Monday Volume 506 22 February 2010 No. 42

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 22 February 2010

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

MEMBERS OF THE CABINET

(FORMED BY THE RT.HON.,MP,JUNE 2007)

PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt. Hon. Gordon Brown, MP LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS,LORD PRIVY SEAL AND MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITY—The Rt. Hon. , QC, MP FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE,SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS,INNOVATION AND SKILLS AND LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL—The Rt. Hon. Lord Mandelson CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR JUSTICE AND LORD CHANCELLOR—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT,FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CHILDREN,SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—The Rt. Hon. Edward Miliband, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR HEALTH—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR NORTHERN IRELAND—The Rt. Hon. , MP LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS AND CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER —The Rt. Hon. Baroness Royall of Blaisdon MINISTER FOR THE CABINET OFFICE AND FOR THE OLYMPICS, AND PAYMASTER GENERAL—The Rt. Hon. , MP (Minister for )* SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WORK AND PENSIONS—The Rt. Hon. , MP CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WALES—The Rt. Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE—The Rt. Hon. Bob Ainsworth, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR TRANSPORT—The Rt. Hon. Lord Adonis SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,MEDIA AND SPORT—The Rt. Hon. , MP DEPARTMENTS OF STATE AND MINISTERS Business, Innovation and Skills— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Lord Mandelson § MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills—The Rt. Hon. Pat McFadden, MP Minister for Science and Innovation—The Rt. Hon. Lord Drayson § Minister for Regional Economic Development and Co-ordination—The Rt. Hon. , MP (Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber)* § Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business—The Lord Davies of Abersoch, CBE § Minister for Higher Education and Intellectual Property—The Rt. Hon. David Lammy, MP Minister for Further Education, Skills, Apprenticeships and Consumer Affairs—Kevin Brennan, MP § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— The Rt. Hon Stephen Timms, MP § The Lord Young of Norwood Green Ian Lucas, MP Cabinet Office— MINISTER FOR THE CABINET OFFICE AND FOR THE OLYMPICS, AND PAYMASTER GENERAL—The Rt. Hon. Tessa Jowell, MP (Minister for London)* MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Angela E Smith, MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—Dawn Butler, MP Children, Schools and Families— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Ed Balls, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Children, Young People and Families—The Rt. Hon. , MP Minister for Schools and Learners—, MP Kevin Brennan, MP § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Iain Wright, MP The Baroness Morgan of Drefelin Diana R Johnson, MP ii HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

Communities and Local Government— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. John Denham, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Regional Economic Development and Co-ordination—The Rt. Hon. Rosie Winterton, MP (Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber)* § Minister for Housing—The Rt. Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Barbara Follett, MP (Minister for the East of )* Shahid Malik, MP Ian Austin, MP (Minister for the West Midlands)* The Lord McKenzie of Luton § Culture, Media and Sport— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Ben Bradshaw, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. , MBE, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Gerry Sutcliffe, MP Defence— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Bob Ainsworth, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for the Armed Forces—, MP The Rt. Hon. Lord Drayson § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— The Rt. Hon. Baroness Taylor of Bolton § Quentin Davies, MP Kevan Jones, MP Duchy of Lancaster— CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER AND LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS—The Rt. Hon. Baroness Royall of Blaisdon Energy and Climate Change— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Edward Miliband, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt. Hon. Lord Hunt of Kings Heath, OBE Joan Ruddock, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— David Kidney, MP Environment, Food and Rural Affairs— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Hilary Benn, MP MINISTER OF STATE— Jim Fitzpatrick, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Huw Irranca-Davies, MP Dan Norris, MP The Rt. Hon. Lord Davies of Oldham § Foreign and Commonwealth Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. David Miliband, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Africa and the UN—The Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business—The Lord Davies of Abersoch, CBE § Ivan Lewis, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Minister for Europe—Chris Bryant, MP The Rt. Hon. Baroness Taylor of Bolton § Government Equalities Office— MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITY—The Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman, QC, MP § MINISTER OF STATE—, MP § PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—Michael Jabez Foster, MP (Hastings and Rye) Health— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Andy Burnham, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt. Hon. Mike O’Brien, QC, MP Phil Hope, MP (Minister for the East Midlands)* Gillian Merron, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— Ann Keen, MP The Baroness Thornton HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont. iii

Home Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Alan Johnson, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Borders and Immigration—Phil Woolas, MP (Minister for the North West)* § Minister for Policing, Crime and Counter-Terrorism—The Rt. Hon. David Hanson, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Admiral The Lord West of Spithead, GCB DSC Meg Hillier, MP Alan Campbell, MP The Lord Brett § International Development— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Douglas Alexander, MP MINISTER OF STATE—Gareth Thomas, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— Michael Foster, MP (Worcester) Justice— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Jack Straw, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt. Hon. Michael Wills, MP Maria Eagle, MP § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Bridget Prentice, MP The Lord Bach Claire Ward, MP Law Officers’ Department— ATTORNEY-GENERAL—The Rt. Hon. Baroness Scotland of Asthal, QC SOLICITOR-GENERAL—Vera Baird, QC, MP ADVOCATE-GENERAL FOR SCOTLAND—The Lord Davidson of Glen Clova, QC Leader of the House of Commons— LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS,LORD PRIVY SEAL AND MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITY—The Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman, QC, MP § PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY,OFFICE OF THE LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS— Barbara Keeley, MP Northern Ireland— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Shaun Woodward, MP MINISTER OF STATE— The Rt. Hon. Paul Goggins, MP Privy Council Office— LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL,FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS,INNOVATION AND SKILLS—The Rt. Hon. Lord Mandelson § Scotland Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Jim Murphy, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— Ann McKechin, MP Transport— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Lord Adonis MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Paul Clark, MP Chris Mole, MP Treasury— PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt. Hon. Gordon Brown, MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt. Hon. Alistair Darling, MP CHIEF SECRETARY—The Rt. Hon. Liam Byrne, MP FINANCIAL SECRETARY—The Rt. Hon. Stephen Timms, MP § MINISTER OF STATE—Phil Woolas, MP (Minister for the North West)* § ECONOMIC SECRETARY—Ian Pearson, MP EXCHEQUER SECRETARY—Sarah McCarthy-Fry, MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—The Rt. Hon. Nicholas Brown, MP (Minister for the North East)* FINANCIAL SERVICES SECRETARY—The Lord Myners, CBE iv HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

LORDS COMMISSIONERS— Frank Roy, MP Steve McCabe, MP Dave Watts, MP Tony Cunningham, MP Bob Blizzard, MP ASSISTANT WHIPS— Mark Tami, MP George Mudie, MP John Heppell, MP Lyn Brown, MP Mary Creagh, MP , MP Kerry McCarthy, MP David Wright, MP Wales Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Peter Hain, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE— Wayne David, MP Work and Pensions— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt. Hon. Yvette Cooper, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform—The Rt. Hon. , MP (Minister for the South West)* Minister for Pensions and the Ageing Society—Angela Eagle, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Jonathan Shaw, MP (Minister for the South East)* Helen Goodman, MP The Lord McKenzie of Luton § Her Majesty’s Household— LORD CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt. Hon. Earl Peel, GCVO, DL LORD STEWARD—The Earl of Dalhousie MASTER OF THE HORSE—The Rt. Hon. Lord Vestey, KCVO TREASURER—The Rt. Hon. Thomas McAvoy, MP COMPTROLLER—The Rt. Hon. John Spellar, MP VICE-CHAMBERLAIN—Helen Jones, MP CAPTAIN OF THE HONOURABLE CORPS OF GENTLEMEN-AT-ARMS—The Lord Bassam of CAPTAIN OF THE QUEEN’S BODYGUARD OF THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD—The Rt. Hon. Lord Davies of Oldham § LORDS IN WAITING—The Lord Tunnicliffe, The Lord Young of Norwood Green, The Lord Brett §, The Lord Faulkner of Worcester BARONESSES IN WAITING—The Baroness Farrington of Ribbleton, The Baroness Crawley

§ Members of the Government with responsibilities in more than one area

* Regional Ministers (in addition to other ministerial responsibilities)

Full list: Ministers for the English Regions— Ian Austin, MP (Minister for the West Midlands) The Rt. Hon. Nicholas Brown, MP (Minister for the North East) Barbara Follett, MP (Minister for the East of England) Phil Hope, MP (Minister for the East Midlands) The Rt. Hon. Tessa Jowell, MP (Minister for London) The Rt. Hon. Jim Knight, MP (Minister for the South West) Jonathan Shaw, MP (Minister for the South East) The Rt. Hon. Rosie Winterton, MP (Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber) Phil Woolas, MP (Minister for the North West)

SECOND CHURCH ESTATES COMMISSIONER,REPRESENTING CHURCH COMMISSIONERS—Sir Stuart Bell, MP HOUSE OF COMMONS

THE SPEAKER—The Rt. Hon. , MP CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—The Rt. Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP FIRST DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—Sylvia Heal, MP SECOND DEPUTY CHAIRMAN OF WAYS AND MEANS—Sir , MP CHAIRMEN’S PANEL Mr. David Amess, MP, Janet Anderson, MP, Mr. Peter Atkinson, MP, Hugh Bayley, MP, Miss Anne Begg, MP, Mr. Joe Benton, MP, Mr. Clive Betts, MP, Mr. Graham Brady, MP, Sir John Butterfill, MP, Mr. Martin Caton, MP, Mr. Christopher Chope, MP, Frank Cook, MP, John Cummings, MP, Mrs. Janet Dean, MP, Mr. Nigel Evans, MP, Christopher Fraser, MP, Mr. Roger Gale, MP, Mr. Mike Hancock, MP, Mr. Jim Hood, MP, The Rt. Hon. George Howarth, MP, Mrs. Joan Humble, MP, Mr. Eric Illsley, MP, Mr. Martyn Jones, MP, Robert Key, MP, Dr. William McCrea, MP, Mr. Eric Martlew, MP, Mr. Edward O’Hara, MP, Mr. Bill Olner, MP, Mr. Greg Pope, MP, Bob Russell, MP, Jim Sheridan, MP, Mr. Gary Streeter, MP, Joan Walley, MP, Mr. Mike Weir, MP, Hywel Williams, MP, Mr. David Wilshire, MP, Ann Winterton, MP, Sir Nicholas Winterton, MP HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt. Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), Sir Stuart Bell, MP, The Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman, QC, MP, Nick Harvey, MP, The Rt. Hon. David Maclean, MP, The Rt. Hon. Sir George Young, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Dorian Gerhold ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Robert Cope ADMINISTRATION ESTIMATE AUDIT COMMITTEE The Rt. Hon. Sir George Young, MP (Chairman), Clive Betts, MP, Nick Harvey, MP, Mark Clarke, Alex Jablonowski, David Taylor SECRETARY OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE—Hannah White, PhD MANAGEMENT BOARD Malcolm Jack, PhD (Chief Executive), Robert Rogers (Director General, Chamber and Committee Services), John Pullinger (Director General, Information Services), Andrew Walker (Director General, Resources), John Borley, CB (Director General, Facilities), Joan Miller (Director of Parliamentary ICT) (External Member), Alex Jablonowski (External Member) SECRETARY OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD—Philippa Helme SPEAKER’S SECRETARY—Angus Sinclair SPEAKER’S COUNSEL—Michael Carpenter SPEAKER’S CHAPLAIN—Rev. Canon Robert Wright MEDICAL ADVISER TO THE SPEAKER—Dr. Ron Zeegen, OBE, FRCP, MRCS, DObst, RCOG PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS—John Lyon, CB PARLIAMENTARY SECURITY CO-ORDINATOR—Peter Mason

22 February 2010

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

IN THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE FIFTY-FOURTH PARLIAMENT OF THE OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND [WHICH OPENED 11 MAY 2005]

FIFTY-NINTH YEAR OF THE REIGN OF HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 506 SIXTH VOLUME OF SESSION 2009-2010

would send a strong message to the Kirchners and the House of Commons Government of Argentina that we are determined that while the Falkland islanders wish the Falkland Islands Monday 22 February 2010 to remain under British sovereignty, they will so remain, come what may?

The House met at half-past Two o’clock Mr. Davies: In answer to the hon. Gentleman’s first point, we remain committed to continuing to ensure PRAYERS that this country remains at the cutting edge of these important technologies for the future. The second question is an operational issue, rather than an issue of equipment [MR.SPEAKER in the Chair] for me, but I am certain that commanders in that theatre or any other will call on whatever assets are most appropriate for the tasks in hand. Oral Answers to Questions Robert Key (Salisbury) (Con): Please will the Minister update us on the Watchkeeper UAV programme that is based at Boscombe Down in my constituency? DEFENCE Mr. Davies: This is a very important programme that The Secretary of State was asked— will succeed the Hermes 450, which has been doing sterling work in Afghanistan. The Watchkeeper programme Unmanned Aerial Vehicles has a number of significant advantages over the Hermes 450, although I will not go into those in public. We are 1. Mr. Nigel Evans (Ribble Valley) (Con): What procuring 54 of those vehicles for the foreseeable future, support the Government are giving to the development and I am assured that delivery will take place before the of unmanned aerial vehicles. [317436] end of this year.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence Nick Harvey (North Devon) (LD): Given that Britain (Mr. Quentin Davies): In addition to procuring a number and France both have a requirement for a medium of unmanned aerial vehicles and related systems for altitude long endurance UAV, and in the light of the Afghanistan, we are making several longer term investments recent improved attitude by the French towards joint in research in this area and supporting two technology procurement, will the Minister consider the possibilities demonstrators—Taranis, an unmanned combat air system of joint procurement with the French and possibly even project, and Mantis, an intelligence, surveillance, target the Italians? Might not we all benefit from establishing acquisition and reconnaissance asset. Both contracts a European platform in UAVs? have been placed with BAE Systems. Mr. Davies: That is certainly a pertinent and well Mr. Evans: That is excellent news as UAVs have informed question, and I discussed precisely those matters proved very successful in Iraq and Afghanistan. Will with my French counterpart, the head of the DGA, last the Minister continue to support research, development week in Paris. I have also discussed them with my and production in this country? Will he also consider Italian opposite number. However, I am not in a position deployment of UAVs in the Falkland Islands, which to make any concrete announcement today on the subject. 3 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 4

Defence Equipment Budget (Cost Overruns) Mr. Davies: The hon. Gentleman knows perfectly well that the quotation that he has attributed to me was 2. Mr. Douglas Carswell (Harwich) (Con): What his in relation to the last financial year, when there was not most recent estimate is of the level of projected cost a significant deficit. The point that I have just made overruns in the defence equipment budget; and if he about the long-term deficit, as opposed to—[Interruption.] will make a statement. [317437] He obviously cannot understand the difference between a long-term deficit, going out to 10 years, and a current 7. Mr. (North Essex) (Con): What deficit, in the course of one year. If he cannot understand assessment he has made of projected cost overruns in that, he will have to ask one of his hon. Friends to the defence equipment budget; and if he will make a explain it to him. statement. [317443] Angus Robertson (Moray) (SNP): One of the affected The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence programmes is the Nimrod MR2 programme, which (Mr. Quentin Davies): The most recent audited estimate has been withdrawn and replaced by the Nimrod MRA4. of projected cost overruns in the defence equipment There is now a gap between the two that will impact on budget is a forecast increase of £1.242 billion in the search and rescue capability. When will the Ministry of financial year 2008-09, as reported in the 2008-09 annual Defence update the House on which fixed-wing aircraft report and accounts. These cost increases were virtually will perform that task for long-range cover capability, entirely attributable to two projects—the A400M aircraft and say what its range, radar and communication capability and the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. I have will be? no reason to suppose that this year there will be any such serious cost overruns. Nearly 90 per cent. of projects Mr. Davies: The answer is that a number of assets, in the past two years have been delivered to cost. not all of them fixed wing—some may be helicopters—will fill that gap. Mr. Carswell: In evidence to the Defence Committee, the Minister confirmed that at the start of the 2009 Mr. Gerald Howarth (Aldershot) (Con): The £1.2 billion planning round the deficit in the equipment budget was cost overrun to which the Minister has referred constitutes £21 billion, and that at the start of the 2010 round it yet another damning indictment of this Government’s was £6 billion. What is the present value of the deficit pathetic stewardship of defence procurement throughout and how does he explain the £15 billion reduction? their time in office. It is interesting how little support he has from his own Back Benchers today. Where are they Mr. Davies: Those are two separate questions. We are all? Does the Minister not accept that it is utterly not in a position to go beyond the £6 billion figure at irresponsible for the Government’s lamentable performance the moment, but we are working on the figures as part to be compounded by rushing through major project of the present planning round at the end of the financial decisions in the dying days of this decaying Government? year. This is a netting exercise as the hon. Gentleman Does he not realise that although he might think he can will understand. There may be some projects for which buy votes in marginal seats by promising kit that he will we have over-provided and will be able to write back not have to pay for, he will be bitterly disappointed some provision, and some projects will be descoped for when we win the next election? operational or other reasons, or cancelled for non- performance. It is therefore impossible to predict the Mr. Davies: All that electoral rhetoric is completely at exact position at the end of the financial year. odds with the facts. I have already explained that the As for the reduction in the forward projected deficit deficit was due to two things, one of which is the of £21 billion last year to £6 billion, that £15 billion was A400M programme. That was the result of technical accounted for by several factors. In some cases, projects problems on the part of the supplier; it had nothing to were repositioned in the pipeline until some later date, do with the competence or otherwise of this Government. forgoing that capability for the time being. In the majority That is one of those things that, as the hon. Gentleman of cases, the reduction was because of the descoping of ought to know—and he does know, of course—invariably the programmes that we were undertaking anyway or happens with new generations of military aircraft. As an agreement to reduce the capability that we intended for the carriers, we made a deliberate decision not to to order— bring forward that capability earlier than we needed it. By doing that we released quite a lot of current cash, Mr. Speaker: Order. I am grateful to the Minister, but which we needed to spend on more urgent items. That I think that we have the thrust of his reply. was good management; it was none of the things that the hon. Gentleman described it as being. Mr. Jenkin: If I may be allowed a word in edgeways, it was not until recently that Ministers admitted to the Afghanistan Select Committee on Defence that there was any deficit. Indeed, it was only a short time ago—less than a year— 3. Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield) (Con): What that the Minister for defence equipment and support, priorities his Department has set for responding to the addressing a conference called “Punching Above the insurgency in Afghanistan. [317438] Budget: A Prospect seminar”, said, “There is no…deficit.” So why have the Government now admitted that there is The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Bob Ainsworth): a deficit? It has been common knowledge among everybody The UK armed forces are operating in Afghanistan as who knows anything about defence that the Government part of the 43-nation international security assistance have a programme far too large for their budget, so why force. ISAF forces are conducting security and stability did they not admit that years and years ago? operations throughout the country in support of the 5 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 6

Afghan Government. We are supporting the growth in also said that his other priorities are to clear the routes capacity and capability of the Afghan security forces. to enable people to travel freely on the main routes in Our armed forces, alongside our ISAF partners, also Afghanistan, and to tackle the insurgency in Kandahar, play an important role in facilitating and protecting which he will probably move on to soon. improvements in governance and socio-economic development. Mr. Russell Brown (Dumfries and Galloway) (Lab): On the transition of lead security responsibility to the Sir Nicholas Winterton: I cannot get to a higher class Afghan Government, can my right hon. Friend provide than to have the Secretary of State reply to my question. us with the anticipated timetable for such action within Can he give me and the House an update on the each district and across the nation as a whole? deployment of mine detection and improvised explosive device-clearance systems, and on the Talisman project, Mr. Ainsworth: The last thing we want to do is to peg which I understand was scheduled for initial fielding in people to a timetable in that regard. Our handing over late 2009? security control to the Afghans in any district or province has to be based on capability, and on their ability not Mr. Ainsworth: I am aware of how important the only to take the lead in security in the first instance but class of the people whom he mingles with is to the hon. successfully to prosecute that lead thereafter. The last Gentleman. We have stepped up our efforts on countering thing we want to do is to hand over any district or IEDs over a long period, as the Taliban have increasingly province prematurely, as that could set the Afghans up relied on that capability to attack our forces. We have for a setback. Capability has to be the key concern. Of doubled the counter-IED force in theatre, and we have course we want to make progress, and we need to be tried to get various new pieces of kit and equipment, able to show progress in this next year, but we do not including Talisman, which is operating in Afghanistan, want to impose an artificial timetable in any particular into theatre. However, the big thing that we need to do area. is tackle the IED networks, through the increased use of intelligence, so that we can be proactive in taking apart Dr. (Woodspring) (Con): Public support at the networks that seek to target our troops. home for our armed forces in Afghanistan is vital for our long-term success, which is why we must give constant Mr. David Winnick (Walsall, North) (Lab): Is there to reassurance that NATO seeks at all times to minimise be a full inquiry into the NATO airstrike on Sunday civilian casualties—which we do. However, with 80 per that resulted in many civilian deaths—more than cent. of civilian deaths due to direct Taliban activity, 30—following other civilian deaths? Is that the way to with clear successes in recent operations, and with win hearts and minds? Increasingly, one understands international co-operation resulting in a substantial the decision taken by the Government of Holland. reduction in al-Qaeda and Taliban capability in Afghanistan and Pakistan—including the loss of many of their Mr. Ainsworth: The recent incident took place in military chiefs—why are the Government still failing to Oruzgan province, as my hon. Friend knows. He also get a more positive and balanced message across to the knows—or should know—that the ISAF commander British public? The British people need to see more than has apologised for those deaths. Every time I hear just casualties on our side if we are to keep them with us General McChrystal speaking, particularly to his own supporting our troops in their mission. What do the forces, he is really hard on this issue. Every civilian Government intend to do to win hearts and minds in death is one too many, and he tries to hammer that Britain, too? through at every level and on every occasion. If we are to win this campaign, we have to win it in the hearts and Mr. Ainsworth: I genuinely do not accept what the minds of the Afghan people, and making every effort to hon. Gentleman has just said. We have made great reduce civilian deaths is his absolute priority. I believe strides recently, and to some effect, in terms of reassuring that that is the right priority for him to have. people about what we are doing, why we are doing it and how we are doing it, and about the success that we Nick Harvey (North Devon) (LD): Given that stability are having. There has been some excellent reporting of has slipped significantly in previously secure areas the recent Operation Moshtarak in central Helmand. such as Kunduz and Herat, and that there are Taliban Yes, of course, there has been some misleading reporting shadow governments in every Afghan province, what is —as ever—but the majority of it has been first class, the coalition’s strategy for decreasing the strength of and people have been able to see what we have done and the insurgency across the country as a whole, beyond how we have done it, and the degree of success that our the southern area that is the focus of the current military people have had. operation? In the Ministry of Defence, we have recently employed General Messenger, who has commanded in Afghanistan, Mr. Ainsworth: The hon. Gentleman is absolutely as a spokesperson who can contact the media on a right to say that the insurgency has looked to increase regular basis and provide in-depth briefings—both on its capability throughout the country, and that it has and off the record—on how we are conducting our enjoyed some success in certain areas. The feeling is that operations in Afghanistan. the insurgency has to be confronted in its heartland, and that the main effort therefore has to be made in the Mr. Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): My hon. central Helmand valley. That is currently taking place Friend the Member for Walsall, North (Mr. Winnick) is through Operation Moshtarak, which is progressing wrong: the Dutch Government have taken no decision fairly well in terms of taking the areas concerned away on Afghanistan; they have simply collapsed on account from Taliban control. The commander of the ISAF has of Afghanistan. Does that not send out a slight warning 7 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 8 signal that we perhaps need a little less military Philip Davies: What effect does the Minister believe confrontation, with all its collateral damage that does cuts in university training programmes and cuts in the so much harm to our good name in Afghanistan, and training of those already serving in the armed forces much more political and diplomatic containment? will have on the long-term skills and capability of our men and women who serve in uniform? Is not the fact Mr. Ainsworth: We need political progress in Afghanistan, that the Government have brought these proposals forward which is vital, and we need to deliver it through the another damning indictment of their mismanagement Afghan Government. However, the last thing that we of the defence budget and the impact it has on the want is to provide anything other than reintegration, armed forces? reconciliation and political progress, but we will not achieve it from a position of weakness. The Afghan Mr. Jones: The decision to reduce or take away pay in Government still depend on ISAF for their basic position, the OTCs was taken on the recommendation from the and they will do so for some time while we grow the head of the Army to make in-year savings. Costs are capability of the Afghan national army and the Afghan involved in supporting undergraduate schemes across national police. Of course we should emphasise the the three armed forces, so if we are to ensure that we political and development side of these operations, as have a balanced defence budget and a balanced defence they are vital at the end of the day. force, all factors need to be taken into consideration. If the hon. Gentleman wants to ensure that money goes University Training Units directly into university schemes, I challenge the hon. Gentleman to say, first, where it will come from and, secondly, whether it will affect other parts of the defence 4. Mr. Mark Lancaster (North-East Milton Keynes) budget? (Con): What plans he has for the future role of university training units. [317440] Mr. Dunne: As a member of the university air squadron when I was an undergraduate, I am well aware of the 6. Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): What plans he has vital role that these schemes play in recruiting for our for the future role of university training units. [317442] armed services. The Minister has just told us that the head of the Army proposed cuts in the training budget, 9. Mr. Philip Dunne (Ludlow) (Con): What plans he so what assessment has he or his Department made of has for the future role of university training units. the impact it will have on the number of recruits coming [317445] through these schemes, and what cost will fall on the Army if such recruitment no longer takes place? 10. John Howell (Henley) (Con): What plans he has for the future of university training units. [317447] Mr. Jones: As I have said, this is a recommendation for in-year savings this year. Again, I will challenge the hon. Gentleman: if a future Conservative Government The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence wish to ring-fence this area, they can, but they will have (Mr. Kevan Jones): The Government fully recognise the to say what would give in the defence budget. In terms value of the university royal naval units, the officer of the strength of the UOTCs, the establishment for training corps, the university air squadrons and the 2009 was 2,946 and the establishment at the moment is defence training undergraduate scheme, which allow 3,500. individuals to develop skills that are extremely valuable in future careers either within or without the armed John Howell: While I welcome the Minister’s support forces. There are currently no plans to change the role for university training units, I am none the wiser after of the university training units. the last three answers as to how that valuing of them will be turned into real action or which of the unique Mr. Lancaster: I remind the House of my interest. training opportunities that those units provide will be Just one month before the start of the new training year, preserved and which the Minister thinks can simply be OTCs and Territorial Army units are yet to have next dispensed with. year’s training budget confirmed. That forms a major problem for the commanding officers of those units, Mr. Jones: The hon. Gentleman has to realise that and it is a problem that the Armed Forces Minister the concentration is on current operations in Afghanistan. recognised on 26 October, when he said that In November last year, the head of the Army instigated “it is incumbent on us in the Ministry of Defence to reach a review of the UOTCs. The reference group that he has conclusions on the budget for 2010 as quickly as possible”.—[Official set up includes the chair of the Council of Military Report, 26 October 2009; Vol. 498, c. 140.] Education Committees of Universities of the UK. It is Four months on, we still do not know, so will the important that, under its terms of reference, the steering Minister simply confirm that all budgets will be in place group looks at everything that the UOTCs do to ensure before 1 April? that they are effective for the Army and provide value for the taxpayer. Mr. Jones: The reductions in university OTCs—on training, for example—were made on the recommendation Dr. Andrew Murrison (Westbury) (Con): The memo of the head of the Army in order to make in-year from HQ Land dated 12 October, which leaked in-year savings. I accept that they have caused some problems cuts to the OTC, warned of downstream implications for individual units. We reinstated the moneys for the for officer recruitment. Ominously, it went on to say trainers, but decisions on this year’s budget are ongoing that because money was so tight, there may be further within the MOD and will be announced in due course. cuts in the pipeline to be discussed with Ministers. 9 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 10

Given that the MOD’s financial position since October Bill Rammell: I wholeheartedly agree with the right cannot be said to have improved, will the Minister say hon. Gentleman. While I understand where people who what further discussion he has had on cuts to cadet desire the payment of ransoms are coming from, in the forces, which the Under-Secretary of State for Defence, longer run it would simply lead to greater problems and the hon. Member for Grantham and Stamford (Mr. Davies), more kidnappings—it would store up problems for the would probably call “descoping”? Given that the nature future. The Government are therefore right to resist the of recent conflict requires us to have more able people payment of ransoms. in military leadership roles than ever before, may I press the Minister for a proper assessment of not only the Mr. David Hamilton (Midlothian) (Lab): Along with likely damage to recruitment numbers but the effect of some colleagues, I was out in the Gulf in the summer his gross budgetary short-termism? recess, and I encourage my hon. Friend and Opposition spokespersons to do the following. When the Labour Mr. Jones: I assume from what the hon. Gentleman party is returned to government after the next election, suggests that this is yet another uncosted commitment there will be hundreds of new MPs, and I ask that every from the Conservatives. The proposal was put forward Front-Bench spokesman writes to every new Member by the head of the Army. The head of regional forces suggesting that they join the armed forces parliamentary has set up a study into the OTCs, which will report by scheme. It is important to do that, because the scheme is June this year. It includes not only the financial implications, about not only front-line services but what the armed but how the OTCs are structured and how they will go forces do for this country. forward. A similar exercise is being done for the Royal Navy and the RAF. That is a proper way of listening to Bill Rammell: I wholeheartedly agree with my hon. our military commanders’ advice about what is fit for Friend. I know many colleagues on both sides of the purpose in the long term, but if the hon. Gentleman House who have taken part in that scheme. Indeed, wishes to state today that a future Conservative Government there is a dinner this evening, hosted by Mr. Speaker, will ring-fence money for the UOTCs, he will need to that both the Secretary of State and I will attend. It is a tell taxpayers and voters come the election where else in genuinely worthwhile scheme that brings home very the defence budget money will come from. practically to Members across the House the reality of life in the armed forces. Maritime Piracy Dr. Julian Lewis (New Forest, East) (Con): I heartily endorse what has been said about the armed forces 5. Mr. Jim Cunningham (, South) (Lab): parliamentary scheme, even though some of my Liberal What recent steps his Department has taken to counter Democrat opponents do not. Returning to the subject piracy on the high seas. [317441] of piracy, however, the Minister spoke about playing a part, but since the policy of releasing pirates after The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Bill Rammell): simply confiscating the equipment with which they were UK armed forces continue to play an integral role in the proposing to commit piracy has been so widely practised, command and control of EU, NATO and coalition what are we doing, other than playing a part, to deter counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. piracy? Can the Minister confirm that the new proposals We are determined to play our part, through the he has mentioned will mean an end to the policy of Royal Navy, and in close co-operation with other stopping pirates and then releasing them unharmed and Government Departments and countries, to tackle piracy able to carry on with their mischief? and to protect legitimate trade and transport. Bill Rammell: I do not want to intrude on the private Mr. Cunningham: I thank my hon. Friend for that answer, grief between the hon. Gentleman’s party and the Liberal but will he tell me how and when he will implement the Democrats—and, in any case, I am unsure of its provenance. Djibouti code to deal with piracy in the Indian ocean In respect of piracy, where there is credible evidence, we and the gulf of Aden, particularly in relation to seek to move towards prosecutions, but where such kidnappings? evidence does not exist, we have to act differently. However, we are giving a wide range of assistance to maritime shipping passing through the gulf of Aden, Bill Rammell: We strongly welcome the commitment and it is important to make it clear that since December from the Government of the Seychelles, which was 2008 only one merchant vessel that was registered with encapsulated in the Djibouti announcement, to consider the Maritime Security Centre (Horn of Africa) and that hosting a regional counter-piracy chamber to prosecute was operating in accordance with best practice has been pirates within their national jurisdiction. One of the key seized by pirates. That is the result of the actions that challenges that we face is ensuring that prosecutions we and other partners are taking to tackle this problem. can take place locally and regionally, and we will continue to press partners in that direction. Hugh Bayley (City of York) (Lab): Does my hon. Friend agree that there is a connection between piracy Mr. James Arbuthnot (North-East ) (Con): and the funding of terrorism, and also that piracy off Is the Minister aware of the widespread support for the the horn of Africa is one of a lengthening list of Government’s policy of discouraging ransoms? Does he defence issues in Africa? Therefore, is it not now time agree with Kipling that that NATO developed a policy towards Africa, by “We never pay any-one Dane-geld, bringing all those matter together within a formal No matter how trifling the cost”? relationship with the African Union? 11 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 12

Bill Rammell: I certainly agree with my hon. Friend Alistair Burt (North-East Bedfordshire) (Con): One that there is a link between the piracy challenge and the of the contributions of the Dutch in Afghanistan has military challenges we face, but there is also the issue of been working effectively with civilians in the areas in the appalling human rights situation and lack of which they have been operating. If the Dutch pull out government in Somalia, and we therefore need to work of Afghanistan, how will that work be compensated across Government Departments and with our international for? What are the Government doing to ensure that partners to tackle the problem at source. Yes, there is a there are no further pull-outs from the NATO coalition, military component to this, and we are enforcing that as they would be so damaging to the prospects in very effectively, but there need to be political changes in Afghanistan? the region as well. Mr. Ainsworth: We need to see this issue in the light of Afghanistan the overall picture. Some 43 nations are now involved in the coalition, so it has widened over the years. Separate 8. John Hemming (Birmingham, Yardley) (LD): What from the American uplift announced in response to steps he plans to take to persuade Afghan citizens who General McChrystal’s report, we have managed to secure have taken up arms on behalf of the Taliban to withdraw 9,000 non-American additional forces. So there have that military support. [317444] been moves in the right direction on the international effort in Afghanistan, but we will need to replace the The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Bob Ainsworth): Dutch leadership in Uruzgan province if the Dutch go The UK, alongside the rest of the international community, ahead with their pull-out from Afghanistan. supports the Afghan Government in their plans to reintegrate disaffected Afghans into mainstream society, Sir Menzies Campbell (North-East Fife) (LD): But providing that they pursue their goals peacefully, within does the Secretary of State not accept that this is a the constitutional framework, and have no ties to terrorist matter not just of numbers, but of the quality of groups such as al-Qaeda. commitment and effectiveness, and that in those regards the Dutch forces have been exemplary? If they pull out, John Hemming: I am sure that the Secretary of State that will inevitably have a consequence for the overall agrees with me that, in dealing with conflicts, one can capability of NATO in Afghanistan. learn a lot from history. What historical precedents are the Government using to guide their strategy in Mr. Ainsworth: The Dutch forces have been superb in Afghanistan, and how do those precedents serve to lead terms of both numbers and capability over a period of the Government to their conclusions? time. We have done everything we can to encourage the Dutch to continue to make whatever contribution they Mr. Ainsworth: In operations such as that in which we are prepared to make. However, their commitment was are involved in Afghanistan, reintegration of at least time-limited and we have seen what has happened in parts of the insurgency is a legitimate and appropriate terms of Dutch political decisions. I can only repeat way to proceed. It is not only a case of building up the that while we have seen these decisions being taken, Afghan national capability so that the Afghans are able other nations have been prepared to increase their to protect their own country from the insurgency. There contributions and new nations have joined the international are also parts of that insurgency that do not share all security assistance force. We need to have balance in our the goals of some of the leadership, and we ought to views on this, because there has been a huge increase in recognise that and work to peel off those people where troop commitments across the board. that is appropriate, such as where they are involved in their activities for money or because of local grievances. Royal Navy We therefore encourage the Afghan Government to do precisely that. 11. Angela Watkinson (Upminster) (Con): What Mr. Brian Jenkins (Tamworth) (Lab): My right hon. assessment he has made of the capability of the Royal Friend will realise that the one big difficulty that former Navy to discharge its current and anticipated tasks. farmers who became Taliban fighters would have is that [317448] if they were to go back over to the side of the Afghan Government, they would want assurances that the Afghan 13. Mr. Robert Goodwill (Scarborough and Whitby) forces will guarantee their safety and that of their (Con): What assessment he has made of the capability family, and that the Taliban will not return and take of the Royal Navy to discharge its current and retribution. Does he understand that that is the crucial anticipated tasks. [317452] part in building confidence among the Afghan people? 17. Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): What Mr. Ainsworth: Providing safety for insurgents who assessment he has made of the capability of the Royal are prepared to lay down their weapons and behave Navy to discharge its current and anticipated tasks. peacefully is an important part of reintegration. If that [317456] is what they are prepared to do, this is about providing safety from our own forces in terms of giving them The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Bill Rammell): reassurance, and being able to protect them from insurgents The Royal Navy continues to meet all its operational who continue to present a problem. My hon. Friend is tasking and remains extremely busy in support of current absolutely right to say that that will be a key concern of operations and standing commitments. The Royal Navy anybody who is preparing to turn away from the Taliban remains flexible and dynamic in its ability to respond to insurgency. unforeseen events and emergent tasking. 13 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 14

Angela Watkinson: I thank the Minister for his response, Critically, we also offer group transit to vulnerable but will he make a statement on the future role of vessels using the internationally recognised transit corridor, equipment in the Royal Navy, including HMS Prince of which is protected by international forces. Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth? How will they fit into the United Kingdom’s future national security Dr. Liam Fox (Woodspring) (Con): The seas around interests? the Falkland Islands are part of British overseas territories. Is it not the duty of any British Government to do all Bill Rammell: As has been repeatedly made clear, this that is necessary to give adequate protection to vessels, Government remain committed to the carriers—a companies and individuals who carry out legitimate commitment I have not heard made forcefully from business in these waters? Is it not also the case that no those on the Conservative Benches. amount of intimidation from Buenos Aires can alter what is a fundamental issue of self-determination? Will Mr. Goodwill: Has the Minister included the need to he also tell us what communication Defence Ministers provide support for oil exploration and production in have had with their opposite numbers in Argentina to the seas around the Falkland Islands in his list of make all this crystal clear? anticipated tasks for the Royal Navy? Bill Rammell: There has been no change whatsoever Bill Rammell: May I say to the hon. Gentleman that to our policy. We have no doubt about the sovereignty we remain determined that the wishes of the Falkland of the Falkland Islands, and there has been no change islanders should be paramount? We have transformed in our support for the Falkland Islands’ legitimate right our military presence since 1982 and we maintain an to develop a hydro-carbon industry within their waters. appropriate deterrence force on the island and in the We do take, have taken and will take whatever steps are south Atlantic, comprising a range of land, air and necessary to protect the Falkland Islands, and our maritime assets. Of course, we keep our military presence counterparts in Argentina are aware of that. We continue under constant review to ensure that the islands are to have a bilateral relationship and we use every avenue properly protected. within that relationship to get those messages across.

Andrew Rosindell: In view of what the Minister has Dr. Fox: Given the renewed tension in the south just said, will he confirm not only that the Government Atlantic, the huge upsurge in piracy already mentioned, are paying attention to the interests of the Falkland the challenges of energy security and the fact that Islands and the south Atlantic but that the Royal Navy 92 per cent. of Britain’s trade goes by sea, just how big a has the ability to protect all 16 of our British overseas mistake was it for the Government to cut our surface territories, wherever they might be throughout the world? fleet from 35 destroyers and frigates to about 20, and to cut the number of our attack submarines from 12 to Bill Rammell: We do everything in our power and I eight and now, probably, to seven? Do they regret what am confident of our ability and capability to defend not they have done to the Royal Navy? only the Falkland Islands but all our overseas territories, in which I know the hon. Gentleman takes an interest. Bill Rammell: Our forces today are much more capable, and that has enabled us to make the changes we have Linda Gilroy (Plymouth, Sutton) (Lab/Co-op): Will made. I hear a lot of noise from the Opposition but the the Minister tell the House what the role of the future hon. Gentleman needs to recognise, acknowledge and surface combatant will be in contributing to capability, admit that his party is not committed to one extra and update the House on plans for the procurement of penny of defence expenditure compared with the amount such vessels? to which we are committed. Hollow words provide no conviction whatsoever. Bill Rammell: I know that my hon. Friend has taken a real interest in these issues. Indeed, we discussed them Strategic Defence Review when I visited Plymouth, Devonport a couple of weeks ago. The future surface combatant is expected to build on the capabilities of the existing Type 22 and Type 23 12. Mr. Adam Holloway (Gravesham) (Con): What multipurpose frigates that it will replace. It is an integral estimate he has made of the extent to which commitments part of the balanced fleet required to support the UK’s made in the 1998 strategic defence review have been future defence commitments, and we will be making an funded by the Government. [317450] announcement on the issues very shortly. The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Bob Ainsworth): Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): The commitments identified in the 1998 strategic defence Will the Minister say more about the anti-piracy work review have evolved over the intervening period to going on within the Royal Navy to ensure that our ships reflect the changing strategic setting and the experience can protect not only our citizens but others off the coast of operations. Successive spending reviews have provided in areas such as Somalia? resources to fund these.

Bill Rammell: That is a large and significant challenge. Mr. Holloway: The Gray review describes the It has a political dimension in tackling the root causes Government’s procurement system as “sclerotic” and of piracy, and the £21 million a year we are investing “substantially overheated”. Does the Secretary of State through the Department for International Development accept that the failure to hold a strategic defence review is extremely important in that. We also need to provide in the past 12 years has contributed significantly to advice to vessels on implementing effective self-protection. that? 15 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 16

Mr. Ainsworth: As the hon. Gentleman knows, we soldier’s death recently. Will the Minister make absolutely have updated the strategic defence review over the sure that his Department is completely open about intervening period. He ought at least to acknowledge these matters, and urge our allies to do the same, so that that the Government commissioned the Gray report in relatives can find out the truth without long delays and order to assess exactly where we are regarding defence can take up such matters as they wish? acquisition. We have responded to the report with some pretty far-reaching proposals on defence acquisition Mr. Ainsworth: I hope that we are. Not only do we reform, which we recently announced to the House as deploy our own internal methods to expose the facts in part of the Green Paper package. such cases, but we use and increasingly value the coroner service and its investigative procedures to expose to Iran the loved ones of those who have lost their lives the circumstances of their deaths. That is as important if 14. Mr. Ian Taylor (Esher and Walton) (Con): What they have lost their lives to opposing forces as if they recent assessment his Department has made of Iran’s have lost their lives to friendly forces in an accident in military capability; and if he will make a statement. the operational theatre. [317453] Mr. Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): May I thank The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Bob Ainsworth): the Secretary of State for the forthcoming briefing on Iran’s military capability is primarily defensive in nature piracy at Northwood? Was it really wise of the Government with offensive capabilities intended to provide deterrence to agree that piracy should be downgraded from an act to any potential aggressor. Many of Iran’s conventional of war to a criminal offence? Is the Minister satisfied platforms are old, predating the 1979 Islamic revolution. that the rules of engagement for our naval commanders Despite Iran’s efforts to procure and produce spares to are sufficiently robust, given that vessels are from time supplement existing platforms with new equipment, to time seized almost under the noses of our Navy? they do not present a significant conventional threat to our or our allies’ interests. We are, however, committed to working with the international community to ensure The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Bill Rammell): that the difficult issue of Iran’s nuclear ambition is The hon. Gentleman takes a real interest in these issues, resolved through diplomacy. and the changes to which he refers enable us, in the right circumstances, to have more effective prosecutions. It is Mr. Taylor: The Secretary of State will well know just not true, where we have had an ability to act that the nuclear issue is the focus of attention. What through the Royal Navy to protect lives and not to put concerns me is whether the military preparations in them at risk, that we have not taken such action. Iran are sufficient to give it the flexibility to make a conventional attack on any of its neighbouring countries. T2. [317462] Phil Wilson (Sedgefield) (Lab): Will my We saw the loss of life during the Iran-Iraq war, which right hon. Friend take this opportunity to set out the was horrendous, and we saw the Iranian Government’s next steps towards a strategic defence review, following lack of value of life. Could that happen again and is the publication of the defence Green Paper? there a strategic threat to the United Kingdom’s interests? Mr. Ainsworth: The Green Paper was designed to ask Mr. Ainsworth: We would like to encourage Iran to be the questions and provoke the kind of debate that is a good neighbour, to take its part in the region and to necessary within the Department, the wider Government be a positive force in that regard. Notwithstanding what and the nation as a whole in the run-up to a strategic I have said about its conventional capability eroding defence review. I believe that all the main parties in the over time and about its not being able to maintain that House are now committed to having a strategic defence capability, we have seen it create difficulties through review after the next election. Exactly how we conduct proxies for its neighbouring countries. We would ask it that is yet to be decided, but a lot of preparatory work seriously to reconsider that and to join the international has been commissioned through the Green Paper process, community in providing a secure environment for the and that work is ongoing. region. That would be in the interests of Iran as well as the wider middle east. T4. [317464] James Duddridge (Rochford and Southend, Topical Questions East) (Con): Last week, I visited a course for junior non-commissioned officers on the disposal of unexploded ordnance. Some of those people are going out to T1. [317461] Harry Cohen (Leyton and Wanstead) (Lab): If he will make a statement on his departmental Afghanistan. They are doing an excellent job. I was responsibilities. deeply concerned, however, that bombs were not allowed to be detonated on three of the last four courses, owing The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Bob Ainsworth): to a noise limit of 125 dB. Local residents would My Department’s responsibilities are to ensure that our appreciate that that is necessary work. Will the Minister country is properly defended now and in the future and of State or the Secretary of State discuss with QinetiQ that our service personnel have the right equipment and the possibility of increasing that limit, so that people training to allow them to succeed in the military tasks in have exploded that type of ordnance before going out which they are engaged at home or abroad. to Afghanistan?

Harry Cohen: Will the Secretary of State find time to Bill Rammell: Tackling improvised explosive devices look into the issue of so-called friendly fire deaths? is the highest priority for the military and the Ministry That cause of death has been alluded to in at least one of Defence. We do everything we possibly can; we are 17 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 18 increasing resources; and we will look at the limit to another part of the country, they have to start that which the hon. Gentleman refers to ensure that everything whole protracted process all over again? Is there any possible can be done. possibility of introducing a portable statement for members of our armed forces? Mr. John Grogan (Selby) (Lab): Will the Minister say a word about the future of RAF Church Fenton, which The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence is the proud home of Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron, (Mr. Kevan Jones): I am concerned that the hon. Gentleman and its parent base, RAF Linton-on-Ouse, which is raises the issue. It was raised by the Defence Committee home to 500 RAF personnel and 600 civilians whose in its report about three years ago, and I worked with future appears to be under review? my hon. Friend the Member for Portsmouth, North (Sarah McCarthy-Fry) when she was a Minister at the Bill Rammell: I know that my hon. Friend is concerned Department for Children, Schools and Families to ensure about this issue on behalf of his constituents, but RAF that statements are portable. If the hon. Gentleman has Church Fenton and its parent base—RAF Linton-on- an example of one that is not portable, I should like to Ouse—currently provide UK military flying training. see it, please. As he knows, the future roles of those stations are under review. No decisions have yet been taken on the Linda Gilroy (Plymouth, Sutton) (Lab/Co-op): Chapter 6 involvement of individual sites that are under review as of the defence acquisition strategy which accompanies part of the programme, but I am more than happy to the Green Paper says that talk to him about the detail of these issues. “industry needs to play its full part in helping to address the problems this strategy is seeking to tackle.” T5. [317466] David Tredinnick (Bosworth) (Con): Why What scope is there for companies such as Babcock was the central Helmand offensive advertised widely in Marine, which has its headquarters in Plymouth, advance? Surely, that goes against all normal military Devonport, to participate in such partnership work? practice and has resulted in a number of leading Taliban figures leaving the area. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Quentin Davies): We consult on a continuous basis Mr. Ainsworth: If the hon. Gentleman thinks he formally and informally with industry on these matters. knows better than those who are commanding our I must not comment on corporate issues currently in the operations in Afghanistan, that is a matter of his own media. opinion. I do not share his view. The commander of the international security assistance force flagged the ongoing T7. [317468] Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): Can operation well in advance to ensure that we could carry the Minister confirm that all service personnel are out his priorities: to gain control of the area and to being given all the correct information to ensure that provide security for the people, with the minimum of they are able to cast their vote in forthcoming damage and loss of civilian lives. None the less, we elections? managed to achieve tactical surprise. We did not allow the enemy to know exactly where we were going or Mr. Jones: I can go further than that. We have had a exactly when we were going there. So I urge the hon. very successful campaign with the Electoral Commission Gentleman not to listen to some of the reporting of and the Ministry of Justice to ensure that people register these operations, which have been extremely effective. for service voting. The level is now at 65 per cent. Can We have achieved all our goals on the Task Force Helmand we do more? Yes, we can. We have also put in place side of the line—the Americans are still experiencing emergency provision whereby postal votes for those some resistance—and we have done that very effectively, serving in Afghanistan are given special priority. impacting minimal damage on the infrastructure in the area and minimal civilian casualties. T8. [317469] Miss Anne McIntosh (Vale of York) (Con): The Defence Secretary will be aware of the contribution Mr. Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): At the made not just to the defence of the country and overseas, Munich security conference the other week, Russian but to the local economy, by RAF Linton-on-Ouse and Foreign Minister Lavrov said that Russian military RAF Leeming. RAF Leeming no longer has a fighter doctrine now saw NATO as its principal foe. Does the jet coming in or out of that station. RAF Linton-on-Ouse Secretary of State agree that it is time that Moscow is one of only two or three training stations. What pressed its own reset button and started to work with us future is envisaged for those two RAF stations? as allies and partners, rather than future enemies? Bill Rammell: The two RAF stations have a future, Mr. Ainsworth: We would welcome a reappraisal but rightly, we must look at the most efficient way of by Russia of its attitude towards NATO. There is no operating our assets. I made the point earlier that the reason for the Russians to adopt the line that they have, Opposition are not committed to spending a penny and any reappraisal or softening of their position with extra on defence issues. Such criticisms therefore ring regard to what they perceive as the threat would be somewhat hollow. most welcome and beneficial to themselves as well. Andrew Selous (South-West Bedfordshire) (Con): Has T6. [317467] Mr. Robert Goodwill (Scarborough and the Secretary of State approached Germany, a wealthy Whitby) (Con): Are Ministers aware that if a member NATO member with relatively few troops on the ground of our armed forces who has a child with special in Afghanistan, for cash contributions towards countries educational needs and who may have struggled for such as ours with a large commitment, and if not, why months to get that child statemented is posted to not? 19 Oral Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Oral Answers 20

Mr. Ainsworth: There are well over 4,000 troops from clearance, with the exception of the South Africans, yet Germany in Afghanistan, and Germany only recently we virtually gave away the very effective Chubby sets agreed to increase its contribution to the Afghan training and now we are behind all other armies and three years effort with an additional 500 troops. Although we would behind the Canadians? Was that not a terrible mistake, always want all our allies to do more, let us not which has led to unnecessary loss of life in Afghanistan? underestimate the contribution that is being made. Mr. Davies: I do not accept the hon. Lady’s remarks Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): In the earlier exchanges at all. We are, in my view, at the forefront of technology about the Falkland Islands, no mention was made of in mine clearance and counter-IED effort, and we are Ascension Island and how important that is to the collaborating closely on the basis of complete transparency Falklands effort. May I invite the Government to look with our key allies in Afghanistan. at the potential strategic importance of the island of St. Helena, also in the south Atlantic, which could be an Sir (South Staffordshire) (Con): alternative, should things get hot again in that part of Bearing in mind the enormous debt that we owe to the world? those who laid down their lives in the two world wars and the conflicts since, will the Minister support a private Member’s Bill, which I propose to introduce on Bill Rammell: I understand the thrust of the hon. 10 March, to close all shops on Remembrance Sunday, Gentleman’s question. Ascension Island remains extremely just as they are closed on Christmas day? important to us. I regularly discuss these matters with my colleague, the Minister for Europe. Mr. Jones: As someone who is on the record as having enacted legislation to close shops on Christmas Ann Winterton (Congleton) (Con): Why is it that day, I sympathise with the hon. Gentleman. I shall look after Bosnia, the UK virtually led the field in mine forward to seeing his proposals in due course. 21 22 FEBRUARY 2010 22

Speaker’s Statement British Passports (Dubai)

3.30 pm 3.31 pm Mr. Speaker: I have a brief statement to make on a Mr. William Hague (Richmond, Yorks) (Con) (Urgent matter of privilege. Question): To ask the Foreign Secretary if he will make On 10 February the Joint Committee on Human a statement on the use of fake British passports by Rights made a report to both Houses on a possible persons implicated in the murder of Mr. Mahmoud contempt. It concerns an attempt to influence the views al-Mabhouh; the timing of the Government’s knowledge of certain members of the Committee shortly before it of the incident; the process of establishing the facts considered a draft report directly relevant to the chair related to the issue; and the implications for British of the Equality and Human Rights Commission. passport holders. I have considered a letter from the Chair of the Joint Committee and the report, and I have decided that they The Minister for Europe (Chris Bryant): Although raise issues that justify me in giving precedence to a new facts continue to emerge, let me set out the facts as motion relating to them. Accordingly, if the hon. Member we know them. for Hendon (Mr. Dismore) tables such a motion, it will On 19 January, Mahmoud al-Mabhouh was killed in be taken as first business tomorrow. Dubai. The first press reports about the death appeared As is customary, I do not intend to take points of on 28 January. On 31 January, the Emirati authorities order on this matter, or to allow any further discussion confirmed to our officials press reports that European—I on this matter before it comes before the House for repeat, European—passports had been used, and undertook decision. to provide us and others with further details as their investigation proceeded. That was followed up by embassy officials in Dubai and Abu Dhabi on several occasions. On 12 February, the Emirati authorities informed UK officials in London that UK passports might—repeat, might—have been involved. On 15 February, they confirmed that and provided the details of six British passports involved. Soon after, on the same day, they provided a full briefing to the media. On 17 February, the Prime Minister announced a full investigation by the Serious Organised Crime Agency. On 21 February, the Foreign Secretary spoke to Abdullah bin Zayed, the Emirati Foreign Minister, who confirmed that they would be sending us details of at least a further two British passports that might have been involved. That information was received by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office today. It would be wrong of me to prejudge the SOCA investigation, but let me make it crystal clear that no part of the British Government, either Minister or official, had any foreknowledge of Mr. al-Mabhouh’s killing, the use of British passports in it or any clandestine operation being planned. To suggest otherwise is to make an irresponsible allegation without any basis in fact. I know that there is considerable concern among hon. Members about the possible role of the Israeli authorities, so I should set out our exchanges with them. On 18 February, the Israeli ambassador came to the Foreign Office for a meeting with the permanent under-secretary, and earlier this afternoon my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary met the Israeli Foreign Minister, Mr. Lieberman, in Brussels. My right hon. Friend underlined the deep discontent felt in this country, in this Government and in this House over this issue. He made it clear that we were concerned about the implications of the killing of Mr. al-Mabhouh for stability in the region. He stressed that we require full co-operation from the Israeli authorities with the SOCA investigation. He said that we stand ready to work with Israel on bringing stability and peace to the middle east, but that we can do so only on the basis of trust and mutual transparency. Hon. Members are rightly also concerned about the incident’s impact on the British nationals involved. I can confirm that our embassy in Tel Aviv has been in 23 22 FEBRUARY 2010 24

[Chris Bryant] The right hon. Gentleman is right to raise the matter of relations with the United Arab Emirates—an ally touch with all six whose passports have already been with which we want to work as closely as possible. We reported as having been misused. We will do all that we have sought to give full assurances that we had absolutely can to ensure that they get the consular support that no foreknowledge of this situation. Any suggestions in they need. the media that we might have had any foreknowledge are completely untrue and unjust. I think that our Mr. Hague: I am grateful to the Minister. Across the colleagues in the United Arab Emirates have taken our House, we are agreed that the misuse of British passports assurances in the spirit in which they were intended. is a grave matter that must be prevented. I have three The right hon. Gentleman asked about the future quick sets of questions. use of passports and what work needs to be done. I am On the timing, can the Minister clear up the discrepancy very keen not to prejudge the SOCA investigation between the Dubai police saying on 30 January, and, for that matter, the Emirati investigation, both of “we have the identities of the people involved” which need to be allowed to pursue their courses fully so that they can get to the bottom of all the matters and involved. “are approaching all the channels including embassies and consulates”, and the Government’s insisting that they knew nothing Nick Harvey (North Devon) (LD): There is widespread of the forged identities until 16 days later? Was it simply concern at the misuse of British passports, or cloned that the police did not pass on those identities, what passports, in this matter, and I thank the Minister for efforts were made to secure them, and why does the his assurance that the authorities will continue to investigate Minister think that the information was not supplied it with the utmost thoroughness. However, there is even for so long? Yesterday, the Dubai authorities indicated wider concern about the unlawful killing itself. I welcome that diplomatic passports may have been used by other the fact that the Foreign Secretary has communicated suspects, without naming any other country. Is that the disquiet to the Israelis about this matter. I urge the matter to which the Minister referred in relation to the Government to continue to do that, but not to lose sight information obtained from Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed of the wider picture: blockade of Gaza and the illegal yesterday? settlements on the west bank, despite the best efforts of On the wider implications, is the Minister concerned President Obama to dissuade Israel, are the greater that relations with the United Arab Emirates have been issues. In putting pressure on the Israelis as best we are damaged by these events? Our ambassador was summoned able, we must keep open a productive dialogue so that to its Foreign Ministry yesterday; can the Minister say those wider issues can be pursued with the utmost what message was delivered? It has been reported that diligence. the cloned passports contained irregularities which could have marked them out as suspect. What plans are there Chris Bryant: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for to guard against the future fraudulent use of British his comments. He is absolutely right: we consider ourselves passports? to be a critical friend to Israel, and the emphasis is fully Finally, looking to the future, have the Government on both those words. That means that we have expressed sought, or has the Foreign Secretary sought in his very fully and regularly our unhappiness about the meeting with Mr. Lieberman today, assurances from humanitarian situation in Gaza and what we believe to Israel, as a friendly nation, that it will not sanction, for be unfair treatment of the Palestinians. We have also whatever reason, including in any intelligence operations, made it clear that we wholeheartedly disagree with the the misuse of British passports? illegal settlements on the west bank and with the annexation of East Jerusalem. I should also say that the European Union made clear today its views on the killing, and we Chris Bryant: I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman wholeheartedly supported its statements. for his comments. I should apologise on behalf of the Foreign Secretary, who would obviously have been giving this reply were it not for the fact that he is in Brussels for Sir Gerald Kaufman (Manchester, Gorton) (Lab): the Foreign Affairs Council and the meeting with Will my hon. Friend tell me when the international Mr. Lieberman. community will take action to deal with the crimes committed by this rogue state of Israel, which sends out The right hon. Gentleman asked about the discrepancy, assassination squads; which, as I have seen for myself, as he called it, between what has been said about what imprisons and blockades 1.5 million people in Gaza in information was provided on 31 January and on violation of the Geneva convention; and which persistently 15 February. Let me repeat that what had been said in violates international law by building settlements in the press, namely that some European—I repeat, European, Jerusalem and on the west bank? If it were any other and not specifically UK—passports might have been country, would we not by now have imposed sanctions used, was confirmed to us on 31 January. It was not and an arms ban? until 15 February that the Emirati authorities confirmed what they had said on 12 February only might be the Chris Bryant: My right hon. Friend speaks very forcefully case, namely that UK passports might have been used. on this issue, knows well the situation in Israel and has To answer directly the right hon. Gentleman’s question visited on many occasions, but I do not want to speculate about whether the two passports to which I have been about what may or may not be the precise facts of the referring and the added information that we have provided situation. We need to ensure that the investigations today relate to the question of whether diplomatic conducted by SOCA and the Emirati authorities are passports might have been involved: no, that is not the pursued with diligence, and that the Israeli authorities point at issue. co-operate fully with those investigations. As I said to 25 22 FEBRUARY 2010 26 the hon. Member for North Devon (Nick Harvey), we Chris Bryant: My right hon. Friend makes an important make clear on a regular basis our opposition to some of point. The integrity of the British passport system is the policies advocated by the Israeli Government that absolutely vital to our security, and we are determined do not promote security for Israel or stability, as we see to do everything we can to ensure that we are ahead of it, in the region. the game in knowing what terrorists may try to do to undermine it. I have not spoken to the Home Secretary, Mr. Hugo Swire (East Devon) (Con): Does the Minister but I have spoken to officials in the today, not share the concern of many about the comments of and one of the major points that the SOCA inquiry will senior members of Hamas that there could well be an need to investigate is how we can ensure that such a escalation of violence between Hamas and the Israelis situation could not be repeated. anywhere in the world? What can the Government, and specifically the Foreign Secretary in his discussions with Sir Menzies Campbell (North-East Fife) (LD): I cannot Mr. Lieberman this afternoon, do to try to prevent such resist the temptation to say that if there are any passports a happening? in the Home Office with photographs of someone 30 years younger than myself, I should be very happy to receive Chris Bryant: Of course we oppose the militant position one. adopted by Hamas. We have said regularly that we More seriously, what undertakings have the Israeli would be only too happy to speak to Hamas if it were Government given about providing the co-operation possible to do so once it had adopted the four conditions that the British Government seek from them? Will Her laid down by the Quartet. That is why we believe that Majesty’s Government make public either the results of situations such as this do not contribute to the middle any such co-operation or a failure to provide it? east peace process. Nor, for that matter, do the attacks that have been undertaken by Hamas. Chris Bryant: The right hon. and learned Gentleman is doubtless about to produce his election literature, and Keith Vaz (Leicester, East) (Lab): Will the Minister I hope that he will not use photographs that are 30 years confirm that he has had a conversation with the Home old, although that is common practice among some of Secretary or Ministers in the Home Office about the his colleagues. forging of passports? Last Friday, one of my constituents As the right hon. and learned Gentleman says, we came to see me. He had received his new British passport, need to ensure that we have full co-operation with the which had a picture of somebody 30 years younger than SOCA report from the Israeli authorities. When speaking him—a completely different person. I am not suggesting to my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary this that it was a forgery, because it was clearly a mistake, afternoon, the Israeli Minister was left in absolutely no but the issue of passport forgery in this country is also doubt about that, as was the ambassador when he came very important. to see the permanent under-secretary last week. 27 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Prisons (Early Release) 28

Prisons (Early Release) to compare the situation with that in 1991 when, as I recall, a total of nearly 376,000 nights were spent by 3.45 pm prisoners in police or court cells. Twenty-seven thousand additional prison places have The Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor been provided since 1997, including 6,700 since April (Mr. Jack Straw): With permission, Mr Speaker, I should 2007. We now have well over 86,000 places by way of like to make a statement on the release of prisoners operational capacity, with headroom of around 2,500. under the early release scheme, which is known as the We anticipate that withdrawing the ECL scheme will end-of-custody licence. The scheme will be brought to increase the prison population by between 1,000 and an end on 12 March this year. All prisoners who are 1,200 prisoners. My assessment is that on the basis of eligible for release on ECL on or before 12 March will our plans further to increase the capacity of the prison be so released. Prisoners who have, as of today, been estate, we can safely manage the forecast prison population formally notified, under form ECL3, of release dates this year, in 2011-12 and beyond, and we are on track to under the scheme up to and including 9 April, will also provide a total of 96,000 places by 2014 through our be released. No prisoners will be released on ECL from capacity building programmes. and including 10 April. Given the headroom available in the estate, we are In the past 13 years, the prison population has increased therefore in a position to end the scheme, but that does dramatically. When I became Home Secretary in May not mean that there is no longer pressure on prison 1997, the population stood at 60,300; the most recently places. The system continues to operate at levels that are published figure—that of 19 February—was 83,800. close to capacity. I pay tribute to all those who work so Predicting the prison population and matching places hard to protect public safety and help offenders to turn to meet demand has always been difficult and inevitably their lives around. imprecise. I can certainly recall, during my first 18 years in the House, early release schemes on three separate Protecting the public is the first priority of this occasions—in 1984, 1987 and 1991—when the Government Government. We have acted decisively to tackle crime, of the day faced what amounted to crises in handling and the use of prison has been central to that. Prison pressures on the prison population. will always be the right place for the most serious, persistent and violent offenders, and it is vital if we are In June 2007, my predecessor as Justice Secretary, my to protect the public properly. There are 75 per cent. right hon. and noble Friend Lord Falconer, introduced more serious and violent offenders in prison now than ECL to manage temporary pressure on the prison estate in 1997, and people who commit serious offences are and to guarantee that prison places were available for going to prison for longer. I recently announced that, as all those sentenced to custody. ECL enabled prison a result of decisions by the judiciary, the minimum tariff governors, under existing prison rules, to release on for murderers had been increased by three years, or licence up to 18 days before the end of their sentence 18 per cent. Indeterminate sentences have been introduced offenders who had been given a determinate prison for the most dangerous offenders—more than 5,000 have sentence of between four weeks and four years. The been imposed by the courts in the first three years of the scheme specifically excluded offenders convicted of serious scheme—and we will continue to ensure that there are violent crimes or sexual offences subject to registration places for them. requirements; those who had broken the terms of temporary release in the past; and foreign national prisoners who At the same time, we have introduced tougher, more would be subject to deportation at the end of their visible and more effective community sentences, and we sentence. The scheme was later amended to exclude are giving communities a say in the types of projects anyone convicted of terrorism-related offences. that offenders carry out. In the case of less serious offenders, such non-custodial sentences are often a better ECL was explicitly introduced as a temporary measure. alternative to prison, in turning offenders away from I have always said that we would end the scheme as crime and further cutting reoffending rates. However, soon as we could and recognised that, although necessary whether a particular offender is to be given a non-custodial as a temporary measure, it was inherently unsatisfactory or a custodial sentence is, of course, always a matter for and potentially damaging to public confidence in justice— the judges or magistrates concerned, and not for Ministers. public confidence that is otherwise reasonably high and rising, particularly in the light of falling crime We are also working hard to implement the findings levels. I have told the House on a number of occasions of the Corston and Bradley reviews on women and that I would bring ECL to an end as soon as I judged mentally ill offenders. I am certain that in such cases that it was safe to do so. My right hon. Friend the Prime diversion from prison is often the best approach for Minister has underlined that, for example on 7 May both the offender and the wider community. We will 2008, when he said at Prime Minister’s questions: continue to examine the number of women and mentally ill people in prison. “When we have built up the number of prison places” to As a result of the Government’s strategy, there has been an overall fall in crime of 36 per cent. since 1997. “86,000…we will make…decisions on the right thing…about early release.” —[Official Report, 7 May 2008; Vol. 475, c. 696.] That is the most substantial and sustained reduction since the war. Violent crime is down by 41 per cent. We are now at that point, and we are there because we according to the British crime survey, the most reliable have worked hard to increase the capacity of the prison measure, and the chances of being a victim are at their estate. lowest for a generation. We have transformed the justice In consequence of the measures that we have taken, system into a public service that is focused on the needs prisoners have not been held under Operation Safeguard of victims and the law-abiding majority, and we will in police cells since September 2008, or been held in continue to do so. I commend my statement to the court cells since February 2008. The House might wish House. 29 Prisons (Early Release)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Prisons (Early Release) 30

Mr. Dominic Grieve (Beaconsfield) (Con): I thank the only increases our fears that the Government are acting Justice Secretary for allowing me advance sight of his out of political desperation and not in the national statement. interest. Is the Justice Secretary talking tough on crime Conservative Members have been calling for an end before the election because he certainly does not care a to the Government’s reckless early release scheme for bit if the result is tough on us after it? some time. In principle, therefore, the statement is welcome, but, as always with this Government, it is necessary to Mr. Straw: The Opposition need to work out whether check the fine print. The House will recall that the they are in favour of or against our ending the scheme. introduction of the early release scheme was a direct Only on Saturday, the Leader of the Opposition said result of the present Prime Minister’s failure. As Chancellor, that he wanted to see an end to the early release scheme. he choked funding for the prison cells for which the I assume that he took advice from his shadow Justice Home Secretary had asked to provide the capacity that Secretary about whether it would be safe to do so before was required to meet official projections for the prison he said that. The projections up to 2015 for the future population. The consequence of that failure has been operational capacity of prisons are public. I have been stark. Eighty thousand criminals were let out of jail supplying the hon. and learned Gentleman with as early, including 15,000 violent offenders and two terrorists, much additional information as I can in recent weeks by and those released went on to commit 1,500 crimes, way of answers to parliamentary questions. including several rape and murder offences. I have of course taken advice, but this is my responsibility. Given that record, it is vital to bring the scheme to a I have made what I regard as the safe judgment that it is close by providing the cells that are needed to house the appropriate to end the scheme now. Ever since it was prisoners and protect the public; yet, over the past six introduced, the Conservatives have been calling for it to months, the Justice Secretary has shelved plans for a end. Back in October 2007, the Opposition went so far prison in north Wales and, more recently, for one in as to issue a public statement saying that early release Dagenham. That leaves a gaping hole in the Government’s should be ended immediately. That would have been plans. Can the Justice Secretary confirm that, according irresponsible, because the figures did not back it up. to the Government’s own projections—taking account Every week, the Minister of State, Ministry of Justice, of planned increases in capacity—the prison population my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Garston will still exceed operational capacity by July 2011? Those (Maria Eagle) and I examine the figures, and some are his Department’s projections. Can he please confirm weeks ago we came to the conclusion that it probably them? would be safe to end this scheme and that there would Not only do we have the Department’s projections; I be sufficient headroom, not just tomorrow but in the have personally received a letter complaining that the future. We now judge it appropriate to end the scheme. Justice Secretary has been warned by his own officials As for the examination of the basis of these proposals, that the prison population will continue to rise without I will not disclose official advice. It would be a strange adequate capacity, and that that will create a crisis of constitutional doctrine under which Ministers had to overcrowding within two years. The Justice Secretary explain the official advice that they have received. I am has a track record of ignoring Government legal advice. perfectly happy, however, to ensure that the full facts Can he say categorically that he has not received any are made available for examination by the Justice official advice warning that ending early release cannot Committee, because I am entirely comfortable about be sustained for more than a temporary period? the responsible nature of the projections that we have Today, the Minister of State, Ministry of Justice, the made. hon. Member for Liverpool, Garston (Maria Eagle) has As for the hon. and learned Gentleman’s last point, also released a written statement to the House, announcing which was frankly silly, when he spoke about so-called a new contract that will promote the use of home political desperation, the only desperation that I now detention curfews. The Minister is explicit. She says that see is that emanating from those on the Conservative the Government want Benches. Because the Opposition do not know what “courts and prison governors to make greater use of conditional their policy is, and to the extent that they do know what bail and early release on Home Detention Curfew”. it is, they change it— It seems that the Justice Secretary gives with one hand and takes with the other, or perhaps his right hand does The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Maria not know what his left hand is doing. Can he confirm Eagle): Every week. what that means and whether we will in fact have more early release under another label? Let there be no doubt Mr. Straw: Almost every week. Or, because in the that this party wants an end to early release, but it case of justice policy the Leader of the Opposition says would compound the recklessness of the scheme to end that he wants to increase the prison population, whereas it if that can only be done temporarily, or to reintroduce his shadow Justice Secretary says that he wants to cut it under another name. the population to 44,000, it is no wonder that the On 9 February, I asked the Minister of State whether Opposition are facing, and are in panic about, a fast- the Government had plans to end early release. She diminishing opinion poll lead. We have acted sensibly. denied such plans, stating that the Government would Let me make this last point about the problems that end early release we had in the summer of 2007. They were nothing “as soon as practically possible”.—[Official Report, 9 February as compared with the problems that arose repeatedly 2010; Vol. 505, c. 742.] during the 1980s and 1990s. Such problems can arise In less than two weeks, what has rendered possible what because the actual prison population can vary significantly. was then practically impossible? The timing of the end If the hon. and learned Gentleman looks at the latest of the scheme, just weeks before an election is called, population projections for 2014, he will see that they 31 Prisons (Early Release)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Prisons (Early Release) 32

[Mr. Straw] were adopted towards the end of the Conservative Administration, including an increase in prison building, differ significantly even from the projections of a year and it has continued to fall because of that. I do not or two years ago. However, I repeat to the House: I am claim—I never have done—that having more prison clear that we are taking a sensible and responsible places is the only factor that has led to falling crime. approach for the medium term. There have been others—much more effective policing; neighbourhood policing; a wider range of powers to David Howarth (Cambridge) (LD): I also thank the deal with persistent antisocial behaviour; and reform of Secretary of State for early sight of his statement. the youth justice system, plus other measures in education However, I notice from the statement that he is still and health—all of which have borne down on offending. trying to claim that crime has fallen under this Government because of their prison expansion policy. The truth is However, I believe that there is a connection between that crime started to fall in 1995, not 1997, and that it the fact that the prison population has risen and the fact has fallen in all western European countries apart from that crime has fallen. The hon. Gentleman will know Belgium, whether or not they have gone in for a massive that, in his own constituency, there were persistent prison-building programme. Will he not concede that offenders who represented individual crime waves, and although the chances of becoming a victim of crime that when they were locked up, crime went down. If he have fallen substantially, as he said, the chances of does not believe that, I suggest that he go through becoming a victim of crime in this country are still far the local newspaper or the court records, and then tell higher than the European average, and higher than in the Cambridge Evening News which of those offenders all western European countries except one? That is not he believes would be better out on the streets than a successful policy; it is an expensive failure. inside. He owes it to his constituents to let them know I welcome the end of the early release scheme, but the about that well before the date of any general election. problem with the Secretary of State’s statement is that The hon. Gentleman has conceded that our victimisation he confirmed that the Government’s policy is still to levels are now lower than they have been since the increase the prison population towards 100,000. An British crime survey started in 1981. If he wishes to extra 10,000 prison places will mean about £400 million make a comparison, he will see from the Eurostat a year in running costs. We all know that some offenders figures that our levels of recording of crimes of victimisation have to be in prison, but we also know that there are are significantly better than in many other areas, and non-custodial sentences—restorative justice is the best that the levels are falling. example—that are better at reducing reoffending. The So far as restorative justice is concerned, yes, I am an cost of restorative justice for the whole country would enthusiast, but none of these measures is a panacea. be only about £60 million. Why can the Secretary of Yes, we need to get reoffending rates down, and we have State not accept the conclusion of the Shapland review, been doing so; they are falling. The rate for young offenders which is that restorative justice would be better value is down 20 per cent., and we have seen a significant drop for money? In an interview with on becoming in the number of youngsters coming into the youth Secretary of State, the right hon. Gentleman said: justice system for the first time. That is one of the “we cannot…build our way out of prison overcrowding”. reasons why there is less pressure on the youth justice He was right then. What has changed now, apart from estate, and that is very welcome. The Minister of State, the looming election? my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Garston has Let me take the Secretary of State through the detail done great work in regard to women in prison, and their of the figures. He said that the figures would allow numbers have also gone down, not up. headroom for a number of years, but they do not seem Certified normal accommodation is nice to have, but to fit with the figures that the Ministry of Justice gave the truth is that we cannot run an effective, efficient the Prison Reform Trust last year. The prison population prison system by not having accommodation levels then was 111 per cent. of certified normal accommodation. above CNA. All Administrations have used operational Where, precisely, have the extra places come from? Is capacity, and we will continue to do so. the Secretary of State just allowing more doubling up in cells, which is just another form of overcrowding? Alun Michael (Cardiff, South and Penarth) (Lab/Co-op): I do not agree with the hon. and learned Member for I warmly welcome my right hon. Friend’s statement Beaconsfield (Mr. Grieve) that the end of the scheme today, including what he said about women prisoners will reduce crime by very much, because the crimes and the mentally ill. I urge him to redouble the efforts of committed in those 18 days would probably be committed his Department to reduce offending and reoffending. If anyway, 18 days later. However, I accept that the end of the example of violence reduction in Cardiff were followed the scheme will reduce risks, because it means that fewer right across England and Wales, would that not reduce prisoners will be released without proper supervision. the need for prison places and enable prisons to be used However, is not the real problem the reoffending rate of more effectively to reduce subsequent reoffending, as all prisoners? Two thirds of prisoners are reconvicted the Justice Select Committee has argued? within two years of release, while 75 per cent. of young prisoners are reconvicted in that time. Does the Secretary Mr. Straw: I strongly endorse what my right hon. of State not accept that the real problem is not earlier or Friend has said. This gives me an opportunity to commend later release, but the fact that too many offenders reoffend the work of Professor Jonathan Shepherd in Cardiff. in the first place, regardless of whether prisoners are He has made a huge effort to cut down the incidence of released early? violent crime in Cardiff, and also, when violent crime Mr. Straw: I readily acknowledge that crime has does take place, to reduce the injuries. His work has had fallen since 1995. It is my judgment that it began to fall a dramatic effect, and it should be studied and followed because of the rather more coherent policies that elsewhere in the country. 33 Prisons (Early Release)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Prisons (Early Release) 34

Sir (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): The Mr. Straw: The Minister of State, my hon. Friend the Secretary of State is right to end the early release Member for Liverpool, Garston has the happy task of scheme, which is not a sound or evidence-based policy, finding another site, but I should tell the hon. Gentleman but should not he and those on the Opposition Front and the hon. and learned Member for Beaconsfield Bench also recognise that the prison population will (Mr. Grieve) that finding sites is difficult—it always has always expand to fill the places available? Making those been—because everybody says that they want more places available is an expensive process that pre-empts prison places unless and until it is suggested that such resources that need to be used to prevent people from prison places be provided in their back yard, at which getting involved in crime, and in the addictions and point they complain vocally. We looked at two sites in alcoholism that are the source of much crime, in the north Wales, one of which I judged to be really good, first place. Will he look carefully at the Justice Committee’s but the local community was not happy about it. Another report on justice reinvestment in that regard? site was judged to be less good, but we went for it. However, it has turned out not to be satisfactory, so we Mr. Straw: I will indeed look carefully at what the continue to look for a further site. A similar problem Justice Committee has said, and I hope to follow many has arisen in Dagenham. Indeed, the only area in the of its recommendations. I am afraid, however, that I do country that has been willing to back its rhetorical calls not accept the basis of the right hon. Gentleman’s for more prison places with pledges that sites will be statement that the prison population expands to fill the found is east Lancashire, including the towns of Blackburn, places available. For example, that has not been the Accrington, Burnley, Nelson and Colne. experience in respect of women’s prisons, which now have 800 spare places, thanks to the work of the Minister Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): of State, my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, I welcome what I think is a sensible and timely Garston on implementing the recommendations of the announcement, and I am sure that if there were more Corston review, with all-party support. That is very Members on the Opposition Benches, or indeed any good. We are also reducing the number of mentally ill Members on those Benches, they would do so, too. May people in prison. I press my right hon. Friend a little further on what he If the right hon. Gentleman cares to compare the said about the reduction of the women prison population latest prison population projections, which came out in and about some of the lessons that were clearly learned August 2009, with those for the same years that were from that? Are there any things that he felt led to that published in 2008 and 2007, he will see that—coincidentally reduction that could be actively transferred to the male with our increasing capacity—they have come down. prison population? Obviously, the closer we get to the end dates, the more reliable the projections are. I am pleased to reassure him Mr. Straw: Yes, there are, but my hon. Friend has put that his central assertion is not borne out by the facts. me on the spot. I will have to write to her in some detail as the expert is in her place on my left. The key is about Mrs. Ann Cryer (Keighley) (Lab): Will my right hon. sentencer confidence. What we have managed to Friend expand a little more on his thoughts on restorative do—through the excellent work of the Corston report, justice, which the hon. Member for Cambridge (David followed by the excellent work of my ministerial colleague, Howarth) mentioned earlier? I visited Canada a couple my hon. Friend the Member for Liverpool, Garston of years ago with the Commonwealth Parliamentary and as a result of the all-party consensus in favour of Association, and I met the chief of police for Toronto. reducing the women’s prison population—is to build up He has real enthusiasm for restorative justice, whereby sentencer confidence about the alternatives to prison. It the offender meets the victim and learns what damage is more straightforward with women prisoners, as many he or she has done to the victim’s life. Apparently, the fewer women offenders who are potential candidates reoffending rate in Toronto went down from about for custody have committed violent offences; whereas 80 per cent. to 35 per cent. as a result of that policy. one of the principal reasons for jailing male prisoners is Mr. Straw: As I told the hon. Member for Cambridge, their propensity to violence. I will write to my hon. I am an enthusiast for restorative justice; I have seen it Friend with a better and more accurate answer. work. It is central to many of the non-custodial sentences available in the youth courts, and we are trying to Bob Spink (Castle Point) (Ind): The Justice Secretary extend it to the adult courts as well. Again, I should say is right to focus on public confidence, but he surely that none of these proposals and measures will work in accepts that the public will not be truly confident until all circumstances. Restorative justice always requires we genuinely and directly link prisoner early release the consent of the victim, without which it cannot take with prisoner behaviour during their time as prisoners place. So far as its effectiveness is concerned, available and the likelihood of them reoffending and being a assessments to date show that it does not necessarily danger to the public. Will the right hon. Gentleman have a significantly different effect on reoffending rates work with me and others in the House to try to get when compared with other disposals. It does, however, honest sentencing at some time in the future? significantly increase the confidence of the victims; I regard that alone as a sufficient justification for it, but if Mr. Straw: I accept the hon. Gentleman’s key point. we can get crime down as well, so much the better. One criticism we all had about this early release scheme— the end of custody licence—was that if prisoners fitted Hywel Williams (Caernarfon) (PC): We in Plaid Cymru the criteria, they had to be released, because that was welcome the end of the scheme, of which we were very the only way to operate the scheme. Other systems of critical. On the capacity issue, what progress is being early release—for example, home detention curfew—are made on the renewed search for a site for a new prison very much dependent on good behaviour in prison and in north Wales? outside, and they work effectively. 35 Prisons (Early Release) 22 FEBRUARY 2010 36

[Mr. Straw] Points of Order On honesty in sentencing, which is a holy grail for all 4.16 pm Administrations, the Criminal Justice Act 2003 requires Bob Spink (Castle Point) (Ind): On a point of order, sentences to spell out what they mean. Given that Mr. Speaker. I am sorry to trouble you yet again, but prisoners with determinate sentences serve a minimum can you help me please? Recently, Tories visited my of half the sentence, we could change the sentence constituency improperly for the fifth time without informing denomination to say that when a four-year sentence is me—this time it was the hon. Member for Epsom and given, it would mean two to four years. We could put Ewell (Chris Grayling). They are ignoring your injunctions. that into law. That may be sensible; indeed, that approach They are either incompetent or wilfully and arrogantly has been adopted for the indefinite sentence for public holding your authority in contempt, and they are insulting protection, where the tariff set is the minimum that has Castle Point people, who expect us in this House to act to be served. There is merit in that. However, it would with decency. not be sensible to imply that we were going to double the prison population, because there are not the places. Mr. Speaker: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his point of order. The convention is clear, and I have reiterated it on innumerable occasions. The hon. Gentleman has made his point with his customary force. It is on the record and I dare say that the hon. Member for Epsom and Ewell (Chris Grayling) will have heard it. I think that I need add nothing more. I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman. Natascha Engel (North-East Derbyshire) (Lab): On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. If Members do not use up the 12-minute limit that you have imposed on speeches in the main debate or if fewer Members than anticipated speak, will that limit fall? Mr. Speaker: It is always a slightly tricky business to seek to get ahead of oneself and to deal with a question that, at this stage, is hypothetical. It is not for me to have views, as the hon. Lady knows, but perhaps I can just speculate that in the light of the number of people who have expressed an interest in contributing to the debate, the scenario that she outlines seems unlikely to materialise. I think that we will leave it at that for the time being. We will proceed to the main business. 37 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 38 Committee on Rebuilding the House Report from the House of Commons Mr. Speaker: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for Reform Committee on Rebuilding the raising this matter, although I am not sure that I am all together grateful to him for raising it when he did, as the House debate has already begun and, although the hon. Gentleman [Relevant documents: The First Report from the Committee is not technically out of order, it is a little discourteous on the Reform of the House of Commons, Session 2008-09, to raise a point of order when the Leader of the House on Rebuilding the House, HC 1117, and the uncorrected has already started her speech. I hope we will not see a transcript of oral evidence taken before the Committee on repetition of that, but let me address this matter as I 10 February 2010, HC 372-i.The First Report from the understand it. I understand that the hon. Gentleman Liaison Committee, Session 2009-10, on Rebuilding the did, indeed, seek to table an amendment to the motion House: Select Committee Issues, HC 272.] on the Order Paper, and what I say to him is that I think he will know from his extensive knowledge of procedure Mr. Speaker: As the House will be aware, I have that Standing Order No. 24B provides that when such a imposed a 12-minute limit on Back-Bench contributions. motion is tabled I hope that the House will also understand that that “in neutral terms, then no amendments may be tabled to it.” limit will apply after the contribution by the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). I call the Leader of I hope the hon. Gentleman will have an opportunity to the House. make his substantive point later in the debate. Meanwhile, however, I call the Leader of the House. 4.18 pm Ms Harman: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Leader of the House of Commons (Ms Harriet As I was saying, this is House business, not Government Harman): I beg to move, business, and when we come to vote on Thursday next That this House has considered the matter of the report from week, from our side it will be a free vote, not a whipped the House of Commons Reform Committee on rebuilding the vote. However, I want to set out to the House— House. This is going to be an important day in the history of Sir Alan Beith (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): Will the reform of this House. If, as I hope, we take forward the Leader of the House give way? reforms which we are debating today, this will be the most far-reaching package of reforms that has ever been agreed. We will debate the reforms today, and then we will Ms Harman: I think it might be helpful if I get on return to these issues next week, on 4 March, to vote. with delivering my short speech, because, at the end of the day, it is for all hon. Members not to ask me what I The House needs reform to give more power to Back think, but to work out for themselves what they think Benchers and to give the House more power over the about the motions on the Order Paper. I will therefore Government. And the House needs reform to help press on with my speech, and then the right hon. restore the its reputation, which has been battered by Gentleman will be able to work out for— the expenses revelations. This is House business; it is not Government business. Sir Alan Beith rose— When we come to vote on Thursday next week, it will be a free vote for Labour Members, not a whipped vote. Ms Harman: I will give way to the right hon. Gentleman, Sir Patrick Cormack (South Staffordshire) (Con): but I will not give way to any other Member. Will the Leader of the House spell out in a little more detail how she envisages our business on next Thursday Sir Alan Beith: I am very grateful to the Leader of the will be conducted? Will this be our sole business, followed House, as what I want to say relates precisely to the by a vote, or will there be topical debates and other point she has just raised. She said this would not be a business beforehand? I know that the right hon. and whipped vote. We have had votes before that were said learned Lady will agree that not only must there be a not to be whipped votes, but at which people bearing a free vote, but as many Members as possible should vote, striking resemblance to Government Whips were visible and it would therefore be extremely helpful if we were outside the Lobby giving general directions to Government to have as much notice about this as possible. party Members as to where they would like them to go. Will that happen on this occasion? Ms Harman: If the hon. Gentleman will allow me, I can get on with explaining how I want to take this Ms Harman: This is not going to be a whipped vote; business forward, and I hope I will be able to answer it will be a free vote. If people want to accept advice most questions before they are asked. from dear friends and colleagues of any political party, they can do so, but the serious point here is that this will Mr. William Cash (Stone) (Con): On a point of order, not be a whipped vote. I should also point out that in Mr. Speaker. I gave you advance notice of a matter some of the votes to which the right hon. Gentleman relating to Standing Order No. 24B that causes me a has referred, he will have seen that different members of good deal of concern. I tried to table a manuscript the Government went into a different Lobby and, indeed, amendment because it seems to me that we must be able different members of the Whips Office went into a to ensure that an amendment can be put to this motion different Lobby, so the fact that there might be lively in order to guarantee that the Standing Orders are not debate at the entrance to the Lobby does not mean simply with the Executive, but revert to the Speaker votes are not free votes. I want it to be absolutely clear himself. I would be grateful if you would take that point that, from our side, this will be a free vote, not a on board, Mr. Speaker, because it lies at the heart of the whipped vote, and there is nothing mysterious about debate we are about to engage in. that. 39 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 40 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Ms Harman] the UK Youth Parliament to meet in this Chamber. I hope we can build on that by letting other organisations, I want to set out to the House my views, in particular for example, the pensioners annual convention, to meet on the four key recommendations of the House of in our Chamber when we are not sitting. Commons Reform Committee. Before the general election, I want us to have done the following: to have approved Mr. Andrew Tyrie (Chichester) (Con) rose— and put in place plans to elect Chairs of Select Committees by secret ballot and to elect members of Select Committees Ms Harman: No, I am not going to give way. by each party in the House by a secret ballot; to have provided for Members’ motions, where Members can Improvements have been made to the way in which table a debate on a motion that the House will vote on; the House works, for example, we now have an earlier and to have established a Committee of the House to start and an earlier finish on two days of the week—we decide on Back-Bench business. Those are the four key could still make more progress on this, and perhaps we recommendations of the House of Commons Reform will when the new Members arrive after the next election. Committee that I would like the House to take through. We also now have an Order Paper that Members can These measures will mark a major step forward in the understand and, thanks in large part to you, Mr. Speaker, process of reform that has been under way over the past we will at long last have a nursery for the children of years, and which was given new impetus by the Prime Members and of House staff. Minister in his statement of 3 July 2007, when he said: “All Members of this House and all the people of this country Mr. Tyrie rose— have a shared interest in building trust in our democracy, and it is my hope that, by working together for change in a spirit that takes us beyond parties and beyond partisanship, we can agree a new Ms Harman: I am not going to give way to the hon. British constitutional settlement that entrusts more power to Gentleman. He really does not need to ask me any Parliament and the British people.”—[Official Report, 3 July 2007; questions, because he can read the Order Paper, he can Vol. 462, c. 815.] make his own speech and he can make up his own mind. This process of reform has— I am sure that he has the answer to his own question. So we are not starting from scratch. The proposals (North-West Durham) (Lab): I am that the House will consider today and next week are sorry to interrupt, because I know that my right hon. not the beginning of reform, nor will they be the end of and learned Friend wishes to be brief in order to allow it. However, they are substantial reforms, and I should hon. Members to contribute. I believe that underlying like warmly to thank my hon. Friend the Member for much of the report without being mentioned—I have Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright) for making the suggestion said this to the Committee—is the slippery slope to the of setting up this Committee and for accepting the separation of powers. Will she reaffirm that she and Prime Minister’s invitation that he should chair it. I others in the Government do not want to see the should also like to thank the members of the Committee Executive removed from this House and do not want to for working hard in a short space of time. see the future of this House put in the hands of personalities I know that many Members are waiting to speak, so I who do not have the loyalty to values that they told will not speak at great length today. In addition, this is their electorate they came in to share? House business, so it is important for all Members from all parts of the House to have their say. Members will Ms Harman: I do not think that the proposals from have had the chance to see my written ministerial statement the Committee, which I am supporting, are the slippery of 9 February and some will have had the opportunity slope to the separation of powers; what they are is an to hear the evidence that I gave to the House of Commons opportunity for this House to hold the Government Reform Committee on 10 February, and I have had the more to account and to help in the work of this House. opportunity on successive Thursdays at business questions Indeed, that process of reform has brought major to set out my views. The Deputy Leader of the House changes over the past 13 years, including improvements and I will listen carefully to the debate, but at the end of in the process of legislation. Such improvements have the day—or at least at the end of 4 March—this is a included: Bills being published in draft, thus enabling matter for the House, not the Government, and it is for pre-legislative scrutiny; Bill Committees taking evidence the House itself to decide. The Government are facilitators in public sessions before they deliberate on a Bill; and here, not deciders. Because we want to see further the establishment of a new system of post-legislative reform of the House, we have taken this forward by scrutiny, so that we check on the impact of legislation doing the following: bringing the motion to the House that the House has passed. to set up the House of Commons Reform Committee— The changes have involved more power for Back that was a Government initiative—tabling motions on Benchers, through their being able to ask a Minister 5 February, again that was a Government initiative; questions without giving notice; through the election of tabling this debate today; and providing for the votes the Speaker by secret ballot; through the Liaison Committee next week. of Select Committee Chairs questioning the Prime Minister I want to say a few words about the process that I twice a year; and through the strengthening of Select have set out for making progress. The Committee reported Committees by increasing research resources and by at the end of November last year. We then identified paying Select Committee Chairs. 21 proposals that could be turned into motions and we Progress has been made on getting greater public have accordingly tabled 16 motions to give effect to involvement in and understanding of this House. That those 21 proposals. We tabled those motions 17 days has come about through a big improvement in our before this debate to give plenty of time for hon. Members education and information programmes, and by allowing to consider them and to table and support amendments. 41 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 42 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House I have told the House that, in particular, we want to Ms Harman: I can give the hon. Gentleman an assurance see the four “big ticket” items taken forward. There are, on that. I was planning to deal with it later, so I shall therefore, on the Order Paper motions that would, if carry on and, I hope, he and all other hon. Members passed, mandate further work or give effect to those will be reassured. four big ticket items by making the changes to Standing Any motions objected to will be tabled as substantive Orders and other changes that are required. I thought amendable motions for a short debate on 4 March and that it was important to have those motions on the we will then vote on those motions and any amendments Order Paper today for three reasons. First, they constitute selected by the Speaker. Amendments have already been the Government’s response to the Reform of the House tabled—in particular an amendment in the name of of Commons Committee’s report. Secondly, they frame my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase and the debate today. Thirdly, when we conclude the debate 129 other hon. Members—to enable the House business tonight we have the opportunity for at least some of the committee to deal with Government business as well as motions—if everyone agrees to them—to go through non-Government business. As I said when I gave evidence on the nod. By leaving the substantive votes to next to the Reform of the House of Commons Committee week, I have spared the House the prospect of starting on 10 February, I think that the best way forward is to what might turn into a series of 20 or more votes at set up a House committee for non-Government business. 10 o’clock tonight. The next step—a committee to set Government business— should be proceeded with subsequently and in the light Mr. Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): What is of the experience of the non-Government business wrong with that? committee. The Committee itself recognises, in paragraph 16 of Ms Harman: I do not think that it is in the interest of its report, that the proposals the House for us to be voting until 5 o’clock in the morning on these proposals. The hon. Gentleman should “will inevitably need implementation in stages”, be reassured that any motions that are not agreed to and that some tonight will be tabled as substantive motions for debate “can only come into effect in a new Parliament”. and vote on 4 March, and there will be a series of votes It also recognises the importance of building on experience on those motions and on the amendments to them. We of the changes. will have a full day’s debate today. Any motions that are not objected to will become resolutions of the House. The amendment to our motion setting up a House committee for non-Government business would approve the establishment of a House business committee for Sir George Young (North-West Hampshire) (Con): Government business What about the resolutions that the right hon. and learned Lady has not tabled today to implement some “during the course of the next Parliament”, of the Committee’s recommendations? Will they be and when it comes to the vote, I will vote for it. The tabled on 4 March? hon. Member for Somerton and Frome (Mr. Heath) is concerned that there should be an opportunity to vote Ms Harman: If the right hon. Gentleman wants to on something that the Government are not putting outline in his speech the recommendation that he feels forward—that the House business committee should be should be the subject of a motion, we can consider it able to put forward the agenda for the House in relation and bring it to the House in a substantive motion. We to Government business as well as non-Government have plenty of time to do that. If it is suitable, it could business. As that is not one of the four main items that be tabled by way of an amendment. We have tabled we are recommending to the House—[HON.MEMBERS: these motions to say what the Government’s position “Ah!”] Will hon. Members bear with me? We are trying is—I think that it is fair enough that we should be able to make our position clear. As that is not one of the to set out our position—but there is nothing about this four big ticket items that we want to see taken forward, procedure that prevents other hon. Members from bringing we are not tabling it as a resolution, but we have seen issues that arise from the Wright report to the House for the amendment and we assume that it will be selected as a vote. Hon. Members should be reassured about that. an amendment and can therefore be voted on. If it is They will be able to vote on everything on which they selected, I will vote on it—[HON.MEMBERS: “For it?”] I want to vote that arises from the Committee’s report will vote for it, yes. What did I say? [HON.MEMBERS: not tonight but on Thursday week. “On it.”] I will vote for it. I want to reassure the hon. Member for Somerton and Frome and other hon. Members Mr. David Heath (Somerton and Frome) (LD): I that I understand full well that if 130 Members ask for a wonder whether the right hon. and learned Lady can particular proposal from the Wright Committee report help us on this point. She will know that the major to be voted on, the House needs to be able to vote on it. omission in the motions that she has tabled comes in I will make sure that the House can vote on it one way motion 9, which concerns the Back-Bench business or another. If Mr. Speaker decides, at his discretion, to committee. She will know that an amendment has been select it as an amendment, it will come to the House, tabled by myself and a great number of other colleagues and if he does not select it, a substantive motion will be from around the House to establish a House business tabled to ensure that it can be voted on. I will vote for it, committee. May I be clear about whether she supports but that does not mean that it is one of the four big that amendment and, if she accepts it, how we can things that the Government are urging the House to do. make that happen under the procedure that she has All of this might appear to some people to be nothing adopted? The only way that we can debate and vote on more than procedure and technicalities, but I believe that amendment is if we object to the first part of the that it is important. The relationship between the motion, which many of us would not wish to do. Government and the House of Commons is important. 43 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 44 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Dr. Evan Harris (Oxford, West and Abingdon) (LD): 4.40 pm I am grateful to hear that the Minister will support the amendment—or words to the same effect—of Sir George Young (North-West Hampshire) (Con): I which I am one of the sponsors, but would it not be respond to that challenge from the Leader of the House sensible and less confusing if she were to table in her by saying that they do not come much more consensual name, as a Minister, the wording on which all the than the shadow Leader of the House of Commons. We sponsors agree? If she did that, we would not have are grateful for this opportunity finally to debate these to rely on it being selected as an amendment to important reforms, although, of course, we will not be something that might otherwise not be on Thursday’s able to vote on them today. I agree with her that the Order Paper if it is not objected to tonight. Would not it report represents a chance for the House to change, and be clearer if she co-operated with the process, made it it is chance that we should seize. clear that she supports the measure and joined others in We all acknowledge that the past year has been a proposing it? disastrous one for Parliament, and I believe that there are two ingredients if we are to rebuild public confidence in this institution. Putting right the expenses scandal is Ms Harman: I do not think that things need to be one half, which has occupied much of our time. The unclear. I have said that I will make sure that the issue other half is enabling Parliament to do its job better. A comes to be voted on by the House—the issue being Parliament untainted by sleaze would be a step forward, that there should be a House committee that will decide but it needs to be accompanied by reforms that enable Government business. When we come to vote on that us to hold the Government to account more effectively issue, all hon. Members will be able to decide for and, indeed, to represent our constituents more effectively. themselves, on a free vote, how to vote, and they should not find it confusing because it will be there on the These opportunities come relatively infrequently, and Order Paper. We have not put the wording in a substantive we muffed the last one in 2002, when the Cook reforms motion because the motions that we have tabled are to Select Committees were voted down. We can show those that we support and urge the House to support. the public today that we can be constructive and Other hon. Members have proposed that the House collaborative, not just confrontational and relentlessly committee should deal with Government business as partisan. In that spirit, I congratulate the cross-party well as non-Government business, and I, as a Member Committee on Reform of the House of Commons on a of the House on a free vote, have said that I will support landmark report that was produced in record time. that amendment. Hon. Members should be reassured that, whether or not the issue comes to the House by Hilary Armstrong: Does the right hon. Gentleman way of an amendment to a substantive motion, if it recognise that there are some problems with the Committee? looks as though it might not be selected or that we It was elected by the different parties in the House, but might not get to vote on it, on 4 March, I will arrange, because there had not been proper discussions beforehand, as Leader of the House, for it to be voted on. I do not it ended up being fairly unrepresentative. [Interruption.] know how many times I must say that to make it A Committee of 19, with only two women and no one absolutely clear. I recognise that there is a climate of from Scotland in the House is simply not acceptable any suspicion. [Interruption.] There need not be a climate more. If the House is to proceed with the recommendations, of suspicion—this is perfectly clear and straightforward— there must be ways to ensure that what he says is and it would be helpful to the House to realise what the important—decent representation—is reflected in how Government are urging on the House and what other we do these things. colleagues are urging on the House, and we can support their proposals or not, depending on the view that Sir George Young: I am afraid that I fundamentally we take. disagree. The best way to get a representative sample on A lot of people outside the House might think that a Committee is to have an election. After all, that is how this is very procedural and technical—I should think we all got here. that they would be encouraged in that thought by the I was congratulating the cross-party Committee on last discussion that we have just had—but it is important its report. In June last year, I welcomed the fact that because of the relationship between the Government the energies of the hon. Member for Cannock Chase and the House of Commons, and it is important to the (Dr. Wright) would be applied to this subject; he is an House of Commons and to our democracy. It is important experienced Chairman of Select Committees and that for public trust that a Government can implement the experience underpins much of the report. I had the manifesto on which they were elected. There is keen pleasure to serve, briefly, on his Committee until I was public concern about Governments keeping their election persuaded to go elsewhere; had I remained on it, I am promises. Although few, if any, of us have met someone sure that I would have signed the report. I have a on the doorstep who raises the matter of House of background of work on Democracy Task Force that Commons procedures, people want an effective House has indicated my interest in and appetite for reform. On of Commons, which scrutinises legislation and properly behalf of all my colleagues on the Opposition Benches, holds the Government to account. I pay tribute to the Committee. This is House business, and we should work together The Leader of the House is always keen to point out on it. I look forward to hearing the shadow Leader of that there has been a continual process of what the the House, and I hope that we can debate this in the Government like to call “modernisation” since 1997. I spirit of House business. This is important for Back recognise that there have indeed been some real Benchers and Front Benchers and for hon. Members on improvements to the working practices of the House. both sides of the House. I hope that, together, we can Westminster Hall has been a success. Public Bill Committees take through these major reforms. have benefited from formal evidence sessions. Our sitting 45 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 46 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House hours are less extraordinary and more amenable to What it has got today, three months later, is a debate at family life. No one wants to return to all-night sittings. the end of which, as we have heard, one shout can block The Prime Minister’s appearance before the Liaison a recommendation. Also, only the recommendations of Committee is another welcome innovation. which the Government approve are on the Order Paper. Parliament may have needed modernising, but it certainly That contradicts the astonishing claim made by the needed strengthening, and some of the measures that right hon. and learned Lady in an interview yesterday modernised it also weakened it, such as the automatic with the BBC that the Government have been “on the guillotining of Bills. The reduced sitting hours were front foot”. In fact, the Government have been always accompanied by an increase in legislation which we one step behind. They tried to restrict the terms of have been unable to digest. One source of the problems reference to exclude Government business. That is what that we seek to address today was the creation of the they did at the beginning, then they backed down. They Modernisation Committee, chaired not, as would be stalled on having a debate. They originally wanted to appropriate, by a senior Back Bencher, but by a Cabinet avoid bringing back to the House any proposals that Minister—an arrangement that my party is committed were objected to, but that is now going to happen. to ending. Ten days ago, the Government said that they did not The Government said that that would allow Parliament think the time was right to have a House business to own the process, but it has not. It ensured that the committee, but yesterday, in a welcome but rather blatant Government dictated the pace of change. When it suited about-turn, the right hon. and learned Lady said that the Government, the reforms happened, and when it she would vote for the amendment that would see a did not, they did not. The report says as much in House business committee established in the next paragraph 4. Parliament. Far from leading from the front, she has The right hon. and learned Lady spoke a great deal rather been dragging her feet. Like the Duke of Plaza-Toro, about consensus, but where was the consensus on regional she has been leading her regiment from behind. Select Committees when she used her casting vote to force the report before the House? Nor was there consensus when it reached the House with 254 in favour and 224 Mr. Cash: Following his comprehensive indictment against. When the Government want reform, as they of the Government’s attitude, does my right hon. Friend did a fortnight ago when they wanted voting reform, we agree that serious consideration should be given to got a debate, we got amendments and we got votes. But whether the Executive should control the Standing Orders? when they are less than keen, as is the case today, we do Will he go further and suggest that we should return to not get that. We get a “take note” debate, and a single the practice when Parliament was really vibrant, as a shout of “Object!” obstructs progress. former Clerk of the House clearly indicated in a recent article, and that the Speaker, not the Executive, should have control over the Standing Orders? Natascha Engel (North-East Derbyshire) (Lab): Would the right hon. Gentleman like to see votes today or on 4 March? He objects to the fact that a Member can Sir George Young: I shall shelter behind Mr. Speaker’s shout “Object!” and the debate and the votes are thereby ruling at the beginning of the debate. deferred until another time, but I get the impression that most hon. Members want the so-called reforms to The proposals before us give the House much more go through on the nod. I do not understand. power than it has, and we should rally behind them and try to get them up and running. I should welcome the chance to embark on the broader debate about where Sir George Young: In all the previous debates in control of Standing Orders should lie, but that is separate which I have taken part, we have had a debate and then from the debate before us. Nevertheless, I am glad that we have voted on a series of propositions, with amendments. the right hon. and learned Lady now backs the stance That is how, in the past, the House has dealt with that we publicly took before the Wright report was reform. It is a perfectly acceptable way of doing that published, namely that the Government should relinquish and one that the House is used to. What is being their grip on the agenda of the House. proposed today is unusual. This is an unorthodox way of dealing with reform, and I happen to prefer the way that we have dealt with it so far. Mr. Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): I hope that the On the report, it was encouraging that the Prime right hon. Gentleman will spend some time on that Minister agreed to the proposition from the hon. Member issue, because my right hon. and learned Friend’s statement for Cannock Chase and, in doing so, appeared to today was the most significant one that we could expect. understand that, as the report says, She did not say whether the Government would vote for “the Modernisation Committee has run out of steam”, the proposition, but she did say that she would. Do not we as a House have to reassure Governments that they but despite the Prime Minister’s assurances in his statement have a right to get through mandated business if the that this would be an “urgent” process, it was a full electorate are to hold them to account? This House seven weeks later, and just one day before the summer might determine the timetable by which Governments recess, before the Committee was formally set up. get it through, but for unmandated business, which is Lethargy also seemed to settle on the Government not in election manifestos, there will be much more of a once the report was published on 24 November. The struggle between the new business committee and the Committee made it clear in paragraph 15 that it expected Government. My right hon. and learned Friend made adebate an important point when she stressed that the issue is “within the next two months when a House majority can freely not just about how we govern our affairs, but about how determine the outcome.” Governments are held to account by the electorate. 47 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 48 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Sir George Young: I also drew a distinction between Ultimately, the process that we have been through in the propositions that the Government support, which the past few weeks has made the case even more effectively are the motions before us today, and the proposition than the report for the Executive to relinquish their grip that the right hon. and learned Lady will personally on the business of Parliament. I cannot put it better back, namely the proposal for a business committee. I than the hon. Member for Reading, West (Martin Salter), deduced from the way in which she gave her commitment who said with characteristic panache: that other members of the Government may not share “The power of these shadowy forces at work behind the scenes that commitment in the same way that they share the demonstrates more clearly than ever why the Wright Committee commitment to the other motions before us. recommendations need to be implemented in full, and that the clammy fingers of the whips and Government business managers On the point that the right hon. Gentleman raises, are prised once and for all off matters that are for Parliament I think that any Government should take some comfort rather than for party”. from paragraph 29, which states: “We should recognise that the Government is entitled to a Hilary Armstrong rose— guarantee of having its own business, and in particular Ministerial legislation, considered at a time of its own choosing, and concluded Hon. Members: Grubby hands! by a set date.” That guarantee on the mandate in the manifesto gives Hilary Armstrong: I do not have bloody hands. I have the Government—any Government—the comfort that never believed in doing things in any way other than they need, and once paragraph 29 is set in statute they straightforwardly and openly. can afford to be more relaxed about the rest of the business of the House. Is the right hon. Gentleman confident that his suggestions will not mean that instead of people talking and coming to agreements in this House, the media will have campaigns Bob Spink (Castle Point) (Ind): Will the right hon. as to who they want to be Chair of this Committee or Gentleman give way? that Committee, and that we will get the grandstanders rather than the workhorses? In any democracy, one Sir George Young: I hope that the hon. Gentleman needs a balance, as he well knows. will excuse me if I move on. The right hon. and learned Lady asked me what I Sir George Young: The right hon. Lady devalues the thought we should do on 4 March. I think that the judgments of those who share the Labour Benches with Government should table all the resolutions of the her. The notion that when they vote in a secret ballot for Wright Committee and let the House come to a judgment members of a Select Committee they will be unduly on them, rather than picking, choosing and tabling only influenced by the media is strictly for the birds. They those that they prefer. That would be in the spirit of the will vote for the people they think will do the best job establishment of the Wright Committee and the respectful on that particular Committee— way to proceed with the report. Martin Salter (Reading, West) (Lab) rose— The right hon. and learned Lady referred to the big ticket items, but there are some important little ticket Sir George Young: Such as the hon. Member for items, which the motions before us do not cover, such as Reading, West. giving the Opposition more flexibility on Opposition days. Will she look at some of the other recommendations and see whether they cannot be progressed? Martin Salter: I thank the shadow Leader of the House for reminding me of one of my better quotes. Let me point out to him that I was talking about Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield) (Con): On the shadowy forces on the Opposition Front Bench as well. little ticket items, does my right hon. Friend not accept I congratulate him on winning the battle in his shadow that, unfortunately, there is no motion to be voted on Cabinet to come off the fence on the Wright Committee relating to the way in which the House deals with proposals, because the dark forces are on both sides of amendments on Report and Lords amendments? Those this Chamber. stages are currently programmed, and important issues often cannot be debated at all because time runs out. Is Sir George Young: I reject unequivocally any implication it not inappropriate that programming be used on Report of dissent within the shadow Cabinet. The Chief Whip and for the remaining stages of a Bill, when that could and I are as brothers on this issue. be a Member’s only opportunity to contribute? Turning briefly to the substance of the Wright reforms, I can tell the House that the report has the broad Sir George Young: What a first-class intervention support of those on the Conservative Front Bench. The from my hon. Friend! His point is covered in an amendment, votes are, of course, free votes, but as a possible Executive- which he has signed, that specifically refers to ensuring in-waiting we have had to take a view on the proposal “more effective scrutiny of legislation at Report Stage and that the Executive should relinquish some of the powers consideration of Lords Amendments.” that they have, and we believe that they should. More broadly, however, none of that will happen unless We are already committed to the election of Select there is some self-discipline by any Government over Committee Chairmen and members—a long overdue not only the sheer volume of the legislation that they reform. I served on the Committee of Selection in 2001, put before the House, but its quality. Unless they get when the Government Whips proposed Select Committees that right, they will simply pre-empt House time and that excluded Donald Anderson and Gwyneth Dunwoody. squeeze out many other debates. I called a Division, and it was like something out of a 49 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 50 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Bateman cartoon—the man who called a Division in Sir George Young: There is a specific proposal, which the Committee of Selection. Had it not been for the I support, that Select Committee debates should take activities of the Government Whips, a system such as place on a substantive motion, but that would be separate the one before us would have been introduced eight from what I was just talking about, which was Select years ago under Robin Cook. They now have a second Committee Chairmen being able to present a report in chance to redeem themselves. prime time on the day it comes out. We have no problem with the Government’s motions, as far as they go. We are grateful for the amendments Mr. Chris Mullin (Sunderland, South) (Lab): Where that the Leader of the House has taken on board during do the Opposition stand on allowing the House, subject the past week in the light of suggestions that have been to the Prime Minister’s approval, to elect the chairman made. I welcome the call for the Liaison Committee to of the Intelligence and Security Committee? review the whole system of Select Committees, particularly to consider the competing demands on Members’ time. Sir George Young: I have no difficulty with the Having been the Chairman of a Select Committee, I recommendation of the Committee on Reform of the have long thought that the size of membership should House of Commons on that subject. be no more than 11 to allow for a more focused discussion Both I and the Leader of the Opposition have given and a more manageable meeting. I think that the six-week public commitments that the Government should relinquish time scale that is envisaged for establishing Select their grip on the timetable of the House. When the Committees at the beginning of a Parliament is rather Leader of the House gave evidence a fortnight ago, she unambitious, and I hope that it might be possible to accused me of not being in favour of a House business act faster. committee. That was particularly unfair as we had not Having strengthened the independence of Select had an opportunity to put our views in the public Committees, the next step should be to give them greater domain, and I hope that she now accepts that that is not access to the Chamber. That is touched on but not fully the case. developed in the report. My party’s proposal would be to give the Liaison Committee a quota of 12 statements Natascha Engel: There has been a lot of talk, including per year that it could draw on to enable a Select Committee by the right hon. Gentleman, about how the House to present its report to the House and answer questions business committee will open up business and make it on it. That would challenge the monopoly on statements more transparent. How exactly will it do that? Will it currently held by Ministers and give Select Committee not just add seven or nine Back Benchers to the general Chairmen access to the Chamber during prime time. I backroom dealings? would have liked that to happen in November, when the hon. Member for Cannock Chase presented his report. Sir George Young: The Committee’s proposition was We think that there should be a Back-Bench business that the business committee should meet and then put a committee. I hope that it might be up and running at proposition before the House, which the House could the beginning of the next Parliament, as suggested in agree to or amend if it did not like it. That would be a the motion; it would be a disappointment if that did not more transparent and collaborative process than the happen. I personally would like it to set the subject for one that we have at the moment, in which the business is the first topical debate in the next Parliament. We announced on a Thursday and we have to take it or should then progressively give the committee more influence, leave it. There is no opportunity to amend it or come up with the Government handing over to it the 15 days with a different version. currently allocated for set-piece debates such as those The Committee has talked of putting together the on defence and Public Accounts Committee reports, pieces of the jigsaw, and as its report states, the reforms referred to in paragraph 145 of the report. If it wanted, will it could have a different configuration of debates from the one that we have at the moment. It could then be “inevitably need implementation in stages.” given the days for general debates mentioned in I agree with that. No Government should be expected paragraph 146, totalling about 12 days, which might to put the whole jigsaw puzzle together on day one. lead to its being given a day or half a day a week for Indeed, the Committee has not asked for that. However, Back Benchers’ business. Once that system is up and I hope that what I have set out today will reassure the running, we should move in the lifetime of the next House that we are genuinely in favour of a more Parliament towards a more collaborative and transparent collaborative and transparent arrangement of business system of dealing with House business as a whole, as I than has existed until now. have made clear by signing the amendment on the Order Paper. Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): Will the right hon. Jeremy Corbyn (Islington, North) (Lab): May I take Gentleman give way? the right hon. Gentleman back slightly to his point about reports and statements from Select Committees? Sir George Young: I will make progress, if the hon. I agree about the need for statements and proper debate Lady does not mind, because a lot of people want to on reports on the Floor of the House, but when a Select speak. Committee comes up with an innovative proposal for I turn finally to the section of the report on public legislation or for a change that requires Government engagement, which is perhaps the least engaging part of support, the Government can simply acknowledge the it. I agree with the hon. Member for North-East Derbyshire report but do nothing about it. Does he recognise that (Natascha Engel) that we must start to reflect on the there is a need for Select Committees persistently to be wider of question of how to open up better lines of able to follow their own agenda and make proposals on communication between us and our constituents. My the Floor of the House? party has made proposals to introduce debates in Parliament 51 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 52 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Sir George Young] to be a reformer of the House—anybody could have put themselves forward for membership of the Committee. on public petitions and other citizens’ initiatives. We I had no idea what kind of Committee we were going to welcome the Government’s commitment to make progress get. That is what the electoral process does. on a number of the recommendations on outreach, and As I said, the Committee worked to a tight timetable, I welcome the House’s views on that. but the fact of election indicated future possibilities. We were not finally established until the day before the Bob Spink: Will the right hon. Gentleman give way summer recess and were committed to report by the end on that point? of the Session, which gave an urgency and intensity to our work. Sir George Young: No, I am in mid-peroration. [Interruption.] Bob Spink: I thank the hon. Gentleman for his report, Mr. Speaker: Order. I think the shadow Leader of the which I warmly welcome. Does he acknowledge that the House has made it clear that he is not giving way. proposed modernisations are a modest step, and that they should form a platform for much more ambitious Sir George Young: Today we have a chance to move change in future Parliaments? Does he accept that? our agenda on from the expenses scandal to making the House work more effectively. We must make an early Dr. Wright: Not only do I accept that, but the hon. start on cutting the democratic deficit and restoring Gentleman anticipates what I was going to say. confidence in our political system. A credible package We recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the of reforms must be in place by the time of a general modern Select Committee system. The Procedure election. Many of the reforms before us are long overdue, Committee that recommended that sat for more than but they are steps in the right direction. They will make two years, but we produced a report in less than two the House more responsive to topical events, more months. That would not have been possible without the relevant to national debate and better equipped to commitment of members of the Committee, which scrutinise Executive decisions and hold the Government made it particularly invigorating to chair—we had vigorous to account. My message to the House is simple: let’s get argument, but managed to achieve considerable agreement on with it. —nor without those who assisted us, and above all our formidable Clerk, David Natzler, without whom so 5.5 pm much could not have been achieved in such a short time. The House has many deficiencies, but in my experience Dr. Tony Wright (Cannock Chase) (Lab): Before I say the quality and dedication of its Clerks and Officers are something about the product of the Reform of the not among them. House of Commons Committee’s labours, I want to talk about the process. Much of the commentary on it I need not remind the House of the circumstances in has been negative, and we have heard some of the same which the Committee was established. It used to be said today. Many have pointed to the long delay in getting that political reform was a matter for constitutional the Committee established after its urgency was announced anoraks, which overlooks the fact that anoraks are by the Prime Minister, the even longer delay in finding precisely what are needed in a storm. Parliament has a way to enable the House to express a view on the been battered by the most ferocious and damaging Committee’s recommendations and to other delays and storm in its modern history. There is a massive enterprise difficulties as an illustration of some of the issues of restoration and reconstruction to undertake. Let no identified in the Committee’s report. However, I want to one think that once we have attended to the expenses say something positive about the process. issue, or had a general election, all will be well. As you said yourself, Mr. Speaker, in a speech in Oxford just a The fact that members of the Committee were elected couple of weeks ago: by their party colleagues, with the embarrassing exception of myself, gave its work an energy and authority, and “The challenge that faces the House of Commons is not simply indicated future possibilities. The fact that we were about rescuing its reputation but is about restoring its relevance.” working to a very tight timetable— Parliament’s reputation will be restored only if its relevance is re-established. A window on our world has been Hilary Armstrong: Will my hon. Friend give way? opened by what has happened, and it will not be closed again. Fundamental questions are now being asked Dr. Wright: I am working to a very tight timetable, about what the House does and what its Members do. If but how can I not give way to a former Chief Whip? anyone doubts that, they need only look at the consultation document on MPs’expenses issued by the new Independent Hilary Armstrong: As my hon. Friend knows, I want Parliamentary Standards Authority: reform but I do not agree with some of his proposals. “The time is right”, Does he agree that there was a problem with those it says, elections, certainly in the Labour party, because no one was given details of what people were proposing? We “for a discussion on the proper role of Member of Parliament, went into the ballot booth blind, and did not know how with a view to establishing a shared national understanding.” many people who supported the separation of powers Members should be warned that the issue is not going were going to end up on the Committee. to go away; but nor should it.

