Monday Volume 517 25 October 2010 No. 58

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 25 October 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.DAVID CAMERON,MP,MAY 2010)

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

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

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

International Development— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Andrew Mitchell, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Alan Duncan, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—Stephen O’Brien, MP Justice— LORD CHANCELLOR AND SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Kenneth Clarke, QC, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Lord McNally The Rt Hon. Nick Herbert, MP (Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice) § PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Crispin Blunt, MP Jonathan Djanogly, MP Law Officers— ATTORNEY-GENERAL—The Rt Hon. Dominic Grieve, QC, MP SOLICITOR-GENERAL—Edward Garnier, QC, MP ADVOCATE-GENERAL FOR SCOTLAND—The Rt Hon. Lord Wallace of Tankerness, QC Leader of the House of Commons— LEADER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS AND LORD PRIVY SEAL—The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—David Heath, CBE, MP Northern Ireland— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Owen Paterson, MP MINISTER OF STATE—Hugo Swire, MP Privy Council Office— DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL—The Rt Hon. Nick Clegg, MP Scotland Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Michael Moore, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. David Mundell, MP Transport— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Philip Hammond, MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Theresa Villiers, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Norman Baker, MP Mike Penning, MP Treasury— PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt Hon. David Cameron, MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt Hon. George Osborne, MP CHIEF SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Danny Alexander, MP FINANCIAL SECRETARY—Mark Hoban, MP EXCHEQUER SECRETARY—David Gauke, MP ECONOMIC SECRETARY—Justine Greening, MP COMMERCIAL SECRETARY—Lord Sassoon PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY—The Rt Hon. Patrick McLoughlin, MP LORDS COMMISSIONERS— Michael Fabricant, MP Angela Watkinson, MP Jeremy Wright, MP Brooks Newmark, MP James Duddridge, MP ASSISTANT WHIPS— Philip Dunne, MP Stephen Crabb, MP Robert Goodwill, MP Shailesh Vara, MP Bill Wiggin, MP Chloe Smith, MP Norman Lamb, MP Mark Hunter, MP iv HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

Wales Office— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Cheryl Gillan, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE—David Jones, MP Work and Pensions— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Iain Duncan Smith, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Chris Grayling, MP Steve Webb, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Maria Miller, MP Lord Freud Her Majesty’s Household— LORD CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt Hon. Earl Peel, GCVO, DL LORD STEWARD—The Earl of Dalhousie MASTER OF THE HORSE—Lord Vestey, KCVO TREASURER—The Rt Hon. John Randall, MP COMPTROLLER—Alistair Carmichael, MP VICE-CHAMBERLAIN—The Rt Hon. Mark Francois, MP CAPTAIN OF THE HONOURABLE CORPS OF GENTLEMEN-AT-ARMS—The Rt Hon. Baroness Anelay of St Johns, DBE CAPTAIN OF THE QUEEN’S BODYGUARD OF THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD—The Rt Hon. Lord Shutt of Greetland, OBE BARONESSES IN WAITING—Baroness Northover, Baroness Rawlings, Baroness Verma LORDS IN WAITING—Earl Attlee, Lord Astor of Hever §, DL, Lord De Mauley, TD, Lord Taylor of Holbeach, CBE, Lord Wallace of Saltaire

§ Members of the Government listed under more than one Department

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

THE SPEAKER—The Rt Hon. John Bercow, MP

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

PANEL OF CHAIRS Mr David Amess, MP, Hugh Bayley, MP, Miss Anne Begg, MP, Mr Joe Benton, MP, Mr Clive Betts, MP, Mr Peter Bone, MP, Mr Graham Brady, MP, Annette Brooke, MP, Martin Caton, MP, Mr Christopher Chope, MP, Katy Clark, MP, Mr David Crausby, MP, Philip Davies, MP, Jim Dobbin, MP, Mr Roger Gale, MP, Mr James Gray, MP, Mr Mike Hancock, MP, Mr Philip Hollobone, MP, Mr Jim Hood, MP, The Rt Hon. George Howarth, MP, Mr Edward Leigh, MP, Dr William McCrea, MP, Miss Anne McIntosh, MP, Mrs Anne Main, MP, Albert Owen, MP, Mrs Linda Riordan, MP, John Robertson, MP, Andrew Rosindell, MP, Jim Sheridan, MP, Mr Gary Streeter, MP, Mr Andrew Turner, MP, Mr Charles Walker, MP, Mr Mike Weir, MP, Hywel Williams, MP

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), Sir Stuart Bell, MP, The Rt Hon. Hilary Benn, MP, Sir Paul Beresford, MP, John Thurso, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Dorian Gerhold ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Robert Cope

ADMINISTRATION ESTIMATE AUDIT COMMITTEE Alex Jablonowski (Chairman), The Rt Hon. Hilary Benn, MP, The Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, John Thurso, MP, Stephen Brooker, Mark Clarke 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—Matthew Hamlyn

SPEAKER’S SECRETARY—Kate Emms SPEAKER’S COUNSEL—Michael Carpenter SPEAKER’S CHAPLAIN—Rev. Rose Hudson-Wilkin 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

25 October 2010

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

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

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

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 517 EIGHTH VOLUME OF SESSION 2010-2011

Mr Vaizey: Although the overall grant to the Arts House of Commons Council has gone down by 29%, we have asked the Arts Council to limit the cut to arts organisations to just Monday 25 October 2010 15%, and when we take into account the significant increase in funds from the national lottery, the overall cut to the Arts Council will be below 12%. That is very The House met at half-past Two o’clock good news, and I hope that the hon. Gentleman will congratulate the Secretary of State on such a fine settlement. PRAYERS Caroline Dinenage (Gosport) (Con): Will the Minister [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] please confirm that this Government will not repeat the mistakes of the previous Government and ensure that national lottery funding is kept to its original purpose, Oral Answers to Questions which includes funding the arts? Mr Vaizey: I am pleased to reassure my hon. Friend that we will not repeat any of the mistakes of the previous Government. CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Arts (Funding) The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport was asked— 2. Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab): What recent discussions he has had with the Community Arts Projects Chancellor of the Exchequer on funding for the arts. [18944] 1. Ian Lavery (Wansbeck) (Lab): What plans he has The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media for the future funding of community arts projects. and Sport (Mr Jeremy Hunt): I am pleased to say that [18943] last week I agreed with the Chancellor a package of cuts that will limit the cuts in funding for front-line arts The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, organisations and museums to just 15%, a figure that Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Edward Vaizey): Future compares very favourably with many other parts of the funding for particular arts projects is ultimately a matter public sector. for the Arts Council but, as part of its recent settlement, we have asked it to limit cuts to the overall budget for Mr Cunningham: Can the Secretary of State say what arts organisations to just 15%. When this is combined discussions he has had with his colleague the Secretary with an increase in income for the arts good cause from of State for Education about protecting the arts at the national lottery, I am confident that community arts universities and the teaching of art at school? projects will continue to be successful. Mr Hunt: We have had considerable discussions with Ian Lavery: Will the Minister tell the House what the Department for Education, with which we share a impact the cut of 29.6% to the Arts Council budget will belief in the importance of cultural education. However, have on the future success of the creative industries? the Secretary of State for Education has made it clear 3 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 4 that the best way to secure that is not by ring-fencing tax regime? That would bring in yet more money for the money going to schools, but by giving heads the discretion arts. Will he tell the House what progress is being made to use the money as they fit. By doing that, we are in that direction? confident that heads will understand the extreme importance and value of arts education. Mr Hunt: I am very happy to do so. I agree with my hon. Friend that there is a big opportunity if we change Mr John Whittingdale (Maldon) (Con): Does my the taxation regime for the national lottery. When we right hon. Friend agree that at a time when the amount were in opposition, Camelot gave us undertakings that of public money available for the arts has inevitably it was prepared to indemnify the Government against had to be reduced, it is all the more important that any reduction in Treasury revenues, were such a change we should try to increase business sponsorship and to be made. If it were still prepared to do that, I am sure philanthropy? Does he agree that Arts and Business has that we could make fast progress. an exceptionally good record in that area, and that it would therefore be rather strange to cut the amount of Tourism and Hospitality Sector money going to it at this time? 3. Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): What discussions Mr Hunt: I thank my hon. Friend for his well-informed he has had with representatives of the tourism and question. He is absolutely right that at a time like this, hospitality sector on the effect on that sector of boosting philanthropy and other sources of income for reductions in his Department’s budget. [18945] the arts is extremely important. Arts and Business has done some valuable work. Obviously its funding is a The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, matter for the Arts Council, which operates at arm’s Olympics, Media and Sport (John Penrose): AsIam length. However, I am pleased to be able to tell him that sure the hon. Gentleman would expect, I have regular before the end of the year, we will be announcing a and extensive discussions with representatives from right package of measures designed to boost philanthropy the way across the tourism industry in all parts of the and help to strengthen the fundraising capacity of arts country, and I hope to continue to do so. organisations—something that will be helpful to them in difficult times. Ian Mearns: Will the Minister outline what plans the Department has to facilitate growth in tourism and hospitality in the north-east of England? Tourism North Gloria De Piero (Ashfield) (Lab): Does the Secretary East and its successful and popular marketing programme, of State recall saying in January of this year: “Passionate people, passionate places”, have until recently “I want people to say that on my watch the arts not just been under the umbrella of the regional development weathered a very, very difficult period, but also laid the foundations agency, One NorthEast, which is soon to be abolished. for a new golden age”? Given that Tourism North East’s advisory board’s proposed Last week we saw a 30% cut in the Arts Council budget alternative marketing strategy has been rejected by the and a 15% cut to the British Film Institute. Does the Government, what does he envisage will fill the vacuum Secretary of State understand that his role last week as in order to support the highly important tourism industry Chancellor’s little helper, rather than the champion for in the north-east of England? the arts, makes his words seem pretty hollow? How many arts organisations does he think will go to the John Penrose: I understand the hon. Gentleman’s wall as a result of the cuts? concerns, and we have already made representations within Government on the importance of continuing Mr Hunt: May I start by welcoming the hon. Lady to tourism marketing spend, to ensure that local tourism her position? She brings with her considerable showbiz boards of all kinds have continuity of funding. I hope panache—something that, despite his many other talents, that he will also be pleased to know that I have tasked the Under-Secretary of State, my hon. Friend the Member VisitEngland to ensure that, for any programmes that for Wantage (Mr Vaizey) tried but failed to do for many are halfway through, as much continuity as possible is years when he was doing her job. maintained. The hon. Lady has only been doing the job a short Miss Anne McIntosh (Thirsk and Malton) (Con): while—[HON.MEMBERS: “So have you.”] Indeed. I will The Minister will understand that tourism and hospitality perhaps forgive her for not understanding how the sector in North Yorkshire benefits greatly from having figures work, because after the lottery changes introduced so many race courses there. Will he ensure that the by this Government—changes that the Labour party owners, trainers, jockeys and everyone else involved, opposed every step of the way—the actual cut in the including stable boys and girls, benefit from any changes arts budget is less than 12%. Perhaps this is a moment to the levy to ensure that tourism and hospitality continue for the Opposition to review that policy; otherwise there to flourish at race courses? will be two parties in British politics that want to throw a lifeline to the arts and one party that wants to take it John Penrose: My hon. Friend is absolutely right to away. say that racing is an important part of our tourism industry. Race meetings all round the country bring in Mr Don Foster (Bath) (LD): We have already heard many people from the domestic tourism market, but that changes to the national lottery have meant more they are rightly internationally famed for bringing in money for the arts, but does the Secretary of State agree foreign visitors too. She is right to point out that any that we could go even further, were we to change the changes to the levy will need to ensure that the existing taxation regime for the national lottery to a gross profits important symbiotic relationship between racing and 5 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 6 bookmaking is maintained, and that a fair solution is John Penrose: No, I do not. If the right hon. Gentleman achieved for all. I am sure that we will endeavour to looks at the Department’s overall settlement, he will see achieve just that. that we did pretty well compared with many.As mentioned twice already, the increase in funding from the lottery Tristram Hunt (Stoke-on-Trent Central) (Lab): This will help to allay the effects of some cuts, so this means Government have little feel for the history and heritage that, overall, we hope to have managed to focus the cuts of this country, although they are among the drivers away from the front line and protect as much as possible of the tourism sector. Will the Minister explain why the nation’s culture and heritage. the Government are seeking to protect the overpaid panjandrums of the Olympic Development Agency while Broadband cutting English Heritage by 30%? 5. Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): John Penrose: I think that that last comment was What recent progress has been made on the roll out of extraordinarily rich, coming from a member of a party broadband to rural areas. [18947] that, within living memory, was going on about cool Britannia and that completely failed to fund heritage in 10. Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): the way that it should have been funded over the past What plans he has to roll out next generation 10 or 15 years. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will broadband to rural areas. [18952] know that the entire heritage sector feels that it has been 11. Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con): What undervalued and underfunded for a very long time, in progress he has made on his plans to roll out next stark contrast to what is now happening under the new generation broadband. [18953] Government. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has pointed out, if we take into account the 13. Anne Marie Morris (Newton Abbot) (Con): What changes in the lottery, we can see that the total cut to steps he is taking to ensure that all areas have access to heritage funding is minus 4%, and that is all. high-speed broadband. [18955]

Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Jeremy Hunt): We are making excellent 4. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): If he will progress in broadband roll-out. Last week, the Chancellor discuss with the Chancellor of the Exchequer the announced four superfast broadband pilots in rural merits of extending the listed places of worship grant locations in the Highlands and Islands, Cumbria, Yorkshire scheme beyond 2011. [18946] and Herefordshire. There will be further announcements before the end of the year on how we will roll this out to The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, the whole country. Olympics, Media and Sport (John Penrose): I am sure that my hon. Friend will remember that the Chancellor Andrew Bridgen: I thank the Secretary of State for of the Exchequer announced in his comprehensive spending that answer. In view of the potential cuts to rural bus review statement last week that the listed places of services on top of the disastrous cuts in rural post worship grant scheme is to continue. I am delighted, as I offices under the last Labour Government, does he am sure all hon. Members are, that that is the case. We agree that the roll-out of broadband to our rural have had to make some small reductions, and it will communities is absolutely vital in the fight to prevent now go back to its pre-2006 status, but other than that, rural isolation? it will continue. I hope that my hon. Friend and others will join me in praising that decision. Mr Hunt: My hon. Friend makes an excellent point. Superfast broadband in rural areas offers huge opportunities for things such as telemedicine, home education and Mr Hollobone: I congratulate my hon. Friend the working from home. The National Endowment for Minister on doing his bit to save the scheme, which Science, Technology and the Arts estimates that when many of my constituents were worried was going to be this is done, it will have created about 600,000 jobs. The cut altogether. Will he expand on what “pre-2006” difference between Government and Opposition Members actually means for those churches applying for funds? is that when Labour were in government they had secured £200 million for broadband roll-out, whereas John Penrose: I would be delighted to. Basically, it we have secured £830 million. I think the public know means that local community groups raising money to who is doing better. repair the fabric of their church will continue effectively to be able to claim grants equivalent to the value of the Harriett Baldwin: The villages of Ripple, Shrawley VAT on the works that are done. The only difference and Aston Somerville have all been in touch with me will be that some categories of work—primarily, recently about the problem of very slow broadband professional fees, bells, organs and the like—will be speeds. Is there anything I can say to my constituents excluded in the way they were before 2006, but everything now about what can be done to speed things up? else will continue to be claimable. Mr Hunt: What my hon. Friend can say is that this Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): May I thank the Government have committed to this country having the Minister for safeguarding this scheme, but does he best superfast broadband network in Europe. Labour regard his success on this front as the only success his Members promised 2 megabit access for the whole Department has had in its negotiations with the Chancellor country, so they wanted us to be in the economic slow of the Exchequer? lane, whereas we want to be in the superfast lane. 7 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 8

Graham Evans: When does my right hon. Friend the Opposition is that under us there will be no phone expect the results from the rural broadband pilots to be tax, no increase in the licence fee, and nearly £1 billion gathered? of investment. Who says that you cannot do more for less? Mr Hunt: I hope the rural broadband pilots will start in the middle of next year and that, by the end of that Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): Why was Wales excluded year, we will be in a position to see how successful they from the superfast broadband pilots? have been. The broader issue with these pilots is that we have managed to secure nearly £1 billion of investment Mr Hunt: Wales has not been excluded. Herefordshire for this project—a lot more than the Opposition ever is on the border of Wales, and I very much hope that did—but it is going to take a lot more money than that, some of the benefits of the pilot there will spread over so we need to use this money to catalyse private sector that border. investment. The point of the pilots is to understand the best way to achieve that, so that we can roll it out to the Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab): whole country at minimum cost to the taxpayer. The last Government committed themselves to 2 megabit Anne Marie Morris: I am sure the Secretary of State broadband for everyone by the end of 2012. You have will be as delighted as I am to learn that Broadhempston committed yourself to vague promises to improve the primary school in my constituency has recently gained broadband network. Can you say precisely when everyone access to high-speed broadband. However, he will also in the country will have 2 megabit broadband? be acutely aware that there are many other household businesses and schools across Devon that remain effectively Mr Speaker: Order. I have committed myself to nothing broadband blackspots. It is important to act urgently to on this matter and I can say nothing on this matter, but ensure no part of Devon is still struggling to get broadband I hope that the Secretary of State can. as other parts of the UK move into the super-broadband age. I am particularly concerned because I believe we Mr Hunt: We have not said that we will not honour are not part of the pilot and I do not wish to wait two that commitment. We have delayed it from 2012 to years for progress. Will the Secretary of State agree to 2015, for the simple reason that, as the hon. Lady will meet me in order to discuss this important matter understand, there was not enough money in the pot. further? What assurances can he give me that parts of Devon will have access sooner rather than later? S4C (Funding) Mr Hunt: The assurance that I can give to my hon. Friend is that, having inherited a situation in which 6. Jessica Morden (Newport East) (Lab): What plans 250,000 homes have no access to broadband, we have he has for the future funding of S4C; and if he will developed a credible and affordable plan to deal with it; make a statement. [18948] and that pledge applies to her constituency just as much as it applies to every other constituency in the country. The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Jeremy Hunt): The comprehensive spending Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): I welcome review secured funding for S4C that will last throughout the expansion of broadband—although before too long the next four years. We think that, in partnership with there will be 250,000 people without homes, let alone in the BBC, we have a settlement that will be sustainable homes with access to broadband—but might the Secretary and also reduce the serious problems that S4C was of State consider whether broadband is not slightly facing in terms of its loss of audience share. yesterday’s technology? There are now cities around the world that are wholly wi-fi, so that people are not Jessica Morden: What hope is there for the Government’s dependent on bits of lead and copper. Will the Secretary respect agenda with the devolved Administrations if the of State consider an experiment, perhaps in Rotherham? Secretary of State did not even have the courtesy to Could it be turned into a wholly wi-fi town? consult Welsh viewers, the Welsh Assembly Government or even S4C itself over the handing of its funding to the Mr Hunt: The broadband pilots that we have announced BBC? are not technology-specific. If the right hon. Gentleman had asked me what I thought the likely solution would Mr Hunt: We faced severe challenges in regard to be, I should have said that there was likely to be a mix of public spending. We managed to secure that public fibre, wi-fi and mobile technologies that deliver universal spending for the next four years, and at the same time connection. However, we want to wait for the pilots to we addressed something that the hon. Lady’s party did establish the most cost-effective way of achieving that. not address at all: the fact that over the past five years Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): When will this the weekly reach of S4C had halved. I think that what super-duper roll-out reach the 25 ex-pit villages in Bolsover? we have done is an achievement of which we can be People keep asking me when that will happen. The proud. Secretary of State has painted a wonderful picture, but will it be this year, next year, some time or never? Hywel Williams (Arfon) (PC): The private sector of television production is very important as a generator Mr Hunt: I have good news for the hon. Gentleman of wealth and jobs in my constituency. What assessment to take back to the villages of Bolsover. Our commitment has the Secretary of State made of the effects of his cuts is that we will achieve that during the present Parliament. on that vital sector—a sector that, if I may say so, only We will have the best superfast broadband network in the stupidest of Governments would attack in the middle Europe. The difference between the Government and of a recession? 9 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 10

Mr Hunt: During my discussions on the future of Mr Lee Scott (Ilford North) (Con): As part of any S4C, I was very aware of the importance of the Welsh consultation, will the Minister look very seriously at independent production sector. That is why I have made foreign investment particularly in our lower league clubs? it an explicit part of our agreement with the BBC that it That is leaving many clubs in situations such as Portsmouth will continue to outsource 100% of S4C’s production to found itself in last week, as the directors and owners are the sector. It is also why funding for S4C has been not fit to run a football club and are just asset-stripping secured for the next four years—funding on which the them. Welsh production sector depends. Hugh Robertson: I absolutely take that point, although Football Governance I remember that we looked into this issue when in opposition and it was clear both there were as many 7. Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): When he last met examples of good as of bad overseas ownership, and the Football Association to discuss proposed reforms that for a long time some of the worst excesses were of football governance. [18949] committed by English owners. This is not necessarily a The Minister for Sport and the Olympics (Hugh nationality problem, therefore, although my hon. Friend Robertson): Before answering, may I pay tribute to makes a good point. Andy Holmes, the double Olympic rowing gold medallist Commonwealth Games 2014 who, sadly, has passed away at the age of just 51? For reasons the hon. Gentleman will understand, my 8. Mr Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West) (Lab/Co-op): Department’s current priority is winning the 2018 football What steps he is taking to ensure the successful staging World cup bid. However, I will continue my discussions of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth games. [18950] with the football authorities—and, indeed, Members on both sides of the House—in order to deliver on the The Minister for Sport and the Olympics (Hugh coalition Government’s commitment. Robertson): Responsibility for staging Glasgow 2014 rests with the organising committee and its key partners Bob Russell: The Minister has no doubt discovered including the Scottish Government, Glasgow city council by now that those at the top of football are as impotent and Commonwealth Games Scotland. I have already as a room of eunuchs, that financially they have regimes met my Scottish counterpart on two occasions, visited that would make bankers blush, and that, with greedy Scotland House during my trip to Delhi—the hon. footballers and parasitic agents, the game is being ruined. Gentleman will be pleased to know that—and had With that in mind, is it not time that the current initial meetings with the Glasgow 2014 team. Government—the last Government failed to do this—held a royal commission or some other inquiry, because the Mr Davidson: I rise with some trepidation as Glasgow game is incapable of regulating itself? is nowhere near Herefordshire. Notwithstanding that, Hugh Robertson: As was clear in the debate in however, will the Government be a bit clearer about the Westminster Hall a month or so ago, there is widespread help they intend to provide over the coming years, in cross-House agreement that the position we are in at particular to Glasgow city council and the organising present is not satisfactory. People know where we want committee? to get to eventually, but the problem is that, because of the disparate nature of football club ownership, there is Hugh Robertson: I can promise the hon. Gentleman no one silver bullet that will deliver that. I have said that that, given my name, I am very well aware that Herefordshire I will consult widely over the next six months. I will is nowhere near Scotland. I can also promise him that continue to do so, and during that consultation I will, of the Government have delivered on all the commitments course, bear the hon. Gentleman’s suggestion in mind. they gave Glasgow 2014 as part of the bidding process and that we are examining ways in which we might help Tony Lloyd (Manchester Central) (Lab): The Minister it further as the process moves forward. has always struck quite a helpful tone on the governance of football issue, but does he accept that resolving the Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP): recent situation at Liverpool football club, for example, The Minister will, of course, know that the BBC has owed nothing at all to the stewardship of either the pulled out of being the official broadcaster of the premiership or the Football Association, and that, frankly, Glasgow games, which has the potential to cost the the regulatory bodies are now beyond redemption? By games millions of pounds in terms of the broadcasting all means the Minister can consult, but will he make infrastructure. Will he join me in making a case to the sure that he brings the regulatory bodies to order so BBC about reconsidering that? When he does so, will he that there is proper regulation that serves the interests remind the BBC that it has obligations to the whole UK? of the supporters? Hugh Robertson: I will certainly do that. I just say to Hugh Robertson: Yes, I can give the hon. Gentleman the hon. Gentleman that, as the right hon. Member for that commitment. As I think he knows, this process Dulwich and West Norwood (Tessa Jowell) will recall, a started some while before May—indeed, Ministers in similar row occurred when the BBC did not secure the the former Government were crucial in that. There is a Paralympics rights for 2012 but, as things have worked clear cross-House will for this situation to be sorted out. out, I think that most people agree that the fact that As I have said, we all accept that the current situation is those games will now be on a different broadcaster is to not satisfactory, and we know sort of where we want to everybody’s benefit. This was not one of the issues get to, but there is no one single answer that gets us raised with me in any of my meetings about the there. I promise the hon. Gentleman that I take this Commonwealth games in Delhi, but he has my word issue seriously and that I will do what I can. that if it becomes one, I will certainly take it up. 11 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 12

Olympics Legacy of investment only one in five schoolchildren in this country is playing competitive sport—that is not a 9. Mrs Linda Riordan (Halifax) (Lab/Co-op): What terribly good result. assessment he has made of the legacy for Halifax of the London 2012 Olympics. [18951] UK Sport/Sport England

The Minister for Sport and the Olympics (Hugh 14. Mr Michael McCann (East Kilbride, Strathaven Robertson): Halifax and Yorkshire stand to gain from a and Lesmahagow) (Lab): What discussions he has had wide range of opportunities created by the games, through with the Minister for the Cabinet Office on proposals businesses winning games-related work, increased tourism to merge UK Sport and Sport England. [18956] and cultural events. I am glad to tell the hon. Lady that the Olympic Delivery Authority has already awarded The Minister for Sport and the Olympics (Hugh contracts to 39 suppliers in Yorkshire and Humberside. Robertson): My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State met Francis Maude on 8 July to discuss the public Mrs Riordan: Given that these Olympics are London- bodies Bill— focused and that the capital missed out on the worst of the cuts announced last week, how will the Minister Mr Speaker: Order. I am sure that the Minister is ensure that towns such as Halifax do benefit from the referring to the right hon. Member for Horsham Olympic legacy in terms of much-needed grass-roots (Mr Maude); alternatively, he should refer to him as a sports facilities? Minister. Hugh Robertson: My apologies, Mr Speaker. They Hugh Robertson: I am delighted to tell the hon. Lady discussed bringing together UK Sport and Sport England, that the best possible news is that I have been to Halifax and that was also discussed at an inter-ministerial meeting to deliver that message. On 20 July, I was able to visit on 13 September. I also met my devolved counterparts the Ling Bob school in her constituency, where I attended to discuss the issue when I was in Delhi and I have, of a morning session connected with the Chance to Shine course, discussed it with many others in sport and inside scheme. I saw the entire school playing cricket in the the two bodies. playground, and the school had clearly used this to shape its curriculum for the day. That is just one example of many that are brought about by the 2012 games. Mr McCann: Recent correspondence from the Scottish Executive somewhat complacently suggests that they are merely aware of the proposed merger. Given UK Tessa Jowell (Dulwich and West Norwood) (Lab): Sport’s responsibilities for the world-class performance The concern about the sporting legacy is shared not just programme across the United Kingdom, how will the in Halifax but, as I am sure the Minister is aware, right Minister ensure that there is a fair distribution of financial around the country, in view of last week’s announcement support for our elite athletes? that the funding for the Youth Sport Trust and school sports partnerships would be ended. Today, we have Hugh Robertson: That was one of the issues that we seen statements from 442 head teachers, coaches and discussed in Delhi. I am sure that it will not have physical education teachers expressing their concern escaped the hon. Gentleman’s notice that part of the that this puts the legacy for the London 2012 games and comprehensive spending review announced on Wednesday the aspirations of young people at risk. This has taken was framed by a decision to increase the amount of 10 years to achieve for young people in state schools. money going in to sport. We were able to announce not What assurance can he give that those children will only that we would stick to the original spending limits continue to enjoy sport in the way that they have been envisaged for London 2012 and would honour those led to believe is their entitlement as part of the Olympic commitments in full, but that UK Sport would have the legacy? same level of funding, or slightly better, for the start of the Rio cycle than it is enjoying this year. Hugh Robertson: The answer is in two halves. We have been able to do many things that have secured the Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): In addition to the sports legacy for the London 2012 games: a generation merger, the Government are cutting the funding that of new facilities is appearing in and around the Olympic the two organisations receive as well as cutting £160 million park and our other venues; there will be a considerably from school sports and axing funding for sports colleges. increased profile as a result of the games; my right hon. Before the election, the hon. Gentleman praised Labour’s Friend the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, support for sport and pledged that it would not be Media and Sport has already announced our plans for a undermined by the Conservatives. Will he tell us what schools Olympics; we are bringing forward plans for impact those decisions will have on his predecessor’s community sport; and we were able, as part of last ambition to get 2 million people taking part in sport? Wednesday’s settlement, to produce a new major events sports strategy, which will produce a tapestry of events Hugh Robertson: I welcome the hon. Gentleman to post-2012. his place and I hope that he enjoys the position as much The right hon. Lady’s point about the Youth Sport as I did—and, if I might say so, spends as much time Trust is an interesting one. It is fair to say that it has doing it as I did. I understand his point, but he must performed extremely well in some places, but if she was admit that the amount of debt interest this country honest about it, she would say that its performance has pays out every single day is the same as the entire been less good in others. The fact remains that after community sport budget each year, so it is a considerable 10 years and probably comfortably more than £1 billion job to tackle it. By increasing the lottery shares to UK 13 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 14

Sport and Sport England, not only have we been able to public interest. Of course, the BBC cannot be exempt shield in full UK Sport from the effects of this, preserving from cuts at this difficult time, but may I ask the right elite athlete funding through to 2012, but by the end of hon. Gentleman how he can justify a negotiating process the four-year cycle of lottery funding Sport England that rode roughshod over the independence of the BBC, will have more money going through its front door than crushed any serious prospect of reform and involved no it did at the beginning. That is, I believe, a considerable consultation with licence fee payers or parliamentarians? achievement. Will he confirm that at one point in the negotiations the BBC Trust board considered mass resignation and that Topical Questions he now faces a judicial review sought by S4C? Is that not another example of the Secretary of State doing a T1. [18963] Diana R. Johnson (Kingston upon Hull dodgy deal for the Chancellor to further his own political North) (Lab): If he will make a statement on his ambitions, instead of providing responsible leadership departmental responsibilities. on an issue of crucial importance to the future of this country? The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Jeremy Hunt): During the summer, despite Mr Hunt: May I start by welcoming the hon. Gentleman the pressures of the comprehensive spending review, we to his post? I am delighted to talk to him about the BBC made good progress in our priority areas of tourism, because the new licence fee settlement was announced philanthropy, broadband roll-out, local television and last Wednesday and the silence of the Opposition’s the schools Olympics. We will have announcements on response has been absolutely deafening. They have not all those areas before Christmas. been able to work out what to do because we have agreed a settlement that is acceptable to the BBC and Diana R. Johnson: Many of my constituents have is very popular with the public. Let me tell him the contacted me, concerned about the local independent difference between what happened when his party negotiated BBC news that runs in East Yorkshire and Hull through the licence fee and when we did it. With his party, it Radio Humberside and programmes such as “Look took two years, it cost £3 million and we ended up with North”. There is great concern that, because of the cuts an above-inflation rise. With us, it took two weeks, it to the BBC budget, areas such as East Yorkshire will cost nothing and we got a freeze for six years. lose that local independent news. What guarantee can the Minister give me that we will continue to have that? Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) (LD): Given Ministers’ helpful answers about the funding Mr Hunt: There is no bigger supporter of local news of regularly funded organisations in the arts, will the than me. I made it one of the most important parts of Secretary of State give an assurance that those organisations our media policy, but if we are to have a thriving local will be encouraged to do developmental and outreach media sector, people in the sector need an assurance work in such a way that all corners of the country are that the BBC will not undertake more local activity reached and that younger and smaller organisations are than it does; otherwise, they simply will not take the supported? risk of setting up newspapers, radio and television Mr Hunt: I thank my hon. Friend for his question. stations, and so on. We have come to a very good He is absolutely right: we have given regularly funded solution in this licence fee settlement, which is that the organisations, with the agreement of the Arts Council, BBC has made a commitment that it will go no more a settlement that is nothing like as bad as those in other local than it does currently. It is confident that it will be parts of the public sector. I am very keen that on that able to continue with its current obligations for the basis—I have made this point to everyone I have spoken period of the settlement. to about it—they should not cut outreach and education work, of which there are some outstanding examples in T7. [18969] Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): Is his constituency. On the basis of the conversations I it not quite wrong that somebody can be sent to jail for have had, I am very reassured that those obligations will not paying their BBC television licence fee? Will the continue to be fulfilled. Secretary of State liaise with the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the BBC, like every other utility, pursues its T2. [18964] Jessica Morden (Newport East) (Lab): I civil debts through the civil courts rather than using the am sure that the Secretary of State will join me force of criminal sanction? in congratulating all those involved in Newport’s successful staging of the Ryder cup last month, but Mr Hunt: The licence fee is a curious system, but it does he understand that it is hard for the Government has delivered outstanding results for British broadcasting. to talk about the long-term economic legacy of major Most British people, when they go abroad, find that one sporting events such as the Ryder cup given that two of the things they miss is the BBC. One reason the BBC days after that event they announced 300 job losses at has been successful is that it has had sustained income the local passport office? through this rather curious system. That is why we have said that we are on the side of the public on this. We Mr Hunt: I went to the Ryder cup and I thought it have given the BBC a tough settlement—freezing the was a fantastic example of how major sports events can licence fee for six years—under which we will continue make an incredible contribution to our wealth. Every with the structure of the licence fee as it is. year, 3.5 million people come to this country to watch or play in sports events, so they are big wealth generators. Mr Ivan Lewis (Bury South) (Lab): We will work with However, if we are to continue to support such events, the Government on issues where we agree, such as the we have to put the public finances on a sustainable Olympic games and England’s World cup bid. The footing, and that means using public funds much more Secretary of State will agree that the BBC is one of this efficiently than the hon. Lady’s party did in its 13 years country’s great institutions and its future a matter of in power. 15 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 16

Nigel Adams (Selby and Ainsty) (Con): Is the Secretary the same treatment was applied to both codes of rugby—for of State aware that Yorkshire’s tourism board, Welcome obvious reasons. The slight problem was that the RFL to Yorkshire, is the only tourism agency in Britain to be did not ask the then Government—of course, the hon. shortlisted for an award in the world travel awards? Will Lady’s Government—as the RFU did when mounting he join me and all other hon. Members in the House the bid. My intention is to treat both similarly. from God’s own county in wishing Welcome to Yorkshire the very best in its endeavours? Duncan Hames (Chippenham) (LD): Before taking office, my right hon. Friend was keen to promote the The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, subtitling of parliamentary coverage. He may be aware Olympics, Media and Sport (John Penrose): I should be that the service often ends by 6 o’clock in the evening, delighted to do so. I spoke to the chief executive of long before our debates here conclude. Will he urge Welcome to Yorkshire, Gary Verity, last week, and he broadcasters to ensure that all our proceedings are told me about its excellent progress. It is worth pointing accessible to the 1 million users of subtitles who are out that the board is up against tourist boards that either deaf or hard of hearing? represent entire countries, rather than single counties, in having got this far. I am sure that everyone here is The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, delighted by its progress thus far and of course we wish Olympics, Media and Sport (Mr Edward Vaizey): We are it luck in the final. obviously keen to make parliamentary proceedings accessible to everybody, particularly late-night Adjournment T3. [18965] Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East) debates, which I take. We now have an e-accessibility (Lab): Before the election, the Minister for Sport was forum that is progressing that agenda, and we have also keen to applaud Labour’s record on sport and pledged increased the amount of subtitling by broadcasters on a not to undermine it. With the massive cuts to funding voluntary basis. for school sport, to local authorities and to Sport England, does he now feel that his Government are T5. [18967] Liz Kendall (Leicester West) (Lab): Last undermining the excellent progress that was made year, more than 2,500 athletes with learning disabilities under the Labour Government? took part in the Special Olympics in Leicester. Will the The Minister for Sport and the Olympics (Hugh Minister agree to meet those involved, to learn lessons Robertson): Absolutely not, because, as the hon. Gentleman from the event and make sure that people with learning will see if he examines the figures, in every year for the disabilities can play a full part in sports and athletics in next four, the amount of money going to UK sport and this country? Sport England, with the exception of that to Sport England next year, is greater than it was under the Hugh Robertson: Absolutely. I visited the event in Labour Government—so, no. Leicester last year, and, as the hon. Lady will be aware, the Special Olympics GB team has already been to Amber Rudd (Hastings and Rye) (Con): Many Members No. 10 Downing street to meet the Prime Minister on both sides of the House have been kind enough to before going off to the games in Warsaw. I am absolutely share their sympathy with me and my constituents behind the team and would be delighted to meet them. about the devastating fire that afflicted Hastings and its If the hon. Lady would just give me a month while we pier recently. However, the reports of its death are get the 2018 bid out of the way, I should be absolutely exaggerated: the sub-structure is intact, the Hastings delighted to do anything I can to help. Pier and White Rock Trust is launching an appeal and we hope to rebuild on top of it. Will the Minister meet a Stephen Metcalfe (South Basildon and East Thurrock) group of us so that we can tell him more about it and (Con): I welcome my right hon. Friend’s earlier comments learn from his experience? on broadband. When will the BBC contribution from the licence fee come on stream? Will it form part of the John Penrose: I should be delighted to do so. I confess £830 million commitment? Is it designated for a specific to some personal experience, in that two years ago project or just part of the general fund? Weston-super-Mare pier in my constituency went up in flames, and I am delighted to tell everyone that on Mr Jeremy Hunt: I am happy to answer that question. Saturday just gone I had the honour of opening it. It As part of the licence fee negotiation that we concluded, was like the first day of the sales, as everybody dashed the BBC has committed to put £150 million into broadband up to be first through the door. I should be delighted to roll-out for every year of the new BBC licence fee meet representatives from Hastings and I hope only settlement. That is how we shall get the nearly £1 billion that they will have a similar renaissance of their pier. of secured investment for the broadband roll-out, and I hope it will benefit my hon. Friend’s and everyone else’s T4. [18966] Helen Jones (Warrington North) (Lab): constituency. Will the Minister explain why the Government have decided to underwrite the 2015 rugby union world cup, T8. [18970] Alun Michael (Cardiff South and Penarth) but will not give the same guarantees to the 2013 rugby (Lab/Co-op): How do Ministers intend to ensure that league world cup? To paraphrase a famous comedian, blind and partially sighted people, for whom radio is a “Is it because we is northern”? vital lifeline, will not be disadvantaged if commercial pressures mount to switch from analogue to digital Hugh Robertson: Tempting though it is, the answer is radio? absolutely not. If the hon. Lady gets hold of a copy of the letter I wrote to the chief executive of the Rugby Mr Vaizey: As I mentioned in an earlier answer, we Football League when I took over, she will see that I now have an e-accessibility forum that is taking forward said I was absolutely determined to ensure that precisely many of those issues. One of the vital functions of the 17 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 18 forum is to make sure that manufacturers take on board with Russia and whether there should be Europe-wide the issues and ensure that partially sighted people and regulation of the financial services industry, but the people with other difficulties have full access to programmes House will have not a single debate on it. through technology. Mr Heath: I can only say to the hon. Gentleman that the arrangement of statements is, of course, a matter LEADER OF THE HOUSE for the Government. Other debates, as the Wright Committee clearly sets out, are a matter for the Backbench The Leader of the House was asked— Business Committee. I am sure that his comments were heard by the Committee. Business Committee Helen Jones (Warrington North) (Lab): One of the 1. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): What most important reasons for setting up a House business progress has been made on the establishment of a Committee is to protect the rights of Members. Such House business Committee. [18986] a committee will not be set up in time to deal with 4. Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con): What progress the fiasco of the Parliamentary Voting System and has been made on the establishment of a House Constituencies Bill, but will the Deputy Leader of the House assure us that he will protect the rights of Members business Committee. [18989] of this House by ensuring that the statutory instruments The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of relating to the Bill are debated before Report, and that the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): The Government he will place a record of the Government’s discussions are committed to establishing a House business Committee. with the devolved Assemblies in the Library? Is it not The Backbench Business Committee, of which the hon. right that matters concerning elections to this House Member for Kettering (Mr Hollobone) is a member, should be debated first here and not in the unelected has got off to a good start, and we shall seek its views House? on how the House business Committee might operate. Mr Heath: I welcome the hon. Lady to her new Mr Hollobone: Is it the intention of the Deputy position as shadow Deputy Leader of the House. I Leader of the House that once the House business certainly do not recognise the word “fiasco” in any Committee is established it will subsume the Backbench connection with that Bill, which will be in Committee Committee, or will the two Committees carry on in later today. parallel? Mr Heath: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for Hilary Benn (Leeds Central) (Lab): Well I do! that question. It is a fairly complex matter. If he re-reads the Wright Committee report, he will see that there is a Mr Heath: The right hon. Gentleman says from a degree of ambiguity about the precise interrelationship. sedentary position that he does recognise the word I think the assumption is that the two Committees “fiasco”, but the only fiasco I have come across in the should sit alongside one another, with some common course of our debates is the hon. Member for Rhondda membership, but it is an area we need to discuss in (Chris Bryant) speaking for 50 minutes without mentioning detail with him and his hon. Friends on the Backbench his amendments. That may have been part of the problem Business Committee, and more widely in the House, so of timing in relation to the Bill. that we establish a system that will work for the whole House and make sure that both Back-Bench business Select Committee Reports and the interests of the House as a whole are protected. Graham Evans: Does my hon. Friend agree that the 2. Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): What plans he has creation of the Backbench Business Committee was a to increase the opportunities available for debate of necessary step to restore the value of Back-Bench business, Select Committee reports on the Floor of the House. which was badly neglected under the previous Government? [18987] Mr Heath: My hon. Friend will not be surprised to The Leader of the House of Commons (Sir George know that I entirely agree with him on that point. The Young): Select Committees have been strengthened by Backbench Business Committee has made a good start the introduction of election procedures for members in ensuring that important matters are brought before and Chairs. Powers to set the agenda of the House have the House in a timely way. My greatest regret is the fact also been given to the Backbench Business Committee, that the previous Government took so long to accede to which with the Liaison Committee is providing the very reasonable request from the Wright Committee opportunities to debate Select Committee reports in and many Members on both sides of the House to make Westminster Hall and on the Floor of the House. Those that happen. two measures have increased the ability of the House Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I warmly congratulate effectively to hold the Government to account. the Government on introducing the Backbench Business Committee, but can the Deputy Leader of the House Philip Davies: The Wright Committee recommended guarantee that in future—as there always was in the that there should be more opportunities to debate Select past—there will be a European affairs debate before a Committee reports on the Floor of the House. What European Council meeting and a full statement from steps is my right hon. Friend taking to make that a the Prime Minister afterwards? This week, a European reality, or is he just leaving that to the Backbench Council meeting will decide things such as our relationship Business Committee? 19 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 20

Sir George Young: With the greatest respect to my Rehman Chishti: Does my hon. Friend agree that hon. Friend, he is in a much better position than I am to plans to reform the parliamentary calendar will enhance ensure that more Select Committee reports are debated the ability of the House to scrutinise and debate effectively on the Floor of the House, because following the the Government’s proposed legislation for this Session? implementation of the Wright Committee, the days for those debates have been handed over to the Backbench Mr Heath: It is important that the House has the Business Committee, on which he sits. The Committee fullest possible opportunity to hold the Government to has the freedom to decide whether to debate Select account. One of the difficulties that we had previously Committee reports or other matters; that power no when the House did not sit in September was that there longer rests with the Government. was a large part of the year when the actions of Ministers could not be scrutinised by the House. My answer to the Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): If more Select hon. Gentleman is yes, I do think that is the case, but we Committee reports are debated on the Floor of the can still do better. That is why I am convinced that we House, can we avoid situations such as the one that should continue the discussion about how we can best occurred recently, when a Treasury Minister told the organise the parliamentary calendar to enable the House Public Administration Committee that he could not to do its job as effectively as possible. give the figure for compensation to Equitable Life policyholders because it had to be announced the following Amber Rudd: Does my hon. Friend agree that if we week in the comprehensive spending review, before leaking have more transparency and clarity in the calendar, it the information to the press that weekend? Could that will stop giving the impression, which we may have got be one way around this problem? with the previous Government, of legislation being railroaded through? Sir George Young: I reject the hon. Gentleman’s implication that there was any impropriety in the discharge of information relating to Equitable Life. The figure Mr Heath: I agree entirely. If we can make sure that was given in the CSR statement by my right hon. Friend plenty of days are allocated for, for instance, the Committee the Chancellor last week. and Report stages of Bills, which the Government have been committed to doing, and if we can ensure that the House uses that time sensibly and adopts a rational Parliamentary Calendar approach to the important things that need to be debated at length and those that may not need to be debated at 3. Jason McCartney (Colne Valley) (Con): What quite such length, the House can start to look like a proposals he plans to put to the House in respect of the grown-up legislature able to do its job effectively. structure of the parliamentary calendar for the remainder of the current Session. [18988] Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): But is it not the case that even in the timetable that has been announced, 5. Rehman Chishti (Gillingham and Rainham) (Con): we still have an extremely long summer recess in which What proposals he plans to put to the House in respect Ministers will not be held to account in the House? of the structure of the parliamentary calendar for the Would it not be sensible if, instead of running days on remainder of the current Session. [18990] unpredictably until late at night, we used more days during the summer to hold the Government to account, 7. Amber Rudd (Hastings and Rye) (Con): What rather than holding them to account between 10 o’clock proposals he plans to put to the House in respect of the and 11 o’clock at night? structure of the parliamentary calendar for the remainder of the current Session. [18992] Mr Heath: The hon. Lady has expressed that view before. I do not entirely agree that we have an overlong The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of summer recess, with the September sittings. That makes the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): My right a huge difference to the way in which the House does its hon. Friend the Leader of the House announced the business. I also do not entirely agree that sittings are proposed parliamentary calendar until the end of 2011 unpredictable. Where we have provided additional time, last Thursday at the commencement of business questions, it has been in response to expected statements, to make and I hope right hon. and hon. Members will have had sure that the House has protected time to do its business. the opportunity to pick up a copy. We are constantly responding to the hon. Lady’s Front- Bench team demanding more time and longer sittings Jason McCartney: I thank the Deputy Leader of the to scrutinise Bills effectively. We must get the right House for that answer, which will allow me and many balance. We will look at the matter in more detail. The colleagues in the House to plan our next few months in Procedure Committee has said that it will look at the our constituencies. Can he help me plan the next four calendar in the round, and she may want to give evidence and a half years in my constituency, by giving the to the Committee on her views. House an update on the Fixed-term Parliaments Bill? Pre-legislative Scrutiny Mr Heath: As the hon. Gentleman knows, we have had the Second Reading of that Bill. It should go into 8. Diana R. Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) Committee shortly. I hope it will be able to make speedy (Lab): What steps he plans to take to provide progress, given the degree of consensus that exists across further opportunities for pre-legislative scrutiny of the House, and we hope it will receive Royal Assent at Government legislation; and if he will make a the earliest opportunity. statement. [18993] 21 Oral Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Oral Answers 22

