [113399] Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many right David Mundell: Each year, the Scotland Office takes to buy sales were completed in the London borough of forward a programme of Orders under the Scotland Bexley in each of the last three years. [113612] Act 1998. Generally, Scotland Act Orders make changes 15W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 16W to the law in England and Wales, Northern Ireland or Lynne Featherstone: The Government Equalities Office the reserved law of the UK which are outwith the did not introduce any regulations between 1 February legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament and 2012 and 31 May 2012. many of these changes are consequential to provisions made in Acts of the Scottish Parliament. Between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012 the only Order brought forward was the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010 PRIME MINISTER (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/700) which established the Scottish Housing Correspondence Regulator as part of the Scottish Administration. There were no implementation costs associated with this Order. Ian Lucas: To ask the Prime Minister at what time the letter dated 13 June 2012 from the Prime Minister to Sir Alex Allan was sent; and at what time the reply WALES from Sir Alex was received. [112654] Queen’s Dragoon Guards The Prime Minister: The letters were sent and received Susan Elan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for on the morning of 13 June 2012. Copies have been Wales what discussions she has had with the Secretary placed in the Library of the House. of State for Defence on the future of the 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards (The Welsh Cavalry). [113546] Leveson Inquiry

Mrs Gillan: I have had a number of discussions about Helen Goodman: To ask the Prime Minister how the structure of regiments in Wales as part of the study much it cost to provide him with legal advice in relation into the Army’s future force structure. The outcome of to his appearance at the Leveson inquiry. [112770] the study will be announced once decisions have been made. Until then it is not possible to comment on which The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to the specific units may be affected. answer the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Regulation Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), gave on 21 June 2012, Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for Official Report, column 1088W. Wales what regulations her Department introduced between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012; and at what cost to the public purse. [113397] ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS Mrs Gillan: The Wales Office did not introduce any regulations between 1 February and 31 May 2012. Animal Welfare: Inspections

Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for NORTHERN IRELAND Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many Legislation welfare inspections by Animal Health and Welfare were carried out at farms with livestock in the last five years; Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for and what level of compliance with animal welfare Northern Ireland (1) what measures he plans to include legislation and the welfare code was recorded as a in the Government’s proposed Northern Ireland Bill in result of such inspections. [112783] the 2013-14 parliamentary Session; and if he will make a statement; [113402] Mr Paice [holding answer 19 June 2012]: The information (2) what discussions he has had with key stakeholders is as follows: about measures to be included in the Government’s Farm welfare inspections between 2007 and 2011 proposed Northern Ireland Bill in the 2013-14 Total parliamentary Session. [113403] ABCDinspections Mr Paterson: No announcements have yet been made 2007 3,258 2,820 1,507 436 8,021 about the legislative programme for the third Session. I 2008 3,687 4,258 1,830 430 10,205 have begun discussions on legislation that might be 2009 3,485 4,664 1,485 368 10,002 required in relation to political donations, dual mandates, 2010 3,055 3,264 881 286 7,486 the composition of the Northern Ireland Assembly and 2011 2,250 2,628 839 213 5,930 length of Assembly terms. Grand 15,735 17,634 6,542 1,733 41,644 total A—Full compliance with legislation and code B—Full compliance with legislation but not with code WOMEN AND EQUALITIES C—Failure to comply with legislation, no unnecessary suffering seen Regulation D—Failure to comply with legislation, unnecessary suffering seen Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency Gordon Banks: To ask the Minister for Women and intelligence led monitoring and enforcement focuses Equalities what regulations she introduced between 1 inspection resources where there is an increased risk of February 2012 and 31 May 2012; and at what cost to non compliance. Some farms may have been subject to the public purse. [113404] more than one inspection during the period reported. 17W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 18W

Atos Mr Paice: DEFRA holds no central record of such attacks. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what the total monetary value is of each contract between her Floods Department and Atos; [111169] (2) when each contract between her Department and Gavin Shuker: To ask the Secretary of State for Atos was most recently (a) agreed, (b) renewed and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many (a) (c) extended. [111170] businesses and (b) homes were (i) at risk of flooding and (ii) flooded in April and May 2012. [113131] Richard Benyon: Core DEFRA does not have any current contracts with Atos. Richard Benyon: The Environment Agency’s latest published information estimates that there are 5 million Bovine Tuberculosis: Disease Control properties at risk of flooding in England of which 2.4 million are at risk from rivers and the sea. Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for The Environment Agency’s records show that 51 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment properties have flooded from rivers in England in April she has made of the susceptibility of alpacas and and May 2012. These provisional figures include homes, llamas to tuberculosis; whether she has any plans to mobile homes, commercial and industrial property. test alpacas and llamas for tuberculosis; and if she will make a statement. [113376] Food and Drinks Mr Paice: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given in response to the same question asked on 13 June 2012, Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Official Report, column 490W. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the monetary value was of food and drink (a) produced Common Fisheries Policy and (b) imported to the UK in each year for which figures are available. [113517] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Paice: The monetary value of UK food production Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what agreements is measured by the gross value added (GVA)of businesses were reached at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries in the agri-food sector covering agriculture, manufacturing, Council meeting on 12 June 2012 on reform of the wholesaling, retailing and non-residential catering. Common Fisheries Policy and UK control over the 12 nautical mile territorial waters. [113266] £ billion 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Richard Benyon: On 12/13 June I attended the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Luxembourg to discuss the GVA from 61.0 64.9 64.8 65.8 68.6 70.9 76.6 reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. We secured UK food 1 agreement to key planks of the reform that the UK is production seeking, in the form of a ’General Approach’. This Imports of 17.1 17.2 16.8 18.3 19.1 20,9 21.9 food, feed included provisions setting out a regionalised process to and drink allow member states to work together on the measures Exports of 9.2 8.9 8.7 8.5 8.9 9.9 9.7 appropriate to their fisheries, rather than the current food, feed centralised ″one size fits all″ approach. and drink On discards we successfully made the case for measures to eliminate discards, agreeing a ban on discards in 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 20112 principle, with provisional timelines. The text also includes a clear legal commitment, and deadlines, to achieve GVA from 74.2 77.8 80.2 84.5 85.4 88.8 n/a UK food Maximum Sustainable Yield, in line with our international production1 commitments. Imports of 23.4 24.8 26.7 31.6 32.5 33.7 36.8 The existing arrangements in the 12 mile zone involve food, feed a derogation from the otherwise free access allowed by and drink the CFP.The General Approach agreed in Luxembourg Exports of 9.9 10.5 11.4 13.2 14.0 15.8 18.2 maintains the current derogation setting out member food, feed and drink state control over fishery activities in waters from 0 to 1 Gross value added from agriculture, food and drink manufacturing, 12 nautical miles. food and drink retailing, food and drink wholesaling and non- residential catering. Dogs 2 2011 data is subject to amendments. Sources: 1. Gross value added from agriculture is from Agriculture in The Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for United Kingdom, DEFRA. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what information 2. Gross value added from food and drink manufacturing, food and drink retailing, food and drink wholesaling and non-residential her Department holds on the number of attacks on catering is from the Annual Business Survey, ONS. guide dogs by other dogs in each of the last five years. 3. Values of imports and exports are prepared by DEFRA using [113828] Overseas Trade Statistics from HMRC. 19W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 20W

Livestock: Antibiotics DEFRA has made provision for up to £125,000 to be available in each of the current and following two Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for financial years for additional research to look at the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make relationship between raptors (including buzzards), livestock, it her policy to prohibit the advertising of prescription- wildlife and game birds. DEFRA will collaborate with only antibiotics directly to farmers. [111451] all the organisations that have an interest in this issue to identify and develop any future research proposals. Mr Paice: The Government consulted on a proposal to prohibit advertising of anti-microbial veterinary Plants: Disease Control medicines to farmers during the summer of 2010, as part of the review process of the Veterinary Medicines Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Regulations. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what advice she The farming community and the agricultural press has received on the merits of banning the sale of opposed a ban; they argued that this proposal would invasive non-native plants. [113260] lead to a loss of revenue and consequent reduction in the dissemination of valuable information to the farming Richard Benyon: DEFRA and the Welsh Assembly industry. Farmers and farming organisations, individual Government held a public consultation on proposals to veterinary surgeons and the pharmaceutical industry ban the sale of a small number of highly invasive considered that the change would have a negative effect non-native species. These proposals were based on advice on farmers’ ability to maintain their knowledge and from Natural England. Subsequent to the consultation awareness of animal health and welfare issues. The my officials have sought additional advice from conservation British Veterinary Association and the Soil Association bodies and other organisations that represent groups supported the ban. that may be affected by any sales prohibitions, such as Ministers considered the arguments from both sides the Horticultural Trades Association and the Ornamental and decided that it was not appropriate to prohibit and Aquatic Trades Association. advertising of antimicrobial veterinary medicines to farmers since a ban would be unlikely to have a direct I will take a decision on the proposals, based on the impact on antimicrobial resistance. balance of the evidence, once the impact assessment has been cleared as part of the Government’s rigorous Livestock: Auctions regulatory approvals process.

Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the reason taking to improve the level of information provided on is for the time taken in reaching a decision on proposals the provenance of livestock at auctions including on to ban the sale of invasive non-native plants. [113265] (a) country of origin, (b) the number of TB tests an animal has been subjected to, (c) whether the animal Richard Benyon: The economic case behind proposals spent any time in a testing parish and (d) whether the to prohibit the sale of five highly invasive plant species animal has been pre-movement tested for a sale; and if is currently being reviewed through the Government’s she will make a statement. [113377] rigorous regulatory approvals process. An announcement will be made in due course. Mr Paice: I think my hon. Friend is referring to cattle. All cattle are individually identified and their movement history is set out in the passports that accompany Poultry: MRSA them on all journeys including those to auctions. We have no current plans to enforce changes to the information Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for provided at livestock auctions on the number of TB Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what testing her tests an animal has been subjected to. However, we Department has undertaken on levels of MRSA in (a) encourage farmers to purchase cattle responsibly, bearing poultry farms and (b) chicken and turkey products on in mind the TB history of a herd and its geographical sale to the public. [111361] location. Pheasants Mr Paice: Staphylococcus aureus recovered from poultry during laboratory examinations of clinical material at John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for AHVLA Regional Laboratories and subjected to Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what funding susceptibility testing are examined to determine whether her Department has (a) incurred for and (b) allocated or not they are MRSA. No MRSA have been detected to research into the incidence of buzzards preying on in poultry, although the numbers of isolates examined young pheasants and how best to discourage birds that each year is relatively low. may cause damage to legitimate businesses. [111039] The Food Standards Agency conducted a UK-wide survey between May 2007 and September 2008 to determine Richard Benyon: DEFRA funded the Food and Campylobacter and Salmonella prevalence on fresh Environment Research Agency to undertake a desk chicken at retail. This survey did not include any testing study in January 2012 entitled ″Approaches to mitigating of levels of MRSA in the chicken samples collected. bird of prey conflicts with pheasants at release pens, The Food Standards Agency has not conducted any outdoor poultry and lambs″ at a total cost of £24,694. other testing of MRSA in chicken and turkey products The report can be found on the DEFRA website. on sale to the public. 21W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 22W

Publications her Department has repealed between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012; and if she will estimate the potential Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for savings to those affected in each case. [112779] Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many publications have been issued by her Department since Mr Paice [holding answer 19 June 2012]: DEFRA May 2010. [109817] revoked 19 statutory instruments between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012, with a further three statutory Richard Benyon: Documents for publication are given instruments being partially revoked. A list of the instruments an individual serial number. Core DEFRA records revoked is set out in the following table. DEFRA did indicate that 381 serial numbers were allocated between not repeal any primary legislation in this period. 1 May 2010 and 31 May 2012. Any information that is available on estimated costs and savings to business are set out in individual impact Regulation assessments. These are available electronically from the Better Regulation Executive’s impact assessment library Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for at: Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many regulations http://www.ialibrary.bis.gov.uk/links/

Statutory instruments

The Sea Fishing (Licences and Notices) (England) Regulations 20121 Regulation revoked The Sea Fishing (Licences and Notices) Regulations 1994 (in relation to England)

The Controlled Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 Regulations Revoked (in relation to England and Wales) The Waste Management Licensing (Amendment etc.) Regulations 1995 The Controlled Waste Regulations 1992

The Cattle Compensation (England) Order 2012 Regulation revoked The Cattle Compensation (England) Order 2006

The Individual Ascertainment of Value (England) Order 20122 Regulation revoked The Individual Ascertainment of Value (England) Order 2005

The Plant Health (Fees) (England) Regulations 2012 Regulations revoked or partially revoked The Plant Health (Licence Fees) (England and Wales) Regulations 1996 (in relation to England) Regulation 6 of the Potatoes Originating in Egypt (England) Regulations 2004 The Seed Potatoes (Fees) (England) Regulations 2006 The Plant Health (Plant Passport Fees) (England) Regulations 2007 The Plant Health (Import Inspection Fees) (England) Regulations 2010 The Plant Health (Import Inspection Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2012

The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) Regulations 20122 Regulations revoked The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) Regulations 2008 The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2009 The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2010 The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) (England) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2011

The Fishing Boats (Satellite-Tracking Devices and Electronic Reporting) (England) Scheme 2012 Regulations revoked The Fishing Boats (Satellite-Tracking Devices) (England) Scheme 2004 The Fishing Boats (Electronic Transmission of Fishing Activities Data) (England) Scheme 2010

The Smoke Control Areas (Exempted Fireplaces) (England) Order 2012 Regulation revoked The Smoke Control Areas (Exempted Fireplaces) (England) (No. 2) Order 2011 23W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 24W

Statutory instruments

The Agriculture (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 20122 Regulations partially revoked Regulation 5(2) of the Agriculture (Cross compliance) (No. 2) Regulations 2009 Regulation 12(8) and (9) of the Common Agricultural Policy Single Payment and Support Schemes (Integrated Administration and Control System) Regulations 2009 1 Impact assessment is titled “Introduction of electronic notices of variations to licences for all fishing vessels in England”. 2 Denotes that the measure does not require an impact assessment.

Sharks: Conservation DCA, to consider alternative funding options. The decision to cease operation was taken by DCA’s board. Decisions Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for for funding of arts organisations are made independently Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what consideration of Government. she has given to banning shark fin imports. [113381] ACE continues to invest in County Durham and currently supports: three arts festivals, via Gala Theatre; Richard Benyon: The UK Government is aware of the and two organisations, including, Durham Book Festival conservation implications of the international trade in and TIN Arts. Additionally, Beamish and Bowes Museum shark fins and the need for more stringent controls to have been successful in gaining Major Partner Museum ensure any such trade is rooted in sustainable fishing funding. Funding to County Durham through regular practices. While the UK has banned shark finning ACE funding in 2012-13 has increased significantly (removal and retention of shark fins at sea, but discarding from that allocated in previous years (from £118,538 in the carcass), the Government does not oppose fisheries 2011-12 to £379,000 in 2012-13). for species where scientific advice indicates that they can be sustainably exploited. However, we do promote Energy the full utilisation of the shark. The UK cannot unilaterally take action to ban shark Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for fin imports without contravening EU trade agreements Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his and World Trade Organisation (WTO) obligations. Department switched its (a) gas or (b) electricity supplier However, we are not complacent. We believe the in any of the last 10 years. [113454] market for shark fin products in the UK is on the decrease and we will continue to support campaigns John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media like ’Bite-Back’ that raise public awareness and change and Sport has not changed its (a) gas or (b) electricity consumer and retailer behaviour. supplier within the last 10 years. We will also continue to work closely with the Shark Trust to ensure sharks are properly managed and conserved Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for globally. We consider that the most effective means of Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport which energy protecting sharks is by continuing to press for a range of supplier supplies his Department with (a) gas and (b) international conservation and management measures electricity. [113471] within the appropriate bodies. This includes pushing for changes within the EU and internationally to ensure all John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media sharks are landed with their ’fins naturally attached’ and Sport’s (DCMS) main building at Cockspur Street (thus removing the possibility of shark finning occurring) has its (a) gas and (b) electricity supplied by Corona and supporting scientifically robust proposals for regulating Energy and EDF Energy respectively. DCMS’s subsidiary the international trade in shark products through the building at Tottenham Court Road does not use gas Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species and has its electricity supplied by British Gas. (CITES). Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Department spent on (a) gas and (b) electricity bills in CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT each of the last 10 years. [113508] Durham City Arts John Penrose: The cost of (a) gas and (b) electricity bills procured by the Department for Culture, Media Roberta Blackman-Woods: To ask the Secretary of and Sport for the last six years is shown in the table. State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what Figures for the year 2012-13 are not yet available. The discussions he has had on the closure of Durham City information prior to 2006-07 is not held centrally. Arts. [113681] £ Mr Vaizey: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Electricity Gas Media and Sport has had no discussions on the closure of Durham City Arts (DCA). However, the Department 2002-03 n/a n/a for Culture, Media and Sport is aware that DCA applied 2003-04 n/a n/a to Arts Council England (ACE) for funding from its 2004-05 n/a n/a National portfolio funding programme, but was not 2005-06 n/a n/a successful. ACE held a number of conversations with 2006-07 361,500 86,600 Durham county council, who were the joint funders of 2007-08 293,100 48,800 25W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 26W

£ Financial year Total annual payment (£) Electricity Gas 2006-07 14,040,930.98 2008-09 318,500 37,300 2007-08 14,590,969.99 2009-10 273,597 30,779 2008-09 14,963,412.67 2010-11 194,315 19,194 2010-11 119,283,030.22 2011-12 201,113 20,381 1 There was a delay in processing some of the claims made in 2010-11 2012-13 — — due to a surge in claims made that year. Subsequently, a number of claims relating to 2010-11 were paid in 2011-12. n/a = Not Available. Government Procurement Card Mr Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport by what methods Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for he publicised the changes to the Listed Places of Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport on which dates his Worship Grant Scheme in advance of their coming into Department has published Government procurement effect on 1 April 2011. [113264] card spending over £500 since May 2010. [113353] John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media John Penrose: Since May 2010, the Department for and Sport (DCMS) made a series of announcements Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has published from October 2010 to March 2011 about the future of Government procurement card spending over £500 on the (listed Places of Worship (LPW) Grant Scheme. 13 and 30 September 2011 and 18 January 2012. The Firstly, as part of the October 2010 spending review, we information can be found on DCMS’s transparency announced that the scheme would continue in the following website spending period with a fixed annual budget of £12 million. http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/?s=procurement This formed part of a written ministerial statement +card+spend made in Parliament by the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme Member for South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), on 21 October 2010 and a news release on the DCMS website. Mr Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for In January 2011, DCMS announced on its website Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many applications and the LPW Grant Scheme’s website that the terms to the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme there and operation of the scheme would be comprehensively were in each year from the scheme’s inception to date. reviewed, and that the last date for receipt of applications [113257] under the current arrangements would be 31 March 2011. This notice was also circulated to a range of John Penrose: The information requested is set out in denominational and heritage organisations who were the following table. The number of applications received asked to provide views on the design of the scheme. was not recorded for the years 2001-02 and 2002-03. In March 2011, DCMS announced the detail of the Figures for the year 2012-13 are not yet available. changes to be made to the LPW Grant Scheme, to come into effect on 1 April 2011 These announcements were Financial year Number of applications received posted on the DCMS and LPW Grant Scheme websites 2003-04 3,574 and circulated to the denominational and heritage contacts. 2004-05 4,213 I also wrote to Ministers in the devolved Administrations 2005-06 4,255 to set out the changes on 7 April 2011. 2006-07 4,728 In addition to these announcements we also asked 2007-08 5,083 the churches to use their contacts and communication 2008-09 5,038 channels to inform people about the changes and explain 2009-10 4,895 their implications. 2010-11 4,968 The combined impact of all these measures was a 2011-12 6,990 very significant increase in the number and size of claims under the scheme before the changes took effect. Mr Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the total Mobile Phones annual sum of payments made under the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme has been in each year since Naomi Long: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, the scheme’s inception to April 2011. [113258] Olympics, Media and Sport what consideration he has given to the financial implications of the UK and John Penrose: The information requested is set out in Ireland harmonising mobile roaming charges. [112707] the following table:

Financial year Total annual payment (£) Mr Vaizey: No assessment has been made of the financial implications of the UK and Ireland harmonising 2001-02 1,193,237.39 mobile roaming charges. However, Ofcom, the UK’s 2002-03 8,042,596.64 independent national telecoms regulator, regularly monitors 2003-04 9,006,413.95 the roaming charges levied by domestic national telecoms 2004-05 10,444,277.82 providers and from 1 July 2012 the new European 2005-06 14,960,500.11 Roaming III regulation will bring down the cost of 27W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 28W roaming. This, in addition to moves by certain operators caused by those involved in hazardous drinking. The to introduce “All Ireland” tariffs, will cut costs for those strategy is available through the Vote Office, or on the consumers who regularly cross the border. Home Office website: Radio Frequencies www.homeoffice.gov.uk

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Animal Experiments Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the potential effect on GDP of the deployment of 4G by (a) four and (b) one of the Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent research her mobile network operators. [113267] Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated Mr Vaizey: The Department has not made any on the efficacy of animal experiments. [113416] assessment of the economic effect of the deployment of 4G services in the UK. Any assessment of the implications Lynne Featherstone: The Government has not for citizens and consumers would normally fall to the commissioned or evaluated any formal research on the independent regulator, Ofcom, to produce. efficacy of animal experiments. This is for a number of reasons. Put simply, animal research is already routinely Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for subject to a number of stringent tests. First and foremost, Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment unless an experiment is judged to be potentially efficacious he has made of the effect on competition in the mobile it cannot be licensed under the Animals (Scientific telephony market of the deployment of 4G by (a) four Procedures) Act 1986. Where an application relates to ongoing work, inspectors will assess the evidence of and (b) one of the mobile network operators. [113268] benefits from previous work in advising on authorisation. Mr Vaizey: The Department has not made any such Also, local ethical review processes in licensed establishments assessment. Such assessments would normally fall to review the conduct of the work undertaken under licence the independent regulator, Ofcom, to produce. at their establishments. Ofcom’s recent second consultation on the assessment In addition, research councils and charities evaluate of future mobile competition and proposals for the the research projects carried out under the 1986 Act for award of 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum and related which they provide funding. Work funded by issues, which closed on 22 March 2012, included an pharmaceutical companies is subject to internal scrutiny updated assessment of the competition aspects associated within those companies, and the safety and efficacy with the auction design and the number of wholesale testing needed before people are exposed to new drugs operators that may result. The document considered is evaluated by the relevant regulators. the case for four operators and for fewer than four. Ofcom has received over 40 responses to this consultation Arrest Warrants: EU Action which it is currently analysing. Ofcom intends to decide on these issues and publish a statement in the summer. Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department to what extent EU Council Decision 2008/ 978/JHA has been implemented in the UK. [113078] HOME DEPARTMENT Age: Discrimination James Brokenshire [holding answer 21 June 2012]: The UK has not implemented Council Decision 2008/ 978/JHA (European evidence warrant). Implementation Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for the was suspended when the UK opted into the European Home Department when she expects the provisions in Investigation Order (EIO) in July 2010. the Equality Act 2010 banning age discrimination in the provision of goods and services to be fully The UK must decide, no later than 31 May 2014, implemented. [113829] whether to accept full European Court of Justice jurisdiction over those EU police and criminal justice measures Lynne Featherstone: A written ministerial statement adopted before 1 December 2009 which have not been was laid on 12 June 2012, Official Report, column amended or replaced. The European evidence warrant 23WS, confirming that we intend to implement the age falls within the scope of that decision and will be discrimination ban in services and the provision of reviewed accordingly. public functions on 1 October 2012. Alcoholic Drinks: Crime Asylum

Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for the Paul Blomfield: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps she plans to take to Home Department how many failed Sudanese asylum reduce the number of crimes committed by people seekers have been requested to attend interviews with involved in hazardous drinking. [112902] Sudanese and South Sudanese embassy officials for the purposes of obtaining documentation or confirming James Brokenshire [holding answer 20 June 2012]: nationality in the years (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12; The Government’s alcohol strategy, which was published and what information her Department holds on how as a Command Paper (Cm 8336) on 23 March 2012, many of those requested to attend have complied with sets out plans to tackle alcohol-related crime and disorder that request. [111275] 29W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 30W

Damian Green: According to provisional data held by A central register to capture all contracts entered in the UK Border Agency, 46 individuals with no legal to by the Department, its executive agencies and arm’s basis to remain in the United Kingdom were requested length bodies is being developed and will be available to attend interviews with Sudanese embassy officials in later this year. 2010-11 and 111 individuals in 2011-12. This data does not record whether those individuals are failed asylum Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships seekers, is not subject to statistical quality assurance and is subject to change. There is no centrally held data to indicate whether those individuals subsequently complied Charlotte Leslie: To ask the Secretary of State for the with that request and that information could be produced Home Department how much her Department spent only at a disproportionate cost. There have been no on sport-based interventions to tackle crime and social requests to attend interviews at the South Sudanese disorder in (a) 2010-11 and (b) 2011-12. [112183] embassy. James Brokenshire: The Home Office has provided British Nationality: Assessments funding to a number of voluntary organisations that use sport-based interventions to tackle crime and social disorder through: the Positive Futures programme; the Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for the Communities Against Gangs, Guns and Knives (CAGGK) Home Department (1) what recent assessment she has fund; the Community Fund; and the Community Action made of the topics covered by the British Citizenship Against Crime: Innovation Fund (CAACIF). Test; and what plans she has to extend the number of topics covered by the test; [112757] Details of the funding provided are shown in the table. However, it is difficult to quantify exactly how (2) what plans she has to ensure that questions and much individual organisations have spent on sport-based answers in the British Citizenship Test are regularly activities as many recipients also engage in other reviewed to ensure their accuracy; [112758] diversionary activities such as music and art, as well as (3) what proportion of questions used in the British running preventative programmes such as mentoring. Citizenship Test are based on data that is 10 or more Details are shown in the following table. years old; [112759] (4) how many questions used in the British £ Citizenship Test have correct answers that are no Grant Stream 2010-11 2011-12 longer factually correct; and when she plans to update Positive Futures 5,063,000 5,063,000 the test to ensure that all answers deemed correct are CAGGK {fund runs 0 232,771 factually correct. [112760] from April 2011 to March 2013) Damian Green: The Home Office is currently reviewing Community Fund 214,086 0 the content of the Life in the UK test with the aim of (provided funding over two years from 2009-2010 introducing new questions, including questions on British and 2010-2011) history, in autumn 2012. CAACIF (launched in 0 517,429 All questions asked in the current test are factually September 2011) correct. Questions are based on the Life in the UK handbook, which includes information from the 2001 Criminal Records census. Any questions based on information which is no longer accurate are removed from the question bank. A new revised edition of the handbook will be published Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home before the introduction of the new test. Department what assessment her Department has made of the effect of establishing the UK Central Authority for the Exchange of Criminal Records during the period Contracts between its establishment and April 2012. [113323]

Ian Lavery: To ask the Secretary of State for the Lynne Featherstone: The work of the UK Central Home Department what contracts (a) her Department Authority for the Exchange of Criminal Records has and (b) its agencies has with private sector contractors. four parts: [110671] receiving, and placing on PNC, conviction notifications of Britons convicted in other EU member states; Damian Green: As part of the Home Office’s sending notifications of EU nationals convicted in the UK to commitment to transparency, details of contracts above their country of nationality; the value of £10,000 to private sector contractors are published on Contracts Finder at making requests to EU member states about their nationals being prosecuted in the UK; and http://www.contractsfinder.co.uk/ replying to requests from other EU member states concerning and detail of spend over £25,000 is published on the UK nationals being prosecuted there. Department’s website at All four areas have helped public protection. We now http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/non-personal-data/ know, to a much greater extent than before, the history transparency/ of offending by UK nationals abroad. As a result the A copy of the latest published data, from March 2012, police can take appropriate steps should that offending has been placed in the Library of the House. be serious, for example by placing the UK national on 31W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 32W the Violent and Sexual Offenders Register (ViSOR). In African countries where there is high risk of chloroquine addition any Criminal Records Bureau disclosure on a resistant malaria in cases where appropriate anti-malarials British national will include more information about cannot be administered due to contra-indications with their EU offending than was previously the case. early pregnancy or mental ill health. [112842] The numbers of EU nationals being convicted in the UK has given the police a much clearer picture of the Damian Green [holding answer 19 June 2012]: Medical extent of EU offending in the UK and will also have care and health care advice for persons in detention is ensured that EU member states have a fuller picture of provided by the health care professionals at immigration offending by their nationals in the UK. removal centres (IRCs). The UK Border Agency (UKBA) does not provide medical care or advice directly to The ability to obtain previous convictions of EU individuals in detention but does liaise regularly with nationals being prosecuted here has increased the fairness the Department of Health (DH) and the Health Protection of the prosecution process in the UK, by allowing Agency in order to ensure that any necessary safeguards information that was previously unavailable to be taken as to health are followed. into account by the courts, prosecutors and the police. Individuals who are proposing to leave the UK Providing previous convictions of UK nationals to voluntarily, or who are liable to enforced removal, are other EU member states has enabled their courts and generally expected to make their own health protection prosecutors to have a much fuller picture of previous arrangements. offending by UK nationals. Currently, the majority of IRC health care facilities are provided by private providers who are contracted by Detention Centres: Females the UKBA. The DH is now working with the UKBA on a phased programme to transfer commissioning and Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for the funding responsibility for health care provision within Home Department what steps are taken by the UK IRCs fully to the national health service within the Border Agency to seek permission for disclosure of current spending review period. medical records for women in detention for the purpose The level and type of advice provided to pregnant of identifying when women who are pregnant or have women or those suffering from a mental illness in serious health conditions are being detained. [112755] detention will depend on the clinical judgment of the health care professionals in the immigration removal Damian Green: Where a medical practitioner believes centres in which they are detained, taking into account that a detainee’s health is likely to be injuriously affected the circumstances of the person concerned and their by continued detention, including any elevated risk proposed destination country. In addition, pregnant during pregnancy, he or she is required to inform the women or those suffering from mental health issues UK Border Agency. who are leaving the United Kingdom under an assisted If a pregnant woman chooses to inform removal voluntary returns scheme would be able to discuss centre healthcare staff of her condition, the detail would protection against malaria and other risks with the be held on her medical file which is confidential between independent Choices service. This provides confidential patient and doctor. The UK Border Agency does not and impartial advice to help asylum seekers and irregular hold such information centrally and does not seek migrants decide and plan their return home. Pregnant permission for disclosure. women in families being removed under the family The UK Border Agency’s published policy on the use returns process would have their health and vaccination of detention makes clear that pregnant women should needs considered by the Family Returns Panel as part of not normally be detained. The exceptions to this general the panel’s consideration of the proposed removal plan position are where removal is imminent and medical before entering the pre-departure accommodation. advice does not suggest confinement before the due Further advice and information, including a newly removal date; or, for pregnant women of less than 24 produced Health Protection Agency leaflet on prevention weeks gestation, as part of the fast track asylum process of malaria is provided by the health care team at the at Yarl’s Wood immigration removal centre. accommodation. Pregnant women who are considered to be ‘at risk’ of Heidi Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for the malaria are routinely provided with mosquito nets free Home Department (1) whether health advice is provided of charge on removal and provided with the appropriate to pregnant women in immigration detention whom the course of anti-malaria medication. UK Border Agency plans to remove to sub-Saharan African countries where there is high risk of chloroquine The delivery and quality of health care arrangements, resistant malaria, and who have contra-indications to including medical advice for those who are pregnant or other anti-malarials due to early pregnancy or mental suffering from a mental illness, at immigration removal ill health; [112841] centres and short-term holding facilities is monitored through the UK Border Agency’s compliance monitoring (2) what steps the UK Border Agency is taking to arrangements and through independent inspection by monitor whether appropriate advice is given by its Her Majesty’s inspectorate of prisons. contractors to pregnant women in immigration detention who are to be removed to sub-Saharan African countries European Network for the Protection of Public Figures where there is high risk of chloroquine resistant malaria, and who have contra-indications to other anti-malarials Mr Raab: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home due to early pregnancy or mental ill health; [112845] Department what the UK’s financial contribution to (3) what her Department’s policy is on the immigration the European Network for the Protection of Public detention and removal of pregnant women to sub-Saharan Figures was in each of the last five years. [113325] 33W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 34W

James Brokenshire: The UK has not provided any Lynne Featherstone: The Home Office has not issued financial contribution to the European Network for the interim guidance while the review of the False ID Protection of Public Figures in the last five years. Guidance is being conducted. As I stated in response to the hon. Lady’s previous question, PQ 109122, on 11 Fraud June 2012, Official Report, column 79W, the previous revised guidance will be published shortly. Stephen Barclay: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 15 May Manpower 2012, Official Report, column 63W, on fraud, if she will add to the diagram placed in the Library to show the Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for the involvement of (a) the Counter Fraud Taskforce, (b) Home Department how many staff in her Department the National Fraud Agency, (c) Action Fraud, (d) the were assigned to (a) the Reward, Efficiency and Reform Serious Fraud Office, (e) the Serious Organised Crime Group and (b) regional pay issues in (i) 2010-11 and (ii) Agency, (f) the Crown Prosecution Service, (g) any 2011-12; and how many she expects to be assigned in relevant Government Department, (h) any relevant each case in (A) 2013-14 and (B) 2014-15. [113142] non-departmental public body and (i) any other relevant body or strategy. [110890] Damian Green [holding answer 21 June 2012]: There are no Home Office staff assigned to the Reward, James Brokenshire: The Fraud, Error and Debt Taskforce Efficiency and Reform Group, which is a directorate of is previously known as the Counter Fraud Taskforce. the Cabinet Office. The information requested has been placed in the The Home Office has no one specifically assigned to House Library. regional pay issues now or in the period specified. Consideration of regional pay will be undertaken by the Khat Home Office reward team as part of the normal course of their duties. Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what evidential basis the Offences Against Children: British Nationals Abroad Advisory Council on Misuse of Drugs will be using to draw its conclusions in its review of the drug khat; and Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for the how many government reviews and research studies Home Department what measures are in place to ensure have been undertaken into khat; [111393] that the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (2) how the Advisory Council on Misuse of Drugs continues to provide a centralised operational and tactical will measure social harm caused by the drug khat in its lead for the policing of offences of sexual abuse of review of that drug. [111394] children by British sex offenders abroad after it becomes part of the National Crime Agency in 2013. [112810] James Brokenshire: The Advisory Council on Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) formally reviewed khat in 1988 and Lynne Featherstone: The National Crime Agency (NCA) 2005. Since 2010 the Home Office has published two will be a UK-wide crime-fighting agency, which will research studies: “Perceptions of the social harms associated have a highly visible, national profile committed to with khat use” in 2010, available at: protecting the public. It will lead the UK’s fight against serious and organised crime. http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/horr44/ Subject to the passage of the Bill, the National Crime and “A review of the social harms of khat and legislation” Agency will be established by the end of 2013, at the in 2011, available at: centre of the reformed law enforcement landscape. It will build on the strengths of the Serious Organised http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- Crime Agency (SOCA), including the Child Exploitation statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/ occ95?view=Binary and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). Copies of both reports have been placed in the Library The National Crime Agency will therefore play a of the House. vital role in countering the threat to children and ensuring they are better protected. As well as building on CEOP’s I commissioned the ACMD to undertake a existing role as the national centre dedicated to working comprehensive review of the available evidence on khat with others to protect children from sexual exploitation in 2010. The purpose of the review is to update its and abuse, the NCA will also be subject to a new review of 2005. The ACMD is independent. Its remit is statutory duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of to provide an overall assessment based upon the available children across all its functions and activities. evidence, including that on social harms. To support this work, the NCA will have four distinct operational Commands, each led by a senior experienced Licensed Premises: Security individual, which will set the priorities for the threats it is responsible for. CEOP will be one of these four Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Commands, reflecting the importance of child protection Home Department pursuant to the answer of 11 June within the agency’s work. 2012, Official Report, column 79W,on licensed premises: security, if she will publish the interim guidance being Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for the used while the review of guidance is conducted; and if Home Department what discussions her Department she will make a statement. [113253] has had on the merits of setting up an operational 35W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 36W police unit responsible for disrupting crimes of child A person who commits an offence overseas to which sexual abuse by British sex offenders abroad and section 72 applies will be charged with the appropriate returning these offenders to the UK. [112812] offence under Part 1e of the 2003 Act.