Dr. Wright: I am genuinely puzzled by what my right Natascha Engel: Why, then, did our Committee not hon. Friend is saying, not least because she did not put start with that proposition? Our Committee started herself forward for election. There was no requirement with the election of Chairs of Select Committees and 53 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 54 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House the establishment of a House business committee. It Thirdly, in relation to the public initiation of proceedings, never asked what was the point of Parliament, and what we concluded that representative democracy could be was the point of Members of Parliament. strengthened if the public had a more active role in our proceedings, hence our recommendation for an improved Dr. Wright: My hon. Friend—for whom, as she knows, petition system and for further work on public initiatives. I have great affection, whom I encouraged to be on our We also suggest a mechanism whereby Members can Committee, and who is a unique dissenter to be give their support to propositions which, if sufficiently cherished—anticipates my next point. endorsed, can trigger motions for debate and decision. Our terms of reference were deliberately more modest, Sir Robert Smith (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) although, I believe, not unconnected with this larger (LD): I welcome the recognition of petitions. The Procedure task. We were not invited to reform Parliament in a Committee did a lot of work bringing forward the more general sense, or to pronounce on the role of a e-petition system, which was never debated by this Member of Parliament. I am the first to recognise that House and, in a sense, that justifies the need for a there are important matters with which we have not business committee that could get things debated. What been able to deal, even given a generous interpretation would be the position of the Procedure Committee? As of the “closely connected matters” in our terms of I understand it, the hon. Gentleman’s Committee did reference. not think the Procedure Committee needed to be elected, because it is not a departmental Select Committee. Natascha Engel: Will my hon. Friend give way? Should not the Procedure Committee also be linked to the House in that way? Dr. Wright: No. I have given way to my hon. Friend once, and I want to continue my speech. Dr. Wright: In the time that we had available, we did not turn our mind to the composition of the Procedure Reform, however, is a process, not an event, and we Committee, although perhaps we should have done. On claim only to have made a start. The three matters that e-petitions, the fundamental argument—although there we were directed to examine—appointments to Select are arguments on both sides, not least that of cost—is Committees, the scheduling of business, and public that the House should have an opportunity to express a initiation of proceedings—had long been recognised as view. That is something that underpins our whole report. requiring attention, but they also raised fundamental issues about the role of Parliament to which we sought Hugh Bayley (City of York) (Lab): In my submission to apply consistent principles. to the Committee, I made the point about the need for For example, in relation to Select Committees, we more time on the Floor of the House and in Committee concluded that it could not be right for the House’s for private Members’ Bills. My hon. Friend’s proposal scrutiny Committees to continue to be chosen, directly to create a House business committee would presumably or indirectly, by those whom they were charged with provide a mechanism for addressing that issue. Is that scrutinising, hence our recommendation for election of the case? Chairs by the whole House and members by their parties. That would not only remove some of the problems Dr. Wright: My hon. Friend raises a fundamental that have caused difficulty in the past, but would—more aspect of our recommendations. The problem in the significantly, in my view—give a positive boost to the past was that many interesting proposals were made profile and authority of the Committees themselves. In about how we could do our business better, but the case anyone is worried that our proposal is too radical, House lacked an instrument or mechanism to bring any we remind the House in our report that in the 18th century of those into play, so we spend all our time asking members were elected to Select Committees by secret Governments to do things that the House should have a ballot, with Members placing their preferred names in capacity to do itself. It is clear that in relation to private large glasses on the table. Members’ Bills and other types of business, if we acquire In relation to the business of the House, we concluded the mechanism, we will then gain the benefits of using it that it could not be right for a sovereign Parliament to in these imaginative ways. have its business controlled so completely by the Executive, as enshrined in those stark words of Standing Order Sir Nicholas Winterton: To return to the point made No. 14. As we say in our report, that both demonises by the hon. Member for West Aberdeenshire and Governments and infantilises Members, hence our Kincardine (Sir Robert Smith), would it not be appropriate recommendation for a Back-Bench business committee for the Procedure Committee, which will absorb the to take responsibility for non-ministerial business, and Modernisation Committee, to be the voice of the House, for a House business committee to construct an agreed as it is chaired by an Opposition Member and could programme of business, ministerial and non-ministerial, drive forward future revolutionary and even radical to be put to the House for its approval. proposals for progress in how the House deals with the A Back-Bench business committee would not only public and its own business? reclaim for the House what had been lost and rightly belonged to it, but provide a mechanism enabling the Dr. Wright: I agree, and one of the misfortunes of House to introduce imaginative innovations to the way what has happened is that the Procedure Committee in which it organised non-ministerial business. Similarly, has lost its centrality in the working of the House. I a House business committee would want to ensure that want that to be restored, and I want the Committee to all legislation received proper scrutiny, which, as we all have guaranteed access to the House to bring forward know, is not the case at present. its propositions. 55 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 56 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Dr. Tony Wright] Dr. Wright: Oh go on, I cannot resist.

We make many other recommendations, from the Dr. Taylor: I thank the hon. Gentleman very much. size of Committees to the operation of Opposition May I draw his and other hon. Members’ attention to days, from sitting times to the Intelligence and Security recommendation 9, which covers exactly that point Committee, but the three areas that I have mentioned about allowing members of the smaller parties a chance are the main focus of our attention. Some hon. Members, to get on Select Committees? There is also another as we have heard, may wish to dissent from some of our crucial paragraph, which says: particular recommendations, but it would be disappointing “We believe there should be clear consequences for unreasonable —and troubling in terms of how Parliament is viewed—if absence from select committees.” there were to be dissent from the principles that underpin If hon. Members are on a Select Committee, should these recommendations. that not be almost their first priority and take precedence Another principle appears in bold throughout our over other events? report—and I am looking at my right hon. Friend the Member for North-West Durham (Hilary Armstrong) Dr. Wright: I am delighted that I decided to give way as I say this—and it is that an elected Government to the hon. Gentleman and genuinely pleased to have an should have the means to implement the programme on endorsement from that source. which they have been elected. Nobody reading our The issue of balance arises on every occasion that report could doubt that that was one of our fundamental parliamentary reform is contemplated or discussed. I principles. It is fundamental to democratic politics that have been reading my way through the two-day debate that should happen, and nothing in our report cuts in the House in February 1979 on the Procedure Committee across that, contrary to what some may believe. It is why report that proposed the Select Committees. The report ministerial business is protected, but it does not follow was introduced by the Conservative Member Sir David that effective scrutiny is therefore unnecessary or that Renton, who commended it to the House with these the House should not control its own business. As words: Robin Cook never used to tire of saying, good scrutiny makes for good government. The best batsmen really “For many years Governments of both main parties have enjoyed dominion over the House of Commons. That is not do need the best bowlers. That is a particular challenge merely because they have had a majority, large or tenuous, but in a system of unseparated powers, which I support, more because of their power, which has grown over the last whereby the Executive control the legislature and the 100 years or so, of controlling business, including controlling, in party battle dominates everything. effect, the amendment of Standing Orders. The recommendations However, that makes it even more necessary to meet in the report would help to restore the balance between the the challenge. That is what our report tries to do, in Government and the rest of the House in ways that would be advantageous to both. They would also be advantageous to the attempting to get the balance right between the Executive people who sent us here.”—[Official Report, 19 February 1979; and the legislature, between governing and scrutinising, Vol. 963, c. 55.] between party and Parliament, and between democratic I could use identical words today in presenting our politics as the exercise of power and democratic politics report. In that debate, almost the only voice of resistance as the control of the exercise of power. There has been to the Procedure Committee’s recommendations came an imbalance in those respects in the past, as is now from the then Leader of the House, Michael Foot, who widely acknowledged. Any reforms have to get the feared for the vitality of the Chamber. Now we fear for balance right now. the vitality of the whole House. Angus Robertson (Moray) (SNP): On the issue of balance, the Committee also concluded that it was Mr. Frank Field: Might my hon. Friend also underscore important to have voices from all parties in the House the movement that we have seen this afternoon from the fairly represented on Committees of the House. The current Leader of the House? Previously, all debates hon. Gentleman will be aware that parties from Scotland, were stalled by the traditionalists, who said that if we Wales and Northern Ireland are currently not represented had the power to control our own business, we would on a great many Committees of the House. How does wreck Government business. Today we have seen—not he believe that places for the smaller political parties in only from my hon. Friend but, importantly, from the the House can be guaranteed in the proposals that he Leader of the House—that a Government can envisage has made and in those that will come forward, when that the House should control the order of business, but Committees are being reduced in size? concede that, for those parts of a manifesto that are brought to the House, the Government have a right to Dr. Wright: I am sure that the hon. Gentleman realises get that mandated business through. There seems to be this, but if he reads our report, he will see that we say some opposition to that idea, but if we cannot do that, over and over that one reason why we are not being too it is impossible to hold the Government to account. rigid is precisely to give the flexibility that enables those good traditions of the House, as well as the under- Dr. Wright: I would go a little further and say that my representation of minority parties, to be recognised. If right hon. Friend is seeking to achieve what the late, he looks at the report, he will see that, in a sense, his great Robin Cook failed to achieve. For that to happen, argument is ours. however, the House will need to be in an altered state from the one it was in in 2002. Several hon. Members rose— I was talking about the debate on Select Committee Dr. Wright: I would like to make a little more progress. formation that took place in 1979. I want to say a further word about it. The most interesting contribution Dr. Richard Taylor (Wyre Forest) (Ind) rose— came from . I offer it—I am not sure why I 57 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 58 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House am looking at my right hon. Friend the Member for It has not been entirely straightforward to reach this North-West Durham again at this point—as reassurance point with our report, but I believe that we are now to those who think that we are seeking to redress the nearly there. It has been cheering to see the enthusiastic balance too far. Enoch Powell reminded hon. Members: support for our proposals, from both within and outside “The House comprises parties and, for most of the purposes of the House. It is clear that people have not given up on the House, its partisan character overrides its corporate character.” their Parliament, even if they have recently despaired of He went on to say: some of its Members. Even in this pre-election period when party disagreement is seemingly obligatory, it is “It is therefore courting disappointment to take the report and significant that all the party leaders have given their say ‘Here are proposals which, if we enact them, will redress the balance of power between Government and House of Commons support to this reform initiative. I pay particular tribute and will put us, the Back Benchers, in the envied positions of to the role of my right hon. and learned Friend the power and influence now occupied by those upon the Treasury Leader of the House and, indeed, to the shadow Leader Bench.’ If that is the notion on which we approach the proposals, of the House and to the constructive tension between we are in for a disappointment, but that does not justify our not them in a good cause. addressing ourselves on a lower plane of expectation to the major recommendations of the Committee.”—[Official Report, 20 February I say that we are “nearly there” for two reasons. The 1979; Vol. 963, c. 336.] first is that it is essential that the House has an opportunity There seems to be much political wisdom in those to vote on all the proposals in our report, not just those words, and I call them in aid of our proposals if that that meet the approval of Front Benchers. That is why I will enable some to support them on such a lower plane would have liked the House to be given an opportunity of expectation. to vote on the draft resolution proposed by the Committee, which could have been done on an amendable motion. In response to the charge that the report smiles on the This is not, however, a moment to be churlish. We still separation of powers, I must say that it does not. It have to nail down one or two matters, and we shall do does, however, smile on the proposition that good so in looking at the motions that will be before the government needs good accountability. It seeks to refute House next time, but we are nearly there. the proposition that is often put that, without a system of separated powers—as in our case—we will necessarily Secondly, and crucially, we are nearly there because have a weak Parliament. I do not believe that that is the this package of reforms is not for the Front Benchers to case, and I do not think that we should sign up to that accept or reject; it is for Members to decide on. They proposition. have to decide what kind of House they want and what they believe their own role in it is. When Robin Cook asked that question in 2002, Members opted—narrowly Mr. Andrew Pelling (Croydon, Central) (Ind): I hope but depressingly—for the status quo. After what has that this will be a helpful intervention. There has been a happened recently, I hope that enough Members will lot of discussion about manifesto government, but is conclude that the status quo is no longer an option. that not, in this new century, a rather weaker argument? This is not like the 1970s; Governments no longer come with a detailed manifesto in the same way they used to. Dr. Evan Harris: I pay tribute to the hon. Gentleman’s chairmanship and to his contribution today. I cast no aspersions on present or future members of what will be Dr. Wright: The hon. Gentleman makes a fascinating a Whip-appointed Back-Bench business committee, but point which would, if we let it, lead to a much longer given that motion 9 on the Order Paper, which delegates argument. I do not want it to do that, however. I have definitions to that procedure committee, would it not be great admiration for certain individual Members of wise to provide it with a little more guidance in requiring the House who do not sit for party, but it is a fact of that the Back-Bench business committee should be political life that political parties are the instruments for elected and that private Members’ Bills, for example, be organising political choice for the electorate. They are defined as parts of our business that will be covered by indispensible to the system, and nothing that our report it? That would be a wise thing to do, would it not? proposes seeks to depart from that proposition. I am sorry to have detained the House with a reminder of a similar moment in the past, but I hope that it will Dr. Wright: I pay tribute to the hon. Gentleman’s be helpful to us in the present. I note in passing, by the contribution to our work, which was, as ever, energetic way, that a decade earlier still—in 1965—a large number and important. On the particular point he makes, I of reform-minded Labour MPs who had been newly would say that my right hon. and learned Friend the elected in that reform Parliament of 1964, including the Leader of the House is at this moment being extraordinarily present Father of the House, tabled a Commons motion amenable to suggestions about how to improve the calling for comprehensive modernisation of the House motions, so I will continue in that spirit. of Commons. Among their demands was one for hostel Let me conclude. There was no parliamentary golden accommodation for Members. It has taken half a century age. When there was supposed to be one, in the middle and an expenses scandal to revive that one. of the 19th century, Gladstone was already writing about the “declining efficiency of Parliament”. Neither Mr. Alan Williams (Swansea, West) (Lab): Whatever was there a golden age in which politicians were loved. 45 years may say about my consistency, they are hardly It was in the 1960s that Henry Fairlie wrote: complimentary about my effectiveness. “Today, more than ever, the politician appears to be held in contempt”. Dr. Wright: It has been a great joy to work with my Members of Parliament work harder now; they are right hon. Friend over the years; he knows full well how more professional and we are much better supported in effective he is. our work. 59 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 60 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Dr. Tony Wright] Committee was set up and it did wonderfully expeditious work in bringing forward its proposals and reporting to When all that is properly said, however, we know that the House. What happened? Nothing. the House stands at a critical moment in its history. After we had asked week after week when we would Something has gone wrong—beyond the expenses issue— have the opportunity to debate the matter, we eventually and we have an obligation to put it right. Our constituencies got the extraordinary procedure before us. In another are cultivated as never before, but the vitality of the illustration of what is wrong with this process, we are House is diminished as never before. More is expected not allowed to debate the Committee’s recommendations of us than just cheering or jeering. Members of this in their totality; we are allowed to debate only what are House have a number of roles, but the fundamental described by the Leader of the House as big tickets. task of Parliament is to hold power to account. Our Issues with small tickets are apparently destined to proposals are designed to strengthen Parliament in that oblivion; those with big tickets, as defined by the Leader fundamental role. We call our report “Rebuilding the of the House, can be debated. House” because that is what is required and because this is the moment to do it. When I questioned the Prime Minister on the subject a few weeks ago, I suggested that the Government’s sense of urgency was such that they exhibited all the 5.34 pm dispatch of a particularly arthritic slug on the way to its Mr. David Heath (Somerton and Frome) (LD): May I own funeral. I might have added, “In a snowstorm.” A say what a pleasure it is to follow the hon. Member for number of pedants came up to me afterwards and said, Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). I thank him for the work “You can’t have an arthritic slug, because a slug is an that he did in chairing his Committee and I thank the invertebrate,” but I have to say that, given the progress other members of the Committee. of these proposals, the metaphor is all the more accurate. When the hon. Gentleman started his comments, I As has already been said, this issue ought not to be rather thought that he wanted to give the impression determined by those on the Front Benches. It should that the history of his Committee until this point was not be for the Leader of the House—or the shadow not an example of exactly the ills that he described, but Leader of the House, or me—to determine what will he proceeded to give us myriad examples of precisely happen. It should not be for anyone to dictate to the why Executive control over the procedure of the House House how we are to conduct our business. It should be holds up the proper scrutiny and proper initiation of for each and every Member of the House to take a view business. as to whether they believe that we conduct our business If we wanted a more up-to-date example, however, in an acceptable way—whether they believe that we we had only to listen to the comments of the Leader of fulfil the expectations of those who send us here to the House. I do not think that it was deliberate provocation, scrutinise legislation and to hold the Government to but she boasted that only the Government had tabled account. If Members think that they do fulfil those the motions to allow the debate to happen, apparently expectations, they will vote for the status quo. I have to oblivious of the fact that only the Government can say that I believe that the vast majority of people table them, because that is what Standing Orders say. If outside this House think that at present we do our job we want an illustration of what is wrong with Parliament, extraordinarily badly.Part of the reason for the opprobrium it is the fact that only one Member of Parliament is in that has been heaped upon the House in recent weeks is the position to table a motion for reform of the procedures that people do not understand why we allow this situation of the House. If she chooses not to table a motion, as to continue, and why we allow this House to be so she did for a while, there is absolutely nothing that any ineffective in doing its work. other Member of the House can do about it. It has been suggested by some that the proposals The Leader of the House went on to say that this is constitute an argument in favour of the separation of an historic day. I suppose that it is historic in that we powers, but in fact we currently have a separation of have a new carpet in the Chamber, which I admire, but I powers: we have a separation between this weak, ineffective, am less convinced that it is historic in terms of the useless House and the House at the other end of the reforms before us. I see these reforms as necessary, but corridor, which is unelected and has no mandate, but as a very small step in the right direction. Reform ought which has the time to scrutinise our legislation properly to be a tide coming in. At this point, we have perhaps and to amend it and make appropriate suggestions. reached high water in terms of Executive power, but it What sort of political arrangement is it that allows this will be high water only if Members of the House are House no power while allowing an unelected and prepared to accept their responsibilities and actually do unaccountable House all the power in the world to hold something in the Lobby over the next week or so. the Government to account? That cannot be right. Reform of the House is necessary and urgent, but the Government’s view is that that urgency has yet to be Hilary Armstrong: I really am a bit surprised by what demonstrated. The hon. Member for Cannock Chase the hon. Gentleman is saying. I want there to be effective was very polite about the numerous procedural barriers scrutiny, but he should include Committee sittings in that appear to have been put in the way. Let us remember this House in his calculation of the amount of time that the Prime Minister himself initiated this process. spent on scrutinising Bills here. I used to look at this Soon after he became Prime Minister, he said that matter regularly—although I have not done so in the wanted reform of the House. What happened? Nothing. past couple of years—and I know that people often Eventually, we had the proposal to set up the Wright include the time on the Floor in the other place and the Committee. What happened? Nothing. Eventually, at time on the Floor of this House, but the other place the last possible moment before the summer recess, the does not look at Bills in Committee. If the hon. Gentleman 61 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 62 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House were to add that time into his calculations, he would wanted to run out of time so that they had something to find that frequently the other place spends less time on complain about. Does he agree that it is important for Bills than this House. all Members on both sides of the House to use the time we have to maximum effect, rather than just to blame Mr. Heath: That completely ignores a couple of facts. the Government for providing a lack of time for scrutiny? One fact is that Report stage provides the opportunity for every Member of this House to represent the views Mr. Speaker: Order. May I gently say to the House of their constituents on a matter, and to bring forward that I understand its enthusiasm for these issues, but proposals for debate. Fact No. 2 is that the Government—in some of the interventions are becoming mini-speeches? their wisdom—often introduce large chunks of Bills I am sure that the House will take note of that. that are never seen by the Committee, as they appear only on Report, and often in a very unfinished state Mr. Heath: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. at that. I want a rational use of our time; I do not want to We fail to do our job, therefore, and I defy anyone to misuse or abuse it. I want the House to have enough accept the current position, under which, for instance, time to ensure that on important issues everybody’s large parts of the Constitutional Reform and Governance voice can be heard—that is not the case at the moment. Bill were not debated in this Chamber. Despite extra I want us not to spend all day and all night discussing time being given, large parts of a constitutional Bill Bills on which there is a consensus and have people were not debated on the Floor of the House. An education drafted in by the Whips to fill time uselessly, while other Bill will come before this House tomorrow. In Committee, Bills on which there are key issues of contention that only about 15 clauses of that 50-clause Bill were considered. matter to Back Benchers and Front Benchers go undebated. Nevertheless, that Bill’s remaining stages will be put A House business committee would use time rationally—at before us in a single day, and it will then be dispatched least I hope it would. There is certainly a greater chance to the other place, which will be expected to do the job of its doing so than the current arrangements. I support that we are elected to do. It is indefensible that we all the recommendations of the Wright Committee—I conduct our business in that way. have no power to induce other Members to support To those who argue that we must allow the House as them—in so far as they go. I acknowledge the limits of a whole, rather than the Executive, to determine how we the remit and I have some doubts about the way in conduct our business, and that all Members of the which they have been translated into motions before the governing party must have loyalty to the Government House this evening, but I support the proposals. There whom they support, I say that of course I expect loyalty is one exception, but I shall come to that in a moment. to the Government from Government Back Benchers. Of course I expect them to support legislation that is in Dr. Harris: The hon. Member for City of York (Hugh their party’s manifesto, and the Government to have the Bayley) made a very important point: even if we have time to introduce their legislation and to ensure that it enough time for scrutiny on Report, we cannot have it makes progress. That is not in question. However, I find monopolised in way that is not efficient, whereby speeches very difficult the logical somersaults required to support fill the amount of time available. The Wright Committee positions that change diametrically, through 180°, from was clear on that. Recommendation 33 proposes as a one year to the next, whereby one Bill repeals the work quid pro quo that time limits on speeches and interventions of another that was put before us the previous year, as I could apply on Report. am sure do many Government Back Benchers. We owe loyalty to our constituents, as well as to our parties, in Mr. Heath: You might need to consider a time limit considering Bills and deciding what position to take on on interventions in this debate, Mr. Speaker. However, them, and it is difficult to fulfil that within that constraints of course my hon. Friend is right; that point is key. of the arrangements as they are. My prime contention is that this House must have the I shall support what the Wright Committee has said time to scrutinise legislation and to hold the Government when it comes to the two-tier arrangement of a Back-Bench to account in an appropriate way, and that is not business Committee and a House business Committee, allowed for in the current arrangements. The reform of although I would prefer one Committee. I do not see the Report stage is key to securing that and we will the logic of having two other than as an inducement to obtain it only if this House is prepared to adopt a others to support the idea. However, if that is the case position other than supine acquiescence in whatever the and if a gradualist approach is necessary in order to Government of the day want and to say, “We will do avoid startling the horses, then so be it. The logic that our job as Members of Parliament and we insist that we most sensible parliamentary democracies adopt of having have the time necessary to do it properly.” a single committee on the business of the House is something that we should consider. Hugh Bayley: I am a passionate reformer. It seems to Let me draw my comments to a close. We have these me that the hon. Gentleman is posing the argument as if proposals before us this evening. It is open to a single put-upon Back Benchers are unable in any way to make Member to shout “Object” and the motions will then be a difference to Government policy and a wicked debated at a future time. If there is no objection, they Government—whichever party is in power—prevent will go through. That prompts the question of what will scrutiny from taking place. Like me, he has served on happen to the other recommendations that are not Public Bill Committees where hours of debate have before us, which have been arbitrarily removed from been used by Opposition Members in a way that did not consideration on the basis that they are not big tickets. focus on key issues and it has almost appeared—I have I do not know the answer to that—the Leader of the seen this when I have been an Opposition Member House might illuminate the House on that issue at a serving on such a Committee—as if the Opposition later stage. 63 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 64 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Heath] front of us, am I correct to say that the motions to which amendments have been tabled have effectively Another question is how we can engineer the vote already been objected to and that those motions are no that many of us want on the amendment on the House longer available to us and can be moved only on Thursday business committee in the name of the hon. Member for 4 March and not tonight? Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright), which is signed by many other colleagues, including myself. Of course, it would Mr. Speaker: The hon. Gentleman is correct in his not come into play if the motion on the Back-Bench interpretation of the situation. I do not think that there committee were agreed to tonight, unless the Leader of should be any basis for ambiguity or confusion. If there the House is prepared to table it as a new and separate is, other hon. Members will no doubt either raise points motion. I understand that she has said that she will do of order or sidle up to the Chair in the conventional that, which is great. If the Leader of the House supports manner. I hope that the position is very clear and fully that proposal—although the rest of the Government do understood. not appear to do so—that is good news and I welcome it. We have been told that there are four big tickets, and I think that that is the fifth. 5.55 pm Ms Harman: If Members are minded not to object to Martin Salter (Reading, West) (Lab): It was a great a House business committee for Back-Bench business pleasure to serve as a member of what is now known as but their only reason for objecting might be that they the Wright Committee under the excellent chairmanship want the subject to be carried forward to 4 March so of my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase that an amendment to it can be tabled and to secure a (Dr. Wright). I thought that he made a superb speech vote, I would tell them not to worry about that. My tonight and set out a powerful case for the modest assurance is that I will not jump round afterwards and package of reforms that the Committee put together in say, “See, it’s not there. There’s nothing to attach an the short space of time that was given to it. amendment to, so you don’t get to vote.” I hope that that position is absolutely clear. I put particular emphasis on the elected nature of the Wright Committee’s membership. I say to my right hon. Mr. Heath: It is clear—the procedure is not, but the Friend the Member for North-West Durham (Hilary intention is—and I accept it as that. I am grateful to the Armstrong) that when she did not vote for me as one of Leader of the House for that. Labour’s representatives on the— An important point has been raised about the fact that the proposals allow only the election of departmental Hilary Armstrong: That is not true—and I thought it Select Committees and not House Select Committees—in was a secret ballot. particular, the Procedure Committee, which will be key to all the rest. Such appointees could stymie the rest if Martin Salter: When anyone on the Labour Benches they choose to do so. I hope that whoever is appointed did not vote for me or for any other candidate, I hope will not do that, but it would be far more logical for the that they did so on the basis of careful consideration of Procedure Committee to be elected like all the rest. the reform credentials of all the candidates who put themselves forward for election. Once and for all, we Hilary Armstrong: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? need to nail this nonsense that somehow the election of Mr. Heath: I am just coming to a conclusion. the Wright Committee was fundamentally flawed. You cannot comb your hair in this House—you cannot utter The Members from the nationalist parties have all a single word without it appearing on the internet, in a gone home, which seems a shame as they had rather an speech, in Hansard, on a blog or somewhere else. There important point to make about the size of Committees is no excuse for anybody who voted for any member of and their representation on them. However, if they are the Wright Committee not knowing exactly where those not here I shall not bother to make their point for them. candidates stood on the issue of parliamentary reform. I close on this point: an awful lot of this debate comes I am delighted that the balance of force and opinion down to one single instrument, and that is Standing on that Committee was in favour of reformers. The Order 14. Standing Order 14 is the obstacle to this recommendations of the Wright Committee are testament House behaving like a responsible, sensible, modern to that. House of Commons. Like Cato the Censor of old, who said, “Carthago delenda est,” we need to say, “Standing The Prime Minister himself clearly supports the Wright Order 14 delenda est.” It has got to go. Until it goes, we report. I worried at times about that as there appeared will not be able to make the progress that I think the to be some ambiguity in some of the announcements House wants. We shall test that tonight and on 4 March, and pronouncements that were made, particularly on but I hope that the House realises that it has the procedure, which I shall come to in a moment. However, opportunity to make that first step to returning ownership the Prime Minister said of our recommendations in his of the House to the House. I hope that Members will speech to the Institute for Public Policy Research on not be deluded into thinking that they are acting at the 2 February: behest of the present or future Executive if they turn “These reforms will increase the ability and the legitimacy of down that opportunity. I think that their constituents Parliament to hold the Government to account—as I believe that will find it very difficult to understand. the proper role of Parliament is, indeed, to scrutinise the executive, it should be given all the necessary powers and tools to do so.” Mr. Bernard Jenkin (North Essex) (Con): On a point The guy at the top is in favour of this, and I hope that of order, Mr. Speaker. To clarify, lest the House might an awful lot of the people who work for him are in be proceeding in some ignorance about the procedure in favour of it. 65 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 66 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House I certainly know that the proposals have been welcomed Martin Salter: I assure you, Mr. Speaker, that this in the sensible realms of Her Majesty’s media. On was not scripted, but you will certainly be aware of the 24 November, Peter Riddell wrote in The Times: need for organisation in the House, and I assure you “We need our MPs to be not only honest but also effective in and the House that a level of organisation will be put in raising our concerns and scrutinising the Government. The former place to provide clarity and guidance to those who wish has obviously got the most attention with the expenses row. But to ensure that when they face the electorate on polling the latter is crucial if confidence in Parliament is to be revived. day, they will not be in danger of being cast as roadblocks That is why this morning’s report, ‘Rebuilding the House’ from a to reform. I hope that that will give some comfort to my special Commons reform committee, chaired by Tony Wright, hon. Friend the Member for Slough (Fiona Mactaggart). matters.” We had endorsements from the Financial Times and from , which stated: Hilary Armstrong: Will my hon. Friend give way? “Dr Wright’s committee focuses on three subjects that may seem like Westminster arcana but which, separately and together, Martin Salter: I will not because I have been very go to the heart of much that exasperates and angers the public generous in giving way, and I think that we have probably about the workings of parliament…A debate is promised, which heard enough. is good, but there is no guarantee of a vote, which is…bad. Ministers must get off the fence. They must give unambiguous In many ways, this debate could have been entitled support to the Wright committee report”— the “Robin Cook Memorial Debate”. For me, it was a and said that they must “Do it now.” We appear to have huge pleasure to work with Robin Cook on parliamentary unambiguous support for the recommendations as a reform. He was, in my view, the greatest leader that the result of the helpful statement from the Leader of the Labour party never had. That work went back to the House, who has agreed to facilitate a debate on all the disgraceful decision to try to exclude Gwyneth Dunwoody matters contained in the 50 recommendations made by and Donald Anderson from their chairmanships of the Committee. Select Committees by procedural wranglings, through to the internal processes that we adopted within the Mr. Greg Knight (East Yorkshire) (Con): The hon. parliamentary Labour party that stopped the Executive Gentleman has told the House that the reform proposals from handing out Select Committee chairs as booby have the support of the Prime Minister, but that might prizes to sacked Ministers. We had a ridiculous situation—it not be enough. Can he tell us whether they have the happened on both sides of the House—in which someone support of the Labour Chief Whip? would be removed from Government and, as a consolation prize, given a Select Committee chair and they would Martin Salter: It is unfortunate that the right hon. then scrutinise the decisions that they had made some Gentleman came late into the debate, because we had months previously. If there is one simple principle to an exchange earlier about the ambivalence shown by which we should all adhere, it is that we cannot have the Whips on both sides of the House, but it would be those who would be scrutinised selecting their own churlish to dwell on that. We are moving forward in a scrutineers, and we certainly cannot have Government consensual bubble and we should seek to capture the Ministers or former Government Ministers scrutinising mood. their own decisions in that way. I am glad that we have I strongly welcome the endorsement of the moved on from that. In many ways, the changes that we recommendations from the Hansard Society and from have introduced within the parliamentary Labour party, the six major organisations that have been involved with through our internal elections, are reflected in the Wright constitutional and parliamentary reform issues. The Committee’s recommendations, and I am delighted that letter and the communications that they have put out to other parties are moving on. Members of Parliament have been helpful and will be It is worth giving more air time to a couple of other useful in focusing people’s minds. issues. I think that the game is up for us, as Members of Parliament, in terms of the validity of many of our Fiona Mactaggart: As a Member who stood procedures. It is time for us to be honest with the public unsuccessfully for election to the Wright Committee, I and to say that early-day motions have become a con welcome the work of my hon. Friend and his colleagues. trick. They are political graffiti, and we sign too many He spoke about the consensual bubble that has existed of them. I am guilty of this; indeed, we all are. I sign too during this debate, but I am concerned that, with very many of them; in many circumstances, I sign them to few dissenting voices, the people who are attending the make people who write to me happy. I should be limited debate this evening are enthusiasts for the Wright on the number of early-day motions that I may sign—we Committee report— all should. Frankly, if we were allowed to sign only four or five a month, and if a debate on the Floor of the John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab): Not all of us. House were automatically triggered if 50, 60 or 70 per cent. of the House signed up to an early-day motion on Fiona Mactaggart: I accept that not all are, but a suitable cross-party basis, that would be a way in generally those who have spoken or intervened have which the public could meaningfully drive the agenda been enthusiasts. I am anxious that the consensual of this place. Of course, we have to do better with atmosphere will not sustain itself on Thursday 4 March, petitions. In many ways, the Scottish Parliament is and that we might see the same thing that we saw with showing the way forward on that issue. What an absurd the Cook reforms, when those who had been most treatment of a petition and of the thousands of people involved in the debate got overridden by organised who sign it to put it in a bag and forget about it. I votes at the end. My hon. Friend has a great tradition of cannot quite believe that we are having this debate in organising for progressive courses, so can he offer some the 21st century.These reforms should have been introduced words of comfort to the House on that matter? 200 years ago—but better late than never. 67 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 68 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Martin Salter] Let me tell the House that, from the experience that I have had here for nearly 39 years, it is not Parliament I conclude on a serious point. I am leaving this place that has undermined people’s confidence in the House in a few weeks’ time, but I want to say that this Parliament, of Commons; the political parties themselves have of all Parliaments, has been tainted not by the actions contributed to that, by seeking to take more and more of the majority of Members of Parliament who are, on control over what their members say in the House and, the whole, diligent, hard-working and tremendously perhaps even before then, to control the type of person committed to the people who they represent, but has whom they are prepared to admit into the House. That been let down by the actions of a minority.This Parliament is a crying shame. We need more independents. We need of all Parliaments needs to show that it is capable of more free thinkers—people who are prepared to stand reform, but reform is not 50 recommendations of the up, put their heads above the parapet and identify what Wright Committee, or resolutions tabled by Robin Cook they think and what they believe in—and they should or by Jopling; it is a continuous process, but it has not be frightened that that will jeopardise their careers. stalled—and for far too long. We now have an opportunity, despite the procedural wranglings, to get the reform Natascha Engel: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? agenda back on track and to reconnect this place with the people who sent us here. Sir Nicholas Winterton: I will give way first to the right hon. Member for North-West Durham (Hilary 6.6 pm Armstrong). Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield) (Con): I do not think that I have ever said this before, and I never Hilary Armstrong: The moment has passed now. thought that I would say it, but it is a pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Reading, West (Martin Salter). He Sir Nicholas Winterton: I am sorry. made a very powerful speech, in which he encapsulated what needs to be done by this place to recover the confidence of the people of this country. I believe that Natascha Engel: Does the hon. Gentleman not think the Committee on Reform of the House of Commons that our affiliation to political parties allows us to stand has, under the distinguished leadership of the hon. up for what we think? Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright), made a very good start on the reform of this place. As I come to the Sir Nicholas Winterton: I believe that political parties end of my parliamentary career, I would love to be able have a philosophy, within which there could be a very to say that I have helped to restore authority back with broad church. From time to time, people will not necessarily the House, over the Executive. I repeat that the hon. agree with the view expressed by their party or even Gentleman’s Committee has made a very good start. with a policy that it proposes. With due notice and Let me refer directly to you, Mr. Speaker, if I may. appropriate discussion, if they need to vote against that Standing Orders have been mentioned, and those who policy or the view expressed by their party, not to do so control Standing Orders control the House. It is time in the House undermines its whole credibility and their that that control was taken away from the Government role as Members of Parliament. and put under the authority of a Committee of this I pay to tribute to the vision and focus of the late House under your chairmanship. That would ensure Robin Cook. I had the pleasure to serve on the that they would represent the best interests of Back Modernisation Committee under his chairmanship when Benchers and not just those of the Executive. he was Leader of the House. He was an exceptional I hope that I will be forgiven for mentioning briefly person to work with. He knew where he wanted to go; my involvement with the Procedure Committee over we might not have agreed with him, but he listened to two Parliaments, and my time as the longest-serving us, and at the end of the day, we were perhaps persuaded member of the Modernisation Committee, which I am by the force of his argument. Of course, that leads me sad to say has not met for some 18 months. The Procedure on to the next issue that I want to raise: the election of Committee is now under the chairmanship of my right the Chairmen and members of departmental Select hon. Friend the Member for East Yorkshire (Mr. Knight), Committees by party groups. who is doing an excellent job. I meant what I said in an Robin Cook sought to propose to the House in 2002 intervention: the future driver of change and reform in a motion that would have led perhaps not quite to what this place should be the Procedure Committee, which we are debating now and the motions that we will vote should encapsulate the current responsibilities of the on perhaps later. He sought to break the logjam of the Modernisation Committee and should be under the dark side of the House—I refer to the Whips Office and chairmanship of a senior and experienced Opposition perhaps to my experience when I was unseated as the Member. To pick up the remarks of the hon. Member Chairman of the Health Committee because I did what for Somerton and Frome (Mr. Heath), we should seek I believed to be right. I believe that the Chairman of a to formalise the election or selection of people who sit Select Committee is there to guide that Committee to on that Committee, because it will be even more important reach conclusions and to make recommendations based to the House in future than it has been in the past. on the evidence, both oral and written, that is given to the Committee; he is not there to decide on the prejudice Hilary Armstrong: Will the hon. Gentleman give of its individual members. That was not necessarily way? received very well by my party. However, as one door closed, another opened, and as my right hon. Friend the Sir Nicholas Winterton: May I develop my argument Member for East Yorkshire knows, I was asked to chair a bit further, and then I will certainly give way? the Procedure Committee. If I were a Member and 69 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 70 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House there was an election to that Committee in the future, Let me now move on to what the right hon. Member I hope that the House, in its wisdom, would elect me to for North-West Durham just talked about: the Back-Bench do that job, which I very much enjoyed. business committee and the House business committee. I should like both of those committees to be established Hilary Armstrong: The hon. Gentleman allows me to and the Back-Bench business committee included in the return to the issue of the Procedure Committee and the House business committee, so that there is a Back-Bench House Committees. I notice that hon. Members are not input at all stages into how the House spends its time. I recommending that House Committees should be elected, very much support the case made by the hon. Member precisely because it is extremely difficult get full membership for Cannock Chase. I repeat that I believe that he has of them. The reality is that there had to be all sorts of done the House a great service in the constructive and cajolements to encourage people to become members of robust way in which he has described the proposal of many of those Committees. his Committee, which undertook its work in a very short time but produced an excellent report none the less. Mr. Graham Allen (Nottingham, North) (Lab): Because Let me perhaps finally move on to an intervention they were worthless. that I made about the programming of the remaining or Report stages of legislation in the House and the way in Hilary Armstrong: My hon. Friend may think that, which the House deals with Lords amendments. As the but had he been party to some of the conversations, he hon. Member for Somerton and Frome said in very would not have taken that view of how we were trying clear terms, tranches of amendments and new clauses to get people to serve on those Committees. It is very are tabled—sometimes by the Government, and often difficult to get Members to serve on those House by the Opposition in seeking properly to scrutinise Committees, and we must take that into account. Perhaps Government legislation and to improve it—for the they also want to have the chance to serve on Select remaining stages and pass to the House of Lords undebated Committees, and I suspect that the two will not happen. in this House. I am an avowed supporter of the other House in its Sir Nicholas Winterton: The right hon. Lady has current form. I believe that it does a uniquely good job made her point yet again and what she says has some in doing part of what we should be doing in this substance, but as someone who is committed to the House— scrutinising Government legislation—but this House, to being a Back Bencher and to trying to restore House very often leaves much of that scrutiny to the the authority and integrity of Back Benchers, I personally unelected, appointed House. Whether it has a democratic believe that there will always be sufficient people, so mandate I do not care one way or the other—we always long as we attract the right people into Parliament, to have the final say in this House—but because of its play their proper role as members of all the House expertise, it can do a wonderful job. Committees. I believe that it is wrong to programme the debates on Mr. Allen: Does the hon. Gentleman accept that, if amendments and new clauses in a Bill’s remaining stages Committees are worth while, Members are queuing up, because they have not been debated in the Public Bill knocking on the door to try to get on them? It is only Committee upstairs, as has been said by hon. Members when Committees, very often at the Government’s request, on both sides of the House. As my right hon. Friend the are not effective, are neutralised and have people put on Member for North-West Hampshire (Sir George Young) them who will not hold the Government to account—as, said, the remaining stages of a Bill—Report and even indeed, my right hon. Friend the Member for North-West Lords amendments—are the one occasion when a Member Durham (Hilary Armstrong) and I used to do in the of Parliament who was not on the Public Bill Committee Whips Office—that they are often not worth Members’ and was not called on Second Reading has an opportunity, time in attending. on behalf of his constituents, to raise matters that may be very important to them and to a particular constituency. I am surprised that although the issue was considered Sir Nicholas Winterton: I can do nothing but agree by the House of Commons Reform Committee, there is with the hon. Gentleman, who makes a sensible point. I no specific proposal to limit programming at the remaining believe that many hon. Members would like to serve on stages of a Bill and at consideration of Lords amendments. all the departmental Select Committees and certainly a majority of the House Committees as well, and I speak My right hon. Friend the shadow Leader of the House as someone who found tremendous challenge and great made the point, as have other speakers in the debate, enjoyment in chairing the Procedure Committee. that too much legislation comes before the House. We get constipated with the amount of legislation before On electing Committee Chairmen, my experience is us. I can only say to the Leader of the House and to the that the first time that the unpleasant arm of the dark hon. Member for Cannock Chase, who led the Committee side of the House was clearly brought to bear was way so well, that his proposals have my full support. As long back in 1992. I saw letters from the Whips Office to as they go through, I will feel that in my almost 39 years members of the Cabinet and other Ministers urging in this place, I have made a contribution to the improvement them to attend a debate that should have been decided of Parliament and to increasing the confidence that by Back Benchers. In fact, there was an unofficial Whip people have in it to do the job that they send us here and a particular execution of a Member took place on to do. that occasion, but I do not think that what my party carried out did it any good. By the time that the current Government sought to unseat Donald Anderson and 6.21 pm Gwyneth Dunwoody, the House was aware of what was Natascha Engel (North-East Derbyshire) (Lab): I likely to happen and reacted, and their attack on two welcome interventions from any hon. Member, and as very distinguished Members was unsuccessful. many as possible, to make up for the fact that I tried to 71 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 72 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Natascha Engel] Natascha Engel: The reason why I think it could damage the process is that the only time we have had an intervene so many times. Part of the reason I tried to election by secret ballot of the whole House was recently, intervene so many times is that although I am not alone when we elected the Speaker of the House. That is the in the way that I feel, I know I am a minority in the first and only time that we have done that. Rightly or House. I believe in reform, but I feel passionately that wrongly, many Members felt that we on the Government the proposals before us are not reform. Benches, as the ruling party with a Government majority, One of the big problems for me has been the narrow imposed on the other side of the House, the minority, focus of the Committee, looking chiefly at the role of somebody who was unpalatable to them. That, rightly Select Committees and the so-called democratisation of or wrongly, is what many on the Opposition Benches them. Introducing a Back-Bench business committee felt. and a House business committee are both technocratic changes that might be a move in the right direction, but Mr. Allen: Was it true? I think they are a step in the wrong direction. The danger is that we will thereby say to ourselves and to Natascha Engel: I do not know. If we duplicated that people outside that we have done reform—that we have process in the election of Select Committee Chairs, we responded to people outside who said they wanted could have a situation in which the party in government Parliament to change, and that having done that, we imposes on the party of opposition somebody who is will move on. unpalatable to them. Mr. Mullin: My hon. Friend circulated to members of the Committee her objections to what is proposed, and Martin Salter: If my hon. Friend refreshes her memory I respect those, but I have not yet heard her set out the of the report, she will see that we built into the reforms in which she is interested. Can she give us a recommendations provision for nominees to have a clue? sufficient proportion of support from both sides of the House. The problem that she identifies has been dealt Natascha Engel: I will deal briefly with those reforms, with in the recommendations of the Committee of but unfortunately we have a 12-minute time limit, and I which she was a member. want to set out my objections to the proposed reforms in order to explain my actions which may or may not Natascha Engel: I absolutely disagree with that. Simply take place later. because somebody has support does not make them an I have not heard today any reasons for saying that effective Chair. the proposals are proper reforms which will change fundamentally the way that we do things. What I have John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab): Does my hon. Friend heard is what we collectively do not like. In the Committee agree that there is a level of naiveté in this debate if we I heard that we do not like the Executive having so believe that a Government in power will not use every much power. Everybody agrees with that, but what we bit of influence they have to ensure that, for example, have not discussed is where we want to put the power the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, taken that we are taking away from the Executive. That is from the Opposition Benches, is the weakest and most what worries me. useless of the candidates available, rather than the strongest, The other issue for me has been Select Committee precisely to defend the Executive? Chairs. I was elected only in 2005 and I served briefly on a Select Committee. I think Select Committees are the Natascha Engel: One of the other issues tangentially one thing in the House that we do really well. Select raised by that point is the fact that whipped or unwhipped Committees enhance the House’s reputation outside, —the vote by secret ballot of the whole House cannot and they are one of the very few opportunities for the be whipped—Members will vote on party political lines. outside world properly to engage with what we do in the That is because we were sent here to represent not only House. When we talk about changing the way in which our constituents but our political parties. The vast Select Committees work, we must be careful not to majority of us were elected only because we stood for change it for the worse. those parties. That is something that the report When we say that any change is better than none, fundamentally moves away from and undermines. That which many Members said in response to the e-mail is my biggest worry. that I sent out, and that this is our only opportunity for The next biggest worry that I have about the report is some kind of change, which we call reform, I worry that the shift of power. I referred earlier to taking power there is a chance that that reform will be worse than away from the Executive, which in the report we call what we currently have. wresting control away from Ministers. I worry about where we put that power and that control. The same Martin Salter: Will my hon. Friend explain to me and applies to the Chairs of Select Committees. As I wrote to the House why electing the Chairs of Select Committees, in my e-mail, my concern is that we are shifting power which she says are one of the best things that we do away from one elite—in this case, the Executive—and here, would damage that process? handing it to another—a group of senior Back Benchers. The election both of Chairs of Select Committees and Natascha Engel: I am saying that it could damage of members of the business committee will favour longer- that process. serving Members. That does not make them worse; it just makes them longer serving, and it puts at a disadvantage Martin Salter: How? those Members who are newly elected. 73 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 74 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House In the next Parliament, there will be an unprecedented that they are, so I shall support them; she genuinely number of new Members. All of them will be disadvantaged does not. Does she agree, however, that all of us who when it comes to the election of Chairs of Select are passionate about the need for further reforms after Committees and the election of a House business the next election, if we are still Members, should work committee. together to ensure that this is not the end but the beginning of a process? Dr. Evan Harris: I do not think the hon. Lady is right to describe an elected Back-Bench business committee Natascha Engel: Absolutely. If this was the beginning as an elite. First, it will be elected. Secondly, if new Members and not the end of a process, I might feel differently. want new Members to serve on it, as I believe they These proposals, whether they are the recommendation should, they will vote for them. Most secret ballots and that the Committee presented at the back of its report transparent and democratic electoral systems will ensure or the Government motions before us, do not make that there is a range of membership of the Back-Bench much difference to me. They are still finite proposals, business committee, which will certainly be less elite stating, “We think there should be a Back-Bench business than having a Whips Office decide who should serve. committee, or a House business committee, or election by the whole House of Chairs, or election by the whole Natascha Engel: I completely disagree. Members will House or just by political parties of members of Select vote for people they know, not for people they do not Committees.” They are tiny, tinkering reforms. If they know, and there is a serious risk in that. The proposed were part of a much bigger picture of reform, I might process also absolutely favours people who have been spend some time thinking about them. It is not that Members for a long time—those who tend to be in safer they do not go far enough; they go nowhere at all, and seats. That in turn disadvantages people in marginal the danger of then saying, “We have done reform; that seats—a point that my hon. Friend the Member for is reform over and done with,” is so big that I shall vote Milton Keynes, South-West (Dr. Starkey) made when against the motions before us, because they stop reform we were on the Committee. in the first place. Interestingly, the Committee started its life as a Mr. Parmjit Dhanda (Gloucester) (Lab): My hon. constitutional reform Committee and very quickly changed Friend is certainly adding something to the debate, and its remit to that of a parliamentary reform Committee. I agree that it is important to move the pendulum of I should love to see it carry on. Many of its 18 or power away from this place towards the public. The 19 members were long-serving Members and experts on reforms before us are not perfect, but they are a step in constitutional and parliamentary reform. Many have the right direction, so does she not agree that the issue is books under their belts on parliamentary reform, and it about moving the pendulum at least to the 20th century, would have been helpful and much better to gather that before we reach the 21st? experience together. Many of the Committee’s members Natascha Engel: I absolutely agree. That brings me are standing down at the next election, and it would back to my main point and my intervention on my hon. have been helpful if we had started looking at the pros Friend the Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). and cons of the separation of powers and the role of When we were elected to the Committee, why did we political parties. Do we want to strengthen or weaken not start with the questions, “What do we think Parliament the role of political parties? Do we think that Parliament is for? And, therefore, what is the role of Members of supersedes the role of political parties or not? We Parliament?”? Those questions were not asked at any should look at the pros and cons of those issues in order point during the Committee’s deliberations. Many Members to take them into the next Parliament. said, “We all know what Members of Parliament are Dr. Harris: As a fellow non-expert member of the for. They are there to hold the Executive to account and Committee, and a fellow innocent, may I ask the hon. scrutinise legislation,” but there are so many other Lady what representations she made to her friends in things as well. The MPs’ expenses scandal has brought the Whips Office when the Committee’s terms of reference the issue to a head. It has been going on for years, and were being drafted in order to say that they were far too we have just pottered about, but with the scandal we narrow? What representations did she make—perhaps have the opportunity to do something about it and ask she did make them—saying that the Whips should have some fundamental questions. established the Committee much earlier so that we When the Scottish Parliament was set up, people might have had time to do something even more ambitious started with a blank sheet of paper, with founding than we did? principles and with the four key themes on which they really wanted to base their parliamentary system. Why Natascha Engel: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman did we not start with something like that? What are the for making that point, and perhaps my hon. Friend the key principles on which we want to build our Parliament? Member for Cannock Chase can help me with it. I We never discussed those questions, so whatever reforms understood that the terms of reference were drafted as a were proposed, they would not have had clear aims. result of a letter from my hon. Friend, which included Therefore, the reforms before us may be good, or they suggested terms of reference. I understood that my hon. may not be very good at all. Indeed, they may do some Friend proposed a Committee with those terms, including damage. the time limit.

Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): I agree with Dr. Tony Wright: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s the hon. Lady and share her frustration that the reform invitation to help. It is true that I suggested this was process has not been ambitious or wide-reaching enough, a good opportunity to take stock of Parliament and but I take a different view from her about whether the how we might change it. There then followed a process report’s reforms are a step in the right direction. I think of deliberation and consultation on the terms of reference— 75 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 76 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Mr. Deputy Speaker (Sir Michael Lord): Order. I am Sir John Stanley: If the hon. Lady will allow me, I am sorry, but time is up. The hon. Gentleman will not have going to make a little more progress. time to finish his intervention, nor will the hon. Lady I am fundamentally opposed to and in disagreement have time to respond. with one of the principles listed in the Committee’s report—principle 1(d), on page 83, which states: 6.36 pm “We should recognise that the Government is entitled to a Sir John Stanley (Tonbridge and Malling) (Con): I guarantee of having its own business, and in particular Ministerial shall focus on just one section of the Committee’s legislation, considered at a time of its own choosing, and concluded report—the section that is far and away the most important by a set date”. if we are to achieve rebuilding. It is about restoring the That principle applies to each and every piece of legislation, legislative authority of this House, which has been and I do not accept it. For me, the principle that is emasculated in three ways during the lifetime of this absolutely fundamental and all-important—sadly, it does Government. The Committee’s report partially addresses not feature in the Committee’s list—is the principle that one way, but on the other two it is, sadly, totally silent. I this House is entitled to a guarantee of adequate time shall address the three ways in turn. to consider each and every Bill that comes before it: to First, prior to 1997, successive Governments of all debate that Bill, to be able to amend it, and to vote on it. political persuasions followed a critical, unwritten The position prior to 1997 was based on a subtle and, convention on changing the procedures of this House. I believe, very successful balance. It did not prevent the The convention was that those changes were made only Government of the day from getting their legislation with all-party agreement. If anybody has any doubt through; if any Member in this House is in any doubt about that, or about the fact that the convention continued about that, the figures and statistics available in the late into the life of the previous Conservative Government, Library make it absolutely plain. The overwhelming the Jopling reforms are a case in point. Those reforms, majority of Government Bills, under Governments of which included, as the House will remember, ending all political persuasions, went through without a guillotine. Thursday sittings earlier than 10 pm, were introduced That is because of the balance that was struck by having only once all-party support was achieved. Until it was, a guillotine available but not using it except as a weapon they were held back. of last resort. That was a critical convention for the House. Sadly The balance worked like this: the Opposition parties and reprehensibly, it was torn up by the current knew perfectly well that if they filibustered, they would Government, who, unlike any previous Government of walk themselves into a guillotine motion; equally, on any political complexion, have chosen to use their majority the Government side, the Minister responsible for to set up their own Select Committee and use their the Bill knew that he or she would have to go to the majority on that Committee and on the Floor of the Dispatch Box to handle a debate to try to persuade the House to make fundamentally retrograde changes to House that the guillotine motion was justified, and if he our procedures and Standing Orders as far as legislative or she could not do it, they would, rightly, get a really scrutiny is concerned. rough ride from the House. That is how the balance I acknowledge that the House of Commons Reform worked, and it worked successfully; and that is why the Committee, in just one single, forlorn line—the first overwhelming majority of Bills went through without a sentence of paragraph 16—says: guillotine. I am not going to support what the Committee “The proposals which we make must only be implemented has proposed in this respect. I believe that the House with all-party agreement, and not imposed on the House by a would be well advised to go back to the pre-1997 Government majority.” situation. However, that recommendation relates only to the I come now to my third issue, which is of crucial Committee’s proposals. It does not address at any point importance but, sadly, is not referred to at any point by the crucial need to safeguard the future legislative authority the Committee and has not been mentioned so far in of this House against any Government being returned this debate: the boundary between primary and secondary at a general election and abusing the House, as the legislation. Secondary legislation, again as a result of current Government have, using their majority, not an unwritten but vitally important convention of this obtaining all-party consent and changing the procedures House, should be confined only to issues of detail that and Standing Orders to their advantage. The absence of are broadly non-controversial. I had an interesting reminder any such proposals is a serious deficiency. of that very early on when I was responsible for drafting That brings me to my second issue: the guillotining of the “right to buy” Bill in the very first Session of the Bills. I always use, and will try to use in my remarks, the previous Conservative Government. I requested an order- word “guillotining”, and I do so very deliberately. I do making power, and a crisp minute came back from the not accept saccharine euphemisms such as “timetabling” first parliamentary counsel, who had made himself or “programming”—guillotining is what it is. It is a responsible for drafting the Bill because it was the mechanism to cut off the time allowed for this House to Government’s flagship Bill, saying, “Minister, you’ve debate legislation. Guillotining has been transformed, drafted this order-making power far too wide. Youmust for the worse, from what it was prior to 1997. We now either narrow the power you are seeking or put it on to have a frankly deplorable parliamentary and democratic the face of the Bill so that it can be scrutinised as situation in which every single Bill is guillotined after primary legislation.”The reason why secondary legislation Second Reading without debate. That is an utterly should be narrowly drawn, as the House is well aware, is shameful situation ever to have been created in the simply that the House has very marginal control over it. House of Commons. The great majority of secondary legislation is not debated or voted on, and none of it, whether under the affirmative Natascha Engel rose— or the negative resolution, can be amended. 77 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 78 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Hugh Bayley: Will the right hon. Gentleman give have considerable power, it is just that they choose not way? to use it.” The time has come for us to start using some of the power that we have. The proposed reforms are Sir John Stanley: If the hon. Gentleman will forgive not a revolution—the process is evolutionary—but most me, I want to finish making this point. of the them are no-brainers. It surely has to be right The House has very limited control over secondary that the House decides how it will go about scrutinising legislation. Sadly, and very seriously, the convention to the activities of the Executive. That is the core of what which I referred has been completely torn to shreds by we are here for. this present Government. If the House wants an example, I well remember that when I first came here, it was I give it section 2 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2010, made clear to me in no uncertain terms that I could which has very recently gone on to the statute book. expect no preferment whatever. I put my name down for Under the heading, “Further duties for securing sound membership of the Home Affairs Committee for three public finances”, subsection (1) states: or four years running, because I had a certain interest in “The Treasury may make an order imposing on the Treasury a how the criminal justice system was functioning at that duty or duties framed by reference to any one or more of the time. Nothing happened, of course, and after three or financial years ending in 2011 to 2016.” four years I went to see the Chief Whip, my noble So here we have an order-making power putting on to Friend Derek Foster, a good friend of mine. He said to the Treasury statutory obligations that vitally affect me, “Talk to Roy.” Roy was the shadow Home Secretary, macro-economic policy, jobs, employment, and so on—legal Roy Hattersley. It did not seem right to me that the powers that the Treasury will be obliged to adhere to, all shadow Home Secretary should decide who was on the whistling through this House on the basis of a 90-minute Home Affairs Committee, because he might one day non-amendable debate. That, in my book, is a gross become the Home Secretary. abuse of the legislative power of this House. Anyway, I went to see Roy, who stood with his hands It is for those reasons that, while I recognise that in his pockets, looked at the floor and said ambiguously, these reforms are a very small step in the right direction, “I’ll see what can be done.” I know exactly what was I take the view that they are wholly inadequate to done, because my friend Derek Foster told me afterwards. restore the legislative authority of the House of Commons. A message came from the Leader of the Opposition’s office to the Chief Whip saying that the Leader understood that there was a vacancy on the Home Affairs Committee, 6.47 pm and that he had one or two names in mind for who Mr. Chris Mullin (Sunderland, South) (Lab): I listened should fill it. When the Chief Whip got to there, he with great interest to the right hon. Member for Tonbridge discovered that in fact he had no names in mind for who and Malling (Sir John Stanley). I agree with him that should fill the vacancy but one name for who should the timetabling process has been abused in recent years, not. It seems quite wrong that that is how Select Committee although I am not against timetabling in principle because members are selected. there were also many abuses of the old system. However, After a while I became very respectable, as you know, I think that our proposal for a business committee that Mr. Deputy Speaker. There came a moment when Law dealt with all the business of the House would help to Lords, cardinals and Tory Home Secretaries were happy address some of the problems that he rightly highlights, to be seen in my company, and I could no longer be and I would direct his attention to that. denied a coveted place on the Home Affairs Committee. I listened to my hon. Friend the Member for North-East In due course I became Chairman of it, and I remarked Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) with great interest. I always to the Chief Whip of the day that I would like to be have respect for someone who goes against the tide, consulted when vacancies arose. I said that I would just because I have done that myself from time to time, but I like to be shown the names of the applicants and was hoping to hear from her at some stage, either allowed to express my view—I was not asking to decide. during the Committee’s proceedings or tonight, some She—I should make it clear that it was not my right clue as to what reforms she wants. She did not give us hon. Friend the Member for North-West Durham (Hilary that tonight, and she did not do so in the Committee, so Armstrong)—showed me a book one evening in the I remain curious on that point. I will leave it at that. Division Lobby in which the names were written down, I add to the tributes of others my tribute to my hon. and it closed so quickly that I could not see any of the Friend the Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright), names on the page. I think the situation has improved who, like me, is sadly leaving this place in a few weeks’ since then, but in those days that was consultation. The time. He has led a most distinguished career here during imperfect system that we have all put up with for far too which his contribution to the way in which the House long needs to be challenged, and this is the moment to has functioned is a model for those who come afterwards challenge it. As I said, it seems to me a no-brainer. as Back-Bench Members. It has been a great honour to It is absolutely right that the size of Select Committees serve on the same Committee as him. needs to be brought down again. It went up only I regard the issues that we are debating today as a test temporarily a few years ago, I think as a way of finding of how seriously we take ourselves. If we do not take the boys and girls something to do. A Committee of 14 ourselves seriously, we cannot expect people outside is far too large, and we rapidly found ourselves in a this place to do so. In the 23 years I have been in the situation in which both sides were having to put House, one thing that has disappointed me has been Parliamentary Private Secretaries and Front-Bench how some of our number are prepared to fight with spokesmen on Select Committees, which defeated the great passion to remain impotent. I remember that object of the exercise. I believe that there is general when I was Chairman of the Select Committee on agreement that we need to go back to a more manageable Home Affairs, one of the Clerks remarked, “Members size, so that that is not necessary. I hope that we will 79 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 80 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Chris Mullin] Mr. Mullin: I agree with my right hon. Friend—I used the term “holiday from scrutiny”, I did not suggest never again see PPSs and people from the Government that we are all on holiday during the recess. I know that payroll on Select Committees. I also agree entirely with he is not, and I know that I am not, but I know the those who say that there must be consequences for public think we are. That is the problem. Committee members who do not attend. The single greatest omission is a motion to set up a Natascha Engel: It is important to say that part of the business committee that would cover the entire business reason why the Committee was split down the middle of the House. I am glad that the Leader of the House on September sittings was that a lot of people thought has said that that omission will be rectified. Incidentally, that they would not in themselves be the solution to I am grateful to her also for reading out at the beginning rebuilding trust outside, and that we should examine of her remarks a list of the reforms that have occurred the whole parliamentary timetable and consider why we in the past 20 or 30 years that have made this place work have overblown public school sitting times, rather than better. I hear people outside here, and sometimes inside, just consider sitting again for two weeks in September. say, “You’re all useless and nothing has changed”, but the list that my right hon. and learned Friend read out Mr. Mullin: We have to start somewhere, and I get shows that some of the reforms that have taken place more and more puzzled about what my hon. Friend have been rather bigger than some of those that are actually wants. She said that many of the proposals that being suggested today. We have gone backwards in we are discussing this evening were arcane and too some respects, but in other respects those reforms have complex for the outside world to understand, but this is had the effect of making the business of the House one that the outside world has grasped readily. It is work more effectively. about time we grasped it, too. We are not asking for I should like the Intelligence and Security Committee anything revolutionary, just for probably eight days to come within the ambit of the House and become a sometime in September. That would still allow time for Committee of it, rather than one appointed by and the conferences and all the other things that have to accountable to the Prime Minister. I have pressed for happen. Members often forget that we actually voted that for many years. When I was Chairman of the for that six years ago as a part of a package put to the Home Affairs Committee there were two inquiries on House by the late Robin Cook. The words he used when precisely that point. I make no comment on the recent he introduced that measure—I remember them well—were, difficulties over whether the security services have been “The deal is”. The deal was that in return for making mixed up in torture overseas, but it is in their interests the House’s sitting times family friendly by giving us that they are seen to be scrutinised independently on half-terms and so forth, we would sit for a week or two such issues. I hope that the Government will eventually in September. That was the deal, and we reneged on it. concede on that. The first excuse was that a security screen had to be set up, and when that ran out, the excuse was that there would not be enough business. I do not buy that and Mr. Tyrie: As the hon. Gentleman knows, we did a nor do the public, and it is time we addressed it. double act of trying to get the reform of the ISC into the Wright Committee report. He knows that the proposal Mark Fisher (Stoke-on-Trent, Central) (Lab): Does that has been put forward is not to make it a Select my hon. Friend agree that we should base our working Committee of Parliament but merely that Parliament year on our constituents’ working year, and that there is should elect its chairman, with a veto still in the hands absolutely no reason why we should have such incredibly of the Prime Minister. Does he support that as an long holidays? interim measure, and how does he believe we can best ensure that we have an opportunity to vote on it when it comes to the votes early in March? Mr. Mullin: I do not accept the word “holidays”—they are parliamentary recesses—but I agree that there is no reason why they should be so long. We are going to Mr. Mullin: I do support that as an interim measure, make progress slowly and I do not want to trouble the but I should like us to get to a position at which it House with anything too revolutionary, but eight days becomes a Committee of the House. There are obviously in September is not too much to ask. some special considerations to be taken into account, The Committee’s conclusions, some of which were and perhaps the Prime Minister does have to be consulted, compromises because the Committee did not agreed on but in general I support that idea. I am not a procedural everything, are a reasonable beginning to what we know expert, so if the hon. Gentleman will forgive me I shall needs to be done to make this place function more not attempt on my feet to devise a way in which the efficiently. The two core proposals—the big-ticket items, matter can be voted upon. if I may use my right hon. and learned Friend the I wish to refer to an issue on which the House of Leader of the House’s phrase—are for a business committee Commons Reform Committee was split down the middle. that covers all House business and to take election to I suspect that I am in a minority in the House on it, Select Committees out of the hands of the Executive. I although I believe myself to be in a comfortable majority hope I live long enough to see them implemented. outside the House. It is the 80-day recess that we award It is now or never. There is no point in saying that we ourselves and the 80-day holiday from scrutiny that we should leave this to another Parliament consisting of a award the Government. lot of new people with no experience. It will take them, as it took me, at least 10 years to work out what is Mr. David Blunkett (Sheffield, Brightside) (Lab): It is wrong, which is a recipe for doing nothing. It is now or not a holiday. never, and I say it should be now. 81 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 82 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House 7.2 pm on getting support for other measures. However, once Dr. Evan Harris (Oxford, West and Abingdon) (LD): the Government support those other measures, the only It was a pleasure to serve on the Reform of the House game in town is getting the measures that the Government of Commons Committee under the chairmanship of are not minded to support. The fact that the Leader of the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). I the House is going to support amendment (a) to motion 9 learned a lot from members of the Committee, both —I hope that others in the Government will follow her older and younger, because everyone brought their into the Lobby—shows that there is very wide support experience to it, including the hon. Member for Sunderland, for it. South (Mr. Mullin) and his fellow conspirator on the That the shadow Leader of the House, the right hon. Intelligence and Security Committee, the hon. Member Member for North-West Hampshire (Sir George Young), for Chichester (Mr. Tyrie). was able to support the amendment enthusiastically at a relatively early stage, and that he has been such a strong If the House of Commons Reform Committee was in supporter for a Back-Bench business committee, is very any doubt about the issues when it started its work, the telling. He regards himself as the Leader of the House situation was made clear by the way in which the in waiting—although I pay tribute to him and cannot Committee was set up and how the House, by which I think of a better person, I hope that that does not mean the Government, handled it. It took so long for happen—and he must recognise that the Government the Government to put the motion to set up the Committee of whom he hopes to be a part would not be able to in a place on the Order Paper that meant that it could be manipulate business in the way that previous Governments debated and pressed to a Division, which was reasonable have if the amendment to which he has now signed up is for the House to expect, that there was originally no made. That is statesmanship and very worth while. It is proper consultation on the terms of reference. It would wrong to criticise people for changing their minds, and I have been sensible for the Government to consult the therefore make no criticism of the Leader of the House House, given that the motion was on reform of the House. for now saying—I will not use the word “U-turn”—that It also took a long time for the Government to respond—I she supports the amendment. That should be welcomed would not have minded had they swiftly tabled motions unconditionally. as a response—and for us to be in a position in which we could decide what reforms we wanted, even before However, on the Back-Bench business committee motion, the bizarre process that we now face. and as I mentioned in an intervention, the Procedure Committee, to which we are entrusting the matter, is not All of that should tell us that the House, especially on initially down to be an elected Committee, although House matters, should be able to put motions on the there will be review after two years. Therefore, by definition, Order Paper in an orderly way, promptly, and in a way the Procedure Committee will remain Whip-appointed. that Members of the House, and preferably the public, I do not cast any aspersions on the intentions of those can understand. That is why it was bizarre to hear the who have served, do serve and would serve on that Leader of the House claim credit for the fact that we Committee, but motion 9 needs to be a little more have reached this point. Only the Government could set detailed. If we are going to ask a Whip-appointed up the Committee, so they are claiming credit for something Committee to set out what the Back-Bench business when they have no competition—[Interruption.] The committee does, it should specify that it should be right hon. and learned Lady is saying something from a elected by secret ballot and that all House business sedentary position and I would be happy for her to except primary and secondary legislation and associated intervene. My point is that the House should be grateful orders and motions, ministerial statements, Opposition to the Government for what they are doing and for business and motions for an address, is Back-Bench reaching the point that they have reached today, and business, which means estimates days, Liaison Committee recognise the commitment to reform that the Prime matters and, critically, private Members’ Bills. Minister originally gave in 2007, but given what I said That would mean that Back-Benchers could determine about what has brought us to this point, I do not think whether private Members’ Bills—or at least the top they did things better than anyone else could have done, seven—live or die on the basis of the support of the because no one else could do anything, and the way House, and that such Bills would not be quorumed out, they have gone about things has been unsatisfactory. talked out or procedured out. It is ridiculous for hon. However, the process has shown us that there is an Members and the public to spend much time dealing appetite for reform. The Government have seen that, with those Bills only for them to be lost on procedure. If because they rightly conceded, as they had to, a variation that means that the Government must whip because to the terms of reference. They also had to concede they find a private Member’s Bill unacceptable, so be it. amendments to some of the motions on today’s Order Not everything that comes out of the Whips Office is Paper. Amendment (a), which I helped to draft, to bad. It is legitimate for Government Whips to whip to motion 9 has now been signed by 128 Members, and it carry their majority—that is their right—but it is not would have been signed by more if we had had more appropriate or acceptable for the Whips Office to manipulate than a day to collect signatures. I am grateful to my business so that we do not properly scrutinise it. hon. Friend the Member for East Dunbartonshire I want to make another point on the scrutiny of (Jo Swinson), and to the hon. Members for Stoke-on-Trent, legislation. The Leader of the House knows—I have Central (Mark Fisher) and for North Essex (Mr. Jenkin) raised this on one, two or perhaps 14 times with her at for the urgency and energy that they put into collecting business questions—about my concerns that we cannot those names. That shows that there is huge appetite for debate on Report what we wish to debate or press what reform. we wish to press to a Division. Scrutiny on Report is We were warned—I was certainly told this—that we critical, because the Public Bill Committee does not would not get anywhere with the concept of a House deliver. A Report stage provides the only opportunity business committee and that we ought to concentrate for Back Benchers who are not on a Public Bill Committee 83 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 84 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Dr. Evan Harris] that are currently inserted to protect the business that follows were inserted before, rather than after, the business to debate and vote, the only opportunity for Back-Bench that we most want and need to discuss. amendments to be promoted, the only opportunity for Select Committees and their Chairs to join in detailed Sir Robert Smith: That can, of course, be achieved in debate, and the only opportunity for Members to debate the case of the Finance Bill, which is subject to no Government amendments tabled after the Committee programme or guillotine but is debated properly. stage or tabled at short notice in Committee. Timetabling in Committee may mean that some clauses Dr. Harris: Indeed. In fact, there are many such receive little scrutiny there. Votes are often postponed examples. until Report, and if we do not reach those clauses on Clearly, if there were more time for debate on Report, Report, it will not be possible for votes to take place. Members’ speeches might expand to fill that extra time. That applies particularly to free votes. Free votes in In its holistic report, the Committee made the legitimate Public Bill Committees are meaningless, because, by point that restrictions on the length of speeches on definition, they cannot be represented in the selection Report might well be appropriate and could be identified for those Committees. The Report stage provides the in advance to ensure that we completed our business on only chance for rebels to rebel, and that puts pressure Report. on the Government to justify, to compromise or, I Scrutiny of legislation is critical. The real question is, suppose, to persuade. whose business is it to scrutinise Government-sponsored The Library has identified a number of instances in legislation? Is it the Government’s business, or is it the which proper Report stage scrutiny has not taken place. business of the House? It is clearly the business of the The list is too long for me to give all the details, but I House, and therefore, at the very least, it should be think I should give four random examples. On the Bill within the purview of the House business committee. that became the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Front Benchers must clearly be represented, because Learning Act 2009, nine groups of amendments were they must identify their priorities. Both the report and selected by the Speaker, and 20 Government amendments our amendment guarantee that they would be given the or new clauses and 47 Opposition amendments or new time that they require to get their business through, clauses were not reached. On the Bill that became the which may be why the Leader of the House felt able Coroners and Justice Act 2009, 14 groups of amendments to support the amendment. However, it has also been were selected by the Speaker, and 18 Government pointed out that it is important for us to improve amendments and new clauses and 48 Opposition scrutiny, and to recognise that what happens at present amendments and new clauses were not reached. In the is often the opposite of scrutiny. Coroners and Justice Bill we reformed the murder law Select Committee scrutiny is also critical. As we in this country, but we were not given a chance to heard from the hon. Member for Cannock Chase, it is debate it on the Floor of the House. The law of murder simply wrong for the Government to appoint members was reformed in that Bill, but only the unelected House of Committees that scrutinise them. The same applies wasabletodebateit. to the Opposition: as was pointed out by the hon. What the House business committee would deliver— Member for Sunderland, South, the shadow Minister along with a guarantee that the Government would will soon be the Minister. More than that is required, have enough time to get their business through, would however: we need to ensure that Select Committee have first choice of dates and would have a set end date, reports do not just sit on a shelf. The Government must as they have at present—is determination, by consensus, be bound to respond to those reports, because sometimes that everything that the House needed to debate would they do not even do that. I serve on the Joint Committee be debated, and everything on which the House felt that on Human Rights, and we have written time and again it needed to vote would be voted on. That might mean to request even a response to some of our reports. more work for the Whips Office to ensure that the Sometimes, when the Government do respond, they do Government, given their majority in the House of not address the issues. Commons, could exercise that “mandate”at the appropriate If we could ensure that, in due course, some Select time, but it would at least mean that those of us who Committee recommendations were subjected to a decision wished to express concerns or make suggestions could on the Floor of the House, the Government would be have their day in court, or rather their day in Parliament. forced to respond properly and to justify their rejection of recommendations. They would have to whip the Mr. Cash: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that to House to oppose them, as they have a right to do, but give effect to his excellent suggestion, we would need those who serve on Select Committees would see that time in which to debate those matters properly? there was an end point at which the House itself considered and, indeed, voted on selected amendments. If Select Dr. Harris: Absolutely. The House business committee Committee members felt that that would happen, they would, I think, be better able to identify, as the Library would be more engaged, they would turn up, and we and the Clerks Department have done—without increasing would have stronger scrutiny. the number of times that we sit, and there are no proposals in the report to increase them—all the days 7.15 pm on which business finishes early. Second Readings of simple Bills to which there is little opposition do not Mark Fisher (Stoke-on-Trent, Central) (Lab): It is a require a whole day of debate. Some of that time could pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Oxford, West be banked to ensure that, more often, two days were and Abingdon (Dr. Harris), and to pay tribute to the allotted for Report stages, and—crucially—that the knives part that he has played in getting us where we are today. 85 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 86 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House He played an enormous part in ensuring that the Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney, North and Stoke amendment was tabled, and in working so constructively Newington) (Lab): Does my hon. Friend agree that rather and coherently with the Leader of the House and than this being a technical and navel-gazing issue, nothing members of all parties. That is an admirable example of could do more to raise the esteem in which MPs are the way in which non-partisan but very principled work held by the public than taking back a little power into can deliver enormously constructive and helpful changes the hands of elected Members through these reforms? in the House. However, the Member at the centre of the whole Mark Fisher: I entirely agree with my hon. Friend, debate, and of all our thinking today, is the Member but it is more a rebalancing of two distinct roles: that of sitting behind me, my hon. Friend the Member for the Executive—who have a role of their own in proposing Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). Tributes to him have been legislation, imposing taxation and taking action on implicit in all the speeches that have been made so far. behalf of this country—and that of this House. The We owe him an enormous amount. The best way in two are often confused, but the role of this House is to which we can ensure that sufficient tribute is paid to hold the Government to account, scrutinise them, ask him—although probably only the Government can do them severe questions and test them on behalf of our this—is to arrange for him no longer to be our hon. constituents. Those two distinct roles are at the centre Friend but to become our right hon. Friend. If anyone of all the reforms that we wish to make, and we are has gained, indeed earned, the honour of being a right getting there, gradually. hon. Member of this House, surely it is he. Parliament has not been working well, and that is only partly to do with the expenses issue of the last year. Natascha Engel: Make him a Lord! It has not been working well politically, and we have not been holding the Government to account. It is not just Mark Fisher: Certainly not. He is first, foremost and an idealistic point that the role of Back Benchers is to always a democrat. hold the Government to account, because it is in the In the excellent speech in which he effectively introduced Government’s interest that they are held to account the motion—I hope the Leader of the House will forgive more effectively. Governments who are rigorously me for saying that—my hon. Friend said, “We are scrutinised are bound to be much better Governments. nearly there.” The question is, who are the “we” and We so often confuse power and strength with effectiveness. where is the “there” that we are near? With one or two Governments have always had difficulty with freedom very creditable exceptions—it is vital, in any debate, to of information, because they feel that they are giving hear distant voices that make people think—the “we” away control, and therefore power. However, if the has been represented by Members in all parts of the Government give away power through freedom of House, many of whom have worked for reform for information, they become stronger and their actions are years. At the beginning of the debate, when the Chamber improved. So it is with the reform of this House. A was rather fuller, it was interesting to look around and reformed House will lead to a stronger and better see, gathered in one room, people representing all the Government, and will help to distinguish between power, organisations, all the time and all the thinking that has which Governments have, and strength, which they gone into reform over the 27 years during which I have often do not have because they do not carry things been here and, indeed, before that. I am thinking of the through this House. Hansard Society, numerous committees, and all the conferences outside this place. Sir Robert Smith: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that it will be an important legacy of these reforms if we Being one of little faith, I have to say that five years do not stop here, and if we recognise that the issue is not ago I would not have put any money on our reaching only about process and rules, but about the attitude to the point that we have reached today. It seemed that those rules and the approach that Members take when battering our heads against the House and its resistance they come into the new Parliament in taking advantage to any sort of reform would see me out. It is an amazing of the system that has been left by this Parliament? tribute to my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase, to the Leader of the House and to many Members in the Chamber today that, almost in the last few Mark Fisher: I do agree. weeks—certainly in the last few months—we have made The interesting thing about the report is that it tends such enormous strides. We really are nearly there. We to concentrate on structures. They are a necessary and are on the brink of reform, but we are not there yet. vital first step in achieving reform, but they are not in This is the start of the process. My hon. Friend the themselves sufficient. We will also have to change the Member for North-East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) culture of this place if we are to achieve real reform. For kept anxiously saying, “Surely this is not it; this must be example, we must stop seeing total party loyalty as the just the start of the process.” Of course, anyone who be-all and end-all of everything. My hon. Friend the believes in the reform of this House knows that these Member for North-East Derbyshire questioned whether are tentative first steps, but they are vital. They are the parties should have primacy. Of course we need Whips beginning of the process, not the end. and strong party discipline for the effective running of Throughout her speech, my hon. Friend asked why government, but we also need MPs with an independence we were not asking more fundamental questions. There of mind if we are to be an effective Parliament. cannot be a more fundamental assumption behind our In the last 10 years, we have the perfect example of reforms than the need to get the balance between the failing to be independent of mind, and the country is House and the Executive right. That is what has gone so still paying the price. When the former Prime Minister wrong with Parliament politically over the last few made that extraordinary speech introducing the Iraq years. war, many Members of Parliament from all parties had 87 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 88 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mark Fisher] Mr. David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op): Does my hon. Friend see the importance of revitalising local parties? enormous doubts. Had they been left to their own We relate better to this place if we can go back to our consciences, they would not have given their support to local parties, which are not the same as the national the Government that night. Many of them have felt let party, as well as to our constituencies. These changes down subsequently and doubted themselves because will help to move us in that direction. they were seduced into being loyal to the then Prime Minister, who certainly made a very powerful speech. I Mark Fisher: I entirely agree with my hon. Friend, as suspect that the House did not cast its votes in the way I do on so many occasions. The importance of local that Members really believed that night, and we have party democracy is central. paid an enormous price. If there had been a genuinely Although throughout this debate we have identified free vote, and Members had voted as they felt the the importance of this House in holding the Government arguments led them to do, the result would have been to account, the other thrust, which we have perhaps not different and we would not have been involved in that discussed enough, is the sense that reform will help us to disastrous war. create and sense our own identity—an identity distinct from that of the Government. It is difficult in this Mr. Tyrie: That is an interesting point. I have given House to hold that paradox in one’s head. My hon. some thought to whether, if the Wright Committee Friend the Member for Nottingham, North (Mr. Allen) proposals had already been in place, we might have had has a solution to that: the separation of powers. That is a different outcome. Does he think that if they had been not a solution that appeals to me. We have to hold on to in place we might have had that debate a few days or that paradox and get the tension in it to work in our weeks earlier and that we might have had two days for favour. However, in doing so we have to see a distinct debate, in which we would have had more time to think identity for this place, and not see it as simply a rubber about it and listen to the arguments, possibly resulting stamp for the party in government. in a different outcome? That has been the weakness of the Parliaments of the past few years, a weakness that has been compounded Mark Fisher: We could go on with interesting hypotheses, by the enormous majorities that the country has sent us but the hon. Gentleman makes a good point. here with. I suspect that the next Parliament will not have the same kind of monumental majority, which has Natascha Engel: Does my hon. Friend agree that the been a source of huge weakness, so it might not have the recent study by Phil Cowley from Nottingham university same problem. However, if the next Parliament—albeit demonstrated that this Parliament and other recent without the benefit of many of the people who have Parliaments have been the most rebellious Parliaments spoken in this debate—can find a sense of its own of all time? We are more independent of political parties identity, it will be able to carry forward the reform that than we have been in the past, so the issue is not the the committee of inquiry chaired by my hon. Friend the independence of mind of MPs, but the way in which Member for Cannock Chase deserves. He has given us this place works—or does not work. the foundation of the reform that we desperately need. If we are to carry it forward in the next Parliament, we Mark Fisher: I am not entirely sure which Parliaments have to have that sense of our own identity. my hon. Friend has been a Member of if she really thinks that this is a Parliament of free and independent 7.31 pm minds. She seems to have lived through a different Parliament than the one that I have lived through. Sir Patrick Cormack (South Staffordshire) (Con): It is a great pleasure to follow my friend, the hon. Member We are on the brink of reform, and we now need to for Stoke-on-Trent, Central (Mark Fisher). I am sure step over the brink. This is just a start, and we must not that I speak on behalf of all who know him in saying forget why we are here and how we got to this point. that I am delighted that he is back in the House after his What is sad is that we need to make that step to reform recent illness and hope that he will soon be completely quickly and decisively now, because—as others have fit again. said—come the general election we will have a great many new Members and, tragically, some of the most What a pleasure it is to take part in a debate that, important voices in the reform debate over the last few effectively, was initiated by another Staffordshire friend, years will be lost, such as my hon. Friends the Members the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). If for Cannock Chase, for Reading, West (Martin Salter) he will forgive my saying so, from the moment that he and for Sunderland, South (Mr. Mullin), the hon. Members came into the House he has been an exemplary next-door for Cambridge (David Howarth), for Congleton (Ann neighbour, and he has been an exemplary Chairman of Winterton), for South Staffordshire (Sir Patrick Cormack) his Committee too. The House owes him a great deal. and for Macclesfield (Sir Nicholas Winterton), and the His legacy is the report that we are discussing; the right hon. and learned Member for Sleaford and North effectiveness of that legacy will depend on how truly Hykeham (Mr. Hogg). Those people are leaving and the people implement it. new Members will come hot from the election and all I say that because there are two or three weaknesses the excitement of standing for their party in the general that one must face up to. First, the hon. Gentleman’s election. They will find it difficult to see themselves as Committee was fairly constrained in its terms of reference, parliamentarians, after their role in the election as proud a point alluded to by the hon. Member for North-East flag wavers of the party cause. The House will lose the Derbyshire (Natascha Engel). Secondly, the Committee benefit of some of the wisest and most thoughtful was time-constrained. It was set up in a bit of a hurry people on the reform agenda. and—I chose my words carefully—in a little bit of a 89 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 90 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House panic reaction. It was to the credit of the hon. Gentleman we are not to abandon, as I do not wish us to abandon, and all who served on the Committee with him that the separation of powers. However, influence is not just they produced such a sensible and workmanlike document overt; it is also covert. in such a short space of time. However, we must not When we look at the proposals—we will vote on become euphoric, because there is a danger that the them next week—we have to remember that there are changes advocated in the report could become cosmetic. more ways of influencing a Member than the crudest The hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, Central made an and the simplest, just as we have to remember that any important point towards the end of his speech, when he system devised for the examination and scrutiny of referred to the enormous majorities in recent Parliaments. legislation is open to abuse, whether the abuse of the We all have to recognise that, to a large degree, the filibuster, if we have unlimited time, or, as we have seen power of the House of Commons depends on the size in recent years, the abuse of the timetable, which has of the Government’s majority. created the absurd situations referred to so graphically I had the good fortune to be elected to this place in by the hon. Member for Oxford, West and Abingdon 1970. The Government of Ted Heath had a workable (Dr. Harris). Time is terribly important in this House. If but not an enormous majority. They had to fight for we are to constrain our time so much, for whatever some of their policies and, in the case of the European reasons—and there were some good reasons for changing debate—I mention this merely as a historical event and the hours in 1997—we must recognise that there has to not to antagonise my hon. Friend the Member for be a self-denying ordinance on the part of the Government Stone (Mr. Cash)—they were dependent on votes from in relation to the amount of legislation that they place the Labour party to get that key element of their policy before the House. through the House of Commons. Because of that, that I shall conclude by making one or two specific remarks Government had an implicit respect for the House of about the proposals. In my memo to the Committee, I Commons. suggested that there should be a properly appointed After that there was what I will always consider the Committee of Selection, chaired by either the Speaker unnecessary election of February 1974—I spoke against or the Chairman of Ways and Means, that would, to a it at the time—when the Prime Minister asked who degree, be the fount of appointments. The hon. Member governed the country. It was he who should have done for North-East Derbyshire made some important points so; he did not need to go to the country. He went to the in that regard. Elections are not the only answer to country and he lost his majority. Paradoxically, he got a having more independent Select Committees. Whether majority of the popular vote, but he lost his majority. we have elections for their Chairmen and members or From February 1974 until March 1979, this place truly not, however, we want a Committee of Selection that had power and influence, because there was never a vote will be the creature of the House and not the creature of that the Government could absolutely accurately predict the Executive. We also want a business Committee, and that they would win. again I would favour one that was the creature of the House and not of the Executive. It would be entirely Then we moved to Mrs. Thatcher’s first Government, logical for the Chairman of Ways and Means to preside for whom the arithmetic was not very different from over the Committee of Selection, and for the Speaker to that for Edward Heath’s Government. Again, the preside over the business Committee. There are other Government had to argue. I well remember when there countries in which something like that happens. was a majority of 42 going with 21 signatures with my now noble Friend Lord Higgins to see a Cabinet Minister It is also terribly important that, as we move forward and saying that we could not wear a particular policy, towards sensible reform, we do not abandon some of which was subsequently significantly amended. All that the things that mark the traditions of this place. I think went in 1983, after the longest suicide note in history, it was the hon. Member for Somerton and Frome when we had the next Thatcher Government. Since the (Mr. Heath) who made a jocular reference to the new brief period between 1992 and 1997, when carpet earlier. The new carpet is not a Cyril Lord had a dwindling and at the end non-existent majority, concoction with a gaudy pattern on it, and none of us we have had Governments with majorities that have would have wanted it to be. It bears the two red stripes, been so large that the House of Commons has not which are symbolic in our parliamentary life. It is really been able to do anything about it. therefore part of our traditional Chamber. I have often thought that the famous motion that I make no apology for being a traditionalist, which is Dunning moved, I think in 1782—that the power of the why I have tabled amendments to get rid of the silly Crown had increased, was increasing and ought to be notion of calling everyone who is in charge of a Committee diminished—has been the subtext for those of us who a piece of furniture. That is a nonsense up with which have been unhappy about the overweening power of the we do not need to put. Certainly the great women in Executive. The power of the Executive has increased, is recent parliamentary history, such as the late Gwyneth increasing and ought to be diminished. Whether the Dunwoody and the very much alive Baroness Boothroyd, reforms before us this evening will have that effect I would have scoffed at such a suggestion. Indeed, I have know not. We stand on the brink of a general election, heard Baroness Boothroyd do so—not in this particular and although I love this place with a passion, I will not context, but in others. be in the next House of Commons, whatever the electorate The proposals would bring about an utterly unnecessary does. I just wonder what will happen, because of the cosmetic change. One of the reasons that I oppose them power of the Whips, with perhaps 300 new Members in is that, if I love anything as much as I love the House of the new Parliament, although I do not say that in any Commons, I love the English language. Next year, we vicious sense. There has to be a whipping system, as shall celebrate one of the seminal works in the English others have said. Party is essential for civilised democracy language, the King James Bible. It would be a pretty in this country—it is part of the system—particularly if poor parliamentary recognition of the importance of 91 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 92 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Sir Patrick Cormack] we need to shift the pendulum of power away from this place and into local communities. I have talked about the greatest worldwide language since Latin if we started this before, and I believe that it is relevant. We shall have in this place to call people pieces of furniture. I hope to come back to the issue of the settlement between that my minor amendments will be accepted, even perhaps the citizen and our Parliament and debate it again in by the Chairman of the Committee that produced this the future. report. For the rest, I will vote for the motions to I want to outline three key areas in which we can implement his report. I think that I shall vote for every make a difference. They were not in the remit of my proposal, although I might just reflect on one or two hon. Friend’s review, but he had a limited period in things. The report contains a small series of imperfect which to complete it, and he has come an awfully long but necessary steps, and I hope that they will serve well way. He has proposed great recommendations for change, the new House of Commons and those who sit here, and we should all support them. They are changes that and help to redress the balance that we all want to see we need to make, but we will need to make further redressed. changes down the line. One relates to representation. If 7.43 pm Parliament is really to be in touch with society, we need to look, act, sound and be more like it. I see one or two Mr. Parmjit Dhanda (Gloucester) (Lab): I have just heads shaking on the Conservative Benches, but I do overheard one of my colleagues describing the hon. not think that that sentiment is necessarily shared by all Member for South Staffordshire (Sir Patrick Cormack) of those on the Conservative Front Bench. as a magnificent parliamentary specimen. I am sure that he was absolutely right. It is always a pleasure to follow We are seeing an emerging consensus on this matter. the hon. Gentleman. I clearly recall an occasion a few We saw that after the Speaker’s Conference. Indeed, months ago when I had to speak after him. I think that several Members who were involved in that are here it was during one of the Hansard Society debates during today. We have come some way, but it is important that the speakership campaign. We were both asked to talk we now look at and listen to the recommendations of about our experience. He said that he had served the that Conference. I hope that they will be discussed on House since 1970—that is nearly 40 years—and I had to the Floor of the House, and ideally not in a debate confess that I was not even born until a year after he tucked away on a Thursday. Let us debate these matters began to serve the House. on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, when the House is busy, because the report produced by the Speaker’s I agree with the hon. Gentleman and with most of Conference is important. It is not just about getting the other speakers in this debate. I should like to join more people from an ethnic minority background or the consensus supporting the excellent work done by more women into Parliament; it is also, in this modern my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase world, about being fair and understanding towards (Dr. Wright) and his Committee. I also think that my people with mental health issues, and about getting hon. Friend the Member for North-East Derbyshire more people with disabilities into the House. (Natascha Engel) made some good points, however, and I want to pick up the gauntlet that was thrown I understand that that was not part of the remit of down by my hon. Friend the Member for Sunderland, the review carried out by my hon. Friend’s Committee, South (Mr. Mullin) when he suggested that we could but those and other measures are still relevant. We need go further. to consider how we can better relate to younger people The Committee’s report will drag the House forward and encourage them to come into the House and become towards the 20th century from the 18th. After the Members of Parliament. Again, some small steps in the election, however, we shall probably need the equivalent right direction have been taken and Mr. Speaker has of a Wright II to drag it into the Facebook and Twitter done the right thing in moving towards providing crèche age. I believe, having talked to colleagues here and facilities in this place, but as the hon. Member for South outside the House, that there could be a real danger in Staffordshire has already pointed out—[Interruption.] the months and years to come of a divide between the One or two Members may smirk, but I suspect that in 30-something parliamentarians and the others in the the months and years to come, recognition of the House. I shall explain why. Some of the newer group of importance of such facilities will become part of the Members will not have had their children yet and might political consensus. At least I hope it will, in the same be planning to do so in the future; others might have way that measures to move power from the Executive to young children. Others will be more savvy than I am the Back Benchers have become part of a consensus. As about new forms of communication and about how to the hon. Member for South Staffordshire said, as contact and be involved with their electors. They will Parliaments change—we may well soon get a big churn have different ideas about how we should engage with in the membership of this place—some of these issues the public than the House has traditionally had in may get forgotten, so it is very important that that does the past. not happen and important to ensure that these changes are driven forwards in the next Parliament, whoever is My hon. Friend’s excellent report will move powers here after the election. distinctly from the Executive to the Back Benches and to Parliament. In the eyes of the public, will that give the country new confidence in us? No, I do not think Mr. Greg Knight: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that it will. It will give confidence to us as Members of that reform is always an ongoing process and that there Parliament, and to those in the Westminster village. It should never be a time when we say that it is over? will support and help those with a trained Westminster eye. It will make a difference here, but, as my hon. Mr. Dhanda: The right hon. Gentleman is quite right. Friend the Member for North-East Derbyshire and I was making the point that, as we have heard in today’s others are saying, if we are to make Parliament stronger, debate, the hunger for change is greater among some 93 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 94 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House than among others. Some Members want it faster and the old media took an occasional bit of interest. One swifter, while others are more pragmatic about it. I am deleterious effect of recent developments is that this outlining some of the key proposals that I believe are place has become greatly weakened as the media have relevant to us now and in the future. taken less and less interest; as it has become weakened, the media have then taken even less interest. Is it not Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney, North and Stoke about time that the media took some interest in this Newington) (Lab) rose— place?