The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of opportunity to ratchet up steadily the involvement of the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): We have individual Members of the House, to enable them to do announced the publication of our four draft Bills in this the job that they were sent here to do on behalf of their Session. That is the same as in four of the five Sessions constituents, which is to represent their constituents of the previous Parliament. More draft Bills are being properly and to hold the Government to account in prepared and I hope we will have a more impressive both their legislative and executive functions. The previous total by the end of the Session. Parliament was incapable of doing that simply because of the restrictions placed on it. I hope that we can now Diana R. Johnson: Is not the Parliamentary Voting make steady progress in improving the reputation of the System and Constituencies Bill a lesson in how not to House. legislate? Despite it being a major constitutional change in this country, there has been no pre-legislative scrutiny. Joan Walley (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab): But is not As I understand it, the Government are tabling hundreds part of the job of an MP to introduce private Members’ of Government amendments while it is on the Floor of Bills when they come first, or even ninth, in the ballot? the House. Should not the Government rethink this, It is vital that the House looks closely at private Members’ abandon the Bill and bring back one that has been Bills and at the Committee stages to ensure that we are properly thought through? able to bring measures to the House and get them enacted? Mr Heath: The hon. Lady is pursuing this argument. Early in the lifetime of a Government, there will, of Mr Heath: We need to consider urgently how we course, be some Bills that are not available for pre-legislative scrutinise private Members’ legislation. The Procedure scrutiny, simply because—apart from anything else— Committee is currently looking at that, and I hope that otherwise the House would be sitting here with nothing it will make proposals in the near future. Meanwhile, we to do. That is why we have ensured that these important will have to consider—my right hon. Friend the Leader Bills are debated on the Floor of the House, where they of the House is considering this—how we best use the can receive the longest possible scrutiny. I hope that, by time made available by the slightly longer Session than the completion of all its parliamentary stages, every usual to enable greater scrutiny and greater opportunities part of the Bill she mentioned will have been available for private Members’ legislation already in the pipeline. for scrutiny, if hon. Members wish to pick up any specific points. I simply do not believe that there is an Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP) alternative way of doing business. Having said that, our rose— normal practice will be to introduce important Bills in draft, as has been clearly stated. There are more Bills in Mr Speaker: I call Mr Angus Robertson. the pipeline, and she will find that, by the end of the Session, considerably more Bills will have been considered Angus Robertson (Moray) (SNP) indicated dissent. in draft than in the previous Session. Business Committee Mr Speaker: No, the hon. Gentleman is not standing. He was poised, perched like a panther. I call Mr Pete 10. Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con): What progress Wishart. has been made on the establishment of a House business Committee. [18995] Pete Wishart: Will the hon. Gentleman assure me that the House business Committee will be a Committee The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of of the whole of the House, not just the Government the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): I refer the parties and the Labour Opposition? What is he and the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave earlier. Leader of the House doing personally to ensure that smaller parties are properly represented on the new Robert Halfon: Does my hon. Friend agree that the Committee? House business Committee, allied with the Backbench Business Committee and the elections to Select Committees, Mr Heath: The hon. Gentleman knows, because we has restored the balance of power between Parliament discussed the matter very early in this Parliament, that and the Executive? What other steps is he taking to the Wright Committee was not terribly helpful in its redress that balance? proposals to him and his colleagues. Having committed ourselves to implementing the Wright Committee, we Mr Heath: We have already introduced quite a hefty were left in some difficulties. However, we need to group of reforms. I place on the record again my ensure that the voices of smaller parties in the House gratitude to the Wright Committee for its work, although are clearly heard. I hope that he will take part in the I do not think that its proposals are necessarily the end necessary discussions about the establishment of the of the story. I hope that the work of the Procedure House Business Committee to ensure that that is done Committee and the work that we will continue to do in in good order and in a way that is consistent with the bringing forward suggestions from my right hon. Friend Wright Committee proposals while reflecting best practice the Leader of the House and myself will give us the in the House. 23 25 OCTOBER 2010 Points of Order 24

Points of Order (Dr Coffey) may have given the wrong impression to the House by implying that in the European Parliament 3.34 pm Labour MEPs had supported an increase in the EU budget. That is not the case, nor did they vote for the Andy Burnham (Leigh) (Lab): On a point of order, EU to have tax-raising powers. I say that to set the Mr Speaker. The House will recall that on 5 July the record straight. Secretary of State for Education announced the closure of the Building Schools for the Future scheme and the Mr Speaker: The hon. Gentleman has done so— cancellation of 700 school building projects. Six hundred doubtless to his own satisfaction and, possibly, to that had reached financial close and were described in a list of others. published by the Department as “unaffected”. However, last Friday local authorities received phone calls to tell Angus Robertson (Moray) (SNP): On a point of order, them to make 40% efficiencies in those projects, threatening Mr Speaker. The Prime Minister has assured the House to throw local plans into chaos. that no decision has been taken on the future of RAF On the “Politics Show”yesterday the Education Secretary Lossiemouth. However, defence documents have been said that schools were informed back in July of the forwarded to me indicating that the Air Force top brass potential for further large-scale cuts. However, councillors favours RAF Marham as the main future base for in Salford, Leicester and Nottingham dispute that claim, Tornado aircraft. Such a decision would decimate the which is at odds with the statement given to this House Moray economy, cut armed forces numbers in Scotland back in July that the remaining projects would be by 25% and concentrate the RAF in the south of “unaffected”. There is a great deal of confusion in England. Given how important an issue this is for communities throughout the country about Building service families, for Moray and for the whole of Scotland, Schools for the Future. The projects matter greatly to has the Ministry of Defence confirmed when an official children and teachers in those communities and to announcement will be made in this House? Members in this House, so I request through you, Mr Speaker, that the Education Secretary makes an Mr Speaker: The short answer is no, but the hon. urgent statement to the House to clarify matters. Gentleman has made his point with his usual force. Mr Speaker: I am grateful to the shadow Secretary of Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): On a point of order, State for his point of order. I confess that here and now Mr Speaker. This morning I received an answer to a I detect nothing on which I should rule. That is a written question from the Minister of State, Department narrow interpretation of my responsibility, but it is a of Energy and Climate Change, the hon. Member for direct response to the point of order that the right hon. Bexhill and Battle (Gregory Barker). My concern about Gentleman has raised. I have heard very clearly what he the answer is that it refers to only half my constituency, has said. He has in a sense put his request for a statement when my question referred to the whole of it. Inasmuch on the record. That will have been heard by Members as there has been a boundary change, the answer refers on the Treasury Bench, and I hope that it is helpful, to the part of my constituency which was formerly in both to the right hon. Gentleman and to others who the old Gateshead East and Washington West seat and have expressed an interest, if I remind the House that totally ignores the half that was in the constituency of there is an upcoming debate on the comprehensive Tyne Bridge. I am a bit concerned not only from my spending review, within which the concerns articulated perspective, but for all hon. Members, because we are by the right hon. Gentleman will doubtless be more anticipating 600 boundary changes some time in the fully aired. future. Hazel Blears (Salford and Eccles) (Lab): Further to Mr Speaker: The hon. Gentleman is proving that he that point of order, Mr Speaker. You will understand is fastidious to a fault, and what I can say by way of the distress and concern that has been caused in Salford advice and assistance is that I feel sure that a quick visit as a result of a telephone call that came out of the blue to the Table Office will yield a benefit to him, not least if at the end of last week, saying that our Building Schools he seeks to table further questions, as I suspect perhaps for the Future programme might be cut by 40%. I ask he might. you to convey to the Secretary of State the deep concern that people have and the gravity of the need for him to Paul Flynn (Newport West) (Lab): Further to that respond. I shall ask him for an urgent meeting to point of order, Mr Speaker. I think it is time that we discuss the matter with people from Salford, and I just investigated the appallingly vacuous answers that we ask that you, Mr Speaker, ensure that he is fully aware are having to parliamentary questions. They are the of the distress that the matter has caused. worst answers I can remember in 25 years in this House. I will give just one example from last Wednesday, when Mr Speaker: I note what the right hon. Lady says and I asked a question on the number of desertions from the certainly do not treat it with levity, but I am not Afghan army and police. That is a matter of great convinced that I am, in this situation, a better conveyor importance for our soldiers in Afghanistan, because belt than the right hon. Lady herself. She has just our whole exit strategy is based on a strong army. The registered her concern and conveyed her message to the answer that appeared made no reference whatsoever to Secretary of State, and in those circumstances I do not the substance of the question asked. This is becoming think that I need to do so. increasingly common. The Government seem to be systematically leaking on a more incontinent basis than Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): On a point of any other previous Government, and they are not answering order, Mr Speaker. On Wednesday last week, at column 986 questions; they are now treating this Parliament with of Hansard, the hon. Member for Suffolk Coastal disrespect. 25 Points of Order 25 OCTOBER 2010 26

Mr Speaker: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for Speaker’s Statement his point of order. Lest others who listen to our proceedings are not aware of it, I can remind them, or inform them for the first time, that the hon. Gentleman is the author 3.43 pm of a well-thumbed tome entitled “Commons Knowledge: How to be a Backbencher”. Over the years, he and I Mr Speaker: I have a statement to make to the House. have both tabled very large numbers of questions, but I I have to inform the House that, as required by section 144 have to say to him, with some relief, that I have never of the Representation of the People Act 1983, I have been responsible for the content or quality of the answers received the certificate from the judges appointed to try under successive Governments. the election petition relating to the Fermanagh and South Tyrone constituency election on 6 May 2010. The The hon. Gentleman makes a serious point, but it is judges have determined that the petition be dismissed, not one, as I think he knows, on which I can rule. What and have certified that the hon. Member for that I will say to him is twofold. First, the Leader of the constituency was duly returned at the said election. House is sitting on the Treasury Bench and will have heard very clearly the plaintive representation that he I shall lay the certificate on the Table, together with has made. Secondly, as an inquiry is currently being the shorthand writer’s notes, and will cause the full text conducted, or is shortly to be conducted, into the of the certificate to be entered in the Journal. Members subject of parliamentary questions and ministerial answers wishing to read the certificate for themselves will find it under the auspices of the Procedure Committee, if set out in the Votes and Proceedings for today, which memory serves me correctly, the hon. Gentleman, with will be circulated with the Order Paper in tomorrow’s his vast experience and many examples, might wish to Vote Bundle, available online and from the Vote Office. submit evidence to that Committee. I think that that would be useful. Business without Debate Joan Walley (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab): Further to the point of order on the Building Schools for the Future programme, Mr Speaker. If it is the case that there have been significant changes to money that was EUROPEAN UNION DOCUMENTS allocated in July, can you make sure that there is information Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing in the Library prior to Wednesday’s debate on the Order No. 119(11)), comprehensive spending review?

Mr Speaker: Ministers will have heard the request INVESTOR COMPENSATION SCHEMES that the hon. Lady has made. I have noted it myself, and it does not seem unreasonable. I cannot continue now That this House considers that the draft Directive to amend the Investor Compensation Schemes Directive (European Union the debate and exchanges that have already taken place, Document 12346/10) does not comply with the principle of but I am grateful to her and to all hon. Members. subsidiarity, for the reasons set out in the Annex to chapter 7 of the Third Report of the European Scrutiny Committee (HC 428-iii); Mr David Nuttall (Bury North) (Con) rose— and, in accordance with Article 6 of the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, instructs the Mr Speaker: Mr Nuttall addressed the House for Clerk of the House to forward this reasoned opinion to the over an hour on Friday, but he feels a great thirst to presidents of the European institutions.—(Angela Watkinson.) raise a point of order, and of course I shall hear it. Question agreed to.

Mr Nuttall: Further to the point of order on parliamentary questions, Mr Speaker. If I may assist, I understand that an e-mail has already been circulated from the Procedure Committee asking for any problems to be submitted to it.

Mr Speaker: That is most helpful; we are all exceedingly grateful to the hon. Gentleman. 27 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 28 Constituencies Bill Parliamentary Voting System and but I accept that on an issue as important as this, the Constituencies Bill law should be clear. That is why the Government have tabled their own new clause, similar to that tabled by the [Relevant documents: The Third Report from the Political Committee’s members and identical in its intention. and Constitutional Reform Committee, Parliamentary However, I believe that there are sound technical reasons Voting System and Constituencies Bill, HC 437, and the why our version is preferable. oral evidence taken before the Committee on Thursday 15 July on the Coalition Government’s programme of Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I warmly welcome political and constitutional reform, HC 358-i.] the fact that the Government have tabled the new [5TH ALLOCATED DAY] clause. Broadly speaking, the Minister is absolutely Further considered in Committee right that it was never anybody’s intention that ordinary newspapers, magazines, television broadcasts and so on should be included in the referendum expenses regime. [MR NIGEL EVANS in the Chair] However, there are some complications because of some of the terms used in the new clause. New Clause 19 I note that the Minister said en passant that the Committee chaired by my hon. Friend the Member for PRESS COMMENT ETC NOT SUBJECT TO SPENDING Nottingham North (Mr Allen) managed to come up CONTROLS with a report despite the time available, but of course ‘Expenses incurred in respect of the publication of any matter the lack of availability of time was entirely down to the relating to the referendum, other than an advertisement, in— Minister, not down to anybody else. As he noted, the (a) a newspaper or periodical, Committee produced its own version of what a new (b) a broadcast made by the British Broadcasting clause might look like, and a lot of us have been lobbied Corporation or Sianel Pedwar Cymru, or by different parts of the media in favour of some (c) a programme included in any service licensed under version or other of an amendment such as this one. The Part 1 or 3 of the Broadcasting Act 1990 or Part 1 or Minister said that the Government’s version was slightly 2 of the Broadcasting Act 1996, different, and I hope that he will be able to take us are not “referendum expenses” for the purposes of Part 7 of through why. the 2000 Act.’.—(Mr Harper.) The new clause mentions, first: Brought up, and read the First time. “Expenses incurred in respect of the publication of any matter relating to the referendum, other than an advertisement, in…a 3.45 pm newspaper or periodical”. The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Mr Mark As I understand it, it is remarkably difficult to specify in Harper): I beg to move, That the clause be read a law what is a newspaper or periodical. So far as I can Second time. see, there is no one clear definition of newspaper or periodical. I assume that the Government understand It is a great pleasure to see you in the Chair, Mr Evans. “newspaper or periodical” to be the same, not two The new clause is a straightforward and clear response separate concepts. intended to cure, for the alternative vote referendum, a possible ambiguity in the Political Parties, Elections I can find two instances of a definition in statute. The and Referendums Act 2000 framework on the regulation first is the Newspaper Libel and Registration Act 1881, of referendum expenses. It clearly states that the costs which states: of covering and reporting on the referendum in the “The word ‘newspaper’ shall mean any paper containing public media are not referendum expenses for the purposes of news, intelligence, or occurrences, or any remarks or observations that Act. That means that those costs will fall outside therein printed for sale, and published in England or Ireland the regulatory regime that the PPERA puts in place. periodically, or in parts or numbers at intervals not exceeding twenty-six days between the publication of any two such papers, I want to be absolutely clear that the new clause does parts, or numbers. not change the position on the regulation of advertising Also any paper printed in order to be dispersed, and made in the media by campaigning individuals or organisations. public weekly or oftener,”— Such media costs will continue to be subject to the usual spending restrictions in the 2000 Act. However, we “oftener” is slightly strange language— believe it is important to ensure that media outlets are “or at intervals not exceeding twenty-six days, containing only or not caught by the spending restrictions in place for the principally advertisements.” referendum when publishing information about it, since I presume that the Government are not relying on that they will play a vital role in building public awareness. definition, because it applies only to England and Ireland, I take this opportunity to thank the hon. Member for which is in a Bill that tried to ensure that all newspapers Nottingham North (Mr Allen) and the Select Committee and periodicals were registered. That registration process on Political and Constitutional Reform for the scrutiny no longer exists—now anyone is free to publish a newspaper of the Bill that they carried out despite the time available. or a periodical. The Committee’s members tabled a similar amendment, The second instance is in section 7(5) of the Defamation and I am grateful for their focus on the issue. They Act 1952, which states that identified the problem and the potential ambiguity, and “the expression ‘newspaper’ means any paper containing public argued that it needed to be dealt with. The Committee news or observations thereon, or consisting wholly or mainly of identified a potential problem with the framework for advertisements, which is printed for sale and is published in the referendums, as set out in the PPERA. Where there is United Kingdom either periodically or in parts or numbers at ambiguity in statute there may be arguments either way, intervals not exceeding thirty-six days.” 29 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 30 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill I am sure that keen-eared Members noted that between terrestrial broadcasting, whether digital or otherwise. 1881 and 1952, there was a difference of 10 days in the That is why the Communications Act 2003 has separate frequency with which a printed item might be described provisions for broadcasting and cable. I would be grateful as a newspaper or a periodical. if the Minister could clarify that when he says “broadcast” he does not just mean broadcasting, but includes cable Mr Mark Field (Cities of London and Westminster) and the provision of any such programme via any other (Con): That may have had something to do with Christmas means. and a monthly publication potentially covering five I ask that because subsection (c) refers explicitly to weeks at that time of year. However, the shadow Minister may have stronger ideas about the reason for that “a programme included in any service licensed under Part 1 or 3 difference—or mistake. of the Broadcasting Act 1990 or Part 1 or 2 of the Broadcasting Act 1996”. Chris Bryant: It seems slightly odd to go to 36 days I do not understand why subsection (b) refers to a because there is no specific definition of the date of broadcast—as opposed to either a programme provided publication. Of course, the hon. Gentleman is right that by the two organisations listed or one included in any if the Christmas edition of a monthly publication is service provided by them—and it contrasts with how published around 15 November—after doubtless being subsection (c) has been constructed. In addition, there written around 15 July—there might be more than is an issue relating to the provision of party political 26 days between it and the next edition. However, large broadcasts, because there will be a different level of elements of the Defamation Act have been repealed, provision of party election broadcasts in Wales, although the precise definition of newspaper seems still Northern Ireland and Scotland, as a result of the to exist. The territorial extent of that Act is not only elections being held there, from that provided in England England and Ireland, but Wales and Scotland. during the run-up to the referendum and the short Election law has for some considerable time made campaign for those elections. I suppose that any of the allowance for newspapers and periodicals so that, for political parties in those areas could decide that it example, an edition of The Times that advocates people wanted to major on the alternative vote provisions and voting Conservative or The Guardian bizarrely supporting the referendum in its party election broadcast, and the Liberal Democrats in a general election are not therefore might be considered to be in conflict with the suddenly caught for election expenditure. I understand provisions under the terms of the 2000 Act or the that, but the new clause needs greater clarity, not least Broadcasting Act 1990. because many more people now engage in publication. Under the 1881 Act, people had to be licensed to do Mr Angus Brendan MacNeil (Na h-Eileanan an Iar) that. Today, anybody can publish, and there is no (SNP): A party might indeed consider doing that, but specification in law of the number of copies that must would the hon. Gentleman concede that the political be published, only of the frequency. I do not know reality of the situation is that most parties and combatants whether the Parliamentary Secretary’s Conservative in the Scottish and Welsh elections will have better association produces a regular newsletter. Whether it is things to do than consider the AV referendum? That counted as a newspaper or periodical is of material further underlines the folly of holding the referendum significance to election expenditure. on the same day as those elections, thereby not giving I therefore hope that the Parliamentary Secretary can the issue its proper space in those territories. first explain his understanding of newspaper or periodical and from where he derives the definition, not least Chris Bryant: Indeed. Many of the provisions that we because the new clause does not refer to the derivation will talk about in the main debate this afternoon relate of the interpretation. to the combining of polls, but this is the only point in Secondly, subsection (b) of new clause 19 refers to the debate on the Bill when there can be any discussion about party election broadcasts, because this is the only “a broadcast made by the British Broadcasting Corporation” point in the Bill that they are referred to. All the other or Channel 4, but Channel 4 is going to be part of the elements—how many registers of electors there BBC in the near future— should be, what colour the ballot papers should, how many polling cards there should be and so on—are Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): S4C. referred to in the new schedules that we will come to a Chris Bryant: Sorry, S4C, not Channel 4. S4C is little later, but not broadcasting, which is a reserved going to be part of the BBC in the near future. I responsibility. presume that subsection (b), which might be presumed The Broadcasting Act 1990 makes it clear that at a later date to transfer to other referendums, would “any regional Channel 3 licence or licence to provide Channel 4 not be disturbed by the congruence of the two organisations, or 5 shall include— I think in 2013-14. (a) conditions requiring the licence holder to include party Subsection (b) also uses the term “broadcast”, a political broadcasts in the licensed service; and word that, in legislation, specifically refers to broadcasting (b) conditions requiring the licence holder to observe such from one to many points. That is to say, the broadcaster rules with respect to party political broadcasts as the Commission does not determine the precise number of people who may determine.” receive a programme, network or channel, as opposed In addition, we specified in section 127 of the Political to cable, which has never before been referred to as Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 that broadcasting, because it is point-to-point. That is to “(1) A broadcaster shall not include in its broadcasting services say, the cable organisation knows exactly where the any referendum campaign broadcast made on behalf of any programme is going, because there is a direct connection person or body other than one designated in respect of the between A and B, as opposed to what happens in referendum in question under section 108. 31 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 32 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] Mr Mark Field: I agree with what the Government are trying to do in new clause 19; they have taken on (2) In this section, ‘referendum campaign broadcast’ means board some of the concerns expressed by the Select any broadcast whose purpose (or main purpose) is or may reasonably Committee. However, I want to ask the Minister a be assumed to be— question about the increasingly important influence of (a) to further any campaign conducted with a view to promoting the new media. Does he not feel—I appreciate it will not or procuring a particular outcome in relation to any question apply to this particular referendum—that much of our asked in a referendum to which this Part applies, or legislation, particularly that dealing with media comment, (b) otherwise to promote or procure any such outcome.” is now ripe for a much more radical overhaul? This could be the first referendum in which we see a significant 4pm amount of money being spent by online providers It is my contention that this provides us with a degree trying to put their message across—in both the English of uncertainty as to what should happen during the and the Welsh language, I suspect—on this issue. Much process of the combined elections, particularly in Wales, of the legislation already in place looks more towards Scotland and Northern Ireland, but also in England, in 20th-century and perhaps even, in some cases, 19th-century relation to party election broadcasts and referendum media. Much of the new media will have a greater broadcasts. This will be the first time that broadcasters impact—not just through blogs, but through a whole have had to deal with this set of coincidences—or range of forums coming under the auspices of existing rather, not coincidences, but this deliberate combination. magazines and periodicals—so I would like to know There is a danger that, if political parties are obsessing what indications the Government have had about the too much about the referendum, many voters will worry likely costs and whether they will count towards the that there will be an excess of referendum and party amount of election expenditure. political broadcasts next year. Certainly in Wales, we It strikes me that we are now living in a much-changed will probably have them from the beginning of February world. Younger voters in particular are less likely to all the way through to May. Some people might think look at newspapers, periodicals or even the television as that one party election broadcast a year is enough; I am the most important mechanism for getting comment on sure that most of our voters do. political and other related matters. There is concern The real danger is that there will be conflict between that a great deal of our legislation requires a much more the different kinds of party election and referendum radical overhaul than people appear to have in mind. broadcasts, but the argument can also go the other way. Given the context of where we are today, however, the If, for example, all the people who appeared in a television new clause provides a sensible way forward, taking into broadcast during the AVreferendum campaign in Wales account many of the concerns expressed by the all-party were from the Labour party, people might contend that group. the broadcast in question was not a referendum broadcast but a party election broadcast on behalf of the Labour Mr Harper: I am grateful to the hon. Member for party. I very much hope that the Government will be Rhondda (Chris Bryant) and to my hon. Friend the able to clear up some of these problems. Member for Cities of London and Westminster (Mr Field) In the Communications Act 2003, section 333—which for raising a number of questions. Let me step back a is halfway to 666—requires Ofcom to ensure that party little and explain why we tabled the new clause. politicalbroadcasts,includingthoseforreferendumcampaigns, The problem arises from the definition of the word are covered by UK regional ITV,Channel 4, Five, Classic “material”in schedule 13 of the Political Parties, Elections FM, talkSPORT and Virgin 1215 services. Obviously, and Referendums Act 2000. The reason for the concern the BBC is separately obliged to cover the broadcasts —some media organisations were worried—is that there under the rules set out in its charter and governed by the was some ambiguity about the meaning. We think BBC Trust. I presume that no elements of that are going “material” means leaflets and other campaigning items, to be changed by the announcements that the Secretary but we decided to fix any ambiguity. of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport made The hon. Member for Rhondda asked me why we last week. The 2003 Act also requires S4C to cover prefer our new clause to the amendment that the Committee election and referendum broadcasts, but places regulatory had tabled. That amendment changed section 117 of responsibility with the Assembly, not Ofcom. the 2000 Act, with the effect that media costs were still That brings me to another subset of the problem, categorised as referendum expenses within the regulatory which is that I am not sure whether there has been regime. The amendment further specified that although explicit consultation with the Assembly on the provision these were referendum expenses, there was no need for of party election and referendum broadcasts in the individual bodies to be permitted participants if they run-up to next May. I hope that the Minister will be able wanted to spend more than that. That might not have to place in the Library of the House all the correspondence been the Committee’s intention, but that is how we that he has had with Ministers in Wales, Scotland and thought it would work. By comparison, our amendment Northern Ireland on the combination of polls, on the simply says that those media costs are not referendum elements that I have raised in relation to the new clause, expenses at all, so they are not subject to the regulatory and on the statutory instruments, which I understand regime set down by the Act. We think that that provides have not yet been tabled, but which the Leader of the a more direct and less confusing approach than the House wrote to some of us last week to say would be Committee set out in its amendment. Our new clause tabled very soon. I do not think that they have been has the same spirit and purpose, but we prefer it, as I seen yet, however. I would be grateful if the Minister have explained. could answer some of those questions, and lay in the The hon. Member for Rhondda asked a number of Library of the House all his correspondence with Ministers questions. As to the definition and use of language, our in the devolved Administrations relating to these issues. approach is to use the equivalent provisions in the 33 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 34 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill PPRA that regulate third-party activity in elections, provisions in the PPRA, and also with the parent terms which have been in place since 2000. The commission in the Broadcasting Act 1996, to which the hon. Gentleman responsible for regulating the provisions is happy with referred. We did not want to open up gaps enabling how it has been defined and will issue some guidance people to argue that the words did not mean what they setting out the case in a little more detail. As I have had in those original pieces of legislation. learned, it is not terribly helpful—to use a ghastly My hon. Friend the Member for Cities of London phrase—to have undue specificity on the face of the and Westminster referred to new media and changes in Bill, whereby every single possible definition of a media communication and technology, particularly in the context outlet is set out. If that is done, but one possible of the internet, e-mail and similar techniques. Because meaning is not captured by the definitions, it makes it this will be the first United Kingdom-wide referendum easy for a person to argue that they are not covered. to use the framework in the PPRA, one of the commitments Having a broader definition, about which the commission that the Government have given to the Lords Constitution can issue guidance, is much more likely to hold up Committee, which has prepared a report on referendums, legally, particularly when it comes to some of the new is that once it has taken place we will review the way in media to which my hon. Friend the Member for Cities which it has operated, in order to establish whether we of London and Westminster has rightly drawn our should make any legislative changes—changes in the attention. framework, not just in specific referendums. I shall come to my hon. Friend’s point about the As my hon. Friend will know, the coalition Government future in a moment, but we have followed the approach are committed to introducing more referendums on in the PPRA and made it explicit that, in the case of this both European and local matters. We now have a good particular referendum, the regulations will be the same opportunity to review the working of the system and to as those applying to third-party activity in elections. I establish what practical changes are needed, given that think that, because the referendum and the elections are there are likely to be more referendums in the future. to take place on the same day, it is important for us to apply the same regime to both. Chris Bryant: I thought that there would only be more referendums on European matters if treaties were Chris Bryant: The Minister is talking complete sense, proposed that would take powers away, but that is—I but I should like to be absolutely certain about what hope—a debate for another day. constitutes “a newspaper or periodical”, notwithstanding I am still somewhat perplexed about the Minister’s the issue of the convergence of a number of different understanding of “broadcast” and “programme”. I media. There is a clear definition in the 2000 Act; recognise that there are parallels in other legislation, perhaps he could give it to us. but the concept of what constitutes the expense is material in this context. Is it the expense of making the referendum broadcast, which might include the cost of Mr Harper: We have simply replicated the provision filming and so forth, or is it the expense of broadcasting in the PPRA. I do not have it in front of me, but I the programme? should be happy to write to the hon. Gentleman about it later. Mr Harper: I have not yet dealt with the hon. Gentleman’s point about party election broadcasts and referendum Chris Bryant: I understand that. My point is that I broadcasts. am not sure that there is a definition in law of “newspaper On the issue of election broadcasts as against referendum or periodical”, and I think that it is about time we had broadcasts, it will be for the Electoral Commission to one. Definitions appeared in legislation in 1881 and address the matter of referendum broadcasts with the 1952, but they conflict with each other. yes and no campaigns once they have been designated. I listened very carefully to the remarks of the hon. Member Mr Harper: As I think I made clear in my reply to my for Rhondda about the differences between the rules for hon. Friend the Member for Cities of London and party election broadcasts and for referendum broadcasts Westminster, it is much better to leave such definitions and the provisions on them, and I thought—if I may to case law, which can evolve over time. If they are say so as he was very courteous about me—that he defined too tightly in statute law, and then new media explained them very clearly. On his specific point about appear and changes take place in the way in which the the rules in respect of combination and what media are produced, we shall find that we must continually correspondence there was on that with Ministers in update primary legislation in order to keep up with the devolved Governments, as he will know, Ministers in changes. The hon. Gentleman put his finger on it when devolved Governments are not responsible for the he referred to those older definitions and the fact that administration of elections. At present, that is the they have changed. It is better to set a wider definition. responsibility of the three territorial Secretaries of State The commission can issue guidance, and if problems and my officials and I have been discussing these matters arise, the courts can interpret the definitions in the light with them. The hon. Gentleman will also know that the of changes in the way in which media organisations Calman proposals include recommendations to devolve work, and changes in technology. That way of proceeding the administration of elections in Scotland to the Scottish will produce a tighter definition than trying to include Government, but that has not yet taken place. too much detail in primary legislation, which will then become out of date. 4.15 pm The hon. Gentleman asked about our use of the Chris Bryant: So there has been absolutely no consultation words “broadcast” and “programme”. Again, we wanted with the Administrations in Scotland, Wales or Northern the clause to be consistent with the third-party expenditure Ireland about the combining of polls, the statutory 35 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 36 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] h-Eileanan an Iar (Mr MacNeil) would welcome it. I think that I have run through the issues raised by the instruments that are to be laid later this week, or the hon. Member for Rhondda and by my hon. Friend the referendum broadcasts, which in Wales are the responsibility Member for Cities of London and Westminster (Mr Field). of the Welsh Assembly not Ofcom? He is no longer in his place and that demonstrates that his questions have been adequately answered. Mr Harper: No, that is not what I said. The hon. Gentleman asked about what correspondence I had had Chris Bryant: It does not follow. on administering the elections, and I was just making the point that that is not the responsibility of Ministers Mr Harper: I think that in this particular case it does in the devolved Administrations. There has, of course, follow. It might not follow if the hon. Gentleman left been some contact, however. The hon. Gentleman will his place, but I think that my hon. Friend has left the know that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State Chamber because he was satisfied. Therefore, I ask hon. for Wales has had discussions with the First Minister Members to support the new clause. about, for example, the combination and whether the Question put and agreed to. Welsh Assembly Government wanted to move the date New clause 19 accordingly read a Second time, and of their election. They made it very clear that they did added to the Bill. not. The hon. Gentleman will also know that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland has also New Clause 20 had such conversations. Furthermore, I forwarded copies of the letter I sent to the hon. Gentleman and other COMBINATION OF POLLS Members explaining how we were going to lay the new ‘(1) Where the date of the poll for one or more of the following clause and new schedules on combination that we will is the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, the polls debate today not only to Ministers in the devolved are to be taken together— Administrations but to the leaders of each of the parties (a) a local authority election in England; represented in all three devolved bodies—the Parliament (b) a local referendum in England; and the two Assemblies—in order to keep them informed. (c) a mayoral election in England. That is a perfectly reasonable way to conduct our (2) The polls for the referendum and the Welsh Assembly business, and it is properly respectful of those nations. general election in 2011 are to be taken together. (3) The polls for the referendum and the Scottish Chris Bryant: Except that it is not much of a consultation parliamentary general election in 2011 are to be taken together. if the Secretary of State for Wales goes to the First Minister in Wales and says, “The referendum is going to (4) Where the date of the poll for one or more of the following is the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, the polls be held on the date of your Assembly elections. Do you are to be taken together— want to move your Assembly elections?” That is a pretty (a) a Northern Ireland Assembly Election; rum sort of consultation—more a case of holding a gun to the other side’s head than a proper consultation. (b) a Northern Ireland local election. (5) The following have effect— Mr Harper: I do not think that the hon. Gentleman is Schedule [Combination of polls: England], in relation characterising that in a sensible fashion. This is a national to the polls to be taken together in England under referendum to be held in the United Kingdom, and it is subsection (1); a reserved matter for the UK Government to decide Schedule [Combination of polls: Wales], in relation to the polls to be taken together in Wales under upon. When this whole issue arose and my right hon. subsection (2); Friend the Deputy Prime Minister made a statement to Schedule [Combination of polls: Scotland], in relation the House, some Members asked what consultation had to the polls to be taken together in Scotland under taken place and he made it clear that this is a matter for subsection (3); the UK Government and that it was right that this Schedule [Combination of polls: Northern Ireland], in House heard the announcement first, before any relation to the polls to be taken together in conversations took place with the devolved Administrations. Northern Ireland under subsection (4). I do not think that is disrespectful; rather, it is properly (6) Polls taken together under this section must not be taken respectful of the rights of this House. together with any other polls (despite provision in any enactment to the contrary). Mr MacNeil: Does this not highlight that when (7) Section 16 of the Representation of the People Act 1985 devolution was established by the then Labour Government, (postponement of poll at parish elections etc) does not apply to they were trying too hard to hold on to power and they any polls taken together under subsection (1). should instead have been a bit more relaxed and allowed (8) In this section— the devolved Assemblies or Parliaments a bit more “local authority election in England” means the power over the governance of their own elections? That election of a councillor of any of the following— is not rocket science. a county council in England; a district council in England; a London borough council; a parish Mr Harper: I thank the hon. Gentleman for that council; point. In my response to the hon. Member for Rhondda, (a) a county council in England; I set out what the arrangements are now for the (b) a district council in England; administration of elections. One of the things that has (c) a London borough council; been discussed as part of the Calman proposals is the (d) a parish council; suggestion to devolve the administration of elections to “local referendum in England” means a referendum the Scottish Government. I hope that we can take that held in England under Part 2 of the Local forward, and I am sure that the hon. Member for Na Government Act 2000; 37 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 38 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill “mayoral election in England” means an election in Amendment (e) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 18, England for the return of an elected mayor as leave out sub-paragraph (1) and (2) and insert— defined by section 39(1) of the Local Government (1) Separate ballot boxes must be used for the referendum to Act 2000; those used for other relevant elections taking place on the same day. “Northern Ireland Assembly election” means an election to the Northern Ireland Assembly; (2) Each ballot box must be marked to show— (a) the referendum or relevant election to which it “Northern Ireland local election” means a local relates, and election as defined by section 130(1) of the Electoral Law Act (Northern Ireland) 1962; (b) the colour of ballot papers that should be placed in it.’. “Scottish parliamentary general election” means an Amendment (g) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 27, ordinary election under section 2 of the Scotland in sub-paragraph (1), leave out Act 1998; ‘If the counting officer thinks fit, the same copy of the register of electors may’ “Welsh Assembly general election” means an ordinary election under section 3 of the Government of and insert Wales Act 2006.’.—(Mr Harper.) ‘Separate registers of electors must’. Brought up, and read the First time. Amendment (h) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 27, leave out sub-paragraphs (2) to (4). Mr Harper: I beg to move, That the clause be read a Amendment (i) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 40, at Second time. the end of sub-paragraph (3) insert ‘or The First Deputy Chairman of Ways and Means (Mr Nigel (c) the person is a Member of Parliament.’. Evans): With this it will be convenient to discuss the Amendment (j) to new schedule 2, after paragraph 43 following: insert— Amendment (a) to new clause 20, leave out subsection ‘Priority in counting of votes (1) and insert— 43A Counting officers must give priority to the counting of ballots cast in— (1) Where the date of the poll for a local authority election in England is the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, (a) the respective elections to the Northern Ireland, the polls are to be taken together.’. Scotland and Wales devolved administrations, and Amendment (b) to new clause 20, leave out subsection (b) local council elections in each part of the United (4) and insert— Kingdom.’. Amendment (k) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 44, (4) Where the date of the poll for a Northern Ireland Assembly Election is the same as the date of the poll for the at the end of sub-paragraph (1), at end of sub-sub- referendum, the polls are to be taken together.’. paragraph (a) insert ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. Amendment (c) to new clause 20, in subsection (8), leave out from ‘“local referendum in England”’ to the Amendment (l) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 44, at second “Local Government Act 2000;” the end of sub-paragraph (1), at end of sub-sub-paragraph (b) insert Amendment (d) to new clause 20, in subsection (8), ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. leave out from ‘“Northern Ireland local election”’ to Amendment (m) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 44, “Electoral Law Act (Northern Ireland) 1962”. at the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub- Government new schedule 2—Combination of polls: paragraph (a) insert England. ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. Amendment (a) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 11, Amendment (n) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 44, in sub-paragraph (1) leave out ‘15th’ and insert ‘28th’. at the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub- Amendment (b) to new schedule 2, after paragraph 12, paragraph (b) insert insert— ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. ‘Absent voter application Amendment (o) to new schedule 2, in Part 2, in the 12A An application under regulation 51(4)b of the Representation second column, in the entry relating to Regulation 71, of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001, SI 2001/341, leave out ‘eleventh’ and insert ‘fifteenth’. for an absent vote must state whether it is made for parliamentary Government new schedule 3—Combination of polls: elections, local government elections, referendums or all of them.’. Wales. Amendment (c) to new schedule 2, leave out paragraph 15 Amendment (a) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 15, and insert— leave out sub-paragraph (1) and insert— ‘15 (1) The Chief Counting Officer shall select the colour of ″(1) The official poll cards used for the referendum and the the ballot paper used for the referendum. Assembly elections must be combined for all electors qualified to vote in all the polls.’. (2) The other ballot papers used for any relevant election shall be of a different colour from that selected by the Chief Counting Amendment (b) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 17, Officer.’. leave out sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) and insert— Amendment (d) to new schedule 2, in paragraph 17, “(1) Separate ballot boxes must be used for the referendum to leave out sub-paragraph (1) and insert— that used for the Assembly elections. (2) Each ballot box must be marked to show— ‘(1) The official poll cards used for the referendum and for the relevant elections must be combined for all electors qualified to (a) the referendum or Assembly election to which it relates, and vote in all the polls.’. (b) the colour of ballot papers that should be placed in it.’. 39 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 40 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Amendment (c) to new schedule 3, leave out paragraph 18 Amendment (h) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 48, and insert— at the end of sub-paragraph (1), at end of sub-sub- “18 (1) The Chief Counting Officer shall select the colour of paragraph (1)(b) insert the ballot paper used for the referendum. ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. (2) The other ballot papers used for the Assembly elections Amendment (i) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 48, at shall be of a different colour from that selected by the Chief the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub-paragraph Counting Officer.’. (a) insert Amendment (e) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 45, ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. at the end of sub-paragraph (3) insert Amendment (j) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 48, at ‘or the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub-paragraph (c) the person is a Member of Parliament.’. (b) insert Amendment (f) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 47, ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. in sub-paragraph (1)(d), leave out ‘separate’ and insert Government new schedule 5—Combination of polls: ‘keep separate throughout’. Northern Ireland. Amendment (g) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 49, Amendment (a) to new schedule 5, leave out paragraph 12 sub-paragraph (1), at the end of sub-sub-paragraph (a) and insert— insert “12 (1) The Chief Electoral Officer shall select the colour of ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. the ballot paper used for the referendum. Amendment (h) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 49, (2) The ballot papers used for any relevant elections shall at the end of sub-paragraph (1), at end of sub-sub- be of a different colour from that selected by the paragraph (b) insert Chief Electoral Officer.’. ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. Amendment (b) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 14, Amendment (i) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 49, at leave out sub-paragraph (1) and insert— the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub-paragraph “(1) The official poll cards used for the referendum and for (a) insert the relevant elections must be combined for all ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. electors qualified to vote in all the polls.’. Amendment (j) to new schedule 3, in paragraph 49, at Amendment (c ) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 15, the end of sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub-paragraph leave out sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) and insert— (b) insert “(1) Separate ballot boxes must be used for the referendum to that used for other relevant elections ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. taking place on the same day. Government new schedule 4—Combination of polls: (2) Each ballot box must be marked to show— Scotland. (a) the referendum or relevant election to which it Amendment (a) to new schedule 4, paragraph 15, leave relates, and out sub-paragraph (1) and insert— (b) the colour of ballot papers that should be placed in “(1) The official poll cards used for the referendum and for the it.’. Scottish parliamentary election must be combined for all electors Amendment (e) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 31, qualified to vote in all the polls.’. at the end of sub-paragraph (3) insert Amendment (b) to new schedule 4, paragraph 17, ‘or is a Member of Parliament.’. leave out sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) and insert— Amendment (f) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 32, “(1) Separate ballot boxes must be used for the referendum to in sub-paragraph (1)(c), leave out ‘separate’ and insert that used for the Scottish parliamentary elections. ‘keep separate throughout.’. (2) Each ballot box must be marked to show— Amendment (g) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 33, (a) the referendum or parliamentary election to which it relates, and at the end of sub-paragraph (1)(a), insert (b) the colour of ballot papers that should be placed in ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. it.’. Amendment (h) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 33, Amendment (c) to new schedule 4, leave out paragraph 18 at the end of sub-paragraph (1)(b) insert and insert— ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. “18 (1) The Chief Counting Officer shall select the colour of Amendment (i) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 48, at the ballot paper used for the referendum. the end of sub-paragraph (3)(a) insert (2) The ballot papers used for constituency or regional ballots ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. shall be of a different colour from that selected by the Chief Counting Officer.’. Amendment (j) to new schedule 5, in paragraph 48, Amendment (e) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 42, at the end sub-paragraph (3), at end of sub-sub-paragraph (b) of sub-paragraph (3) insert insert ‘or ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. (c) the person is a Member of Parliament.’. Chris Bryant: On a point of order, Mr Evans. This is Amendment (f) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 46, a large group of amendments, schedules and a new in sub-paragraph (1)(d), leave out ‘separate’ and insert clause; indeed, it constitutes some 120 pages of the ‘keep separate throughout.’. amendment paper. I need a little clarity about when we Amendment (g) to new schedule 4, in paragraph 48, come to vote on amendments and about whether, if we at the end of sub-paragraph (1) (a)insert were to agree to the new clause, it would then be ‘containing ballot papers for the referendum vote.’. possible to vote on amendments to the schedule later. 41 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 42 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill The First Deputy Chairman: It is all dependent on would make the conduct of the referendum and elections how long this particular set of new clauses and schedules easier for administrators if, in Wales and Scotland, the are talked to. Clearly, if we get to them before the knife referendums were run on the same respective boundaries is reached at 11 o’clock, they will be taken with the as the Welsh Assembly and the Scottish parliamentary amendments, but that changes if we go beyond 11 o’clock. elections. Appropriate provisions were consequently added to the Bill following a successful Government amendment Mr Harper: Encouragingly, the hon. Member for last Monday and further provisions to support this are Rhondda took rather less time speaking to the previous included in new schedules 3 and 4. new clause than he took last week. That may be a step forward and perhaps we may indeed— I am conscious that this is a sizeable set of amendments and it is only right and proper that we should go Chris Bryant rose— through them in some detail, so let me set them out for the benefit of the Committee. At the end of my remarks Mr Harper: Oh come on, that was a semi-serious I shall say something about the territorial orders, so if comment and it does not require a response. [Interruption.] the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) feels the Oh go on then. urge to intervene on me about that point, I want him to know that I will get to it and, if he will hold his horses, I Chris Bryant: It will get a semi-serious response; I do will set it out. not want the hon. Gentleman to worry about this. I merely wish to remind him that the Deputy Leader of New clause 20 provides that the referendum on the the House, who is sitting next to him, has said: voting system will be combined with the following polls, “I am saying that every Member of this House has the right to which are scheduled to take place on 5 May next year: express their opinion before this House in whatever way they feel elections to the Welsh Assembly, elections to the Scottish is appropriate and to be listened to.”—[Official Report, 19 January Parliament, elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly, 2010; Vol. 504, c. 173.] local elections in England, local elections in Northern I am sure that the Deputy Leader of the House still feels Ireland, mayoral elections in five local authorities in that that is true. England and parish elections in England. There is also a strong likelihood that there might be some local Mr Harper: I agree, and indeed we did listen to the mayoral referendums in England on 5 May and we have hon. Gentleman at length—I am just not sure that what included provisions to allow those polls to be combined he said would not have been improved had it been a with the referendum. little more brief. [Interruption.] It is a jest; do not take it so seriously. New clause 20 includes provisions on parish elections, which reflect the commitment that I made to my hon. As the hon. Gentleman said, the new clause and the Friend the Member for South West Bedfordshire (Andrew new schedules are fairly sizeable. I am not going to Selous) on Second Reading. In England, parish council labour the discussion on them, but they are important elections will be combined with the local elections and the and so I shall go through them in some detail—I hope referendum on the voting system and not postponed for not to detain the House for longer than is absolutely three weeks. The Government’s decision takes into account necessary.They are required to provide that the referendum the positive impact on turnout and the savings that can on the voting system can be combined with the eight be made by combining these polls. Before making that different elections or local referendums across the UK decision, I was reassured by the Electoral Commission that could take place on 5 May 2011. The “combination and the Association of Electoral Administrators that it amendments”—I use a collective noun for them—consist would be possible in practice to combine the referendum, of one new clause and four schedules. There is a schedule local elections and parish council elections on 5 May. I to deal with the combination with elections or local understand that that position is also supported by the government referendums for each of England, Wales, National Association of Local Councils. Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each schedule is divided into three parts: part 1 deals with general provisions; Subsection (6) of new clause 20 provides that, with part 2 deals with postal voting provisions; and part 3 the exception of the polls I have mentioned, no further deals with forms. polls will be combined with the referendum if they are I think it is helpful to state that we decided not to arranged for 5 May. If there are any other unscheduled include the combination provisions in the Bill when it polls, such as a UK parliamentary by-election or a local was introduced on 22 July in order, as we said then, to government by-election in Wales, that run on separate allow us time to work with the Electoral Commission, boundaries, they will be run as separate elections, which the Association of Electoral Administrators and others will be easier and more straightforward for electoral in government, particularly those in the territorial offices, administrators. to make sure that if we did hold the referendum on the New schedule 2 sets out the provisions for the same day as elections, notwithstanding the arguments combination of the referendum with local parish and that Members of the Committee have made about mayoral elections and local government referendums in whether or not we should do so, those polls would be England. I can advise the Committee that the majority well conducted and well run. of these provisions mirror those that already exist for Our general approach has been to adopt a consistent combining polls under the various combination rules approach for the referendum across the UK, but we included under relevant pieces of legislation, such as the have recognised that in some areas there is a need for “Mayoral Elections (Combination of Polls) Rules” set variation to reflect local circumstances. For example, out in schedule 3 to the Local Authorities (Mayoral following consultation with the Scotland Office, the Elections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007. I Wales Office and the chair of the interim Scottish fear that I might refer to similarly exciting-sounding electoral management board it became apparent that it parts of the legislative book during this debate. 43 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 44 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Harper] to delay issuing the poll card for all the other polls until after the nominations had closed for the parish elections. Part 1 of new schedule 2 contains the following The rules for the other combined polls provide that poll provisions, which I am sure that the Committee will be cards can be issued as soon as practicable after the interested to note. Paragraph 3 provides that at a combined notice of referendum or notice of election has been poll, a counting officer will be able discharge a number issued. We have also included provisions that allow the of the functions for which a returning officer would counting officer, where the poll cards are combined, to usually be responsible at an election. In short, it means adapt them in whatever manner seems necessary for the that those functions that are discharged by referendum purposes of the combined poll. counting officers, such as the provision of polling stations, Paragraph 18 permits the counting officer to decide appointment of poll clerks and issuing of combined whether the same or separate ballot boxes should be poll cards, will automatically determine practice at both used for combined polls. Where separate ballot boxes polls. We have allowed for decisions on most core are used, they are each to be clearly marked to show functions that relate to the conduct of a combined poll which ballot papers should be put in them. to be made at the discretion of the counting officer. That follows the approach taken in existing combination Mr MacNeil: On the use of separate ballot boxes, if a legislation that when polls are combined, certain functions voter happens to put both papers in one or other of the in relation to the conduct of both polls are carried out ballot boxes, will that be cleared up at the polling by one officer. station simply by transferring the relevant paper to the There are two key exceptions. The printing of the right pile? ballot paper for the election polls will remain under the control of returning officers. Decisions about whether Mr Harper: Clearly, as is common with combined or not to combine postal ballot packs will be made polls, the verification procedure, which I shall discuss through the counting officer agreeing a position with later, will make sure that verification is complete for all the relevant returning officer. The latter position ensures polls before any election results are declared, so that that decisions will be made in accordance with local there will not be problems if a whole load of ballot needs. There are situations in which combining those papers are suddenly found in the wrong box. That postal ballot packs would simply not be practical and provision is fairly consistent with what happens now in legislating for counting officers and returning officers to combined elections. do things that are simply not practically possible does Mr MacNeil: Will the Minister clarify that point? not seem to be very sensible. When he says “verification”, does he mean “counting”, Paragraph 5 provides that the cost of the combined with a declaration of the result after both polls have polls will be equally apportioned between them. For been counted, or does he mean that the papers will be example, in the case of a combined referendum on the separated to ensure that they are in the right place and voting system and local government elections in England, that, in Scotland, votes for the Scottish Parliament will the cost would be split 50:50 between the Consolidated be counted and declared before people get around to Fund and the local authority concerned. counting and declaring the result of the referendum? Paragraph 9 permits the counting officer to decide Mr Harper: I shall come to the order of counting in a whether combined corresponding number lists should while, but we have made it clear in previous debates that be used for the combined polls. Paragraph 11 provides the election results should be counted first. that the notice of poll for the combined elections should be published Mr MacNeil: And declared? “not later than the 15th day before the date of the poll.” The 15-day deadline is necessary to ensure that a consistent Mr Harper: Yes. The verification of both the referendum approach is taken for all the polls that we are combining and election ballot papers will take place first; it will not on5May. be necessary to count the referendum papers at that Paragraph 15 provides that the ballot papers used for point, but they will have to be verified to make sure that the referendum must be a different colour from the no election ballot papers have inadvertently been put in ballot papers used for any combined poll, thereby preventing the wrong box. That is what happens with combined any risk that voters might confuse the ballot papers. general and local elections now: local election votes do Paragraph 16 provides clarity that the polling stations not have to be counted before general election votes can that the counting officer chooses for the referendum be counted and the result declared, but both sets of will be used for all combined polls taking place in the papers have to be verified to ensure that all the general voting area. election papers are in one place and that the result is accurate. That does not hold up the declaration of results, which, quite importantly for all the devolved 4.30 pm Assemblies, will be wanted as soon as possible. When I Paragraph 17 permits the counting officer, if he thinks come to that issue, the hon. Gentleman can jump straight fit, to combine the official poll cards for the referendum in if he thinks I have not been clear. and all other polls, with the exception of parish elections. Following our debate in Committee on 18 October, I It is not possible to combine a parish election poll card confirm that a large-print version of the ballot papers with other poll cards, because in a parish election it is for each of the relevant polls, including the referendum, not known until the close of nominations whether it must be displayed at all polling stations. Paragraph 20 will be contested. As the majority of parish elections provides that at a combined poll: are uncontested, we have concluded, with advice from “The large version of the ballot paper displayed…must be of the Electoral Commission, that it would not make sense the same colour as the ballot papers to be used for the referendum.” 45 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 46 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Paragraphs 27 to 34 permit the counting officer to Chris Bryant: I am grateful to the Minister for going use the same copy of the register for each poll to through in some detail the large number of pages containing combine the various lists that are produced for proxy the amendments, new clauses and new schedules. The voters, the votes marked by the presiding officer, the list register for local elections in England will be different of voters with disabilities assisted by companions and from the register used for the referendum, and from the the tendered votes list. register in Wales. The Government’s provisions suggest Paragraph 36 sets out the procedure that presiding that there should be just one register in each polling officers must follow at the close of poll. That includes station and that some kind of mark will be made rules on the packets that need to be made up and sent to somewhere to suggest who has had, and who has not the counting officer after the poll has closed. Provision had, each of the ballot papers. Is he confident that that is included to ensure that certain documents relating to will meet the requirement to make sure that nobody has each poll are not combined with documents relating to a ballot paper to which they are not entitled? How will any other poll. That applies to unused or spoilt ballot the returning officer make sure that the list of voters papers, tendered ballot papers and certificates as to who have voted, or who have been given ballot papers, employment on the day of the poll. is accurately provided to the regional counting officer Paragraphs 38 to 45 set out the Government’s policy and then the counting officer, as well as to the local for the verification and count procedure at a combined authority? poll. The combination amendment does not specify the timing of the count for any of the polls, to ensure that Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman makes an important there is flexibility for votes on the ballot papers for the point. We are confident that the provisions will work elections to be counted before those for the referendum. appropriately.Combining the referendum with the elections The combination rules for the verification and count may be controversial—although more for issues relating process make it clear that once ballot papers have been to the mechanics of the election—but it is not as though received from polling stations, they have to be taken out we never hold combined elections. We hold combined of the ballot boxes and separated into piles for each general elections and local elections, which have different poll. Before the votes on ballot papers for any poll can franchises. There may be the odd problem, but in the be counted, the counting officer or relevant returning main they work well, so this is not a new departure for officer must ensure that the ballot papers from a ballot those who run elections. We are confident about the box are mixed with the ballot papers for that poll from a rules, which we reached after close working with the different ballot box, and that postal ballot papers are Electoral Commission, which is responsible for running mixed with ballot papers for that poll from a ballot box. the referendum, and the Association of Electoral If the counting of votes for any poll has not commenced Administrators, which is responsible for delivering by the time the verification process has been concluded, elections. They are confident that we have come up with the ballot papers for that poll must be sealed up and a set of rules that maximise the ability of all individuals retained by the counting officer in the case of referendum on the ground to run a smooth set of combined polls on ballot papers, or delivered to the relevant returning 5 May 2011. officer, who will be responsible for storing the ballot Part 2 of new schedule 2 includes provisions for the papers securely until the count takes place. issue and receipt of postal ballot packs. The provisions Paragraph 46 provides that the verification process apply existing legislation and make the necessary for all combined polls must have been completed before modifications. When read together, they set out the the declaration of any counts. Although we are aware Government’s policy that the proceedings on the issue that that may delay the declaration of a count, we and receipt of postal ballot papers can be combined believe that given the number of polls taking place the if returning and counting officers think fit. They also requirement is essential to ensure that all the ballot set out how the procedure works when papers are papers have been correctly accounted for, thereby ensuring combined and when they are issued separately; the the integrity of the count. Clearly, as with combined procedure and timing for the issue and receipt postal elections, having to do all the verification may mean ballot papers; the persons who are entitled to be present that the result is a little delayed, but it will not mean at proceedings on receipt of postal ballot papers for that we have to wait for the referendum to be counted both the referendum and the relevant election; and the before the election count. procedure for forwarding and retaining documents relating Paragraphs 48 and 49 set out the arrangements for to the postal voting process—for example, postal voting ensuring that the counting officer and returning officer statements, the proxy voters log and the postal voters seal up all relevant papers in appropriate packets after list. the poll, and deliver them to the relevant registration officer. All documents that have been combined will be Part 3 of new schedule 2 sets out the combined forms sealed together and sent by the counting officer to the that can be used for the purposes of the combined polls. relevant registration officer. Where it has been decided The forms include corresponding number lists, postal to use separate lists for each poll, the documents will be voting statements, guidance for voters and a certificate sealed in separate packets and delivered to the relevant of employment. As is the case for forms contained in registration officer by either the counting officer for the the referendum rules, the Electoral Commission will be referendum or the returning officer for the relevant able to modify the forms for the purpose of making election. them easier for voters to understand or use. We have specifically provided that in the event of I can confirm to the Committee that equivalent legal proceedings arising on the referendum and/or provisions with necessary modifications to take into relevant election, the court can make an order for the account local needs have been provided for the combination production of combined documents relating to the poll of polls in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland under or polls. new schedules 3, 4 and 5. 47 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 48 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Mark Tami (Alyn and Deeside) (Lab): Before we Mr Harper: If we were not having a referendum and move off the subject, a person applying for a postal were having only local council elections in England—I ballot might automatically assume that by doing so shall refer to England, as that is what the hon. Gentleman’s they will get one for all elections. Is that so, or must they question was about—people would not get a postal vote apply separately for a postal ballot for each poll? if they had not asked for one, or if they were not registered for a permanent one. If they were registered Mr Harper: I do not want to anticipate the debate for a postal vote for a parliamentary election, that that we will have on the proposals of the hon. Member would come automatically, but that would not in any for Rhondda, but we have said that someone’s standing way reduce their ability to participate in local elections, postal vote application for parliamentary elections will as they had not asked for a postal vote. trigger their postal vote for the referendum. It is the same franchise, and we thought that that was a better Several hon. Members rose— way around the problem than insisting that all those with a standing postal vote application for a parliamentary Mr Harper: Let me take the intervention from the election apply for a new postal vote specifically for the hon. Member for Glasgow South (Mr Harris), as I am referendum. We wanted to maximise the opportunities responding to his point. for people to take part rather than have people who miss out because they did not realise that they needed to 4.45 pm apply for a new postal vote. We have ensured that if Mr Harris: There is a corollary to what the Minister people already have a standing postal vote for a says, then. If people are registered to vote by post for a parliamentary election, they will get one for the referendum. parliamentary election, and they then receive the ballot paper for the AV referendum, is it not likely that they Mr Michael McCann (East Kilbride, Strathaven and will fill in that ballot paper without going to the polling Lesmahagow) (Lab): In response to my hon. Friend the station in order to cast a vote in the local council Member for Alyn and Deeside (Mark Tami), the Minister elections, thereby deflating turnout in the local council specifically mentioned people who have a postal ballot elections, which are extremely important? for parliamentary elections. My recollection of the paperwork that is issued in Scotland is that electors tick Mr Harper: I am not sure I agree with the hon. boxes to say that they want a postal ballot for all Gentleman. I am not sure that voting in the referendum elections. That might seem like a nit-picking point, but by post would make someone less likely to go and vote will the Minister confirm that by ticking a box marked, in their local council elections, as long as they were clear “All elections,” people will be entitled to receive a postal about what was going on. We have been clear, and the ballot for the referendum? Electoral Commission has been clear— Mr Harper: My understanding is that if people are Andrew Gwynne rose— entitled to, or have applied for, a postal vote for a parliamentary election and tick the box marked “All Mr Harper: Let me finish responding to the intervention elections”—that is a common way of asking that question before I take another one. It is important that people in England as well as in Scotland—and if they are on are clear about what is going on. The Electoral Commission the list for parliamentary elections, they will get a postal has said that one of its key responsibilities, as well as vote for the referendum. I am sure that if I have got that running the referendums, is to make sure that clear wrong, inspiration will strike me and I can correct my guidance is issued to those conducting elections and answer. that there are clear communications to electors. The commission will send a booklet to every household to Andrew Gwynne (Denton and Reddish) (Lab): Of explain to people the elections and referendum that are course, in England on 5 May, we will have not parliamentary taking place, so that people are clear about what is elections, but local elections. What assessment has the happening. The point raised by the hon. Member for Minister or the Cabinet Office made of the number of Glasgow South is well made. people who are registered only for council election postal votes? Andrew Gwynne: My concern is the opposite to that of my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow South Mr Harper: Clearly, we do not need to have a (Mr Harris). Plenty of people in England will be registered parliamentary election—registration for a permanent for a local election postal vote, but not necessarily for a postal vote for a parliamentary election will automatically parliamentary election postal vote. They will get a trigger the postal vote for the referendum. What happens ballot paper for the 5 May council elections, but not for if a person is registered for a postal vote only for local the referendum. How is that right? elections depends on whether the postal ballot packs are combined. Mr Harper: Well, because they are not registered for a parliamentary ballot. The reason for making those Mr Tom Harris (Glasgow South) (Lab): Can the equivalent is that the referendum is taking place on the Minister clarify the situation for next May? Is it conceivable Westminster parliamentary franchise— that large numbers of voters in England—this probably will not happen in Scotland—will be sent automatically Chris Bryant: No, it is not. the referendum ballot paper but not a council ballot paper? People might have to go to the polling station to Mr Harper: Plus peers; and it seems that using those vote for their councillor, and yet be able to vote only by who have asked for a postal vote for that type of post in the referendum. Has the Cabinet Office made election, given that we are talking about changing the any calculation of how many people that will affect? voting system— 49 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 50 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): Resign! definition of a voting area for the referendum as it applies in Scotland and Wales to provide that the Mr Harper: If resignations were based on that level of referendum is to be run on the same respective boundaries accuracy, there would not have been any members of as Scottish parliamentary and National Assembly for the previous Government in post for longer than about Wales elections. That will help with the administration a week, so we will have no more of that. of the elections, as the officials involved in delivering them have said. Chris Ruane: I thank the Minister for giving way. We have kept the provisions on the timing of the Right, here we go: what would happen in Wales if an count silent in the legislation to allow sufficient flexibility elector were registered for a postal vote at European for the counts for the devolved elections to take place elections, not for a postal vote at parliamentary elections, prior to the referendum count. We have based the postal for a postal vote at Welsh Assembly Government voting provisions in part 2 of schedules 3 and 4 on those elections, and for a postal vote at local government that apply for Welsh Assembly and Scottish parliamentary elections? Whatever the Minister says, will the public elections, making modifications where necessary to take understand it? account of the referendum. That will ensure that small differences in regional practice on postal voting will Mr Harper: If such a voter had elected to register for carry through to the referendum. a permanent postal vote for every possible election except a Westminster parliamentary one, they would Chris Bryant: But why? Why should there be variations clearly have had a good reason for doing that, so our in postal vote practices around the country for a UK-wide proposal that the UK parliamentary franchise be used referendum? makes sense. I do not think the hon. Gentleman makes a sensible point. Mr Harper: It is because we are combining it with elections that are different in different parts of the UK. Chris Ruane: I left out town council elections. Picking up on points that hon. Members were making earlier, I can say that the poll cards issued will confirm Mr Harper: I think my answer stills stands. the voting arrangements that will apply to a particular elector for each poll. They will explain to electors the Ms Louise Bagshawe (Corby) (Con): Does my hon. arrangements in place, and people will be able to apply Friend agree that there is deliberate obfuscation going to the registration office to vary their postal voting on, given that some citizens eligible to vote in local arrangements up until 11 days before the poll, or six elections are not necessarily eligible to vote in Westminster days before the poll where a proxy vote takes place. elections—for example, European nationals, whom we That will be helpful. would not wish to vote in the referendum anyway? Contrary to the intervention by the hon. Member for The Committee will want to be aware—certainly the Glasgow South (Mr Harris), is not one of the biggest hon. Member for Rhondda will—that I can confirm predictors of voting whether someone has voted before? that all of the new orders have been laid by the territorial Is not the existence of the referendum therefore more offices today to update the rules for the elections to the likely to increase, rather than depress, turnout in local Scottish Parliament, the Northern Ireland Assembly elections? and the National Assembly for Wales. Given that the combination amendments just discussed are based on Mr Harper: My hon. Friend is spot-on. To be frank, I existing legislation, as is usual practice, any consequential think that voters are perfectly capable of working out amendments reflecting those new territorial orders will what elections or referendums are taking place. Voters be tabled for debate on Report next week, as I said last in Wales will have had some warm-up practice in March, week. because they will have had an important referendum on Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) (SNP): the powers that the Welsh Assembly Government should Will the Minister detail to the Committee what discussions have. They will therefore have had the opportunity to and consultation he has held with the Scottish Government, think about whether they want an absent vote. That will the Welsh Assembly and the Northern Ireland Assembly mean, I am sure, that at the front of their minds, as they prior to the orders being laid? approach the elections and referendum on 5 May, they will be thinking hard about whether they will be around Mr Harper: I am not sure whether the hon. Gentleman and able to vote in person, or whether they should was here when we had a slight rehearsal of this discussion apply for an absent vote. At least in Wales, therefore, at the beginning of our sitting, but the hon. Member for what the hon. Member for Glasgow South (Mr Harris) Rhondda asked me what discussions I had had about suggests might happen is unlikely to do so. the conduct of the referendum in the devolved nations Now, where did I get to? [Laughter.] There have been and about the arrangements for the combined polls, so many interventions. I suspect that it was nice for and I made the point to him that arrangements for everyone to break up the monotony of my voice reading elections in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are out these exciting provisions, so I am happy to have the responsibility not of Ministers in the devolved taken those criticisms from the Committee. nations, but of the territorial Secretaries of State. Given that the provisions in schedules 3 to 5 are I also pointed out to the hon. Gentleman that I had largely consistent with those I have outlined for England, written to explain how we would lay and handle the I am sure that the Committee will be relieved to hear combination amendments. I wrote not just to Opposition that I do not intend to go through their contents in the Front Benchers and Members who had expressed an same detail. However, I will go through some of the key interest, but out of courtesy to the leaders of every provisions we have made for Scotland, Northern Ireland party represented in the devolved Parliament and and Wales. As I confirmed earlier, we have amended the Assemblies in order to keep them confirmed. 51 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 52 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Harper] elections and, before the hon. Member for Rhondda jumps up, the small amendment that we have made, the I said also that my right hon. Friends the Secretaries addition of peers. The franchise is the same throughout of State for Scotland, for Wales and for Northern the United Kingdom, so those entitled to vote in Ireland have had discussions with representatives of the Westminster elections will be able to vote; the issue is Administrations in each country about the combined simply to do with the mechanics of administering the elections, although it is fair to say that they all said to polls to ensure that the elections are conducted using me—I shall not go through the issue in detail, because the most administratively sensible process. we had this debate at length on day one of Committee—that they were not happy with the combined poll. Margaret Curran: The Minister may not be aware, but I am still a Member of the Scottish Parliament, and Pete Wishart: Is it fair to characterise the Minister’s I feel obliged to point out to him that throughout the response as “No consultation with the Scottish Parliament, Parliament there are concerns about the coalition Welsh Assembly or Northern Ireland Assembly”? Would Government’s decision to hold the referendum on the that be roughly right? same date as Scottish Parliament elections. People across the political spectrum in Scotland profoundly feel that Mr Harper: No. The conduct of elections is currently that is a great disrespect to the Scottish Parliament, and the responsibility of the territorial Secretaries of State. I say that with great authority. I also made the point to the hon. Gentleman’s colleague, the hon. Member for Na h-Eileanan an Iar (Mr MacNeil), Mr MacNeil: More nationalism, more nationalism. who was here at the beginning of our sitting, that with the Calman recommendations, the administration of Margaret Curran: This is not a nationalist point, and elections in Scotland is proposed to be devolved to the I hope that the coalition do not dismiss the feelings to Scottish Government. Clearly, if such elections were to which I have referred as the marginal voice of nationalism take place in future, the Scottish Government would be in Scotland. The view is widespread throughout Scotland, very involved, but at the moment the responsibility for and mainstream parties such as mine also hold it. the administration of each election is that of the Secretary However, I am concerned that in response to the question of State, not of the devolved Administrations. from the hon. Member for Perth and North Perthshire (Pete Wishart), the Minister seemed to imply that, Mr George Howarth (Knowsley) (Lab) rose— because the Scottish Parliament does not have responsibility for the elections at the moment, it is not a key stakeholder Margaret Curran (Glasgow East) (Lab) rose— in the ongoing discussions— Cathy Jamieson (Kilmarnock and Loudoun) (Lab/Co- The First Deputy Chairman: Order. This intervention op) rose— is longer than some of the speeches that I have made in this House— Mr Harper: Let me give way to those Members in the order that they rose: to the right hon. Gentleman and Margaret Curran rose— then to the hon. Ladies. The First Deputy Chairman: Please resume your seat. Mr George Howarth: Given the procedure that the Minister has just described, can he assure me that under Mr Harper: I am grateful, Mr Evans: I had got the the orders to which he has referred, the process in hon. Lady’s point. I am not trying to minimise her Scotland, for example, cannot differ from that in England, concern, but I note that none of the devolved Parliaments Northern Ireland or Wales? If it can, it might change or Assemblies has passed any formal motions or resolutions the terms on which people in each part of the United expressing that view to this House. Kingdom are able to engage in a referendum. 5pm Mr Harper: I am not sure that I follow the right hon. Gentleman. Clearly, there will be some differences. One The hon. Lady raises two issues, one of which is difference I outlined is that, because the referendum is about the combination of the referendum with the being combined in Scotland with Scottish parliamentary elections next year. We know about some of the views elections, the voting areas and conduct of the elections on that, because they were expressed when my right will be based on Scottish parliamentary constituencies. hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister made his statement That will clearly be different in Wales, where they will on 5 July, in the Second Reading debate, and in the be based on Welsh parliamentary constituencies, and in lengthy debate that we had about the coincidence of the England the referendum will be conducted according to dates on the first day of Committee. The Government local government boundaries, all so that we can combine take the view that voters are perfectly capable of making the elections in the most sensible way, which is what the the distinction between referendums and elections, and administrators wanted us to do. this should not affect the ability of the election campaigns to take place. We have recognised, though— Mr Howarth: I understand that, but I had in mind the question: is there any way in which the qualification for Chris Bryant rose— taking part in a referendum might inadvertently be changed by that process? Mr Harper: If the hon. Gentleman will forgive me, I will come to him when I have completed this point. Mr Harper: No. The franchise—those who can take We recognise that there is a different qualitative issue part in the referendum on the voting system—are those raised by the combination of the general election and people entitled to vote in Westminster parliamentary these elections. As I have said in previous debates, we 53 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 54 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill are thinking about how that issue may be dealt with, to their principles and not play party politics with the and we will come back to the House and the devolved issue when they are here. We should give this power to Administrations in due course. the Scottish Parliament and to the Isle of Man, at the very least. Mr MacNeil rose— Cathy Jamieson rose— Mr Harper: I am very grateful to the hon. Gentleman. I will not add to his point, but I am now slightly envious Mr Harper: Let me take the hon. Member for Rhondda that I am not a Member of the Scottish Parliament too, first. and so cannot indulge in such debates on a daily basis. I now know what I am missing out on by not participating Chris Bryant: It seems extraordinary that the Government in Scottish politics. are taking this attitude in relation to consulting the In answer to the hon. Member for Rhondda, I can devolved Administrations about their own elections. I confirm that these issues have been discussed at the fully understand that they do not have legislative competence JMC. If he does not believe that they have, I will for that matter—it is a competence reserved to happily write to him and give him the details. Westminster—but it would be common human decency to be able to consult them. In the past, the Minister has tried to argue that he wanted to tell this House before he Chris Bryant: To be honest, I do not want the Minister told anybody else. However, he knows perfectly well to write to me, I want him to consult the respective that through the Joint Ministerial Committee there are Executives in—[Interruption.] The hon. Member for provisions for the Government to speak to the Welsh Na h-Eileanan an Iar (Mr MacNeil) should calm down. Assembly Government, the Executive in Scotland and The Government are ensuring that he has his own so on. There is no reason why he could not have used rotten borough, so he does not have to worry about the those processes perfectly well. Bill. I want to ensure that consultation happens properly. Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman should know that We rightly insist that before any European Union legislation those processes have been used. The matter has been is brought in we should have 10 weeks to do our proper raised at the JMC. I am thinking back to— parliamentary duty, and the same should apply to the Welsh Assembly, the Scottish Parliament and the Northern Cathy Jamieson rose— Ireland Assembly. The Minister is deliberately eliding two concepts. Raising the matter at the JMC is one rose— Mr MacNeil thing, but consulting expressly on written documents, Mr Harper: Hang on: let me deal with one intervention which has not happened in relation to any of these at a time. issues, is something else altogether. My understanding—I am sure that this is the case—is that this issue has been raised at the JMC; I am sure Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman said that he wanted that I will be corrected if it has not. Moreover, one to ensure that these issues had been discussed, and they would be having these conversations not only with the have been raised and discussed at the JMC. The devolved Administrations but with the Parliaments and Assemblies Administrations probably still disagree with the Westminster themselves. I know that some of those conversations Government’s decision, but the matter has been discussed. have taken place. For example, my right hon. Friend the He is not making a very sensible point. Secretary of State for Wales has had a communication from the Presiding Officer of the Welsh Assembly making Mark Tami: Would the Minister not agree that Scotland it clear that its Members did not want the date of the in particular has experience of holding polls on the Assembly election changed. same day, and that problems have resulted?