Lynne Featherstone: The Child Exploitation and Online Prisoners: Repatriation Protection Centre has responsibility for operational activity to disrupt offences of child sexual abuse and for returning offenders to the UK. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer from the Subject to the passage of the Bill, the National Crime Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice of Agency (NCA) will be established by the end of 2013. It 18 June 2012, Official Report, columns 677-8W, on will build on the strengths of the Serious Organised prisoners: repatriation, whether any restrictions were Crime Agency (SOCA), including the Child Exploitation placed on any of the repatriated prisoners relating to and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). re-entering the UK; and whether any of the repatriated There will be many areas where the NCA will help to prisoners have returned to the UK. [113310] protect children through the effective use of its specialist resources, including the ability for information on various Damian Green: Before a repatriation takes place, a criminal activities to be compared, in order to identify deportation order needs to have been signed and served links and networks and provide for a wider range of on the individual. A deportation order prevents an responses to be considered. It will also improve the response individual returning to the UK for as long as it is in at our borders, which will help to disrupt the activities force. If a deportation order could not be put in place of child sex offenders who travel from/into the UK, prior to the repatriation the UK Border Agency ensures support efforts to identify, locate and safely recover that the offender is excluded from the UK. An exclusion abducted children, and better coordinate activity to order has the same affect as a deportation order in tackle the trafficking of children into the UK. terms of preventing a foreign national offender’s re-entry into the UK. Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions she has had with her counterparts in the US, Sweden and Australia on Seized Articles the work these countries’ police forces have undertaken to target effectively their nationals who travel abroad to Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for the sexually abuse children. [112813] Home Department what the total estimated value was of the goods seized by HM Revenue and Customs Lynne Featherstone: The Child Exploitation and Online officials at UK borders on (a) 10 May 2011 and (b) 10 Protection Centre (CEOP) works closely with its May 2012. [112541] counterparts in the US, Sweden and Australia. The UK is a dedicated member of the Virtual Global Taskforce Damian Green: The data requested are not published (VGT), which brings together law enforcement agencies by the Home Office. While Border Force holds central including the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the US records on goods seized at the border, we would need to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Sweden, examine individual case records to apply an estimated which is represented by Europol. value to each commodity seizure and this could be done One of VGT’s aims is to deter and prevent individuals only at disproportionate cost. from travelling abroad to commit child abuse through a The Home Office does publish drug seizure statistics, range of crime prevention and crime reduction initiatives. which includes those seized by Border Force. A copy of It is through these close partnerships that UK police the latest statistics has been placed in the Library of the forces and other UK agencies can share information House, they can also be accessed via the following link: with these countries relating to those suspected to be http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/ travelling abroad to sexually abuse children. Data are also published by the UK Border Agency Mark Durkan: To ask the Secretary of State for the on seizures of tobacco, the latest statistics for these Home Department (1) if she will review the seizures have also been placed in the Library of the effectiveness of legislation governing the prosecution of House, or are available here: British nationals who commit sexual offences against http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk//sitecontent/documents/ children overseas; [112926] aboutus/annual-level-of-tax/ (2) how many British child sex offenders have been Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for the (a) investigated, (b) charged and (c) convicted under Home Department if she will list the goods seized by section 72 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 in (i) the HM Revenue and Customs officials at UK borders on last five years and (ii) since the Act came into force. 10 May (a) 2011 and (b) 2012. [112549] [112927]

Lynne Featherstone [holding answer 20 June 2012]: Damian Green: The data requested are not published Section 72 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 makes clear by the Home Office. that a person who commits certain sexual offence overseas Border Force holds central records on goods seized at is liable to be subject to the same circumstances as a the border but, in order to answer this question, we person who committed those offences in England or would need to examine individual case records to list all Wales. As such, there are no specific offences set out seizures and this could be done only at disproportionate under section 72. cost. 37W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 38W

The Home Office does publish drug seizure statistics, The Department for Transport aims to hold only which includes those seized by Border Force. A copy of core property (i.e. which is needed for the delivery of its the latest statistics has been placed in the Library of the business). All non-core property will be disposed or House, they can also be accessed via the following link: re-allocated at the earliest opportunity in a way which is http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/ both consistent with official guidance and achieves Data are also published by the UK Border Agency value for money, unless it is held pending transport on seizures of tobacco, the latest statistics for these scheme use. On behalf of the Secretary of State for seizures have also been placed in the Library of the Transport, the right hon. Member for Putney (Justine House, or are available here: Greening), the Highways Agency holds property that may be required for the improvement, management or http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk//sitecontent/documents/ operation of the Trunk Road and Motorway Network aboutus/annual-level-of-tax/ in England. Vetting Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many buildings owned by her Department and the Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for the bodies for which she is responsible have been empty for Home Department what recent progress she has made more than two years; and if she will make a statement. in considering the recommendations of the Independent [110868] Adviser on Criminality Information Management that minor and old convictions should, where appropriate, be removed from Criminal Records Bureau certificates. Norman Baker: The Department for Transport aims [112727] to hold only core property. All non-core property (unless it is held pending transport scheme use) will be disposed Lynne Featherstone: Linked to her review of the or re-allocated at the earliest opportunity in a way criminal records regime in England and Wales, entitled which is both consistent with official guidance and “A Common Sense Approach”, the Independent Advisor achieves value for money. for Criminality Information Management, Mrs Sunita The following buildings have been empty for a period Mason, established and chaired an Independent Advisory of more than two years: Panel for the Disclosure of Criminal Records. The panel comprised expert representation from the Information Executive Agencies Sites Commissioner’s Office, NACRO, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Social Services, Highways Agency 34 residential buildings Association of Chief Police Officers, Liberty, UNLOCK, 13 Agriculture/commercial buildings the legal profession, the judiciary, academia and others. While continuing to advocate that old and minor convictions Executive NDPBs Sites should be filtered out from the Criminal Records Bureau Trinity House Lighthouse 1 site (Harwich) disclosures, the report of the panel, which is currently Service (THLS) being carefully considered by the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice, highlights the complexities and difficulties in devising and implementing an effective High Speed 2 Railway Line and appropriate filtering mechanism. The Government continue to keep this issue under review. Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether she has made an assessment of the Cabinet Office’s Major Projects Authority report on High Speed 2. [109251] TRANSPORT Justine Greening: All major projects are reviewed at Empty Property every stage of their development to ensure that they are delivered as efficiently as possible and provide the best Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for possible value for taxpayers’ money. The Major Project Transport if she will list the empty or largely empty Authority’s input therefore provides valuable assistance buildings owned by her Department; and if she will in enabling the Department successfully to deliver High make a statement. [110849] Speed 2.

Norman Baker: The requested information is provided Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for as follows: Transport by what date she anticipates that High Speed 2 will reach Leeds and Manchester. [111370] Organisational Unit Empty

Highways Agency 34 residential buildings Justine Greening: HS2 services will run to Manchester 19 agriculture/commercial buildings as part of Phase 1, opening in 2026. Dedicated high speed lines will be built to Leeds and Manchester during Phase 2, opening in 2032-33. Vehicle Operator Services Agency Former goods vehicle test station (Birmingham) Former goods vehicle test station Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for (Gloucester) Transport if she will estimate the potential journey time saving High Speed 2 will provide for passengers travelling 39W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 40W between (a) Eaglescliffe, (b) Thornaby, (c) Scunthorpe, £ million (d) Goole and (e) Long Eaton station and (i) London Euston, (ii) Birmingham International and (iii) Paris. 2008-09 502 [112594] 2009-10 491 2010-11 516 Justine Greening: High Speed 2 (HS2) will provide 2011-12 548 high capacity, high speed rail links between the North, the Midlands and London, including a direct link to the continent via the High Speed 1 line to the channel Regulation tunnel. The new network will also provide the opportunity to run the existing rail network in a different way, Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for meaning that stations not on the HS2 network itself will Transport what regulations her Department introduced benefit in terms of having more, faster or less crowded between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012; and at services. what cost to the public purse. [113398] It is too early to make decisions now about detailed service patterns and journey times to specific destinations, Norman Baker: The number of statutory instruments beyond those on the high speed network itself, because (Regulations and Orders) made between the 1 February HS2 will not be fully operational until the 2030s. I have 2012 and 31 May 2012 by the Department for Transport only recently received advice from HS2 Ltd on route was 636. The instruments are, or will shortly be, available options for the second phase of the Y network. I am on the legislation.gov website alongside Impact Assessments currently considering this advice and I intend to publish where produced. it in the autumn, together with a Government response Of the 636 instruments, 597 were temporary in setting out the initial preferred route and station options. application and restricted to specific geographical areas. Most of these related to temporary road works, the rest Motor Vehicles: Registration to temporary flying restrictions, for instance in connection with the State Opening of Parliament. Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for The remaining 39 are listed below: Transport whether she has any plans to review legislation on the long-term use of foreign registered vehicles on The Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/304) UK roads. [113301] The Goods Vehicles (Plating and Testing) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/305) Mike Penning: In order to allow freedom of movement between member states legislation is in place to allow The Public Service Vehicles (Operators’ Licences) (Fees) vehicles to circulate without the need to register or pay (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/306) duties in the host country. This limits visits to six The Motor Vehicles (Tests) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 months in any 12 month period. There are no plans to (SI 2012/307) review this. The Goods Vehicles (Licensing of Operators) (Licensing of Operators) Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/308) Parking The Dover Harbour Revision Order 2012 (SI 2012/416) The Street Works (Charges for Occupation of the Highway) Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (England) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/425) whether she plans to change the existing guidelines on The Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) (Amendment) the size of on-street parking bays. [113386] (No.2) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/443) The Portsmouth City Council Access to Portsmouth (1)—Tipner Norman Baker: The Department is considering changing Interchange, M275 Motorway Slip Roads Scheme 2009 Confirmation the current regulatory requirements in respect of parking Instrument 2012 (SI 2012/463) bays - including their prescribed size - within the proposed The London Cable Car Order 2012 (SI 2012/472) updates to the Traffic Signs Regulations and General The Humber Bridge (Debts) Order 2012 (SI 2012/716) Directions 2002, expected in 2014. No decisions have The Merchant Shipping (Ship-to-Ship Transfers) (Amendment) yet been taken. Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/742) The Traffic Management (St Helens Borough Council) Permit Railways: East of England Scheme Order 2012 (SI 2012/785) The Policing of Aerodromes (Belfast International Airport) Ben Gummer: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Order 2012 (SI 2012/837) what the total revenue from ticket sales was in the The A1 Trunk Road (Elkesley Junctions Improvement) Order Greater Anglia franchise in each year since 2004-05. 2012 (SI 2012/839) [112953] The Bus Lane Contraventions (Approved Local Authorities) (England) (Amendment) and Civil Enforcement of Parking Mrs Villiers: The total revenue from tickets sales, Contraventions Designation Order 2012 (SI 2012/846) rounded to the nearest million, was as follows: The Dunham Bridge (Revision of Tolls) Order 2012 (SI 2012/852) The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations £ million 2012 (SI 2012/977) 2004-05 383 The Transport for Greater Manchester (Light Rapid Transit 2005-06 392 System) (Oldham, Mumps Modification) Order 2012 (SI 2012/981) 2006-07 429 The M1 Motorway (Junctions 10 to 13) (Actively Managed 2007-08 477 Hard Shoulder and Variable Speed Limits) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/985) 41W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 42W

The Road Transport (Working Time) (Amendment) Regulations provided at disproportionate cost. This is because of 2012 (SI 2012/991) the level of analysis that would be required to answer The Civil Aviation (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) Regulations the question. 2012 (SI 2012/1017) Impact assessments which identify estimated costs to The Civil Aviation (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) (Amendment) the public purse were prepared for the following instruments: Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/1134) 1. the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) The Milford Haven Port Authority (Constitution) Harbour Revision Order 2012 (SI 2012/1154) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/443): The A453 Birmingham to Nottingham Trunk Road (M1 Junction Training staff from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency 24 to A52 Nottingham Improvement) (Detrunking) Order 2012 = £1,000; (SI 2012/1218) reduction in Government revenue (reduced vehicle excise duty The A453 Birmingham to Nottingham Trunk Road (M1 Junction rates) to vehicles with a Reduced Pollution Certificate = £5 to 24 to A52 Nottingham Improvement and Slip Roads) Order 2012 £500 per vehicle. (SI 2012/1219) 2. Merchant Shipping (Ship-to-Ship Transfers) (Amendment) The Road Vehicles (Individual Approval) (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/742): Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/1271) In 5.3.3 of the Impact Assessment (available at: The Traffic Management (Doncaster Borough Council) Permit http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/742/pdfs/ Scheme Order 2012 (SI 2012/1282) uksifia_20120742_en.pdf) The Traffic Management (Rotherham Borough Council) Permit it states that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Scheme Order 2012 (SI 2012/1284) “could potentially incur additional costs due to the need to The Traffic Management (The Council of the Borough of process notifications of the intention to carry out a STS (ship to Kirklees) Permit Scheme Order 2012 (SI 2012/1286) ship) transfer outside of the UK territorial sea but within the The Traffic Management (Barnsley Metropolitan Borough UK’s counter pollution zone. It has not been possible to monetise Council) Permit Scheme Order 2012 (SI 2012/1289) this potential cost in this impact assessment as it is not possible to The Traffic Management (Sheffield City Council) Permit Scheme estimate the number of notifications that would be made.” Order (SI 2012/1294) 3. M1 Motorway (Junctions 10 to 13) (Actively Managed The Traffic Management (Leeds City Council) Permit Scheme Hard Shoulder and Variable Speed Limits) Regulations Order 2012 (SI 2012/1295) 2012 (SI 2012/985): The Street Works (Charges for Occupation of the Highway) £0.1 million annual cost of enforcement; (Transport for London) Order 2012 (SI 2012/1322) Other costs on the Highways Agency of installing, operating The Driving Instruction (Suspension and Exemption Powers) and maintaining and renewing the managed motorway system Act 2009 (Commencement No.1) Order 2012 (SI 2012/1356) that the Regulations relate to are referred to in the Impact Assessment (at: The M54 Motorway (Junction 2 Improvements i 54 Strategic Employment Area) (Trunk Roads) Order 2012 (SI 2012/1384) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/985/pdfs/ uksifia_20120985_en.pdf) The M54 Motorway (Junction 2 Improvements i54 Strategic Employment Area) (Connecting Roads) Scheme 2012 (SI 2012/1385) but these are costs associated with introducing the system as a whole, not specifically with the Regulations. The Humber Bridge Board (Membership) Order 2012 (SI 2012/ 1392) Rolling Stock The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/1404) Maria Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Government policy does not require an Impact Transport how many (a) full train length equivalent Assessment to be prepared for an instrument where the diagrams and (b) carriages will form the fleet for the cost to the public purse is less than £5 million per year, Intercity Express Programme. [110692] unless there are also costs or savings to businesses or civil society organisations. Mrs Villiers [holding answer 11 June 2012]: The Information about costs to the public purse where information is as follows: there is no Impact Assessment, or there is but it does (a) The number of full length train equivalent diagrams not quantify any costs to the public purse, could only be is shown in the following table:

Number of weekday Number of weekday Package Power source Length diagrams diagrammed vehicles

IEP core routes GWML phase 1 Bi-mode 5 car 26 130 Electric 8 car 11 88 Bi-mode 8 car 12 96

ECML phase 1 Electric 5 car 10 50 Bi-mode 5 car 8 40 Bi-mode 9 car 10 90 Sub Total — — 77 494

IEP option routes ECML phase 2 Electric 9 car 26 234 43W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 44W

Number of weekday Number of weekday Package Power source Length diagrams diagrammed vehicles

ECML Cambs Electric 5 car 10 50 WCML Electric 5 car 22 110 GWML phase 2 Bi-mode 8 car 13 104 Sub total — — 71 498

Total IEP core and option — — 148 992 routes

(b) The precise number of carriages that will form Maria Miller: Carer’s allowance is an income-replacement the fleet for the weekday diagrams on the IEP core benefit designed to provide some financial support for routes shown above is a matter for Agility Trains and is people who are unable to work full-time because of expected to be between 500 and 600. their caring responsibilities. Note: We are keen to encourage carers to combine some The figures above may be subject to change in the future. paid work with their caring duties wherever possible. Accordingly, the earnings limit in carer’s allowance, currently £100 a week net of tax, national insurance and other allowable expenses, enables carers to maintain DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER some contact with the employment market and achieve greater financial independence. An earnings limit is set Constituencies to ensure that the benefit functions to replace income, rather than to supplement it. Tom Brake: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what When carer’s allowance is disallowed on the basis of assessment he has made of the effect on local and earnings, where the earnings are over the earnings limit community ties of the decision by the Boundary for a ‘closed period’, such as because of the award of a Commission for England not to split wards as part of bonus, entitlement to carer’s allowance will continue the proposals for new parliamentary constituencies. after the disallowance period is over, so a claimant will [113213] not be required to start a new claim although they would need to continue to appraise the Department of Mr Harper: It is for the independent Boundary their circumstances. Commissions to interpret the Rules set out in legislation. However, I understand that the Boundary Commission Employment and Support Allowance for England (BCE) has set out a policy whereby it will consider dividing wards in exceptional and compelling circumstances, having regard to the statutory factors in Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for the Rules, including local ties. It will be for the BCE to Work and Pensions for what reason his Department determine, having considered the representations made did not publish the research report Decision-making in during the consultation periods, whether such exceptional employment and support allowance claims on the date and compelling circumstances exist. originally scheduled, 23 January 2012; and when he expects to publish that report. [113317] Leveson Inquiry Chris Grayling: We are currently completing the quality assurance process for this report and expect to be able Helen Goodman: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister to publish it in due course. how much it cost to provide him with legal advice in relation to his appearance at the Leveson Inquiry. Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for [112771] Work and Pensions how many decisions on appeals relating to employment and support allowance his The Deputy Prime Minister [holding answer 19 June Department has challenged at a higher court. [113319] 2012]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Chris Grayling: DWP has made 13 appeals against Sport, the right hon. Member for South West Surrey First-tier Tribunal decisions on ESA to the Upper Tribunal (Mr Hunt), on 21 June 2012, Official Report, (UT) since ESA was introduced in 2008 up to 20 June column 1088W. 2012. DWP have taken no appeals to the Court of Appeal from UT decisions on ESA. WORK AND PENSIONS Employment Schemes Carer’s Allowance Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Work and Pensions what the total cost of settlements Pensions what his policy is on the withdrawal of carers’ with flexible new deal providers whose contracts were allowance from those who have received a bonus from cancelled has been; and how many settlements remain their company. [113311] to be concluded. [113316] 45W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 46W

Chris Grayling: We have now concluded our negotiations the Chartered Institute of Housing on 13 June also with all flexible new deal contractors whose contracts provides advice and good practice examples to support were cancelled. Total compensation paid for cancellation tenants affected by these changes, including moving of contracts was £89 million. In addition, payments of into work. £63 million were made to providers to cover interim Jobcentre Plus personal advisers offer a comprehensive support for the transition period in summer 2010. menu of help that includes jobsearch support and skills provision. Advisers have the flexibility to tailor support Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for to the individual at the most appropriate point in their Work and Pensions whether a Work programme provider claim. Get Britain Working measures offer additional can claim payment in respect of a jobseeker who is support, including work clubs, work experience, new referred to the programme who starts a job before being enterprise allowance, enterprise clubs and sector based attached to a provider. [113318] work academies. Chris Grayling: Work programme providers cannot The Work programme provides tailored support to claim an attachment fee or any job outcome or sustainment those claimants furthest from the labour market. Young payments in respect of a claimant who is not attached claimants are referred to a provider after nine months to the programme before they start work. and those with more challenging barriers to work can be referred at three months. Providers are paid on the results they achieve, and are paid more for supporting Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for the harder to help into work. Work and Pensions what the (a) shortest, (b) longest and (c) average period of time taken was for (i) blind 1 http://www.cih.org/resources/PDF/Policy%20free%20 and partially sighted people and (ii) other jobseekers download%20pdfs/Making%20it%20fit.pdf between being referred to work programme providers and beginning to receive targeted support in the latest Incapacity Benefit period for which figures are available. [113329] Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Grayling: These statistics have not previously Work and Pensions with reference to migration trials in been published as official statistics. We will consider Burnley and Aberdeen, how many and what proportion whether to include the statistics requested in part of an of incapacity benefit claimants were found fit for work; upcoming statistics release in line with the Code of how many and what proportion of such findings were Practice on Official Statistics. appealed; and how many and what proportion of such appeals were successful. [113766] Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many (a) blind and partially sighted people and (b) other jobseekers were referred Chris Grayling: On 15 March 2012, the Department to a work programme or work choice provider after for Work and Pensions published information on the being declared fit for work following a work capability reassessment of incapacity benefits claimants for employment and support allowance (ESA) on a national assessment in each month since June 2011. [113388] level for the first time. The report can be found at the Chris Grayling: This information is not readily available following link: and to provide it would incur disproportionate cost. http://statistics.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/index.php?page =esa_ibr Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Table 1 in the report shows the outcomes of initial Work and Pensions whether his Department collects functional assessments of existing incapacity benefits data on job starts achieved by Work programme prime claimants being reassessed for ESA, both in terms of providers. [113762] the quantity and proportion allocated to each group, adjusted to account for completed appeal outcomes. Chris Grayling: The Department does not routinely This table specifically highlights the statistics for the collect job start data. Official job outcome statistics will autumn 2010 trial and also shows the national statistics be available from autumn 2012 online at: from March to July 2011 by month of referral. http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/index.php?page=tabtool Specific information on appeals made and whether they were successful or not is currently not available. Housing Benefit Manpower Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what support his Department is providing to social rented sector tenants to help them Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for enter employment in order to avoid rent arrears arising Work and Pensions how many staff employed by his from the application of the under occupancy provisions Department were specialists in EU state aid issues of the Welfare Reform Act 2012. [113315] between (a) May 2009 and May 2010 and (b) May 2010 and March 2011. [113312] Steve Webb: We are currently working on guidance and a toolkit of products to support the introduction of Chris Grayling: The Department for Work and Pensions the under-occupation measure and this will be published employed no specialists in EU state aid issues between alongside the regulations. These will signpost the support (a) May 2009 and May 2010 and (b) May 2010 and provided by Jobcentre Plus to assist people into work. March 2011. The Department for Business, Innovation Guidance to landlords, “Making it Fit1”, published by and Skills lead on EU state aid issues across Whitehall. 47W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 48W

Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for Maria Miller: The Department’s consultation on the Work and Pensions how many people formerly assessment criteria closed on 30 April. We are now employed by his Department as specialists on state aid analysing over 1,000 responses received, considering the have been rehired by his Department as a consultant changes we may wish to make to the assessment criteria since May 2010. [113313] to take account of those responses and to ensure the criteria allow effective assessment of the needs of disabled Chris Grayling: The Department for Work and Pensions people. We intend to publish a response to the consultation does not specialise in state aid, (on which the Department and a final draft of the assessment criteria later this for Business, Innovation and Skills lead across Whitehall). year, with regulations laid before Parliament thereafter. Therefore, the Department for Work and Pensions has The regulations will be made available to the Joint not re-hired any people formerly employed by the Committee on Statutory Instruments for their scrutiny Department as specialists on state aid as consultants and will be laid under an affirmative resolution, providing since May 2010. both Houses with the opportunity to debate and approve Motability them before they can be made.

Karl McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Regulation Work and Pensions (1) what the total cost to the public purse was in each region of assistance provided for Gordon Banks: To ask the Secretary of State for insuring vehicles acquired under the Motability scheme Work and Pensions what regulations his Department in each of the last 10 years for which figures are introduced between 1 February 2012 and 31 May 2012; available; [113561] and at what cost to the public purse. [113396] (2) how many leased cars have been acquired in each region via (a) the higher rate of the mobility component Chris Grayling: In response to the first part of the of disability living allowance and (b) the War Pensioners’ question, namely which regulations the Department for Mobility Supplement in each of the last 10 years, for Work and Pensions introduced between 1 February which figures are available; and what makes and models 2012 and 31 May 2012, these are as follows: of car were acquired in each region in each year. The six instruments listed are ones that have been laid [113562] on an annual basis for, at least, the last two years: Maria Miller: Anyone in receipt of the higher rate SI mobility component of disability living allowance or number Title war pensioners mobility supplement can choose to exchange some or all of their benefit for a Motability vehicle. The 923 Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) provision of Mobility scheme vehicles, including insurance (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 costs is therefore largely self-financed through the transfer 918 Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and of benefits, which would be payable whether or not a Amounts) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 person participates in the scheme. Consequently, the 819 Social Security Benefits Up-rating Regulations 2012 cost of insuring Motability vehicles is not an additional 757 Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) expense which is borne by the taxpayer. Regulations 2012 647 Social Security (Industrial Injuries) (Prescribed Information on how many leased cars have been Diseases) Amendment Regulations 2012 acquired in each region is not held by the Government 644 Social Security (Claims and Payments) Amendment as Motability is an independent charitable organisation, Regulations 2012 wholly responsible for the administration of the Motability scheme. Motability have advised that they will write to The following regulations are not generally laid on an the hon. Member with such information as they have. annual basis but have been laid to amend, replace or Any further detailed questions about the operation of simplify existing regulations: the scheme can be directed at Motability and can be sent to: SI Declan O’Mahony number Title Director 1267 Social Security and Child Support (Supersession of Motability Appeal Decisions) Regulations 2012 Warwick House 1257 Occupational and Personal Pension Schemes (Automatic Enrolment) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 Roydon Road 1135 Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 2012 Harlow 919 Employment and Support Allowance (Amendment of Essex Linking Rules) Regulations 2012 CM19 5PX. 913 Employment and Support Allowance (Duration of Contributory Allowance) (Consequential Amendments) Personal Independence Payment Regulations 2012 874 Social Security (Lone Parents and Miscellaneous Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for Amendments) Regulations 2012 Work and Pensions how much time will be given to 853 Jobseeker’s Allowance (Domestic Violence) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 parliamentarians for pre-legislative scrutiny of the final 824 Social Security (Suspension of Payment of Benefits and version of the assessment criteria for personal independence Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2012 payment before the regulations are laid before the House. 766 Social Security (Credits) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 [113390] 49W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 50W

criminal offences is discovered. The whole number of SI number Title full-time equivalent staff employed by Internal Investigations in each year since 2006-07 was: 712 Child Support (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2012 Number of full-time equivalent 692 Pensions (Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and As at March each year staff Consultation by Employers - Amendment) Regulations 2012 2007 87 645 Social Security (Recovery) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 2008 81 638 Identification and Traceability of Explosives (Amendment) Regulations 2012 2009 71 632 Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 2010 69 542 Occupational Pension Schemes (Contracting-out and Modification of Schemes) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 58 2012 2012 49 539 Occupational and Personal Pension Schemes (Levies -Amendment) Regulations 2012

I am unable to provide an answer to the second part Increased use of automated tools to support audit of the question on the basis that obtaining this information trail analysis has improved the efficient identification would incur a disproportionate cost to the Department. and appropriate investigation of cases involving the Department’s staff, with professionally trained investigators only involved in more serious or criminal cases. This has Separation supported the reduction in investigation staff. There has been no reduction in the capacity to carry out investigations Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for of allegations of external contractor or provider fraud Work and Pensions what steps he is taking to help or irregularities. All allegations of suspected staff or separated parents resolve maintenance and contact contractor fraud continue to be investigated professionally problems. [113182] and thoroughly, and, where appropriate, these are referred to the police. Maria Miller: It is unacceptable that only around 50% of children in separated families benefit from an The budget for Risk Assurance Division (and latterly effective child maintenance arrangement. Internal Audit and Investigations) for each financial year since 2006-07 was: That is why we are fundamentally reforming the child maintenance system. £ million That is also why the Government recently launched Risk Assurance Internal its consultation on shared parenting. Division Investigations

2006-07 28.1 3.7 Social Security Benefits: Fraud 2007-08 27.4 3.5 2008-09 25.2 3.2 Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009-10 23.5 3.0 Work and Pensions (1) how many investigators worked 2010-11 23.4 2.7 in his Department’s risk assurance division in each financial year since 2006-07; [112425] £ million (2) what the budget was for his Department’s risk Internal Audit & Internal assurance division in each financial year since 2006-07; Investigations Investigations [112426] 2011-12 7.7 2.2 (3) how many investigations were carried out by his Department’s risk assurance division investigators involving (a) his Department’s staff and (b) external contractors The number of investigations1 carried out which or providers in each financial year since 2006-07. involved (a) the Department’s staff and (b) external [112427] contractors or providers in each year since 2006-07 was:

Chris Grayling: Risk Assurance Division comprised (b) Contracted of four business functions: Risk Management (identifying Employment (b) Other (a) Staff Provision Contractor risks and countermeasures), Performance Measurement Investigations Investigations Investigations2 (providing estimates of levels of benefit fraud and error), Internal Audit (providing independent; objective assurance) 2006-07 702 8 1 and Internal Investigations (investigating allegations of 2007-08 687 27 3 fraud and other serious wrongdoing by the Department’s 2008-09 856 29 2 staff and contractors). In October 2011, the Internal 2009-10 961 16 0 Audit and Internal Investigations functions became a 2010-11 1,146 25 0 separate directorate. 2011-12 537 16. 0 Allegations of potential fraud or irregularities are 1 Data are for the number of investigations closed in each year. investigated by professionally trained staff, who refer 2 Allegations of procurement fraud or financial irregularities in other the matter to the police where sufficient evidence of contracted services. 51W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 52W

Social Security Benefits: Medical Examinations Steve Webb: Council tax benefit is being abolished in April 2013 and replaced with a new scheme of localised Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for council tax support. Work and Pensions what recent assessment he has The Department for Communities and Local made of mystery shopper checks that his Department Government is taking the Local Government Finance is carrying out at Atos medical assessment centres; and Bill through Parliament which paves the way for the if he will make a statement. [113765] implementation of localised council tax support schemes in England in April 2013. Chris Grayling: As part of their contract obligations This will require local councils to design their own Atos Healthcare are required to carry out a mystery schemes to administer council tax support, working shopper visit at each Medical Examination Centre (MEC) within a framework set out in legislation. The Government each contract year. Atos Healthcare is required under has been clear that vulnerable pensioners should be contract compliance to confirm in writing that this has protected, and that the changes should support incentives been completed. for people to find and stay in work. The mystery shopping exercise is concerned with the standard of accommodation, health and safety, provision Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for of information at the MEC and presentation of the Work and Pensions whether universal credit will include administration staff at the MEC; for example, are they provision for the costs of temporary and emergency wearing name badges. accommodation for (a) homeless families and (b) families A report is produced following each site visit and awaiting a decision on their homelessness case from passed to the MEC site manager to initiate any identified their local authority. [113763] action required. Copies of the individual visits are provided to the Steve Webb: The draft regulations published by the DWP Medical Services Commercial Contracts Team Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, the right hon. (MSCCT), and if there are any areas of concern identified, Member for Chingford and Woodford Green (Mr Duncan these will be raised with Atos Healthcare for any appropriate Smith), on 15 June provide for a housing element in the action. calculation of universal credit, including in cases where rent liability arises from temporary or emergency Unemployment: Lancashire accommodation.

Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Universal Credit: Free School Meals Work and Pensions how many qualified mechanics are registered with jobcentres in east Lancashire. [113654] Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Work and Pensions when he plans to announce how Cabinet Office. free school meals will be included in universal credit. [113192] The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Chris Grayling: The administration of free school meals is a matter for the Department for Education Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: (DFE). My Department is working closely with colleagues As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I in DFE and other Government Departments and devolved have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking Administrations with responsibility for passported benefits how many qualified mechanics are registered with Jobcentres in East Lancashire. (113654) as we tackle the opportunities and challenges in reforming the eligibility criteria for all passported benefits in light The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has interpreted the number of people registered with Jobcentres as those who are of the introduction of universal credit. Our immediate claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance which is compiled from the Jobcentre priority is to introduce universal credit in a way that Plus Administrative system. works smoothly with free schools meals and other We have defined East Lancashire as Ribble Valley, Hynburn, passported benefits. Rossendale, Burnley, Pendle and Blackburn with Darwen; and qualified mechanics people reporting their sought occupation as Universal Credit: Warrington Standard Occupation Classification (2000) 5231—Motor mechanics and auto engineers. The number of people seeking jobs as motor mechanics or Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work auto engineers in East Lancashire who were claiming Jobseeker’s and Pensions what training will be provided for staff in Allowance in May 2012 was 115. Warrington who will be dealing with claims for National and local area estimates for many labour market universal credit under the pathfinder scheme; and how statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant much he has allocated to fund such training in each of count are available on the NOMIS website at: the next three years. [113418] http://www.nomisweb.co.uk Steve Webb: We are currently finalising the detailed Universal Credit design of universal credit including job roles for our staff in the pathfinder. On completion of this work we Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work will have a full understanding of the training needs for and Pensions whether council tax benefit will be included our staff. Sufficient funding has been set aside to meet in the universal credit pathfinder schemes. [113667] all of the training needs for staff in the pathfinder. 53W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 54W

Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work (2) how many (a) blind and partially sighted people and Pensions what (a) face-to-face support, (b) and (b) other jobseekers were declared fit for work telephone support and (c) other resources will be following a work capability assessment in each month made available to those claiming universal credit under since June 2011. [113389] the pilot scheme who do not have access to the internet or who are unable to use a computer in Warrington. Chris Grayling: These statistics have not previously [113420] been published as official statistics. We will consider whether to include the statistics requested in part of an Steve Webb: The main route to access universal credit upcoming statistics release in line with the Code of will be through online channels. This will free up more Practice on Official Statistics. adviser time to deliver valuable face-to-face back-to-work support. Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for We realise that not everyone is a confident or capable Work and Pensions what progress he has made in digital user. We are therefore exploring how we could initiating the Gold Standard reviews of proposed new assist people to use digital technology and will be descriptors in the work capability assessment for (a) consulting with partner and representative groups as fluctuating conditions and (b) mental health problems; part of this work. and if he will make a statement. [113764] We also recognise that there will continue to be a Chris Grayling: Since the Government’s response to minority of claimants who cannot use online services. Professor Harrington’s second independent review was For those claimants who really need it we will offer published in November 2011, we have been carefully alternative access routes. considering how to build an appropriate evidence base Those claiming universal credit in the Pathfinder area around the proposed new descriptors. will be able to use the following facilities to support Regular meetings with representatives from both groups their claim: of charities are being held to develop this work. Terms (a) Jobcentre support for face to face contact; of reference have been agreed and we aim to publish a (b) telephony channels; and report of the Evidence Based Review in the spring of (c) assistance from Pathfinder partner organisations, specifically 2013. local authorities. Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Work and Pensions how many and what proportion of and Pensions how much funding he has allocated to work capability assessment fit-for-work decisions were publicise the universal credit pathfinder scheme in changed at the reconsideration stage to the (a) work-related Warrington. [113668] activity group and (b) support group in the latest period for which figures are available. [113767] Steve Webb: We are currently working to finalise the Communication Strategy with all universal credit pathfinder Chris Grayling: The requested information is not locations. Once this strategy is agreed we will then available. allocate specific funding to publicise the pathfinder scheme. Sheila Gilmore: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many and what proportion of Work Capability Assessment Atos work capability assessment fit-for-work recommendations were overturned by decision makers Jessica Morden: To ask the Secretary of State for to the (a) work-related activity group and (b) support Work and Pensions when he expects to conclude his group in the latest period for which figures are available. gold standard review of work capability assessments. [113768] [113314] Chris Grayling: These statistics have not previously Chris Grayling: We are currently working closely with been published as official statistics. We will consider disability organisations to determine how to build an whether to include the statistics requested in part of an evidence base for their proposed changes to the descriptors upcoming statistics release in line with the Code of used in the WCA. Practice on Official Statistics. Both the mental, intellectual and cognitive descriptors, Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and those dealing with fluctuating conditions, will be and Pensions how many medical assessments have been considered during the review. undertaken by Atos healthcare as part of a work capability We hope to publish a report of the evidence-based assessment in the last (a) year, (b) six months and (c) review in the spring of 2013. month; and how many people (i) failed the work capability assessment, (ii) appealed the decision and (iii) had the Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for decision overturned on appeal in each such period. Work and Pensions (1) how many appeals there have [113769] been against work capability assessment decisions for each impairment category since April 2011; what Chris Grayling: The Department regularly publishes proportion of work capability assessment decisions this official statistics on employment and support allowance represents for each impairment category; and how (ESA) and the work capability assessment (WCA). The many of the appeals in each impairment category were latest report was published in April 2012 and can be successful; [113328] found on the internet at the following link: 55W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 56W

http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/index.php?page As part of his second independent review, Professor =esa_wca Harrington asked leading charities to make In the tables Excel file that goes with the report, table recommendations to refine the mental, intellectual and 1a shows the outcomes of initial functional assessments cognitive descriptors used in the WCA. for new ESA claims by month of claim start, both in As part of the Evidence Based Review project, we are terms of the quantity and proportion allocated to each currently working with the charities to investigate how group, for claims starting between October 2008 and to build an evidence base to establish whether the August 2011, the latest data available. Table 1b shows proposed changes would make the assessment more the same information but for repeat assessments. accurate. Table 3 shows the outcome of appeals heard on Fit for Work decisions in initial functional assessments by month of claim start for claims starting between October 2008 and February 2011, the latest data available. Please JUSTICE note that only information on completed appeals is Bail available. In addition, on 15 March 2012, the Department Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for published information on the reassessment of incapacity Justice how many breaches of bail occurred when the benefits claimants for employment and support allowance defendant breached a curfew condition in the latest (ESA) on a national level for the first time. The report period for which figures are available; and how many can be found at the following link: such breaches were brought to court for bail to be http://statistics.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/ reconsidered. [113022] index.php?page=esa_ibr Table 1 in this report shows the outcomes of initial Mr Blunt: In financial year 2011-12, 16,579 defendants functional assessments of existing incapacity benefits breached a bail curfew condition in England and Wales. claimants being reassessed for ESA, both in terms of The data are from the electronic monitoring service the quantity and proportion allocated to each group, providers. The information held refers to breaches reported adjusted to account for completed appeal outcomes, to the courts or to the relevant authority such as Probation both for the autumn 2010 trial and, nationally, from Service, Prison Service, Youth Offending Service, or March to July 2011, the latest data available, by month police, and does not necessarily relate to breach action of referral. It only gives figures adjusted for completed taken. appeal outcomes. Information on initial decisions and It is not possible to provide the number of breaches appeal outcomes is currently not available. that were brought to court for bail to be reconsidered except at disproportionate cost. The electronic monitoring Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for service providers are not advised of the outcomes of Work and Pensions pursuant to his written answer of witness statements provided. Information would be available 24 May 2012, Official Report, column 793W on work only through a manual trawl of court or police records. and pensions, if his Department will, in its consideration of future requirements and strategy in relation to contracts Channel Islands: Dietary Supplements for conducting work capability assessments, consider an arrangement that allows for competition between Jim Dobbin: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice work capability assessment providers through the switching (1) when Ministers in his Department next plan to of market share. [113820] discuss the implementation of the Food Supplements Directive and the Nutrition and Health Claims Chris Grayling: The recently let Health and Disability regulation with the (a) Chief Minister of Guernsey Assessment Framework provides a mechanism for and (b) Chief Minister of Jersey; [113785] introducing competition into delivery by having contracts (2) what his policy is on the desirability of Crown let from a list of suppliers in geographic lots; it also Dependencies implementing EU legislation that applies provides an option for a single national contract. My to the rest of the UK. [113786] Department will look at all appropriate commercial options when considering the future work capability Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Minister of State (Lord assessment requirement and the contracting strategy to McNally) and officials are in regular contact with the deliver it. Jersey and Guernsey authorities on a range of matters, including the implementation of EU legislation in general and this directive and regulation in particular. Both Work Capability Assessment: Mental Health Crown Dependencies have confirmed they are taking steps to implement these specific measures at the earliest opportunity. Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for The Crown Dependencies’ relationship with the EU Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of is governed by Protocol 3 of the UK’s Treaty of Accession the suitability of the work capability assessment to to the European Community. The Crown Dependencies establish the capability to work of a person with a use their domestic legislation to implement EU legislation mental health condition. [113300] falling within the parameters of this Protocol. Under Protocol 3, the Islands are part of the customs territory Chris Grayling: We recognise that particular concerns of the Community and the common customs tariff, have been raised about the way the WCA works for levies and agricultural import measures apply to trade people with mental health conditions. between the Islands and non-member countries. 57W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 58W

However, other EU legislation does not generally practice. The Government’s ″Open Data Consultation″ apply. The Crown Dependencies are not part of the UK also sought views on the types of organisations to and it is for their own Governments to decide whether which an Open Data policy would apply. A summary of they wish to introduce such measures within their the responses has been published at: jurisdictions. www.data.gov.uk Children: Protection The Government will consider the recommendations of the Justice Committee, including any in relation to the scope of the FOIA, along with the evidence of the Derek Twigg: To ask the Secretary of State for Open Data consultation, before bringing forward any Justice if he will consider reviewing section 1 of the proposals for future policy on Freedom of Information. Children and Young Persons Act 1933 in relation to the definition of child neglect. [109904] Legal Aid Scheme Mr Blunt: There are no present plans to amend the law in this area. Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what proportion of his Department’s total Civil Proceedings: Legal Aid Scheme procurement expenditure was spent on legal aid providers who are by his Department’s definition small Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for and medium-sized enterprises in the (a) fourth quarter Justice what arrangements are in place to ensure the of 2010-11, (b) first quarter of 2011-12, (c) second Legal Service Commission tendering process for face to quarter of 2011-12 and (d) third quarter of 2011-12. face civil legal aid services from April 2013 will be [112980] undertaken in such a way as to ensure that claimants in receipt of legal aid can receive expert support from Mr Djanogly: The information requested is in the welfare benefit specialists. [113111] following table.

Mr Djanogly: The current tender exercise for face-to-face Percentage of Legal Aid Spend contracts for 2013 contracts does not include welfare with SMEs as a proportion of total procurement expenditure benefits work. Further to the passing of the Legal Aid, Period (%) Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012, the Legal Service Commission (LSC) is considering the Q1 2011-12 22 position on welfare benefits work that remains in scope Q2 2011-12 38 and how best to secure access to this advice. The LSC Q3 2011-12 36 will be publishing further details on its website as soon as it is able to confirm arrangements for this work from Legal Aid providers have been included in the Ministry April 2013. of Justice figures for procurement expenditure with Small and Medium Enterprises since April 2011. Therefore, Community Orders the proportion of procurement expenditure with Small and Medium Enterprises for the fourth quarter of 2010-11 John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for is not immediately available and could be provided only Justice whether he plans to require probation trusts to at disproportionate cost. compete for the provision of community supervision services. [113119] Prisoners: Repatriation

Mr Blunt: On 27 March we published proposals to Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice deliver more effective and efficient probation services, pursuant to the answer of 18 June 2012, Official alongside proposals for reforming community sentences. Report, columns 677-8W, on prisoners: repatriation, The Government is seeking to extend competition in what the (a) offences committed and (b) nationalities probation services and give probation trusts a stronger role were of each of the prisoners repatriated in (i) 2011, (ii) as commissioners of competed services, in order to 2010, (iii) 2009, (iv) 2008 and (v) 2007. [113307] better punish and reform offenders and protect the public. The consultation closed on 22 June. We intend to Mr Blunt: The information requested has been placed publish the Government response to the consultation in in the Libraries of both Houses. the autumn. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Freedom of Information pursuant to the answer of 18 June 2012, Official Report, columns 677-8W, on prisoners: repatriation, Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for whether any of the repatriated prisoners were released Justice what plans he has to discuss legislative proposals from custody in the administering state at a date earlier to extend freedom of information legislation to (a) than they would have been if they remained in a UK charities, (b) private companies and (c) not-for-profit prison. [113308] organisations undertaking duties assigned to them by a public authority. [112950] Mr Blunt: The administration of a prisoner’s sentence following repatriation is a matter for the laws of the Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Freedom of Information administering state. As a consequence, release from Act (FOIA) is subject to post-legislative scrutiny by the custody may take place earlier or later than would have Justice Select Committee to see how it is working in been the case had they remained in the United Kingdom. 59W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 60W

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice In addition, the Prisons (Interference with Wireless pursuant to the answer of 18 June 2012, Official Report, Telegraphy) Bill was introduced to Parliament as a columns 677-8W, on prisoners: repatriation, what the Government sponsored Private Members Bill on 20 average cost was to the public purse of repatriating each June 2012 by Sir Paul Beresford. foreign national prisoner. [113309] Probation Mr Blunt: Costs associated with the transfer of a prisoner i.e. flights, and escort costs, are met by the John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for receiving state unless otherwise agreed. Since 2007, Justice what savings have accrued from the merger (1) NOMS has met the cost of transferring eight foreign of (a) West Midlands and Staffordshire, (b) Durham national prisoners to their country of origin at an and Teesside and (c) Norfolk and Suffolk probation average cost of £3,804.48. Costs associated with the trusts in 2012-13; [113117] transfer of all other foreign national prisoners during (2) of the separate probation areas of Wales into one this period were met by the receiving state. Costs associated Wales probation trust in 2012-13. [113118] with the detention of the prisoner following transfer fall to the receiving state. Mr Blunt: The mergers led to a reduction in level of resources needed to support the running of back-office Prisoners: Veterans functions and this allowed a higher proportion of allocated funding to be utilised on the delivery of front-line services to offenders, victims and the courts. Mrs Glindon: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will take steps to ensure that former military John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for personnel disclose their military service on reception Justice (1) what plans he has to pilot biometric into prison. [113295] reporting machines for offenders in any probation area in England and Wales; [113838] Mr Blunt: I refer the hon. Member to my reply of 11 (2) what assessment he has made of the role of June 2012, Official Report, column 358W,in response to biometric reporting machines reducing the risk from a similar question raised by the hon. Member for Luton offenders. [113839] North (Kelvin Hopkins). Prison reception staff are not specifically required to Mr Blunt: London Probation Trust is developing a ask newly-arrived prisoners whether they have served in research project to explore the potential use of biometric the armed forces. However, prisoners do discuss aspects technology within probation. of their background, including their previous employment, The purpose of the research is to see whether biometric with staff during the induction and assessment process technology can assist probation staff in their work of and if this information is disclosed it will be recorded rehabilitating offenders, which in turn helps to protect on the prisoner central database and can be shared with the public. other Government Departments and Agencies, both internal and external. Robbery: Sentencing There are no current plans to introduce amendments to the existing procedures. Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 15 May 2012, Official Prisons: Mobile Phones Report, column 87W, on robbery, which courts did not send the defendants listed for 2008, 2009 and 2010 to Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice prison. [112923] how many prisons (a) have adopted mobile telephone blocking technology and (b) plan to adopt mobile Mr Djanogly: For the year 2008 Lewes crown court telephone blocking technology to prevent the use of did not send the defendant listed to prison for robbery. Due to incomplete data held on the police’s administrative mobile telephones by prisoners. [113043] IT system the Ministry of Justice is unable to supply the names of the courts which did not send the defendants Mr Blunt: NOMS has trialled a range of mobile listed for the years 2009 and 2010 to prison. signal denial technology in a small number of prisons. It would be inappropriate for operational reasons to This information has been drawn from the police’s provide details of those prisons. administrative IT system, the police national computer, which, as with any large scale recording system, is These trials have demonstrated that equipment can subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. be capable of denying signals to illicit mobile phones The information is provisional and subject to change as within the prison perimeter as required by law and more information is recorded by the police. Ofcom regulations, but that this is not a quick, simple or cheap solution. Social Security Benefits: Appeals NOMS has recently procured a number of short range portable mobile phone blocking devices which Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for prisons can use to complement their wider mobile phone Justice how many people were employed by the Tribunals strategies of minimising the number of mobile phones Service to deal with appeal cases received by the First-tier entering prisons, finding phones which do get in and Tribunal-Social Security and Child Support in (a) 2009, disrupting those which cannot be found. This equipment (b) 2010, (c) 2011 and (d) on the most recent date for will be provided shortly. which figures are available. [113663] 61W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 62W

Mr Djanogly: The following table shows the number Total adjudication costs charged of administrative staff employed by Her Majesty’s Courts by HM Courts Service/HM and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) to deal with appeals Courts and Tribunals Service to received by the First-tier Tribunal—Social Security and Financial years NOMS (£)

Child Support on 31 March of each year between 2009 1 2 and 2012 (the latest date for which figures have been 2007-08 — published). 2008-09 606,081 2009-10 641,712 Social security and child support tribunal staff numbers 2010-11 606,945 Fixed term Permanent Total number 2011-123 467,309 contract staff staff of staff 1 Manual records in operation. 2009 59 652 711 2 Full year costs not available. 3 Relates to nine months charges: final three months outstanding 2010 92 696 788 from HMCTS. 2011 245 739 984 Costs for visits for independent adjudicators to young 2012 178 832 1,010 offender institutions and prisons are a local cost funded Note: The above data is taken from management information. The figures from individual establishments’ annual budget allocation. quoted for the total number of staff employed and include those who work part-time or on a full-time basis. Some of the staff included may work in multi-jurisdictional centres dealing with other work as well as Social Security and Child Support appeals. ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

The Social Security and Child Support Tribunal disposed Carbon Emissions of 380,200 appeals in 2010-11. This is an increase of 36% compared to 2009-10 (279,300) and a 55% increase Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for on 2008-09 (245,500). The Tribunal disposed of 322,700 Energy and Climate Change what recent steps his appeals in the period between April and December 2011 Department has taken to reduce the UK’s carbon (the latest date for which data has been published). footprint. [113526]

Gregory Barker: My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister made a pledge to make this the greenest Government ever and the UK leads the world in its Young Offender Institutions and Prisons ambition for a 50% reduction in emissions through the fourth carbon budget (2023 to 2027). Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Significant steps have been taken to cut emissions. In (1) what the cost was of (a) each visit made by independent just one year, carbon emissions within central Government adjudicators to young offenders institutions and prisons offices were cut by nearly 14% and the Prime Minister and (b) all such visits in each of the last five years; has committed Government to go further by reducing [113044] emissions by 25% by 2015. (2) how visits made by independent adjudicators to Emissions projections, published on 13 October 2011, young offender institutions and prisons are funded. show the UK is on track to meet our first three carbon [113045] budgets and our 2020 target to reduce emissions by at least 34%, against the 1990 baseline. The net UK carbon Mr Blunt: The following table shows the standard account (emissions allowing for trading) in 2010 was cost charges to establishments in respect of visits made 23% below 1990 levels. by independent adjudicators to young offenders institutions and prisons for the last five years from 2007-08 to The Government has demonstrated its determination 2011-12. to support greater energy efficiency across the economy through its work on the Green Deal and the new energy Adjudication charges company obligation which will help the poorest and Standard cost per visit charged to most vulnerable households, and supporting a move to Financial years establishments low carbon alternatives to traditional heating through 2007-08 £305 per visit the Renewable Heat Incentive—the first of its kind on 2008-09 Varied between £305.00-£335.00 the world. per visit The Electricity Market Reform programme represents 2009-10 Varied between £333.00-£380.00 the biggest change to the energy market since privatisation per visit and will transform the UK’s electricity sector. Already, 2010-11 Varied between £307.00-£360.00 the Government has set out a package of reforms per visit (published in a White Paper, July 2011) to deliver secure, 2011-12 Varied between £345.00-£353.00 low carbon and affordable electricity. These proposals per visit have since been followed up by a ’technical update’ and Notes: 1. Charges are on the basis of a standard cost range per visit. the publication of a draft Energy Bill which is currently 2. The cost per visit can vary due to several factors, eg distance undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny. travelled, necessity for an overnight stay and the number of establishments In December 2011, the Government published its in close proximity visited on a particular journey. It also includes Carbon Plan, a comprehensive strategy which set out administration charges. 3. For 2007-08, the majority of the figures are derived from our proposals for achieving emissions reductions committed manual system and therefore it has not been possible to provide the to in the first four carbon budgets, on a pathway consistent range of cost per visit only the standard cost per visit. with meeting the 2050 target. The Carbon Plan brought 63W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 64W together the Government’s strategy to curb greenhouse Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for gas emissions and set out our plans for achieving a 50% Energy and Climate Change how much his Department reduction in the UK’s emissions relative to 1990 by the has spent on its (a) gas and (b) electricity bills in each fourth carbon budget period over 2023 to 2027. of the last 10 years. [113501]

Carbon Emissions: International Cooperation Gregory Barker: DECC was formed in October 2008. Spend on gas and electricity in the DECC estate for Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for financial years 2009-10 to 2011-12 are as follows: Energy and Climate Change if he will take steps to include the issue of low carbon growth on the agenda £ of the G8 under the UK’s forthcoming presidency of Gas Electricity the G8 in 2013. [113543] 2009-10 47,771 176,156 Gregory Barker: The UK will assume the presidency 2010-11 19,029 187,606 of the G8 on 1 January 2013. The G8 is a forum for the 2011-12 13,709 137,014 leaders of eight of the world’s most industrialized nations, aimed at finding common ground on key topics and Energy Supply solutions to global issues. We are currently developing a programme of work for the G8 for 2013, across Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Government Departments and in consultation with our Energy and Climate Change what measures he has put G8 partners, civil society and business leaders. in place to ensure transparency during Contracts for Difference strike price administrative price setting prior Carbon Reduction Commitment to progressing the draft Energy Bill. [111349]

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Charles Hendry: There will be full transparency over and Climate Change what assessment he has made of the terms of any investment instruments or Contracts the operation of legislation on the carbon reduction for Difference offered to developers of low carbon commitment; and what steps he is taking to reduce the electricity generating projects ahead of the Energy Bill administrative costs for industry of the scheme. [112941] receiving Royal Assent. The draft Energy Bill includes provisions stating that, Gregory Barker: The CRC energy efficiency scheme, for an investment instrument to be issued, the Secretary covering large energy users in the public and private of State for Energy and Climate Change must have laid sector, started on 1 April 2010. We have reviewed both a draft of the instrument before Parliament, and must the legislation and operation of the scheme in its first have consulted each person who is a holder of a licence years and having listened to the views of participants to supply electricity under section 6(1 )(d) of the 1989 proposed, on 27 March 2012, a comprehensive Act before the instrument was laid in Parliament. simplification package for consultation. Our proposals will ensure the scheme stays true to its intent in changing Energy: Billing organisations’ behaviour to improve energy efficiency while making compliance easier for participants and Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State significantly less burdensome. We estimate that our for Energy and Climate Change what estimate his proposals will reduce the administrative cost of participants Department has made of the likely cost to the bill by almost two-thirds. This equates to £330 million payer of a unit of each form of renewable energy in (a) savings for CRC participants up to 2030. The consultation 2012, (b) 2015 and (c) 2020. [111629] closed on 18 June 2012 and we are currently reviewing the responses received. Charles Hendry: There are three forms of renewable energy; heat, transport and electricity.The cost of renewable Energy heat technologies are classified as Government spending, which is not passed onto consumers in energy bills, but Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for paid for through taxation. The cost of renewables in Energy and Climate Change whether his Department transport is determined by the renewable transport fuel has switched its (a) gas or (b) electricity supplier in obligation (RTFO), which obligates road transport fuel any of the last 10 years. [113460] suppliers to ensure a percentage of fuels they supply in the UK come from renewable sources. Suppliers pass on Gregory Barker: DECC was formed in October 2008 the costs of the RTFO to petrol consumers. The cost of and switched suppliers of both gas and electricity with renewable electricity support is funded by electricity effect from 1 April 2012. suppliers through their obligation to pay incentives to renewable generators. Suppliers pass on those charges Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for to electricity customers ie bill-payers. Energy and Climate Change which energy supplier supplies The renewable electricity incentives in question are his Department with (a) gas and (b) electricity. the level of the renewables obligation, the value of levy [113478] exemption certificates, and the value of total payments under the feed-in tariffs scheme. Adding these amounts Gregory Barker: With effect from 1 April 2012 DECC’s together gives the total net subsidy cost that is assumed energy suppliers are: to pass through to consumer’s bills. The impact on (a) Gas—Corona; actual bills depends on the level of electricity sales, the (b) Electricity—EDF. number of customers and the average bill size. 65W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 66W

The subsidy cost of renewable electricity per unit (3) whether implementation of the recommendations generated supported through the renewables obligation made in the final report of the Fuel Poverty Review in 2012 is estimated to be the value of the levy exemption will be part of the public consultation; and if he will certificate (around £5/MWh) plus the ROC band multiplied make a statement. [113281] by the value of a ROC (around £45 in 2012-13 prices). These values are uprated in line with the retail prices Gregory Barker: Professor Hills’s review of fuel poverty index each year. Current ROC bands for each individual looked in detail at the issue of measurement and made a technology, and proposals for future bands are set out number of recommendations relating to how the current in Table 2 of the RO banding review consultation: measurement framework could be improved. Following http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/consultation/ro- the publication of Professor Hills’s final report on fuel banding/3235-consultation-ro-banding.pdf poverty the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Under the Electricity Market Reform, the renewables Change, the right hon. Member for Kingston and Surbiton obligation will be closed to new capacity from 1 April (Mr Davey), announced his intention to adopt a revised 2017 and large scale renewable electricity will be supported approach to measuring fuel poverty and to consulting through the new FIT with Contract for Difference on that approach. We are planning to publish the scheme, which is currently being developed. consultation in September. This is later than originally anticipated due to the need to undertake analysis to The net subsidy cost for technologies supported through understand the impact of changing the definition. the feed-in tariffs scheme is determined by the level of generation tariffs under the scheme. Future levels of the Government Procurement Card generation tariff for solar PV from August 2012, and the methodology for setting future levels are set out in Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for the Government response to consultation on Phase 2A Energy and Climate Change how many procurement of the FITs comprehensive review: card holders in his Department were (a) paid off-payroll, http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/ (b) employed on a part-time basis and (c) employed as fits_rev_ph2a/fits_rev_ph2a.aspx a non-permanent employee in (i) 2009-10, (ii) 2010-11 Proposals for other technologies are set out in the and (iii) 2011-12. [113342] Phase 2B consultation: Gregory Barker: There are currently 166 Government http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/ procurement card (GPC) holders in the Department of fits_rev_ph2b/fits_rev_ph2b.aspx Energy and Climate Change (DECC). Of these, one is Final decisions on phase 2B are due to be announced employed on a part-time basis and is on secondment in the summer. into DECC and paid off-payroll. A further seven of these are employed on a part-time basis. Energy: Conservation The following table shows previous cardholders.

Year in Non- Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for which GPC Paid off- permanent Energy and Climate Change what agreements were cancelled Number payroll Part time employee made on negawatts at the EU Energy Council meeting to discuss the energy efficiency directive on 15 June 2012 14 0 0 0 2011 62 0 1 0 2012. [113542] 2010 23 0 0 0 2009 16 0 1 0 Charles Hendry: At Energy Council on 15 June, the Presidency reported to Ministers that, subject to a plenary vote in the European Parliament, a first reading Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for agreement on the energy efficiency directive had been Energy and Climate Change on which dates his achieved between the Council and the Parliament earlier Department has published Government procurement in the week. The directive contains a wide range of card spending over £500 since May 2010. [113360] provisions including, for the first time, binding energy-saving targets for member states to be delivered through Gregory Barker: The dates of publication of DECC’s deployment of supplier obligation or equivalent policy Government procurement card expenditure over £500 measures. are as follows: April to June 2011: 9 September 2011 Fuel Poverty July to September: 4 November 2011 October 2011: 6 December 2011 November to December 2011: 2 April 2012 Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy January to March 2012: will be published shortly. and Climate Change with reference to the written ministerial statement of 15 March 2012, Official Report, column 37WS, Green Deal Scheme on fuel poverty, (1) when he plans to publish the public consultation on improving the framework for tackling Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for fuel poverty; and if he will make a statement; [113279] Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of 15 March 2012, Official Report, column 361W, on the (2) what steps his Department plans to take to Green Deal Scheme, if he will assess the compatibility implement the recommendations in the final report of of this answer with the provisions of clause 34 of The the Fuel Poverty Review on the long-term sick and fuel Green Deal Framework (Disclosure, Acknowledgment, poverty; and if he will make a statement; [113280] Redress etc.) Regulations 2012. [113215] 67W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 68W

Gregory Barker: Regulation 34 of the draft Green (2) the effect of energy legislation and policy on the Deal Framework (Disclosure, Acknowledgment, Redress petroleum refining industry. [113020] etc.) Regulations 2012 prevents Green Deal Providers from including in Green Deal plans a term which restricts Charles Hendry: DECC has made a number of a bill payer from changing gas or electricity supplier. assessments of the impact of a range of factors on the So, for example, a Green Deal Provider who is also an petroleum refining industry. Most recently, in 2011, we energy supplier (or is connected to a supplier) will not published a detailed study on developments in international be able to use the Green Deal Plan as a way of tying downstream oil markets and their drivers, and implications customers to their supply. for the UK refining sector. This included an assessment This is different from the provision that will be enacted of the effect of energy and environmental legislation through a modification to the electricity supply licence and policy on the petroleum refining sector. The report conditions: the electricity supplier for a property with a can be found on DECC’s website at: live Green Deal plan must have acceded to the Green http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/ Deal Arrangements Agreement (GDAA), and suppliers en_security/downstream_oil/improving/improving.aspx who have not acceded to the GDAA will not be able to DECC is currently working with the industry on a accept customers with Green Deal Plans. further study, which is looking at a range of factors that The licence condition modifications will stipulate could impact on competitiveness of UK refining industry that larger electricity suppliers (more than 250,000 to form the basis for a strategic policy framework for customers) must be a party to the GDAA while smaller the UK refining sector. The study is due to be concluded electricity suppliers (less than 250,000 customers) can in autumn 2012. choose to accede to the GDAA. Renewable Energy: Business Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what comparative assessment Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy he has made of the steps consumers will be able to take and Climate Change what plans his Department has to (a) during and (b) following the controlled launch promote the use of renewable energy in business. period of the Green Deal. [113222] [113527] Gregory Barker: The Government has a number of Gregory Barker: The carefully managed introduction incentives in place to support renewable generation by of the Green Deal framework and the new Energy businesses, individuals and communities. The renewables Company Obligation is designed to ensure that this obligation (RO) and feed-in tariffs (FITs) support renewable long-term programme is built on solid foundations. The electricity generation, with the renewable heat incentive managed introduction of the programme is subject to (RHI) supporting renewable heat. parliamentary approval of the legislation laid on 11 June 2012. In addition, DECC published a Microgeneration Strategy in June 2011. The actions set out in the strategy will From October, Green Deal assessors will be able to support the increased uptake of small-scale localised complete assessments and providers will be able to issue energy production. Such projects can engage individuals, quotes so consumers will be ready to complete a Green neighbourhoods, businesses and communities in becoming Deal plan at the end of January when the relevant parts involved with generating local heat and power. of the framework regulations come into effect. In addition, Green Deal authorised installers will be able to complete Warm Front Scheme work for consumers prior to the end of January if paid for upfront or wholly supported by the Energy Company Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Obligation. and Climate Change how many people have taken up Warm Front grants since April 2011. [113557] Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether the £200 million Gregory Barker: 37,9251 households have been assisted to support incentives for the early adopters of the by Warm Front since April 2011. Green Deal will be drawn from his existing departmental 1 As of 31 May 2012. budget. [113243] Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Gregory Barker: The 2011 autumn statement announced and Climate Change with reference to the Warm Front £200 million of additional one-off capital resource to scheme, how much remains unallocated of the (a) support the Green Deal. This will be added to DECC’s £110 million available in 2011-12 and (b) £100 million departmental budget as £30 million in financial year available in 2012-13. [113558] 12-13 and £170 million in financial year 13-14. Gregory Barker: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the right hon. Member for Don Valley Oil (Caroline Flint) on 23 April 2012, Official Report, column 620W. The budget for Warm Front and associated expenditure Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for in 2012-13 is £100 million. Of this, £70.1 million1 remains Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has available to provide insulation and heating measures to made of (1) the effect of environmental legislation and qualifying households. policy on the petroleum refining industry; [113019] 1 Warm Front budget remaining as at 31 May 2012. 69W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 70W

Wind Power only one wind farm in the UK has presented a noise nuisance to residents. The issue has since been resolved. Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State We will keep the issue of AM under review and welcome for Energy and Climate Change (1) what consideration the additional research on AM that RenewableUK have his Department has given to compensating people commissioned. living in the proximity of wind farms whose property is adversely affected; [111582] Mr Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy (2) if he will take steps to require wind farm developers and Climate Change what the level of Government and local authorities to compensate homeowners for support to wind power has been, by category of expenditure, any loss of property value arising from aerodynamic in each of the last 10 years; how much such funding was modulation noise arising from wind turbines. [111783] allotted to landowners in each of those years; and what estimate he has made of the sums to be allocated for Charles Hendry: The evidence of a general fall in similar purposes in each of the next five years. [113081] property prices caused by the presence of the wind farms is mixed. The Government is nevertheless keen to Charles Hendry: The Government’s main mechanism give host communities a greater stake in local wind for incentivising large-scale renewable electricity is the farm developments and will be legislating this year to renewables obligation (RO), which provides support for enable local retention of business rates accruing to eligible generation. Wind farm hosts do not receive renewables development over the lifetime of such projects. public subsidies other than support for eligible generation In addition, many generators have committed to a under the RO. voluntary contribution to local communities in England The following table sets out the annual RO spend on of a minimum of £1,000 per megawatt installed capacity onshore and offshore wind for each year from 2002-03 per year. to 2010-11 (the latest year for which data are available). Studies have considered the noise phenomenon known RO bands are currently being reviewed and we expect to as amplitude modulation (AM), but show that to date announce the outcomes shortly.

Annual RO spend on onshore and offshore wind for each year from 2002-03 to 2010-11 £ million (real 2012-13 prices) 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

Onshore 75 91 101 140 258 308 391 425 441 Offshore 0 3 16 26 44 62 94 159 288 Total 75 94 117 166 302 369 485 584 729

In addition, the following table shows UK public this funding, up to £60 million was included to support energy spend on Research, Development and the establishment of major offshore wind manufacturing Demonstration (R,D&D) on wind technology, as reported facilities at coastal locations in assisted areas of England to the International Energy Agency (IEA). and the Department announced up to £30 million for UK public energy RD&D spend on wind (in 2010 £) offshore wind technology development. £ million Nigel Adams: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy 2001 1.782 and Climate Change what information his Department 2002 2.469 holds on the number and capacity of wind turbines 2003 2.873 which are (a) operational and (b) in the planning 2004 2.193 process; and whether his Department relies on the 2005 19.145 industry trade body to provide statistics on the number 2006 31.989 and capacity of wind turbines. [113282] 2007 18.42 2008 4.26 Charles Hendry: DECC’s Renewable Energy Planning 1 2009 9.474 Database (REPD) tracks the progress of renewable 2010 63.234 electricity projects from inception, through planning, Total 155.839 construction and operational phases and is updated on a monthly basis. The following tables show the breakdown The spending review of November 2010 announced of wind turbine numbers and capacity for May 2012. funding of over £200 million for low-carbon technologies 1 Note: over the next four financial years from April 2011. Of https://restats.decc.gov.uk/cms/planning-database/

(b) Planning Applications—number of turbines

(a) Number of Wind Technology Source operational turbines Submitted Awaiting Construction Under Construction

Wind Offshore REPD 568 1,072 323 863 Wind Onshore REPD 3,311 2,809 1,819 925 RESTATS 318 n/a n/a n/a 71W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 72W

(b) Planning Applications—number of turbines (a) Number of Wind Technology Source operational turbines Submitted Awaiting Construction Under Construction

Total 4,197 3,881 2,142 1,788

(b) Planning application capacity MW Wind Technology (a) Operational capacity MW Under construction MW Awaiting construction MW Under consideration MW

Wind offshore 1,858 2,729 988 4,521 Wind onshore 4,794 2,220 4,217 6,451 Total 6,652 4,949 5,205 10,972

The data is derived from REPD surveys, carried out The Financial Reporting Council’s Stewardship Code on a monthly basis, and RESTATS data collection encourages institutional investors to set out the activities carried out primarily on an annual basis with circumstances when they will actively intervene in the estimates on a quarterly basis. Data sources include the companies they invest in; including the suggestion that Infrastructure Planning Commission, planning authority institutional investors may want to intervene when they websites, developers websites, trade association websites, have concerns about the company’s approach to the journals, ad hoc market intelligence sources, DECC risks arising from social and environmental matters. and devolved Government websites/contacts (including However, it is for individuals and businesses to decide S36 Consents), Ofgem ROCs database with crosschecking for themselves which, if any, not-for-profit organisations against other data collection activities such as Renewables they wish to support or become involved in or with. UK. It should be noted that within REPD the definition of an operational project requires that every turbine Child Benefit: Lanarkshire must have generated. The definitions used by other organisations may vary. Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people in Rutherglen and Hamilton West Wind Power: Noise constituency receive child benefit. [113060]

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Gauke: I refer the hon. Member to the parliamentary for Energy and Climate Change if he will make an question answered on 14 March 2012, Official Report, assessment of the work of research in the British column 259W. Medical Journal by Dr Hanning relating to the effects The next publication of child benefit statistics will be of wind farm noise on human health. [111765] on 28 February 2013.