Mr. Dhanda: I will give way, but then I want to come Mr. Dhanda: I disagree with my hon. Friend, as I on to what I think is the key change that we need to think the media take quite a lot of interest in this place. make in the future. They do not, however, always take an interest in the positive elements of what goes on here. As Members, Ms Abbott: On the question of representation, my we have all had to deal with that problem, particularly hon. Friend is right, but was not one of the things in recent months. discovered at the Speaker’s Conference that much of In conclusion, I truly believe that these reforms are the responsibility will fall to the parties? Even if, through positive and I hope that the whole House will get the action of the parties, we have a much more racially behind them. I congratulate all Members who served on diverse House of Commons, is it not the case that if the this important Committee, but if the public are to view Executive retain their death-grip on Parliament, the this not just as deck chairs being moved around a colour of its skin might be different, but it will not do floating parliamentary Titanic from the Treasury Benches anything to win back the public’s confidence in it being to the Back Benches, we must be honest and see this as independent and in us thinking for ourselves? only the first stage of making even greater reforms that will reach out to the electorate. Mr. Dhanda: My hon. Friend has much more experience than me as she has campaigned for many years on these 7.55 pm issues. Her voice was heard loud and clear through the Mr. Bernard Jenkin (North Essex) (Con): I very much Speaker’s Conference, and I think she makes her point welcome many of the points raised by the hon. Member incredibly powerfully. for Gloucester (Mr. Dhanda), although what he said Let me come on to the issue of power and where it amplifies how this debate can become a Christmas tree lies, which is the key to engagement with the electorate. on which everybody hangs their particular enthusiasms That is what they really want to see—to make a real for what they might call parliamentary reform. I think difference to rebuilding Parliament. To change people’s that our debate must concentrate on the report before attitude towards this place, we have to look at our us and on what the hon. Member for Cannock Chase structures and think about how we shift the pendulum (Dr. Wright) has presented to us this afternoon, which of power away from here towards local communities. I provides a great opportunity to take a modest but know that there is a great deal of uncertainty and fear extremely significant step. among Members about that proposal, but I do not All parties, including the Committee itself, have described think that there should be because, ultimately, it will our response to the expenses scandal as being necessary make us stronger. As has already been said, this is but not sufficient to wider reform; it will be sufficient similar to the Executive becoming stronger by being only if we reform Parliament itself. Even you, Mr. Speaker, subject to greater scrutiny by Back Benchers. made the reform of the House of Commons part of the As I have said before, I would like to see far more platform for your election. The fact that all party leaders opportunities for parliamentary processes and practices have essentially embraced the re-empowerment of to reach out to town halls and communities in the Parliament as an essential part of that reform enjoins us country at large. Our Adjournment debates provide one to give a hearty welcome to the Committee’s report. good example of that, because holding such debates By far the most important issue before the House is outside this place in the regions would make a huge control of the timetable of business. As any A-level difference and attract much local interest, involving politics student will know, the degree to which the local communities and the local media as well. Government control the Commons timetable is the On that subject, we need a long hard think about how degree to which they control the House itself. I was we should use new media. I would like to see us showing extremely taken by the speech of my right hon. Friend enough trust in our public to allow them to participate the Member for Tonbridge and Malling (Sir John Stanley), in more direct democracy so that they could help to who reminded us that what used to be one of the key shape and decide what we debate when we have discussions weapons of opposition in the House—available not just about topical issues. Yes, Back Benchers and business to the Opposition, but to Government Members as committees should be able to shortlist what the key well—was the opportunity to delay by extending the issues are, but why do we not allow our constituents out time of scrutiny for a measure. That is why I was so there in our communities, through online voting, to taken by the point that this categorical assurance about decide what issues should be debated? We need to revisit the time-in and the time-out is perhaps given too lightly. all these issues as early as possible in the next Parliament That is where we are at the moment, however, so we if we are to get up steam and put this institution behind should still welcome the proposals. reform and change. Mr. Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): I disagree Mr. Drew: I thank my hon. Friend and parliamentary with my hon. Friend, as I do not think that the key to neighbour for giving way. I would love the new media to increasing the power of the Parliament is increasing our be interested in this place, but it would also be helpful if power to control the timetable. Rather, I believe that the 95 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 96 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Edward Leigh] presupposes—if he is going to use the analogy of the American system—that the President himself would key is our power to control the supply of money. Does have to be elected. he agree that although these reforms are a wonderful first step, the next big step is to go down the route that Mr. Jenkin: I will come to that point, my hon. Friend the American Congress has long since taken, so that need not fear. our Select Committees have much greater control as the Government increase their spending? The truth is that our Parliament is no longer composed mainly of part-time citizen parliamentarians, but of Mr. Jenkin: I agree. I am not going to address the role professional politicians, most of whom wish, or have of Select Committees, because the subject is too large, wished, to become Ministers, or who are Ministers. but the fundamental point about them is far more When an MP becomes a Minister, he virtually ceases to significant than the fact that they should be elected; it is function as an MP. Ministers continue to do their best that they should be given resources. Our Select Committees for their constituents, but they cannot hold the Executive are very modest in comparison with their congressional effectively to account, because they are the Executive. counterparts, and they have very limited ability to get That is ironic given that the House has become obsessed ahead of the political agenda and to start to set it in the by conflicts of interest, and one need think only of the way congressional committees do. We are going to need Register of Members’ Financial Interests, outside interests, to look at that further. Members of Parliament owning investments, retiring Ministers taking jobs in private sector businesses that The key point is the importance of having control they regulated and the role of lobbyists. over the timetable from which the House currently suffers. The present arrangements are damaging in two A Minister’s loyalty is to the Executive, but as an MP, particular respects. First, far too much legislation passes his loyalty should be to Parliament. Inevitably, that through this House without proper scrutiny—indeed, presents a fundamental conflict of interest on occasion. not just without proper scrutiny, but with barely any One is reminded of Christ’s words in Matthew 6:24: scrutiny at all, as has been pointed out. Let us remind “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, ourselves of what Lord Butler, the former Cabinet and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the Secretary, said this month: “Successive Governments other.” have come to take Parliament for granted so they rush Christ was, of course, referring to God and Mammon, through very bad legislation.” As has been pointed out, but he might as easily have been talking about the we now rely almost wholly on the other place to do the House of Commons and the Prime Minister offering a job of scrutiny that we are elected to carry out. ministerial salary to one of his Back Benchers. That leads to the second danger: our powerlessness in It is worth considering that before the second world the House damages the whole credibility of our democracy. war perhaps 50 Members of the House of Commons If the hon. Member for Gloucester reflects on the other were on the Government payroll; today, 141 MPs are on points that he raised, he will see that this is the key the payroll. In a parliamentary system, there must be a point. We are elected to the House for three principal recognition of that conflict of interest. As the parliamentary purposes: to prevent the abuse of power, to ensure the ombudsman recently told the Public Administration passing of good laws, and to raise money for the Committee—this is quoted in the report—there is Government, while guaranteeing that it is spent wisely, as was said earlier. Who today honestly believes that the “no visible distinction between Parliament and government.” House begins to carry out those functions effectively? That is something that we must address. That brings me to the separation of powers. When We have also seen the increasing power and centralisation Montesquieu studied the British constitution in action of political parties in recent times. As has been said, in his “The Spirit of Laws” of 1748, he observed, albeit political parties are indispensable, but Members of partly mistakenly, the separation of powers between the Parliament are no longer elected and then apply to take Executive, the legislature and the judiciary. The separation the Whip of this or that party. Parties are now defined of powers has become a founding principle of democratic and regulated by statute. The Burkean principle of MP constitutions around the world; it is not something that as representative has been progressively eroded and we should fear, but something that we should seek to replaced by the notion of MP as party delegate. Party promote. It is particularly exemplified in the constitution leaders can now get rid of MPs they do not like, as we of the United States. saw in the Conservative party before the last election. In fact, there never can be a complete separation of They can also block candidates of whom they disapprove. powers. The US President, for example, can veto new For the modern political party, the House of Commons laws—a legislative function. He also personally appoints has become more of an electoral college for the office of new Supreme Court justices. However, the founding Prime Minister than a deliberative assembly. That must fathers of the US constitution would have shuddered at change. the idea that the White House could determine the Parliamentary government arose precisely because weekly business in the House of Representatives. Yet Parliament wanted to limit the power of the Crown. that is what our Government can do in our Parliament. That is why the Commons insisted in 1713 that no That is not Montesquieu’s separation of powers, but a demand for money would be met unless proposed in the fusion of powers. House by a Minister of the Crown. Today’s Standing Order No. 48 derives from that time, when it was one of Mr. Cash: I am sorry to disappoint my hon. Friend, the very few Standing Orders of the House—quite why but, somewhat rarely, I could not disagree with him it is No. 48 is perhaps a reflection of the Alice in more. Going down the route of the separation of powers Wonderland atmosphere of this place. 97 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 98 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House The House has two options. First, we can embrace right hon. Friend the Member for Witney (Mr. Cameron) the modest proposal from the Wright Committee for a or the current Prime Minister. We must link that with House business committee. That will not challenge the the idea that our starting point must be to work out ultimate authority of the majority to get its way, but it what Parliament is for, as the hon. Member for Cannock will increase transparency, allow some discourse and Chase said. create more of a requirement for some explanation. A We need Parliament, in order to legitimise Government, tactful and rational Government have no need to fear to hold the Executive to account and, most importantly, such a reform. If that fails, we will need to discuss to force the Executive to explain their actions. That is a something far more radical and start a process of visibly requirement of any healthy democracy, and in order for removing the Executive from Parliament altogether, Parliament to do that, some independence of mind although I have to tell my hon. Friend the Member for must be shown on the Back Benches, along with some Stone (Mr. Cash), who is now addressing the Clerk, that sense of responsibility when exercising their powers. I am still far from persuaded that that would be desirable or achievable. It is far preferable, before we turn to the radical option, that we consider the chance for moderate Mr. Cash: In that context, does my hon. Friend agree reform offered by the report. The proposed House that when referring to Back Benchers, more often than business committee can begin to redress the imbalance not we should also refer to the word “backbone”? of power in the House, which so corrodes good government and accountability. There can only be strong government Mr. Tyrie: My hon. Friend makes his own point in his if it rests on a strong and more independent Parliament. own way. Parliamentary democracy also requires there to be 8.7 pm strong political parties, and there has been some discussion of parties today, but a Parliament that is worthy of the Mr. Andrew Tyrie (Chichester) (Con): I strongly support name can operate only if political debate is not entirely almost all of what I have just heard; it was a very within, and controlled by, the parties, even if much of interesting speech. Today is one of those rare occasions that discourse takes place behind closed doors. So we when I feel that we have all been let out. We are hearing need both parties and independent-minded Back Benchers. some very unusual and thoughtful remarks. I particularly enjoyed the brilliant speech by the hon. Member for As has been pointed out, it is certainly the case that Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright). I am a bit nervous of his there have been a fair number of Back-Bench rebellions taking too much notice of my judgment, because I since Iraq. It is therefore not true that this has been a agree with absolutely every word, and agreeing with a complete patsy Parliament, but the trouble for Parliament speech so fully tends to cloud one’s judgment. However, as an institution is that, on at least three counts, our it really was an outstanding speech. task is getting more difficult all the time. I am not going to go into great procedural detail in supporting the proposals. Instead, I will try to make a Martin Salter rose— few general remarks about why we have reached the pass that we have and about the extent to which the Mr. Tyrie: If the hon. Gentleman will forgive me, I reforms will make any significant contribution. shall not give way. We are here less because of expenses than because of The first of those three counts is the growth of Iraq and Blair. ’s disdain for Parliament, and presidentialism, the second is the growth in the power Parliament’s failure to expose—even after the event—the of interest groups, and the third is the understandable full extent to which the country was misled when we enthusiasm in the modern media for encouraging those went to war, have been decisive in confirming in the other two counts. The Committee’s proposals will do public mind the weakness and powerlessness of this something, if only a little, to act as a counterweight to institution. That weakness is deep-seated. all three of them, but before discussing how much the proposals will do this, I want to talk about those challenges Mr. Jenkin: I did not comment on this particular in a little more detail. issue, because I wanted to keep my remarks short, but it would be dreadful if we thought that we could insulate On presidentialism, we have just heard an interesting Members of Parliament from the pressures involved in speech suggesting a separation of powers. I do not such decisions. Two opponents of the Iraq war have think that this is practical politics, even if it is good made the same point, but I doubt whether the decision theory. All the pressures on a Prime Minister will be for would have been different, given that even public opinion him to appeal beyond party and Parliament, and instead was in favour of going to war by the time the vote took to appeal directly to the public. That will not change. In place. fact, I think that it will grow, and that eventually the problems to which my hon. Friend the Member for Mr. Tyrie: One of the points that I made was that we North Essex (Mr. Jenkin) alluded will resurface. failed to get to the bottom of everything, even afterwards. The public choice theorists were right about the We have just had a succession of inquiries from outsiders, tyranny of interest group politics. They said that policy who have made far better progress than Committees of could be disproportionately influenced by a relatively this House, which is tragic. That is a reflection of the small number of voters, often, but not always, in the powerlessness of Parliament, rather than just the decision centre ground, and often influenced by vocal interest itself—I made both points. Parliament became Mr. Blair’s groups. That leads to a tyranny not of the majority, but poodle, at least until Iraq—things began to change after of the minority. It is no coincidence that at present the that—and our job now is to try to make sure that after agendas of all three major parties are very similar. That the next election it does not become the poodle of my does not necessarily make them right, of course. 99 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 100 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Tyrie] Whips will, if possible, suppress any signs of independence; in the eyes of a Whip, “scrutiny”means “making trouble”, This kind of politics gave us the middle way of the and that will remain the case. early post-war years, the monetary policy that collapsed Reform will be difficult, therefore, and fundamental in the face of inflation, and a growth policy that folded reform will be impossible; it would be blocked entirely. in the face of excessive regulation and interest group That is why these proposals score; they score because power led by the unions, which culminated in the they are incremental—and one of them is both incremental ungovernability of Britain. and potentially extremely effective. There was a period in the ’80s when we appeared to The election of Select Committee Chairmen by secret be able to roll back interest group power, but interest ballot of the whole House has the potential to alter the groups have returned and their influence is now considerable. terms of trade between the Executive and the legislature, Understandably, as we approach the election, parties just as the ’79 reforms have over the past 30 years led to are rushing to influence the swing voter in the political Select Committees becoming serious institutions in this centre. We need only look at the speed with which all place. Through the election of Chairmen, the legislature the parties now produce policies to satisfy the lobbies will have spokesmen who are accountable to Parliament on health, aid and green issues, to name but three. and who have been put here to do that job by us. The The fact is, however, that we have a massive economic Select Committee corridor will gain, and the Committee crisis, and if fiscal policy is to be stabilised the toxic link of Chairmen, the Liaison Committee, will also be between interest groups and Government spending decisions empowered, such as, perhaps, through demanding more must be countered and counterbalanced. I think that frequent appearances by the Prime Minister—I certainly independent-minded Back Benchers can help in this think they should do that. Over time, that could develop regard, but only if the parliamentary tools to do the job into there being more effective scrutiny of a presidential are available. Prime Minister than we currently have. The third area I mentioned is the change in the All these changes in respect of Select Committees balance of power from Parliament to the media. We live will, of course, come at the expense of the Chamber, but in a media age, and the power of the media to set the I think that that should be the case. We are one of the political agenda is greater than ever. We need only think last Parliaments in the world which still tries to conduct of issues such as immigration, law and order, and so much scrutiny of a modern Executive in plenary prisons and sentencing policy. Very few people who session. The idea that in the late 20th or early 21st century have thought about prisons policy think we have got it an Executive can be held to account in this way is a right at present, but it is very difficult to get any change. fanciful illusion. In debates there is rarely much light to A Justice Select Committee report set out what is wrong, match the heat generated. Of course there are exceptions—I but no party wants to be on the wrong side of a mentioned the debate on Iraq, and the debate on embryo newspaper campaign on prison reform policy; it is just research was another. However, it is important to remember too risky, particularly in the run-up to an election. that the first of those was made possible by the weakness In the face of this headwind of presidentialism, interest of party discipline and the second by a free vote, such as groups and the media, what can the Wright Committee’s we are having tonight—I began by saying that somehow proposals accomplish in acting as a counterweight? We we had been let out. can apply three tests to see if they will be of some use. The business committee proposals can and should be First, will Parliament shape the political discourse a judged not so much on whether they can revive the little more than at present? To what extent can we day-to-day scrutiny of the Executive in the Chamber, wrench setting the agenda back from the media? Secondly, but on whether, on the really big issues, a reformed will these reforms temper the growing power of patronage machinery can force the Executive to provide sufficient in the hands of the Executive, and particularly of the time for major set-piece debates on substantive issues. I leadership, in an age of increased professionalism in began by discussing the Blair and Iraq example, where politics? We should be under no illusion that the more scrutiny could have been better and that might have led we turn working in this place into a full-time salaried to a different result—that applies in respect of post-event job, the greater will be the efforts of our parties at the scrutiny too. centre to control how we get selected. Thirdly, it is also inevitable that in a fully professional, salaried House, a I wonder whether the time has now arrived for us to higher proportion of those selected will want Front-Bench have a set-piece debate on a substantive motion on jobs, and the result of that will be greater dependence Afghanistan—if these proposals were already in place, on party leaderships and Whips. My hon. Friend the we might have got one. When a Select Committee Member for Macclesfield (Sir Nicholas Winterton) made Chairman is alert, he or she can do as much as anybody that point, and my hon. Friend the Member for North to ensure that this place is empowered again, and that is Essex referred to it. what these proposals would do. They are only a small In respect of all three of those issues, the Wright step in the right direction, but it is one that we should Committee proposals can do something to help. There take, and soon. is much inexorable logic to the growth of presidentialism and of the power of the media and interest groups. So 8.21 pm they will not do a lot, but they will do something. We Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): I, too, wish have to be realistic. The Executive will not lie down like to begin by congratulating the hon. Member for Cannock a lamb in response to a request from our Committee for Chase (Dr. Wright) and all the members of his Committee, more scrutiny powers. With the media being more powerful, who put so much work into these proposals. However, I the Prime Minister will see it as a prerequisite for share the disappointment expressed by many Members hanging on to power to get reported by them and he about the way in which this process has been dealt with will use his presidential tools to ensure that. Also, the since the publication of the Committee’s report. 101 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 102 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House The report made it clear that the Committee would Some of the reforms, such as the election of Select like the proposals to be voted on by the House within Committees, will help to rebalance that power, because two months. It is now more than three months since they will reduce the power of patronage of the Whips the Committee’s proposals were published and it would Offices. Scheduling business through a committee that be a fair characterisation—it would perhaps even be is representative of Parliament, rather than just charitable—to say that the Government have dragged Government, will enable individual MPs to hold the their heels on this issue. They announced the date for Government to account better. My name stands alongside this debate only after being questioned week in, week those of 120 other hon. Members in support of amendment out in business questions. In fact, it has taken them (a) to motion 9, which is in favour of the proposal for a longer to bring forward these proposals for debate than House business committee, even though that cannot be it took the Committee to form, call for evidence, consider voted on tonight. It is important to remember that this the evidence, meet, debate and come up with all the is how Parliaments across the world work, and that proposals. includes the Scottish Parliament; the sky does not fall in The Government’s lack of urgency has shown that if a committee of people drawn from across the parties this important subject of reform has not been given the decides what Parliament will discuss. This is, thus, a level of priority within government that I would have very important reform. liked. There seems almost to have been confusion about the different parts of the motions to be put forward and The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of how that could be done, given that page 94 of the report the House of Commons (Barbara Keeley): I am looking contained a sample motion that was drafted and ready at an article by Dr. Meg Russell which says that we to be put before the House. That would have allowed us should not be too romantic about those notions because to discuss it, rather than to have the Government decide, those cross-party business committees tend to be dominated after asking the Committee to investigate an issue and by Whips. I believe that that is the case in Scotland, as in bring forward recommendations, which ones to cherry-pick many other places. As we take this issue forward we and put to the House. must be careful about making comparisons with other places. The proposals in the report are somewhat timid. I agree with those who say that they are a step in the right Jo Swinson: I agree that what has been proposed is direction, but I would describe them as a baby-step. not a perfect solution, but the Minister will know that Given the difficulty that we have had even in getting to the report recommended that Back Benchers should this stage of the debate, it has been like trying to take a also be represented on the committee—that is a very baby-step through treacle. I appreciate that the Committee important part of representation. The issue of whether was constrained in its terms of reference. We heard an newer MPs would be represented has been raised. If a interesting exchange earlier, when a lot of interest was business committee is properly elected and if there is a expressed by Members in different parts of the House large proportion of new Members in the House after for taking forward some of the ideas that were not able the next election, it is highly likely and desirable that to be developed in full within the confines of the new Members would also be elected to it. This is about Committee. Too much was left to later decision or who sets the agenda. I can understand why it is very future review, whereas we needed to have strong and convenient for the Government if they do so, but there robust recommendations, be they on the issue of September is no good argument for why they should do so, particularly sittings, Public Bill Committees or public engagement, in our system where Governments are elected without to which I shall return. receiving a majority of the popular vote. Parliament, It is worth asking ourselves why reform is so necessary not the Government, needs to control what we debate. and vital. We need to remember that this is happening The proviso is that we understand that a Government in the context of the reputation of Parliament and, who are elected on a manifesto should have the time to indeed, of our democracy having been dragged through put their business to the House. the mire in recent months. Cleaning up our discredited One of the problematic things is that, because of the expenses system is a vital part of the solution, but it is way in which scheduling works, controversial parts of only part of the solution. Bills are often not discussed properly in this House. If In May, I asked hundreds of my constituents who are Parliament, rather than the Government, were to set the signed up to an online consultation what they thought agenda, the issues and the parts of Bills that Parliament was necessary to restore faith in politics. I received was most concerned about would be given the most dozens of answers. Alongside people saying that we time. As MPs, we need to be able to influence the needed transparency, an end to personal profit through agenda in order to represent our constituents. I think the expenses system, proper sanctions when people did that this report should be just a stepping stone in the things that were wrong and a new expenses system, right direction, because I want the public to be able to much wider issues were raised in the consultation. Even influence the agenda of this House as well as MPs. when the expenses scandal was at its height, my constituents On the issue of business and scheduling, it has been a were raising issues such as electoral reform and how to source of huge frustration to me that there is so little ensure that people’s votes count no matter where their advance notice of business, when we all know that the constituency, rather than having them count only in Government decide and plan in advance on which date some marginal constituencies. Even reform of the House the Second Reading of one Bill will be and on which of Commons was a theme that emerged in that consultation date another Bill will be discussed on Report. It is used exercise; it was common for people to say to me that as a tool of control and the information is not shared they thought that the power of the Whips should be with the rest of the House. That is a ridiculous way to reduced compared with the power and influence of do business. I represent a constituency that is a five or individual, independent-minded MPs. six-hour commute from the House and the business on 103 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 104 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Jo Swinson] campaign called “Free our Bills”, which seeks to ensure that legislation online is tagged to make it easy for the a particular Monday makes a big difference to me. If I public to follow different stages and to comment on want to be here for its start at half-past three, that what is happening, but the cogs move so slowly in this affects whether I can hold a surgery on a Monday place when we try to get change. morning. For this matter to be held out as a case of, I have sympathy with many of the points raised by “We can’t tell people, because it is not decided,” when it the hon. Member for Gloucester (Mr. Dhanda), which has been decided is ridiculous. Businesses would not he also raised in his speech during the hustings for the operate in that way, with nothing planned more than speakership, about allowing our constituents to vote 10 days in advance, and nor would other professions. directly to express the things that they would like us to We should certainly operate in a much more organised discuss—whether they do so through online or telephone way. polls or through encouraging people to sign early-day motions that, once they have received a certain number Natascha Engel: In what way will a House business of signatures, will require a debate to be held. There is committee stop that happening? My understanding is no reason why we cannot consider engaging the public that we will not have business scheduled months in in such ways. It is a real shame that we do not yet have advance. It might be that things are far worse and that those proposals on the table to vote for today, or for business is planned less far ahead. next Thursday when the many votes might happen. Jo Swinson: If we remove the power from Government I wholeheartedly hope that this report is not a conclusion alone, we will open the door to that debate. I agree that to the process of reform but the beginning of it. We such changes will not necessarily follow, but I was need radically to increase public engagement in this raising the point as I think that it is ridiculous how we place. The hon. Member for Reading, West (Martin plan business. I hope and have more confidence that, if Salter) talked about the process of reform. Let me say I have colleagues on a House business committee, they to hon. Members that people outside this place look in might be more likely to listen to my views—I will and wonder what planet we are on with our archaic certainly argue for those views. It will also be in everyone’s rules, procedural wrangling and bizarre traditions. The interest if not only one party knows what business will measures outlined in this report represent modest progress, be discussed on a particular day. but progress none the less. Let me turn to public involvement and engagement, It is frustrating how even these mild reforms require which is what I particularly want to mention. The such energetic campaigning to get votes on the relevant report is good on warm words, but light on specific measures and to get 130 signatures so that we can have a actions. At least it opens the door to greater public debate on a particular motion, but I am glad that we are engagement in future and suggests that it should be doing that. I truly believe that this House will be able reviewed and reconsidered in the new Parliament. I to regain credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of the think that this was a missed opportunity, and so I have public only when it wholeheartedly embraces reform, sympathy with the comments made by the hon. Member but that does not seem to be the case currently. Today, for North-East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) about the we have heard impassioned voices from both sides of fact that the Committee did not consider in full all of the House in favour of reform. We need to back this the issues that it could have. report as the first step to that reform, and to work together in the coming months and years to continue On public engagement, there is much that needs to be the process of creating a House of Commons that is fit done, because this place is so alien to most people who for the 21st century. turn on BBC Parliament—if they do—and watch what we are doing in this Chamber as well as the way in which we do it. There are many opportunities, particularly 8.34 pm with new technology, to reach out and to engage the Mr. David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op): I had not intended public better, yet this House seems to be good at missing to speak in this debate, just as I had not intended to be a those opportunities. My hon. Friend the Member for member of the Wright Committee, but my hon. Friend West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine (Sir Robert Smith) the Member for Hackney, North and Stoke Newington mentioned the Procedure Committee’s report on improving (Ms Abbott) and the Minister for Borders and Immigration, the petitions system. The Committee produced an excellent my hon. Friend the Member for Oldham, East and report, and what happened to it? Nothing. We have had Saddleworth (Mr. Woolas), persuaded me that the the report, which said how we could do it, but we are Committee needed my thought processes. still saying, “Oh, we should consider this at a future I will admit that I did not take a leading part in date.” It is not rocket science—we could just get on and proceedings, but I would like to think that I have do it. wholeheartedly backed my hon. Friend the Member for Two years ago, I started campaigning to allow clips Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright) as he has taken the Committee from the filming of Parliament to be shown on YouTube through some quite treacherous waters. What I have so that people could share them with their friends or so done, however, as my hon. Friend knows, is to try to that members of a pressure group that might be interested engage with my constituents in parallel with all this. It in a particular exchange could see them. It is getting was pleasing to hear what the hon. Member for East there, but progress is so slow. Now we are allowed to put Dunbartonshire (Jo Swinson) said in that regard, but I clips on YouTube, but there are ridiculous restrictions—we went one step further. I contacted every household in cannot share them, for example, and comments need to my constituency, which involved sending out something be moderated—that are wholly inappropriate when it like 46,000 survey forms. I must say that I used the comes to understanding how the internet works and communications allowance for that, but that is absolutely how people engage with it. There has been an excellent what it should be used for. [Interruption.] We just asked 105 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 106 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House them to say what they thought about a range of issues electing people on to Select Committees. Of course, not such as electoral reform, reform of the House of Lords, everyone can necessarily get on to the Committee that recall of parliamentarians and spending limits. We had they want. If they do not curry favour with their colleagues, 7,000 replies, which is pleasing, especially considering they will not necessarily get on to a Select Committee. that they were in stamped, addressed envelopes and that However, they at least have the right to put themselves people had to make the effort to respond. forward, and it is up to their party as a whole, rather We accompanied the survey with a series of meetings. than a small group of individuals, to decide whether I am eternally grateful to my hon. Friend the Member they will serve on a Select Committee. for Cannock Chase because he came along with Peter Hennessy, who is a professor at Queen Mary college, Ms Abbott: Will my hon. Friend give way? and Peter Facey of Unlock Democracy to our final meeting at which there were about 150 people who wanted to discuss all manner of issues to do with Mr. Drew: I give way to my hon. Friend and nominee. constitutional reform. I do not go along with the view that it is entirely the chattering classes who are interested Ms Abbott: Given that Select Committees were set up in such issues. I accept that the economy and housing, as, and technically remain, Committees of the House, health and education will always be more important does my hon. Friend agree that it is a complete abuse when it comes to people’s voting preferences and opinions, that party Whips should decide who serves on them and but constitutional issues matter to many people. They who does not? matter not a little when people see this place not representing them and when they see the mess that we have got Mr. Drew: I agree with that; unfortunately, my friends ourselves into. I feel wiser from having taken part in in the Whips Office did not seem to do so. That is why I those proceedings, and I certainly feel more engaged did not make much progress in my time on parliamentary with my constituents as a result of how we were able to Labour party Back-Bench committee. Nevertheless, we proceed on some of the relevant issues, and I intend to have moved on, and I hope that we can now see the continue doing that. benefit of doing so. As my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase I shall move on quickly, as a number of other hon. knows, I was also elected to the Back-Bench committee Members want to speak. I welcome the business committee. of the parliamentary Labour party, although I did not I am not quite sure how it will cohabit with the way in manage to survive on that for as long as I survived on which the usual channels will, I suppose, continue to the Wright Committee. Perhaps people sussed out that operate; but, if nothing else, we can be much more my stance on renationalising the railways, keeping the transparent in how we plan our business and in how we Post Office public and withdrawing from Afghanistan know what is coming up and why. I will point the finger was not quite what the rest of the Labour party, in a at the Opposition as well as the Government. There is parliamentary sense, was prepared to go for. However, nothing more galling when a debate is coming up next I am pleased that I was part of the majority opinion on week than preparing a wonderful speech—just as I have the Wright Committee that wanted reform and that not on this occasion—and finding at a moment’s notice we did things consensually. Of course, we had our that that debate has been pulled and something else disagreements—there was a minority report, which was put in its place. There ought to be fairness, and Back from a minority—but we have made progress. Benchers ought to have some security in the knowledge Given my nature, I take quite a narrow approach to that the debates that they are expecting will take place. what I want to do; I have always found that it is better to It is not beyond the realm of personkind to have topicality, know what we want to do and to focus on it. I have a without wrecking one’s ability to programme one’s life very simple request: I have believed ever since becoming and willingness to engage in the House. a Member that it is absolutely wrong for the Whips to decide who serves on Select Committees and, more The hon. Member for East Dunbartonshire commented particularly, who does not serve on them. It is part of on how petitions need to be organised much more the important role of parliamentarians that, if they meaningfully. We have made a small amount of progress. want to take part in a Select Committee, provided that We need to ensure that petitions are properly recognised there are enough places, they should have the right to in the House and to allow hon. Members to debate the do so. First, preventing them from doing so does not issues properly, so that our constituents can feel that allow them to be parliamentarians in the true sense of they have some traction on us. the word, because they cannot engage in that aspect of I want to finish by referring to my hon. Friend the scrutinising the Executive. Secondly, I have never understood Member for Sunderland, South (Mr. Mullin), who is where the Whips were coming from because that is not in his place, but I will embarrass him by saying that perverse psychology. If those are the most awkward the art of the possible is to keep on raising the same people in Parliament, the best place to put them is on a issue so many times that people eventually get so sick of Select Committee, which uses their time and expertise hearing it that they give in and take notice. He is far better than having them run around the House, absolutely right about September days. It is right that tabling all sorts of motions that cause embarrassment the House should sit then. In the good old way that we to the Government. I therefore tried to persuade the referred to Baker days when I was teaching in the 1980s Whips on numerous occasions that those are just the and we got formal in-service days for the first time, we sort of people whom they want to serve on Select should call them Mullin days, so that we can recall his Committees. dogged persistence. However, I would go even further: The good thing is not just that we will elect Chairmen I would make those days in September parliamentary through the process of Parliament, but that we will, days, with no Government business, other than when through our party groups, have an open process of the Government are being called to account. We could 107 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 108 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Drew] home in our constituency. I am very concerned when I hear hon. Members on both sides of the Chamber have a series of debates based on topical issues that talking about direct democracy. Have we lost faith in perhaps were not the ones that we were able to discuss our own ability to be the effective representatives of before the recess. those who elected us? More particularly, given the way in which our timetable We have representative democracy in this country, works, I should like some opportunity for private Members’ and by and large it has served us well for 350 years. If Bills to be carried through, rather than their being culled we get it right, it will serve us well for the next 350 years, because we do not have enough time. That would be an but radical changes need to be made. The current important standpoint for Parliament. The Government constitutional settlement is not working. We know and would have to respond to Parliament, rather than the public know that it is not working. If any good has Parliament responding to the Government. That is an come out of the expenses scandal, crisis, nightmare of important reason why that couple of weeks should be the past nine months, it is that at last we will have a used and should be different from the usual business. healthy distance between us as Back-Bench Members of They come round only once a year, but that would be an Parliament and the Executive. important way in which Parliament would assert itself, Our interests are not the interests of the Executive of or—dare I say?—reassert itself. this country. We have been led up a dead-end road over I hope that those are the sort of things that we can the past 30 years. We willingly followed and we should take forward. As everyone has said, this is not the end not be forgiven for that, but the Executive were prime of the process. Indeed, we hope that it is the start of the movers in getting us into the position that we found process, and we could move forward with many other ourselves in. We should not forget that. things if only parliamentarians had the independence We have a presidential style of government in this of mind, the will power and the sheer gall to ensure country. Do we have government by Cabinet any more? that, from time to time, the Executive respond to us, Of course not. We know that. Secretaries of State in the rather than our always having to respond to the Executive. current Government would go to No. 10 to talk to the Prime Minister about policy, and he would turn to them Mr. Speaker: Order. On my reckoning, six hon. Members and say, “Funnily enough, my special adviser disagrees are still seeking to catch my eye, and the Front-Bench with you on that. We’re going to do something different.” winding-up speeches will begin at or very close to So we do not have government by Cabinet. We do not 9.40 pm. Hon. Members are capable of doing the have a Prime Minister, a first Minister of the Cabinet: arithmetic for themselves, but if a self-denying ordinance we have presidential government, and it is driven by can be observed and each speech is kept to 10 minutes 24-hour media. or preferably less, it should be possible to accommodate We in this place know that only three people in any everybody. political party matter. They are the ones who make the weather. In the Government, it is the Chancellor, the 8.45 pm Prime Minister and Lord Mandelson. In my party there are many people better qualified than I who will make Mr. Charles Walker (Broxbourne) (Con): Thank you, that judgment, but I am convinced that only three Mr. Speaker, for calling me to speak in this hugely people in each party make the weather. important debate. May I say, as a member of the Public Administration Mr. Pelling: Is it possible that in the Conservative Committee, what a marvellous Chairman we have in the party one of those three is the former editor of the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright)? He has News of the World? brought his brilliance on the Public Administration Committee to bear on the Wright Committee report. Mr. Walker: The hon. Gentleman is being ungenerous. Yes, it is a small step, but it is a fundamentally important There are only three parliamentarians who make the step, and a very brave step that he has taken. weather in our party, but that is the nature of 24-hour During this debate we have asked ourselves what is media, which is driving a presidential style of government. the role of a Member of Parliament. Of course, a I am afraid the truth is that on most occasions we are Member of Parliament must be here to scrutinise legislation. just backdrop to the big issues of the day. We have a duty and obligation to ensure that our I have some time for the Prime Minister. I do not constituents are governed by good legislation, not just think that he is a bad man; he is mistaken in most by any legislation. We have failed at times to ensure things, but he is an honourable fellow. However, he that. We must also hold the Government to account, came to the House and, with great pride, said, “We regardless of whether or not they are drawn from our bailed out the banks without taking it to the Floor of own party. Beyond that, we must be courageous and this House.” The decision on the greatest expenditure of true to ourselves. We must be representatives of the public money in living history, or in history, was made people who elect us, not delegates. without one minute of scrutiny in this place. That really It is interesting that over the past 30 years, the more is disgraceful, and it must not be allowed to continue. we have done for our constituents and the more visible Our constituents are furious that we allowed it to happen. we are in our constituencies, the more people despise us. Gone are the days, 50 years ago, when a Member of Ms Abbott: Does not the complete absence of debate Parliament would make a twice-yearly regal visit to the about the issue in this House reflect poorly on the constituency to meet the mayor or go to a fête. We are British system and contrast with the extensive debate— now mostly based in our constituency for more than whether or not we agree with what people have said—about half of our time, and many of us make our primary the very same issue in the United States? 109 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 110 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Mr. Walker: The hon. Lady makes a valuable point. Mr. Walker: I say this to my hon. Friend: we’re mad We in this place sometimes forget why we are sent as hell and we’re not going to take it any more! here—to represent those who elect us. Sometimes we We are told by the press that the public want strong forget that and spend too much time propping up the leadership and that that is what they deserve. In 1974, Executive of the day or making excuses for them. Let us turnout in the general election was more than 80 per be in no doubt that the expenses scandal of the past cent.; in 2005, it was just over 60 per cent. That is the nine months has perversely played into the hands of the answer that the public give to strong government. It has Executive, because they like nothing more than a weak got to end, and it has got to end soon. and humiliated Parliament, and my word are we not weak and humiliated, bereft of any self-confidence? I shall conclude with these thoughts, because I have 8.56 pm had seven minutes. The public do not want their Members Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney, North and Stoke of Parliament to be their best friends or to act like Newington) (Lab): I am grateful for the opportunity to minor celebrities, gurning at the camera week in, week speak in this important debate. Like everyone else who out. We have tried that model for 20 years, and it does has spoken, one has to bow to the tenacity and insight not work. What our constituents want more than anything of my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock Chase is legislators whom they respect and trust—legislators (Dr. Wright), who has steered these proposals thus far. whom they send to this place, and who they know will We can see consummation so close that we can almost stand up for their interests. What is so sad about this touch it, and we can only hope that next week things place, however, is that so many good people come here will go as we all wish. with the best of intentions and then the poison of Several hon. Members have spoken about the expenses patronage takes over, as my hon. Friend the Member scandal as if that is the origin of the decline in the for North Essex (Mr. Jenkin) said. More than one in esteem in which the House is held. In fact, the decline in two Members hold Front-Bench positions, and when esteem for Members of Parliament is a fairly long-term the press say, “We have so many Members of Parliament— thing. I am very pro-European; none the less, the decline 646. Why do we need them?”, they forget that we draw has come about because of power flowing to European the Executive from Parliament. institutions. It has come about because of power flowing Unlike my hon. Friend the Member for Stone (Mr. Cash), to quangos. I came to this House in 1987, and questions for whom I have a huge amount of time, I really am in that one would once have asked of a Minister one now favour of the separation of powers. I have had enough. has to write to a quango about. It has come about I did not come here to make up the numbers, and I am because of the decline in deference. Above all, perhaps, afraid that I did not come here to be the lackey of the it has come about because of the spiralling power of Whips. I came here to represent the people of Broxbourne. patronage, which has undermined the will of the House I am and always will be a Conservative, but the idea that to stand up for itself and undermined the role of the one has to agree with every policy from one’s Front Back-Bench MP. The power of patronage has increased Benchers, or with every policy in the manifesto, is total and is increasing. and utter nonsense. I do not agree with colleagues who have said that these proposals are sterile, meaningless and technical; I Martin Salter: The hon. Gentleman is clearly not think they are probably among the most important seeking preferment under a future Government. Does things we will have the opportunity to vote for during he not agree that, far from bellyaching and whining this Parliament. I say that for a number of reasons. about the Whips, we parliamentarians must collectively First, it is easy for hon. Members—beaten and battered get off our knees and use the powers that we already by the media, dealing with a deluge of letters from have? We can call Ministers and even shadow spokespeople constituents, knocking on doors in the run-up to what to account if we act collectively and have the courage to is going to be, on the basis of what we have seen so far, organise in the Lobbies. quite a bitter and unpleasant election—to forget that Mr. Walker: The hon. Gentleman makes a great point. the public are in fact very interested in politics. I occasionally We give the Whips their powers. If we chose to ignore appear on the broadcast media, and I want to assure them on occasions, they would have no power. If we hon. Members that in my experience the public—not chose to put a parliamentary career ahead of a ministerial just party members and young people, but people of all career, they would have less power. ages and all colours—are interested in and want to talk about politics; they have views on issues such as Europe, “Back Bencher” is now used as a term of derision by what we should do about the banks, and so on. However, the public, by the press, and at times, shamefully, by our they are not so interested in Parliament. Our task is to own Front Benchers. I am proud to be a Member of make Parliament relevant to the public’s concerns, because Parliament. Funnily enough, the leaders of the political they do not see it as such. In particular, they do not feel parties are simply Members of Parliament. They should, that politicians say what they think. on occasion, remember and recognise that, because I feel that the time is fast coming when we shall remind I want to say to hon. Members who may not have them of it. been here pre-1997 and in the ’80s, as I was, that Select Committees are wonderful, and all their Chairs and Sir Nicholas Winterton: My hon. Friend is a wonderful members, without exception, are wonderful, but the Member of Parliament and an example to new Members role of Select Committees and the seriousness with coming into this House. Does he agree with the hon. which they are taken is not what it was. Member for Reading, West (Martin Salter) that Back I came into Parliament in an era when we took Benchers united can always defeat the Executive, and seriously the notion of Select Committees being Committees that that is what we should do? of the House. That is not to say that parties did not seek 111 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 112 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Ms Diane Abbott] and we have to come back to the same subject again and again rather than put through sound legislation in the to interfere. I served on the Treasury Committee throughout first place. most of the ’90s, with some reasonable success, in the Hon. Friends have talked in most baleful terms about teeth of the opposition of the party leader of the time. the dangers of allowing Back-Bench MPs to vote for The Whips Office, which in those days saw its role as Chairs and members of Select Committees. “What will balancing the factions of the party, saw it as a triumph come,”they ask histrionically, “of allowing Back Benchers to put on an important Committee someone who in its to vote without the Whips telling them what to do?” I view represented a particular current in the party. Now, will tell them what will come of allowing Back Benchers lip service is no longer given to Select Committees being to use their judgment without being whipped. Members Committees of the House. may disagree about the choice of issues that I will refer In that era, it was accepted that Select Committees to, but some of the most important moments in this could elect their own Chairmen. I served on a Committee House, such as the abolition of the death penalty and in the 1990s for which the Whips were suggesting one introducing the right to an abortion for women, were Chairman, but we all voted for another. We have gone brought about by Members voting unwhipped, using from that position, in which it was accepted that Select their judgment. If any Member of this House has no Committees had to have that right, and it was accepted confidence in Members of Parliament being allowed to at least on paper that they were Committees of the vote and use their judgment, what they are doing as House, to a position that I believe is outrageous, although MPs? We are elected, but if we are not respected enough, no one else in my party seems to think so. Chief Whips even by our colleagues, to use our judgment on matters appear before the parliamentary Labour party and read such as the composition of Select Committees, why out who is going to chair Committees. That seems would we become MPs? extraordinary and an abuse of the technical position of I am a great believer in direct democracy and I have a what Select Committees are about. website of which I am very proud. Perhaps my constituency Wonderful though Select Committees are, we have differs from others, but with direct democracy, one never fully explored their powers and their possibility to must be careful that one does not empower a small rejuvenate politics and make it relevant. Too much group of technologically literate people at the expense turns on their Chairmen, and, as was said earlier, Whips of people who are, for example, not educated, too old have weakened them by not looking for the most or simply uninterested. I am all for direct democracy, experienced, able or knowledgeable people but filling but not if it produces an imbalance in the forces in a them with people they believe will cause no trouble. I constituency. speak to Select Committee Chairman after Select I am very glad that the Government are coming Committee Chairman who talks about the difficulty of forward on this matter and that they will help us to simply getting a quorum, when there are many people make these reforms—I will not go so far as to say that on the Back Benches who would serve with distinction. they have seen the light. Mystifying as it may be to Select Committees have been weakened, and the proposals Members of Parliament who know only the current before us would strengthen them and strengthen the regime, and annoying as allowing Back Benchers to House. vote and use their judgment may be to Front Benchers—and I am giving away my age, but I started as an MP in an as traumatic as it is for the Whips Office—this House is era when timetabling was the exception, not the rule, at its best when Members of Parliament feel free to say and Front Benchers had to apologise if they were going what they wish and when they can use their judgment. to timetable a Bill. Now nearly everything is timetabled. Only if the public are allowed to see more of the House Hon. Members will say, “We have to timetable or we of Commons at its best and what MPs can be if they are wouldn’t get through the business.” I entirely accept not trammelled by the Executive will we restore confidence that we have to have Whips, order and procedure, but in this House of Commons, this Parliament and the am I the only one who has noticed in recent months politics of this country. how important legislation is savagely timetabled because Front Benchers do not want discussion on it, and then Several hon. Members rose— we end up spending days on matters of no importance whatever? That is timetabling taken beyond what is Mr. Speaker: Order. There are no more than 33 minutes rational. It is one thing to timetable to get business remaining and four hon. Members are seeking to catch through, but when timetabling has reached the point at my eye. Members can do the arithmetic for themselves. which we cannot debate important things and rely on If each takes no more than eight minutes, all will get in. the House of Lords to pick up on poor legislation, yet I hope that that happens. we come here day after day to debate matters that do not need to be debated, it has gone out of control. The proposals that I hope we will vote for in a very few days 9.7 pm will enable timetabling to go forward on a rational David Howarth (Cambridge) (LD): The one thing basis. that is bothering me about this debate is this: where are Everyone accepts that the Government must get their the opponents? I pay tribute to the hon. Member for business and that Back Benchers must vote for matters Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright) for his marvellous that were in the manifesto, but the power to timetable at chairmanship of the Committee and to its staff for will has gone completely to the head of the usual getting us through the process of the report, but as a channels. We are getting an arrangement of business of member of the Committee, I know that there are large the House that makes no sense. Worse, legislation keeps numbers in the House who are against our proposals, going through that the Lords are not able to clean up, yet they have not spoken tonight. 113 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 114 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Given that I have only eight minutes, I want to talk North-East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) is worried about one aspect of the report—the reform of Standing about the transfer of power that our proposal involves, Order No. 14 and the House business committee—and but what, in fact, is that transfer of power? It is not even to try to reassure people who are not here tonight but a transfer of power between the Executive and the who might be listening to those voices of reaction that legislature, but a transfer of power between the Government the proposal is not that radical. In fact, I am amazed by Front Bench and the Government Back Bench. The its moderation. single group of people who will be most empowered by It is said by opponents of our proposals that Standing what we are proposing are Government Back Benchers. Order No. 14, which gives the Government complete It seems to me, from where I sit, that they are the most control over the House’s timetable, is necessary to get disempowered group of all in this Parliament, but they the Government’s programme through, but that is plainly are the people who would benefit most from our proposal, untrue, given what happens in other countries. Standing and they would be able to do their job better. Order No. 14 is completely over the top given how other There are opponents who claim that we are somehow European legislatures work. The only legislature that is interfering with the “manifesto mandate” theory. I am subject to anywhere near the same degree of Executive not a great fan of that theory, because I do not see how control as ours is the Dáil, presumably because of the a mandate can result from a manifesto that very few historical connection. However, in the Dáil, private people read, on 35 per cent. of the vote. However, even Members’ Bills cannot be talked out because they can those who do believe in it must ask themselves the big be carried over to the next slot, and Opposition parties question: who will be given the opportunity to interpret can introduce legislation on which they can require the that mandate? Will it be simply the Front Bench of the House to vote. If the Government do not like it, they governing party, or will it be the whole of the parliamentary must vote it down. section of the party that won the election? It is important to realise that the Committee is suggesting That is the question that we are posing in our proposals not the radical Dutch system, in which the House for reform, but at this point we are proposing a different decides almost from minute to minute what it is going answer. Our answer is that we are transferring power, to talk about, but a very moderate system. We are but we are transferring it from the Government Front suggesting that a Deputy Speaker, the Chairman of Bench to the Government Back Bench. Ways and Means, acts as a mediator between the Government, the parties and the Back-Bench committee. Lynne Jones (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab): Will the The Deputy Speaker then brings to the House the hon. Gentleman give way? motion concerning what it will discuss in the following week. David Howarth: I will give way briefly. I have not That would give the Government two enormous much time. safeguards. First, it would be possible for a Standing Order to require the Deputy Speaker to ensure that Lynne Jones: The Government may have a manifesto the Government had time to get their Bills through the mandate, but surely the whole point of legislative scrutiny House, and had an out date. We can build that into the should be to establish whether the legislation that they system. propose will be effective in fulfilling that mandate. Secondly, the Deputy Speaker would put to the House a motion that would be amendable. If the Government— David Howarth: Obviously that is what Government with their majority—did not like what was proposed, Back Benchers should be doing, but they also have the they could, in the final resort, propose an amendment right to judge whether their interpretation of the mandate in order to get their way, but they would have to do it is being put into effect. openly and transparently, and that would itself constitute Some opponents have given the impression that the the main change. The Government would no longer fill present system is one of vast antiquity, and that our the week with pointless debates with no vote in order to arrangements would fall apart without it. That is simply avoid a proper debate on the Report stage of a Bill, not the case. The present system came into being in because if they did so they would have to do it openly, 1963, without debate, following a report by a Select on the Floor of the House. For the same reason, they Committee on Procedure which simply said vaguely would be less likely even to want to try to restrict the that the old system was obsolete. number of days for debate on Report or in Committee What happened, historically, is quite interesting. The of the whole House. The House would therefore be arrangement allowing the Government to take all the more likely to end up talking about, and voting on, time of the House was not introduced until 1915 under matters of public concern—and that is what would Asquith, who promised that he would not use it to enact make us more relevant. any party or partisan legislation. Churchill repeated I suppose that, in the end, it is a matter of principle. that promise in the 1940s, when it was used again. Only Ultimately, the House should decide its own agenda. after the war—in some very bad-tempered debates under The present system provides for the Government as the the 1945 Government—was the arrangement extended Government, not as the majority, to decide our agenda, to peacetime. But even then it was only Session by and that is different from the majority deciding it. Session. It became a Standing Order in 1963 because I feel that those who think we are moving away from people had forgotten how to oppose. In an era of our present system of a fusion of powers towards a consensus and bipolar politics, with very low rates of separation of powers—and I know that some Members Back-Bench rebellion, Parliament forgot its job. But would like us to move in that direction—do not understand now, in a different era with multi-party politics and the what we are proposing. What we are proposing would end of consensus politics, it is still the basis of our give the majority more power. The hon. Member for politics. In a situation of fragmentation, the idea that 115 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 116 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [David Howarth] is to reduce the Select Committees to 11 members, so the opportunity to sit on them will be tight to say the the Government should dominate the agenda of the least. But Members could give written or oral evidence House entirely is an idea whose time has gone. If we are both to Select Committees and Public Bill Committees. to revive our politics, this is where we must start. It is very important that everyone has an opportunity to play their part. 9.15 pm We have heard about consultation with the public—I encourage as much of that as I can in my constituency—but Mr. Dai Davies (Blaenau Gwent) (Ind): I shall not the worst thing that we can do is consult and ignore. If take more than five minutes, as my hon. Friend the we are going to encourage the public to take part in Independent Member for Croydon, Central (Mr. Pelling) debate, we must listen to them, and then we wonder why wants to speak, as does the hon. Member for Stone we come here. We come here because our constituents (Mr. Cash). tell us their concerns. We come here to express those Several quotations from newspapers and other sources concerns and, with a petition, all that adds weight to have been put to the House tonight, but the two quotations what we say. I am sure that no Member comes here that I would like to use are from a constituent of mine. without consulting their constituents, whether in the He said to me some weeks ago, “If politics was a surgery or, in the modern era, through e-mails, of which business, you’d close it down.” Given the comments we get hundreds. We are the voice of the community—that tonight about the inefficiencies of the product of politics, is why we come here—and it is extremely important that that is probably true. He also said to me, when I we express those views and that we are allowed to do so. explained to him what we do in the House and outside The expenses crisis was just the end result of the in the community, “Yeah, but you’re not digging coal, many things that built up to it, but there is one thing in are you?” That is probably true too. In years gone by, the political structure that worries me. We have heard digging coal and other occupations were real jobs, and tonight about parties and party Whips—I can talk ours is not seen as a real job—although the hours that about this because I stand outside, although I was a we put in are not recognised, especially by the press. member of a political party for some 25 years—but the I came to this place in 2006 in a by-election—I think party structure has changed so much that it has moved that I am the most junior Member in the Chamber this completely away from the grass roots. What are conferences evening. From that day to this, I must have given now, other than rallying calls? Policy was made by the evidence dozens of times before the Modernisation grass roots and passed up to the top. We are now Committee, the House of Commons Commission, the talking top-down politics. We are driving people out of Senior Salaries Review Body, the Committee on Standards the political process, instead of encouraging them in. in Public Life and others. I do not know how we keep We have national elections—the elections to the Welsh up with them all. But if someone asked me what we had Assembly Government are one example—in which less actually achieved, I would find it difficult to put into than 50 per cent. of people vote. Is that even a mandate words how great the change has been in those four to govern? There are some council elections in which years. the turnout is under 20 per cent., yet we claim that I also submitted written evidence to the Wright people are interested in politics. I think that they are, Committee, as it has become known. It has done a but we are not showing them the need to be involved. fantastic job and a tremendous amount of work. However, We are driving them away, and that cannot be right. I take the point made by the hon. Member for North-East The most important thing is that we work together. Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) that we are rebuilding the There are differences—there always will be differences—but House from the top down, not from the bottom up. We if we allow those differences to pull us apart, we will should have started at the foundations, but we are now destroy this country’s democracy. When we come together chasing our tails in a knee-jerk reaction. we are stronger. We heard the points about Back Benchers What worried me most about the evidence in the standing together, but this debate is about this place report was the fact that Committees have not had a standing together. The Committee’s report has given us quorum. Other Members who, like me, may not be the opportunity to kick that off. I agree that we should aligned to a party, would have taken part in those have acted a long time ago. The structure of this place, Committees and brought their experience and knowledge the way we hold our debates—everything has to be in to them. The hon. Member for Wyre Forest (Dr. Taylor) that melting pot. However, if we do not take the opportunity is on the Health Committee and gives great service to it. now, it could be destroyed for ever. Others are yet to have that opportunity because Committees have been a closed shop, decided by the party structure. 9.21 pm The opportunity will be provided with the new Parliament and the likelihood of some 200 new Members, and we Mr. William Cash (Stone) (Con): Although I am very need to get this right. If they are to play their part, they much in favour of the proposals put forward in the must be allowed to do so, without barriers being put in report, I regret to say that it does not go anything like their way. far enough. In saying that, I understand the point about The other aspect of the evidence that worried me was the terms of reference, but the bottom line is that we that in times gone by Select Committees have not been need really radical reform in this House. allowed to put their reports before the House. In my What we have witnessed over the past few months is evidence to the Wright Committee, I suggested that an indication of the disrespect in which Parliament is Members should be allowed to participate in Select held. I would maintain that that has more to do with the Committees not as members, but through giving evidence. way Parliament conducts itself, in relation to the business We should encourage participation by all. The proposal in the House, the consideration of Bills and the problems 117 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 118 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House of timetabling, and with what generally happens in this by the imposition of more and more Standing Orders. place, as in the debate only two weeks ago on the Every time there is a problem, the Executive introduce economic crisis, when there was not a single person on another Standing Order to frustrate Back Benchers and the Government Benches—not one—except for the Minister prevent them from speaking. If Back Benchers are right and his Parliamentary Private Secretary, and there were in their fight against their own Government, that proves two or perhaps three people on the Opposition side of the point in itself. the House. When Members have absolutely no interest Parliament is not reported properly outside this place. in dealing with something as fundamental as the British Much of the reporting results from the Government economy in the context of the European Union, is it giving out handouts. The BBC does not give the proper surprising that people should disrespect Parliament? In degree of reporting that is required. I also believe those circumstances, I am not surprised. strongly that there has been a diminution in the amount I have said many times that this is not our Parliament; of reporting in the national newspapers, as Messrs it is their Parliament. I pay tribute to the hon. Member Riddell, White and Robinson illustrated in their evidence for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright) for the work that he to the Modernisation Committee. Why should the people has done, but he knows that a lot of the ideas have their have respect for this place, if they do not even know genesis in Parliament First—I would prefer us to be what is going on or what we do? That is the problem. called “People and Parliament First”—and the Hansard This is a matter of reporting, a matter of the Standing Society, which gave some trenchant evidence, much of Orders and a matter of political will. which is reflected in the outcome of the report, which I shall conclude by repeating what I said earlier. This also comes from the Modernisation Committee. is not simply a question of using the term “Back When the Modernisation Committee was dealing Benchers”; we need some backbone in this place. That with the role of the Back Bencher, my hon. Friend the will involve people standing up to the Government and Member for Aldridge-Brownhills (Mr. Shepherd), who taking action in the national interest. In his famous is not in his place, repeatedly put down amendments speech of 1774, Edmund Burke gave an indication of saying that much more emphasis should be given to what he believed a Member of Parliament was. He said: the real role of the Back Bencher, and not merely to the “You choose a member indeed; but when you have chosen him, establishment thinking that was pouring out in the he is not a member of Bristol, but he is a member of parliament.” evidence that was given, and he was right. He repeatedly That is the point. We have a national role to perform, forced Divisions on his own. He was there on his own, and that is what our representative democracy is based but he was right, just as many of us have been when we on. It has now been degraded by the Whips system. have fought—sometimes unsuccessfully, regrettably—for Some kind of Whips system is required, but not the the national interest as we have seen it. We have fought excessive use of it that we now have. as a matter of conscience, conviction and principle for I congratulate the Committee on the report, so far as what we believed was in the interest of the British it goes, but we shall need radical reform to return the people. An example was the Maastricht treaty. I do not rights of the British people to them, through their doubt that we were very unpopular at that time, but representatives. They vote in general elections and express who would say now that we were wrong? Not many freely their choice of the kind of politics that they want. people. We also fought over monetary union and the Given the disgraceful programming for which the Leader exchange rate mechanism. of the House and this Government have been responsible The independence of the Back Bencher is absolutely over the past decade, and the reduction and degradation fundamental to the working of the House. That is why I of Parliament that they have brought about, it is no appreciate, and will vote for, the proposals in the report. wonder that we are held in such disrespect. That can In my evidence to the Committee, I described the working change, however, and this is the beginning. We must do of Parliament as a sham. A great deal of it is a sham, something about it. because so much of its work is driven by decisions that are taken outside Parliament—in the European Union, for example—without being properly debated. Even if 9.30 pm they are debated, we cannot vote on them. Mr. Andrew Pelling (Croydon, Central) (Ind): The Everything ultimately comes back to one central partnership of independent Members has a great respect issue: the Standing Orders of the House. That is why I for this place and a great love for it but, in common with proposed a manuscript amendment urging that the the hon. Member for Stone (Mr. Cash), we feel that it is House give consideration to the procedures that should very much time to do politics differently. Although our be applied so that we could have a proper debate on debate is restricted by the terms of reference, we have to these matters and go further and deeper into these accept, sadly, that in some ways these are very modest issues, but—irony of ironies—I have not even been changes indeed when it comes to reforming Parliament allowed to table it. I was refused permission because of and that we will have to wait for a new Parliament to Standing Order No. 24B. If a motion is a take-note undertake significant reform. motion, it is unamendable, so my amendment could not When the Leader of the House suggests that we are even be debated. That demonstrates the failure not only dealing with a new British constitutional settlement, it of the Standing Orders but of the Whips. is, unfortunately, an overblown statement. People outside About 150 years ago, there were only about four this place are at the end of their tether, partly because Standing Orders; in fact, they were not Standing Orders of the expenses scandal, as they see Members making but Speaker’s rules. There are now between 160 and 170 themselves millionaires on the back of the public housing Standing Orders, which have been imposed by the Executive subsidy, and it is certain that changes to the election through what is effectively an elective dictatorship. The arrangements for Select Committees will not touch on powers and freedoms of Back Benchers are being restricted the concerns of those people. 119 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 120 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Andrew Pelling] In many ways, it is important that we have a far more radical agenda, perhaps following the Chartist approach, Many have referred in this debate to the issue that with Parliament being much closer to the people and cannot be spoken of: the relationship between party having elections yearly, with a fifth of Members retiring and MPs. The hon. Member for North-East Derbyshire at each election. This place cannot speak for the country (Natascha Engel) was happy to refer to it, which was when its system allows one party to have a huge majority most welcome. The hon. Member for South Staffordshire on the basis that it received 4 per cent. more of the vote (Sir Patrick Cormack) also emphasised the key influence than the main Opposition party. That is not a way of of the Whips perhaps even over the daily lives of MPs. empowering this place to speak. Such a process means For example, if a Whip has power over whether or not that the Government inevitably take this place for granted. someone will be allocated a room with a window, it Much has been said about the separation of powers. might well have an impact on whether they vote one In many ways, such a separation would be an evolution, way or another. Most importantly, the hon. Member not a revolution. We have heard about people such as for North Essex (Mr. Jenkin) emphasised the real sense Harold Wilson having a presidential style of premiership in which this place has become an electoral college in and about Lord Hailsham talking about an elected which Members of Parliament are given things to do to dictatorship. We should recognise that that has been keep themselves occupied once the presidential election very much at the heart of our politics for many decades. has taken place. Many of us have been fans of the programme “The Parties were an important process and an invention Thick of It”. When Nicola Murray said, “I can’t achieve of the 19th century, but in the age of Facebook, the anything. I’m only a Cabinet Minister,” that jest internet and Twitter, the democratic process can be unfortunately had far too much truth to it. The reality is liberated from the control of political parties. As was that power is not even in the Cabinet. We should said, when the hon. Member for Reading, West (Martin recognise that the system is such that the Executive are Salter) challenged the excellent speech of the hon. Member in many ways already very separate from the rest of for Broxbourne (Mr. Walker), it is in the power of MPs Parliament and we should recognise that that should be to take power back to themselves; it is merely their the case. trepidation in the face of the Whips that is holding We should introduce 48-week Parliaments. As well as them back. declaring the hours that we work outside this place and Unfortunately, when Back Benchers are part of political declaring our outside interests, we should perhaps also parties, they feel a little bit reticent about speaking for declare the number of hours that we work in this job. It fear of accidentally embarrassing their Front-Bench would do colleagues great credit if they could actually colleagues. It is the responsibility of all of us, as Members tell people how many hours we work in our job. of Parliament, to represent the people first, not a political party. All too often, the Gilbert and Sullivan approach We might even consider moving out of this place. In of not having to think for oneself at all has become one some ways, the history of this place can put a burden on of not daring to speak in this Chamber for fear of such our culture and on the way in which we do our business. embarrassment. There would be no harm in our moving down to ExCeL— there is plenty of space there. We might even have This has much to do with the history of Tony Blair’s open-plan offices so that we could organise the resourcing determination to ensure good discipline within the Labour of our staff in a much more economical way and party and to prevent the media from exploiting Labour achieve economies of scale, with Members of Parliament by talking about divisions. The media are too quick to specialising in migration or benefits. That would be a sit on MPs when they express slightly different views, much modern approach for Parliament. suggesting that it amounts to a political division. That is why huge discipline was added on to the party Whip Reform of our approach is vital. If I can be a little more system, which ensures that this place does not act as a light-hearted, however, we must also recognise that this true Parliament or a place of speaking. Unfortunately, is a place of entertainment for the people. Prime Minister’s that has continued as discipline has been applied to Her Question Time has an important role in that process, so Majesty’s Opposition as a result of the Leader of the let us not have it at midday for the purposes of news Opposition’s determination to cleanse the party brand management. Why not have it on Thursday at 9 pm, in by stopping division from breaking out. the run-up to all the political programmes that are on Also unfortunately, there is far too much partisanship the BBC that evening? Obviously, we should have it in this place. Too much questioning goes along the lines after “Coronation Street”, but it would also be a natural of “Bearing in mind what rubbish you are, what do you climax at the end of the parliamentary week, and think about this or that?” and the response is typically, Members of Parliament could perhaps stay until Thursday. “Well, you were rubbish 10 years ago”. That does not Finally, I want to make a more important and serious sell well with the voters. Disagreements over the issue of point. This House failed to prevent an illegal war. We care for the elderly over recent weeks provide a good failed to hold in check a Government who are so example, as they have not played well for this place. authoritarian that they talk about introducing ID cards, Many Members of Parliament come to this place who are responsible for a tremendous amount of having spent their whole careers working only for their intervention in people’s lives and who may well have political party or bodies close to it. In those circumstances, been complicit in torture. The House is not holding the they are in no position to speak out against their Government to account. With reference to earlier guidance political party to protect the interests of their constituents. from the hon. Member for Gainsborough (Mr. Leigh), As many Members have said, there is often a real stress may I suggest that if we were to return to a situation on people expressing their outside interests, but we where Parliament has the power to vote moneys to should not discourage those who have experience outside Government—perhaps in combination with Parliament politics from representing constituents in this place. having our own budget office and our own power, as a 121 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 122 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House separate body from Government, to set down our own use of the guillotine, which should be used only as a last legislation—we might be a much more powerful place resort. The hon. Member for Sunderland, South and be able to hold Government to account properly? (Mr. Mullin) raised the subject of September sittings in order for us to be rid of the public perception of Members being on holiday then, even though they may 9.40 pm not be so. Mr. Shailesh Vara (North-West Cambridgeshire) (Con): The hon. Member for Oxford, West and Abingdon I thank all Members on both sides of the House who (Dr. Harris), who served on the Wright Committee, have taken part in this very important debate. I also praised the shadow Leader of the House, and I am sure thank the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Dr. Wright) my right hon. Friend will take comfort from those and all the other members of his Committee, especially words. The hon. Gentleman also expressed his concern for producing such an excellent report in double-quick about Report stage scrutiny, as well as Select Committee time. However, it is regrettable that the Government did scrutiny. The hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, Central not rise to the challenge before them. The Committee (Mark Fisher) made a very learned contribution, and called for a debate on its proposals within two months may I take this opportunity to commend him on all his of publication, yet it has taken the Government more contributions over the years with Parliament First? He than three months to hold today’s debate, and even then said this report represented the vital first steps on the it is only a take-note debate on selected proposals from way to reform, and he rightly spoke of the need to have the report. Put simply, the way the Government have a culture change, not only a process change. My hon. handled this entire affair provides a clear example of Friend the Member for South Staffordshire (Sir Patrick why change is needed. Cormack), who gave a speech that reflected his considerable Few would disagree that there is a need for reform to experience in the House, discussed a business committee redress the balance of power between the Executive and that could be presided over by the Speaker. Parliament. Moreover, there is an appetite for urgent The hon. Member for Gloucester (Mr. Dhanda) spoke change outside the House, from a public whose faith in of issues beyond the remit of the debate and at one politics and Parliament had been slowly eroding for point was critical of Conservative Members and of my some time. The remnants of that faith were shattered by party, in particular how it is reflective of the mainstream the expenses revelations of the past year. While today’s community. May I simply take the opportunity to say to reforms are no panacea, they are certainly a step in the him that we very much hope that after the general right direction. Let me be clear: the Conservatives support election we will have made huge strides in that respect the recommendations before us today. Indeed, many of by having more ethnic minority and women MPs? If he the reforms are similar to those put forward by my doubts my words, I suggest that he looks at yesterday’s party’s democracy taskforce, which was chaired by my edition of The Mail on Sunday, particularly pages 2, 24 right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Rushcliffe and 25. (Mr. Clarke). The hon. Member for Cannock Chase explained the Mr. Dhanda rose— Committee’s perspective in what was regarded by all present as a truly outstanding speech. He spoke of a Mr. Vara: I am sorry but I will not give way, because I window having been opened on our House and the fact have a limited amount of time available to me and I am that it will not be closed again, and he also said that the keen that the Government have their fair share too. status quo is no longer an option. The hon. Member for We heard an excellent intervention from my right Somerton and Frome (Mr. Heath) highlighted the hon. Friend the Member for East Yorkshire (Mr. Knight), inadequacies of the way we work and endorsed the who spoke of the reform process needing to be an Committee’s report. The hon. Member for Reading, ongoing one. My hon. Friend the Member for North West (Martin Salter) spoke of the reform that has been Essex (Mr. Jenkin), who is a key signatory to the amendment stalled so far, and I would like to know what his to motion 9, spoke of the need to restore the balance of constituents might have to say about his candid comments power between the Executive and Parliament, concluding on early-day motions and the reasons why he signed with the powerful point that a strong Government can them in the past; it would be particularly interesting to come with a strong Parliament. know whether he told his constituents his true views My hon. Friend the Member for Chichester (Mr. Tyrie) before he announced that he was stepping down from gave a thoughtful speech, in which he enumerated the Parliament. reasons for the existing balance of power being against My hon. Friend the Member for Macclesfield (Sir Parliament and provided a possible way forward. The Nicholas Winterton) reminded us that he is the longest hon. Member for East Dunbartonshire (Jo Swinson) serving member of the Modernisation Committee, and accepted the proposed reforms, but struck a critical he rightly paid tribute to the late Robin Cook and spoke tone in her speech and also spoke of reforms beyond of the need to have less legislation. The hon. Member the report, such as the need for us to have more clips on for North-East Derbyshire (Natascha Engel) wanted a YouTube. The hon. Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) was wider focus on the issues, starting with the role of the candid in saying that he had not intended to take part in MP. She spoke with courage in favour of her minority this debate at the outset—given the subject at hand, it view. was hardly surprising to hear cries of “Whips’ influence”. My right hon. Friend the Member for Tonbridge and My hon. Friend the Member for Broxbourne Malling (Sir John Stanley) reminded the House that it (Mr. Walker) gave a passionate speech, in which he was Labour who broke the convention that procedural reminded us that we are not delegates, but representatives. reform went through only with Opposition support, The hon. Member for Hackney, North and Stoke and he rightly raised concern about the Government’s Newington (Ms Abbott) spoke of her experiences in the 123 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 124 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House [Mr. Vara] 9.50 pm The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of House when she was first elected compared with now, the House of Commons (Barbara Keeley): I, too, want to citing the timetabling of the business of the day as a thank all our speakers. We have had a wide-ranging prime example. The hon. Member for Cambridge (David debate today, with contributions from 30 right hon. and Howarth), who pointed out that he was a member of hon. Members from both sides of the House—20 main the Wright Committee, spoke of empowering Back speakers and 10 other contributions. That was a tremendous Benchers, particularly those on the Government side—that effort. It might have been a Christmas tree debate, as the was greeted with approval from Labour Members. The hon. Member for North Essex (Mr. Jenkin), who is no hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent (Mr. Davies) emphasised longer in his place, said earlier, but, as I am sure the the need for reform by making reference to inquorate shadow Leader of the House will admit, it was much Select Committee meetings. My hon. Friend the Member more themed than the pre-recess Adjournment debates. for Stone (Mr. Cash) gave a typically passionate speech in which, as would be expected, he managed to mention I believe that our aim tonight should be to support the Maastricht treaty. reforms that help to create a more vibrant and balanced House of Commons in the future. There have been a Sir Robert Smith (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) number of comments in the debate doubting the (LD) rose— Government’s commitment to reform issues and I want to refer to the most recent appearance before the Liaison Mr. Vara: I am sorry, but I will not give way. In the Committee on 2 February of my right hon. Friend the concluding speech before the winding-up speeches, the Prime Minister. He spoke about reform and said that hon. Member for Croydon, Central (Mr. Pelling) spoke “there are major changes we can make that can improve the of more radical changes being required. working of our democracy.” We now have the irony that on the one hand the These were to: public are disenchanted with the political process, yet on the other they have more opportunity than ever “Make power more accountable to people, make people have a more direct relationship with their representatives and, of course, before to engage with us. Technological advances mean make the Executive give up some power it should not have to the that members of the public are much better informed House of Commons and to the elected authorities.” and have instant methods of expressing opinions to their I believe that was an important statement of intent elected representatives. I do not deny that the changes before our debate tonight. will be difficult to start with—a Back-Bench business committee will take some getting used to, for example—but Many Members have referred to the pressing need to these are challenges that we should take on and accept. rebuild public confidence in this House and one of the We should not shirk the challenge because of a misplaced key aspects of that change will be to increase public fear of failure. engagement with the House. We must consider how we The Leader of the House has spoken of establishing can make what happens in this House more relevant to a consensus before we can proceed, but what she really the public and also how we can give the public influence means is that there should be unanimity. That was over some of the subjects for debate in Parliament. A clearly confirmed by the Prime Minister when he spoke number of Members have talked about this issue. of the My hon. Friend the Member for Reading, West (Martin “agreement of all the parties and all Members of the House”. Salter) said that the way in which we deal with petitions As my right hon. Friend the Member for North-West is “absurd.” It is clear that there is a case for change and Hampshire (Sir George Young) said in his opening that our processes for presenting petitions from the speech, in the past the Government have been happy to public are no longer satisfactory. Indeed, the presentation press pet reforms through when it suited them but the of petitions is a practice of great antiquity as well as a demand for unanimity now strongly implies that the method of modern democratic participation. A recent Government are not full square behind these proposals. survey by the Hansard Society found that signing a If the Leader of the House disagrees with that assertion, petition was the most popular democratic activity and I invite her deputy to confirm in her reply that on that 76 per cent. of the people surveyed had done so in 4 March all the resolutions will be tabled. There really is the previous year. This figure was only 2 per cent. less no excuse for not allowing the House to express its than the number of people surveyed who had voted. As views on all the proposals in the report. A failure to a Back-Bench MP—this was a role of which I was receive that confirmation will remind Members of the proud—I presented petitions on a range of subjects. Leader of the House’s earlier comments, when she One was directed at the G8 leaders when they were spoke of a “climate of suspicion”—her words, not mine. meeting at Gleneagles, whereas others concerned local bus services. All were equally important and I understand There is still time to recant. Today, we have the the importance that constituents attach to petitioning opportunity to restore to Parliament some of the powers this House. that it has lost over successive decades. We have an opportunity to restore the balance of power, strengthening Mr. Cash: Will the Deputy Leader of the House give Parliament so that it can hold the Executive more fully way? to account. We have an opportunity to reach out to a disillusioned public as part of the process of regaining their trust and faith in us and we have an opportunity Barbara Keeley: I do not think that I have time. for Parliament more to reflect the political standards of Five of the motions tabled tonight would reform how the 21st century. Let us not waste that opportunity. I the House handles petitions and would give opportunities urge all right hon. and hon. Members to support the for debate on certain public petitions. We could say that proposals. that is a small step, but it is worth taking. 125 Report from the HoC Reform 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Report from the HoC Reform 126 Committee on Rebuilding the House Committee on Rebuilding the House Let me turn to the other motions. The Committee’s Today’s debate is clearly about differing views on how report proposes a road map for reform. As we have seen to improve the effectiveness of the Commons. The scale in this debate, there is, unsurprisingly, disagreement of the reforms before us is much greater than on previous about certain elements of that road map. My hon. occasions. Taken together, the reforms represent the Friend the Member for Reading, West said that we were largest set of changes that the House has considered for moving in an consensual bubble today, but there were some time. It is fair to say that right hon. and hon. differences of opinion, as there have been in the past. Members have been particularly keen to debate these Consensus has proved, across the decades of reform, reforms. We have had three Adjournment debates on difficult to reach and to agree. The past reforms of the this issue, the first of which was 48 hours after the House have not been a continuous process, as many Committee’s report was published. We have also had hon. Members have emphasised that they should be. two 90-minute debates in Westminster Hall about reform, That is one of the most important things that we can and, more recently, a debate with independent Members take away from the debate. We have moved to a position about the revitalisation of the Commons. This subject where we have a fairly continual process of reform, and was also raised during the pre-Christmas Adjournment Members support that. debate. The House has, of course, already approved the Much of the focus on reform in the past has been recommendation for the election of Deputy Speakers based on procedural change, aimed at improving efficiency. by ballot. Since 1960, successive Procedure Committees— Before I make my final comments, I want to refer briefly to some of the comments in the Committee’s Mr. Tyrie: Will the Deputy Leader of the House give report on the current operation of the system. It states: way? “We acknowledge the excellent work of the professional civil servants in the Chief Whip’s Office, in the Leader’s Office and in Barbara Keeley: Very briefly. the Opposition Chief Whip’s Office…The smooth running of the House, whatever the political arguments, owes much to the talents Mr. Tyrie: I am grateful to the hon. Lady for giving of those operating the business system.” way. Will she take the opportunity, briefly, to confirm I have worked with the professional civil servants in that every proposal in the Wright Committee report will both the Chief Whips Office and the Office of the be on the Order Paper so that we can vote on it? Leader of the House, and I want to thank them, particularly the staff of the Leader of the House’s office, of my Barbara Keeley: I will come to the process at the end. office and Tom Healey, who have worked hard on the Successive Procedure Committees have looked into motions for today’s debate, as they do on all aspects of aspects of streamlining the Commons and its working House business. practices, focusing on the use of questions and the We have heard many comments about Whips in the structure of Commons sittings. Looking back at past debate, and we are joined by a few of them now. The reforms in the light of today’s debate, it is striking how shadow Leader of the House said that he and the much time it took to consider and gain agreement on Opposition Chief Whip were as brothers. Perhaps, as a such reforms, with further time being needed to implement former Government Whip, I can continue the allusion them. For example, the idea of introducing a time limit to siblings. In keeping with the greater female representation on speeches in the Chamber was first considered in on the Government side, I can say that our Whips 1960. The Procedure Committee recommended a trial Office has sisters, and I was proud to be one of that of the idea in 1978, but time limits were not used sisterhood. routinely until much more recently. Issues regarding sittings, such as whether the House could rise earlier at My right hon. and learned Friend, the Leader of the night, were first considered in 1975 and examined again House of Commons, has been clear regarding the process by the Select Committee on Sittings of the House, the required to take the Committee’s report forward. Her Jopling Committee, in the 1990s. It then took two years written ministerial statement of 9 February stated that to implement that Committee’s recommendations. So any motions that are objected to tonight, or that have we have had not continuous processes on such matters amendments that Members do not wish to withdraw, in the past, but processes that took many decades in will be brought back to the House as amendable motions some cases. for votes scheduled for 4 March. In the past 13 years, since the establishment of the Modernisation Committee in 1997, a more continuous Mr. Graham Brady (Altrincham and Sale, West) (Con): stream of changes has been considered. Many changes Will the Minister confirm whether there will be an focused on the efficiency of the House, but some measures opportunity to vote on appointments to the Intelligence have focused on increasing its effectiveness—an issue and Security Committee next week? that a number of hon. Members have raised this evening. The introduction of Westminster Hall as a debating Chamber has allowed much more time for Back Benchers Barbara Keeley: Just to be clear, this was covered to raise issues. There were more than 330 hours of when the Leader of the House opened the debate. We debate in Westminster Hall in the last Session, which is have listened to the debate and we have tabled a number more time than would have been available had the of motions, the terms of which would be a big step House sat on every Friday of the year. There have also forward. It is has been made clear that big items were been important changes to allow greater topicality, tabled for consideration tonight. We will come back on including the introduction of topical debates and topical a different day to vote; we will have motions, and questions. More recently, Mr. Speaker has also allowed amendments can be tabled. That has been made clear a greater use of urgent questions. time and again. 127 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Business without Debate 128

Sir George Young: So that there is no doubt whatsoever, (b) the Environmental Audit Committee; can the hon. Lady confirm that all the Wright (c) the Select Committee on Public Administration; and recommendations will be tabled for decision on Thursday (d) the Committee of Public Accounts. week? (2) The day following his election at the start of a new Parliament, the Speaker shall communicate to the leaders of each Barbara Keeley: Not all of them require decisions. party represented in Parliament the proportion of chairs of select I should like to conclude by reminding right hon. and committees to be elected under this order falling to each such hon. Members that this is House business. As the Leader party which would reflect the composition of the House. of the House made clear earlier, for this evening and for (3) If, within a week of the Queen’s speech, a motion in the all other occasions on which we vote on the issues, there name of the leaders of all the parties entitled to one or more chairs of select committees subject to whole House election will be free votes— specifying to which party each such chair is allocated is moved, the questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on the motion 10 pm shall be put not later than one hour after their commencement, Motion lapsed (Standing Order No. 9(3)). proceedings on the motion shall be exempted business and Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred 20 divisions) shall not apply. (4) If a motion to which paragraph (3) above applies also Business without Debate makes changes to Standing Order No. 152 (Select committees related to government departments) which are consequential on Mr. Speaker: We now come to the 16 specific motions. changes to the machinery of government, then the questions In accordance with decisions of my predecessors, I necessary to dispose of proceedings on the motion shall be put regard amendments that do not bear the name of the not later than one and a half hours after their commencement; proceedings on the motion shall be exempted business; and Member in charge as constituting notice of opposition Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions) shall not apply. to the motion concerned. (5) If the House has agreed a motion allocating chairs to parties the election of the chairs shall take place in accordance with the remaining provisions of this order. CHAIR (TERMINOLOGY) (6) The ballots shall take place fourteen days after the approval Motion made, of the motion allocating chairs to parties. (1) That this House approves recommendation 3 of the First (7) (a) Nominations of candidates shall be in writing and shall Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of be received by the Clerk of the House by 5.00 pm on the day Commons, Session 2008-09, HC 1117; and before the ballot. (2) That accordingly, in each place where they occur in any (b) Each nomination shall consist of a signed statement made Standing Order related to Public Business, Order or Resolution of by the candidate declaring his willingness to stand for election, the House, except as provided in paragraphs (3) and (4) below: accompanied by the signatures of fifteen Members elected to the (a) for “chairman” there shall be substituted “chair”; House as members of the same party as the candidate or ten per (b) for “chairmen” there shall be substituted “chairs”; and cent. of the Members elected to the House as members of that party, whichever is the lower. (c) for “Chairmen’s Panel” there shall be substituted “Panel of Chairs”; (c) Statements may be accompanied by signatures of up to five Members elected to the House as members of any party other (3) That the following changes to Standing Orders be made: than that to which the candidate belongs, or members of no party. (a) In Standing Order No. 9 (Sittings of the House)— (d) No Member may sign the statement of more than one (i) in line 25, leave out “chairman” and insert “occupant of the candidate for chair of the same select committee. chair”, (e) No Member may be a candidate for the chair of a select (ii) in line 32, leave out “chairman” and insert “occupant of the committee which has not been allocated to his party under chair”, and paragraph (3) of this order or otherwise, or for which he is (iii) in line 37, leave out “chairman” and insert “occupant of ineligible under Standing Order No. 122A (Term limits for chairmen the chair”; of select committees). (b) In Standing Order No. 11 (Friday sittings), in line 29, leave (f) No Member may be a candidate for more than one chair out “chairman” and insert “occupant of the chair”; and elected under this order. (c) In Standing Order No. 35 (Dilatory motion in abuse of the (g) As soon as practicable following the close of nominations, rules of the House), line 10, leave out “chairman” and insert lists of the candidates and their accompanying signatories shall “occupant of the chair”; be published. (4) That this order shall not apply to the titles of Chairman of (8) Election of chairs of select committees under this order Ways and Means, Deputy Chairman or Chairmen or the Lord shall be by secret ballot. Chairman of Committees where they occur in any Standing (9) Preparatory arrangements for the ballots shall be made Order, Order or Resolution of the House.—(Steve McCabe.) under the supervision of the Clerk of the House. (10) (a) If there is only one candidate for the chair of a select Hon. Members: Object. committee, that candidate shall be declared elected without a ballot. ELECTION OF SELECT COMMITTEE CHAIRS (b) The ballot shall take place in a place appointed by the Speaker. Motion made, (c) Each Member intending to vote shall be provided with a That the following Standing Order be made, with effect from ballot paper for each select committee bearing the names of the the beginning of the next Parliament— candidates listed in alphabetical order. (1) The chairs of the following select committees shall be (d) Members will vote by ranking as many candidates as they elected by the House in accordance with paragraphs (2) to (13) wish in order of preference, marking 1 by the name of their first below: preference, 2 by the name of their second preference, and so on. (a) select committees appointed under Standing Order No. 152 Any candidate who receives more than half the first preferences (select committees related to government departments); shall be elected. If no candidate is so elected, the candidate or 129 Business without Debate22 FEBRUARY 2010 Business without Debate 130 candidates with the lowest number of first preferences shall be that parties should elect members of select committees in a secret eliminated and his votes distributed among the remaining candidates ballot by whichever transparent and democratic method they according to the preferences on them. If no candidate has more choose.—(Steve McCabe.) than half the votes, the process of elimination and distribution is repeated, until one candidate has more than half the votes. Hon. Members: Object. (e) The ballot shall be open between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm and counting shall take place under arrangements made by the Clerk of the House. NOMINATION OF SELECT COMMITTEES (11) The Speaker shall have power to give directions on any Resolved, matter of doubt arising from the conduct of a ballot or from an individual ballot paper and to vary the timings given in paragraphs 5 That this House approves the principle that the principal select to 10 of this order. committees ought to be appointed within six weeks of the beginning of the Session at the start of a new Parliament, as set out in (12) As soon as practicable after the closing of the ballot the recommendation 8 of the First Report of the Select Committee results shall be published under the direction of the Speaker. on Reform of the House of Commons, Session 2008–09, (13) A chair elected under this order is a member of the HC 1117.—(Steve McCabe.) committee of which he is elected chair.—(Steve McCabe.)

Hon. Members: Object. REDUCTION IN SIZE OF SELECT COMMITTEES Ordered, RESIGNATION OR REMOVAL OF CHAIRS OF That, with effect from the beginning of the next Parliament, SELECT COMMITTEES Standing Order No. 152 (Select committees related to government Motion made, departments) be amended, in the Table in paragraph (2), by leaving out “14” in each place in the column headed “Maximum That the following Standing Order be made, with effect from members” and inserting “11”.—(Steve McCabe.) the beginning of the next Parliament— (1) In the case of a select committee to which the provisions of Standing Order No. (Election of select committee chairs) applies, SELECT COMMITTEES (ROLE, RESOURCES where AND TASKS) (a) the chair has ceased to be a member of the House, or Resolved, (b) the chair has given written notice to the Speaker of a wish That this House approves recommendation 11 of the First to resign from the chair, or Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of (c) the committee has reported a resolution that it has no Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and welcomes the Liaison confidence in the chair in accordance with the terms of paragraphs (3) Committee’s proposal to carry out a review of the role, resources and (4) of this order the Speaker shall declare the chair vacant and tasks of select committees set out in paragraphs 26 to 28 of and, as soon as practicable, announce the date of the election for its First Report, Session 2009–10, HC 272.—(Steve McCabe.) the position of chair of that committee which shall be not fewer than ten sitting days after that announcement. (2) The election shall be held according to the provisions of BACKBENCH BUSINESS COMMITTEE paragraphs (2) to (13) of Standing Order No. (Election of select Motion made, committee chairs), save that 15 nominations shall be submitted by 12 noon on the day before the ballot. That this House approves recommendation 17 of the First Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of (3) No motion expressing no confidence in its chair may be Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and looks forward to the made in a committee unless notice of the motion has been House being offered the opportunity within 10 sitting weeks of circulated to the chair and all members of the committee at least the beginning of the next session of Parliament to establish a ten sitting days in advance of the meeting at which the motion is backbench business 5 committee and a new category of backbench made. business, in the light of further consideration by the Procedure (4) A resolution by a committee expressing no confidence in its Committee.—(Steve McCabe.) chair shall not have effect for the purposes of paragraph (1) above unless either Hon. Members: Object. (a) it is agreed by the committee without a division or (b) the majority of the membership of the committee, including at least two members from the largest party represented on the SEPTEMBER SITTINGS committee and at least one member from another party, vote in Resolved, favour of the resolution. That this House approves recommendation 31 of the First (5) A motion expressing no confidence in the chair may not be Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of made in a committee in the six months following the election of Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, insofar as it relates to an a chair by the House or in the year following a vote on such a early decision in the next Parliament on sittings of the House in motion on that chair.—(Steve McCabe.) September 2010.—(Steve McCabe.)

Hon. Members: Object. ENGAGING THE PUBLIC WITH LEGISLATION Resolved, ELECTION OF MEMBERS OF SELECT That this House approves recommendation 42 of the First COMMITTEES Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and welcomes the work Motion made, which is already taking place on the recommendation as set out in That this House takes note of recommendation 6 of the First the written answer given by the hon. Member for North Devon, Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of on behalf of the House of Commons Commission, on 8 February, Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and endorses the principle Official Report, col. 651-652W.—(Steve McCabe.) 131 Business without Debate22 FEBRUARY 2010 Business without Debate 132

PETITIONS REQUIRING DEBATE That this House approves recommendations 23 and 50 of the Resolved, First Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and looks forward to the That this House approves recommendation 43 of the First matter being further considered by the Procedure Committee in Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of the next Parliament.—(Steve McCabe.) Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and welcomes the work which is already taking place on the recommendation as set out in the written answer given by the hon. Member for North Devon, PETITION on behalf of the House of Commons Commission, on 8 February, Official Report, col. 651-652W.—(Steve McCabe.) Canvey War Memorial Fund 10.3 pm ELECTRONIC PETITIONS Bob Spink (Castle Point) (Ind): Having just debated Resolved, the importance of petitions, I am delighted to present— That this House approves recommendation 44 of the First [Interruption.] Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, welcomes the preparation of a revised scheme as set out in the written answer given by the Mr. Speaker: Order. I do not wish to interrupt the hon. Member for North Devon, on behalf of the House of hon. Gentleman. We have had a substantial and stimulating Commons Commission, on 8 February, Official Report, col. 651-652W, debate, but I appeal to Members who are leaving the and looks forward to considering the scheme in the next Chamber and who, unaccountably, do not wish to listen Parliament.—(Steve McCabe.) to the hon. Member for Castle Point (Bob Spink) presenting his petition please to do so quickly and quietly. DEBATES ON PETITIONS Resolved, Bob Spink: Thank you, Sir. I am delighted to present That this House welcomes recommendation 47 of the First this massive new petition on Canvey Island’s war memorial. Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of It was prepared by Mr. Rob Finch—a valiant Army Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and considers that there veteran—the excellent and caring Canvey Royal British should be a trial of debates on public petitions in Westminster Legion and the war memorial committee. Castle Point Hall in the next Session of Parliament, subject to the presentation of petitions of sufficient significance.—(Steve McCabe.) people feel that the borough council has been arrogant and uncaring in its attitude to the removal of the original war memorial. These memorials are important. INFORMATION FOR PETITIONERS They do not belong to remote Tory councillors; they Resolved, belong to the people—in this case, the people of Canvey That this House approves recommendation 48 of the First Island. This and other Canvey matters should be dealt Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of with on Canvey Island by excellent Canvey councillors. Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117, and welcomes the work The petition states: which is already taking place to develop pilot schemes for providing To the House of Commons more information to petitioners via the hon. Member who presented the petition as set out in the written answer given by the hon. The Petition of Mr. Finch, the Canvey War Memorial Committee Member for North Devon, on behalf of the House of Commons and other residents of Castle Point, Commission, on 8 February, Official Report, col. 651-652W.—(Steve Declares that they object to Castle Point Borough Council’s McCabe.) management of the Canvey Island War Memorial Fund, donated by residents for the refurbishment of the Canvey War Memorial; further objects to the Council’s handling of the refurbishment PRESENTATION OF PUBLIC PETITIONS planning and process including their refusal to act on the advice Resolved, of the Canvey War Memorial Committee. That this House approves recommendation 49 of the First The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons Report of the Select Committee on Reform of the House of Urges the Government to press Castle Point Borough Council, Commons, Session 2008–09, HC 1117.—(Steve McCabe.) and all Councillors, to hand control of the Canvey War Memorial Fund and refurbishment of the memorial to the Canvey War Memorial Committee. PRIVATE MEMBERS’ MOTIONS And the Petitioners remain, etc. Resolved, [P000737] 133 22 FEBRUARY 2010 Total Place Programme (High Peak) 134

Total Place Programme (High Peak) Meeting people like Lee, Janet, Gary Staples, Barry Doyle and others has been a privilege, and I commend Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House to my successor as the Member for High Peak—who, I do now adjourn.—(Mrs. Hodgson.) have every confidence, will be Caitlin Bisknell, the 10.5 pm Labour candidate—the police service parliamentary scheme Tom Levitt (High Peak) (Lab): I am grateful, Mr. Speaker, as a great way of getting to know that service from the for the opportunity to hold this debate. Let me say at inside. Policing is a key public service, and police know the outset that I believe that the Department’s Total as well as anyone that to reduce crime requires not Place concept is a very fine objective and process. My only the officers, the skills, the technology and the only criticism is that it should have been in place many communications, but the design of the housing estates years ago. and the shopping centre, economic stability and the As I understand it, Total Place looks at the sum total awareness of complementary services. Crime reduction of public services available within a geographical area. partnerships were perhaps a precursor of Total Place. It looks for crossovers between local government, central The police in my area are keen contributors to the local Government and Government agencies, and how location strategic partnership and an officer is even embedded in and other elements of co-working can be best employed the offices of the local borough council. to deliver high quality services more efficiently than Perhaps my proudest achievements locally are, first, before. Pilots are being conducted in various places negotiating the merger of High Peak college with the across the country, even if they are not being conducted university of Derby, making world-class courses in in my constituency. hospitality management and catering available to a I will say more about Total Place in a few minutes, world audience; and, secondly, acquiring a campus, but first I hope that my hon. Friend the Minister and which was the essential next step following the merger. you, Mr. Speaker, will indulge me if I say a little about The old Devonshire Royal hospital had stood empty for the totality of services in High Peak. This is a particularly some years. It is a magnificent grade II* listed building, poignant moment for me as I am standing down at the and early on we identified it as a wonderful site for a forthcoming election. It is possibly the last substantial university campus. chance that I shall have to tell the House about the To cut a long story short, the then university pro-vice- incredible developments that have taken place in High chancellor, Michael Hall, and I met my right hon. Peak during 13 years of a Labour Government. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, For example, across High Peak crime has fallen who was then a Health Minister. Several months later, consistently and strongly every year since Labour came we secured the Devonshire Royal hospital and its wonderful into office. We have more police officers in Derbyshire dome—one of the biggest of its kind in the world, more than ever before—up from 1,791 in 1997 to 2,119 today— than 100 years old and sitting on top of a 250-year-old and the way in which they are organised into Safer former stable block—as the home of the northern campus Neighbourhood teams is impressive. It is the start—I of the university of Derby at Buxton. It now provides repeat, only the start—of genuine community policing higher and further education to more than 1,000 students, operating within every community and serving those locals and incomers, and that wonderful building remains communities by both tackling crime and increasing a glorious public asset. community confidence, and it provides the mechanism Equally importantly, the university brings £25 million for making that local policing much more accountable per year into the local economy and engages actively in to ordinary people. all aspects of local life, not just the academic aspects. It That is important. I recently contributed to a report promotes the wider skills agenda and is a major contributor by my right hon. Friend the Member for Sheffield, to the culture of the town of Buxton, which already has Brightside (Mr. Blunkett) into accountability in policing. a wonderful reputation for annual opera and literary Our very strong conclusion was that the most important festivals and their fringes, and for Georgian architecture. level of accountability was at the community level, with Roger Waterhouse was that pioneering vice-chancellor the police telling people what is available and people and John Coyne is his successor, and I thank them for telling officers what is needed. One way to do that is their leadership of the university over the years. John through better local authority scrutiny of policing and Coyne is a relatively new recruit to the regional economic other non-local authority services, perhaps in the same cabinet, a group established in autumn 2008 by the Minister way as local involvement networks—LINks—in the for the East Midlands, my hon. Friend the Member for health service are being set up to do. I was delighted Corby (Phil Hope). My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary when the current Home Secretary accepted the proposals will know what I am talking about, as she too is a in full in his recent White Paper on policing. Regional Minister. The economic cabinet is a body on I shall single out a few people for special mention. which I have had the great pleasure of sitting throughout The first is Lee Baker. I hope that Lee is not an that time as deputy to my hon. Friend the Minister for exceptional police community support officer because the East Midlands. Bringing together businesses large he symbolises for me exactly what police community and small, trade unions, the third sector, universities, support officers are about. He is a genuine man of the the Jobcentre network, local authorities, learning and people, he cares about communities, he is a friendly face skills councils and other agencies, the regional economic in New Mills whom people can approach, and he is not cabinet is in some respects a Total Place exercise for the afraid to engage in the less sympathetic side of the job. I whole region. congratulate Lee Baker, Chief Constable Mick Creedon I hope that lottery funding, which was used to rescue and all the others in between. I also say a special thank our dome, will be included in the Total Place assessment you to Janet Birkin for her leadership of Derbyshire of how areas work. Heritage lottery funding has been Police Authority over some years which, like my tenure, available for the past 13 years to help us retain and will come to an end this summer. restore not only the Devonshire’s dome, but Buxton 135 Total Place Programme (High Peak)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Total Place Programme (High Peak) 136

[Tom Levitt] are on the borough council and the ubiquitous Councillor David Wilcox is the Derbyshire county council opera house, the Victorian Pavilion gardens and the representative. ongoing work to return St. Ann’s hotel in the Crescent Elsewhere across High Peak, we are privileged to be to its rightful role as the country’s leading spa hotel. served by what I believe is one of the best councils for Talking of lottery funds, let me move the focus from voluntary service in the country. I am proud that I was Buxton to Gamesley, the most deprived ward in my able to be in at the start by convening a working party constituency, which was built in the early 1960s to to set up the CVS, which now provides services to the replace slums in central Manchester. It was not well national CVS movement, as well as a wide range of designed, being a stand-alone housing estate on a greenfield training and other opportunities for community groups site a bus journey a way from Glossop, with limited across High Peak to tap into and deliver their part in facilities and no employment opportunities, and it remains the community life of their areas. Kevin Skingsley is its the most deprived ward in my constituency. However, dynamic leader, but I cannot mention the voluntary its community spirit and the way in which certain sector without name-dropping a few more individuals: individuals have led the community over the years has Jo Ward at Glossop volunteer centre, Dorothy Scapens been tremendous. at New Mills volunteer centre, and Sue Howard at Buxton volunteer centre, all of whom have contributed I compliment Pat Javanaud in particular. Pat is employed so much to their communities over the years. At Glossop by Derbyshire county council in its community education volunteer centre, in particular, the engagement with department, but over the past three years she has managed V-Inspired, the charity that promotes youth volunteering, a £250,000 lottery grant under the “Reaching Communities” has been substantial, with more than 200 young people umbrella. More than one third of Gamesley’s population introduced to volunteering for the first time, some of has engaged in training courses or other provisions whom will be in London tomorrow to receive awards designed to strengthen community bonds and its capacity for their work. to thrive. Pat’s incredibly cheery spirit and her passionate While I am talking about volunteers, let me say a commitment to her work mean that she has been able to word about Joyce Ellis. At about the same time that I deliver a huge step change in how the community was working to become the Member of Parliament for works. The estate recognises that work through the High Peak, Joyce and a small group of others were annual achievement awards that she organises each establishing the Kinder children’s choir. With never December, when people experience the thrill of others fewer than 100 members of the full choir, this organisation recognising the value of their skills—for work, life or has gone from strength to strength. Young people from caring—for the very first time. eight to 18, with no need for an audition, are taken on a Pat’s partner in crime in Gamesley must be Lynn whirlwind journey of developing musical excellence, Kennington. An early excellence centre emerged from self-discipline and responsibility. My daughter was a Gamesley a generation ago, providing splendid support member of that choir for seven years. The experience for the community’s youngest children and families who that these children have had—not only appearing on face the most difficult challenges on that isolated and television on a regular basis and producing CDs of unfortunate estate. That large and sprawling centre their work, but singing in such places as Eisteddfods, evolved into High Peak’s first Sure Start centre, with the Royal Festival hall, St. Paul’s cathedral and European Gamesley and Lynn winning national recognition for venues, not to mention the Chapel downstairs—has having created a true centre of excellence. If the east been absolutely tremendous: a character-forming experience midlands is a macro Total Place, Sure Start is its micro that those children will never forget. equivalent. Bringing together not just education and If there is one area that will no doubt fall within the health services, but social, culture, adult and community Total Place ambit which has been disappointing over education and Jobcentre outreach services under one these years, it has been the provision of housing. Following roof, Sure Start—of which there are now five centres in the low priority we gave to that in the early years of High Peak, including two that were purpose-built by government, 10,000 houses are needed in our area in the this Labour Government—is a wonderful institution. next 20 years. A number of things will make it very difficult to meet that target—not least the abuse, as I see Talking of excellence, and returning to the police for it, of town and village green applications to thwart a moment, I will never forget one night in Gamesley planning applications on brownfield sites, a practice when I went on the beat with a special constable. Our that is now widespread but had its origins in High Peak. task was to check that young people were observing I commend the Department for Environment, Food their curfews. We went to one house and the mother and Rural Affairs for trying to address that, but it needs said, “He’s upstairs, asleep.”“At 8 pm?”, we wondered—and to hurry things up. The attitude of the Conservative yes, he was. His mother said: “Thank you. That curfew party locally and nationally is not helpful, either—saying has really brought my family together—I’ve got to no to local development and refusing to co-operate with know my son again.” strategic planning for housing provision. It has not been Communities function best when they have a vibrant possible to deliver the houses that the 4,000 families on volunteering infrastructure, and Gamesley is no exception. High Peak’s council waiting list need, let alone those Gamesley residents association is staffed entirely by that the market demands should be provided. We did volunteers and provides a daily source of advice, support not sufficiently take the initiative and prioritise housing and information, bringing voluntary groups together until it was too late, and that must be a matter for regret. with each other and with the statutory services, and I think that it is unlikely that when Total Place is providing a focus for councillors. For Gamesley—of spread across the country it will look at the capacity of course, they are all Labour in this area—the hard-working an area to accommodate ramblers. However, High Peak Anthony Mckeown and his father Bob, the ex-mayor, is the spiritual home of rambling and open access to the 137 Total Place Programme (High Peak)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Total Place Programme (High Peak) 138 countryside—from the Kinder trespass of 1932 to the information and services using the latest technology, establishment of national parks in 1948, of which the support the Total Place process and are not independent Peak District was the first, right through to the Countryside of it? What level of efficiency savings will she regard as and Rights of Way Act 2000 and my proud moment of showing that the Total Place approach works, and how attending the opening of the first piece of open-access else will she measure its success? Does she expect it to land created under that Act at Derbyshire Bridge. If result in job losses, and is the intention behind more rambling is not part of the Total Place process, the effective co-working between services in each locality to national parks will be, and the needs of isolated communities save money through efficiencies, or to provide more and must be taken into account. Too often, places such as better services for the same amount of money? I hope it High Peak have not had the help that they need, not is the latter. because there is no deprivation but because the pockets I have spent 13 years representing High Peak in this of deprivation have been too small to register for place and seven years working up to it beforehand. It is Government schemes. in my blood and my heart, and there is nowhere better I wish to put some substantive points to my hon. in the whole country to breathe than the top of Mam Friend the Under-Secretary. When considering Total Tor or Kinder Scout. It is time for me to move on now Place we must ask, “What place?” I guess that the local and use my experience, and what wisdom I have gained authority is the building block of Total Place UK, along the way, in other ways. Before I go, I look forward although as I have said, we can also think of it as to hearing what my hon. Friend has to say about the working at regional level. City regions, which acknowledge inspiring concept of Total Place and its possible impact that “place” can have different meanings for different on my totally inspiring constituency. purposes, are a rational idea, as is the sharing of chief executives and essential back-office services when two adjacent borough councils with much in common decide 10.23 pm to do so. That is sensible. What is not sensible is for two councils not even in the same region, let alone the same The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for county, to form an unequal partnership in which one Communities and Local Government (Barbara Follett): I dominates the other and job losses are concentrated congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for High more in one than the other, in which even councillors Peak (Tom Levitt) on securing this debate. He is a are not consulted on the extent of the merger and in friend in the House and outside, and I commend his which it is no longer credible for the two councils to enthusiastic dedication to his constituents and his implement separate policies and have separate identities. constituency, which, as we could tell from his speech, he Merged in all but name, with only the council chambers knows well and has served well for many years. I know remaining nominally independent of each other, that is that, like me, he is standing down at the general election, what we are seeing in the so-called strategic alliance and he will be very much missed both in the House and between Staffordshire Moorlands and High Peak councils. in High Peak. I wish him well in his new life. First, It is an unpopular and clumsy arrangement, and covering though, back to the old life for a moment, but to an the area from the south of Barnsley to the south-east of interesting and crucial part of it—Total Place. Stoke-on-Trent, it is not fit for purpose. I have nothing Like my hon. Friend, I am passionate about Total against Staffordshire Moorlands—I grew up there—but Place and feel that it brings a long overdue overhaul of the merger has gone too far, led by Tory councillors in how and where public money is spent, and how we can both areas who know the cost of everything and the spend that money to best effect. It identifies blockages value of nothing. My hon. Friend’s Department is that prevent change and create barriers, particularly currently considering the effectiveness of such alliances, funding barriers, which have for so long proved to be and I ask her to examine carefully that example of how such big stumbling blocks to reform of government at not to forge alliances, even where the concept of Total all levels. I am glad that local government is the most Place must allow for some strategic co-operation between open of all levels of government to Total Place, but it councils. will eventually move right through the system, to regional In High Peak, our local strategic partnership has and central Government. always allowed the third sector a major voice, often Before dealing with Total Place in more detail, I giving it the role of chairing the organisation. Yet in too should like to address the sharing of chief executives many LSPs, the third sector—the voluntary and not-for- and back-office services by councils, which my hon. profit sector—does not get a look-in. What is the Friend mentioned. I understand his concern that such relationship between LSPs and Total Place partnership arrangements could lead to unequal partnerships, with boards? Are they actually the same thing? one council dominating the other. However, an arrangement My hon. Friend will be aware of pioneering work in has been put in place by agreement between High Peak the east midlands on public service agreement 16, which and Staffordshire Moorlands councils and their leaders, is focusing help on those with learning difficulties or who are committed to making it work. I understand mental health problems and those coming out of care that there is a feeling that some of the political members or prison. She will be aware that many people are in have been marginalised, which I regret, but it is for the more than one of those groups. Will she assure me that councils themselves—quite rightly—to make such joined-up government, which is at the heart of Total arrangements, which are part of a growing trend in Place, will build on that good work and ensure that English local government and a quest to develop innovative co-ordinated services are focused on those most in approaches to service delivery at the same time as need, such as people in the PSA16 groups? maximising operational efficiencies and savings. The As a way of avoiding and moving away from silo overriding aim of the trend is to improve the efficiency government, will my hon. Friend ensure that the Smarter and effectiveness of the services being delivered to Government proposals, for greater personal access to residents. 139 Total Place Programme (High Peak)22 FEBRUARY 2010 Total Place Programme (High Peak) 140

Tom Levitt: I spoke of inequalities. When the two will report at the time of the Budget. The door remains middle management tiers were merged, every single job open for radical shifts in service delivery. As my hon. loss was in High Peak, and the number of new jobs for Friend rightly pointed out, Total Place is not an exclusive High Peak in the future jobs fund bid from the two club, and councils and their partners need not be formally councils was only two. That is what I mean by the part of the pilot initiative to consider how the approach discrepancy and inequality between the two councils. could benefit their areas. It is crucial for those running How can one group of middle management deliver two pilots, and others, to remain ambitious in their thinking. contrary sets of policies in the two council areas, should I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the work the electorate decide that one of the councils should done in the east midlands on PSA16. I assure him that have a different type of political leadership? Total Place will build on that excellent work, and will ensure that co-ordinated services remain focused on Barbara Follett: I completely understand my hon. delivery of the best possible outcomes for the area. Friend’s concerns, but he puts me in an impossible Both Smarter Government and Total Place are intended position, because the Government rightly do not interfere to improve service delivery at local level, and improving in the decisions that are taken at local government level. citizens’ access to information and services through the Local government is accountable for such decisions, not use of new technology is a key part of achieving those to central Government but to electorates and the auditors. goals. Someone who knows that £7.5 billion of public Although I understand his concerns, they must be taken money is being spent every year in a city such as up by the electorates in High Peak and Staffordshire Birmingham is empowered to identify how it is being Moorlands, particularly, by the sound of it, in the spent and where there is duplication. I believe that former. I note what he says and we must learn from the making such detailed information publicly, easily and experience for future Total Place activities, as Total comprehensively available is key to the massive reform Place is not a pilot but an action. movement that is taking place. Streamlined contact As my hon. Friend says, Total Place brings together between different providers and service users is another all public service providers to look at how public money key theme. is spent in an area and to ask hard questions about the My hon. Friend asked what was the aim of more best use of it. The partnerships include primary care effective collaboration between services in each locality. trusts and police authorities. I am happy to see that that The Total Place approach involves moving away from is working in High Peak, and I was very taken by my protection of territory and budgets and persuading hon. Friend’s descriptions of the work done by people people to work together and, at times, to switch resources such as Lee Baker and Janet Birkin. They are the very between different providers. That cuts out duplication, stuff of the English local government system, and without waste and bureaucracy, and saves not just time but them our country would be a much poorer place. money and effort. Some of the money runs into millions My hon. Friend asked about the relationship between of pounds, which can be reinvested. It is designed to local service partnerships and Total Place partnership improve people’s experience of services, and to make boards. The Total Place initiative builds on the LSP those services genuinely seamless. approach. Total Place pilots have developed governance It is encouraging to learn that Total Place is already structures that reflect the policy areas that they have taking root so well in High Peak, and I look forward to been considering. They can involve chief executives and its taking root at regional and Whitehall level. It is a leaders from each local authority, primary care trusts, radical model and one on which I hope we can build, Jobcentre Plus, the police and other partners in the LSP, particularly in the area of housing. I am glad that but they can go further and include organisations from council properties in High Peak— outside the LSP, such HM Courts Service. Local government is embarking on this from a position 10.35 pm of strength. The Government’s recent White Paper “Smarter House adjourned without Question put (Standing Order Government” set out our commitments, on which we No. 9(7)). 1WS Written Ministerial Statements22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 2WS

Based on the limited information available, the Identity Written Ministerial and Passport Service is satisfied that the passport records identified are genuine UK passports, issued in the UK Statements between September 2001 and January 2006, and that the photographs and signatures provided by the Dubai authorities do not match those on IPS records. These Monday 22 February 2010 pre-date the time when biometric UK passports started to be issued. TREASURY

Council for Financial Stability UK Border Agency Strategy

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Alistair Darling): The Minister for Borders and Immigration (Mr. Phil I have today deposited in the Libraries of both Houses Woolas): I am today publishing a new strategy entitled copies of the minutes of the first meeting of the Council “Protecting our Border, Protecting the Public”. Copies for Financial Stability, which was held on 14 January will be available in the Vote Office and in the Libraries 2010. of both Houses. The Council comprises the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who chairs the Council, the Governor of the Bank of Since its creation in 2008, the UK Border Agency has England and the Chairman of the Financial Services become one of the UK’s largest law enforcement bodies, Authority. The Council is responsible for considering operating across the UK and in 135 countries overseas. emerging risks to the financial stability of the UK and It stands at the forefront of efforts to protect the United global financial system, and co-ordinating an appropriate Kingdom from overseas threats posed by dangerous response by the UK’s authorities. people, goods and materials, while at the same time enforcing our immigration rules and facilitating the At the first meeting of the Council, the Governor of flow of legitimate travel and trade on which our economy the Bank of England, the Chairman of the Financial depends. Services Authority and I discussed the following issues: This document both clarifies the extent of our law the Bank of England Financial Stability Report published on 18 December 2009; enforcement activities and sets out our vision as to how, Financial Sector Remuneration; over the next five years, we will develop our capability Recovery and Resolution Plans. to protect the public from the harm caused by illegal immigration and smuggling. It also sets out how the The Financial Services Bill currently before Parliament agency will support the work of its criminal justice provides for the establishment of the Council in statute, partners in tackling non-immigration crime committed including the requirement to publish minutes of its by foreign nationals in the UK. quarterly meetings. The Government have moved to the new arrangements ahead of the passage of the Bill. In support of the wider Government priority of tackling organised crime, the document identifies tackling organised immigration and smuggling crime as a key Tax Information Exchange Agreement priority for the agency, with particular focus on the detection of class A drugs at the border and the targeting The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Stephen of groups that facilitate illegal entry or stay in the UK. Timms): A Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA) The underlying themes of the strategy include encouraging was signed with San Marino on 16 February 2010. compliance with our immigration rules, the benefits of disrupting criminal activity before it reaches our shores The text of the TIEA has been deposited in the and greater targeting of the assets of criminal groups. Libraries of both Houses and made available on HM Revenue and Customs’ website. The text will be Tackling border and immigration crime and protecting scheduled to a draft Order in Council and laid before the public is a responsibility that the UK Border Agency the House of Commons in due course. shares with law enforcement partners, such as the police and Serious and Organised Crime Agency. The UK Border Agency has much to contribute, for example HOME DEPARTMENT through the e-Borders programme; but success will be multi-agency. We already have strong partnership arrangements; our regional immigration crime teams Fraudulent Use of Passports (Investigation) for example, are comprised of both border agency and seconded police officers. We also have local immigration The Secretary of State for the Home Department teams across the country that work alongside the police, (Alan Johnson): Following a formal request from the HM Revenue and Customs, local authorities and other Emirati law enforcement authorities the Serious Organised local partners to ensure compliance with, and enforce, Crime Agency is conducting an investigation into the our immigration laws. apparent use of counterfeit British passports by those This strategy explains our relationship with the suspected of murdering a Hamas official in Dubai wider law enforcement community and sets out how recently. The investigation is at an early stage but a we will work more closely together to deter, disrupt, number of avenues of inquiry are expected to be followed. detect and deal with crime, in order to make the UK a Since this is a criminal investigation it would not be hostile environment for criminals and a safer place for appropriate to comment on it at this stage. the public. 3WS Written Ministerial Statements22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 4WS

JUSTICE The code was last revised by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2004 and it has now been updated in order to take into Accommodation and Support Service account recent changes in law and practice, as well as the merger between the Crown Prosecution Service and the Revenue and Customs Prosecutions Office. The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Maria The fundamental evidential and public interest considerations Eagle): I am today announcing that the Government have not changed. However, the code has been amended to have awarded a new national contract for the Bail include: some additional public interest factors tending both in Accommodation and Support Service to Stonham. favour of and against prosecution; provision for exceptional situations which allow a decision to be made not to undertake a This follows a competitive tender conducted in prosecution on public interest grounds before all the evidence in accordance with Public Sector Procurement Directive the case is available for consideration by the prosecutor; an (2004/8/EC). Stonham offered the best overall bid in explanation of how the CPS takes decisions in cases which terms of quality of service and cost relative to the other require the DPP’s consent; greater clarity on the prosecutor’s role bids received and will take over the service from in considering out-of-court disposals; the introduction of an ClearSprings on18 June 2010 for an initial three years. explanation of the threshold test and the circumstances in which it should be applied. Stonham is a third sector organisation and registered The revised code also makes it clear that, for the maintenance charity, and one of the UK’s largest providers of housing of public confidence in the criminal justice system, in rare cases and support for vulnerable and socially excluded people. where a new look at the original decision shows it was wrong, the The primary aim of the Bail Accommodation and CPS will consider reversing a decision not to prosecute. The Support Service is to provide accommodation and support current wording of this aspect of the code updates and brings services to enable the courts and prison governors to greater clarity to the undertaking given in a written answer on this make greater use of conditional bail and early release issue by the Attorney-General on 31 March 1993. I am particularly please to welcome the DPP’s decision to take a more robust on home detention curfew, in appropriate cases. The approach to correcting prosecution decisions that were wrongly scheme allows defendants without an appropriate address, taken. who would otherwise have been granted bail by the To ensure the code’s accessibility, it will be published in audio courts, to be bailed. It helps to ensure that prison is and Braille and, in addition to English and Welsh, the most reserved for people who really need to be there: not commonly spoken community languages. people who the courts judge to be suitable for bail or I welcome the revised code and commend it to all prosecuting who prison governors judge may be placed on home authorities. Copies of the “Code for Crown Prosecutors” will be detention curfew. available on the Crown Prosecution Service website which can be found at: www.cps.gov.uk. PRIME MINISTER TRANSPORT Informal European Council - 11 February 2010

The Prime Minister (Mr. Gordon Brown): I attended Informal Meeting of EU Transport Ministers an informal meeting of the European Council in Brussels on 11 February. The Minister of State, Department for Transport Leaders discussed the financial situation in Greece. (Mr. Sadiq Khan): An informal meeting of EU Transport They fully supported Greece’s commitment to ensure Ministers took place on 12 February 2010 in La Coruña, that the ambitious targets set in the stability programme Spain. I represented the United Kingdom. The two for 2010 and the following years are met. The euro area topics for discussion were aviation security and the member states committed to take determined and Commission’s action plan on urban mobility. co-ordinated action to safeguard financial stability in The priority on aviation security was to discuss the the euro area as a whole. additional security measures introduced in member states The leaders also discussed the Europe 2020 strategy, post-Detroit and the future evolution of aviation security the successor to the Lisbon strategy for jobs and growth. within the EU. The UK, along with most member There was support for the ideas contained in the UK’s states, highlighted the need for a review and reinforcement compact for jobs and growth and agreement on the of EC current baseline measures and the application of need to co-ordinate activity to achieve a higher level of new technologies, including but not limited to advanced growth. I look forward to the publication of the imaging technology (AIT), subject to appropriate Commission’s detailed proposals on 3 March. safeguards. It was noted that the European Commission The leaders also discussed climate change, Iran and would shortly be producing a report on the use of new Haiti. technologies (including AITs), as a first step to a future legislative proposal to allow their use as a primary screening technology within the EU, a move supported SOLICITOR-GENERAL by the UK. The presidency emphasised that the threat posed a global challenge which required a single response Revised Code for Crown Prosecutors and that technology must play a fundamental role in EU strategy to protect the public. The presidency expressed The Solicitor-General (Vera Baird): My right hon. satisfaction at the consensus reached, which would be Friend the Attorney-General has made the following developed in a joint strategy within the framework of written ministerial statement: the European Union. The UK will be participating in The review of the Code for Crown Prosecutors, which began further EU, ECAC and ICAO meetings over the next during 2008, is now complete. Copies of the revised code have few weeks and months to continue to work internationally been placed in the Libraries of both Houses. to build on existing aviation security standards and 5WS Written Ministerial Statements22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 6WS using and developing new technology, in order to make integration of infrastructure planning and to find things harder for the terrorist, but to continue to facilitate alternatives to the use of private vehicles through the and protect genuine passenger journeys. use of public and non-motorised means of transport. The UK agreed that there is a role for the Commission On the action plan on urban mobility, the priority to play in overcoming the lack of evidence surrounding was to prepare draft conclusions which will be considered urban mobility and facilitating the exchange of best at the Transport Council in June. The UK joined several practice. An observatory, as suggested in the action other member states in supporting the principles of the plan, could achieve this goal, but it is vital that it has action plan, in particular, the Commission’s approach clear terms of reference, objectives and a work programme of promoting and supporting the development of agreed by member states. The UK position remains sustainable urban mobility policies, while maintaining clear that the action plan should not lead to further that the principle of subsidiarity is vital in the field of legislation, and that cities and city regions should retain urban transport. The presidency emphasised the need the freedom to pursue and implement locally relevant to implement sustainable plans to promote greater solutions.