Cathy Jamieson: I think that the Minister said that Mr Harper: It certainly does have that experience, the Scottish Parliament and the other devolved Assemblies which is why we looked closely at the conclusions in the had not taken a formal position by means of passing a Gould report. In an earlier debate I made it clear that resolution. Is he therefore suggesting that should, say, although Ron Gould—he of the said report—said that the Scottish Parliament pass such a resolution, he would combination would not have been his first choice, he change his mind? was clear that combining a simple yes/no referendum Mr Harper: No, I was not suggesting that at all; I was and the Scottish parliamentary elections was likely to simply making the point that they have not done so. be a much more straightforward proposition than what However, let me save them time and trouble by saying happened in the elections to which the hon. Gentleman that if they do, it will not make us change our minds, so refers. Ron Gould did not believe that the same problems they can focus on the important issues that voters will would occur. be concerned about. Jim McGovern (Dundee West) (Lab): I can assure the Mr MacNeil: Does the Minister find it a bit rich—I Minister that I am not going to rant and rave like the know I do—that Labour Members, particularly those hon. Member for Na h-Eileanan an Iar (Mr MacNeil). who are still Members of the Scottish Parliament, argue The Minister says that a referendum and a parliamentary day in, day out against more powers for the Scottish election on the same day are acceptable, but that seems Parliament, yet suddenly, when party politics are involved, to imply that only two votes will take place on the same try to score points by saying that they want more day. However, there will be a first-past-the-post vote for powers for the Scottish Parliament? They should stick the Scottish Parliament, a list vote for the Scottish 55 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 56 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Jim McGovern] in the Gould report and want to ensure that we combine the elections in such a way as to minimise the opportunity Parliament and a referendum. He is possibly misleading for confusion. Ron Gould said that combining elections Parliament—not intentionally—by implying that there would not be his preference—I am quoting him fairly—but will be only two votes. he is confident that the scope for confusion is nothing like the situation in 2007. He is fairly confident that the Mr Harper: No, we have added one extra vote to elections and the referendum will be organised sensibly what would otherwise have taken place, and it will have and competently. I think that our combination provisions a simple yes or no question rather than a complex achieve that. electoral system. Like the hon. Member for Na h-Eileanan an Iar in an earlier debate, the hon. Member for Dundee Several hon. Members rose— West (Jim McGovern) is doing his fellow Scots a disservice Mr Harper: I will take one more intervention and by suggesting, albeit obliquely, that they are not capable then finish, because I am almost there. Hon. Members of making a decision in the referendum as well as voting can then make their own speeches. in the very important Scottish parliamentary elections. Mr McCann: I am very grateful to the Parliamentary Mark Tami: Does the Minister not recognise that Secretary for giving way again. Does not he accept that candidates standing in the Welsh Assembly and Scottish in Scotland we will have a first-past-the-post election Parliament elections could take various lines about for the Scottish Parliament, the alternative vote system, whether they are pro-AV or anti-AV? There is still a lot and then we must explain to people that there is also a of scope for a very confusing situation. yes/no vote? It would be fine if we had only the yes/no vote—that is straightforward—but there are additional Mr Harper: No, I do not think there is, actually. complications. Does not the point that he has just made People are perfectly capable of laying out the prospectus concede my point? That is the point that he must grasp. on which they stand and the important issues on which they are campaigning in the elections to the Welsh Mr Harper: No, because no new electoral systems Assembly, Northern Ireland Assembly and Scottish will be invented next year. People will vote in the Parliament, and also joining the yes or no campaign on Scottish Parliament elections in the same way as they a voting system for this Parliament. That is not very did previously, with the addition of a relatively simple complicated at all, and our voters will show us that we yes or no question on the voting system for this House. are underrating them if we take that view. Incidentally, Voters may prove us wrong, but I think that they are next week, Americans will vote in an extraordinary perfectly capable of making such decisions at the same number of elections—I shall pursue that thought only time as voting in Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament briefly, Mr Evans, for fear that you will rule me out of or English council elections, and of differentiating the order—and they are perfectly capable of doing that, in polls. Clearly, that requires good organisation on the the same way as voters here are perfectly capable of ground and good communication. The Electoral voting in two or three sets of elections next year. Commission is aware of that; that is why it will write to every household to set out clearly in each of the devolved Chris Bryant: The Parliamentary Secretary knows parts of the UK details of the elections that are taking that the system that evolved in the United States because place, the referendum and the procedures, so that people they have so many elections at the same time means are clear about it. The yes and no campaigns obviously simply pulling a Democrat or a Republican switch. bear part of that responsibility too. Surely he does not intend to move to that system? Several hon. Members rose— Mr Harper: Not at all. Many voters give much thought Mr Harper: I have dealt with the point that the hon. to whom they will support in different elections. There Member for East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow are many examples of people voting differently in different (Mr McCann) made, perhaps not to his satisfaction, sorts of elections, doing what they call splitting the but at length. I have a few more sentences and I am ticket. done. Hon. Members can make their own speeches then. I have been reasonably generous in giving way. Mr McCann: Will the Parliamentary Secretary focus The territorial orders were tabled today. When the on the pertinent point about the 2007 elections in Committee stage is complete we will table the amendments, Scotland? Many elderly voters are extremely confused. I as I promised hon. Members last week, so that the have many elderly constituents who are proud of having House can debate them to reflect the new territorial voted in every election since they were given the opportunity orders— to do so. The introduction of new voting systems in 2007 made the ballot papers confusing for them, and Chris Bryant: How? they were disturbed by that. Does the hon. Gentleman accept that holding another vote on the same day as the Mr Harper: The territorial orders have been laid Scottish elections will provide scope for confusion, and before the House, and are therefore available to Members. many people will therefore be disfranchised in the They are not amendable, but it is possible for the House referendum? to vote them down, in which case we would simply revert to the combination provisions that we are discussing. Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman would have a stronger If the House votes for them, and for our amendments point if we were talking about another set of elections next week, we will have been able to debate all the rules with a new voting system, and putting everything on that will be in place next year, and will not have left it to one ballot paper. However, we have examined the lessons their lordships. 57 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 58 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Chris Bryant: However, neither the Joint Committee rightly, in the previous Parliament, in which I served, on Statutory Instruments nor the Merits of Statutory the Government of which the hon. Gentleman was a Instruments Committee in the House of Lords has yet member were not so fastidious about ensuring that this considered the orders. I presume that the House will not House was able to debate provisions. Significant pieces consider the three territorial orders in Committee this of legislation went to the other place without any week, nor will the House have disposed of them among debate at all on enormous portions of it. To the extent the remaining Orders of the Day before next Monday. that it has been within the power of the Government, It surely cannot be possible to table amendments to we have taken great care to ensure that by the time this legislation regarding other legislation that has not yet legislation leaves this House next Tuesday, all the key come into existence. issues will have been debated and voted on by this House. We may not have achieved perfection, but we 5.15 pm have made a pretty good stab at it, and I have to Mr Harper: As I set out earlier in this debate, clearly say—honestly—that what we have done is a considerable it would not have been sensible for us to table changes improvement on much of what the previous Government to the Bill to reflect orders that had not yet been laid did. I would ask Members to bear that in mind. before the House, but they have been laid before the The provisions on postal voting in local elections in House today, so—[Interruption.] The hon. Gentleman Northern Ireland are changed substantially by one of says that they have not been agreed. I have said that the orders laid today, so it would not have been sensible they have not been agreed, but they have been laid to deal with that in the current group of amendments. before the House—both of them under the affirmative However, to finish on a point that I hope will bring the procedure, so they have to be voted for. If this House or hon. Gentleman great cheer, I can confirm that no the other place were to vote them down, we would amendments will be necessary in relation to the combination revert to the rules that exist already. We would then be provisions for Wales, as the changes to be made to the able to go back to the provisions that I am explaining rules governing the conduct of the Welsh Assembly today, which will have been debated in this Committee. elections do not affect any rules relevant to combination Either way, this House will have had the opportunity, with the referendum. On that note, which I am sure will on this Bill, to debate the provisions that will be in place gladden his heart, let me conclude by saying that the for elections next year. That is what I committed to combination provisions that we have provided are necessary arrange, and that is important. for the smooth running of all the polls that are scheduled to take place next May. Chris Bryant rose— Mr Harper: I know that the hon. Gentleman is going Chris Bryant: I am grateful to the Minister for giving to find whatever convoluted way he can to try to pretend us some of the detail on the amendments, although he that that is not the case, but on any reasonable reading has not given all of it, which is significant. I would like of the situation, we have ensured that before the Bill to start by picking up where the Parliamentary Secretary leaves this place, this House will have had the opportunity finished—on the due process that needs to be followed to debate the provisions, rather than leaving that to the in relation to anything when it reflects the representation other place. of the people, constitutional matters, or the constitutional relationship between Westminster and the devolved Chris Bryant rose— Administrations, but which has not, I believe, been Chris Ruane: Go on Chris, convolute it. followed in this case. Of course, there should first be pre-legislative scrutiny, Chris Bryant: It does not need to be convoluted; it is but, as we have heard, the Bill has had absolutely none. pretty straightforward. I presume that the Minister will It is true that the Government published the Bill, but it agree with me that the law on combination of polls in exists not because of some grand constitutional principle Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales next Monday but because of some naked partisan gerrymandering of will be precisely the same as it is today, so we will not be a Bill. I am sure that if it had been published in able to debate amendments to anything other than pre-legislative form, so that a Committee of this House speculative legislation that will not have been carried by or a Joint Committee of both Houses had been able to then and will therefore not be the law. consider it, that Committee would have said, right at Mr Harper: It is correct that that legislation will not the beginning, “Youshouldn’t be spatchcocking together have been carried by the House, but it will be available these two elements of the Bill”—[Interruption.] Or, for Members to debate. There are two scenarios: either “You shouldn’t be kebabbing the legislation in this the House will approve the orders that my right hon. way.” The Parliamentary Secretary helps me. It is not Friends have laid before the House today—in which really spatchcocking; it is more kebabbing. It requires case the amendments that we will table once the Committee more of an inner-city image than a rural image; he is stage is finished, which we will debate on Report next quite right. week, will come into force—or the House will vote those orders down, in which case we will revert to what Chris Ruane: Why does my hon. Friend think there we are talking about today. In either situation, this has been such undue haste in rushing the Bill, or Bills, House will have had the opportunity to debate those through the House? provisions—I suspect at length—and they will therefore not be left to the upper House. Chris Bryant: This is entirely speculative, but it might We have tried hard to ensure that the elected House be something to do with the Bill acting as the Araldite has been able to debate both the provisions on the that holds the coalition together. The fact is, however, referendum and those on boundaries. If I remember that the Deputy Prime Minister—or Sandie Shaw, as we 59 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 60 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] Mr David: My hon. Friend has many neighbourly friends. He puts his finger on a crucial point about the normally know her, or him, now—is so Araldited to the speed with which this Bill is being introduced. Does he Prime Minister that there is probably no need for the agree that not only that a number of Conservative Bill to be introduced in precisely this way. Members sit on the Welsh Affairs Committee but that, There should have been pre-legislative scrutiny of the significantly, its Chairman is a Conservative? Bill. I am sure that a Joint Committee would have said that it should not have been constituted in this way, and Chris Bryant: Yes, and I not think anybody could call that it was inappropriate to try to foist combined polls the Committee’s Chair a patsy. He is a man of fierce on Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland when they independence—sometimes overly fierce, and sometimes had expressly said that they did not want a combination overly independent—and the Select Committee’s findings of a referendum and their own elections, especially in were extremely clear. It reported: Northern Ireland, where on the same day there will be “The Government is determined to pass this legislation quickly local elections as well as Assembly elections. I am pretty in order that the referendum on the Parliamentary electoral certain that such a Committee would have found that system can take place in May 2011. However, we agree with the inappropriate. Political and Constitutional Reform Committee”, Indeed, we can be pretty confident of that because which, incidentally, does not have a Labour majority on the Political and Constitutional Reform Committee, it either, which is chaired by my hon. Friend the Member for “that the Bill has been given insufficient time for proper scrutiny. ” Nottingham North (Mr Allen), made it absolutely clear It continued: that it believed that it had not had enough time to “The Welsh Grand Committee gives all Welsh Members the consider the Bill before it suddenly had its Second opportunity fully to debate issues relating to Wales. That the Reading. The Select Committee had only five days in Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill impacts which to read the Bill and to get constitutional experts significantly on Wales is clear. In the light of this, we consider the to talk to its members and provide evidence. Those Secretary of State for Wales’s decision not to convene a meeting witnesses themselves thought that it was inappropriate of the Welsh Grand Committee in this instance to be very that such haste was being adopted. disappointing.” Conservative Members are attacking a Conservative Owen Smith (Pontypridd) (Lab): May I draw my hon. Secretary of State for Wales. It seems extraordinary that Friend’s attention to the report from the Welsh Affairs the Committee has not had an adequate opportunity to Committee that came out today? No doubt he will consider the Welsh element of the Bill, particularly the already have read it in detail. It reaches precisely the Welsh elements that are before us this afternoon, which same conclusion as he has drawn. The Committee has a are extensive. Government majority, but it nevertheless concluded Let me make another point about the proper process that the Bill was being railroaded through with undue that should have been observed. We believe in pre-legislative haste, and with completely insufficient scrutiny by this scrutiny and consultation on any constitutional Bill, House. It also believed that it would have a significant but this Bill additionally affects elections in Wales, constitutional impact on Wales. Does my hon. Friend Northern Ireland and Scotland. The previous elections agree that this is a disgrace? for the Scottish Parliament led to significant problems, which my hon. Friend the Member for East Kilbride, Chris Bryant: I do not agree with my hon. Friend if Strathaven and Lesmahagow (Mr McCann) mentioned. he is suggesting that the Committee’s report is a disgrace, This shows how important it is to have proper consultation because it is excellent in highlighting the implications with each of the devolved Administrations. By that, I for Wales of the Government’s proposals on constitutional mean, first and foremost, consultation “from Government reform. But my neighbourly Friend makes a good point: to Government” as it were—that is, the Westminster the Committee is not comprised of rabid left-wingers—or, Government speaking to the Scottish Executive, to for that matter, entirely of members of the Labour Ministers in Northern Ireland and to the Welsh Assembly party—and those who voted on this matter, those who Government. That could have happened confidentially turned up, were predominantly Conservatives. In fact, on a “Government to Government”basis; there is absolutely one of them is now a Parliamentary Private Secretary. no reason why that should not have happened. Many of us deprecate the fact that there are PPSs sitting As I understand it, prior to the comprehensive spending on Select Committees, but I note that the PPS who sits review, extensive confidential discussions took place on this one chose to absent himself from the vote. I can between relevant Ministers so that Ministers in Wales, presume only that that was because he agreed with the Scotland and Northern Ireland knew more than this findings of the Committee. My hon. Friend the Member House did about what elements would affect their budgets. for Pontypridd (Owen Smith) is absolutely right to say I have no complaint about that happening with the that the Committee makes it clear that there has not comprehensive spending review; my argument is that it been adequate scrutiny of the Bill, particularly in regard should apply to the devolved Administrations in respect to Wales. It also makes the wider point about the of this Bill. amount of time that has been allowed in general. Mr Harper: As I have said in response to interventions Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): Will my hon. from other Members, the devolved Administrations—and Friend give way? even the devolved Parliaments and Assemblies—do not have a role in delivering elections. Although, as I have Chris Bryant: I will of course give way to my other said, the position will change for Scotland, the Secretary neighbourly Friend. of State is responsible for administering elections. The 61 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 62 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill hon. Gentleman may not like that, but it is the position Chris Bryant: The Government came to power arguing and we have worked closely with the territorial offices that coalition politics were somehow better for Britain. to ensure that procedures for the referendum work Whatever we may think of that proposition, if they are closely with the procedures for elections. That is the position. then not prepared to extend the courtesy beyond the internal dynamics of the coalition to others who are Chris Bryant: Of course I understand the legal position. engaged in the political endeavour, they have let down Local elections may or may not be happening at the their own basic first principles. same time in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales—they Of course the wish to foist a referendum on the same will happen across Northern Ireland but perhaps only day as elections elsewhere is extraordinary, especially because of a by-election in Scotland or Wales—but the given that the people who now sit on the Government Assemblies have a degree of responsibility for the conduct Benches are the people who criticised the Labour party of the elections to the Welsh Assembly, the Scottish most for the way in which the last combination of Parliament and the Northern Ireland Assembly. The elections took place in Scotland. Bill decouples the Welsh Assembly constituencies from the parliamentary constituencies so that the Government Chris Ruane rose— are able to reduce the number of seats in Wales by 25%. I would have thought that that creates an additional need to consult. Jim McGovern rose— I think that there should have been consultation at Chris Bryant: I will give way to a Welsh man, and two levels. There should have been a degree of consultation then to a Scottish man. at ministerial level, but, because these issues affect the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Assembly and the Northern Ireland Assembly in their entirety, it would have been Chris Ruane: Does my hon. Friend agree that the way common courtesy to consult the Assemblies and the in which the current Administration have dealt with the Parliament as Assemblies and a Parliament. In respect devolved Administrations in Scotland, Northern Ireland of European legislation, we now have a standard and and Wales— proper process of consultation between the relevant European Committees in the House of Commons and Mark Tami: What about the respect agenda? in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In respect of the Bill, however, there has been no adequate consultation Chris Ruane: This is my intervention, if the hon. either with the Parliament and Assemblies or with Ministers. Gentleman does not mind! Are not the Secretaries of State for Northern Ireland, 5.30 pm Scotland and Wales behaving more like governors-general than Secretaries of State? Mark Tami: The point, surely, is not who has the legal responsibility, but who has the experience. There Chris Bryant: To be honest, I think that they are should have been plenty of consultation—certainly in behaving more like satraps. Scotland—enabling Ministers to learn from that experience, and to decide on the basis of it whether it would be I think it extraordinary that there has not been proper appropriate to hold the referendum and elections on the consultation, and I do not understand why the referendum same day. has to be held in May next year. It is pretty clear that in the respective Governments, Assemblies and Parliaments Chris Bryant: Obviously that is the case. I should have there is a firm view that it should not take place at the thought that, given that none of the Ministers in either same time as the elections. Although most people in of the teams affected represents a Welsh, Scottish or Wales do not view a Welsh Assembly election in quite Northern Ireland seat, it would be more important for the same way as a general election for the whole United them to consult the relevant devolved Administrations Kingdom, many will refer to it as a Welsh general just to be able to get the position right. election. That is why it is so extraordinary that the people of Wales and Scotland and Northern Ireland Cathy Jamieson rose— have not been shown the same degree of respect as would have been extended to anyone else. That, I think, Jim McGovern rose— slightly betrays the rather London-centric view of the Government. I suspect that if there were a free vote on Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab) rose— the Bill, many fewer Conservatives and Liberal Democrats would vote for it than will go through the Lobby later Chris Bryant: I will give way to Scotland, and then to today. In particular, I should be surprised if a single Wales. Welsh Member voted for it. I think that my hon. Friend the Member for Penistone Chris Ruane: Scottish female or Scottish male? and Stocksbridge (Angela Smith) wants to intervene. Oh no, I am sorry—I am giving way to a Scottish man Chris Bryant: Scottish female. next.