Charles Hendry: A number of independent peer reviewed Child Care Vouchers research studies commissioned by DECC and its predecessor Departments have looked at the impacts of Kate Green: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer noise from wind farms and concluded that there is no what information employers are required by HM evidence of direct health effects arising from infrasound Revenue and Customs to provide to employees when or low frequency noise generated by wind turbines. childcare vouchers are offered through a salary The Government reviews new evidence carefully to sacrifice scheme. [113448] assess whether these conclusions remain valid. In our assessment the British Medical Journal editorial article Miss Chloe Smith: General guidance on salary sacrifice of 8 March 2012 on wind turbine noise does not change arrangements in respect of employer-supported child the conclusion that appropriately sited wind turbines care is published by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) do not have a direct effect on public health. in a number of documents on its website www.hmrc.gov.uk There is no requirement under the existing legislation for employers to provide any information to employees TREASURY when child care vouchers are offered through a salary sacrifice arrangement. However, if the child care support Asset Owners Disclosure Project provided by the employer exceeds the statutory limits, whether or not salary sacrifice arrangements are in Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the place, the employer must report the excess value of the Exchequer what his policy is on encouraging benefit to HMRC and will also need to inform the institutional investors to sign up to the Asset Owners’ employee concerned. Disclosure Project. [111505] Combined Heat and Power Mr Hoban: Investors can play a positive role in the stewardship of companies. To help them make informed Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the decisions they need to know the risks, including social Exchequer (1) what assessment he has made of the and environmental, that could impact on the strategy effect on industry of the decision to remove support for and business model of the firm. combined heat and power; [113676] 73W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 74W

(2) what reduction of indirect supplies of electricity Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer from combined heat and power plants (CHP) he anticipates which energy supplier supplies his Department with (a) following the removal of CHP levy exemption certificates gas and (b) electricity. [113484] from 2013. [113696] Miss Chloe Smith: HM Treasury’s current energy Miss Chloe Smith: This Government is committed to suppliers are Corona Energy for gas and EDF Energy creating an environment that supports manufacturing for electricity. within the UK and continues to incentivise combined heat and power (CHP) overall through public subsidy. Equitable Life Budget 2012 announced that the input fuels used to generate heat in high-efficiency CHP plants will be Caroline Lucas: To ask the Chancellor of the exempt from the carbon price floor, subject to state aid Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 14 June 2012, approval. It also announced that we will exempt small Official Report, columns 557-8W, on Equitable Life, scale electricity generators of 2 megawatts capacity and what the frequency is of the updates he receives from less, removing many CHP stations from the carbon the Equitable Life payment scheme. [113054] price floor completely. Budget 2011 announced the removal of levy exemption Mr Hoban: Treasury Ministers receive updates at certificates from 2013. This exemption was administratively varying levels of frequency depending on ministerial complex and costly to the taxpayer. Budget 2012 announced commitments, the progress of the scheme and the transitional arrangements to allow electricity generators parliamentary timetable. to use up their remaining levy exemption certificates for a period of five years after the ending of the exemption. Excise Duties: Fuels The impacts of removing the exemption are set out in the Tax Information and Impact Note published at Budget 2012. This can be found on the HMRC website: Miss McIntosh: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect of the http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/tiin-0700.pdf proposed three pence increase in fuel duty on (a) private motorists, (b) local businesses and (c) local Electricity authorities; and if he will make a statement. [112888]

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Miss Chloe Smith: I refer my hon. Friend to the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Tewkesbury of the climate change levy minimum carbon floor (Mr Robertson), on 13 June 2012, Official Report, pricing reforms on petroleum refinery combined heat column 475W. and power electricity supply. [112940] Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Miss Chloe Smith: As with other combined heat and Exchequer (1) what recent assessment he has made of power (CHP) stations, good quality petroleum refinery the potential benefits to the freight transport industry CHPs will be exempt from the carbon price floor on the of a reduction in the rate of road fuel duty charged on fossil fuels used to generate heat. In addition, small used cooking oil; [113018] scale electricity generation (of 2 megawatts capacity (2) how much revenue has accrued to the Exchequer and less) is exempt from the carbon price floor. This from road fuel duty on fuel gases in each of the last removes many CHP stations from the carbon price three years for which figures are available; and how floor completely. much he expects to accrue in each of the next three Taken together, these measures put CHP electricity years; [113115] generation on a level playing field with alternatives, as (3) how much revenue has accrued to the Exchequer large CHP stations will pay for the fossil fuels burned to from road fuel duty on used cooking oil in each of the generate electricity, but not heat. last three years for which figures are available; and how HM Revenue and Customs have produced a Tax much he expects to accrue in each of the next three Information and Impact Note on the impacts of these years; [113116] policy changes, along with other changes that have been (4) what estimate he has made of the likely revenue made to the Carbon Price Floor policy since Budget which will accrue to the Exchequer from road fuel duty 2011. This can be found on the HMRC website: from road fuel gases in each of the next three years. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/tiin-0701.pdf [113758]

Energy Miss Chloe Smith: The Chancellor of the Exchequer, my right hon. Friend the Member for Tatton (Mr Osborne), routinely considers the balance between providing Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer fiscal support through discounted tax rates or market-based whether his Department switched its (a) gas or (b) mechanisms. The 20p per litre duty differential for used electricity supplier in any of the last 10 years. [113466] cooking oil came to an end as intended on 31 March 2012. Under changes to the renewable transport fuels Miss Chloe Smith: The electricity supplier to the obligation, biofuels derived from waste, including used Treasury building changed in October 2008 from E.on cooking oil, receive twice the level of support as provided to EDF Energy. to conventional biofuels. 75W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 76W

Information on historic fuel duty receipts by fuel type The total cost of the contract is not yet known is published in table 2 of the UK Trade Info Hydrocarbon because it is being delivered through a Payment by Oils Bulletin at: Results model. This means that Experian receive payment https://www.uktradeinfo.com/Statistics/Pages/ when they help HMRC and DWP deliver their targets TaxAndDutybulletins.aspx to reduce fraud and error. The forecast of future fuel duty revenues has been HMRC does not expect payment to exceed £170,000 published in table 4.7 of the Office for Budget in total by the end of the contract. Responsibility’s March 2012 “Economic and Fiscal Outlook”. This considers dutied fuels in aggregate rather Financial Services than individually. John Glen: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Freeman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 24 May 2012, Official (a) what recent meetings he has had with representatives Report, column 842W, on financial services, (1) how he (b) of Fair Fuel UK and the automotive industry on proposes that the level of compliance with the Retail fuel duty; and if he will make a statement. [113236] Distribution Review will be measured; [113089] Miss Chloe Smith: Treasury Ministers and officials (2) when he expects the detail of the Retail have meetings with a wide variety of organisations in Distribution Review in respect of platform rebates will the public and private sectors as part of the process of be published; [113090] policy development and delivery. (3) for what reasons he proposes that the cost of The Treasury publishes a list of ministerial meetings advice will be listed separately from any platform costs with external organisations, available at: and the costs associated with fund management; [113092] http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/minister_hospitality.htm (4) if he plans to include (a) dealing costs, (b) initial Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer charges and (c) platform charges in the (i) total (1) if he will review the effect of the removal of the expense ratio and (ii) ongoing charge. [113091] reduced rate of fuel duty on that part of fuel made up of used cooking oil on (a) the freight transport industry, Mr Hoban: The Retail Distribution Review (RDR) is (b) consumers and (c) bus operators; [113690] the responsibility of the Financial Services Authority (FSA), an independent body. These questions have been (2) what fiscal steps he is taking to support the use of passed on to the FSA, which will reply to you directly (a) gas powered heavy goods vehicles and (b) other by letter. A copy of the response will be placed in the gas powered vehicles. [113759] Library of the House. Miss Chloe Smith: The 20p per litre duty differential for used cooking oil came to an end as intended on 31 Income Tax: British Nationals Abroad March 2012. Under changes to the renewable transport fuel obligation (RTFO), biofuels derived from waste Frank Dobson: To ask the Chancellor of the including used cooking oil receive twice the level of Exchequer how much revenue the exchequer received support as provided to conventional biofuels. An impact from income tax paid by UK citizens abroad in each of assessment was published by the Department for Transport the last five years. [113387] on 7 November 2011, at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/dft-2011-05 Mr Gauke: Estimated income tax liabilities for those Cars that have been constructed or modified to run with a tax correspondence address which is abroad is on road fuel gases benefit from a £10 reduction in shown in the following table: taxation levels for alternative fuel cars under vehicle excise duty. Owners of liquefied petroleum gas capable Income tax (£ million) vehicles benefit from a fuel duty reduction worth the 2005-06 1,280 equivalent of 35.79p per litre compared with petrol, 2006-07 1,630 and natural gas capable vehicle owners from a reduction 2007-08 2,100 worth in excess of 40p per litre. Budget 2012 extended 1 the existing 100% first-year capital allowance for gas 2008-09 — refuelling equipment for two years to 31 March 2015. 2009-10 2,160 1 Figures for 2008-09 tax year are not currently available. Experian Estimates are based on the Survey of Personal Incomes, of which 2009-10 are the latest outturn data available. A breakdown of these liabilities arising between UK Jessica Morden: To ask the Chancellor of the citizens and others is not available through income tax Exchequer what the (a) cost and (b) duration is of the data. contract between Experian, the Department of Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs to use data to detect fraud and error in tax credits and other Income Tax: Lanarkshire benefits. [112775] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr Gauke [holding answer 19 June 2012]: The contract how many people in Rutherglen and Hamilton West with Experian is for 12 months and is due to expire constituency pay tax at (a) 20, (b) 40 and (c) 50 per early December 2012. cent. [113059] 77W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 78W

Mr Gauke: It is estimated that there were 45,000 basic Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the rate taxpayers and 3,000 higher rate taxpayers in Rutherglen Exchequer if he will estimate (a) the total cost to and Hamilton West parliamentary constituency in 2009-10. employers of commercial payroll software, (b) the number These estimates are based on the 2009-10 Survey of of employers who will upgrade their commercial payroll Personal Incomes data, the latest outturn survey available. software and (c) the amount this upgrade will cost per Reliable estimates for later years based on the projected employer as a result of PAYE Real Time information. SPI data, are not available due to greater uncertainties [112729] in projections for small geographical areas. Estimates of additional rate taxpayer numbers in Mr Gauke: Total software costs have not yet been 2010-11 from Self Assessment data are not published estimated. Software developers will need to implement for local areas. changes in their products, and these costs may be passed on to employers via increased software charges. HMRC Loans: Republic of Ireland is working closely with software developers on the implementation of RTI but, for commercial reasons, many developers are not prepared to disclose their development Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Chancellor of the costs or upgrade charges. Some employers are also Exchequer (1) when the Republic of Ireland is due to expected to move to using software for the first time. begin repayment of the UK contribution to the EU-IMF bailout programme; [113229] Employers with nine or fewer employees will have the (2) by what date the Republic of Ireland is (a) option to use HMRCs free Basic PAYE Tools. required and (b) expected to have repaid in full the UK Indicative costs for those purchasing commercial software contribution to the joint EU-IMF bailout programme. for the first time are currently in the region of £200 to [113225] £300 but some software developers provide payroll packages free of charge for employers with nine or fewer employees Mr Hoban: As part of a ¤67.5 billion international and other packages are available from less than £70. financial assistance package, the UK has made a bilateral loan of £3.2 billion available to Ireland. The UK also holds a contingent liability for any loans made through Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the the European Financial Stabilisation Mechanism. With Exchequer if he will estimate the cost of PAYE to (a) regard to IMF involvement, the UK lends to the IMF all businesses, (b) micro-businesses with one to nine as an institution and not to particular programmes. The employees, (c) small businesses with 10 to 49 employees, repayment arrangements for the UK’s bilateral loan to (d) medium-sized businesses with 50 to 249 employees Ireland are set out in the Loan Agreement which I and (e) large businesses with over 250 employees. deposited in the Library of the House on 10 January [112730] 2011. The Government expects to be repaid in full. Each tranche of the loan is due for repayment in full, Mr Gauke: Reliable estimates of administrative burdens, 7.5 years following the date of disbursement. The maturity broken down by business size, are not available within dates of the tranches disbursed to date are: 15 April HMRC. 2019, 30 July 2019 and 30 September 2019. HMRC expects the current costs of operating PAYE Interest on each disbursed tranche of the loan is to fall with transition to RTI. Administrative burden payable every six months on 15 December and 15 June savings to all businesses under RTI are estimated to be until its maturity date. £300 million per year from 2014-15. HMRC accepts Disbursements made under the bilateral loan to Ireland that this figure may change as business impacts are are conditional on successful completion of EU/IMF better understood through the pilot, but expects the reviews and also require Ireland to make a formal final impact to be a significant net saving. drawdown request. Consequently, future disbursement (and therefore, maturity) dates are not set. However, under the terms of the Loans to Ireland Act 2010, the Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the Treasury may make payments to Ireland until 8 December Exchequer whether HM Revenue and Customs has 2015. We can therefore expect the very latest maturity to estimated the administrative cost of PAYE under Real be 7.5 years following this date. Time Information for (a) each size category of business in terms of employees and (b) the payroll practice sector. [112731] PAYE

Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Gauke: Reliable estimates of administrative burdens, Exchequer what recent estimate he has made of the broken down by business size or sector, are not available number of employers who do not use commercial payroll within HMRC. software; and on what date this estimate was made. HMRC expects the current costs of operating PAYE [112728] to fall once Real Time Information (RTI) has been implemented. Administrative burden savings to all Mr Gauke: Quantitative research undertaken by HMRC businesses under RTI are estimated to be £300 million in November 2011, with a sample size of 711 employers, per year from 2014-15. HMRC accepts that this figure suggested that 23% of employers do not currently use a may change as business impacts are better understood payroll agent or commercial software for PAYE. Most through the pilot, but expects the final impact to be a of those employers said they used HMRC’s free products. significant net saving. 79W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 80W

Mr Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the HMRC does not nonetheless believe that the scheme Exchequer what consideration HM Revenue and Customs achieves the effect that is claimed and will challenge it in has given to providing the option of monthly filing of every way available. The Government expects the General the full-payment submission as opposed to filing the Anti-Abuse Rule announced in the Budget will be a full-payment submission at or before the point of payment useful additional tool to help HMRC tackle tax avoidance. for PAYE Real Time Information; if he will estimate the administrative cost of PAYE to businesses of each size Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the under monthly filing; and if he will estimate the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the likely level administrative cost of PAYE to business under PAYE of revenue lost to the exchequer through the use of tax Real Time Information reporting. [112732] avoidance schemes by individuals in each of the next three years. [113822] Mr Gauke: The introduction of real time reporting of PAYE information is expected to generate annual saving Miss Chloe Smith: Forecasts of likely revenue lost to to all businesses of £300 million per year from 2014-15 the Exchequer from individuals’ tax avoidance are not as a result of employers integrating reporting to HMRC produced. with their normal payroll activity. HMRC accepts that The most recent estimate of the net tax gap due to this figure may change as business impacts are better avoidance is published in Measuring Tax Gaps 2011: understood through the pilot but expects the final impact to be a significant net saving. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/mtg-2011.pdf Monthly returns would have generated a reconciliation The total tax gap is estimated to be around £35 billion and reporting process at the end of each month, outside in 2009-10. Of this total figure, the estimated tax lost to the normal payroll process, and as a consequence created avoidance by all taxpayers and across all taxes was an additional burden on the employer. around £5 billion. Reliable estimates of administrative burdens, broken Measuring Tax Gaps also provides some information down by business size or sector, are not available within on the components of that overall figure. It estimates HMRC. that the net tax gap for income tax, national insurance contributions and capital gains tax due to avoidance was £1.5 billion in 2009-10. Public Expenditure: Scotland HMRC monitors, investigates and challenges emerging avoidance schemes, and, where necessary, advises the Mr MacNeil: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Government to take legislative action to close schemes what estimate he has made of the Barnett consequentials down. that would be paid to Scotland for the UK Government’s funding of phase one of High Speed Rail 2. [113400] Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he plans to bring forward Danny Alexander: The funding for High Speed Rail legislation to close down the K2 tax avoidance scheme. has yet to be decided. The Barnett formula will be [113823] applied in the usual way to any additions to the Department for Transport’s budget. Miss Chloe Smith: The Government keeps all aspects of the tax system under review. HMRC does not believe Mr MacNeil: To ask the Chancellor of the that the scheme achieves the effect that is claimed and Exchequer what Barnett consequentials have been paid will challenge it nonetheless in every way available. The to Scotland for the UK Government’s funding of the Government will announce a change in the law if this Crossrail project. [113401] becomes necessary.

Danny Alexander: The Barnett formula is applied at UK Membership of EU departmental level in accordance with the ‘Statement of Funding Policy’. Full details of the Department of Philip Davies: To ask the Chancellor of the Transport’s settlement for the 2010 spending review are Exchequer what estimate he has made of the cost of set out in the Treasury publication ‘Spending Review the UK’s membership of the EU in each of the next 2010’. The settlement included provision to enable Crossrail three years. [113551] to go ahead. Mr Hoban: The Office for Budget Responsibility’s Tax Avoidance (OBR) latest forecast of UK contributions to the EU budget over the period 2010-11 to 2016-17 was published Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the in March 2012. This can be found in Table 2.15 of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the likely OBR’s “economic and fiscal outlook supplementary effectiveness of measures in the 2012 Budget in reducing fiscal tables” at tax avoidance through the K2 tax avoidance scheme. http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/ [113819] Mr Bone: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Miss Chloe Smith: The Government is aware of the what the net cost to the public purse was of the UK’s K2 scheme. The scheme was already under investigation membership of the EU in each year between 2005 and by HMRC prior to the publication of recent articles in 2012; and what estimate he has made of such costs in the press. each of the next three years. [113659] 81W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 82W

Mr Hoban: Details of the UK’s contributions to the Mr Gauke: The Treasury has had various discussions EU Budget over the period 2005-06 to 2009-10 were with and received representations from the Scottish published in December 2011 in Table 3C (page 19) of Government since December 2011, about VAT and the European Union Finances 2011 (Cm 8232). This document Scottish police force. is available in the House Library. The Office for Budget Responsibility’s (OBR) latest Karl Turner: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer forecast of UK contributions to the EU Budget over (1) if he will make an assessment of the potential effect the period 2010-11 to 2016-17 was published in March on unemployment in Hull of the proposed five per cent 2012. This can be found in Table 2.15 of the OBR’s increase in VAT on the sale of static caravans; [113760] “economic and fiscal outlook supplementary fiscal tables” (2) what assessment he has made of the potential at: effect on the static caravan industry of the proposed five http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/ per cent increase in VAT on the sale of static caravans. [113761] Unpaid Taxes Mr Gauke: An assessment of the impact of levying VAT on the sale of static caravans was set out in the Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the consultation document “VAT: Addressing Borderline Exchequer with reference to the answer of 21 July Anomalies” published at the time of the Budget. An 2010, Official Report, column 388W, on unpaid taxes, updated assessment will be published as part of the what the change was in the level of receivables owed to Government’s response to the consultation. his Department between 31 March 2010 and the most recent date for which figures are available. [113717] VAT: Lanarkshire Mr Gauke: The most recent published HMRC accounts are those for 2010-11 and note 7 to the Trust Statement Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the shows total receivables of £29.5 billion as at 31 March Exchequer how many businesses in Rutherglen and 2011. Note 6 to the 2009-10 Trust Statement shows Hamilton West constituency were registered for VAT in total receivables of £26.1 billion as at 31 March 2010. each of the last three years. [113061] Receivables represent all liabilities that have been established irrespective of whether they are due or overdue. Mr Gauke: No estimate has been made of the number of businesses in Rutherglen and Hamilton West VAT constituency registered for VAT in each of the last three years. The number of Value Added Tax registrations by Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the parliamentary constituency up until 2008 can be found Exchequer whether the Office of Police Commissioners in the report ’Business Start-ups and Closures: VAT in England will be liable for payment of VAT. [113010] Registrations and De-registrations’, published by the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Mr Gauke: The new police and crime commissioners Reform: in England and Wales and the Mayor’s Office for Policing http://stats.berr.gov.uk/ed/vat/ and Crime will be liable to pay VAT on taxable purchases. This report was discontinued in 2008. However, police and crime commissioners will be able to recover the VAT paid on purchases made to support VAT: Scotland their non-business activities under the section 33 refund scheme of the VAT Act 1994. Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many businesses in each parliamentary Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the constituency in Scotland were registered for VAT, in Exchequer (1) what recent representations he has each of the last five years for which figures are received from the Scottish Government on the VAT available. [112936] liability of a single Scottish police force; [113011] (2) what discussions Ministers and officials in his Mr Gauke: Between 2007 and 2008, the number of Department have had with the Scottish Government businesses registered for value added tax in each on the payment of VAT by a single Scottish police parliamentary constituency in Scotland at the start of force. [113012] the year is shown in the following table.

Scotland constituency 2007 2008

Aberdeen North 1,730 1,915 Aberdeen South 3,605 3,920 Airdrie and Shotts 1,430 1,485 Angus 2,515 2,665 Argyll and Bute 3,590 3,625 Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock 2,390 2,430 Banff and Buchan 3,865 3,960 Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk 3,945 3,970 Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross 2,645 2,685 Central Ayrshire 1,805 1,870 83W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 84W

Scotland constituency 2007 2008

Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill 1,600 1,735 Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East 1,305 1,410 Dumfries and Galloway 3,785 3,805 Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale 3,525 3,585 Dundee East 1,385 1,460 Dundee West 1,725 1,740 Dunfermline and West Fife 1,800 1,875 East Dunbartonshire 1,830 1,905 East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow 2,175 2,320 East Lothian 2,380 2,385 East Renfrewshire 1,910 1,960 Edinburgh East 2,210 2,320 Edinburgh North and Leith 5,440 5,680 Edinburgh South 1,680 1,700 Edinburgh South West 1,955 2,060 Edinburgh West 1,930 2,000 Falkirk 1,925 2,055 Glasgow Central 6,385 6,440 Glasgow East 1,120 1,205 Glasgow North 1,475 1,525 Glasgow North East 975 1,030 Glasgow North West 1,015 1,105 Glasgow South 1,300 1,400 Glasgow South West 1,000 1,040 Glenrothes 1,360 1,405 Gordon 3,985 4,330 Inverclyde 1,275 1,350 Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey 3,205 3,280 Kilmarnock and Loudoun 2,165 2,205 Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath 1,730 1,800 Lanark and Hamilton East 2,610 2,705 Linlithgow and East Falkirk 2,195 2,365 Livingston 2,035 2,165 Midlothian 1,770 1,820 Moray 2,650 2,695 Motherwell and Wishaw 1,375 1,445 Na h-Eileanan an Iar 1,010 980 North Ayrshire and Arran 1,965 1,995 North East Fife 2,390 2,415 Ochil and South Perthshire 3,020 3,120 Orkney and Shetland 2,735 2,670 Paisley and Renfrewshire North 1,970 2,075 Paisley and Renfrewshire South 1,530 1,605 Perth and North Perthshire 3,215 3,230 Ross, Skye and Lochaber 3,335 3,360 Rutherglen and Hamilton West 1,545 1,630 Stirling 3,230 3,355 West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine 4,000 4,270 West Dunbartonshire 1,265 1,360 Total 136,915 141,895

These figures originate from the report “Business Mr Gauke: This information is published in the HMRC Start-ups and Closures: VAT Registrations and publication series ‘Child and Working Tax Credits Statistics De-registrations”, published by the Department for Finalised annual awards. Geographical analysis.’ Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform in November 2008. This report has now been discontinued. An extended Information for the last three years available can be series covering later years can be produced only at found here: disproportionate costs. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/personal-tax-credits/final- Welfare Tax Credits: Lanarkshire award-geog.htm Table 3 in each of these publications has the information Tom Greatrex: To ask the Chancellor of the by parliamentary constituency. Exchequer how many people in Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency were in receipt of each For ease, the figures for Rutherglen and Hamilton type of tax credit in the last three years. [113058] West constituency are recreated in the following table. 85W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 86W

Average number of benefiting families in Rutherglen and Hamilton West thousand In-work families With children Receiving CTC only With no children Total in receipt (out-of-work Total out-of- Receiving WTC More than the Family element Of which: lone and in-work work families and CTC family element or less parents Receiving WTC only families)

2010-11 2.6 3.9 1.2 3.1 3.1 1.4 12.2 2009-10 2.6 3.8 1.2 3.2 3.1 1.2 12.0 2008-09 2.6 3.7 1.1 3.4 3.1 1.1 11.9

Information for 2011-12 will be published in May Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for 2013. International Development which energy supplier supplies his Department with (a) gas and (b) electricity. [113472]

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Mr Duncan: The current energy suppliers for both of the DFID’s UK offices are: Afghanistan (a) Gas: Corona Energy, and (b) Electricity: EDF Energy. Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what proposals he plans to International Development how much his Department put to the Tokyo conference on Afghanistan on the spent on (a) gas and (b) electricity bills in each of the position of women and minorities. [113565] last 10 years. [113507] Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Tokyo conference is an Mr Duncan: The amounts spent on gas and electricity opportunity to agree the principles that will guide in the DFID’s UK offices over the last 10 years is as set Afghanistan through the ‘Transformation Decade’ (2015- out as follows. 24). We are working with the Government of Afghanistan, Japan and other international partners to ensure that Gas the conference reinforces the importance of ongoing Amount (£) support for the rights of women and minorities as 2002-03 54,336 enshrined in the Afghan constitution. 2003-04 57,692 2004-05 67,911 Azerbaijan 2005-06 104,297 2006-07 139,854 Mr Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for International 2007-08 103,294 Development what recent steps he has taken to assist 2008-09 69,756 refugees and internally displaced persons in Azerbaijan. 2009-10 100,541 [113095] 2010-11 59,804 2011-12 53,237 Mr Duncan: DFID does not work directly in Azerbaijan. However we do provide core funding to the United Electricity Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Amount (£) which provides protection and assistance to refugees and internally displaced people. UNHCR are pursuing 2002-03 264,659 structured consultations with the State Migration Service, 2003-04 285,970 Parliament and law enforcement bodies in Azerbaijan 2004-05 336,880 to strengthen their asylum system. Refugees living in 2005-06 479,125 urban areas will be assisted to become self-reliant. 2006-07 620,304 2007-08 573,520 Energy 2008-09 405,828 2009-10 669,715 Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010-11 502,612 International Development whether his Department 2011-12 474,580 switched its (a) gas or (b) electricity supplier in any of The reduction in expenditure in recent years is mainly the last 10 years. [113449] attributable to energy efficiency measures which have reduced our consumption, and partly to fluctuations in Mr Duncan: DFID has not changed gas supplier over tariff prices. this period but has made one change in our electricity Procurement supplier. In July 2003, our London office moved from Bizz Energy to our current supplier, EDF, and our East Dr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Kilbride office changed from Scottish Power, also to International Development how his Department plans EDF. to further streamline its procurement strategy. [113023] 87W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 88W

Mr Duncan: DFID is committed to the coalition Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Government procurement reform objectives being led and Commonwealth Affairs at what level his Department by the Government Procurement Service within the will be represented at the Tokyo conference on Afghanistan. Cabinet Office. The Department will use the central [113566] contracts mentioned in the reform objectives for the nine common procurement categories. Alistair Burt: The Secretary of State for International Development, my right hon. Friend the Member for The Department is also making good progress in the Sutton Coldfield (Mr Mitchell), will lead the UK delegation area of staff training and developing our key systems, to the Tokyo conference. The UK Special Representative embedding best practices and implementing new coalition for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Mark Sedwill, will Government procurement policy directives. The accompany him. Department’s compliance with Government targets is high and in some areas, such as contracting with small Anguilla and medium-sized enterprises, has exceeded its targets. Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for World Refugee Day Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information his Department holds on the number of (a) murders that there have been in Anguilla and (b) convictions Mr Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for resulting from such murders in each of the last five International Development what steps his Department years. [112867] is taking to mark World Refugee Day. [113062] Mr Bellingham: There has generally been a low level Mr Duncan: DFID does not have any specific plans of crime in Anguilla over the last five years. We are to mark World Refugee Day. concerned, however, by a recent increase in violent crime with three violent deaths in the last two months. The police have responded quickly and charged suspects in relation to two of the murders. Investigations are FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE ongoing. The Police Commissioner in Anguilla has confirmed Afghanistan that the last known violent death was in 2009 and that there was also one violent death in 2008, both of which were resolved. In 2007 there were four violent deaths of Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign which two were resolved by the police. and Commonwealth Affairs what progress was made The Caribbean Overseas Territories Law Enforcement on increasing stability in Afghanistan at the NATO Advisor, based in Miami, is in frequent communication summit in Chicago; whether any discussions took place with and visits all the Overseas Territories, including on (a) violence against women and (b) co-ordination Anguilla, regularly to advise the Governor and the on this issue between (i) the Ministry of Defence and Commissioner of Police on strategies to tackle crime. (ii) the Department for International Development; He last visited Anguilla on 18-20 June this year. The and if he will make a statement. [113238] UK Government has agreed to fund technical support to assist in the detection of crime. Alistair Burt: At the NATO Chicago summit, the international community clearly demonstrated its Argentina commitment to increasing stability in Afghanistan. All 50 International Security Assistance Force partners signed Jim Shannon: To ask the Secretary of State for the NATO Strategic Plan which set out NATO’s post-2014 Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps the role and its long-term relationship with Afghanistan. Government is taking to end the blocking of British International Security Assistance Force partners delivered trade to Argentinean ports. [112232] on the commitments made at the Bonn Conference with Mr Jeremy Browne: We are concerned that the Argentine credible financial contributions to sustain the Afghan Confederation of Transport Workers union (CATT) is National Security Forces beyond the end of security currently boycotting ships flying the British flag or the transition. red ensign of other UK territories, which has resulted in There were discussions on UN Security Council several British-flagged vessels being refused tug boat Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women, peace and security. services to access Argentine ports. The summit communiqué reaffirmed NATO’s commitment This, along with a range of other Argentine measures to full implementation of UNSCR 1325 and also endorsed directed towards British and Falkland Island trade interests a Strategic Progress Report on mainstreaming UNSCR is deeply disappointing and goes against the principles 1325 into NATO-led operations and missions. of open and transparent trade. The British Government Discussions on internal UK coordination did not has raised its concerns with Argentina directly and take place at the NATO Chicago summit. The Department made clear our opposition to actions against legitimate for International Development, the Ministry of Defence commercial activity. We have also issued advice to British and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office continue to interests in the region, outlining the potential impact of coordinate their defence, diplomatic and development Argentine trade action. The UK fully supports the EU’s activities in Afghanistan to promote the inclusion of decision to initiate a World Trade Organisation (WTO) women in conflict resolution through a specific country dispute settlement case against Argentina’s restrictive action plan for Afghanistan contained in the UK’s import measures. It is essential that all WTO members National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325. meet their obligations to abide by WTO rules. 89W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 90W

Euro 2012 Iran

Mr Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether any Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent (a) member of the Government is due to attend any matches bilateral and (b) multilateral discussions he has had that England will play following their qualification in with his counterparts in (i) China and (ii) Russia on the group stages of the European football championships. tightening sanctions against Iran. [113662] [113701]

Mr Hague: The Government regrets that this question Alistair Burt: The UK regularly raises the importance is no longer relevant. of international sanctions on Iran, particularly recent oil measures, in bilateral and multilateral discussions Falkland Islands with China and Russia. We believe sanctions are a key reason why Iran recently agreed to talks with the E3+3 (China, France, Germany, Russia, UK, US). In April, Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign the UN Security Council’s Iran Sanctions Committee and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment has (which includes Russia and China) imposed new sanctions been made of the quantity of commercially viable oil on two individuals and one company involved in Iranian deposits in the territorial waters of the Falkland Islands. arms smuggling. [113830]

Mr Jeremy Browne: Hydrocarbon exploration is a Israel legitimate commercial venture and the British Government fully supports the rights of the Falkland Islanders to develop their hydrocarbons sector. Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign The total extent of the hydrocarbon deposits are not and Commonwealth Affairs what recent fully known, but Rockhopper Exploration have declared representations he has made to the Israeli Government a commercially viable find in the Northern Basin, and on administrative detention. [112956] Borders and Southern have declared an untested gas condensate discovery from the Southern Basin. The Alistair Burt: We continue to raise our concerns over results of the continuing exploration are required to the extensive use of administrative detention with the make any meaningful long-term assessment. Drilling Israeli authorities, pressing for Israel to either charge, results so far are encouraging. or release administrative detainees. We welcome Israel’s recent agreement to limit the use Government Procurement Card of administrative detention and solitary confinement and reinstate family visits for detainees. These are important Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for issues which we have repeatedly raised with the Israeli Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on which dates his Government, including in early May with the Israeli Department has published Government procurement Foreign Minister, Vice Prime Minister and National card spending over £500 since May 2010. [113349] Security Adviser. We are following closely the implementation of the agreement reached to end the Mr Lidington: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office recent mass hunger strike and its impact on the situation published Government Procurement Card spending on of Palestinian detainees. the following dates: Richard Burden: To ask the Secretary of State for Expenditure Date Date Published Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he April to August 2011 27 October 2011 has received on the arrest of Nabil Al-Raee, Artistic September 2011 3 January 2012 Director of the Freedom Theatre of Jenin; and if he October 2011 3 January 2012 will make representations to the Government of Israel November 2011 11 May 2012 on this issue. [113051] December 2011 11 May 2012 January 2012 15 May 2012 Alistair Burt: We have received reports that Nabil Al-Raee was arrested in relation to the investigation Greece into the murder of Juliano Mer-Khamis, a founder of the Freedom Theatre. He is being accused of being indirectly related to the murder. Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has A group of Israeli soldiers arrested Al-Raee at the received of anti-Semitism in Greece; and if he will family’s home in the early morning of 6 June. He was, make a statement. [R] [113240] until Tuesday 19 June, being held in Jalameh prison in northern Israel and was subsequently transferred to the Mr Lidington: The Government have not received Ashkelon prison facility. recent reports of anti-Semitism in Greece. Sporadic Our officials in Tel Aviv have not raised the Al-Raee desecration of monuments does occur. The election of case specifically, but they have discussed the Freedom 18 neo-Nazi MPs, from the Golden Dawn party, in the Theatre in Jenin with the Israeli authorities previously. general election on 17 June, is however a cause for Our officials in Jerusalem have also held a meeting with concern. Al-Raee’s lawyer recently to discuss this issue. 91W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 92W

Jordan Learned and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) that the Northern Province should return to civilian Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign administration and the presence of the military should and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has progressively recede to the background. had with the Jordanian Government on forthcoming parliamentary elections. [112955] Syria

Alistair Burt: The Prime Minister, the Secretary of Mr MacShane: To ask the Secretary of State for State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr has received on the involvement of Vladimir Lisin in Hague), and I most recently discussed the forthcoming the shipment of Russian arms to Syria. [113148] parliamentary elections with King Abdullah of Jordan on 18 June during the King’s visit to London. The Alistair Burt: We are aware of media reports linking Foreign Secretary welcomed the creation of the Independent Vladimir Lisin to the ship, Professor Katsman, which Electoral Commission and agreed with the King the docked in Tartus in Syria at the end of May. We are importance of holding inclusive, free and fair elections looking into these reports. by the end of the year.

Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment had with the Jordanian Government on the safety of he has made of the security situation in Syria following the Kofi Annan peace plan. [113801] Afaq Ahmed. [112957]

Alistair Burt: To date, this case has not been raised in Alistair Burt: We have seen a recent escalation of our discussions with the Jordanian Government. violence across Syria. This has led General Mood to suspend operations by the UN Supervision Mission in Papua Syria because of the increased risk to his observers. Following the meeting between the Secretary of State Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), has received on the (a) death of Mako Tabuni, the and UN/Arab League Special Envoy, Kofi Annan, on leader of the West Papua national Committee and (b) 21 June they expressed their deep concern at the situation effect on civilians of operations undertaken by Indonesian in Syria. police and military in West Papua in the last three The Secretary of State has reiterated his continuing months; and if he will make a statement. [112946] support for Kofi Annan’s six-point plan, which remains the best hope to achieve an end to violence and a Mr Jeremy Browne: Our embassy in Jakarta reported genuine, peaceful political transition. He made clear that the Indonesian security forces had shot dead Mako that the UK would continue to do all that it could to Tabuni on 14 June. However, the circumstances surrounding compel the regime to implement the plan in full, and his death are still unclear. The police in Indonesia have encourage all parties to step back from confrontation. stated that Mako Tabuni was approached by police in The Secretary of State reiterated to Kofi Annan that the connection with recent shootings in Jayapura and that UK stood ready to pursue robust action at the United he resisted arrest. However, some sources in the press Nations in support of his work. dispute this. The recent upsurge in violence in Papua, centred on Jayapura and Wamena, has created tension across Papua. This no doubt undermines the trust between the authorities, the activists and ordinary people, HEALTH and the work to resolve regional governance disputes. Our embassy in Jakarta has raised our concerns about Accident and Emergency Departments: South West the security situation with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and are monitoring the situation closely. The UK encourages meaningful dialogue between all Mr Bradshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for parties and remains committed to urging all levels of Health if he will publish the performance of NHS Government to work with the Papuans towards resolving Accident and Emergency departments against the four regional governance issues peacefully. hour maximum waiting time target for each hospital in south west England in the (a) most recent period for Sri Lanka which figures are available and (b) period prior to the most recent period for which figures are available. Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for [112949] Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effects of the military presence in Mr Simon Burns: The data requested are in the public northern Sri Lanka on the prospects for reconciliation domain and have been published on a weekly basis in that country. [113378] since November 2010. The information can be found via the following website at: Alistair Burt: We remain concerned about the role of www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Statistics/ the military in the North and East of Sri Lanka. We Performancedataandstatistics/WeeklySituationReports/ support the recommendation of Sri Lanka’s Lessons index.htm 93W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 94W

Accidents: Older People Total count of all breast reduction procedures1 by age for the years 2006-07 to 2010-112 Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health the independent sector if he will issue guidance to the NHS on the coding of Age 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 falls and related injuries in older people. [113057] 29 62 58 54 47 42 Paul Burstow: The coding of falls and related injuries 30 53 66 52 51 49 in older people is currently supported by national clinical 31 64 78 44 54 55 coding guidance. The national clinical coding standards 32 86 48 56 57 43 (including the standard for geriatric/elderly falls) are 33 97 57 60 44 48 contained within the National Clinical Coding Standards 34 108 82 57 70 52 ICD-10 fourth Edition for use by health informatics 35 136 80 70 70 51 professionals and clinical coders. 36 126 100 62 94 68 37 138 98 84 82 66 Acupuncture 38 136 110 92 105 74 39 129 107 103 106 97 Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State 40 116 115 98 103 92 for Health what assessment his Department has made 41 123 111 96 109 104 of the advice given by the National Institute for Health 42 133 112 104 114 99 and Clinical Excellence on acupuncture as a pain 43 120 152 104 101 106 44 135 112 121 127 110 management treatment. [113722] 45 104 124 113 126 121 46 100 91 111 123 118 Paul Burstow: The National Institute for Health and 47 85 86 104 125 114 Clinical Excellence (NICE) is an independent body and 48 114 91 92 119 118 its clinical guidelines, developed through a rigorous and 49 107 99 66 109 104 consultative process, are widely recognised as authoritative 50 103 105 76 112 117 guidance for the national health service. Local 51 108 94 80 117 120 commissioners are expected to take account of NICE 52 111 83 101 121 117 and other professional guidance in determining the 53 113 118 80 114 119 services they commission for their local populations in 54 86 86 81 101 100 the light of local needs and priorities. 55 89 92 82 100 95 Breasts: Plastic Surgery 56 80 80 93 100 106 57 91 80 76 89 87 58 89 76 87 91 92 Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 59 78 66 67 95 82 how many breast reduction operations have taken place 60 53 76 68 78 84 on the NHS in each of the last five years; and what the 61 59 53 79 88 93 age of the patient was in each case. [112910] 62 40 59 65 95 95 63 44 57 41 52 77 Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is available 64 36 29 51 49 72 in the following table. 65 28 30 38 44 57 Total count of all breast reduction procedures1 by age for the years 2006-07 to 66 32 30 27 47 55 2010-112 67 19 30 26 45 42 Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in 68 19 23 35 28 37 the independent sector 69918212935 Age 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 70 17 16 21 20 29 Total 4,552 4,116 3,870 4,578 4,212 71 10 12 9 16 18 10 and —————72 7 20 15 7 23 Under 73 7 * 9 16 13 11— *——— 74 * * 6 12 12 12— *——— 75**7*9 13* * *—— 76 * 6 * 10 * 14***** 77***7* 157**7* 78**6** 16 17 15 21 16 12 79*—*** 17 45 42 42 52 25 80*—*** 18’ 69 61 67 87 62 81**—** 19 60 66 66 100 66 82—*—*— 20 92 87 74 80 66 83*—— *— 21.8379689761 22 95 64 85 88 61 84*——** 23 74 74 61 79 65 85— *——— 24 98 54 67 85 51 86————— 25 71 63 49 61 46 87———** 26 77 56 58 66 51 88————— 27 81 50 48 60 51 89————— 28 53 60 55 55 50 90———— * 95W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 96W

Total count of all breast reduction procedures1 by age for the years 2006-07 to became available; and when he expects the first child 2 2010-11 cancer patients to be able to receive this therapy in the Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector UK. [113285] Age 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 Paul Burstow: Since 2008, patients with ‘high priority’ 91 and ————— Over cancer types have been sent overseas for proton beam Unknown *****therapy (PBT) treatment. The National Specialised 1 Total number of (named) procedures Commissioning Team has established a Proton Therapy The total number of (named) procedures recorded in any of the 24 (12 from Clinical Reference Panel to advise on suitable cancer 2002-03 to 2006-07 and four prior to 2002-03) procedure fields in the Hospital cases to be treated overseas. As of 31 March 2012, Episode Statistics (HES) episode. If a procedure is recorded in more than one procedure field during an episode, all instances are counted. 160 patients had started and/or completed PBT treatment OPCS Code used: overseas, 107 of which were children. We anticipate up B31.1—Reduction mammoplasty to 400 patients travelling overseas for PBT in 2013-14. 2 Assessing growth through time HES figures are available from 1989-90 onwards. Changes to the figures over In April 2012, we confirmed plans to develop a time need to be interpreted in the context of improvements in data quality and National PBT service capable of treating up to 1,500 coverage (particularly in earlier years), improvements in coverage of independent sector activity (particularly from 2006-07) and changes in NHS patients a year at facilities in Manchester and London. practice. For example, apparent reductions in activity may be due to a number This service is due to start treating patients from the end of procedures which may now be undertaken in outpatient settings and so no of 2017. longer include in admitted patient HES data. Activity included Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in Contraceptives the independent sector. By convention, figures which could risk identifying single patients (figures of five or less) are withheld and have been replaced by an *. Source: Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), Health and Social Care Information Centre for Health what the (a) total number and (b) net ingredient cost was of each type of (i) contraceptive Cancer and (ii) contraceptive device dispensed in each primary care trust in England in each year since 1997. [113050] Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the remit of the NHS Commissioning Mr Simon Burns: The information requested has Board will include improving the quality of cancer been placed in the Library. services. [113049] A table is provided for each available full calendar year, 2008 through to 2011, giving the number of Paul Burstow: Yes. Under the Health and Social Care prescription items dispensed in the community by primary Act 2012, the NHS Commissioning Board will have a care trust (PCT) and nationally, as classified by the duty to promote a comprehensive health service, and relevant British National Formulary sections. The net will have a general duty about securing continuous ingredient cost of the dispensed prescription items is improvement in the quality of all services. also provided. Information for previous years is not available at PCT level. Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State for Health with reference to his announcement of 20 Cosmetic Surgery May 2011 entitled Government commits funding to maintain vital cancer networks, what steps his Department is taking to support the strengthening of cancer networks. Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health [113138] how many female genital cosmetic surgical procedures have taken place on the NHS in each of the last five Paul Burstow: We have already made it clear that years; and what the age of the patient was in each case. there is a role for clinical networks, such as cancer [112917] networks, in the new health system, as a place where clinicians from different sectors come together to improve Mr Simon Burns: A cosmetic surgical procedure will the quality of care across integrated pathways. only be carried out by the national health service where The cancer networks are a clear example of how this clinically indicated. The Health and Social Care Information way of working delivers better quality. That is why the Centre collect data on all admissions to NHS hospitals Secretary of State for Health, the right hon. Member in England which are included in the Hospital Episode for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley), announced in Statistics (HES). Unfortunately, the clinical codes available May 2011 that cancer networks would continue to be for HES data do not enable us to identify genital funded in 2012-13 and that the NHS Commissioning cosmetic procedures which are commonly carried out Board (NHS CB) would support strengthened cancer for cosmetic purposes. networks. The procedure codes used in these statistics which are The NHS CB authority will publish its recommendations relevant here may also be used to describe other conditions for clinical networks in the new health system in summer. such as treatment for a previous third degree tear affecting a current pregnancy or diagnoses such as cancer. Cancer: Children Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for how many ear pinning operations have taken place on Health how many children have received NHS funding the NHS in each of the last five years; and what the age for proton beam therapy abroad since the treatment of the patient was in each case. [112911] 97W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 98W

Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is available Hospital and Community Health Services (HCHS): Dental staff in in the following table: England as at 30 September numbers (headcount) each year 2007 2008 2009 20103 20113 Total courts of all procedures1 of ear-pinning2, by five-year age band for 2006-07 to 2010-113 HCHS 3,940 4,221 4,342 4,035 4,030 Activity in English NHS hospitals and English NHS commissioned dentists activity in the independent sector 1 Dentists are defined as performers with NHS activity recorded by Age FP17 forms. group 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2 Data consist of performers in general dental services, personal dental services and trust-led Dental services. Total 3,692 3,581 3,182 2,788 2,426 3 The new headcount methodology is not fully comparable with data 0to4 104 99 87 73 54 for years prior to 2010, due to improvements that make it a more stringent count of absolute staff numbers. Further information on the 5 to 9 1,169 1,133 998 783 695 headcount methodology is available in the Census publication at: 10 to 14 1,505 1,490 1,280 1,093 1,034 www.ic.nhs.uk/statistics-and-data-collections/workforce/nhs-staff- 15 to 19 620 609 590 617 492 numbers 20 to 24 95 74 75 98 53 Source: Health and Social Care Information Centre, Dental and Eye Care 25 to 29 45 41 46 40 30 Team 30 to 34 47 38 33 11 15 Health and Social Care Information Centre Medical and Dental 35 to 39 38 32 20 29 16 Workforce Census. 40 to 44 28 26 18 16 8 NHS dental charge bands from 1 April 2007 to 1 April 2012 45 to 49 14 15 10 11 11 £ 50 to 54 6 * * * * Band 1 Band 2 Band 3 55 to 59 — * 6 * * 2007 15.90 43.60 194.00 60 to 64 * * * * * 2008 16.20 44.60 198.00 65 to 69 7 * * * * 2009 16.50 45.60 198.00 70+1112767 2010 16.50 45.60 198.00 Unknown — — * * — 2011 17.00 47.00 204.00 1 Total number of (named) procedures. The total number of (named) procedures recorded in any of the 24 (12 from 2002-03 to 2006-07 and 2012 17.50 48.00 209.00 four prior to 2002-03) procedure fields, in the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) episode. If a procedure is recorded in more than one procedure field during an episode, all instances are counted. Dental Services: Injuries 2 OPCS code OPCS code used: D03.3—Pinnaplasty. 3Assessing growth through time Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health HES figures are available from 1989-90 onwards. Changes to the how many iatrogenic injuries have been sustained by figures over time need to be interpreted in the context of improvements patients undergoing dental treatment in each of the last in data quality and coverage (particularly in earlier years), improvements five years. [112914] in coverage of independent sector activity (particularly from 2006-07) and changes in NHS practice. For example, apparent reductions in activity may be due to a number of procedures which may now be Mr Simon Burns: This information is not collected undertaken in out-patient settings and so no longer include in admitted centrally. patient HES data. By convention, figures which could risk identifying single patients (figures of 5 or less) are withheld and have been replaced by an *. Energy Source: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), Health and Social Care Information Centre. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which energy supplier supplies his Department with (a) gas and (b) electricity. [113477]

Dental Services Mr Simon Burns: The Department’s current energy suppliers are Corona Energy (gas) and EDF (electricity at major sites) and British Gas (electricity at minor Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health sites). The definition of “major site” or “minor site” how many dentists have worked for the NHS in each of depends on whether electricity is metered on a half-hourly the last five years; how long the average wait to get an basis. Most of the Department’s sites are classed as appointment to see a NHS dentist was in each of the “major”. last five years; and what the NHS charge bands have been in each of the last five years. [112912] In line with Government procurement policy, the Department sources its energy through companies in a framework with the Government Procurement Service. Mr Simon Burns: Average dental waiting times are The suppliers changed on 1 April 2012. not collected centrally. The number of dentists and NHS charge bands for each of the last five years can be found in the following tables. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much his Department spent on (a) gas Number of dentists with NHS activity within the year ending 31 March, 2006-07 to 2010-11 numbers (headcount) and (b) electricity bills in each of the last 10 years. 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 [113502]

High street 20,160 20,815 21,343 22,003 22,799 dentists1, 2 Mr Simon Burns: The total expenditure in the Department’s owned or leased buildings is as follows: 99W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 100W

(a) Gas currently being finalised, taking account of the review’s £ emerging findings. These arrangements will need to be further reviewed in due course, in the light of the 2002-03 86,367 independent review’s final findings. 2003-04 78,989 2004-05 115,470 General Practitioners 2005-06 157,684 2006-07 145,703 Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 105,214 Health what the functions will be of the proposed 2008-09 140,035 primary health care clinical commissioning groups. 2009-10 151,120 [113127] 2010-11 117,690 2011-12 139,343 Mr Simon Burns: The Department has recently published “The Functions of Clinical Commissioning Groups” (b) Electricity (June. 2012), which summarises the key statutory duties £ and powers of clinical commissioning groups, including 2002-03 602,320 commissioning responsibilities, general duties and financial 2003-04 631,337 and governance functions. A copy has been placed in 2004-05 754,096 the Library. 2005-06 911,063 General Practitioners: North-east 2006-07 949,735 2007-08 853,476 Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008-09 1,424,184 Health if he will estimate the total number of administrative 2009-10 1,109,015 staff expected to be employed by clinical commissioning 2010-11 862,052 groups covering the North East. [113126] 2011-12 1,145,671 Mr Simon Burns: Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) Ethics and Confidentiality Committee will have freedom to decide how to use their running costs allowance to secure support to carry out Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for commissioning activities. This includes decisions on the Health which body or bodies will take over from him in number of administrative staff they employ. They may approving the recommendations of the Ethics and also buy in support from external organisations, including Confidentiality Committee; and if he will make a public, voluntary and private sector bodies. The NHS Commissioning Board Authority has published indicative statement. [112904] running cost allowances for proposed CCGs in May Anne Milton: The Government has commissioned a 2012. This can be found at: review of the current information governance rules and www.commissioningboard.nhs.uk/2012/05/31/ccg-configs- their application, to ensure an appropriate balance between agreed/ the protection of confidential and identifiable information Health Education within our health and care records and the use and sharing of that information to improve the quality and Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health safety of our own care and for the benefit of wider which public health campaigns his Department has society. Dame Fiona Caldicott is leading this independent funded in each of the last 10 years; and how much his review which will report later in the year. Department spent on each such campaign. [113518] Future arrangements for the decision-making and advisory functions for approvals for the processing of Anne Milton: The following tables show spend figures confidential patient information under the Health Service for all public health campaigns from 1999-2000 to 2009-10 (Control of Patient Information) Regulations 2002 are (we do not yet have complete figures for 2010-11):

£ million Campaigns 1999-20001 2000-011 2001-021 2002-031 2003-041

5 A Day — — — 0.50 0.48 Alcohol — — — 0.10 0.05 Antibiotics 0.91 — 0.44 0.44 0.42 Blood Donation 0.22 — — — — Children’s Health/Pregnancy — — — — 0.05 Drugs Advertising2 0.53 0.50 1.52 1.50 Flu Immunisation — 2.02 1.45 2.00 1.60 Hepatitis C — — — — 0.15 Immunisation — — 0.67 1.00 2.00 Maternal and Infant Nutrition/ — — — 0.28 0.46 Breastfeeding Mind Out/Mental Health — — 0.13 0.16 0.95 Sexual Health Awareness — — 0.30 1.50 1,50 101W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 102W

£ million Campaigns 1999-20001 2000-011 2001-021 2002-031 2003-041

Sexwise/Teenage Pregnancy 0.39 — 2.00 1.60 2.00 Smoking—Tobacco Control 6.18 8.97 7.79 7.87 17.34 TB Awareness — — 0.30 0.09 0.01 1 Figures are net plus agency fees and commissions (rounded to nearest £10,000). Figures exclude VAT and Central Office of Information (COI) fees. 2 Department of Health contribution to campaign run jointly with Home Office.

£ million Campaigns 2004-051 2005-061 2006-071 2007-081 2008-092 2009-102

5 A DAY 0.06 0.05 0.05——— Alcohol — — 0.56 0.61 4.77 4.65 Antibiotics — 0.38 — 0.39 1.15 — Cancer —————— Child Immunisation — — 1.66 — 0.29 — Drugs Advertising 0.91 0.18 1.34 0.67 1.45 — Flu Immunisation 1.45 1.83 1.11 0.98 1.42 0.28 FRANK3 — — — — — 1.66 Hepatitis C — — 0.52 1.34 1.30 1.39 HPV Vaccination — — — — 2.80 4.07 MMR Uptake Campaign — — — — 0.03 0.53 National Dementia Strategy — — — — — 1.67 Obesity/Change4Life — — — — 7.69 16.16 Pandemic Flu — — — — — 11.24 Respiratory and Hand Hygiene — — — 0.32 1.53 2.63 Sexual Health Awareness 0.28 — 2.88 3.11 2.83 8.16 Stroke Awareness — — — — 4.52 2.45 Tobacco Control 20.05 20.80 13.49 16.17 23.38 24.91 1 Figures are net plus agency fees and commissions (rounded to nearest £10,000). Figures exclude VAT and Central Office of Information (COI) fees. 2 Provisional figures rounded to nearest £10,000. Figures exclude VAT and COI fees. 3 Department of Health share with Home Office.

Health Services: Armed Forces heart attack in (i) Jarrow constituency, (ii) South Tyneside, (iii) the North East and (iv) the UK in each Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health of the last five years. [113874] whether trauma units in NHS hospitals in England treat armed forces personnel who are injured at work; Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply on behalf of the and if he will make a statement. [112935] Cabinet Office. Mr Simon Burns: Yes, armed forces personnel who The information requested falls within the responsibility are injured at work are treated in national health service of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority hospitals. Secondary care services for serving personnel to reply. are commissioned by primary care trusts as part of their arrangements for the general population. The Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: Ministry of Defence also has arrangements to commission As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I and directly fund a number of arrangements for care have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many within the NHS; these include in-patient mental health men and women died from a heart attack in (a) Jarrow constituency, services and enhanced and accelerated pathways through (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the UK in each of host Ministry of Defence hospital unit trusts. the last five years (113874). Table 1 as follows shows the number of deaths where acute Heart Diseases myocardial infarction was the underlying cause for (a) Jarrow parliamentary constituency, (b) South Tyneside local authority, Mr Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for (c) the North East region and the UK between 2006 and 2010 (the Health how many (a) men and (b) women died from a latest year available).

Table 1. Number of deaths from a heart attack among men and women in the UK, the North East region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-101, 2, 3 Deaths (persons) Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

United Kingdom

Males 22,683 21,522 20,270 19,117 18,453 Females 17,698 16,716 15,577 14,246 13,562 103W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 104W

Table 1. Number of deaths from a heart attack among men and women in the UK, the North East region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-101, 2, 3 Deaths (persons) Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Total 40,381 38,238 35,847 33,363 32,015

North East region Males 963 945 883 884 740 Females 760 722 646 599 552 Total 1,723 1,667 1,529 1,483 1,292

South Tyneside local authority Males 54 38 52 44 31 Females 62 46 43 38 33 Total 116 84 95 82 64

Jarrow parliamentary constituency Males 35 22 24 15 12 Females 20 14 22 16 22 Total 55 36 46 31 34 1 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year and include non-residents for the UK. All sub-national figures exclude non-residents. 2 Cause of death for heart attack was defined using the International Classifications of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes I21-I22. 3 Figures are based on boundaries as of February 2012.

Hypertension We have made ‘reducing deaths in babies and young children’, including perinatal and infant mortality, areas for improvement in the NHS Outcomes Framework for Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 2012-13. In future, the Department will hold the NHS what assessment he has made of the implications for Commissioning Board to account for its performance his policies of the recent long-term trends in the against outcomes in the NHS Outcomes Framework. number and proportion of people diagnosed with blood-pressure related disorders. [113516] Medical Records: Data Protection

Mr Simon Burns: High blood pressure is a risk factor Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Health for cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and if he will ensure the new EU data protection regulation stroke. provides greater clarity and proportionality for patient We know that the number of people with these diseases data use in medical research. [113392] is predicted to increase because of demographic changes and increases in obesity. The development of a Mr Simon Burns: The Ministry of Justice is co-ordinating Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes Strategy is under the Government’s input into the EU data protection way to ensure we have measures in place to continue to regulation and Department of Health officials are actively improve cardiovascular disease outcomes and deliver involved in this work to represent the interests of all the very best care for patients. parties in the United Kingdom who have a justifiable need to process health data. This includes ensuring that Maternity Services any new directive or regulation provides a clear and workable framework for health research compliance with data protection requirements. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Data protection law is, however, only one component pursuant to the answer of 15 May 2012, Official Report, of the governance framework for health research and column 70W, on childbirth, what steps his Department the Government has commissioned a review of the is taking to ensure that hospital trusts and specialised current information governance rules and their application. commissioners have plans in place to implement the The aim of this review is to ensure that an appropriate toolkit for high-quality neonatal services and the National balance is struck between the protection of confidential Institute for Clinical Excellence quality standard for and identifiable information within our health and care specialist neonatal care. [113826] records and the use and sharing of that information to improve the quality and safety of our own care and for Anne Milton: It is for local hospital trusts and specialised the benefit of wider society. Dame Fiona Caldicott is commissioners to decide how best to use the guidance leading this independent review which will report later in the toolkit for high-quality neonatal services and the in the year. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence quality standard for specialist neonatal care. The toolkit Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and quality standard are good practice tools that can what recent estimate he has made of the time taken in assist commissioners and hospital trusts in the delivery starting up medical research projects due to the system of safe, high quality neonatal services that achieve the of regulation and governance for patient data use. best outcomes for babies. [113393] 105W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 106W

Mr Simon Burns: When a research project requires The actual number of midwifery training commissions access to confidential patient information without consent, for 2012-13 will not be available until May 2013. However, statutory support is required to protect the discloser of SHAs are planning an increase of 94 (3.8%) midwifery the information from legal liability. This entails a review commissions on the previous year, as shown in the proportionate to the confidentiality issues highlighted following table: by the particular research application. An application 2011-12 planned midwifery commissions (including 18 month to the current process can take on average 40 days from diploma) submission to outcome or no more than 25 days for a Number more straightforward application. Research projects which already request explicit consent for confidential data to NHS North East 94 be used, or which can work from anonymised data NHS North West 253 rather than confidential data, can be commenced more NHS Yorkshire and the Humber 261 quickly without the need for this further legal cover. NHS East Midlands 172 NHS West Midlands 294 Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Health NHS East of England 274 what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary NHS London 629 of State for Business, Innovation and Skills on the NHS South East Coast 238 accessibility of patient data to medical researchers; and NHS South Central 209 if he will make a statement. [113394] NHS South West 154 England 2,578 Source: Mr Simon Burns: As part of the Government’s ‘Strategy Multi-professional education and training monitoring returns. for UK Life Sciences’, a new secure data service—the Clinical Practice Research Datalink—was established MMR Vaccine: Autism on 29 March 2012. The Government is investing £60 million over the next four years in this unique service Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for that offers life sciences researchers access to anonymised Health with reference to the court ruling in Italy in the and linked patient records covering primary, secondary, case of Valentino Bocca linking autism and the MMR community and special care. vaccine, if he will commission new research on the link On 12 June, the Secretary of State for Health, my between autism and the MMR vaccine. [113368] right hon. Friend the Member for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley), and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary Bob Stewart: To ask the Secretary of State for Health of State, the Earl Howe, met with the Minister for what assessment he has made of the recent judgement Universities and Science, my right hon. Friend the in Italy in the case of Valentino Bocca relating to Member for Havant (Mr Willetts), to discuss progress MMR inoculations and autism. [113234] in implementing the life sciences strategy. Anne Milton: In March a judge presiding over a case in Rimini Italy made a decision to award compensation Midwives to the parents of a nine year old boy on the basis that a vaccination against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) had caused autism. This decision reflects the opinion of Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for a judge on the specific facts of this single case and Health how many pre-registration midwifery places were should not be seen as a precedent for any other case. commissioned in each strategic health authority area in The safety of MMR has been endorsed through numerous England in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13. [113219] studies in many countries, and no causal link between MMR vaccine and autism has been established. There Anne Milton: The number of pre-registration midwifery are no plans to undertake further research nor to change training commissions in each strategic health MMR immunisation policy as a result of this Italian authority’(SHA) in 2011-12 are shown in the following court decision. table: NHS: Cost-effectiveness 2011-12 actual midwifery commissions (including 18 month diploma) Number Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the total NHS North East 89 savings to the NHS as a result of efficiency measures in NHS North West 255 2012-13. [113721] NHS Yorkshire and the Humber 271 NHS East Midlands 169 Mr Simon Burns: As part of the spending review NHS West Midlands 287 settlement, the Department committed to deliver efficiency NHS East of England 270 savings of up to £20 billion by 2014-15. The national NHS London 573 health service has been planning since 2009 its response NHS South East Coast 216 to the challenge of delivering these significant improvements NHS South Central 200 in efficiency while also improving the quality of services NHS South West 154 and outcomes for patients. England 2,484 In progressing towards this, in addition to efficiency Source: savings of £5.8 billion in 2011-12, NHS organisations Multi-professional education and training monitoring returns. are currently planning to deliver further efficiencies of 107W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 108W

£4.9 billion in 2012-13. Previous to this, the Audit contributions to the NHS pension scheme and (b) Commission has reported that the NHS made £4.3 billion payments from the NHS pension scheme expected to in productivity gains during 2010-11. be made under (i) current and (ii) new pension NHS: Equality arrangements in each of the fiscal years from 2012-13 to 2039-40. [113288] Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information his Department holds on how much was spent by the NHS on its recent equality, Mr Simon Burns: Contributions made to the NHS diversity and human rights week. [113028] Pension Scheme in 2010-11 by employers was £5.553 billion and by employees was £2.578 billion making a Paul Burstow: The information requested falls within total of £8.131 billion. the responsibility of NHS Employers. NHS: Pensions Payments from the NHS Pension Scheme under the current arrangements is in the following table. Forecasts Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for are only available until 2017. Health what his most recent estimate is of (a) total

March 2012 forecast £ million Outturn Forecasts 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Pension scheme Expenditure 6,931.3 7,552.7 8,515.5 8,981.5 9,483.4 9,943.2 10,548.8

Pension scheme receipts -8,696.7 -8,533.2 -9,060.5 -9,158.6 -9,217.3 -9,440.6 -9,726.4 Of which: Employer contributions -5,553.2 -5,492.4 -5,421.9 -5,511.3 -5,561.6 -5,734.0 -5,911.7 Employee contributions -2,578.3 -2,568.4 -3,075.6 -3,126.0 . -3,154.6 -3,252.3 -3,353.2 Other income -565.2 -472.4 -563.0 -521.3 -501.1 -454.3 -461.5 Source: Data published by the Office of Budgetary Responsibility—March 2012

The table does include the known increase in employee framework is complemented by NIHR’s co-ordinated contributions with an increase of £507 million in 2012-13. system for gaining NHS permission for research which It does not yet include the changes to the contribution allows a central review of all issues which only need to rates for 2013-14 and 2014-15 as these are subject to be considered once, so individual NHS trusts can focus consultation. on considering site-specific issues. Payment information on the new pension arrangements The Health Research Authority is already working in each of the fiscal years from 2012-13 to 2039-40 is with partners including NIHR to promote consistent unavailable. and proportionate standards for the system as a whole and to remove duplication. However, individual providers NHS: Research of NHS care are best placed to determine whether and how they can deliver a study, assessing local feasibility and planning so that research is carried out effectively. Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he has considered the merits of bringing NHS NHS: Sexual Offences research and development approvals within the Health Research Authority; and if he will make a statement. Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health [113395] how many sexual assaults on patients by NHS staff have been reported in each of the last five years. Mr Simon Burns: The Government asked the Academy [112909] of Medical Sciences to conduct an independent review of the regulation and governance of health research in Mr Simon Burns: The information is not available 2010. The Government considered its recommendations centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate and responded by publishing proposals for health care cost. and the life sciences in the Plan for Growth in 2011. These included establishing the new Health Research Nurses: Temporary Employment Authority and introducing, through the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), both new incentives and Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for tools to improve national health service efficiency in Health how many NHS trusts have implemented the research. National Audit Office recommendations to appoint a New NIHR contracts with NHS providers now require board member with responsibility for developing and information on local initiation and delivery of research, monitoring a trust-wide strategy for use of temporary and funding will be affected from 2013. In May 2011, nursing staff. [113220] the Government launched the NIHR Research Support Services framework of tools to facilitate consistent local Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is not research management and improve performance. This available centrally. 109W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 110W

Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for An equivalent table which shows the trend in mean Health how much each NHS trust spent on temporary body mass index (BMI) is available in Table 3 of the nursing staff (a) provided by NHS Professionals and same child trend tables. (b) excluding NHS Professionals in each year since Information on the percentage of obese children by 2004-05. [113221] age group (2-10 years, 11-15 years and 2-15 years, for 1995-2010) is available in Table 4 of the child trend Anne Milton: The data requested is not available in tables. the format requested. The Department does not require The above information is available at: trusts to separate spend on temporary nursing staff www.ic.nhs.uk/pubs/hse10trends from total agency spend and NHS Professionals (NHSP) does not provide the data by trust as it is commercially Information on the percentage of obese children by sensitive. age and sex for 2010 is available in Table 11.2 of the “Health Survey for England 2010”, Chapter 11, Children’s The following figures show the total revenues relating BMI, Overweight and Obesity.This information is available to nursing bank and agency staff charged to national at: health service trusts by NHSP: www.ic.nhs.uk/pubs/hse10report £000 Equivalent data is not available for 1990. For 2000 Nursing: the data has not been published. Invoiced Bank Agency Further information on the prevalence of obesity in children is available through the National Child 2011-12 213,459 56,163 Measurement Programme (NCMP). Information is 2010-11 220,937 52,949 available for children in Reception (4-5 years) and year 2009-10 238,027 46,784 6 (10-11 years) for 2010-11. Information showing the 2008-09 223,239 26,431 prevalence of obesity in these two school years in 2007-08 194,189 10,599 England is available at Table 1 of the “National Child 2006-07 184,345 35,259 Measurement Programme: England, 2010/11 school year” 2005-06 188,597 67,374 report. This report is available at: 2004-05 158,236 57,332 www.ic.nhs.uk/statistics-and-data-collections/health-and- Caveats: lifestyles/obesity/national-child-measurement-programme- 1. Not all agency spend is recorded by NHSP. Some agency staff may england-2010-11-school-year be ordered and paid for by ward managers outside of NHSP contracts. 2. NHSP are not able to separately record qualified and unqualified NCMP data is only available from 2006-07. nursing separately, therefore the figures may include both. Copies of these documents have been placed in the 3. No directly comparable data for the total spend by the NHS on Library. temporary nursing staff exists. Pain Nurses: Training Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for for Health (1) how many NHS trusts have categorised Health what the attrition rate was for student nurses as facet joint injections, caudal epidural injections or a proportion of the starting cohort on each nursing acupuncture as low priority treatments; and for what pre-registration (a) degree and (b) diploma course reasons; [113146] completing in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011. [113223] (2) what information his Department holds on the number of NHS trusts planning to delay pain management Anne Milton: Nursing attrition rate calculations are treatments including facet joint injections, caudal epidural based on the number of starters and leavers in each injections and acupuncture; and whether such treatments financial year. A nurse training course is typically three have been downgraded as a priority by the NHS. years long, however, it can take five years for a cohort to [113719] complete, due to trainees deferring for reasons such as maternity leave. The cohort completing in 2010 started Paul Burstow: The information requested is not available in financial year 2006-07, for which the nursing attrition centrally. Commissioners are responsible for using their rates were 13.6% for degree and 28.5% for diploma. available resources to secure the best possible care for Attrition figures for cohorts completing in 2011 have their populations, taking into account national clinical not yet been submitted to the Department, but should guidance and standards and local needs and priorities. be available by the end July 2012. In future, front line clinicians in clinical commissioning groups will be taking the lead in making these judgments. Where a commissioner has decided, as a matter of Obesity: Children general policy, not to provide funding for certain treatments, they should have in place a transparent and fair process Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health for considering requests for exceptional treatment on what the average weight and obesity levels were of a their merits. child at (a) birth, (b) five years and (c) 10 years in (i) 1990, (ii) 2000 and (iii) 2010. [113514] Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information his Department holds on Anne Milton: Information on children’s mean weight the number of patients (a) in Coventry and Warwickshire is available in the “Health Survey for England—2010 NHS Trust and (b) nationally who have recently been child trend tables”, Table 2. Information is provided for removed from waiting lists for pain management treatments; children aged 0-15, for each year from 1995-2010. and for what reasons they have been removed. [113720] 111W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 112W