1P Petitions22 FEBRUARY 2010 Petitions 2P

vessels which took part in the landings on the coast of Petition Morocco between 8 November 1942 and the 12 May 1943 also qualified. Monday 22 February 2010 It was, as is now, the responsibility of those in command at the time to determine when it was appropriate to OBSERVATIONS request medals for campaign service and similarly to decide when it was felt that their continued issue for a particular campaign was no longer necessary. If the DEFENCE military chain of command agreed that some additional recognition for those who served in Malta between 1940 Malta Cross/Africa Star and 1943 was appropriate, or in fact the introduction of The Petition of the George Cross Island Association any medal, they would have to prepare a case to be North West Branch and others, considered by the cross-Government, non-political Committee on the Grant of Honours, Decorations and Declares that a small Maltese Cross should be issued Medals (HD Committee). This committee considers all by the British Government to be worn with the Africa cases for new medals and all amendments to the eligibility Star, for personnel involved with the defence of Malta, criteria for existing medals and makes recommendations in recognition of the valiant efforts of our former to the Queen. It is not, the remit of Minister’s to servicemen and the people of Malta. introduce or review criteria for introducing medals. The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Since the end of the second world war the HD Commons urges the Government to issue a small Maltese Committee has made it clear that it will not consider Cross to be pinned to the Africa Star. cases for any new medals, or amendments to the qualifying And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Mr. Joe criteria for existing medals recognising service performed Benton, Official Report, 15 December 2009; Vol. 502, many years ago. The reason for this policy is that the c. 934 .] present HD Committee cannot put itself in the place of [P000638] the Committee which made the original decision and which would have been able to take account of the Observations from the Secretary of State for Defence, views of the Government and of other interested parties received 12 February 2010: at the time of the decision. The Africa Star was awarded for a minimum one day In conclusion, the institution of the Africa Star was service in an operational area of North Africa between deemed entirely appropriate for the operations undertaken 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943. The whole of the area at that time. It is for these reasons that there are no between the Suez Canal and the Strait of Gibraltar is plans to introduce any additional recognition in the included, together with Malta, Abyssinia, Kenya, Sudan, form of a medal, clasp or rosette, for those veterans The Somalilands and Eritrea. The Africa Star was who served in Malta. awarded to Royal Navy and Merchant Navy personnel anywhere at sea in the Mediterranean between 10 June I hope this explains the Government’s position on 1940 and the 12 May 1943. Service in Merchant Navy this matter.

1W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 2W Written Answers to Personnel: Mental Illnesses Mr. Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Questions what arrangements his Department has put in place to help military service personnel with mental illnesses linked to combat experience. [317454] Monday 22 February 2010 Mr. Kevan Jones: Defence Medical Services deploy uniformed mental health staff on major operations to DEFENCE provide assessment and care to personnel in theatre. In Afghanistan the UK, community-based mental health care is available at 15 MOD-run regional departments of community 16. Alistair Burt: To ask the Secretary of State for mental health (plus centres overseas), while in-patient Defence what his latest assessment is of progress in care, when necessary, is provided in specialist NHS military operations in Afghanistan; and if he will make mental health facilities. a statement. [317455]

Mr. Bob Ainsworth: We continue to work with the Defence Storage and Distribution Agency Afghan national security forces and ISAF partners to bring security to the Afghan people. The increasing ability of Afghan security forces has been shown recently Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence in their effective planning, leadership and execution of for what reasons the Defence Storage and Distribution Operation Moshtarak, which is successfully extending Agency no longer has agency status. [317460] the authority and influence of the Afghan Government in central Helmand Province. Mr. Quentin Davies: The Defence Storage and Distribution Agency (DSDA) still has agency status. 19. Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for The operational efficiency programme made a number Defence what his most recent assessment is of the role of recommendations which allow removal of agency of UK armed forces in the overall military strategy in status from DSDA and my Department is therefore Afghanistan. [317458] currently consulting with the trade unions on its removal. Once this is complete, I will make a final decision which Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I refer the hon. Member to the will be announced to Parliament in the usual manner. answer I gave earlier to the hon. Member for Macclesfield. 20. Mr. Russell Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the timetable is for transition of lead Accommodation: Repairs security responsibility to the Afghan government for (a) each district and (b) the nation as a whole. [317459] Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much was charged to occupants of (1) Modern Mr. Bob Ainsworth: The Afghan Government wants Housing Solutions accommodation for repair of damage the Afghan national security forces (ANSF) to take the caused by them to the accommodation in each of the lead and conduct the majority of operations within last 12 months; [317328] three years, and to take responsibility for physical security within five years. At the London conference, the (2) family accommodation owned by Amec Turner international community agreed to support this goal by for repair of damage caused by them to the continuing to improve the capability and effectiveness accommodation in each of the last five years. [317329] of the ANSF. We hope that a number of provinces will transition to Mr. Kevan Jones: Modern Housing Solutions and ANSF lead by late 2010 or early 2011, with ISAF Turner Estates Solutions are the prime contractors for moving to a supporting role. However, the rate of the repair and maintenance of service family transition will depend upon conditions on the ground, accommodation (SFA) in Great Britain. Neither company and the judgment of military commanders and the own any SFA properties. Afghan Government. However, charges for “barrack damage” are raised in RAF Church Fenton cases where occupants vacate SFA below the required move-out standard, and are to cover the costs of remedial 18. Mr. Grogan: To ask the Secretary of State for works required. The MOD manages over 20,000 moves Defence what his plans are for the future of RAF in and out of SFA in the UK each year. Charges are not Church Fenton and its parent base RAF Linton-on- raised for normal wear and tear and any charges for the Ouse; and if he will make a statement. [317457] replacement of lifed items such as carpets will take into account the remaining life of the item. Housing officers Bill Rammell: RAF Church Fenton and its parent visit every SFA property prior to move-out in order to base RAF Linton-on-Ouse currently provide UK military advise occupants what work may be required to clean flying training. The future roles of these stations are properties to the required standard, and to allow occupants under review as part of the UK military flying training to raise any concerns they may have. Figures are only system programme which will deliver the future flying available for the UK as a whole. For data prior to 2009, training needs of the armed forces. No decisions have I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on been taken yet on the involvement of individual sites 14 September 2009, Official Report, column 2124W. that are under review as part of the programme. The following table shows data that are available for 2009. 3W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 4W

The data included in this response have been rounded. Amount charged (£) The Afghanistan figures represent the endorsed troop January 137,245 levels at the given time. February 85,946 March 54,124 Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations April 64,942 May 69,870 Mr. Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence June 114,772 what recent assessment he has made of the security July 99,756 threat posed by the Taliban in the Afghanistan- August 64,903 Pakistan border region. [309737] September 111,748 October 102,023 Mr. Bob Ainsworth [holding answer 11 January 2010]: November 85,139 I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the December 54,006 Minister of State for the Armed Forces (Bill Rammell) to the hon. Member for Reigate (Mr. Blunt) on 11 January 2010, Official Report, column 740W. Afghanistan and Iraq: Peacekeeping Operations Dr. McCrea: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many troops were stationed in Afghanistan in each Dr. Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence year between 2006 and 2009. [316276] how many personnel have served in (a) Afghanistan since 2001 and (b) Operation Telic from 2003-09. Mr. Bob Ainsworth: The following table shows the [314562] number of personnel endorsed for Afghanistan between 2006 and 2009. Mr. Bob Ainsworth: The following table shows the Afghanistan numbers of personnel endorsed for Afghanistan since Number 2001 and Operation Telic since 2003. 2006 Summer 5,400 Iraq Afghanistan Autumn 6,200 Late autumn 6,300 2001 0 4,300 (Op Veritas—includes personnel that supported 2007 April 6,300 operations in Afghanistan Late 2007 7,800 but were not based in the country) 2008 June 8,100 2009 April 9,000 October 9,500 2002 0 2,100 (early 2002) 3,500 (spring 2002) The Afghanistan figures represent the endorsed troop 300 (summer 2002) levels at the given time.

2003 46,000 (March) 300 (in ISAF) Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 18,000 (end May) plus 100 (at Mazar-e-Sharif) what the effect was on the operation of the Afghan air bridge of recent severe weather conditions in the UK. 2004 8,600 (end May) 500 (in ISAF) (April 2004) [316921] 900 (in ISAF and Harrier GR7 deployment) (late Bill Rammell: Delivery of the strategic airbridge was 2004) challenging but successful during the period of severe weather in January 2010. Some aircraft were diverted 2005 8,500 (end November) 1,000 from RAF Brize Norton or pre-positioned at East Midlands airport. 2006 7,200 (end May) 5,400 (summer 2006) In spite of the closure of RAF Brize Norton from 6,200 (autumn 2006) late on 5 January 2010 until 8 January 2010, the utilisation 6,300 (late autumn 2006) of additional resources and the inherent flexibility in airbridge passenger tasking ensured that outbound passengers were re-allocated to the next available aircraft 2007 5,500 (end September) 6,300 (April) departing from either Brize Norton or East Midlands 7,800 (late 2007) airport. The airbridge continued through the period of severe weather with minimal overall disruption. 2008 4,100 8,100 (June) Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 2009 4,100 (end May) 9,000 (April) 150 (November)1 9,500 (October) Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to monitor the effectiveness 1 This includes the UK’s contribution to the NATO Training Mission— of the changes to the Armed Forces Compensation Iraq. Scheme announced on 10 February 2010. [318023] 5W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 6W

Mr. Kevan Jones: The Government are committed to The proxy vote system is available to everybody and implementing all of the recommendations put forward this is the most reliable means of voting for those for by Lord Boyce in his Review of the Armed Forces whom operational demands or their location would Compensation Scheme. A report on progress will be make the completion and return of postal votes difficult. made in 12 months time to the Central Advisory Committee None the less, we are striving to ensure that our service on Pensions and Compensation, a statutory advisory men and women, particularly those in Afghanistan are body, whose members include representatives of Service registered and able to vote in the forthcoming election. and ex-service organisations as well as military personnel. As recommended in the Report this same body will Armed Forces: Aviation monitor progress on implementation of the Review’s recommendations and will also be the route through which any further reviews of aspects of the Scheme Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which might be required are conducted. how many (a) flights and (b) passengers have been delayed at (i) Brize Norton, (ii) Kandahar and (iii) Akrotiri for more than (A) 24, (B) 48 and (C) 72 hours Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence in the last six months; what recent assessment he has by what means lifetime earnings lost by reservists as a made of the effectiveness of the Afghan Air Bridge; result of injuries sustained in service be (a) calculated and if he will make a statement. [313928] and (b) accounted for in the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme following implementation of the changes to the Scheme announced on 10 February 2010. [318024] Bill Rammell: Data are not recorded in the format requested as any flight that does not depart within 24 hours is replaced by a standby reserve flight and Mr. Kevan Jones: A Reservist’s Guaranteed Income consequently the original tasking is no longer required. Payment is calculated, in the same way as a Regular’s, The required number of weekly airbridge trips has using age and salary at time of discharge and reflecting always been achieved in the time period. the severity of the injury. The salary for Reservists is calculated using a military salary of equivalent rank as There have been 14 occasions (9 per cent. of flights) a Regular plus any Reservist pay supplements that an since 1 July 2009 when a scheduled TriStar from Brize individual earns to compensate those whose gross civilian Norton has needed to be replaced by a reserve flight, salary is higher than their gross Service pay. In line with and passengers have had to wait until at least the next the Review Recommendations the Guaranteed Income day to travel. This also impacts on the return flight from Payment calculation will be amended to reflect, for the Kandahar. A fallback flight has run on 19 occasions in most seriously injured, the average number of promotions the same period to account both for these cancelled they are no longer able to receive. This will apply to flights and for the differing capacity between KC1 TriStars Reservists and Regulars alike. that carry 115 passengers, and C2 TriStars that can carry 190, which are normally scheduled. As a result, Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for there have been a further five occasions when passengers Defence when he expects the compensation review for will have had to wait until at least the next day to travel. people injured since April 2005 announced on As with any aircraft, there are occasions when for 10 February 2010 to be completed. [318028] technical reasons or bad weather flights are delayed; there are also operational reasons, such as casualty Mr. Kevan Jones: The Government have accepted all evacuation, when priorities may be changed causing of the recommendations put forward by Lord Boyce in delay to other passengers either on departure for Kandahar his Review of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or returning to the UK. However, these delays have not and these will be implemented as quickly as possible. compromised the overall performance of the Afghan Some of the changes will be completed by the summer, Air Bridge, which is kept under constant review. while those which require more time to translate into detailed legislation are expected to be complete in about Armed Forces: Derbyshire 12 months time. Paul Holmes: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Armed Forces: Absent Voting what steps his Department has taken to provide assistance to soldier normally resident in Derbyshire following Sir Robert Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for active service in Afghanistan and Iraq. [317697] Defence what discussions he has had with Ministerial colleagues on arrangements to ensure that service Mr. Kevan Jones: My Department has taken many personnel on active duty can vote at the next general steps in recent years to improve the support available to election. [317446] all service personnel on their return from operations. These include improvements to medical support, welfare Mr. Kevan Jones: I am working closely with the and financial packages. Minister of State at the Ministry of Justice, the right The hon. Member will be aware of the Defence hon. Member for North Swindon (Mr. Wills), and the Secretary’s recent statement on 10 February 2010, Official Electoral Commission regarding this important matter. Report, column 926, to the House regarding improvements The Ministry of Justice have set up a working party of to the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. He will officials and representatives of service families to look also be aware of my recent announcement on the Army at long-term solutions. We are committed to ensuring, Recovery Capability, which is an integrated and coherent where we can, that all service personnel and their families programme to help injured and sick personnel return to who are eligible are registered to vote and can do so. work or prepare for civilian life. 7W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 8W

In terms of mental health, we continue to have a A soldier might also return multiple positive tests in one package of measures to assist with the early intervention period. This may account for the apparent disparity of mental health problems. These include the use of Trauma between the totals of discharges and drugs detected. Risk Management (TRiM), which is a model of peer group mentoring and support. We also provide out-patient Armed Forces: Expenses and in extreme cases in-patient care to ensure any mental health needs are managed as early as possible. Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for There are no specific programmes of assistance for Defence how much was claimed in reimbursable service personnel from Derbyshire, but a coherent package expenses by members of the armed forces with a rank for all Service Leavers and Veterans regardless of location. of Brigadier or equivalent and above in each of the last 12 months. [316374] Armed Forces: Discharges Mr. Kevan Jones: The following table provides Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for information on expenditure reimbursed through the Joint Defence how many soldiers subject to manning control Personnel Administration expenses system for those are (a) awaiting discharge and (b) have been officers holding the rank of Brigadier and equivalent discharged since 2007. [316937] and above.

Bill Rammell: No soldiers have been discharged under 2009 £ Manning Control Points since 2002, and no soldiers are January 67,392.31 awaiting discharge. February 81,780.41 March 114,559.39 Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence April 76,809.24 how many soldiers have been subject to discharge after May 120,100.37 failing a compulsory drugs test in each of the last two June 100,542.10 years; and what the class of drug was in each such case. July 97,569.42 [316938] August 51,536.52 September 77,002.27 Bill Rammell: The Army does not tolerate drug abuse within its ranks, as it is incompatible with military October 96,296.42 service and reduces operational effectiveness. November 104,682.84 December 75,724.20 Positive results in the Army Compulsory Drug Testing Total 1,064,095.49 over the last three years average around 0.8 per cent, which is much less than in similar civilian work place The figures provided reflect the month in which payment drug testing programmes in the UK. has been made. Although all claims for reimbursement The number of soldiers the British Army discharged will be made as soon as practical after the activity, it is after failing compulsory drugs tests, in each of the last possible that some claims will be listed against the two calendar years is as follows: month following an activity or even later. The majority of reimbursed expenses relate to subsistence Number allowance and motor mileage allowance. In order to 2008 580 reduce expenditure greater use is being made of video and telephone conferencing. When travel is necessary, 2009 1508 all personnel are strongly encouraged to maximise the 1 As at 30 November 2009 value of their time away by incorporating several meetings, Information on the class of drug in each case of thus avoiding the need to travel to the same location on discharge is not held centrally and could be provided separate occasions. If travelling by road, all practical only at disproportionate cost. However, I can provide a measures are to be taken to allow the sharing of transport. breakdown of the types of drugs that have been detected Furthermore, when arranging meetings, due consideration by compulsory drug testing, by year for the British is to be made to holding the meeting at a time that will Army for the requested period: allow attendees to return to their home units and avoid the need to stay overnight. Ser Drug Type 2008 2009

1 Heroin 1 1 Armed Forces: Foreigners 2 Cocaine 427 231 Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State 3 Ecstasy 32 4 for Defence pursuant to the answer of 24 November 2009, 4 Cannabis 171 165 Official Report, column 52W,on armed forces: recruitment, 5 Amphetamine 4 8 how many members of the armed forces there are from 6 Benzodiazepine 15 9 each other Commonwealth country. [316925] 7 Ketamine 1 11 8 Total 651 429 Mr. Kevan Jones: The number of personnel joining the UK armed forces from Commonwealth countries is The figures for 2009 are as at 30 November 2009. given in the following table. There is a discontinuity It should be noted that soldiers are not necessarily between the statistics for 2006-07 and other years presented discharged in the year in which they fail a compulsory in the table due to the introduction of the Joint Personnel drugs test. It can take up to five months to process a Administration System and direct comparisons should discharge if the soldier wishes to challenge the decision. not be made. 9W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 10W

(2) how many armed forces personnel undergoing Nationality 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 a course of rehabilitation at Defence Medical Rehabilitation Total non-UK 680 1,220 1,460 Centre, Headley Court are accommodated outside Headley Commonwealth Court; [316998] 1 Australian —1010(3) how many armed forces personnel are awaiting Bahamian 1— 1— 1— appointments at Defence Medical Rehabilitation 1 1 1 Bangladeshi — — — Centre, Headley Court. [316999] Barbadian 1— 1— 1— 1 1 Belizean — —30Mr. Kevan Jones: The facilities at the Defence Medical Bermudan 1— 1— 1— Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) at Headley Court currently Botswanan 1—1020include 66 ward beds and 120 other beds that are Cameroonian 10 20 20 available for patients who do not require full ward Canadian 10 1— 1— facilities. Fijian 20 230 170 We keep the numbers of beds required at DMRC 1 1 1 Seychellois — — — under regular review. I refer the hon. Member to my Sri Lankan 1— 1— 1— written ministerial statement on 10 February 2010, Dominican 10 10 1— Official Report, column 52WS, which states that we are Gambian 30 80 80 working on plans to provide up to 30 extra ward beds Ghanaian 160 220 180 later this year. Grenadian 10 20 90 No individuals undergoing a course of residential 1 1 Guyanese — —10rehabilitation at Headley Court are housed elsewhere. Indian 10 40 30 As part of its services, DMRC also provides a range of Jamaican 20 30 40 out-patient treatment. Personnel attending for a routine Kenyan 30 40 60 out-patient appointment may be offered overnight Lesotho 1— 1— 1— accommodation in a local hotel if they are unable to Malawian 20 60 60 travel to and from the unit in a day. 1 1 1 Malaysian — — — Armed forces personnel requiring residential care or 1 1 1 Maltese — — — rehabilitation at DMRC are transferred there in accordance Mauritian 10 20 10 with their clinical need at a given date. No patients are Namibian 1— 1— 1— awaiting admission because of any shortage in the New Zealander 1—1010availability of ward beds. Some personnel undertaking Nigerian 20 60 50 long-term rehabilitation programmes will spend periods Pakistani 1— 1—10of time at home with their families between concentrated St. Lucian 20 20 60 periods of treatment at Headley Court. This practice is Sierra Leonean 1—1010in accordance with recognised clinical procedures; our Singaporean 1— 1— 1— experience suggests that patients can often recover better South African 170 160 170 and faster in this way rather than through continuing Swazi 10 1— 1— accommodation in the rehabilitation unit. Tanzanian 1— 1— 1— Tongan 1— 1— 1— Armed Forces: Housing Trinidadian 10 10 20 Ugandan 20 20 20 Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Vincentian 10 40 190 Defence what the (a) longest, (b) shortest and (c) Zambian 10 10 20 average period of time taken was to make repairs to Zimbabwean 60 50 60 forces accommodation after a call out in the last period 1 Denotes zero or rounded to zero. for which figures are available. [310247] Notes: 1. Figures for 2006-07 exclude RAF data as the nationality of those Mr. Kevan Jones [holding answer 11 January 2010]: I joining the RAF can be identified only after 2006-07 with the refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 6 July introduction of the Joint Personnel Administration (JPA) System. 2009, Official Report, column 552W,to the hon. Member 2. Army figures for 2006-07 are for an 11 month period between for Woodspring (Dr. Fox). 1 April 2006 and 28 February 2007. Due to the introduction of JPA, Army intake by nationality is unavailable for March 2007. Additional information is currently being collated 3. The data provided are provisional and subject to review due to and verified. I will write to the hon. Member as soon as ongoing validation of data from the JPA system. possible. 4. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 10. When rounding to the nearest 10, numbers ending in “5” have been rounded to the Substantive answer from Kevan Jones to Willie Rennie: nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias. In my answers of 13 January (Official Report, column 995W) I undertook to write to you with details of the number of calls made to the Department’s accommodation helplines and details of the longest, shortest and average periods of time taken to Armed Forces: Health Services carry-out repairs to Service accommodation. The repair and maintenance of Service accommodation worldwide is carried out under many different arrangements, managed by Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for different areas of the Department. Given this fact, the requested Defence (1) how many armed forces personnel Defence details for Single Living Accommodation worldwide and Service Medical Rehabilitation Centre Headley Court is able to Family Accommodation (SFA) overseas are not held centrally accommodate at any one time; [316997] and can only be provided at disproportionate cost. 11W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 12W

Repairs to SFA properties in the UK are carried out under the The MHS helpdesk received some 393,656 calls in 2009, of which Housing Prime Contract (HPC) in England and Wales, the Regional some 226,889 resulted in work orders being raised. Although the Prime Contract (RPC) in Scotland and separate arrangements total number of calls regarding SFA in Scotland and NI is not exist in Northern Ireland (NI). In all cases, occupants can report available, the RPC raised 15,424 work orders for Scottish SFA in faults and request repairs via a freephone helpdesk. 2009 and 11,148 were raised for NI SFA. The HPC is being delivered by Modern Housing Solutions The longest, shortest and average times taken to carry out (MHS) who is responsible for maintaining some 45,000 properties. repairs on UK SFA in 2009 are as follows:

Repair time (in days) Emergency repair Urgent repair Routine repair

England and Wales SFA (HPC) Longest 12 22 39 Shortest Less than 1 Less than 1 Less than 1 Average Less than 1 4 8.5 Scotland SFA (RPC) Longest 1 23 59 Shortest Less than 1 1 1 Average Less than 1 4 11 Northern Ireland SFA Longest 3 43 60 Shortest Less than 1 Less than 1 Less than 1 Average 1 6 10.7

The MOD contracts set the response time for attending emergency living properties designated as empty were repairs as three hours, repairs to remedy or make safe are to be subsequently removed from his Department’s housing completed within 24 hours and subsequent rectifications in line stock in Scotland in each of the last five years. [317785] with urgent and routine timescales. Urgent jobs would include a partial loss of essential facilities such as heating or hot water, and are to be attended within seven working days. All other jobs are Mr. Kevan Jones: Those service family accommodation classed as routine, and are to be attended within 20 working days. (SFA) properties in Scotland that are declared surplus From the way the data is held, it is not possible to identify the to requirements will be held empty prior to being sold specific reasons why the longest repairs took the time they did to on the open market. To date, the following numbers of complete. In general, repairs can take longer based on a number properties were sold in each of the last five financial of factors, including the complexity of the work, whether years: accommodation is occupied or the availability of parts and materials that are required to finalise repairs. In many cases the Financial year Number of SFA sold fault is made good at the first visit, but additional work is required to complete the repair. 2005-06 238 2006-07 242 Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 107 Defence pursuant to the answer of 8 February 2010, 2008-09 407 Official Report, column 654W, on housing, how much 2009-10 134 his Department spent on those properties in 2008-09. 1 To date. [317117] Single Living Accommodation (SLA) is normally located within the wire of a defence establishment and Mr. Kevan Jones: It is not possible to separately therefore can be sold only as part of a wider disposal. identify maintenance and other housing costs for individual Although details are held of Scottish establishments service family accommodation properties. sold in the last five years, the amount of SLA included Contribution in lieu of council tax is paid on these could be provided only at disproportionate cost. properties; however the individual cost per property cannot be readily identified. Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 9 February 2010, Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Official Report, column 810W, on armed forces: Defence what recent representations he has received on housing, who rented each of the 17 properties listed in standards of service accommodation for service the last 12 months. [317887] personnel and their families. [317449] Mr. Kevan Jones: In accordance with data protection Mr. Kevan Jones: I have recently received representations principles and for security reasons, the Department from the three armed forces family federations regarding does not disclose the details of service families living in the standards of service accommodation. I will be replying service accommodation. to them shortly, addressing the issues they raise. In addition, as the House is aware, I regularly respond Armed Forces: Manpower to questions and correspondence from hon. Members and the public regarding the standard of accommodation. Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how many people have been recruited to Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Royal Regiment of Scotland in each year since Defence how many (a) service family and (b) single 2007; [317056] 13W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 14W

(2) how many Commonwealth citizens have been Mr. Kevan Jones: The information is not held in the recruited to the Royal Regiment of Scotland in each format requested. A recent study, however, estimated year since 2007. [317057] the overall annual public contribution to the cadet forces to be in the region of £140 million. Bill Rammell: Figures for entrants to the Regular Battalions of Royal Regiment of Scotland (RRS) as a Armoured Fighting Vehicles whole are as follows: Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Of which: when he expects to announce the winner of the Soldiers Commonwealth citizens Officers contract to supply the further elements of the new 2007-08 220 18 19 electronic systems for the Warrior armoured vehicle upgrade programme. [316922] 2008-09 177 31 13 2009-10 305 58 — Mr. Quentin Davies: The competition for Warrior These figures reflect the numbers who have passed Capability Sustainment Programme (WCSP), which out of training into the RRS. They therefore exclude includes an upgrade to the Warrior’s electronic architecture, those who have rejoined the regiment and those who is ongoing. I intend to make an announcement shortly have transferred into it from other regiments. on the outcome of this competition once the assessment No Commonwealth citizens have passed into the is complete and the investment decision approved. RRS as officers during this period. Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Armed Forces: Prisons when he expects to announce his plans for the future of the Future Rapid Effects System contract. [316923] Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many times the Prison-in-Reach working Mr. Quentin Davies: The Future Rapid Effect System group referred to on the service personnel and veterans programme has been recast from a single programme website has met in the last 12 months. [317634] into a set of constituent projects, namely: the Specialist Vehicles; the Utility Vehicles; and the Manoeuvre Support Mr. Kevan Jones: The Veterans Prison-in-Reach working Vehicles. The competition for the Specialist Vehicle group meets on a quarterly basis. During the course of project is ongoing and I intend to make an announcement 2009, the Group met four times: on the outcome of this competition shortly, once the 19 March assessment is complete and the investment decision 18 June approved. 24 September Baha Mousa Inquiry 3 December. The Group will next meet on 11 March 2010. Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Armed Forces: Reorganisation Defence what the monetary value is of awards of legal aid made in respect of the Baha Mousa inquiry; and whether an estimate has been made of the total value Mr. Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence of such awards made during the course of that inquiry. what steps he plans to take to integrate the activities of [317370] the three services. [317692]

Bill Rammell: The recent Defence Green Paper recognised Mr. Bob Ainsworth: No awards of legal aid have been that joint operations have become the norm and the made to witnesses to the Baha Mousa Inquiry. However, benefits arising from our ability to co-ordinate our all witnesses to the Inquiry are provided with free activities across land, sea and air. The Green Paper independent legal advice funded by the Ministry of suggested that the future Strategic Defence Review would Defence (MOD). The MOD has so far paid £3.7 million look at how the joint approach could be taken further. in legal costs for witnesses to the Inquiry. Future costs are uncertain and will depend on the number of witnesses Armed Forces: Salt the Inquiry decides to call before it concludes. Batteries Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has a policy on stockpiling of salt and grit by the armed forces for Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for adverse winter weather. [316892] Defence how much his Department spent on (a) rechargeable and (b) single use batteries in the latest Mr. Kevan Jones: There is no specific policy on stockpiling period for which figures are available. [316720] of salt and grit by the armed forces for adverse winter weather. Mr. Quentin Davies: This information is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate Armed Forces: Cadets cost.

Michael Gove: To ask the Secretary of State for Blandford Camp Defence how much was spent on assistance to cadet forces in maintained schools in (a) 1997, (b) 2003 and Mr. Walter: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (c) the latest year for which figures are available. what plans he has for the future of Blandford Camp; [316311] and if he will make a statement. [317350] 15W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 16W

Bill Rammell: It is currently anticipated that all level, taken from the 2001 census and other sources. communications training that currently takes place at This service is available on the National Statistics website Blandford Camp will move to RAF St. Athan as part of at the following link: the implementation of the Defence Training Review by http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk the end of 2015. We are pursuing alternative defence uses for Blandford Camp, but it is still too early to say Chemical Weapons: Animals what these might be. Blaydon Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 9 February 2010, Official Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Report, columns 811-12W, on chemical weapons: Defence if he will set out, with statistical information animals, what quantities of each (a) chemical and (b) related as directly as possible to Blaydon constituency, biological warfare agent are held in the UK; when such the effects on Blaydon of his Department’s policies and agents were manufactured; and what quantity of each actions since 2000. [315303] agent is permitted to be held under the (i) Chemical Weapons Convention and (ii) Biological and Toxic Mr. Kevan Jones: The Ministry of Defence delivers Weapons Convention. [317542] security for the equal benefit of all the people of the UK, and the Overseas Territories, by defending them, Mr. Quentin Davies: The UK is a State Party to both including against terrorism; and acting as a force for the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and the good in the world by strengthening international peace Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC). In and stability. Our continuing main effort of success in accordance with these conventions, the UK maintains Afghanistan, preventing al-Qaeda from having a secure small quantities of chemical and biological warfare base from which to threaten us directly, keeps our agents for research purposes, that are not prohibited country safe from the threat of terrorism. under the conventions, to ensure that UK forces are The Service Personnel Command Paper set out the adequately protected in the event that chemical or biological Nation’s Commitment to our Armed Forces, their families weapons are used against them. and veterans. This is a cross-Government initiative that The CWC categorises chemical warfare agents under is making real differences to the lives of our service Schedule 1 chemicals. Under the CWC the UK is permitted personnel, veterans and their families and we are fully to hold a maximum aggregate quantity of one tonne of committed to upholding its key principles. The first Schedule 1 chemicals. There are no set limits on quantities annual report on the Service Personnel Command Paper of individual chemicals within this overall amount. The was published on 19 November 2009. This report captured MOD holds some Schedule 1 chemicals within the one the progress made against the commitments of the tonne limit. The Schedule 1 chemicals held by MOD are Command Paper within the first year following its between approximately 10 and 40 years old, although launch. It can be found at the following link: on occasion small quantities (typically a few grammes) http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/Showcase/Providing of Schedule 1 chemicals that are not normally held have ForOurPeople.htm been manufactured. These holdings are inspected by the The report sets out the substantial progress that has Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons been made including: (the OPCW), the international body set up to implement the CWC, to ensure compliance with the convention. compensation for most serious injuries doubled; free further education for service leavers; The BTWC does not stipulate specific agents that are prohibited, nor does it specify quantities of agents that retention of places on NHS waiting lists; are permitted to be held. It permits the possession of Local Connection legislation amended in England and Wales, biological agents and toxins of types and in quantities with a similar exercise currently being worked on in Scotland, to give service leavers credit for having lived and worked in an area consistent with prophylactic, protective or other peaceful when applying for social housing; and purposes, recognising that such agents exist in nature from April 2009, ex-service men and women who are seriously and are used for legitimate purposes, including the injured were given priority for specially adapted social homes. development of protective materials and medical countermeasures to biological agents and toxins. Defence Statistics are not available at constituency level, but regional statistics on service personnel numbers and defence employment can be found on the Defence Defence Equipment Analytical Service and Advice website. Location of military personnel can be found in Tri Service Publication 10 at Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for the following link: Defence what (a) military equipment and (b) sensitive http://www.dasa.mod.uk/applications/newWeb/www/index. personal data was lost by his Department in the last php?page=67&pubType=0&thiscontent=100&date=2010- 12 months. [317330] 01-28 Regional defence employment can be found in Bill Rammell: The value of equipment lost or stolen, Tables 1.11, 1.11a and 1.1 1b in UK Defence Statistics along with a range of other types of losses, is published 2009 at the following link: in the summary of losses and special payments in the http://www.dasa.mod.uk/modintranet/UKDS/UKDS2009/c1/ MOD’s Annual Report and Accounts. Copies are available table111b.html in the Library of the House and online at the following Additionally, although not defence-related, the link: Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide range http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ of statistical information at parliamentary constituency CorporatePublications/AnnualReports/ 17W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 18W

An explanation is provided for all losses which exceed Data prior to January 2008 for ward beds, and prior £250,000. Loss information for equipments below £250,000 to August 2008 for other beds, are not centrally held is not held centrally and could be provided only at and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. disproportionate cost. Non-ward bed occupancy is deliberately managed to There has been one incident involving the loss of achieve high percentages in order to speed the rehabilitation sensitive personal data in the past 12 months. of less seriously injured personnel by maximising the size of groups undertaking rehabilitation together. Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre While the statistics also indicate that ward bed occupancy has risen markedly in recent months, accommodation Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for has been made available in ward beds for all operational Defence what the monthly occupancy rate for (a) ward casualties as and when they required it. Given this rise and (b) other beds has been at the Defence Medical in patient numbers, we have a range of contingency Rehabilitation Centre, Headley Court since January plans, which include greater use of the 15 non-ward bed 2003. [318022] spaces mentioned, for those patients whose clinical condition allows, and greater use of our regional Mr. Kevan Jones: Since May 2007, the Defence Medical rehabilitation units for the treatment of less seriously Rehabilitation Centre, Headley Court, has had a total injured personnel who might otherwise be accommodated of 66 ward beds for the care of complex trauma and at Headley Court. In addition, as I announced to the neurological in-patients. The majority of such patients House on 10 February 2010, Official Report, columns are accommodated in these ward beds but some who 926-36, we are now planning to create up to 30 more have an appropriate level of function can alternatively ward beds at Headley Court later this year. be accommodated in 15 bed spaces in a separate building on site which are suitable for their clinical needs. These Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for beds are part of a total of 120 hostel beds for patients Defence how many follow-up visits former in-patients whose condition (trauma or less serious musculoskeletal at DMRC Headley Court had on average in 2009. problem) allows them to be independent of nursing. [318029] Occupancy rates for ward beds and other beds from 2008 are as follows: Mr. Kevan Jones: Between 1 January 2009 and 31 Ward beds Other beds December 2009, 722 patients attended out-patient appointments following either an in-patient stay or Average Average patient Percentage patient Percentage residential rehabilitation course at DMRC Headley Court. numbers occupancy numbers occupancy On average these patients had two follow-up visits during 2009, amounting to 1,683 out-patient appointments 2008 — — following their in-patient stay or residential rehabilitation January 24 36 — — course. February 39 59 — — March 43 65 — — April 43 65 — — Defence Medical Services: Private Sector May 43 65 — — June 42 64 — — July 34 52 — — Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for August 35 53 — — Defence how much his Department spent on September 38 58 98 82 employing private contractors in defence medical [314176] October 38 58 120 100 services in each of the last five years. November 36 55 109 91 December 25 38 23 19 Mr. Kevan Jones: The vast majority of health care for service personnel is provided by the Defence Medical 2009 Services or the NHS. However, there will be times when January 27 41 86 72 it is necessary to employ private medical contractors, such as when a particular specialism is not readily February 37 56 75 63 available, or when it would be impractical to provide the March 40 61 104 87 service overseas using internal resources. For example, April 42 64 120 100 aspects of health care for personnel posted overseas to May 43 65 68 57 Germany and other smaller bases and detachments. June 42 64 120 100 July 43 65 104 87 In practice, such private sector health provision is August 42 64 80 67 funded by a number of individual budgets across the September 50 76 92 77 MOD, including at local unit level within the single October 57 86 84 70 services. This information could only be provided at November 56 85 101 84 disproportionate cost. December 55 83 18 15 However, we have a breakdown of costs from the MOD centre budget and British Forces Germany which 2010 indicates the sums involved for the health services they have contracted. This information is provided in the January 61 92 82 68 following tables. 19W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 20W

MOD centre budget British Forces Germany Financial year Expenditure (£) Financial year Expenditure (£)

2005-06 5,802,167 2009-10 (to April 2009) 39,016,000 2006-07 4,892,840 These figures include secondary health care contracts 2007-08 6,561,094 with German hospitals; non-contracted extra-contractual 2008-09 7,830,192 costs for specialist care; primary care contract costs 2009-10 (to end January 2010) 3,744,016 with SSAFA Forces Help and Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust (i.e. not all private contractor These figures include specialist services where appropriate provided); non-contracted primary care costs; and costs NHS provision is not available, including prosthetics related to Isolated Detachments in European Theatre. and neurological services, and civilian locums for operational deployments. Prior to 2009-10, they included contract Departmental Energy costs for the provision of in-patient mental health provision; this service is now provided through contract with NHS Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for providers. Defence what the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost was of energy used in his Department and its agencies British Forces Germany in each year since 1997; what proportion of the energy Financial year Expenditure (£) used was generated from renewable sources in each of 2005-06 43,790,000 those years; and if he will make a statement. [317235] 2006-07 43,720,000 Mr. Kevan Jones: The MOD total energy consumption, 2007-08 45,450,000 spend and proportion of energy used generated from 2008-09 51,283,000 renewable sources is shown in the following table:

Financial year Consumption (kWh)—weather corrected Cost (£ million) Percentage generated from renewables

2008-09 5,994,113,743 345 10 2007-08 6,222,357,786 307 8 2006-07 6,313,429,656 319 9 2005-06 6,440,586,442 291 6 2004-05 7,587,922,256 241 6 2003-04 6,796,490,248 220 1— 2002-03 6,645,837,501 223 1— 2001-02 6,784,279,754 234 1— 2000-01 5,403,345,255 240 1— 1999-2000 2,439,054,321 231 1— 1 Data not held

Data on energy consumption prior to 1999-2000 are Warfare has spent on entertainment in each of the last not held centrally and could be provided only at 12 months; [316901] disproportionate cost. Similarly data on the amount of (2) how much the Director General Land Warfare energy generated from renewable sources prior to 2004-05 spent on (a) car hire, (b) accommodation, (c) hotels are not held. and (d) air fares in each of the last 12 months. [316966] Departmental Housing Bill Rammell: I refer the hon. Member to the answers Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for I gave him on 10 February 2010, Official Report, columns Defence how much his Department has spent on (a) 968-70W,on Departmental Visits Abroad, Armed Forces: permanent and (b) temporary accommodation for Housing and Armed Forces: Official Cars. civil servants in each of the last 12 months. [314198] Director General Land Warfare has responsibility for staff located in several overseas locations where the Mr. Kevan Jones: I will write to the hon. Member British Army regularly conduct training exercises, including when I have obtained the information, and will place a Canada, Kenya, and Brunei. A certain amount of overseas copy in the Library of the House. travel is therefore an essential part of the job. When travelling overseas, the Director General Land Warfare Departmental Official Hospitality stays in local service facilities rather than hotels whenever possible. Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Director General Land Warfare has claimed the following Defence (1) how much the Director General Land expenses in the last 12 months:

Entertainment Flights Accommodation/hotels Car hire

February 2009 0 8,260 0 0 March 2009 40 0 0 0 April 2009 0 430 0 0 21W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 22W

Entertainment Flights Accommodation/hotels Car hire

May 2009 0 4,960 0 460 June 2009 290 2,130 330 0 July 2009 50 0 0 0 August 2009 0 310 0 0 September 2009 320 300 0 0 October 2009 0 2,210 0 0 November 2009 0 30 0 0 December 2009 0 100 0 0 January 2010 0 0 0 0 Total 700 18,730 330 460

All claims submitted by Director General Land Warfare European Defence Agency in the last 12 months have been in accordance with relevant MOD policy, rules and guidance. Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 25 November Departmental Property 2009, Official Report, column 153W, on European Defence Agency, with which Capability Development Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Plan programmes the UK is involved, what the Defence how much was received by his Department monetary value of each such programme is; and what from sales of property in Scotland in 2009. [317058] the nature is of the UK’s involvement. [316926]

Mr. Kevan Jones: The value of receipts from sales of Mr. Quentin Davies: I refer the hon. Member to the property in Scotland for the last auditable period of answer given on 28 January 2010, Official Report, column 2008-09 was £24.84 million. The list of potential sales 1017W, to the hon. Member for Woodspring (Dr. Fox) for the period 2009-10 is held in the House of Commons Library. This covers all property sales in the period including Service accommodation. Ex-servicemen

Departmental Public Expenditure Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with the Royal Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for British Legion on support services for former service Defence on what date his predecessor was first personnel. [314223] informed of the determination by HM Treasury in autumn 2003 that his Department had exceeded its Mr. Kevan Jones: I meet regularly with representatives budget in the previous 15 months in respect of the of the Royal British Legion. Most recently, these meetings flexibility permitted by resource account budgeting; have concentrated on, among other things, Royal British what estimate was made of the size of that overspend; Legion’s involvement as a member of the Armed Forces what discussions he had with the Chancellor of the Compensation Scheme Review’s Independent Scrutiny Exchequer on that matter; and if he will make a Group; the launch of the Army Recovery Capability; statement. [316087] and the launch of the Welfare Pathway initiative. This demonstrates that the Royal British Legion remains Mr. Bob Ainsworth: Following the 2002 spending a key partner in the Government’s work to ensure that review, a technical issue arose regarding flexibility between former service personnel receive the services, benefits the MOD’s core cash and non-cash expenditure plans. and respect they deserve. I would like to pay tribute to HM Treasury and MOD officials identified the issue all the work they do in support of the armed services in the preparation of Main Estimates for 2003-04. My family. predecessor was first informed in April 2003. Discussions between MOD and HM Treasury officials and Ministers Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for led to agreement on a way ahead in late 2003. Defence what support his Department provides to military personnel upon discharge with regard to (a) Departmental Training employment needs, (b) housing needs and (c) financial planning advice; and if he will make a Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for statement. [317790] Defence pursuant to the answer of 9 February 2010, Official Report, column 813W, on departmental Mr. Kevan Jones: The National Audit Office report training, what the cost was of each media and “Leaving The Services”of 2007 acknowledged the success communications training session. [317536] of the resettlement programme which found that 94 per cent. of those seeking work who used the career transition Mr. Kevan Jones: The training sessions were conducted partnership resettlement services were in paid employment by Ministry of Defence personnel based at the Defence within six months of leaving the armed forces. Nevertheless, Media and Operations Centre. The only additional cost the Ministry of Defence recognises that making the to the Department was their travel costs into London transition from the armed forces into civilian life can be which were approximately £30 per session. daunting. 23W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 24W

Individual employment needs are identified from a Mr. Kevan Jones: There is no minimum length of mandatory interview with a trained service resettlement time that must be served by military personnel to qualify adviser who is able to signpost to a number of organisations for entitlement to some form of support services provided and services ranging from the ‘flexible new deal’programme by the Ministry of Defence upon discharge. In order to available at Jobcentre Plus through to workshops and reflect the differing needs of service personnel, the training delivered through the career transition partnership, longer that is served the greater the amount of time that a partnering arrangement with a leading specialist is allocated to enable resettlement activity. The level of outplacement company. Furthermore, lifetime job finding support needed and given for those that have served for support is available through the Officers’ Association or a relatively short period of time, and who therefore have the Regular Forces Employment Association. more recent experience of life outside the armed forces, For housing, all service personnel can attend is less than someone who has spent their working life in presentations delivered by the Joint Service Housing service. However, all service personnel are entitled to Advice Office throughout the country and overseas. receive lifetime job finding support through either the The “Options for Housing”presentation includes financial Officers’ Association or the Regular Forces Employment advice for housing options and accessing the Key Worker Association. Living Scheme, entitlement to which has been extended Any personnel medically discharged are entitled a for a year after discharge, in line with our Service full resettlement package. Personnel Command Paper (7424) commitment. We have also removed the local connection criteria that Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for treated service personnel unfairly when accessing social Defence what the budget for support services offered housing. For single personnel, SPACES (Single Persons by his Department to military personnel upon Accommodation Centre for the Ex-Services) aims to discharge has been in each of the last 10 years. [317792] assist single service leavers with securing accommodation. Our latest project “The Beacon”in Catterick complements Mr. Kevan Jones: The information is not held in the Mike Jackson House in Aldershot and the Galleries in format requested. Only those costs relating to the contract Richmond, which help us to reduce the potential of a held between the MOD and Right Management Ltd., a single person leaving the armed forces becoming homeless. specialist outplacement company, are held centrally. Financial planning advice is provided through the The following table provides information on the amount Financial Aspects of Resettlement Briefing by the Forces expended, which reflects the number of service leavers Pension Society. This advises all service leavers throughout taking advantage of the resettlement opportunities available. the country and overseas on matters ranging from the Armed Forces Pension Schemes through to debt Financial year Total contract payments (£ million) counselling. The recent review of the Armed Forces 2000-01 6.0 Compensation Scheme recommended that for those 2001-02 6.3 who receive compensation, there needs to be better 2002-03 6.3 guidance and/or access to independent financial advice 2003-04 6.5 to allow for informed decisions. The Government have accepted all recommendations in full. 2004-05 7.1 2005-06 8.3 Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006-07 8.9 Defence whether the 1999 protocol between the 2007-08 8.4 Deputy Chief of Defence Staff and the Director 2008-09 8.2 General of the Prison Service on the identification of former service personnel in prison to link them with Other costs attributable to resettlement, such as the their former regiment upon release is still in force; and staffing costs for the Resettlement Information Service if he will make a statement. [317794] or the travel and subsistence for the service leaver, is not held centrally and could be provided only from a search Mr. Kevan Jones: We continue to work closely with of manual records at disproportionate cost. the Ministry of Justice and the third sector to raise awareness of veterans in prison to the help and support Ex-servicemen: Prisoners available to them and to their families, while they serve their sentence and as they prepare for release. The Mr. Davidson: To ask the Secretary of State for Veterans In Custody Support Service, for example, is Defence what information his Department holds on the designed so that prison staff can quickly identify veterans number of armed forces veterans in prison in Scotland; in prison and refer them to the various support organisations and if he will make a statement. [316845] available to assist them, including the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency. The agency’s website, “Veterans: Mr. Kevan Jones: Information on the number of UK”, provides additional links to further organisations, veterans in prison in Scotland is not held. including regimental associations. Through this service, On 6 January 2010, Official Report, columns 6-7WS, veterans are encouraged and assisted in seeking the my hon. Friend the Minister for the National Offender necessary support to help address their needs. Management Service and I announced the results of the joint work by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for of Justice to determine the number of veterans in Defence whether there is a minimum length of time prison in England and Wales. The Defence Analytical that must be served by military personnel to qualify for Services and Advice (DASA) organisation within the entitlement to support services provided by his MOD have estimated that almost 3 per cent. of the Department upon discharge. [317791] prison population in England and Wales are veterans. 25W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 26W

We are currently investigating the feasibility of conducting The reason for the lower figures since 2006-07 is due a similar exercise with the Scottish Prison Service to to a change in MOD accounting policy, whereby reporting determine the number of veterans in prison in Scotland. fixed asset depreciation costs and the cost of capital on fixed assets are recorded elsewhere. Falkland Islands The estimated costs for 2009-10 and 2010-11 are £70 million and £69 million respectively. Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Helicopters Defence if he will estimate the total expenditure under the defence budget of the military presence in the Falkland Islands since 1982; and what estimate he has Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for made of such expenditure in (a) 2009-10 and (b) Defence what the end of service dates are of the 2010-11. [317591] helicopters in the Sea King fleet. [317782]

Bill Rammell: The costs from 1982-83 to 2008-09 Mr. Quentin Davies: I refer the hon. Member for (outturn figures) for the Falkland Island are as follows: Moray to the statement made by the Secretary of State for Defence on 15 December 2009, Official Report, Financial year £ million columns 99-100WS. 1982-83 780 HMS Gannet 1983-84 637 (391) 1984-85 644 (403) Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for 1985-86 572 (396) Defence how many search and rescue missions were 1986-87 402 (236) flown from HMS Gannet in each of the last five years. 1987-88 229 (118) [317779] 1988-89 102 (59) 1989-90 68 (60) Bill Rammell: The information requested is provided 1990-91 66 in the following table: 1991-92 72 HMS Gannet Search and Rescue 1992-93 58 Calendar year SAR callouts Persons assisted 1993-94 67 1994-95 66 2005 267 226 1995-96 70 2006 269 303 1996-97 81 2007 359 286 1997-98 76 2008 382 347 1998-99 72 2009 447 378 1999-2000 71 2000-01 143 Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for 2001-02 115 Defence how many (a) civilian and (b) service staff 2002-03 120 have been employed at HMS Gannet, Royal Navy Unit 2003-04 111 Prestwick in each of the last five years. [317780] 2004-05 113 2005-06 143 Bill Rammell: The civilian and service staff employed 2006-07 65 at HMS Gannet, Royal Navy Unit Prestwick, in each of 2007-08 67 the last five years is as follows: 2008-09 70 Manning levels at HMS Gannet 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 From 1983-84 to 1989-90 you will note two figures are available. The higher figure includes garrison costs, Royal Navy 20 20 20 20 21 21 the cost of replacing capital equipment lost and residual aircrew campaign costs associated with the Falkland conflict. Royal Navy 92 63 17 13 8 5 The lower figure reflects just garrison costs. support Contractor 0 0 40 42 42 45 There is some variation between years caused by engineering what categories of expenditure were included. For example, support in recent years figures do not include military equipment, Civil service 11 10 8 8 8 8 military personnel pay, service children’s education facilities, Support staff 18 20 20 17 16 15 estate works and maintenance, IT and communication, MGS/MDP 21 21 21 20 10 9 maritime visits or air charter. Costs associated with Totals 162 134 134 120 105 103 these activities are met by other top level budget holders. The MOD’s core budget is separated into eight top level The figures reflect: the award of the Sea King Integrated budget holders (TLBs), each responsible for delivering Operational Support contract in 2007, which replaced individual military objectives. Within these TLBs the the Royal Navy Maintenance personnel with civilian budget is not routinely allocated in terms of regions, contractors; and the reduction in the Military Guard but in terms of categories of expenditure. To provide Service/Ministry of Defence Police following the closure the level of detailed breakdown of these categories of the Greensite (accommodation and administrative in relation to the Falkland Islands would be of site) which came under the jurisdiction of the Prestwick disproportionate cost. Airfield authority during 2008. 27W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 28W

Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the maintenance costs were of HMS Defence how many (a) documents and (b) other items Gannet, Royal Navy Unit Prestwick in each of the last of information in electronic format provided by his five years. [317781] Department to the Iraq Inquiry that Inquiry has sought to publish under the procedure set out in the protocol Mr. Kevan Jones: Planned and reactive maintenance on documents and other written and electronic information; costs for HMS Gannet for each of the last five years are and if he will make a statement. [314547] shown in the following table. Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I refer the hon. Member to the Financial year Maintenance cost (£) answer given by the Minister for the Cabinet Office on 9 February 2010, Official Report, column 894W. 2005-06 72,351 2006-07 72,082 2007-08 69,804 Members: Correspondence 2008-09 61,634 2009-10 143,724 Sir Michael Spicer: To ask the Secretary of State for 1 To date. Defence when he will reply to the email from the hon. Member for West Worcestershire, dated 10 November Projects outside the scope of this response 2009, on citation. [317249] include changes to operational requirements, condition improvements, and lifecycle replacements. Mr. Kevan Jones: The hon. Member’s e-mail was not The reduction in maintenance costs per year is due to sent to the correct address. It has now been resent and a the reactive maintenance element of the service provided. response will be provided shortly. By its very nature reactive maintenance is unpredictable in its volume, scope and cost and is dependent on many Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for operational usage factors. Defence when he plans to answer question 312672, on the crash of Nimrod XV230, tabled on 19 January Improvised Explosive Devices: Afghanistan 2010. [317506]

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I replied to the hon. Member on what estimate he has made of the number of 11 February 2010. improvised explosive devices identified by the armed forces in Afghanistan in each quarter of each of the Met Office last three years. [317965] Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I am withholding the information Defence whether the definition of the Met Office’s as its disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice Public Task has been amended to take account of the the capability, effectiveness or security of the armed reference to it in the most recent edition of the Cabinet forces. Office Asset Portfolio; and if he will make a statement. [317583] Iraq Committee of Inquiry Mr. Kevan Jones: The definition of the Met Office’s Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for Public Task has not been amended. The December 2009 Defence (1) whether any (a) documents and (b) other Cabinet Office Operational Efficiency Programme: Asset items of information in electronic format sought from Portfolio document reflects Met Office’s public task. his Department by the Iraq Inquiry have not been disclosed owing to the Government’s obligations to Met Office: Standards foreign governments or international bodies; and if he will make a statement; [310177] Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) how many (a) documents and (b) other items of Defence what assessment he has made of the accuracy information held in electronic format at each level of of the forecasts provided by the Met Office in the last security classification the Iraq Inquiry has requested 12 months. [316872] from his Department; and if he will make a statement; [310178] Mr. Kevan Jones: Met Office’s short-range forecasting (3) how many and what proportion of (a) accuracy is one of its four key performance targets documents and (b) other items of information held in which is regularly monitored by the Met Office Board electronic format at each level of security classification on behalf of the Minister. The targets are agreed annually requested by the Iraq Inquiry have been provided to it and are laid in Parliament. Met Office report against by his Department; and if he will make a statement. their performance in their annual report which is also [310179] laid before Parliament. As a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I refer the hon. Member to the designated centre for seasonal/long-range forecasts, Met answer given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Office is required to carry out assessments of its forecasting State for the Cabinet Office (Angela E. Smith) on accuracy using procedures laid down by WMO. The 14 December 2009, Official Report, columns 840-41W. most recent assessment was carried out in September 2009. 29W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 30W

Military Exercises Mr. Bob Ainsworth: Yes. We set up the Nimrod Review in order, among other things, to assess where responsibility Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for lay for the crash of Nimrod XV230. BAE Systems and Defence what proportion of his Department’s planned QinetiQ were therefore put on notice in December 2007 military training exercises were cancelled before they that MOD might bring them into the compensation took place in each of the last five years. [314177] claims brought against MOD by the bereaved families. That position has been confirmed since the publication Bill Rammell: Success in Afghanistan is our main of Mr. Haddon-Cave’s report and discussions with the effort, and will remain our principal commitment for as companies’ lawyers will commence shortly. long as it takes. Our approach at this time must be and Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty is Afghanistan first. All exercises that better prepare our forces for operations in Afghanistan will continue but those that are considered not to directly support Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence our effort, have limited training value to support our what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State effort, or where the planned objectives for that exercises for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on the can be achieved elsewhere have been cancelled. Government’s position at the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in May 2010. [317451] The proportion of MOD exercises cancelled in the last five full financial years is in the following table Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I have regular exchanges on nuclear matters with the Secretary of State for Foreign Scheduled training Cancelled and Commonwealth Affairs and my other Cabinet events events Percentage Conducted colleagues. We continue to work with partners from across the 2008-09 542 80 14.7 462 international community to seek a mandate for concrete, 2007-08 722 76 10.5 646 realistic and balanced action to strengthen the NPT’s 2006-07 680 64 9.4 616 three mutually reinforcing pillars: non-proliferation, 2005-06 533 58 10.8 475 disarmament, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy, as 2004-05 379 79 20.8 300 well as addressing the threats to nuclear security. Missile Defence Centre Officers

Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for what expenditure his Department has incurred on the Defence how many (a) Major-Generals and (b) Missile Defence Centre since it opened. [318010] Brigadiers there are posted in the South of England. [316936] Mr. Quentin Davies: Since its launch in July 2003 until the end of financial year 2008-09, the Ministry of Bill Rammell: As at 1 October 2009, a total of 120 Defence has spent some £35.7 million on missile defence Brigadiers and 30 Major-Generals were stationed in the research managed by the UK Missile Defence Centre. A South of England. These figures include those temporarily further £4.6 million is forecast for the current financial deployed on operations away from their home station. year. Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Navy: Middle East Defence how many (a) Major-Generals and (b) Brigadiers there are in the army; and what the Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for establishment is for each such rank. [316903] Defence on what tasks (a) HMS Pembroke and (b) HMS Lancaster are currently deployed in the Middle Bill Rammell: As at 1 December 2009, there were 41 East. [317326] Major-Generals against an establishment of 44, and 174 Brigadiers against an establishment of 174. Bill Rammell: HMS Pembroke is assisting with ensuring free movement of ships to Iraq and the region as part of Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Operation Telic. At the invitation of other nations, she Defence how many (a) Major-Generals and (b) may also take part in multinational exercises with regional Brigadiers in the army are on gardening leave. [316904] naval forces. HMS Lancaster is tasked under Operation Calash to Bill Rammell: There are currently no Major-Generals carry out counter-terrorism and counter-piracy operations or Brigadiers in the Army on gardening leave. in order to improve the stability of the region. Officers: Pay Nimrod Aircraft Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the salary is of a Major-General. [316902] pursuant to the oral statement of 16 December 2009, Official Report, columns 967-69, on the Nimrod review, Bill Rammell: The base pay of a Major-General whether he has taken steps to apportion (a) responsibility ranges between £101,537 and £114,729, depending on and (b) liability to (i) BAE Systems and (ii) QinetiQ in performance. This is augmented by an X-Factor of respect of the crash of Nimrod XV230 in September £2,336. The X-Factor is a percentage increase to basic 2006. [312672] pay which reflects the difference between the conditions 31W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 32W of service experienced by members of the armed forces RAF Menwith Hill and conditions in civilian life, which cannot directly be taken into account by the job evaluation process. Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence The salaries for Major-Generals and above, and their on what dates members of the Intelligence and Security equivalents in the Royal Navy and , are Committee have visited Menwith Hill since 2000; and determined by the Senior Salaries Review Body. which members of the committee participated in each such visit. [317979] Public Holidays Bill Rammell: The Intelligence and Security Committee does not comment on its work programme. Where Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence appropriate it publishes information on visits it has what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department undertaken in its annual reports. of the introduction of an additional public holiday; and if he will make a statement. [315121] Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the Missile Defence System Mr. Bob Ainsworth: We have made no estimate of the operations at RAF Menwith Hill in the next two years. cost of an additional public holiday. Salary costs are [317980] fixed and would be unchanged. Military pay already takes account of the need to work unsocial and additional Bill Rammell: There are no plans to change the on-call hours as required, and elements of our Armed existing missile defence arrangements at RAF Menwith Forces already undertake duties on certain public holidays. Hill. While it might be necessary for some civilians in key roles to work on the public holiday, we would seek to Rescue Services: Scotland minimise the cost to the Department by encouraging them to take time off in lieu, as is the MOD’s current Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for working practice. Similarly, we plan activities in advance Defence what the monetary value is of the contract to minimise disruption. agreed with the Soteria Consortium for the provision There would be some compensating savings, for example of search and rescue services in Scotland. [317788] from reduced consumption of utilities, such as electricity, at MOD premises. Mr. Quentin Davies: While Soteria have been chosen as the preferred bidder for the search and rescue helicopter RAF Croughton (SAR-H) project, the contract has yet to be signed. The finalised value of the contract to provide the search and rescue helicopter capability for the whole of the UK is Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence likely to be in the region of £6 billion over the 25-year on what dates US (a) military personnel, (b) civilians life of the service. It is not possible to break down the and (c) contractors moved from RAF Fairford to value of the contract by region. RAF Croughton. [317981] Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Bill Rammell: No US personnel or contractors have Defence what assessment he has made of the effect of moved from RAF Fairford to RAF Croughton. the privatisation of search and rescue operations on local economies in Scotland. [317789] RAF Lyneham Mr. Quentin Davies: The future SAR helicopter service in Scotland is expected to be provided from four locations Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (Stornoway, Sumburgh, RAF Lossiemouth and Glasgow what the construction cost was of the (a) new HQ airport, which is taking over from RNAS Prestwick). building, (b) C130J simulator building, (c) newHQfor With the introduction of new, modern, more reliable (i) 24 and (ii) 30 Squadron, (d) new gymnasium, (e) helicopters there is likely to be a reduction in personnel new pitch roof on the barrack blocks, (f) new sergeant’s at the two locations where they take over from the mess annexe, (g) new HQ for 47 Air Despatch Regiment MOD Sea Kings (RAF Lossiemouth and RNAS and (h) extension to the security fence on the south side Prestwick). The details will be finalised as the contract of the main entrance; and what further infrastructure is agreed. As such, there is likely to be a negligible improvements are planned to take place at RAF Lyneham. impact on the economy of Scotland as a whole from the [310129] contractorisation of the future service.

Bill Rammell: In line with guidance from the National Reserve Forces Audit Office, financial records are not retained for longer than six years and the information requested is Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for therefore not available prior to 2004. Most of the Defence how many members of the (a) Royal construction projects referred to in the question were Auxiliary Air Force, (b) Territorial Army and (c) completed before this date and are no longer considered Royal Naval Reserve are based in Scotland. [316516] as new. The fitness suite was completed in 2004 and cost £784,000. The extension of the security fence was completed Mr. Kevan Jones: As at 5 February 2010, there are in 2009 and cost £18,000. These have been minimal 224 Royal Naval Reservists, 141 Royal Marines Reservists, expenditure on infrastructure since collocation at RAF 2,506 in the Territorial Army and 252 personnel in the Brize Norton was announced in 2003. Royal Auxiliary Air Force based in Scotland. 33W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 34W

Royal Navy Unit Prestwick Regular customer surveys also are conducted. In the 2008 survey 99 per cent. of customers rated the overall Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for service provided as very satisfactory or satisfactory. Defence what the estimated monetary value is of the Recommendations made in surveys are implemented property comprising Royal Navy Unit Prestwick; how where practicable. much is planned to be spent on its redevelopment; and In addition ongoing management checks are conducted if there are plans to sell this facility. [317786] to assess call handling and management. As part of the Welfare Pathway I launched an additional Mr. Kevan Jones: The MOD has a long-term commercial National Point of Contact on 4 November 2009. This lease to 2019 with the Prestwick Airport Authorities for provides members of the Armed Forces, their families the HMS Gannet Air Station. The existing assets on the and Veterans with a single number to access support site are appropriately maintained but, as we do not own from a number of established service helplines and the the site itself, there are no plans for redevelopment. Veterans-UK helpline on 08000 22 33 66. In March 2011 an evaluation of the Welfare Pathway Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for initiative will include the National Point of Contact. Defence what estimate he has made of the number of jobs that will be lost as the result of the transfer of Stabilisation Unit search and rescue operations from the Royal Navy Unit Prestwick to Glasgow; and what plans there are for the Mr. Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for transfer of existing staff. [317787] Defence what representations the Military Stabilisation and Support Group has at the Permanent Joint Mr. Kevan Jones: It is not anticipated that the decision Headquarters. [317518] to move future search and rescue operations from HMS Gannet at Prestwick to Glasgow airport will result in Bill Rammell: The Military Stabilisation and Support any job losses. Appropriate civilian personnel will be Group (MSSG) is a tri-service unit that forms part of offered the opportunity to work with the successful 8 Force Engineer Brigade. While there is no MSSG contractor under the rules of Protection ‘representation’ in PJHQ, the military stabilisation of Employment (TUPE). and support function, also known as Civil-Military Co-operation, or CIMIC, is well represented. PJHQ Service Personnel and Veterans Agency has a CIMIC-trained officer, and its deployable Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ) has a specialist officer responsible for engineering and CIMIC issues. Within Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence the MSSG itself, there is a small Operations and Planning how many employees there have been in the Service team of three staff officers ready to deploy with JFHQ Personnel and Veteran Agency in each month since its at one week’s notice. creation; and what expenditure his Department has incurred on the Agency in each year since it was established. Stabilisation Unit: Haiti [318030] Mr. Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Kevan Jones: The Veterans Agency (VA) merged Defence whether he plans to use members of the with the Armed Forces Personnel Administration Agency Military Stabilisation and Support Team to assist in in April 2007 to become the Service Personnel and humanitarian efforts in Haiti. [317517] Veterans Agency (SPVA). These figures and further related information can be Bill Rammell: There are currently no plans to deploy found in the SPVAAnnual Report and Accounts, copies a Military Stabilisation Support Team from the Military of which are held in the Library of the House. Stabilisation and Support Group (MSSG) to Haiti. The Department for International Development has the lead Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for role in the UK’s response to the Haitian earthquake, Defence (1) how many calls have been received by the and does not currently require any military assistance Service Personnel and Veterans Agency Veterans-UK beyond that already in Haiti or en route in RFA Largs Helpline in the month since that service was started; Bay, following a reconnaissance by Permanent Joint [317639] Headquarters staff. The Ministry of Defence continues to take an active role in the UK response, and will (2) what assessment has been made of the provide further assistance where possible if required. effectiveness of the Veterans-UK Helpline. [317644] Veterans’ World Mr. Kevan Jones: Veterans-UK Helpline has been in place for a number of years and answered 249,739 calls Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for in financial year 2008-09 and has answered 176,898 Defence what the (a) cost and (b) circulation was of calls for April 2009 to January 2010. the publication Veterans World in the latest period for Benchmarking exercises in August 2007 and August which figures are available. [317640] 2008, conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, assessed the effectiveness of the Veterans-UK Helpline and Mr. Kevan Jones: Approximately 18,000 hard copies compared it against internal and external call centres. of the January 2010 edition of Veterans World were In these assessments, the Veterans-UK Helpline compared distributed at a cost of approximately £10,000. The favourably, being placed in the top quartile for overall publication is produced three times a year and is sent to performance. ex-service organisations, mental health care workers, 35W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 36W resettlement offices, homeless shelters, disability employment years; in how many cases performance was rated as advisers, citizens advice bureau and the HM Prison unsatisfactory or below; how many staff left as a direct Service. Audio copies of the publication are available result of such a rating; and what percentage of and it can also be accessed via the Service Personnel full-time equivalent staff this represented. [313826] and Veterans Agency website. The aim of the publication is to raise awareness of Mr. Woodward: The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) the help, advice and support available to ex-service operates a rigorous performance review policy that personnel and their families. For example, in the latest applies to all staff. The policy dictates that all NIO staff issue—No 15 it included articles on the launch of the are subject to annual performance reviews and procedures Armed Forces Community Pathway, St. Dunstan’s plans are in place to deal with inefficiency/poor performance. for a new centre in Wales, changes to the Veterans Welfare Full electronic records are not held to allow for an Service and initiatives for helping Veterans in Prison. exact figure to be given in relation to the number of performance reviews actually carried out. It is, however, estimated that the overall figure in relation to the NIO NORTHERN IRELAND and its agencies would be approximately 2,000 in each of the last five years. Bloody Sunday Tribunal of Inquiry The number of cases within the NIO and its agencies Mr. Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State where annual performance was rated as unsatisfactory for Northern Ireland when he expects to receive the in each of the last five years is detailed in the following final report of the Saville Inquiry. [318065] table. Mr. Woodward: Lord Saville has indicated that he Number intends to deliver his report to Government in the week 2004-05 1— commencing 22 March 2010. 2005-06 6 2006-07 1— Departmental Freedom of Information 2007-08 1— 2008-09 6 Mr. Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State 1 Suppressed. Information not released on grounds of confidentiality. for Northern Ireland how many freedom of information requests were submitted to the Northern No staff have been dismissed in the last five years as a direct result of an unsatisfactory annual performance Ireland Office in each of the last two years. [318066] review. Paul Goggins: The following table shows the number of requests received by the Northern Ireland Office Offences against Children (NIO) in the last two years.

Number of requests received Mr. Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people in Northern 2008 183 Ireland were convicted in connection with an offence of 2009 254 a sexual nature that involved a child under 15 in each of The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has committed to the last three years. [318064] publishing quarterly updates in relation to departmental performance under FOI, including information on both Paul Goggins: The information is not available in the the volume and outcome of requests. The bulletins up format requested. Northern Ireland conviction data do to the 2009 third quarter can be found on the MOJ not include victim information, such as age, in relation website at: to the commission of an offence. It is possible, therefore, http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/freedomofinformation only to give the number of convictions for those sexual quarterly.htm offences which by their definition refer to a child or and in the Libraries of both Houses. MOJ will be children. The one exception to this is the offence ‘unlawful publishing information from the 2009 fourth quarter in carnal knowledge of a girl under 14 years’—which spring 2010. confirms that the victim was under 15. Departmental Manpower Convictions for these offences are documented in the following table. Data cover the calendar years 2004 to Mr. : To ask the Secretary of State 2006 (the latest year for which figures are available) and for Northern Ireland how many performance reviews are collated on the principal offence rule; so only the were undertaken in respect of staff of (a) his most serious offence for which an offender is convicted Department and (b) its agencies in each of the last five is included.

Number of convictions for sexual offences involving children by offence 2004-06 Offence 2004 2005 2006

Gross indecency with child 365 Buggery with a boy under 16 years 613 Buggery with a girl 100 Unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under 14 years 4 3 3 Unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under 17 years 2 4 5 37W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 38W

Number of convictions for sexual offences involving children by offence 2004-06 Offence 2004 2005 2006

Permitting girl under 17 years to use premises for intercourse 0 1 0 Indecent assault on female child 3182 Indecent assault on male child 450 Meeting a child following sexual grooming 0 0 2 Distributing indecent photograph or pseudo photographs of children 1 1 1 Possessing indecent photograph or pseudo photographs of children 1 2 0 Possession of indecent/pseudo photographs of children with a view to distribution 1 0 0 Taking indecent photograph or pseudo photographs of children 8 1 0 Copying indecent photograph or pseudo photographs of children 2 0 0 Making indecent photograph or pseudo photographs of children 7 10 15 Total 43 52 36

Prisoners: Internet no record of the disposal method. The cost of replacing the carpets now is some £62,000, including fitting and Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for VAT. The old carpet will be recycled into biofuel. Northern Ireland whether prisoners in Northern Members: Allowances Ireland have regular access to the internet. [316844]

Paul Goggins: Managed internet access arrangements Mr. Frank Field: To ask the hon. Member for North that allow controlled access to approved sites are available Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission to prisoners in Northern Ireland. Supervised access to under what budgetary headings the House of Commons approved sites is an essential part of education provision, Commission has incurred expenditure in relation to (a) in particular for prisoners who are studying Open University, the review of the Additional Cost Allowance and (b) ICT or Essential Skills courses. Sir Paul Kennedy’s review. [316965] Reoffenders Nick Harvey: The budgetary headings under which expenditure has been incurred for the Additional Cost Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Allowance review are: work commissioned, staff costs Northern Ireland what his most recent estimate is of and office supplies. The budgetary headings in relation the proportion of prisoners released from prisons in to Sir Paul Kennedy’s work are: work commissioned, Northern Ireland who re-offended within two years. travel and office supplies. [316842]

Paul Goggins: The most recent estimate of prisoners OLYMPICS released from prison in Northern Ireland who are reconvicted within two years was published by the Olympic Games 2012: Essex Northern Ireland Office (NIO) within ‘Research and Statistical Bulletin 8/2008—Reconviction in Northern Mr. Burns: To ask the Minister for the Olympics Ireland: Results from the 2005 Cohort’. During 2005, what recent assessment she has made of the economic 892 people were released from immediate custody and, effects of the London 2012 Olympics on (a) West of these, 444 were reconvicted of a subsequent offence Chelmsford constituency and (b) Essex. [314889] within two years of being released. This equates to a two-year reconviction rate of 49.8 per cent. Tessa Jowell: The Government and the London The bulletin can be downloaded from the following Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and link: Paralympic Games have established the Nations and http://www.nio.gov.uk/index/statistics-research/ Regions Group with representatives from each of the publications.htm nations and English regions to maximise the economic, as well as the sporting and cultural, benefits of the 2012 Games. HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION To date, 84 businesses registered in the East of England have won contracts directly with the Olympic Delivery House of Commons: Buildings Authority, 27 of which are in Essex including one in West Chelmsford. Kate Hoey: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, The London 2012 Business Network was set up to representing the House of Commons Commission when provide businesses across the UK with access to contracts the carpets in the Chamber and the division lobbies in the London 2012 supply chains and any support they were last replaced; by what means carpets removed were need to compete for them. At the end of January, over disposed of; and whether the House of Commons 11,600 businesses from the East of England had registered Commission has made a recent estimate of the cost of on CompeteFor, the electronic brokerage service for replacing those carpets. [316939] buyers and suppliers. So far 60 of these have won contracts. Businesses can find out about Games-related Nick Harvey: The carpets in the Commons Chamber contract opportunities on CompeteFor at: and Division Lobbies were last replaced in 1995; there is www.competefor.com 39W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 40W and for business support services, businesses in the East Barbara Keeley: A range of development opportunities of England can contact Business Link at: are open to civil servants in the Office of the Leader of www.businesslink.co.uk/eastofengland the House of Commons. These are discussed by each or by calling 0845 717 1615. member of staff as part of their appraisal process. Hosting the Olympic Mountain Biking Competition Mr. Harper: To ask the Leader of the House how in Hadleigh Farm in Essex will provide an opportunity much was spent on (a) staff training and (b) to showcase the region to the rest of the UK and communication training for the Leader of the House’s abroad, increasing further the potential for the region Office in the last 12 months. [317271] to benefit economically. Barbara Keeley: Training courses are just one aspect of the development opportunities open to civil servants PRIME MINISTER in the Office of the Leader of the House of Commons, Members: Correspondence and every member of staff discusses their personal development as part of their appraisal process. Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Prime Minister when Information on courses attended is not held centrally he intends to reply to the letter to him dated 29 November and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. 2009 from the right hon. Member for Manchester, However, during the last 12 months members of staff Gorton with regard to Mr. Colin Bardsley. [316878] participated in training provided by external training organisations and internal training courses which are The Prime Minister: A reply has been sent. provided by the Cabinet Office free of charge. Stabilisation Unit

Mr. Ellwood: To ask the Prime Minister which WOMEN AND EQUALITY Minister is responsible for the Stabilisation Unit; and what the unit’s budget is for 2009-10. [317514] Crimes of Violence: Females The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to the press notice issued by my office on 9 February 2010. A Mrs. May: To ask the Minister for Women and copy is available on the No. 10 website: Equality how much the Government Equalities Office http://www.number10.gov.uk/Page22421 spent on producing and distributing the Tackling violence against women and girls: a guide to good practice communication document. [316958] WALES Maria Eagle: The production of “Tackling violence Devolution: Referendums against women and girls: a guide to good practice communication” cost the GEO £134,868.78 excluding Mrs. Gillan: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales VAT. This cost includes considerable new research. The what the cost to the public purse was of the most recent guide is a web-based document; therefore no distribution referendum on devolution in Wales. [316967] costs were incurred. The guide has been well received by partners in government and outside. Mr. Hain: The cost of the 1997 referendum on devolution in Wales was in the region of £2 million. Departmental Disabled Staff Mrs. Gillan: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what estimate he has made of the (a) highest and Mr. Harper: To ask the Minister for Women and (b) lowest likely cost to the public purse of a Equality how many and what proportion of staff in (a) (b) referendum in Wales on the extension of powers under the Government Equalities Office and the executive agencies for which she is responsible are the Government of Wales Act 2006; [317312] disabled; and what the average salary in the Office is of (2) by what mechanism public funding in respect of (i) full-time disabled staff, (ii) full-time non-disabled any referendum held in Wales on the extension of staff, (iii) part-time disabled staff and (iv) part-time powers under the Government of Wales Act 2006 non-disabled staff. [317904] would be (a) provided and (b) allocated. [317313] Michael Jabez Foster: The Government Equalities Mr. Hain: My officials are currently considering the Office has less than 10 staff that have elected to declare potential costs of a referendum, and the mechanisms themselves as disabled. Given these small numbers it is involved, for discussion with other key stakeholders. not appropriate to give the information requested.

Departmental Energy LEADER OF THE HOUSE Departmental Training Andrew Stunell: To ask the Minister for Women and Equality what the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost Mr. Harper: To ask the Leader of the House whether was of energy used in her Department and its agencies any (a) staff away days and (b) staff team building in each year since 1997; what proportion of the energy exercises have been held for staff in the Leader of the used was generated from renewable sources in each of House’s Office in each of the last two years. [317267] those years; and if she will make a statement. [317240] 41W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 42W

Michael Jabez Foster: Since it’s creation on 12 October Feltham 2007, the Government Equalities Office has occupied accommodation in Communities and Local Government- Alan Keen: To ask the Minister for Women and owned buildings under a memorandum of terms of Equality if she will set out, with statistical evidence occupancy. The invoices that result do not show the relating as closely as possible to Feltham and Heston components of the cost of GEO occupancy and no constituency, the effects on that constituency of changes figures are available on the amount and cost of energy to the Government Equalities Office’s policies since its used. establishment. [316684] Departmental Official Hospitality Maria Eagle: The Government Equalities Office operates at a strategic level across Government to promote policies John Mason: To ask the Minister for Women and which address discrimination. It is not possible to provide Equality how many receptions she has hosted for statistical information about the effects on Feltham and representatives of print and broadcast media since 3 Heston of the policies and actions of GEO since it was October 2008. [316790] established. Prostitution: Internet Michael Jabez Foster: No receptions have been hosted for representatives of print and broadcast media since 3 Mr. Evans: To ask the Minister for Women and October 2008. Equality whether the Government Equalities Office has Departmental Travel made a recent estimate of the number of prostitutes who have become involved in the sex industry by making contact with companies on the internet; whether she Mr. Watson: To ask the Minister for Women and plans to seek to prevent the use of the internet for such Equality if she will publish the travel guidance issued purposes; and if she will make a statement. [316076] to staff of the Government Equalities Office’s non- departmental public bodies. [314930] Maria Eagle: The Government have not made an estimate of the number of prostitutes who have become Maria Eagle: The Government Equalities Office does involved in the sex industry through establishing contact not issue separate travel guidance to their non-departmental via the internet. public bodies which are: As part of the Violence Against Women Strategy, Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) published in November 2009, the Government have Women’s National Commission (WNC) also made a commitment to explore what action can be WNC uses the same policy as the Government Equalities taken to challenge the advertising of prostitution. Office (GEO) which will be published on GEO’s external website at: www.equalities.gov.uk ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS The EHRC follows its own travel policy and a copy of Agriculture: Sewage their travel guidance will be placed in the Library. Equality and Human Rights Commission: Databases Mr. McLoughlin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the estimated completion date is of his Department’s review of the Mr. Stewart Jackson: To ask the Minister for Women Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations. [317795] and Equality pursuant to the answer of 13 January 2010, Official Report, column 1003W, on Equality and Jim Fitzpatrick: The Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Human Rights Commission: databases, what the Regulations 1989 and associated code of practice are budget is for the new equality measurement framework currently being reviewed by DEFRA. Subject to policy database; whether it will hold personal data; what clearance we will publish the proposals for a review, and anonymised Census data it will use; whether a privacy draft regulations and a code of practice for public impact assessment for that database will be prepared; consultation, prior to making new regulations. This and which organisations will be asked to provide data work is under way, but it is not possible to estimate how for that database. [314959] quickly the new regulations can be made. Maria Eagle: The Equality and Human Rights Air Pollution: Greater London Commission budget for the development of the Equality Measurement Framework tool (EMF) is £2 million. Mr. Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for The plan is that no personal data will be stored or Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) when he last used within the context of the framework and because discussed air quality in London with the Mayor of the data will be drawn from existing surveys most of London; and if he will make a statement; [317718] which is already accessible to members of the public (2) what steps his Department is taking to ensure there will be no requirement for a privacy impact assessment. that London meets air quality standards provided for in legislation; and if he will make a statement. [317724] The framework will not be using anonymised census information. Jim Fitzpatrick: As Minister for the Environment, I The intention is that data will be drawn from the last met with the Mayor of London in August 2009 to following organisations: The Office for National Statistics, discuss air quality in London. Since then, the Secretary the NHS, the devolved Administrations, Government of State participated in a teleconference with the Mayor Departments, local government and the police force. on this same matter on 7 December 2009. 43W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 44W

DEFRA officials meet regularly with the Greater photographers will be paid for their work whether that London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London be covering expenses, royalties or paying an agreed rate to discuss the Mayor’s Air Quality Strategy and action for their time. necessary to meet both NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) and PM10 (particulate matter) limit values in London. These Bees: Imports meetings include discussions on our preparations for our resubmission to the Commission for additional Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for time to meet the PM limit value in London. The latest 10 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether he has draft of the Mayor’s strategy was published in October made an estimate of the cost to the bee industry of 2009 and contained many helpful measures within it. importing queen bees in the last five years. [316499] However, further detail on the impact of these measures is needed to assess their contribution to meeting air Dan Norris: No estimate has been made of the cost of quality standards. I am advised that public consultation importing queen bees. The cost to the bee industry on the strategy should commence in March this year varies considerably depending on the country of origin and officials will continue to work with the GLA on the and the number of bees per consignment and can range contribution of the strategy to meeting air quality standards. between approximately £7-£50 or more for specialist breeder queens. The Food and Environment Research Animal Health Bill: Draft Agency’s national bee unit records data on the number of bees imported into England for statutory disease Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for control purposes. This data was set out in the answer of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with reference to 7 December 2009, Official Report, column 7W. the draft Animal Health Bill, whether he plans to bring forward proposals to extend the powers available to Carbon Emissions: Business inspectors. [315786]

Jim Fitzpatrick: Clause 47 of the draft Animal Health Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Bill broadens the powers available to inspectors to take Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate he samples of substances such as blood, tissue, excreta and has made of the average amount of carbon dioxide milk to find out whether disease, or causative agents of emitted by companies which do not meet the minimum disease exist. reporting guidelines on greenhouse gas emissions in each of the last three years. [317629] The draft Animal Health Bill has been published for consultation and will be subject to pre-legislative scrutiny Dan Norris: We encourage companies to publicly by Parliament before any such Bill is formally introduced. disclose their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions using the recently published DEFRA/Department of Animal Tracing Schemes Environment and Climate Change “Guidance on how to measure and report your greenhouse gas emissions”, Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for but such disclosures are not collected by the Government. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for what livestock No estimate has been made of the average carbon traceability schemes his Department is responsible; and dioxide emissions of companies that do not report their what the (a) objectives and (b) costs in 2009-10 are of GHG emissions. each. [316826] Departmental Accountancy Jim Fitzpatrick: DEFRA is responsible for traceability across the main farmed livestock species: cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. Reliable traceability of livestock underpins Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, disease control measures, ensures effective disease Food and Rural Affairs whether any written instructions surveillance and maintains consumer confidence. Detailed have been provided to his Department’s Accounting figures by species are not available but identifying the Officer in accordance with paragraph 5.5 of the Ministerial main livestock species in England and tracking their Code since May 1997. [315561] movements costs Government and the livestock industry in the region of £55 million per year1. Dan Norris: Each accounting officer receives a copy 1 NAO report “Identifying and Tracking Livestock in England”: of chapter 3 of Managing Public Money (the Accounting November 2003. Officer Memorandum), which includes instructions on ministerial directions. Association of Photographers Departmental Consultants Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent representations he Julia Goldsworthy: To ask the Secretary of State for has received from the Association of Photographers on Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much Environment Agency photography contracts. [316715] consultants employed by his Department and its agencies have been paid (a) in total and (b) in reimbursable Jim Fitzpatrick: DEFRA has received a letter on expenses in each of the last 10 years. [313992] behalf of the Association of Photographers on the Environment Agency’s photography contracts. Dan Norris: The information is as follows: The Environment Agency has been in contact with (a) DEFRA has reported its use of consultants in its relevant photography organisations to clarify that all annual departmental reports. 45W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 46W

Dan Norris: The definition of ‘in transition’ we have £ million used in answering this question is ‘employees who have Area been officially declared surplus’. Departmental Management and Specialist reports business consultancy consultancy As at 4 February 2010, the number of surplus employees in core DEFRA is so low that we are withholding it on 2002-03 15 40 the grounds of the confidentiality of the individuals 2003-04 20 40 concerned. There are currently 33 surplus employees in 2004-05 79 36 the Rural Payments Agency and seven in animal health. 2005-06 44 37 None of the other agencies currently have surplus 2006-07 29 54 employees. Note: Not all the information requested is available as The figures were derived on identifying the spend with particular external suppliers and placing all that spend under one of the areas DEFRA has not maintained a historical central record shown in the table. It was recognised that this does lead to some of its surplus employees, but it is now. inaccuracies as spend with a supplier may be across more than one expenditure area. But at the time, this was the only method available. Departmental Recruitment Refined processes were introduced in 2007-08, which allowed DEFRA to be more specific in the 2009 Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for departmental report (for fiscal year 2007-08) with more Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many job accurate figures for Professional Services Consultancy. vacancies in his Department and its agencies were filled This is based on the extensive use of improved procurement through external recruitment in the last year for which category codes, a process which OGC adopted for the figures are available. [315475] first Public Sector Procurement Expenditure Survey in October 2008 using their own version of category codes Dan Norris: For the 2009 calendar year DEFRA and and to which we needed to map our category codes. its agencies filled 909 vacancies through external recruitment. PSPES reports1 Core DEFRA and its agencies comprises 10,189 staff £ million (figure at 31 March 2009).

2007-08 37 Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, 2008-09 35 Food and Rural Affairs how much his Department and 2009-10 (Ap-No. only) 223 its agencies spent on external recruitment consultants in 1 PSPES—Annual Public Sector Procurement Expenditure Survey. the last year for which figures are available. [315476] 2 To be validated for next PSPES. (b) Information on reimbursable expenses could be Dan Norris: Our purchasing systems do not separate provided only at disproportionate cost. out expenditure on external recruitment consultants from expenditure on other HR consultancy services supplied to DEFRA and our agencies. The information Departmental Domestic Visits requested can therefore be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Food: Origin Marking Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many planned visits by Ministers in his Department within the UK were cancelled within 72 hours of the visit taking place Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for in the last 12 months; and what the planned venue or Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many venues were for each such visit. [309878] applications he has received for an EU Traditional Speciality Guaranteed designation for UK products in each of the last four years. [317924] Dan Norris: The Department does not hold information in the form requested. Even if collation in this form Jim Fitzpatrick: DEFRA is the National Competent were possible, it could be provided only at disproportionate Authority for the UK. Applications are submitted to cost. and assessed by ADAS (for England), and the appropriate devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland before being forwarded to DEFRA. Departmental Manpower Since 2006, five applications have been made for protection under the EU’s Traditional Speciality Guaranteed Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State (TSG) designation. The breakdown of applications is for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many as follows: employees in (a) his Department and (b) each of its agencies are in transition prior to being managed out; Number of TSG applications how long on average the transition window between received notification and exit has been in (i) his Department and 2006 0 (ii) each of its agencies in each of the last five years; 2007 2 what estimate he has made of the salary costs of staff 2008 3 in transition in each such year; and what proportion of 2009 0 employees in transition were classed as being so for Total 5 more than six months in each year. [313242] 47W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 48W

Hotels How to Prevent the Spread of Ragwort. The Code applies to Common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) which Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, is one of five injurious weeds specified in the Weeds Act Food and Rural Affairs how many separate bookings 1959. Common ragwort is the only one of the five for stays at five star or above hotels were made through weeds listed in the Act which is poisonous to horses and the Expotel contract by his Department in the last year other grazing animals. for which figures are available; and at what cost. The code was drawn up in consultation with a steering [315474] group which included the British Horse Society and includes an environmental appraisal which drew on Dan Norris: Expotel are unable to provide details of evidence from a number of sources of the effects of the star rating of the hotel accommodation booked, ragwort poisoning on horses and other livestock. The this information could be obtained only at disproportionate code provides comprehensive guidance to all land owners cost. and occupiers on how to take a cost effective approach to weed control. Origin Marking DEFRA’s policy under the Weeds Act 1959 is to control injurious weeds where there is a threat to animal Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for welfare or agricultural activities. DEFRA’s policy is not Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many to eradicate Common Ragwort and other injurious applications he has received for EU (a) Protected weeds because in the right place, Common Ragwort Geographical Indication and (b) Protected Designation and the other specified weeds make an important of Origin status for UK products in each of the last contribution to the biodiversity of the countryside. four years. [318008] Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Jim Fitzpatrick: DEFRA is the national competent Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if he will bring authority for the UK, although applications are submitted forward proposals to make his Department’s guidance to and assessed by ADAS (for England), and the on controlling the spread of ragwort more effective. appropriate devolved Administrations in Scotland, Wales [317322] and Northern Ireland before being forwarded to DEFRA. Since 2006, the number of UK applications for Protected Huw Irranca-Davies: The Government’s “Code of Designation of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Practice on How to Prevent the Spread of Ragwort” Indication (PGI) status which have been received are as was published in July 2004 and we have no immediate follows: plans to review the code.

PGI PDO Stress 2006 3 3 2007 2 2 Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008 4 4 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if he will place in 2009 0 11 the Library a copy of the advice issued to staff of his Total 9 20 Department on stress recognition and management. [314523] Power Stations: Plymouth Dan Norris: DEFRA encourages staff to use our comprehensive intranet-based toolkit information on Mr. Streeter: To ask the Secretary of State for the awareness, prevention and management of stress in Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how frequently and outside the workplace. An additional resource offering the Environment Agency monitors the effect on air information, guidance and various sources of confidential quality of emissions from Langage power station. support is also accessible to all departmental staff on an [317348] externally hosted microsite, via our occupational health provider. Jim Fitzpatrick: The Environment Agency require Langage power station to monitor chimney emissions DEFRA is currently developing a new Stress policy continually. Each day a turbine is running, the operator and anticipates this will be published on its intranet for is required to record the daily average and maximum the information of all staff and managers by this summer. hourly average emissions. I will place copies of our advice in the Library. The Environment Agency can inspect or audit the collection of this data on-site at any time. Trees

Ragwort Mr. Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether he plans Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for to increase the net number of trees in the next five Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent years. [317396] assessment he has made of the effects of ragwort on the health of horses and grazing stock. [317321] Huw Irranca-Davies: Our Strategy for England’s Trees, Woods and Forests puts a strong emphasis on planting Huw Irranca-Davies: The Government are aware of the right tree in the right place. We will be taking an the effects of ragwort on the health of horses and integrated approach to see where additional woodland grazing stock and in 2004 issued a Code of Practice on can complement other activities. 49W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 50W

As part of the Low Carbon Transition Plan announced Brass Bands: Finance in July, the Forestry Commission and DEFRA are working to develop the framework needed for a step Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, change in the level of woodland creation for the next 15 Media and Sport what progress he has made in the years. As part of this, the Forestry Commission will be provision of additional funding for brass bands. working with partners in each region to identify scope [316638] for increasing the area of woodland. Margaret Hodge: The provision of additional funding Veterinary Services: Complaints for brass bands is being undertaken by Arts Council England who advise they are unable to provide the full Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, breakdown of information within the necessary timeframe. Food and Rural Affairs what recent representations he I have therefore asked the chief executive of The Arts has received on the consideration by the Royal College Council England to write direct to the hon. Member. of Veterinary Surgeons of complaints relating to veterinary Copies of the reply will be placed in the Libraries of services; and if he will bring forward proposals to both Houses. amend the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 to provide for the regulation by his Department of complaints procedures Departmental Disabled Staff in relation to veterinary services. [317006] Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Jim Fitzpatrick: The President of the Royal College Media and Sport how many and what proportion of of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has written to request staff in (a) his Department and (b) the executive that DEFRA put forward a legislative reform order agency for which he is responsible are disabled; and (using powers in the Legislative and Regulatory Reform what the average salary in (i) his Department and (ii) Act 2006) to change the constitution of the Disciplinary the executive agency is of (A) full-time disabled staff, Committee and Preliminary Investigation Committee. (B) full-time non-disabled staff, (C) part-time disabled The President of the British Veterinary Association has staff and (D) part-time non-disabled staff. [317909] written in support of the RCVS proposal. I am due to meet the Action Group Against the Mr. Sutcliffe: My Department currently employs 15 Professional Conduct Department of the Royal College (3.1 per cent.) disabled staff. The Royal Parks Agency of Veterinary Surgeons on 2 March to discuss their currently employs five (4 per cent.) disabled staff. These concerns about the current system for investigating figures show those employees who have actually declared complaints against veterinary surgeons. a disability. The average salary across all grades in both DCMS Written Questions: Administrative Delays and the Royal Parks Agency is set out in the table.

Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for £ Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when he plans to Full-time Part-time answer Question 300896, on departmental pay, tabled DCMS on 18 November 2009. [313134] Disabled 32,936 25,139 Non-disabled 39,669 26,045 Dan Norris: I replied to the hon. Member on 28 January 2010, Official Report, columns 1004-06W. Royal Parks Agency Disabled 30,752.20 — Non-disabled 32,224.73 31,039.25 CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Departmental NDBPs Barking Park Mr. Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on how many occasions he has met Justine Greening: To ask the Secretary of State for representatives of each of the advisory non-departmental Culture, Media and Sport what charging regime is in public bodies sponsored by his Department in the last place for users of Barking Park car park; and how 12 months. [317009] much revenue has been received from such charges in each of the last five years. [316735] Mr. Bradshaw: I have met with representatives of the advisory non-departmental public bodies sponsored by Margaret Hodge [holding answer 10 February 2010]: the Department at a number of events in the course of While my Department is responsible for the Royal my duties. The Minister for Culture has also held 14 Parks, which manages the eight Royal Parks and a formal meetings with these bodies. number of other open spaces, Barking Park is not one of these. Departmental Public Relations Barking Park is run by the London borough of Barking and Dagenham and any information regarding Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, car parking charges would have to be requested directly Media and Sport (1) with reference to the answer of from them. 5 March 2009, Official Report, column 1744W, on 51W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 52W departmental public relations, how many staff in his Commissioned organisation Cost1 Department and its agency are (a) embedded communicators and (b) members of the Government 2005 Anglia University £33,000 Communications Network but are not listed in the 2005 Ipsos RSL £38,000 Central Office of Information White Book; [315163] 2005 MasterCard £20,000 (2) how many staff in his Department and its agencies 2005 BOP £25,000 (a) have the status of embedded communicators and 2005 BMRB £54,000 (b) are members of the Government Communications 2005 National Opinion Research Centre US$83,000 Network but are not listed in the Central Office of 2005 University of Nottingham £29,000 Information White Book. [315171] 2006 Trauma Training £16,000 2006 Frontier Economics £55,000 Mr. Bradshaw: No members of staff in my Department 2006 Work Foundation £25,000 or its agency, the Royal Parks, are embedded 2006 Work Foundation £50,000 communicators. In addition to the Departments central 2006 Experian £10,000 communications directorate, the Government Olympic 2006 Lancaster University £50,000 Executive (GOE) has a communications team consisting 2006 David Trickley £15,000 of 5.8 communications staff. This team is considered, 2006 Anne Eyre Trauma Training £29,000 and has been included in previous responses as, part of 2006 De Montfort University £44,000 the Department’s communications staff. 2006 PWC £100,000 2006 CIPFA £60,000 Within my Department all members of the Government 2006 Morris Hargreaves McIntyre £29,000 Communications Network (GCN) are listed in the Central 2006 Freshminds £29,000 Office of Information (COI) White Book. The Royal 2006 Campbell Keegan Limited £25,000 Parks Agency has four communications staff belonging 2006-07 Frontier Economics (comprised of £179,000 to the GCN that are not listed in the COI White Book. several pieces of work) 2007 Experian £15,000 Departmental Surveys 2007 BMRB and others £114,000 2007 BMRB £20,000 Mr. Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007 TBR £45,000 Culture, Media and Sport (1) how much his Department 2008 PWC £81,000 spent on each (a) survey and (b) independent report it 2008 BOP £15,000 commissioned in each of the last five years; and which 2008-09 Analysys Mason £50,000 organisation was contracted in each such case; [317158] 2008-09 BMRB £23,000 2009 Frontier Economics (comprised of £85,000 (2) what (a) surveys and (b) independent reports several pieces of work) commissioned by his Department were undertaken in 2009 Europe Economics £15,000 each of the last five years; how much each cost; and 2009 PMP £37,000 which organisation undertook each. [317521] 2009 BMG £45,000 2009 Ipsos MORI £24,000 Mr. Sutcliffe: The table shows how much my Department 2009 ARUP £47,000 spent on our commissioned surveys and independent 1 All figures rounded to the nearest £1.000. research reports for each year over the last five years, with the relevant organisation given in each case. This does not include policy reports as we do not collect information on that basis. Commissioned organisation Cost1

Surveys 2005-06 BMRB £1,180,000 Digital Broadcasting 2006 RSE Cons Ltd. £30,000 2006 BMRB £51,000 2006 Ipsos MORI £91,000 Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006-07 BMRB £1,796,000 Culture, Media and Sport how many complaints his 2007 Nottingham University Business £47,000 Department and Digital UK have received relating to School digital switchover from residents of (a) North 2007 BMRB £97,000 Cornwall constituency, (b) Cornwall, (c) the South 2007 ORC International £5,000 West region and (d) England in the latest period for 2007-08 BMRB £1,500,000 which figures are available. [317003] 2008 BMRB £69,000 2008 BMRB £34,000 Mr. Simon: The information requested regarding my 2008-09 BMRB £1,406,000 Department is not held in this manner and to provide it 2009 Continental £50,000 would incur disproportionate cost. 2009 BMRB £62,000 Information on correspondence received by Digital 2009 BMRB £27,000 UK is not held centrally. 2010 Ipsos MORI £9,000 I have therefore asked the chief executive of Digital UK to write direct to the hon. Member for Cornwall Independent Reports North. 2005 Cragg Ross Dawson £24,000 Copies of the reply will be placed in the Libraries of 2005 University of Stirling £5,000 both Houses. 53W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 54W

Janet Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Bradshaw: My hon. Friend the Member for Culture, Media and Sport if he will take steps to ensure Birmingham, Erdington (Mr. Simon) met representatives that viewers in Rossendale and Darwen constituency of the commercial radio sector a number of times, are able to receive the full range of digital television including at two joint DCMS and RadioCentre local channels. [317175] radio summits, which were specifically intended to engage with the smallest local radio broadcasters. Mr. Bradshaw: The three public service broadcasting These dialogues have provided a number of opportunities digital multiplexes, which carry around 15 channels to gain a clear insight into the potential impact of the including the public service broadcasting channels—BBC digital radio switchover on radio businesses. In light of 1 and 2, ITV1, Channel 4 (S4C in Wales) and Five—should this, I believe that the proposals for a digital radio reach 98.5 per cent. of UK households after digital switchover, as set out in the Digital Britain White Paper, switchover. Services carried on the commercial multiplexes, are supported by the vast majority of the radio sector. which increase the number of channels available to around 40, are planned to reach 90 per cent. of UK Mr. Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for households and any expansion of coverage is a commercial Culture, Media and Sport what steps he is taking to matter for the multiplex operators. In Granada these support local commercial radio stations in Scotland in latter multiplexes reach around 97 per cent. of households. the transition to digital broadcasting. [317563] For those who require more services, there are other options for receiving digital services via satellite or Mr. Bradshaw: My Department is in discussion with cable. broadcasters from across the UK to consider the impact of digital radio switchover on local commercial radio stations. This will help inform what support, if any, is Digital Broadcasting: Radio needed to aid the transition to digital, beyond those already set out in the draft Digital Economy Bill. Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment his Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has made of the energy requirements of Culture, Media and Sport for what reason he decided (a) digital and DAB radios and (b) analogue radios. to propose a digital radio switchover date of 2015; [316981] what assessment he made of the merits of proposing the switchover date of 2017 recommended in the Mr. Bradshaw: My Department along with the Digital Radio Working Group report; and if he will Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) make a statement. [317597] and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) recently commissioned an independent Mr. Bradshaw: The Digital Britain White Paper stated review of the environmental impact of the Digital Radio our vision for a digital radio switchover by the end of Switchover programme. This research will look at current 2015. This timetable is based on industry projections of energy consumption of analogue, digital receivers and take-up over the next six years and represents an achievable transmission networks; the projected energy consumption date by which the switchover criteria could be achieved from a future increase in digital devices and potential and a sufficient notice period for listeners to convert developments in equipment and compatibility with other their remaining radio devices to digital. technologies. Digital Switchover Help Scheme We expect the first phase of this study to be completed by spring. Mr. Vaizey: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps his Department has taken Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for to ensure that those in vulnerable groups will be eligible Culture, Media and Sport what steps his Department for the scheme to provide free digital equipment during has taken to inform the public of the Government’s the digital switchover. [316963] plans for analogue wavelengths as part of its plans for digital radio; and if he will make a statement. [317071] Mr. Simon: At the time of designing the help scheme for television switchover, research suggested that age Mr. Bradshaw: The Digital Britain White Paper stated and disability were the most important indicators of the Government’s policy that, following the digital radio lower digital TV take-up and that these groups were switchover, the MW spectrum will be re-allocated for most likely to struggle with digital switchover. non-radio purposes and the FM spectrum will be retained For these reasons it was decided that the scheme for radio, specifically for small commercial and community would offer practical support for people who are: aged radio stations. 75 or over, disabled, visually impaired or care home residents. Participating in the scheme costs a subsidised We have also made our position clear during the £40. However help is available free of charge where the passage of the Digital Economy Bill. eligible person is also in receipt of certain income related benefits. Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what recent representations Domestic Visits he has received from commercial radio stations on the effects on their businesses of the roll-out of digital Mr. Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, audio broadcasting; and if he will make a statement. Media and Sport which constituencies he has visited on [317072] official duties in the last 12 months. [317010] 55W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 56W

Mr. Bradshaw: Constituency visits made in the last 12 areas to test how best to offer all children and young months by myself and my predecessor, my right hon. people the opportunity to access five hours of high Friend the Member for Leigh (Andy Burnham) are quality cultural activity a week. Each of the 10 pathfinders listed. are offering opportunities for children and young people Elmet to experience and participate in theatre, especially those City of York with least access. Westmorland and Lonsdale My Department also supported Arts Council England Blackpool North and Fleetwood to deliver the £1.8 million national “Young People’s Participatory Theatre” (YPPT) programme. This aims Blackpool South to increase young people’s access to and participation in Nottingham South theatre through improved information on where to find Huddersfield and take part in high quality activities. We have also Wakefield launched “Open Doors”, a scheme which saw theatres Glasgow Central across the country opening up to provide interactive Bristol West events and workshops highlighting the wide variety of Gloucester potential careers in theatre. Birmingham Hodge Hill The “A Night Less Ordinary” initiative, launched by Croydon North Arts Council England in February 2009 provided 122,000 free theatre tickets to under 26-year-olds in its first nine Liverpool Garston months. By removing price as a barrier to participation, Liverpool Riverside the scheme enables more young people to experience Manchester Central theatre, and it is hoped will help to create both the Eccles practitioners and audiences of the future. Kensington and Chelsea iPhone Bethnal Green and Bow Plymouth Sutton Derek Wyatt: To ask the Secretary of State for Totnes Culture, Media and Sport if he will bring forward Torbay proposals to enable deposit libraries to archive iPhone Northampton North applications. [316646] Corby Newport West Margaret Hodge [holding answer 9 February 2010]: Leyton and Wanstead The Legal Deposit Advisory Panel advises the Secretary of State on the deposit of non-print material. The Panel Rotherham has made recommendations on the “Collection and West Lancashire Preservation of UK Offline and Microform Publications” South Shields and the “Collection and Preservation of UK Online Newcastle Upon Tyne Central Publications Free of Charge and Without Access Liverpool Wavertree Restriction” and we are currently consulting on the Luton South Panel’s recommendations. The consultation period ends Stretford and Urmston on 1 March 2010. The Government are keen to get these Vauxhall proposals through and will consider other content in the future. Eltham Stoke on Trent Central Mass Media: Coventry Hull East Makerfield Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Wythenshawe and Sale East for Culture, Media and Sport what recent steps his Bolton South East Department has taken to increase the level of media literacy in Coventry; and how much funding his Burnley Department has allocated to Coventry for that purpose Bootle since 2005. [316906] Southampton Itchen Arundel and South Downs Margaret Hodge: My Department does not directly allocate funding to specific regions for the purpose of Drama: Young People increasing the level of media literacy. However, the Government and Ofcom have worked with media industry Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for bodies, educational organisations and third sector groups Culture, Media and Sport what recent steps his on a range of initiatives to improve media literacy and Department has taken to encourage young people to digital participation across the UK. The Government participate in (a) drama production and (b) acting. are also considering a range of educational initiatives to [314736] improve the media literacy skills of children and parents in England and Wales. Margaret Hodge: Providing access to high quality Since 2005 my Department has provided grant in aid drama and theatre opportunities is part of the cultural of £559,000 a year to support Ofcom’s media literacy offer, currently being tested through Find Your Talent. work programme. As part of the 2009-10 programme Nearly £24 million is being invested into 10 pathfinder the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education 57W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 58W was given support for its Adult Learners’ Week. This Mr. Sutcliffe: I have had no recent discussions with project included events in Coventry such as internet for the British Olympic Association or others on Snowsport beginners’ sessions organised by Coventry Central Library GB. and ancestry sessions at Coventry’s Canley Community Officials from my Department and UK Sport had Library. contact with the British Olympic Association regarding contingency plans to support the participation of the National Gallery: Pay ski and snowboard teams in the Vancouver Winter Olympics. Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many members of the board of the National Gallery receive (a) remuneration and (b) Swimming: Concessions expenses only. [317964] : To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Sutcliffe: The National Gallery is an exempt Culture, Media and Sport how many of those aged (a) charity, governed by the Museums and Galleries Act under 16 and (b) over 60 years old resident in Salford 1992. As charity trustees, none receive remuneration have participated in his Department’s free swimming but all are entitled to reclaim reasonable expenses. programmes. [317551] Olympic Games: Canada Mr. Sutcliffe: The number of unique participants in Mr. Swire: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, the free swimming programme is not collected centrally. Media and Sport whether he met the Snowsport GB Local authorities are responsible for collecting data on team before its departure for the Winter Olympics. the number of free swims that have taken place in their [317374] area each month. The table shows the total number of free swims that Mr. Sutcliffe: The Secretary of State for Culture, have taken place under the free swimming scheme by Media and Sport did not meet with the Snowsport GB people aged 16 years and under, and people aged 60 and team before its departure to the Winter Olympics. over, in the Salford local authority area between April I, however, attended the launch of Team GB on 26 2009, when the scheme began, and December 2009. January. These data were published on 5 February 2010:

Mr. Swire: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Number Media and Sport what his policy is on the funding of British teams to participate in Winter Olympics events. Under 16 swims 73,907 [317375] Over 60s swims 23,900 Total 97,807 Mr. Sutcliffe: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport funds UK Sport to deliver sporting excellence, Tourism: Gloucestershire primarily at the Olympics and Paralympics. UK Sport allocates this funding based on the current performance and future potential of sports, via its Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, successful ″no compromise″ investment strategy, which Media and Sport what funding his Department uses objective information to make funding awards that allocated to Gloucestershire for the purposes of reflect each sport’s relative ability to win medals on the tourism in each of the last 10 years. [315879] world stage, whether at the Summer or Winter Olympics. Margaret Hodge: The information requested is not Snowsport GB held centrally. south west RDA has the primary role in taking forward a regional tourism strategy, and in deciding Mr. Swire: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, on tourism investment that would affect Gloucestershire. Media and Sport what discussions he has had with The reported tourism investment of the south west Snowsport GB on its finances; and when he first became regional development agency for 2008-09 across the aware of Snowsport GB’s financial situation. [317371] entire region was £3 million. Mr. Sutcliffe: The chair of Snowsport GB wrote to In partnership with the industry and the wider public the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 14 sector, the DCMS has a clear and coherent policy December 2009, informing us of their recent financial framework for industry growth. This includes branding difficulties. and marketing improvement led by VisitBritain; the This followed a request in July 2009 for the Department National Tourism Skills Strategy; work across Britain to act as guarantor for a number of loans that Snowsport to drive up product quality through accommodation GB was seeking to raise from the private sector. Snowsport grading schemes and the better co-ordination of public GB representatives discussed their situation and the investment of over £350 million a year in tourism at way the organisation had been managed with DCMS national, regional and local levels. and UK Sport officials on both occasions. In addition, the overall level of public sector investment in tourism from local, regional and national sources is Mr. Swire: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, likely to exceed £2 billion in the current spending review Media and Sport whether he has had recent discussions period. The Government believe this public investment with (a) the British Olympic Association and (b) is a good and reasonable investment in support for the others on Snowsport GB. [317372] tourism and hospitality industry. 59W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 60W

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the Boilers: Government Assistance target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases Energy and Climate Change what information his of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the Department holds on the area of residence of people UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision who have made enquiries about eligibility for assistance for climate change and energy and showing how we will meet the under his Department’s boiler scrappage scheme. carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. [312740] In the same year, the Department published national policy statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and Joan Ruddock: Calls to the Energy Saving Trust, who fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An are delivering the boiler scrappage scheme, are diverted ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development to the nearest regional office in most cases based on the of carbon capture and storage. caller’s telephone number if a landline is used. An The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and analysis of number of calls received on the subject of has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of eligibility for the boiler scrappage scheme by location of offshore wind in the world. the call centre would provide a broad indication of the Turning to household measures, since 2002, the carbon emissions callers’ region. reduction target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over six The applicant’s address is required when an application million households with insulation measures with almost three is made. The Department intends to publish shortly million of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. details indicating the level of interest in the boiler Government will be providing more financial assistance to scrappage scheme, and we would hope to present this help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon information region by region. ways, where appropriate, through ‘clean energy cashback’ schemes: Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment Carbon Emissions for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators (including households) will be provided through the electricity supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses Energy and Climate Change what steps he plans to and communities. take to implement a personal carbon incentive scheme; The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in when the scheme will be introduced; and how it will April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses operate. [316764] with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. Joan Ruddock: DECC’s ambition to implement a Warm Front scheme: Chorley constituency scheme for a new personal carbon challenge with rewards DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for and incentives for saving energy was set out in “The UK households on qualifying income and disability-related Low Carbon Transition Plan”. benefits to install a range of insulation and heating DECC is actively investigating how best to achieve measures in their homes. Since 2000, the scheme has this ambition. However, we are aware that there are assisted 3,223 households in the Chorley constituency. existing schemes and proposals and are also looking to see how we can supplement them. Departmental Accountancy

Chorley Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether any written instructions Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy have been provided to his Department’s Accounting and Climate Change if he will set out, with statistical Officer in accordance with paragraph 5.5 of the Ministerial information as closely related to Chorley constituency Code since his Department’s inception. [315563] as possible, the effect on that constituency of the Joan Ruddock: No such written instructions have policies of his Department since its inception. [314240] been provided. Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate Departmental Billing Change and its predecessors have implemented a large number of policies to address energy security, emissions Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty. and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the Some of the key achievements are set out as follows, average length of time taken by his Department to pay along with information on the number of households invoices from (a) small and medium-sized enterprises assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Chorley constituency. and (b) all creditors in the last 12 months. [315129] It would be disproportionately costly to provide statistical information on all the impact of all the policies to the Joan Ruddock: DECC monitors its payment performance level of detail requested, but statistical information on the target of paying invoices within 10 days of covering energy and climate change is available at: receipt and this is included within the monthly management http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ information reports. We do not however, differentiate statistics.aspx between the size of each creditor as the same target Key achievements applies to all. The latest available data is for December Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by 2009, when 90.7 per cent. of invoices were paid within about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. 10 days. 61W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 62W

Departmental Consultants have paid in the last 12 months; and at what cost. [315468] Julia Goldsworthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many consultants his Joan Ruddock: Primarily as part of the Act on CO2 Department employed in each year since its inception; campaign, the Department has paid for Google keywords and how many hours were worked by such consultants (search words) over the past year to enable people to for his Department in each of the last 10 years. [314016] find information about energy, climate change and carbon reduction actions, quickly and effectively by taking Joan Ruddock: This information can be provided people through to the Act on CO website. only at disproportionate cost. 2 The Google Adword system is like an auction and places advertisers in order of prominence according to Departmental E-mail how much they bid for a relevant keyword. It should be noted however that the actual cost the Department Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for incurs is based on the number of clicks on the sponsored Energy and Climate Change what procedures govern DECC link displayed. the manner in which his Department replies by email to email correspondence from (a) hon. Members and (b) DECC has a specific account which contains keywords members of the public. [316980] built around specific campaign-related themes such as loft insulation and the carbon calculator. There is also Joan Ruddock: Until mid January, BIS and DEFRA an account which is jointly funded with the Department handled all of DECC’s correspondence in line with for Transport, containing more generic keywords such their respective departmental procedures, underpinned as climate change and global warming and Act on CO2 by Cabinet Office Guidance available at (as this is the call to action for both Departments’ http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/propriety_and_ethics/ campaigns). handling_members_correspondence/ Other Government Departments and agencies such guidance_for_departments/guidance/mps.aspx as the Energy Saving Trust sometimes bid for the same keywords as DECC. The amounts each Department This general guidance recommends that e-mail pays can be capped, in order to minimise the risk of correspondence is replied to in the same medium where DECC and these Departments competing against each possible, unless requested otherwise. other for the same search keywords. Since 18 January the Department has handled its The total spend on paid search for DECC over the own correspondence. It continues to follow Cabinet last 12 months is £361,700 (exclusive of VAT). The total Office guidance with a view to maximising e-communication spend for the Energy Saving Trust over the last 12 where appropriate. months is £272,000 (exclusive of VAT). Departmental Information Officers Departmental Pay

Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for and Climate Change how many staff in his Department Energy and Climate Change how many (a) year end have the status of (a) embedded communicators and and (b) in-year bonuses have been paid to officials in (b) are members of the Government Communications his Department since it was established; and what Network and are not listed in the Central Office of expenditure his Department has incurred on such Information White Book. [315568] bonuses. [301301] Joan Ruddock: There are 11 embedded communicators Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate in the Department. None of these are listed in the Change (DECC) was created in October 2008. An Central Office of Information White Book. element of the Department of Energy and Climate Government Communications Network (GCN) Change’s overall pay award is allocated to non-consolidated membership data are not held by the Department. The variable pay related to performance. These payments Cabinet Office unit that administers the GCN is unable are used to drive high performance and form part of the to share membership data without the permission of pay award for members of staff who demonstrate individual members, therefore it is not possible to readily exceptional performance, for example by exceeding targets provide accurate information on this without incurring set or meeting challenging objectives. a disproportionate cost. Non-consolidated variable pay awards are funded from within existing pay bill controls, and have to be Departmental Internet re-earned each year against pre-determined targets and, as such, do not add to future pay bill costs. The percentage Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy of the pay bill set aside for performance-related awards and Climate Change for which Google Adword online is based on recommendations from the independent advertising keywords his Department and its agencies senior salaries review body.

Value of non- consolidated Non-consolidated performance payments performance payments as Total number of in from October 2008 to end Wages and salaries for the percentage of wages and Number of staff year awards March 2009 (£) year 2008-09 (£) salaries

2008-09 768 172 81,055 37,998,000 0.21 63W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 64W

These figures do not include DECC end of year non Hemsworth have received assistance under the Home consolidated performance payments as they were awarded Energy Efficiency Scheme since the inception of the after March 2009. scheme. [316633] Electricity: Nottingham Joan Ruddock: The following table shows the number Alan Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for of households assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Energy and Climate Change how much electricity was Hemsworth constituency since eaga became manager of supplied to the City of Nottingham from the national the scheme in that region. grid in each of the last 10 years. [317223] Assisted households Hemsworth Mr. Kidney: Annual electricity consumption statistics for the Nottingham city council area are only available 2005-06 228 for the years 2003 to 2008 and are shown in the following 2006-07 651 table. The statistics include both domestic and non-domestic 2007-08 728 consumption. 2008-09 641 2009-101 454 Total 2,702 Electricity consumption in Nottingham (GWh) 1 To 31 January 2010. Note: 2003 1,342.4 Prior to 2005 the scheme was managed by a different provider and the data retained by the current administrator are not sufficient to provide a consolidated 2004 1,481.7 response. 2005 1,583.0 2006 1,530.4 Energy: Housing 2007 1,459.0 2008 1,428.3 Mr. Peter Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for There are methodological differences in the production Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the datasets before 2005 and therefore the data for of the proportion of households in the priority group 2003 and 2004 are not directly comparable. The changes under (a) phase one of the Energy Efficiency Commitment in methodology were recognised as improvements and (EEC), (b) phase two of the EEC and (c) the Carbon as such the statistics from 2005 are classified as National Emission Reduction Target programme which were in Statistics. Details of all methodologies used to compile fuel poverty on the latest date for which figures are the statistics can be found at: available; and if he will make a statement. [317064] http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/regional/ regional.aspx Mr. Kidney: The latest figures available are for England Energy: Conservation in 2007. The following table shows number of priority group households in England for each phase of EEC Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and CERT and the proportion of these that are estimated and Climate Change how many households in to be in fuel poverty in 2007:

In priority groups EEC11 EEC21 CERT All households

Total number of households (thousand) 6,545 5,559 8,681 21,380 Number of fuel poor households (thousand) 1,279 1,224 2,096 2,819 Proportion of households that are fuel poor (percentage) 19.5 22.0 24.1 13.2 1 EEC1 and EEC2 figures are estimated.

Each of the policies covers GB, but fuel poverty through time, rather it draws a representative sample statistics are a devolved responsibility. each year. As such, it is not possible to identify individual households that have received assistance under these Mr. Peter Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for schemes, although the impact in aggregate of them will Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made be captured in the fuel poverty statistics. of the number of fuel poor households which (a) have Over 7 million households have benefited from insulation received assistance in respect of his Department’s provision measures alone since 2002 through EEC and CERT. for each energy saving measure under each of the first 40 per cent. of the carbon saving target is required to be two phases of the Energy Efficiency Commitment and achieved in a Priority Group of more vulnerable households the Carbon Emission Reduction Target (CERT) programme on eligible benefits and aged 70 and over, so these in each year since 2002-03 and (b) will receive assistance schemes will have had a considerable impact in helping in respect of his Department’s provision for each such many households heat their homes for less. The CERT measure under the extended CERT programme; and if extension phase from April 2011 to December is proposed he will make a statement. [317065] to be as ambitious as CERT. Exhaust Emissions: Aviation Mr. Kidney: The data requested are not available because the English Housing Survey, which is used to Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for model fuel poverty, does not monitor individual households Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made 65W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 66W of the volume of carbon dioxide emissions arising from Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate the aviation industry in the UK in each of the last five Change and its predecessors have implemented a large years. [317630] number of policies to address energy security, emissions reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty. Joan Ruddock: On 2 February 2010 DECC published Some of the key achievements are set out as follows, final 2008 estimates of UK greenhouse gas emissions as along with information on the number of households National Statistics. 2008 is the latest year for which data assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Feltham and are available. Heston constituency. It would be disproportionately costly to provide statistical information on all the impacts Two separate sectoral breakdowns are published each of all the policies to the level of detail requested, but year: by source and by end-user. The former breakdown statistical information covering energy and climate change is based on the sector where the emissions actually is available at: occurred; the latter breakdown reallocates these same emissions in accordance with where the end-use actually http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ occurred. This effectively reallocates emissions from statistics.aspx energy supply to, for example, household and business Key achievements energy usage. Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by For aviation, emissions by source and end-users are about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. very close to one another. The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the By source, carbon dioxide emissions from domestic target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). aviation over the period 2004-08 are shown in the The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per following table. They are based on National cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three Communications sectors, which are the basis for UK carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases Government reporting. The 2008 end-user breakdown of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the will be published on 25 March 2010. UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision for climate change and energy and showing how we will meet the Carbon dioxide emissions from domestic aviation: by source breakdown, 2004-08 carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. In the same year, my Department published National Policy Million tonnes of CO2 NC Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and category 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development Aviation 2.3 2.5 2.4 2.3 2.2 of carbon capture and storage. The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and Emissions from international aviation can be estimated has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at from refuelling from bunkers at UK airports, whether 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of by UK or non-UK operators. Under the reporting offshore wind in the world. guidelines agreed by the UNFCCC, these emissions are Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions not included in the UK’s emissions total, but are reported Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over 6 as memo items in national greenhouse gas inventories. million households with insulation measures with almost 3 million Parties to the UNFCCC are required to act to limit or of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. reduce emissions from international services working Government will be providing more financial assistance to through the International Civil Aviation Organisation help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon (ICAO) and International Maritime Organisation (IMO). ways, where appropriate, through ‘clean energy cashback’ schemes: The following table provides CO emissions estimates Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment 2 for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators for UK international aviation over the period 2004-08. (including households), will be provided through the electricity Carbon dioxide emissions from UK-based international aviation, by supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and source: 2004-08 renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses and communities. Million tonnes of CO2 Memo item 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses International 32.4 35.1 35.6 35.4 34.1 with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The aviation detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. bunkers Warm Front scheme: Feltham and Heston constituency All the latest headlines results and data tables can be DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for found on the DECC website at: households on qualifying income and disability related http://decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/climate_change/ benefits to install a range of insulation and heating gg_emissions/uk_emissions/2008_final/2008_final.aspx measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has assisted 2,156 households in the Feltham and Heston Feltham constituency.

Fuel Poverty: Salford Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will set out, with statistical evidence relating as closely as possible to Feltham and Hazel Blears: To ask the Secretary of State for Heston constituency, the effects on that constituency of Energy and Climate Change what steps his changes to his Department’s policies since its inception. Department is taking to reduce the level of fuel poverty [317106] in Salford. [317392] 67W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 68W

Mr. Kidney: The Government have a strong package Feltham and Heston Number of measures to help reduce fuel poverty among vulnerable households. This is centred on tackling the three root 2000-01 86 causes of fuel poverty: 2001-02 181 Reducing the demand for energy by improving home energy 2002-03 127 efficiency through schemes such as Warm Front, Carbon Emissions 2003-04 117 Reduction Target (CERT), Community Energy Saving Programme 2004-05 284 (CESP) and the Decent Homes Standard. Between 2005 and 2010 2005-06 159 (to 31 January) Warm Front delivered nearly £2.5 million worth of energy efficiency measures to over 2,208 Salford households; 2006-07 255 CERT requires energy suppliers to meet at least 40 per cent. of 2007-08 289 their obligation by promoting and installing measures in the 2008-09 337 homes of a Priority Group of vulnerable consumers in receipt of 2009-101 321 qualifying benefits or people aged over 70 years. Measures are Total 2,156 only reported at a GB level and details for the work carried out in 1 Salford are therefore not available. To 31 January Putting in place and continuously looking to improve a regulatory framework that promotes competition as the main driver to Industrial Diseases: Compensation ensure downward pressure on prices for consumers, and to improve licence conditions and strengthen Ofgem’s powers through the Energy Bill; and Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State Raising real incomes, including through Winter Fuel Payments for Energy and Climate Change how much his and Cold Weather Payments alongside the wider tax and benefit Department has paid to the legal firm Nabarro for system and through Benefit Entitlement Checks under the Warm handling issues related to compensation to miners for Front Scheme. 386 such checks have been undertaken in Salford (a) chest diseases, (b) vibration white finger and (c) by Warm Front between 2005 and 2010 (to 31 January), identifying miners’ knee. [317257] an average weekly increase in income of £35.32 for those entitled to additional benefits. Mr. Kidney: The amount of legal fees the Department We have also introduced legislation to implement has paid to Nabarro for handling compensation to mandated social price support schemes once the current miners in respect of the British Coal Respiratory Disease voluntary agreement with suppliers comes to an end in Litigation (BCRDL), Vibration White Finger Handling 2011. These schemes will provide more of the most Arrangements (VWF) and for Miners Knee Group vulnerable consumers with help towards their energy Litigation as at 10 February 2010 is shown as follows: costs. We have said that we are minded to focus the majority of the additional resources on older pensioner £ households on the lowest incomes as these households tend to have a high incidence of fuel poverty—over BCRDL 9,949,537.11 50 per cent. of fuel poor households have a person over VWF 3,447,411.36 60 living in them; their circumstances are relatively Knee litigation 5,710,185.20 stable; and they are at the greatest risk of excess winter deaths. These figures are exclusive of VAT and disbursements. The fuel poverty review which was announced in BCRDL fees include representation in the largest January 2009, has been looking across all three drivers personal injury action in the UK over a 12 year period of fuel poverty, and particularly the key issue of how we and the VWF fees cover an 11 year period. The Miners can more effectively identify and target assistance at the Knee Litigation fees cover a period from 2003-04 to most vulnerable households. date and primarily relate to the Department’s obligations for document disclosure. Hotels For the BCRDL and VWF the figures do not include the costs of defending individual court actions. Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many separate bookings for stays at five star or above hotels were made through the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Expotel contract by his Department in the last year for which figures are available; and at what cost. [315500] Sammy Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for Joan Ruddock: None. Energy and Climate Change what his Department’s most recent assessment is of the accuracy of reports Housing: Insulation issued by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [316589] Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many households in Feltham Joan Ruddock: We consider that the IPCC’s Assessment and Heston constituency have received assistance Reports provide the most authoritative and comprehensive under the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme since the assessment of climate-change science. inception of the scheme. [316661] Its procedures are robust and are designed to minimise error and ensure a balanced and accurate assessment of Mr. Kidney: The following table shows how many the science. However, recent events remind us that even households in Feltham and Heston have received assistance robust processes are not immune to mistakes. Those under the Warm Front scheme since the inception of reported recently are isolated cases out of the thousands the scheme. of papers reviewed by the IPCC. 69W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 70W

The IPCC has proposed that a select group of fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An distinguished external experts advise and guide the IPCC ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development on how best to improve its procedures. A thorough of carbon capture and storage. review of the Principles Governing IPCC Work; the The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and procedures for the preparation, review, acceptance, has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at adoption, approval and publication of IPCC reports, is 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of offshore wind in the world. envisaged. The interim results of this review will be discussed at the upcoming session of the IPCC bureau Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over 6 in May 2010. million households with insulation measures, with almost 3 million The UK supports the IPCC in planning to learn from of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. mistakes and strengthen its procedures to ensure that its Government will be providing more financial assistance to processes are properly followed. We remain committed help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon to the IPCC as the primary source of information on ways, where appropriate, through “clean energy cashback”schemes: climate-change science. Feed-in tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment Recent errors have not changed the fundamental for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators message that human induced climate change is happening (including households) will be provided through the electricity supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and and that we must act now to prevent the worst consequences. renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses and communities. Members: Correspondence The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The Energy and Climate Change when he plans to reply to detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. the letter of 15 December 2009 from the right hon. Warm Front scheme: North East Milton Keynes constituency Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to Miss DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for M. Granath. [315019] households on qualifying income and disability related benefits to install a range of insulation and heating Mr. Kidney: I replied to my right hon. Friend on 28 measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has January. assisted 1,230 households in the North East Milton Keynes constituency. Milton Keynes Nuclear Installations: Security Mr. Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will set out, with Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for statistical information related as directly as possible to Energy and Climate Change if he will authorise the North East Milton Keynes constituency, the effects on director of the Office for Civil Nuclear Security within Milton Keynes of the policies and actions of his the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate to release a Department and its predecessors since 1997. [316037] redacted version of the nuclear industries malicious capabilities planning assumptions. [317559] Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate Change and its predecessors have implemented a large Mr. Kidney: The Nuclear Industries Malicious number of policies to address energy security, emissions Capabilities (Planning) Assumptions is a protectively reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty marked document produced by the Director of Civil since 1997. Following are some of the key achievements, Nuclear Security (DCNS) for use by the operators of along with information on the number of households civil licensed nuclear sites, approved carriers of nuclear assisted by the warm front scheme in North East Milton material and other authorised persons. The purpose of Keynes constituency. It would be disproportionately the document is to set out the attributes and characteristics costly to provide statistical information on the impact of those posing a threat to nuclear premises and to of all the policies to the level of detail requested, but nuclear material so that an appropriate level of security statistical information covering energy and climate change can be put in place to protect against such malicious is available at: capabilities. This is a sensitive planning document http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ underpinning security throughout the UK’s civil nuclear statistics.aspx industry and DCNS advises that it cannot be released, Key achievements since 1997 even in a redacted form, without significant risk to Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by national security. about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto Nuclear Power Stations: Construction target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per and Climate Change if he will place in the Library a cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three copy of (a) each leaflet and poster used to publicise carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the each public consultation event held in the communities UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision named as prospective sites for new nuclear build, (b) for climate change and energy and shows how we will meet the the printout of any Powerpoint presentation shown, carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. (c) each DVD used and (d) all speeches made by In the same year, the Department published National Policy Ministers or departmental officials at each such event. Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and [317886] 71W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 72W

Mr. Kidney: I have placed in the Library copies of Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate (a) leaflets and posters used to publicise the draft Change and its predecessors have implemented a large nuclear NPS consultation events. Copies of (b) PowerPoint number of policies to address energy security, emissions presentations and (d) transcripts of the meetings which reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty. include the speeches made by departmental officials at Following are set out some of the key achievements, these events, can be found online on the URLs along with information on the number of households https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/nuclear/ assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Slough constituency. summary/ It would be disproportionately costly to provide statistical https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/home/events/ information on the impact of all the policies to the level localevents/ of detail requested, but statistical information covering No DVDs were produced for the consultation events energy and climate change is available at: on the draft nuclear NPS. http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ statistics.aspx Offshore Industry: Taxation Key achievements Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. and Climate Change how much the Government paid The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto to (a) the Isle of Man and (b) Northern Ireland in target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the respect of UK Continental Shelf receipts in (i) 2008 and target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). (ii) 2009. [317052] The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three Mr. Kidney: The following table shows how much the carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the Government have paid to (a) the Isle of Man and (b) UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision Northern Ireland in respect of a share of UK Continental for climate change and energy and shows how we will meet the Shelf receipts in FY 2007-08 and 2008-09: carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. Payments to Isle of Man and Northern Ireland In the same year, the Department published National Policy £000 Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and Financial year Isle of Man Northern Ireland fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development 2007-08 0 1,539 of carbon capture and storage. 2008-09 0 1,340 The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of Public Holidays offshore wind in the world. Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over 6 and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the million households with insulation measures with almost 3 million cost to his Department of the introduction of an of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. additional public holiday; and if he will make a Government will be providing more financial assistance to statement. [315120] help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon ways, where appropriate, through “clean energy cashback”schemes: Joan Ruddock: No such estimate has been made. Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators Renewable Energy: Finance (including households), will be provided through the electricity supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses Mr. Peter Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State and communities. for Energy and Climate Change if he will publish the The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHT), scheduled for launch in findings of his Department’s research on Willingness to April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses Pay, prepared in conjunction with the Energy Saving with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The Trust; and if he will place in the Library a copy of the detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. report of that research. [317066] Warm Front scheme: Slough constituency Joan Ruddock: The Energy Savings Trust will publish DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for findings from the Willingness to Pay research early in households on qualifying income and disability related March. The report will be available for download from benefits to install a range of insulation and heating the EST website and a copy will be placed in the House measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has Library. assisted 1,426 households in the Slough constituency.

Slough Streatham

Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for : To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change if he will set out, with and Climate Change if he will set out, with statistical statistical information related as directly as possible to evidence relating as closely as possible to Streatham the Slough constituency, the effects on Slough of his constituency, the effects on that constituency of Department’s policies and actions since it was changes to his Department’s policies since its inception. established. [311985] [313398] 73W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 74W

Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate Change and its predecessors have implemented a large Change and its predecessors have implemented a large number of policies to address energy security, emissions number of policies to address energy security, emissions reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty since 1997. Some of the key achievements are set out as since 2000. Some of the key achievements are set out as follows, along with information on the number of follows, along with information on the number of households assisted by the Warm Front scheme in households assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Streatham constituency. It would be disproportionately South Thanet constituency.It would be disproportionately costly to provide statistical information on all the impact costly to provide statistical information on all the impact of all the policies to the level of detail requested, but of all the policies to the level of detail requested, but statistical information covering energy and climate change statistical information covering energy and climate change is available at: is available at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ statistics.aspx statistics.aspx Key achievements since 1997 Key achievements Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision for climate change and energy and showing how we will meet the for climate change and energy and showing how we will meet the carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. In the same year, the Department published National Policy In the same year, the Department published National Policy Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development of carbon capture and storage. of carbon capture and storage. The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of offshore wind in the world. offshore wind in the world. Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over 6 Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over 6 million households with insulation measures with almost 3 million million households with insulation measures with almost 3 million of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. Government will be providing more financial assistance to Government will be providing more financial assistance to help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon ways, where appropriate, through ‘clean energy cashback’ schemes: ways, where appropriate, through ‘clean energy cashback’ schemes: Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators (including households), will be provided through the electricity (including households), will be provided through the electricity supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses and communities. and communities. The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. Warm Front scheme: Streatham constituency Warm Front scheme: South Thanet constituency DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for households on qualifying income and disability related households on qualifying income and disability related benefits to install a range of insulation and heating benefits to install a range of insulation and heating measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has assisted 927 households in the Streatham constituency. assisted 2,067 households in the South Thanet constituency.

Thanet Totnes Transition Town Group

Dr. Ladyman: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Steen: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change if he will set out, with and Climate Change how much funding his Department statistical information related as directly as possible to has provided to Totnes Transition Town Group; over South Thanet constituency, the effects on South what period this funding is being provided; for what Thanet of the policies and actions of his Department purpose the funding is being provided; and how the and its predecessors since 2000. [315639] effectiveness of the funding will be evaluated. [314079] 75W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 76W

Joan Ruddock [holding answer 28 January 2010]: 6 million households with insulation measures with almost 3 Totnes Transition Group are being awarded £625,000 of million of these in a priority group of vulnerable households. funding, the benefits of which will be delivered mainly Government will be providing more financial assistance to in FY 2009-10 and some in FY 2010-11. Totnes Transition help people generate their own heat and electricity in low carbon Group are receiving this funding as they have been ways, where appropriate, through ‘clean energy cashback’ schemes: selected to take part in the low carbon communities Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) will be in place from April 2010. Payment challenge which is a £10 million Government research for low carbon electricity produced by small-scale generators project for communities to improve energy efficiency (including households), will be provided through the electricity supply companies to encourage the uptake of low carbon and and tackle the wider issue of climate change. renewable electricity generating technologies by households, businesses The monitoring and evaluation plan, managed by and communities. DECC, has been designed to capture evidence of project The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), scheduled for launch in impacts and promote community dialogue and shared April 2011, will provide households, communities and businesses learning. The primary objective of this is to help inform with payment for getting their heat from renewable sources. The and shape our policy in relation to the role of communities detailed design of the RHI is currently out for consultation. in delivering the transition to a low carbon economy Warm Front scheme: Vauxhall constituency and share our learning across the UK that will inspire DECC’s Warm Front scheme provides grants for and guide further community-led initiatives. households on qualifying income and disability related The evaluation strands consist of the installation of benefits to install a range of insulation and heating real time displays, survey of households, case studies, measures in their homes. Since 2000 the scheme has co-inquiry and shared learning. assisted 1,190 households in the Vauxhall constituency.

Vauxhall Warm Front Scheme

Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will set out, with statistical and Climate Change what mechanisms have been put evidence relating as closely as possible to Vauxhall in place to ensure that quotations from Warm Front constituency, the effects on the constituency of changes contractors match those in the private sector. [315649] to his Department’s policies since 1997. [310332] Mr. Kidney: In 2008 an independent audit carried out Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate by the Warm Front scheme’s quality assessors, White Change and its predecessors have implemented a large Young Green, confirmed that the Warm Front pricing number of policies to address energy security, emissions structures in place at that time provided good value for reductions, low carbon economic growth and fuel poverty money when compared with the wider market. This was since 1997. Some of the key achievements are set out as supported by the National Audit Office report into the follows, along with information on the number of scheme published in 2009. households assisted by the Warm Front scheme in Following a renegotiation of the scheme manager Vauxhall constituency. It would be disproportionately contract aimed at improving the quality of service for costly to provide statistical information on all the impact Warm Front customers a number of changes were of all the policies to the level of detail requested, but made to the Warm Front contract in July 2009. statistical information covering energy and climate change As part of this, under the new arrangements up to 35 is available at: per cent. of work will be allocated to appointed installers http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ at a new, competitively derived, set price. For the remaining statistics.aspx 65 per cent. of work, Warm Front registered installers Key achievements since 1997 operating will be able to bid via an electronic auction to Total UK greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by establish the lowest price. This will include all cases about 12 per cent. compared with 1997. where a customer contribution would be required under The UK is on track to cut emissions by nearly twice our Kyoto the fixed prices. Where a customer contribution is required, target (22 per cent. below 1990 levels by 2008-12 compared to the individual households will be free to choose between target of 12.5 per cent. set out under the Kyoto agreement). the three lowest bidders and to help them decide will The Climate Change Act in 2008 set a target of at least 80 per have access to the installer’s performance rating. cent. reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. Our first three carbon budgets legally bind the UK to a cut in greenhouse gases This new system is in the process of being rolled out of 34 per cent. by 2018-22 against a 1990 baseline. In 2009, the across England, with full coverage expected to be in UK’s Low Carbon Transition Plan set out the long-term vision place by 1 May 2010. for climate change and energy and showing how we will meet the The effectiveness of all Warm Front pricing and cost carbon budgets set out in the Climate Change Act. processes continue to be subject to regular review by the In the same year, the Department published National Policy Department and the independent audits by White Young Statements on energy infrastructure which will lead to faster and Green. fairer planning decisions and a diverse low carbon energy mix. An ambitious new framework for clean coal will also drive development of carbon capture and storage. Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for The UK’s energy market is the most competitive in the EU and Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made has attracted over £97 billion of investment from 1997 to 2008 (at of the number of back boilers which have been 2005 prices). The UK also has the greatest installed capacity of replaced under the Warm Front scheme in (a) Mid offshore wind in the world. Bedfordshire constituency, (b) Bedfordshire, (c) the Turning to household measures, since 2002, the Carbon Emissions East of England and (d) England in each year since its Reduction Target (CERT) and its predecessors have helped over inception. [317531] 77W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 78W

Mr. Kidney: The following table shows the total number the current phase of the scheme began in 2005, but does of boilers replaced by the Warm Front Scheme in (a) not differentiate between back boilers and other type of Mid Bedfordshire constituency, (b) Bedfordshire, (c) boiler replaced under Warm Front. Details on types of the East of England and (d) England in each year since boiler being replaced are not recorded.

Boilers installed 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-101

Mid Bedfordshire 3 18 68 99 78 Bedfordshire 70 349 1,059 1,245 851 East of England 711 2,946 6,330 7,976 7,309 England 14,136 53,436 75,600 80,548 74,932 1 Up to 10 February 2010

Warm Front Scheme: Feltham Table 1: Warm Front spend Feltham and Heston £

Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy 2006-07 202,014.09 and Climate Change how many applications from 2007-08 313,567.20 residents of Feltham and Heston constituency to the 2008-09 260,248.41 Warm Front Scheme for (a) heating, (b) insulation 2009-101 371,699.28 and (c) heating and insulation were approved in each of the last three years. [316664] Table 2: Heating rebate scheme Vouchers issued Funding (£)

Mr. Kidney: The following table shows the number 2006-07 1 315.46 applications where (a) heating (b) insulation and (c) 2007-08 66 20,449.32 both heating and insulation measures were recommended 2008-09 76 22,985.52 in Felton and Heston in each of the last three years. 2009-10 83 22,414.84 1 To 7 February 2010. Measure received 2007-08 2008-09 2009-101 Total The Government have a strong package of measures to help reduce fuel poverty among vulnerable households. Insulation 62 122 83 267 This is centred on tackling the three root causes of fuel Heating 96 57 68 221 poverty: Both687774219 (i) Reducing the demand for energy by improving home energy 1 Up to 31 January 2010. efficiency is encouraged through schemes such the Carbon Emissions Note: Reduction Target (CERT), the Community Energy Saving Programme These figures may include those cases where a measure was recommended (CESP), the Community Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF) and the but not carried out. This may occur of variety of reasons, for instance, where the client chooses to have work carried out privately Decent Homes Standard, in addition to the Warm Front scheme rather than wait for work to be carried out through the scheme. which continues to be the Government’s flagship scheme for tackling fuel poverty in the private household sector in England. Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy CERT requires energy suppliers to meet at least 40 per cent. of their obligation by promoting and installing measures in the and Climate Change how much has been spent on the homes of a Priority Group of vulnerable consumers in receipt of Warm Front programme in Feltham and Heston qualifying benefits or people aged over 70 years. Measures are constituency in each year since its inception; and what only reported at a GB level and details for the work carried out in other steps have been taken in that constituency to (a) Feltham and Heston are therefore not available. encourage greater energy efficiency measures and (b) (ii) Putting in place and continuously looking to improve a reduce the level of fuel poverty. [316665] regulatory framework that promotes competition as the main driver to ensure downward pressure on prices for consumers, and Mr. Kidney: Table 1 shows the amount of Warm to improve licence conditions and strengthen Ofgem’s powers Front scheme funding spent in Feltham and Heston in through the Energy Bill; and each year since its inception. (iii) Raising real incomes, including through winter fuel payments and cold weather payments alongside the wider tax and benefit Table 2 shows the number of homes and amount of system and through benefit entitlement checks under the Warm funding spent in Feltham and Heston by the Warm Front scheme. Front £300 rebate scheme (which provides assistance to We have also introduced legislation to implement households requiring boiler replacements or repairs for mandated social price support schemes once the current those over 60 and not receiving benefits which would voluntary agreement with suppliers comes to an end in give them access to the main Warm Front scheme) in 2011. These schemes will provide more of the most each year since its inception. vulnerable consumers with help towards their energy Table 1: Warm Front spend costs. We have said that we are minded to focus the Feltham and Heston £ majority of the additional resources on older pensioner households on the lowest incomes. 2001-02 17,569.35 2002-03 83,686.17 As these households tend to have a high incidence of 2003-04 101,036.17 fuel poverty—over 50 per cent. of fuel poor households 2004-05 247,734.90 have a person over 60 living in them; their circumstances 2005-06 194,810.70 are relatively stable; and they are at the greatest risk of excess winter deaths. 79W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 80W

The fuel poverty review which was announced in of the weekly amount of credit provided; by what January 2009, has been looking across all three drivers mechanisms payment of a claim will be triggered; how of fuel poverty, and particularly the key issue of how we many people she estimates will be eligible for that can more effectively identify and target assistance at the credit; and if she will make a statement. [308337] most vulnerable households. Jim Knight: We will be implementing the enhanced Wind Power Better off in Work Credit in one region from October 2010 as the first step towards a national roll-out. We expect the credit to be available nationally from January Richard Younger-Ross: To ask the Secretary of State 2011. The Better off in Work Credit will ensure that for Energy and Climate Change what plans he has everyone who has been unemployed for 26 weeks or for the future generating capacity of UK wind farms. more will have at least £40 a week more income on [316861] moving into work. The amount of the credit will vary from customer to customer and will be dependent on a Mr. Kidney: The UK does not have specific targets comparison of the income an individual receives in for wind power generation. However, under the lead work against the income they received from out of work scenario in the Renewable Energy Strategy published benefits. last July, more than 30 per cent. of our electricity could be generated from renewables by 2020. Much of this During the Better off in Work Credit pilot that ran in generation would be from onshore and offshore wind. Yorkshire and the Humber, customers made their applications at their local jobcentre in consultation with Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Jobcentre Plus staff. We will review this process to and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the determine the most effective means of taking applications (a) consumable electrical output and (b) proportion of taking account of the lessons learned from the pilot the maximum potential output generated by wind turbines before we roll out the next phase. during the severe weather conditions in December 2009 Of those who move from benefits to work in each and January 2010; and what estimate he has made of year, the vast majority are already better off in work. the cost per unit of generating electricity from (i) wind We expect only a small minority—up to around 100,000 turbines and (ii) non-renewable sources during that a year to qualify for the enhanced Better off in Work period. [316911] Credit.

Mr. Kidney: The latest official electricity output data Blaydon are for November 2009, when major power producers supplied 740 GWh from wind generation. Electricity Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State output data for December 2009 and January 2010 will for Work and Pensions if she will set out, with be available on 25 February 2010 and 25 March 2010 statistical information related as directly as possible to respectively. As such, we are unable to provide an estimate Blaydon constituency, the effect on that constituency of of the cost per unit of generation by either wind or her Department’s policies and actions since 2000. non-renewable sources in December and January. [315296] Load factors are defined as the average hourly quantity of electricity supplied during the year, expressed as a Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response percentage of the average output capability at the beginning to some of the biggest issues facing the Country—welfare and end of the year. As such, these are only calculated and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling on an annual basis, with the latest data for 2008 showing child poverty. As the biggest delivery department in the 29.4 per cent. for onshore wind and 34.9 per cent. for UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people offshore wind. every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to An indication of the load factors for December 2009 give people more choice and control over their lives and and January 2010 can be obtained by calculating total are committed to providing greater choice and personalised operational wind generation as a percentage of the support to everyone who needs it so they have the theoretical maximum generation for all operationally opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe metered wind plants. This data is made available by that work works. Even in economically challenging National Grid and only refers to wind which is operationally times we know that work works for the most vulnerable metered i.e. around half of the onshore wind farms and and the disadvantaged. none of the offshore wind farms. Onshore wind farms generated 20.9 per cent. and 30.3 per cent. of maximum Support to find work potential output in December and January respectively. Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as Where this figure exceeds the load factor for onshore the best form of welfare for people of working age. wind, given above, the plants covered by operational Since 2000, although the number of people unemployed metering were operating at above average levels. in Blaydon has increased by 45 per cent to 2,014, the number unemployed for more than one year has decreased by 28 per cent to 220. From May 2000 to May 2009 the WORK AND PENSIONS number of lone parents claiming Income Support in Better Off in Work Credit Blaydon has decreased by 24 per cent to 860. Our New Deals have helped lone parents, the young Steve Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, and Pensions when she expects the Better Off in Work the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to Credit to be available; what the monetary value will be move from benefit into work. Since their inception over 81W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 82W

2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, with the support of the New Deal, and 3,620 have been people aren’t left without a pension even in the event helped in Blaydon. that their employer becomes insolvent. Support for children In total 405 people in the North East Region are receiving compensation from the Pension Protection We introduced a target to halve child poverty by Fund (data not available at constituency level3). 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is measured using a headline indicator of the proportion Regional information about assistance payments received of children in households with an income below 60 per by members from the Financial Assistance Scheme cent of contemporary household median income before could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. housing costs. This is in line with international best The Government have also taken forward a radical practice. package of pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 which will deliver a fairer and more Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty generous state pension and extend the opportunity of are not available at the constituency level. But the latest workplace pension saving to millions, many for the first information for the North East Government Office time. Region shows that the proportion of children in poverty has fallen from 32 per cent. in 2000 to 28 per cent.1 The state pension reforms begin to come into effect from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of Support for older people women reaching State Pension age in 2010 are expected Figures from 2000 relating to support for older people to qualify for a full basic State Pension compared to could be obtained at only disproportionate cost. However, half without reform. figures are available from 1997 and these are shown as Support for disabled people and carers follows. Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation education, access to goods and services and transport. of support for all. Disabled people in Blaydon will have benefited from these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 This year we will be spending over £13 billion more contains powers to increase choice and control for on pensioners than if we had continued with policies disabled adults, including disabled parents who are that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how will go to the poorest third of pensioners. certain state support is used to meet their individual In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income needs. This will be trail blazed in up to eight local support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, carers have gained extra help through the provisions means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a within the National Carers Strategy. week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009 6,140 pensioners 1 Based on three-year averages and figures are rounded to the in Blaydon are benefiting from pension credit. nearest percentage point or 100,000 children between 2000-01 to 200-03 and 200-06 to 2007-08. In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living 2 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 2000-01 as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household to 2002-2003 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. income after housing costs). 3 Regional information about assistance payments received by Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could only be obtained at disproportionate cost. relative poverty are not available at the constituency level. But the latest data for the North East Government Chorley Office Region show that the number of pensioners in poverty in fell from 27 per cent. to 19 per cent. since 20002. Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical information Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of as closely related to Chorley constituency as possible, additional support such as the winter fuel payment the effect on that constituency of the policies of her which this winter is worth £250 for households aged Department and its predecessor since 1997. [314238] between 60-79 and £400 for households aged 80 or over. These payments provide vital reassurance to older people Jonathan Shaw: As the biggest delivery Department that they can afford to turn up their heating during cold in the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of weather. Prior to winter 1997-98 less than £60 million people every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel bills - this more rewarding lives that are free from poverty. The year the Government will be spending around £2.7 policies that we have introduced since 1997 have aimed billion on winter fuel payments alone. In 2008-09 19,980 to give people more choice and control over their lives. people aged 60 and over benefited from Winter fuel Through our welfare reform programme, we are committed payments in Blaydon. to providing personalised support to everyone who needs it so they have the opportunity to get into and We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect remain in work. the private pensions system to ensure people can continue to have confidence to save for their future through the Support to find work establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and the best form of welfare for people of working age. proactive pensions regulator. Since 1997, although the number of people unemployed 83W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 84W in Chorley has increased by 38 per cent. to 1,900, the The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, number unemployed for more than one year has decreased people are not left without a pension even in the event by 23 per cent. to 170. From May 1997 to May 2009 the that their employer becomes insolvent. number of lone parents claiming Income Support in In total 1,965 people in the North West Government Chorley has decreased by 43 per cent. to 690. Office Region are receiving compensation from the Our New Deal programmes have helped lone parents, Pension Protection Fund (data not available at constituency the young unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled level). people, the over 50s and partners of unemployed people We have also taken forward a radical package of to move from benefit into work. Since their inception pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 over 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found which will deliver a fairer and more generous state work with the support of the New Deal, and 2,810 have pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension been helped in Chorley. saving to millions, many for the first time. Support for Children The state pension reforms begin to come into effect from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of We introduced a target to halve child poverty by women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half measured using a headline indicator of the proportion without reform. of children in households with an income below 60 per cent. of contemporary household median income before Support for disabled people and their carers housing costs. This is in line with international best Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved practice. civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, education, access to goods and services and transport. Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty Disabled people in Chorley will have benefited from are not available at the constituency level, but the latest these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 information for the North West shows that the proportion contains powers to increase choice and control for of children in poverty fell from 32 per cent. to 27 per disabled adults, including disabled parents, enabling cent. since 1997. them to choose how certain state support is used to Support for older people meet their individual needs. Older and less well-off Since 1997 our strategy has been to target extra help carers are receiving extra help through the provisions at the poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation within the National Carers Strategy. of support for all. Cleethorpes This year we will spend over£13 billion more on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money Shona McIsaac: To ask the Secretary of State for will go to the poorest third of pensioners. Work and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical evidence relating as closely as possible to Cleethorpes In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received Income constituency, the effects on that constituency of her Support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). Department’s policies since 1997. [315244] Today Pension Credit, which was introduced in 2003, means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009, 5,330 to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare pensioners in Chorley are benefiting from Pension Credit. and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in child poverty.1 As the biggest delivery department in the relative poverty are not available at the constituency UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people level, but the latest information for the North West every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more Government Office Region shows that the proportion rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to of pensioners in poverty fell from 28 per cent. to 18 per give people more choice and control over their lives and cent. from 1997. are committed to providing greater choice and personalised Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of support to everyone who needs it so they have the additional support such as the winter fuel payment opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe which this winter is worth £250 for households aged that work works. Even in economically challenging between 60 and 79 and £400 for households aged 80 or times we know that work works for the most vulnerable over. These payments provide vital reassurance to older and the disadvantaged. people that they can afford to turn up their heating Support to find work during cold weather. Prior to winter 1997-98 less than Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as £60 million was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel the best form of welfare for people of working age. bills—this year we will be spending around £2.7 billion Since 1997, the number of people unemployed in on winter fuel payments alone. In 2008-09 22,320 people Cleethorpes has decreased by 5 per cent. to 2,655, and aged 60 and over benefited from winter fuel payments the number unemployed for more than one year has in Chorley. decreased by 54 per cent. to 295. From May 1997 to We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming income the private pensions system to ensure people can continue support in Cleethorpes has decreased by 25 per cent. to have confidence to save for their future through the to 980. establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Our new deals have helped lone parents, the young Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, proactive pensions regulator. the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to 85W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 86W move from benefit into work. Since their inception over In total 2296 people in the Yorkshire and Humber 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work region are receiving compensation from the Pension with the support of the new deal, and 4,130 have been Protection Fund (data not available at constituency helped in Cleethorpes. level).4 Support for children We have also taken forward a radical package of We introduced a target to halve child poverty by pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is which will deliver a fairer and more generous state measured using a headline indicator of the proportion pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension of children in households with an income below 60 per saving to millions, many for the first time. cent. of contemporary household median income before The state pension reforms begin to come into effect housing costs. This is in line with international best from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of practice. women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half are not available at the constituency level. But the latest without reform. information for the Yorkshire and the Humber Government Support for disabled people and carers office region shows that the proportion of children in Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved poverty has fallen from 32 per cent. in 1997 to 26 per civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, cent.2 education, access to goods and services and transport. Support for older people Disabled people in Cleethorpes will have benefited from these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the contains powers to increase choice and control for poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation disabled adults, including disabled parents who are of support for all. entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how This year we will be spending over £13 billion more certain state support is used to meet their individual on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies needs. This will be trail blazed in up to eight local that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off will go to the poorest third of pensioners. carers have gained extra help through the provisions In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income within the National Carers Strategy. support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, so information relates to the department and its predecessors. means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a 2 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009 6,410 pensioners nearest percentage point or 100,000 children between 1997-98 to in Cleethorpes are benefiting from pension credit. 1999-2000 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. 3 In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 1997-98 in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured to 1999-2000 and 2005-06-2007-08. as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household 4 Regional information about assistance payments received by income after housing costs). members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could be obtained Statistics on the numbers of pensioners living in only at disproportionate cost. relative poverty are not available at the constituency level. But the latest data for the Yorkshire and the Humber Government office region show that the number Council Tax Benefits and Housing Benefit of pensioners in poverty has fallen from 32 per cent. in 3 1997 to 18 per cent. Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of and Pensions what proportion of her Department’s additional support such as the winter fuel payment expenditure on (a) council tax benefit and (b) housing which this winter is worth £250 for households aged benefit was paid to (i) tenants renting privately, (ii) between 60-79 and £400 for households aged 80 or over. tenants renting from a social landlord and (iii) These payments provide vital reassurance to older people homeowners in the latest period for which figures are that they can afford to turn up their heating during cold available. [316252] weather. Prior to winter 1997-98 less than £60 million was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel bills - this Helen Goodman: In 2007-08 it is estimated that 14 per year we will be spending around £2.7 billion on winter cent. of council tax benefit expenditure was paid to fuel payments alone. In 2008-09 22,420 people aged 60 private tenants, 58 per cent. to social tenants, and 28 per and over benefited from winter fuel payments in cent. to homeowners. Cleethorpes. In 2008-09 one third of housing benefit expenditure We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect was paid to tenants renting privately, and two thirds to the private pensions system to ensure people can continue tenants in the social rented sector, including local authority to have confidence to save for their future through the tenants. establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Sources: Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and 1. Housing benefit: Administrative and financial data from local proactive pensions regulator. authorities The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, 2. Council tax benefit: National Statistics estimates of benefit people are not left without a pension even in the event take-up for 2007-08; available 2008-09 data from local authorities that their employer becomes insolvent. does not distinguish by tenure type. 87W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 88W

Employers’ Liability disabled, what estimate she has made of the (a) number and (b) proportion of disabled people employed (i) Paul Rowen: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and full-time and (ii) part-time in the (A) public and (B) Pensions when she plans to announce her decision on private sector in each year since 1997. [317944] the feasibility of a compulsory database for recording details for employers’ liability insurance policies. [316832] Jonathan Shaw: There are currently 5,819,000 people Jonathan Shaw: The Government published a of working age who declare a disability that corresponds consultation document ‘Accessing Compensation— to the Disability Discrimination Act’s definition of disability. Supporting people who need to trace Employers’ Liability Of these, 2,783,000 (47.8 per cent.) are in employment. Insurance’ on 10 February 2010. This consultation This has increased from 1,975,000 (39.7 per cent.) for document discusses the best way of setting up and the comparable quarter in 1998. Over the same period, administering such a compulsory database as well as the gap between the employment rate for disabled people consulting on an Employers’ Liability Insurance Bureau. and the overall employment rate has narrowed from This would be a compensation fund of last resort and 34.4 to 25.1 percentage points. would ensure that more individuals who are unable to trace employers’ liability insurance records would receive The information requested is in the tables. compensation. Number of people with a Disability Discrimination Act disability in full and part-time employment in the public and private sector Employment and Support Allowance: Medical Examinations Private sector Public sector Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 1998 1,062,000 421,000 323,000 153,000 and Pensions what minimum professional qualification is required of those who carry out work capability 1999 1,216,000 463,000 340,000 164,000 assessments for her Department. [305266] 2000 1,240,000 482,000 364,000 172,000 2001 1,294,000 474,000 383,000 192,000 Jonathan Shaw: Atos healthcare doctors must be fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) 2002 1,367,000 510,000 418,000 212,000 without current or previous restrictions, conditions or 2003 1,377,000 532,000 432,000 206,000 warnings and hold a licence to practice from the date 2004 1,465,000 565,000 457,000 228,000 the GMC issues licences. In addition they must have at least three years post full registration (GMC or EEA— 2005 1,433,000 518,000 464,000 233,000 European Economic Area equivalent) experience as a 2006 1,469,000 593,000 476,000 242,000 minimum. Alternatively for non-EU graduates, three 2007 1,492,000 592,000 483,000 247,000 years post full registration experience in the doctors native country is required. In individual cases, solely at 2008 1,496,000 582,000 491,000 244,000 the discretion of the Chief Medical Advisor (CMA), 2009 1,413,000 582,000 529,000 237,000 the requirements that no conditions or warnings be Note: attached to registration and that the doctor must have a The figures given do not add up to 2,783,000 because a small number minimum of three years post registration experience, of cases have missing values for either the full-time/part-time or the may be waived. private sector/public sector variables. Source: Atos healthcare nurses must be fully registered (level Labour Force Survey, quarter 3, 1998 to 2009. 1) Registered General Nurses without current or previous Proportion of working age people with a Disability Discrimination Act restrictions or cautions with the Nursing and Midwifery disability in full and part-time employment in the public and private Council. In addition they must have at least three years sector as a percentage post full registration experience. In individual cases, Private sector Public sector solely at the discretion of the CMA, the requirements Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time that no cautions be attached to registration and that the nurse must have a minimum of three years post registration 1998 21 8 6 3 experience, may be waived. 1999 23 9 7 3 2000 23 9 7 3 Atos healthcare doctors and nurses are specifically 2001 23 9 7 3 trained to provide decision making authorities with 2002 24 9 7 4 independent, accurate and authoritative advice and reports 2003 25 9 8 4 on the effects of disability. 2004 25 10 8 4 The CMA approves Healthcare Professionals to carry 2005 25 9 8 4 out assessments. Approval is dependent on strict recruitment 2006 25 10 8 4 criteria, completion of a course of training in disability 2007 26 10 8 4 assessment medicine approved by the CMA and evidence 2008 25 10 8 4 of satisfactory performance. 2009 24 10 9 4 Employment: Disabled Note: Percentages do not add up to 100 per cent. because a small number of cases have missing values for either the full-time/part-time or the Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work private sector/public sector variables. and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 2 February Source: 2010, Official Report, columns 257-58W,on employment: Labour Force Survey, quarter 3, 1998 to 2009. 89W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 90W

Proportion of employed people with a Disability Discrimination Act are committed to providing greater choice and personalised disability in full and part-time employment in the public and private support to everyone who needs it so they have the sector as a percentage opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe Private sector Public sector that work works. Even in economically challenging Full-time Part-time Full-time Part-time times we know that work works for the most vulnerable 1998 54 21 16 8 and the disadvantaged. 1999 56 21 16 8 Support to find work 2000 55 21 16 8 Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as 2001 55 20 16 8 the best form of welfare for people of working age. 2002 55 20 17 8 Since 1997, although the number of people unemployed 2003 54 21 17 8 in Feltham and Heston has increased by 32 per cent. to 2004 54 21 17 8 2,832, the number unemployed for more than one year 2005 54 20 18 9 has decreased by 86 per cent. to 75. From May 1997 to 2006 53 21 17 9 May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming income 2007 53 21 17 9 support in Feltham and Heston has decreased by 23 per 2008 53 21 17 9 cent. to 2,230. 2009 51 21 19 9 Our New Deals have helped lone parents, the young Note: Percentages do not add up to 100 per cent. because a small number of unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, cases have missing values for either the full-time/part-time or the the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to private sector/public sector variables. move from benefit into work. Since their inception over Source: 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work Labour Force Survey, quarter 3, 1998 to 2009. with the support of the New Deal, and 3,730 have been European Regional Development Fund helped in Feltham and Heston. Support for children Mr. Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for We introduced a target to halve child poverty by Work and Pensions how much employment-related 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is funding she expects each region to receive from the measured using a headline indicator of the proportion European Regional Development Programmes on a of children in households with an income below 60 per per capita basis in the period 2007 to 2013; and what cent. of contemporary household median income before information her Department holds on the distribution housing costs. This is in line with international best of such funds on a per capita basis to other EU practice. member States in that period for benchmarking purposes. [315671] Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty are not available at the constituency level, but the latest Ms Rosie Winterton: I have been asked to reply. information for the outer London area shows that the proportion of children in poverty is the same now, at 20 As a general rule, employment-related measures are 2 supported through the European Social Fund (ESF), per cent. as it was in 1997. although a small amount of the European Regional Support for older people Development Fund (ERDF) programmes may also be Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the spent on employment-related measures. However, figures poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation for ERDF employment-related measures for the regions of support for all. and counties of the UK and the other member states are not readily available and could be produced only at This year we will be spending over£13 billion more disproportionate cost. on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies ERDF expenditure is focused on research, innovation, that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money business development, environmental protection and will go to the poorest third of pensioners. infrastructure investment. In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). Feltham Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Work week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009, 5,180 and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical evidence pensioners in Feltham and Heston are benefiting from relating as closely as possible to Feltham and Heston pension credit. constituency, the effects on that constituency of In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living changes to her Department’s policies since 1997. in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured [316677] as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household income after housing costs). Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling relative poverty are not available at the constituency child poverty1. As the biggest delivery Department in level. But the latest data for the outer London area the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people Government office region show that the number of every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more pensioners in poverty (measured as below 60 per cent. rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to of contemporary median household income after housing give people more choice and control over their lives and costs) fell from 26 per cent. to 19 per cent. since 19973. 91W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 92W

Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of such staff have been employed by each such local authority; additional support such as the winter fuel payment and how many such staff each local authority plans to which this winter is worth £250 for households with employ in the next three years. [315106] someone aged between 60-79 and £400 for households with someone aged 80 or over. These payments provide Jim Knight: We cannot comment publicly on job vital reassurance to older people that they can afford to starts ahead of publication of the confirmed official turn up their heating during cold weather. Prior to statistical data, which is due in spring 2010. It is not winter 1997-98 less than £60 million was spent helping possible to estimate how many staff each local authority pensioners meet their fuel bills—this year we will be plans to employ in the next three years as this is not spending around £2.7 billion on winter fuel payments information we require as part of the Future Jobs Fund alone. In 2008-09, 15,490 people aged 60 and over bid process. benefited from winter fuel payments in Feltham and Heston. Margaret Moran: To ask the Secretary of State for We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect Work and Pensions what guidance her Department the private pensions system to ensure people can continue provides to local authorities on the role of social to have confidence to save for their future through the enterprises in the Future Jobs Fund. [315109] establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and Jim Knight: The future jobs fund provides an excellent proactive pensions regulator. opportunity for social enterprises and the third sector The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, to create jobs for young people, and this is reflected in people aren’t left without a pension even in the event the guidance available on the website available to all that their employer becomes insolvent. potential bidders. While my Department does not provide specific guidance to local authorities on the role of In total 473 people in the London region are receiving social enterprises in the future jobs fund, there are compensation from the Pension Protection Fund (data many examples of authorities working closely with 4 not available at constituency level). social enterprises to create new jobs. We have also taken forward a radical package of pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 Hemsworth which will deliver a fairer and more generous state pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension saving to millions, many for the first time. Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical information The state pension reforms begin to come into effect related as directly as possible to Hemsworth constituency, from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of the effects on Hemsworth of her Department’s policies women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected and actions since 2000. [316303] to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half without reform. Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response Support for disabled people and carers to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, child poverty1. As the biggest delivery Department in education, access to goods and services and transport. the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people Disabled people in Feltham and Heston will have benefited every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more from these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to 2009 contains powers to increase choice and control for give people more choice and control over their lives and disabled adults, including disabled parents who are are committed to providing greater choice and personalised entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how support to everyone who needs it so they have the certain state support is used to meet their individual opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe needs. This will be trailblazed in up to eight local that work works. Even in economically challenging authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off times we know that work works for the most vulnerable carers have gained extra help through the provisions and the disadvantaged. within the National Carers Strategy. Support to find work 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as so information relates to the Department and its predecessors. the best form of welfare for people of working age. 2 Based on three-year averages, and changes are rounded to the Since 2000, although the number of people unemployed nearest percentage point or 100,000 children between 1997-98 to in Hemsworth has increased by 42 per cent. to 2,164, 1999-2000 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. the number unemployed for more than one year has 3 Based on three-year averages, and changes are rounded to the decreased by 10 per cent. to 220. From May 2000 to nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 1997-98 May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming income to 1999-2000 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. support in Hemsworth has decreased by 29 per cent. to 4 Regional information about assistance payments received by 1,130. members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Our New Deals have helped lone parents, the young unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, Future Jobs Fund the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to move from benefit into work. Since their inception over Margaret Moran: To ask the Secretary of State for 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work Work and Pensions which local authorities have taken with the support of the New Deal, and 3,420 have been on more staff under the Future Jobs Fund; how many helped in Hemsworth. 93W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 94W

Support for children We have also taken forward a radical package of We introduced a target to halve child poverty by pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is which will deliver a fairer and more generous state measured using a headline indicator of the proportion pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension of children in households with an income below 60 per saving to millions, many for the first time. cent. of contemporary household median income before The state pension reforms begin to come into effect housing costs. This is in line with international best from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of practice. women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half are not available at the constituency level, but the latest without reform. information for the Yorkshire and Humber area shows Support for disabled people and carers that the proportion of children in poverty fell from 27 per cent. to 26 per cent. since 2000. Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, Support for older people education, access to goods and services and transport. Figures from 2000 relating to support for older people Disabled people in Hemsworth will have benefited from could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. However, these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 figures are available from 1997 and these are as follows. contains powers to increase choice and control for Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the disabled adults, including disabled parents who are poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how of support for all. certain state support is used to meet their individual This year we will be spending over£13 billion more needs. This will be trailblazed in up to eight local on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money carers have gained extra help through the provisions will go to the poorest third of pensioners. within the National Carers Strategy. In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). so information relates to the Department and its predecessors. Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, 2 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 2000-01 week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009 5,760 pensioners to 2002-03 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. in Hemsworth are benefiting from pension credit. 3 Regional information about assistance payments received by In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could be obtained in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured only at disproportionate cost. as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household income after housing costs). Housing Benefit Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in relative poverty are not available at the constituency Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work level. But the latest data for the Yorkshire and Humber and Pensions how much was spent on housing benefit Government office region show that the number of at 2009-10 prices in each year since 1997. [316237] pensioners in poverty has fallen from 26 per cent. in 2000 to 18 per cent2. Helen Goodman: The available information is in the Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of following table. additional support such as the winter fuel payment which this winter is worth £250 for households with Housing benefit expenditure in Great Britain someone aged between 60-79 and £400 for households £ million, 2009-10 prices with someone aged 80 or over. These payments provide 1997-98 14,837 vital reassurance to older people so that they can afford 1998-99 14,386 to turn up their heating during cold weather. Prior to 1999-2000 14,107 winter 1997-98 less than £60 million was spent helping 2000-01 14,047 pensioners meet their fuel bills—this year we will be spending around £2.7 billion on winter fuel payments 2001-02 14,265 alone. In 2008-09 19,740 people aged 60 and over benefited 2002-03 15,069 from winter fuel payments in Hemsworth. 2003-04 14,314 We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect 2004-05 14,847 the private pensions system to ensure people can continue 2005-06 15,429 to have confidence to save for their future through the 2006-07 15,966 establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the 2007-08 16,451 Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and 2008-09 17,447 proactive pensions regulator. Notes: 1. Expenditure figures include all housing benefit expenditure whether The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, funded by central or local government. people are not left without a pension even in the event 2. Real terms figures are in 2009-10 prices, and derived using the 2009 that their employer becomes insolvent. pre-Budget report GDP deflator. In total 2,296 people in the Yorkshire and Humber 3. Historic and forecast expenditure for housing benefit can be found on the internet at region are receiving compensation from the Pension http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd4/medium_term.asp Protection Fund (data not available at constituency Source: level)3. Local authority expenditure data 95W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 96W

Industrial Diseases: Compensation The chief executive of the Pension Protection Fund will write to the hon. Member in relation to the second part of his question as this is a matter for him. Jeff Ennis: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many former miners have (a) applied Milton Keynes for and (b) been granted industrial injuries benefit for miners’ knee; and what have been the five most frequent reasons for refusing applications. [310922] Mr. Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical information related as directly as possible to North Jonathan Shaw: Since the addition of osteoarthritis East Milton Keynes constituency, the effects on Milton of the knee to the list of prescribed industrial diseases Keynes of the policies and actions of her Department on 13 July 2009, 33,602 claims have been received. and its predecessors since 1997. [316038] 13,376 claims have been processed of which 5239 have received an award of, or an increase of, industrial Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response injuries disablement benefit. to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare Information is collected about the three most frequent and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling reasons for refusing applications. These are as follows: child poverty1. As the biggest delivery department in 3,420 were diagnosed with the disease but the assessment was the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people less than 14 per cent., which means IIDB is not payable; every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more 2,344 did not satisfy the occupational criteria; rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to give people more choice and control over their lives and 2,189 did not have the disease diagnosed. are committed to providing greater choice and personalised This information is based on an informal count by support to everyone who needs it so they have the the Jobcentre Plus offices dealing with industrial injuries opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe disablement benefit. We are looking into arrangements that work works. Even in economically challenging to publish this information as official statistics. times we know that work works for the most vulnerable My colleague, Lord McKenzie of Luton, had a very and the disadvantaged. helpful meeting with the National Union of Mineworkers Support to find work on 14 January to discuss how the scheme is operating in Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as relation to osteoarthritis of the knee claims, in particular the best form of welfare for people of working age. the medical assessment process, and to identify ways to Since 1997, the number of people unemployed in North improve its administration. Officials will be having further East Milton Keynes has increased by 153 per cent. to meetings with the mining unions to discuss this work in 3,093, and the number unemployed for more than one more detail. year has increased by 94 per cent. to 475. From May 1997 to May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming Jobcentre Plus: Finance Income Support in North East Milton Keynes has decreased by 6 per cent. to 1,310. Mrs. May: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Our New Deals have helped lone parents, the young and Pensions what budget for Jobcentre Plus outreach unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, work is in 2009-10; and what the budget will be in (a) the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to 2010-11, (b) 2011-12 and (c) 2012-13. [313160] move from benefit into work. Since their inception over 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work Jonathan Shaw: Jobcentre Plus has locations across with the support of the New Deal, and 2,560 have been the country providing outreach services. These meet the helped in North East Milton Keynes. needs of customers and communities, reaching the most Support for children disadvantaged and vulnerable in society. Outreach work We introduced a target to halve child poverty by is not an activity in its own right but covers a variety of 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is initiatives that form part of the core services delivered measured using a headline indicator of the proportion to our customers and as such there is no specific budget of children in households with an income below 60 per allocated for outreach work alone. cent. of contemporary household median income before housing costs. This is in line with international best Jobcentre Plus: Public Relations practice. Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work are not available at the constituency level, but the latest and Pensions what payments (a) Jobcentre Plus and information for the South East Government Office (b) the Pension Protection Fund has made to Fishburn Region shows that the proportion of children in poverty Hedges in the last 12 months for which figures are has fallen from 16 per cent. to 15 per cent. since 1997. available; for what purpose; and if she will place in the Support for older people Library a copy of the contracts under which such Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the payments have been made. [305146] poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation of support for all. Jim Knight: I can confirm that in the last 12 months This year we will be spending over £13 billion more Jobcentre Plus has spent £49,957 with Fishburn Hedges on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies which relates to fees associated with ESA public relations that were in place in 199. Around half of that money activity. will go to the poorest third of pensioners. 97W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 98W

In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). carers have gained extra help through the provisions Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, within the national carers strategy. means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009 3,900 pensioners so information relates to the department and its predecessors. in North East Milton Keynes are benefiting from pension 2 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the credit. nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 1997-98 In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living to 1999-2000 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. 3 in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured Regional information about assistance payments received by members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could be obtained as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household only at disproportionate cost. income after housing costs). Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in Motability relative poverty are not available at the constituency level. But the latest data for the South East Government Office Region show that the number of pensioners in Mr. Oaten: To ask the Secretary of State for Work poverty (measured as below 60 per cent. of contemporary and Pensions whether the motability contract for median household income after housing costs) has fallen electric-powered vehicles managed by her Department from 26 per cent. in 1997 to 16 per cent2. was subject to external tender; and what the monetary value of the current contract is. [315945] Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of additional support such as the Winter Fuel Payment Jonathan Shaw: Motability is an independent charitable which this winter is worth £250 for households with company and is responsible for the administration of someone aged between 60-79 and £400 for households the Motability Scheme. They have agreed to write separately with someone aged 80 or over. These payments provide to the hon. Gentleman on this matter. vital reassurance to older people that they can afford to turn up their heating during cold weather. Prior to Pathways to Work winter 1997-98 less than £60 million was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel bills - this year we will be spending around £2.7 billion on winter fuel payments Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work alone. In 2008-09 16,810 people aged 60 and over benefited and Pensions what profiling system the Department from winter fuel payments in North East Milton Keynes. currently uses to assess how far from the job market a claimant for (a) incapacity benefit and (b) employment We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect and support allowance who is referred to a Pathways to the private pensions system to ensure people can continue Work provider is. [315717] to have confidence to save for their future through the establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Jonathan Shaw: While we do not have an electronic Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and profiling system, people on incapacity benefit or proactive pensions regulator. employment and support allowance take part in interviews The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, with personal advisers who help customers identify people are not left without a pension even in the event appropriate job goals and move back into work as that their employer becomes insolvent. quickly as possible, depending on their individual In total 733 people in the South East are receiving circumstances. compensation from the Pension Protection Fund (data For employment and support allowance customers, not available at constituency level3). the discussion between personal advisers and claimants is informed by the report provided following a work-focused We have also taken forward a radical package of health-related assessment. This assessment provides the pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 opportunity for individuals to explore their aspirations which will deliver a fairer and more generous state and perceptions about engaging in work with a health pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension care professional. During the assessment customers’ are saving to millions, many for the first time. able to identify the health-related challenges preventing The state pension reforms begin to come into effect them from moving into work, and the interventions or from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of types of work-place adaptation, which might help them women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected to overcome these challenges. to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half As set out in the 2009 White Paper “Building Britain’s without reform. Recovery: Achieving Full Employment”, we are currently Support for disabled people and carers trialling a profiling tool for jobseekers to help target support. If successful we will consider using this to Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved support advisers’ judgment. civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, education, access to goods and services and transport. Disabled people in North East Milton Keynes will have Pensioners: Income benefited from these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 contains powers to increase choice and control Paul Holmes: To ask the Secretary of State for Work for disabled adults, including disabled parents who are and Pensions what recent estimate her Department has entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how made of the number of (a) single pensioner and (b) certain state support is used to meet their individual pensioner couple households living below the needs. This will be trail blazed in up to eight local guaranteed minimum income for pensioners. [316653] 99W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 100W

Angela Eagle: The information that is available is Sandwell shown in the following table. Information surrounding pensioners’ incomes is most commonly given in benefit Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work unit terms. The latest available information on pensioner and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical evidence incomes is for 2007-08 and figures have been rounded to relating as closely as possible to the borough of the nearest 100,000. Sandwell, the effects on that borough of changes to the In 2007-08, the latest year for which data is available, policies of her Department and its predecessors since the Pension Credit Guarantee Credit amounts were 1997. [316476] £119.05 and £181.70, for singles and couples respectively. Table 1: Number of pensioner units living with income below the Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response minimum income guarantee (at 2007-08 levels) to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare Number and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling child poverty1. As the biggest delivery Department in Pensioner singles 400,000 the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people Pensioner couples 200,000 every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more Notes: 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest 100,000. 2. rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to Pensioner units are either a single pensioner over state pension age (65 and over for men or 60 and over for women) or pensioner couples. give people more choice and control over their lives and Pensioner couples are couples where at least one member is over state are committed to providing greater choice and personalised pension age. 3. Income is calculated as the benefit unit’s gross income. support to everyone who needs it so they have the 4. Based on FRS survey data and as such subject to a degree of opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe sampling and non-sampling error. Source: Pensioners’ Incomes Series that work works. Even in economically challenging (derived from the Family Resources Survey). times we know that work works for the most vulnerable and the disadvantaged. Pensioners: Poverty Support to find work Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as Paul Holmes: To ask the Secretary of State for Work the best form of welfare for people of working age. and Pensions whether her Department has Since 1997, although the number of people unemployed commissioned recent research into the material in West Bromwich East has increased by 37 per cent. to deprivation of pensioner households. [316530] 3,660, the number unemployed for more than one year has decreased by 24 per cent. to 665. From May 1997 to Angela Eagle: The latest published research on material May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming income deprivation of pensioner households reported on a support in West Bromwich East has decreased by 2 per programme of work to develop new survey questions cent. to 1,370. for DWP’s Family Resources Survey which were introduced Our new deals have helped lone parents, the young in May 2008. The research identified problems in measuring unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, material deprivation among older people and suggested the over-50s and partners of unemployed people to a new question structure to address these problems. move from benefit into work. Since their inception over Details of this research are available at: 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/WP54.pdf with the support of the new deal, and 16,370 have been and helped in the Sandwell local authority area. http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/WP55.pdf Support for children Information from the survey will be included in We introduced a target to halve child poverty by Households Below Average Incomes 2008-09, due to be 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is published in April/May 2010, reflecting responses to the measured using a headline indicator of the proportion 15 individual questions relating to material deprivation. of children in households with an income below 60 per We are currently in the process of commissioning research cent. of contemporary household median income before to assess options for combining these responses into an housing costs. This is in line with international best overall indicator of the material deprivation of pensioner practice. households. Statistics on the number of children living in poverty are not available at the constituency level, but the latest Pensions: Senior Civil Servants information for the West Midlands area shows that the proportion of children in poverty fell from 28 per cent. to 27 per cent. since 1997. Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether bonus payments paid to Support for older people senior civil servants form part of their remuneration Since 1997, our strategy has been to target help on for pension purposes. [315507] the poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation of support for all. Ms Butler: I have been asked to reply. This year we will be spending over £13 billion more Civil servants, including senior civil servants, have the on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies choice of a pension provided under the rules of the that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme or an employer will go to the poorest third of pensioners. contribution to a stakeholder pension. The general In 1997, the poorest pensioners who received income principle is that bonus payments are not normally support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). pensionable. Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, 101W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 102W means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a 2 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009, 26,720 nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 1997-98 pensioners in the borough of Sandwell are benefiting to 1999-2000 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. from pension credit. 3 Regional information about assistance payments received by members from the Financial Assistance Scheme could be obtained In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living only at disproportionate cost. in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household income after housing costs). Second State Pension Statistics on proportion of pensioners living in relative poverty are not available at the constituency level. But Steve Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work the latest data for the West Midlands Government Office and Pensions how much was spent on the second state Region show that the number of pensioners in poverty 2 pension in 2009-10; how much such expenditure was on has fallen from 28 per cent. in 1997 to 18 per cent . entitlements accrued during (a) 2008-09, (b) 2007-08 Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of and (c) 2006-07; and if she will make a statement. additional support such as the winter fuel payment [301008] which this winter is worth £250 for households with someone aged between 60-79 and £400 for households Angela Eagle [holding answer 23 November 2009]: with someone aged 80 or over. These payments provide Public expenditure on state second pension/state earnings- vital reassurance to older people so that they can afford related pension scheme in 2009-10 is expected to be to turn up their heating during cold weather. Prior to £13,200 million. winter 1997-98, less than £60 million was spent helping The following table shows the planned expenditure pensioners meet their fuel bills—this year we will be on state second pension entitlements accrued during spending around £2.7 billion on winter fuel payments (a) 2008-09, (b) 2007-08 and (c) 2006-07. alone. In 2008-09, 55,210 people aged 60 and over benefited from winter fuel payments in the borough of Financial year, cash terms Sandwell. Year second state pension Planned expenditure (£ million) entitlements accrued in 2009-10 We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect the private pensions system to ensure people can continue 2008-09 20 to have confidence to save for their future through the 2007-08 60 establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the 2006-07 100 Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and Notes: proactive pensions regulator. 1. Figures have been rounded to the nearest £10 million. 2. Forecasts of second state pension/state earnings related pension The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, scheme people are not left without a pension even in the event are based on the pre-Budget report 2009 forecasts. that their employer becomes insolvent. Published expenditure tables can found at the following link: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd4/medium_term.asp In total 4,709 people in the West Midlands region are 3. Updated forecasts are scheduled to be published at Budget 2010. receiving compensation from the Pension Protection 4. Accrued entitlement after 2002 only relates to second state pension Fund (data not available at constituency level)3. and does not include the state earnings related pension scheme. 5. The table shows that there are more cohorts in the later years that We have also taken forward a radical package of have accrued entitlement. Planned expenditure in 2009-10 of entitlements pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 accrued in 2008-09 relates to men currently aged 65 and women aged which will deliver a fairer and more generous state 60. Planned expenditure in 2009-10 of entitlement accrued in 2007-08 pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension relates to men currently aged 65, 66 and women aged 60, 61. Planned saving to millions, many for the first time. expenditure in 2009-10 of entitlement accrued in 2006-07 relates to men currently aged 65, 66, 67 and women aged 60, 61, 62. The state pension reforms begin to come into effect Source: from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of Strategy Directorate modelling. women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half Slough without reform. Support for disabled people and carers Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved Work and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, information related as directly as possible to the Slough education, access to goods and services and transport. constituency, the effects on Slough of her Department’s Disabled people in Sandwell will have benefited from policies and actions since 2000. [311978] these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 contains powers to increase choice and control for Jonathan Shaw: As the biggest delivery department in disabled adults, including disabled parents who are the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more certain state support is used to meet their individual rewarding lives that are free from poverty. The policies needs. This will be trail-blazed in up to eight local that we have introduced since 1997 have aimed to give authority areas from late 2010. people more choice and control over their lives. Through Older and less well-off carers have gained extra help our welfare reform programme, we are committed to through the provisions within the National Carers Strategy. providing personalised support to everyone who needs 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and it so they have the opportunity to get into and remain in so information relates to the Department and its predecessors. work. 103W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 104W

Support to find work We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as the private pensions system to ensure people can continue the best form of welfare for people of working age. to have confidence to save for their future through the Since 1997, although the number of people unemployed establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the in Slough has increased by 39 per cent. to 3,028, the Financial Assistance Scheme and a more powerful and number unemployed for more than one year has decreased proactive pensions regulator. by 54 per cent. to 270. From May 1997 to May 2009 the The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, number of lone parents claiming income support in people are not left without a pension even in the event Slough has decreased by 21 per cent. to 1,740. that their employer becomes insolvent. Our New Deal programmes have helped lone parents, In total 716 people in the South East Region are the young unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled receiving compensation from the Pension Protection people, the over 50s and partners of unemployed people Fund (data not available at the constituency level). to move from benefit into work. Since their inception We have also taken forward a radical package of over 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 work with the support of the New Deal and 3,200 have which will deliver a fairer and more generous state been helped in Slough. pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension Support for children saving to millions, many for the first time. We introduced a target to halve child poverty by The state pension reforms begin to come into effect 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of measured using a headline indicator of the proportion women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected of children in households with an income below 60 per to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half cent. of contemporary household median income before without reform. housing costs. This is in line with international best Support for disabled people and carers practice. Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved Statistics on the number of children living in poverty civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, are not available at the constituency level, but the latest education, access to goods and services and transport. information for the South East Government Office Disabled people in Slough will have benefited from Region shows that the proportion of children in poverty these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 rose from 14 per cent. to 15 per cent. since 2000. contains powers to increase choice and control for Support for older people disabled adults, including disabled parents, enabling them to choose how certain state support is used to Since 1997 our strategy has been to target extra help meet their individual needs. Older and less well-off at the poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation carers are receiving extra help through the provisions of support for all. within the National Carers Strategy. This year we will spend over £13 billion more on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies Social Security Benefits: Debts that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money will go to the poorest third of pensioners. Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income Work and Pensions pursuant to the answer of 25 support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). January 2010, Official Report, column 578W, on social Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, security benefits: debts, in respect of which Jobcentre means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a Plus district is each of the 10 largest debts owed to the week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009, 4,060 Department. [317169] pensioners in Slough are receiving pension credit. In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living Helen Goodman: The Department treats all personal in relative poverty in the UK compared to 1998-99 data as confidential. We take extremely seriously our (measured as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median duty to protect customer confidentiality. We believe the household income after housing costs). Statistics on the release of this information could lead to confidentiality number of pensioners living in relative poverty are not being compromised; so breaching our duty of care to available at the constituency level, but the latest information our customers. for the South East Government Office Region shows that poverty has fallen from 23 per cent. to 16 per cent. Social Security Benefits: Fraud since 2000. Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of additional support such as the Winter Fuel Payment David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for which this winter is worth £250 for households aged Work and Pensions how many people in England and between 60-79 and £400 for households aged 80 or over. Wales have been prosecuted for benefit fraud on (a) These payments provide vital reassurance to older people more than one occasion and (b) more than two that they can afford to turn up their heating during cold occasions in each of the last three years. [314575] weather. Prior to winter 1997-98 less than £60 million was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel bills—this Helen Goodman: Information on the number of people year we will be spending around £2.7 billion on Winter in England and Wales prosecuted for benefit fraud on Fuel Payments alone. In 2008-09 14,090 people aged 60 more than one occasion and more than two occasions and over benefited from Winter Fuel Payments in Slough. in each of the last three years is not available. 105W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 106W

Information is available for convictions during 2006-07 child poverty1. As the biggest delivery department in in cases where benefit fraud has been committed on the UK, DWP makes a difference to millions of people more than one or more than two occasions. The available every day, helping them to lead safer, fairer and more information is in the table: rewarding lives that are free from poverty. We want to give people more choice and control over their lives and Number are committed to providing greater choice and personalised support to everyone who needs it so they have the Number of people convicted where benefit fraud committed on: opportunity to get into and remain in work. We believe more than one occasion 104 that work works. Even in economically challenging times we know that work works for the most vulnerable more than two occasions 0 and the disadvantaged. Options for collating this data more systematically Support to find work are kept under review subject to cost effectiveness. Through Jobcentre Plus, we are promoting work as the best form of welfare for people of working age. Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Since 2000, although the number of people unemployed and Pensions in which countries persons living abroad in South Thanet has increased by 31 per cent. to 2,153, who are identified as having perpetrated benefit fraud the number unemployed for more than one year has reside. [316365] decreased by 21 per cent. to 280. From May 2000 to May 2009 the number of lone parents claiming income Jonathan Shaw: UK nationals can, in certain support in South Thanet has decreased by 24 per cent. circumstances, continue to receive some benefits while to 1,070. abroad, others will cease immediately. The Department for Work and Pensions is reminding people in the latest Our new deals have helped lone parents, the young targeting fraud campaign and in leaflets, of their unemployed, the long-term unemployed, disabled people, responsibility to tell us if they are going abroad. the over 50s and partners of unemployed people to In addition we are increasing the number of countries move from benefit into work. Since their inception over with which we have arrangements for closer working 2.2 million people in Great Britain have found work and data sharing and employing Department for Work with the support of the new deal, and 3,640 have been and Pensions officers based abroad. helped in South Thanet. Recent investigations have identified evidence of fraud Support for children in 51 cases in the following countries: We introduced a target to halve child poverty by Australia 2010-11 on the way to eradicating it by 2020. Poverty is Austria measured using a headline indicator of the proportion Bahrain of children in households with an income below 60 per cent. of contemporary household median income before Bulgaria housing costs. This is in line with international best Canada practice. Cyprus Statistics on the numbers of children living in poverty Eire are not available at the constituency level. But the latest France information for the south east Government office region Greece shows that the proportion of children in poverty has Holland risen from 14 per cent. to 15 per cent. since 2000.2 India Support for older people Italy Figures from 2000 relating to support for older people New Zealand could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. However, Pakistan figures are available from 1997 and these are shown as Portugal follows. South Africa Since 1997 our strategy has been to target help on the Spain poorest pensioners while providing a solid foundation Thailand of support for all. Trinidad and Tobago This year we will be spending over £13 billion more USA on pensioners than if we had continued with the policies that were in place in 1997. Around half of that money Thanet will go to the poorest third of pensioners. Dr. Ladyman: To ask the Secretary of State for Work In 1997 the poorest pensioners, who received income and Pensions if she will set out, with statistical support, lived on £69 a week (£98 in today’s prices). information related as directly as possible to South Today pension credit, which was introduced in 2003, Thanet constituency, the effects on South Thanet of means no pensioner needs to live on less than £130 a her Department’s policies and actions since 2000. week, £198.45 for couples. As of May 2009 6,340 pensioners [315632] in South Thanet are benefiting from pension credit. In 2007-08 there were 900,000 fewer pensioners living Jonathan Shaw: DWP lead the Government’s response in relative poverty in UK compared to 1998-99 (measured to some of the biggest issues facing the country—welfare as below 60 per cent. of contemporary median household and pension reform—and are a key player in tackling income after housing costs). 107W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 108W

Statistics on the proportion of pensioners living in Winter Fuel Payments relative poverty are not available at the constituency level. But the latest data for the south east Government Mr. Peter Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State office region show that the number of pensioners in for Work and Pensions (1) what estimate she has made poverty fell from 23 per cent. to16 per cent. since 20003. of the proportion of recipients of the winter fuel Pensioners in the UK also benefit from a range of payment who were (a) in fuel poverty when they additional support such as the winter fuel payment received those payments and (b) no longer in fuel which this winter is worth £250 for households aged poverty as a result of having received those payments in between 60 to 79 and £400 for households aged 80 or each year since the implementation of the winter fuel over. These payments provide vital reassurance to older payment scheme; and if she will make a statement; people that they can afford to turn up their heating [317062] during cold weather. Prior to winter 1997-98 less than (2) what estimate she has made of the proportion of £60 million was spent helping pensioners meet their fuel recipients of cold weather payments who were (a) in bills—this year we will be spending around £2.7 billion fuel poverty when they received those payments and on winter fuel payments alone. In 2008-09 22,070 people (b) no longer in fuel poverty as a result of having aged 60 and over benefited from winter fuel payments received those payments in each year since the in South Thanet. implementation of the cold weather payment scheme; We have also taken steps to strengthen and protect and if she will make a statement. [317063] the private pensions system to ensure people can continue Angela Eagle: The information requested is not available. to have confidence to save for their future through the establishment of the Pensions Protection Fund, the Identifying those in fuel poverty is very difficult; financial assistance scheme and a more powerful and however we know that the main contributing factors are proactive pensions regulator. energy efficiency of homes, energy prices and household income. The protection system ensures that, unlike in 1997, Both winter fuel and cold weather payments contribute people aren’t left without a pension even in the event to vulnerable households’ incomes and provide reassurance that their employer becomes insolvent. that money will be available to contribute towards fuel In total 733 people in the south east region are bills. These payments form only part of a package of receiving compensation from the Pension Protection measures that the Government have put in place to Fund (data not available at constituency level).4 tackle fuel poverty. We have also taken forward a radical package of It is estimated that winter fuel payments help to keep pension reforms in the Pensions Acts of 2007 and 2008 around 200,000 households out of fuel poverty each which will deliver a fairer and more generous state year in the UK. pension and extend the opportunity of workplace pension Winter Fuel Payments: Bexley saving to millions, many for the first time. The state pension reforms begin to come into effect Mr. Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work from 2010 and will mean around three quarters of and Pensions how many residents of (a) Bexleyheath women reaching state pension age in 2010 are expected and Crayford constituency and (b) the London to qualify for a full basic state pension compared to half borough of Bexley have received cold weather without reform. payments since 1 November 2009. [317265] Support for disabled people and carers Helen Goodman: Cold weather payment information Since 2001, we have significantly extended and improved is not available by constituency or local authority. It is civil rights for disabled people in areas such as employment, only available by weather station and postcode. education, access to goods and services and transport. Disabled people in South Thanet will have benefited from these improvements. The Welfare Reform Act 2009 contains powers to increase choice and control for HEALTH disabled adults, including disabled parents who are Accident and Emergency Departments entitled to state support, enabling them to choose how certain state support is used to meet their individual Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for needs. This will be trailblazed in up to eight local Health what data accident and emergency departments authority areas from late 2010. Older and less well off are obliged to (a) collect and (b) return to his carers have gained extra help through the provisions Department regarding causes of admission. [317827] within the National Carers Strategy. 1 The Department for Work and Pensions was created in 2001 and Mr. Mike O’Brien: Accident and emergency departments so information relates to the Department and its predecessors. collect details about cause of admission. An extract of 2 Based on three-year averages and figures are rounded to the this data set is then collected centrally by the NHS nearest percentage point or 100,000 children between 2000-01 to Information Centre for health and social care as part of 2002-03 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. Hospital Episode Statistics and is published. 3 Based on three-year averages and changes are rounded to the Two data items collected in Hospital Episode Statistics nearest percentage point or 100,000 pensioners between 2000-01 describe the cause of admission: “Patient group” picks to 2002-03 and 2005-06 to 2007-08. out seven specific causes, namely road traffic accident, 4 Regional information about assistance payments received by assault, deliberate self-harm, sports injury, firework members from the financial assistance scheme could be obtained injury, other accident, and brought in dead. “Clinical only at disproportionate cost. diagnosis” provides a wider range of categories for 109W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 110W cause of admission. Details for these categories are There are a variety of direct risk factors that can lead published in the Clinical Diagnosis section of the Hospital to cancer and heart disease, but we know that tobacco, Episodes Data Dictionary. A copy of this has been poor diet, genetics, such as a mutated BRC2 gene, and placed in the Library and is also available at: alcohol can cause cancer or heart disease in some www.hesonline.org.uk/Ease/servlet/Attachment individuals. Retriever?site_id=1937&file_name=d:\efmfiles\1937\ Understanding\AEDD_Jul09.pdf&short_name=AEDD_Jul09. From work carried out by the North West Public pdf&u_id=8500 Health Observatory we are able to estimate what the No data on causes of admission are returned to the proportion of hospital admissions are due to alcohol Department. consumption, this is know as the alcohol attributable fraction (AAF). The following table provides the AAFs for cancer of the oesophagus, cancer of the larynx, Alcoholic Drinks: Cancer and Strokes breast cancer. As there is no AAF for stroke, we have provided AAFs for haemorrhagic stroke, ischaemic stroke Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for as a proxy and as there is no AAF for heart disease, we Health (1) what the cost to the NHS was of treating have provided AAFs for alcoholic cardiomyopathy, strokes caused by the consumption of alcohol in the ischaemic heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias and heart last year for which figures are available; [316281] failure as a proxy. There are no such appropriate proxy (2) what the cost to the NHS was of treating (a) AAFs for dementia or depression. depression and (b) dementia attributable to alcohol in AAFs for haemorrhagic stroke, ischaemic stroke, cancer of the lip, oral the last year for which figures are available; [316284] cavity and pharynx, cancer of the oesophagus, cancer of the larynx, breast cancer and hypertension, alcoholic cardiomyopathy, ischaemic (3) what the cost to the NHS was of treating breast heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure cancer attributable to alcohol consumption in the last Percentage year for which figures are available; [316287] Condition Alcohol attributable factor (4) what the causes are of (a) breast cancer and (b) Male Female heart disease; and what proportion of cases of each were attributable to each such factor in the last 12 Haemorrhagic stroke 24 10 months; [316288] Ischaemic stroke 4 *-6 (5) what the cost to the NHS was of treating (a) Cancer of the lip, oral cavity 47 28 breast cancer and (b) heart disease attributable to the and pharynx consumption of alcohol in the last year for which Cancer of the oesophagus 26 13 figures are available; [316290] Cancer of the larynx 29 16 (6) how many reported cases of stroke there were in Breast cancer n/a 7 the last year for which figures are available; and in how Hypertensive disease 28 13 many such cases the consumption of alcohol was a Alcoholic cardiomyopathy 100 100 direct causal factor; [316291] Ischaemic heart disease *-6 *-4 (7) what the cost to the NHS was of treating cancer Cardiac arrhythmias 33 25 of the (a) mouth, (b) oesophagus and (c) larynx Heart failure 0.4 0.2 attributable to the consumption of alcohol in the last Source: year for which figures are available. [316295] Alcohol-attributable fractions for England, North West Public Health Observatory, 2008 Gillian Merron: The cost of treating specific alcohol- related conditions, such as breast cancer, heart disease, It is important to note that although recent meta-analyses stroke or mental health conditions can be given only at showed that alcohol consumption was found to have a disproportionate cost. However, alcohol misuse is protective effects on the risk of four conditions: ischaemic estimated to cost the national health service around heart disease (IHD); ischaemic stroke, type II diabetes; £2.7 billion per annum, which is broken down in the and cholelithiasis, the health benefits for heart disease following table. mostly accrue at low levels of consumption (no more Estimates of the annual cost of alcohol misuse to the NHS in England than one-two units daily is needed for the main protective Cost estimate (£ million) effect) and the benefits are mainly only seen in men over 40 years old and in postmenopausal women. Drinking Hospital in-patient and day visits above the recommend lower-risk levels, of not regularly Directly attributable to alcohol misuse 167.6 drinking more than three-four units per day for men Partly attributable to alcohol misuse 1,022.7 and not regularly drinking more than two-three units per day for women, however, does increase the risk of Hospital out-patient visits 272.4 both ischaemic heart disease and ischaemic stroke compared Accident and emergency visits 645.7 to non-drinkers. Ambulance services 372.4 In 2008-09, there were 84,926 hospital admissions NHS GP consultations 102.1 due to stroke. As there is no AAF for stroke we cannot Practice nurse consultations 9.5 say how many of these admissions were due to alcohol, Laboratory tests n/a but we can provide the number of hospital admissions Dependency prescribed drugs 2.1 for alcohol-related haemorrhagic stroke and alcohol-related Specialist treatment services 55.3 ischaemic stroke as a proxy. In 2008-09, there were Other health care costs 54.4 2,445 admissions for alcohol-related haemorrhagic stroke Total 2,704.1 and 1,197 admissions for alcohol-related ischaemic stroke. 111W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 112W

Alzheimer’s Disease: Research The autism strategy will be published shortly, in advance of that date. Mr. Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what funding his Department has allocated for Mr. Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for research into the causes of Alzheimer’s disease in each Health what progress has been made by his of the last three years. [317778] Department in producing a national autism strategy; and when he expects to issue guidance to local Mr. Lammy: I have been asked to reply. authorities and strategic health authorities. [317883] The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills Phil Hope: The Autism Act 2009 commits the does not allocate funding for specific research directly Government to publishing a strategy for adults with but provides funding through the research councils. autism no later than 1 April 2010. The autism strategy The Medical Research Council (MRC) currently funds will be published shortly, in advance of that date. studies into the causes, prevention and treatment of The Department will consult on the content of guidance dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. These include for health and social care bodies over the summer and studying drug treatment for managing symptoms, will publish that guidance before the end of December. supporting tissue banks, and research into ‘biomarkers’ that might improve diagnosis. Other teams are investigating ways to diagnose and measure the progression of dementia Breast Cancer and studying genes that may increase risk. MRC expenditure on dementia research, including Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Alzheimer’s, in the last three years was as follows: Health how many deaths from breast cancer there were in the last year for which figures are available. [316289] MRC expenditure (£ million) Angela E. Smith: I have been asked to reply. 2006-07 6.4 The information requested falls within the responsibility 2007-08 10.2 of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority 2008-09 11.5 to reply. The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 9 February 2010: Council (BBSRC) supports basic biological research in As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I neuroscience and psychology. This includes basic have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many underpinning research that may increase understanding deaths from breast cancer there were in the last year for which of the causes of Alzheimer’s. Funding on this research figures are available. (316289) in the last three years was as follows: The table attached provides the number of deaths where breast cancer was the underlying cause of death, in England and Wales, Funding (£ million) in 2008 (the latest year available). Table 1: Number of deaths where breast cancer was the underlying cause of 2006-07 0.5 death, England and Wales, 20081,2,3 2007-08 0.6 Cause of death Deaths (persons) 2008-09 0.5 Breast cancer 10,779 Additionally, the BBSRC funds research of relevance 1 Cause of death was defined using the International Classification of Diseases, to amyloids, which are implicated in Alzheimer’s and Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code C50. 2 Figures for England and Wales include deaths of non-residents. other neurodegenerative diseases. Funding on this research 3 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year. in the last three years was as follows: Breast Cancer: Hemsworth Funding (£ million)

2006-07 0.4 Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 2007-08 0.8 how many and what percentage of women resident in 2008-09 0.8 Hemsworth constituency with suspected breast cancer saw a specialist within two weeks of referral in each Autism year since 1997. [316628]

Mr. Streeter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Ann Keen: The information is not available in the what progress has been made by his Department in format requested. The following table shows the number producing a national autism strategy. [317349] of people seen and the percentage seen within two weeks, following an urgent referral for suspected breast Phil Hope: The legislation mandates a time frame for cancer for Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust the publication of the strategy by 1 April 2010. and Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust

Quarter (Q) Number Percentage Number Percentage

2001-02 Q1 98 96.1 86 69.9 Q2 111 100.0 60 42.6

Q3 121 100.0 141 88.1 113W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 114W

Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Quarter (Q) Number Percentage Number Percentage

Q4 122 100.0 108 100.0

2002-03 Q1 118 95.9 162 100.0 Q2 129 98.5 159 100.0 Q3 101 84.2 223 98.7 Q4 137 100.0 174 97.2

2003-04 Q1 126 100.0 181 98.9 Q2 148 100.0 241 97.6 Q3 157 100.0 208 92.9 Q4 156 100.0 215 91.1

2004-05 Q1 155 100.0 208 99.5 Q2 149 100.0 190 98.4 Q3 164 100.0 241 99.2 Q4 159 100.0 215 96.4

2005-06 Q1 199 100.0 231 98.7 Q2 180 100.0 279 98.9 Q3 188 100.0 283 100.0 Q4 190 100.0 259 100.0

2006-07 Q1 177 100.0 308 100.0 Q2 157 100.0 267 100.0 Q3 175 100.0 352 100.0 Q4 175 100.0 313 100.0

2007-08 Q1 154 100.0 288 100.0 Q2 149 100.0 307 99.7 Q3 151 100.0 424 99.8 Q4 154 100.0 363 100.0

2008-09 Q1 186 100.0 454 99.6 Q2 147 100.0 444 100.0 Q3 166 100.0 420 100.0 Q4 159 98.1 416 96.1

2009-10 Q1 177 97.3 390 95.6 Q2 158 99.4 392 97.5 Source: Cancer Waiting Times database.