Cathy Jamieson: Was it not worrying to hear the Jim McGovern: I thank my hon. Friend for giving Minister say that even if the Scottish Parliament passed way. He mentioned that some of his constituency a resolution that made clear that it did not support the neighbours are also his political friends. I hope I will be Bill, he would not take account of that and would not able to stand up and say that one day, because at present change his mind in any way? not many of my political neighbours are political friends. 63 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 64 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Jim McGovern] makes it clear that local elections and parliamentary elections can be combined, but in fact it has now been As I am sure my hon. Friend will be aware, the local decided not to combine them. In Wales, the situation is government elections in Scotland have been moved different again, because a 2007 order on the representation back a year to ensure that they do not conflict with the of the people and the Welsh Assembly makes provision Scottish general election. Government Members claim to combine local elections and Welsh Assembly elections, it is offensive to the intelligence of the Scottish people but until now there has been no provision to enable the to say that holding polls on the same day would be combining of referendums and elections. confusing, but it is offensive to the author of the The dangers of combining referendums are completely Gould report for them to say they will not accept his different from the dangers of combining elections. That recommendations. is why the Government have had to introduce these Chris Bryant: I completely agree with my hon. Friend, statutory instruments to make provision for the referendums and I hope that one day he will have more friends in to be combined in each of the three territorial areas. neighbouring constituencies, which I think means that Unfortunately, that is not the legislation that exists we will have to win some more Labour seats in Scotland. today, so these instruments have been tabled without, as The key point is that, on the whole, it is better not to far as I know, having been sent in advance to anybody combine polls. I fully accept that the Minister has involved in this Committee or anybody in the shadow referred today—as have several other Members in previous offices in relation to Wales, Scotland and Northern debates—to the situation in the United States of America. Ireland, and without the Welsh Assembly, Scottish It has an election day and the vast majority of elections Parliament and Northern Ireland Assembly having been are held on one single day. We have not gone down that consulted on them; they have simply been published. I route, and thus far it has been thought to be inappropriate presume he will be tabling things tomorrow, once we to combine them on the same day, especially where have finished in Committee, and he will then table a a variety of different electoral systems are involved. series of new amendments, which we will be able to I hope to come on to some of the specific problems debate on Report. I simply say that such an approach of that. puts the horse before the cart.

Angela Smith (Penistone and Stocksbridge) (Lab) Mark Tami: My hon. Friend finished on the point rose— that I was going to make. Does he agree that the Government are clearly just making this up as they go Chris Bryant: I give way to an English woman. along? At last Thursday’s business questions, even the Leader of the House was unable to confirm whether Angela Smith: I thank my hon. Friend for giving way the affirmative procedure would be used or whether the to an English woman on this point. Does he agree that instruments would be taken on the Floor of the House. in this instance it is not just that two different polls are Perhaps my hon. Friend could update us on whether he to be held on the same day, but that one of them is an has been given more information. election and the other is a referendum, and as referendums have completely different processes from those for elections, Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The that will complicates things and could well cause confusion? proper process for a statutory instrument is that, first, consideration is given as to whether it should be taken Chris Bryant: Indeed, and I will come on to some of on the Floor of the House or in Committee. Given that the specific problems that could arise. My hon. Friend all three of these statutory instruments relate to elections did not add, however, that they are on completely and are of a constitutional nature, my preference, and different franchises as well. The Minister seems to think that of Labour Members, is for them to be taken on the that the franchise for the next general election will be Floor of the House and not in some Committee without the same as the franchise for the referendum. They will general public scrutiny. Secondly, statutory instruments not be, however, because of the inclusion of peers in the have to be considered by the Joint Committee on Statutory referendum. It has to be said that we do not have many Instruments, which has a limited remit but can examine peers in the Rhondda, however. We have one: Baroness whether the affirmative or the negative resolution process Gale of Blaenrhondda who, unfortunately, is in hospital should be used. Last week, as my hon. Friend rightly at the moment—she is across the road at St Thomas’—and says, Ministers, including the Leader of the House, did I wish her well. There will be confusion in respect of the not seem to have the faintest idea whether or not these different franchises and issues such as whether we have would be subject to the affirmative procedure. I am glad the same register or two registers, and I will talk about to say that the Minister has now made it clear today— those specific issues a little later. The Minister referred to all the schedules before us Mr Harper indicated assent. and how we will address them, and he said that the territorial Departments for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have today—I presume that means since the Chris Bryant: He has now made it clear, and we are beginning of the debate this afternoon—tabled the statutory deeply grateful to him, that these instruments will be instruments that are required fully to combine the polls dealt with by the affirmative procedure. Indeed, my in each of the areas. There is no provision in statute for hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff West (Kevin Brennan) the combination of polls in Northern Ireland, whether received a letter to that effect—I was copied into it—on for local government and Assembly elections or any Friday. other kind of elections. In Scotland, there is provision We also need to consider what their lordships should by virtue of an order, which I think was introduced in do. I contend that we should proceed steadily, rather 2007, hanging off the Scotland Act 1998. That order than at a gallop, on constitutional reform. That means, 65 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 66 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill first, that the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments election—that is, it will not include EU citizens—but and the Merits of Statutory Instruments Committee in will include, rather exceptionally, peers, including a peer the House of Lords should go through their processes. who is able to have that vote only by virtue of their We should then decide on the Floor of this House having a business interest in the City of London. A whether we agree the order, as should the House of particularly bizarre franchise has been invented, which Lords. That process is particularly important because is why we tried to amend some of the elements of it in a these orders are not amendable and so we ought to previous discussion. ensure that we have a proper process in place before we My hon. Friend the Member for Wrexham (Ian reach the Report stage—I do not see how we can Lucas)makes a good point. In many polling districts, consider matters on Report until that has been done. the register will be substantially different. In Newport, for instance, 1,000 voters will be able to vote in the Angela Smith: My hon. Friend is making an excellent Assembly elections but not in the referendum. I am not case about the lack of proper consultation and process sure how many voters will be able to vote in the referendum on these proposals. If we had had such a thorough but not in the Assembly election by virtue of their being consultation and procedure in this place it would have peers. allowed us to consider not only the principles but the various costs of holding the referendum, whether or not it be on the same day as the other polls? That is a very Mark Tami: Does my hon. Friend envisage people important principle in the context of last week’s spending turning up expecting to be able to vote, because they review. can vote in the other election, only to be told that they can vote in that election but cannot take part in the Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. One referendum? sadness about the way in which the business ends up having to be transacted today is that because the Government have constructed this in the form of a new Chris Bryant: Indeed. There is a series of complications clause with four new schedules attendant upon it, the that I shall come on to, if my hon. Friend will bear with votes on the schedules will be separated from the votes me for a while. There are amendments that specifically on the new clause—unless, Ms Primarolo, you are going refer to that point, but they amend the Government’s to allow us to proceed in a slightly different way from new schedules rather than the new clause, and I want how these matters are normally conducted. I understand first to deal with the amendments to new clause 20 that we will end up having a debate on new clause 7 tabled by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the before we proceed to votes on the new schedules, rather Opposition, other colleagues and me. than having a separate debate on the new schedules. The first amendment is amendment (a) to new clause 20. That is precisely because of how the Government have I realise that some hon. Members might be slightly constructed their approach to the amendments. confused that there are lots of amendments (a) in this It is also worth pointing out that the Government group, because some refer to the clause and some to have not put minor amendments before us today. New each of the new schedules. Amendment (a) to Government schedule 2, which refers to England, is 35 pages long, as new clause 20 states: is new schedule 3, which relates to Wales. New schedule 4 “Where the date of the poll for a local authority election in is 37 pages long—Scotland gets rather more than Wales England is the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, the or England—and new schedule 5, on Northern Ireland, polls are to be taken together.” is just 19 pages long. I presume that the Minister’s final That is narrower than that which the Government have throwaway comments on postal voting in Northern provided. The Government are suggesting that the polls Ireland, which he made swiftly at the end of his speech, can happen together when there is the referendum, and are why the number of pages on Northern Ireland is a local authority election in England, and a local referendum substantially smaller than the number on Scotland and in England, and a mayoral election in England. In other Wales, and that he intends to introduce significant words, it is theoretically possible that, if we stick with amendments at a later stage. Obviously, I do not believe the Government’s proposal, one voter might come in to that that should be next week—I think it should be once vote on the referendum on AV, a local authority the statutory instruments have been considered and, if election, a local referendum and a mayoral election all necessary, approved. However, that is all the more reason at the same time. It is one thing to consider all this in why we should ensure that the Northern Ireland statutory relation to someone coming into a polling station, and instrument is debated on the Floor of the House before people might conclude that it is perfectly legitimate—that Report. there is the franchise for the AV referendum, which we Ian Lucas: One particular aspect of the franchise have already discussed, and the franchise for all relating to the alternative vote referendum and the three other issues, which would be the same—but Welsh Assembly and Scottish Parliament elections concerns what happens with postal votes for all those polls? If me. Is the referendum franchise made up of the same there are four postal votes and four polling cards, franchise as the general election or as the Assembly that provides a right old tagliatelle of a constitutional election? As my hon. Friend will know, those two franchises settlement for ordinary voters to try to sort out. That are different. is why our amendment, instead of allowing all four polls at the same time, would allow only a local authority election in England to happen at the same 5.45 pm time as the referendum. We do not think that is Chris Bryant: It is neither A nor B—in fact, it is C. It ideal, but at least it would tidy things up a little. I is a new creation. The franchise for the AV referendum very much hope that the Minister will accede to that will be, broadly speaking, the same as that for a general amendment. 67 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 68 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. Unfortunately, this is one issue on which, notwithstanding Amendment (b) would also amend new clause 20 in the changes that have taken place in relation to the relation to Northern Ireland. The Government propose Backbench Business Committee, there has not been that much change of heart in the way that business is brought “Where the date of the poll for one or more of the following is before the House. Government Members say that Labour the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, the polls are was appalling when it was in government because it to be taken together— took things through at too great a speed and sometimes (a) a Northern Ireland Assembly Election; did not allow enough time for consultation, but they have been preaching to us since May about the new (b) a Northern Ireland local election.” politics. I should have thought, in the context of the In other words, they are providing for all three to new politics, that major, significant constitutional reform happen at the same time. Up to now, there has been no that will affect different parts of the Union in different legal provision enabling that to happen in Northern ways and that will change in myriad ways the way in Ireland, which is why they are bringing forward relevant which the House is elected should be given proper time. statutory instruments. We do not believe it is right to That means proceeding more like a stately galleon than have all three elections at the same time, so we suggest, a coyote. in a consensual way, that the Government might at least limit the combinations to a degree by taking one of the polls out of the measure. Ian Lucas: My hon. Friend makes an excellent point. Does he agree that the consultation is even more Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): A few minutes ago, important because the proposal for the alternative vote my hon. Friend was very critical of the Government’s referendum was in neither the Liberal Democrat nor lack of consultation with the devolved interests, but the Conservative manifesto and because there is no who in Northern Ireland has he consulted regarding his electoral mandate for it? amendment, which would prevent local elections from taking place on the same day as the referendum and Chris Bryant: Again, I agree with my hon. Friend: the Assembly elections? People in Northern Ireland have Bill was in nobody’s manifesto and that is why it seems said that they do not want the referendum on the same like a piece of kebab legislation. It has been bunged day, and that they want the two elections together, but together to provide the Araldite that the coalition otherwise his amendment would mean that the elections could not would not have. take place on the same day. Chris Bryant: The difficulty that we have as Her Roger Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire) (LD): Does Majesty’s loyal Opposition is that if I had tabled an the hon. Gentleman agree that it would have been amendment to that effect, it would have been ruled out difficult to have pre-legislative scrutiny of whatever of order and would not have been considered because legislation was brought forward at this time? Is he we have already debated, in relation to clause 1, amendments suggesting that we should have a period at the beginning on separating the referendum from those elections. I of a Parliament in which there is no legislation at all? fully understand my hon. Friend’s point and there have been extensive conversations on the amendment over Chris Bryant: If we are talking about this legislation, the weekend with a wide variety of his friends and then, yes, probably. The hon. Gentleman makes a serious others in Northern Ireland. The point that we are trying point: there is a difficult period at the beginning of a to make is fairly simple: combining everything on the Parliament in which a Government have to go from same day brings not clarity for voters but more obscurity. standing still to providing legislation. I fully understand that, but it is ill-advised to introduce major constitutional Mr Nigel Dodds (Belfast North) (DUP): Let me legislation at that time. I do not understand the rush endorse the point made by the hon. Member for Foyle with this legislation. I presume he hopes that it will (Mark Durkan) and make it clear that we have no not be needed until 2015, if AV is agreed to and the difficulty with the date of the referendum being moved constituencies are all redrawn, because I am sure that he but that we certainly do not agree with the date of the supports the five-year terms in the Fixed-term Parliaments Assembly and council elections being moved from their Bill. There is no particular rush and this could all have current scheduled date next May. been done at a slightly more leisurely pace. That would have improved the general feel of the way in which the Chris Bryant: For the most part, we agree that what is Government are conducting this constitutional reform. sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. The right Let us be clear: the party that would like to help, in hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. Broadly speaking, some regards, those who want to reform the way in we agree that where it has been determined that elections which we do politics in this country is sitting on the should take place on a four-yearly or other basis, and Opposition side of the House. The hon. Gentleman and advance notice of their date has been given, it would be I could be allies on many issues of constitutional reform, inappropriate to move them. Our point is that the but the way in which the Government, particularly the referendum should not be on the same day as all those Deputy Prime Minister, have approached many of these elections. I hope that he understands our reasoning; I issues has made that far more difficult for us. think we are moving in the same direction. Mr David: Does my hon. Friend agree that the exchange John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab) rose— that has just taken place underlines the fact that not enough time has been allowed for proper dialogue and Chris Bryant: I give way to my hon. Friend, who conversation? probably does not agree with my last sentence. 69 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 70 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill John Mann: I do not agree with my hon. Friend’s use Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend knows more about of the adjective “ill-advised”. A more appropriate local elections in England than I do, so he will correct description might be “anti-democratic and gerrymandering me if I am wrong, but I presumed that such referendums in order to hold together this fragile and useless coalition.” would be included in the local referendums in England I point out that in a by-election last Thursday, the category. However, he is right: a series of different Liberals’ share of the vote fell to 2% in my area. propositions may be put to people. Following the comprehensive spending review last week, which included Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is almost getting into a drastic attack on local government funding, many Rhondda territory. I think there is only one parliamentary local authorities will be worrying about whether they constituency in which both the Conservatives and the should spend £10,000 on a registration campaign, to Liberals have lost their deposits in the past 10 years—the make sure that as many people as possible are on the Rhondda. [Interruption.] That was not at this general register, or whether they should spend the money on election, but the last one. I am sure that we will return to keeping a swimming pool open or on some other element that situation at the next general election. of their services. They may decide that the only way to protect the public services they believe local people Returning to the Northern Ireland issue, the Government want will be to ensure that they hold a referendum on want everything to happen on the same day next May, whether they should increase the amount of money that but we think that is inappropriate and that is why we comes in from council tax. have tabled these amendments. We have tabled two other amendments to new clause 20: amendments (c) I used to be a local government development officer and (d). Amendment (c) would leave out lines 35 to 39, for the Labour party, so I understand the argument that concerning a local referendum and a mayoral election because between 75 and 80% of the local government in England. The Minister might enlighten us later as to budget is provided by the Government, it does not why the Government felt it necessary to include those easily allow local democracy to flourish. However, if measures. Are they expecting mayoral elections or local referendums on those powers were held in May local referendums on that date? If there are to be local next year, it would add even greater complexity, as I referendums in England on the same day as an AV think my hon. Friend was suggesting. referendum, there will be a right old muddle. Most We have tabled several amendments to new schedule 2, voters do not spend their waking hours, let alone their and I shall go through them in order. However, because sleeping hours, worrying about the constitutional settlement of the way in which the Government have structured in Britain. For the most part, they are more interested the amendments, it is quite complicated for most ordinary in other aspects of their lives than in the political Members to understand precisely where they are. When machinations of Westminster or any other part of the we consider amendments to clauses, new clauses or constitution. That is why they often choose not to focus schedules, there are line numbers on the page, but not on the specifics until a late stage in the process. I am for new schedules. Consequently, in a lengthy new schedule sure we have all had people come up to us two days of 35 pages, it is sometimes difficult to find the specific before an election, saying, “I’m not registered to vote provisions to which the amendments refer. but I really want to vote in the election.” I am glad that Our first amendment is (a), on the notice for combined one of the changes we introduced during the past polls in England. It relates to paragraph 11, which 13 years was to make it easier for people to register after Members can find on page 757 of the amendment an election had been called. Far more people now paper. We suggest that there is no reason why the register. Government should insist that notice of poll be provided I am also glad that we made it easier for people to on the 15th day before the poll, when the 28th day obtain postal votes. In the past, if someone wanted to before would perfectly easily give substantially more vote by post, they had to have the application signed off notice, so our amendment would replace “15th” with by a medical practitioner of some kind, and in many “28th”. parts of the country doctors and nurses charged £6 to Our second amendment—(b)—relates to absent voter sign the form. That meant that large numbers of poorer applications. Several Members have referred to postal voters did not apply for a postal vote and were disfranchised, and proxy voters, who constitute absent voters. A key which is why it is all the more important to make sure issue is that someone might believe they had applied for there is clarity and consistency in the Bill. a postal vote in respect of all elections and polls—anything where they can vote. They might not draw a distinction between an election and a referendum; they have decided 6pm never to go to a polling station, and they prefer to vote I hope the Minister will be able to enlighten us as to by post. However, that is not actually what the provision precisely why he thinks so many different elections, is. Although some people might explicitly choose an which might be for a county council, a district council, a all-elections postal vote, but not want a postal vote for local council or a parish council, as well as a local referendums, such a situation is pretty unlikely, which is referendum, a mayoral contest and the referendum, why our amendment states: could all be held at the same time. “An application under regulation 51(4)b of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001, SI 2001/341, Andrew Gwynne: My hon. Friend missed something for an absent vote must state whether it is made for parliamentary from his list—the possibility of a council tax referendum. elections, local government elections, referendums or all of them.” The Government have removed their capping powers, People should be able to sign up to all of them, otherwise and are making provision for local referendums when they will encounter terrible complexity not just when local authorities want to increase council tax above a they ask for a postal vote, but also on polling day. As we certain level. know, some people lose their postal vote, some cannot 71 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 72 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is right. Indeed, I was recently subjected to the complexity into which returning send it on time and others may leave it until fairly late officers sometimes go. Westminster council has now because they are uncertain how to vote and end up sent me eight missives in relation to the postal vote in bringing the postal vote to the polling station. If someone Westminster. I never exercise my vote in London because has a postal vote for one poll but not for another, there my vote is in the Rhondda, which is my home. However, may be considerable complexity about precisely what I had to register in my property in London, which I they are allowed to do. rent. People have to return the form to say whether— [Interruption.] If the hon. Member for Brecon and Andrew Gwynne: In my constituency, a not insubstantial Radnorshire (Roger Williams) wants to intervene, I am number of people are registered for a postal vote only quite happy to give way to him. for local elections, and not necessarily because they are EU residents who are unable to vote in a general Roger Williams indicated dissent. election. Although they opted to register for a postal vote only for the local elections, they will expect a postal Chris Bryant: No. He is just going to continue chuntering. vote both for those elections and for the referendum Fine. and will be disappointed when they receive a ballot My point is that quite often, voters must go through paper only for the council elections. Does my hon. an unnecessarily onerous process to register for a postal Friend think there ought to be more publicity to make vote. Likewise, the returning officer goes through far such people aware that they will not be able to vote by too many hoops. Sometimes it makes sense to make post in the referendum? administrative savings when one can. Amendment (c) to new schedule 2 is on the colour of Chris Bryant: Yes, I agree. In addition, someone ballot papers. Hon. Members might think that that is a could have applied for a postal vote for one or other of recondite subject for a Bill, but notwithstanding the the elections—the referendum, or the Assembly or Scottish Minister’s remarks last week—he said that he did not Parliament elections. When their postal vote arrives for want to tell returning officers precisely what to do at one of the elections, they might presume that it is the any point—the law already makes provisions on it, only election happening that day—most people do not including in new schedule 2. obsess about whether there will be more than one Government new schedule 2, which relates only to election on a given date. They might feel they had been England, would simply state: told that was their only chance to vote, so they would “The ballot papers used for the referendum must be of a vote only in one or other of the elections. That is different colour from the ballot papers used for any relevant another complexity that could arise, which is why later election.” on I shall refer to some of the amendments we have That is sensible, because people might get two ballot tabled on polling cards. We have to follow through the papers when they arrive to vote—one for the referendum whole process. At the moment, I am referring to new and one for the local election—and we want to ensure schedule 2 as it relates to England, but later I shall that the papers go into their respective ballot boxes. discuss Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, where Different colours of ballot paper would make it easier some of the same issues could arise, albeit in a slightly for people to do that. However, in amendment (c), we different format. are suggesting that it would be sensible for the same colour ballot paper to be used for the referendum John Mann: I congratulate my hon. Friend on his throughout the United Kingdom. I suspect that the proposed amendments to new schedule 2. I am attempting Electoral Commission will produce publicity on the to follow his logic. Is he saying that amendment (b), referendum and encourage people to vote—not how to which is on postal voting, could save on bureaucracy vote—and it would be helpful if it could refer to the and red tape compared with the Government’s proposal? colour of the ballot paper. The only way for that to Chris Bryant: Undoubtedly so, and that is one reason happen is for the chief counting officer to decide the for my proposal. However, we sometimes overstate our colour of the referendum ballot paper. The Government concerns about the cost of elections. It is sometimes could then follow that up by providing that other ballot more important to say that we need the right regulations papers must be a different colour. to provide clarity to voters. Holding several polls at the That is why, in amendment (c), we propose to remove same time in the same polling station or by postal ballot paragraph 15 of new schedule 2 and insert: adds complexity, which is not in the interests of good “The Chief Counting Officer shall select the colour of the democracy. Incidentally, I am sure that if any hon. ballot paper used for the referendum…The other ballot papers Members who act as observers of elections in other used for any relevant election shall be of a different colour from countries saw that situation, they would say, “The provision that selected by the Chief Counting Officer.” of postal votes was a complete and utter mess.” 6.15 pm John Mann: I accept my hon. Friend’s point that cost Cathy Jamieson: I absolutely agree with my hon. is not everything, but that is not what we have heard Friend. Will he invite the Minister to ensure that the from both sides of the House in recent times. Does he colour selected for the referendum ballot paper is not a agree that there is also an opportunity cost, because the colour that is traditionally used in Scottish Parliament returning officer and his or her staff will lose time on elections? additional bureaucracy in the important run-up period to an election when they should be engaging properly Chris Bryant: That makes sense. If we had had enough with the electorate if the Government, with their ongoing time to go through this process at a slightly more lack of common sense, fail to accept amendment (b)? leisurely pace, it would have been possible to consult on 73 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 74 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill and agree to all such things. If the proposals were Chris Bryant: I do not understand why the hon. generally accepted, there would be a rather better feeling Gentleman is supporting the Government’s position. about the Bill. The Government say that where the counting officer We toyed with tabling an amendment to seek to thinks fit, he or she should be allowed to combine the determine the colour of the ballot paper, but we decided polling cards. Logically, if the hon. Gentleman is to against that bearing in mind what the Minister said last follow his own argument, he should have tabled an week about leaving some decisions to officers. I have amendment which deleted that element and stated that received representations from people who say that it there should always be separate polling cards. would be inappropriate to use on the ballot paper a The difficulty is that many people think they must colour that is normally used by a political party, because have a polling card to be able to vote, which is not the we would then get into the complexities of defining case. If people have lost one of their polling cards—for which is a major political party and which is not, and instance, their referendum or their local election polling what colours relate to them, which is a problem not card—the danger is that they will think they are able to least because I am not sure whether the Liberal Democrats vote in one, rather than both. That is why it would be are yellow or orange these days. I note that the Minister better to combine. is wearing a Liberal Democrat tie today—it is mostly yellow but with little bits of blue. John Mann: I am following my hon. Friend’s logic, Amendment (d) to new schedule 2 is on official poll though he is beginning to lose me. Surely if there were cards. In new schedule 2, the Government state: more than one polling card per election, the chance of “If the counting officer thinks fit, the official poll cards used losing the polling card would be reduced, and more of for the referendum and for the relevant elections may be combined.” our voters would turn out and vote because they have a The problem is this: how is the counting officer to polling card. Is he not proposing an anti-Labour determine whether he or she “thinks fit”? Why ought amendment? we to allow that degree of freedom locally when it Chris Bryant: It is not those of us on the Opposition might make a material difference to the conduct of the Benches who table partisan amendments. Only those on ballot or referendum? We propose that: the Government Benches table partisan legislation. It is “The official poll cards used for the referendum and for the not my intention to benefit or disbenefit anybody, other relevant elections must be combined for all electors qualified to vote in all the polls.” than benefiting the ordinary voter who wants to be able to cast their vote in as many elections as they choose. We all get a lot of junk mail these days. The danger is that voters will be confused if they receive two or Mr Dodds: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that three—or potentially four, five or six—polling cards for whether there are combined or separate polling cards, the different elections that are happening at the same there is a need for the chief electoral officer in all areas, time. They will not see how one affects the other. It particularly in Northern Ireland, to do more to protect would be far more sensible, wherever there is a combined the integrity of all such official documents? We had poll, for the official poll cards to make absolutely clear examples in the last parliamentary election of one party how many votes must be cast, how many elections there in particular producing its own official polling cards, are, whether the voter has a postal vote, how they go which caused utter confusion and deceived people. Can about registering for a postal vote and so on. Our we ensure that when the polling cards are produced, proposal would mean that there is clarity on a single proper policing takes place to prevent people abusing piece of paper for the ordinary voter rather than a series those official cards? of polling cards. The Government should make clear the nature of the franchise for each election and poll. As Chris Bryant: If multiple polling cards go to each a proposed amendment to new schedule 2, amendment (d) individual elector, in a household where there are five relates exclusively to England. people living and two elections taking place, that would Mr Tom Harris: I seek to be helpful. Will my hon. be 10 polling cards turning up. Apart from anything Friend explain why it is so important that someone who else, there is quite a strong likelihood that they will all receives a polling card is made aware of the extent of get binned. The other difficulty is that political parties the franchise for that election? If they are aware that will step into the breach and produce leaflets which say, they can vote, does it matter if they are aware of the “You may not want to vote in the AV referendum, or extent of the franchise in a particular referendum or you may want to vote in a particular way, but don’t election? forget, you’ve also got the Assembly elections.” Different political parties may want to step into the breach in Chris Bryant: My hon. Friend is right. I did not mean various ways. to say that there should be a treatise on the polling card about the nature of the franchise, how it applies to peers Mark Durkan: Surely if we have separate polling and so on. I was making the point that the card should cards for each of the polls taking place, whether those state clearly that the elector is entitled to vote in all the are elections or referendums, we will get more of the elections, one of them, two or whatever. It should make problem of some cards being delivered and some not, it clear that there is more than one ballot taking place at which has been a constant problem in recent elections in the same time. Northern Ireland. In my constituency in particular, there has been an ongoing issue concerning postal Jake Berry (Rossendale and Darwen) (Con): Does workers, who feel that they are not getting paid the the hon. Gentleman agree that the clearest thing of all same for delivering election-related material, whether it would be a separate polling card for each election, to is from parties or from the electoral officer. We will only enable people to use that polling card to vote in a add to those difficulties, which have meant that party specific election? material is not delivered. 75 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 76 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Chris Bryant: Schedule 2 relates only to England, and sure that the ballot is correct, and that people are not the Post Office does not make such deliveries. Most given ballot papers when they are not entitled to them, local authorities use council staff to deliver polling and to make sure that the administration of the counting cards. That is certainly true in some parts of England. I of the votes can take place properly, it would be better have a concern that with many fewer council staff, to have separate ballot boxes. following the cuts that are likely to come, it will be more difficult for them to do so. Gordon Birtwistle (Burnley) (LD): I dread dragging My basic point is that the returning officer should the debate on any longer than is necessary, but in make it clear to each voter that they can vote in X election, Burnley at the election in May we had one ballot box Y election and the referendum, and that they can take for both the local election ballot papers and the general their pick whether they want to take part in all of them, election ballot papers. It caused no trouble whatever. If and whether they want to vote by post or turn up. we had two boxes, the reconciliation of the ballot Providing one piece of paper would make more sense papers in either box would require them all to be than providing two, three, four or whatever to each emptied out, because people will make mistakes. I can voter. That might also save paper and administrative see no sense in having various ballot boxes. The present costs. system has worked for years. Why change it now? Incidentally, since each polling card must show the 6.30 pm voter’s name, address and polling number and the address of the polling station, there is no reason why it should Chris Bryant: I just think it is simpler to be able to not state clearly which ballots that voter can take part separate them before starting. Of course, if somebody in. That would meet what I think will be quite a complex puts the wrong ballot paper in the wrong box, that is issue—the fact that the franchise for the referendum is not a problem. Some other countries use what the different from that for any of the other elections taking Labour party used for its elections—of the leader of the place on the same day. Labour party, the national executive committee and so Still on new schedule 2, which relates to England, our on—earlier this year: a single ballot paper covering a amendment (e) deals with separate ballot boxes. The multitude of different elections. The voting system used Government state in paragraph 18: in each of those elections was different, which confused some voters. Instead of a single ballot paper with lots of “(1) If the counting officer thinks fit”— different elements on it, it is better to have separate a phrase they often use— ballot papers, and therefore separate ballot boxes. “the same ballot box may be used at the polls for the referendum and the relevant elections. Mr Mark Williams (Ceredigion) (LD): Does the hon. (2) Where separate ballot boxes are used, each must be clearly Gentleman think that the system used in Wales for the marked to show— National Assembly elections needs reforming on that (a) the poll to which it relates, and basis, because we have two ballot papers—one for the (b) the colour of the ballot papers that should be placed in it.” list and one for the constituency contest? They all go in the same ballot box and are sorted out later. That is wholly inappropriate. It would make far more sense to have separate ballot boxes for the referendum Chris Bryant: We will come later to the question of and for the relevant elections. The Government already which ballots is counted first. The Minister has said say that the colour of the ballot papers should be that he would like the elections counted first, but it will different, so it would mean greater simplicity for voters be difficult to do that until all the ballot boxes have been to be able to turn up to a polling station, get, let us say, a emptied and all the verification done. It would be light green ballot paper for the referendum and a white swifter if we had a ballot box that, in 99% of cases, ballot paper for the local election in England, and see a contained no mistakes and was for one set of ballot little sign saying that green ballot papers go into one papers and not more. box and white ballot papers into another. I should have thought that that would make the process of verification Andrew Gwynne: May I advise my hon. Friend that of votes simpler for the vast majority of returning the experience in Denton and Reddish on 6 May this officers and counting officers. year was quite different from that of the hon. Member for Burnley (Gordon Birtwistle)? In some of the polling John Mann: Aside from the problems that would be stations, particularly in the Stockport part of my caused to those, including Members of the House, who constituency, the ballot boxes were full before the end of are colour blind, why is my hon. Friend putting such the day, leading to the polling clerk having to shove additional complexities on voters, including elderly voters rulers into the ballot boxes to try to make space for who may well have eyesight problems? Some voters in extra ballot papers. their 80s or 90s choose to go to the polling station. Why put complications in the system of voting? Where is Chris Bryant: I have seen the same myself in by-elections the logic? in Hackney and council elections elsewhere. That can happen in just one election, so it is far more likely to Chris Bryant: I do not think I am making the system happen in combined elections, which is why it would be more complex. It makes the system more complex if simpler to be able to separate the ballot papers. there is just one ballot box for two completely different sets of propositions. There will be two different electoral Andrew Gwynne: To clarify, on 6 May, we had combined registers—we will come to the issue of electoral registers elections in Denton and Reddish, to both Stockport later—and those who can vote in one ballot will not be and Tameside metropolitan borough councils and to the same as those who can vote in another. To make this place. 77 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 78 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Chris Bryant: I am glad that my hon. Friend was officer, who marks them off on the list and gives them a returned with a decent majority; there cannot have been ballot paper for just one election. If the voter is eligible too much of a problem. None the less, I think that my for the second election, the officer marks them off on amendment would provide greater clarity. the other list and gives them the relevant ballot paper. Amendment (f) to new schedule 2, entitled “Combination That is not vastly different. It simply means separate of polls: England”, relates to the publicity provided in marked registers for each election, which will lead to polling stations. Polling stations contain some information fewer confusions about who is entitled to vote in each about how people are to vote, mark their vote and all election. the rest of it. Our simple point is that there should be similar information on the referendum. Our amendment Roger Williams: Does the hon. Gentleman agree that reads: in the vicinity of the polling station there might be a helpful Liberal Democrat, who could help the voters “The Electoral Commission are to supply posters to be displayed in every polling station used for the referendum, which give and point out to them in which elections they could neutral information on first past the post and alternative vote take part? systems that are the subject of the referendum, subject to agreement by the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission.” Chris Bryant: It depends which kind of Liberal Democrat The only additional element that need concern us is our it is. If they are from one side of the street, they will say suggestion that the matter be referred to the Speaker’s one thing, and if they are from the other side, they will Committee on the Electoral Commission. We suggest say exactly the opposite. Anyway, people with rosettes that simply because what might not look to one person will not be in the polling stations advising people. It is like a partisan presentation of the case for the alternative not a good idea for people with partisan affiliations to vote or first past the post might do so to the weathered be telling people whether they can vote when they turn eye of a politician. That is why information should be up at a polling station. However, I note that that is the provided in the polling station. However, anything trying partisan direction in which the Liberal Democrats are to explain the two voting systems should have been going. I had thought better of the hon. Gentleman. agreed by those here who represent different sides of the argument on the referendum. John Mann: I remain mystified, because my hon. Friend is now saying that there is an issue with the Amendment (g) relates to registers. The Government’s marked register. Does the issue with the marked register measures allow for a single electoral register in the not relate to how postal votes, particularly late postal polling station. A voter will come in, provide their name votes, are added to the marked register, not to whether a and address—in Northern Ireland, they have to provide European vote can be identified on the register? more information—or their polling or identifying number, and then be given the relevant number of ballot papers. Chris Bryant: I think my hon. Friend misunderstands The problem is, however, that the franchises are different. the situation. The Government want a single register In Newport, for instance, 1,000 voters will be able to with the officer deciding how many elections a person vote in the Welsh Assembly elections who will not be may vote in. I am suggesting two registers, one for the able to vote in the referendum. The Government’s provisions referendum and one for all the other elections, because allow for that by suggesting that one mark be made the franchise for the elections would be the same. That against the names of those voting in all of the elections, would provide greater clarity when people are voting. and another against those of anyone who chooses not [Interruption.] It would be the same in England. We are to vote, or who cannot vote, in one or more of them. discussing new schedule 2, as I am sure the Minister, That will lead to instances in which people are given who is quietly chuntering in his charming way, will ballot papers inappropriately. We have all heard of acknowledge. instances when that has happened because there has been a shared register. I therefore urge the Government Jake Berry: I should be interested to know how many to accept separate registers for the separate franchises. elections the hon. Gentleman has run, or how many That is the best way to ensure that there is no inappropriate returning officers he has spoken to about the amendments, giving of ballot papers to people who cannot vote in because they all seem to imply that what he thinks one or other of the polls. should happen in the election trumps what a returning officer believes should happen in his own election in his John Mann: On this occasion, my hon. Friend has own division. not lost me with his amendment, although I am astonished at where it has originated. Will he explain exactly how it Chris Bryant: No. In relation to some of the measures, will be more effective and quicker for staff at a polling we think it important to look at whether there should station to have two separate registers, given that they be uniformity throughout the country for a referendum will not know which elections people are eligible to vote that applies to the whole country, such as in the colour in, and especially given that, under another of his of ballot papers. Broadly speaking, I think that there amendments, voters would have only one polling card should be such uniformity, as does my party. Some of to present? Would his amendment (g) not lead to the the other amendments are probing, because the aim of possibility of queues not just at 10 o’clock but throughout legislative scrutiny, especially when the Government the day, with people trying to find out whether they have at a late stage tabled 110 pages or so of amendments, were eligible to vote, because staff would have to check is to go through them and ensure that we have made the two registers rather than one? right decision. The hon. Gentleman is upset because he did not manage to table an amendment to the Government’s Chris Bryant: No, what should be happening is this: a proposed changes. He had not spotted that he disagreed voter eligible for one election presents themselves at a with them, but perhaps next time, when another piece polling station and goes to the electoral registration of legislation comes forward, he will table one. 79 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 80 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Jake Berry: My point is that I do agree with the They will be wondering whether it is better to spend Government. The returning officer should have the money on electoral registration, the proper running of right to make the decision. election counts and buying more polling station equipment, or on keeping a swimming pool open. I understand the Chris Bryant: Well, the hon. Gentleman did not make pressure on returning officers, who want clarity from that point earlier, but if he now agrees with the Government Parliament, but sometimes, as my hon. Friend the Member that must be because a Whip has spoken to him—or for Glasgow South (Mr Harris) said, they are wrong. somehow or other. Anyway, he agrees with the Government, and I am sure that the Minister will be absolutely 6.45 pm delighted about that. There is remarkably little freedom in law to give out a ballot paper after 10 o’clock, as the Minister reminded Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): The hon. Member us in a debate the other day—[Interruption.] Indeed, for Damascus. there is no leniency or flexibility. However, some returning officers in the general election did give out ballot papers Chris Bryant: As my hon. Friend says, the hon. after 10 o’clock, because there had been extensive queues, Member for Rossendale and Darwen (Jake Berry) has so there has to be a bit of give and take in the relationship obviously become the hon. Member for Damascus. between Parliament and returning officers. Nevertheless, There are quite a lot of them in the Liberal Democrat on the matter before us, I have often found that returning party as well, so I am sure he and his friends will feel officers, who in the Government’s new schedule would very much at home. be given a degree of flexibility about whom they allowed We have also tabled some consequential amendments, to attend the count, choose not to allow the Member, as such as amendment (h), and that brings us to amendment (i) of right, to attend. It is a relatively minor point, but to new schedule 2, which is entitled, “Combination of Members should be allowed to attend. Polls: England”. The amendment relates to who is able to attend the count. I accept that I have not consulted Andrew Gwynne: My hon. Friend made a very good widely with returning officers on this matter, because point about basing the referendum count on parliamentary my experience is that different returning officers— constituency boundaries. One third of my constituency [Interruption.] The hon. Member for Crewe and Nantwich is in Stockport metropolitan borough and two thirds (Mr Timpson) mouths at me, “What page?”Amendment (i) are in Tameside metropolitan borough, and, were the is on page 790 of the amendment paper, and it reads: referendum to be counted on a local authority basis, I “Paragraph 40, at the end of sub-paragraph (3) insert ‘or would have two counts taking place at the same time. (c) the person is a Member of Parliament.’.” Chris Bryant: Yes—[Interruption.] The Deputy Leader The amendment would merely allow Members, as of of the House says that he has that all the time. He right, to attend the count on the AV referendum. We obviously likes being “kebabbed”in that way—or perhaps have not been able to word the amendment, “the person that is spatchcocked, I am not sure. is the Member of Parliament for that constituency”, because thus far we have not won the argument with the The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of Minister about making the count happen at a Westminster the House of Commons (Mr David Heath): That is more parliamentary constituency level, but the amendment spatchcocked. would allow Members to attend the count. Chris Bryant: The hon. Gentleman agrees. The point is that our amendment is so drafted because, Mr Tom Harris: I rise only to remind the Committee otherwise, a Member might be able to attend half the and particularly the hon. Member for Damascus about count in relation to the referendum on the alternative our argument in the previous Parliament which proved vote, but not the other half in relation to his constituency. there is little point in consulting returning officers on We have tabled the amendment so that any Member of some matters. Even though it was the will of the House Parliament would be able to attend a referendum count. that the general election count take place on the night I would hope that most returning officers would not feel of polling, primary legislation was required to force troubled by that, but some have explicitly said that the returning officers to agree to count the ballot papers. Member of Parliament is not, as of right, allowed to attend. Chris Bryant: I am not quite so negative as my hon. Friend about returning officers, but the hon. Member We have tabled one further amendment that is of for Epping Forest (Mrs Laing) had an excellent debate significance and not just consequential on others. in Westminster Hall the other day—[Interruption.] She Amendment (j) relates to new schedule 2 and is about is not in her place at the moment, but I am sure she will the priority in counting election papers. be later. Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): I may have missed this point earlier, but will the referendum votes be Mr Harper: The hon. Gentleman was gesturing. counted by ward and then by either local authority or constituency area, or by constituency area or local Chris Bryant: Yes, I was gesturing to the hon. Lady as authority first? Will they be mixed together and counted, if she were there, because in spirit she is sitting just over or will they be counted by local authority electoral ward the Minister’s shoulder, keeping a beady eye on him. first? My point is that returning officers often have not only the law breathing down their neck, but elected Chris Bryant: No, they will not be counted by local Members who, in particular at the moment, are authority ward. The procedure is different in England, understandably worried about the financial situation. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland of course—just 81 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 82 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill to make it easier for everybody. We tabled an amendment Mr Tom Harris: Has my hon. Friend received any saying that it should be done in the same way throughout information from the Government about the decision the whole country. [Interruption.] The Minister says by the Scottish Parliament to move the local authority that his provisions would make the procedure easier, elections in Scotland back by one year specifically to but I am not sure that they would. In Wales, the avoid the confusion encountered in 2007? As the procedure will be based on Assembly constituency Government now want to have a referendum on the boundaries, which are the same as parliamentary same day as the Scottish Parliament elections, does that boundaries. In England, it will be based on local authority mean that they believe that the Scottish Parliament was boundaries. In Scotland, it will be based on Scottish wrong to move the local elections back by one year? parliamentary boundaries, which are not coterminous with Westminster parliamentary boundaries— Chris Bryant: I presume that they must, because that is why we are now going to have all three of these things Mr Harris: What about in Dudley? on the same day in Northern Ireland, despite the experiences in Scotland, which were aggressively excoriated by the Liberal Democrats when they were on the Opposition Chris Bryant: In Dudley, which is not a separate Benches—although they seem to have forgotten all the nation yet, the procedure will be based on local authority speeches that they made then. boundaries. I cannot remember the provision in relation to Northern Ireland, but I am sure that the Minister will Mr Alan Reid (Argyll and Bute) (LD): As I am sure enlighten us. [Interruption.] It will be based on the the hon. Gentleman is aware, the difference is that the whole of Northern Ireland, that is right. Scottish council elections are held under the single On the question of priority when counting votes, we transferable vote, so the voter has to number the ballot believe, as I think the Minister does, that it is important paper with their first, second and third preferences. In to count first the ballots for elections in which somebody this case, all ballot papers will be marked with a single is standing for office, and the referendum afterwards. If cross, so the possibility of confusion does not arise as it the rules in the Government’s proposed changes are would if we were having two elections on the same day agreed to, however, that will not be entirely possible, under different electoral systems. because the ballots will first require a degree of verification, and we will have to empty all the ballot boxes in order Chris Bryant: The hon. Gentleman is a Liberal Democrat, to do so. None the less, we believe that in order to and I am sure that he knows all about confusion, ensure that counting officers give priority to the counting especially at the moment. I think that he is trying to of ballots cast in the respective elections to the Northern quibble to end up with a position that he can proudly Ireland, Scottish and Welsh devolved Administrations, defend. In 2007, he would probably have been saying and to local council elections in each part of the United that the elections should not have been held at the same Kingdom, amendment (j) would need to be added to time, so he should be advancing the same argument new schedule 2 in relation to England. now. However, I leave that for him and his conscience. I am sure that you will be aware, Ms Primarolo, that The Welsh Affairs Committee cited Lewis Baston, we have tabled similar amendments to new schedules 3, the senior research fellow with Democratic Audit, who 4 and 5 in relation to Wales, Scotland and Northern argued that the coincidence in 2015—if the Fixed-term Ireland. I do not intend to refer to those now, because Parliaments Bill goes through in the way that the this is not the last time that the Government will present Government intend—of a general election with Assembly amendments on this subject, having decided to go through elections in Wales and parliamentary elections in Scotland the ludicrous process of having statutory instruments is even more troubling because that will not have been considered in advance of next “the elections for Westminster and the Assembly would be taking week’s Report stage before they then table additional place on different systems”— amendments. I think that that is inappropriate. precisely the point made by the hon. Member for Argyll Let me refer to the report that was published today and Bute (Mr Reid)— by the Welsh Affairs Committee, in which John Turner, “on the same day and, more complicatedly, on two sets of the chief executive of the Association of Electoral boundaries which will hardly ever correlate with each other.” Administrators, who, as the hon. Member for Damascus— I am absolutely certain that because the hon. Gentleman the hon. Member for Rossendale and Darwen—will is a very honourable gentleman who is always consistent know, is head honcho among returning officers, said with his arguments, he will therefore vote against provisions that in the Fixed-term Parliaments Bill whereby elections in “drawing on the experience of Scotland in 2007, the AEA considered Scotland and Wales are to be held on the same day as there was a high possibility for great confusion amongst the general election. I can see from his smile that I voters…electoral events, if they are of a different nature, should already have his vote in relation to any such amendments. not take place at the same time. As a matter of policy and principle, we subscribe to that. Therefore, we have concerns about I am sorry that I have been unable to deal with all the the possible implications for voters in understanding, or being other amendments that we tabled on Wales, Scotland confused by, the different ballot papers they are presented with and Northern Ireland, but some of them merely repeat for different electoral events on the same day.” the other amendments to new schedule 2 as regards We would contend, particularly because of the haste England. I hope that we will have an opportunity to with which the Bill has been brought forward and the vote on quite a number of these proposals. lack of pre-legislative scrutiny, that it will be even more difficult for returning officers to be able to do their job Mr Harper: First, I will pick up several issues raised in the elections and to provide greater clarity for local by the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) and voters. other Members, and at the end of my remarks I will ask 83 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 84 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Harper] overnight as well if necessary—and railroading this gerrymandered Bill through Parliament is in some way the Committee to vote for my new clause and new democratic? How has he got the nerve to come up with schedules and to vote against all the amendments tabled such nonsense? by the hon. Gentleman. For colleagues requiring a simple way of thinking about it, that is what I am Mr Harper: By having a Committee of the Whole asking them to do, and they can now choose whether House, we have enabled every Member to be here. I have they want to listen to the rest of my remarks. been here for all five days of debate, and enjoyed them tremendously. I am afraid that I cannot agree with the Mr Dodds: The Minister says that he is going to hon. Gentleman on this particular issue. If he wants to recommend to his hon. Friends that they vote against wait, however, he will find that, much to my surprise, I all the amendments. Does that include the amendment agree with several of his points about the amendments about giving priority to the counting of votes for Assembly tabled by the hon. Member for Rhondda. elections or local elections over the referendum, given John Mann: But Members such as myself have tabled that I seem to remember him saying that he would amendments, and because there has not been enough support such a provision? time they have not even been scheduled for debate. The gerrymandering being attempted is not even being debated Mr Harper: We had a debate on this earlier, but I do in the Committee, because of the timetabling. This not think that the hon. Gentleman was in his place at collapsing coalition has put together a democratic outrage. the time. If he can wait until I get to that section of my speech, I will discuss it then. However, we do not think Mr Harper: That might be credible if I did not that his amendment is necessary to achieve the outcome remember all the programme motions that the hon. on which he and I agree. Gentleman voted for in the last Parliament. Indeed, Labour Members opposed both the second programme Mr Tom Harris: When the Opposition expressed motion on this Bill, which added six hours of debate, reservations about the rapidity with which the Government and the original programme motion, which ensured are pushing the Bill through, we were assured that a that we had more debate last week than we otherwise certain number of days on the Floor of the House would have done. When we gave the Committee more would be given to the Committee stages to enable time—to take account of the statement on the strategic Members from all parties to express an opinion. The defence and security review and the, quite rightly, lengthy Minister is now saying that he is recommending opposition statement on the comprehensive spending review—Labour to every single amendment tabled by the official Opposition. Members voted against extra compensatory time. Labour Is this yet another example of openness and the new never gave such compensation when we debated important politics? provisions.