Paul Burstow: The information requested is not available Full-time equivalent (FTE) nationally. Decisions on treatments should be made by clinicians based on what is most clinically appropriate 2010 18,610 for the patient and take the individual patient’s needs 2011 18,586 into account. Local managers need to be able to demonstrate how they have taken account of the best available evidence, patients’ health care needs and the Primary Care Trusts: North-east views of health care professionals who understand patients’ needs when making decisions. Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Physiotherapy Health what estimate he has made of the total cost of the planned redundancies for primary health care trust Seema Malhotra: To ask the Secretary of State for staff in Northumbria, Tyne and Wear and Durham Health what the average waiting time to see a County on which he is consulting. [113125] physiotherapist is following referral in the NHS in (a) England, (b) London and (c) Hounslow in (i) 2010-11 Mr Simon Burns: The revised Health and Social Care and (ii) 2011-12. [113414] Bill Impact Assessment (table 4b, page 21) set out a best estimate of system-wide redundancy costs of £810 million Anne Milton: The information requested is not collected over the course of this Parliament. A copy has already centrally. It is the responsibility of local national health been placed in the Library and can be found at: service organisations to commission services to meet www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/ the needs of their communities, including the provision documents/digitalasset/dh_129916.pdf of physiotherapy services. Currently there are no mandated Within this, overall primary care trust (PCT) redundancy data held centrally regarding physiotherapy waiting costs were estimated at £634 million. We do not hold a times unless part of a consultant-led episode within breakdown of these redundancy cost estimates at an 18-week pathways. individual PCT level as it will depend on recruitment The Allied Health Professions (AHP) referral to decisions of organisations in those areas. The Department treatment (RTT) Revised Guide, published in December is working with both sending and receiving organisations 2011, sets out a framework of rules for clock starts and to facilitate the transfer of staff where possible and clock stops to measure waiting times for patients when minimise the level of redundancies and redundancy accessing NHS AHP services including physiotherapy. costs. This was followed by a letter to the service from the Chief Health Professions Officer on 16 January 2012. All AHPs delivering NHS funded care are encouraged Primary Care Trusts: Redundancy to base their local data collections, local flows and reporting of AHP RTT data on the Community Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Information Data Set structure in anticipation of a Health (1) how many primary care trust staff in the national mandate for collection and reporting of data. North East of England covered by his Department’s Work is ongoing to provide the mechanisms for information initial redundancy consultation launched in June 2012 flows to report AHP RTT centrally. he estimates could be re-employed by clinical commissioning The ‘AlliedHealth Professional Referral to Treatment groups; [113283] Revised Guide 2011’ can be found at: (2) what estimate he has made of the number of www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/ primary care trust staff who will be made redundant in documents/digitalasset/dh_131969.pdf the north-east of England in 2012-13; and how many and a copy has already been placed in the Library. such staff he estimates will be subsequently re-employed within the NHS. [113284] Seema Malhotra: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many physiotherapists were employed by Mr Simon Burns: Primary care trusts (PCTs) are the NHS in (a) 2008-9, (b) 2009-10, (c) 2010-11 and responsible for. conducting their own redundancy (d) 2011-12. [113431] consultations, in accordance with employment legislation. The Secretary of State has no direct involvement with Mr Simon Burns: The Health and Social Care these procedures. Information Centre annual workforce census is published Data on the numbers of PCT staff in the north-east in March and reports the numbers of national health of England who will be made redundant in 2012-13, service staff employed as at the 30 September the previous and those who will be subsequently re-employed within year. the national health service, are not available. Greater The numbers of physiotherapists employed in September clarity on the numbers of staff affected by change will 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 are given in the following gradually become available, but the full position will table. The number employed in 2012 will be available not be known until after 31 December 2012. following publication of the next annual work force census in March 2013. Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information his Department has gathered Full-time equivalent (FTE) from electronic staff records on the number of primary 2008 17,652 care trust staff in the North East (a) made redundant 2009 18,460 in (i) 2011-12 and (ii) 2012-13 and (b) subsequently re-employed in the NHS. [113291] 113W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 114W

Mr Simon Burns: 373 staff employed by primary care The Social Security and Child Support Tribunal may trusts (PCTs) in the North East were made redundant request further evidence, when it deems it appropriate, in 2010-11, as recorded on the Electronic Staff Record from the health care professional that it considers will (ESR). be able to provide the appropriate evidence. This may be 61 staff employed by PCTs in the North East were the appellant’s GP or consultant or another health care made redundant between April 2011 and December professional. Where this is the case, a fee may be payable 2011, as recorded on the ESR. Figures for quarter four for the provision of such information. 2011-12 will be published on 24 July 2012 by the NHS Information Centre for Health and Social Care. Social Services Information on the number of PCT staff in the North East who were made redundant and subsequently Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Health re-employed by national health service organisations when his Department expects to publish its White can be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Paper on social care. [113047] Paul Burstow: We expect to publish a White Paper Primary Care Trusts: Redundancy Pay and progress report shortly.

Mr Nicholas Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services: Older People Health when he plans to publish figures relating to the total cost of exit packages for primary care trust (PCT) Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Health staff in 2011-12; if he will ensure that such figures show pursuant to the answer of 15 May 2012, Official the cost for each PCT on the same basis as that Report, column 84W, on social services, whether his published by his Department for 2011-12; and what Department has considered the findings of the Care of estimate he has made of the likely costs by PCTs in Elderly People UK Market Survey 2011-12 by Laing 2012-13. [113292] and Buisson in developing its proposals for market oversight of adult residential care. [112896] Mr Simon Burns: Data on 2011-12 primary care trust (PCT) exit packages will be available later in the summer, Paul Burstow: Yes. The Department is considering a once the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts range of evidence in developing its policy on oversight are audited and laid before Parliament. of the social care market, including the ‘Care of Elderly The information will be published on a national People UK Market Survey 2011-12’. In developing this aggregate level in the Annual Report and Accounts in policy, we also met with key stakeholders. The forthcoming the same format as previous years. The consolidated White Paper on care and support will set out next steps account does not present figures on an individual PCT regarding this work. basis. However if this information is requested once the The ‘Care of Elderly People UK Market Survey accounts have been published, the Department will be 2011-12’provides pertinent information regarding providers able to provide it. with a market share in local residential care markets of We hold statutory accounting information for previous more than 25%. years only.As such we are unable to provide any information relating to estimated figures on the cost of exit packages Thalidomide in PCTs for 2012-13. Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security Benefits: Appeals Health how many people there are in each constituent part of the UK whose health has been affected by thalidomide. [113254] Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the effect of Paul Burstow: We understand that the Thalidomide any increase in the level of requests for medical evidence Trust supports 435 people in the United Kingdom in support of appeal cases to the First-tier Tribunal whose health has been affected by Thalidomide. This Social Security and Child Support on the workload of breaks down per country, as follows: (a) general practitioners, (b) consultants and (c) nurses UK beneficiaries by country in the NHS. [113303] Country Number Mr Simon Burns: No assessment has been made of England 327 the impact of providing such information. However, we Northern Ireland 18 are not aware that the workload involved in providing Scotland 59 these services is an issue. Wales 31 If a patient were to seek medical evidence to support an appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, this would be Mr Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for private work i.e. outside of the requirements of the Health what steps his Department is taking to improve contracting arrangements for the provision of NHS health and social care provision for thalidomide primary medical services by general practitioners (GPs). survivors. [113699] Similarly, there is no provision to require consultants or nurses in the NHS to provide such a service. As such, Paul Burstow: The Government is committed to it is for individual practitioners to decide whether to improving outcomes for disabled people and supporting provide such a service to their patients. them to live independent lives. This principle of improving 115W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 116W outcomes and giving people more choice and control Average Earnings and purchasing power over the services they receive underpins all our health, social care and welfare reforms. In December 2009, the previous Government made a Mr Woodward: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet £20 million grant to the Thalidomide Trust for a three-year Office what the average earnings were of (a) full-time pilot scheme in England, running from April 2010 until male, (b) part-time male, (c) full-time female and (d) March 2013, to explore how the health needs of part-time female workers in (i) St Helens South and Thalidomide survivors can best be met in the longer Whiston constituency, (ii) Merseyside and (iii) England term. Departmental officials have discussed the evaluation in each of the last five years. [113430] of the first year of the pilot with members of the Thalidomide Trust and the National Advisory Council and are awaiting the evaluation of the second year. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: CABINET OFFICE As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Abid Hussain have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking what the average earnings were of (a) full-time male, (b) part-time male, (c) full-time female and (d) part-time female Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet workers in (i) St Helens South and Whiston constituency, (ii) Office (1) whether (a) he and (b) Ministers in his Merseyside and (iii) England in each of the last five years. Department have met Abid Hussain; [112976] (113430) (2) whether Abid Hussain has attended any meetings Average levels of earnings are estimated from the Annual at the Cabinet Office since May 2010; and when each Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), and are provided for all such meeting took place. [112982] employees on adult rates of pay whose pay for the survey period was not affected by absence. The ASHE, carried out in April each year, is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in Mr Maude: Details of Ministers’ meetings with external the United Kingdom. organisations are available in the Library of the House. Following tables show the median gross weekly earnings for full-time male, full-time female, part-time male and part-time Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet female employee jobs in St Helens South and Whiston constituency Office (1) whether Abid Hussain was subject to any from 2009 to 2011, Merseyside and England from 2007 to 2011. form of security vetting before accompanying the 2011 is the latest date for which figures are available. Minister without Portfolio on official overseas visits; [112977] Median Gross Weekly Earnings (£)—for full-time male, full-time (2) whether his Department cleared Abid Hussain to female, part-time male and part-time female employee jobs1: (i) St Helens South and Whiston constituency 2009 to 2011, accompany the Minister without Portfolio on any (ii) Merseyside and (iii) England 2007 to 2011 official overseas trips since May 2010; and for which St Helens South and Whiston constituency such trips. [112979] Male Female Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time Mr Maude: Mr Abid Hussain has not been part of any official delegation for any of the Minister without 2009 *461.1 x **416.1 **149.7 Portfolio’s overseas visits. 2010 *473.1 x **418.3 **159.8 20112 *463.1 x **425.6 **165.4 Advisory Services: Finance 20113 *463.0 x **423.0 **163.9

Yvonne Fovargue: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Merseyside Office (1) how many advice agencies have received Male Female funding from the £107 million Big Society Transition Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time Fund announced in the spending review October 2010; [113555] 2007 473.2 **121.9 383.3 139.8 (2) how much and what proportion of the £107 2008 481.7 **124.4 397.5 143.0 million Big Society Transition Fund announced in the 2009 494.9 *143.5 414.7 150.0 October 2010 spending review was received by advice 2010 497.0 *145.0 425.0 154.7 agencies. [113556] 20112 497.8 *147.6 429.8 158.6 20113 499.2 *147.5 424.3 156.5 Mr Hurd: Of the 1,010 organisations that were awarded Transition Fund grants, at least 52 are advice agencies. The grants to advice agencies total at least £17.5 million England (16.4%) of the £107 million fund. Male Female Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time In addition, the Government has already made £16.8 million available to the not-for-profit advice sector in 2007 505.5 136.5 400.0 145.5 England through the Advice Service Fund, with a further 2008 528.8 136.1 417.3 149.0 £40 million announced in the recent Budget for advice 2009 538.2 143.2 430.8 154.6 services across the UK. 2010 545.8 142.4 442.5 156.8 117W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 118W

of data through data.gov.uk in formats that facilitate England the creation of data visualisations and has been working Male Female with developers and data users to understand more Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time about what they want. Currently, the public has access 20112 547.8 142.5 448.5 157.5 to over 45,000 Government data files through data.gov.uk 20113 547.4 142.7 442.2 156.1 and we are working to identify more. 1 Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay-period was not affected by absence. Employment: North East 2 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2000. 3 2011 results based on Standard Occupational Classification 2010. Guide to quality: Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of a figure, the Office what estimate he has made of the total number of smaller the CV value the higher the quality. (a) private, (b) public and (c) third sector jobs in (i) The true value is likely to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an average of 200 with a CV of 5%, we would expect the population Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland constituency, average to be within the range 180 to 220. (ii) Teesside and (iii) the North East of England in each Key: year since 2003. [113790] CV<=5% * CV>5% and <=10% ** CV>10% and <=20% Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the x Unreliable responsibility of the.UK Statistics Authority. I have Note: asked the authority to reply. St Helens South and Whiston constituency replaced the St Helens South constituency in 2009. It covers the south of the Metropolitan Letter from Stephen Penneck: borough of St Helens and also includes three wards from the Knowsley As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I borough. have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking Source: what estimate he has made of the total number of (a) private, (b) Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), Office for National public and (c) third sector jobs in (i) Middlesbrough South and Statistics East Cleveland constituency, (ii) Teesside and (iii) the North East Conservative Friends of Pakistan of England in each year since 2003. (113790) Public and private sector employment statistics for local areas Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet can be calculated from the Annual Population Survey (APS). Office whether (a) he and (b) Ministers in his Department Individuals in the APS are classified to the public or private have held meetings at the Cabinet Office with representatives sector according to their responses to the survey. of the Conservative Friends of Pakistan since May Estimates on people employed in the third sector are currently not available from APS. Individuals employed in voluntary 2010. [112974] organisations, charities and trusts are generally included in private sector estimates. Mr Maude: No Cabinet Office Ministers have held Table 1 shows the number of persons resident in Middlesbrough meetings at the Cabinet Office with representatives of South and East Cleveland parliamentary constituency, Teesside the Conservative Friends of Pakistan. and North East employed in public and private sector from APS Details of Ministers’ meetings with external organisations for the period April 2011 to March 2012, which is the most recent are available in the Library of the House. data available and January to December for the previous eight years. Data Visualisation Teesside has been formed by combining Middlesbrough, Stockton- on-Tees and Redcar and Cleveland Unitary Authorities. Chris Ruane: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet As with any sample survey, estimates from APS are subject to a Office what steps he is taking to encourage the use of margin of uncertainty. A guide to the quality of the estimates is new techniques in data visualisation in his Department. given in Table 1. [111709] National and local area estimates for many labour market statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant Mr Maude [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The count are available on the NOMIS website at: Government has been publishing unprecedented amounts http://www.nomisweb.co.uk

Table1:Number1 of persons in employment in the public and private sectors, resident in Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland parliamentary constituency, Teesside and North East Thousand Middlesbrough South and East Teesside North East Cleveland Public Private Public Private Public Private

12 months ending December 2004 13 32 53 147 316 794 December 2005 12 31 52 151 319 808 December 2006 13 34 55 149 319 816 December 2007 15 33 58 147 330 824 December 2008 15 29 55 141 321 826 December 2009 12 28 58 139 334 782 December 2010 11 27 55 140 331 789 119W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 120W

Table1:Number1 of persons in employment in the public and private sectors, resident in Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland parliamentary constituency, Teesside and North East Thousand Middlesbrough South and East Teesside North East Cleveland Public Private Public Private Public Private

December 2011 10 30 54 139 319 794 March 2012 ***10 **29 **53 *137 *309 *796 1 Coefficients of Variation have been calculated for the latest period as an indication of the quality of the estimates. See Guide to Quality below. 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 with a CV of 5% we would expect the population total to be within the range 180-220. Key: *0≤ CV<5%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered precise. ** 5 ≤ CV <10%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered reasonably precise. *** 10 ≤ CV <20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered acceptable. **** CV ≥ 20%—Statistical Robustness: Estimates are considered too unreliable for practical purposes. Source: Annual Population Survey

Government Departments: Pay Table 1. Number of deaths from heart disease among men aged between 35 and 64 years in the UK, the North East region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, Rachel Reeves: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet 2006-101, 2, 3 Office with reference to the answer of 26 April 2012, Deaths (persons) Official Report, column 1057W, on Government Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Departments: pay, how many officials paid off-payroll he estimates were not included in the list of high earners North East 504 527 483 480 474 region published on www.data.gov.uk in 2011. [113554] South Tyneside 29 35 26 35 19 local authority Mr Maude: Further to the answer I gave to the hon. Jarrow 16 29 8 21 8 Member on 20 June 2012, Official Report, column parliamentary 1073W, the review published by the Chief Secretary to constituency the Treasury, the right hon. Member for Inverness, 1 Figures arc for deaths registered in each calendar year and include Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Alexander) non-residents for the UK. All sub-national figures exclude non- included information on numbers and costs of off-payroll residents. engagements. 2 Cause of death for heart disease was defined using the International Classifications of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes I20-I25. Heart Diseases 3 Figures are based on boundaries as of February 2012.

Mr Hepburn: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Mr Hepburn: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many men aged between 35 and 64 years in Office how many men aged under 75 years in (a) (a) Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the UK have died from heart North East and (d) the UK have died from heart disease in each of the last five years. [113682] disease in each of the last five years. [113683]

Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many men aged between 35.and 64 years died from heart disease in (a) men aged under 75 years died from heart disease in (a) Jarrow Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the (d) the UK in each of the last five years (113682). UK in each of the last five years (113683). Table 1 as follows shows the number of deaths where ischaemic Table 1 following shows the number of deaths where ischaemic heart disease was the underlying cause for (a) Jarrow parliamentary heart disease was the underlying cause for (a) Jarrow parliamentary constituency, (b) South Tyneside local authority, (c) the North constituency, (b) South Tyneside local authority, (c) the North East region and the UK between 2G06 and 2010 (the latest year East region and the UK between 2006 and 2010 (the latest year available). available). Table 1. Number of deaths from heart disease among men aged Table 1: Number of deaths from heart disease among men aged under between 35 and 64 years in the UK, the North East region, South 75 years in the UK, the North East Region, South Tyneside local Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-101,2,3 2006-101, 2, 3 Deaths (persons) Deaths (persons) Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 United Kingdom 22,613 21,763 20,842 19,617 19,172 United Kingdom 10,549 10,238 9,836 9,289 9,120 North East region 1,135 1,093 1,037 949 916 121W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 122W

Table 1: Number of deaths from heart disease among men aged under Table 1. Number of deaths from coronary heart disease among men 75 years in the UK, the North East Region, South Tyneside local and women in the UK, the North East Region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-101,2,3 authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-20101,2,3 Deaths (persons) Deaths (persons) Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

South Tyneside 72 65 52 70 46 Total 161 148 126 131 123 local authority 1 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year and include Jarrow 4242-223523non-residents for the UK. All sub-national figures exclude non-residents. parliamentary 2 Cause of death for heart disease was defined using the International constituency Classifications of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes 120-125. 1 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year and include 3 Figures are based on boundaries as of February 2012. non-residents for the UK. All sub-national figures exclude non- residents: Mr Hepburn: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet 2 Cause of death for heart disease was defined using the Office how many (a) men and (b) women aged International Classifications of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes 120-125. between 35 and 64 in (i) Jarrow constituency, (ii) South 3 Figures are based on boundaries as of February 2012. Tyneside, (iii) the North East and (iv) the UK died from heart disease in each of the last five years. [113873] Mr Hepburn: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many (a) men and (b) women in (i) Jarrow Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the constituency, (ii) South Tyneside, (iii) the north-east responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have and (iv) the UK have died from coronary heart disease asked the authority to reply. in each of the last five years. [113684] Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the men and women aged between 35 and 64 died from heart disease responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have in (a) Jarrow constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East asked the Authority to reply. and (d) the UK in each of the last five years (113873). Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: Table 1 below shows the number of deaths where ischaemic heart disease was the underlying cause for (a) Jarrow parliamentary As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I constituency, (b) South Tyneside local authority, (c) the North have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many East region and the UK between 2006 and 2010 (the latest year men and women died from coronary heart disease in (a) Jarrow available). constituency, (b) South Tyneside, (c) the North East and (d) the Table 1: Number of deaths from heart disease among men and women UK in each of the last five years (113684). aged between 35 and 64 in the UK, the north-east region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, Table 1 shows the number of deaths where ischaemic heart 2006-101, 2, 3 disease was the underlying cause for (a) Jarrow parliamentary constituency, (b) South Tyneside local authority, (c) the North Deaths (persons) East region and the UK between 2006 and 2010 (the latest year Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 available). United Kingdom Table 1. Number of deaths from coronary heart disease among men Males 10,549 10,238 9,836 9,289 9,120 and women in the UK, the North East Region, South Tyneside local authority and Jarrow parliamentary constituency, 2006-20101,2,3 Females 2,670 2,556 2,527 2,302 2,245 Deaths (persons) Total 13,219 12,794 12,363 11,591 11,365 Area 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 North-east United Kingdom region Males 52,804 51,568 49,652 47,306 46,591 Males 504 527 483 480 474 Females 41,872 40,163 38,575 35,425 33,976 Females 155 137 137 132 96 Total 94,676 91,731 88,227 82,731 80,567 Total 659 664 620 612 570

North East region South Tyneside Males 2,455 2,435 2,300 2,197 2,114 local authority Females 1,973 1,858 1,723 1,571 1,449 Males 29 35 26 35 19 Total 4,428 4,293 4,023 3,768 3,563 Females 15 10 7 6 3 Total 44 45 33 41 22 South Tyneside local authority Jarrow Males 164 163 144 146 138 parliamentary constituency Females 147 139 125 107 97 Males 16 29 8 21 8 Total 311 302 269 253 235 Females 44453 Total 20 33 12 26 11 Jarrow 1 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year and include parliamentary non-residents for the UK. All sub-national figures exclude non-residents. constituency 2 Cause of death for heart disease was defined using the International Males 97 92 72 71 67 Classifications of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes I20-I25. Females 64 56 54 60 56 3 Figures are based on boundaries as of February 2012. 123W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 124W

Non-departmental Public Bodies Table 1: Population of the UK by constituent country, mid-2010 Thousands Luciana Berger: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Country Total persons Office pursuant to the oral answer of 13 June 2012, Northern Ireland 1,799.4 Official Report, column 314, on quangos, on what Source: numerical evidence his answer was based. [112872] Office for National Statistics, National Records of Scotland, Northern Ireland Statistics Research Agency Mr Maude: The 2010 Public Bodies Review covered Visits Abroad 904 public bodies, of which 500 are proposed for reform with a reduction of more than 250 bodies by the end of 2014-15. Overall, the programme has so far abolished Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet 92 bodies and merged 103 into 50. Office how many times the Minister without Portfolio’s special adviser has accompanied her on official visits Since our public bodies reform will abolish over 250 overseas since May 2010; and for which trips. [112958] bodies, the hon. Member’s assessment in the Official Report, column 314, was entirely wrong. Mr Maude: Details of Ministers’ overseas trips are available in the Library of the House. As has long been Older People: Warrington the case it is standard practice that a Minister can be accompanied by a special adviser on official trips. Helen Jones: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many people (a) of pensionable age and (b) Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet over 80 there are in Warrington North constituency. Office whether any official overseas trips by Cabinet [113666] Office Ministers have been paid for by foreign governments since May 2010. [112975] Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Mr Maude: No official overseas trips by Cabinet asked the authority to reply. Office Ministers have been paid for by foreign governments Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: since May 2010. It is a matter of public record that in November 2010 Baroness Warsi performed the Hajj as As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I the guest of the Government of Saudi Arabia. This was have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question asking how many people (a) of pensionable age and (b) over 80 a personal visit and was declared in the Register of there are in Warrington North constituency (113666). Lords interests. There were an estimated 18,005 people of pensionable age and 3,741 people aged 80 and over resident in Warrington North Michael Dugher: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet constituency at mid-2010. This is the latest year for which population Office what the objectives were of each of the Minister estimates are available. without Portfolio’s official overseas visits to Pakistan. The estimate of pensionable age gives the number of women [112978] aged 60 and over, and men aged 65 and over, which is the closest available approximation to state pension age at mid-2010 that can Mr Maude: Details of Ministers’ overseas visits are be obtained for population estimates by parliamentary constituency. available in the Library of the House.

Population EDUCATION Thomas Docherty: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the population was of each of the Academies: Oxfordshire constituent parts of the UK on the most recent date for which figures are available. [113438] Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Education (1) which schools in Oxfordshire are Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the required to explore academy status; [112592] responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority to reply. (2) with which schools in Oxfordshire officials in his Department are in discussions about the possibility of Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated June 2012: converting to academy status. [112593] As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question Mr Gibb: The Department discusses the possibility of asking what the population was of each of the constituent parts of the United Kingdom on the most recent date for which figures conversion to academy status with any school that are available (113438). approaches the Department. If a school applies to convert, the Department will allocate an official who Table 1 shows the usually resident population of each UK constituent country in mid-2010. These are the latest available will support that school through the conversion process. population estimates. A list of schools that have applied to convert to academy status is available on the Department’s website at: Table 1: Population of the UK by constituent country, mid-2010 http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/ Thousands typesofschools/academies/b00208569/open-academies Country Total persons We are also in discussion with a range of schools England 52,234.0 nationally where we believe sponsored academy status Wales 3,006.4 would bring about the transformational change required. Scotland 5,222.1 It is not our policy publicly to name schools where we 125W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 126W would like to explore academy options. We believe this (i) York and (ii) Yorkshire and the Humber in (A) 1992 has the potential to disrupt the process of school and (B) each year since 1992. [111422] improvement at the schools concerned, and may cause negative publicity that will distress parents, staff and Sarah Teather: The Department collects information pupils. on children receiving free early education as opposed to just numbers receiving nursery education. The number Children: Day Care and percentage of children aged three and four benefiting from some free early education in York and Yorkshire Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and the Humber between 2008 and 2011 are shown in how many and what proportion of children aged (a) the table. Comparable figures for earlier years cannot be three and (b) four years received nursery education in provided due to disproportionate cost.

Number1 and percentage of three and four year old children benefiting from some early education2,3 in York and Yorkshire and the Humber 2008 to 2011. Position in January 2008 2009 2010 2011

York 3 year olds Number 2,100 1,900 2,000 2,100 Percentage 113 100 104 104 4 year olds Number 1,900 2,000 2,000 2,000 Percentage 105 107 102 104

Yorkshire and the Humber 3 year olds Number 56,800 57,800 59,900 61,200 Percentage 94 95 96 96 4 year olds Number 58,200 60,400 60,800 62,400 Percentage 100 100 100 100 1 Any child attending more than one provider will have only been counted once. Numbers have been rounded to the nearest 100. 2 Count of children aged three and four at 31 December in the previous calendar year. 3 Numbers of three and four-year-olds in schools may include some two-year-olds. Source: Early Years Census (EYC), School Census (SC), and School Level Annual School Census (SLASC).

The percentage of children receiving free early education A copy of this reply has been sent to Nick Gibb MP, Minister can exceed 100%. This is due to using different sources of State for Schools, and will be placed in the Library of both for the population to compare to the number of children Houses. benefiting from free early education. These different sources of data are not on a directly comparable basis Children: Disability and so can result in valid take-up rates of over 100%. Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Data for 2012 will be available from 28 June following the publication of the ‘Provision for Children Under Five Years of Education (1) what steps his Department is taking to Age in England’ Statistical First Release at the following link: improve the identification of deaf-blind and multi- http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001074/ sensory-impaired children in schools; [112434] index.shtml (2) what his policy is on the education of deaf-blind and multi-sensory-impaired children. [112435] Fiona Bruce: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what costs are incurred in undertaking an Sarah Teather: The Government’s reforms to special inspection visit of a child minder. [112158] educational needs and disability policy are set out in Support and aspiration: A new approach to special educational needs and disability—Progress and next Sarah Teather [holding answer 19 June 2012]: This steps information is held by Ofsted. The Chief Inspector, Sir http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/send/ Michael Wilshaw, has written to the hon. Member and a0075339/sengreenpaper a copy of his reply has been placed in the House Libraries. These include the development of a single assessment process and a comprehensive Education, Health and Letter from Sir Michael Wilshaw, dated 15 June 2012: Care Plan to replace the current statement system. The Your recent parliamentary question has been passed to me, as reforms are intended to ensure that children’s needs are Her Majesty’s Chief identified much earlier—including through early health Inspector, for response. screening and in early years provision—and that parents are given far greater control over the support that they The average cost of an inspection visit of a childminder is receive. £731. By ‘inspection visit’ we mean a programmed inspection, post registration inspection and re-inspection of either a sole The Department for Education has provided funding childminder or childminder with assistants. for some 9,000 special educational needs co-ordinators (SENCOs) to obtain the mandatory higher-level SENCO All costs relate to the most recent full year, 2011-12, and include direct and indirect costs plus overheads. It should be qualification. SENCOs play a vital role within schools, noted that overall costs in Ofsted have reduced since 2010-11 and including supporting other teaching staff to identify are planned to reduce in total by 30% by 2014-15 (the end of the where a pupil may have special educational needs. In current Comprehensive Spending Review period). addition, there is a mandatory qualification for teachers 127W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 128W of deaf-blind children, with teachers able to apply for of those statements, and the extent to which they have funding through the national teaching scholarship scheme. been developed in collaboration with local parents and The Department also provides funding to the National carers. Impact has also developed self-evaluation tools Sensory Impairment Partnership to help local authorities to monitor and improve their own performance in relation to short breaks services. www.natsip.org.uk to help local authorities come together to benchmark Education: Standards their services, develop quality standards and learn from each other. Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps he is taking to reduce inequalities Education (1) what steps his Department is taking with in educational attainment. [112436] local authorities to ensure that disabled children are able to access child care; [112905] Sarah Teather: The Government is committed to (2) what steps his Department is taking to ensure creating a highly-educated society in which opportunity that disabled children aged two years are able to access is more equal for children and young people no matter appropriate child care. [112906] what their background or family circumstances. Our reforms include an emphasis on early intervention, additional funding to support the education of Sarah Teather: In ″Support and aspiration: A new disadvantaged pupils, improving teacher quality, introducing approach to special educational needs and disability— challenging floor standards for secondary schools, allowing progress and next steps″, published in May 2012, the more schools to benefit from academy status and Government confirmed plans to require local authorities transparency measures to ensure schools support all to publish a local offer setting out the support available pupils to progress. The Department for Education has to disabled children and young people and those with published fairness objectives which include commitments special educational needs and their families. The to tackle inequalities in educational attainment which Government will set out the national framework for the can be found on the web page at: local offer in law, including information on the early education that is available to children with disabilities. http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/policiesandprocedures/ equalityanddiversity/b00202789/equality-commitments/ Local authorities have a duty to secure sufficient equality-objectives-2012 child care locally to meet the needs of working parents. The Government are strengthening the statutory guidance First Aid: Curriculum underpinning this duty so that, from September 2012, local authorities will prepare an annual report for parents and councillors on how they are meeting the duty. This Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of will include how they are ensuring that there is sufficient State for Education if he will take steps to ensure that child care available to meet the needs of disabled children. emergency life support skills are taught in schools; and All three- and four-year-olds, including children with if he will make a statement. [112575] disabilities, are entitled to 15 hours a week of free early education. This entitlement will be extended to around Mr Gibb [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The current 40% of two-year-olds from September 2014. The non-statutory framework for personal, social, health Government will consult shortly on which two-year-olds and economic (PSHE) education includes teaching young should be eligible for the entitlement. people at primary school level about basic emergency procedures and where to get help. At secondary school Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education level, it includes teaching young people to develop the how his Department is monitoring local authority delivery skills to cope with emergency situations that require of services under the Breaks for Carers for Disabled basic first aid procedures, including, at key stage 4 (ages 15-16), resuscitation techniques. Children Regulations 2010. [112907] We are reviewing PSHE education to improve the Sarah Teather: The Department does not directly quality of teaching; the core outcomes which we expect monitor local authority delivery of services under draft PSHE to achieve and the core of knowledge and awareness legislation in The Breaks for Carers for Disabled Children that the Government should expect pupils to acquire at Regulations 2010, nor under the UK statutory instrument, school. We will publish the outcome of the review later The Breaks for Carers for Disabled Children Regulations this year. 2011 Number 707, which came into effect in April 2011. Free Schools The Department has contracted with a consortium known as Impact to provide tailored support to all 152 local authorities in England to help them ensure that Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for they meet their legal obligations under the Short Breaks Education how many people (a) of each ethnicity, (b) Duty. Impact is contracted to identify and promote of each gender and (c) in each age group were lead good practice through case studies and research and to applicants for application to free schools since May support local authorities in developing the capacity and 2010. [113030] sustainability of short breaks providers. As part of its work for the Department, Impact is Mr Gibb [holding answer 21 June 2012]: We do not collecting information about the number of Short Break collect ethnicity, gender or age data from free school Duty Statements that have been published, the quality applicants. 129W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 130W

History: Curriculum We have no plans to establish a clearing house to help large companies engage with schools on a national Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for basis, although there are many organisations to which Education (1) what progress has been made on the schools might look to fulfil this role where they want National Curriculum Review of history; and if he will additional support in accessing industry, such as the make a statement; [113216] Education and Employers’ Taskforce. (2) when he expects to complete the process of Schools provide enterprise and business education reviewing the submissions to the National Curriculum for young people to ensure that they are well equipped Review of history; [113217] in facing the challenges of the world of work, employability (3) what timetable he has set for the National and entrepreneurship, resulting in a positive outcome Curriculum Review for foundation subjects for for both pupils and employers. secondary schools. [113218] We are investing £4.5 million over two years (2011-12 and 2012-13) for 25 FE colleges to trial innovative Mr Gibb: We are, in our review of the National models for delivering work experience for 16 to 19-year-olds; Curriculum in England, taking careful account of all of and we will ensure that work experience is fully integrated the submissions received. We have recently confirmed in the 16 to 19 study programmes from September 2013. that history is to continue as a compulsory subject at In addition, the Department for Business, Innovation key stages 1 and 2. We will consult fully on draft and Skills is developing online resources for teachers Programmes of Study for primary history before they that will enable them to set up school businesses and are finalised. access support from local enterprise champions. We will also make a separate announcement in due course about plans for the secondary curriculum, including Pupils: Yorkshire and Humberside the place of history. Our intention is that the new Programmes of Study for all National Curriculum subjects will be introduced from September 2014. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how much (a) revenue and (b) capital Industry: Schools funding was provided per pupil in state (i) primary and (ii) secondary schools in (A) York and (B) Yorkshire Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for and the Humber in (1) 1992 and (2) each year since Education what measures he has put in place to promote 1992 (x) in cash terms and (y) at 2012 prices. [111424] industry engagement with schools; and whether he has given consideration to establishing a clearing house role Mr Gibb: As York only became a local authority in to help large companies engage with schools on a 1996-97 as a result of local government reorganisation, national basis. [112258] comparable funding data are available only from this date. Mr Gibb [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The core principle of our schools reform programme is to give Average per pupil revenue funding figures, from the greater freedoms to schools. This is because more Department to local authorities, for pupils aged three to autonomous schools are more likely to raise standards, 10 (primary) and 11 to 15 (secondary) for York LA ensuring that their curriculum meets the needs of their specifically, and the Yorkshire and Humber region on pupils, rather than covering in their curricula what average, for years 1997-98 to 2005-06 are as follows. successive Governments consider to be important. These figures are in cash terms:

Average per pupil revenue funding (cash) 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06

Yo rk L A 1,866 2,002 2,184 2,397 2,574 2,702 2,893 3,064 3,337 (primary) Yo rk L A 2,608 2,751 2,909 3,242 3,423 3,575 3,699 3,970 4,227 (secondary) Yorkshire and 1,943 2,086 2,288 2,539 2,766 2,931 3,220 3,400 3,689 Humber average (primary) Yorkshire and 2,724 2,859 3,047 3,376 3,629 3,806 4,004 4,280 4,563 Humber average (secondary) Notes: 1. Price Base: Cash. 2. Figures reflect relevant sub-blocks of standard spending assessment/education formula spending (EFS) settlements and exclude the pensions transfer to EFS and LSC. 3. Funding also includes all revenue grants in DfES departmental expenditure limits relevant to pupils aged three to 15 and exclude education maintenance allowances (EMAs) and grants not allocated at LEA level. 4. Where responsibility for funding a school has transferred from an authority, related funding no longer appears in the series. 5. The pupil numbers used to convert £ million figures to £ per pupil are those underlying the SSA/EFS settlement calculations plus PLASC three-year-old maintained pupils and estimated three to four-year-olds funded through state support in maintained and other educational institutions where these are not included in the SSA pupil numbers. 6. Rounding: Per pupil figures are rounded to the nearest £1. 131W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 132W

These figures are in real terms:

Average per pupil revenue funding (real) 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06

Yo rk L A 2,471 2,615 2,795 3,055 3,221 3,295 3,456 3,558 3,798 (primary) Yo rk L A 3,454 3,592 3,722 4,132 4,284 4,360 4,419 4,610 4,811 (secondary) Yorkshire and 2,573 2,724 2,928 3,236 3,462 3,574 3,846 3,948 4,198 Humber average (primary) Yorkshire and 3,607 3,733 3,899 4,302 4,542 4,641 4,783 4,970 5,193 Humber average (secondary)’ Notes: 1. Price Base: Real terms at 2010-11 prices, based on GDP deflators as at 28 March 2012. 2. Figures reflect relevant sub-blocks of standard spending assessment/education formula spending (EFS) settlements and exclude the pensions transfer to EFS and LSC. 3. Funding also includes all revenue grants in DfES departmental expenditure limits relevant to pupils aged three to 15 and exclude education maintenance allowances (EMAs) and grants not allocated at LEA level. 4. Where responsibility for funding a school has transferred from an authority, related funding no longer appears in the series. 5. The pupil numbers used to convert £ million figures to £ per pupil are those underlying the SSA/EFS settlement calculations plus PLASC three-year-old maintained pupils and estimated three to four-year-olds funded through state support in maintained and other educational institutions where these are not included in the SSA pupil numbers. 6. Rounding: Per pupil figures are rounded to the nearest £1.