Cancer: Drugs on cancer. Full details of completed and ongoing appraisals of these treatments can be found at www.nice.org.uk Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for the merits of providing to patients with rare cancers Health (1) what steps he plans to take to reduce the second line treatments licensed for their conditions. time taken for individual funding requests for drug [316548] treatment from patients with metastatic cancer to be processed; [317381] (2) what assessment he has made of the performance Ann Keen: The Department has made no assessment of each primary care trust in meeting the timescales set of the merits of providing to patients with rare cancer out in the National Prescribing Centre’s guidance on second line treatments licensed for their conditions. Principles for Processes Supporting Local Decision- However, second line treatments for patients with making about Medicines in (a) decision making, (b) rarer cancers are included in the National Institute for communication of outcome, (c) case type and (d) Health and Clinical Excellence’s programme of work appeals processes. [317382] 115W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 116W

Mr. Mike O’Brien: The National Prescribing Centre’s Cancer: Hemsworth document, ‘Defining Guiding Principles for Processes supporting Local Decision Making about Medicines’, Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Health available at: how many and what percentage of suspected cancer patients www.npc.co.uk/policy/local/guiding_principles.htm resident in Hemsworth saw an NHS consultant within makes it clear that primary care trusts (PCTs) should two weeks of referral in each year since 1997. [316629] make decisions in a reasonable and practical timeframe, but without compromising the minimum process Ann Keen: The information is not available in the requirements, even when requests are urgent. We expect format requested. The following table shows the number PCTs to exercise their judgment when setting timeframes of people seen and the percentage seen within two for dealing with individual requests. We have not made weeks, following urgent referral with suspected cancer an assessment of PCT performance in dealing with for Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Mid- such requests. Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Quarter (Q) Number Percentage Number Percentage

2001-02 Q1 404 96.0 226 77.7 Q2 375 94.20 211 65.5 Q3 427 94.7 337 93.1 Q4 448 95.7 367 98.9

2002-03 Q1 438 93.6 680 98.0 Q2 477 95.4 737 98.8 Q3 476 90.8 819 98.9 Q4 537 98.0 797 97.9

2003-04 Q1 496 93.6 856 95.5 Q2 522 93.4 1,010 93.4 Q3 510 95.9 968 95.8 Q4 654 99.8 984 94.6

2004-05 Q1 526 98.1 992 93.6 Q2 574 98.6 995 94.5 Q3 612 100.0 1,080 96.6 Q4 576 100.0 973 87.0

2005-06 Q1 702 100.0 1,196 97.0 Q2 683 100.0 1,301 96.9 Q3 730 100.0 1,313 98.2 Q4 750 100.0 1,299 99.8

2006-07 Q1 737 100.0 1,500 99.9 Q2 700 100.0 1,642 99.8 Q3 779 100.0 1,714 99.9 Q4 759 100.0 1,628 99.9

2007-08 Q1 818 100.0 1,751 100.0 Q2 734 100.0 1,824 99.9 Q3 758 100.0 1,988 99.8 Q4 666 100.0 1,908 99.7

2008-09 Q1 790 100.0 2,099 99.9 Q2 820 100.0 2,233 100.0 Q3 877 100.0 2,229 99.8 Q4 848 94.2 2,135 94.8

2009-10 Q1 981 93.8 2,243 92.5 117W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 118W

Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Quarter (Q) Number Percentage Number Percentage

Q2 954 97.3 2,344 91.5 Source: Cancer Waiting Times database.

Cancer: Kidneys Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response: Olympic Games 2012 Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the incidence of kidney cancer was in each Robert Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Health region in each of the last five years. [317509] what arrangements are in place for the Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response to provide Angela E. Smith: I have been asked to reply. advice to the organisers of the London 2012 Olympics. The information requested falls within the responsibility [317195] of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Gillian Merron: The Health Protection Agency as a Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: whole, including the Centre for Emergency Preparedness As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I and Response, has been working with the organisers of have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question the Olympic and Paralympics games and central asking what the incidence of kidney cancer was in each region in government departments, since 2005 to provide advice each of the last five years. [317509] and expertise on health protection issues. The latest available figures for newly diagnosed cases of kidney cancer (incidence) are for the year 2007. Please note that these numbers may not be the same as the number of people diagnosed with cancer, because one person may be diagnosed with more Dementia: Health Services than one cancer. Table 1 provides the numbers of newly diagnosed cases of Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State kidney cancer in each government office region in England, for each year from 2003 to 2007. for Health what guidance his Department issues to healthcare professionals on improvement of Table 1. Registrations of newly diagnosed cases of kidney cancer,1 2 3 recognition rates for vascular dementia; and what government office regions, England, 2003 to 2007 progress has been made in implementing his Persons Department’s dementia strategies. [317929] 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

North East 349 329 346 354 346 Phil Hope: Improving services for people with dementia North West 686 655 679 741 758 including vascular dementia is a Government priority, Yorkshire and The 572 583 607 675 655 and we have already identified it as a priority for the Humber national health service in the operating framework. East Midlands 380 488 481 524 529 This will help to ensure that dementia is prioritised West Midlands 503 496 532 541 590 locally where further improvement may be needed. East 527 518 622 644 593 London 547 550 552 550 590 Early diagnosis of dementia including vascular dementia South East 787 888 872 883 925 is a key part of the National Dementia Strategy, which South West 620 663 714 780 770 was published a year ago and will be implemented over a five-year period. The joint National Institute for 1 Kidney cancer is coded as C64 in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). Health and Clinical Excellence and Social Care Institute 2 Based on boundaries as of 2009. for Excellence clinical guideline for England provides 3 Newly diagnosed cases registered in each calendar year. guidance to health care professionals for all types of dementia. Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response

Robert Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Departmental Energy what assessment has been made of the likely effects on the operational response to a public health incident of the transfer of the Centre for Emergency Preparedness Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for and Response from Porton Down to Terlings Park Health what the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost during the transfer period. [316907] was of energy used in his Department and its agencies in each year since 1997; what proportion of the energy used was generated from renewable sources in each of Gillian Merron: The business case for redevelopment those years; and if he will make a statement. [317229] or relocation of the Health Protection Agency’s (HPA’s) facilities at Porton Down will be considered by the Department when it is received. Any impact on the Phil Hope: The amount and cost of energy used by HPA’s ability to respond to an emergency at any time the Department and its agencies and as reported as part during the proposed project will be part of the of the Sustainable Development in Government annual consideration. exercise for the last five years is as follows: 119W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 120W

Core Department of Health Consumption Kilowatt hour (kWh) 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Fossil Fuel 6,228,420 4,836,970 4,846,690 5,437,549 5,348,821 Electricity 13,268,795 12,972,000 12,340,000 12,317,512 12,297620 Total 19,497,215 17,808,971 17,186,690 17,755,061 17,646,440 %renewable 6872716768 Cost (£) 848,572 £1,038,918 £1,095,438 £1,006,072 £1,686,629

NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency Consumption KWh 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Fossil Fuel 455,509 513,790 547,914 589,362 418,320 Electricity 572,893 640,780 669,822 718863 720,143 Total 1,028,402 1,154,570 1,217,736 1,308,225 1,138,463 %renewable4755545463 Cost (£) 46,342 60,432 66,556 60,887 94,213 Note: All data is weather corrected, and has been processed by the Building Research Establishment and signed off as part of the Sustainable Development in Government exercise.

Central government departments and their executive Diabetes: Prisons agencies are required to report performance data on the amount of energy sourced from renewable sources annually Mr. Dunne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health as part of the Sustainable Development in Government (1) what training his Department provides to (a) (SDiG) reporting process. The Government had a target prison officers and (b) healthcare professionals on the to source at least 10 per cent of electricity from renewables management of diabetes in prisons; [316874] by 31 March 2008, which it has already achieved. The latest assessment of Government’s performance against (2) what assessment he has made of the effectiveness this target was published by the Office of Government of healthcare services for people with diabetes in Commerce (OGC) on the 18 December 2009, and is prison; [316875] available on the OGC website (3) what steps his Department has taken to prevent www.ogc.gov.uk/sustainability_programme_progress.asp the development of type 2 diabetes among prisoners; [316876] Information on reporting years prior to 2008-09 was (4) how many adults in prison are being treated for collated and published by the Sustainable Development each type of diabetes. [316877] Commission (SDC) can be found on the SDC website www.sd-commission.org.uk Phil Hope: Since April 2006, commissioning responsibility The information in this answer covers the Department’s for prison health services has been fully devolved to the central administrative estate of Richmond House, national health service primary care trusts (PCTs). PCTs Wellington House and Skipton House. The Department work with the prison healthcare team to assess the is a minor occupier in New Kings Beam House (HM health care needs of their population and develop services Revenue and Customs) and Quarry House in Leeds to meet those needs. There is no specific training for (Department of Work and Pensions) and the data for prison officers in the management of diabetes. these sites is not available to us. Reductions in 2005-06 Local PCTs are responsible for assuring the training and 2006-07 are due to the closure of one London of their workforce and the quality of care provided in building, Eileen House. From 2007-08, we included primary care settings to their local population, which figures from our site in Nelson, Lancashire. includes the offender population within publicly run prisons in their locality. The data supplied for NHS PASA relates to energy used at their Reading, Chester and Sheffield sites. The All clinical staff are regulated and subject to the same Sheffield site was closed during 2007-08. standards of practice including those providing care in prisons. The standards of care expressed in the New The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory General Medical Services Quality Outcomes Framework Agency are unable to provide electricity data for 2004-07 will be monitored, as they are in general practice, across or gas data for 2004-09 as the information is not available the prison estate following the roll out of a general from their landlord. This information has not been used practitioner (GP) clinical IT system. for the energy efficiency part of the Sustainable Development in Government exercise, as the gas figures There is no specific programme in prisons for the are unknown. prevention of type II diabetes, however, in April 2009, PCTs began phased implementation of the NHS Health Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority Check programme which aims to prevent diabetes, stroke, Consumption KWh 2007-08 2008-09 heart disease and kidney disease. The programme is a Fossil Fuel 1— 1— universal and systematic programme for everyone between Electricity 1,672,16 4 1,697,914 the ages of 40-74 that do not already have an existing Total 1,672,16 4 1.697,914 vascular disease. The purpose of a NHS Health Check % renewable 0 0 is to identify an individual’s risk of diabetes, coronary Cost (£) 163,000 146,000 heart disease, stroke and kidney disease, for this risk to 1 Not known be communicated in a way that the individual understands, 2 Budget figure and for that risk to be managed by appropriate follow-up. 121W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 122W

It is the responsibility of local PCTs to consider their nationally now rate the NHS as good or excellent. The different communities, including offender populations, NHS constitution contains 25 rights and 14 pledges for when doing so. NHS Health Checks can be carried out patients and the public including new rights to be in a variety settings, including pharmacies, GP practices treated within 18 weeks, or be seen by a cancer specialist and other community settings such as prisons. This will within two weeks and an NHS health check every five help ensure access to the checks by prisoners. years for those aged 40-74 years. The Department does not collect the numbers of There is significant evidence that these policies have adults in prison being treated for each type of diabetes. yielded considerable benefits for the Feltham and Heston constituency. For example, figures for November 2009 Drugs: Misuse show that in Hounslow Primary Care Trust (PCT): 92 per cent. of patients whose treatment involved admission to Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for hospital started their treatment within 18 weeks. Health by what mechanism the National Treatment 96 per cent. of patients whose treatment did not involve Agency for Substance Misuse liaises with the Advisory admission to hospital started their treatment within 18 weeks. Council on the Misuse of Drugs. [317555] Between September 2001 and September 2008 the number of general practitioners (GPs) per 100,000 people within Hounslow Gillian Merron: The secretariat of the Advisory Council PCT has increased from 55.6 to 61.2. on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD), working together Hounslow PCT opened the Heart of Hounslow Centre for with the Department, which sponsors the National Health in February 2007. The centre became a polyclinic on 29 Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse (NTA), ensures April 2009. It offers GP services between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. seven that appropriate collaboration takes place between the days a week, 365 days a year, as well as access to a wide range of ACMD and NTA on matters of mutual interest. outpatient healthcare services. In addition, employees of the NTA have been or are In September 2009, at West University ACMD members in a personal capacity. NTA staff Hospital NHS Trust, 98.9 per cent. of patients spent have appeared before the Council as expert witnesses on less than four hours in accident and emergency from particular drug misuse issues and the NTA has also arrival to admission, transfer or discharge. attended public meetings of the ACMD, as a public Between September 1997 and September 2008 the stakeholder. number of consultants at West Middlesex University East Midlands Strategic Health Authority: Finance Hospital NHS Trust increased from 50 to 79. Between September 1997 and September 2008 the estimated number of nurses increased from 604 to 904. Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how much NHS East Midlands spent on 92.8 per cent. of urgent GP referrals to West Middlesex independent investigations relating to the care of University Hospital NHS Trust with suspected cancer patients in each of the last five years; [317366] are seen by a specialist within two weeks of the referral. (2) what the total cost to NHS East Midlands was of Although statistical information is not available at a the independent investigation into the death of Karen local level, Feltham and Heston will have also benefited Godden, reference 2007/9913. [317377] from national policies in other areas. For example since 1997, gross current expenditure on personal social services Phil Hope: This information is not collected centrally. has increased by around 70 per cent. in real terms with However, this information may be available directly around 105,000 households now receiving intensive home from East Midlands Strategic Health Authority. care and 3,076 new extra care housing units - exceeding the original target of 1,500 new extra care units. Family Nurse Partnership Programme: Finance Other strategies currently being implemented are: Subject to parliamentary approval, the Personal Care at Home Mrs. Maria Miller: To ask the Secretary of State for Bill will guarantee free personal care for 280,000 people with the Health what estimate has been made of the cost to the highest needs and help around 130,000 people who need home public purse of delivering the Family Nurse care for the first time to regain their independence; Partnership nationwide. [317139] Shaping the Future of Care Together Green Paper, published in July 2009, sets out a vision for a National Care Service for all Ann Keen: We are still testing the Family Nurse adults in England which is fair, simple and affordable. The Partnership programme in England, and so are not yet Department has consulted widely on this reform and is currently in a position to estimate the costs of delivering it analysing the responses, which will feed into a White Paper later nationwide. this year; The National Carer’s Strategy - (Carers at the heart of 21st Feltham century families and communities)- launched in 2008; The first National Dementia Strategy was published in February Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if 2009; Valuing People Now - a three year strategy for people with he will set out, with statistical evidence relating as learning disabilities published in January 2009; and closely as possible to Feltham and Heston constituency, New Horizons: A Shared Vision for Mental Health - launched the effects on that constituency of changes to the in December 2009 - to maintain improvements in mental health Department’s policies since 1997. [316671] services combined with a new cross-Government approach to promoting public mental health. Mr. Mike O’Brien: The Government have put in Since 1998, there are now 2.4 million fewer smokers place a programme of national health service investment in England as a result of the Government’s comprehensive and reform since 1997 to improve service delivery in all tobacco control strategy which has had a measurable parts of the United Kingdom. 93 per cent. of people impact on reducing smoking prevalence. 123W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 124W

Child obesity levels are reducing due to the efforts of Ann Keen: The information is not available in the families across England, supported by the Government’s format requested. The Department’s latest published obesity strategy. In 2008, 13.9 per cent. of children data shows that as at July 2009, in the Salford primary (aged two to 10) in England were classified as obese, care trust area, 39 out of 53 general practitioner practices compared with 17.3 per cent. in 2005. (73.6 per cent.) were offering extended opening hours to Overall, life expectancy at birth for men has increased patients. The figure for the North West Strategic Health from 74.5 years (1995-1997 data) to 77.7 years (2006-08 Authority is 71.3 per cent., and the figure for England is data) while for women, life expectancy at birth has 77.1 per cent. increased from 79.6 years (1995-97 data) to 81.9 years Source: (2006-08 data). Department of Health. Food Standards Agency

Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Government Car and Despatch Agency what the (a) objectives and (b) costs for 2009-10 are of the Food Standards Agency’s Livestock Traceability Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Scheme. [316824] Health how much his Department paid to the Gillian Merron: The Food Standards Agency has Government Car and Despatch Agency in each of the advised that it does not have a ‘Livestock Traceability last five years; how much it has spent on such payments Scheme’. European Union legislation requires food business in 2009-10; and what proportion of such payments was operators (FBOs) at slaughterhouses to be able to trace made in respect of the Government Car Service. all food-producing animals supplied to them and, from [316425] 1 January 2010, to receive food chain information (FCI) for all cattle and sheep sent for slaughter for human Phil Hope: The Department has made the following consumption. The requirement for FCI forms part of payments to the Government Car and Despatch Agency the whole chain, farm-to-fork approach to food safety (GCDA). These totals exclude officials’ cars. introduced by EU hygiene regulations from 1 January 2006. (£) The Meat Hygiene Service verifies the checks on 2005-06 56,997.91 livestock identification carried out by FBOs in 2006-07 59,505.72 slaughterhouses to ensure the traceability of meat for 2007-08 61,588.42 food safety and animal disease control purposes. Livestock 2008-09 118,665.57 traceability is the responsibility of Department of 2009-10 104,357.14 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Departments of Rural Affairs in the devolved Administrations. The cost increase in 2008-09 was due to courier and General Practitioners taxi services previously supplied by another party being transferred to the GCDA contract, who provide a ’greener’ Mr. Todd: To ask the Secretary of State for Health service. what steps he is taking to reduce the number of people Costs to Departments of officials’ cars are reported presenting to their GPs with minor ailments. [316718] annually to Parliament by my right. hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport through written ministerial Mr. Mike O’Brien: The Department’s self care strategy statement and are available in the Library. focuses on supporting people especially those with long-term conditions to take a more active and informed role in decisions about their health and well-being. “Yourhealth, your way” provides information about self care support Health Service: Feltham on NHS Choices, including “Making the most of your pharmacist”. Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Community pharmacies have a key role to play in (1) how many and what percentage of suspected cancer supporting self care, providing advice and support to patients resident in Feltham and Heston saw an NHS people requesting help with the treatment of minor consultant within two weeks of referral in each year ailments, illnesses and injuries including advice on the since 1997; [316662] use of over-the-counter treatments, where appropriate. (2) how many and what percentage of women The pharmacy communications strategy, currently under resident in Feltham and Heston with suspected breast way, aims to encourage people to use pharmacies as the cancer saw a specialist within two weeks of referral in first port of call for such minor ailments, potentially each year since 1997. [316666] reducing the number of people presenting to general practitioners’ surgeries. Gillian Merron: This information is not held in the General Practitioners: Opening Hours format requested. This data is collected by national health service trust, for each quarter since 2001-02. The Hazel Blears: To ask the Secretary of State for following table shows the number and percentage of Health how many general practitioner surgeries in patients seen within two weeks by a specialist following Salford offered extended opening times in (a) 1997 and urgent general practitioner referral with suspected breast (b) the latest date for which information is available. cancer and all suspected cancers at West Middlesex [317393] University Hospital NHS Trust. 125W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 126W

Gillian Merron: From 1 April 1999, eligibility for Breast cancer All cancers national health service funded sight tests was extended Number Percentage Number Percentage to everyone aged 60 and over. 2001-02 Q1 130 97.0 159 95.8 Health Services: Hemsworth Q2 141 90.4 163 90.6 Q3 130 100.0 158 100.0 Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Q4 121 100.0 151 99.3 how much has been spent on healthcare in Hemsworth constituency in each year since 1997. [316623] 2002-03 Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information is not available Q1 117 100.0 164 98.8 in the format requested. However, the following table Q2 117 99.2 151 96.8 shows the amount spent on healthcare services by the Q3 126 100.0 163 100.0 Wakefield District Primary Care Trust (PCT) for the Q4 102 100.0 133 100.0 years shown.

2003-04 £000 Q1 106 100.0 152 97.4 Primary Secondary Other Total healthcare healthcare healthcare healthcare Q2 131 100.0 203 95.8 Q3 134 99.3 221 95.7 2008-09 138,595 398,059 400 537,054 Q4 144 100.0 278 99.3 2007-08 134,171 372,689 52,620 559,480 2006-07 128,286 322,699 498 451,483 2004-05 2005-06 117,137 289,530 375 407,042 Q1 136 100.0 224 100.0 2004-05 103,090 270,004 604 373,698 Q2 125 100.0 223 100.0 2003-04 90,316 231,898 1,118 323,332 Q3 149 100.0 230 100.0 2002-03 74,138 205,782 50 279,970 Q4 120 100.0 237 100.0 Notes: 1. 2002-03 to 2008-09 are the only years for which information is available for the Wakefield District PCT. 2005-06 2. The figures are taken from the audited summarisation schedules of Wakefield District PCT and its predecessor organisations. Wakefield Q1 159 100.0 318 100.0 District PCT was formed as part of the reconfiguration of PCTs in Q2 132 100.0 288 100.0 October 2006, following the merger of Eastern Wakefield PCT and Q3 89 100.0 271 100.0 the Wakefield West PCT. The figures provided for 2002-03 to 2005-06 Q4 115 100.0 270 100.0 are the sum of equivalent values in these two PCTs. 3. The figures represent the total primary, secondary and other healthcare purchased and provided for the PCT’s resident population, 2006-07 with the exception of primary dental and general ophthalmic services since these costs are not directly attributed to PCTs on the basis of a Q1 114 100.0 291 100.0 patient’s place of residence. Q2 102 100.0 321 100.0 4. ’Other healthcare’ as defined in the audited summarisation schedules Q3 123 100.0 350 100.0 includes expenditure for NHS trust impairments, plus grants to other bodies for health related capital projects under joint working arrangements. Q4 124 100.0 345 100.0 Source: Department of Health, audited summarisation schedules of Wakefield 2007-08 District PCT and its predecessor organisations. Q1 157 100.0 425 100.0 Health Services: Older People Q2 128 100.0 387 99.5 Q3 135 100.0 406 100.0 Mr. Jamie Reed: To ask the Secretary of State for Q4 166 100.0 420 100.0 Health (1) how many elderly people resident in Cumbria are in receipt of elderly care; and what the 2008-09 projected figure is of the number of people requiring elderly care in each year up to 2020; [317685] Q1 156 100.0 498 99.6 Q2 138 100.0 507 100.0 (2) what steps his Department is taking to ensure that elderly people living in poverty have access to an Q3 142 100.0 500 100.0 equal standard of elderly care; and if he will make a Q4 129 94.9 459 93.3 statement; [317686] (3) what assessment his Department has made of the 2009-10 effect of care charges on users of elderly care services Q1 188 94.5 641 93.3 (a) in England, (b) in Cumbria and (c) amongst Q2 151 92.1 578 92.8 elderly people living in poverty. [317687]

Phil Hope: The number of people receiving social services, funded either partially or in full by Councils Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health with Adult Social Services Responsibilities (CASSRs) how many people resident in Feltham and Heston over in England is collected and published by the NHS (a) retirement age and (b) the age of 60 years are Information Centre for health and social care from the entitled to free eye tests. [316667] Referrals, Assessments and Packages of Care return. 127W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 128W

Provisional data for the period 1 April 2008 to 31 March against by services because of their age. The review was 2009 shows that 13,500 adults aged 65 and over in set up to help health and social care organisations meet Cumbria were in receipt of CASSR-funded services. the ban on age discrimination and the new public sector Information on the numbers of people who fund their equality duty in the Equality Bill. own care services is not collected centrally. The consultation, “Age Equality in Health and Social The Department has not made projections of the Care”, is now live and includes the Government’s response number of older people who will require social services on the recommendations in the review that are not care in Cumbria in each year up until 2020. It has directly tied to the legislation. commissioned the Personal Social Services Research The consultation is concerned with action to be taken Unit (PSSRU) at the London School of Economics to in England. However, the Equality Bill applies throughout make national projections of future demand for social Great Britain. The Scottish Executive and the Welsh care and associated expenditure. The PSSRU has projected Assembly Government are considering separately what an increase in numbers of older service users in England action to take to prepare the NHS and social care in from approximately 880,000 in 2010 to approximately Scotland and Wales for implementation of the Equality 1,050,000 in 2020; Forder and Fernandez, 2009, PSSRU Bill. There will also be a further consultation on a draft discussion paper 2644, table 26—available on the PSSRU Legislative Order led by the Government Equalities website at: office later in 2010. www.pssru.ac.uk It is for councils to decide whether or not to set The Fair Access to Care Services (FACS) framework charges for non-residential social services. The legal was introduced in 2003 to address inconsistencies across basis is that charges generally should be ‘reasonable’, as the country about who gets support, in order to provide set out in the Health and Social Services and Social a fairer and more transparent system for the allocation Security Adjudications (HASSASSA) Act 1983. Should of social care services. councils decide to charge for these services, this must be At the heart of the FACS guidance is the principle in accordance with statutory guidance issued by the that councils should operate just one eligibility decision Department, “Fairer Charging Policies for Home Care for all adults seeking social care support. FACS introduced and other non-residential Social Services”. four bands of eligibility based on people’s needs—Critical, For service users in receipt of personal budgets, the Substantial, Moderate and Low. Once eligibility for Department’s “Fairer Contributions” guidance provides social care has been established using these four bands, councils with a model for calculating how much a the council may then means test the individual and person should contribute to their personal budget. It apply the local charging regime. has been produced as a companion to the existing The Department has been working with stakeholders “Fairer Charging” guidance. to revise the FACS guidance in the context of “Putting People First”, in order to support councils to implement Charging for residential care services is governed by eligibility criteria for social care as fairly and consistently regulations, which prescribe a national means test and a as possible. The Department carried out a consultation statutory system of charging, which councils must follow. on the revised FACS guidance simultaneously with the Councils assess a person’s ability to pay residential care publication of the Fairer Contributions guidance, in charges according to the National Assistance (Assessment July 2009. The FACS guidance is integral to the assessment of Resources) Regulations 1992 and statutory guidance, of a person’s need for social care, while the Fairer the “Charging for Residential Accommodation Guide”. Contributions Guidance is employed, where appropriate, Copies of all regulations and guidance are available in once that assessment has been made. The revised FACS the Library. guidance will be published shortly. No assessments have been made by the Department The regulations under the Personal Care at Home of the effects of care charges on users of social care Bill, introduced to Parliament on 25 November 2009, services for older people in England, in Cumbria, or would offer free personal care at home for 280,000 among older people living in poverty. However, all people with the highest care needs. An additional £130 charging systems include safeguards to protect the least million will provide 130,000 people with an active well-off from charges. Anyone with less than £23,000 in programme of reablement to ensure they regain their savings is entitled to apply for local authority assistance independence. This will build on the most innovative with the cost of their care. practices already adopted by many local authorities and primary care trusts. We have already begun engaging with local authority stakeholders to discuss the workings Health Visitors: North West of the scheme, and councils are invited to respond to the consultation document, “Personal Care at Home: a consultation on proposals for regulations and guidance”. Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for The consultation document is available in the Library. Health how many health visitors have been employed in each primary care trust in the North West in each In April 2009, my right hon. Friend, the then Secretary year since 1997. [317207] of State for Health (Alan Johnson) asked Sir Ian Carruthers OBE, chief executive of NHS South West, and Jan Ormondroyd, chief executive of Bristol City Council, Ann Keen: The following table shows the number of to undertake a review of age discrimination and age health visitors employed in the North West Strategic equality in the health and social care sector. They were Health Authority (SHA) area and each primary care asked to consider what health and social care organisations trust in the North West SHA area at 30 September each should do to ensure that people are not discriminated year for available years since 1997. 129W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 130W

Headcount for year Organisation: 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

North West 1,899 1,911 1,903 1,896 1,942 1,968 1,988 2,105 2,077 2,029 1,897 1,838 SHA area Ashton, Leigh n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 102 95 88 97 108 104 103 and Wigan PCT Blackburn with n/an/an/an/an/a59676557535357 Darwen PCT Blackpool PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 47 49 52 53 53 54 61 BoltonPCTn/an/an/an/an/a72757576788076 Bury PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 44 45 46 45 49 46 52 Central and n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 110 125 122 126 105 97 96 Eastern Cheshire PCT Central n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 122 129 135 140 139 115 101 Lancashire PCT Cumbria n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 109 131 179 157 138 111 110 Teaching PCT East Lancashire n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 117 122 133 123 117 107 99 Teaching PCT Halton and St. n/an/an/an/an/a69677577626471 Helens PCT Heywood, n/an/an/an/an/a63635959606178 Middleton and Rochdale PCT Knowsley PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 52 58 58 64 66 69 54 Liverpool PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 133 131 123 121 101 108 103 Manchester n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 110 111 112 121 135 138 125 PCT North n/an/an/an/an/a64586158606189 Lancashire Teaching PCT Oldham PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 28 38 67 69 61 60 51 Salford PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 73 73 69 70 65 59 40 SeftonPCTn/an/an/an/an/a59596269656656 Stockport PCT n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 163 139 169 157 172 99 81 Tameside and n/an/an/an/an/a70737263767568 Glossop PCT TraffordPCTn/an/an/an/an/a63716963605652 Warrington n/an/an/an/an/a60574747474550 PCT Western n/an/an/an/an/a55525958556364 Cheshire PCT WirralPCTn/an/an/an/an/a92768692838983 n/a = Not applicable; PCTs not established until 2002. Notes: 1. PCT figures have been mapped to their current organisational structure. 2. Data quality: workforce statistics are compiled from data sent by more than 300 national health service trusts and PCTs in England. The Information Centre for health and social care liaises closely with these organisations to encourage submission of complete and valid data and seeks to minimise inaccuracies and the effect of missing and invalid data. Processing methods and procedures are continually being updated to improve data quality. Where this happens, any impact on figures already published will be assessed but unless this is significant at national level, they will not be changed. Where there is impact only at detailed or local level this will be foot noted in relevant analyses. Source: The Information Centre for health and social care—Non-Medical Workforce Census.

Health: Sunlight one month and (c) one year of their release from prison in the last three years. [317553] Mr. Todd: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he has commissioned research into the Phil Hope: This information is not collected by the potential effects on health of low levels of sunlight in Department. the UK relative to such levels in other countries. [317001] Home Care Services: Finance

Gillian Merron: The Department has not commissioned Norman Lamb: To ask the Secretary of State for research of this kind and at present has no plans to do Health under what budget headings he expects the so. estimated £2.7 billion of savings consequent on moving more care from hospital to home to be made. [317116] Heroin: Overdoses Mr. Mike O’Brien: By 2013-14 we estimate that up to Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for £2.7 billion a year can be saved in the national health Health what proportion of former prisoners died as a service by transforming the care and lives of those with result of a heroin overdose within (a) one week, (b) long term conditions and by reforming community 131W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 132W services across the NHS. These are part of the £15-20 according to the health care needs of the local population. billion savings which we have said the NHS will deliver The Department’s 2008 publication—“Leading Local by 2013-14. Change”—makes clear that any changes should be locally £750 million savings are possible through driving led, clinically driven and built upon a sound clinical down variation across the country by ensuring current case for change. A copy of the publication has already best practice in terms of case management, care planning been placed in the Library. and self care support. A further £750 million savings are possible through reducing emergency admissions for people with long term conditions to the level of the best performing systems internationally. This raises the Hospitals: Waiting Lists quality of care for patients and helps the NHS, provided the care is good enough and we intend to ensure it is. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for The remaining £1.2 billion is achievable through reforms Health what the median waiting time for (a) in-patient to community services, driving improvements in the and (b) out-patient treatment was for patients in York efficiency of community services, so that in all areas of in each year since 1997. [317222] the country efficiency levels meet those currently achieved by the best performing areas. Mr. Mike O’Brien: The following tables show the Hospitals: Admissions median inpatient and outpatient waiting times for the York Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and its predecessor Mr. Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health trusts from 1997 to 2009. how many emergency readmissions there were in each Table 1: Inpatient waiting times NHS trust in each year since 1997. [313972] Month ending Median (weeks) March 1997 12.0 Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information available, based March 1998 15.9 on information provided by the National Centre for March 1999 13.1 Health Outcomes Development, is set out in a table March 2000 15.2 which I have placed in the Library. Figures are given March 2001 15.7 separately for the age groups 0-15 years and 16 years March 2002 16.8 and above. The table also includes information on the March 2003 14.6 standardised rate of emergency readmissions, defined March 2004 11.7 as the number of emergency readmissions divided by March 2005 10.2 the total number of hospital discharges, adjusted for March 2006 8.5 the different case mix and age and sex of patients to March 2007 6.6 allow a more valid comparison between different years March 2008 5.6 or different provider units. March 2009 4.8 December 2009 4.3 Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for Notes: Health how many emergency admissions relating to 1. Inpatient waiting times are measured from decision to admit by the consultant orthopaedic injuries there were in each primary care to admission to hospital. 2. The figures show the median waiting times for patients still waiting for trust in England in (a) November, (b) December and admission at the end of the period stated. (c) January in each of the last five years. [317197] 3. Median waiting times are calculated from aggregate data, rather than patient level data, and therefore are only estimates of the position on average waits. Source: Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information is not available Department of Health waiting list collections KH07 and MMRPROV. in the format requested. Tables showing counts of finished Table 2: Median outpatient waiting time for first outpatient appointment, admission episodes where the method of admission was patients seen in the year all specialties, provider organisations in the York area emergency for episodes with a main consultant speciality Inpatient waiting times for York Health Services Trust 1997 to 2009 of ‘Trauma and Orthopaedics’ separated by primary Financial year Median (weeks) care trust of residence where the episode ended in March 1997 5.9 months November, December and January from 2004-05 March 1998 6.6 to 2008-09 have been placed in the Library. March 1999 8.4 Hospitals: Reviews March 2000 8.9 March 2001 6.9 Mr. Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health March 2002 6.1 what guidance his Department has given to regional March 2003 6.4 health authorities in England who are undertaking March 2004 6.4 reviews of acute hospital sectors; and if he will make a March 2005 6.4 March 2006 5.4 statement. [317716] March 2007 3.2 Notes: Mr. Mike O’Brien: The Department, in conjunction 1. Outpatient waiting times are measured from referral by the general practitioner with its key stakeholders, has issued a raft of helpful to first outpatient appointment with a consultant. guidance to strategic health authorities in England who 2. The outpatient seen figures relate to the average wait for patients seen during the whole of each year. are considering or undertaking reviews of acute hospital 3. Outpatient waiting times on this basis no longer available. sectors. 4. Median waiting times are calculated from aggregate data, rather than patient level data, and therefore are only estimates of the position on average waits. It is the responsibility of the local national health Source: service to plan, develop and improve health services Department of Health waiting list collections QM08. 133W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 134W

Table 3: Median outpatient waiting time for first outpatient appointment, in-patient and (b) out-patient for a mental health patients still waiting at period end, all specialties, provider organisations in the York area condition (i) in Leicester, (ii) in the East Midlands and Outpatient waiting times for York Health Services Trust 2005 to 2009 (iii) nationally in each of the last five years. [317351] Month ending Median (weeks)

March 2005 5.4 Phil Hope: Information is available on the number of March 2006 3.9 patients in contact with specialist mental health services March 2007 3.5 who received inpatient treatment for a mental health March 2008 3.1 condition. Data are also available on the number of March 2009 2.5 people in contact with specialist mental health services December 2009 3.6 who received consultant outpatient appointments for a Notes: mental health condition in each of the last five years for 1. Outpatient waiting times are measured from referral by the general practitioner which data are available. to first outpatient appointment to the consultant. 2. Full waiting list was only collected from 2004 so average waiting first outpatient times on this basis have only been available from then. Data have been collected in respect of inpatients and 3. Median waiting times are calculated from aggregate data, rather than patient outpatients treated for a mental health condition by level data, and therefore are only estimates of the position on average waits. Leicestershire Partnerships National Health Service Trust, 4. Historically, since 1997, outpatient waiting times were collected based on numbers seen during the quarter. East Midlands Strategic Health Authority and in England 5. In addition, data were collected on a ‘still waiting’ basis in the monthly return between 1 April 2004 and 31 March 2009. This information alongside the inpatient waiting times figures. However, unlike the inpatient is shown in the following table. figures, the full waiting list on outpatients, was not collected, just the long waiters. Therefore, it was not possible to calculate the average wait on this basis. The data should be used with caution as it does not Source: Department of Health Waiting List Collections QM08 and MMRPROV. record non-consultant led outpatient appointments, and Mental Health Services it records patients who received both inpatient and outpatient treatment as inpatients only. The data therefore Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health underestimates the total number of outpatient appointments how many people have been treated as an (a) recorded in each year.

Number of people in contact with specialist mental health services and who received NHS inpatient and outpatient appointments for a mental health problem in Leicester, East Midlands and in England between 2004-05 and 2008-09: male and female, all ages 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust Inpatient 3,101 2,810 2,546 2,344 2,183 Outpatient 11,291 11,887 12,237 12,438 13,631 East Midlands Strategic Health Authority Inpatient 8,408 8,063 7,836 8,178 8,091 Outpatient 36,153 43,616 45,859 45,812 44,926 England Inpatient 114,435 111,088 106,561 105,719 102,571 Outpatient 446,393 488,259 474,332 470,742 477,627 Source: NHS Information Centre for Health and Social Care Mental Health Minimum Data Set 2004-2009 Annual Returns.

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health patients take their own lives and between 50 and 70 per (1) how many people have been (a) killed and (b) year are involved in taking the lives of others. seriously injured by a person who has received treatment for mental health reasons in the three years before the Nor does the Department collect data about homicide incident (i) in Leicester, (ii) in the East Midlands and or serious injury committed by people with mental (iii) nationally in each of the last 10 years; [317352] illness at local or regional levels. Strategic health authorities are responsible for commissioning independent (2) how many people have been (a) killed and (b) investigations into adverse events in mental health services, seriously injured by a person who has received including homicides committed by mental health service treatment for mental health reasons (i) in Leicester, (ii) users. The Department does not collect routine information in the East Midlands and (iii) nationally in each of the or cost data on such local investigations, and nor has last 10 years; [317353] there been a national estimate of their cost. (3) what estimate he has made of the cost to the NHS of independent investigations commissioned relating to patients receiving treatment for mental Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for health reasons (a) in the East Midlands and (b) Health how many independent investigations nationally in each of the last five years; [317354] commissioned relating to patients receiving treatment (4) how many independent investigations for mental health reasons there have been (a) in Mid commissioned relating to patients receiving treatment Bedfordshire constituency and (b) England in each of for mental health reasons have been commissioned (a) the last five years. [317529] in the East Midlands and (b) nationally in each of the last five years. [317358] Phil Hope: This information is not collected routinely Phil Hope: Precise data on the number of homicides by the Department, but is collected by strategic health or serious injuries in England committed by people authorities, who are responsible for commissioning with mental illness is not collected centrally. However, independent investigations into patients with a mental we estimate that every year over 1,300 mental health illness. 135W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 136W

Mental Health Services: Advocacy Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information is not available in the format requested. Such information as is available Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health is in the following table. (1) what assessment he has made of the level of access Outpatient appointments cancelled by the patient for Taunton and to independent mental health advocates by qualifying Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, 2008-09 patients in (a) Birmingham and (b) England; [316749] Patient Patient cancelled (2) which primary care trusts (a) have and (b) have cancelled first subsequent not commissioned independent mental health advocate appointment appointment Total (IMHA) services; and if he will establish a national database of IMHA services. [316750] 2008-09 5,299 11,945 17,244 Phil Hope: It is the duty of each primary care trust in England to make such arrangements as it considers Notes: reasonable to make available independent mental health 1. Hospital Provider: hospital providers can also include treatment centres (TC). As the data is tabulated by healthcare provider, the advocates (IMHAs) for qualifying patients. The precise figure for a national health service trust gives the activity of all the arrangements are a matter for local decision. The sites as one aggregated figure. The quality of TC returns are such that Department has no plans to establish a national database data may not be complete. Some NHS trusts have not registered their of IMHA services. TC as a separate site, and it is therefore not possible to identify their activity separately. Data from some independent sector providers, where the onus for arrangement of dataflows is on the commissioner, Mental Health Services: Prisons may be missing. Care must be taken when using this data as the counts may be lower than true figures. 2. Data quality: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) are compiled from Alan Duncan: To ask the Secretary of State for data sent by more than 300 NHS trusts and primary care trusts in Health how many prisons have a (a) resident and (b) England and from some independent sector organisations for activity visiting psychiatrists and how often visiting commissioned by the English NHS. The NHS Information Centre for psychiatrists visited the prison to which they are health and social care liaises closely with these organisations to encourage submission of complete and valid data and seeks to allocated in the last 12 months. [318047] minimise inaccuracies. While this brings about improvement over time, some shortcomings remain. Phil Hope: The information requested is not collected Source: centrally. HES, The NHS Information Centre for health and social care The transfer of responsibility to primary care trusts for the commissioning of health services in prisons was completed in 2006. Health needs are based on a joint Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State strategic needs assessment that informs the type and for Health (1) how many private patients were treated frequency of services provided in all prisons. at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton in the last 12 months; [317975]

Mephedrone: Risk Assessment (2) whether Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton is expected to meet its target to abolish mixed sex accommodation by the end of 2010. [317977] Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what reports he has received of the progress of the European Commission’s risk assessment of mephedrone. [317557] Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information requested is a matter for Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Gillian Merron: The European Monitoring Centre Trust. We have written to Rosalinde Wyke, Chair of for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has issued Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, informing a formal request to member states’ National Focal her of the hon. Member’s enquiry. She will reply shortly Points for the collection of further information on and a copy of the letter will be placed in the Library. mephedrone for an EMCDDA-Europol Joint Report due later this year. The UK’s Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State (ACMD), are also conducting a review into the harms for Health how many patients’ complaints were associated with mephedrone and other cathinones and rectified by Patient Liaison and Advice Service Level at has invited the UK National Focal Point to present Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton in 2009. [317976] evidence to this review on behalf of the EMCDDA. The ACMD will incorporate this evidence into its report and will advise Ministers accordingly. Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information requested is not available centrally. The Patient Advice and Liaison Service is managed through the national health service at a Musgrove Park Hospital Taunton: Patients local primary care trust (PCT) level. PCTs are required, as part of their annual report, to provide the relevant Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State strategic health authority with complaints data. for Health how many appointments at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton were cancelled by patients in the last Such information as is available is in the following 12 months. [317974] table. 137W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 138W

Written complaints about hospital and community services by local resolution action within Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, England, as at 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009 Local resolution Concluded Concluded outside Concluded outside Concluded within 25 working outside 25 working days 25 working days Still being Total complaints days 25 working days with consent without consent pursued Percentage Number

Taunton and 459 62 283 171 130 41 5 Somerset NHS Foundation Trust Note: Local resolution is the first stage of the complaints procedure when front-line staff should aim to provide the fullest possible opportunity for investigation and resolution of the complaint, as quickly as is sensible in the circumstances. This definition is from the guidance for completing the returns that are sent to Trusts. Source: Information Centre for health and social care—workforce and community dataset K041a.

Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State Neuromuscular Services: West Midlands for Health how many single occupancy rooms are available for patients at Musgrove Park Hospital, Lorely Burt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Taunton. [317978] what discussions he has had with (a) the West Midlands Specialised Commissioning Group and (b) Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information is not available primary care trusts in the West Midlands on the in the format requested. However, the latest Estates implementation of the West Midlands Neuromuscular Related Information Collection (ERIC) return data for Strategy. [316910] 2008-09, indicates that the Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust declared 14 per cent. of the 620 available beds at Musgrove Park Hospital as being Ann Keen: No discussions have been held with the single bedrooms for patients use. West Midlands Specialised Commissioning Group or primary care trusts in the west midlands on the Note: implementation of the west midlands neuromuscular ERIC defines ″percentage of single bedrooms for patients″ as a strategy. percentage of the total number of available beds that are single bedrooms provided for patient use. It is the responsibility of primary care trusts to ensure the provision of services for neuromuscular dystrophy National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence patients in that region, including access to national health service funded muscular dystrophy care advisers. Mr. Boswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what consideration his Department gives to (a) NHS progression-free and (b) overall survival factors in its health technology appraisals. [317948] Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State Mr. Mike O’Brien: The Department does not carry for Health what his policy is on the NHS as the out health technology appraisals. The National Institute preferred provider of health services. [316313] for Health and Clinical Excellence is an independent body responsible for the development of technology Mr. Mike O’Brien: The policy on national health appraisal guidance and its “Guide to the Methods of service as preferred provider is about getting the best Technology Appraisal” is available on its website at: care for patients and looking after the NHS staff who www.nice.org.uk/aboutnice/howwework/devnicetech/ care for them. It represents a clarification of Government technologyappraisalprocessguides/guidetothemethodsof policy to ensure that where services provided within the technologyappraisal.jsp public sector are performing well, are financially sustainable and also demonstrating the ability to keep improving Mr. Boswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health there should be no presumption that these services are (1) what medicines (a) have been and (b) are being subject to competitive tender. When competitive tender appraised through the National Institute for Health does occur, it will be transparent and fair with all and Clinical Excellence for supplementary advice for providers having an equal opportunity to bid, potentially treatments extending life; which have met National in new partnerships and joint ventures. Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence criteria; The aim is to ensure that NHS staff are treated fairly what the outcomes were; and if he will make a and engaged in decisions, so that they know what is statement; [317950] happening and when, and what changes are being sought (2) what assessment he has made of the impact of and why. Service improvement and re-design should not the National Institute for Health and Clinical be something which is imposed on NHS staff but Excellence’s supplementary advice on the appraisal of something which they own and lead. Clinical engagement end of life treatments in securing improved patient and leadership will be crucial to driving the transformation access to such treatments. [317951] of services patients and taxpayers need. Secretary of State’s Vision document “NHS 2010-2015: Phil Hope: I refer the hon. Member to the written From Good to Great”and the “NHS Operating Framework answer I gave the hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire 2010/11” outline how we expect the NHS as preferred (Mr. Lansley) on 8 February 2010, Official Report, provider to work in practice. Copies of both documents columns 713-14W. have already been placed in the Library. 139W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 140W

NHS Direct The MRC invests substantially in drug safety science including the new MRC Centre for Drug Safety Science Mike Penning: To ask the Secretary of State for in Liverpool and Manchester, the MRC’s Toxicology Health how many referrals were made by NHS Direct Unit in Leicester, and the Integrative Toxicology Training services in (a) 2008 and (b) 2009. [317690] programme. The aims include evaluation of the potential contribution of new technologies to the pre-clinical Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information requested is set toxicological assessment of drugs and integration of out in the following table: the results with the findings from clinical studies. Referrals from NHS Direct (0845 46 47) NHS: Expenditure Referrals

2008 1,982,544 Mr. Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the expenditure envelope for the NHS in England 2009 1,735,473 is for the next five years. [317987] Note: These data include all calls to the 0845 46 47 line. It does not include other calls to services provided to national and local commissioners, Mr. Mike O’Brien: As set out in paragraph 6.23, page including calls to The Appointments Line and locally commissioned 103 of the pre-Budget report 2009, the Government services such as dental and out-of-hours services. have not done a spending review at this stage, and Source: therefore, the specific numbers requested in the question NHS Direct. are not available. NHS Peterborough: Finance NHS: Fees and Charges

Mr. Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for for Health what assistance his Department has Health how much the NHS has collected in charges for provided to NHS Peterborough to reduce their budget services to patients not entitled to free services in each deficit for 2010-11; and if he will make a statement. year since such charges were introduced; and if he will [317360] make a statement. [317337]

Phil Hope: The Department has not provided any Ann Keen: Charges have been in place since 1982 for financial support to Peterborough Primary Care Trust hospital treatment given to certain overseas visitors to (PCT) to reduce its forecast deficit. The PCT held an the United Kingdom, but these statistics have only been extraordinary board meeting on 3 February where the collected since 2003-04. The total national income from Month 9 forecast deficit was reported as £9.8 million. overseas patients under non-reciprocal arrangements The East of England Strategic Health Authority collected by national health service trusts and primary (SHA) reports that it has agreed a robust recovery plan care trusts since that time is shown in the following with the PCT and is closely monitoring progress against table. They do not include data from NHS foundation the agreed plan. The Department will work with the trusts. SHA to ensure that the PCT returns to financial balance. Non-reciprocal income received (£) NHS: Drugs 2003-04 9,178,000 Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 2004-05 10,883,000 pursuant to the answer of 5 February 2010, Official 2005-06 13,070,000 Report, column 558W, on drugs: testing, if he will 2006-07 15,182,925 commission research on the comparative (a) safety 2007-08 18,167,000 and (b) effectiveness of (i) human biology-based 2008-09 17,541,000 testing and (ii) animal testing of new drugs and treatments. [317610] NHS: Foreign Workers

Mr. Lammy: I have been asked to reply. Mr. Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has made of the number of non-UK does not commission research directly but provides citizens working for the NHS in England; and if he will funding to the National Centre for the Replacement, make a statement. [317720] Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) through the research councils. Ann Keen: This data is not collected centrally. The NC3Rs has a number of projects which assess NHS: Marketing the value of animal research in drug development and safety testing. For example, an evidence-based review of Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Health conventional single dose acute toxicity studies for how much his Department has spent on advertisements pharmaceuticals has shown that they provide limited on television and commercial radio on NHS services information for human safety. Based on these data the since 2005. [317101] regulatory requirement to carry out these studies prior to clinical trials has been removed. Phil Hope: The following table shows the Department’s The Medical Research Council’s (MRC) own research television and radio advertising expenditure for the programmes contribute to developing new knowledge national health service over the last five completed or methods that help replace or refine animal use. financial years. 141W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 142W

Department of Health television and radio advertising spend on NHS NHS: Training services 2004-05 to 2008-09 £ million Financial year Television Radio Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he plans to publish guidance on 2004-05 14,116,855 2,613,818 commissioning skills for the NHS. [316314] 2005-06 12,729,415 3,151,003 2006-07 8,017,017 1,800,547 Mr. Mike O’Brien: The world class commissioning 2007-08 8,065,615 1,998,611 (WCC) programme was launched in December 2007 2008-09 12,757,306 3,061,050 and is intended to strengthen the commissioning capability 2009-10 15,825,050 5,061,356 of primary care trusts (PCTs) to improve local health Notes: outcomes at best value for current and future service 1. Advertising spend is defined as covering only media spend (inclusive users. The competencies for world class commissioning of agency commissions but excluding production costs, Central Office were first published in December 2007 and refreshed in of Information (COI) commission and VAT). All figures exclude advertising rebates and audit adjustments and therefore may differ September 2009. They set out the knowledge, skills, from COI official turnover figures. All figures are rounded to the behaviours and characteristics that underpin effective nearest £10,000. These figures do not include the Department’s commissioning. PCTs are held to account on their recruitment/classified advertising costs and ad hoc spend under £10,000. commissioning performance through an annual assurance These figures may include occasional minor spend through COI by process. A copy of the WCC Assurance Handbook NHS organisations, to supplement national campaigns in their area. While this expenditure has been excluded as far as possible so that this year 2, which details the competencies, has been placed chart reflects central departmental spend, it would incur disproportionate in the Library and is available at: cost to validate that every item of NHS expenditure has been removed. http://wcc.networks.nhs.uk/background 2. 2009-10 figures are provisional until records are audited at the end of the financial year. NHS: Procurement Nurses

Dr. Iddon: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Anne Milton: To ask the Secretary of State for what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of Health whether he has made an estimate of the number a system of reverse e-auctions, weighted toward lowest of registered nurses who were in receipt of benefits in price, for the procurement of NHS medical products in each month for the last five years. [315074] ensuring high standards of (a) safety and (b) quality of products procured. [316959] Jim Knight: I have been asked to reply. The information is not available. Mr. Mike O’Brien: In 2008-09 NHS Supply Chain conducted 54 reverse auctions, which resulted in estimated savings of 15 per cent. on previous tender prices. Nurses: Feltham As with the standard tender process, all medical products are checked for safety and quality before they Alan Keen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health are entered into a reverse auction. Medical products in how many nurses were employed in the area covered by a reverse auction are the same as those available in the Hounslow Primary Care Trust in (a) 1997 and (b) the standard tender process. latest period for which figures are available. [316689] We are not aware of any formal assessment of the effectiveness of the system of reverse auctions for the Gillian Merron: The information requested is displayed procurement of national health service medical products. in the following table.

National health service hospital and community health services: Qualified nursing staff in each specified organisation as at 30 September each year Headcount 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Hounslow Primary Care Trust (PCT) 292 303 300 286 265 269 249 Qualified nursing, midwifery and health visiting 213 208 221 200 190 190 184 staff General Practitioner Practice Nurses 79 95 79 86 75 79 65

West Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust 820 817 857 765 815 888 904 Qualified nursing, midwifery and health visiting 820 817 857 765 815 888 904 staff Note: Due to the formation of PCTs in 2002 it is impossible to accurately map work force figures for these organisations prior to 2002. Source: The Information Centre for health and social care Non-Medical Workforce Census.

Nurses: Nottinghamshire in schools in (a) Bassetlaw constituency and (b) Nottinghamshire local authority. [316726]

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Ann Keen: The information is not held in the format how many qualified school nurses there are employed requested. Information is available for the number of 143W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 144W qualified nursing staff in the school nursing area of Mr. Mike O’Brien: Legal advice from the Department work directly employed by national health service of Health Legal Services did inform the formulation of organisations. The following table shows the number of the consultation document on generic substitution, and qualified nursing staff in the school nursing area of the partial impact assessment relating to the proposals, work in Bassetlaw Primary Care Trust (PCT) and but there are no specific elements in the partial impact Nottinghamshire County PCT. assessment relating to professional liability. NHS hospital and community health services, qualified school nursing Under the Department’s preferred approach (option Headcount 3), there are mechanisms for ensuring that patients Nurses in each specified organisation as at continue to receive the most appropriate treatment. 30 September 2008 Therefore, we believe the liability risks associated with Qualified nurses in Of which qualified the proposed generic substitution arrangements should school nursing school nurses1 not be any greater than under current prescribing and dispensing arrangements We recognise that further evidence Total for specified 21 3 organisations may be available in relation to liability; stakeholders can Bassetlaw PCT 3 0 input views through responding to the consultation in Nottinghamshire 18 3 writing—details at County Teaching PCT www.dh.gov.uk/en/consultations/index.htm Notes: or by attending one of the consultation events—more 1. Qualified school nurses hold the Nursing and Midwifery Council information at (NMC) specialist practice qualification with an outcome in school nursing, which is a recordable qualification on the NMC register. www.pcc.nhs.uk/events/ 2. The NHS Hospital and Community Health Services non-medical workforce census is a large statistical exercise, collecting over one Prescriptions million records from over 400 organisations. It is not, and is not intended to be, carried out to exact accounting standards. Source: Christopher Fraser: To ask the Secretary of State for The Information Centre for health and social care: Non-Medical Health how many prescriptions for (a) goserelin, (b) Workforce Census. leuprorelin acetate, (c) buserelin acetate, (d) triptorelin, (e) bicalutamide, (f) flutamide, (g) Patients cyproterone acetate and (h) diethylstilbestrol there were in (i) England, (ii) each primary care trust area Mr. Boswell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and (iii) each constituency in each year since 1997. (1) what steps he is taking to encourage appropriate [317713] self-care by patients in treatment of minor ailments; [317952] Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information requested has (2) what steps his Department is taking to educate been placed in the Library, apart from constituency patients on circumstances where (a) self-care is information, which is not collected centrally. appropriate in the treatment of a minor ailments and The tables provide the number of prescription items (b) it is appropriate to seek medical advice. [317953] dispensed in the community by primary care trust (PCT) and nationally. Usage in hospital is not collected at Mr. Mike O’Brien: Community pharmacies are very prescription level, and usage cannot be attributed to accessible to patients and the public and have a key role particular PCTs. to play in supporting self-care—providing advice and support to people requesting help with the treatment of Prescriptions: Fees and Charges minor ailments, illnesses and injuries. This includes advising on the use of over-the-counter treatments, Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Health where appropriate, and when medical advice should be what proportion of those with a diagnosis of asthma sought. The White Paper, “Pharmacy in England: Building were exempt from paying prescription charges in the on strengths—delivering the future”, aims to increase latest period for which figures are available. [316964] pharmacies contribution to supporting effective self-care and make better use of the range of skills and services Mr. Mike O’Brien: The Department does not hold available in pharmacies. information on the numbers of patients prescribed NHS Choices and NHS Direct also offer facilities, particular drugs or for what conditions those drugs are such as online symptom checkers and self-assessment prescribed. tools, to help people understand where self-care is appropriate in the treatment of minor when they should Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for seek advice from medical professionals. Health on what date the age at which men are entitled to free prescriptions will rise in line with the increase in Prescription Drugs the state retirement age for women; and if he will make a statement. [317925] Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 1 February 2010, Official Mr. Mike O’Brien: The age at which people qualify Report, columns 64-5W, on prescription drugs, what for free prescriptions will change to reflect changes to legal advice his Department sought in preparing the the state pension age for women. We are considering elements of the partial impact assessment relating to how best to implement those changes and will not be professional liability and automatic generic introducing any changes to age exemptions in April substitution; and if he will make a statement. [317846] 2010. 145W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 146W

Primary Care Trusts Mr. Mike O’Brien: Reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are collected by the Medicines Mr. Swayne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) (1) if he will extend the deadline before which primary and Commission for Human Medicines (CHM) through care trusts must name their preferred option for their the spontaneous reporting scheme; the yellow card scheme. future organisational structure for the purposes of his Approximately 25,000 reports of ADRs are reported to Transforming Community Services programme to a the MHRA/CHM through this scheme each year. The date later than the end of March 2010; [317021] scheme collects ADR reports from across the whole United Kingdom and includes all medicines, including (2) what factors he took into account in determining those from prescriptions, over-the-counter or general the timetable for the Transforming Community retail sales. It is not possible to calculate from yellow Services programme; and if he will make a statement. card data the number of people who have been adversely [317022] affected by a drug, as the scheme is associated with an unknown level of under-reporting. Mr. Mike O’Brien: There are no plans to extend the deadline set in the NHS Operating Framework 2010-11 Reporters of ADRs will often cite the active substance(s) for primary care trusts (PCTs) to agree their proposals rather than a particular brand name. As of 12 February for the future organisational form of all current PCT- 2010, there are three retrospective cases for Primodos provided community services with their strategic health and 3,540 that have been recorded in our database for authority. the combined drug substances norethisterone and ethinylestradiol. When determining the timetable for planning and implementing proposals for the future form of PCT- Mike Penning: To ask the Secretary of State for provided community services, the Department took Health what steps his Department has taken to assess account of the need to create greater stability within the needs of those adversely affected by Primodos; and community services to provide certainty for community if he will make a statement. [317689] service staff and a firm foundation for service transformation. Consideration was given to the pivotal Mr. Mike O’Brien: We have made no assessment. It is role community services play in helping the national for local clinicians and multi-disciplinary teams to assess health service to meet the productivity and quality the health and care needs of people adversely affected challenge. This will enable the NHS to accelerate service by Primodos. integration to deliver the vision of more integrated care delivered closer to home, as set out in NHS 2010-2015: Prostate Cancer: Health Services from good to great. Preventative, people-centred, productive. The Operating Framework 2010-11 and NHS 2010-2015: Christopher Fraser: To ask the Secretary of State for from good to great. Preventative, people-centred, productive Health what the (a) mean and (b) median waiting have already been placed in the Library and are also time was for patients with a diagnosis of prostate available on the Department’s website at: cancer as an (i) in-patient and (ii) out-patient (A) in www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/index.htm England and (B) in each NHS trust was in each year since 1997-98. [317711] Primary Care Trusts: Procurement Ann Keen: Information on the mean and median time Mr. David Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State waited to be seen as an in-patient, for the first out-patient for Health what account his Department’s guidance on attendance where there was a primary diagnosis of primary care trust procurement takes of the policy on prostate cancer, with figures provided for England and preferred providers of health services. [316312] by hospital provider has been placed in the Library.

Mr. Mike O’Brien: The “PCT Procurement Guide for Christopher Fraser: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Services” first published in May 2008 applies to Health what the (a) mean and (b) median length of an all national health service-funded healthcare procurement. in-patient hospital stay was for patients with a Primary care trusts as commissioners are expected to diagnosis of prostate cancer (i) in England and (ii) in comply with this guidance as part of their obligations in each NHS trust was in each year since 1997-98. the Operating Framework published in December 2007. [317712] The PCT Procurement Guide is currently being revised to take account of developments since 2008. Ann Keen: Information on the mean and median length of stay for patients by NHS hospital provider for The Secretary of State’s Vision document “NHS each year since 1997-98 where the primary diagnosis 2010-2015: From Good to Great and the NHS Operating was prostate cancer has been placed in the Library. Framework 2010/11” outline how we expect the NHS as preferred provider to work in practice. Copies of both Christopher Fraser: To ask the Secretary of State for documents have already been placed in the Library. Health what the (a) mean and (b) median referral-to- treatment waiting time has been for patients with a Primodos diagnosis of prostate cancer (i) in England and (ii) in each NHS trust in each month since January 2007. Mike Penning: To ask the Secretary of State for [317714] Health whether he has made an estimate of the number of people there are in England who have been adversely Ann Keen: Statistics on average waiting times for affected by the drug Primodos. [317688] cancer patients and average waiting times specifically 147W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 148W for prostate cancer treatment are not collected centrally. Ann Keen: The National Stroke Strategy recommends The cancer waiting time standard of a maximum wait that local action is needed to ensure that stroke features of 62 days from urgent referral for suspected cancer to in local joint health needs assessments so that primary first cancer treatment was introduced for all cancer care trusts and local authorities can shape their local patients from December 2005. In the last quarter for commissioning priorities accordingly. The Stroke which figures are available (July to September 2009) Improvement Programme and the stroke networks are national performance against this standard was 85.7 disseminating across the service good practice for needs- per cent. based services that has already been developed in some areas. In addition, local authorities are benefiting from Streptococcus: Pregnancy £45 million over three years in ring-fenced grants to improve support services to adult stroke survivors and Mr. Gerrard: To ask the Secretary of State for Health their carers in the community. (1) what guidance his Department issues to strategic health authorities on the availability of tests to Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State pregnant women for Group B streptococcus infection; for Health what steps his Department is taking to require the provision of appropriate stroke-specific [317273] training for care home staff. [317927] (2) how many infant deaths were due to (a) early and (b) late onset Group B streptococcus infection in the Ann Keen: It is the responsibility of individual social latest period for which figures are available. [317274] care employers to ensure that their staff are adequately trained for the role that they perform. However, we Ann Keen: The National Institute for Health and recognise that stroke survivors in care homes have particular Clinical Excellence clinical guidelines for routine antenatal needs and are currently considering what steps we can take care, published in 2008, recommends that pregnant to improve stroke specific training for care home staff. women should not be offered routine antenatal screening for group B streptococcus because evidence of its clinical Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State and cost-effectiveness remains uncertain. for Health what steps his Department is taking to raise (a) public and (b) professional awareness of (i) risk The following table provides the number of infant factors for stroke and (ii) effective primary prevention deaths where there was mention of streptococcus, group measures at individual, family, community and societal B. It is not possible to determine onset of infections but levels; and if he will make a statement. [317930] numbers are presented for the neonatal and post-neonatal periods. In 2008, there were 3,281 infant deaths in total, Ann Keen: The Department has run a series of campaigns 2,260 occurred in the neonatal period and 1,021 occurred to raise both public and professional awareness of the in the post-neonatal period. importance of a healthy lifestyle in reducing the risk of Number of infant deaths where there was mention of streptococcus a number of diseases, including stroke. These include group B1, for England and Wales, 20082 Change 4 Life, which is aimed at reducing obesity, Number of deaths Smokefree marketing to motivate people to stop smoking and direct them to national health service information Neonatal3 26 and support and a jointly branded campaign with our Postneonatal4 3 stakeholders, including the Stroke Association, about Infant5 29 the unseen damage that drinking can cause to long-term 1 Cause of death was defined using the International Classification of health. The link between alcohol and stroke was one of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). Deaths were included where there the key messages. was mention of streptococcus group B (corresponding ICD-10 codes are shown in Box 1). Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State 2 Figures for 2008 are provisional. for Health how much his Department has spent on 3 Neonatal deaths under 28 days after live birth. 4 Post-neonatal deaths at least 28 days but under one year after live public health measures to reduce exposure to risk birth. factors for stroke in each of the last 12 months; and if 5 Infant deaths under a year after live birth. he will make a statement. [317931] Box 1. ICD-10 codes used to define infant deaths due to Group B streptococcus infection Ann Keen: This information is not available. The Description ICD-10 Department invests in a number of primary prevention measures to help people across different socio-economic Septicaemia due to A40.1 groups address risk factors that are commonly associated streptococcus, group B with a number of diseases, including stroke. These help Pneumonia due to J15.3 people to stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight, streptococcus, group B moderate their alcohol consumption and participate in Congenital pneumonia due to P23.3 streptococcus, group B more physical activity. For example, we are working across Government to make two million adults more Sepsis of newborn due to P36.0 streptococcus, group B physically active by 2012 and phasing in the implementation of the NHS Health Check programme that is designed Strokes: Health Services to reduce an individual’s risk of a number of vascular diseases including stroke. Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department is taking to for Health what steps he is taking to develop community- improve the provision of needs-based services to based stroke prevention services with the voluntary support stroke survivors and their carers in the sector, the NHS and local authorities; and if he will long-term; and if he will make a statement. [317926] make a statement. [317932] 149W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 150W

Ann Keen: The National Stroke Strategy recognises remains a challenge. Local stroke care networks have the importance of educating people about the risk of been established to assist in improving the delivery of stroke and associated prevention measures. It asks that stroke services. This includes working with health care local assessments should be made of how effectively professionals to ensure urgent admission to an acute areas are supporting healthier lifestyles and taking action stroke unit, timely access to scanning and the provision to tackle vascular risk including hypertension, atrial of thrombolysis where appropriate. All hospitals provide fibrillation and high cholesterol. CT scanning and most provide MRI and carotid doppler Phased implementation of the NHS Health Check and the Department published an imaging guide in programme began in April 2009. This programme is 2008, to help ensure that imaging services develop in designed to reduce an individual’s risk of a number of line with the quality markers in the National Stroke vascular diseases including stroke. Primary care trusts Strategy. (PCTs) are responsible for commissioning. The programme To further encourage improvements in stroke care, in has been designed so that it can be delivered from a April 2010 we will introduce a Best Practice Tariff for variety of settings and by different providers where they stroke which incentivises direct admission to a stroke have undergone appropriate training. PCTs may, therefore, unit and timely brain imaging. We will continue to use a range of providers, including the third sector, to improve care for stroke patients by ensuring that more deliver the programme. patients, for whom there is potential benefit, have a brain scan within one hour of their admission. However, Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State thrombolysis can only be delivered safely by experienced for Health when his Department plans to implement teams. Hospitals should not aim to provide thrombolysis the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines before the associated components of the service are for diagnosis and treatment of transient ischaemic functioning well and are of high quality. It is not be attack and minor stroke; and if he will make a appropriate, therefore, for every hospital to deliver a statement. [317933] thrombolysis service.

Ann Keen: Implementation of the ‘Diagnosis and Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State initial management of acute stroke and transient ischaemic for Health if he will make it his policy to provide for attack (TIA)’ guidance is the responsibility of local every patient with stroke to be treated in a high quality commissioners and providers. It is the responsibility of stroke unit for the duration of their hospital treatment. commissioners in consultation with their providers to [317940] procure the stroke services for their populations. Ann Keen: The National Stroke Strategy recognises Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State that stroke unit care is the single biggest factor that can for Health if his Department will issue guidance to improve a person’s outcome following a stroke. We ambulance services on the agreement of stroke have, therefore, made this a top priority for the national protocols with hospitals with acute and hyper-acute health service. The tier 1 vital sign in the NHS Operating Framework aims to ensure that, by March 2011, 80 per stroke units. [317938] cent. of patients with stroke spend at least 90 per cent. of their time in hospital on a stroke unit. This recognises Ann Keen: We are not planning to issue such guidance. that there are times when a patient, for clinical reasons, The Royal College of Physicians’ Stroke Sentinel Audit might need to spend time in the care of others outside a of 2008 showed that there has been a striking improvement stroke unit. in the number of protocols ambulance services have for the management of stroke patients. It shows that between Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State 2006 and 2008 the percentage of primary care trusts for Health if he will make it his policy to require all having arrangements with their local ambulance service stroke units to meet the criteria set out in clinical stroke for emergency/rapid transfer to hospital for specialist guidelines and by the British Association of Stroke acute stroke care services has risen from 12 per cent. to Physicians. [317941] 49 per cent. It is the responsibility of the NHS locally to develop these arrangements. Ann Keen: The National Stroke Strategy sets out twenty quality markers outlining the features of a good Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State stroke service. In developing the strategy, we consulted for Health if his Department will issue guidance on the experts in the field and used the most up-to-date clinical treatment of stroke as an emergency, with particular guidelines, including those from the National Institute reference to appropriate access to brain scanning and for Health and Clinical Excellence and the nine key thrombolysis and immediate admission to an acute indicators used in the Royal College of Physicians’ stroke unit. [317939] National Sentinel Stroke Audit.

Ann Keen: The National Stroke Strategy recommends Sir Nicholas Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State that everyone who can benefit from urgent stroke care for Health if his Department will issue guidance on the should be transferred to an acute stroke centre that (a) appropriate knowledge and skills relating to stroke provides 24-hour access to scans and care in a specialist and (b) appropriate training in stroke for all NHS staff stroke unit. working in emergency and acute care. [317942] The 2009 National Sentinel Audit of stroke undertaken by the Royal College of Physicians shows that the Ann Keen: Standard setting for the knowledge and number of stroke units providing thrombolysis is increasing skills required of those working with stroke patients is and that the provision of these services out of hours for the relevant professional bodies. It is for local areas 151W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 152W to review, plan for and develop a stroke-skilled work circular also lists the funding allocated to local authorities. force. Standard setting also guides commissioners on The local authority circular can be found at the following the criteria against which to judge services that they will web address: commission. www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/ The Department set up the UK Forum for Stroke Lettersandcirculars/LocalAuthorityCirculars/ Training through which the Stroke Specific Education AllLocalAuthority/DH_098601 Framework has been developed. This framework reflects The Department does not collect information on the elements of the stroke care pathway from prevention how local authorities spend these grants. through to long-term care which will facilitate links Strokes: Mental Health between training, education, work force competences and professional development. It aims to build on the Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for generic skills that health, social, voluntary and independent Health if he will list (a) the causes of (i) stroke, (ii) care staff already possess through the clear identification dementia and (iii) depression and (b) the proportion of of additional stroke-specific knowledge and skills. Its cases attributable to each such factor in the last 12 purpose is to ensure quality in stroke care by supporting months. [316282] stroke specialist and stroke relevant career pathways and course design and promoting recognised and Ann Keen: The information on the causes of stroke, transferable training and qualifications. dementia and depression is not held centrally. There are many causes of stroke, dementia and depression Jim Cousins: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and this information is widely available in the public how much funding has been allocated under the domain for example, the NHS Choices website lists the National Stroke Strategy to each local authority in causes for stroke, dementia and depression on its website: Tyne and Wear; and in which years those allocations www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Pages/bodymap.aspx were (a) made and (b) spent on each (i) project and Surgery (ii) service. [318007] Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Ann Keen: Ring-fenced grants are being provided to Health how many operations were conducted in each all 152 local authorities in England over the three years strategic health authority area in England in each of 2008-09 to 2010-11 for the provision of support services the last three years. [316753] to adult stroke survivors and their carers in the community. The ring-fenced grants total £45 million over the three Mr. Mike O’Brien: The number of finished consultant years which means that each local authority receives an episodes (FCEs) where a main procedure or intervention average of £100,000 a year. A local authority circular was performed, broken down by strategic health authority has been issued that sets out the kind of services that (SHA) of treatment for the years 2006-07 to 2008-09 is these grants might be used to fund. Annex B of the shown in the following table:

SHA SHA of treatment 2008-09 2007-08 2006-07

Total 9,274,423 8,606,493 7,888,074 Q30 North East SHA 572,040 531,912 491,678 Q31 North West SHA 1,394,767 1,294,042 1,143,980 Q32 Yorkshire and the Humber SHA 981,160 902,896 840,971 Q33 East Midlands SHA 700,812 664,188 616,908 Q34 West Midlands SHA 991,949 909,925^ 876,376 Q35 East of England SHA 913,552 848,822 778,642 Q36 London Strategic SHA 1,403,602 1,304,337 1,206,929 Q37 South East Coast SHA 654,067 605,049 551,229 Q38 South Central SHA 611,945 575,613 505,462 Q39 South West SHA 1,050,513 969,707 875,898 Q99 Wales 16 2 0 Y Unknown 0 0 1 Notes: 1. FCE is a continuous period of admitted patient care under one consultant within one healthcare provider. FCEs are counted against the year in which they end. Figures do not represent the number of different patients, as a person may have more than one episode of care within the same stay in hospital or in different stays in the same year. 2. The main procedure is first recorded procedure or intervention in each episode, usually the most resource intensive procedure or intervention performed during the episode. In some cases a patient may undertake more than one procedure as part of the same episode. The data does not include the number of secondary procedures undertaken at the same time as the main procedures. 3. SHA of treatment indicates the strategic health authority where the treatment took place. 4. Where Wales is shown as the SHA of treatment, the figure relates to patients who were treated by an English independent provider who also have sites in Wales, where these treatments took place. Source: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), The NHS Information Centre for Health and Social Care

Surgery: Operating Costs used was of each operating theatre in England in each of the last five years. [316752] Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Mike O’Brien: The information requested is not Health what the net cost to the NHS per theatre hour collected centrally. 153W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 154W

Teenage Pregnancy Conceptions1 to women aged (a) under 16 years2 and 16-19 years2 in England and Wales3, 1987-20074 Number of conceptions Rate per 1,0005 Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (thousand) how many pregnancies of girls aged between 15 and 19 Age of woman at conception Age of woman at years there were in each of the last 30 years; and what conception assessment he has made of trends in the level of such (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) pregnancies. [317966] Under 16-19 Under Under Under Year 166 years6 206 166 206

Angela E. Smith: I have been asked to reply. 2007 8.2 98.1 106.3 8.3 61.7 The information requested falls within the responsibility 1 Figures on conceptions are based on the number of live births, of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority stillbirths or legal abortions. They do not include miscarriages and illegal abortions. to reply. 2 Age at estimated date of conception. Letter from Dennis Roberts, dated February 2010: 3 Women usually resident in England and Wales. 4 Years for which the method used for estimating woman’s age at The Director General for the Office for National Statistics has conception was consistent. 2007 is the most recent year for which been asked to reply to your recent question asking the Secretary figures are available. of State for Health, how many pregnancies of girls aged between 5 Number of conceptions to women under 16 per 1,000 female 15 and 19 years there were in each of the last 30 years; and what population aged 13-15 and to women under 20 per 1,000 female assessment has been made of trends in the level of such pregnancies. population aged 15-18. (317966) I am replying in his absence. 6 Data have been published in groups—‘under 16’ and ‘under 20’. Due The table attached provides the statistics that are available on a to small numbers ‘under 16’ has been included as a group. Age 16-19 consistent basis and follows the standard way of presenting these was calculated by subtracting the ‘under 16’ figure from the ‘under data. The table gives the number of conceptions among girls aged 20’. (a) under 16, (b) 16-19 years and (c) under 20, and rates of conceptions for (d) under 16 and (e) under 20, for England and Urology: Health Services Wales for 1987 to 2007 (the most recent year for which figures are available). Figures specifically for girls aged between 15 and 19 years could only be provided at disproportionate cost. Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what guidance his Department has issued to (a) Figures on conceptions are estimates based on the number of primary care trusts and (b) regional procurement hubs live births, stillbirths or legal abortions. They do not include miscarriages and illegal abortions. Prior to 1987, a woman’s age in ensuring that commissioning arrangements for the at conception was calculated on a different basis and therefore it provision of urology and stoma devices take account of is not possible to accurately compare the level of conceptions the outcomes of the most recent Part IX review prior to 1987 against levels in subsequent years. consultation; [317934] Rates have been included in the table provided as rates take (2) what steps his Department is taking to ensure account of changes in population sizes and therefore provide a that the use of local tenders and product formularies better measure of the proportion of women who conceive each for urology products does not affect the availability of year. Part IX products to patients who gain access to them through the prescription process; [317936] Conceptions1 to women aged (a) under 16 years2 and 16-19 years2 in England and Wales3, 1987-20074 (3) what mechanisms his Department plans to put in Number of conceptions Rate per 1,0005 place to ensure consistency in the use of local tenders (thousand) and product formularies for urology products and Age of woman at conception Age of woman at services in primary care, with particular reference to conception the outcomes of the most recent Part IX review (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) consultation. [317935] Under 16-19 Under Under Under Year 166 years6 206 166 206 Dr. Ladyman: To ask the Secretary of State for 1987 8.6 112.7 121.3 8.8 65.2 Health (1) what assessment has been made of the 1988 8.3 110.6 118.9 8.8 65.8 effects on levels of competition in the urology industry 1989 8.0 107.7 115.7 8.9 66.8 of the development of local primary care trust tenders 1990 8.1 105.2 113.3 9.5 68.0 for the provision of urology products and services; and 1991 7.5 94.1 101.6 8.9 64.1 if he will make a statement; [317340] 1992 7.2 86.2 93.4 8.4 61.9 (2) what assessment has been made of the effects on 1993 7.3 79.9 87.2 8.1 59.7 patient choice of the increasing use of tenders and 1994 7.8 77.6 85.4 8.3 58.7 formularies in primary care for urology and stoma 1995 8.1 78.5 86.6 8.6 58.7 products and services; and if he will make a statement; 1996 8.9 86.0 94.9 9.5 63.2 [317341] 1997 8.3 87.7 96.0 8.9 62.6 (3) what his Department is doing to ensure that the 1998 8.5 93.1 101.6 9.0 65.1 use of local primary care trust tenders and product 1999 7.9 90.9 98.8 8.3 63.1 formularies for urology products does not prevent 2000 8.1 89.6 97.7 8.3 62.5 patients being able to access their choice of Part IX 2001 7.9 88.1 96.0 8.0 60.8 products via the normal prescription process; and if he 2002 7.9 89.2 97.1 7.9 60.6 will make a statement. [317342] 2003 8.0 90.6 98.6 7.9 60.0 2004 7.6 93.7 101.3 7.5 60.3 Mr. Mike O’Brien: Any decisions to undertake local 2005 7.9 94.4 102.3 7.8 60.1 procurement activity rests with the national health service 2006 7.8 95.3 103.1 7.8 60.2 organisations that initiate them. 155W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 156W

Following the review of the supply of certain appliances Budgets for campaigns are not held by COI but by the for primary care, as listed in part IX of the Drug Tariff, commissioning department. new arrangements were announced in April 2009 and Accurate information for the current financial year will only be the relevant amendment regulations were laid on 22 published once the annual accounts have been fully audited. December 2009. These are accompanied by directions to provide for new advanced services. There will also be Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office changes to the Drug Tariff from 1 April 2010 to take with reference to the Central Office of Information account of associated new fees and allowances and a press release of 11 December 2009, on the reduction of reimbursement prices for some appliances. merchandising and promotional items framework, how The Department is in ongoing dialogue with industry, much the Central Office of Information has spent on industry trade federations, collaborative procurement promotional food and drink products in each of the hubs and primary care trusts (PCTs) over the use of last three years; what suppliers were used; and on local tenders and product formularies for products and behalf of which public bodies promotional food and services covered by part IX of the Drug Tariff. The aim drink was procured. [315223] of this dialogue is to agree clear guidance for PCTs on this matter. Angela E. Smith: I have asked the chief executive of the Central Office of Information to write to the hon. The Department is not aware of any ongoing local Member. tenders for part IX products. Any local procurement or tenders do not override the clinical judgment of the GP, Letter from Mark Lund, dated 8 February 2010: who is still free to prescribe products listed in part IX of As Chief Executive of the Central Office of Information the Drug Tariff to meet the specific needs of patients. (COI), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question [315223] regarding the Merchandising and Promotional Framework. The only company used for promotional products included in CABINET OFFICE the new framework, in each of the last 3 financial years, was Sweet Concepts ltd. This was prior to the start of the specific : Repairs and Maintenance framework mentioned. Promotional products were purchased on behalf of the following Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office clients; pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for British Transport Police Peterborough of 27 October 2009, Official Report, column Health and Safety Executive 251W, on 10 Downing Street, how purchase orders for expenditure on renovation and refurbishment are (a) Home Office authorised and (b) electronically held; how quotations Learning and Skills Council are obtained in advance of work on renovation and University for Industry refurbishment; and how the Total Facilities Management Royal Air Force Provider is reimbursed for expenditure on renovation Dept of Health and refurbishment over and above routine maintenance. Police Information Technology Organisation. [315220] Total (£) Ms Butler: All expenditure incurred by the Cabinet Office is procured and authorised in accordance with 2006-07 22,303.80 published departmental guidance on financial procedures 2007-08 11,666.99 and propriety, based on principles set out in ‘Managing 2008-09 7,417.00 Public Money’ and the Treasury handbook on ‘Regularity & Propriety’. The departmental guidance is available to Charities all staff on the Cabinet Office intranet. Only staff with the appropriate delegated financial authority may authorise Cabinet Office expenditure. Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if she will request the Charity Central Office of Information: Marketing Commission to require charities which have been found by the Commission to have raised money for a purpose Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office outside their charitable objects to post information to what the (a) title and (b) notional budget is of each this effect on their website and to indicate the steps advertising and marketing campaign co-ordinated they are taking to return such donations to the donors. through the Central Office of Information in 2009-10. [317183] [315203] Angela E. Smith: I have asked the chief executive of Angela E. Smith: The Charity Commission is an the Central Office of Information to write to the hon. independent non-ministerial Government Department Member. responsible for the support and supervision of charities in England and Wales under the Charities Acts 1993 Letter from Mark Lund, dated 8 February 2010: and 2006. The Charity Commission is not subject to As Chief Executive of the Central Office of Information ministerial direction or control, and it would not be (COI), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question appropriate for me to make such a request. However, I [315203] regarding Government Campaigns co-ordinated through COI. have made the Charity Commission aware of your This information is not held centrally within COI and could concerns. only be made available at disproportionate cost. A charity should take immediate action if it realises Campaigns for the current year may not, at present, have the that it has made an appeal outside of its purposes. final title and release of such information may be misleading. Where possible, it would be necessary for the charity 157W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 158W running the appeal to contact the donors to clarify the Annex A: Employment in (a) local government, (b) central basis on which they made their donation. The next steps government, (c) public corporations and (d) the Civil Service in would depend on the circumstances of the appeal and (i) 1996 and (ii) the latest period for which figures are available should be taken in consultation with the Charity United Kingdom; Headcount (thousands); Not seasonally adjusted Commission. Local Central Public Civil Government Government1 Corporations2 Service1 Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Minister for the 1996 2,737 2,144 394 538 Cabinet Office what steps the Charity Commission is 2009 Q3 2,901 2,596 565 533 taking to ensure that charities file their accounts with 1 Home Civil Service (excludes Northern Ireland Civil Service which the Commission within the prescribed timescales. is included in Central Government). 2 [317184] Royal Bank of Scotland Group and Lloyds Banking Group classified to public sector from 13 October 2008. Source: Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls Office for National Statistics within the responsibility of the Charity Commission. I have asked the Commission to reply. Death: Alcoholic Drinks Letter from Andrew Hind, dated 11 February 2010: As the Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, I have Mr. Dismore: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet been asked to respond to your written Parliamentary Question on Office pursuant to the answer of 8 February 2010, what steps the Charity Commission is taking to ensure that Official Report, column 800W, on death: liver diseases, charities file their accounts with the Commission within the how many alcohol-related deaths there were in the prescribed timescales (317184). latest year for which figures are available, excluding To ensure that charities file their accounts within the prescribed deaths with an underlying cause of chronic liver disease time limit the Commission: and cirrhosis that do not mention alcohol as a issues reminders by letter or email three months and one contributing factor. [317565] month prior to the submission deadline; makes telephone contact with charities with income in excess Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls of £5 million if they do not respond to written reminders; within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. clearly highlights any failure to submit accounts on the online I have asked the authority to reply. public Register of Charities. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: These measures are supported by periodic press campaigns, As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I most recently the Commission’s File on Time campaign launched have been asked to reply to your recent question pursuant to the in February 2010. Answer of 8 February 2010, Official Report, column 800W, on Charities that fail to comply may be subject to enforcement death: liver diseases, how many alcohol-related deaths there were action or may be removed from the Register if it appears that they in the latest year for which figures are available, excluding deaths are no longer operating. with an underlying cause of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis The percentage of charities filing accounts on time has risen that do not mention alcohol as a contributing factor. (317565) from 66% in 2006 to 81% in the year to January 2010. In 2008-9, Figures provided in the previous Answer were the number of 94% of the sector’s income was accounted for in annual accounts deaths with an underlying cause of (a) chronic liver disease and filed within the ten month deadline. (b) cirrhosis, and the number of cases where alcohol is also I hope this is helpful. mentioned on the death certificate as a contributing factor, in England and Wales, in 2008 (the latest year available) (Table 1). Civil Servants: Manpower According to the National Statistics definition, there were 7,344 deaths with an alcohol-related underlying cause in England and Wales in 2008 (the latest year available).1, 2, 3 Mr. Maude: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The causes of death included in the previous Answer for chronic Office how many people were employed by (a) local liver disease are not all included within the National Statistics government, (b) central government, (c) public definition of alcohol-related deaths. The causes listed for cirrhosis corporations and (d) the Civil Service in (i) 1996 and are included both in the causes for chronic liver disease and in the (ii) the latest period for which figures are available. National Statistics definition. The causes of death previously [312186] given for chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, conditions which mention alcohol and the National Statistics alcohol-related deaths definition are listed below in Box 1. Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls Of the 6,514 deaths where chronic liver disease was the underlying within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. cause of death in England and Wales in 2008,4, 2, 3 6,320 are I have asked the Authority to reply. included within the National Statistics definition of alcohol-related Letter from Dennis Roberts, dated January 2010: deaths (Figure 1).5 Of these, there were 4,781 deaths where alcohol was mentioned on the death certificate as a contributing The Director General for the Office for National Statistics has factor, and 1,539 deaths where there was no explicit mention of been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question concerning alcohol (Figure 2).6 how many people were employed by (a) local government, (b) central government, (c) public corporations and (d) the Civil There were 5,805 deaths with an alcohol-related underlying Service in (i) 1996 and (ii) the latest period for which figures are cause, excluding deaths where the underlying cause was chronic available. I am replying in his absence. (312186) liver disease (within the National Statistics definition) and alcohol was not mentioned on the death certificate as a contributing Estimates of employment for the public sector are taken from factor, in England and Wales, in 2008.2, 3 the ONS release on Public Sector Employment at This figure was derived by subtracting the number of deaths www.statistics.gov.uk where chronic liver disease (within the National Statistics definition) Data for the Quarterly Public Sector Employment Survey (QPSES) was the underlying cause of death and there was no mention of is collected on a quarterly basis; the latest date for which information alcohol on the death certificate (1,539) from the total number of is available is September 2009 (Annex A). alcohol-related deaths (7,344). 159W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 160W

Internationally accepted guidance from the World Health Death: Drugs and Alcoholic Drinks Organisation requires only those conditions that contributed directly to the death to be recorded on the death certificate. Medical practitioners and coroners are not supposed to record all Chris Grayling: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet of the diseases or conditions present at or before death, and Office what information her Department holds for whether a condition contributed is a matter for their clinical benchmarking purposes on the death rates in respect of judgement. Lifestyle and behavioural factors, such as the deceased’s (a) drug and (b) alcohol abuse in other EU member alcohol consumption, are not recorded. states. [315704] Although not all deaths coded to liver disease and cirrhosis include a mention of alcohol on the death certificate, most are included in the official definition of alcohol-related deaths on the Gillian Merron: I have been asked to reply. assumption that many of them were caused by alcohol, even if Information on drug abuse and alcohol abuse deaths this was not explicitly stated. is collected by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). “Deaths related to drug poisoning in England and Death: Cancer Wales, 2008”, is the latest available information on drug misuse deaths and was published by ONS in August Christopher Fraser: To ask the Minister for the 2009. A copy has been placed in the Library. It provided Cabinet Office (1) what the age-standardised mortality drug misuse death data by gender, age group, time and rate from prostate cancer was in (a) England, (b) each by specific drugs. primary care trust area and (c) each constituency in On behalf of the four United Kingdom health each year since 1997-98; [317707] departments, we provide UK drug related death information (2) how many deaths from prostate cancer there were to the European Monitoring Centre on Drugs and in (a) England, (b) each primary care trust area and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). The EMCDDA receives (c) each constituency in each year since 1997-98. drug related death information from all European Union [317708] member states and some other European countries and publishes this data annually as a statistical bulletin available from the EMCDDA website: Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. http://www.emcdda.europa.eu/ I have asked the Authority to reply. though there are limitations on the comparability of Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: data from different states. As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I “Alcohol-related deaths in the United Kingdom 1991- have been asked to reply to your recent questions asking (1) what 2008”, is the latest available information on alcohol-related the age-standardised mortality rate from prostate cancer was in deaths and was published by ONS in January 2010. A (a) England, (b) each primary care trust area and (c) each copy has been placed in the Library. constituency in each year since 1997-98 (317707) and (2) how European data on selected alcohol-related causes of many deaths from prostate cancer there were in (a) England, (b) each primary care trust area and (c) each constituency in each death per 100,000 of population is held by the World year since 1997-98. (317708) Health Organization Regional Office for Europe on the European ‘health for all’ online database: The tables attached provide: http://data.euro.who.int/hfadb/ (1) The age-standardised mortality rate per 100,000 population, where prostate cancer was the underlying cause of death, for (a) Although this can be a helpful indicator for ranking England, for the years 1997 to 2008 (the latest year available) countries by alcohol related mortality, it is important to (Table 1), (b) primary care organisations in England, for the years note that it does not include all known alcohol-related 2001 to 2008 (the only period available) (Table 2), and (c) parliamentary causes of death and is not directly comparable with constituencies in England, for the years 2001 to 2007 (the only ONS alcohol-related death data. period available) (Table 3). (2) The number of deaths where prostate cancer was the underlying cause of death, for (a) England and (b) primary care Death: Fuel Poverty organisations in England, for the years 1997 to 2008 (the latest year available) (Tables 4 and 5), and (c) parliamentary constituencies Richard Younger-Ross: To ask the Minister for the in England, for the years 1997-02 and 2003-08 combined (the only periods available) (Table 6). Cabinet Office what estimate she has made of the number of excess winter deaths of persons aged 65 or A copy of Tables 2, 3, 5 and 6 have been placed in the House of over attributable to fuel poverty in January 2010. Commons Library. [316862] Mortality rates for primary care organisations and parliamentary constituencies can only be calculated for the periods given due to the availability of mid-year population estimates. Numbers of Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls deaths for parliamentary constituencies have not been given for within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. individual years in line with the current ONS policy on protecting I have asked the Authority to reply. confidentiality within birth and death statistics. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 9 February 2010: Table 1: Number of deaths where breast cancer was the underlying cause of death, England and Wales, 20081, 2, 3 As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what was Cause of death Deaths (persons) the number of excess winter deaths of persons aged 65 or over Breast cancer 10,779 attributable to fuel poverty in January 2010. (316862) 1 Cause of death was defined using the International Classification of Estimates of excess winter deaths are based on the difference Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code C50. between the number of deaths during the four winter months 2 Figures for England and Wales include deaths of non-residents. (December to March) and the average number of deaths during 3 Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year. the preceding four months (August to November) and the following 161W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 162W four months (April to July). Provisional estimated figures for excess winter mortality in the winter period 2009/10 will be Annual Percentage of published in November 2010. consumption Cost of utilities renewable (kWh) (£) energy It is not possible to say from the information collected at death registration whether excess winter deaths are attributable to fuel 2005-06 17,485,892 1,502,409 43.2 poverty or any other social or economic circumstances. 2006-07 16,682,196 1,608,105 45.7 2007-08 14,808,607 1,422,722 50.2 Departmental Air Travel 2008-09 16,384,746 2,232,021 60.0 2009-10 (to 11,774,435 1,256,662 67.1 Mr. Harper: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet date) Office how much the Leader of the House’s Office spent on (a) first class and (b) business class flights in Departmental Information Officers the last 12 months. [317270] Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office Angela E. Smith: Provision of a complete and accurate how many staff in (a) her Department, (b) the Charity response would require a full interrogation of the corporate Commission and (c) the Central Office of Information travel contract management information, Government (i) have the status of embedded communicators and (ii) Procurement Card (GPC) records and expenses claims are members of the Government Communications Network for the period requested. This would therefore incur but are not listed in the Central Office of Information disproportionate costs. White Book. [315166] However, since 1999, the Government have published a list of all overseas travel by Cabinet Ministers costing Ms Butler: Cabinet Office currently has no staff with over £500. Information for the financial year 2008-09 the status of embedded communicators. was published on 16 July 2009, Official Report, column To provide information on how many members of 66-70WS. All travel by Ministers is undertaken in Cabinet Office staff are members of the GCN but not accordance with the Ministerial Code. listed in the White Book could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Departmental Art Works I have asked the chief executives of the Charity Commission (b) and the Central Office of Information (c) to write in reply to the hon. Member’s question. Mr. Maude: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office which works of art from the Government Art Letter from Andrew Hind, dated 3 February 2010: Collection are on display in (a) No. 10 Downing Street As the Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, I have and (b) the Prime Minister’s personal residence; and been asked to respond to your Parliamentary Question regarding which other works of art have been on display at each how many of our staff (i) have the status of “embedded communicators” and (ii) are members of the Government such location since June 2007. [312285] Communications Network but are not listed in the Central Office of Information White Book. I will arrange for a copy of this letter Angela E. Smith: I refer the hon. Member to the to be placed in the Library of the House. answer given on 9 June 2008, Official Report, column We have no employees with the status of “embedded 94W. A list of the works of art will be deposited in the communicators”. There are two Charity Commission employees Libraries of both Houses. who are members of the Government Communications Network (GCN) but not listed in the current edition of the White Book. Departmental Consultants The post of Head of Corporate Affairs is listed in the current edition of the White Book as being filled by someone who is no longer in the role. Therefore the current postholder, a member of Mr. Harper: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet the GCN, is not listed by name in the White Book. In addition, Office whether the Leader of the House’s Office has our Internal Communications Manager is a member of the GCN had any contracts with external consultants in 2009-10. but this post is not listed in the White Book. [317269] I hope this is helpful. Letter from Mark Lund, dated 2 February 2010: Angela E. Smith: Up until 31 January 2010, the As Chief Executive of the Central Office of Information Leader of the House’s Office did not have any contracts (COI), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question with external consultants in 2009-10. [315166] asking how many staff in the Central Office of Information (i) have the status of embedded communicators and (ii) are members of the Government Communications Network but are Departmental Energy not listed in the Central Office of Information White Book. (i) COI has no staff defined as embedded communicators. Andrew Stunell: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet (ii) This information is not available and could only be provided Office what the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost was at disproportionate cost. of energy used in her Department and its agency in each year since 1997; what proportion of the energy Departmental Mass Media used was generated from renewable sources in each of those years; and if she will make a statement. [317231] Mr. Maude: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office with reference to the answer of 20 July 2009, Ms Butler: The information requested by is in the Official Report, column 1040W, on departmental following table. This information covers the Cabinet publications, if she will place in the Library hard copy Office’s central London estate. Information prior to print outs of the daily online news service bulletin for 2005-06 is available only at disproportionate cost. the period from 1 January 2010 to date. [312462] 163W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 164W

Ms Butler: The Cabinet Office provides a staff intranet Lobbying: Registration which has a main news story that changes frequently. The audience is internal Cabinet Office staff. Personal Mr. Maude: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet details of staff appear in these internal news stories on Office what timetable she has set for the lobbying the understanding that they will be used for internal industry to develop a voluntary register of lobbying purposes only. Printing copies and placing them in the activity. [312183] Libraries of the House, or other ‘public’ areas, would infringe staff privacy. Angela E. Smith: I refer the right hon. Member to my Departmental Pay response during the debate on lobbying in Westminster Hall on 7 January 2010.

Mr. Scott: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office Media Monitoring Unit how much has been paid in bonuses to civil servants in the Office of the Leader of the House in each year since 2003. [306460] Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office with reference to the answer of 3 December 2009, Angela E. Smith: The Office of the Leader of the House Official Report, column 975W, on Media Monitoring of Commons is an integral part of the Cabinet Office. Unit, what the difference is between the subscribers referred to as the Cabinet Office and Cabinet Office I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on 10 Communications; and which subscriber incurred the February 2010, Official Report, column 1061W. £25,200 of expenditure referred to. [315281] Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many (a) year end and (b) in-year bonuses Angela E. Smith: I have asked the chief executive of were paid to officials in the Prime Minister’s Office in the Central Office of Information to write to the hon. each of the last three years; and how much was paid in Member. such bonuses in each such year. [307106] Letter from Mark Lund, dated 8 February 2010: As Chief Executive of the Central Office of Information Angela E. Smith: The Prime Minister’s Office is an (COI), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question integral part of the Cabinet Office. [315281] asking for clarification on the Media Monitoring Unit. I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the The MMU provides in-depth news briefings for press officers, hon. Member for Ilford, North (Mr. Scott) on 10 February policy officials and Ministers across all government departments, 2010, Official Report, column 1061W. the public sector and regional public bodies. The subscription information listed for Cabinet Office included Life Expectancy: Salford all work carried out on their behalf. The Information listed as Cabinet Office Communications was Hazel Blears: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet work carried out on behalf of another department. Office what the average life expectancy was for The subscription listed as blank has already been included in (a) women and (b) men in Salford in (i) 1997 and (ii) the subscription for a department within the table and should be disregarded. 2009. [317395]

Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls New Businesses: Feltham within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Alan Keen: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office Letter from Stephen Penneck: how many businesses have started up in Feltham and Heston constituency since 1997. [316696] As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what the average life expectancy was for (a) women and (b) men in Salford Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls in (i) 1997 and (ii) 2009. (317395) within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. Life expectancy figures are calculated as three year rolling I have asked the Authority to reply. averages. The table below provides the period life expectancy at Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated 9 February 2010: birth for (a) women and (b) men in Salford local authority, for (i) As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I 1996-98 and (ii) 2006-08 (the latest figures available). have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question Table 1: Period life expectancy at birth1, Salford local authority2, 1996-98 and concerning how many businesses have started up in Feltham and 2006-083 Heston constituency since 1997. [316696] Years of life Annual statistics on business births, deaths and survival are Males Females available for 2002 onwards from the ONS release on Business Demography at: 1996-98 72 77 www.statistics.gov.uk 2006-08 75 79 1 Period life expectancy at birth is an estimate of the average number of years a The table below contains the latest statistics available on business newborn baby would survive if he or she experienced the area’s age-specific births for Feltham and Heston. mortality rates for that time period throughout his or her life. The figure reflects Enterprise births for Feltham and Heston 2002 to 2008 mortality among those living in the area in each time period, rather than mortality among those born in each area. It is not therefore the number of years Total a baby born in the area in each time period could actually expect to live, both because the death rates of the area are likely to change in the future and because 2002 356 many of those born in the area will live elsewhere for at least some part of their 2003 421 lives. 2 Using boundaries as of 2009 for all the years shown. 2004 431 3 Three year rolling averages, based on deaths registered in each year and 2005 496 mid-year population estimates. 165W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 166W

Enterprise births for Feltham and Heston 2002 to 2008 Table 2: Percentage of working age1 mothers with dependent children2 Total who worked fewer than 16 hours3 a week with 95 per cent. confidence interval4 United Kingdom, not seasonally adjusted April to June 2009 2006 436 Upper 2007 411 Percentage5 Lower CI CI 2008 455 2009 9.3 8.8 9.7 1 Women aged 16 to 59. Part-time Employment: Working Mothers 2 Children under 16 and those aged 16-18 who have never married and in full-time education. 3 Total usual hours worked in main job (excluding overtime), excludes Mrs. Maria Miller: To ask the Minister for the those not in employment. Cabinet Office what estimate she has made of the 4 95 per cent. confidence interval which means that from all samples proportion of women with children who worked fewer possible there would be 95 per cent. certainty that the true estimate would lie within the lower and upper bounds. than 16 hours a week in each year since 1997. [317140] 5 Denominator is all working age women with dependent children. Source: Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls LFS household datasets. within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. Prostate Cancer I have asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: Christopher Fraser: To ask the Minister for the As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Cabinet Office what the (a) age-standardised incidence have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question on the rate for prostate cancer and (b) number of diagnoses proportion of women with children who worked fewer than 16 of prostate cancer was in (i) each strategic health hours a week in each year since 1997. (317140) authority area, (ii) each primary care trust area and (iii) The information requested is given in table 1 attached. The each constituency in each year since 1997. [317709] figures are from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) household datasets for the three months ending June for each year requested. Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls As with any sample survey, estimates from the LFS are subject within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. to a margin of uncertainty as different samples give different I have asked the authority to reply. results. Table 2 shows the percentage and confidence interval for the three months ending June 2009. This is to give an indication Letter from Stephen Penneck: as to the accuracy of the most recent estimate, and how much it As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I could vary if taken from a different sample. The estimate is such have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question that there is 95 per cent certainty that from all samples possible it asking what the (a) age-standardised incidence rate for prostate will lie within the lower and upper bounds. cancer and (b) number of diagnoses of prostate cancer was in (i)

1 2 each strategic health authority area, (ii) each primary care trust Table 1: Percentage of working age mothers with dependent children area and (iii) each constituency in each year since 1997. [317709] who worked fewer than 16 hours3 a week, United Kingdom, not seasonally adjusted April to June 1997-2009 The latest available figures for newly diagnosed cases of prostate Percentage4 cancer (incidence) are for the year 2007. Please note that these numbers may not be the same as the number of people diagnosed 1997 14.8 with cancer, because one person may be diagnosed with more 1998 14.5 than one cancer. 1999 14.2 Cancer incidence rates for strategic health authorities can only 2000 13.4 be calculated from 2002 onwards and for primary care organisations and parliamentary constituencies from 2001 onwards due to the 2001 12.3 availability of mid-year population estimates for those areas. 2002 11.9 The number of cases in parliamentary constituencies has not 2003 11.9 been given for individual years in line with policy on protecting 2004 11.5 confidentiality within patients’ data. 2005 10.4 The tables attached provide the age-standardised incidence 2006 10.5 rate per 100,000 population, for prostate cancer, for (i) strategic 2007 10.4 health authorities in England, for the years 2002 to 2007 (Table 2008 9.2 1), (ii) primary care organisations in England for the years 2001 to 2007 (Table 2), and (iii) parliamentary constituencies in England 2009 9.3 for the years 2001 to 2007 combined (Table 3), the number of 1 Women aged 16 to 59. 2 diagnoses (incidence) for prostate cancer for (i) strategic health Children under 16 and those aged 16-18 who have never married and authorities in England and (ii) primary care organisations in in full-time education. England, for the years 1997-2007 (Tables 4 and 5), and (iii) 3 Total usual hours worked in main job (excluding overtime), excludes those not in employment. parliamentary constituencies in England for the years 1997-02 4 Denominator is all working age women with dependent children. and 2003-07 combined (Table 6). Source: A copy of Tables 2, 3, 5 and 6 has been placed in the House of LFS household datasets. Commons Library.