Mr Harper: I have said that I am going to explain why 7pm hon. Members should vote against the amendments; I think that there are very good reasons for that. I have John Mann: I thank the Minister for generously giving listened carefully and at length to the hon. Gentleman, way again in the limited time available today. Does he as I have on every day of these debates. I want to use not remember criminal justice Bills of the past, for this as a good opportunity to talk about these matters. example, when some of us sat in Committee every Tuesday and Thursday for three months going through I am happy to admit that we may not have reached them clause by clause, word by word? In the case of the perfection, but when one considers how we have conducted Legal Services Act 2007, amendments were tabled by ourselves on this Bill compared with what Labour did Members in all parts of the Committee week after when in Government, it is clear that we have made week, to improve the Bill. The then Government were tremendous steps forward in allowing the House time to sensible enough to listen to their Back Benchers in consider it. Last week the hon. Member for Rhondda detail in Committee. referred to the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010, which was a similar kind of Bill, and said we Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): Will the hon. should have allowed a day for each clause of our Bill. If Gentleman give way? a whole day had been spent on each clause of the CRAG Bill, which had 95 clauses, we would have had John Mann: Why do the Minister and his mate from 24 weeks of debate—and of course we did not. Entire the Liberals—the Deputy Prime Minister, who cannot new parts and several stand-alone clauses were added even turn up—not have the courage of their convictions which bore no relation to any existing provisions in the and listen to arguments on amendments, including from Bill. Only six days in Committee were allowed for those their own side of the House, to improve their rotten 95 clauses, and only a single day to debate all the new Bill? clauses on the alternative vote. There were multiple knives in the programme motion to restrict debate, and Mr Harper: I can see why my hon. Friend the Member only one day for Report. I am happy to accept that we for Gloucester (Richard Graham) was confused and may not be perfect, but we have made tremendous steps tried to intervene on the hon. Gentleman. That was a forward. very lengthy intervention, almost worthy of a speech. We have made considerable provision for debate, and John Mann: Is the Minister daring to come to this when the Government provide extra time, the Committee House and suggest that failing to put this Bill into a needs to debate a Bill sensibly. To be fair, most Members proper Committee, with week after week of scrutiny—I have done so, but I cannot help but observe that most of would have been happy to serve on it, and to stay the extra time that we added for the past couple of days 85 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 86 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill was almost entirely used up by the hon. Member for It was not: it was held in June, which was when I was Rhondda. Rather than make any comment, I will let first elected. That is yet another reason for him to Members judge for themselves whether he used that resign. time well. Mr Harper: No, not at all, because the local elections Angela Smith: However much time the Government were also held in June, because of the foot and mouth give the Bill on the Floor of the House, it will not make outbreak. Both sets of elections were moved, and they up for the lack of the pre-legislative scrutiny that it were on the same day, so it is the hon. Gentleman who should have had. should resign. I remember that very well, because my constituency was badly hit by the foot and mouth Mr Harper: My hon. Friend the Member for Brecon outbreak and the shambolic way in which it was handled and Radnorshire (Roger Williams) dealt with that point by the Labour Government. That was one good reason very well in his intervention. As my hon. Friend the why I was elected in 2005, and re-elected this year. Deputy Leader of the House has said, if there was pre-legislative scrutiny of everything at the beginning of Kevin Brennan: On pre-legislative scrutiny, if we are a new Parliament, with a new Government having been going back to 2001, I will mention that the first Bill that elected, there would be a huge gap in the programme. I served on in that Parliament, the Adoption and Children He has made it clear that taking the Government’s Bill, went through a Special Standing Committee procedure. programme as a whole, we will almost certainly end up We had some evidence sessions before the Bill was allowing more scrutiny of draft Bills than any previous considered in Committee. It would have been perfectly Government. possible for that to happen with this Bill. Would not the opportunity to take evidence for a few days before Angela Smith: With respect, is not a Bill relating to Committee stage started—rightly, on the Floor of the constitutional reform of such significance that the House—have made the Bill stronger, and its passage Government should have waited and gone through a through Parliament better informed? pre-legislative scrutiny process before bringing it to the House? Mr Harper: I have said both today and on earlier days that notwithstanding the short time available to it, Mr Harper: All that I can say is that we can examine the Political and Constitutional Reform Committee did the comparative records. In the last Session under the a sterling job of taking evidence and producing a Labour Government only four Bills had pre-legislative comprehensive report on the Bill. We have examined scrutiny. We will end up with twice as many, so our what it said with great care, even though we do not overall record will bear comparison. necessarily agree with it. I am not sure whether he meant it, but the hon. The other point that I would make on that subject is Member for Alyn and Deeside (Mark Tami) accused us that at business questions last week, when some hon. of putting the horse before the cart and proceeding at a Members were complaining about the amount of time gallop. I represent a rural area, so I think I have got this available, an Opposition Member who speaks for her right: putting the horse before the cart seems to be the party from the Front Bench complained that we were right thing to do, as does proceeding at a gallop. I do allowing too much time. She said that it was not very not see any problem with that. helpful that the House was sitting late, and asked what we were going to do to make the hours of the House Mark Tami: It was actually my hon. Friend the more “predictable and family-friendly”. I can only observe Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) who said that, not that there is a balance to be struck. Some Members me. As I asked the Minister earlier, will he resign now? think we should sit all night, but when we allow more time, others criticise us for making the House less Mr Harper: I will not, but I will of course correctly family-friendly. Opposition Front Benchers cannot have assign the comment to the hon. Member for Rhondda. it both ways. It perhaps demonstrates that he needs to learn a little I wish to pick up some of the points that the hon. bit more about horses and carts before he makes such Member for Rhondda made. He alluded to what I said allusions. about combining elections in Northern Ireland, and The hon. Member for Rhondda mentioned combined said that there was not currently any provision to do so. elections and said that the Government had chosen the There is provision to combine local elections in Northern date of other elections for the referendum. I cannot Ireland with UK parliamentary elections, and that already help but observe that in both 2001 and 2005 the previous takes place, but there is no power in existing legislation Government specifically chose to have general elections to combine Northern Ireland Assembly elections with on dates when county council elections were already Northern Ireland local elections. If we did not have planned. They knew that in advance, and the elections such provision in the Bill they could not be combined, were combined. They ran perfectly well and passed off and would have to be run separately. without incident. I do not have any complaint about The hon. Gentleman’s amendments seeking to remove that, but for the Opposition to complain about our the provision for combining elections would not prevent choosing to have a referendum on a date when there are elections from happening on the same day. They would other elections seems a bit rich. just make it impossible to combine them. They would have to be run completely separately, which would incur Chris Bryant: I think I am right in saying that the extra cost and more complexity. Returning officers and hon. Gentleman has just said that the 2001 general counting officers could not ensure that the arrangements election was held on the same day as the local elections. for those elections were brought together to work more 87 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 88 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Harper] to give the chief counting officer first choice of colour for the ballot paper for the referendum, partly because sensibly. Those proposals would therefore not take us of showing respect to the other polls on that day. I any further forward. We would still have the elections, cannot remember who raised the point, but there may but there would be more cost and complexity. He does well be custom and practice about the colour of ballot us no favours by suggesting that. papers for particular elections in different parts of the I made a point about poll cards earlier, but I shall UK. We think it appropriate to allow returning officers repeat it, because it came up in the contributions of the to continue with their usual custom and practice and to hon. Gentleman and a number of other hon. Members. choose a different colour for the ballot paper for the Poll cards will confirm the voting arrangements that referendum to make it easy for voters to tell the papers will apply to particular electors. When they get their apart. cards, electors will know whether they have a postal Much to my surprise, amendment (d) is one of two vote in place, which of the elections they are entitled to topics on which I agree with the hon. Member for vote in, and therefore whether they need to apply for a Bassetlaw (John Mann). The flexibility that we have postal vote for any of the elections. The fact that poll allowed on combining poll cards would allow counting cards will have that information on them will be very officers to make local decisions, which reflect conditions helpful. on the ground. There may be particular reasons for The hon. Member for Rhondda also mentioned some that. Returning officers have adduced logistical reasons of the other elections that we propose to combine. I why printers, distributors and sometimes other want to correct a small error. I think that I said that five administrators cannot combine poll cards. It is not mayoral elections were planned for next year, but the sensible to legislate for something that cannot be delivered figure is four. I shall list the places for the hon. Gentleman’s on the ground. Our proposals are more sensible and benefit: Bedford, Middlesbrough, Mansfield and Torbay. leave the decisions in the hands of officials who can It is possible that further mayoral or by-elections might respond to local conditions. take place next year, and our combination provisions On ballot boxes, my hon. Friend the Member for would cover them. Burnley (Gordon Birtwistle), who is in his place, made The hon. Gentleman mentioned local government the point well that we want to allow flexibility for referendums. I understand that several petitions have administrators to do what makes sense. In some places, been registered with local authorities about referendums where there is only a small polling station, multiple for directly elected mayors. We think that at least some ballot boxes might constitute overkill. Even if there are local referendums are likely to take place. If they are separate ballot boxes, one cannot guarantee that papers held on the same day, we and the administrators believe from the election or the referendum do not go into the that it would be sensible to combine them. other ballot box. One must therefore still take all the I have already spoken about amendment (a) to new papers out, separate and verify them. Again, it is much clause 20 to limit the combination of elections. The more sensible to leave that decision to administrators, amendment would not stop the elections happening; it who can take account of local circumstances. would simply mean that administrators could not take 7.15 pm them together. That does not help. I understand the On amendment (g), which deals with the register, I views of hon. Members who do not agree with combination, again agree with the hon. Member for Bassetlaw. Our but we had a lengthy debate of around five and quarter approach permits but does not require registers to be hours about that on the first day of our Committee combined. Again, that is the standard practice for combined proceedings. We had the argument and the Committee polls. Amendment (g) would add much extra complexity made a decision. If we accept that the elections will take and force counting officers to maintain and mark several place on 5 May, the Government amendments intend to separate registers. Those decisions should be made locally. ensure that they work sensibly, instead of rerunning the As has been said, local people have to run the election, debate about whether they should be held on the same and they will make sensible decisions. day. The right hon. Member for Belfast North (Mr Dodds) Chris Bryant: I understand the thrust of the spoke about counting, and amendment (j) deals with Parliamentary Secretary’s remarks, but I am not sure counting priority. We do not believe that it is necessary. that he is right. New schedule 2 refers to England, and Government amendments on combination already provide although we discussed other elections in Wales, Scotland that returning officers must count the votes for the and Northern Ireland, we did not have a debate about elections as soon as practicable after receiving the separated whether English local elections should be held on the ballot papers from the counting officer. The chief counting same day as the referendum. officer has a power of direction over the timing of the referendum count. We have made it clear, as has the Mr Harper: No, but we had a debate about whether chief counting officer—the chairman of the Electoral the referendum should take place next May. If it does, it Commission—that the votes in the referendum on the will be on the same day as the local authority elections. voting system are expected to be counted after those in The Committee made a decision about the day on the elections. which it wanted the elections to take place—5 May. Verification was mentioned, and it must conclude Amendment (c) to new schedule 2 deals with the before any count is declared, but it is not necessary for it colour of the ballot paper. The current wording of new to conclude before the counts start. The election counts schedule 2 matches the version that is used in existing can therefore start straight away, but they cannot conclude combination legislation, which has worked well for until the verification of both the elections and the several years. The first sub-paragraph of amendment (c) referendum is done to ensure that all ballot papers have is unnecessary. We do not believe that it is appropriate been accounted for. 89 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 90 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Amendment (i) deals with Members of Parliament available—that we will be able to table amendments attending counts. As drafted, the amendment is flawed after the Committee stage finishes, for discussion on because it would allow Members of Parliament to attend Report. The new clause and the Government new schedules the counts for local authority, mayoral and parish council that we have been debating today, and on which I will elections and the local government referendums, but it ask hon. Members to vote, refer to the law as it currently would not allow them to attend the count for the is, prior to the tabling of the territorial orders. Those referendum on the voting system for the House of orders are not needed for Members to deliberate today; Commons. I do not think that the amendment reflects they are needed for Members to table amendments for the intention of the hon. Member for Rhondda. debate on Report, and they will be available to Members I expect the count for the referendum on the voting in good time for those debates. system for the House not to take place until Monday 9 May, because of prioritising the elections and our Chris Bryant: I am just asking a simple thing, which is respect for the fact that in Northern Ireland counts do that the Minister should help the Committee. He says not usually take place on Sundays. Of course, on Monday that all the statutory instruments have been tabled, but 9 May, Members of Parliament will not be able to although the Scottish one is available online, the Welsh attend counts because they will be in the House attending and the Northern Ireland ones are not. Would it not be to their important parliamentary duties. If Members of simpler if he provided a few copies to the Vote Office? Parliament do not have important parliamentary duties What possible difficulty can that give him? in the House, they could attend counts in the usual way, either by applying to the Electoral Commission to Mr Harper: As with his lengthy speech, the hon. become accredited observers or by being appointed by a Gentleman is just going around creating confusion permitted participant—one of the political parties—as where there is none. The territorial orders that we have a referendum agent. Amendment (i) is therefore unnecessary. laid today—and we have laid them today—will be available for Members in good time for the debate on Report. Chris Bryant: I seek clarification from the Parliamentary The debate that we are having today is about new clause Secretary. He said that the three territorial authorities 20 and the Government new schedules, which, as he had laid their statutory instruments, but there is nothing well knows, relate to the law as it currently is, prior to in the Vote Office yet. The Scottish statutory instrument the tabling of the territorial orders, so he is creating a is available online, but not in the Vote Office. I hope that problem where none exists. he will check the facts for us later. Mark Durkan: The Minister referred to the fact that Mr Harper: My information was that we had laid the the provisions on postal votes in Northern Ireland, as three territorial orders in the Table Office. I think that provided for in the Government’s new schedules, are that is correct—indeed, I confirm that it is. not the same as those provided for elsewhere. Given that he has spent a lot of time dealing with the various Kevin Brennan: Do I take it from the Parliamentary Opposition amendments, will he now address that issue? Secretary’s comments about attending the count on a The hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) said Monday that he expects no member of the Government that there could be further amendments from the to attend any of the counts for the AV referendum? Government. Will the Minister also address that issue, and tell us whether we are awaiting further amendments Mr Harper: I did not say that. I assume that most from the Government on postal voting in Northern Members will have duties in the House and in other Ireland? places. If they do not, of course they can attend the counts. However, I foresee that most Members of Mr Harper: This is not a secret: I set out what we Parliament will have important matters to tackle here, were going to do in the letter that I sent to all hon. instead of attending counts in local authority areas or Members who took part in the debate on Second Reading, in Scottish Parliament, Northern Ireland Assembly or and to the Opposition and the leaders of each party Welsh Assembly constituencies. represented in the Scottish Parliament, the Welsh Assembly and the Northern Ireland Assembly. What we are going Mark Durkan rose— to do is complex, but simultaneously straightforward, which is to have tabled the combination amendments Chris Bryant rose— today—that is, the new clause and the Government new schedules, based on existing legislation, which we are Mr Harper: I am faced by a galaxy of choices. Let me debating. The territorial orders updating the legislation give way to the shadow Minister first and then to the have been laid today in the Table Office. When the hon. Member for Foyle (Mark Durkan). Committee concludes today, the Government will, as I said in my letter, table amendments that we can debate Chris Bryant: The Minister may be right that somebody on Report—if they are selected by the Chairman of has given the statutory instruments to the Table Office, Ways and Means—that will be based on the new legislation. but they are not available in the Vote Office. It would be The territorial orders that have been laid today will be for the convenience of the Committee if the Government available in good time for Members to decide whether provided copies to the Vote Office today, so that hon. they want to table any amendments for discussion on Members can read them before we finish the amendments. Report, because they will be available for Members to see tomorrow. I hope that that helps the hon. Gentleman. Mr Harper: I said that the Government would table I have set out, at some length, our response to the the territorial orders today, because it is in relation to amendments standing in the name of the hon. Member those orders—now that we have them and they are for Rhondda. As I said at the beginning of this debate, I 91 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 92 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Harper] Halfon, Robert Loughton, Tim Hames, Duncan Lucas, Caroline would urge hon. Members to support our new clause Hammond, rh Mr Philip Luff, Peter and our new schedules, and to oppose the hon. Gentleman’s Hammond, Stephen Macleod, Mary various amendments. Hancock, Matthew MacNeil, Mr Angus Hancock, Mr Mike Brendan Question put, That the clause be read a Second time. Hands, Greg Main, Mrs Anne The Committee divided: Ayes 335, Noes 207. Harper, Mr Mark Maude, rh Mr Francis Harrington, Richard Maynard, Paul Division No. 96] [7.24 pm Harris, Rebecca McCartney, Jason Hart, Simon McCartney, Karl AYES Harvey, Nick McCrea, Dr William Adams, Nigel Crabb, Stephen Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan McIntosh, Miss Anne Afriyie, Adam Crockart, Mike Hayes, Mr John McPartland, Stephen Aldous, Peter Crouch, Tracey Heald, Mr Oliver McVey, Esther Amess, Mr David Davey, Mr Edward Heath, Mr David Menzies, Mark Andrew, Stuart Davies, David T. C. Heaton-Harris, Chris Mercer, Patrick Arbuthnot, rh Mr James (Monmouth) Hemming, John Metcalfe, Stephen Bacon, Mr Richard Davies, Glyn Henderson, Gordon Miller, Maria Bagshawe, Ms Louise Davis, rh Mr David Hendry, Charles Mills, Nigel Baker, Norman de Bois, Nick Herbert, rh Nick Milton, Anne Baker, Steve Dinenage, Caroline Hinds, Damian Moore, rh Michael Baldry, Tony Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Hoban, Mr Mark Mordaunt, Penny Baldwin, Harriett Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Hollingbery, George Morgan, Nicky Barclay, Stephen Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Hollobone, Mr Philip Morris, Anne Marie Barker, Gregory Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Hopkins, Kris Morris, James Barwell, Gavin Dorries, Nadine Horwood, Martin Mosley, Stephen Bebb, Guto Doyle-Price, Jackie Hosie, Stewart Mowat, David Bellingham, Mr Henry Drax, Richard Howarth, Mr Gerald Mulholland, Greg Beresford, Sir Paul Duncan, rh Mr Alan Howell, John Mundell, rh David Berry, Jake Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Hughes, Simon Munt, Tessa Bingham, Andrew Durkan, Mark Huhne, rh Chris Murray, Sheryll Binley, Mr Brian Ellis, Michael Hunter, Mark Murrison, Dr Andrew Birtwistle, Gordon Ellison, Jane Huppert, Dr Julian Neill, Robert Blackman, Bob Ellwood, Mr Tobias Hurd, Mr Nick Newmark, Mr Brooks Blackwood, Nicola Elphicke, Charlie Jackson, Mr Stewart Newton, Sarah Blunt, Mr Crispin Eustice, George Javid, Sajid Nokes, Caroline Boles, Nick Evans, Graham Jenkin, Mr Bernard Norman, Jesse Bone, Mr Peter Evans, Jonathan Johnson, Gareth O’Brien, Mr Stephen Bradley, Karen Evennett, Mr David Johnson, Joseph Offord, Mr Matthew Brady, Mr Graham Fabricant, Michael Jones, Andrew Ollerenshaw, Eric Brake, Tom Fallon, Michael Jones, Mr David Opperman, Guy Bray, Angie Farron, Tim Jones, Mr Marcus Paice, Mr James Brazier, Mr Julian Featherstone, Lynne Kawczynski, Daniel Parish, Neil Bridgen, Andrew Field, Mr Mark Kelly, Chris Patel, Priti Brine, Mr Steve Foster, Mr Don Kennedy, rh Mr Charles Paterson, rh Mr Owen Brokenshire, James Francois, rh Mr Mark Kirby, Simon Pawsey, Mark Brooke, Annette Freeman, George Knight, rh Mr Greg Penning, Mike Bruce, Fiona Freer, Mike Kwarteng, Kwasi Penrose, John Bruce, rh Malcolm Fullbrook, Lorraine Laing, Mrs Eleanor Percy, Andrew Buckland, Mr Robert Fuller, Richard Lamb, Norman Perry, Claire Burley, Mr Aidan Garnier, Mr Edward Lancaster, Mark Phillips, Stephen Burns, Conor Garnier, Mark Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Pickles, rh Mr Eric Burns, Mr Simon Gauke, Mr David Latham, Pauline Pincher, Christopher Burrowes, Mr David George, Andrew Laws, rh Mr David Poulter, Dr Daniel Burstow, Paul Gibb, Mr Nick Leadsom, Andrea Prisk, Mr Mark Burt, Lorely Gilbert, Stephen Lee, Jessica Pugh, Dr John Byles, Dan Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Lee, Dr Phillip Raab, Mr Dominic Cable, rh Vince Glen, John Leech, Mr John Randall, rh Mr John Cairns, Alun Goldsmith, Zac Lefroy, Jeremy Reckless, Mark Campbell, Mr Gregory Goodwill, Mr Robert Leigh, Mr Edward Redwood, rh Mr John Carmichael, Mr Alistair Gove, rh Michael Leslie, Charlotte Rees-Mogg, Jacob Carmichael, Neil Graham, Richard Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Reevell, Simon Carswell, Mr Douglas Grant, Mrs Helen Lewis, Brandon Reid, Mr Alan Chishti, Rehman Gray, Mr James Liddell-Grainger, Mr Robathan, Mr Andrew Clappison, Mr James Grayling, rh Chris Ian Robertson, Angus Clark, rh Greg Green, Damian Lidington, Mr David Robertson, Hugh Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Greening, Justine Lilley, rh Mr Peter Robertson, Mr Laurence Coffey, Dr Thérèse Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Lloyd, Stephen Rogerson, Dan Collins, Damian Griffiths, Andrew Llwyd, Mr Elfyn Rudd, Amber Colvile, Oliver Gummer, Ben Lopresti, Jack Ruffley, Mr David Cox, Mr Geoffrey Gyimah, Mr Sam Lord, Jonathan Russell, Bob 93 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 94 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Rutley, David Truss, Elizabeth Docherty, Thomas Mann, John Sanders, Mr Adrian Turner, Mr Andrew Donohoe, Mr Brian Marsden, Mr Gordon Sandys, Laura Tyrie, Mr Andrew H. McCabe, Steve Scott, Mr Lee Uppal, Paul Doran, Mr Frank McCann, Mr Michael Selous, Andrew Vaizey, Mr Edward Doyle, Gemma McCarthy, Kerry Shannon, Jim Vara, Mr Shailesh Dugher, Michael McClymont, Gregg Shapps, rh Grant Vickers, Martin Eagle, Ms Angela McDonagh, Siobhain Sharma, Alok Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Eagle, Maria McFadden, rh Mr Pat Shelbrooke, Alec Walker, Mr Charles Efford, Clive McGovern, Alison Simmonds, Mark Walker, Mr Robin Elliott, Julie McGovern, Jim Simpson, David Wallace, Mr Ben Ellman, Mrs Louise McKechin, Ann Simpson, Mr Keith Ward, Mr David Engel, Natascha McKinnell, Catherine Esterson, Bill Meale, Mr Alan Skidmore, Chris Watkinson, Angela Smith, Miss Chloe Evans, Chris Mearns, Ian Weatherley, Mike Smith, Henry Farrelly, Paul Michael, rh Alun Webb, Steve Smith, Julian Field, rh Mr Frank Miller, Andrew Wharton, James Smith, Sir Robert Flello, Robert Mitchell, Austin Wheeler, Heather Soames, Nicholas Flint, rh Caroline Moon, Mrs Madeleine Soubry, Anna White, Chris Flynn, Paul Morden, Jessica Spencer, Mr Mark Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Fovargue, Yvonne Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Stephenson, Andrew Whittaker, Craig Francis, Dr Hywel Morris, Grahame M. Stevenson, John Whittingdale, Mr John Glass, Pat (Easington) Stewart, Bob Willetts, rh Mr David Glindon, Mrs Mary Mudie, Mr George Stewart, Iain Williams, Mr Mark Godsiff, Mr Roger Munn, Meg Streeter, Mr Gary Williams, Roger Goggins, rh Paul Murphy, rh Mr Jim Stride, Mel Williams, Stephen Goodman, Helen Murphy, rh Paul Stuart, Mr Graham Williamson, Gavin Greatrex, Tom Murray, Ian Stunell, Andrew Willott, Jenny Green, Kate Nandy, Lisa Sturdy, Julian Wilson, Mr Rob Greenwood, Lilian O’Donnell, Fiona Swales, Ian Wilson, Sammy Griffith, Nia Onwurah, Chi Swayne, Mr Wollaston, Dr Sarah Gwynne, Andrew Osborne, Sandra Desmond Wright, Jeremy Hain, rh Mr Peter Owen, Albert Swinson, Jo Wright, Simon Hamilton, Mr David Perkins, Toby Hamilton, Mr Fabian Phillipson, Bridget Swire, Mr Hugo Yeo, Mr Tim Syms, Mr Robert Hanson, rh Mr David Pound, Stephen Young, rh Sir George Teather, Sarah Harman, rh Ms Harriet Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Zahawi, Nadhim Thurso, John Harris, Mr Tom Reeves, Rachel Timpson, Mr Edward Tellers for the Ayes: Havard, Mr Dai Reynolds, Emma Tomlinson, Justin Bill Wiggin and Healey, rh John Riordan, Mrs Linda Tredinnick, David Mr Philip Dunne Hendrick, Mark Robertson, John Hepburn, Mr Stephen Robinson, Mr Geoffrey NOES Heyes, David Rotheram, Steve Hillier, Meg Roy, Lindsay Abbott, Ms Diane Buck, Ms Karen Hilling, Julie Ruddock, rh Joan Alexander, rh Mr Burden, Richard Hodge, rh Margaret Sarwar, Anas Douglas Burnham, rh Andy Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Sharma, Mr Virendra Alexander, Heidi Byrne, rh Mr Liam Howarth, rh Mr George Sheerman, Mr Barry Ali, Rushanara Campbell, Mr Alan Illsley, Mr Eric Sheridan, Jim Anderson, Mr David Caton, Martin Irranca-Davies, Huw Shuker, Gavin Austin, Ian Chapman, Mrs Jenny Jamieson, Cathy Skinner, Mr Dennis Bailey, Mr Adrian Clark, Katy Johnson, rh Alan Slaughter, Mr Andy Bain, Mr William Clarke, rh Mr Tom Johnson, Diana R. Smith, rh Mr Andrew Banks, Gordon Clwyd, rh Ann Jones, Graham Smith, Nick Barron, rh Mr Kevin Coaker, Vernon Jones, Helen Smith, Owen Beckett, rh Margaret Connarty, Michael Jones, Mr Kevan Soulsby, Sir Peter Begg, Miss Anne Cooper, Rosie Jones, Susan Elan Spellar, rh Mr John Bell, Sir Stuart Corbyn, Jeremy Jowell, rh Tessa Straw, rh Mr Jack Benn, rh Hilary Crausby, Mr David Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Stuart, Ms Gisela Benton, Mr Joe Creagh, Mary Keen, Alan Tami, Mark Berger, Luciana Creasy, Stella Kendall, Liz Thomas, Mr Gareth Betts, Mr Clive Cruddas, Jon Khan, rh Sadiq Thornberry, Emily Blackman-Woods, Cryer, John Lammy, rh Mr David Timms, rh Stephen Roberta Cunningham, Alex Lavery, Ian Trickett, Jon Blears, rh Hazel Cunningham, Mr Jim Lazarowicz, Mark Turner, Karl Blenkinsop, Tom Cunningham, Tony Leslie, Chris Twigg, Derek Blomfield, Paul Curran, Margaret Lewis, Mr Ivan Twigg, Stephen Blunkett, rh Mr David Dakin, Nic Lloyd, Tony Umunna, Mr Chuka Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Danczuk, Simon Long, Naomi Vaz, rh Keith Brennan, Kevin David, Mr Wayne Love, Mr Andrew Vaz, Valerie Brown, Lyn Davidson, Mr Ian Lucas, Ian Walley, Joan Brown, Mr Russell De Piero, Gloria Mactaggart, Fiona Weir, Mr Mike Bryant, Chris Dobbin, Jim Mahmood, Shabana Whitehead, Dr Alan 95 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 96 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Wicks, rh Malcolm Woolas, Mr Phil Healey, rh John Murray, Ian Williamson, Chris Wright, David Hendrick, Mark Nandy, Lisa Winnick, Mr David Wright, Mr Iain Hepburn, Mr Stephen O’Donnell, Fiona Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Tellers for the Noes: Heyes, David Onwurah, Chi Wishart, Pete Angela Smith and Hillier, Meg Osborne, Sandra Woodcock, John Phil Wilson Hilling, Julie Owen, Albert Hodge, rh Margaret Perkins, Toby Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Phillipson, Bridget Question accordingly agreed to. Hoey, Kate Pound, Stephen New clause 20 read a Second time, and added to Hosie, Stewart Raynsford, rh Mr Nick the Bill. Howarth, rh Mr George Reeves, Rachel Illsley, Mr Eric Reynolds, Emma Amendment proposed to new clause 20: (a), leave out Irranca-Davies, Huw Riordan, Mrs Linda subsection (1) and insert— Jamieson, Cathy Robertson, Angus (1) Where the date of the poll for a local authority election in Johnson, rh Alan Robertson, John England is the same as the date of the poll for the referendum, Johnson, Diana R. Robinson, Mr Geoffrey the polls are to be taken together.’.—(Chris Bryant.) Jones, Graham Rotheram, Steve Question put, That the amendment be made. Jones, Helen Roy, Lindsay Jones, Mr Kevan Ruddock, rh Joan The Committee divided: Ayes 222, Noes 317. Jones, Susan Elan Sarwar, Anas Division No. 97] [7.40 pm Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Shannon, Jim Keen, Alan Sharma, Mr Virendra AYES Kendall, Liz Sheerman, Mr Barry Khan, rh Sadiq Sheridan, Jim Abbott, Ms Diane Cunningham, Tony Lammy, rh Mr David Shuker, Gavin Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Curran, Margaret Lavery, Ian Simpson, David Alexander, Heidi Dakin, Nic Lazarowicz, Mark Skinner, Mr Dennis Ali, Rushanara Danczuk, Simon Leslie, Chris Slaughter, Mr Andy Anderson, Mr David David, Mr Wayne Lewis, Mr Ivan Smith, rh Mr Andrew Austin, Ian Davidson, Mr Ian Lloyd, Tony Smith, Nick Bailey, Mr Adrian De Piero, Gloria Llwyd, Mr Elfyn Smith, Owen Bain, Mr William Dobbin, Jim Long, Naomi Soulsby, Sir Peter Banks, Gordon Docherty, Thomas Love, Mr Andrew Spellar, rh Mr John Barron, rh Mr Kevin Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Lucas, Caroline Beckett, rh Margaret Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Straw, rh Mr Jack Lucas, Ian Begg, Miss Anne Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Stuart, Ms Gisela MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Bell, Sir Stuart Doran, Mr Frank Tami, Mark Mactaggart, Fiona Benn, rh Hilary Doyle, Gemma Thomas, Mr Gareth Mahmood, Shabana Benton, Mr Joe Dromey, Jack Thornberry, Emily Mann, John Berger, Luciana Dugher, Michael Timms, rh Stephen Marsden, Mr Gordon Betts, Mr Clive Durkan, Mark Trickett, Jon McCabe, Steve Blackman-Woods, Roberta Eagle, Ms Angela Turner, Karl McCann, Mr Michael Blears, rh Hazel Eagle, Maria Twigg, Derek McCarthy, Kerry Blenkinsop, Tom Efford, Clive McClymont, Gregg Twigg, Stephen Blomfield, Paul Elliott, Julie McCrea, Dr William Umunna, Mr Chuka Blunkett, rh Mr David Ellman, Mrs Louise McDonagh, Siobhain Vaz, rh Keith Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Engel, Natascha McFadden, rh Mr Pat Vaz, Valerie Brennan, Kevin Esterson, Bill McGovern, Alison Walley, Joan Brown, Lyn Evans, Chris McGovern, Jim Weir, Mr Mike Brown, Mr Russell Farrelly, Paul McKechin, Ann Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Bryant, Chris Field, rh Mr Frank McKinnell, Catherine Whitehead, Dr Alan Buck, Ms Karen Flello, Robert Meale, Mr Alan Wicks, rh Malcolm Burden, Richard Flint, rh Caroline Mearns, Ian Williamson, Chris Burnham, rh Andy Flynn, Paul Michael, rh Alun Wilson, Sammy Byrne, rh Mr Liam Fovargue, Yvonne Miller, Andrew Campbell, Mr Alan Francis, Dr Hywel Winnick, Mr David Mitchell, Austin Campbell, Mr Gregory Glass, Pat Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Moon, Mrs Madeleine Caton, Martin Glindon, Mrs Mary Wishart, Pete Morden, Jessica Chapman, Mrs Jenny Godsiff, Mr Roger Woodcock, John Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Clark, Katy Goggins, rh Paul Woolas, Mr Phil Morris, Grahame M. Clarke, rh Mr Tom Goodman, Helen Wright, David (Easington) Clwyd, rh Ann Greatrex, Tom Wright, Mr Iain Mudie, Mr George Coaker, Vernon Green, Kate Munn, Meg Tellers for the Ayes: Connarty, Michael Greenwood, Lilian Murphy, rh Mr Jim Angela Smith and Cooper, Rosie Griffith, Nia Murphy, rh Paul Phil Wilson Corbyn, Jeremy Gwynne, Andrew Crausby, Mr David Hain, rh Mr Peter Creagh, Mary Hamilton, Mr David NOES Creasy, Stella Hamilton, Mr Fabian Adams, Nigel Andrew, Stuart Cruddas, Jon Hanson, rh Mr David Afriyie, Adam Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Cryer, John Harman, rh Ms Harriet Aldous, Peter Bacon, Mr Richard Cunningham, Alex Harris, Mr Tom Cunningham, Mr Jim Havard, Mr Dai Amess, Mr David Bagshawe, Ms Louise 97 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 98 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Baker, Norman Elphicke, Charlie Jenkin, Mr Bernard Patel, Priti Baker, Steve Eustice, George Johnson, Gareth Paterson, rh Mr Owen Baldry, Tony Evans, Graham Johnson, Joseph Pawsey, Mark Baldwin, Harriett Evans, Jonathan Jones, Andrew Penning, Mike Barclay, Stephen Evennett, Mr David Jones, Mr David Penrose, John Barker, Gregory Fabricant, Michael Jones, Mr Marcus Percy, Andrew Barwell, Gavin Fallon, Michael Kawczynski, Daniel Perry, Claire Bebb, Guto Farron, Tim Kelly, Chris Phillips, Stephen Bellingham, Mr Henry Featherstone, Lynne Kennedy, rh Mr Charles Pickles, rh Mr Eric Beresford, Sir Paul Field, Mr Mark Kirby, Simon Pincher, Christopher Berry, Jake Foster, Mr Don Knight, rh Mr Greg Poulter, Dr Daniel Bingham, Andrew Francois, rh Mr Mark Kwarteng, Kwasi Prisk, Mr Mark Binley, Mr Brian Freeman, George Laing, Mrs Eleanor Pugh, Dr John Birtwistle, Gordon Freer, Mike Lamb, Norman Raab, Mr Dominic Blackman, Bob Fullbrook, Lorraine Lancaster, Mark Randall, rh Mr John Blackwood, Nicola Fuller, Richard Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Reckless, Mark Blunt, Mr Crispin Garnier, Mr Edward Latham, Pauline Redwood, rh Mr John Boles, Nick Garnier, Mark Laws, rh Mr David Rees-Mogg, Jacob Bone, Mr Peter Gauke, Mr David Leadsom, Andrea Reevell, Simon Bradley, Karen George, Andrew Lee, Jessica Reid, Mr Alan Brady, Mr Graham Gibb, Mr Nick Lee, Dr Phillip Robathan, Mr Andrew Brake, Tom Gilbert, Stephen Leech, Mr John Robertson, Hugh Bray, Angie Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Lefroy, Jeremy Robertson, Mr Laurence Brazier, Mr Julian Glen, John Leslie, Charlotte Rogerson, Dan Bridgen, Andrew Goldsmith, Zac Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Rudd, Amber Brine, Mr Steve Goodwill, Mr Robert Lewis, Brandon Ruffley, Mr David Brokenshire, James Graham, Richard Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Russell, Bob Brooke, Annette Grant, Mrs Helen Lidington, Mr David Rutley, David Browne, Mr Jeremy Gray, Mr James Lilley, rh Mr Peter Sanders, Mr Adrian Bruce, Fiona Grayling, rh Chris Lloyd, Stephen Sandys, Laura Bruce, rh Malcolm Green, Damian Lopresti, Jack Scott, Mr Lee Buckland, Mr Robert Greening, Justine Lord, Jonathan Selous, Andrew Burley, Mr Aidan Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Loughton, Tim Shapps, rh Grant Burns, Conor Griffiths, Andrew Lumley, Karen Sharma, Alok Burns, Mr Simon Gummer, Ben Macleod, Mary Shelbrooke, Alec Burrowes, Mr David Gyimah, Mr Sam Main, Mrs Anne Simmonds, Mark Burstow, Paul Halfon, Robert Maude, rh Mr Francis Simpson, Mr Keith Burt, Lorely Hames, Duncan Maynard, Paul Skidmore, Chris Byles, Dan Hammond, rh Mr Philip McCartney, Jason Smith, Miss Chloe Cable, rh Vince Hammond, Stephen McCartney, Karl Smith, Henry Cairns, Alun Hancock, Matthew McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Julian Carmichael, Mr Alistair Hancock, Mr Mike McPartland, Stephen Smith, Sir Robert Carmichael, Neil Hands, Greg McVey, Esther Soames, Nicholas Carswell, Mr Douglas Harper, Mr Mark Menzies, Mark Soubry, Anna Chishti, Rehman Harrington, Richard Mercer, Patrick Spencer, Mr Mark Clappison, Mr James Harris, Rebecca Metcalfe, Stephen Stephenson, Andrew Clark, rh Greg Hart, Simon Miller, Maria Stevenson, John Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Harvey, Nick Mills, Nigel Stewart, Bob Coffey, Dr Thérèse Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Milton, Anne Stewart, Iain Collins, Damian Hayes, Mr John Moore, rh Michael Stride, Mel Colvile, Oliver Heald, Mr Oliver Mordaunt, Penny Stuart, Mr Graham Cox, Mr Geoffrey Heath, Mr David Morgan, Nicky Stunell, Andrew Crabb, Stephen Heaton-Harris, Chris Morris, Anne Marie Sturdy, Julian Crockart, Mike Hemming, John Morris, James Swales, Ian Crouch, Tracey Henderson, Gordon Mosley, Stephen Swayne, Mr Desmond Davey, Mr Edward Hendry, Charles Mowat, David Swinson, Jo Davies, David T. C. Herbert, rh Nick Mulholland, Greg Swire, Mr Hugo (Monmouth) Hinds, Damian Mundell, rh David Syms, Mr Robert Davies, Glyn Hoban, Mr Mark Munt, Tessa Teather, Sarah Davis, rh Mr David Hollingbery, George Murray, Sheryll Thurso, John de Bois, Nick Hollobone, Mr Philip Murrison, Dr Andrew Timpson, Mr Edward Dinenage, Caroline Hopkins, Kris Neill, Robert Tomlinson, Justin Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Horwood, Martin Newmark, Mr Brooks Tredinnick, David Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Howarth, Mr Gerald Newton, Sarah Truss, Elizabeth Dorries, Nadine Howell, John Nokes, Caroline Turner, Mr Andrew Doyle-Price, Jackie Hughes, Simon Norman, Jesse Tyrie, Mr Andrew Drax, Richard Huhne, rh Chris Nuttall, Mr David Uppal, Paul Duncan, rh Mr Alan Hunter, Mark O’Brien, Mr Stephen Vaizey, Mr Edward Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Huppert, Dr Julian Offord, Mr Matthew Vara, Mr Shailesh Ellis, Michael Hurd, Mr Nick Opperman, Guy Vickers, Martin Ellison, Jane Jackson, Mr Stewart Paice, Mr James Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Ellwood, Mr Tobias Javid, Sajid Parish, Neil Walker, Mr Charles 99 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 100 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Walker, Mr Robin Williams, Stephen Griffith, Nia Morris, Grahame M. Wallace, Mr Ben Williamson, Gavin Gwynne, Andrew (Easington) Ward, Mr David Willott, Jenny Hain, rh Mr Peter Mudie, Mr George Watkinson, Angela Wilson, Mr Rob Hamilton, Mr David Munn, Meg Weatherley, Mike Wollaston, Dr Sarah Hamilton, Mr Fabian Murphy, rh Mr Jim Webb, Steve Wright, Jeremy Hanson, rh Mr David Murphy, rh Paul Wharton, James Wright, Simon Harman, rh Ms Harriet Murray, Ian Wheeler, Heather Young, rh Sir George Harris, Mr Tom Nandy, Lisa Havard, Mr Dai O’Donnell, Fiona White, Chris Zahawi, Nadhim Whittaker, Craig Healey, rh John Onwurah, Chi Whittingdale, Mr John Tellers for the Noes: Hendrick, Mark Osborne, Sandra Williams, Mr Mark Bill Wiggin and Hepburn, Mr Stephen Owen, Albert Williams, Roger Mr Philip Dunne Heyes, David Perkins, Toby Hillier, Meg Phillipson, Bridget Question accordingly negatived. Hilling, Julie Pound, Stephen Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Amendment proposed to new clause 20: (b), leave out Hoey, Kate Reeves, Rachel subsection (4) and insert— Howarth, rh Mr George Reynolds, Emma (4) Where the date of the poll for a Northern Ireland Illsley, Mr Eric Riordan, Mrs Linda Assembly Election is the same as the date of the poll for the Irranca-Davies, Huw Robertson, John referendum, the polls are to be taken together.’.—(Chris Jamieson, Cathy Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Bryant.) Johnson, rh Alan Rotheram, Steve Question put, That the amendment be made. Johnson, Diana R. Roy, Lindsay Jones, Graham Ruddock, rh Joan The Committee divided: Ayes 205, Noes 326. Jones, Helen Sarwar, Anas Division No. 98] [7.53 pm Jones, Mr Kevan Sharma, Mr Virendra Jones, Susan Elan Sheerman, Mr Barry AYES Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Sheridan, Jim Keen, Alan Shuker, Gavin Abbott, Ms Diane Creagh, Mary Kendall, Liz Skinner, Mr Dennis Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Creasy, Stella Khan, rh Sadiq Slaughter, Mr Andy Alexander, Heidi Cruddas, Jon Lammy, rh Mr David Smith, rh Mr Andrew Ali, Rushanara Cryer, John Lavery, Ian Smith, Nick Anderson, Mr David Cunningham, Alex Lazarowicz, Mark Smith, Owen Austin, Ian Cunningham, Mr Jim Leslie, Chris Soulsby, Sir Peter Bailey, Mr Adrian Cunningham, Tony Lewis, Mr Ivan Spellar, rh Mr John Bain, Mr William Curran, Margaret Lloyd, Tony Straw, rh Mr Jack Banks, Gordon Dakin, Nic Love, Mr Andrew Stuart, Ms Gisela Barron, rh Mr Kevin Danczuk, Simon Lucas, Caroline Tami, Mark Beckett, rh Margaret David, Mr Wayne Lucas, Ian Thomas, Mr Gareth Begg, Miss Anne Davidson, Mr Ian Mactaggart, Fiona Thornberry, Emily Bell, Sir Stuart De Piero, Gloria Mahmood, Shabana Timms, rh Stephen Benn, rh Hilary Dobbin, Jim Mann, John Trickett, Jon Benton, Mr Joe Docherty, Thomas Marsden, Mr Gordon Turner, Karl Berger, Luciana Donohoe, Mr Brian H. McCabe, Steve Twigg, Derek Betts, Mr Clive Doran, Mr Frank McCann, Mr Michael Twigg, Stephen Blackman-Woods, Roberta Doyle, Gemma McCarthy, Kerry Umunna, Mr Chuka Blears, rh Hazel Dromey, Jack McClymont, Gregg Vaz, rh Keith Blenkinsop, Tom Dugher, Michael McDonagh, Siobhain Vaz, Valerie Blomfield, Paul Eagle, Ms Angela McFadden, rh Mr Pat Walley, Joan Blunkett, rh Mr David Eagle, Maria McGovern, Alison Whitehead, Dr Alan Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Efford, Clive McGovern, Jim Wicks, rh Malcolm Brennan, Kevin Elliott, Julie McKechin, Ann Williamson, Chris Brown, Lyn Ellman, Mrs Louise McKinnell, Catherine Winnick, Mr David Brown, Mr Russell Engel, Natascha Meale, Mr Alan Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Bryant, Chris Esterson, Bill Mearns, Ian Woodcock, John Buck, Ms Karen Evans, Chris Michael, rh Alun Wright, David Burden, Richard Farrelly, Paul Miller, Andrew Wright, Mr Iain Burnham, rh Andy Field, rh Mr Frank Mitchell, Austin Byrne, rh Mr Liam Flello, Robert Moon, Mrs Madeleine Tellers for the Ayes: Campbell, Mr Alan Flint, rh Caroline Morden, Jessica Angela Smith and Campbell, Mr Ronnie Flynn, Paul Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Phil Wilson Caton, Martin Fovargue, Yvonne Chapman, Mrs Jenny Francis, Dr Hywel NOES Clark, Katy Glass, Pat Adams, Nigel Bagshawe, Ms Louise Clarke, rh Mr Tom Glindon, Mrs Mary Afriyie, Adam Baker, Norman Clwyd, rh Ann Godsiff, Mr Roger Aldous, Peter Baker, Steve Coaker, Vernon Goggins, rh Paul Connarty, Michael Goodman, Helen Amess, Mr David Baldry, Tony Cooper, Rosie Greatrex, Tom Andrew, Stuart Baldwin, Harriett Corbyn, Jeremy Green, Kate Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Barclay, Stephen Crausby, Mr David Greenwood, Lilian Bacon, Mr Richard Barker, Gregory 101 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 102 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Barwell, Gavin Evans, Jonathan Jones, Andrew Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bebb, Guto Evennett, Mr David Jones, Mr David Pawsey, Mark Bellingham, Mr Henry Fabricant, Michael Jones, Mr Marcus Penning, Mike Beresford, Sir Paul Fallon, Michael Kawczynski, Daniel Penrose, John Berry, Jake Farron, Tim Kelly, Chris Percy, Andrew Bingham, Andrew Featherstone, Lynne Kennedy, rh Mr Charles Perry, Claire Binley, Mr Brian Field, Mr Mark Kirby, Simon Phillips, Stephen Birtwistle, Gordon Foster, Mr Don Knight, rh Mr Greg Pickles, rh Mr Eric Blackman, Bob Francois, rh Mr Mark Kwarteng, Kwasi Pincher, Christopher Blackwood, Nicola Freeman, George Laing, Mrs Eleanor Poulter, Dr Daniel Blunt, Mr Crispin Freer, Mike Lamb, Norman Prisk, Mr Mark Boles, Nick Fullbrook, Lorraine Lancaster, Mark Pugh, Dr John Bradley, Karen Fuller, Richard Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Raab, Mr Dominic Brady, Mr Graham Garnier, Mr Edward Latham, Pauline Randall, rh Mr John Brake, Tom Garnier, Mark Leadsom, Andrea Reckless, Mark Bray, Angie Gauke, Mr David Lee, Jessica Redwood, rh Mr John Brazier, Mr Julian George, Andrew Lee, Dr Phillip Rees-Mogg, Jacob Bridgen, Andrew Gibb, Mr Nick Leech, Mr John Reevell, Simon Brine, Mr Steve Gilbert, Stephen Lefroy, Jeremy Reid, Mr Alan Brokenshire, James Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Leslie, Charlotte Robathan, Mr Andrew Brooke, Annette Glen, John Lewis, Brandon Robertson, Hugh Browne, Mr Jeremy Goldsmith, Zac Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Robertson, Mr Laurence Bruce, Fiona Goodwill, Mr Robert Lidington, Mr David Rogerson, Dan Bruce, rh Malcolm Graham, Richard Lilley, rh Mr Peter Rudd, Amber Buckland, Mr Robert Grant, Mrs Helen Lloyd, Stephen Ruffley, Mr David Burley, Mr Aidan Gray, Mr James Long, Naomi Russell, Bob Burns, Conor Grayling, rh Chris Lopresti, Jack Rutley, David Burns, Mr Simon Green, Damian Lord, Jonathan Sanders, Mr Adrian Burrowes, Mr David Greening, Justine Loughton, Tim Sandys, Laura Burstow, Paul Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Luff, Peter Scott, Mr Lee Burt, Lorely Griffiths, Andrew Lumley, Karen Selous, Andrew Byles, Dan Gummer, Ben Macleod, Mary Shannon, Jim Cable, rh Vince Gyimah, Mr Sam Main, Mrs Anne Shapps, rh Grant Cairns, Alun Halfon, Robert Maude, rh Mr Francis Sharma, Alok Campbell, Mr Gregory Hames, Duncan Maynard, Paul Shelbrooke, Alec Carmichael, Mr Alistair Hammond, rh Mr Philip McCartney, Jason Simmonds, Mark Carmichael, Neil Hammond, Stephen McCartney, Karl Simpson, David Carswell, Mr Douglas Hancock, Matthew McCrea, Dr William Simpson, Mr Keith Chishti, Rehman Hancock, Mr Mike McIntosh, Miss Anne Skidmore, Chris Clappison, Mr James Hands, Greg McPartland, Stephen Smith, Miss Chloe Clark, rh Greg Harper, Mr Mark McVey, Esther Smith, Henry Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Harrington, Richard Menzies, Mark Smith, Julian Coffey, Dr Thérèse Harris, Rebecca Mercer, Patrick Smith, Sir Robert Collins, Damian Hart, Simon Metcalfe, Stephen Soames, Nicholas Colvile, Oliver Harvey, Nick Miller, Maria Soubry, Anna Cox, Mr Geoffrey Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Mills, Nigel Spencer, Mr Mark Crabb, Stephen Hayes, Mr John Milton, Anne Stephenson, Andrew Crockart, Mike Heald, Mr Oliver Moore, rh Michael Stevenson, John Crouch, Tracey Heath, Mr David Mordaunt, Penny Stewart, Bob Davey, Mr Edward Heaton-Harris, Chris Morgan, Nicky Stewart, Iain Davies, David T. C. Hemming, John Morris, Anne Marie Stride, Mel (Monmouth) Henderson, Gordon Morris, James Stuart, Mr Graham Davies, Glyn Hendry, Charles Mosley, Stephen Stunell, Andrew Davis, rh Mr David Herbert, rh Nick Mowat, David Sturdy, Julian de Bois, Nick Hinds, Damian Mulholland, Greg Swales, Ian Dinenage, Caroline Hoban, Mr Mark Mundell, rh David Swayne, Mr Desmond Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Hollingbery, George Munt, Tessa Swinson, Jo Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Hollobone, Mr Philip Murray, Sheryll Swire, Mr Hugo Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Hopkins, Kris Murrison, Dr Andrew Syms, Mr Robert Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Horwood, Martin Neill, Robert Teather, Sarah Dorries, Nadine Howarth, Mr Gerald Newmark, Mr Brooks Thurso, John Doyle-Price, Jackie Howell, John Newton, Sarah Timpson, Mr Edward Drax, Richard Hughes, Simon Nokes, Caroline Tomlinson, Justin Duncan, rh Mr Alan Huhne, rh Chris Norman, Jesse Tredinnick, David Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Hunter, Mark Nuttall, Mr David Truss, Elizabeth Durkan, Mark Huppert, Dr Julian O’Brien, Mr Stephen Turner, Mr Andrew Ellis, Michael Hurd, Mr Nick Offord, Mr Matthew Tyrie, Mr Andrew Ellison, Jane Jackson, Mr Stewart Ollerenshaw, Eric Uppal, Paul Ellwood, Mr Tobias Javid, Sajid Opperman, Guy Vaizey, Mr Edward Elphicke, Charlie Jenkin, Mr Bernard Paice, Mr James Vara, Mr Shailesh Eustice, George Johnson, Gareth Parish, Neil Vickers, Martin Evans, Graham Johnson, Joseph Patel, Priti Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa 103 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 104 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Walker, Mr Charles Williams, Stephen Freeman, George Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Walker, Mr Robin Williamson, Gavin Freer, Mike Latham, Pauline Wallace, Mr Ben Willott, Jenny Fullbrook, Lorraine Laws, rh Mr David Ward, Mr David Wilson, Mr Rob Fuller, Richard Leadsom, Andrea Watkinson, Angela Wilson, Sammy Garnier, Mr Edward Lee, Jessica Weatherley, Mike Wollaston, Dr Sarah Garnier, Mark Lee, Dr Phillip Webb, Steve Wright, Jeremy Gauke, Mr David Leech, Mr John Wharton, James Wright, Simon George, Andrew Lefroy, Jeremy Wheeler, Heather Yeo, Mr Tim Gibb, Mr Nick Leslie, Charlotte White, Chris Young, rh Sir George Gilbert, Stephen Lewis, Brandon Whittaker, Craig Zahawi, Nadhim Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Whittingdale, Mr John Tellers for the Noes: Glen, John Lidington, Mr David Williams, Mr Mark Bill Wiggin and Goldsmith, Zac Lilley, rh Mr Peter Williams, Roger Mr Philip Dunne Goodwill, Mr Robert Lloyd, Stephen Graham, Richard Long, Naomi Grant, Mrs Helen Lopresti, Jack Question accordingly negatived. Gray, Mr James Lord, Jonathan Question put, That the clause be added to the Bill. Grayling, rh Chris Loughton, Tim Green, Damian Luff, Peter The House divided: Ayes 327, Noes 214. Greening, Justine Lumley, Karen Division No. 99] [8.5 pm Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Macleod, Mary Griffiths, Andrew Main, Mrs Anne AYES Gummer, Ben Maude, rh Mr Francis Gyimah, Mr Sam Maynard, Paul Adams, Nigel Carmichael, Mr Alistair Halfon, Robert McCartney, Jason Afriyie, Adam Carmichael, Neil Hames, Duncan McCartney, Karl Aldous, Peter Carswell, Mr Douglas Hammond, rh Mr Philip McCrea, Dr William Amess, Mr David Chishti, Rehman Hammond, Stephen McIntosh, Miss Anne Andrew, Stuart Chope, Mr Christopher Hancock, Matthew McPartland, Stephen Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Clappison, Mr James Hands, Greg McVey, Esther Bacon, Mr Richard Clark, rh Greg Harper, Mr Mark Menzies, Mark Bagshawe, Ms Louise Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Harrington, Richard Mercer, Patrick Baker, Norman Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Harris, Rebecca Metcalfe, Stephen Baker, Steve Coffey, Dr Thérèse Hart, Simon Miller, Maria Baldry, Tony Collins, Damian Harvey, Nick Mills, Nigel Baldwin, Harriett Colvile, Oliver Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Milton, Anne Barclay, Stephen Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hayes, Mr John Moore, rh Michael Barker, Gregory Crabb, Stephen Heald, Mr Oliver Mordaunt, Penny Barwell, Gavin Crockart, Mike Heath, Mr David Morgan, Nicky Bebb, Guto Crouch, Tracey Heaton-Harris, Chris Morris, Anne Marie Bellingham, Mr Henry Davey, Mr Edward Hemming, John Morris, James Beresford, Sir Paul Davies, David T. C. Henderson, Gordon Mosley, Stephen Berry, Jake (Monmouth) Hendry, Charles Mowat, David Bingham, Andrew Davies, Glyn Herbert, rh Nick Mulholland, Greg Binley, Mr Brian Davis, rh Mr David Hinds, Damian Mundell, rh David Birtwistle, Gordon de Bois, Nick Hoban, Mr Mark Munt, Tessa Blackman, Bob Dinenage, Caroline Hollingbery, George Murray, Sheryll Blackwood, Nicola Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Hollobone, Mr Philip Murrison, Dr Andrew Blunt, Mr Crispin Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Hopkins, Kris Neill, Robert Boles, Nick Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Horwood, Martin Newmark, Mr Brooks Bradley, Karen Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Howell, John Newton, Sarah Brady, Mr Graham Dorries, Nadine Hughes, Simon Nokes, Caroline Brake, Tom Doyle-Price, Jackie Huhne, rh Chris Norman, Jesse Bray, Angie Drax, Richard Huppert, Dr Julian Nuttall, Mr David Brazier, Mr Julian Duncan, rh Mr Alan Hurd, Mr Nick O’Brien, Mr Stephen Bridgen, Andrew Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Jackson, Mr Stewart Offord, Mr Matthew Brine, Mr Steve Dunne, Mr Philip Javid, Sajid Ollerenshaw, Eric Brokenshire, James Durkan, Mark Jenkin, Mr Bernard Opperman, Guy Brooke, Annette Ellis, Michael Johnson, Gareth Paice, Mr James Browne, Mr Jeremy Ellison, Jane Johnson, Joseph Parish, Neil Bruce, Fiona Ellwood, Mr Tobias Jones, Andrew Patel, Priti Bruce, rh Malcolm Elphicke, Charlie Jones, Mr David Paterson, rh Mr Owen Buckland, Mr Robert Eustice, George Jones, Mr Marcus Pawsey, Mark Burley, Mr Aidan Evans, Graham Burns, Conor Evans, Jonathan Kawczynski, Daniel Penning, Mike Burns, Mr Simon Evennett, Mr David Kelly, Chris Penrose, John Burrowes, Mr David Fabricant, Michael Kennedy, rh Mr Charles Percy, Andrew Burstow, Paul Fallon, Michael Kirby, Simon Perry, Claire Burt, Lorely Farron, Tim Knight, rh Mr Greg Phillips, Stephen Byles, Dan Featherstone, Lynne Kwarteng, Kwasi Pickles, rh Mr Eric Cable, rh Vince Field, Mr Mark Laing, Mrs Eleanor Pincher, Christopher Cairns, Alun Foster, Mr Don Lamb, Norman Poulter, Dr Daniel Campbell, Mr Gregory Francois, rh Mr Mark Lancaster, Mark Prisk, Mr Mark 105 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 106 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Pugh, Dr John Swinson, Jo Cunningham, Mr Jim Lazarowicz, Mark Raab, Mr Dominic Swire, Mr Hugo Cunningham, Tony Leslie, Chris Randall, rh Mr John Syms, Mr Robert Curran, Margaret Lewis, Mr Ivan Reckless, Mark Teather, Sarah Dakin, Nic Lloyd, Tony Redwood, rh Mr John Thurso, John Danczuk, Simon Llwyd, Mr Elfyn Rees-Mogg, Jacob Timpson, Mr Edward David, Mr Wayne Love, Mr Andrew Reevell, Simon Tomlinson, Justin Davidson, Mr Ian Lucas, Caroline Reid, Mr Alan Tredinnick, David De Piero, Gloria Lucas, Ian Robathan, Mr Andrew Truss, Elizabeth Dobbin, Jim MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Robertson, Hugh Turner, Mr Andrew Docherty, Thomas Mactaggart, Fiona Robertson, Mr Laurence Tyrie, Mr Andrew Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Mahmood, Shabana Rogerson, Dan Uppal, Paul Doran, Mr Frank Mann, John Rudd, Amber Vaizey, Mr Edward Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon Ruffley, Mr David Vara, Mr Shailesh Dromey, Jack McCabe, Steve Russell, Bob Vickers, Martin Dugher, Michael McCann, Mr Michael Rutley, David Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Eagle, Ms Angela McCarthy, Kerry Sanders, Mr Adrian Walker, Mr Charles Eagle, Maria McClymont, Gregg Sandys, Laura Walker, Mr Robin Efford, Clive McDonagh, Siobhain Scott, Mr Lee Wallace, Mr Ben Elliott, Julie McDonnell, John Selous, Andrew Ward, Mr David Ellman, Mrs Louise McFadden, rh Mr Pat Shannon, Jim Watkinson, Angela Engel, Natascha McGovern, Alison Shapps, rh Grant Weatherley, Mike Esterson, Bill McGovern, Jim Sharma, Alok Webb, Steve Evans, Chris McKechin, Ann Shelbrooke, Alec Wharton, James Farrelly, Paul McKinnell, Catherine Simmonds, Mark Wheeler, Heather Field, rh Mr Frank Meale, Mr Alan Simpson, David White, Chris Flello, Robert Mearns, Ian Simpson, Mr Keith Whittaker, Craig Flint, rh Caroline Michael, rh Alun Skidmore, Chris Whittingdale, Mr John Flynn, Paul Miller, Andrew Smith, Miss Chloe Williams, Mr Mark Fovargue, Yvonne Mitchell, Austin Smith, Henry Williams, Roger Francis, Dr Hywel Moon, Mrs Madeleine Smith, Julian Williams, Stephen Glass, Pat Morden, Jessica Smith, Sir Robert Williamson, Gavin Glindon, Mrs Mary Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Soames, Nicholas Willott, Jenny Godsiff, Mr Roger Morris, Grahame M. Soubry, Anna Wilson, Mr Rob Goggins, rh Paul (Easington) Spencer, Mr Mark Wilson, Sammy Goodman, Helen Mudie, Mr George Stephenson, Andrew Wollaston, Dr Sarah Greatrex, Tom Munn, Meg Stevenson, John Wright, Jeremy Green, Kate Murphy, rh Mr Jim Stewart, Bob Wright, Simon Greenwood, Lilian Murphy, rh Paul Griffith, Nia Murray, Ian Stewart, Iain Yeo, Mr Tim Stride, Mel Gwynne, Andrew Nandy, Lisa Young, rh Sir George Stuart, Mr Graham Hain, rh Mr Peter O’Donnell, Fiona Zahawi, Nadhim Stunell, Andrew Hamilton, Mr David Onwurah, Chi Sturdy, Julian Tellers for the Ayes: Hamilton, Mr Fabian Osborne, Sandra Swales, Ian Bill Wiggin and Hanson, rh Mr David Owen, Albert Swayne, Mr Desmond Mark Hunter Harman, rh Ms Harriet Perkins, Toby Harris, Mr Tom Phillipson, Bridget NOES Havard, Mr Dai Pound, Stephen Healey, rh John Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Abbott, Ms Diane Brown, Lyn Hendrick, Mark Reeves, Rachel Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Brown, Mr Russell Hepburn, Mr Stephen Reynolds, Emma Alexander, Heidi Bryant, Chris Heyes, David Riordan, Mrs Linda Ali, Rushanara Buck, Ms Karen Hillier, Meg Robertson, Angus Anderson, Mr David Burden, Richard Hilling, Julie Robertson, John Austin, Ian Burnham, rh Andy Hodge, rh Margaret Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Bailey, Mr Adrian Byrne, rh Mr Liam Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Rotheram, Steve Bain, Mr William Campbell, Mr Alan Hoey, Kate Roy, Lindsay Banks, Gordon Campbell, Mr Ronnie Hosie, Stewart Ruddock, rh Joan Barron, rh Mr Kevin Caton, Martin Howarth, rh Mr George Sarwar, Anas Beckett, rh Margaret Chapman, Mrs Jenny Illsley, Mr Eric Sharma, Mr Virendra Begg, Miss Anne Clark, Katy Irranca-Davies, Huw Sheerman, Mr Barry Bell, Sir Stuart Clarke, rh Mr Tom Jamieson, Cathy Sheridan, Jim Benn, rh Hilary Clwyd, rh Ann Johnson, rh Alan Shuker, Gavin Benton, Mr Joe Coaker, Vernon Johnson, Diana R. Skinner, Mr Dennis Berger, Luciana Connarty, Michael Jones, Graham Slaughter, Mr Andy Betts, Mr Clive Cooper, Rosie Jones, Helen Smith, rh Mr Andrew Blackman-Woods, Roberta Corbyn, Jeremy Jones, Mr Kevan Smith, Nick Blears, rh Hazel Crausby, Mr David Jones, Susan Elan Smith, Owen Blenkinsop, Tom Creagh, Mary Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Soulsby, Sir Peter Blomfield, Paul Creasy, Stella Keen, Alan Spellar, rh Mr John Blunkett, rh Mr David Cruddas, Jon Kendall, Liz Straw, rh Mr Jack Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Cryer, John Khan, rh Sadiq Stuart, Ms Gisela Brennan, Kevin Cunningham, Alex Lavery, Ian Tami, Mark 107 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 108 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Thomas, Mr Gareth Whitehead, Dr Alan “(1) The number of holders of offices specified in Schedule 2 Thornberry, Emily Wicks, rh Malcolm to this Act (in this section referred to as Ministerial offices) Timms, rh Stephen Williamson, Chris entitled to sit and vote in the House of Commons at any one Trickett, Jon Winnick, Mr David time, whether paid or unpaid, must not exceed 95 if the number Turner, Karl Winterton, rh Ms Rosie of constituencies in the United Kingdom is 650.”. Twigg, Derek Wishart, Pete (3) After section 2(1) insert— Twigg, Stephen Woodcock, John “(1A) If the number of constituencies in the United Kingdom Umunna, Mr Chuka Woolas, Mr Phil decreases below 650, the limit on the number of holders of Wright, David Vaz, rh Keith Ministerial offices entitled to sit and vote in the House of Wright, Mr Iain Vaz, Valerie Commons referred to in section 2(1) must be decreased by at Walley, Joan Tellers for the Noes: least a proportionate amount.”. Weir, Mr Mike Angela Smith and (4) In subsection (2), after “subsection (1)”, insert “or Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Phil Wilson subsection (1A)”.’.—(Mr Charles Walker.) Brought up, and read the First time. Question accordingly agreed to. New clause 20 added to the Bill. Mr Charles Walker (Broxbourne) (Con): I beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. Chris Bryant: On a point of order, Mr Streeter. As New clause 7 would amend the House of Commons there was some discussion before that last set of votes Disqualification Act 1975, which currently sets the about the statutory instruments to be laid by the Welsh maximum number of Ministers allowed in this place Office, the Northern Ireland Office and the Scotland at 95. As you know, Mr Streeter, part of this Bill, if Office— passed, will bring about a reduction in the number of MPs from 650 to 600. My new clause is very modest in Bill Wiggin (North Herefordshire) (Con): It is the its scope. All I am seeking to do is to amend the Wales Office. 1975 Act to ensure that the ceiling for the number of Ministers is pushed down from 95 to 87, which directly Chris Bryant: I apologise and am very grateful to the reflects the percentage reduction in the number of Members Whip for that. of Parliament. These statutory instruments are now available in the My new clause is very moderate. Many colleagues Vote Office and I note that the Scottish one is 205 pages urged me to go further and to make a real assault on the long. There are two Northern Ireland instruments, not patronage of the Executive, but I thought that that just one as was stated earlier. One is 59 pages long and would be unreasonable and unreasonably ambitious. the other is somewhat shorter; the Welsh one is quite There might be voices of self-interest, largely residing short too. Would it not be extraordinary if these were on the Front Bench, who argue that we have the right not to be debated properly before Report? amount of Ministers. They might even argue that we need more Ministers. I hope that I do not hear those arguments tonight. The Temporary Chair (Mr Gary Streeter): Iamvery grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his point of order. I Sammy Wilson (East Antrim) (DUP): Might there am sure that his comments have been heard by those on not be even more Back Benchers interested in increasing the Treasury Bench and the House is grateful to him for the number from 95 to about 195? his assistance. Mr Walker: The hon. Gentleman makes his usual Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): On a point of sparky intervention. order, Mr Streeter. I have participated in many of the Rafts of leading academics and political commentators debates on this Bill, but it has been drawn to my have recognised for a long time that there are far too attention that the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, many Ministers in this place. Sir John Major, the former the hon. Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper) Prime Minister, has argued that we could easily do as suggested that I had earlier today requested that there well with a reduction of 25 to 30%. Lord Turnbull, the be fewer hours spent scrutinising this Bill. What I former Cabinet Secretary, told the Select Committee on specifically said was that there should be fewer hours Public Administration earlier this year that the number after 10 pm spent scrutinising this Bill, and we would of Ministers could be cut by 50%. Professor Anthony have been able to achieve that had he and his colleagues King has argued the same, as has Lord Norton of acceded to the Opposition request for an additional day Louth. to debate it. Of course, those academics and political commentators are in good company. Our own Deputy Prime Minister The Temporary Chair: I am grateful to the hon. Lady. argued in January that the number of Ministers should That is not a point of order for the Chair, but I am sure be reduced. that she is pleased to have put the record straight. Fiona Mactaggart: Has the hon. Gentleman spoken New Clause 7 more recently to the Deputy Prime Minister, because it is my impression that he is not likely to say today the things he said in January? VARIATION IN LIMIT OF NUMBER OF HOLDERS OF MINISTERIAL OFFICES Mr Walker: The Deputy Prime Minister is a man of ‘(1) The House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 is great integrity. I recognise that this is his Bill, and once amended as follows. he has heard the force of my argument he will rush here (2) For section 2(1) substitute— and demand a rethink from his Front Benchers. 109 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 110 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Speaking at the Institute for Government in January, The savings to the ministerial payroll are about £500,000, the Deputy Prime Minister called for the House of not an insignificant sum. Lord Turnbull said to the Commons to be reduced to 500 and for the number of Public Administration Committee that the average cost Ministers across both Houses to be cut to 73. The of maintaining a Minister, with private offices, cars and Government’s demands are much more moderate. They private secretaries, is £500,000 per Minister. By reducing are talking about reducing the size of the House to 600, the ministerial payroll by eight in 2015, we will save the but if we reduce it to 600, following the Deputy Prime taxpayer a further £4 million. While we are at it, we Minister’s logic, we should reduce the number of Ministers might like to consider the 10 unpaid Ministers we have by 15. That would tally with his mathematics, but, as I across the two Houses, because if we got rid of them we said, my new clause is modest. I am not calling for a could save another £5 million. However, that is an reduction in the number of Ministers by 15. I know that argument for another time and another place. many Members are demanding that I do that, but I Mr Streeter, you know better than anyone that we live shall not hear it. I am simply demanding a reduction in in an age of austerity. Things are changing. We are the number of Ministers by eight. dismissing senior permanent secretaries from across the Many people here have argued privately in the corridors civil service. We are removing chief executives of councils that there is no link between the size of the House of and their directors. We are attacking senior and middle Commons and the number of Ministers. That is total management across the country, yet there is one group nonsense. We know that as far back as the Bill of Rights of senior management that is completely immune to of 1689 this House expressed concerns about the Crown these cuts and that is the ministerial corps. Yes, we are having a presence here in the form of Ministers. The all in it together, but not quite if one is a Minister. I do 1701 Act of Settlement tried extremely hard to remove not think that any good argument could be presented Ministers from this place, because the politicians of from the Front Bench for not reducing the ministerial that time wondered how one could serve the Crown as head count. well as one’s constituents. Unfortunately, that never saw I am an enormous fan of the coalition and the Prime the light of day because the Executive got their way in Minister, and I think that the coalition is what the 1706. As recently as 1926, if someone became a Minister country needs at this time. Both the Prime Minister and of the Crown, he was required, in between general the Deputy Prime Minister have talked about new politics, election periods, to resign his seat so that his constituents a new way of doing things and a new optimism. New could decide whether their Member of Parliament could clause 7 is the litmus test for new politics, because I do serve two masters—the interests of the constituents and not understand how we can have new politics and the interests of the Crown. oppose reducing the Government’s patronage at the That is where I am coming from. I am arguing for a same time. I hope that Front Benchers can respond to modest reduction in the number of Ministers. We have that point. had enormous ministerial inflation since 1983. Margaret To colleagues who are, perhaps, being leaned on by Thatcher—we all remember her, that great lady—had the Whips, I say that this is our chance to take ownership 81 Ministers to run this country in 1983. We now of new politics, which cannot be driven by Front Benchers require 95. Is the world so much more complex? I say to and the Executive because the Executive are all about those who argue that it is that since 1983 we have taking and retaining power and extending the tentacles privatised a large number of previously Government-owned of patronage even further. We as Back Benchers will industries and we have allowed Scotland, Wales and take ownership of new politics tonight; we will do the Northern Ireland to have their own devolved Assemblies. heavy lifting for the Executive. By going into the Lobby The number of Ministers has still risen inexorably. and supporting new clause 7, we will be able to look our I do not want to try your patience, Mr Streeter, by constituents in the eye when we go for reselection after straying off new clause 7 and talking about inflation in the boundary review or the general election and say, “I the number of Parliamentary Private Secretaries, but was different.” When they challenge us with that worn we are now seeing 50 PPSs adding to an already burgeoning cliché, “You’re just the same as the rest of them. You’re payroll. Although these people are not even paid, they only in it for yourself,” we can say, “You are wrong. I are called the payroll vote. As far back as the 1960s, one was one of those Members of Parliament in 2010 who could be a PPS and vote against the Government without voted to reduce the number of Ministers.” danger of losing that role, but that is not the case today. The civil service code of conduct says that a PPS is I have spoken for too long. In conclusion, new clause 7 required always to support their Government. is the very essence of new politics. The House and my colleagues have the chance to do the right thing tonight Mr Bernard Jenkin (Harwich and North Essex) (Con): and I hope that they take that chance, because they will I am mystified as to what the role of a PPS has to do be respected for it if they do. with the civil service code. Mr Walker: My hon. Friend is absolutely right to 8.30 pm correct me. It is the ministerial code, which is similar to Sir Peter Tapsell (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): I the civil service code. wish to speak in support of new clause 7, which was so Those on the Front Bench might well argue that they ably introduced by my hon. Friend the Member for have made progress in reducing the cost of the ministerial Broxbourne (Mr Walker), and to comment on the related payroll. They will argue—it is a bit of a red herring—that issues of the number of MPs and the number of Ministers on taking the seals of office, Ministers took a 5% pay with which it deals. Paragraph 24 of the coalition cut. In reality, they did not take a pay cut, because they programme for government, the contents of which we went from being in opposition to being in government are, in part, debating today, starts with the words: and took a 25 to 50% pay rise. It just was not as large a “The Government believes that our political system is broken. pay rise as it could have been. We urgently need fundamental political reform”. 111 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 112 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Sir Peter Tapsell] and easily sackable bag carriers that has ballooned. At the election, we in the Conservative party were pledged I totally dissociate myself from that shameful statement. to make Government more answerable to Parliament. If it were true, all the political leaders of recent years How is that to be achieved by maintaining the number ought to resign their seats because they would be responsible. of Ministers and increasing the number of PPSs, yet at Our “political system is broken” it says. That was the the same time reducing the number of MPs? At this slogan of Oswald Mosley and the British fascists when I rate, genuine Government Back Benchers will become a was a boy. Mosley spent the war in prison and the threatened species. There will be no more Pitts attacking political system he despised and described as broken Walpole, no more Disraelis attacking Peel and no young triumphed at home and abroad. Our political system is Macmillans attacking Chamberlain, yet that is part of not broken. We have had some nincompoop Front the lifeblood of our parliamentary story. Benchers, some expense-fiddling Back Benchers and On what grounds is it claimed, historically, statistically even some who managed to qualify under both categories, or in terms of accommodation, that we have too many but our political system is basically sound and, in MPs? Germany, Australia and the United States, with parliamentary terms, not very different from what it their federal structures, have far more elected representatives, was in 1945, 1918 and 1815. at various levels of their constitution, than we have. It is the duty of an incoming Government in a Over the past two centuries, our population has increased democratic country to work within the rules and from about 16 million in 1800 to about 62 million today. conventions of its political system, not to change those We now have 650 MPs. The proposal is to reduce the rules and conventions to fit their temporary party political number to 600. In 1801, shortly before Trafalgar, there convenience—that is a privilege usually reserved for were 658 MPs. In 1885, in the heyday of Liberalism, banana republics. That is why I am opposed to all the there were 670 MPs. In the 1918 general election, 707 MPs so-called constitutional changes proposed in the coalition were elected to the House, before the southern Irish programme. The Deputy Prime Minister said yesterday— were hived off in 1922—the year in which the Back appropriately on “Desert Island Discs”—that when he Benchers of the Tory party reasserted themselves and met the leader of the Conservative party after the got rid of Lloyd George. election, they agreed together that in the general election Universal suffrage was not fully achieved until 1929, both their parties had lost. We should try to reverse that but in the two previous centuries the voteless masses decision of the electorate not by changing the rules of were never out of the minds of wise MPs and Ministers. the game but by raising the standard of government. In 1801, the number of people, as distinct from voters, We do not have too many MPs: we have too many in each constituency averaged 24,000—although it varied Ministers and too many placemen, to use Sir Robert a good deal from constituency to constituency. Today, Walpole’s phrase to describe the proliferation of what the number is 95,000 and the majority are electors. If we Disraeli later described as the Tadpoles and Tapers of reduce the number of MPs to 600, as is proposed, that politics, who are now being proliferated to an astonishing average population figure will become 103,000, quadrupled degree. from the 25,000 of 1800 when they had more MPs than In 1900, when we were the richest and most powerful we have today. Also, the demands of a constituency on nation in the world, there were nine Parliamentary its Member of Parliament have enormously increased Private Secretaries. By 2000, the number had gone up to in recent years. In my first Parliament, I shared one 47 and it is rising daily. secretary with two other young and active MPs; now I have three secretaries working for me alone. Mr MacNeil: The hon. Gentleman said that in 1900 Coalition Ministers, in their programme document, the UK was the richest nation in the world. Today, in claim to hold our political system in contempt, but the The Scotsman, I read that among the top 15 most strange fact is that the part of the system that undoubtedly prosperous nations, the UK finds itself in the unlucky works best is that in which the Government are least 13th place, behind Norway at No. 1 and noticeably involved. The best aspect of modern politics is the close behind Ireland and Iceland, respectively at 11th and personal relationship between MPs and their constituents. 12th. That is just a point of information. Its closeness and extent is unique. Even in Switzerland, Sir Peter Tapsell: It is very interesting—even if the cantonal MP is not seen as being so close and incomprehensible to me. I make the point in passing available as most MPs of all parties are seen to be by that Scotland has gained even more than Britain from their constituents in Britain. the combination of our two countries since the Act of While the media and many members of the public Union. often express contempt for our leading political figures—but not, of course, for the Leader of the House—at grass-roots Mr MacNeil: Does the hon. Gentleman feel that the level, whatever the politics of their MP, people are more Irish Republic would be better off as part of the UK, or likely to say, “My own MP does a good job in the has the Irish Republic prospered and done far better by constituency, and when I am in trouble, I know that he leaving the UK? will do his best to help me.” That is the strongest of all the present bulwarks of our democratic parliamentary Sir Peter Tapsell: Curiously enough, I shall come to system. the question of the Irish Republic a little later in my At a time of economic failure, disgruntled police, remarks, if the hon. Gentleman will bear with me. fearful public servants, a neglected army and hostile Although by 2000 the total number of MPs involved trade unions, which in many countries would be regarded in Government had already gone up from 42 in 1900 to as a dangerous quintet, why tamper with that bulwark? 129, the number of Cabinet Ministers has not greatly When there are so many more pressing issues to be increased. It is the number of loyal, but little known solved, why set many MPs, even of the same party—or 113 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 114 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill particularly of the same party—at the political throats constitutional change that the Bill seeks to bring about, of their neighbours, as rumours of boundary changes not prefigured properly in any party’s manifesto, being begin to abound? My local press has already speculatively rammed through the House of Commons without proper redrawn the six Lincolnshire constituencies and abolished consideration. one of them, to general dismay and the discouragement That speaks to us about the consequences of not of activists of all parties. Why muddy the political having a written constitution. There are some merits in waters with the inevitable charges of gerrymandering, not having a written constitution. It can create some which are certain to be thrown about? flexibility and some opportunities to be imaginative and Very wisely, in the United States, changes to the to solve problems as they arise, but it has risks, and actual constitution occur only very rarely, after years of today we are in the middle of one of the biggest risks. discussion, and they require a two-thirds majority of Without a written constitution, people can take liberties both Houses of Congress and the approval of the with the constitution. That is happening right now. Supreme Court. In this debate on new clause 7, I have Liberties are being taken, and those taking the liberties spoken about only two aspects of the so-called are those in government, who see the reward of elections— constitutional reforms, but in my view, the wide range the highest thing that they can achieve—as Government of constitutional and electoral changes proposed by the office, not representing the masses. coalition Government, taken as a whole, and introduced Those of us who think that representing the people of so early in the life of a Parliament full of new Members, Britain is our highest achievement should say that we constitute an attempt at a peaceful, political coup d’état, will support the new clause and that we will not accept a with the sole object of securing the position of Ministers. situation in which a third of those on the Government They have no mandate for the Bill from the country. I Benches are on the payroll. That is not acceptable. It is therefore urge this Committee to accept new clause 7, not satisfactory and it creates huge cynicism among the and urge the House in due course to reject the whole electorate of Britain. I cannot blame them for thinking Bill on Third Reading. that politicians are rogues. Most of us in this place know that most are not, but when the system means 8.45 pm that people cannot say what hon. Members and I know Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): I had not intended they think because they are on the Government Benches to speak in the debate, although I support the proposal and they have to just suck it up, that makes people think in the new clause. I am quite certain that our most that politics has no authenticity and that it is dishonest. important role in this place is that of representing our That is damaging to democracy. constituents, and I agree with the hon. Member for Chris Bryant: I congratulate my hon. Friend on her Louth and Horncastle (Sir Peter Tapsell) that that splendid speech. I had not realised that she was going to relationship between the Member and our electors is end so swiftly. the most special thing about my job. That is what most Members of Parliament think. We have had excellent contributions. Thehon. Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) said that he lacked ambition. The problem is that that relationship is not sufficiently That is clear, I suppose. That has been underlined with rewarded by the structures of this place, and in some three lines from the Whips, but I praise the motion that ways the new clause goes to that issue. It challenges a he tabled. It puts into a new clause the question that I reward system which says that success is achieved only asked the Deputy Prime Minister some few months by being a Minister. I have history here, because I am ago: if the Government plan to cut the number of seats one of the very few people who, when they were a in the House of Commons and do not plan to cut the Minister, asked the Prime Minister to stop making me a number of Ministers, surely that will increase the influence Minister because I had had enough. I wanted to jump of the Government—the Executive—over Parliament. I off that gravy train, for a number of reasons. One of wholeheartedly support the argument that the hon. them was that I believed that my responsibilities as a Member for Broxbourne made this evening. Minister interfered with the relationship that I had with the people of Slough whom I have the privilege to Mr MacNeil: May I charitably suggest that although represent. the hon. Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) might I have been complaining about late-night debates on lack personal ambition, he certainly does not lack ambition the Bill and I did not plan to intervene until the hon. for the House and its wider membership, which will Member for Louth and Horncastle spoke. We need to have been noted on both sides of the House? listen carefully to what he said, because his speech was not just about the new clause. It was not just about the Chris Bryant: Of course; I did not mean to be ungenerous number of Ministers. It was an analysis which showed to the hon. Member for Broxbourne, as I think he well that the Bill is looking down the wrong end of the knows. I was praising his ambition, which need not be telescope. The Bill protects the interests of those in for the greasy pole—it might be for other things in life. government—in power—at the expense of those who The right hon. Member for Louth and Horncastle put us there. It is not sufficiently focused on the electorate (Sir Peter Tapsell)— of Britain, on the masses whom we have the privilege to represent, and it is too focused on those who have Sir Peter Tapsell: I am not right honourable. scooped up the power in what he calls a coup d’état. Chris Bryant: Well, the hon. Gentleman should be. In a way, the hon. Gentleman is entirely right. I do He carries himself as if he were right honourable—if not quibble with the fact that the result of the election not most reverend as well. required a coalition to be created. I am also of the view that the coalition had to be created between the largest Daniel Kawczynski (Shrewsbury and Atcham) (Con): party and a partner. But I quibble with the kind of He was magisterial. 115 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 116 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Chris Bryant: Yes, he delivered his remarks with a Many in previous generations exercised their ministerial magisterial largesse—[Interruption.] No, I was not going functions solely on the basis of financial corruption. to say laissez faire. Ministers accumulated enormous fortunes by virtue of The hon. Member for Louth and Horncastle made being Ministers. It is right and proper that we do not some extremely good points, and I hope that many have that system today, and if anybody in the British Members will reject the Bill on Third Reading for political system does accumulate, by virtue of their precisely the reasons he advanced. One of the arguments political office, an enormous fortune, there is something I have tried to make throughout is that I fully understand going wrong—IPSA must have allocated everything why many hon. Members feel that, following the expenses that we have all claimed to just one individual Member. saga in particular, we need to be very humble about the There was substantial change in 1831 through the authority of the House and individual Members. However, Select Committee on the Reduction of Salaries. It suggested we should not throw the baby out with the bath water. a completely different structure, which ended up with We should be proud of our representative democracy William Pitt the Younger, when he was First Lord of and the system we have. It does not work perfectly. the Treasury, earning just £5,000 by virtue of that post, There are things that have to be improved. As in the although he had other posts that earned him some church, there will always be things that are semper £4,300. Today, that would be a considerable amount of reformanda. However, we should not in the process money for ministerial office, but at the time MPs were suddenly start to say that the whole of the political not paid at all. system is corrupt, wrong and rotten, and that therefore Today’s system relies on two pieces of legislation we have to start all over again. from 1975, the Ministerial and other Salaries Act, and I differ from the hon. Gentleman on one point. He the House of Commons Disqualification Act, to which said that the system is not much different from that in the new clause in the name of the hon. Member for 1945, 1918 and 1850— Broxbourne refers. Both specify that the number of Ministers shall be 95. The Ministerial and other Salaries Sir Peter Tapsell: 1815. Act also lays out how many Cabinet Ministers, Ministers Chris Bryant: 1815? of State, Whips and so on there can be, and it is my simple contention that if one wants to limit the number Sir Peter Tapsell: Waterloo. of Members and ensure that the proper legislative scrutiny function of this House is performed, one has to cut the Chris Bryant: Well, my point remains. Neither in number of Ministers. 1815 nor in 1850 were miners able to vote, because they did not qualify under the franchise. In 1885, they were Mr David Hamilton (Midlothian) (Lab): When the allowed to, but women were not. One can make significant hon. Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) spoke to his changes to the system, although I think the hon. Gentleman new clause, he made the very good point that, at a time holds a different view from me about reform of the when we are talking about reducing not the number of House of Lords. That is where I agree more with the councillors throughout the UK, but the administrative Government Front-Bench team. I do not know whether costs, the chief executives, the directors and so on, it is the hon. Gentleman had any particular tadpoles or incumbent on us to talk about changing the Executive nincompoops in mind—I can see some images flitting and reducing the Executive’s power. across his mind now, which suggests he had some specific people in mind. Chris Bryant: That is right. If we really are to have The hon. Member for Broxbourne referred directly to new politics—that rather amorphous term to which the the argument that the Deputy Prime Minister made in coalition agreement alludes—it must accept something January in favour of cutting the House of Commons to that we the Opposition were too reluctant to accept 500 Members and the number of Ministers to 73, but of when we sat on the Government Benches: that Parliament, course that is not at all the proposal before us. The right when it is free to do its job, does its job better than when hon. Gentleman has adopted neither measure. It might it is constrained. be that having picked one tune on “Desert Island Discs” The constraints are multiplying. The number of on Sunday, he changes his tune entirely when it is parliamentary secretaries is not quite growing daily, as replayed on Thursday. That is clearly the situation we the hon. Member for Louth and Horncastle suggested. have at the moment. He made it sound as if they were breeding and reproducing. Our system has changed over the generations because The number is not growing daily. However, it is certainly it has not been considered right and proper that Ministers true— thought of their salary or pension as just a tiny part of their remuneration for being in hock to the Crown and Sir Peter Tapsell: I was talking about PPSs. that all the other monopolies and benefits accruing by virtue of how they operated their ministerial office Chris Bryant: Ah! Parliamentary Private Secretaries. brought in far more money. It was Edmund Burke who, Indeed, I was going to come to the point about PPSs, in 1782, first introduced changes that meant that Ministers because the hon. Member for Broxbourne was absolutely of the Crown had to rely on the properly arrived at right to say that they are included in the ministerial financial provisions, rather than on the previous system code of conduct. It is a bit odd that a list of PPSs is still which was completely and utterly corrupt. As Macaulay not available to the public. If one goes to the Cabinet said of the 18th century: Office website, one finds that the most recent list refers “From the noblemen who held the white staff and the great to July 2009. There is a list on conservativehome.com, seal, down to the humblest tidewaiter and gauger, what would which is a website that Government Members might now be called gross corruption was practiced without disguise consult sometimes, detailing 22 Parliamentary Private and without reproach.” Secretaries, but as I understand it there are considerably 117 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 118 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill more than that. The Government should be straight cut the number of Back Benchers, because it does not with the House and tell us precisely how many people cut the number of Ministers. My argument is that if we are really on the payroll. By payroll, I do not mean that are going to cut one group, we should cut the other. PPSs are in receipt of moneys. That is entirely in line with the new clause. The ministerial code of conduct, which incidentally Mr Mark Field: Everybody accepts that collective every PPS should have been provided with and signed, responsibility is an important function, particularly in although I suspect that most have not, makes it absolutely this media-savvy world in which we live, where it is clear: important to ensure that any Government do not look “Parliamentary Private Secretaries are expected to support the like a shambles. Does the hon. Gentleman accept, however, Government in important Divisions in the House. No Parliamentary Private Secretary who votes against the Government can retain that there is a distinction between collective responsibility his or her position.” for much of the legislation that goes through this House and this sort of Bill—a constitutional Bill that should I say again that this House does its job as a reviewing, not be subject to quite the same shackles to which he revising and legislative body when it is freest from the has referred? shackles of patronage, but with the numbers of Ministers and PPSs having grown, there is already an unnecessary Chris Bryant: I agree. That is why I have been trying constraint on the real power of this House to do its job. to argue that Members such as the hon. Gentleman We have talked about what happens on the Government who have taken a long-standing interest in constitutional Benches, but what also happens is that the Opposition issues should feel free not necessarily to vote with their feel that they have to match the ministerial team—and Front Benchers. I know that he has already exercised of course, the PPS team—man for man and woman for that right on several occasions. woman, so we end up not with 95 Ministers but 190. [Interruption.] The hon. Member for Shrewsbury and Daniel Kawczynski: The hon. Gentleman says that Atcham (Daniel Kawczynski) is saying from a sedentary having a large group of PPSs will make it more difficult position that Labour did the same—yes, and I have to hold the Government to account, but some might already said that we were too slow to accept these argue that when Mr Blair was Prime Minister it was the points. However, there is a big difference. He is supporting rebellion among PPSs threatening to resign that finally a Bill to remove 50 Members of Parliament while forced him to go. keeping the number of the Ministers the same, which means that Ministers will form a larger percentage of Chris Bryant: I know too much about that episode to the House. want to divulge exactly what went on. The hon. Gentleman is a PPS now, is he not? When one includes Ministers and PPSs on the Government side and their shadows on the Opposition Daniel Kawczynski: Yes. side, one ends up with a large number of people who are not entirely free to speak their mind because they are Chris Bryant: Right, but he is not yet listed on any bound by collective responsibility. There are many things publicly available list of PPSs. [Interruption.] Well, I to be said in favour of collective responsibility: nobody am sure that the country is grateful and that people will wants to be run by a shower who are completely and welcome the hon. Gentleman with acclaim and instantly utterly unable to organise themselves and exercise some start putting up red and white bunting in honour of his discipline. However, we also need a significant number historical associations with Poland. of people on the Back Benches who are able to deliver My point is that the payroll vote has increased. It has their verdict on legislation and to vote at all times increased because of the dramatic increase in the number entirely with their conscience. of PPSs, which partly happened under our rule but I think is happening again at the moment. The increased 9pm payroll vote is not just because of that, though. It is also Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con): It seems because of unpaid Ministers. I was an unpaid Minister to me that the hon. Gentleman is trying to have it both for a while and sympathise with the Deputy Leader of ways. He is arguing that people who are not members of the House, who is one now. We now also have a particularly the Government are a bulwark against an oppressive interesting concept, which is a Liberal Democrat Whip Executive, and I accept that. At the same time, he who is not even an unpaid Minister but an organiser of admits that his own Government—the previous the Liberal Democrats, but who is sort of on the payroll Administration—got it wrong, and I agree. However, as part of the ministerial team. Clearly, because their this is not necessarily just a numerical issue. We should job has the word “Whip” in it, they are expected to vote cast our minds back to the Iraq war debates, when a with the Government at all times. huge Back-Bench cohort failed to hold the Executive to In addition, a vast extent of patronage is still available account on one of the most important issues of foreign to Prime Ministers. They can make Members chair an policy in our country’s history since the war. ad hoc committee or ask them to be a delegate to some conference here or there. The whole business of patronage Chris Bryant: I think I agree with the hon. Gentleman. can be profoundly dangerous to how we do our business. In the previous Government we were not always as alive I have already referred to how that applies to Opposition as we might have been to the fact that this House does parties. its job best when it is most free to be able to do so. I will be warm towards the Government briefly and However, the difference that he has to face is that unless say that they have made some moves to remove one he intends to agree with the hon. Member for Louth element of that patronage, which we had suggested and Horncastle, he is supporting a Bill that wants to cut before and for which I remember fighting when Robin the number of MPs from 650 to 600. That will, in effect, Cook was Leader of the House. They have done that 119 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 120 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Chris Bryant] of the legislature. It merely calls for a reduction in the size of Government in line with the planned cuts to the through the election of Select Committee Chairs. That number of Members of Parliament. In effect, it will do has been entirely beneficial and I support it fully. I can no more than prevent trends from getting worse. see at least one Committee Chair in his place, and he is a If the Government are truly committed to splendid chap. He might not have become Chair of that decentralisation, they can demonstrate that today by Committee if it had been a matter of patronage, or if he backing the new clause. I strongly urge them to do that. had become Chair by virtue of patronage he might not have felt so free to use his voice in these debates over the Mark Durkan: I support the new clause, to which my past few days. He has pointed in the direction of the name, along with those of so many others from different new politics, but we can still go much further. parties, is attached in the unpublished list. Of course we must consider the financial costs of When considering the new clause, the Committee ministerial office that can be saved, although I do not should bear in mind not only the experiences of the want to go too far down the populist route attached to parties that form the Government and occupy the that. Sometimes it is valuable to have Ministers who are Government Benches, but those of the rest of us who properly supported and can do their job well. When I come to the Chamber and the Committees of the House was in the Foreign Office it had only three Ministers in and are confronted with the realities of the Government the House of Commons, which made it very difficult for Whip system and Parliamentary Private Secretaries—part foreign delegations to be met by a Minister from the of the peculiar ecosystem here—who can represent Foreign Office. I do not know whether that did the their constituents but are at times bound not to United Kingdom any favours. I do not wish to adopt represent their consciences. The idea that someone can every populist measure that is thrown in front of us, or represent their constituents but never their conscience is to kick it in the net, but I do want to ensure that the a peculiar political creation, from which the House House has sufficient Members with Back-Bench should try to get away. It brings politics into some independence to be able to hold the Executive to account. disrepute if we appear effectively to neuter ourselves. Many of those who have made the most significant The straits into which PPSs are cast are unnecessary; contributions to the House over the centuries have not they should be allowed more freedom than they generally only never sought ministerial office but actively declined exercise or are encouraged or permitted to exercise. it, from Andrew Marvell, who turned down office on New clause 7 led me to that issue by way of making a five or six occasions, to Plimsoll, Bradlaugh and a series general observation about the dominance of the Executive of others. They made dramatic changes to the lives of in the House. In recent years there have been attempts many ordinary people in this country, and they did not to reduce the Executive’s absolute control of the agenda need ministerial office to do it. They were able to do it and the timetable, and changes have been made from from the Back Benches. appointing Chairs of Select Committees to electing them. That is all to the good, but new clause 7 is the Zac Goldsmith (Richmond Park) (Con): I wish to reality check. As the hon. Member for Broxbourne speak very briefly in favour of the new clause. There is a (Mr Walker) said, it is the genuine test of whether the long history in this House of Members challenging the new politics means anything. ever increasing power of the Executive. We heard recently I have no argument with reducing the number of from the Leader of the House, who is not currently in Members of Parliament. I did not vote for 650 the other his place: night; I am happy if there is a reduction. However, “The terms of the trade between Government and Parliament alongside that, we need a reduction in the size and have shifted too far in the executive’s favour. That is not good for voting dominance of the Executive in the Chamber. Parliament; but neither does it lead to better government.” Of course the answer to the problem of the over-supply The Prime Minister also highlighted those concerns of Ministers in this House is not to over-supply them in in February, saying: another place. In the previous Parliament not only “We’d want to reduce the power of the executive and increase many Ministers, but Cabinet Ministers—Secretaries of the power of Parliament even if politics hadn’t fallen into disrepute.” State—sat in another place. I joined others in criticising We also heard from the Deputy Prime Minister before that lack of accountability. For me, the answer was not the election, which he described as to bring Ministers from the Lords into this House—the last thing I wanted was to bring Peter Mandelson back “an opportunity to turn the page on decades of relentless centralisation within government.” anywhere, not least to the Dispatch Box, given our experiences of the man. On that famous occasion in He argued for a dispersal of power away from the centre Hartlepool, he said that he was not a quitter but a and a cut in the number of Ministers and Government fighter. I always believed that his theme tune should Whips, saying: have been the Simon and Garfunkel song “The Boxer”—not “The rules of the game at Westminster are stacked in favour of for the lyrics of the verses but for the chorus, which is the ruling party; parliament is rendered largely impotent to hold simply “Lie la lie” throughout. ministers to account.” We have heard over the past few days and weeks very Chris Bryant: Certainly not “I am just a poor boy”! strong arguments for equalising the size of constituencies and reducing the number of MPs, but to do that without Mark Durkan: I said, not for any of the words of the also reducing the number of Ministers would profoundly verses, but for the chorus. That alone would make a undermine the authority of Parliament. The proposal is good theme tune for Peter Mandelson. not radical, or even a solution to the problem that so The answer was not to bring Lords Ministers into many hon. Members have identified. It would neither this place; the question was: why were there so many minimise the power of the Executive nor increase that Cabinet Ministers in the Lords? The hon. Gentleman 121 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 122 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill referred to the fact that there are limits in statute on the party leader should speak in grand terms about the number of Cabinet Ministers, but we saw how the need to strengthen the accountability of Government previous Government got round that. They went to the and to strengthen the House of Commons. Can the Bill limit for Cabinet Ministers and then had a series of do that? It cannot, unless we reduce the number of ministerial high chairs put around the Cabinet table, so Ministers pro rata to the reduction in the number of that lots of other Ministers had rights of attendance at MPs. I should point out that my remarks are not some Cabinet, simply to ensure that more Members of the manic attack on the power of Government. There are House of Commons were in the Cabinet room than plenty of ways in which Governments can appoint would have been there otherwise. That is the sort of people to jobs in order to get things done. Indeed, I lazy, sloppy, self-serving thinking that seizes parties in should say to the hon. Member for Foyle (Mark Durkan), government. They use and abuse, and bend and flex who spoke just before me, that it is possible to appoint rules and limits in ways that suit themselves, which does more Members from the other place. It is also possible nothing to enhance the reputation of politics in general to appoint more special advisers—and let us face it—we or this House in particular. have a rash of special advisers in Government these days compared with what we used to have. There are all 9.15 pm kinds of ways both of ensuring that there are ambassadors for the Government in office and people to implement We have a choice this evening with new clause 7. If the Government’s policy and political direction, and of the Government are being straight and sincere, they ensuring that the Government remain accountable to should accept the spirit of the new clause. I know that the House. we will need other provisions to ensure that one way Ministers do not need to be Members of the House in round this is not suddenly to increase the number of order to be accountable to it. It is worth reflecting on Ministers in another place or whatever—but the full the fact that as we have grown the number of Ministers spirit of new clause 7 should be embraced. The Government in this place, we have left Whips and even Parliamentary tell us a lot about the big society. They are against big Private Secretaries to speak for the Government in the government out there, but they are all for big Government other place, because Governments are so interested in in here. New clause 7 really is the test for the Government. filling ministerial offices with Members of Parliament, In particular, it is the test of whether they will allow to secure their influence in this place. However, if there their own Back Benchers to vote according to their were more Ministers in the other place there is no conscience on how they want this House truly to operate reason why they should not be invited to the Bar of the under the banner of the new politics. House to answer questions. That is a reform that is long overdue. There are plenty of alternatives. Mr Jenkin: I rise briefly to congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) on the I should like to reflect on the term “the new politics” spirited and coherent way in which he moved his new that has crept into political parlance. I am not quite as clause. I should also like to congratulate my hon. Friend old and wise as my noble Friend Lord Heseltine, who the Member for Richmond Park (Zac Goldsmith), who sat for many years in this place, and who I saw opining, also made a coherent and spirited defence of the new at the very formation of the coalition, that there was no clause. such thing as the new politics; there was only the old politics, and politics would always be the same. That is It is not my intention to speak for very long. In fact, it of course true, but if the new politics is going to mean had not been my intention to speak at all in this debate, an increase in the domination of the Executive in the partly because I am losing my voice, so this speech House of Commons, that would seem to be the antithesis might not continue for long. In fact, it might be cut of what those who coined the phrase were seeking to down in its prime. However, I have been watching the convey. Deputy Leader of the House nodding at some interesting In fact, politics is changing. When I was first elected moments during this debate, when he seemed to be in 1992 there was still quite a strong element of deference endorsing the past statements of his party’s leader. I am in the House of Commons towards authority and the waiting with bated breath to see how he melds the Whips. Members who were first elected in the 1950s previous position of his party’s leader with the present would have served in one or both of the world wars, and position of the Government. virtually every Member of Parliament at that time had While he is preparing his remarks, I hope that he will done national service of one sort or another. That reflect on the fact that the very office of Deputy Leader Edwardian deference has gone from today’s politics, of the House is, in itself, rather a modern invention. I however, and Governments will have to accept that the think that it was invented during the previous Labour House of Commons is becoming more assertive. An Government. I do not know whether it ever existed example can be seen in the whole expenses debacle. I before—I look to my hon. Friend the Father of the refuse to call it a scandal, because what the newspapers House—because it had never been deemed necessary uncovered was much less a scandal in respect of individuals for there to be a deputy to the leader—[Interruption.] and much more a scandal in terms of the system that The hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) was the had developed, in which the press itself had connived. embodiment of the invention. The post reflected the desire The outcome of the expenses debacle sent a message to of the Executive to create more jobs for the boys—if I everyone that it was time for Parliament to reassert its may put it that way—than existed before. role, and it seemed that the party leaders took that There is a simple test that we need to apply to this message up. What really came through in that episode Bill, and to new clause 7 in particular, which is: does it was how useless Parliament had become. strengthen the House of Commons? It was axiomatic What is Parliament’s job? It is to ensure that the laws before the election, and in the aftermath of the expenses of this country are fit for purpose, to stand up for the scandal, as the hon. Gentleman pointed out, that every liberty of the citizen and to control the supply of 123 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 124 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Jenkin] clause 7. As my hon. Friend the Member for Broxbourne said, it represents a very modest maintenance of the money to the Government. Looking at those three tests, status quo. That is what this is about—checking an we can see that the House has performed miserably over advance or a further incursion of the Executive into the the past decade. More and more legislation, particularly House of Commons. It is a holding position, while my secondary legislation, is passed that is unfit for purpose Committee completes its work. and not scrutinised properly. The House has completely failed to control the massive growth in public expenditure Mr Heath: I think this has been an interesting and that has led to the deficit crisis that we now face, and as illuminating debate. I am grateful to the hon. Member for protecting the liberties of the individual, I am afraid for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) for tabling his new clause I think that most of our constituents would feel that the and for the way in which he spoke to it. I am also House has been found wanting. particularly grateful to the hon. Member for Harwich If we are to improve the way in which we do our job, and North Essex (Mr Jenkin), the Chairman of the will we be helped if we allow the Government, of Public Administration Select Committee, not only for whichever party, to have patronage over and to give contributing to this evening’s debate but for his Committee’s hope to a wider and wider group of Members, and to work—and that of its predecessor, which, as he rightly instil into the principle of politics in this House that the said, published the first report. be-all and end-all is ministerial office? Would that be We have heard from a number of Members of all conducive to a more accountable system? We do not parties, including from the Father of the House. The have the separation of powers in our system, but we hon. Member for Louth and Horncastle (Sir Peter nevertheless rely on a degree of separation between the Tapsell) often gets criticised—or, perhaps, slightly cheesed— Executive and the legislature. I submit that the new for his lapidary style, but I know from my experience clause is exactly the signal about our determination to over many years that he is well worth listening to on hold the Executive to account that the House needs to many issues. Although I do not agree with everything send not only to the Government of the day but to the he says—I do not think he would expect me to—I people at large. We must send this signal that we take always find listening to him a useful exercise. our jobs seriously and that we are not going to be The hon. Member for Na h-Eileanan an Iar seduced, cajoled or flattered into accepting the Executive (Mr MacNeil), who is not in his place at the moment, agenda more and more. intervened earlier and sought to persuade the Committee I end with this point. My hon. Friend the Member for that the Republic of Ireland is the epitome of prosperity, Broxbourne, who moved his new clause so ably, is a which I am not sure is an argument that holds great member of the Public Administration Committee, which water. The hon. Member for Slough (Fiona Mactaggart), produced the report “Too Many Ministers?” in the last who is also not in her place, was moved to tell us why Parliament. I am afraid that I have to inform the during the last Parliament she asked to be a Minister no Government that we have already launched a new inquiry, longer. asking “What do Ministers do?”. That might seem a The hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) said cheeky question, but at this time when there are so repeatedly that the Government of whom he was a part many Ministers, we know from the revelations in various were too slow to take on these issues. Too right they biographies that Parliamentary Under-Secretaries have were! They never took on these issues one single bit; jobs and activities created for them to keep them busy. there was never the slightest attempt to reduce the size When it comes to the Foreign Office, I have no doubt of government or to relax the grip of the Executive on that the hon. Member for Rhondda is right to say that Parliament. It is only since the present Government we need ambassadors for Britain, representing both have been elected that we have been able to deal with Parliament and Government, but I simply do not believe some of these issues. He also said, in passing, that he that to be true of all Departments. Do we need more was suspicious that Parliamentary Private Secretaries Ministers to represent the Government in this House? It were not acquainted with the ministerial code. He is was suggested to our Committee that Whips speak for quite wrong on that; of course they are—they are given the Government in the other place, so why cannot the ministerial code to sign on taking up their positions. Whips speak on behalf of the Government in this That is as it should be. The hon. Gentleman will have to place? Why do they have to remain mute and silent here, look at the websites himself. as if they had no views of their own and no speaking Chris Bryant: The information is not available. purpose in a House of whose being speaking is the very essence? Mr Heath: It is available, and the hon. Gentleman will be able to find it if he cares to look at the Government Mr Christopher Chope (Christchurch) (Con): Is my websites. hon. Friend aware of the irony that his Committee is carrying out this inquiry, but the Government are using that fact as a reason why our hon. Friends should not 9.30 pm vote against the Government position tonight—because Chris Bryant: I am sorry, but no list of parliamentary it is all going to be sorted out in the future by my hon. private secretaries is currently available on a website or Friend and his Committee? Can he put my hon. Friends anywhere else. Unless the hon. Gentleman can provide right, and tell them that they need to be in the Aye the address of a website that features the information, it Lobby for this new clause? is not available.