The total revenue per pupil figures shown in the still funded through DCLG’s Local Government Finance following table are taken from the new Dedicated Schools Settlement but education items cannot be separately Grant (DSG). They are not comparable with those for identified. Consequently, there is a break in the the years 1997-98 to 2005-06 because the introduction Department’s time series as the two sets of data are not of the DSG in 2006-07 fundamentally changed how comparable. An alternative time series is currently under local authorities are funded. development. The 1997-98 to 2005-06 figures are based on education To provide a comparison for 2006-07 DSG, the formula spending (EFS) which formed the education Department have isolated the schools block equivalent part of the Local Government Finance Settlement, plus funding in 2005-06; as described above this does not various grants. This was an assessment of what local represent the totality of ’education’ funding in that authorities needed to fund education rather than what year. they spent. The DSG is based largely on an authority’s previous spending. In addition, the DSG has a different The total and per pupil revenue funding figures for coverage to EFS. EFS comprised a schools block and years 2005-06 to 2010-11 for York are provided in the an LEA block (to cover LEA central functions) whereas following table. The figures in the table are for all DSG only covers the school block. LEA block items are funded pupils aged three to 19 and are in cash terms:

Average revenue per pupil funding (DSG + grants cash) 2005-06 baseline 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

York LA 3,730 3,900 4,160 4,380 4,580 4,790 Yorkshire and Humber 3,920 4,160 4,440 4,640 4,820 5,040 (average) Notes: 1. This covers funding through the Dedicated Schools Grant, School Standards Grant, School Standards Grant (Personalisation) and Standards Fund as well as funding from the Learning and Skills Council; it excludes grants which are not allocated at LA level. 2. Price Base: Cash. 3. These figures are for all funded pupils aged three to 19. 4. Figures have been rounded to the nearest £10.

These figures are in real terms:

Average per pupil revenue funding (DSG + grants real)

2005-06 baseline 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

York LA 4,240 4,300 4,480 4,570 4,700 4,790

Yorkshire and Humber 4,460 4,580 4,780 4,850 4,950 5,040 (average)

Notes: 1. This covers funding through the Dedicated Schools Grant, School Standards Grant, School Standards Grant (Personalisation) and Standards Fund as well as funding from the Learning and Skills Council; it excludes grants which are not allocated at LA level. 2. Price Base: Real terms at 2010-11 prices, based on GDP deflators as at 28 March 2012. 3. These figures are for all funded pupils aged three to 19. 4. Figures have been rounded to the nearest £10 133W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 134W

Capital funding Schools: Hygiene The following table shows capital funding for the financial years that are available. The data are in cash Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for terms as allocations are phased across more than one Education how the new School Premises Regulations year making real terms calculations meaningless. Complete will define what constitutes a suitable standard for information on the split of capital between phases of toilets and washing facilities in schools. [112442] education is not held centrally. Mr Gibb [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The new £ million School Premises Regulations will require that toilet and Capital allocations* PFI credits** washing facilities are provided for the sole use of pupils Yorkshire Yorkshire and that they are suitable, having regard to pupils’ ages, and the and the York Humber York Humber number, sex and any special requirements they may have. They will also require that separate toilet facilities 1996-97 0.8 57.5 — — are provided for boys and girls aged eight years or over, 1997-98 1.3 52.1 — — except where the facility is provided in a room that is 1998-99 1.8 90.7 — 2.0 intended for use by one pupil at a time and that can be 1999-2000 4.5 151.3 — 62.8 secured from the inside. 2000-01 7.4 243.3 — 86.0 2001-02 4.8 245.2 — 45.2 2002-03 9.2 310.5 — 1.1 Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for 2003-04 11.1 305.4 — 188.9 Education what assessment his Department has made 2004-05 11.4 326.6. 15.4 273.2 of the adequacy of provision of soap and hand drying 2005-06 10.7 386.3 — — facilities in schools; and whether the new School 2006-07 23.0 281.9 — 255.4 Premises Regulations will require washing facilities to 2007-08 19.3 380.3 — 179.2 provide soap and hand drying facilities to qualify as [112443] 2008-09 26.7 371.5 — 4.5 suitable. 2009-10 23.1 510.5 — 423.8 2010-11 18.4 701.4 — 348.7 Mr Gibb [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The Department 2011-12 8.0 437.6 — — has not made such an assessment, but is aware of 2012-13 8.6 289.7 — — several studies carried out that noted where soap and (provisional) towels were absent in school washing facilities. These Notes: were referred to in a response to the recent consultation 1. Capital allocations includes capital grant and supported borrowing allocations. 2. PFI credit allocations are counted at financial close. on the proposed new School Premises Regulations. 3. Figures are rounded to the nearest £100,000. The new regulations will not include specific requirements 4. — indicates that no funding was given in that year. for soap and drying facilities, but they will require that the washing facilities provided by schools are suitable for pupils to use. They will also contain a regulation covering the general health, safety and welfare of pupils. Schools: Discipline It is difficult to see how any school could meet these standards without providing adequate means for pupils to wash and dry their hands. Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps his Department is taking to increase discipline in classrooms and control by teachers. Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether the new school premises regulations [112711] will define what constitutes a suitable number of toilets and washbasins for a given number of pupils by means Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 June 2012]: Improving of a ratio. [112458] behaviour in our schools is a key priority for this Government. We have taken the steps outlined in the Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 June 2012]: The new 2010 Schools White Paper to ensure teachers have the School Premises Regulations will not set out a specific powers they need to maintain discipline in the classroom. ratio of toilets and washbasins to numbers of pupils, but will be supported by supplementary guidance which These include: removing the requirement to give parents will provide a steer on the provision of such facilities. 24 hours’ written notice of detentions outside school hours; strengthening teachers’ powers to search pupils for items which disrupt teaching; and clarifying teachers Schools: Inspections powers to use reasonable force. We have also issued updated advice and guidance to schools on promoting Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for good behaviour and maintaining discipline. Education how many schools failed their Ofsted inspection Further reforms will take effect in the autumn. Teachers (a) nationally and (b) in North Swindon constituency will be entitled to anonymity when accused by pupils in the last year for which figures are available. [112587] until they are charged with an offence and a new system of independent review panels which will ensure that a Mr Gibb: This question is a matter for Ofsted. HM school’s decision to exclude is not undermined by an Chief Inspector, Sir Michael Wilshaw, has written to appeal process that can force the reinstatement of a my hon. Friend, and a copy of his response has been permanently excluded pupil. placed in the House Libraries. 135W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 136W

Letter from Sir Michael Wilshaw, dated 15 June 2012: during the academic year 2010/11 and the academic year 2011/12 up to 31 March 2012 in the North Swindon constituency and Your recent parliamentary question has been passed to me, as England. Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, for response. In September 2009, Ofsted implemented a policy of more Since 2005, maintained school inspections have been carried proportionate inspection using risk assessment as an aid to scheduling out under section 5 of the Education Act 2005 and, more recently, the inspection of good and outstanding schools. We deliberately the Education Act 2011. Ofsted records all judgements made by set out to inspect a greater proportion of previously satisfactory inspectors in section 5 inspections, including the judgement for or inadequate schools each year and a smaller proportion of the overall effectiveness of the school. previously good or outstanding schools. Under section 5, Ofsted inspects maintained schools (nursery, In September 2010, Ofsted deferred the inspections of previously primary, secondary and special schools and pupil referral units), outstanding schools and, as signalled in the Education Act 2011, state-funded independent schools such as academies and certain is no longer routinely inspecting previously outstanding schools. non-maintained special schools in England. All of these types of These schools will not be inspected unless a complaint has been schools have been included in this response. On 1 January 2012 raised or the risk assessment process identifies that these schools Ofsted implemented a hew school inspection framework for section would benefit from an inspection. 5 inspections. This includes a sharper focus on the judgements Accordingly, the sample of schools inspected during any given that matter most and a continued drive to raise standards—particularly period is unlikely to be representative of the nation as a whole. in literacy. Statistics covering the outcomes of all inspections carried out Schools receive an overall effectiveness judgement on inspection. in each academic year can be found at: They are graded on a four point scale to be outstanding, good, http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/advanced-resources- satisfactory or inadequate. Schools which receive an inadequate search/results/Maintained%20schools/2/all/any/200/any overall effectiveness judgement require significant improvement The most recent official statistics release covering the outcomes or are placed into special measures. of maintained school Inspections carried out between 1 January Table A below shows the number of maintained schools judged 2012 and 31 March 2012 was released on 12 June 2012 and can be inadequate for overall effectiveness at their section 5 inspection accessed at the same link.

Table A: Schools in England and North Swindon constituency judged inadequate for their overall effectiveness in each academic year 2010/11 and 2011/12 (year to date) 2010/11 2011/121 Number Number Number Number Region Phase inspected inadequate % inadequate. inspected inadequate % inadequate

England Nursery 126 0 0 103 1 1 Primary 4,249 230 5 3,146 236 8 Secondary 894 70 8 632 69 11 Special 328 14 4 199 7 4 PRU 129 7 5 117 6 5 All schools 5,726 321 6 4,197 319 8

North Nursery 0 — — 0 — — Swindon Primary 13 0 0 5 0 0 Secondary 0 — — 1 0 0 Special 4 0 0 0 — — PRU1 0 00—— All schools 18 0 0 6 0 0 1 Year to date.

Sixth-form Education rate of funding and to the other funding changes announced in the December 2010 16-18 ‘Funding Statement’. Transitional protection will be removed completely in Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for 2015/16. Education what comparative assessment he has made of any funding disparities between sixth form colleges and school sixth forms. [112652] Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 June 2012]: Historically Education what comparative assessment he has made there has been a funding disparity between schools and of the effectiveness of school sixth forms and sixth-form sixth form college and other further education colleges. [112653] establishments, with schools having been funded on a higher basic funding rate. We committed in the White Paper, ‘The Importance of Teaching’, published in Mr Gibb [holding answer 19 June 2012]: The GCE/ November 2010, to end the disparity in post-16 funding Applied GCE A/AS and equivalent examination results so that, by 2015, schools and colleges will be funded at in England, 2010/11 (revised) Statistical First Release, the same level as one another. In 2011/12 schools were published in January shows the following comparative moved onto the same base rate of funding as colleges. information for 16 to 18-year-old students entered for We introduced transitional protection for four years to level 3 examinations. give institutions sufficient time to adjust to the new base 137W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 138W

In addition, we have awarded a number of contracts Percentage achieving to the voluntary and community sector in 2011-12 and threeormore 2012-13, many of which will support children with A* or A physical and neurological disabilities. These include grants Average Average Percentage grades at point score point score achieving A-level over the two years of £502,466 to “Whizz Kidz”, for per entry for per student twoormore including support to children with mobility-impairment, and £256,949 Institution all level 3 for all three A-levels (or double type qualifications1 qualifications equivalent)2 awards2 to SCOPE, to develop an online toolkit and guidance to help children with cerebral palsy and allied disabilities Sixth-form 211.5 809.7 98.1 10.2 to access the curriculum. colleges All 213.0 779.9 97.2 11.0 Students: Finance maintained schools3 1 This includes students entered for a GCE or Applied GCE A-level or other Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for level 3 qualification equivalent in size to an A-level. Education what account he takes of forecast demographic 2 This includes students entered for GCE/Applied GCE A-levels and Double trends in the number of 16 to 19-year-olds over the next Awards. 3 This includes city technology colleges and academies. 10 years when deciding whether to fund new education places for this age group. [112736] Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Education if he will ask Ofsted to publish a separate Mr Gibb: The Department uses demographic forecasts grade for school sixth forms as part of school produced by the Office for National Statistics to estimate inspections; and if he will make a statement. [112739] the size of each cohort in each year. It then combines these with its own forecasts of participation rates in Mr Gibb: There are no plans to ask Ofsted to publish education for each cohort in each year when planning a separate grade for sixth forms as part of school the number of new education places to fund over the inspections. Where the assessment of the sixth form spending review period. differs from the overall judgment of a school, this will Sustainable Development: Curriculum be made clear in the report. Mr Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State Special Educational Needs for Education if he will place a duty on schools to promote understanding of sustainability in the stewardship Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State of resources locally, nationally and globally; and if he for Education what steps he is taking to provide will make a statement. [112413] comprehensive educational developmental programmes to pupils with physical and neurological disabilities. Mr Gibb [holding answer 18 June 2012]: The [112302] Government is committed to sustainable development but does not think that placing duties on schools is the Sarah Teather: Schools are responsible for identifying best way to secure it. and meeting the educational needs of all their pupils, Our reform programme is designed to improve standards including those with physical and neurological disabilities. by giving greater autonomy to schools. This is based on Since 2004, the Department has collected and published the principle that schools perform better when they take data on the numbers and attainment of pupils in England, responsibility for their own improvement. broken down by pupil characteristics including ethnicity, Schools themselves are choosing to become more eligibility for free school meals and different types of sustainable with the Sustainable Schools Alliance, a special educational needs (SEN). The data includes group of voluntary organisations, who are working information on children whose primary need is a physical together to provide a clear offer of support to all disability who are receiving support either through SEN schools in the country. statements or through School Action Plus, the higher of two school-based levels of SEN support. Teachers: Training Our approach to improving services and outcomes for disabled children, including those with physical and Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for neurological disabilities, is set out in the Green Paper, Education how many graduates have entered teaching “Support and aspiration: A new approach to special since 2007 in (a) South Swindon constituency and (b) educational needs and disability”. England and Wales. [111809] 20 pathfinders, representing 31 local authorities and primary care trust partners, have been appointed to test Mr Gibb: The information is not available for South the proposals in the Green Paper and will inform the Swindon constituency and is not available in the format changes we make to legislation through the Children requested for England and Wales. and Families Bill. The pathfinders are focusing on Provisional figures show that between March 2007 involving parents more fully in decisions about the and March 2010, the latest date available, 131,700 teachers education, health and social care of their children, with qualified teacher status entered teaching service including trialling personal budgets for those who want for the first time in the publicly funded sector in England them, and developing a clear offer of the support that is and Wales. This figure is a slight underestimate because available locally. Pathfinders are testing a single assessment the data source undercounts part-time teachers by around process and the use of an “Education, Health and Care 10 to 20%. All teachers who are awarded qualified Plan”, which brings together the support on which teacher status are required to have a degree or equivalent children, young people and their families rely. level qualification. A small number of graduate teachers 139W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 140W who entered service but have not attained qualified Mr Hayes: Actual spend on adult (19+) further education teacher status are excluded from the figure provided. and skills training is not reported at the individual level. The figure is provided from the Database of Teachers However, it is possible to provide an estimate of funding Records: an administrative data source primarily maintained at this level calculated from the Individualised Learner for pensions administration purposes. The data source Record. covers both England and Wales. Table 1 shows the proportion of estimated 19+ funding Information on the number of entrants to initial for further education and skills (excluding community teacher training in England in the academic years 2006/07 learning) by age band and mode of attendance in the to 2011/12 has been published in Tables A1 and A2 of 2010/11 academic year, the latest full year for which the School Workforce Statistical First Release, November final data are available. 2010, which is available at the following web link: Table 1: Further education and skills (excluding community learning) http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s000997/ Percentage of estimated spend by age band and mode of attendance, index.shtml 2010/11 Information about the number of entrants to initial Age Full-time Part-time Total teacher training in Wales should be directed to the 19 to 21 24 6 29 Welsh Government. 22 to 24 7 5 13 Young People: Drugs 25+ 16 42 58 19+ total 47 53 100 Tracey Crouch: To ask the Secretary of State for Notes: 1. Funding calculations are based on data that include adults (aged Education what assessment he has made of the relationship 19+) participating in education and training, apprenticeship and between employment and education status and substance workplace learning provision. Community learning provision has misuse among under 18 year olds. [112846] been excluded. 2. Education and training provision (previously learner responsive Sarah Teather: The Government has supported a and university for industry provision) covers further education learning delivered mainly in a classroom, workshop or through distance or numbers of studies that look at the effects of substance e-learning. misuse and the wellbeing of young people. The main 3. Figures for estimated spend come from the ILR. They should not one is the Youth Cohort Study and Longitudinal Study be treated as actual spend as spending is not reported at this level (age of YoungPeople in England: The Activities and Experiences and part-time/full time). These figures can only be used to give an of 18 year olds: England 2009, which shows that 36% of indicative view on the proportion of public funding for each age group and by part-time/full-time). those who had ever tried cannabis were in full-time 4. For ’education and training’ full-time learners are defined as those education at age 18, compared with 49% of those who learners studying a programme of a minimum of 450 guided learning had not. Young people who had tried cannabis were hours in an academic year. It is not possible to identify the mode of more likely to be NEET than those who had not (19% attendance for apprenticeships and workplace learning. For the purposes who had tried cannabis compared with 14% who had of this analysis all apprenticeships have been categorised as full-time and all workplace learning as part-time. not). In the previous year the study showed that young Source: people who reported having tried cannabis by the time Individualised Learner Record (ILR). they were age 14 were twice as likely to be NEET at age 16 than those who had not. Apprentices: Greater London Other assessments the Department has made relating to substance misuse and education and employment Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for include: the Newbury-Birch review, Impact of Alcohol Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has Consumption on Young People (2008) which showed made of the number of apprentices in (a) Bexleyheath that alcohol consumption can have a detrimental effect and Crayford constituency, (b) the London borough of on young people’s short term educational performance; Bexley and (c) London who are employed in the retail Barnes et al, Understanding Vulnerable Young People sector. [113890] (2011) which found that 15% of young people who drank alcohol on most days or smoked at least six cigarettes per week and had tried cannabis were NEET Mr Hayes: Information on the number of apprentices at age 18; and Frontier Economics, A cost-benefit analysis employed in the retail sector is not available. Apprenticeship of substance misuse services for under-18s (2011), which data is collected and reported by apprenticeship framework showed that the reduction in the percentage of NEET and sector subject area. young people as a result of treatment results in long-term Table 1 shows the number of apprenticeship programme educational and employment benefits of between £5,000 starts in (a) Bexleyheath and Crayford constituency, and £10,000 per young person. (b) the London borough of Bexley and (c) the London region in the retail and commercial enterprise sector subject area for the 2010/11 academic year, the latest full year for which final data are available. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS Table 1: Apprenticeship programme starts in the retail and commercial Adult Education enterprise sector subject area by geography, 2010/11 Retail and commercial enterprise Mr Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, apprenticeship starts Innovation and Skills what proportion of the adult Bexleyheath and Crayford 180 further education budget was spent on (a) 19 to 21, constituency (b) 22 to 24 and (c) over 24-year-olds in respect of (i) Bexley local authority 490 full-time and (ii) part-time courses. [112599] London region 7,740 141W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 142W

Table 1: Apprenticeship programme starts in the retail and commercial British Nuclear Fuels enterprise sector subject area by geography, 2010/11 Retail and commercial enterprise apprenticeship starts Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether any individuals England total 102,770 in his Department are receiving payments in connection Notes: with British Nuclear Fuels Limited. [113778] 1. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10. 2. Geography is based on the home postcode of the learner. Geographic information is based on boundaries of regions as of Mr Prisk: No officials in the Department are receiving May 2010. The England total includes some unknown postcodes. such payments. Source: Individualised Learner Record Conditions of Employment Information on the number of apprenticeship starts by sector subject area is published in a supplementary Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for table to a quarterly Statistical First Release (SFR). The Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to the latest SFR was published on 29 March 2012: conclusions of the Beecroft report, what plans he has http://www.thedataservice.org.uk/statistics/statistical firstrelease/ to introduce a no fault dismissal clause between sfr_current employers and employees. [113255] http://www.thedataservice.org.uk/statistics/statistical firstrelease/ sfr_supplementary_tables/Apprenticeship_sfr_supplementary Norman Lamb: We issued a call for evidence on the _tables/ concept of no fault dismissal, which closed on 8 June. We are now analysing the responses. Apprentices: Insolvency We will carefully consider the evidence before deciding whether to take any further steps. However, we have no Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for plans to take this forward in the current Enterprise and Business, Innovation and Skills what measures his Regulatory Reform Bill. Department has put in place to support young people pursuing apprenticeships in the event that the company Copyright employing them becomes insolvent. [113788] Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hayes: In the case of redundancy the National Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer Apprenticeship Service will work with the training provider of 21 May 2012, Official Report, column 516W, on and apprentice to try and find an alternative employer copyright, whether he proposes to publish the Government’s that would be willing to help the Apprentice complete proposals for copyright reform before the summer. their Apprenticeship. In addition there are exceptional [113158] arrangements which may allow an Apprentice to complete an Apprenticeship where specified conditions are met Norman Lamb: The Secretary of State for Business, and opportunities to gain the skills and knowledge are Innovation and Skills, my right hon. Friend the Member available without being in paid employment. for Twickenham (Vince Cable), announced on 11 June 2012, Official Report, column 74, that the Government Bank Cards: Fees and Charges would publish as soon as possible its decisions on the introduction of a scheme to allow extended collective Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for licensing, one to allow the use of orphan works, and a Business, Innovation and Skills what his policy is on back-stop power to allow the Government to require a banning excessive debit and credit card charges. [113306] collecting society to implement a statutory code of conduct should it fail to introduce or adhere to a Norman Lamb: The EU Consumer Rights Directive suitable voluntary code. He intends to do so before will require member states to prohibit traders from recess. charging consumers fees that exceed the costs borne by Other announcements on copyright reform may be the trader for the use of a given means of payment. This made later this year. will ban excessive payment surcharges in areas within scope of the directive. The Government supported the Energy inclusion of this provision in the directive. The deadline for the directive to take effect in national law is 13 June Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for 2014. Business, Innovation and Skills whether his Department The Government shares consumers’ concerns about switched its (a) gas or (b) electricity supplier in any of the high level of payment surcharges imposed by some the last 10 years. [113462] businesses. On 23 December 2011, in response to a recommendation from the Office of Fair Trading, we Norman Lamb: The Department switched suppliers announced our intention to consult on implementing for gas and electricity in 2006 when it moved onto the the payment surcharges provision of the Consumer Government Procurement Service (formally Buying Rights Directive ahead of the June 2014 deadline. We Solutions) Energy Framework. intend to issue a full 12 week consultation in the summer to seek views on the timing of implementation and Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for other details on how the provision should be applied. Business, Innovation and Skills which energy supplier Responses to the consultation will inform our decision supplies his Department with (a) gas and (b) electricity. on timing and our guidance to businesses. [113480] 143W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 144W

Norman Lamb: The Department uses the Government designated course status varies significantly depending Procurement Service (formally Buying Solutions) Energy on the nature of the application, and whether or not the Framework to purchase its gas and electricity supply. provider has previously had courses approved. If the Corona is the energy supplier for gas to the Department provider is applying for designation for the first time and EDF is the energy supplier for electricity for those they will be subject to a due diligence review. buildings which have half hourly meters. British Gas is I will place a list of all the courses that have been the energy supplier for electricity for buildings which do approved by the Department between September 2011 not have half hourly meters. and 31 May 2012 in the Libraries of the House. The list Further Education: Higher Education shows the dates on which the applications were received by the Department and the dates on which the approval letters were issued. Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has made of the demand for higher education places at Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for further education colleges; and whether the allocation Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to the of places under the core and margin model for 2012-13 answer of 19 March 2012, Official Report, column 518W, on higher education: student numbers, what matches this demand. [113622] steps he plans to take in the event that parliamentary time is not available to discuss his legislative proposals Mr Willetts: In 2012/13 a total of 26,500 entrant on access to student support funding. [112391] places are available through further education (FE) colleges funded directly by the Higher Education Funding Council for England. Of these 10,000 places were awarded Mr Willetts: We published our response to the Higher through the creation of a contestable margin based on Education White Paper, ‘Students at the Heart of the price, quality and demand. Margin places are not intended System’, on 11 June 2012. In it we set out our plans to to meet the totality of demand for FE provision. bring alternative providers and certain further education colleges, designated for student support purposes, into Government Procurement Card the formal student number control system alongside other providers. This does not require a change to Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for primary legislation. Business, Innovation and Skills on which dates his Department has published Government procurement Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for card spending over £500 since May 2010. [113362] Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to the answer of 23 April 2012, Official Report, column 735W, Norman Lamb: The Department (core BIS) has published on higher education, how many higher education designated Government Procurement Card spending over £500 as courses (a) he and (b) the Minister of State for Universities follows: and Science has given approval to. [112763] Financial Year 2011/12: Due to the volume of transactions, data is drawn Mr Willetts: The responsibility of the Secretary of together on a quarterly basis. State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member for Twickenham (Vince Cable) to designate Quarter 1 (April to June) published on 13 October 2011. courses is in most circumstances exercised by officials Quarter 2 (July to September) published on 10 November on his behalf. As at the end of May 2012, 26 courses 2011. had been specifically designated, following a due diligence Quarter 3 (October to December) published on 9 March 2012. review. Quarter 4 (January to March) will be published by 2 July 2012. Financial Year 2010/11: Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for The Department has not published data relating to Business, Innovation and Skills which higher education 2010/11. This is in accordance with Cabinet Office providers who subsequently (a) applied for and (b) guidelines. received designated course status Ministers and officials in his Department have met in each of the last 12 Higher Education months. [112945]

Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Willetts: I meet regularly with providers of higher Business, Innovation and Skills what the time taken was education. A quarterly-updated list of all Department between application and the awarding of designated for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) ministerial higher education status for each application his Department meetings with external organisations is available at: has approved this year. [112387] http://data.gov.uk/dataset/disclosure-ministerial-hospitality- received-department-for-business Mr Willetts: Privately funded institutions that wish BIS officials also have had meetings with a range of to have a course specifically designated for student higher education providers, but a comprehensive record support purposes apply in the first instance to the of these is not maintained. Student Loans Company (SLC). Applications are assessed by the SLC against the course designation criteria in the A list of courses that have been specifically designated Education (Student Support) Regulations and the is published on the Student Loan Company’s (SLC’s) applications are forwarded to the Department for website: consideration. The time taken between the application http://www.practitioners.slc.co.uk/policy-information/ being received by the Department and the awarding of designated-courses/full-list.aspx 145W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 146W

Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the reasonableness of alternate travel journeys to Business, Innovation and Skills with reference to the neighbouring offices and projected costs should locations answer of 23 April 2012, Official Report, column be merged. 735W, on higher education, how regularly he reviews All responses to the ongoing public consultations will the course designations that are being assessed on his be taken into account in reaching a decision on the behalf. [113026] current potential office closures and mergers, along with the existing evidence set out in the consultation Mr Willetts: The responsibility of the Secretary of documents and any new evidence or data that arises in State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. response to the five questions posed in the consultations. Member for Twickenham (Vince Cable) to designate courses is in most circumstances exercised on his behalf Insolvency Service: Stockton on Tees by officials. Ministers are regularly briefed on the volumes and nature of applications. Specific cases are referred to Ministers only in exceptional circumstances. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills if he will place in the Library a copy of the evidence his Department used to Higher Education: Admissions reach the conclusion that closing the Stockton Insolvency Service will not affect customer services or Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for the level of investigation. [112918] Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has made of the potential effect of further education loans Norman Lamb: In relation to the impact on customer on access to higher education for (a) women, (b) services, should closure be pursued, no further assessment black minority ethnic students and (c) people from has been made other than that as set out in the consultation non-traditional groups. [113231] document of March 2012. A copy of the consultation document can be found in the Library of the House and Mr Hayes: Research commissioned by the Department online at: for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) on the introduction www.bis.gov.uk/insolvency/Consultations/Stockton of 24+ advanced learning loans showed little evidence The consultation seeks to test the assumptions and to suggest that these groups will be particularly estimates set out within the document, and seeks further disadvantaged by the introduction of loans. BIS and its comment on the impact of the proposed closure. partners will monitor take-up and evaluate impact carefully as 24+ advanced learning loans are introduced. As the proposed closure of Stockton does not envisage the loss of any posts for staff involved in investigation, it is not considered that this will significantly impact Insolvency Service upon the level of investigation undertaken. No further assessment of this has been made. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for made of the cost to local insolvency services of employing Business, Innovation and Skills what consideration he and training new staff following the reorganisation of gave to Stockton Insolvency Service’s score ratings in such services. [112947] the delivery strategy proposal when deciding which regional insolvency offices should be considered for Norman Lamb: If a decision is taken to close offices closure. [112919] the Insolvency Service has estimated the costs of employing and training new staff, over a range of potential outcomes, Norman Lamb: The criteria used to assess offices for with staff at a variety of levels seeking different options, potential closure were the volume of projected face to including relocation and exit. face activity required, the reasonableness of alternate The Insolvency Service does not propose to automatically travel journeys to neighbouring offices and projected replace all staff who may leave. costs should locations be merged. In relation to the proposed closure of its Stockton These criteria were set out in the consultation, in office, on an assumption that 40% of staff would seek particular annex A, a copy of which can be found in the an exit scheme rather than relocation, the Insolvency Libraries of the House and online at: Service has estimated such costs would be £50,000, www.bis.gov.uk/insolvency/Consultations/Stockton representing an estimated cost of recruitment, training and lost productivity costs at £10,000 per new full-time James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for staff member. Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate his Department has made of the cost of transferring staff James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for from the Stockton Insolvency Service to other offices Business, Innovation and Skills what factors his in the event that it closes. [112920] Department will take into account when deciding on the future of local insolvency offices. [112948] Norman Lamb: In estimating the cost of transferring staff from Stockton to other offices, the Insolvency Norman Lamb: Any decision to close offices will be Service has used the following benchmarks per individual: made with all relevant and current information to hand. Reference will also be made to the criteria previously £ used to assess offices for potential closure which were: Estimated excess fares 11,520 the volume of projected face to face activity required, 147W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 148W