Table 1: Age-standardised incidence rates per 100,000 population, prostate cancer, strategic health authorities in England, 2002-071,2,3,4 Cases per 100,000 (males) 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

NorthEast909786938686 North West 88 90 108 101 104 96 Yorkshire and the 89 89 101 96 101 97 Humber 167W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 168W

Table 1: Age-standardised incidence rates per 100,000 population, prostate cancer, strategic health authorities in England, 2002-071,2,3,4 Cases per 100,000 (males) 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

East Midlands 84 82 94 99 101 99 West Midlands 102 102 109 104 105 97 East of England 99 95 99 101 100 99 London 96 96 98 93 95 94 South East Coast 88 88 92 89 93 91 South Central 110 107 116 99 106 99 South West 110 112 116 104 110 108 1 Age-standardised incidence rates per 100,000 population, standardised to the European Standard Population. Age-standardised rates are used to allow comparison between populations which may contain different proportions of people of different ages. 2 Prostate cancer is coded as C61 in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). 3 Based on boundaries as of 2009. 4 Based on newly diagnosed cases registered in each calendar year. Table 4: Registrations of newly diagnosed cases of prostate cancer, males, strategic health authorities in England, 1997-20071,2,3 Males 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

North East 897 1,066 1,234 1,249 1,415 1,404 1,499 1,365 1,471 1,385 1,394 North West 2,555 2,627 2,846 3,107 3,657 3,533 3,631 4,400 4,177 4,329 4,058 Yorkshire 1,860 1,825 1,940 2,394 2,664 2,647 2,697 3,059 2,944 3,129 3,064 and the Humber East 1,465 1,531 1,751 1,971 2,152 2,185 2,147 2,528 2,672 2,809 2,793 Midlands West 2,091 2,252 2,415 2,741 3,096 3,254 3,299 3,547 3,427 3,516 3,305 Midlands East of 2,275 2,276 2,630 2,974 3,257 3,367 3,309 3,459 3,579 3,623 3,611 England London 2,614 2,673 2,766 2,832 3,133 3,172 3,160 3,252 3,089 3,133 3,117 South East 2,098 2,008 2,254 2,331 2,501 2,368 2,380 2,498 2,408 2,546 2,555 Coast South 1,488 1,648 1,831 2,071 2,398 2,401 2,373 2,619 2,262 2,463 2,348 Central South West 2,641 2,537 2,698 2,886 3,638 3,813 3,899 4,095 3,752 4,022 3,956 1 Prostate cancer is coded as C61 in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). 2 Based on boundaries as of 2009. 3 Based on newly diagnosed cases registered in each calendar year.

Unemployment These estimates are published in Table 13 of the Labour Market Statistical Bulletin. As with any sample survey, estimates from the LFS are subject Mr. Clappison: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet to a margin of uncertainty. Indications of the sampling variability Office how many economically inactive people of of LFS aggregate estimates are provided in the Statistical Bulletin. working age wanted employment in the most recent year for which figures are available. [317339] Unemployment: Kingston upon Thames Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. Mr. Davey: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet I have asked the Authority to reply. Office what the unemployed claimant count in (a) the Royal Borough of Kingston and (b) Kingston and Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: Surbiton constituency was in (i) 1997, (ii) 2005 and (iii) As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I 2009. [317717] have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many economically inactive people of working age wanted employment in the most recent year for which figures are available. Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls (317339) within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the Authority to reply. Estimates of economic inactivity are available from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). In accordance with the International Labour Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: Organization (ILO) definition, people are classed as economically As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I inactive if they are neither in employment nor unemployed. have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking The most recent estimates are for the three-month period what the unemployed claimant count in (a) the Royal Borough of September-November 2009 and show that 2.308 million seasonally Kingston and (b) Kingston and Surbiton constituency was in (i) adjusted economically inactive people of working age wanted a 1997 (ii) 2005 and (iii) 2009. (317717) job. This estimate comprises those who have not been looking for The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles the number work in the last four weeks, but who say they would like a regular of claimants of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) from the Jobcentre paid job, plus those who have been looking for work but who were Plus administrative system. Table 1 shows the number of people unable to start within two weeks. resident in the London borough of Kingston upon Thames and 169W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 170W

Kingston and Surbiton parliamentary constituency claiming in (a) each of the last 12 months and (b) each of the Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) in December 2009, December 2005 last five years. [317206] and December 1997. National and local area estimates for many labour market statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls count are available on the NOMIS website at: within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. http://www.nomisweb.co.uk I have asked the Authority to reply. Table 1: Number of persons claiming jobseeker’s allowance resident in Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: the London borough of Kingston upon Thames and Kingston and As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Surbiton parliamentary constituency have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking As at for how long on average claimants aged between 18 and 24 years December: Kingston upon Thames Kingston and Surbiton resident in each local authority area in the North West were in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance in (a) each of the last 12 months 1997 2,009 1,559 and (b) each of the last five years. (317206) 2005 1,464 1,157 The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) is 2009 2,403 1,896 taken from the Jobcentre Plus administrative system. The length Source: of a claim has been defined as the time between the start of an Jobcentre Plus Administrative System individual’s claim and the count date in each reference month. Table 1 shows the median length of live claims during the last 12 Unemployment: North West months up to the latest available period in December 2009, and for December of each of the last 5 years. Andrew Stunell: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet National and local area estimates for many labour market Office for how long on average claimants aged between statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant 18 and 24 years resident in each local authority area in count are available on the NOMIS website at: the North West were in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance http://www.nomisweb.co.uk

Table 1: Median length of claims of jobseeker’s allowance of persons1 aged 18 to 24 resident in local authorities in the North West Months December 2009 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Allerdale 8.4 9.8 9.5 9.9 8.7 10.1 10.8 11.4 11.9 13.9 13.6 9.8 9.1 9.1 8.1 9.8 11.1 Barrow- 9.3 10.9 11.3 10.7 9.7 10.9 9.2 10.3 10.7 11.9 10.1 8.8 9.4 10.6 10.3 10.3 9.7 in-Furness Blackburn 6.9 8.3 9.3 6.0 8.7 9.7 9.2 9.5 10.4 12.0 12.1 10.7 9.2 9.5 9.0 9.6 9.9 with Darwen Blackpool 6.6 7.3 7.9 7.1 6.0 8.0 8.6 9.4 11.0 12.4 12.0 10.9 10.4 9.6 9.1 8.4 7.6 Bolton 7.5 12.0 11.2 9.6 9.1 9.6 9.7 10.3 11.3 12.7 12.5 11.5 11.6 11.9 12.3 13.7 15.5 Burnley 5.8 7.0 9.7 7.1 8.1 8.1 8.6 10.3 10.9 12.2 11.8 11.1 9.5 9.0 9.0 9.1 9.5 Bury 6.8 7.7 9.8 8.1 8.4 9.4 9.1 9.9 10.6 12.1 12.9 11.4 11.0 11.0 11.0 11.8 12.7 Carlisle 8.2 10.0 8.5 6.9 7.8 7.9 7.4 9.6 10.6 11.3 11.9 10.3 8.9 9.4 9.3 9.6 9.8 Cheshire 8.2 8.0 8.5 8.5 8.0 9.2 8.4 9.4 10.6 12.3 12.6 10.8 9.0 9.9 10.0 10.1 9.9 East Cheshire 8.0 9.7 9.3 8.0 7.8 8.2 8.1 9.7 11.1 12.6 12.6 10.6 9.0 9.7 9.0 9.8 10.0 West and Chester Chorley 6.9 9.1 9.7 8.0 7.0 7.8 8.7 9.9 10.6 12.1 11.7 9.7 9.2 9.5 8.2 8.9 10.3 Copeland 8.6 15.0 11.4 10.3 9.7 10.3 11.0 11.9 12.4 13.1 12.9 11.6 10.9 10.1 8.5 9.6 10.2 Eden 8.0 9.0 5.7 6.0 4.8 6.5 5.6 7.9 9.2 10.5 10.9 9.1 6.8 8.9 10.4 9.0 9.5 Fylde 9.2 6.5 6.0 6.4 5.5 6.5 6.0 8.6 10.6 10.7 10.1 9.0 7.1 7.9 7.8 6.8 7.8 Halton 8.4 8.9 8.9 7.6 8.3 9.4 10.3 10.9 11.8 13.8 13.1 11.4 11.2 11.5 11.2 10,8 10.6 Hyndburn 7.1 6.9 6.8 8.2 7.8 8.5 8.1 8.9 10.5 11.9 11.0 10.1 10.3 9.9 8.1 8.9 9.1 Knowsley 10.0 10.6 10.8 10.5 10.0 11.5 11.2 11.4 12.0 13.5 13.9 11.7 10.8 10.7 10.3 10.4 10.6 Lancaster 8.0 7.6 9.7 8.7 7.9 9.2 8.3 9.1 10.1 11.8 11.5 10.1 9.6 10.0 8.8 9.7 10.1 Liverpool 13.0 13.6 14.5 13.3 11.7 12.6 12.4 12.7 13.2 15.5 15.7 14.3 12.9 12.6 12.2 12.2 12.6 Manchester 10.6 10.4 11.5 9.8 9.7 10.5 9.7 10.1 10.8 12.1 12.1 10.5 10.1 10.8 11.4 12.4 14.4 Oldham 7.7 9.8 10.0 8.9 8.3 8.7 8.7 10.3 11.1 12.4 12.1 11.0 10.7 10.9 11.8 13.0 14.0 Pendle 6.3 6.6 8.7 6.9 7.7 9.2 9.5 9.0 9.9 11.4 11.3 9.0 8.7 9.6 8.7 9.5 10.0 Preston 9.8 10.5 10.0 10.0 9.1 9.7 8.3 9.0 10.1 12.0 12.2 10.8 10.4 10.2 10.1 10.7 10.6 Ribble 6.0 5.0 6.8 5.7 6.9 8.0 6.8 7.5 9.7 11.3 10.8 7.6 7.2 7.7 7.8 7.0 8.7 Valley Rochdale 8.9 9.5 11.0 10.0 9.5 9.2 9.8 11.2 12.2 13.8 13.8 12.6 12.7 12.4 14.1 16.0 17.3 Rossendale 8.0 7.5 7.0 8.1 7.7 8.4 9.0 10.0 11.8 13.2 14.2 11.7 10.3 10.5 9.4 10.4 10.8 Salford 10.1 9.5 12.5 9.7 8.5 9.6 9.5 9.5 10.6 11.7 11.9 10.8 9.7 10.1 10.5 12.2 13.6 Sefton 10.6 11.1 11.0 10.8 10.8 11.3 10.8 11.5 12.3 14.3 14.1 12.7 12.1 11.9 12.0 12.1 12.9 South 6.0 7.7 10.2 6.0 6.6 6.1 5.8 7.6 9.2 10.5 8.8 5.7 7.0 7.8 7.7 8.6 8.6 Lakeland South 7.7 8.9 7.6 7.1 8.5 8.8 8.8 9.9 10.6 11.1 10.4 9.7 8.2 8.3 8.1 8.7 9.7 Ribble 171W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 172W

Table 1: Median length of claims of jobseeker’s allowance of persons1 aged 18 to 24 resident in local authorities in the North West Months December 2009 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

St. Helens 9.0 10.4 10.9 9.3 10.8 11.4 10.9 11.5 12.6 15.1 14.4 12.7 11.8 11.4 11.0 10.8 11.7 Stockport 8.1 8.6 9.7 9.2 8.5 8.4 7.5 9.7 11.1 12.8 12.9 10.9 11.1 11.8 12.5 14.0 15.4 Tameside 9.1 10.4 9.7 9.6 8.8 10.1 9.9 10.7 11.0 12.4 12.6 12.4 12.1 12.0 12.4 13.0 15.2 Trafford 9.2 9.5 10.0 7.9 8.0 9.2 9.1 9.1 9.7 10.3 9.4 7.8 7.8 8.8 9.4 10.7 11.9 Warrington 7.5 9.7 10.3 10.4 8.3 9.4 9.6 10.8 11.6 14.1 14.2 12.9 12.1 11.8 11.5 11.7 12,1 West 9.3 9.2 9.3 8.8 8.1 9.7 10.2 10.5 11.7 13.3 14.0 11.6 10.9 10.9 10.5 10.3 11.3 Lancashire Wigan 8.6 9.2 11.3 9.4 9.5 10.5 10.1 11.1 11.9 14.2 14.2 13.4 13.0 12.8 13.1 14.7 16.9 Wirral 8.7 10.0 11.0 9.1 9.3 9.9 10.0 11.1 11.6 13.3 13.6 11.7 11.0 10.6 10.5 10.5 10.9 Wyre 5.7 6.8 7.9 8.2 6.2 7.7 7.7 7.8 9.7 11.8 11.6 9.4 8.8 8.5 7.3 8.1 7.2 1 Length of claim data is only available for computerised claims, which account for 99.7 per cent. of all claims. Source: Jobcentre Plus Administrative System

Unemployment: Salford TRANSPORT Aviation Hazel Blears: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the level of unemployment has been in Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how many domestic flights within Great Salford in each year since 1997. [317394] Britain, excluding lifeline flights, were of 360 miles or less in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010; and what projection he Angela E. Smith: The information requested falls has made of the number of such flights in (i) 2011, (ii) within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. 2012, (iii) 2013, (iv) 2014 and (v) 2015. [317031] I have asked the Authority to reply. Paul Clark: The following table shows the Department’s Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated February 2010: latest forecasts of the number of domestic flights from GB airports, with a distance of 360 miles or under, As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking between 2009 and 2015. All these figures, including what the level of unemployment has been in Salford in each year 2009 and 2010, are forecasts from the aviation model as since 1997. (317394) data are not yet available for these years. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) compiles unemployment Lifeline flights cannot be excluded from our forecasts statistics for local areas from the Annual Population Survey and as only movements between the 29 largest GB airports its predecessor the annual Labour Force Survey (LFS) following are explicitly modelled, which does not include any International Labour Organisation (ILO) definitions. However, lifeline flights. A list of modelled airports can be found estimates of unemployment for the Salford constituency are in annex F of the UK Air Passenger Demand and CO2 unavailable. Forecasts, published in January 2009. This is available As an alternative, in Table 1 we have provided the number of at: persons claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for the Salford constituency http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/atf/co2forecasts09/ for December 2009 and December of each year since 1997. Flights from a modelled airport to a minor airport National and local area estimates for many labour market are included in an ‘other airports in model’ category. statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant This would include some lifeline flights but they cannot count are available on the NOMIS website at be separated out from the other flights in this category. http://www.nomisweb.co.uk Flights between two minor airports are not included in our modelling. Table 1. Number of persons resident in Salford parliamentary constituency claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance Flights under 360 miles Number 2009 248,258 December 1997 2,397 2010 254,242 December 1998 2,214 2011 253,511 December 1999 1,874 2012 250,985 December 2000 1,583 2013 255,465 December 2001 1,568 2014 259,171 December 2002 1,744 2015 259,925 December 2003 1,597 Notes: December 2004 1,487 1. Data are for departures only. December 2005 1,636 2. These forecasts refer to the central demand scenario s12s2, with December 2006 1,841 Stansted R2 in 2015 and Heathrow R3 around 2020, as presented in December 2007 1,674 ‘UK Air Passenger Demand and CO2 Forecasts’, January 2009. This is available at: December 2008 2,322 http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/atf/co2forecasts09/ December 2009 3,177 3. All figures are modelled, including 2009. Source: 4. Distances are Great Circle Distances and no uplift for indirect Jobcentre Plus administrative system routing has been applied. 173W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 174W

Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, Table 1 Department for Transport how many domestic flights Number of flights within Northern Ireland, excluding lifeline flights, were 2010 2,416,328 of 360 miles or less in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010; and what estimate he has made of the number of such flights in 2011 2,511,165 (i) 2011, (ii) 2012, (iii) 2013, (iv) 2014 and (v) 2015. 2012 2,576,932 2013 2,655,016 [317032] 2014 2,721,096 Paul Clark: There are no flights within Northern 2015 2,799,069 Ireland. The three reporting airports (Belfast International, Notes: 1. Data is for UK departures only. Belfast City and City of Derry) historically do not have 2. These forecasts refer to the central demand scenario s12s2, with flights between each other. Stansted R2 in 2015 and Heathrow R3 around 2020, as presented in There are currently no lifeline flight routes from “UK Air Passenger Demand and CO2 Forecasts”, January 2009. This Northern Ireland airports. is available at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/atf/co2forecasts09/ 3. All figures are modelled, including 2009. Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, It is not possible to exclude lifeline flights from the Department for Transport what the average distance forecasts of flights from UK airports contained in table travelled by flights departing from UK airports (a) 1. was in 2009 and (b) is projected to be in (i) 2010, (ii) Only movements between the 31 largest UK airports 2011, (iii) 2012, (iv) 2013, (v) 2014 and (vi) 2015. are explicitly modelled, which does not include any [317033] lifeline flights. A list of modelled airports can be found in annex F of the “UK Air Passenger Demand and CO2 Paul Clark: Table 1 shows the forecasts of the average Forecasts”, published in January 2009. This is available distance of flights departing from UK airports between at: 2009 and 2015. All these figures, including 2009 and http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/atf/co2forecasts09/ 2010, are forecasts from the aviation model as data is Flights from a modelled airport to a minor airport not yet available for these years. are included in an ‘other airports in model’ category. Table 1 This would include some lifeline flights but they cannot Average flight distance (km) be separated out from the other flights in this category. Flights between two minor airports are not included in 2009 1,558 our modelling. 2010 1,568 2011 1,581 Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, 2012 1,588 Department for Transport what proportion of flights 2013 1,588 taking off from UK airports (a) exclusively carried 2014 1,590 cargo and (b) carried cargo with passengers in each of 2015 1,592 the last three years. [317041] Notes: 1. Data is for UK departures only. Paul Clark: The following table shows the proportion 2. These forecasts refer to the central demand scenario s12s2, with of flights departing from reporting UK airports by Stansted R2 in 2015 and Heathrow R3 around 2020, as presented in type. “UK Air Passenger Demand and CO2 Forecasts”, January 2009. This is available at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/aviation/atf/co2forecasts09/ 3. All figures are modelled, including 2009. Percentage 4. Distances are Great Circle Distances uprated by 9 per cent. for Exclusively Carried Exclusively All indirect routing and stacking. carried cargo with carried departing cargo passengers passengers flights Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport (1) how many flights 2006 3 61 36 100 departed from UK airports in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010; 2007 3 60 37 100 and what estimate he has made of the equivalent figure 2008 3 60 37 100 in (i) 2011, (ii) 2012, (iii) 2013, (iv) 2014 and (v) 2015; Notes: [317034] 1. Flights by cargo and passenger aircraft. Excludes flights without any recorded cargo or passengers. (2) how many flights, excluding lifeline flights 2. Carried cargo includes freight and/or mail. departed from UK airports in (a) 2009 and (b) 2010; 3. Flight departures are based on data from 58 reporting UK airports, and what estimate he has made of the equivalent figure including flights from the Isle of Man and Channel Islands. in (i) 2011, (ii) 2012, (iii) 2013, (iv) 2014 and (v) 2015. 4. Excludes airlines which did not give permission for CAA to disclose their data. [317035] Source: Based on data supplied to DfT by the Civil Aviation Authority. Paul Clark: Table 1 shows the Department’s latest forecasts of flights from UK airports between 2009 and Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, 2015. All these figures, including 2009 and 2010, are Department for Transport what average proportion of forecasts from the aviation model as data is not yet the weight of planes carrying cargo and passengers available for these years. departing UK airports was made up of (a) cargo and (b) passengers in each of the last three years. [317042] Table 1 Number of flights Paul Clark: The Department for Transport does not 2009 2,324,695 hold this information. 175W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 176W

Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, Aviation: Northern Ireland Department for Transport what the average number of seats was on planes (a) making domestic flights within Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, the UK and (b) taking off from UK airports in each of Department for Transport how many flights of less the last three years. [317043] than 360 miles between Great Britain and Northern Ireland there were in each of the last three years. Paul Clark: The following table shows the average [317044] number of seats on planes making domestic flights and of all flights departing from reporting UK airports in Paul Clark: The following table shows the number of 2006, 2007 and 2008. domestic flights of less than 360 miles between reporting airports in Great Britain and Northern Ireland in 2006, Average number of seats: 2007 and 2008. All flight departures Domestic flight (domestic and Number of flights departures international)

2006 91 139 2006 70,093 2007 93 141 2007 74,727 2008 93 142 2008 74,379 Notes: Notes: 1. Flights by passenger aircraft only. 1. Flights by passenger aircraft only. 2. Flight departures are based on data from 58 reporting UK airports, 2. Based on domestic flight arrival and departure data from the three including flights from the Isle of Man and Channel Islands. reporting airports in Northern Ireland. Includes flights to/from the 3. Excludes airlines which did not give permission for CAA to Isle of Man and Channel Island airports. disclose their data. 3. Excludes airlines which did not give permission for CAA to Source: disclose their data. Based on data supplied to DfT by the Civil Aviation Authority. Source: Based on data supplied to DfT by the Civil Aviation Authority. Aviation: Security Aviation: Exhaust Emissions Mr. Leech: To ask the Minister of State, Department John McDonnell: To ask the Minister of State, for Transport what steps are taken in circumstances Department for Transport how many tonnes of carbon where an air passenger in transit at a UK airport dioxide were emitted as a result of UK domestic flights refuses to be subject to a full body scan on privacy in 2008. [317122] grounds; and what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department and the Paul Clark: In 2008, UK domestic aviation carbon UK Border Agency on the matter. [317171] dioxide emissions were 2.18MTCO2. The sources of these data are the AEA Energy and Paul Clark: Officials from the Department for Transport Environment and Department of Energy and Climate are discussing this matter with the UK Border Agency. Change (DECC) and can be found at: Should a transit passenger refuse to be scanned and as a result is not allowed to travel, then UKBA would deal http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/ climate_change/gg_emissions/uk_emissions/2008final/ with any application for leave to enter the UK on its 2008_final.aspx individual merits. Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Aviation: Isle of Man Department for Transport whether he has had discussions with (a) Smith Technologies and (b) QinetiQ on the availability and effectiveness of full Andrew Mackinlay: To ask the Minister of State, body scanners. [317512] Department for Transport what discussions he has had with air carriers on the consequences for them of the Paul Clark: Officials from the Department for Transport cessation of the bilateral health agreement between the have had discussions with a wide range of industry UK and the Isle of Man with effect from 1 April 2010; representatives including Smiths Detection and QinetiQ what obligations there are on air carriers on routes on the subject of advanced image technology, also between the UK and the Isle of Man to meet the costs known as body scanners. of hospital care and admission consequent upon a passenger falling ill while being carried on such a route; Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, and if he will make a statement. [317584] Department for Transport whether he has made provision for training for airport security staff in Paul Clark: Responsibility for the bilateral health relation to behavioural profiling. [317513] agreement with the Isle of Man rests with the Department of Health. Paul Clark: We are currently looking at whether In relation to aviation, the Department for Transport targeting certain passengers for additional security measures has had no discussions with air carriers about the at airports would be more effective than selecting a cessation of the bilateral health agreement. There are proportion of passengers at random. We have taken no no obligations on airlines to cover costs of passengers decisions yet. Behavioural detection is not currently who become ill (unless the airline was in some way part of the training syllabus mandated for airport staff negligent). by the Department for Transport. 177W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 178W

A number of security staff at Heathrow are undergoing Converted into fines (percentage) training in behavioural analysis techniques—where passengers are selected if they are behaving suspiciously. 2008 81 This training is being trialled and will be independently 2009 82 evaluated. We will be considering the effectiveness of this trial before deciding whether it can be rolled out Bus Services: Concessions more widely. Mr. Kemp: To ask the Minister of State, Department Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, for Transport how many concessionary bus passes were Department for Transport whether he plans to publish issued to residents of Houghton and Washington East guidance relating to the protection of the privacy of constituency in each of the last two years. [317159] airline passengers who undergo full body scans. [317519] Mr. Khan: The Department for Transport is not responsible for issuing passes and so does not maintain Paul Clark: The Department for Transport has published records of how many passes individual authorities have an interim code of practice relating to the protection of issued. privacy. It also covers health and safety, data protection Concessionary travel in Houghton and Washington and equality issues. The interim code of practice is East is administered by Nexus, Tyne and Wear’s Passenger available in the libraries of the House and on the Transport Executive. Nexus is best placed to provide Department’s website. information regarding passes issued to residents of The Department will shortly be launching a full Houghton and Washington East. public consultation on the interim code of practice and The last information held by the Department was will consider all representations carefully before preparing that as of 12 January this year, Nexus had issued a final code of practice later in the year. approximately 295,028 smartcard concessionary passes since the introduction of the England-wide concession Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, in April 2008. This includes passes issued to disabled Department for Transport when he expects full body people as well as those aged 60 and over. The Department scanning equipment to be operational at UK domestic holds no data about passes issued prior to this date. airports other than designated airports. [317520] Robert Neill: To ask the Minister of State, Paul Clark: Body scanning equipment will be operational Department for Transport with reference to the answer at three airports by the end of February. The Department to the hon. Member for Peterborough of 14 July 2009, for Transport is currently working with industry to Official Report, column 205W, on bus services: develop a timetable for widespread implementation. concessions, when he expects to place in the Library a British Transport Police: Fixed Penalties copy of the written representations. [317604] Mr. Khan: Where consent has been received from the Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, relevant hon. Member or local authority, copies of the Department for Transport pursuant to the answer of 3 written representations that the Department has received February 2010, Official Report, columns 423-4W, on between July 2008 and April 2009, regarding concessionary British Transport Police: fixed penalties, how many travel funding, were placed in the Library on 11 February penalty notices for disorder were issued in each year 2010. from 2006 to 2009; and what percentage of (a) £50 fines and (b) £80 fines have been paid. [317258] Departmental Accountancy

Chris Mole: Following is a breakdown for penalty Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department notices which were issued in each year from 2006 to for Transport whether any written instructions have 2009 by British Transport police (BTP), including been provided to his Department’s Accounting Officer percentages for £50 and £80 fines which have been paid. in accordance with paragraph 5.5 of the Ministerial Code since May 2002. [315565] Total £50 Total £80 penalty penalty notice for notice for Chris Mole: Each Accounting Officer receives a copy disorder Percentage disorder Percentage of chapter 3 of Managing Public Money (the Accounting issued paid issued paid Officer Memorandum), which includes instructions on Ministerial Directions. 2006 895 52 2,231 48 2007 1,401 53 3,454 51 Departmental Communication 2008 1,378 55 3,143 52 2009 1,495 56 3,743 48 Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport pursuant to the answer of Lord Bates of 3 Of the above unpaid penalty notices the following December 2009, Official Report, House of Lords, column percentages were converted into fines at court: WA68, on Government Departments: Annual Reports, and with reference to the Government Response to the Converted into fines (percentage) House of Lords Communications Committee’s report 2006 88 into Government Communications, whether his 2007 86 Department publishes an annual report on departmental communications. [315603] 179W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 180W

Chris Mole: The Department for Transport does not year forecast expenditure (these are included in the £400 publish an annual report on departmental communications. million shown in the above). Communication activities and details of sponsorship support, and the objectives they contribute to, are reported Description Full year forecast (£ million) in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts. A46 Newark to Widmerpool 70 dualling Departmental Finance M6 J5-15 hard shoulder 51 strengthening M62 J25-30 concrete barrier 36 Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, and lighting renewal Department for Transport how much funding his M1 J32-35a concrete barrier 20 Department has allocated to each (a) scheme and (b) and lighting renewal area for local network management schemes for M1 J10-13 hard shoulder 16 2009-10. [316850] strengthening M11 J9-8 pavement renewals 11 Chris Mole: The Highways Agency allocated £105 Avonmouth Bridge 6 million of funding to local network management schemes Northbound resurfacing in 2009-10. Approximately 1,500 projects make up this A27 Lighting and major 6 total and it is not practicable to detail these. maintenance A3 Esher bypass major 5 The Highways Agency operates the Strategic Road maintenance network on a National basis and prioritises its programme M4 J15 replacement of central 5 as such. The local network management scheme budget reserve barrier in the 2009-10 Business Plan was allocated by area as M18 Jctn 6-7 concrete barrier 4 follows: renewal A5 Milton Keynes renewals 4 £ million M1 J28-30 lane 1 and hard 4 shoulder renewals East 13 M6 J33-34 resurfacing/safety 4 East Midlands 9 barrier replacement North West 18 A38—A50 installation variable 3 South East 27 message signs South West 8 M42 J5 through junction 3 West Midlands 14 running Yorkshire and North East 16 M5 Poundisford resurfacing 3 A55 River Dee carriageway 2 resurfacing Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how much of his Department’s £700 million fiscal stimulus funding had Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, been spent on roads projects on the latest date for Department for Transport (1) how much funding has which figures are available; and how much of that been allocated to each (a) scheme and (b) region funding he plans to spend on funding each roads under the second round of the regional funding project. [316851] allocation; [316853] (2) how much of his Department’s Regional Funding Chris Mole: The Department for Transport is to Advice 2 budget has been allocated to (a) Highways spend £400 million of the £700 million fiscal stimulus Agency schemes of regional significance valued at over funding on projects on the strategic road network. The £5 million and (b) each local transport major scheme year to date and estimated full year forecast of fiscal in each region in each of the next three years. [316871] stimulus expenditure, split by region, is as follows: Mr. Khan: The Government published guidance for £ million the regions and additional transport supplementary Year to date guidance in July 2008. This provided information on Region (December 2009) Full year forecast regional funding allocations by year from 2008-09 to North West 36 58 2018-19 and by region. I am placing a copy of this Yorkshire and 61 87 Guidance in the Libraries of the House. North East In addition, I have also recently placed in the House West Midlands 33 61 Libraries advice received from each region, excluding East Midlands 51 78 London, in July 2009 which highlights suggested funding East 32 55 allocations to 2018-19 for each (a) Highways Agency South West 24 30 scheme of regional significance and (b) local transport South East 29 31 major scheme, costing over £5 million. These allocations Total 266 400 are indicative only. The actual amount spent on each scheme in any given year will depend upon the terms of There are in excess of 100 schemes being delivered as the final funding approval from the Department, the part of the fiscal stimulus programme and it is not start date, and progress of construction. Copies of our practicable for all schemes to be detailed. In the following response to the advice dated July 2009 have also been table are examples of these schemes with estimated full placed in the House Libraries. 181W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 182W

Departmental Manpower and its agencies were filled through external recruitment in the last year for which figures are available. [315484] Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what estimate he has made Chris Mole: The Department for Transport filled of the proportion of staff of (a) his Department and 1,390 job vacancies through external recruitment in the (b) its agencies managed out in the last five years who calendar year 2009. remain working in the public sector. [313848] Driving Instruction

Chris Mole: The information requested can be provided Angus Robertson: To ask the Minister of State, only at disproportionate cost. Department for Transport how many driving instructors qualified in each of the last three years. Departmental Recruitment [318035] Paul Clark: The number of newly qualified approved Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department driving instructors entering the Register of Approved for Transport how much his Department and its Driving Instructors, in each of the last three years, is agencies spent on external recruitment consultants in shown in the following table. the last year for which figures are available. [315483] Number qualified Chris Mole: The Department for Transport and its Executive agencies spent the following amounts on 2007 4,485 recruitment consultants in financial year 2008-09: 2008 4,749 2009 4,485 £

Department for Transport 1,164,056 Angus Robertson: To ask the Minister of State, (central) Department for Transport what the average age of Highways Agency 430,953 driving instructors is. [318036] Driving Standards Agency 279,591 Government Car and Despatch 86,052 Paul Clark: The average age of the 48,885 Approved Agency Driving Instructors currently registered is 47 years and Maritime and Coastguard 0 six months. Agency Driving Tests: Orkney and Shetland Vehicle Certification Agency 0 Mr. Carmichael: To ask the Minister of State, The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is Department for Transport what the average waiting unable to provide details of spend on external recruitment time was between applying for and taking a driving test consultants without incurring disproportionate cost. in (a) Orkney and (b) Shetland (i) in each of the last However DVLA’s expenditure on recruitment for financial five years and (ii) in the most recent period for which year 2008-09, as published in the annual report and information is available. [317188] accounts, was £876,000. The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency is unable Paul Clark: The following table shows the average to provide details of spend on external recruitment number of weeks between a candidate applying for consultants without incurring disproportionate cost. different sorts of practical driving test and the test date at the Orkney and Shetland test centres in each of the Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department last five years and for the period from 1 April 2009 to 9 for Transport how many job vacancies in his Department February 2010

2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 YTD

Orkney

Car 10.2 8.9 9.4 11.9 11.3 8.3 Motorcycle (old test) 7.7 8.0 8.5 8.6 8.3 — Motorcycle (off road) ————— 4.5 Motorcycle (on road) ————— 6.2 Lorry or bus 7.1 6.8 6.9 6.4 8.6 7.6

Shetland

Car 8.7 7.1 8.7 11.1 7.4 5.9 Motorcycle (old test) 7.2 6.6 4.3 5.9 6.2 — Motorcycle (on road) ————— 2.7 Lorry or bus 5.9 9.8 10.4 8.8 8.8 4.5 183W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 184W

East Coast Railway Line Chris Mole: The percentage of trains arriving on time or within ten minutes of schedule is recorded as the Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, ‘Public Performance Measure’ (PPM). The information Department for Transport what the reliability figures requested is outlined in the following table: for the East Coast Line were in each of the last four months. [316883]

PPM (actual) PPM (MAA) Previous year PPM MAA Change in MAA since Railway period start (percentage) (percentage) (percentage) 2008

23 August 2009 87.9 88.6 85.2 Improvement 20 September 2009 91.5 88.6 85.5 Improvement 18 October 2009 87.9 89.0 85.4 Improvement 15 November 2009 85.2 88.9 85.5 Improvement 13 December 2009 67.4 87.5 85.7 Improvement

Due to the severe weather the monthly PPM figure 2010-11. Drawing on these and other resources, the for the period starting December 2009 is considerably Mayor is responsible for publishing, and through TfL, lower than for the period starting in November 2009. implementing a Transport Strategy for London, while Because of seasonal variations in performance, a the boroughs are required to publish Local Implementation more useful indicator of long-term trends is the Moving Plans which set out how they will contribute to the Annual Average—which is simply the average over the Mayor’s strategy. last 12 months. The additional funding that has been made available has helped deliver 1,089 million passenger journeys on Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department the Tube in 2008-09, the highest ever. London for Transport whether his Department was involved in Underground’s scheduled service is now its largest ever, discussions on new uniforms for staff on trains operated and in 2008-09 96.4 per cent. was run, the best annual by the East Coast rail company. [316884] result for 14 years. Bus services in London have also improved. 2,247 Chris Mole: The Department for Transport was not million passenger journeys were made in 2008-09 and involved in this decision. Management decisions such patronage grew by almost 47 per cent. between 1997-98 as this are made by East Coast. and 2007-08. Concessionary travel continues to benefit elderly and Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, disabled Londoners, and more than a million people Department for Transport how much is planned to be currently hold a Freedom Pass. spent on new livery for trains operated by the East Coast rail company. [316885] On the South West Trains franchise, reliability has improved. In December 2009, 87 per cent. of trains Chris Mole: This is an operational matter for East arrived on time or within five minutes of the scheduled Coast. time, up from 75 per cent. in December 2004. The hon. Member should contact the chair of East On the roads, national targets to reduce the number Coast at the following address for a more detailed of people killed or seriously injured by 40 per cent. and response to her question: reduce the number of “slight” casualties by 10 per cent. (compared to the period 1994 to 1998) by 2010 were Elaine Holt largely exceeded by TfL by 2004, leading to TfL setting Chair themselves new targets of 50 per cent. and 25 per cent. East Coast respectively. East Side Offices Various improvements in relation to cycling have also King’s Cross Station been realised across London. TfL report that cycling London N1C 4AP now accounts for 2 per cent. of trips in London compared to 1.2 per cent. in 2000, and between 2000-01 and Feltham 2007-08, TfL’s automatic cycle counters reported an increase in cyclists of 91 per cent. Alan Keen: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport if he will set out, with statistical evidence Gospel Oak-Barking Railway Line relating as closely as possible to Feltham and Heston constituency, the effects on that constituency of Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Minister of State, changes to his Department’s policies since 1997. Department for Transport what recent discussions he [317105] has had with the Mayor of London on the electrification of the Barking to Gospel Oak line; and if Mr. Khan: The Department for Transport (DFT) he will make a statement. [317848] does not routinely hold transport statistics on a parliamentary constituency basis. The Department provides Chris Mole: None. I understand that Transport for Transport for London with a block grant to fund transport London considers that further development work would delivery in London. This grant has more than doubled be required for them to assess this project, but are not in the last nine years, rising to almost £3 billion in currently funding this. 185W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 186W

Government Car and Despatch Agency Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how many journeys between Government buildings were taken by (a) Ministers and Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department (b) officials using the Government Car and Despatch for Transport what assessment the Government Car Agency in each of the last three years. [316248] and Despatch Agency has made of its environmental impact in each of the last five years. [316235] Paul Clark: This information is not recorded at the level of detail requested. To obtain such information Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency would incur a disproportionate cost. (GCDA) holds ISO 14001 accreditation—an internationally recognised environmental management system standard. Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, GCDA gained (and has since maintained every year) Department for Transport which Departments used the this accreditation since 1999. Consequently GCDA’s services of the Government Car and Despatch Agency environmental performance is audited regularly. GCDA in 2008-09; and which Departments have used that was awarded the Carbon Trust Standard in 2009. service in 2009-10. [316254] GCDA’s environmental performance is also measured against the Agency’s Sustainable Development Action Paul Clark: All Departments used the services of the Plan agreed with Ministers at the Department for Transport Government Car and Despatch Agency in 2008-09 and under the framework of Sustainable Operations in the in 2009-10. Government Estate (SOGE). For example, in relation to its cars and drivers GCDA Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, has adopted a number of different strategies to minimise Department for Transport how much the Government its environmental impact, including: Car and Despatch Agency spent on vehicle insurance Vehicle allocation in each of the last five years. [316255] Mileage reduction Driver training Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency spent the following on vehicle insurance in each of the Policies and practices to address grey fleet (private vehicles last five years. used for business journeys) Measures to improve health and safety and duty of care £ Fleet carbon footprinting 2008-09 110,909.00 GCDA’s efforts to reduce its tailpipe emissions while 2007-08 153,853.00 growing the business have been particularly successful. 2006-07 162,804.00 The use of alternatively powered vehicles has meant 2005-06 168,110.00 that tailpipe emissions were cut from 232.03 g CO2/km 2004-05 172,184.00 in 2005 to 133.01 g CO2/km in August 2009—a reduction of 43 per cent. significantly beating the Government target three years early. We are close to meeting the Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Government’s target of 130 g CO2/km by 2012 also Department for Transport how many Government Car three years early. and Despatch Agency vehicles were involved in road traffic accidents in each of the last five years. [316256] Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how much the Government Paul Clark: The number of Government Car and Car and Despatch Agency spent on (a) media Despatch Agency (GCDA) vehicles involved in road monitoring, (b) advertising and (c) public relations in traffic incidents in each of the last five years is as each of the last five years. [316247] follows:

Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency Number does not undertake media monitoring. 2005-06 155 The following table shows expenditure for the last 2006-07 183 five years on marketing. This incorporates elements of 2007-08 143 advertising and PR however it is not possible to disaggregate 2008-09 167 the component parts as they are purchased as marketing 2009-to date 133 packages. To attempt to do so would incur a disproportionate cost. GCDA also operates an accident panel at which all incidents, no matter how minor, are investigated. Where Marketing/publicity advertising expenditure agency drivers are found to be culpable, the panel’s Spend (£) procedures permit referral for further training or other 2005-06 5,000 investigation or financial penalties. 2006-07 450 2007-08 0 Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department 2008-09 2,750 for Transport how many cars in the Government Car 2009-10 0 and Despatch Agency fleet are equipped with vehicle tracking equipment. [316257] 187W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 188W

Paul Clark: None of the allocated cars in the Government GCDA appoints temporary staff from (recruitment) Car and Despatch Agency fleet are equipped with vehicle agencies to meet the peak demands of the business’ tracking equipment. Green car drivers who operate the needs and to buy-in expertise on a short-term basis to agency’s environmental taxi-style service are issued with meet operational needs. equipment which enables the dispatching team to identify Retrieving the number of staff within each category the location of the driver to maximise efficiency. could be obtained only at a disproportionate cost. Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport whether the Government Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Car and Despatch Agency has conducted a user Department for Transport how many complaints were satisfaction survey in the last three years. [316258] received by the Government Car and Despatch Agency in each of the last five years; and how many such Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency complaints related to the use of relief drivers. [316261] has conducted a customer satisfaction survey for 2006-07, 2007-08 and for 2008-09. The customer satisfaction Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency survey for 2009-10 will be completed at year end. The monitors formal complaints through its ISO 9001 results of these surveys are available in the agency’s procedures. In the past two years there have been seven annual report, copies of which have been placed in the recorded formal complaints, five of which refer specifically Libraries of the House. to the provision of relief drivers. Records are not retained beyond two years. Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how much was spent by the The Customer Satisfaction Survey conducted each Government Car and Despatch Agency on consultancy year invites customers to identify areas for service in each of the last five years; which companies were improvement. The provision of relief drivers is one of employed for such services in each such year; and how those areas identified. much was paid to each company for those services in each such year. [316259] Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what the income was of the Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency Government Car and Despatch Agency from the (a) (GCDA) employed the services and spent the following private and (b) public sector in each of the last five with consultancy companies over the last five years: years; and how much of that income from each sector was received in respect of the Government Car Service Expenditure (£) in each such year. [316262]

2008-09 142,272.00 2007-08 100,272.00 Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency 2008-07 124,055.00 (GCDA) is a full cost recovery organisation: All costs 2005-06 89,356.00 incurred as a result of our operation are fully recoverable 2004-05 83,094.00 through charges to our customers. The income of GCDA in each of the last five years, To identify the individual suppliers of consultancy including the value of that income received in respect of services would incur a disproportionate cost. the Government Car Service was as follows (as per GCDA uses consultants when specialist skills, knowledge annual accounts): or services are needed. Consultants on short-term contracts may represent better value for money than recruiting Income £000 and retaining permanent staff for specialist, short-term Public sector Other Other roles. (Government (public (private Total car service) sector) sector) Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, 2008-09 21,260 14,906 6,073 281 Department for Transport how many (a) agency and 2007-08 19,508 13,762 5,485 261 (b) temporary workers were employed by the 2006-07 18,861 12,673 6,183 5 Government Car and Despatch Agency in each of the 2005-06 17,612 11,700 5,816 96 last five years; and how much was spent in respect of 2004-05 16,743 11,301 5,329 113 such employees in each such year. [316260] Revenue is derived primarily from Government and Paul Clark: The expenditure on agency and temporary the wider public sector within the UK working in workers employed by the Government Car and Despatch accordance with the Agency’s Framework Document. Agency in each of the last five years is as follows:

Cost (£) Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how many miles were 2009 313,304.00 travelled by Government Car Service vehicles in each 2008 174,666.00 of the last five years. [316263] 2007 268,603.00 2006 217,942.00 Paul Clark: The information requested is in the following 2005 73,245.00 table. 189W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 190W

Miles travelled by Government Other Leased Leased car service vehicles Cars vehicles vehicles vehicles (owned) (owned) (cars) (other) 2008-09 2,631,000 2007-08 2,397,000 2002-03 193 57 0 4 2006-07 2,189,000 2004 197 53 0 4 2005-06 2,834,000 2005 197 55 0 4 2004-05 2,394,200 2006 189 42 0 4 2007 212 48 0 5 2008 207 48 2 5 Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, 2009-10 215 41 26 7 Department for Transport what the average mileage was of a Government Car and Despatch Agency (a) car and (b) van on the latest date for which figures are Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department available. [316264] for Transport how many cars the Government Car and Despatch Agency has (a) purchased and (b) sold in Paul Clark: The most up to date figure for the average each of the last five years. [316268] mileage of a Government Car and Despatch Agency car is 30,652 and for a van is 79,826. Paul Clark: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 24 March 2009, Official Report, column 205W. Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Added to which the following information for 2008-09 Department for Transport what the total expenditure and 2009 to date: was of the Government Car and Despatch Agency in each of the last five years; and how much of that Purchased Sold expenditure related to the Government Car Service in each such year. [316265] 2009-10 (to date) 10 29 2008-09 48 33 Paul Clark: The expenditure of the Government Car and Despatch Agency (GCDA) including that expenditure related to the Government Car Service in each of the Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, last five years is as follows (as per annual accounts): Department for Transport how many staff at the Government Car and Despatch Agency received Expenditure £000 bonuses in each of the last three years. [316269] Government Car Total Service Paul Clark: An element of the Government Car and 2008-09 21,259 14,847 Despatch Agency’s overall pay award is allocated to 2007-08 20,106 14,014 non-consolidated variable pay related to performance. 2006-07 18,851 12,531 These payments are used to drive high performance and 2005-06 17,602 11,578 form part of the pay award for members of staff who 2004-05 16,360 10,856 demonstrate exceptional performance, for example by exceeding targets set or meeting challenging objectives. GCDA is a full cost recovery organisation: All costs Non-consolidated variable pay awards are funded incurred as a result of our operation are fully recoverable from within existing pay bill controls, and have to be through charges to our customers. re-earned each year against pre-determined targets and, as such, do not add to future pay bill costs. The percentage Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, of the pay bill set aside for performance-related awards Department for Transport how many online payments for the SCS is based on recommendations from the were received by the Government Car and Despatch independent Senior Salaries Review Body. Agency in each of the last three years. [316266] The following table details how many people were eligible for and received a non-consolidated variable Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency pay award, awarded under the Government Car and implemented new payment procedures in October 2008. Despatch Agency’s standard pay and performance 801 payments were made in the financial year 2008-09 management process for the last three performance using the Government Procurement Card, and 1,517 years. such payments have been made from April 2009 to end January 2010. Number of Number of staff who did staff who not receive a Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, received a non- non- Department for Transport how many (a) cars and (b) consolidated consolidated other vehicles have been (i) owned and (ii) leased by the GCDA performance performance Government Car and Despatch Agency in each year headcount payment payment since 1997. [316267] 2008-09 315 298 17 2007-08 292 215 77 Paul Clark: The information requested is in the following 2006-07 307 239 68 table: 191W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 192W

Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how much was spent on Total salary cost (£000) Employees staff costs by the Government Car and Despatch 2008-09 8,576 182 Agency in each of the last five years. [316270] 2007-08 7,865 158 2006-07 7,329 178 Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch spent 2005-06 6,551 164 the following on staff costs in each of the last five years: 2004-05 5,732 163 Note: Spend (£000) As per published annual report and accounts.

2008-09 12,742 Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, 2007-08 11,905 Department for Transport whether Ministers are 2006-07 11,728 entitled to express a preference for particular drivers to 2005-06 10,766 be assigned to them by the Government Car and 2004-05 9,841 Despatch Agency. [316349]

Staff costs include employer’s contribution to national Paul Clark: Cars and drivers are allocated to insurance and pensions. Departments depending on the level of the job required. Drivers are trained to the appropriate level for the role Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, they are expected to undertake. Departments and Ministers Department for Transport what proportion of drivers provide feedback to the Government Car and Despatch for the Government Car and Despatch Agency Agency on the service provided and if they have any reported for work on (a) 7 and (b) 8 January 2010. concerns the Agency will address those concerns, including, [316271] if appropriate changing the driver.

Paul Clark: The 7 and 8 January were days of heavy Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, snowfall in the south-east. From a total of 234; 197 Department for Transport how many mechanics the drivers reported for work on 7 January 2010 and 205 Government Car and Despatch Agency employed in drivers reported for work on 8 January 2010 for the each of the last three years. [316484] Government Car and Despatch Agency. Relief drivers were used where regular drivers were Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency unavailable. employed the following number of mechanics in each of the last three years. Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what assessment has been Number of apprentice made of effects of the implementation of the European Number of mechanics mechanics Working Time Directive on the Government Car and 2007-08 6 1 Despatch Agency; and what estimate has been made of 2008-09 5 1 the cost to that Agency of such implementation. 2009 to date 4 1 [316272]

Paul Clark: Changes to the Government Car Service Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, which came into effect on 12 October 2009, will reduce Department for Transport what the country of the cost to the taxpayer. Under the new system, drivers manufacture of each of the (a) cars and (b) vans in work a single daily shift. Ministers continue to have one the Government Car and Despatch Agency fleet was in dedicated driver (apart from those in the high security each of the last five years. [316485] category), but any out-of-hours ministerial driving is met, on demand, by the Government Car and Despatch Paul Clark: The country of manufacture of each of Agency’s low carbon taxi service. This is a better deal the (a) cars and (b) vans in the Government Car and for tax payers than the previous arrangements. Despatch Agency fleet, in each of the last five years is as The cost of implementation is estimated as £500,000 follows: for changes to the driver remuneration package. 2009 £89,278.30 was the cost for consultancy assistance Country of within the implementation project. All other costs have manufacture Cars Vans been absorbed by the Government Car and Despatch UK 36 22 Agency. Belgium 14 0 Germany 12 0 Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Japan 135 0 Department for Transport how many staff were Poland 1 1 employed by the Government Car and Despatch Portugal 3 0 Agency to work in the Government Car Service in each South Korea 7 0 of the last five years; and what the total cost was of the Spain 5 0 salaries of those staff. [316273] Turkey 0 26 Netherlands 0 3 Paul Clark: The information requested is in the following Total 213 52 table. 193W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 194W

2008 2005 Country of Country of manufacture Cars Vans manufacture Cars Vans

UK 30 23 Netherlands 0 0 Belgium 16 0 Total 198 56 France 4 0 2004 Germany 15 1 Country of Japan 111 0 manufacture Cars Vans Poland 1 1 UK 31 8 Portugal 4 0 Belgium 86 42 South Korea 7 0 France 5 0 Spain 5 0 Germany 68 2 Turkey 0 25 Japan 3 0 Netherlands 0 3 Poland 0 0 Total 193 53 Portugal 4 0 2007 South Korea 0 0 Country of Spain 0 0 Manufacture Cars Vans Turkey 0 0 Sweden 0 0 UK 35 6 Netherlands 0 0 Belgium 36 12 Total 197 52 France 7 1 Germany 13 1 Japan 88 0 Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, Poland 0 0 Department for Transport how much the Government Portugal 6 0 Car and Despatch Agency spent on (a) London South Korea 7 0 congestion charge (i) payments and (ii) fines and (b) Spain 5 0 fines for (i) speeding and (ii) parking in each year since Turkey 0 33 2008. [316500] Sweden 2 0 Netherlands 0 0 Paul Clark: The Government Car and Despatch Agency Total 199 53 (GCDA) has paid the following fines and London congestion charges: 2006 Country of £ manufacture Cars Vans Congestion Congestion Total parking charges charge fines fines UK 34 24 Belgium 69 0 2008-09 124,640.00 0 2,530.00 France 8 2 The Agency has paid no speeding fines. Germany 38 1 Japan 35 0 Parking restrictions within central London may make Poland 0 0 it impossible sometimes to deliver secure or sensitive Portugal 7 2 documents to buildings or allow people with a high South Korea 0 0 public profile to attend or leave buildings without putting Spain 5 0 themselves or secure documents at risk. In these cases GCDA will pay the fine and recharge these costs to the Turkey 21 4 customer as appropriate. Sweden 0 0 Netherlands 0 0 Highways Agency: Finance Total 217 33 Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department 2005 for Transport how much the Highways Agency spent on Country of manufacture Cars Vans each of its ongoing major maintenance projects in the latest period for which figures are available; and how UK 29 3 much it plans to spend on each such project in each of Belgium 95 31 the next three years. [316848] France 8 2 Germany 52 1 Chris Mole: The financial year of 2008-09 is the most Japan 7 0 recent period for which expenditure on major maintenance Poland 0 0 is available. Portugal 7 2 In that year the Highways Agency delivered some South Korea 0 0 2,000 projects within this programme which includes Spain 0 0 reconstruction, overlay, resurfacing of road pavement Turkey 0 17 and maintenance of roadside assets. It also includes Sweden 0 0 inspections, parapet and structural repair as well as technology and asset renewal. 195W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 196W

Therefore, it is not practicable to release costs of each A21 Kippings Cross to Lamberhurst project. In 2008-09 spend on these projects totalled A21 Tonbridge Bypass to Lamberhurst £589 million. In 2009-10 we estimated in our Business A23 Handcross to Warninglid Plan planned spend of £800 million on major maintenance A45 A46 Tollbar End Improvement projects. A46 Newark to Widmerpool Improvement 2010-11 plans are being finalised and spending in the A556 Improvement (M6 J19-M56 J7) following years is subject to the outcome of any future A57/A628 Mottram to Tintwhistle Bypass Spending Review. A5-M1 Link Dunstable Bypass Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Birmingham Box Phase 3 M6 J5-8 Hard Shoulder Running Department for Transport how much the Highways M1 J10-13 Hard Shoulder Running Agency spent on each of its ongoing routine M1 J10-13 Junctions maintenance projects in the latest period for which M1 J19 Improvement figures are available; and how much it plans to spend M1 J32-35a Hard Shoulder Running on each such project in each of the next three years. M20 Junction 10a [316849] M25 J1b-J3 Controlled Motorway Chris Mole: The financial year of 2008-09 is the most M4 J19-20 and M5 J15-17 recent period for which expenditure on routine maintenance M60 J15-J12 Lane Gain is available. M60 J15-12 Lane Gain It is not practicable to release costs of individual M60 J8-12 Hard Shoulder Running routine maintenance works as this comprises many M62 J18-20 Hard Shoulder Running hundreds of projects and much of this activity is paid for through lump sum-based contracts. M62 J25-30 Hard Shoulder Running £82.5 million Routine maintenance includes vital elements of the Highways Agency’s maintenance regime to ensure it Note: meets its statutory obligations. It includes activities A46 Newark to Widmerpool Imp moved into the Construction such as gully emptying, accident damage repairs, cleaning Phase in June 2009. signs, defect repairs, winter and technology maintenance. Schemes in Options In 2008-09 spend on routine maintenance totalled A14 Kettering Bypass £325 million. In 2009-10 we estimated in our Business A1 Western Bypass Plan planned spend of £300 million on routine maintenance. A1/A19/A1068 Seaton Burn 2010-11 plans are being finalised and the following A160/A180 Imp Immingham years are subject to the outcome of any future Spending A19/A1058 Coast Road Review. A19/A189 Moor Farm Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, A19/A184 Testos Grade Separated Junction Department for Transport how much funding the A21 Baldslow Link Highways Agency has allocated for (a) routine and A38 Derby Junctions (b) major maintenance in each region in each of the A5036 Port of Liverpool Access next three years. [316854] A63 Castle Street Improvement Chris Mole: Allocations for 2010-11 are currently Chichester and A27 Transport being finalised and the future years are subject to the M1 J10-13 Hard Shoulder Running outcome of any future spending review. M1 J28-31 M1 J32-35a Hard Shoulder Running Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, M25 J23-27 Sect 5 Hard Shoulder Running Department for Transport with reference to the answer M25 J30/A13 Corridor to the hon. Member for Lewes of 24 November 2008, Official Report, columns 2098-99W, what total control M25 J5-6/7 Sect 2 Hard Shoulder Running budget has been allocated for Highways Agency major M3 J2-4a Hard Shoulder Running schemes in (a) development and (b) options stages in M4 J3-12 Hard Shoulder Running 2009-10. [316899] M54 to M6 Toll Private Equity Partnership M6 J10a-13 Chris Mole: The Highways Agency Major Schemes in Development and Options Phases that had budgets M6 J13-15 (including J15) set for the current financial year, 2009-10, are shown in M6 J15-19 (including J19) the following lists. The total control budget for 2009-10 M6 J21a-26 set for schemes in Development was £82.5 million and M60 J12-18 Impt (Junction 28 to 12 Improvements) for schemes in Options was £29.7 million. M60 J8-12 Hard Shoulder Running Schemes in Development M62 J18-20 Hard Shoulder Running A1 Leeming to Barton £29.7 million A11 Fiveways to Thetford Throughout the course of the year some new schemes A14 Ellington to Fen Ditton have been introduced into the Options Phase and others A14 Kettering have moved between phases. 197W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 198W

A number of schemes annotated as forming part of Chris Mole: There are no dedicated cameras for the Managed Motorway Feasibility Study within 2008-09 surveillance of the M4 bus and taxi lane. However, are now going forward as Hard Shoulder Running there are six CCTV cameras between junctions 3 and 2 schemes. of the M4, which can be used to monitor the carriageway. Hotels Motorways: Accidents

Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, for Transport how many separate bookings at five star Department for Transport what recent research his or above hotels were made through the Expotel Department and its agencies have undertaken on the contract by his Department in the last year for which number of traffic officers required to attend incidents figures are available; and at what cost. [315489] on motorways. [309454]

Chris Mole: The following table lists the number of Chris Mole: The number of officers and vehicles trips booked, hotel night stays and total cost for Department required to attend an incident varies greatly dependent for Transport booked through Expotel in the period 1 on the nature, severity and location of the incident. April 2009 to 31 January 2010. Neither the Department for Transport nor the Highways Agency has undertaken any recent research on the Department for Transport Number/£ number of traffic officers required to attend incidents Number of trips 65 on the motorways. Number of nights stayed 105 A controlled trial is currently under way to fully Total cost (£) 10,990.45 explore the possibilities of variable crewing of patrol vehicles. London Bridge Station Motorways: Ragwort Simon Hughes: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what consideration his Department has Mr. Soames: To ask the Minister of State, given to the merits of redeveloping London Bridge Department for Transport which Minister has station so as to allow South London Line services to responsibility for control of ragwort on the motorway continue to operate from that station. [317019] system. [317320]

Chris Mole: It has always been recognised that it Chris Mole: As Minister for the Strategic Road Network, would not be possible to reconstruct London Bridge I have responsibility for the control of ragwort on station within its current footprint without removing motorways in England. some of the terminating platforms, and thus reducing the number of trains that could use this part of the Motorways: Repairs and Maintenance station. If additional services from the South London Line Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, were to be routed into the London Bridge station this Department for Transport (1) how much his would require a further expansion of the station which Department (a) has spent and (b) plans to spend on would be cost prohibitive potentially require additional the (i) M25 junction 30 improvements in Essex, (ii) M1 land and would require further planning consents. junctions 39 to 42 project and (iii) M4 junctions 3 to 12 project; and what the total projected cost of each is; Lorries [316894] (2) how much his Department (a) has spent and (b) Ian Stewart: To ask the Minister of State, plans to spend on the (i) M1 junctions 21 to 30 Department for Transport what information his improvements project, (ii) M25 junctions 27 to 30 Department (a) holds and (b) has access to on (i) the widening project, (iii) M25 junction 1b to 3 project, (iv) number of heavy trucks and lorry drivers (A) employed M1 junction 25 to 28 project and (v) A5117/A550 and (B) self-employed in each EU and EFTA member Deeside Park junction project; and what the total state, (ii) the average hours worked by each category of projected cost of each is; [316895] driver in each such state in the latest period for which (3) how much his Department (a) has spent and (b) figures are available and (iii) the average (1) hourly and plans to spend on the (i) A2/A282 Dartford (2) weekly earnings of heavy truck and lorry drivers in improvement project, (ii) A2 Bean to Cobham: Phase 2 each such state in the latest period for which figures are project, (iii) A66 Carkin Moor to Scotch Corner available. [316167] Improvements project, (iv) A66 Greta Bridge to Stephen Bank improvement project and (v) A66 Long Paul Clark: The Department for Transport does not Newton junction project; and what the total projected collect or hold the requested information. cost of each is. [316896]

M4: Cameras Chris Mole: The following table shows how much the Department (a) has spent (actual spend to date) and Mr. Swire: To ask the Minister of State, Department (b) plans to spend (forecast future spend) for each for Transport how many dedicated cameras there are project. The table also gives the total projected cost and for surveillance of the bus and taxi lane on the M4. the current project phase within the project lifecycle [317193] (Options-Development-Constructions-Operations). 199W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 200W

Actual spend to date (£ Forecast future spend Total projected cost (£ million) (£ million) million) Phase

M25 J30 Improvements in Essex 2.0 2.3 4.3 Options M1 J39-42 0.0 1.9 1.9 Options M4J3-12 1.0 0.4 1.4 Options M1 J21-30 Improvements1 ———— M25 J27-30 Widening 48.9 345.3 394.3 Construction M25 J1b-3 59.2 0.0 59.2 Operational M1 J25-28 Widening 267.0 52.9 319.9 Construction A5117/A557 Deeside Park Junctions 60.5 0.0 60.5 Operational A2/A282 Dartford Improvements 121.4 0.0 121.4 Operational A2 Bean to Cobham Phase 2 131.1 0.0 131.1 Operational A66 Carkin Moor to Scotch Corner Improvements 14.0 0.0 14.0 Operational A66 Greta Bridge to Stephen Bank Improvement 12.8 0.0 12.9 Operational A66 Long Newton Junctions 12.4 0.0 12.4 Operational 1 The M1 J21-30 scheme was not included in the January 2009 Roads Announcement. It was a motorway widening scheme in the former Targeted Programme of Improvements, the first phase of which (widening between junctions 25-28) is under construction. Costs for this scheme are included in the table.

For projects in Options, budgets have only been approved Newspaper Licensing Agency to progress the projects to the end of the current phase. Approval will be sought from Ministers to move to the next phase, together with a new phase budget, at the Mr. Hurd: To ask the Minister of State, Department appropriate time. Ministerial approval will be based on for Transport what payments (a) his Department and priorities, affordability, completion of statutory processes (b) each of its agencies made to the Newspaper and the scheme continuing to demonstrate value for Licensing Agency in each year since his Department money. For these schemes the table gives spend to date was established. [315591] and forecast spend to the end of the current phase. Note that all forecasts are updated monthly as part of financial monitoring and control and therefore reflect Chris Mole: The information requested is set out in the current position as at end December 2009. the following table:

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

DFT(c) 4 4 12 12 12 13 15 HA0302222 MCA0622042 DVLA4343222 DSA 1 2 10 10 12 15 16 VOSA0001111 VCA0000000 GCDA0000000 TotalDFT9182830293738

Public Holidays rural transport provision; this is alongside guidance encouraging greater partnership with community transport Bob Spink: To ask the Minister of State, Department operators, who provide valuable services in rural areas. for Transport what estimate he has made of the cost to The Government also support a large number of his Department of the introduction of an additional rural rail services funded via the franchising process public holiday; and if he will make a statement. and by direct grants to Network Rail. They also provide [315114] support to community rail partnerships through the Association of Community Rail Partnerships and small Chris Mole: No assessment has been made of the cost scale grants for projects on designated community rail to the Department of an additional public holiday. routes. Public Transport: Rural Areas Railways

Richard Younger-Ross: To ask the Minister of State, Mr. Ellwood: To ask the Minister of State, Department Department for Transport what steps he is taking to for Transport what guidance his Department has provided encourage greater use of public transport in large rural to train operating companies on the transport of surf areas. [316860] boards on trains. [317515]

Mr. Khan: The Government pay over £58 million Chris Mole: The Department for Transport has not annually in rural bus subsidy grant payments and have issued any guidance to train operating companies on just published a “toolkit” for local authorities planning the carriage of surf boards on trains. 201W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 202W

The National Rail Conditions of Carriage sets out Roads: Accidents the conditions for luggage, articles, animals and cycles. Section II Appendix B includes a table relating to the Pete Wishart: To ask the Minister of State, Department carriage of specific articles in passenger accommodation, for Transport how many (a) serious road injuries and which includes “Canoes, Surfboards and Sailboards”: (b) fatalities resulted from accidents related to drink none of these are permitted. driving in each of the last four years. [317250] It is for the Association of Train Operating Companies, in consultation with its members and other interested Paul Clark: The information requested can be found bodies, to consider whether any changes should be in table 3a on page 30 in article 3 in the Reported Road proposed to be made to these. Any proposed changes to Casualties Great Britain: 2008 Annual Report, copies the National Rail Conditions of Carriage require the of which have been deposited in the Libraries of the approval of the Secretary of State. House.

Railways: North East Mr. MacShane: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how many (a) fatal and (b) Mr. Kemp: To ask the Minister of State, Department other road accidents took place in the Yorkshire and for Transport what his most recent assessment is of the Humber region in each year since 2001. [317511] potential for high speed rail services to the North East. [317161] Paul Clark: The number of (a) fatal and (b) other reported personal injury road accidents in the Yorkshire Chris Mole: The Department for Transport is continuing and Humber region in each year since 2001 is shown in its assessment of the detailed report from High Speed the following table. Two on a detailed route proposal for the first stage of a Reported personal injury road accidents in Yorkshire and the Humber north-south high-speed line between London and the Government Office region by severity: 2001-08 West Midlands, which was received at the end of last Accident severity year. The report also contains advice on options for All personal extending high-speed services, and high-speed lines, to injury destinations further north, including the North East. If Fatal Non-fatal accidents the Government decide to pursue proposals for high 2001 299 20,029 20,328 speed rail, we will publish a White Paper setting out 2002 294 20,037 20,331 plans by the end of March 2010. 2003 296 19,591 19,887 2004 288 18,488 18,776 Road Traffic 2005 276 16,947 17,223 2006 278 16,655 16,933 Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, Department 2007 254 16,190 16,444 for Transport how many miles vehicles, excluding heavy 2008 203 15,306 15,509 goods vehicles, travelled on (a) motorways and (b) dual carriageways in (i) England, (ii) Scotland and (iii) Roads: Finance Wales in each of the last five years. [317046] Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Paul Clark: The estimated miles travelled by vehicles Department for Transport with reference to the answer (excluding heavy good vehicles) on motorways and dual to the hon. Member for Crewe and Nantwich of 11 carriageways in England, Scotland and Wales from November 2009, Official Report, columns 368-70W, 2004 to 2008 is shown in the following tables. which of the non-major projects listed is a (a) routine (a) Traffic on Motorways by country: All vehicles1 excluding HGVs, 2004-08 maintenance project, (b) major maintenance project, Billion vehicle miles (c) local management scheme and (d) fiscal stimulus 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 project. [316900]

(i) England 47.3 47.6 48.8 49.3 49.1 Chris Mole: The table which was prepared in answer (ii) Scotland 3.3 3.3 3.5 3.6 3.6 to the question from the hon. Member for Crewe and (iii) Wales 1.9 1.8 1.9 2.0 1.9 Nantwich of 11 November and which was placed in the Great 52.5 52.8 54.2 54.8 54.7 Britain Libraries of the House has been updated to indicate 1 Includes motorcycles, cars, buses and LGVs. which non-major project schemes are routine maintenance Source: projects, major maintenance projects, local network DfT—National Road Traffic Survey. management schemes and fiscal stimulus projects. (b) Traffic on dual carriageways by country: All vehicles1 excluding HGVs, 2004-08 A table containing this information has been placed Billion vehicle miles in the Libraries of the House. 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Roads: Repairs and Maintenance (i) England 45.7 45.5 46.2 45.9 45.8 (ii) Scotland 4.2 4.2 4.3 4.3 4.2 Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, (iii) Wales 3.3 3.2 3.4 3.3 3.4 Department for Transport which uncompleted schemes Great 53.1 52.9 53.9 53.5 53.4 included in the Targeted Programme of Improvements Britain are funded through regional funding allocations; and 1 Includes pedal cycles, motorcycles, cars, buses and LGVs. Source: from what other sources such schemes have been DfT—National Road Traffic Survey. funded. [316185] 203W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 204W

Mr. Khan: There are currently three Highways Agency There are currently over 30 local major schemes schemes under construction which are funded wholly or (costing over £5 million) under way that are being partly through the regional funding allocation. These funded through the regional funding allocation process. are A3 Hindhead Improvement (expected to open in The following table indicates these schemes and highlights summer 2011), A421 Bedford to M1 J13 (expected to where the scheme is also being funded through a open in winter 2010) and A46 Newark to Widmerpool contribution from other sources of funding. Improvement (expected to open in spring 2012). The A46 scheme is partly funded through the regional funding allocation and partly through the national roads programme and fiscal stimulus budgets.

Region Scheme name Other sources of funding (contributions)

Yorkshire and Humber A628 Cudworth and West Green Bypass Local authority Yorkshire and Humber Bridlington Integrated Transport Plan Local authority Yorkshire and Humber Kirklees Strengthening and Maintenance Scheme Third party funding West Midlands Hagley Road Bus Show Case Local authority and third party funding West Midlands Selly Oak New Road Local authority and third party funding West Midlands BIA/NEC Public Transport Scheme Local authority and third party funding West Midlands Rugby Western Relief Road Local authority and developer contributions West Midlands West Midlands Red Routes Package 1 RFA only South West Weymouth Relief Road Local authority South West Greater Bristol Bus Network Local authority and developer contributions South West Salisbury Integrated Transport Package (Petersfinger Local authority and developer contributions Park and Ride) South East Sittingbourne Northern Relief Road Local authority, developer contributions and Homes and Communities Agency South East East Kent Access Phase 2 Local authority South East M4 Junction 11 and Mereoak Junction Improvement Local authority and developer contributions Scheme North West A34 Alderley Edge and Nether Alderley Bypass Local authority North West Manchester Metrolink Phase 3A Local authorities North West Hall Lane Strategic Gateway Local authority, European funding and third party funding North West Blackpool and Fleetwood Tramway Upgrade Local authority Eastern B1115 Stowmarket Relief Road Developer contributions and other third party sources Eastern Cambridgeshire Guided Busway Developer contributions, local and regional partnerships and local authority. East Midlands Connecting Derby Phase 2 European Objective 2, the Single Regeneration Budget, the European Urban Programme, the Townscale Heritage Lottery Initiative and local authority East Midlands Markham Employment Growth Zone Local authority, developer contribution, European funding, third party funding and English Partnerships East Midlands/Eastern A1073 Spalding to Eye Improvement Scheme Local authority West Midlands Birmingham New Street Station (Gateway) BERR, Network Rail, Advantage West Midlands, local authority, ITA/PTE, developer contributions and property income West Midlands A461/A4123 Junction Improvement, Burnt Tree Local authority West Midlands West Midlands UTC RFA only West Midlands Wolverhampton Centre Access and Interchange Local authority, developer contributions and West Midlands regional infrastructure funding North West Carlisle Northern Development Route (CNDR) Private finance North West Greater Manchester Urban Traffic Control RFA only North West Greater Manchester Retaining Walls Local authorities North East Metro Ticketing and Gating Local authority

Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, I have placed a copy of the advice received from each Department for Transport how much of the budget for region and our response in the Libraries of the House. the Regional Fund Allocation 2 programme has been allocated to each (a) Highways Agency scheme of Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, regional significance valued at over five million pounds Department for Transport what allocations were made and (b) Local Transport major scheme in each region. to each (a) region and (b) major scheme from the first [316192] round of regional funding allocations in 2005-06. [316193]

Mr. Khan: Regional Funding Allocation advice was Mr. Khan: Guidance for preparing regional funding received from regions, excluding London, in February advice was published in July 2005 and within this guidance 2009 and the Department responded in July 2009. The there is a section that provides indicative allocations to advice highlights how each of the regions allocated each to 2015-16. funding to (a) Highways Agency schemes of regional In January 2006, each region, excluding London, significance and (b) local major schemes. submitted advice to the Government on where funding 205W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 206W should be allocated to major schemes. The Department funds to progress through the Options or Development for Transport responded to this advice in July 2006. phases but have not been allocated full funding for A copy of the published guidance, advice received construction. Funding decisions will be made at various from each region and the Department for Transport points as the schemes progress through the project response has been placed in the Libraries of the House. lifecycle which will take account of affordability, regional priorities and value for money. Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department The updated table has been placed in the Libraries of for Transport with reference to the answer to the hon. the House. Member for Crewe and Nantwich of 11 November 2009, Official Report, columns 368-70W,on roads: finance, which of the (a) major and (b) non-major schemes Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, listed are funded from (i) the Regional Funding Allocation Department for Transport how much he plans to spend under each budget heading from the budget for the 2 programme and (ii) other sources. [316520] National Roads Programme in each year between 2008 Chris Mole: The table which was prepared in answer and 2014. [316857] to the question from the hon. Member for Crewe and Nantwich (Mr. Timpson) of 11 November and which Chris Mole: The following table gives the forecast was placed in the Libraries of the House has been expenditure against each budget heading (options/ updated to indicate those schemes funded from the development/construction) for schemes in the National Regional Funding Allocation 2 programme or from Roads Programme. For completeness, expenditure is other sources. also given for schemes which completed in 2008-09 and Many of the major schemes indicated as being funded 2009-10 and which were included in the January 2009 from Regional Funding Allocation 2 have been allocated Roads Announcement.

Forecast expenditure (£ million) 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Options Phase Budget 10.1 20.0 3.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Development Phase Budget 23.4 46.1 21.7 57.9 1.7 5.2 3.0 Construction Phase Budget 178.0 454.8 615.0 618.0 251.8 0.0 0.0 Schemes completing in 2008-09 207.2 5.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department project on the latest date for which figures are available; for Transport (1) how much his Department had spent how much it plans to spend on each such project in each on work on the (a) A3 Hindhead improvement scheme, of the next three years; and whether such projects are (b) A1 Peterborough to Blyth grade separated junction funded through the National Roads Programme. project and (c) A421 Bedford to M1 junction 13 project [316882] on the latest date for which figures are available; how much it plans to spend on each such project in each of the next three years; and whether such projects are funded through the National Roads Programme; Chris Mole: The following table shows how much the Department has spent (spend to end December 2009), [316873] and how much it is currently forecasting to spend in the (2) how much his Department had spent on the (a) remaining three months of the 2009-10 financial year A1 Leeming to Barton improvement, (b) M25 junction and in the following three years. 16 to 23 widening project and (c) M25 junction 27 to 30 widening project on the latest date for which figures The table also indicates which schemes are funded are available; how much it plans to spend on each such from the National Roads Programme and the current project in each of the next three years; and whether phase of each project within the project lifecycle (options— such projects are funded through the National Roads development—construction—operations). Programme; [316880] For projects in options and development, budgets (3) how much his Department had spent on the (a) have only been approved to progress the projects to the M1 junction 39 to 42 project, (b) M3 junction 2 to 4a end of the current phase. Approval will be sought from project, (c) M6 junction 10a to 13 project, (d) M60 Ministers to move to the next phase, together with a junction 8 to 12 project and (e) M62 junction 18 to 20 new phase budget, at the appropriate time. Ministerial project on the latest date for which figures are available; decisions will be based on priorities, affordability, completion how much it plans to spend on each such project in of statutory processes and the scheme continuing to each of the next three years; and whether such projects demonstrate value for money. For these schemes the are funded through the National Roads Programme; table gives spend to date and forecast spend to the end [316881] of the current phase. (4) how much his Department had spent on the (a) Please note that all forecasts are updated monthly as A1 Dishforth to Leeming improvement, (b) A1 Bramham part of financial monitoring and control and therefore to Wetherby project, (c) M40 junction 15 (Longbridge reflect the current position as at end December 2009. roundabout) project, (d) M1 junction 25 to 28 widening project and (e) M6 junction 8 to 10a north of Birmingham 207W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 208W

Forecast spend in each of the next three years (£ million) Forecast spend Funded by the Spend to 1 January 2010 to national 31 December 2009 31 March 2010 programme (£ million) (£ million) 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 (Yes/No) Phase

A3 Hindhead 274.8 19.6 50.8 17.4 0.0 No Construction Improvement A1 Peterborough to 92.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 No Operations Blyth GSJ A421 Bedford to M1 109.0 20.4 68.9 0.0 0.0 No Construction J13 A1 Leeming to Barton 21.9 0.3 1.9 2.2 1.7 Yes Development Improvement M25 J16-23 Widening 111.7 0.6 183.9 190.5 108.6 Yes Construction M25 J27-30 Widening 48.9 0.6 115.0 183.3 46.5 Yes Construction M1 J39-42 0.0 0.2 1.7 0.0 0.0 Yes Options M3 J2-4a 0.6 0.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 Yes Options M6 J10a-13 2.0 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 Yes Options M60 J8-12 1.5 1.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 Yes Options M62 J18-20 1.9 1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 Yes Options A1 Dishforth to 118.2 21.0 91.2 79.7 0.0 Yes Construction Leeming Improvement A1 Bramham to 72.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Yes Operations Wetherby M40 J15 (Longbridge 61.9 4.4 3.9 0.0 0.0 Yes Construction Roundabout) M1 J25-28 Widening 267.0 17.6 35.2 0.0 0.0 Yes Construction M6 J8-10a North of 84.0 26.6 32.0 0.0 0.0 No Construction Birmingham

Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, or the relative priority of ensuring access to services Department for Transport how much of the £6 billion and buildings, is a matter for each local highway authority. allocated for the National Roads Programme was used Advice on developing and operating a winter service to complete work on the (a) M6 Carlisle to Guardsmill strategy is included in the UK Roads Liaison Group’s project, (b) M1 junctions 6a to 10 widening project, code of practice for highways maintenance management, (c) A14 Haughley New St to Stowmarket project, (d) “Well-maintained Highways”. M62 junction 6 improvements and (e) M25 junctions 1b to 3 widening project. [316897] Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport how much his Department Chris Mole: The following table gives the amount spent on road (a) salt and (b) grit in each of the last spent on completing work on the listed schemes out of 12 years. [316890] the up to £6 billion allocated to the National Roads Programme in the January 2009 Roads Announcement. Mr. Khan: The Highways Agency uses salt for the Amount allocated from £6 billion National Roads Programme treatment of its network during winter and does not use £ million grit. M6 Carlisle to Guardsmill 31.4 The Highways Agency’s routine and winter service is M1 J6a-10 Widening 82.5 delivered by its contracted service providers. The delivery A14 Haughley New Street to 14.0 of these services, including the purchase of rock salt, is Stowmarket paid for within lump sum payments covering a range of M62 J6 Improvements 14.7 defined activities. The individual amount specifically M25 J1b-3 widening 15.1 spent on the purchase of road-salt is not readily discernable Total 157.7 from the service delivery lump sum payments and cannot therefore be provided. Roads: Snow and Ice Annual salt usage for the strategic road network varies greatly according to the weather faced, typically Mrs. Villiers: To ask the Minister of State, ranging 150,000 to 300,000 tonnes per annum, at an Department for Transport whether his Department has average cost from domestic salt suppliers of approximately provided guidance to local authorities on (1) which £20 to £25 per tonne. buildings or public services should be prioritised for maintenance of access to them by salting or gritting Mrs. Spelman: To ask the Minister of State, during adverse winter weather conditions; [316887] Department for Transport pursuant to the answer to (2) the priority to be given to gritting pavements the hon. Member for Peterborough of 2 February during severe weather conditions. [316888] 2010, Official Report, column 178W, on roads: salt, how many tonnes of road salt (a) each local authority Mr. Khan: Winter service, including decisions about and (b) the Highways Agency held at the latest date for the relative priority of salting carriageways and footways which information is available. [317115] 209W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 210W

Mr. Khan: An updated table has been placed in the All UK civilian funding in Afghanistan is aligned to Libraries of the House, which shows how many tonnes strategic objectives and subject to a robust planning of salt local authorities estimate they have available, regime. A programme office, based in Kabul, oversees according to the local authority salt audit returns the governance processes that monitor expenditure and Department for Transport had received at 10.00 am on reports progress to the Afghanistan Delivery Group. 8 February. Expenditure, both in Afghanistan and London, is also monitored by budget holders, subjected to independent Taxis: Safety external audit by the National Audit Office, and incurred in accordance with the principles of Managing Public Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Minister of State, Money and the Treasury Handbook on Regularity and Department for Transport if he will take steps to ensure Propriety. that local authorities prevent vehicles subject to a safety recall by Toyota from being used by licensed taxi companies; Antarctica and if he will make a statement. [317173] Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Khan: The Department for Transport has been Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many advised that the recall has not been instigated on grounds applications the Polar Regions Unit has (a) received of safety and so does not consider it appropriate to and (b) granted for British expeditions to Antarctica in prevent these vehicles being used. The manufacturer the last three years. [317079] has advised that at no time will drivers be without brakes and the vehicles remain safe in service. Chris Bryant: The Polar Regions Unit received and The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency, the issued 82 permit applications during the last three years, Department for Transport agency which deals with comprising 26 applications during 2009, 27 applications day-to-day vehicle safety recall issues, is in regular during 2008 and 29 applications during 2007. contact with Toyota and we are doing everything we can to help them recall vehicles in the shortest possible Belarus: Capital Punishment timescale. Ministers are monitoring the situation closely. Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State Transport: Finance for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 26 November 2009, Official Report, columns Robert Neill: To ask the Minister of State, 300-1W,on Belarus: capital punishment, what information Department for Transport what role the Government he has received on the plight of Vasily Yuzepchuk and Offices for the Regions have in the determination of Andrei Zhuk; and what representations he has made on allocations of regional and local transport funding. their behalf to the government of Belarus. [316928] [317860] Chris Bryant: Vasily Yuzepchuk and Andrei Zhuk Mr. Khan: Officials in Government offices for the have exhausted the legal appeals process. The sentence regions, alongside officials in central Departments, provide can now only be overturned by an appeal of clemency advice to Ministers on funding decisions. to President Lukashenko. Written Questions: Government Responses The UK is opposed to the death penalty in all circumstances as a matter of principle. Together with EU partners, we promote the abolition of capital Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister of State, punishment around the world. We have continued to Department for Transport when he plans to respond to raise these cases with the Belarusian authorities, and to Question 316500, on the Government Car and support a process of public dialogue on the death Despatch Agency, tabled on 3 February 2010. [317534] penalty. We worked closely with the Council of Europe who organised an information campaign in Belarus. Paul Clark: I replied to the hon. Member today. Our ambassador explained our views in an interview with the Belarusian media in January 2010. We are pleased that the National Assembly of the Republic of FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE Belarus has set up a task force to study the issue, and continue to urge the Belarusian Government to declare Afghanistan: Overseas Aid a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Secretary of State British Indian Ocean Territory: Environment Protection for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to ensure that funding allocated by his Department Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign in respect of Afghanistan is spent as intended; and what and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he audit trail there is in respect of such funding. [313781] has had with the government of Mauritius on the creation of a marine protected area around the Chagos Mr. Ivan Lewis: Funding in Afghanistan is delegated archipelago. [317118] to our ambassador, or in his/her absence, the Charge d’Affaires, who acts as the senior responsible officer Chris Bryant: Foreign and Commonwealth Office and chair of the Afghanistan Delivery Group. The role officials discussed environmental protection and the of this decision-making body is to ensure that expenditure possible creation of a marine protected area with Mauritian is authorised, controlled and monitored in accordance officials in bilateral talks on the British Indian Ocean with agreed UK priorities and outcomes. Territory on 14 January 2009 and on 21 July 2009. My 211W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 212W right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary also discussed Mr. Ivan Lewis: The UK position on planned elections the proposal with the Mauritian Prime Minister and in Burma is well known. Unless Aung San Suu Kyi, and Foreign Minister in November 2009. all other political prisoners are released, and the regime initiates an inclusive dialogue with the democratic Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign opposition and ethnic groups, the elections will have no and Commonwealth Affairs what the remit is of the credibility or international legitimacy. As the elections PEW Environment Group in providing services under approach, the UK will work to maintain tough EU his Department’s contract for public consultation on sanctions targeted at the regime’s economic interests, the proposed marine protected area around the Chagos and press Burma’s neighbours, including China, India Archipelago; what the cost to his Department was of and ASEAN countries to use their influence to secure that contract; when he expects that group to report; to real progress. We will also work in the UN’s human whom that group will report; and when he plans to rights bodies to highlight the ongoing and systematic publish the outcome of that consultation. [317121] human rights abuses in the country. The planned elections should be an historic opportunity Chris Bryant: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office to reverse Burma’s steady decline into poverty, stagnation does not have a contract with the PEW Environment and international isolation. It is difficult to be optimistic Group. The Group, which is an independent non-profit that the military regime will seize this opportunity, but organisation is part of the Chagos Environment Network the UK will continue to use all diplomatic channels to which has advocated the possible creation of a marine press them to do so. protected area in the British Indian Ocean Territory. Burma: War Crimes Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consideration his Mr. Crabb: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Department has given to pursuing the proposed Marine and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he Protected Area project as a joint initiative with the has received requesting him to propose to the United government of Mauritius. [317696] Nations Security Council the establishment of a commission of inquiry into allegations of crimes against humanity Chris Bryant: Foreign and Commonwealth Office and war crimes committed by the Burmese regime; and officials discussed environmental protection and the what steps he has taken in consequence. [317000] possible creation of a marine protected area with Mauritian Mr. Ivan Lewis: Since early December 2009, the Foreign officials in bilateral talks on the British Indian Ocean and Commonwealth Office has received more than 70 Territory on 14 January 2009 and on 21 July 2009. My letters from MPs and members of the public calling for right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary also discussed the UK to support a UN Commission of Inquiry into the proposal with the Mauritian Prime Minister and crimes against humanity in Burma. We have also taken Foreign Minister in November 2009. note of the Early Day Motion on this issue, and I have met campaign groups, NGOs and representatives of Burma: Politics and Government ethnic groups based on the Thai/Burma border, to hear their views. Mr. Crabb: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign In consequence of these representations and discussions, and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment his the Government have given further careful thought to Department has made of the political situation in the question of a UN Commission of Inquiry. We Burma. [316579] regularly test the level of consensus for action on Burma at the UN through our efforts to secure Security Council Mr. Ivan Lewis: The Government remain deeply discussion. We secured tough resolutions in the UN concerned about the lack of progress towards democracy General Assembly and Human Rights Council and will and respect for human rights in Burma. Planned elections continue to raise abuse of human rights in the year will have no international legitimacy while over 2,100 ahead. Our assessment remains that an attempt to political prisoners remain in detention. Aung San Suu establish a Commission of Inquiry would not receive Kyi’s appeal has reached its final stage. We call on the the requisite support from a significant number of military government to release her, along with all other countries and in particular veto holding members of political prisoners, and begin a dialogue with the opposition the Security Council. We are concerned that if we tried and ethnic groups that would lay the foundations for a and failed to secure agreement this would be interpreted genuine and inclusive transition to democracy. by the Burmese regime as a diplomatic victory and approval of its conduct. The Government will nonetheless As elections approach, the democratic opposition continue to do all they can to highlight the appalling and Burma’s ethnic groups face a difficult dilemma. If and systematic abuse of human rights in Burma, and they participate in the elections they risk legitimising a work to secure as robust an international response as process they know to be flawed. Boycott the elections possible. and they risk further marginalisation and exclusion from the political process. This is not a decision we can Democratic Republic of Congo: War Crimes or should presume to make for them. Mr. Newmark: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr. Crabb: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he plans to take representations he has made to the government of the in response to Burma’s announcement that plans are Democratic Republic of Congo on the arrest and transfer underway to hold elections in a systematic way in 2010; to the International Criminal Court of General Bosco and if he will make a statement. [316584] Ntaganda. [317732] 213W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 214W

Mr. Ivan Lewis: We, along with our European Chris Bryant: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office counterparts, continue to press for Bosco Ntaganda to (FCO) grant in aid to the BBC World Service for be handed over for trial by the International Criminal 2010-11 is £267 million in resources and capital. The Court (ICC). The UK strongly supports the ICC and FCO grant in aid to the British Council for the same we welcome the Court’s investigations into events in the period is £194 million in resources and capital. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Conflict in the BBC World Service will make available £7.7 million to region has been marked by atrocities, and those responsible the FCO including an underspend of £4 million in for them should be held to account. 2009-10. The British Council will make available £5 Our ambassador in Kinshasa discussed the arrest million to the FCO. These contributions will not result warrant with the UN Secretary General’s Special in permanent reductions in their baseline, but are for Representative for the DRC, Alan Doss. He received 2010-11 only. assurances that the UN mission would support the FCO Services Trading Fund will make a special DRC Government in carrying out the warrant. He has dividend payment to the FCO of £3 million in financial also raised the question of Bosco Ntaganda’s position year 2010-11. in meetings with the Foreign Minister. He has sought No other non-departmental public bodies or agencies reassurances that Bosco Ntaganda will be handed over for which the FCO is responsible plan to make similar to the ICC at the earliest possible opportunity. contributions to the FCO budget in 2010-11.

Departmental Public Expenditure Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for written ministerial statement of 10 February 2010, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the Official Report, columns 54-58WS, on Foreign and written ministerial statement of 10 February 2010, Commonwealth Office finances, how much his Official Report, columns 54-58WS, on Foreign and Department expects to save in 2010-11 as a result of Commonwealth Office finances, how the planned each of the measures set out in the statement. [318026] foreign exchange adjustment account will operate; and in what ways it will (a) resemble and (b) differ from Chris Bryant: The value of the contributions from the the Overseas Price Mechanism. [317625] British Council and the BBC World Service to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) budget for Chris Bryant: The foreign exchange adjustment account 2010-11 are expected to be £7.7 million and £5 million will be a departmental unallocated provision (DUP) respectively, while FCO Services Trading Fund will which the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) make a special dividend payment of £3 million to the will draw on as necessary to manage the impact of FCO. Details of the FCO programme of streamlining foreign exchange fluctuations. It is not a return to the have yet to be finalised. Overseas Price Movements Mechanism under which Departmental Recruitment the FCO budget was adjusted from the Treasury Reserve to reflect foreign exchange rate movements. Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much his Department Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for and its agencies spent on external recruitment consultants Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the in the last year for which figures are available. [315502] written ministerial statement of 10 February 2010, Official Report, columns 54-58WS, on Foreign and Chris Bryant: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Commonwealth Office finances, which assets he (FCO) is committed to recruiting a talented and diverse expects to sell in order to raise the sum intended in the work force, ensuring that the most qualified candidates statement; and what the (a) current book value and from the widest range of backgrounds apply. The FCO (b) estimated market value is of each such asset. sometimes uses external recruitment agencies to manage [317627] recruitment campaigns for new entrants, and where specialist knowledge of a specific job market is required; Chris Bryant: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office for instance Overseas Security Managers and procurement publishes details of disposals quarterly in a letter to the specialists. Outsourced recruitment is more cost-effective Foreign Affairs Committee. For commercial reasons than running all recruitment campaigns through a larger and in order to realise maximum value from disposals, in-house recruitment team and is a model used extensively we do not publish details of planned disposals in advance. across central Government. In 2008-09 FCO Recruitment spent £1,115,890 and FCO Services £839,790 on external Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for recruitment agencies in order to help meet these aims. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the These figures include advertising and other costs involved written ministerial statement of 10 February 2010, in the recruitment campaigns and reflect an increase on Official Report, columns 54-58WS, on Foreign and 2007-08 spend due to a greater number of campaigns, Commonwealth Office finances, what the (a) original many of them in specialist areas. agreed budget for 2010-11 and (b) budget reduction agreed in consequence of the effect of changes in the Diplomatic Service Appeal Board value of sterling is for (i) the British Council, (ii) the BBC World Service, (iii) Foreign and Commonwealth Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Office Services and (iv) each other agency and Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many times non-departmental public body for which his the Diplomatic Service Appeal Board has met in each Department is responsible. [318025] of the last three years. [317080] 215W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 216W

Chris Bryant: The Diplomatic Service Appeal Board Government Hospitality: Wines (DSAB) has met four times since 2007 to consider the appeals of members of the Diplomatic Service dismissed Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). In Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the addition, DSAB members have met each year since events where wine from the Government wine cellar 2007 for an Annual General Meeting with the FCO’s was served between 25 December 2009 and 25 January Director General for Change and Delivery and a senior 2010. [313986] manager from Human Resources. Chris Bryant [holding answer 28 January 2010]: The Falkland Islands: Expenditure following table shows the events at which wine from the Government Hospitality cellar was served between 25 Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign December 2009 and 25 January 2010. and Commonwealth Affairs how much Government funding for non-military purposes has been allocated 2010 Event title Host Department to the Falkland Islands since 1982. [317590] 11 January Lunch: Learning and DCSF Technology World Forum Chris Bryant: Between 1982 and 1998 the Falkland 11 January Dinner: Learning and DCSF Technology World Forum Islands received £55.6 million in funding from the UK British Council Dinner to help with the development of the islands. However, 12 January Lunch: Turkish Foreign FCO since 1998 the Falkland Islands have been self-sufficient Minister in all areas except for defence. 13 January Lunch: UK-India Education DCSF Forum 13 January Reception: UK-India DCSF Falkland Islands: Oil Education Forum 14 January Treasury Lunch Her Majesty’s Treasury Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign 14 January Dinner: Defence Equipment MOD and Commonwealth Affairs what proportion of (a) 14 January Reception: Diversity in Government profits and (b) royalties from oil reserves from the Public Appointments Equalities Office South Atlantic he expects to be allocated to (i) the 18 January Dinner: Nobel Laureates 10 Downing Street Falkland Islands, (ii) other Overseas Territories in the 18 January Dinner: Leeds University Ministry of Justice South Atlantic and (iii) the UK. [317593] Alumni 19 January Reception: UK Trade and UKTI/MOD Investment (UKTI) Defence Chris Bryant: The natural resources of the Falkland Services Islands belong to the Falkland Islands However, the 20 January Dinner: Deputy Defence MOD Falkland Islands Government have previously offered Minister Korea 25 January Lunch: Inter Parliamentary FCO to share some of any future hydrocarbons related revenues Union Group with the UK Government. 25 January Lunch: French Chief of MOD Defence Staff Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign 25 January Dinner: Chevening FCO and Commonwealth Affairs if he will discuss with Fellowship Ministerial colleagues the merits of sharing by all overseas territories in the South Atlantic the anticipated financial Iraq Committee of Inquiry revenues generated from oil reserves in that region; and if he will make a statement. [317594] Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many (a) Chris Bryant: The South Atlantic Overseas Territories documents and (b) other items of information in have the right to freely dispose of their natural wealth electronic format provided by his Department to the and resources. Should there be commercially viable Iraq Inquiry that Inquiry has sought to publish under hydrocarbons finds in the region, any sharing of revenues the procedure set out in the protocol on documents and would be a matter for the Government of the overseas other written and electronic information; and if he will territory concerned make a statement. [314546]

Falkland Islands: Population Mr. Ivan Lewis: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the right hon. Tessa Jowell, Minister Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign for the Cabinet Office, on 9 February 2010, Official and Commonwealth Affairs if he will estimate the Report, column 894W. number of residents of the Falkland Islands, excluding military personnel, who are (a) permanent residents, Libya and Egypt: Land Mines (b) UK citizens from the Island of St. Helena, (c) other UK citizens and (d) not UK citizens. [317596] Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will provide Chris Bryant: Responsibility for non-military population assistance to the Libyan and Egyptian governments to statistics rests with the Government of the Falkland help clear land mines between Tobruk and El Alamein Islands who hold the requested information. left over from the Second World War. [317331] 217W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 218W

Chris Bryant: The Government are fully committed Mr. Ivan Lewis: My right hon. Friend the Foreign to ending the suffering caused by anti-personnel landmines. Secretary has not held discussions or had correspondence We continue to encourage Libya and Egypt to sign the with the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia Ottawa convention, which would give them greater (TFG) on human trafficking that occurs in Somalia or access to international and UK demining assistance the wider region. We have held detailed discussions at and victim support. In May 2009, we provided the ministerial and official level with the TFG on peace and Egyptian Government with all Ministry of Defence-held security efforts and how we can best support progress information, including maps, relating to landmines in and development in Somalia, in line with the UN-led North West Egypt. We have also provided the Libyan Djibouti Peace Agreement. Establishing peace and stability Government with similar information. In 2007, the for the Somali people will be fundamental to addressing Department for International Development, which has the underlying causes of human trafficking in Somalia lead responsibility for international demining assistance, in the longer-term. contributed £250,000 to a UN Development Programme The UK is very concerned at the high levels of mine clearance project in Egypt. organised immigration crime in the region and will raise Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission the issue with East African Community member states at a migration seminar later this month. Moreover, the Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for UK has established various projects in the region to Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many staff address migration issues, including organised immigration the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission crime. employs; and what the Commission’s salary cost was in the last 12 months for which figures are available. [317020] Ukraine: Famine Chris Bryant: None and nil.