Mr Jenkin: I can put them right. As Chairman of Mr Heath: If the hon. Gentleman looks at the that Committee, although I do not act as Chairman in departmental websites, he will find that the PPSs are this capacity, I will be in the Aye Lobby myself on new clearly listed. It is hardly a deep, dark secret. 125 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 126 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Mr Lee Scott (Ilford North) (Con):If my hon. Friend the number of Ministers in the House of Lords. I looks at not just individual websites for Members of suggested that I agreed with his view. The hon. Member Parliament but the parliamentary website, he will see for Harwich and North Essex does not agree with it. So that it includes the information that a Member of be it. That is the nature of debate. Parliament is a PPS. That information was added to my name within about four weeks of my appointment. Mr Mark Field: The Deputy Leader of the House has made it clear that he wishes to respond to the contributions Mr Heath: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for made in the debate. I think that one of the most putting the Committee straight on that. important contributions, with which I entirely concur, The hon. Member for Richmond Park (Zac Goldsmith) came from the hon. Member for Slough (Fiona supported the new clause. The hon. Member for Foyle Mactaggart). She considered it highly regrettable that a (Mark Durkan) made the important point that the Bill of such constitutional importance was being rushed oversupply of Ministers was not best addressed by their through so quickly and so early in the Parliament, in a being put in the House of Lords. I entirely agree. The way that gave the public—certainly those who are interested hon. Member for Harwich and North Essex expressed a in these matters—the impression that it was being contrary view, saying that he rather liked having Ministers introduced simply to keep in place the current arrangements in the House of Lords, but I am not sure that I agree introduced by the current coalition. She suggested that with him. it was solely a result of the electoral arithmetic that obtained in May 2010, rather than having been introduced Mr Walker: I do not like the idea of lots of Ministers in the long-term interests of Parliament for decades being in the House of Lords, but the fact is that there and, indeed, centuries ahead. are currently eight unpaid Ministers there. If the hon. Gentleman does not want them to be there, why on earth are the Government putting them there? Mr Heath: That is a Second Reading point, but it is not a point that I agree with or accept in any way. We Mr Heath: I will let the hon. Gentleman into a secret: have already had extensive debate of the timing of the I am not the Prime Minister. It is the Prime Minister Bill; I believe we have given that subject a substantial who makes appointments. I am simply saying that I do amount of debating time. The most important point is not think we would improve the present position by that it is necessary to make rapid progress on the Bill if putting more Ministers in the House of Lords. In the we are to have in good order both the referendum and last Parliament, members of the Cabinet—Secretaries the boundary changes suggested in the Bill. of State in charge of Departments—were in the House of Lords, and we had no way of holding them to Chris Bryant: Will the hon. Gentleman give way? account. That was an affront to this elected House, and I am pleased that we have put it right. Mr Heath: If the intervention is on that point I have Let me explain why I cannot support the new clause, to say that it is not germane to the new clause, but if it is although I have a degree of sympathy with the view of on a different point then of course I give way. the hon. Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker). Mr Jenkin rose— Chris Bryant: Whether or not it is germane is obviously for the Chair, not the hon. Gentleman, to decide, but I Mr Heath: First, however, I will give way to the hon. am grateful that he has given way. Member for Harwich and North Essex. I am sure the hon. Gentleman would not want to mislead the House. He has suggested that Parliamentary Mr Jenkin: Is the hon. Gentleman seriously saying Private Secretaries are listed on each of the websites— that there is something unconstitutional about having a [Interruption.] Government Members, and in particular Secretary of State in the other place? Ministers, groan, but that is perhaps because they want to see the extension of patronage rather than the extent Mr Heath: I said that it was undesirable, and I believe of patronage to be known to the whole of the House. that it is undesirable. I said that in the last Parliament. I The truth of the matter is that I have looked at the called for Secretaries of State in another place to be websites of four Departments and there is absolutely brought before this House for questioning, because I no evidence in any of them of who the departmental think it is wrong for Members of the House of Commons PPSs are. not to have access to those who lead Departments. That remains my position, and I am not going to change it. Mr Heath: Well, perhaps the hon. Gentleman needs Philip Davies: I do not quite follow the hon. Gentleman’s to look a little more carefully. argument. Is he saying that the new clause means that May I now move on to the principal arguments that I any Secretary of State could not be in the House of want to address? I have already said that I have a degree Commons, and would have to be in the House of of sympathy with what the hon. Member for Broxbourne Lords? I see nothing in the new clause that would force (Mr Walker) said about the reductions. a Secretary of State to be in the House of Lords. Mr Heath: I am not suggesting that that would be the Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): Will case. I am picking up on points made during the debate, the hon. Gentleman give way? which I think is part of the job of a Minister responding to a debate. The hon. Member for Foyle expressed the Mr Heath: No, not for the moment because I have hope that a reduction in the number of Ministers in the just said that I want to set out some of the reasons I House of Commons would not result in an increase in have difficulties with the new clause. 127 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 128 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Heath] Mr Heath: Without rehearsing arguments from other parts of the Bill—we must not do that—I can say that One point worried me slightly, and I have to say that the interesting thing is that the proposal to reduce the the hon. Member for Broxbourne and I may have an number of Members and equalise constituencies seeks honest disagreement on it. He appeared to be advocating to make some Members who represent very many fewer a complete separation of powers. constituents than others have the same work load as those of us who represent larger constituencies; we Mr Chope: That is not in the new clause. comprise about a third of the House.