London borough of Bexley have signed up as mentors £ for the Mentor scheme since the inception of the scheme; Estimated full relocation costs for 34,000 [113227] home owners (2) how many businesses in (a) Bexleyheath and Crayford constituency and (b) the London borough of The actual costs would be determined by the individual Bexley have benefited from the Mentor scheme since staff member’s personal circumstances and the number the inception of the scheme. [113228] of staff electing to relocate. The Insolvency Service has estimated the costs over a Mr Prisk: Get Mentoring is a SFEDI-led (Small range of potential outcomes, with staff at a variety of Firms Enterprise Development Initiative) project, supported levels seeking different options. If a decision is made to by grant funding (from both BIS and the Government proceed to closure, these estimates will be revisited in Equalities Office,) to recruit and train 15,000 volunteer conjunction with individual discussions with staff as to business mentors from the small and medium-sized their personal circumstances. enterprise (SME) community. James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Over 12,000 volunteers have now been recruited through Business, Innovation and Skills what consultation his this initiative and over 7,000 of them have completed Department undertook when considering co-locating training—around 16% of whom are based in London the Stockton Insolvency Service office with another and the south-east. This estimate is only approximate and based on the location of the workshop they attended. local government office in the same area. [112922] We do not currently have the data to ascertain how Norman Lamb: The Insolvency Service has been in many were recruited from Bexleyheath and Crayford discussions with the estates office within the Department constituency and the London borough of Bexley specifically. for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) about potential Volunteer mentors recruited and trained through Get alternate accommodation, within the BIS family, in the Mentoring are deployed via the mentoring organisations wider Teesside area. on The Insolvency Service does not consider that finding http://www.mentorsme.co.uk/ alternate accommodation on the Government estate, in the national mentoring portal or mentor businesses the wider Teesside area, would be overly difficult should within their own networks. We do not have data to say a decision be made not to proceed with the proposed how many mentoring relationships have been developed merger with its Newcastle office. and therefore how many businesses have benefitted as a result of the site. It is too early yet to provide robust James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for data on the number of businesses being mentored by Business, Innovation and Skills if he will take into Get Mentoring volunteers. account the different cost of living in Newcastle and At the start of 2011 it is estimated that there were Stockton when making a decision on the future of the almost 1.5 million private sector SMEs in London and Stockton Insolvency Service office. [112921] the south-east. Based on results from the Small Business Survey 2010 it is estimated that around 120,000 (8%) of Norman Lamb: The Insolvency Service will take account these would have used a business mentor in the previous of all representations made in response to the consultation 12 months. on the potential closure of the office in Stockton, in coming to a final decision. This includes any representations made regarding differences in the cost of living between New Businesses: Offices Newcastle and Stockton. Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Low Associates Innovation and Skills (1) how many businesses he expects to use premises made available under the Start Up Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Spaces scheme by the end of (a) 2012, (b) 2013 and Innovation and Skills whether his Department has received (c) 2014; [113039] any representations from Low Associates since May (2) how many premises will be made available under 2010. [111598] the Start Up Spaces scheme by the end of (a) 2012, (b) 2013 and (c) 2014; [113040] Norman Lamb: Details of ministerial and the permanent (3) what capacity is available to businesses under the secretary’s meetings with external organisations are Start Up Spaces scheme and what he expects this will published on the BIS website at be by the end of (a) 2012, (b) 2013 and (c) 2014; http://www.bis.gov.uk/transparency/staff [113041] No central record is kept of other departmental (4) how many businesses are using premises made officials’ meetings with external organisations and the available under the Start Up Spaces scheme. [113042] information could therefore be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Mr Prisk: My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister’s initiative to encourage start-up businesses in the current New Businesses: Bexley economic climate by using the Government’s stock of surplus unoccupied office space, is being led jointly by Mr Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) Innovation and Skills (1) how many businesses in (a) and the Cabinet Office. BIS is responsible for the business Bexleyheath and Crayford constituency and (b) the start-up element of the scheme. The Cabinet Office, 149W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 150W through the Government Property Unit (GPU), is leading for every loan recipient, we expect a further three individuals work on the property aspect and has been working with to benefit from engagement in the scheme, for example, by Departments to identify viable space. receiving advice on how to start their business; GPU has identified a first batch of viable spaces and loans should be awarded on the basis of the individual’s business plan and be made by an independent panel appointed on 29 May 2012 Government began a process to find by the delivery partner; providers to manage the spaces and deliver business loans must not exceed a repayment period of more than five support to future occupants. Space is likely to become years; available to businesses in the late autumn, subject to the interest will charged at the rate of RPI +3%; identification and appointment of suitable providers. This initiative is a novel and innovative venture by delivery partners can grant a repayment holiday up to a Government which we trust will prove successful, with maximum of 12 months; and further spaces added to the initiative as they are identified the loan will be treated as a personal liability. in subsequent waves. These requirements may be adjusted in the light of At this stage, it is not possible to predict how many the results of the pilot. premises will be made available under the scheme by the end of (a) 2012, (b) 2013 and (c) 2014. The Government’s Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for property portfolio is fluid and actively managed to Business, Innovation and Skills which partner maximise efficiency and deliver value for money for the organisations are responsible for administering the taxpayer. Government continues to seek to dispose of Start Up Loans scheme; and how many loans each its unoccupied space where it can, either through sale or organisation plans to make under the scheme. [113084] the early surrender of leases. Where these options are not suitable, the Government property unit will work Mr Prisk: 40 organisations responded to the expressions with Departments to identify suitable property for this of interest exercise to identify delivery partners for the initiative. Start-Up Loans scheme. The Prince’s Trust and the Economics Solutions Group, New Businesses: Young People have been identified as ready to commence delivery, subject to due diligence, and we are working with the Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for remainder to develop their proposition and to ensure Business, Innovation and Skills how many Start Up we have a full cadre of delivery partners by end September loans he expects to be made by the end of (a) 2012, 2012. (b) 2013 and (c) 2014. [113082] There is no set target for the number of loans to be administered by each partner. Loan volume will depend Mr Prisk: Budget 2012 announced a programme of on partner capacity, the applicant and which partner is enterprise loans to help young people set up and grow best placed to support them. their own businesses, with funding for a £10 million pilot programme in 2012/13. Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for The total number of loans awarded will depend on Business, Innovation and Skills which guidance has the value of each loan. Rather than set an arbitrary been issued to partner organisations responsible for value for every loan Government wants the lending administering the Start Up Loans scheme; and what decision and the value of loan to be based upon the requirements there are of these organisations. [113085] business case developed by each applicant and approved by an independent and expert panel. Mr Prisk: The Government has not created an exhaustive As a guide we anticipate average loan value of about list of guidance for partner organisations as this is a £2,500 across the loan book. pilot which aims to test demand and delivery network A further £32.5 million has been made available for capability. the funding and administration of loans in 2013/14 and However, we have determined that: £40 million in 2014/15, subject to the pilot demonstrating all delivery partners must be able to demonstrate competency that there is demand from young people and capability to provide start-up support, mentoring and loan management within the support network to engage and support and will be required to complete a due diligence process prior them. We will be looking to engage commercial partners to appointment; to further build the lending pot. delivery partners are required to provide projections of deal flow and funds will be allocated to them on the basis of those Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for projections, ensuring that funds are not allocated to those Business, Innovation and Skills what benchmarks have partners unable to utilise them; been set for the implementation and operation of Start for every loan recipient, a further three individuals are expected Up loans. [113083] to benefit from engagement in the scheme, for example, by receiving advice on how to start their business; Mr Prisk: The Government has not set an exhaustive loans should be awarded on the basis of the individual’s list of requirements for the implementation and operation business plan and be made by an independent panel appointed of Start Up loans as this is a pilot and the scheme itself by the delivery partner; is demand led and intended to meet the needs of each loans must not exceed a repayment period of more than five individual applicant years; However, we have determined that: interest will be charged at the rate of RPI +3%; all delivery partners for the pilot phase must be operational by delivery partners can grant a repayment holiday up to a end September 2012, to ensure that each has a minimum maximum of 12 months; delivery period of six months; the loan will be treated as a personal liability; and 151W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 152W

the repaid loan plus interest will be returned to a central fund Mr Stuart Crooks: Chief Technology Officer, Nuclear Generation, by the delivery partner to ensure that monies are continuously EDF recycled into further lending. Professor Robin Grimes: Director, Imperial College Centre for These requirements may be adjusted in the light of Nuclear Engineering the results of the pilot. Mr Norman Harrison: Director, Strategic Development, Babcock International Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for Professor Paul Howarth: Managing Director, National Nuclear Business, Innovation and Skills what criteria partner Laboratory organisations will use in allocating Start Up loans. Dame Sue Ion: Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering [113086] Professor Francis Livens: Radiochemistry, University of Manchester Mr Prisk: The only criteria that will apply to young Mrs Jean Llewellyn OBE: Chief Executive, National Skills people seeking support to start a business is that they Academy Nuclear are aged 18 to 24 and seeking to start their business in Professor Rebecca Lunn: Engineering Geosciences, University England. of Strathclyde All young people joining the scheme will receive Dr Graeme Nicholson: Director, Science and Technology, support to build a viable business plan. The award of a AWE loan will be subject to an assessment by the delivery Mr Keith Parker: Chief Executive, Nuclear Industry Association partner of the viability of the applicant’s business plan Professor Richard Parker: Director of Research and Technology, and the individual’s financial standing. Rolls-Royce Professor Nawal Prinja: Technical Director, AMEC Nuclear Nuclear Research and Development Advisory Board Professor Andrew Sherry: Director, Dalton Nuclear Institute, University of Manchester Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Dr Adrian Simper: Strategy Director, Nuclear Decommissioning Innovation and Skills how often the ad hoc Advisory Agency Board on Nuclear Research and Development has met Dr Mike Weightman: HM Chief Inspector of Nuclear Installations. since it was established; what its membership is; from Origin Marking: EU Action which budget it is funded; what the cost has been of meetings to date; and if he plans to publish minutes of the meetings on his Department’s website. [113367] Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (1) what (a) discussions Mr Willetts: The ad hoc Nuclear Research and and (b) meetings officials in his Department have had Development Advisory Board has met three times since with their counterparts in other member states in the it was established earlier this year. The dates for these Council of the European Union regarding the European meetings were as follows: Commission Proposal on Regulation for the indication of the country of origin on certain products imported 27 March 2012; from third countries; [113151] 24 April 2012; and (2) what organisations he has met to discuss the 31 May 2012. European Commission Proposal on Regulation for the The membership of the Nuclear Research and indication of the country of origin on certain products Development Advisory Board is detailed in the following imported from third countries; [113152] list. (3) what (a) discussions and (b) meetings officials in The Nuclear Research and Development Advisory his Department have had with officials of the Board is funded by the Government Office for Science. European Commission regarding the European The cost of the three meetings to date is £586.40. This Commission Proposal on Regulation for the indication includes room bookings, refreshments and lunch for a of the country of origin on certain products imported visiting French delegation. from third countries; [113153] At present, there is no web presence for the Advisory (4) what his policy is on the European Commission Board. However, the board has agreed that a summary Proposal on Regulation for the indication of the of minutes from meetings will be made available to country of origin on certain products imported from anyone upon request. third countries. [113154] Membership Nuclear Research and Development Advisory Board Norman Lamb: The coalition Government has strong reservations about the European Commission Proposal Sir John Beddington: Government Chief Scientific Advisor, GO-Science on Regulation for the indication of the country of origin on certain products imported from third countries. Professor David MacKay: Chief Scientific Adviser, DECC We are not satisfied of the need for such a mandatory Dr Stephen de Souza: Head of Nuclear and Radioactive Waste system, its cost to business and Government and the Professor John Perkins: Chief Scientific Adviser, BIS absence of any objective criteria for determining product Dr Graeme Reid: Head of Research Funding Unit, BIS scope. The UK supports a voluntary labelling approach. Mr George Beveridge: Deputy Managing Director, Sellafield We welcome the practice of many producers and retailers Ltd in providing a country of origin mark on their products. Professor Richard Clegg: Global Nuclear Director, Lloyds Such positive country of origin marking takes place Register because business believes it is the right thing to do for Professor Steve Cowley: Chief Executive Officer, UK Atomic themselves and their customers. It does not involve a Energy Authority regulatory or cost burden imposed by Government. 153W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 154W

After a number of discussions in the Commercial Mr Willetts: The UK data are provided by Company Questions Council Working Group during 2011, especially Reporting Bespoke Databases Ltd, Edinburgh. during the first half of the year, the proposal was last discussed in January this year. As a result we currently Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for await a discussion paper from the European Commission Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer on the possibility of a voluntary origin marking regime. of 18 June 2012, Official Report, column 700W, on Coalition Ministers have had no meetings on this research, whether any assessment has been made of the issue. Nor have BIS officials met recently with Commission benefits to the economy of his Department’s research officials outside of the Council Working Group discussions. and development scoreboard. [113836]

Postage Stamps Mr Willetts: No assessment has been made. The scoreboard is not thought to have had a direct impact Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, on the economy.It would be difficult to identify investment Innovation and Skills (1) what recent discussions his decisions primarily made as a result of the scoreboard Department has had with the Post Office on the by the top 1,000 R&D performing UK companies, or to continued availability at post office counters of quantify the wider benefits of the scoreboard to the country-definitive and pictorial stamps; [113815] economy. (2) if he will make it his policy to ensure that post offices at all times carry and make available country- Royal Mail: Scotland definitive and pictorial stamps; [113816] (3) what proportion of post office network counter Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, and business sheet-definitive stamp sales is comprised Innovation and Skills whether he has had discussions of sales of country and pictorial-definitives, broken with the Scottish Government on the future of the down by nation and territory. [113817] Royal Mail in the event of Scottish independence. [113093] Norman Lamb: The availability of country-definitive and pictorial stamps at post offices is an operational Norman Lamb: I have not had any discussions with matter for Post Office Ltd and Royal Mail and I have the Scottish Government on the future of Royal Mail in had no discussions with them about this. I have asked the event of Scottish independence. Paula Vennells, the chief executive of Post Office Ltd, The Government’s position is clear: Scotland is stronger to respond directly to the hon. Member and a copy of as part of the UK and the UK is stronger with Scotland her reply will be placed in the Libraries of the House. in it. The Government is not making plans for independence as we are confident that people in Scotland will continue Railways: Radlett to support the United Kingdom in any referendum.

Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Sovereignty: Scotland Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer of 17 May 2012, Official Report, column 326W,on railways: Radlett, what the nature was of the correspondence received Margaret Curran: To ask the Secretary of State for from Community Connect Ltd; and what response his Business, Innovation and Skills what correspondence (a) he, (b) Ministers in his Department and (c) officials Department gave to this correspondence. [113290] in his Department have had with the Scottish Government Mr Prisk: In November 2011, the Secretary of State on the potential consequences of Scotland leaving the for Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member UK; and if he will place in the Library a copy of any for Twickenham (Vince Cable), received correspondence such correspondence. [112628] about the St Albans Strategic Railfreight Interchange from Community Connect Ltd, on behalf of their client Norman Lamb: There has been no correspondence Helioslough. between Ministers or officials in this Department and the Scottish Government on the consequences of Scotland Community Connect Ltd sent an executive summary leaving the UK. and impact report to support a planning proposal for a Strategic Railfreight Interchange in Radlett. The Secretary The Government’s position is clear: Scotland is stronger of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, responded as part of the UK and the UK is stronger with Scotland stating that the Government believes that a key mechanism in it. to unblocking growth is through strategic infrastructure The Government is not making plans for independence developments. He confirmed that the Government ambition as we are confident that people in Scotland will continue was to see growth taking place in line with local wishes to support the United Kingdom in any referendum. and priorities wherever possible and that it would not be appropriate to accept a meeting on that occasion. Margaret Curran: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what discussions (a) Research he, (b) Ministers in his Department and (c) officials in his Department have had with Scottish Government Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Ministers or officials on the potential consequences of Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer Scotland leaving the UK. [112638] of 18 June 2012, Official Report, column 700W, on research, from whom the EU Research and Development Norman Lamb: BIS have had no formal discussions scoreboard receives its UK data. [113835] with the Scottish Government. 155W Written Answers25 JUNE 2012 Written Answers 156W

The Government’s position is clear: Scotland is stronger It is for higher education institutions (HEIs) to decide as part of the UK and the UK is stronger with Scotland whether they want to deliver HNC qualifications as in it. either part-time courses, full-time courses, or both. The Government is not making plans for independence as we are confident that people in Scotland will continue Students: Work Experience to support the United Kingdom in any referendum. Space Technology: Finance Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many students undertook a year in industry as part of a sandwich Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for university course in the last academic year for which Business, Innovation and Skills what funding he has figures are available. [112570] allocated to the National Space Technology Programme in each of the last three years for which figures are Mr Willetts [holding answer 18 June 2012]: Statistics available; and what the projected funding is in (a) collected by the Higher Education Statistics Agency 2012-13 and (b) 2013-14. [113837] (HESA) show that, in the academic year 2010/11, 19,245 students enrolled on a sandwich first degree course at a Mr Willetts: The National Space Technology Programme UK higher education institution were on an industrial is a new UK Space Agency programme announced in placement for the whole academic year. the 2011 Budget to promote growth in the UK space sector. £10 million was allocated and will have been fully awarded in competition to industry by the end of Vocational Training 2012-13. Aided by private sector investment and support from other Government organisations, the total programme Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for volume is expected to reach £27 million. Business, Innovation and Skills which registered training Students: Finance organisations are operating in (a) the west midlands, (b) Stoke-on-Trent local authority and (c) Stoke-on-Trent Central constituency in 2012-13. [113648] Steve Brine: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent representations he Mr Hayes: The chief executive of the Skills Funding has received on the eligibility of students undertaking Agency is responsible for all matters concerning the courses at private institutions for student support. funding and contracting of post 19 education and training [113537] provision. I have therefore asked the chief executive of the Skills Funding Agency to reply to the hon. Member Mr Willetts: The Department for Business, Innovation direct. and Skills (BIS) regularly receives correspondence relating to personal and course eligibility. We do not keep a Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for central register. Business, Innovation and Skills which sub-contractors In order to access student support a student must are involved in delivering (a) the adult skills budget, satisfy the personal eligibility criteria and be undertaking (b) 16-18 Apprenticeships and (c) adult community or attending a designated course in accordance with the learning programmes, (i) nationally, (ii) in the west relevant Education Student Support Regulations. midlands, (iii) in Stoke-on-Trent local authority and Eligible higher education courses provided by publicly (iv) in Stoke-on-Trent Central constituency. [113649] funded institutions in the UK are automatically designated under the Education (Student Support) Regulations. Mr Hayes: The chief executive of the Skills Funding Eligible higher education courses provided by alternative Agency is responsible for all matters concerning the or private providers are designated for the purposes of funding and contracting of post 19 education and training student support on a course by course basis by the provision. I have therefore asked the chief executive of Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Skills Funding Agency to reply to the hon. Member the right hon. Member for Twickenham (Vince Cable). direct. Students: Loans Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how he plans to monitor Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for the effectiveness of the Due Diligence Gateway in assessing Business, Innovation and Skills for what reason higher the suitability of organisations to be accredited on the national certificate qualifications are treated as part- Register of Training Organisations. [113650] time study by the Student Loans Company; and if he will reconsider the treatment of such qualifications. Mr Hayes: Operational responsibility for managing [112943] the Register of Training Organisations, including the due diligence gateway rests with the Chief Executive of Mr Willetts: The student support regulations allow the Skills Funding Agency, as part of their responsibility courses leading to a higher national certificate (HNC) for all matters concerning the funding and contracting to be designated as either part-time or full-time courses. of post-19 education and training provision. I have The Student Loans Company will then treat these courses therefore asked the chief executive of the Skills Funding accordingly for the purposes of student support. Agency to reply to the hon. Member direct. 1MC Ministerial Corrections25 JUNE 2012 Ministerial Corrections 2MC

The numbers of patients who waited longer than four Ministerial Corrections hours in the accident and emergency departments at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Monday 25 June 2012 quarter 4 2010-11 and 2011-12 is shown in the following table:

Type 1 Type 3 JUSTICE Departments— Type 2 Departments Major accident Departments —Other A and and emergency —Single E/Minor Injury Period (A and E) Specialty Unit Administration of Justice: Secrecy

2010-11 796 0 12 Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Quarter 4 Justice (1) with reference to Appendix J, paragraph 11 of the Justice and Security Green Paper, how many of 2011-12 1,310 0 41 the cases referred to concern material related to Quarter 4 national security; [100537] (2) when he plans to answer question 100537 on the Source: Unify2data Collection Justice and Security Green Paper; [105289] [Official Report, 25 April 2012, Vol. 543, c. 917W.] Letter of correction from Kenneth Clarke: The numbers of patients who waited longer than four hours in the accident and emergency departments at An error has been identified in the written answer Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation from 2009-10 given to the right hon. Member for Holborn and St Pancras to 2011-12 is shown in the following table: (Frank Dobson) on 25 April 2012. The full answer given was as follows: Type 3 Departments— Mr Kenneth Clarke: I am sorry for the delay in Type 1 Type 2 Other A and responding to the right hon. Member. 24 of the 27 cases Departments Departments— E/Minor referred to concern material related to national security. Period —Major A and E Single Specialty Injury Unit The correct answer should have been: 2009-10 1,351 0 36 2010-11 991 0 25 Mr Kenneth Clarke: I am sorry for the delay in 2011-12 4,074 0 135 responding to the right hon. Member. 26 of the 27 cases Note: referred to concern material related to national security. Data is taken from the weekly sitrep collection for 2009-10 and 2010-11 up to July. Data is taken from the monthly sitreps collection for August, September and October 2010-11. Data is taken from the weekly A and E collection for November 2010-11 onwards. Source: HEALTH Unify2data Collection

King’s Mill Hospital The correct answer should have been:

Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many patients waited longer than four Mr Burns: Information is not available at hospital hours in the accident and emergency ward at Kings level. Information is however available at trust level. Mill Hospital, Nottinghamshire between (a) January King’s Mill hospital is part of Sherwood Forest Hospitals and March 2012 and (b) January and March 2011; NHS Foundation Trust. [111225] (2) how many patients waited longer than four hours The numbers of patients who waited longer than four in the accident and emergency ward at Kings Mill Hospital, hours in the accident and emergency departments at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Nottinghamshire in each of the last three years. [111226] quarter 4 2010-11 and 2011-12 is shown in the following [Official Report, 13 June 2012, Vol. 546, c. 483-84W.] table: Letter of correction from Simon Burns: Type 1 Type 3 An error has been identified in the written answer Departments— Type 2 Departments give to the hon. Member for Ashfield (Gloria De Piero) Major accident Departments —Other A and on 13 June 2012. The figures for 2010-11 in the second and emergency —Single E/Minor Injury table were incorrect. Period (A and E) Specialty Unit The full answer given was as follows: 2010-11 796 0 12 Quarter 4 Mr Simon Burns: Information is not available at 2011-12 1,310 0 41 hospital level. Information is however available at trust Quarter 4 level. King’s Mill hospital is part of Sherwood Forest Source: Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Unify2data Collection 3MC Ministerial Corrections25 JUNE 2012 Ministerial Corrections 4MC

The numbers of patients who waited longer than four Type 3 hours in the accident and emergency departments at Type 2 Departments— Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation from 2009-10 Type 1 Departments Other to 2011-12 is shown in the following table: Departments —Single A and E/Minor Period —Major A and E Specialty Injury Unit Type 3 2011-12 4,074 0 135 Type 2 Departments— Type 1 Departments Other Note: Departments —Single A and E/Minor Data is taken from the weekly sitrep collection for 2009-10 and Period —Major A and E Specialty Injury Unit 2010-11 up to July. Data is taken from the monthly sitreps collection for August, September and October 2010-11. Data is taken from the weekly A and E collection for November 2010-11 onwards. 2009-10 1,351 0 36 Source: Unify2data Collection 2010-11 2,429 0 51 ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 25 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 1 WORK AND PENSIONS—continued Benefit Claimants (Medical Assessments)...... 7 State Pension...... 3 Employment and Support Allowance (Appeals).... 1 Topical Questions ...... 16 Jobseeker Training ...... 5 Unemployment and Housing Benefit Costs ...... 15 Remploy...... 11 Work Capability Assessments (Appeal Tribunals).. 14 Separated Parents ...... 12 Work Capability Test (Cancer)...... 4 Social Security (European Commission) ...... 10 Work Experience...... 7 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 25 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 1WS INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 3WS Fukushima Nuclear Site ...... 1WS Departmental Annual Report and Accounts...... 3WS

HEALTH...... 2WS TREASURY ...... 1WS Winterbourne View Hospital ...... 2WS Kaupthing Singer & Friedlander Ltd ...... 1WS WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 25 June 2012

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 139W CABINET OFFICE—continued Adult Education ...... 139W Employment: North East...... 118W Apprentices: Greater London ...... 140W Government Departments: Pay...... 119W Apprentices: Insolvency ...... 141W Heart Diseases ...... 119W Bank Cards: Fees and Charges...... 141W Non-departmental Public Bodies ...... 123W British Nuclear Fuels ...... 142W Older People: Warrington ...... 123W Conditions of Employment...... 142W Population ...... 123W Copyright...... 142W Visits Abroad ...... 124W Energy...... 142W Further Education: Higher Education ...... 143W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 6W Government Procurement Card ...... 143W Audit Commission: Redundancy Pay...... 6W Higher Education...... 143W Council Tax: Arrears...... 6W Higher Education: Admissions ...... 145W Council Tax: Multiple Occupation...... 8W Insolvency Service...... 145W Council Tax: Pensioners...... 8W Insolvency Service: Stockton on Tees...... 146W Families: Disadvantaged ...... 8W Low Associates ...... 147W Homelessness...... 8W New Businesses: Bexley...... 147W Housing ...... 9W New Businesses: Offices ...... 148W Housing: Construction...... 9W New Businesses: Young People ...... 149W Housing: Demolition ...... 10W Nuclear Research and Development Advisory Housing: Regeneration...... 11W Board...... 151W Listed Buildings: VAT ...... 12W Origin Marking: EU Action...... 152W Local Authorities: Assets ...... 12W Postage Stamps ...... 153W Low Associates ...... 12W Railways: Radlett ...... 153W Non-domestic Rates...... 12W Research ...... 153W Parks: Standards ...... 13W Royal Mail: Scotland ...... 154W Recruitment ...... 13W Sovereignty: Scotland...... 154W Right to Buy: Bexley ...... 13W Space Technology: Finance...... 155W Right to Buy Scheme ...... 13W Students: Finance ...... 155W Wind Power: Planning Permission ...... 14W Students: Loans ...... 155W Students: Work Experience ...... 156W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT ...... 23W Vocational Training...... 156W Durham City Arts...... 23W Energy...... 24W Government Procurement Card ...... 25W CABINET OFFICE...... 115W Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme ...... 25W Abid Hussain...... 115W Mobile Phones ...... 26W Advisory Services: Finance ...... 115W Radio Frequencies ...... 27W Average Earnings ...... 116W Conservative Friends of Pakistan...... 117W DEFENCE...... 1W Data Visualisation...... 117W Armed Forces ...... 1W Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE—continued FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE .... 87W Armed Forces Community Covenant...... 1W Afghanistan ...... 87W Armed Forces: Discrimination...... 2W Anguilla ...... 88W Armed Forces: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder...... 2W Argentina...... 88W Armed Forces: Sexual Offences...... 3W Euro 2012...... 89W Defence: Procurement...... 3W Falkland Islands...... 89W Diamond Jubilee 2012: Medals ...... 4W Government Procurement Card ...... 89W Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft...... 4W Greece...... 89W Military Aircraft ...... 4W Iran...... 90W NATO...... 5W Israel...... 90W RAF Brize Norton...... 5W Jordan...... 91W War Memorials ...... 5W Papua...... 91W Sri Lanka ...... 91W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 43W Syria...... 92W Constituencies...... 43W Leveson Inquiry ...... 43W HEALTH...... 92W Accident and Emergency Departments: South EDUCATION...... 124W West...... 92W Academies: Oxfordshire...... 124W Accidents: Older People ...... 93W Children: Day Care ...... 125W Acupuncture ...... 93W Children: Disability...... 126W Breasts: Plastic Surgery...... 93W Education: Standards...... 128W Cancer ...... 95W First Aid: Curriculum ...... 128W Cancer: Children...... 95W Free Schools...... 128W Contraceptives ...... 96W History: Curriculum ...... 129W Cosmetic Surgery ...... 96W Industry: Schools ...... 129W Dental Services ...... 97W Pupils: Yorkshire and Humberside...... 130W Dental Services: Injuries...... 98W Schools: Discipline...... 133W Energy...... 98W Schools: Hygiene...... 134W Ethics and Confidentiality Committee...... 99W Schools: Inspections...... 134W General Practitioners ...... 100W Sixth-form Education...... 135W General Practitioners: North-east ...... 100W Special Educational Needs...... 137W Health Education...... 100W Students: Finance ...... 138W Health Services: Armed Forces ...... 101W Sustainable Development: Curriculum...... 138W Heart Diseases ...... 101W Teachers: Training...... 138W Hypertension ...... 103W Young People: Drugs ...... 139W Maternity Services ...... 103W Medical Records: Data Protection ...... 104W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 62W Midwives...... 105W Carbon Emissions...... 62W MMR Vaccine: Autism ...... 106W Carbon Emissions: International Cooperation...... 63W NHS: Cost-effectiveness...... 106W Carbon Reduction Commitment...... 63W NHS: Equality ...... 107W Energy...... 63W NHS: Pensions...... 107W Energy: Billing ...... 64W NHS: Research ...... 107W Energy: Conservation...... 65W NHS: Sexual Offences...... 108W Energy Supply...... 64W Nurses: Temporary Employment ...... 108W Fuel Poverty...... 65W Nurses: Training ...... 109W Government Procurement Card ...... 66W Obesity: Children ...... 109W Green Deal Scheme...... 66W Pain...... 110W Oil...... 67W Physiotherapy ...... 111W Renewable Energy: Business...... 68W Primary Care Trusts: North-east...... 112W Warm Front Scheme ...... 68W Primary Care Trusts: Redundancy ...... 112W Wind Power ...... 69W Primary Care Trusts: Redundancy Pay...... 113W Wind Power: Noise ...... 71W Social Security Benefits: Appeals ...... 113W Social Services...... 114W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Social Services: Older People ...... 114W AFFAIRS...... 16W Thalidomide...... 114W Animal Welfare: Inspections ...... 16W Atos ...... 17W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 27W Bovine Tuberculosis: Disease Control...... 17W Age: Discrimination...... 27W Common Fisheries Policy ...... 17W Alcoholic Drinks: Crime...... 27W Dogs ...... 17W Animal Experiments ...... 28W Floods...... 18W Arrest Warrants: EU Action ...... 28W Food and Drinks...... 18W Asylum ...... 28W Livestock: Antibiotics ...... 19W British Nationality: Assessments...... 29W Livestock: Auctions...... 19W Contracts ...... 29W Pheasants...... 19W Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships ...... 30W Plants: Disease Control...... 20W Criminal Records ...... 30W Poultry: MRSA...... 20W Detention Centres: Females ...... 31W Publications ...... 21W European Network for the Protection of Public Regulation ...... 21W Figures...... 32W Sharks: Conservation ...... 23W Fraud ...... 33W Col. No. Col. No. HOME DEPARTMENT—continued TRANSPORT—continued Khat...... 33W Regulation ...... 40W Licensed Premises: Security ...... 33W Rolling Stock ...... 42W Manpower...... 34W Offences Against Children: British Nationals TREASURY ...... 71W Abroad ...... 34W Asset Owners Disclosure Project ...... 71W Prisoners: Repatriation ...... 36W Child Benefit: Lanarkshire...... 72W Seized Articles...... 36W Child Care Vouchers ...... 72W Vetting ...... 37W Combined Heat and Power ...... 72W Electricity...... 73W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION ...... 1W Energy...... 73W Manpower...... 1W Equitable Life ...... 74W Excise Duties: Fuels ...... 74W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 85W Experian ...... 75W Afghanistan ...... 85W Financial Services ...... 76W Azerbaijan ...... 85W Income Tax: British Nationals Abroad ...... 76W Energy...... 85W Income Tax: Lanarkshire ...... 76W Procurement...... 86W Loans: Republic of Ireland ...... 77W World Refugee Day...... 87W PAYE...... 77W Public Expenditure: Scotland...... 79W JUSTICE...... 56W Tax Avoidance ...... 79W Bail ...... 56W UK Membership of EU...... 80W Channel Islands: Dietary Supplements ...... 56W Unpaid Taxes...... 81W Children: Protection...... 57W VAT ...... 81W Civil Proceedings: Legal Aid Scheme ...... 57W VAT: Lanarkshire...... 82W Community Orders ...... 57W VAT: Scotland...... 82W Freedom of Information ...... 57W Welfare Tax Credits: Lanarkshire...... 83W Legal Aid Scheme ...... 58W Prisoners: Repatriation ...... 58W WALES...... 15W Prisoners: Veterans...... 59W Queen’s Dragoon Guards...... 15W Prisons: Mobile Phones...... 59W Regulation ...... 15W Probation ...... 60W Robbery: Sentencing ...... 60W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES ...... 15W Social Security Benefits: Appeals ...... 60W Regulation ...... 15W Young Offender Institutions and Prisons ...... 61W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 43W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 15W Carer’s Allowance ...... 43W Legislation ...... 15W Employment and Support Allowance ...... 44W Employment Schemes ...... 44W PRIME MINISTER ...... 16W Housing Benefit ...... 45W Correspondence ...... 16W Incapacity Benefit ...... 46W Leveson Inquiry ...... 16W Manpower...... 46W Motability...... 47W SCOTLAND...... 14W Personal Independence Payment...... 47W Correspondence ...... 14W Regulation ...... 48W Devolution...... 14W Separation...... 49W Regulation ...... 14W Social Security Benefits: Fraud ...... 49W Social Security Benefits: Medical Examinations..... 51W TRANSPORT ...... 37W Unemployment: Lancashire ...... 51W Empty Property ...... 37W Universal Credit...... 51W High Speed 2 Railway Line ...... 38W Universal Credit: Free School Meals...... 52W Motor Vehicles: Registration...... 39W Universal Credit: Warrington...... 52W Parking ...... 39W Work Capability Assessment...... 53W Railways: East of England ...... 39W Work Capability Assessment: Mental Health...... 55W MINISTERIAL CORRECTIONS

Monday 25 June 2012

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CONTENTS

Monday 25 June 2012

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

Flooding [Col. 23] Answer to urgent question—(Mrs Spelman)

G20 Summit [Col. 31] Statement—(Prime Minister)

Public Debt Management [Col. 49] Ports Act 1991 (Amendment) [Col. 49] Human Rights Act 1998 (Repeal and Substitution) [Col. 49] Property Boundaries (Resolution of Disputes) [Col. 49] Children (Access to Parents) [Col. 50] Energy Companies (Minimum Tariffs) [Col. 50] Financial Literacy (Curriculum) [Col. 50] Wild Animals in Circuses [Col. 50] Water Companies (Social Tariffs) [Col. 50] Water Companies (Minimum Tariffs) [Col. 50] Commercial Lobbyists (Registration and Code of Conduct) [Col. 51] Armed Forces (Prevention of Discrimination) [Col. 51] Executive Pay and Remuneration [Col. 51] Train Companies (Minimum Fares) [Col. 51] Homeowners’ Mortgage Interest Rates [Col. 51] Offshore Gambling [Col. 51] Land Value Tax [Col. 52] Micro Businesses and Energy Contract Roll-over [Col. 52] Landlord Accreditation [Col. 52] Football (Financial Transparency) [Col. 52] Bills presented, and read the First time

Electoral Registration and Administration Bill [Col. 53] Further considered in Committee

Petition [Col. 131]

Policing (Devon and Cornwall) [Col. 132] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 1WS]

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

Ministerial Corrections [Col. 1MC]