Mauritius: Foreign Relations Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs with reference to Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign the answer to the hon. Member for Bolton South East and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he of 6 October 2008, Official Report, column 234W, on has made of the state of relations between the UK and Ukraine: human rights, what the policy of the Mauritius. [317119] Government is on the recognition as genocide of events which led to the Holodomor famine in Ukraine in Mr. Ivan Lewis: There is no regular formalised process 1932-33; and if he will make a statement. [317564] for assessing the state of relations between the UK and allies such as Mauritius, although annual informal assessments are made as part of every UK mission’s Chris Bryant: The Holodomor was an appalling, business planning process. UK relations with Mauritius man-made human tragedy and the UK fully recognises are broad and wide, with regular contacts at all levels. its importance in Ukraine’s history.The UK has co-operated Later this year, we will be marking the 200th anniversary with Ukraine to promote remembrance and increase of UK involvement in Mauritius. More immediately, public awareness of the Holodomor. We have supported the Privy Council will hold their second sitting in Mauritius statements at the UN Educational Scientific and Cultural this April. Organisation and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe honouring the memory of those Mr. Spring: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign who perished in the Holodomor and encouraging the and Commonwealth Affairs when Ministers and promotion of its remembrance. In 2008, His Royal officials in his Department last met the Mauritian Highness The Duke of York, Her Royal Highness Princess government to discuss bilateral issues. [317120] Eugenie of York, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and my hon. Friend , the then Mr. Ivan Lewis: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Minister for Europe all paid their respects to those who Secretary met the Mauritian Foreign Minister, Dr. Arvin suffered so terribly in 1932-33 by laying wreaths at the Boolell, on 28 November 2009 during the Commonwealth Holodomor memorial in Kyiv. Heads of Government Meeting in Trinidad and Tobago. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister was represented Officials met representatives of the Mauritian Government at the events to commemorate the 75th anniversary of on 14 January 2009 and 21 July 2009 for bilateral talks the Holodomor held in Kyiv on 22 November 2008, and on the British Indian Ocean Territory. And our high the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary sent written commissioner to Mauritius maintains regular contact messages of condolence to mark this important occasion. with his host Government and meets Mauritian The UK was also represented at the 75th anniversary Government Ministers and officials on a weekly basis. memorial event in London. Somalia: Human Trafficking With regard to the question of whether the events of 1932-33 should be recognised as genocide, the UK does Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State not judge that the evidence is sufficiently unequivocal to for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the categorise the Holodomor as genocide as defined by the answer of 25 November 2009, Official Report, columns 1948 UN Convention on Genocide. However, we do 165W,on Somalia: human trafficking, what (a) discussions recognise that there is a division of opinion among and (b) correspondence he has had with the Somalian academics on this matter and we will continue to follow government on human trafficking in that country and the debate closely, particularly in the light of any further within the region. [316929] emerging evidence. 219W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 220W

TREASURY Robert Neill: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to the answer of 3 November 2009, Banks: Africa Official Report, column 840W, on council tax: valuation, how many times the Valuation Office Mr. Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the Agency has reduced the council tax band of a dwelling Exchequer what procedures his Department has in due to the presence of a nearby Traveller encampment place to ensure that (a) illegal and (b) illegally- in the last three months. [317574] acquired funds from African countries are not deposited with UK banks; whether his Department has Ian Pearson: This information cannot be provided undertaken any recent investigations into such other than at disproportionate cost. Although all changes practices; and if he will make a statement. [318067] to council tax bands are entered on the Valuation Office Agency’s (VOA’s) computer system, this cannot be Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Money Laundering interrogated to establish the precise reasons why a change Regulations 2007 require banks and other regulated in council tax band has occurred. The reasons can only businesses to identify ‘Politically Exposed Persons’ (PEPs) be established by examining each record in turn. and assess whether and to what extent they present a heightened risk before undertaking business with them, Crown Lands and Estates: Canvey Island including opening new accounts or policies. Such transactions are subject to enhanced forms of scrutiny, Bob Spink: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer including measures to establish the source of wealth what interest the Crown Estate holds in the area of and funds involved. land to the seaward side of the Canvey Island sea PEPs include individuals entrusted by an overseas defences; and if he will make a statement. [316905] government with prominent public functions, such as Heads of State or Heads of Government, senior officials, Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Crown Estate does not and their immediate family and close associates. own any foreshore or seabed around the entirety of HM Treasury chairs the cross-government ‘PEPs Canvey Island. Strategic Group’ which co-ordinates action to address Departmental Consultants the threats posed by corrupt PEPs. The police are responsible for investigating such practices Julia Goldsworthy: To ask the Chancellor of the and have specific units responsible for doing so. Exchequer how many consultants employed by his Council Tax Department and its agencies have been paid (a) in total and (b) in reimbursable expenses in each of the last 10 years. [314012] Grant Shapps: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many new (a) homes and (b) Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Information on spending on affordable homes in each (i) local authority and (ii) consultancy between 2001-02 and 2007-08 is shown in region were placed in council tax band (A) A, (B) B, table A3 on page 111 of the 2007-08 annual report (CM (C) C, (D) D, (E) E, (F) F, (G) G and (H) H in each of 7408) and spending in 2008-09 on table 5c on page 107 the last three years. [317632] of the 2008-09 annual report available from Ian Pearson: The information requested on the number http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/dep_perf_reports_index.htm of new homes has been placed in the Library. The Information on spending prior to 2001-02 could be Valuation Office Agency does not hold information to provided only at disproportionate cost. Information on identify new affordable homes separately. reimbursable expenses could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Council Tax: Valuation The pre-Budget report announced that consultancy spend across Government would be further reduced by Robert Neill: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 50 per cent. by 2012. how many and what proportion of dwellings have one or more (a) dwelling house and (b) significant code Departmental Coordination assigned to them on the Valuation Office Agency’s property database for council tax valuations and Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the revaluations. [317852] Exchequer what the outcomes were of the proof of concept trials undertaken by HM Revenue and Ian Pearson: I refer the hon. Member for Bromley Customs, the Department for Work and Pensions and and Chislehurst to the answer given on 26 October 12 local authorities as referred to in the report on 2009, Official Report, column 142W. service transformation by Sir David Varney. [313940]

Robert Neill: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr. Timms: The pilot exercise referred to formed part how many notification changes with code CL26 have of the “In and Out of Work” project, designed to been made to the Valuation Office Agency’s council tax encourage those who frequently move in and out of list in 2009-10 to date. [317853] work and who claim benefits and/or tax credits to take up employment. It was also designed to improve customers’ Ian Pearson: The total number of notification changes experience of dealing with government by reducing the from 1 April 2009 to 11 February 2010 with code CL26 number of times they have to engage with government was 29,572 representing 0.1 per cent. of the dwellings in services and the amount of information they have to valuation lists for England and Wales. provide. 221W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 222W

The pilot exercise showed that collaborative work Sarah McCarthy-Fry: HMRC does not collect figures between HM Revenue and Customs, the Department relating to the numbers of UK citizens, or other categories for Work and Pensions and local authorities resulted in: of British national, resident in the UK. This is because a 15 per cent. reduction in the average time taken to make citizenship and nationality are of very limited relevance payments of benefits to customers; and to an individual’s liability to tax under domestic legislation, evidence that the process prevented overpayments of tax credits although they can play a part in resolving treaty residence by ensuring that payments were adjusted quickly when a customer in cases where an individual is resident both here and in left employment and that housing benefit payments were adjusted one of the countries with which the UK has a double more quickly in response to changes in employment. taxation convention. This improvement for housing benefit processing times was coupled with a significant reduction in the resource required to process these claims, as local authorities no Excise Duties: Alcoholic Drinks longer have to contact customers for details of their circumstances. Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Chancellor of the Customer research following the exercise indicated Exchequer how much revenue (1) accrued to the that: Exchequer from duties on sales of alcohol in Northern 84 per cent. of customers who went through the process now Ireland in each of the last 12 months; [316707] understood the information that was needed to adjust their housing benefit and council tax benefit payments; (2) has accrued to the Exchequer from value added 48 per cent. of customers with previous experience of claiming tax collected in Northern Ireland in the last 12 months; benefits stated that the pilot process improved the service that and what proportion of that revenue accrued from they received; and sales of alcohol. [316708] 77 per cent. of customers rated the way the organisations worked together as good. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Historical alcohol duty revenue The improved customer perception of the service figures for the UK can be found in Table 2 of any of also reduces customers’ concerns around how their HM Revenue and Customs Alcohol Bulletins, copies of benefit claims will be handled. This in turn encourages which can be found at: them to take up work, particularly short-term work, https://www.uktradeinfo.com/ confident that they will receive the right support from index.cfm?task=bulletins&hasFlashPlayer=true government when they most need it. Information on revenue from VAT and duty on alcohol Following this successful pilot exercise, on 16 October in Northern Ireland is not available. 2008 the Government announced the phased national roll out of the service, which was completed in December Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Chancellor of the 2009. Exchequer (1) how much revenue accrued to the Exchequer from alcohol excise duties on spirits in the Departmental Energy last 12 months; and what estimates were made of such revenue for that period in the last three years; [316709] Andrew Stunell: To ask the Chancellor of the (2) how much revenue has accrued to the Exchequer Exchequer what the estimated (a) amount and (b) from tax on the sale of (a) domestically-produced and cost was of energy used in his Department and its (b) imported spirits in each of the last 12 months. agencies in each year since 1997; what proportion of [316710] the energy used was generated from renewable sources in each of those years; and if he will make a statement. [317201] Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Historical receipts of duty collected from spirits can be found in Table 2 of the HM Revenue Sarah McCarthy-Fry: I refer the hon. Member to the and Customs Spirits Bulletin, a copy of which can be answer I gave to the hon. Member for Tunbridge Wells found at: (Greg Clark) on 1 April 2009, Official Report, column https://www.uktradeinfo.com/index.cfm?task=bullspirits 1200W. Estimates for domestically-produced or imported spirits HM Treasury is committed to improving its are not available. environmental performance in the use of resources and to reducing its energy use year on year. Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Chancellor of the Detailed information on the Treasury Group’s sustainable Exchequer with reference to the answer to the hon. performance by building for the years in question were Member for Tamworth of 21 April 2008, Official Report, published in HM Treasury’s Departmental Report for column 1675W, on excise duties: alcoholic drinks, what 2007-08 (Cm 7408). Updates on progress will be provided percentage of the average price of a (a) pint of 4 per annually. cent. beer, (b) a 70cl bottle of 37 per cent. spirits and (c) a 75cl bottle of 13 per cent. wine comprised tax in Domicile each of the last 10 years. [316719]

Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Chancellor of the Sarah McCarthy-Fry: HMRC publishes data on the Exchequer how many UK citizens had permanent percentage of the average price of various alcohol products residence in the UK but were either not resident in the that is comprised of tax in the Alcohol Factsheet. This UK for tax purposes or did not have UK domicile can be found in Tables 3.1 to 3.8 at: status in each year since 2000. [316919] https://www.uktradeinfo.com/index.cfm?task=factalcohol 223W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 224W

Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Chancellor of the Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Government’s consultation Exchequer how much tax has been recovered in the sale on extending the scope of FSA regulation to second of seized contraband (a) beer, (b) wine and (c) spirits charge and buy-to-let mortgage lending closed on 15 in each of the last five years. [316758] February. The Government will consider the responses from stakeholders and set out their plans in due course. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: HMRC’s policy is not to sell seized alcohol due to the potential risks with Health Financial Services: Standards and Safety and trade descriptions. Seized alcohol is Jim Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer disposed through a specialist contractor that uses how many warning notices were issued to companies environmentally sound methods. by the Financial Services Authority in each year since Feltham 2001. [318001] Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The matter raised in this question Alan Keen: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if is the responsibility of the Financial Services Authority, he will set out, with statistical evidence relating as whose day-to-day operations are independent from closely as possible to Feltham and Heston constituency, Government. I have asked the FSA to write to the hon. the effects on that constituency of changes to the Member. Department’s policies since 1997. [316674] Fiscal Policy Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide range of statistical information Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Chancellor of the at parliamentary constituency level, taken from the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 7 January 2009, 2001 Census and other sources. This service is available Official Report, column 564W, on fiscal policy, if he on the National Statistics website at: will place in the Library a copy of the latest review of fiscal consolidation measures undertaken in other http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk./ advanced economies produced by his Department. The Government have put in place a broad programme [315495] of reform since 1997. Over the decade to 2007, the economic performance of all parts of the UK has Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Government will set out improved considerably. their analysis of the fiscal position and updated projections The global recession has had a negative impact on for the public finances in the Budget in the usual way. economic activity in all areas of the UK. However, the Fraud: Alcoholic Drinks economy was starting from a position of strength and is actively supported by policies implemented by the Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Chancellor of the Government, including the fiscal stimulus and a significant Exchequer how many staff of his Department work on package of support for those out of work. the recovery of duty lost through fraud on alcohol In Feltham and Heston people are benefiting from sales. [316796] this investment. Over the second half of 2009, more than 760 people moved off of the claimant count each Sarah McCarthy-Fry: There are no figures available month on average. The claimant count fell for two for the number of staff in HMRC or the UK Border consecutive months in October and November. At the Agency (UKBA) working on the recovery of duty lost end of 2009, claimant count unemployment is still through fraud on alcohol sales. This is because officers nearly 3 per cent. lower and long-term unemployment are deployed flexibly across a number of threats. 97 per cent. lower than in May 1997. Government Securities Financial Institutions: Directors Mr. Frank Field: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what amount of gilts has been bought by Harry Cohen: To ask the Chancellor of the (a) the Bank of England and (b) other banks Exchequer what his policy is on the appointment of a operating in the UK who are regulated by the Financial proportion of non-executive directors of financial Services Authority in the last 12 months. [316916] institutions by organisations other than the financial institution in question. [317356] Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Bank of England has purchased £198,275 million of gilts via the Asset Purchase Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Appointments to boards of Facility, and £815 million for its own balance sheet companies are a matter for the company and their purposes in the last 12 months. Please note that the shareholders in line with the statutory framework in the amounts are shown in proceeds (i.e. amount paid) terms Companies Act 2006. Shareholders are responsible for and that In the Asset Purchase Facility the Bank purchases holding directors accountable for their performance only conventional gilts with a residual maturity of greater and stewardship and deciding whether to appoint or than three years (prior to August, conventional gilts reappoint directors. with a residual maturity of greater than five and less than 25 years). Financial Services Authority Net investment in British Government securities by deposit-taking banks is available in the Bank of England’s Jim Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Monetary and Financial Statistics publication page T51, when he plans to extend the scope of Financial Services table B1.2, column TBMH, available at: Authority regulation to include second charge and http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/statistics/ms/2010/jan/ buy-to-let mortgage lending. [318013] bankstats_full.pdf 225W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 226W

Hidden Economy South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Beds in wards open Mr. Duncan Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Overnight Day only Residential care beds Exchequer what estimate he has made of the amount 2003-04 622 — — of tax lost as a result of the hidden economy in each of 2004-05 534 — — the last five financial years. [317296] 2005-06 477 — — 2006-07 464 — — Sarah McCarthy-Fry: An estimate of the tax gap as a 2007-08 453 — — result of the hidden economy was published at 2009 2008-09 457 — — pre-Budget report in “Measuring Tax Gaps 2009”, available at: Wakefield and Pontefract Community Health NHS Trust Beds in wards open http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps.pdf Overnight Day only Residential care beds

Hospital Beds: Wakefield 1997-98 460 — 42 1998-99 443 — 42 Jon Trickett: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 1999-2000 392 — 33 how many beds there were in NHS hospitals in 2000-01 380 — 33 2001-02 380 — 22 Wakefield in each year since 1997. [316630] 2002-03 * * * Ann Keen: I have been asked to reply. 2003-04 * * * 2004-05 * * * The following tables show the average daily number 2005-06 * * * of beds for national health service providers around 2006-07 * * * Wakefield for the years 1997-98 to 2008-09, the latest 2007-08 * * * date at which data is available. 2008-09 * * * Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust Notes: Beds in wards open 1. The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust was formed in April 2002 following the merger of the Dewsbury Healthcare NHS Trust (acute services) and the Overnight Day only Residential care beds Pinderfields and Pontefract Hospitals NHS Trust. 2. The South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust was formed in April 1997-98 * * * 2002 following the merger of the Dewsbury Healthcare NHS Trust (mental 1998-99 * * * health services), the Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust (mental health 1999-2000 * * * services) and the Wakefield and Pontefract Community Health NHS Trust. Source: 2000-01 * * * Department of Health KH03 2001-02 * * * 2002-03 1,509 93 — Income Tax 2003-04 1,899 96 — 2004-05 1,398 89 — Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the 2005-06 1,457 90 — Exchequer what estimate his Department has made of 2006-07 1,405 95 — the amount of revenue that would be lost in 2010-11 if 2007-08 1,359 96 — the personal tax allowance was raised to £10,000. 2008-09 1,342 115 — [315721] Pinderfields and Pontefract Hospitals NHS Trust Beds in wards open Mr. Timms: The information requested can be Overnight Day only Residential care beds approximated from HM Revenue and Customs’ table 1997-98 1,085 36 — 1.6 ‘Direct effects of illustrative tax changes’, available 1998-99 1,064 58 — at: 1999-2000 1,050 58 — http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/tax_expenditures/table1-6.pdf 2000-01 1,063 61 — 2001-02 1,063 61 — Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the 2002-03 * * * Exchequer what estimate his Department has made of 2003-04 * * * the additional amount of revenue that would be raised 2004-05 * * * in 2010-11 if an income tax rate of 50 per cent. was 2005-06 * * * charged on incomes over £100,000 per annum. [315722] 2006-07 * * * 2007-08 * * * Mr. Timms [holding answer 4 February 2010]: The 2008-09 * * * information requested is available only at disproportionate South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust cost, due to the work needed to take account of the Beds in wards open potentially significant behavioural responses. Overnight Day only Residential care beds The amount of additional revenue that would be raised if incomes at £100,000 or above were charged at 1997-98 * * * 50 per cent., excluding behavioural responses, is estimated 1998-99 * * * to be around £2.0 billion for 2010-11. This estimate is 1999-2000 * * * based on the 2006-07 Survey of Personal Incomes projected 2000-01 * * * forward using pre-Budget 2009 assumptions. In practice, 2001-02 * * * however, behavioural responses would reduce this yield 2002-03 727 — — significantly. 227W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 228W

Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr. Timms [holding answer 28 January 2010]: Due to Exchequer what estimate his Department has made of the complex nature of these questions the following the additional amount of revenue that would be raised estimates should be treated with caution. These estimates in 2010-11 if the national insurance contribution exclude any behavioural response to the change, which ceiling was removed. [315723] could be significant given the magnitude of the change. This has the additional implication of limiting reliable Mr. Timms [holding answer 4 February 2010]: The modelling of costs to 2010-11. additional amount of revenue that would be raised The estimated costs of increasing the personal allowance from the removal of the upper earnings limit for employees by £2,000 per person, limited to the basic rate of income paying Class 1 national insurance contributions and the tax, are: upper profits limit for self employed individuals paying (a) £5.9 billion for all married couples and civil partnerships; Class 4 contributions is estimated to be around £11 (b) (i) £0.6 billion for all married couples and civil partnerships billion in 2010-11. with children under the age of three; This figure excludes any estimate of behavioural effects (ii) £1.0 billion for all married couples and civil partnerships which are likely to be significant given the scale of the with children under the age of six. change. The estimate is consistent with the 2009 pre-Budget These estimates have been calculated using HM report assumptions. Treasury’s tax and benefit micro-simulation model using Family Resources Survey 2007-08 data. Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the The estimates of increasing the personal allowance Exchequer what estimate his Department has made of for those aged 65 and over can be approximated from the additional amount of revenue that would be raised table 1.6 “Direct effects of illustrative tax changes” in 2010-11 if the income tax rate of 60 per cent. was available at: charged on incomes over £250,000 per annum. [315724] http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/tax_expenditures/table1-6.pdf Mr. Timms [holding answer 4 February 2010]: The Landfill Tax information requested is available only at disproportionate cost, due to the work needed to take account of the Mr. Salmond: To ask the Chancellor of the potentially significant behavioural responses. Exchequer (1) how much is expected to be raised The amount of additional revenue that would be through landfill tax in 2010-11; [316624] raised if incomes at £250,000 or above were charged at (2) whether he plans to review the criteria under 60 per cent., with a rate of 4.5 per cent. for dividend which projects can apply for funding under the landfill income, excluding behavioural responses, is estimated tax credit scheme; [316625] to be around £3.5 billion for 2010-11. This estimate is based on the 2006-07 Survey of Personal Incomes projected (3) how many applications from each constituency forward using pre-Budget 2009 assumptions. In practice, have been (a) received and (b) granted for funding however, behavioural responses would reduce this yield under the landfill tax credit scheme in each year since significantly. 1996; and how much funding has been provided to successful applicants in each constituency in each of Pete Wishart: To ask the Chancellor of the those years. [316626] Exchequer what estimate he has made of the Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Estimates of landfill tax revenues percentage of income tax due which was collected in are set out in chapter A, table A1, of the 2009 Budget (a) Scotland and (b) the UK in (i) 2008 and (ii) 2009. publication “Building Britain’s Future”. [317051] There are no plans for a specific review of the objects Mr. Timms: Information on income tax liabilities in of the landfill communities fund (known as the landfill Scotland and the UK can be found in table 3.11 “Income tax credit scheme up to 2006). However, the fund (including and tax by gender, region and country” on the HM its qualifying objects) is kept under regular review as Revenue and Customs website at: part of the Budget process. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/income_distribution/menu.htm Neither HM Revenue and Customs, nor the fund The information is based on the Survey of Personal regulator, ENTRUST, hold information on applications Incomes, of which 2006-07 is the latest available. or funding broken down by parliamentary constituency. Information for 2008-09 and 2009-10 will be published Loans during 2011 and 2012 respectively. Jim Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Income Tax: Tax Allowances if he will estimate the (a) number of self-certification loans made in each year since 2004 and (b) total stock Ms Gisela Stuart: To ask the Chancellor of the of self-certification loans which is outstanding. [318012] Exchequer what estimate he has made of the likely cost to the public purse of increasing the personal Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Treasury does not hold allowance by £2,000, limited to the basic rate of income data on mortgage product sales by type. However, the tax, in respect of (a) all married couples and couples FSA’s ‘Mortgage Market Review’ includes some in civil partnerships, (b) all married couples and information on the proportion of regulated mortgage couples in civil partnerships with children under the sales in 2007 that did not involve income verification. age of (i) three and (ii) six and (c) all those aged 65 This is available in Exhibit 2.7 of the publication, which years and over in each fiscal year from 2010-11 to is available at the following link: 2013-14. [313286] http://www.fsa.gov.uk/pubs/discussion/dp09_03.pdf 229W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 230W

Members: Correspondence 23,258 and 23,991 self-employed individuals were late in notifying HMRC of their liability to pay Class 2 John Barrett: To ask the Chancellor of the NICs during 2008 and 2009 respectively. Late is defined Exchequer when the MP’s Parliamentary Business Unit as more than three months from the date self-employment of the Tax Credit Office expects to answer the hon. commenced. Member for Edinburgh West’s faxed correspondence of 17 December 2009 on his constituent Mrs L A PAYE McKinnon. [316954] Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr. Timms: HM Revenue and Customs wrote to the Exchequer whether an individual’s PAYE case is hon. Member about his constituent on 16 February automatically cleared when HM Revenue and Customs 2010 and sincerely apologise for the delay in doing so. (HMRC) does not receive back an employment history enquiry; and how many PAYE cases were cleared after Money Laundering HMRC received back an employment history enquiry from individuals in (a) 2006, (b) 2007, (c) 2008 and Tony Baldry: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (d) 2009. [316119] what reports he has received of allegations that North Korea is using Luxembourg as a channel for money Mr. Timms: Pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) aims to collect laundering; and if he will request the government of the right amount of tax each year through the PAYE Luxembourg to investigate the allegations. [316823] tax code, which is based on the latest information available to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Government are not able Where an individual’s employment history appears to comment on matters of intelligence. However the incomplete HMRC will ask the customer for their Government play a leading role in international efforts employment history either during or at the end of the against money laundering, including the Financial Action tax year. If the individual does not respond then the tax Task Force (FATF) and the EU Committee for the code will continue to be based on the most current Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Finance. information available and the case cleared at the end of It should also be noted that in 2009 the UK signed up the tax year. to further sanctions against North Korea under UN Customers are encouraged to use the information Resolution 1874, placing restrictions on financial institutions provided on HM Revenue and Customs’ (HMRC) website providing services to North Korea and requiring enhanced at: vigilance by member states. While aimed at reducing the www.hmrc.gov.uk/income/tax-codes.htm threat from the proliferation of weapons of mass to help them understand their PAYEtax code. If customers destruction, such measures also serve to strengthen have concerns or believe they are being wrongly taxed, international anti-money laundering controls. they should contact their tax office, which will be able Mortgages to make any appropriate adjustments irrespective of whether the case has been cleared. Jim Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Information on how to find your tax office is available what estimate he has made of the number of at: non-deposit taking mortgage lenders in each year since http://search2.hmrc.gov.uk/kbroker/hmrc/locator/ 2004. [318011] locator.jsp?type=l The information requested is not available, as HM Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Bank of England collects Revenue and Customs’ systems do not capture details data on the volume of mortgage lending by different of the number of PAYE cases cleared following receipt types of lenders, including specialist lenders. These are of a completed employment history inquiry form. published in ‘Monetary and Financial Statistics (Bankstats)’. Figures from the latest publication, which covers the Pension Credit: Northern Ireland period December 2007 to December 2009, are available at Dr. McCrea: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/statistics/ms/2010/jan/ how many pensioners resident in Northern Ireland taba5.3.xls have been contacted as part of his Department’s The full set of figures is accessible through the Bank’s pension credit Tax Back campaign. [316362] statistical database, at Angela Eagle: I have been asked to reply. http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/mfsd/iadb/BankStats.asp The information requested is not available. I can National Insurance Contributions: Registration confirm however, that for the United Kingdom as a whole, around 3.4 million letters were issued. Mr. Binley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many self-employed people were late in registering Public Sector: Contracts their national insurance contributions with HM Revenue and Customs in the last two years. [316859] Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether a Minister or official in his Department has Mr. Timms: Individuals starting self-employment have responsibility for promoting Article 19 of the European a legal obligation to notify HM Revenue and Customs Union Procurement Directive in respect of the awarding (HMRC) of their liability to pay Class 2 National of public sector contracts to work places in which more Insurance Contributions (NICs). than 50 per cent. of employees are disabled. [317586] 231W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 232W

Ian Pearson: The Office of Government Commerce The 2009-10 Consolidate Budgeting Guidance made (OGC) has responsibility for public procurement law a number of smaller changes to align the budgeting and policy in the UK. system with International Financial Reporting Standards Government are fully committed to ensuring that which have been adopted for departmental resource people with disabilities are given the opportunity to accounting purposes. enter the labour market, as well as ensuring that there is Copies of past editions of the budgeting guidance are a level playing field for all companies, including supported available in the Library, and the present edition is businesses, seeking to do business with the public sector. available on the Treasury website. Article 19 of the EU procurement directive has a role Revenue and Customs to play in facilitating public sector contracting opportunities for supported businesses. Last year, the OGC published Jim Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer practical guidance for public procurers on the provision what the costs, including redundancy payments, and contained within Article 19, including how to reserve the benefits, including increased tax yield and contracts for supported factories and businesses while transaction savings, have been of HM Revenue and still ensuring that value for money is achieved. Customs’ transformation programme in each year from Buying Solutions, OGC’s executive agency and national 2006-07; and what the net change in the number of procurement partner for UK public services, has made staff employed has been in each year. [313699] use of the Article 19 provision to set up a pan Government Mr. Timms [holding answer 28 January 2010]: HM collaborative framework agreement with supported Revenue and Customs’ (HMRC) major transformation businesses. initiatives are delivered through the Departmental Central Departments, including HM Treasury, each Transformation Programme (DTP), established in October have supported businesses champions at official level. 2006. The transformation programme has led to improved Their role will include raising awareness of the Article customer service, such as reduced administrative burden, 19 provision within their Departments. faster responses to customer queries and an expansion OGC is working with DWP and key stakeholders to in our online services to individuals and businesses. raise awareness of the Article 19 provision and to The information requested is provided in the following encourage Departments to use it where appropriate. table:

Resource Accounting and Budgeting £ million Transformation Additional tax Transaction 1 2 Dr. Murrison: To ask the Chancellor of the costs yield savings Exchequer what changes have been made to his 2006-07 429.4 660.0 n/a Department’s guidance on resource account budgeting 2007-08 421.7 714.8 14.2 since 2003; and if he will make a statement. [316085] 2008-09 647.0 672.3 18.4 2009-103 428.1 2,100.1 43.6 Mr. Byrne: The introduction of Stage 2 of Resource Total 1,926.2 4,147.2 76.2 Accounting and Budgeting in 2003 moved non-cash 1 Transformation costs include the cost of voluntary staff releases items from AME (Annual Managed Expenditure) to made as part of the Workforce Change programme, when it was part DEL (Departmental Expenditure Limits). of the Departmental Transformation Programme in 2008-09. 2 Transaction savings are defined as non-paybill savings in operational costs achieved The 2006-07 Consolidated Budgeting Guidance through efficiencies, or improvements to our processes. 3 2009-10 formalised existing restrictions on switching between figures are forecast for the year, rather than actuals to date. non-cash and near-cash items by introducing a near-cash Transformation is expected to have long-term benefit, control total. resulting in tax yield benefits continuing to accrue in In 2006-07, capital grants were also moved from future years. resource DEL to capital DEL, eliminating the need to The information requested is provided in the following ring fence them within resource DEL. table:

Full-time Head count year- Head count equivalent FTE year-on- FTE change to Headcount on-year change change to date (FTE) year change date

1 April 2006 97,332 n/a n/a 89,702 n/a n/a 1 April 2007 96,511 -821 -821 88,936 -766 -766 1 April 2008 90,961 -5,550 -6,371 83,828 -5,108 -5,874 1 April 2009 88,875 -2,086 -8,457 81,160 -2,668 -8,542 1 January 20101 79,620 -9,255 -17,712 72,147 -9,013 -17,555 1 Figures for 2009-10 include the transfer of 4,803 staff (4,628 FTE) from HMRC to the UK Border Agency. Note: These figures relate to headcount and FTE numbers on the 1 April each year, except the current year where the figures are based on figures at 1 January 2010.

Mr. Duncan Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the HM Revenue and Customs staff in each of the last five Exchequer what estimate he has made of the loss to the years. [317299] Exchequer arising from official error on the part of 233W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 234W

Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The information requested is and available only at disproportionate cost, as the figures for http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/research/measuring-tax-gap.pdf all HMRC Official Error cases are not collated centrally. The most up-to-date information is found in “Measuring Total revenue losses for HMRC are shown on p100 Tax Gaps 2009”, published at PBR 2009, which contains (table 8.2 ) of HMRC’s Trust Statement, available at: an illustrative indicator of the tax gap for all stamp http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/reports.htm duties, available at: It is not possible to disaggregate figures of Official http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps.pdf Error cases from the totals shown. Revenue and Customs: Manpower Tax Allowances: North West

Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the Andrew Stunell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the HM Revenue and Customs Exchequer (1) what estimate he has made of the employee headcount was for its (a) PSN and (b) number of people aged 75 years and over resident in information management services department in (i) each local authority area in the North West with an annual income below (a) £10,000, (b) the age-related 2006, (ii) 2007, (iii) 2008 and (iv) 2009. [312146] personal allowance of £9,640 and (c) the basic level of Mr. Timms: The information requested is provided in personal allowance of £6,475 in 2009-10; [317208] the following table: (2) what estimate he has made of the number of people aged between 65 and 74 years old resident in Employee headcount each local authority area in the North West with an HMRC directorate annual income below (a) £10,000, (b) the age-related IMS (Information personal allowance of £9,640 and (c) the basic level of Management PSN (PAYE, SA personal allowance of £6,490 in 2009-10. [317209] Services) and NIC)

April 2009 1,428 372 Mr. Timms: The requested information is not readily available due to small sample sizes at local authority April 2008 1,499 350 area and non representative data for individuals with April 2007 1,743 388 income below the personal allowance. April 2006 1,997 334 However, information on taxpayers’ income and income Sick Pay tax by unitary authority can be found in table 3.14 ‘Income and tax by borough and district or unitary Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the authority’ on HM Revenue and Customs’ website, available Exchequer what estimate he has made of the amount at: of statutory sick pay not paid by companies in each of http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/income_distribution/menu-by- the last five years. [316756] year.htm#314 Estimates are based on the Survey of Personal Incomes, Mr. Timms: No such estimate has been made. of which 2006-07 is currently the latest available. Any inference from the information in tables 3.14 Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the should take into account the confidence intervals in Exchequer which 50 companies owe the most in table 3.14a ‘income and tax by borough and district or statutory sick pay contributions; and how much each unitary authority, Confidence Intervals’. such company owes in such contributions. [316757] Taxation Mr. Timms: Employers are responsible for establishing entitlement and making payment of any Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) due to their employees. Mr. Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what forms of individual income are subject The information requested is not available, as there is to withholding tax but are not part of the Pay As You no obligation on employers or employees to report to Earn system; and how the amount to be withheld is HM Revenue and Customs cases where an employer calculated on those forms of income. [316948] owes SSP to an employee. Stamp Duty Land Tax Mr. Timms: The Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system applies to income from employment and pensions. Other Mr. Duncan Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the individual income, outside PAYE, and subject to Exchequer what estimate he has made of the tax gap in withholding tax is as follows. stamp duty land tax in each of the last five years. Investment income from banks and building societies [317241] has basic rate tax deducted at source by the payer. Individuals who are not liable to tax can arrange to Mr. Timms: In March 2008 HMRC published details receive their income paid gross or claim a repayment, of analysis from 2005 that attempted to derive broad-brush and those who should only be paying at the 10 per cent. estimates of the direct tax gap at the start of the decade. savings rate can claim a repayment. This publication contained a net tax gap estimate for Interest distributions paid by authorised investment stamp duty land tax of £0.5 billion, within a range of funds and investment trust companies are also subject £0.2 billion to £1 billion and can be found at: to deduction of basic rate tax at source. Individuals http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/research/direct-tax-gaps.pdf with no liability or reduced liability can claim a repayment. 235W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 236W

Other interest, annual payments and patent royalties rate of tax chargeable on the trustees depends firstly on payable to individuals are subject to deduction of basic the nature of the trust and then on the nature of the rate tax at source. This is treated as if it were tax paid by income. the recipient, who then only has a tax liability on the gross amount of the payment if they are higher rate Taxation: Companies taxpayers. Dividends are not subject to deduction of basic rate Mr. Prisk: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer tax at source. However, individuals who receive dividends (1) how much HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) from UK and most non-UK companies are entitled to a charged in fines to (a) partnerships and (b) companies non-payable tax credit designed to compensate for tax who (i) were fined for not filing their tax returns with paid on corporate profits at the company level, and this HMRC by 31 January 2009 and (ii) were registered as a is used to satisfy the tax liability of the recipient if they partnership for the purpose of receiving their unique are liable to basic rate tax only. The recipient will then taxpayer reference from 1 October 2008; [317355] only have an additional liability if liable to higher rate (2) how much HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) tax on the amount of the dividend plus tax credit. charged in fines to (a) partnerships and (b) companies Dividend distributions paid by authorised investment who were fined for not filing their tax returns with funds are treated in the same way. HMRC by 31 January 2010 and were registered as a Gains from certain life insurance policies are treated partnership for the purpose of receiving their unique as income. Although there is no direct system of tax taxpayer reference from 1 October 2009. [317368] withholding, insurers are charged corporation tax on returns ultimately attributable to their policyholders. To Mr. Timms: Any partnership registering after 1 October reflect this, individuals with policies from UK life insurers 2008 and 1 October 2009 would not be required to will be treated as though they have paid basic rate tax submit a partnership tax return until 31 January 2010 on gains they realise from these policies. or 31 January 2011 respectively. Penalties for late 2008-09 returns will start to be issued towards the end of February Payments under purchase life annuities are subject to 2010. deduction of basic rate tax at source on the part of each payment that represents income rather than a return of Taxation: Fraud the original capital used to acquire the annuity. Basic rate tax is deducted from this income by the insurer making the annuity payments and is treated as tax paid Mr. Duncan Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the by the annuitant. Exchequer what estimate he has made of the cost to the Exchequer arising from organised fraud in relation to Income from construction contracts of any individual (a) income tax, (b) value added tax, (c) corporation subcontractor registered for payment under deduction tax, (d) national insurance, (e) tax credits and (f) in the Construction Industry Scheme will be subject to child benefit in each of the last five years. [317297] a deduction of 20 per cent. on the amount which does not represent the direct cost of materials. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: In “Protecting Tax Revenues The non resident Landlords Scheme requires UK 2009”, published at 2009 pre-Budget report, HMRC letting agents to deduct basic rate tax from any rent estimated that criminal attacks accounted for 12.5 per they collect for non resident landlords from UK property. cent. of the total net tax gap of £40 billion in 2007-08: If non resident landlords do not have UK letting agents http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/pbr2009/protect-tax-revenue- acting for them, and the rent is more than £100 a week, 5450.pdf their tenants must deduct the tax. When working out Reliable estimates for losses arising from organised the amount to tax the letting agent/tenant can take off fraud in income tax, corporation tax national insurance deductible expenses. and child benefit are not available. Property income distributions paid by UK REITs Estimates for value added tax losses arising from (Real Estate Investment Trusts) or by Property Authorised organised fraud (Missing Trader Intra-Community fraud) Investment Funds (PAIFs) are also subject to deduction for the years 2005-06 to 2008-09 are available in “Measuring of tax at the basic rate. Tax Gaps 2009”: The taxation of income from trusts, other than bare http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps.pdf trusts, depends upon whether the income is discretionary HM Revenue and Customs 2008-09 Accounts reported or an immediate entitlement. Discretionary payments that for tax credits £31.9 million was written off due to from trusts which are not settlor-interested carry a organised fraud in 2008-09: credit at the trust rate. Where there is an income entitlement the trustees account for tax on that income and the http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/hmrc-accs-0809.pdf beneficiaries receive credit for any tax payable by the Taxation: Married People trustees, along with any tax deducted at source and tax credits. The rate depends upon the nature of the income, 10 per cent. on dividend type income and basic rate on Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer other income. if he will estimate the (a) number and (b) proportion of children living in poverty who would benefit from The treatment of income from estates is similar. measures to benefit married couples through the tax Where settlors are taxable on income arising to a system. [317963] trust, the trustees account for tax on that income as recipients. The settlor receives credit for any tax payable Mr. Timms: The number and proportion of children by the trustees along with tax deducted at source and living in poverty who would benefit depends on the any tax credits, for example attaching to dividends. The specific measure considered to benefit married couples 237W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 238W through the tax system; and whether all married couples Valuation Office: Databases would benefit or just those with children below a certain age. When considering reforms of this type, it is important Robert Neill: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer to take into account that children in lone-parent families on what date the Valuation Office Agency’s face a higher chance of living in relative poverty than Geographical Information System is expected to go live children in couple families. The Households Below Average in each of the agency’s area offices. [317867] Income 1994/95-2007/08 publication shows that 36 per cent. of children living in lone-parent families fall below Ian Pearson: The roll-out of the Geographical the 60 per cent. median income threshold (before housing Information System application to each of the agency’s costs), against 18 per cent. of children in couple families. offices is planned to take place over a five-week period commencing in July 2010. Taxation: Medical Equipment VAT: Charities Mr. Oaten: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 14 December 2009, Official Janet Anderson: To ask the Chancellor of the Report, columns 856-57W, on taxation: health Exchequer if he will lift the requirement for registered professions, if he will consider the merits of bringing charities to pay value added tax on digital audio forward proposals to reduce to zero the rate of value equipment. [317176] added tax on medical appliances supplied by appliance contractors. [317137] Mr. Timms: A zero rate of VAT applies to equipment purchased by charities which they make available to Mr. Timms: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I disabled people for their domestic or personal use, gave him on 14 January 2010, Official Report, column provided the equipment is designed solely for use by a 1137W. disabled person. This covers digital audio equipment which is so designed, but does not cover any equipment Taxation: Self Assessment which disabled people may find useful, but which is also suitable for more general use. Mr. Duncan Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the The application of VAT throughout the EU is governed Exchequer what estimate he has made of the tax gap by agreements between the UK and its EU partners. for individuals in income tax self assessment in (a) Under these agreements, we are allowed to keep our 2005-06, (b) 2006-07 and (c) 2007-08. [317298] existing zero rates, but may not extend their scope or introduce new ones. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The latest estimate of the tax gap for individuals in self assessment was published at Welfare Tax Credits the 2009 pre-Budget report in “Measuring Tax Gaps 2009”, available at: Steve Webb: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps.htm how many and what proportion of couples with children receiving (a) child tax credit only and (b) Valuation both working tax credit and child tax credit have both adults in work and do not receive the 30 hour element of working tax credit. [315979] Robert Neill: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much the Valuation Office Agency has spent on Mr. Timms: The information requested is not available. the Automated Valuation Model (AVM) for domestic Households eligible for child tax credit, but not working dwellings to date; what the purpose of the AVM for tax credit, are not eligible for the 30-hour element of domestic dwellings is; and which databases use (a) working tax credit. AVM technology and (b) data analysed by the AVM system. [317808] Working tax credit is designed to remove barriers to work and to top up the earnings of working people on Ian Pearson: From 2003 to 31 January 2010, total low to moderate incomes. People with a child or a expenditure by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) on disability can claim it from age 16, provided they work Automated Valuation Model (AVM)technology, to support at least 16 hours a week. The hours worked by couples a range of its activities associated with domestic property with children can be combined; therefore if both adults valuation, has amounted to approximately £14 million. in a couple work at least 16 hours a week they will be eligible for the 30 hour element of working tax credit. The VOA originally developed AVM technology to In most cases if an individual in the couple works less support work on the 2007 Council Tax Revaluation in than 16 hours, HM Revenue and Customs will not hold England, which was postponed in 2005, however the the necessary information to determine whether the technology has since been used to develop a council tax individual is working at all. As such, the Department banding support tool to assist with maintenance of cannot produce the analysis requested. current council tax valuation lists. AVM technology makes use of data drawn from the Pete Wishart: To ask the Chancellor of the VOA’s digitised database of property records. The database Exchequer how much was spent on each element of itself does not use AVM technology. (a) working tax credit and (b) child tax credit in each No analysed data are passed from the AVM systems (i) county and (ii) region in each of the last four years. to the VOA’s digitised database of property records. [317923] 239W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 240W

Mr. Timms: Estimates of the average number of to conduct aid work in (a) Afghanistan and (b) Pakistan; recipient families and their entitlements to tax credits, and how much each is receiving in 2009-10. [317247] by county, local authority and parliamentary constituency, for 2004-05 to 2007-08, are available in the HM Revenue Mr. Douglas Alexander: Details of the Department and Customs (HMRC) publications “Child and Working for International Development’s (DFID) bilateral aid Tax Credits Statistics Finalised Annual Awards. delivered by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) Geographical Analyses”, available at: in recipient countries are published annually in “Statistics http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/personal-tax-credits/cwtc-geog- on International Development”, which is available in stats.htm the House Library or online at: The same information for 2008-09 is not yet available www.dfid.gov.uk as awards have not yet been finalised. However, estimates Final data for 2009-10 is not yet available and will be of the number of recipient families with tax credits, published in the 2010 edition of “Statistics on International based on provisional awards, as at 1 December 2009, Development”. ″ are available in the HMRC snapshot publication Child Following is a list of some of the NGOs in Afghanistan and Working Tax Credits Statistics. Geographical analyses. ″ and Pakistan that DFID has funded so far in 2009-10. December 2009 , available at the same internet address. For security reasons it is not possible to name all HMRC do not produce these statistics separately for individual NGOs receiving direct funding from DFID child tax credit and working tax credit. in Afghanistan. Welfare Tax Credits: Newport Afghanistan HALO Trust Jessica Morden: To ask the Chancellor of the Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit (AREU) Exchequer how many households in Newport East The British and Irish Agencies Afghanistan Group (BAAG) constituency are in receipt of tax credits. [317347] Agency Co-ordinating Body for Afghanistan Relief (ACBAR) Mr. Timms: The latest information on the number of Mercy Corps households benefiting from tax credits, by each Peace Dividend Trust parliamentary constituency, is available in HM Revenue War Child and Customs snapshot publication “Child and Working BBC World Service Trust Tax Credits Statistics. Geographical Analyses. December Womankind 2009”, available at: Relief International http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/personal-tax-credits/cwtc-geog- dec09.pdf Tiri Actionaid UK Welfare Tax Credits: Rotherham Pakistan Mr. MacShane: To ask the Chancellor of the ACTED Exchequer how much was paid in working tax credits Concern World Wide to eligible households in Rotherham in the latest year Catholic Relief Services for which figures are available. [317510] Handicap International International Committee of the Red Cross Mr. Timms: Estimates of the average number of International Medical Corps recipient families and their entitlements to tax credits, by local authority and parliamentary constituency, for International Relief Committee 2007-08, are available in the HM Revenue and Customs Mercy Corps (HMRC) publications ‘Child and Working Tax Credits Merlin Statistics Finalised Annual Awards. Geographical Analyses’, Muslim Aid available at: Oxfam GB http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/personal-tax-credits/cwtc-geog- Relief International stats.htm Save the Children UK The same information for 2008-09 is not yet available Sarhad Rural Support Programme as awards have not yet been finalised. However, estimates of the number of recipient families with tax credits, Contact International based on provisional awards, as at 1 December 2009, Rabta Consortium are available in the HMRC snapshot publication ‘Child Nai Zindagi and Working Tax Credits Statistics. Geographical analyses. Family Health International December 2009’, available at the same internet address. Rural Support Programme Network HMRC do not produce these statistics separately for Mountain Glacier Protection Organisation child tax credit and working tax credit. Departmental Energy

Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT International Development what the estimated (a) Afghanistan and Pakistan: Overseas Aid amount and (b) cost was of energy used in his Department in each year since 1997; what proportion Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for of the energy used was generated from renewable International Development which non-governmental sources in each of those years; and if he will make a organisations are receiving funding from his Department statement. [317225] 241W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 242W

Mr. Michael Foster: The amount and cost of energy Mr. Michael Foster: Donor contributions to UNITAID use of the Department for International Development’s are not earmarked for specific purposes. At the end of UK estate, for the last five years, (without any allowance 2009, the cumulative total of funding provided to for organisational changes or weather correction) are UNITAID by all donors was $1,017,801,290. Of this provided in the table. amount grants supporting TB treatments and diagnostics were just over 11 per cent. at $113,379,034. Percentage from Amount (KWH) Cost (£) renewable sources Overseas Aid: Climate Change 2004-05 Electricity 6,448,093 320,811 95 Mr. Moore: To ask the Secretary of State for Gas 4,734,311 67,911 n/a International Development what percentage of the £1.5 billion fast start finance for climate change 2005-06 adaptation programmes announced by the Prime Electricity 7,055,585 454,478 95 Minister at the UN Climate Change Conference in Gas 4,851,902 109,635 n/a December 2009 was additional to existing aid allocations. [315411]

2006-07 Mr. Thomas: All fast start finance will contribute Electricity 6,991,134 620,304 100 towards the existing Government Official Development Gas 4,309,038 131,460 n/a Assistance (ODA) target of 0.7 per cent. of Gross National Income (GNI). In order to reach this target 2007-08 the UK’s aid programme is growing and fast start will Electricity 6,642,910 573,520 100 be financed from part of this growth. All of the £1.5 Gas 4,383,404 103,294 n/a billion fast start finance is additional to spending on climate change in 2009-10. 2008-09 Electricity 6,089,299 644,079 100 Overseas Aid: Health Services Gas 4,030,927 121,423 n/a Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Information on environmental performance is supplied International Development what steps his Department to the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) and the is taking to implement the World Health Assembly’s Sustainable Development Commission (SDC), in resolution 62.15 on prevention and control of accordance with the Government targets set for Sustainable multidrug resistant tuberculosis and extensively drug Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE). Detailed resistant tuberculosis. [316704] information is available on the respective OGC and SDC websites. As a result of various measures taken by Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International the Department for International Development (DFID), Development (DFID) is working to implement resolution the carbon emissions after allowing for weather correction 62.15 and the earlier resolution 60.19 through our support have reduced by 15 per cent. over the last two years. All to the delivery of the Global Plan to Stop TB 2006-15. energy is purchased via central Government framework We recognise that drug resistant strains of TB pose contracts arranged by the Office of Government Commerce, serious threats to achieving the goals of the Global Plan and the variation in expenditure is partly attributable to and are working with our partners to ensure that prompt the changes in unit costs under these contracts. quality diagnosis and effective treatment is available to Iraq Committee of Inquiry those who need it. This includes a 20-year commitment to UNITAID of Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for up to ¤60 million per year by 2010. UNITAID aims to International Development how many (a) documents triple access to rapid testing for multi-drug resistant TB and (b) other items of information in electronic format and to reduce the price of multi-drug resistant TB provided by his Department to the Iraq Inquiry that medicines by 25 per cent. by 2010. DFID funds research Inquiry has sought to publish under the procedure set into new TB drugs and diagnostics, including through out in the protocol on documents and other written the Global Alliance for TB Drugs and the Tropical and electronic information; and if he will make a Disease Research special programme at the World Health statement. [314541] Organisation (WHO). In 2006 DFID also provided an additional £1.6 million to the Stop TB Partnership to Mr. Douglas Alexander: I refer the hon. Lady to the address extensively drug resistant TB in South Africa. answer given to her by Tessa Jowell on 9 February 2010, Official Report, column 849W. Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps his Department Overseas Aid is taking to promote the development and production of anti-tuberculosis drugs appropriate for children in Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for developing countries. [316705] International Development what proportion of the funding provided by his Department to UNITAID was Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International allocated to tuberculosis drugs, vaccine and diagnostics Development (DFID) is committed to supporting the in the latest period for which figures are available. delivery of the Global Plan to Stop TB 2006-15, which [316703] specifically highlights children with tuberculosis. 243W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 244W

As part of our support we have made a 20-year the last five years, the Department for International commitment to UNITAID, the international drugs Development (DFID) has doubled aid to fragile and purchasing facility, of up to ¤60 million per year by conflict-affected countries to £1.2 billion a year. The 2010. One of UNITAID’s core areas of work is to 2009 Development White Paper commits DFID to support the development of, and access to, child-friendly maintaining this momentum by allocating at least 50 TB medicine. per cent. of new bilateral country aid to fragile and conflict-affected countries. Mr. Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for DFID supports Western Sahara through its share of International Development what steps his Department the budget if the European Community Humanitarian is taking to implement commitments made by EU Aid Office (ECHO). ECHO has provided ¤133 million member states in the 2007 Berlin Declaration on in humanitarian aid to Western Sahara since it was Tuberculosis. [316706] established. Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International Development (DFID) is working towards implementing commitments in the 2007 Berlin Declaration on TB SOLICITOR-GENERAL through our support to the delivery of the Global Plan to Stop TB 2006-15. We do this through country BAE Systems: Fines programmes, multilateral organisations, global partnerships, research and through using our political voice in the G8 Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Solicitor-General by what and other forums. date BAE Systems will be required to pay the fine imposed on it in relation to its activities in Tanzania; Palestinians: Overseas Aid and if she will make a statement. [317256]

Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for The Solicitor-General: The financial aspects of the International Development whether an assessment has plea agreement reached between the SFO and BAE in been made of the damage to projects in Gaza which relation to Tanzania are all subject to the approval of have been (a) built and (b) financed by Government the Crown Court, which will determine the appropriate money since the Oslo Peace Accords. [317323] sentence including the period within which any financial penalties must be paid. Criminal proceedings will be Mr. Michael Foster: We have not made any specific commenced in due course. assessments of the damage caused to projects in Gaza either built or financed with UK Government funding BAE Systems: USA since the Oslo Peace Accords. Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Solicitor-General Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for what discussions the Attorney-General has had with International Development to what (a) infrastructure, the US Department of Justice on BAE Systems in the (b) institutions and (c) civic sites that have been built last 12 months. [317507] in Gaza since the Oslo Peace Accords the Government has contributed funding. [317324] The Solicitor-General: The Attorney-General has had no such discussions. Mr. Michael Foster: Since the Oslo Peace Accords in 1993, the Department for International Development Departmental Energy (DFID) has directly funded a number of small infrastructure and civic site projects in Gaza including Andrew Stunell: To ask the Solicitor-General what repairs to the water and sanitation network, rehabilitation the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost was of energy of damaged schools, creation of safe play areas for used in the Law Officers’ Departments in each year children, and repairs to approximately 70 kilometres of since 1997; what proportion of the energy used was road. More information on the projects we currently generated from renewable sources in each of those fund is available on the DFID website. years; and if she will make a statement. [317239] DFID also provides core funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) which provide education, The Solicitor-General: The Law Officers’ Departments health care and housing to Palestinian refugees across have been reporting energy consumption and cost data the region. UNRWA spends approximately one third of since 2000-01 as part of the Sustainable Operations on its funding in Gaza, which includes infrastructure and the Government Estate (SOGE) reporting process. The civic sites such as health clinics and schools. Law Officer’s Departments are well above the existing Government targets in using renewable energy. Data Western Sahara: Overseas Aid prior to 2000-01 are not available and to obtain this information in order to inform a meaningful estimate Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for would incur disproportionate cost. International Development pursuant to the oral answer The data reported relate solely to the Law Officers’ from the Prime Minister of 13 January 2010, Official Departments controlled estate and exclude properties Report, column 688, on Western Sahara, when the level where energy costs are included as part of a general of aid to the Western Sahara will be increased. [317847] service charge levied by landlords or the major Government occupier of the property. Data to identify energy costs Mr. Douglas Alexander: As set out by the Prime and inform a meaningful estimate of energy usage in Minister on 13 January, the UK is doubling its aid to these properties are not available and to obtain them areas where there is a growth of ethnic violence. Over would incur disproportionate cost. 245W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 246W

The data reported by the Law Officers’ Departments Yes No for the years since 2000-01 are detailed in the following table. Cost figures for 2007-08 and 2008-09 are not (a) Naturalisation— —x available and are estimated based on 2006-07 cost. Judicial Reviews (b) Parole Board x— Cost (£ kW/Hrs Percentage Hearings million) (million) renewable (c) Pre-Charge —x Detention Hearings 1997-98 n/a n/a n/a (d) Production Order —x 1998-99 n/a n/a n/a Hearings 1999-2000 n/a n/a n/a (e) Planning Inquiries — x 2000-01 1.18 30.1 n/a (f) Family Proceedings x — 2001-02 1.00 24.4 n/a (g) Mental Health —x 2002-03 1.01 26.4 24 Review Tribunal 2003-04 1.06 32.2 33 2004-05 1.35 34.2 30 2005-06 1.61 31.3 44 2006-07 1.89 31.0 46 JUSTICE 2007-08 1.76 28.9 42 2008-09 1.99 32.6 35 Correctional Services Board: Finance

Iraq Committee of Inquiry Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what the (a) allocated budget for and (b) expenditure Jenny Willott: To ask the Solicitor-General how on fees for members of the Correctional Services many (a) documents and (b) other items of Accreditation Panel was in 2008-09; and if he will make information in electronic format provided by the Law a statement. [317694] Officers’ Department’s to the Iraq Inquiry that Inquiry has sought to publish under the procedure set out in Mr. Straw: The allocated budget for the Correctional the protocol on documents and other written and Services Accreditation Panel (CSAP) in 2008-09 was electronic information; and if she will make a £155,000. Expenditure on fees for panel members during statement. [314542] that period was £121,363.63. A breakdown of budget costs is included in the Correctional Services Accreditation The Solicitor-General: I refer the hon. Lady to the Panel Annual Report for 2008-09, which was published answer given to her by the Minister for the Cabinet on the Ministry of Justice website on 1 February 2010. Office (Tessa Jowell) on 9 February 2010, Official Report, column 894W. Custodial Treatment: Young Offenders Special Advocates Mr. Burrowes: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many custodial sentences have been Mr. Dismore: To ask the Solicitor-General whether imposed on young offenders in each youth offending special advocates have been employed in cases team area in each of the last six months. [317526] involving (a) naturalisation judicial reviews, (b) Parole Board hearings, (c) pre-charge detention hearings, (d) Claire Ward: The available information is shown in production order hearings, (e) planning inquiries, (f) the following table. Data for the last six months is not family proceedings and (g) the Mental Health Review available—data for each month of 2008 is supplied in Tribunal since their introduction. [316617] lieu. Data for 2009 will be available when Sentencing Statistics 2009 is published in the autumn. The Solicitor-General: The answer to the question the hon. Member for Hendon has posed may most helpfully Data by region held on the courts proceedings database be put in the form of a table, which appears as follows. does not match exactly to Youth Offending Team areas The table relates to the UK and has been prepared with which are based on local authority areas. the assistance of the Office of the Solicitor to the The criminal justice areas that make up each region Advocate-General for Scotland. are shown in the table.

Young offenders1 sentenced to custody by region2 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

East Midlands 52 39 43 36 42 34 29 30 37 46 43 24 East of England 33 38 25 38 35 39 43 28 35 34 61 38 London 84 109 72 96 105 94 107 95 92 89 62 73 NorthEast 222426212312222412181412 North West 85 86 90 100 77 65 88 66 87 85 61 57 South East 46 32 39 44 49 38 44 46 48 39 35 50 South West 16 14 17 20 22 22 15 26 20 18 23 25 Wales 272325273133212021291720 West Midlands 58 47 47 65 59 63 27 47 49 61 43 45 Yorkshire and 57 56 58 87 50 54 63 45 58 58 56 46 Humberside 247W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 248W

Young offenders1 sentenced to custody by region2 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Total 480 468 442 534 493 454 459 427 459 477 415 390 1 Young offenders are those aged under 18 at the point of sentence. 2 Data by region held on the courts proceedings database does not match exactly to Youth Offending Team areas. The following Criminal Justice Areas are contained within each region: East Midlands Derbyshire Leicestershire Lincolnshire Northamptonshire Nottinghamshire East of England Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Essex Hertfordshire Norfolk Suffolk London London North East Cleveland Durham Northumbria North West Cheshire Cumbria Greater Manchester Lancashire Merseyside South East Hampshire Kent Surrey Sussex Thames Valley South West Avon and Somerset Devon and Cornwall Dorset Gloucestershire Wiltshire Wales Dyfed-Powys Gwent North Wales South Wales West Midlands Staffordshire Warwickshire West Mercia West Midlands Yorkshire and Humberside Humberside North Yorkshire South Yorkshire West Yorkshire Note: These figures have been drawn from administrative data systems. Although care is taken when processing and analysing the returns, the detail collected is subject to the inaccuracies inherent in any large scale recording system. Source: Justice Statistics—Analytical Services, Ministry of Justice Ref: PQ(JSAS)317526 17/02/2010.

Departmental Electronic Equipment Expenditure between October 2008 to November 2009 Since October 2008, the Ministry of Justice has had Mr. Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice one main supplier for the provision of flat screen televisions. how many plasma screen televisions his Department From the start of this contract up to November 2009, has purchased since 2001; and what the cost has been £139,676 was spent on flat screen televisions. This figure of purchasing and installing such screens in each such excludes the costs of installation which is undertaken year. [306079] by local estates teams across the Ministry. Installation Mr. Wills: Flat screen televisions may be plasma or costs cannot be separately quantified but represent a LCD. It is not possible to determine which type of flat tiny element of the work of estates teams. Procurement screen has been purchased in all cases, except at the records indicate that flat screen television expenditure disproportionate cost of physically examining all of the included 10 plasma screen televisions at a cost of £6,180. TVs or retrieving all invoices which are filed locally It is possible, though unlikely, that some further around the business. expenditure may have been incurred outside of the Similarly it is not possible to identify the purpose of contract using the Government Procurement Card (GPC). these purchases in all cases, except at disproportionate To investigate whether any flat screen televisions, DVD cost. However, no flat screen TVs have been purchased players or stereo equipment had been purchased with for prisoners’ cells. the GPC card would incur disproportionate cost. 249W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 250W

Expenditure prior to October 2008 are members of the Government Communications Prior to October 2008, there was one main supplier Network but are not listed in the Central Office of for the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) Information White Book. [315165] part of the business. Expenditure under this contract was £26,454 in 2007-08, with no expenditure recorded Mr. Wills: The following table lists the number of prior to that date. It is not known whether these televisions staff in embedded communications roles in the Ministry were plasmas or LCDs. of Justice. The embedded communications staff is employed The Tribunals Service also had a single contract for primarily in communications roles based in policy and the supply of flat screen TVs. Expenditure under this delivery units outside central communications functions. contract was a fixed annual contractual sum of £10,000 Headcount (FTE) per annum, starting from 2006-07. It is not known MOJ Group as of January 2010 GCN members whether these televisions were plasmas or LCDs. The wider Ministry operated numerous local contracts Corporate 6.5 5 and it is not possible to determine total expenditure on Performance Group Democracy, 32 flat screen televisions prior to October 2008 without Constitution and Law incurring the disproportionate cost of examining individual Access to Justice 0 0 transactions incurred under local contracts. However, National Offender 17 n/a between March 2006 and March 2008, 397 flat screen Management Service television screens were purchased at a total cost of Criminal Justice 11.6 5 £516,478 by HM Courts Service, mainly in connection Total MOJ 38.1 — with the Videolinks Project, which allows vulnerable witnesses to take part in trials without actually being present. Videolinks also connects to a number of prisons, The Government Communications Network (GCN) which saves money by allowing certain meetings and membership is voluntary and not required to work in a proceedings to occur which would otherwise require communications role. Data on GCN membership is not prisoner transport and accommodation. collected and neither is it stored by the Ministry of Justice. The Cabinet Office unit who administer the Departmental Energy GCN are unable to share membership data without the permission of individual members. Therefore it is not Andrew Stunell: To ask the Secretary of State for possible to readily provide accurate information for Justice what the estimated (a) amount and (b) cost National Offender Management Service. was of energy used in his Department and its agencies in each year since 1997; what proportion of the energy used was generated from renewable sources in each of Departmental Manpower those years; and if he will make a statement. [317203] Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State Mr. Wills: Since the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) was for Justice how many layers of management reporting created in May 2007, the estimated reported amount of from the most senior to the most junior there are in his energy used in MOJ and its agencies and the cost is: Department and each of its agencies; how many officials are employed in each such layer; and how Energy Energy much was spent on salaries and associated employment consumption Cost consumption Cost costs of staff at each such layer in the latest year for 2007-08 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 which information is available. [312822] kWh (£) kWh (£) Total 1,797,466,581 79,056,169.68 1,764,553,696 105,493,183 Mr. Wills: Staff employed by the Ministry of Justice http://www.sd-commission.org.uk/publications.php?id=848 (excluding the National Offender Management Service (NOMS)) below the senior civil service (SCS) and its Central Government Departments and their executive agencies (Her Majesty’s Court Service (HMCS) and the agencies had a target to source at least 10 per cent. of Tribunals Service) are employed on the same terms and electricity from renewables by 31 March 2008. The conditions. They work in job roles aligned to one of proportion of energy generated from renewable sources seven pay bands/grades—four of which may include for MOJ and its agencies was 8 per cent. in 2007-08. management responsibilities. Allocation of a job role to MOJ sourced 20 per cent. of its energy from renewable a particular pay band is determined by the level of the sources during 2008-09. level of responsibility and job evaluation. This grading Published data for 2007-08 can be found at: system is comparable with the standard civil service http://www.sd-commission.org.uk/publications.php?id=849 grading system. In levels of descending seniority Published data for 2008-09 can found at: management grades below the SCS are: Band A is the highest (typical job roles include qualified http://www.ogc.gov.uk/ solicitors or accountants and senior operational managers) sustainable_development_in_government_chp_consumption_and_ renewables.asp Band B and C, which are middle management job roles (these may include junior lawyers or accountants, and legal advisors in Departmental Information Officers magistrates courts) Band D job roles, which are the first level of supervision. Mr. Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice The pay and grading structure for the SCS is managed how many staff in his Department and its agencies (a) by the Cabinet Office and is common across all civil have the status of embedded communicators and (b) service departments. 251W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 252W

Details of each level of management responsibility Mr. Wills: Travel guidance for staff working in the (including SCS), the number of staff in each layer, and Ministry of Justice and its agencies and non-departmental the amount spent on staff salaries are contained in the public bodies (NDPBs) encompasses a number of different following table. publications and either relates to the terms on which individuals claim reimbursement for business related Management level Equivalent civil service Number of Salary costs travel, or health and safety advice. Any expenditure descriptor staff (£) authorised for staff travelling on behalf of the Ministry Corporate Permanent Secretary 10 2,028,371 is made in accordance with regulations on managing management and Director General public money. board SCS Payband 2 Director 45 8,911,000 Publications with travel guidance include: SCS Payband 1 Deputy Director 195 20,332,896 Band A Grade 6 and Grade 7 1,551 98,375,515 The Safe Driving at Work Policy Statement Band B Senior Executive 2,477 112,987,699 Travel and Subsistence Policy Officer Band C Higher Executive 1,986 57,845,114 Information for staff travelling to work in bad weather. Officer Band D Executive Officer 4,673 123,435,357 I will place the information referred to above relating Notes: to the Ministry of Justice (and where different, its 1. The information provides details of basic salary but excludes payments of allowances, overtime and non-consolidated performance pay. Employers agencies and NDPBs) in the House of Commons Library. National Insurance and Pensions Contributions have been averaged at 19 per cent. for Bands A to F and 34 per cent. for SCS. 2. The information provided in the table relates to salary payments to staff working on the Ministry of Justice ‘Deal’ terms and conditions. 3. Details of the Permanent Secretary’s remuneration is available in the MOJ Resource Accounts. Driving Offences: Suffolk 4. Latest salary cost information are for implementation of 2009-10 pay award effective 1 August 2009 with details of staff in post at that time. Since July 2000, NOMS has operated a common unified pay structure for senior and middle managerial Mr. Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice grades within ‘Phase One’ of their pay and grading how many (a) convictions, (b) cautions and (c) fixed arrangements. Roles are placed in one of seven paybands penalty notices have been given to people arrested for ranging from Senior Manager A to Manager G, which speeding offences in Suffolk in each year since 1997. is determined by the level of responsibility of the role. [314868] Other grades on separate pay scales outside of ‘Phase One’ also provide a managerial function. These include Principal and Senior Prison Officers. Mr. Alan Campbell: I have been asked to reply. Senior Manager A is the highest management level Data from 1997 to 2007 (latest available) on fixed (typical roles include Governors of high security prisons). penalty notices issued for speeding offences in Suffolk Typical middle management roles are placed at Manager police force area are provided in table A. E, F or G (roles at these levels include operational or administrative managers). Details of each level of Data provided by the Ministry of Justice, showing management responsibility, the number of staff in each the number of convictions for speeding offences and payband and the total amount spent on staff salaries vehicle registration and excise licence offences in Suffolk and associated employment costs for the latest period from 1997 to 2008 (latest available) can be viewed in for which figures are available (1 April 2009 to 31 Table B. December 2009) are set out in the following table. Cautions are not issued by the police for speeding Equivalent offences. civil service Number of Salary Management level descriptor staff costs (£) Court proceedings data for 2009 are expected to be Senior Manager A Grade 6 59 5,124,929 published in the autumn 2010. Senior Manager B Grade 6 144 10,917,688 Table A: Number of fixed penalty notices issued for speed limit Senior Manager C Grade 7 145 10,037,610 offences, Suffolk police force area, 1997 to 20071 Senior Manager D Grade 7 571 35,856,917 Number of notices Manager E SEO 1,336 62,313,486 1997 7,271 Manager F SEO 1,434 56,423,228 1998 12,640 Manager G HEO 921 27,067,627 1999 18,088 Managerial grades outside of No single grade 8,022 237,101,414 phase one of pay and grading descriptor1 2000 12,596 1 These grades include roles such as senior officer and principal officer. 2001 12,416 Note: 2002 9,477 Staff in post information is for December 2009. 2003 16,606 Departmental Travel 2004 40,847 2005 40,029 Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 2006 34,442 if he will publish the travel guidance issued to staff of 2007 30,378 each of his Department’s agencies and non- 1 From 2000 onwards the national safety camera programme was introduced which increased enforcement of speeding offences. departmental public bodies. [314924] 253W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 254W

Table B: Number of convictions for speed limit offences in Suffolk from 1997 to 20081 Number of offences Convicted at all courts 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Speed limit 1,052 1,469 1,678 1,233 1,252 1,284 776 1,856 3,249 3,054 3,418 3,577 offences 1 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services - Ministry of Justice. Ref: IOS 056-10 and Ref: IOS 057-10

Mr. Ruffley: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Court proceedings data for 2009 are expected to be how many (a) convictions, (b) cautions and (c) fixed published in autumn 2010. penalty notices have been given to people arrested for Table A: Number of fixed penalty notices issued for vehicle test driving without a valid MOT certificate in Suffolk in offences, Suffolk police force area, 1997 to 2007 each year since 1997. [314869] Number of notices Mr. Alan Campbell: I have been asked to reply 1997 — Data from 1997 to 2007 (latest available) on fixed 1998 — penalty notices issued for vehicle test (MOT) offences in 1999 — Suffolk police force area are provided in table A. 2000 — Data on the number of convictions for vehicle test 2001 2 offences in Suffolk from 1997 to 2008 (latest available) 2002 1 can be viewed in table B. 2003 — Data on fixed penalty notices held by the Home 2004 — Office and Ministry of Justice cannot separately identify 2005 — the specific offence of driving a vehicle without a valid 2006 60 MOT certificate. The following table shows the total 2007 471 number convictions for all vehicle test offences.

Table B: Number of convictions for vehicle test offences in Suffolk 1997 to 20081 Number of offences Convicted at all courts 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Vehicle test 1,707 1,757 1,951 1,769 1,717 2,009 2,309 2,180 1,588 1,196 777 474 offences 1 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extracted from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services—Ministry of Justice (Ref: IOS 056-10) and (Ref: IOS 057-10).

Electoral Register: Overseas Residence British citizens living abroad and the distribution of information via British consulates and embassies. The campaign resulted in almost 25,000 visits to the overseas Mr. Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for voters page of the Commission’s About My Vote website. Justice what steps his Department is taking to increase More than 7,000 overseas voter registration forms were the number of eligible overseas electors who are downloaded from the site during the campaign. registered to vote. [317266] The Commission will also target British citizens living abroad as part of its campaign ahead of a UK Mr. Wills: The Government are keen to enhance parliamentary general election. The campaign will registration rates generally, including among overseas encourage people to register to vote and also make electors. The Government have laid a statutory instrument them aware of the absent voting options available to in Parliament which extends the service voter declaration them. period from three to five years in respect of members of the armed forces, and their spouses or civil partners. Human Trafficking: Victims This is intended to facilitate higher levels of registration among overseas service personnel. Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State The Electoral Commission promote awareness of for Justice what recent steps his Department has taken UK electoral systems and electoral registration procedures to support victims of human trafficking. [316986] including how to vote, and has conducted a series of promotional campaigns aimed at enhancing the registration Maria Eagle: From 2003-09 we invested £5.8 million rates among overseas electors more generally. The latest in the Poppy Project to provide specialist support to campaign ran in autumn 2009. I understand that it women trafficked into sexual exploitation only. Over included online advertising using websites popular with the current and next financial year we have invested an 255W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 256W additional £3.9 million in the provision of specialist Mr. Wills: Land Registry published their Accelerated support to victims of all forms of human trafficking, Transformation Proposals on 22 October 2009. A public including victims of sexual exploitation, domestic servitude consultation on the proposal to close five offices closures and forced labour. This includes as a minimum: safe ended on 29 January 2010. The Peterborough Land accommodation; advocacy; access to counselling; access Registry office was one of those proposed for closure. to legal advice and interpretative services. Land Registry have received responses from local A National Referral Mechanism (NRM) has been MPs and MEPs in Peterborough and the surrounding put in place to systematically identify victims and refer area, and from their constituents, regarding these proposals. them to specialist support. Identified victims are granted All contributions are now being considered and Land an extendable 45-day recovery and reflection period in Registry currently plans to announce final decisions which to consider their options and access specialist and publish a full responses document in March. support services, and one-year temporary residency permits in certain circumstances. Life Imprisonment A victim’s information leaflet, produced in October 2009 is now available in a range of languages. The leaflet provides information for victims on the support Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice available to them, their options and legal rights. what the average tariff given with a mandatory life-sentence was in each of the last 10 years. [316328] Iraq Committee of Inquiry Mr. Straw: The average length of tariff given to Jenny Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for offenders sentenced to a mandatory life sentence in Justice how many (a) documents and (b) other items each of the last 10 years, as at 5 February 2010, is of information in electronic format provided by his shown in the following table. Department to the Iraq Inquiry that Inquiry has sought to publish under the procedure set out in the protocol Average in on documents and other written and electronic information; Year of Number years (1 year and if he will make a statement. [314543] sentence sentenced Average days = 365 days)

Mr. Wills: I refer the hon. Lady to the answer given 2000 251 5,228 14.32 by my right hon. Friend the Minister for the Cabinet 2001 278 5,111 14.00 Office, and for the Olympics and Paymaster General 2002 304 4,814 13.19 (Tessa Jowell) on 9 February 2009, Official Report, 2003 280 4,992 13.68 columns 893-94W. 2004 355 5,298 14.52 2005 366 5,891 16.14 Land Registry: Manpower 2006 383 6,402 17.54 2007 353 5,806 15.91 Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008 435 6,556 17.96 Justice how many people the Land Registry employed 2009 317 6,402 17.54 on the latest date for which figures are available. Totals 3,322 — — [316797] The figures include those sentenced to a mandatory Mr. Wills: The latest figures available are for 1 February life sentence that subsequently had their sentence quashed 2010 and are shown in the following table. The figures or died. In a further 144 cases of prisoners sentenced shown under “off strength” refer to staff who remain over this period, the courts have yet to determine the employees of Land Registry but are not currently on length of tariff or the prisoner was given a life sentence the payroll, for example staff who are on career breaks by another jurisdiction. The figures also exclude those or unpaid maternity leave or unpaid special leave. life sentence prisoners who have been given a whole life tariff. There were 19 whole life tariffs handed down by Number the courts during this period. Headcount The figures were taken from the Public Protection On strength 6,263 Unit Database (PPUD) in the National Offender Off strength 128 Management Service, and, as with any large scale recording Total 6,391 system, it is subject to possible errors arising from either data entry or processing. The PPUD is a live database, updated on a regular basis. As a result, snapshots taken Full time equivalents in consecutive days will contain differences reflecting On strength 5,665 updates. Off strength 100 Total 5,765 National Offender Management Service Land Registry: Peterborough Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Mr. Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State what the (a) role and (b) responsibilities will be of the for Justice what recent representations he has received Chief Executive Officer of the National Offender on the proposed closure of the Land Registry’s Management Service (NOMS); and what the (i) role Peterborough office; and if he will make a statement. and (ii) responsibilities have been of the Director [317751] General of NOMS. [313367] 257W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 258W

Mr. Straw: The National Offender Management Service had one or more previous convictions for offences of (NOMS) is an Executive agency of the Ministry of any kind. Equivalent figures for offenders who have Justice through which correctional services and interventions been prosecuted are not available. are commissioned and provided across England and These figures have been drawn from the police’s Wales, within the strategic policy framework set by the administrative IT system which, as with any large scale UK Government. It is responsible for commissioning recording system, is subject to possible errors with data adult offender services and delivering these through a entry and processing. The figures are provisional and range of providers from the public, private and third subject to change as more information is recorded by sectors, as efficiently and effectively as possible, in all of the police. PNC data have been used here rather than the regions of England and Wales. The agency is also court proceedings data, which are the usual source of commissioned by the Youth Justice Board to provide published conviction statistics, as the PNC provides youth custody places in young offender institutions. information on the criminal history of offenders. The chief executive is the director general of NOMS. These are not different roles. The responsibilities of the chief executive are: Open Prisons (a) reports to the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Justice and is a member of the Ministry’s Corporate Management Board (CMB), fully contributing to the strategic direction of the Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Ministry and jointly accountable as such for its collective performance; pursuant to the answer of 12 January 2010, Official (b) supports Ministers, the permanent secretary and the Ministry Report, column 933W, on open prisons, how many of Justice’s CMB by delivering against departmental strategic prisoners convicted of murder were held in open prison objective 3—protecting the public and reducing re-offending —and in each of the last five years. [316497] he/she is ultimately accountable to the Secretary of State for the overall performance of the agency and the delivery of its plans, Mr. Straw: The following table gives figures for the objectives, targets and standards; numbers of prisoners serving sentences for murder held (c) as the accounting officer for the agency, he or she is in open prisons in the years between 2005 and 2009: responsible for managing, allocating and accounting for the budget of NOMS agency; Prisoners held in open prisons serving sentences for murder 2005-09 (d) has a key role in influencing other Government Departments 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 to address the needs of offenders, and in providing feedback to Total 350 310 260 270 275 sentencing bodies and others about the delivery and outcomes of various sentencing options; and. Askham 555510 Grange (e) has overall leadership responsibility for the strategic direction Ford 40 40 25 35 25 and performance of the agency. Hewell1 000510 There is, however, a separate role of chief operating Hollesley Bay 20 10 15 15 20 officer, also at DG level, which is responsible for delivery Kirkham2525253030 of prison and probation operations to meet MOJ strategic objectives on ‘helping to protect the public and reduce Leyhill 85 75 60 55 50 Moorland 00000 re-offending’; specifically: Open Development of a coherent regional delivery model to support North Sea 40 30 20 15 25 the efficient and effective management of offenders in custody Camp and community to protect the public and reduce reoffending; Prescoed 35 25 20 20 15 Delivery of an integrated efficient and effective offender Spring Hill 20 20 15 15 15 management system; Standford Hill 15 10 20 15 10 Development of realistic and deliverable reducing reoffending Sudbury 65 65 50 55 60 action plans, to achieve a 10 per cent. reduction in re-offending by 2011-12. East Sutton 05555 Park The chief operating officer is also responsible for 1 Hewell consists of three units; only the open unit has been ensuring operational delivery risks and constraints are counted. fully understood and considered in developing the direction Note: of the NOMS agency and in development of CJ strategy Totals rounded to the nearest five; figures for June each year. within MOJ. The total number of prisoners convicted of murder and in prison was around 4,900 at the end of June 2009. Offences Against Children: Convictions The figure in the open estate is therefore 5 per cent of. the total. There have been open prisons since 1936 and Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice they are widely accepted as the most effective means of with reference to the answer of 20 May 2009, Official ensuring prisoners are tested in the community before Report, column 1438W, on children: abuse, how many they are released. To release prisoners directly from a people aged 21 years and over with a previous closed prison without the resettlement benefits of the conviction were (a) prosecuted and (b) convicted for open estate would undoubtedly lead to higher levels of offences relating to child abuse in 2008. [317143] post-release reoffending. Prisoners are assessed objectively in a process looking Mr. Straw: According to information recorded by the at all aspects of their offending behaviour, actions they police on the Police National Computer (PNC) there have taken to reduce their likelihood of reoffending and were 1,323 offenders aged 21 and over who were convicted the risk they pose to the public. They are placed in the in 2008 in England and Wales of offences relating to lowest security category consistent with their assessed child abuse; at the time of their conviction 721 of these risk. Only prisoners placed in the lowest security category 259W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 260W

(D) may be allocated to open conditions. If their behaviour been (a) charged with and (b) convicted of an offence becomes a cause for concern, they can be moved back (i) relating to domestic violence and (ii) of manslaughter to more secure conditions. since 2 November 2009. [317141] Prisoners convicted of murder serving life sentences and other indeterminate sentence prisoners will be Mr. Straw: Determinate sentenced prisoners may be transferred from closed to open prison conditions only released into the community up to 18 days earlier than following the acceptance of a Parole Board the halfway point of their sentence under the End of recommendation to the Secretary of State. Before making Custody Licence (ECL) Scheme. Indeterminate sentenced such a recommendation, the Parole Board must be prisoners are not eligible for ECL. satisfied that the case meets the criteria set out in the Data on ECL releases, recalls and alleged re-offending Directions to the Parole Board under section 32(6) of are published every month on the following website: the Criminal Justice Act 1991, of which the risk of http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/ abscond is a central factor. endofcustodylicence.htm Transfer of any prisoner to open conditions will only The total number of alleged further offences committed take place if continued detention in closed conditions is by prisoners during their period of ECL as notified to no longer necessary for the protection of the public. NOMS for period 29 June 2007 to 31 December 2009 is Open conditions allow prisoners to find work, re-establish 1,543, as published in the ECL releases and recalls family ties and reintegrate into the community. All statistical bulletin published on 29 January 2010. these are essential components for successful resettlement Where the National Offender Management Offender and an important factor in protecting the public. Service (NOMS) is notified of a further charge while an These figures have been drawn from administrative offender is subject to ECL, it is not centrally recorded IT systems which, as with any large scale recording as to whether the offence was specifically in relation to system, are subject to possible errors with data entry violence within a domestic setting. Such information and processing. Totals for each prison have been rounded would be contained within individual records and could to the nearest five and the grand total to the nearest 10; only be collated by manual checking of individual case separately rounded sub-totals may not add to the rounded details and could only be carried out at disproportionate total. cost. These figures have been drawn from administrative In addition to data held on offenders who are notified IT systems which, as with any large scale recording to the National Offender Management Service as having system, are subject to possible errors with data entry been charged with an offence while subject to ECL, of and processing. those offenders who since 2 November 2009 were released Political Parties on ECL and who were subject to probation supervision, NOMS has received no notification in line with serious Peter Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice further offences procedures that there has been any case pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Brentwood where an offender has been charged with manslaughter. and Ongar of 5 January 2010 from the hon. Member representing the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Prisoners: Foreigners Commission, whether he has given a direction to the Electoral Commission on which of the UK’s electoral Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice regions should receive the additional European Parliament how many convicted foreign national prisoners were seat provided for under the Treaty of Lisbon. [316917] released from prisons in England and Wales in the last 12 months. [317129] Mr. Wills: No. The Government will ask the Electoral Commission to make a recommendation on this issue in Mr. Straw: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I due course. provided on 14 December 2009, Official Report, Prison Accommodation column 801W. “The number of discharges of foreign national prisoners from Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice completed determinate sentences in 2008 was 9,500. This figure pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Chesterfield has been rounded to the nearest 100. of 7 January 2010, Official Report, column 546W, on Data for 2009 are not yet available. prison accommodation, how many places were not These figures have been drawn from administrative IT systems included in the certified normal accommodation of the which, as with any large scale recording system, are subject to prison estate in each of the last three years. [317144] possible errors with data entry and processing.” Data for 2009 will be available following publication Mr. Straw: This information could be obtained only of Offender Management Caseload statistics 2009, at disproportionate cost as it would require a manual scheduled for release in July 2010. trawl of the changes to every establishment’s certified normal accommodation over the last three years. Prisons: Drugs Prisoners Release: Domestic Violence Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what assessment he has made of the relationship between with reference to the answers of 2 November 2009, the supply of illicit drugs into prison and the effectiveness Official Report, columns 741W and 742W,on prisoners’ of drug treatment in prisons; and what assessment was release: domestic violence and prisoners’ release: reoffenders, made of the merits of including demand for illegal whether any offender on end of custody licence has drugs in the remit of the Blakey Review. [316183] 261W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 262W

Maria Eagle: The National Offender Management Data on the reoffending of juveniles and young adults Service (NOMS) has a comprehensive drug strategy for from before 2000 are not available. prisons. It has three key elements that interlink to The proportion of juveniles that committed a proven reduce drug related offending and address individual offence within one year of leaving custody is shown in need: table 1. reducing supply, through security measures and drug testing programmes; Table 1: Reoffending rates of juveniles discharged from custody, 2000, 2002-07 reducing demand, through targeted interventions for low, moderate Percentage and severe drug-misusers; and Number of offenders reoffending within establishing effective through-care links to ensure continuity of Cohort discharged from custody one year treatment post-release in order to safeguard the gains made in custody. Q1 2000 912 75.7 The overall success of the strategy is evidenced by the Q1 2002 959 72.9 reduction in drug misuse in prisons, as measured by Q1 2003 786 73.8 random mandatory drug testing. Since 1996-97 the Q1 2004 815 76.4 proportion of prisoners testing positive has declined by Q1 2005 844 73.1 68 per cent. In 2008-09 prisons undertook 5.4 per cent. Q1 2006 817 77.0 more random mandatory drug tests than in 1996-97. Q1 2007 778 75.3 The reduced availability of drugs in prisons provides a firm foundation on which to deliver drug treatment. The proportion of young adults that committed a NOMS has in place a comprehensive drug treatment proven offence within one year of leaving custody is framework, based on the National Treatment Agency’s shown in table 2. Models of Care, to address the needs of drug misusing Table 2: Reoffending rates of young adults discharged from custody, prisoners. The interventions available are designed to 2000, 2002-07, by age band meet the needs of low, moderate and severe drug Number of misusers—irrespective of age, gender or ethnicity. Since offenders Percentage 1996-97 funding for prison drug treatment has increased discharged from reoffending year on year, and is now over 15 times that of 1997 Age group Cohort custody within one year (total 2009-10 allocation is around £112 million). 18-20 Q1 2000 2,700 64.6 On 31 January 2008 the Justice Secretary’s paper, Q1 2002 2,462 65.3 “Prison Policy Update”, set out the steps being taken to Q1 2003 2,133 62.2 tackle drug misuse in prison. Following this the Justice Q1 2004 2,131 60.2 Secretary and the NOMS Director General commissioned two reviews—David Blakey’s review “Disrupting the Q1 2005 1,978 58.3 supply of illicit drugs into prisons” and the Prison Drug Q1 2006 1,816 55.2 Treatment Strategy Review Group led by Lord Patel. Q1 2007 1,687 58.7 The focus of the two reviews was complementary, covering respectively security and treatment issues. Together they 21-24 Q1 2000 3,338 58.5 addressed the range of issues associated with illegal Q1 2002 3,508 60.4 drugs in prison. Q1 2003 3,237 60.0 Voting Systems Q1 2004 3,311 55.2 Q1 2005 2,938 52.5 Mr. Grieve: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Q1 2006 2,763 49.0 whether he has made a recent assessment of the likely Q1 2007 2,349 49.4 effects of the implementation of a preferential voting system on the number of invalid votes cast in an Total Q1 2000 6,038 61.3 election. [316318] Q1 2002 5,970 62.4 Mr. Straw: The Government’s ″Review of Voting Q1 2003 5,370 60.9 Systems″, published in 2008, found that Q1 2004 5,442 57.2 “there was no conclusive evidence that any one particular Q1 2005 4,916 54.8 voting system is more confusing for the voter, in terms of casting Q1 2006 4,579 51.5 their votes correctly, than any other system”. Q1 2007 4,036 53.3 Young Offenders: Reoffenders Reoffending data are not available for 2001 due to a Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for problem with archived data on court orders. Justice what proportion of (a) juveniles and (b) young Please note that the definition of a proven reoffence adult offenders was reconvicted within two years of differs between adults and juveniles. For adults, any release in each year since 1997. [317968] offence within a year of release from custody, that is proven by court conviction within 18 months of release, Maria Eagle: Reoffending data is based on offences is counted as a reoffence. For juveniles, an offence committed within one year of an offenders’ release proven by court conviction or a caution within the same from custody. Reoffending data covering time periods time period is counted as a reoffence. For these reasons longer than one year are not collated. the adult and juvenile reoffending rates are not comparable. 263W Written Answers22 FEBRUARY 2010 Written Answers 264W

The frequency of reoffending by juveniles given an http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/STR/d000895/ out of court disposal, commencing a non-custodial index.shtml court disposal or discharged from custody in England Youth Justice Board: Finance and Wales fell by 23.6 per cent. from 151.4 offences per 100 offenders in 2000 to 115.7 in 2007. Mr. Burrowes: To ask the Secretary of State for Further information on adult reoffending is available Justice how much funding the Youth Justice Board is at: providing to the Prison Service’s Women and Young http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/ People Group in 2009-10. [317525] reoffendingofadults.htm Further information on juvenile reoffending is available Maria Eagle: The Youth Justice Board has provided at: NOMS Service Development Group (formerly Women’s and Young People’s Group) with £118.180 million of http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/ funding to deliver approximately 2,400 custodial places reoffendingjuveniles.htm and associated services for all young men aged 15 to 17 In England, the number of offenders aged 10-17 and 17-year-old young women during the 2009-10 period. entering the criminal justice system for the first time fell On occasion this may also include 16-year-old young from 94,481 in 2007-08 to 74,033 in 2008-09—a 21.6 per women and 18 to 19-year-old young men and women. cent. decrease. Further information on first time entrants is available [Continued in Column 265W] at: 1MC Ministerial Corrections22 FEBRUARY 2010 Ministerial Corrections 2MC

supporting a range of initiatives including the funding Ministerial Corrections of delivery organisations in the region, support for individual food producers and retail outlets, food hubs Monday 22 February 2010 and farmers’ markets.

ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE Food Supply Binyam Mohamed Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what funding his Mr. Andrew Tyrie (Chichester) (Con): The Foreign Department has provided to local food chain initiatives Secretary said that our most basic values as a nation are in the last 12 months; and which such initiatives at stake here. I agree. It is only by getting to the truth received that funding. [315961] about all this that we can bring closure to the whole [Official Report, 9 February 2010, Vol. 505, c. 829W.] sorry episode that is now called extraordinary rendition Letter of correction from Mr. Jim Fitzpatrick: and in which the UK appears to have allowed itself to become complicit in kidnapping and torture. Indeed, a Errors have been identified in the table and first and judge in another case said that we had facilitated a second paragraphs of my written answer to the hon. rendition, so the issue of facilitation, in principle, is no Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) on 9 February 2010. longer in doubt. Given all that, will the Foreign Secretary The RDPE spend cited for the Yorkshire and Humber now finally discuss with the Prime Minister the need for regional development agency was incorrect. The correct a judge-led inquiry, which is supported by Lord Carlile, table should have been: who is the Government’s own anti-terrorism watchdog, the Leader of the Opposition and the Liberal Democrats, RDA RDPE spend (£) as well as many others? North East RDA 2,656,337 [Official Report, 10 February 2010, Vol. 505, c. 923-924.] Advantage West Midlands 583,228 East Midlands 648,847 Letter of correction from Mr. David Miliband: South West RDA 2,850,000 North West RDA 1,776,242 I am concerned to clarify a potential confusion in one South East RDA 2,590,536 sentence of my answer to the hon. Member for Chichester (Mr. Tyrie) on 10 February 2010. It concerns the difference East England DA 301,476 between “rendition” and “extraordinary rendition”, the Yorkshire and Humber 4,457,098 former of which can be lawful (e.g. when someone is Total 15,863,764 transferred to safety) and the latter of which is unreservedly to be condemned because it normally is understood to The first paragraph was as follows: mean a transfer where there is a real risk of torture. During the past 12 months (from 4 February 2009) I would not want my attempt to distinguish the process £11,806,666 has been committed under the Rural of rendition, or extraordinary rendition, from torture, Development Programme for England (RDPE) to support to lead to confusion between rendition and extraordinary local food chain initiatives. This funding is administered rendition. by the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and the breakdown of spend by region is as follows: The full statement made by me was as follows: The correct paragraph should have been: David Miliband: I am interested to hear that the During the past 12 months (from 4 February 2009) Leader of the Opposition is recommitting himself to a £15,863,764 has been committed under the Rural judicial inquiry—I shall pursue it with Opposition Front- Development Programme for England (RDPE) to support Bench Members to see whether it is the case. The local food chain initiatives. This funding is administered Government have discussed whether a judicial inquiry by the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and would be right, but have concluded that it would not be the breakdown of spend by region is as follows: right, not least because the judicial system in this country The second paragraph was as follows: is performing a very effective function in the courts, In the same period, RDA’s have also provided £4,385,078 which is where it belongs. I also want to put it on the from their single pot to support local food chain initiatives, record that a dangerous confusion is emerging between to which DEFRA makes a contribution. The RDPE rendition—sometimes called extraordinary rendition—and and single pot money is supporting a range of initiatives torture. They are not the same thing, although both are including the funding of delivery organisations in the reprehensible and contrary to the laws and spirit of this region, support for individual food producers and retail country. However, it is important that we do not confuse outlets, food hubs and farmers’ markets. the two. In Mr. Mohamed’s case, there are allegations that he was subject to both, but they are not the same; The correct paragraph should have been: they are separate. However, they are both wrong and In the same period, RDA’s have also provided £5,710,071 they both need to be addressed fully. In respect of the from their single pot, to which DEFRA makes a hon. Gentleman’s main point, however, I do not think contribution. The RDPE and single pot money is that the conclusion to be drawn from today’s events is 3MC Ministerial Corrections22 FEBRUARY 2010 Ministerial Corrections 4MC that a judicial inquiry is necessary; I draw the conclusion DEFENCE that the judiciary is performing its function extremely vigilantly. The correct statement should have been: RAF Lyneham: Weather David Miliband: I am interested to hear that the Leader of the Opposition is recommitting himself to a Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence judicial inquiry—I shall pursue it with Opposition Front- for how many days RAF Lyneham was closed as a Bench Members to see whether it is the case. The result of recent adverse weather conditions. [315787] Government have discussed whether a judicial inquiry [Official Report, 10 February 2010, Vol. 505, c. 970-971W.] would be right, but have concluded that it would not be right, not least because the judicial system in this country Letter of correction from Mr. Bill Rammell: is performing a very effective function in the courts, An error has been identified in the written answer which is where it belongs. I also want to put it on the given to the hon. Member for North Wiltshire (Mr. Gray) record that a dangerous confusion is emerging between on 10 February 2010. The total number of hours during extraordinary rendition and torture. They are not the which RAF Lyneham was closed as a result of adverse same thing, although both are reprehensible and contrary weather conditions was incorrect. The correct answer to the laws and spirit of this country. However, it is should have been: important that we do not confuse the two. In Mr. Mohamed’s case, there are allegations that he was subject to both, but they are not the same; they are Bill Rammell: Between 1 and 17 January, RAF Lyneham separate. However, they are both wrong and they both closed only once on 6 January between 2.40 am and need to be addressed fully. In respect of the hon. 3.12 pm, a total of 12 and a half hours. This was to Gentleman’s main point, however, I do not think that enable the runway to be cleared of snow and ice. This the conclusion to be drawn from today’s events is that a limited period of closure was due to the fact that judicial inquiry is necessary; I draw the conclusion that Lyneham has a short runway and clearance could be the judiciary is performing its function extremely vigilantly. completed quickly. ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 22 February 2010

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE...... 1 DEFENCE—continued Afghanistan ...... 4 Royal Navy ...... 12 Afghanistan ...... 11 Strategic Defence Review...... 14 Defence Equipment Budget (Cost Overruns)...... 3 Topical Questions ...... 15 Iran...... 15 University Training Units ...... 7 Maritime Piracy...... 9 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles...... 1 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 22 February 2010

Col. No. Col. No. HOME DEPARTMENT...... 1WS SOLICITOR-GENERAL...... 3WS Fraudulent Use of Passports (Investigation)...... 1WS Revised Code for Crown Prosecutors...... 3WS UK Border Agency Strategy ...... 2WS TRANSPORT ...... 4WS JUSTICE...... 3WS Informal Meeting of EU Transport Ministers ...... 4WS Accommodation and Support Service...... 3WS TREASURY ...... 1WS PRIME MINISTER ...... 3WS Council for Financial Stability ...... 1WS Informal European Council - 11 February 2010 ...... 3WS Tax Information Exchange Agreement ...... 1WS PETITION

Monday 22 February 2010

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE...... 1P Malta Cross/Africa Star ...... 1P WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 22 February 2010

Col. No. Col. No. CABINET OFFICE...... 155W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT—continued 10 Downing Street: Repairs and Maintenance ...... 155W Departmental Disabled Staff ...... 50W Central Office of Information: Marketing ...... 155W Departmental NDBPs ...... 50W Charities ...... 156W Departmental Public Relations ...... 50W Civil Servants: Manpower...... 157W Departmental Surveys ...... 51W Death: Alcoholic Drinks...... 158W Digital Broadcasting...... 52W Death: Cancer...... 159W Digital Broadcasting: Radio ...... 53W Death: Drugs and Alcoholic Drinks ...... 160W Digital Switchover Help Scheme...... 54W Death: Fuel Poverty ...... 160W Domestic Visits ...... 54W Departmental Air Travel...... 161W Drama: Young People...... 55W Departmental Art Works ...... 161W iPhone...... 56W Departmental Consultants...... 161W Mass Media: Coventry...... 56W Departmental Energy...... 161W National Gallery: Pay ...... 57W Departmental Information Officers ...... 162W Olympic Games: Canada ...... 57W Departmental Mass Media ...... 162W Snowsport GB ...... 57W Departmental Pay...... 163W Swimming: Concessions...... 58W Life Expectancy: Salford...... 163W Tourism: Gloucestershire ...... 58W Lobbying: Registration ...... 164W Media Monitoring Unit...... 164W New Businesses: Feltham...... 164W DEFENCE...... 1W Part-time Employment: Working Mothers...... 165W Accommodation: Repairs ...... 2W Prostate Cancer...... 166W Afghanistan ...... 1W Unemployment ...... 167W Afghanistan and Iraq: Peacekeeping Operations...... 3W Unemployment: Kingston upon Thames ...... 168W Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations ...... 4W Unemployment: North West...... 169W Armed Forces: Absent Voting...... 5W Unemployment: Salford...... 171W Armed Forces: Aviation ...... 6W Armed Forces: Cadets...... 13W Armed Forces Compensation Scheme...... 4W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT...... 49W Armed Forces: Derbyshire ...... 6W Barking Park ...... 49W Armed Forces: Discharges ...... 7W Brass Bands: Finance...... 50W Armed Forces: Expenses...... 8W Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE—continued ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—continued Armed Forces: Foreigners...... 8W Nuclear Installations: Security...... 70W Armed Forces: Health Services ...... 9W Nuclear Power Stations: Construction ...... 70W Armed Forces: Housing ...... 10W Offshore Industry: Taxation...... 71W Armed Forces: Manpower ...... 12W Public Holidays...... 71W Armed Forces: Prisons...... 13W Renewable Energy: Finance ...... 71W Armed Forces: Reorganisation...... 13W Slough...... 71W Armed Forces: Salt ...... 13W Streatham ...... 72W Armoured Fighting Vehicles ...... 14W Thanet ...... 73W Baha Mousa Inquiry...... 14W Totnes Transition Town Group ...... 74W Batteries...... 14W Vauxhall...... 75W Blandford Camp ...... 14W Warm Front Scheme ...... 76W Blaydon ...... 15W Warm Front Scheme: Feltham ...... 77W Chemical Weapons: Animals ...... 16W Wind Power ...... 79W Defence Equipment ...... 16W Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre ...... 17W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Defence Medical Services: Private Sector...... 18W AFFAIRS...... 42W Defence Storage and Distribution Agency ...... 2W Agriculture: Sewage ...... 42W Departmental Energy...... 20W Air Pollution: Greater London ...... 42W Departmental Housing ...... 19W Animal Health Bill: Draft ...... 43W Departmental Official Hospitality ...... 19W Animal Tracing Schemes...... 43W Departmental Property...... 21W Association of Photographers...... 43W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 21W Bees: Imports...... 44W Departmental Training ...... 21W Carbon Emissions: Business ...... 44W European Defence Agency...... 22W Departmental Accountancy...... 44W Ex-servicemen...... 22W Departmental Consultants...... 44W Ex-servicemen: Prisoners ...... 24W Departmental Domestic Visits ...... 45W Falkland Islands ...... 25W Departmental Manpower...... 45W Helicopters ...... 26W Departmental Recruitment ...... 46W HMS Gannet ...... 26W Food: Origin Marking ...... 46W Improvised Explosive Devices: Afghanistan ...... 27W Hotels ...... 47W Iraq Committee of Inquiry ...... 27W Origin Marking...... 47W Members: Correspondence ...... 28W Power Stations: Plymouth...... 47W Met Office...... 28W Ragwort ...... 47W Met Office: Standards...... 28W Stress ...... 48W Military Exercises ...... 29W Trees ...... 48W Missile Defence Centre ...... 29W Veterinary Services: Complaints ...... 49W Navy: Middle East ...... 29W Written Questions: Administrative Delays ...... 49W Nimrod Aircraft...... 29W Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty...... 30W Officers ...... 30W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 209W Officers: Pay...... 30W Afghanistan: Overseas Aid ...... 209W Personnel: Mental Illnesses ...... 2W Antarctica...... 210W Public Holidays...... 31W Belarus: Capital Punishment...... 210W RAF Church Fenton ...... 1W British Indian Ocean Territory: Environment Protection . 210W RAF Croughton ...... 31W Burma: Politics and Government...... 211W RAF Lyneham...... 31W Burma: War Crimes ...... 212W RAF Menwith Hill ...... 32W Democratic Republic of Congo: War Crimes...... 212W Rescue Services: Scotland ...... 32W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 213W Reserve Forces ...... 32W Departmental Recruitment ...... 214W Royal Navy Unit Prestwick...... 33W Diplomatic Service Appeal Board...... 214W Service Personnel and Veterans Agency ...... 33W Falkland Islands: Expenditure ...... 215W Stabilisation Unit...... 34W Falkland Islands: Oil...... 215W Stabilisation Unit: Haiti...... 34W Falkland Islands: Population ...... 215W Veterans’ World...... 34W Government Hospitality: Wines...... 216W Iraq Committee of Inquiry ...... 216W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE...... 59W Libya and Egypt: Land Mines ...... 216W Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission ...... 217W Boilers: Government Assistance ...... 59W Mauritius: Foreign Relations ...... 217W Carbon Emissions...... 59W Somalia: Human Trafficking...... 217W Chorley...... 59W Ukraine: Famine...... 218W Departmental Accountancy...... 60W Departmental Billing ...... 60W Departmental Consultants...... 61W HEALTH...... 108W Departmental E-mail ...... 61W Accident and Emergency Departments ...... 108W Departmental Information Officers ...... 61W Alcoholic Drinks: Cancer and Strokes ...... 109W Departmental Internet ...... 61W Alzheimer’s Disease: Research...... 111W Departmental Pay...... 62W Autism ...... 111W Electricity: Nottingham ...... 63W Breast Cancer ...... 112W Energy: Conservation ...... 63W Breast Cancer: Hemsworth ...... 112W Energy: Housing ...... 64W Cancer: Drugs...... 113W Exhaust Emissions: Aviation...... 64W Cancer: Hemsworth ...... 116W Feltham ...... 65W Cancer: Kidneys ...... 117W Fuel Poverty: Salford ...... 66W Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response ...... 117W Hotels ...... 67W Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response: Housing: Insulation ...... 67W Olympic Games 2012 ...... 118W Industrial Diseases: Compensation...... 68W Dementia: Health Services...... 118W Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change...... 68W Departmental Energy...... 118W Members: Correspondence ...... 69W Diabetes: Prisons ...... 120W Milton Keynes ...... 69W Drugs: Misuse...... 121W Col. No. Col. No. HEALTH—continued JUSTICE—continued East Midlands Strategic Health Authority: Finance ...... 121W Human Trafficking: Victims...... 254W Family Nurse Partnership Programme: Finance ...... 121W Iraq Committee of Inquiry ...... 255W Feltham ...... 121W Land Registry: Manpower ...... 255W Food Standards Agency...... 123W Land Registry: Peterborough...... 255W General Practitioners...... 123W Life Imprisonment...... 256W General Practitioners: Opening Hours...... 123W National Offender Management Service ...... 256W Government Car and Despatch Agency...... 124W Offences Against Children: Convictions...... 257W Health Service: Feltham...... 124W Open Prisons ...... 258W Health Services: Hemsworth ...... 126W Political Parties ...... 259W Health Services: Older People ...... 126W Prison Accommodation ...... 259W Health: Sunlight...... 129W Prisoners: Foreigners ...... 260W Health Visitors: North West...... 128W Prisoners Release: Domestic Violence...... 259W Heroin: Overdoses ...... 129W Prisons: Drugs ...... 260W Home Care Services: Finance ...... 130W Voting Systems...... 261W Hospitals: Admissions ...... 131W Young Offenders: Reoffenders ...... 261W Hospitals: Reviews...... 131W Youth Justice Board: Finance ...... 264W Hospitals: Waiting Lists...... 132W Mental Health Services...... 133W LEADER OF THE HOUSE...... 39W Mental Health Services: Advocacy...... 135W Departmental Training ...... 39W Mental Health Services: Prisons ...... 135W Mephedrone: Risk Assessment ...... 135W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 35W Musgrove Park Hospital Taunton: Patients ...... 135W Bloody Sunday Tribunal of Inquiry ...... 35W National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence ...... 137W Departmental Freedom of Information ...... 35W Neuromuscular Services: West Midlands ...... 138W Departmental Manpower...... 35W NHS ...... 138W Offences against Children ...... 36W NHS Direct...... 139W Prisoners: Internet ...... 37W NHS: Drugs...... 139W Reoffenders...... 37W NHS: Expenditure ...... 140W NHS: Fees and Charges ...... 140W NHS: Foreign Workers ...... 140W OLYMPICS ...... 38W NHS: Marketing...... 140W Olympic Games 2012: Essex ...... 38W NHS Peterborough: Finance...... 139W NHS: Procurement ...... 141W PRIME MINISTER...... 39W NHS: Training ...... 142W Members: Correspondence ...... 39W Nurses...... 142W Stabilisation Unit...... 39W Nurses: Feltham...... 142W Nurses: Nottinghamshire...... 141W SOLICITOR-GENERAL...... 244W Patients ...... 143W BAE Systems: Fines...... 244W Prescription Drugs...... 143W BAE Systems: USA ...... 244W Prescriptions ...... 144W Departmental Energy...... 244W Prescriptions: Fees and Charges...... 144W Iraq Committee of Inquiry ...... 245W Primary Care Trusts...... 145W Special Advocates ...... 245W Primary Care Trusts: Procurement...... 145W Primodos ...... 145W TRANSPORT ...... 172W Prostate Cancer: Health Services ...... 146W Aviation ...... 172W Streptococcus: Pregnancy ...... 147W Aviation: Exhaust Emissions...... 175W Strokes: Health Services...... 147W Aviation: Isle of Man...... 175W Strokes: Mental Health...... 152W Aviation: Northern Ireland ...... 176W Surgery ...... 152W Aviation: Security ...... 176W Surgery: Operating Costs ...... 151W British Transport Police: Fixed Penalties...... 177W Teenage Pregnancy ...... 153W Bus Services: Concessions...... 178W Urology: Health Services ...... 154W Departmental Accountancy...... 178W Departmental Communication ...... 178W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION...... 37W Departmental Finance ...... 179W House of Commons: Buildings...... 37W Departmental Manpower...... 181W Members: Allowances...... 38W Departmental Recruitment ...... 181W Driving Instruction...... 182W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 239W Driving Tests: Orkney and Shetland ...... 182W East Coast Railway Line...... 183W Afghanistan and Pakistan: Overseas Aid ...... 239W Feltham ...... 183W Departmental Energy...... 240W Gospel Oak-Barking Railway Line ...... 184W Iraq Committee of Inquiry ...... 241W Government Car and Despatch Agency...... 185W Overseas Aid...... 241W Highways Agency: Finance...... 194W Overseas Aid: Climate Change...... 242W Hotels ...... 197W Overseas Aid: Health Services...... 242W London Bridge Station ...... 197W Palestinians: Overseas Aid ...... 243W Lorries ...... 197W Western Sahara: Overseas Aid ...... 243W M4: Cameras ...... 197W Motorways: Accidents ...... 198W JUSTICE...... 246W Motorways: Ragwort ...... 198W Correctional Services Board: Finance...... 246W Motorways: Repairs and Maintenance ...... 198W Custodial Treatment: Young Offenders...... 246W Newspaper Licensing Agency ...... 200W Departmental Electronic Equipment ...... 247W Public Holidays...... 199W Departmental Energy...... 249W Public Transport: Rural Areas ...... 199W Departmental Information Officers ...... 249W Railways ...... 200W Departmental Manpower...... 250W Railways: North East...... 201W Departmental Travel ...... 251W Road Traffic...... 201W Driving Offences: Suffolk...... 252W Roads: Accidents ...... 202W Electoral Register: Overseas Residence ...... 253W Roads: Finance ...... 202W Col. No. Col. No. TRANSPORT—continued TREASURY—continued Roads: Repairs and Maintenance ...... 202W VAT: Charities ...... 238W Roads: Snow and Ice...... 207W Welfare Tax Credits ...... 238W Taxis: Safety ...... 209W Welfare Tax Credits: Newport...... 239W Transport: Finance ...... 209W Welfare Tax Credits: Rotherham...... 239W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 209W WALES...... 39W TREASURY ...... 219W Devolution: Referendums ...... 39W Banks: Africa...... 219W Council Tax ...... 219W WOMEN AND EQUALITY ...... 40W Council Tax: Valuation ...... 219W Crimes of Violence: Females...... 40W Crown Lands and Estates: Canvey Island ...... 220W Departmental Disabled Staff ...... 40W Departmental Consultants...... 220W Departmental Energy...... 40W Departmental Coordination ...... 220W Departmental Official Hospitality ...... 41W Departmental Energy...... 221W Departmental Travel ...... 41W Domicile ...... 221W Equality and Human Rights Commission: Databases ..... 41W Excise Duties: Alcoholic Drinks ...... 222W Feltham ...... 42W Feltham ...... 223W Prostitution: Internet ...... 42W Financial Institutions: Directors ...... 223W Financial Services Authority...... 223W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 79W Financial Services: Standards ...... 224W Better Off in Work Credit ...... 79W Fiscal Policy...... 224W Blaydon ...... 80W Fraud: Alcoholic Drinks...... 224W Chorley...... 82W Government Securities...... 224W Cleethorpes...... 84W Hidden Economy...... 225W Council Tax Benefits and Housing Benefit...... 86W Hospital Beds: Wakefield...... 225W Employers’ Liability...... 87W Income Tax...... 226W Employment and Support Allowance: Medical Income Tax: Tax Allowances ...... 227W Examinations ...... 87W Landfill Tax ...... 228W Employment: Disabled...... 87W Loans...... 228W European Regional Development Fund...... 89W Members: Correspondence ...... 229W Feltham ...... 89W Money Laundering ...... 229W Future Jobs Fund ...... 91W Mortgages...... 229W Hemsworth ...... 92W National Insurance Contributions: Registration ...... 229W Housing Benefit ...... 94W PAYE...... 230W Industrial Diseases: Compensation...... 95W Pension Credit: Northern Ireland ...... 230W Jobcentre Plus: Finance ...... 95W Public Sector: Contracts ...... 230W Jobcentre Plus: Public Relations ...... 95W Resource Accounting and Budgeting ...... 231W Milton Keynes ...... 96W Revenue and Customs...... 232W Motability...... 98W Revenue and Customs: Manpower...... 233W Pathways to Work...... 98W Sick Pay ...... 233W Pensioners: Income ...... 98W Stamp Duty Land Tax ...... 233W Pensioners: Poverty...... 99W Tax Allowances: North West...... 234W Pensions: Senior Civil Servants ...... 99W Taxation...... 234W Sandwell...... 100W Taxation: Companies ...... 236W Second State Pension ...... 102W Taxation: Fraud ...... 236W Slough...... 102W Taxation: Married People ...... 236W Social Security Benefits: Debts...... 104W Taxation: Medical Equipment ...... 237W Social Security Benefits: Fraud ...... 104W Taxation: Self Assessment ...... 237W Thanet ...... 105W Valuation ...... 237W Winter Fuel Payments...... 108W Valuation Office: Databases...... 238W Winter Fuel Payments: Bexley ...... 108W MINISTERIAL CORRECTIONS

Monday 22 February 2010

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE...... 4MC FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 2MC RAF Lyneham: Weather...... 4MC Binyam Mohamed ...... 2MC ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS...... 1MC Food Supply ...... 1MC Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. The Bound Volumes will also be sent to Members who similarly express their desire to have them. No proofs of the Daily Reports can be supplied, nor can corrections be made in the Weekly Edition. Corrections which Members suggest for the Bound Volume should be clearly marked in the Daily Report, but not telephoned, and the copy containing the Corrections must be received at the Editor’s Room, House of Commons,

not later than Monday 1 March 2010

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CONTENTS

Monday 22 February 2010

List of Government and Principal Officers of the House

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

Speaker’s Statement [Col. 21]

British Passports (Dubai) [Col. 22] Answer to urgent question—(Chris Bryant)

Prisons (Early Release) [Col. 27] Statement—(Mr. Straw)

House of Commons Reform Committee Report [Col. 37] General debate

Petition [Col. 132]

Total Place Programme (High Peak) [Col. 133] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 1WS]

Petition [Col. 1P] Observations

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

Ministerial Corrections [Col. 1MC]