Mr Heath: But it was suggested in the speech moving Mr Walker: The Deputy Leader of the House questioned the new clause. The hon. Member for Broxbourne seemed whether it is wise to put an arithmetical limit on the to give the clear impression that he personally would number of Ministers, but an arithmetical limit of 95 is favour a separation of powers, meaning that there would already in place. Is he suggesting that we remove that not be this country’s current parliamentary democratic and just have a free-for-all in this place? system where we have Ministers drawn from this elected House. Rather, he would prefer Ministers to be drawn Mr Heath: No, I am not. I am suggesting that a from the ranks of those outside the House, which is slightly more complicated relationship is involved than much more akin to a presidential democracy. [Interruption.] perhaps the simple solution suggests; I have already I may be misrepresenting the hon. Gentleman, and if so mentioned one of the factors, which is that this solution I apologise. However, if that is his view—and it is a does not take into account the position of the House of perfectly respectable view—it is not one that I share. Lords and the reform of that House in which we are [Interruption.] I see other Members nodding because it engaged. is their view, and I understand that to be the case. My second point is that this is not simply an issue Several hon. Members rose— about Ministers. It is an issue about patronage and the extent of the patronage of the Prime Minister and Mr Heath: I am not making terribly much progress, Government of the day. That is what we need to address, but I shall give way to the hon. Member for Foyle. rather than the narrower issue of Ministers in this House. My next point is that there is not a simple arithmetical Mark Durkan: May I take up the point that the hon. relationship between the number of Members of the Member for Broxbourne (Mr Walker) raised about the House and the number of Ministers: to suggest that Deputy Leader of the House’s comment that the House there is is to reduce the argument and to take it beyond should not become concerned with setting an arithmetical what is reasonable. Ministerial responsibilities must reflect limit and seeking an arithmetical formula? The Bill says what the Prime Minister and Government of the day that there should be 600 MPs and 600 only—not one feel they need in order to do their work effectively. more and not one less. No flexibility is to be left to the There is a relationship between the number of Ministers boundary commissions, to Parliament or to anyone in this House and the number of others in the House else, and constituencies are to be formulated every five whose positions are created by patronage and both the years, again on the basis of a tyranny of arithmetic, so perception and the reality of the independence of this how can the Deputy Leader of the House tell us that legislature. That is a perfectly proper comment to make, within this regime of the new arithmetic and the new but there is not, I suggest, a simple arithmetical relationship. politics there cannot be arithmetical guarantees on the fixed number of Ministers in this House? Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): Is the hon. Gentleman suggesting, therefore, that the Prime Minister Mr Heath: Again, the hon. Gentleman seeks to draw of a future Labour or Conservative Government, or me back to debates that we have had on other parts of indeed the Prime Minister of what we have at the the Bill. However, I repeat that I do not think that there moment, could extend the power of patronage to have is a simple arithmetical relationship between the number as many Ministers as they wish in order to control the of Ministers in the Government and the number of political process? Members in this House, other than the view, which is my view and that of right hon. and hon. Friends, that Mr Heath: As I shall go on to describe, what the we need to reduce the scope of Government patronage. previous Government did when they reached the buffers That is something in which we are already engaged. of the current restrictions was simply to create all sorts of fantastical posts that were not described as “Ministers” Daniel Kawczynski: My hon. Friend made a very but were, nevertheless, an extension of patronage. We important point a few moments ago about the staggering know what the Labour party did when in government number of special advisers that the previous Labour and I think we can do better. Administration had. I believe that they even had one for timber products and for rain forests, as well as having Philip Davies: The Minister seems to be saying that special envoys for Cyprus and for Sri Lanka. It is these things should be judged on the ministerial work slightly hypocritical of the Labour party to accuse us of load, as opposed to numbers. I do not know whether patronage of this kind when there was so much in their this is the case for him and his constituency, but the Government. work load of MPs has increased rapidly in recent years. The Government are proposing to reduce the number Mr Heath: Well, the hon. Gentleman must not tempt of MPs by 50, so this Bill clearly has nothing to do with me into spelling out in graphic detail the degree to work load, yet he is giving the distinct impression that which what the Labour party is now saying is the this is a simple case of turkeys not wanting to vote for opposite of what it did in government, but of course it Christmas. is the case. 129 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 130 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Mr Chope: Before the Deputy Leader of the House him for a member of the Backbench Business Committee. gets carried away by what my hon. Friend the Member Knowing him to be a fair-minded man I know that he for Shrewsbury and Atcham (Daniel Kawczynski), who will attest to the fact that this House has already moved is a PPS, said, will he correct the impression that he has the control of much more parliamentary time to Back- given—that the previous Labour Government had the Bench Members through the Committee. We have also maximum number of Ministers, which is 95? In fact, seen the election of Select Committee Members and they had only 90 at the most. It is only this Government Chairs, to which we have already drawn attention in this who have gone up to the maximum number of Ministers. debate. Will he explain why that is so? My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has also become the first Prime Minister in history to give up the 9.45 pm power to call a general election at the time of his Mr Heath: The hon. Gentleman will have to put that choosing. I think it is clear that the Government are not question to the Prime Minister. looking to extend their own influence, but believe on principle that power should be dispersed. Indeed, we Mr Jenkin: The hon. Gentleman’s honesty is touching. will bring forward legislation very soon to disperse Will he explain very simply why 95 is the correct number? more power to local communities and local authorities, enabling them to do their job more effectively. Mr Heath: I think it very well might not be; it is likely I have difficulty in accepting that there is a need to that at some stage in the future we will reduce the put this new clause into this Bill at this time. It is now number of Ministers. The hon. Gentleman is refusing October of 2010—[HON.MEMBERS: “Well done!”] It is to accept that I agree with a great deal of the thesis that good to know that Opposition Members are engaged in has been put forward. the serious constitutional debate. There are four and a half years until the provisions of this Bill will take Mr Kevan Jones: Will the Deputy Leader of the effect—[HON.MEMBERS: “No.”] There are four and a House give way? half years until the provisions of the Bill on the boundary reviews and the reduction in the size of this House take Mr Heath: No. effect. It does not result in an immediate change to the Let me go on to the next point, which is the timing of size of this House. We are legislating at speed to allow what is being suggested. This is not the hoary old sufficient time for boundary reviews to be conducted chestnut that used to be described by the former Member nationally on the basis of a smaller House, but when we for Cambridge, Mr David Howarth, as the doctrine of have time to reflect, we should use that time. unripe time—everything was always for the best possible purposes, but the time was never ripe for it to happen. I Mr Graham Brady (Altrincham and Sale West) (Con): am not saying that. I am simply saying that various Surely new clause 7 would also come into effect in four elements of our proposals for reform of the constitutional and a half years, at exactly the same time as the other arrangements and for the politics of this country are aspects that the Minister has mentioned. moving forward in various pieces of legislation and at various times. By the end of this Parliament, they will be in place, but this is not the right time for this Mr Heath: Yes, it would, but my point is that new measure. clause 7 does not perfectly encapsulate the purpose that the hon. Gentleman, the Government and I might share Let me try to make some progress. The Government of making government fit for purpose in that new are committed—as the fairer Members who have Parliament. Given that we do not have to pass this new contributed to the debate have already recognised—to clause as part of the Bill, it seems sensible to take our passing power from the Executive to Parliament. The time, listen to representations and people’s views, and hon. Gentleman, who is a member of the Backbench see whether we can come up with something better. Business Committee created by this Government, will, I hope, recognise that that is the case— We have heard very clearly that the issue at stake is the size of the Government’s payroll vote. The proposition Mr Charles Walker: To which hon. Gentleman was we have heard is that the Bill will give the Executive he referring? undue numerical dominance in the House and that we must therefore legislate now to reduce the number of Mr Heath: To the hon. Gentleman. Ministers here. It is a numerical fact that if the Bill becomes law, and unless we legislate to the contrary at Mr Walker: No, I am not a member of the— some stage, the Government elected in 2015 will be entitled to make Ministers out of a higher proportion The Chairman of Ways and Means (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): of the Members of the House. They will not be compelled Order. We cannot have two people on their feet at the to do so, but they will be entitled to, and recent same time. The Deputy Leader of the House should Governments have tended to appoint as many Ministers give way to Mr Walker. as they can, or very close to that number. My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister and I have acknowledged Mr Walker: I should like to point out to the Deputy before that this issue deserves consideration, and it Leader of the House that I am not a member of the would not take a great detective to find the number of Backbench Business Committee. occasions on which I have said precisely that. On the face of it, it is not desirable that the payroll vote should Mr Heath: I apologise; I thought that the hon. Gentleman be expanded as a proportion of the House’s membership. was. I apologise to him and to the House. I hope that it We have said that we will consider how to address this will not prove to be a resigning matter that I mistook issue and we will do so. 131 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 132 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill [Mr Heath] The cross-party Committee is discussing all issues pertinent to reform, including size and composition, We are told that Governments legislate too much, and whether the second Chamber is wholly or mainly and the new clause concerns an issue that might be elected. It will also discuss the position of Ministers in better resolved without legislation. Governments are the reformed Second Chamber. Currently, there are far capable of reducing the number of Ministers without fewer Ministers in the House of Lords than in the being compelled to do so through legislation. More Commons, but we will need to think carefully about importantly, perhaps, the payroll vote is often taken to how the distribution of Ministers may be affected by include Parliamentary Private Secretaries, who are not any changes to the size of the second Chamber, or by covered by current legislation and who would not be the introduction of elected Members. covered by the new clause. It is only by self-denying The Committee is charged with producing a draft Bill ordinance that those numbers are limited. Governments early next year, which will then be subject to pre-legislative have clearly been capable of self-restraint, and that scrutiny. The Government hope that will be carried out self-restraint would still be necessary if the new clause by a Joint Committee of both Houses. It is possible that were accepted. As I have said, under the previous arguments may then be made for either a greater or Government we had not only Ministers and PPSs, but smaller ministerial presence in the second Chamber. We tsars, envoys, special representatives, Regional Ministers should wait to hear the views of the Committee. and assistants to Regional Ministers. A lot of them have There is also an argument that the limit on Ministers been removed but they were all elements of patronage in the House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 is within the House. If it is patronage we are seeking to arcane in other respects. For example, it makes no address, then we have to address all those appointments, provision for Ministers who might fill the role on a not just the ministerial ranks. part-time basis or a job share. It is expressed in terms of Let me repeat a point that was made earlier. Legislation numbers of individuals rather than full-time equivalents. would not cover the number of Opposition Front Benchers, That should perhaps be part of any consideration. which is also relevant if the concern is that there are too few independent voices from the Back Benches. I accept For all those reasons, although I welcome the debate, the principle of legislation on ministerial numbers as a the Government are not minded to accept the new back-stop, but surely the number of Ministers must be a clause. We shall reflect on the arguments made today function of need, which is not necessarily related to the and set out plans once we have achieved some consensus number of MPs. When previous statutes increased the on the composition of the second Chamber, including number of Ministers in the House, they were unrelated the number of Ministers there. If it still appears— to any changes in the number of MPs: there has never [Interruption.] I think it is important for the House to been a clear link or a set ratio. At the moment, there can hear this. If it still appears necessary, there will be be one Minister for every 6.842 Members of Parliament plenty of time at that stage to legislate before 2015. I or thereabouts. The new clause would enshrine that urge the hon. Member for Broxbourne to withdraw the ratio in law in perpetuity. If it were to become law, the new clause, on the basis that we shall very carefully Government could appoint as Ministers no more than consider the arguments he has made. 87.692307 Members of the Chamber. That would be the relationship. I merely make the point that I do not Mr Walker: I say to new colleagues who were not here believe that a simple arithmetic relationship is necessarily in 2009 that it was the most awful experience. We were the right one to address. led up the garden path by a powerful Executive and had our legs cut from underneath us. We vowed that we We should not forget the purpose of having a ministerial would never, ever let that happen again. We vowed that presence in the House: we need sufficient Ministers to we would take control of this place back from the attend to the business in the House, to make statements, Executive. to answer questions, to introduce Bills and to contribute to debates. The House rightly expects the highest standards I wish I was being braver in my new clause. All I am of accountability from its Ministers and we strive to asking is that when the House of Commons reduces by meet those standards. Indeed, it is often complained a mere 50, we reduce the number of Ministers by a mere that Ministers are too rarely seen when the House eight, yet in this age of new politics the Front Bench discusses issues for which they do not have direct cannot even give us that. Colleagues, this is the night responsibility. That reflects the reality that we demand a when the new politics will be born, or it will die. Please lot of our Ministers in this country, both to govern and support new clause 7 tonight, to give new politics some to legislate. meaning, because it will be driven by Back Benchers—it can never be driven from the Front Bench. The question of how many Ministers should sit in the House of Commons is bound up with other questions—for I call for a vote. example, considering the number of Ministers in the Question put, That the clause be read a Second time:— House of Lords. As the Committee is aware, my right The Committee divided: hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister is chairing a Ayes 241, Noes 293. Committee on reform of the House of Lords. The Division No. 100] [9.58 pm Committee comprises Members from all three major political parties, as well as from both Houses— AYES [Interruption.] From a sedentary position, the hon. Abbott, Ms Diane Bailey, Mr Adrian Member for Rhondda asks, “What’s that got to do with Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Bain, Mr William it?” as though reform of the House of Lords—the thing Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Baker, Steve for which we have been arguing for 100 years—has Alexander, Heidi Banks, Gordon nothing to do with the constitutional arrangements of Ali, Rushanara Barron, rh Mr Kevin this country. Austin, Ian Beckett, rh Margaret 133 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 134 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Begg, Miss Anne Fovargue, Yvonne McGovern, Alison Skinner, Mr Dennis Bell, Sir Stuart Francis, Dr Hywel McGovern, Jim Slaughter, Mr Andy Benn, rh Hilary Glass, Pat McKechin, Ann Smith, rh Mr Andrew Benton, Mr Joe Glindon, Mrs Mary McKinnell, Catherine Smith, Angela Berger, Luciana Godsiff, Mr Roger Meale, Mr Alan Smith, Nick Betts, Mr Clive Goggins, rh Paul Mearns, Ian Smith, Owen Blackman-Woods, Roberta Goldsmith, Zac Michael, rh Alun Soulsby, Sir Peter Blears, rh Hazel Goodman, Helen Miller, Andrew Spellar, rh Mr John Blenkinsop, Tom Gray, Mr James Morden, Jessica Straw, rh Mr Jack Blomfield, Paul Greatrex, Tom Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Stuart, Ms Gisela Blunkett, rh Mr David Green, Kate Morris, Grahame M. Tapsell, Sir Peter Bone, Mr Peter Greenwood, Lilian (Easington) Thomas, Mr Gareth Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Griffith, Nia Mudie, Mr George Thornberry, Emily Brady, Mr Graham Gwynne, Andrew Munn, Meg Timms, rh Stephen Brennan, Kevin Hain, rh Mr Peter Murphy, rh Mr Jim Trickett, Jon Brown, Lyn Hamilton, Mr David Murphy, rh Paul Turner, Mr Andrew Brown, Mr Russell Hamilton, Mr Fabian Murray, Ian Turner, Karl Bryant, Chris Hanson, rh Mr David Nandy, Lisa Twigg, Derek Buck, Ms Karen Harman, rh Ms Harriet Nuttall, Mr David Twigg, Stephen Burden, Richard Harris, Mr Tom O’Donnell, Fiona Tyrie, Mr Andrew Burnham, rh Andy Havard, Mr Dai Onwurah, Chi Umunna, Mr Chuka Byrne, rh Mr Liam Healey, rh John Osborne, Sandra Vaz, rh Keith Campbell, Mr Alan Hendrick, Mark Owen, Albert Vaz, Valerie Campbell, Mr Gregory Hepburn, Mr Stephen Percy, Andrew Vickers, Martin Campbell, Mr Ronnie Heyes, David Perkins, Toby Walker, Mr Charles Carswell, Mr Douglas Hilling, Julie Phillipson, Bridget Walley, Joan Caton, Martin Hodge, rh Margaret Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Weir, Mr Mike Chapman, Mrs Jenny Hodgson, Mrs Sharon Reckless, Mark Whiteford, Dr Eilidh Chope, Mr Christopher Hoey, Kate Reed, Mr Jamie Whitehead, Dr Alan Clark, Katy Hollobone, Mr Philip Reynolds, Emma Whittaker, Craig Clwyd, rh Ann Hosie, Stewart Riordan, Mrs Linda Wicks, rh Malcolm Connarty, Michael Howarth, rh Mr George Robertson, Angus Williamson, Chris Cooper, Rosie Illsley, Mr Eric Robertson, John Wilson, Phil Crausby, Mr David Irranca-Davies, Huw Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Wilson, Sammy Creagh, Mary Jamieson, Cathy Rotheram, Steve Winnick, Mr David Creasy, Stella Jenkin, Mr Bernard Roy, Lindsay Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Cruddas, Jon Johnson, rh Alan Ruane, Chris Wishart, Pete Cryer, John Johnson, Diana R. Ruddock, rh Joan Woodcock, John Cunningham, Alex Jones, Helen Sanders, Mr Adrian Woolas, Mr Phil Cunningham, Mr Jim Jones, Mr Kevan Sarwar, Anas Wright, David Cunningham, Tony Jones, Susan Elan Shannon, Jim Wright, Mr Iain Curran, Margaret Joyce, Eric Sharma, Mr Virendra Dakin, Nic Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Sheridan, Jim Tellers for the Ayes: Danczuk, Simon Keen, Alan Shuker, Gavin Mr David Anderson and David, Mr Wayne Kendall, Liz Simpson, David Graham Jones Davidson, Mr Ian Khan, rh Sadiq Davies, Philip Lammy, rh Mr David NOES De Piero, Gloria Lavery, Ian Dobbin, Jim Lazarowicz, Mark Adams, Nigel Brake, Tom Docherty, Thomas Leslie, Chris Aldous, Peter Bray, Angie Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Lewis, Mr Ivan Amess, Mr David Brazier, Mr Julian Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Lloyd, Tony Andrew, Stuart Bridgen, Andrew Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Llwyd, Mr Elfyn Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Brine, Mr Steve Doran, Mr Frank Long, Naomi Bacon, Mr Richard Brokenshire, James Doyle, Gemma Love, Mr Andrew Bagshawe, Ms Louise Brooke, Annette Dromey, Jack Lucas, Caroline Baker, Norman Browne, Mr Jeremy Durkan, Mark Lucas, Ian Baldry, Tony Bruce, Fiona Eagle, Ms Angela MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Baldwin, Harriett Bruce, rh Malcolm Eagle, Maria Mactaggart, Fiona Barclay, Stephen Buckland, Mr Robert Efford, Clive Mahmood, Shabana Barker, Gregory Burley, Mr Aidan Elliott, Julie Main, Mrs Anne Bebb, Guto Burns, Conor Ellis, Michael Mann, John Bellingham, Mr Henry Burns, Mr Simon Ellman, Mrs Louise Marsden, Mr Gordon Beresford, Sir Paul Burrowes, Mr David Engel, Natascha McCabe, Steve Berry, Jake Burstow, Paul Esterson, Bill McCann, Mr Michael Bingham, Andrew Burt, Lorely Evans, Chris McCarthy, Kerry Binley, Mr Brian Byles, Dan Field, rh Mr Frank McCartney, Jason Birtwistle, Gordon Cable, rh Vince Field, Mr Mark McClymont, Gregg Blackman, Bob Cairns, Alun Fitzpatrick, Jim McCrea, Dr William Blackwood, Nicola Carmichael, Mr Alistair Flello, Robert McDonagh, Siobhain Blunt, Mr Crispin Carmichael, Neil Flint, rh Caroline McDonnell, John Boles, Nick Chishti, Rehman Flynn, Paul McFadden, rh Mr Pat Bradley, Karen Clappison, Mr James 135 Parliamentary Voting System and 25 OCTOBER 2010 Parliamentary Voting System and 136 Constituencies Bill Constituencies Bill Clark, rh Greg Hayes, Mr John Mordaunt, Penny Smith, Miss Chloe Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Heald, Mr Oliver Morgan, Nicky Smith, Henry Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Heath, Mr David Morris, Anne Marie Smith, Julian Coffey, Dr Thérèse Heaton-Harris, Chris Morris, James Smith, Sir Robert Collins, Damian Hemming, John Mosley, Stephen Soames, Nicholas Colvile, Oliver Henderson, Gordon Mowat, David Soubry, Anna Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hendry, Charles Mulholland, Greg Spencer, Mr Mark Crabb, Stephen Herbert, rh Nick Mundell, rh David Stephenson, Andrew Crockart, Mike Hinds, Damian Munt, Tessa Stevenson, John Crouch, Tracey Hoban, Mr Mark Murray, Sheryll Stewart, Bob Davey, Mr Edward Hollingbery, George Murrison, Dr Andrew Stewart, Iain Davies, David T. C. Hopkins, Kris Neill, Robert Stride, Mel (Monmouth) Horwood, Martin Newmark, Mr Brooks Stuart, Mr Graham Davies, Glyn Howell, John Newton, Sarah Stunell, Andrew de Bois, Nick Hughes, Simon Nokes, Caroline Sturdy, Julian Dinenage, Caroline Huhne, rh Chris Norman, Jesse Swales, Ian Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Hunter, Mark O’Brien, Mr Stephen Swayne, Mr Desmond Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Huppert, Dr Julian Offord, Mr Matthew Swinson, Jo Dorries, Nadine Hurd, Mr Nick Ollerenshaw, Eric Swire, Mr Hugo Doyle-Price, Jackie Jackson, Mr Stewart Opperman, Guy Syms, Mr Robert Duncan, rh Mr Alan Javid, Sajid Paice, Mr James Thurso, John Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Johnson, Gareth Parish, Neil Timpson, Mr Edward Ellison, Jane Johnson, Joseph Patel, Priti Tomlinson, Justin Ellwood, Mr Tobias Jones, Andrew Paterson, rh Mr Owen Tredinnick, David Eustice, George Jones, Mr David Pawsey, Mark Truss, Elizabeth Evans, Graham Jones, Mr Marcus Penning, Mike Uppal, Paul Evans, Jonathan Kawczynski, Daniel Penrose, John Vaizey, Mr Edward Evennett, Mr David Kelly, Chris Percy, Andrew Vara, Mr Shailesh Fabricant, Michael Kennedy, rh Mr Charles Perry, Claire Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Fallon, Michael Kirby, Simon Phillips, Stephen Walker, Mr Robin Farron, Tim Knight, rh Mr Greg Pickles, rh Mr Eric Wallace, Mr Ben Featherstone, Lynne Kwarteng, Kwasi Pincher, Christopher Walter, Mr Robert Foster, Mr Don Laing, Mrs Eleanor Poulter, Dr Daniel Ward, Mr David Francois, rh Mr Mark Lancaster, Mark Prisk, Mr Mark Watkinson, Angela Freeman, George Lansley, rh Mr Andrew Pugh, Dr John Weatherley, Mike Freer, Mike Latham, Pauline Randall, rh Mr John Webb, Steve Fullbrook, Lorraine Laws, rh Mr David Rees-Mogg, Jacob Wharton, James Fuller, Richard Leadsom, Andrea Reevell, Simon Wheeler, Heather Garnier, Mr Edward Lee, Jessica Reid, Mr Alan White, Chris Garnier, Mark Lee, Dr Phillip Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Whittaker, Craig Gauke, Mr David Leech, Mr John Robathan, Mr Andrew Wiggin, Bill Gibb, Mr Nick Lefroy, Jeremy Robertson, Hugh Willetts, rh Mr David Gilbert, Stephen Leslie, Charlotte Robertson, Mr Laurence Williams, Mr Mark Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Rogerson, Dan Williams, Roger Glen, John Lewis, Brandon Rudd, Amber Williams, Stephen Goodwill, Mr Robert Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Ruffley, Mr David Williamson, Gavin Gove, rh Michael Lidington, Mr David Russell, Bob Wilson, Mr Rob Graham, Richard Lilley, rh Mr Peter Rutley, David Wollaston, Dr Sarah Grant, Mrs Helen Lloyd, Stephen Sandys, Laura Wright, Jeremy Grayling, rh Chris Lopresti, Jack Scott, Mr Lee Wright, Simon Green, Damian Lord, Jonathan Selous, Andrew Yeo, Mr Tim Greening, Justine Loughton, Tim Shapps, rh Grant Young, rh Sir George Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Luff, Peter Sharma, Alok Zahawi, Nadhim Griffiths, Andrew Lumley, Karen Shelbrooke, Alec Gummer, Ben Macleod, Mary Simmonds, Mark Tellers for the Noes: Gyimah, Mr Sam Maude, rh Mr Francis Simpson, Mr Keith Mr Philip Dunne and Halfon, Robert Maynard, Paul Skidmore, Chris Norman Lamb Hames, Duncan McCartney, Jason Hammond, Stephen McCartney, Karl Question accordingly negatived. Hancock, Matthew McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Hancock, Mr Mike McVey, Esther New schedules 2 to 5 brought up, read the First and Hands, Greg Menzies, Mark Second time, and added to the Bill. Harper, Mr Mark Mercer, Patrick Harrington, Richard Metcalfe, Stephen The Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair. Harris, Rebecca Miller, Maria Bill, as amended, reported. Hart, Simon Mills, Nigel Harvey, Nick Milton, Anne Bill to be considered tomorrow. Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Moore, rh Michael 137 25 OCTOBER 2010 Newport Passport Office 138

Newport Passport Office Jessica Morden: The hon. Gentleman makes an extremely valid point, and I am extremely grateful for his support. Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Newmark.) Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): This cut is just 10.15 pm one of a number that will affect Wales, including the cancellation of the Defence Aviation Repair Agency, Jessica Morden (Newport East) (Lab): I am very the cancellation of the electrification of the south Wales grateful to have this opportunity to raise the issue of the railway line and the cancellation of a prison for north Home Office’s proposed closure of Newport passport Wales. Now, we have the cuts in the constituency of my office. The campaign against the closure, led by the hon. Friend the Member for Newport West (Paul Flynn). Public and Commercial Services Union and very well Does that show a disrespect for Wales? supported by the South Wales Argus on behalf of the workers, has united the whole community in Newport Jessica Morden: I thank my hon. Friend for that and is supported by MPs and AMs of all political intervention. Over the past couple of weeks, we have parties, some of whom are here tonight. I am very seen a disgraceful list of cancellations in Wales, and that grateful to those hon. Members who have stayed for does show a complete disrespect for Wales. tonight’s debate, which has started a little earlier than we expected, but their presence shows the strength of I hope that the Minister will agree that the most feeling. Most notably, the campaign is supported by my important people in all this are the staff at Newport hon. Friend the Member for Newport West (Paul Flynn), passport office and their families. Two years ago, when in whose constituency the passport office resides. there was a rumour about the future of the passport Since the announcement that the passport office in office, my hon. Friend the Member for Newport West Newport is in line to become the first major casualty of and I initiated a meeting with the then passport Minister, UK Government spending cuts, the city of Newport my hon. Friend the Member for Hackney South and has united around the growing campaign against its Shoreditch (Meg Hillier). She was adamant in all her closure. Three hundred workers attended the first meeting dealings with us that there should be a regional application called by local union reps; more than 1,000 people passport office in each devolved nation. She also recognised attended a march and rally through Newport last week; that the staff at the Newport office did a fantastic job. and, in just two short weeks, more than 11,000 people In fact, she constantly praised them for what she called have signed the South Wales Argus petition. If the their can-do attitude, and for the fact that they were the Minister wants an indication of the strength of feeling regional office that always volunteered to do any pilot in Newport, I am happy to present him with a subscription going. What message is sent to civil servants who strive to the Argus, as I want him to be in absolutely no doubt for excellence in their jobs when they are rewarded with about the fury in Newport over the decision. a decision like this proposed closure? The Identity and Passport Service announcement The previous Minister knew how good the Newport that the office could close has been badly handled, as passport office is, but so do its customers, as it receives well as being a disaster for staff and their families. Staff much favourable feedback from them for its fast and learned of the potential loss of their jobs from a civil efficient service. I genuinely know how good that service servant who was sent as the bearer of bad news—not a is from personal experience when I had to get three Government politician in sight. The Secretary of State passports at short notice last year. The staff tell me that for Wales gave every impression at the time that she was in the past week they have dealt with customers from as not aware of the decision, although in a reply to a far afield as Truro in the south-west, Harlow in the parliamentary question of mine she now claims that she south-east, Scotland and Belfast, all of whom tried to was. That is all the more galling locally, as in her speech get to a more local office but failed to get an appointment to the Tory party conference just a few short days without waiting for two to three weeks. before, she spoke of how the Ryder cup had put Newport on the map. We were hoping for an economic legacy Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): My hon. Friend from the Ryder cup, not an announcement a few days makes the very valid point that it is not only the people after the event that hundreds of people would lose of Wales who are serviced by the Newport office. People their jobs. from Bristol and much further afield in the south-west also rely on it, and they would have to make very long Albert Owen (Ynys Môn) (Lab): The Prime Minister journeys to make passport applications if it were not has made big play of the respect agenda. Does my hon. there. Friend not agree that by not telling anybody, not least Welsh Assembly Ministers, such behaviour proves that Jessica Morden: I thank my hon. Friend for her that agenda has been dropped in favour of disrespect? intervention; she makes a valid point. People from the south-west come to Newport for its passport service, Jessica Morden: I agree. We now see a culture of and it is much used. For example, travellers who have a disrespect towards the Welsh Assembly Government, problem with their passport when they arrive at Heathrow and I shall come on to that point. airport might be directed by staff to Newport because it Mr Elfyn Llwyd (Dwyfor Meirionnydd) (PC): I is faster and more efficient than using the London congratulate the hon. Lady on securing time for this office. very important debate. She has my party’s full support. Given the work that staff have to put in to get the The announcement is not only unjust and disrespectful, service right, why choose to close the Newport office? but unfair, because it came before last week’s cuts, My constituents are not arguing that another office in which are deeper and worse for Wales than for the rest another part of the country should be closed, but they of the UK. want to know from the Minister why there are not calls 139 Newport Passport Office25 OCTOBER 2010 Newport Passport Office 140

[Jessica Morden] to Newport to get their passports often spend the four-hour wait shopping. The loss of this office would for voluntary redundancies across the service to make leave a gaping hole in the centre of the city. Why does this decision much fairer. I would be grateful if he could the Minister believe that the private sector is going to explain how his Department came to the decision to step in and provide enough jobs to cover the job losses target the Newport office. Can he share with the House given that some of the private sector is leaving the city what case has been made internally, and make that centre as well? information publicly available? If the closure were to go It is a bit ironic that the heads of both Marks and ahead, how much would it cost in short-term redundancy Spencer and Next signed the letter to the Chancellor costs? Will he share with us the results of the economic last week urging cuts and suggesting they were up to the impact study when it is available? job of filling the gap. It does not bode well for the future The feeling in Newport is that this decision has been that they do not practice what they preach, given that taken at the stroke of a pen—that it is easier for the they are leaving our city centre. In fact, that is a case in Department to close just one of the seven offices instead point of the division between the private sector and the of looking at other options. Staff tell me that the IPS public sector being false. Private businesses have much has a history of making short-term decisions which to lose if the jobs in question are lost in the city centre, then have to be reversed. In Glasgow, the postal production and that is precisely why people in shops and businesses service was removed, only for the IPS to have to reinstate are joining the marches and signing the South Wales it because demand was too great and it had reduced the Argus petition. They want to keep the city centre alive. staffing to inadequate levels. Given the real hardship that this decision will cause, will the Minister re-examine Paul Flynn (Newport West) (Lab): Although it is this case for closing Newport, bearing in mind that disappointing that very few Conservative MPs are history of the IPS running down capacity and then supporting us in our campaign, it is encouraging that having to reverse decisions? Conservatives and Liberal Democrats on Newport council I am told that when staff were informed by the chief and in the Welsh Assembly are united in opposing this executive why they were about to lose their livelihoods, foolish move. Is it not encouraging that there are moves some of the reasons cited were that the windows were by Newport council to suggest alternative premises? single-glazed and that the floor was of the wrong type. The state of the premises seems to have been a factor in If part of this decision is to do with the office being old the decision, but now there is new information that and unsuitable, what discussions has the Minister had there might well be alternative premises available that with the local authority about doing a deal over more will destroy the case for the minute savings that the suitable premises and thereby cutting costs in that manner? move would make.

Chris Ruane: Does my hon. Friend think, like I do, Jessica Morden: I thank my hon. Friend. The cross-party that the real reason the Newport passport office is being support is very encouraging, and we very much welcome closed is not that it has the wrong type of windows but the Tory-Liberal Democrat council’s moves to consider that Newport has the wrong type of political party—that alternative premises, which might be the answer. is, it is represented by Labour MPs, not Conservative May I ask the Minister to comment on why the Welsh MPs? Assembly Government were not even told that they were going to lose the passport office? As my hon. Jessica Morden: I appreciate my hon. Friend’s point Friend the Member for Ynys Môn (Albert Owen) asked, and thank him for making it. how does it bode for the Government’s culture of respect Putting people out of work is not something that for the devolved nations if the Government in Cardiff should ever be done without absolutely every alternative bay are not consulted? having been examined. In this case, the evidence for that Much has been said about Wales being left as the has not been supplied to me, to my hon. Friend the only country in Europe without a passport office. I Member for Newport West or to the unions, and that is know the Minister will argue that there will be a small not acceptable. office in Newport employing 45 staff. Given the strength of feeling that exists, the Government have been forced Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): Does my hon. Friend to make that decision, but they cannot expect people in agree that in addition to the loss of service to the people Newport to be hugely grateful for 45 jobs when 200-plus of Wales, it makes absolutely no economic or environmental will still go. sense to be centralising offices rather than keeping them in a large number of geographical locations? Roger Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire) (LD): I congratulate the hon. Lady on making such a passionate Jessica Morden: I strongly agree with my hon. Friend and constructive case on behalf of the facility in Newport. about the need to spread jobs across the country, which Does she agree that the previous Government’s policy was certainly the policy of the previous Government. of taking jobs out of high-value areas and devolving If the office were to close, as well as the effect on them to areas where services could be delivered at better people’s lives and families, it would have a devastating cost would be a good one to put forward in the consultation effect on Newport, where traders are already reeling period that is about to take place? from the loss of shops, with major high street retailers Marks & Spencer, Next and Monsoon leaving the city Jessica Morden: That is an extremely good point, and centre. The passport office employs more than 250 people of course Newport benefited from jobs in the Office for right in the heart of their shopping centre. Their custom National Statistics, the Patent Office and the Prison supports other local businesses, and people who travel Service. 141 Newport Passport Office25 OCTOBER 2010 Newport Passport Office 142

I say respectfully to the Minister that the small office congratulated on securing it. Given her reputation, I that is planned for Newport is not enough, and nobody would expect her to defend her constituents as passionately in Newport is taken in by it. My hon. Friend the as she has done tonight. Member for Hackney South and Shoreditch, the former What I can do most usefully is disentangle the emotion Minister, was adamant that Wales must have its fair from the facts, because although some of what the hon. share of jobs and that the passport service must be a Lady said was undoubtedly valuable, some of it was truly UK service. Is the Minister 100% certain that misleading, and some of her colleagues’ interventions 45 staff can service all the emergency passport demand frankly suggest that they do not understand the Identity in Wales, the west country and parts of the west midlands, and Passport Service proposals for Newport. It is important not to mention the cases from further afield that I to hold the debate on a factual basis and, indeed, on the mentioned earlier? basis of the previous Government’s actions towards other passport offices. The IPS has been contracting its Mr Mark Williams (Ceredigion) (LD): Will the hon. network of regional offices for some years. Lady give way? I met the hon. Lady and the hon. Member for Newport West (Paul Flynn) last week. I was surprised when she Jessica Morden: I am running out of time, but I give said that she did not have any information because, as way to the hon. Gentleman for a tiny intervention. she and the hon. Gentleman know, I handed her the internal working document that the IPS used as the Mr Williams: I am grateful to the hon. Lady, who is a basis of its action. She asked for those details tonight real friend on this matter. She has got to the heart of but, as she knows, she was given them last week. it—it is about fairness, and an implicit part of a fairness agenda must be a meaningful dialogue with the National Paul Flynn: The Minister will recall from that meeting Assembly. I am afraid that has not happened. that we expressed some dissatisfaction with the idiot’s guide to the decision that we were given, and we questioned Jessica Morden: It has not, and I thank the hon. many of its conclusions, although we had only a brief Gentleman for making that point. time to look at it. We asked whether we could see the Let us be clear: what is being offered is the loss of the full report on which it was based, but no assurance was regional passport application centre and its replacement given that we would have it. Indeed, I suggested that we with an interview office. That would be a downgrading might need a freedom of information request to get it. of the service, which leads me to my final point. Staff Will the full report on which the decision was based be and the PCS have real concerns that if the proposals made available and put in the Library? were to go through, reduced staffing would make the passport a less secure document. British passports are Damian Green: I shall ensure that the hon. Gentleman regarded as the most secure in the world, and the basis gets the available information, because I acknowledge of that confidence is the integrity and skills of the staff his concern and that of the hon. Lady about the impact involved. The loss of staff will mean that the work will of job losses on the staff, their families and the local have to done by fewer people, and there will be an community. As the hon. Lady knows, I have met the inevitable impact on customer service and security. Is leader of Newport council to hear his views. Of course, the Minister really confident that the loss of jobs will a proposal to lose 250 jobs has not been made lightly. not have an impact on security? The Identity and Passport Service has long recognised Only this weekend, the Secretary of State for Work that its greatest asset is its reputation, and IPS employees and Pensions said that people from the valleys should make a significant contribution to that, as reflected in get on a bus to find work. Perhaps the Minister could the high levels of public satisfaction with the delivery of tell us what town he is expecting the people of Newport passports and civil registration. The Identity and to get a bus to if he proceeds with this proposal. Passport Service has a reputation for quality of delivery, which is achieved by those who work for the agency Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): Does my hon. across the UK. Friend agree that that remark about people getting a The service is paid for through the passport fee, bus to work was outrageous, not least because in Blaenau which covers the cost of the domestic passport service Gwent, not very far from Newport, there are seven and consular services overseas for British citizens. Passports people chasing each job? have to be delivered within the fee structure and be available to the public at an economic rate. When efficiencies Jessica Morden: It was an outrageous remark. Hon. can be made through better working, they should Members are here in numbers tonight precisely because be—indeed, they must be. That is why in 2008, the hon. their constituents do get on a bus to Newport, to work Member for Hackney South and Shoreditch (Meg Hillier), at the passport office. I hope that the Minister understands to whom the hon. Lady referred, closed the application that this is not just a paper exercise, it is about people’s processing centre in Glasgow, with the loss of 124 staff. lives. The workers at Newport passport office deserve to The Glasgow office currently retains a premium and have the Government consider their plans in depth fast-track service, but the processing centre work was during the consultation period and change their mind. absorbed by other regional centres. I cannot emphasise enough that that is exactly the same proposal that the Government are making for the Newport office. All the 10.29 pm rhetoric about respect and the Government’s somehow The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): I picking on the people of Newport or of Wales is wrong. understand why the hon. Member for Newport East (Jessica Morden) has chosen the debate, and she is to be Paul Flynn rose— 143 Newport Passport Office25 OCTOBER 2010 Newport Passport Office 144

Damian Green: The hon. Gentleman has had his passport holders. The assessment was based on the chance, I have not got much time and he has already criteria of cost, affordability, estates, people, customers, made many points. I hope that he can contain himself partners, performance and operational feasibility. for the moment. The primary consideration lay in the ability of the There is absolutely no disrespect to the people of agency to achieve the right level of efficiencies, while Newport or of Wales. Hon. Members know about the retaining sufficient operational capacity to maintain the country’s economic position and the new Government’s current high level of service. The assessment had to terrible inheritance. That is why we are having to make consider whether an application processing centre could such decisions. It would be entirely inappropriate for be closed without the need to recruit additional staff the passport fee to subsidise the IPS if it were or would back into the remaining offices. Achieving the savings knowingly be over-staffed or operating with excess capacity. through efficiencies was a key criterion, but it had to be However, that is the situation that the IPS faces. In the demonstrated in the assessment that savings would be case of the five remaining passport application processing sustainable and would not simply reappear as a future centres in the UK, at Belfast, Durham, Liverpool, cost to the IPS during periods of peak demand. As I Peterborough and Newport, an operational review was think the hon. Member for Newport East knows, I have carried out by the IPS in the light of the planned undertaken to carry out a full impact assessment, in line programme of efficiencies to be achieved within the with the requirements of the Department for Business, next 18 months. The review identified that meeting Innovation and Skills. I note in passing that such an those efficiencies by spring 2012 and beyond would assessment was not published at the time of the Glasgow result in excess capacity of around 350 staff and some closure. 25% of the IPS estate. Therefore, cuts do have to be I appreciate that the hon. Lady will consider Newport made. to be a special case that should receive special consideration. I would expect hon. Members in constituencies across Paul Flynn: All in Wales. the UK to consider jobs in their constituencies similarly to merit special consideration. However, the IPS applied Damian Green: That is simply not true. The IPS has the same economic criteria to all areas, for two reasons: already lost around 100 jobs at headquarters through first, to ensure consistency and fairness; and secondly, efficiencies and, as the hon. Gentleman knows, it is because the IPS is a UK-wide service and requires an making cuts across all regional offices. In addition, operational structure that ensures the highest standards the IPS has already reduced some excess capacity across of delivery and service for all its customers, in all parts the network through voluntary redundancies. The of the United Kingdom. The IPS has identified the announcement at Newport reflects the need for the Newport passport application processing centre as the passport fee to pay for the delivery of a service and not main potential candidate for closure by using an evidence- for surplus posts or excess office accommodation. based approach. The closure would be achievable at the lowest cost, and would represent the most favourable Owen Smith (Pontypridd) (Lab): The Minister says net present value and enable the IPS to retain sufficient that cuts are being made right across the board in the operational capacity after closure without the need to IPS, but surely he sees that one fundamental difference recruit staff to back-fill into other offices. The IPS is is that Wales will be the only country left in the UK looking to achieve the necessary staff reductions while without a passport office. That is a fundamental difference, avoiding compulsory redundancy wherever possible. That whatever the cuts made elsewhere. is why, in the case of Newport, the IPS is working with the Wales Office and other Departments to help to Damian Green: That would be a fundamental difference identify opportunities elsewhere. if it were true, but it is fundamentally wrong. It is false, and the hon. Gentleman is misleading people if he is I repeat, in the hope that hon. Members will accept saying that Wales will be left without a passport office. this salient fact, that the proposed restructuring of the There will still be a passport office for people to go to in regional application processing centres does not mean Newport. The hon. Member for Bristol East (Kerry that Wales will be the only devolved nation without a McCarthy) said that people travel from the south-west regional office. The IPS will retain a customer service of England to go to the Newport passport office, and centre in Newport to service south Wales and the south- they will still be able to do so. I have read many recent west, employing up to 45 people to provide a counter editions of the South Wales Argus, with pictures of service and with the ability to deal with applicants in people holding placards saying, “Wales mustn’t lose its the Welsh language. That will cater for the 47,000 people only passport office”. I am happy to assure not just the a year who use the current Newport regional office and people of Newport, but the people of Wales that Wales also provide capacity for 7,000 interviews. The service is not losing its passport office, and it is simply misleading proposed for Newport after spring 2012 will be similar for hon. Members to keep repeating the falsehood that to the services currently in place at the IPS offices in it is. Glasgow and London. I recognise that this is a difficult time for many The point was made strongly to me by the Secretary people, and I appreciate that many members of staff of State for Wales, my right hon. Friend the Member working in passport offices up and down the country for Chesham and Amersham (Mrs Gillan)—as it was have contributed to the success of the passport operation. by the hon. Member for Newport East—that shops in That is why the IPS carried out an objective assessment the centre of Newport have been closing and that there of its UK operation, to establish how to respond to the is a threat to the town centre. The footfall of those excess capacity. A comparative assessment was made of 47,000 people who visit the passport office is therefore the five centres to determine how best to achieve a essential to give some hope to the shops that remain in better, more efficient service for all existing and future the town centre and to the town centre’s continuing 145 Newport Passport Office25 OCTOBER 2010 Newport Passport Office 146 regeneration. I found that argument very persuasive period. To answer another specific question, the IPS from my right hon. Friend and from the hon. Lady, and will be producing a full impact assessment, which will that is why I have decided that that office should stay in include an assessment of the economic impact of the Newport. It could be moved to somewhere else in loss of approximately 250 jobs. Home Office economists Wales; that would fulfil the criteria desired by other will support the IPS with that analysis. Opposition Members that Wales retain a passport office, We will seek to include as part of the assessment the and I could obviously do that without retaining it in impact of job losses on a local area, but that might not Newport. Given the particularly difficult circumstances be specific to the economic environment in Newport. that Newport has faced, however, I think that it is right The IPS has conducted its closure analysis as an operational to retain the customer service centre there, and that is task, and to include in the analysis the effect on a what we intend to do. specific local area, we would need to conduct a local Obviously, this will be of little comfort to the hon. economic impact assessment on all five application Lady’s constituents and those of the hon. Member for processing centres. Clearly, that is not a function for Newport West who might lose their jobs through the the IPS. closure of the Newport passport application processing IPS officials are continually offering meetings to the centre, but the decision reflects the importance that the First Minister and to local council officials in Newport. IPS attaches to providing a service to passport applicants As I have said, I have already met the local council and holders across the UK. I am afraid that the IPS leader. simply has excess staff capacity in its application processing Jessica Morden: May I ask the Minister why he did and interview office networks of around 350 full-time not consult the Welsh Assembly Government before equivalents. It has excess physical capacity of approximately taking this decision? 25% across the whole application processing estate, and excess staff capacity of about 150 full-time equivalent Damian Green: As I say, we have started a consultation jobs and 39 local offices across the interview office period, but, regrettably, as so often happens, for some network. That is why what is happening in Newport is reason somebody chose to announce this before all the not the only reduction that the IPS is having to go consultations had properly taken place. The hon. Member through. It is having to make cuts across all its regional for Newport West had asked for a meeting with me and offices and across the interview centres as well. I had agreed to meet him in the intervening period. As he knows, however, the BBC and various other journalists The IPS has begun a formal 90-day consultation got hold of the date for the start of the consultation period with the trade unions. It began on 19 October, process. These things happen, and it is very unfortunate— and we will provide the unions with extensive background information on the decision to close the Newport processing 10.45 pm centre. We are also looking into whether that information House adjourned without Question put (Standing Order can be made public before the end of the consultation No. 9(7)).

1WS Written Ministerial Statements25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 2WS Written Ministerial Administrative Co-operation in the Field of Taxation This directive aims to improve arrangements for exchange of information on request and bring the EU into line Statements with OECD standards. It also extends automatic exchange of information, which the UK supports to the extent that this does not impose disproportionate burdens on Monday 25 October 2010 business or on tax authorities at a time of fiscal consolidation. The Council agreed that they would aim to reach political agreement on this issue at their November BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS meeting. VAT Reverse Charge Derogation “A Long-Term Focus for Corporate Britain” The Council agreed that a new derogation should be provided, until the end of 2013, to Germany, Italy and Austria, allowing the application of a reverse charge to The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and mobile telephones and computer chips. The Council Skills (Vince Cable): I announced on 22 September that also agreed to extend, until the same date, the UK’s I would be undertaking a review into corporate VAT reverse charge to domestic trade in mobile phones governance and short-termism. Today’s publication of and computer chips. The reverse charge has been a key “A Long-Term Focus for Corporate Britain—a call for component in reducing VAT fraud and has helped evidence” marks the first stage of this review. protect billions of pounds since 2007. The UK has benefited greatly from open, free and Stability and Growth Pact well functioning capital markets. Our companies and The Council discussed Lithuania and Romania’s excessive markets have been successful in attracting investment deficit programmes. They agreed that the actions taken into the UK and providing wealth creation which we by both countries represented adequate progress towards need to prosper as a nation. But recent events have the correction of excessive deficits within the deadlines exposed weaknesses. We must ensure that growth is not set by the Council, and that no further steps under the compromised by short-term volatility or its benefits excessive deficit procedure were required at the moment. captured by a few at the expense of the many who Debrief on the Informal ECOFIN Meeting provide the capital, and the wider national interest. The Council briefly took stock of discussions held Government intervention, both through regulation during the informal ECOFIN in Brussels on 30 September and other measures, seeks to address such failures, and 1 October. while maintaining markets which are as free and open as possible. The UK has led the world in developing high Preparation of the G20 Ministerial Meeting standards of corporate governance, most recently with The Council endorsed the terms of reference for the the introduction of the stewardship code, setting out G20 ministerial meeting in South Korea on 22 and the role of shareholders in holding directors to account. 23 October. These will form the basis of the EU’s These are important steps to secure sustainable UK contribution to the meeting. The Government believe growth for the future. The review aims to establish that these reflect UK priorities. However, since the whether there are further issues affecting the functioning UK’s views are represented through the separate UK of capital markets and, if so, what are the causes. It seat in the G20, the UK is not bound by these terms of considers the role of directors and shareholders and reference. asks fundamental questions; for example, about shareholder Tertiary Education engagement, market short-termism and the functioning The Council adopted conclusions on a Commission of the investment chain in the UK. It also considers report on tertiary education. The UK is content with directors’ remuneration and—following up the takeover the report, which was commissioned by the May ECOFIN panel’s recent announcement—the economic case for Council to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of takeovers. public spending on tertiary education. This review builds on the report published by the Report on Fiscal Frameworks Business, Innovation and Skills Committee on “Mergers, Acquisitions and Takeovers: The Takeover of Cadbury Ministers adopted Council conclusions which welcome by Kraft”. It is also closely linked to the Department’s a report on fiscal frameworks. The Government support recent consultation on the future of narrative reporting. the report, which highlights common features of successful national experiences in the Netherlands, Sweden and I am placing copies of this document in the Libraries Austria. of both Houses. Preparation for European Council: Levies and Taxes on Financial Institutions TREASURY ECOFIN agreed a report to the European Council on levies and taxes on financial institutions. The ECOFIN Government are content with the report, which recognises that there is no consensus on how national Governments should deploy the proceeds from bank levies. It states The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr Mark that an EU-only financial transaction tax could result Hoban): The Economic and Financial Affairs Council in significant distortion of competition and relocation was held in Luxembourg on 19 October 2010. The of financial activity within the global financial system, following items were discussed: so careful analysis needs to be carried out. 3WS Written Ministerial Statements25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 4WS

Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive Government’s response. The other recommendations The Council reached unanimous political agreement were for ONS and I have placed today a copy of its on the presidency’s compromise text on the alternative response in the Library of the House. investment fund managers directive. This will now form This Government have serious concerns about the the basis of further discussions with the European 2011 census introduced by the previous Parliament. Parliament, which is due to vote in plenary session in Having given the issue serious consideration, and the November. This agreement represents a number of costs already incurred, the 2011 census is the only way significant gains for the UK from the ECOFIN general that unique information can be provided to meet essential approach of 5 May, including provision to extend the UK and EU requirements in the given timeframe at no marketing passport to managers and funds outside of extra cost than that budgeted. It is important that the the EU. The Government also successfully ensured that 2011 census goes ahead and this Government will continue the agreement limits the powers of the European Securities to promote the importance of the public engaging with and Markets Authority to those already provided for in the 2011 census. the package on financial supervision. Given the highly mobile nature of the population, the UK Statistics Authority recognises the increasing difficulties National Infrastructure Plan 2010 and costs in carrying out a census. The authority has therefore instructed ONS to urgently work on developing The Chief Secretary to the Treasury (Danny Alexander): alternatives, with the intention that the 2011 census is The Government have today published a national the last of its kind. infrastructure plan outlining its vision for the future of Recommendation 21 of the Committee’s report was UK economic infrastructure. dealt with by the previous Government, with my predecessor This is the first ever infrastructure plan for the UK. It writing to the Chair of the Committee shortly before outlines the scale of the challenge facing UK infrastructure the report was published. and the major investment that is needed to underpin Recommendation 14 of the report was on the need sustainable growth in the UK. It focuses on the networks for the census address register being developed by the and systems—in energy, transport, digital communications, ONS for the 2011 census to be maintained after the flood water, waste management and in science—that census. The previous Government failed to deliver a provide the infrastructure on which our economy depends. definitive address register, despite the demands for such The plan gives clarity on the role of Government in a register and the associated costs of inefficiency in specifying what infrastructure we need and how they maintaining a number of similar registers. This Government can remove barriers to mobilise both private and public are working with the parties concerned and will look to sector resources to maintain our world class infrastructure. deliver a definitive register. Considerable progress has Copies of the document have been deposited in the already been achieved. The work ONS has done will Libraries of both Houses and are available on the form part of the solution. Treasury website at: www.hm-treasury.gov.uk. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Tax Information Exchange (Netherlands Antilles) Ports Tax The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David Gauke): A tax information exchange agreement (TIEA) The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for was signed with the Netherlands Antilles in The Hague Communities and Local Government (Robert Neill): Since on 10 September 2010. the day we came into Government, we have been committed The text of the TIEA has been deposited in the to finding a solution to the “ports tax”—the unfair Libraries of both Houses and made available on backdated rates bills incurred by some businesses. HM Revenue and Customs’ website. The text will be We announced in June that we would waive these scheduled to a draft Order in Council and laid before backdated bills which businesses were telling us threatened the House of Commons in due course. jobs, investment and in some cases their solvency.However, we were clear that the waiver would require primary legislation. CABINET OFFICE I am today announcing that the Government intend London Regional Committee Report (Government to include in the forthcoming localism Bill, the necessary Response) provisions to cancel certain significant and unexpected backdated business rates bills. This will allow affected businesses, in ports and others across England, to move The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster forward confidently, unburdened by the crippling debt General (Mr Francis Maude): The report by the House imposed by this liability. of Commons London Regional Committee on their only inquiry into London’s population and the 2011 census was published on 31 March 2010 (HC 349). This DEFENCE Government did not re-establish the Regional Committees. Call-Out Orders: Reserves They recognise the importance of providing a response to Parliament on the issues raised by the Committee. The majority of the recommendations in the report The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): were for the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Two With the expiry of the call-our order made on 24 October of the Committee’s recommendations were for Government 2009, a new call-out order has been made under section 56 and this written ministerial statement provides the of the Reserve Forces Act 1996 to enable reservists to 5WS Written Ministerial Statements25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 6WS continue to be called out into service to support our The Government will approach forthcoming legislation wider efforts to counter the threat from international in the area of criminal justice on a case-by-case basis, terrorism and piracy, and to assist our maritime security with a view to maximising our country’s security, protecting objectives. The order takes effect from 25 October 2010 Britain’s civil liberties and preserving the integrity of and ceases to have effect on 24 October 2011. Some our criminal justice system. 250 reservists were called out under this order made last year and their continued support is greatly appreciated and valued. WORK AND PENSIONS

Cold Weather Payments Scheme JUSTICE The Minister of State, Department for Work and Right to Information (Criminal Proceedings) Pensions (Steve Webb): I am pleased to announce that the cold weather payment rate which was due to return to its default level of £8.50 will be permanently increased The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice to £25.00 from this winter. Amending regulations were (Mr Kenneth Clarke): The Government have decided to laid today and will come into force on 1 November opt-in to the directive on the right to information in 2010, in time for the beginning of this winter period. criminal proceedings. The directive meets the criteria Cold weather payments provide help for pensioners set out in the coalition agreement with regard to EU in receipt of pension credit and to certain vulnerable justice and home affairs measures. groups in receipt of income support, income-based The draft directive will provide minimum standards jobseeker’s allowance and income-related employment for individuals subject to criminal proceedings. British and support allowance to meet heating costs incurred, citizens abroad will benefit under the directive from or likely to be incurred, in cold weather. increased confidence in procedural standards across the Payments are triggered when the average of the mean European Union. It will also increase security at EU daily temperature for a period of seven consecutive level by supporting existing provisions which help combat days at given weather stations is recorded as, or is crime and promote the rule of law. forecast to be zero degrees Celsius or below.

1W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 2W Written Answers to TRANSPORT Boats: Licensing Questions Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether boatmasters working on the River Monday 25 October 2010 Thames who fail the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s compulsory re-test will be entitled to claim compensation for the loss of livelihood; and what WALES recent discussions he has had with (a) Ministers and (b) officials in the Department for Work and Pensions Departmental Drinking Water on the position of such boatmasters. [18612]

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Mike Penning: The arrangements for the re-issue of Wales how many interns her Department has engaged Boatmaster Licences (BML) following revalidation do in the last 12 months; and how many were (a) unpaid, not provide for any compensation in relation to any (b) remunerated with expenses only and (c) paid at the losses that a boatmaster may incur as a result of his or rate of the national minimum wage or above. [17204] her failure to fulfil statutory requirements. This includes boatmasters who now need to submit to an oral assessment Mr David Jones: No interns have been engaged in the of local knowledge to whom the Maritime and Coastguard last 12 months. Agency had previously issued a BML, under the 2006 regulations, based on “Grandfather Rights”. Departmental Visits Abroad No meetings have taken place with either Ministers or officials in the Department for Work and Pensions David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for on the position of such boatmasters. Wales how much her Department spent on overseas visits for senior officials in the last 12 months for which Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for figures are available. [18402] Transport whether boatmasters working on the River Thames will be able to remain in service if they hold a Mr David Jones: In the past 12 months the Wales licence valid until the end of 2011, irrespective of the Office has spent £457 on overseas visits for senior staff. outcome of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s compulsory re-test. [18613]

SCOTLAND Mike Penning: A boatmaster working on the Thames will be able to remain in service until the expiry of his or Departmental Visits Abroad her current licence, regardless of whether he or her passes or fails the oral assessment associated with the David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Port of London Local Knowledge Endorsement for the Scotland how much his Department spent on overseas revalidation of a Boatmaster’s Licence (BML). visits for senior officials in the last 12 months for which figures are available. [18404] Buckshaw Village Station: Repairs and Maintenance

David Mundell: In 2009-10, no Scotland Office officials Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for undertook overseas trips on departmental business, other Transport when he expects works at Buckshaw Village than to accompany Scotland Office Ministers. £725.65 Train Station will commence; when the station is was spent on overseas visits for senior officials in that scheduled to open; and how many trains are planned to capacity. stop there each day. [18662] All travel is undertaken in accordance with the Civil Service Management Code. Mrs Villiers: Work is expected to begin on the new Higher Education: Finance station in November 2010 and Network Rail estimates that it could be operational in autumn 2011. The station will see three train services an hour in each direction: Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland two Northern services (Blackpool North to Manchester pursuant to the statement of 12 October 2010, Official Victoria, and Preston to Hazel Grove) and one Report, columns 155-57, on higher education and student TransPennine Express service (Blackpool North to finance, whether he (a) has had and (b) plans to have Manchester airport). discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the implications for the block grant to Scotland of the Government’s policy on higher education in England. Bus Services: Bedfordshire [18589] Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for Michael Moore: The block grant for Scotland was set Transport pursuant to the answer of 14 October 2010, out in the spending review on 20 October. It is for the Official Report, column 417W, on rapid transport Scottish Government to determine what funding they systems: Bedfordshire, what the name is of each private allocate to devolved areas such as higher education and sector contributor to the Luton Dunstable Guided student finance. Busway; and how much each contributed. [19430] 3W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 4W

Norman Baker: The private sector contributors to the and its predecessors in each year since 1997; and if he Luton Dunstable Guided Busway are as follows: will make a statement. [17019]

Amount Norman Baker: 98 statutory duties relating to transport Contributor Description (£000) have been placed on local authorities since 1997 by primary legislation introduced by the Department for Explore Developers of Napier Park/Stirling Place 3,000 Investments Transport (created in 2002) and its predecessors. A list ASDA For land at ASDA store in Dunstable. 230 of these duties has been placed in the Libraries of the Land owned by McLagan Investments House. An answer which also included secondary legislation and leased to ASDA could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Laing Homes For retaining wall to rear of Chiltern 90 Driving Tests: Birmingham Park housing development McCann For pedestrian/cycle link between housing 40 Homes development off Leicester Road and Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Chaul End Lane Transport how many driving tests were conducted at Lionsgate For pedestrian link between housing 20 (a) Wednesbury, (b) Wolverhampton and (c) Properties development on Dukeminster estate in Kingstanding test centre in (i) each of the last three Dunstable and White Lion retail park years and (ii) the most recent period for which figures Bellway From Station Road housing development 20 are available; and what proportion of candidates (A) Homes in Dunstable passed and (B) failed tests taken at those centres. Total — 3,400 [19176]

Departmental Legislation Mike Penning: The number of driving tests conducted at (a) Wednesbury, (b) Wolverhampton and (c) Kingstanding test centre in (i) each of the last three full Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for financial years and (ii) for April to September 2010; Transport how many statutory duties were placed on along with the number of tests (A) passed and (B) failed local authorities by legislation introduced by his Department at those centres can be found in the following tables.

Car Motorcycle (single test) Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail

2007-08 Birmingham (Kingstanding) 10,219 40.7 59.3 329 70.2 29.8 Wednesbury 9,010 32.8 67.2——— Wolverhampton 11,458 46.5 53.5 721 67.8 32.2

2008-09 Birmingham (Kingstanding) 11,692 40.2 59.8 415 68.4 31.6 Wednesbury 10,217 34.9 65.1——— Wolverhampton 10,717 48.0 52.0 1,037 72.0 28.0

Car Motorcycle (single test) Motorcycle (module 1) Motorcycle (module 2) Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail

2009-10 Birmingham 10,859 39.2 60.8 ————————— (Kingstanding) Wednesbury 8,102 37.4 62.6 ————————— Wolverhampton 6,992 47.9 52.1 80 77.5 22.5 —————— closed 30 March 2010 Wolverhampton 3,776 47.5 52.5 — — — 282 57.1 42.9 210 80.5 19.5 MPTC opened 25 October 2009

Car Motorcycle (module 1) Motorcycle (module 2) Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail Total % pass % fail

1 April 2010 to 30 September 2010 Birmingham 5,357 38.1 61.9 — ————— (Kingstanding) Wednesbury 5,302 37.2 62.8 — ————— Wolverhampton 4,897 49.9 50.1 723 57.8 42.2 489 70.6 29.4 MPTC opened 25 October 2009 5W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 6W

High Speed Trains Railways

Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many applications his Department has Transport what assessment his Department has made received to its Exceptional Hardship Scheme in respect of the benefits of new high speed rail lines for of the proposed High Speed Two rail link; and if he communities beyond the reach of each proposed route. will make a statement. [19279] [18925]

Mr Philip Hammond: As of 21 October 2010, the Mr Philip Hammond: The benefits arising from, firstly, HS2 Exceptional Hardship Scheme had received 73 through-services running off a London to West Midlands applications. line onto the West Coast Main Line, and, secondly, of released capacity for destinations around and beyond M4: Bus Lanes the line are included in the detailed business case work undertaken by HS2 Ltd. in its report published in March 2010. This work is available at: Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what modelling studies his Department www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/hs2ltd undertook when developing its proposals to suspend A wider high speed rail network would have the potential the M4 bus lane; and what assessment he has made of to offer still more significant benefits of this nature. (a) the average reduction in journey time for private motor vehicles and (b) the effect on journey time for Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for bus lane users consequent on the suspension of the Transport what recent estimate his Department has lane. [16735] made of the (a) carbon dioxide emissions consequent on the construction of the London to Birmingham Mike Penning: The performance of the M4 London High Speed 2 rail line and (b) contribution of the bound carriageway under current traffic flows has been proposed High Speed 2 rail line to the Government’s modelled by the Highways Agency using specialist carbon reduction targets. [16900] (Paramics) computer software. Early analysis shows: Mr Philip Hammond: High speed rail has an important (a) an average reduction in journey times for cars of 7% during role to play in the creation of a low carbon economy the morning peak, with slightly greater savings during the evening and in contributing to the meeting of our carbon reduction peak; targets. (b) no significant effect on journey time for current bus lane Estimates of the carbon dioxide emissions arising users. from the construction (i.e. embedded carbon) of HS2 Traffic flows will be monitored during the experimental are set out in HS2 Ltd’s December 2009 report and order period to validate these predictions. supporting documents. Total embedded carbon emissions are estimated at 1.2MtCO2, within a range of +0.29MtCO2 Merchant Shipping to +2.12MtCO2. This currently amounts to less than 1% of a single year’s emissions from transport. Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport HS2 Ltd has estimated that the overall carbon impact when he expects to conclude his review of the Merchant of a new London-West Midlands high speed line would Shipping (Ship-to-Ship Transfers) Regulations 2010; be broadly neutral. These impacts should be considered and if he will make a statement. [19278] alongside the new line’s economic benefits and, in particular, its capacity to cater for additional demand for inter-urban transport caused by long-term economic growth and to Mike Penning: The closing date for the receipt of improve journey times between key economic centres. responses to the review was 30 September. I am now Looked at in the round, I do not believe that any other considering the representations which have been made option can offer the same balance of environmental to me. and economic benefits as high speed rail. I shall announce the outcome of the review to the House at the earliest opportunity. Railways: Fares Railway Stations: North East Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will assess the potential effects of Transport whether Network Rail plans to open new raising the existing cap on annual increases for train train stations in the North East region. [18664] fares on the number of people commuting by train between Brighton and Hove and London. [18901] Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport is not aware of any plans for Network Rail to open new train Mrs Villiers: We have announced that the fares policy stations in the North East region. We understand that from 2 January 2011 will be RPI+1%, then RPI+3% Tees Valley Regeneration proposes to build new stations applied for the following three years. Although passenger at Durham Tees Valley airport, Wilton, and James growth slowed during the economic downturn, the Cook hospital, subject to a suitable funding source resumption of economic growth has seen passenger being identified. numbers increasing and we expect this trend to continue. 7W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 8W

Railways: Finance a major source of this pollutant and meeting the EU limits for NO2 in the required timescales around the Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport airport will be challenging, though concentrations of what proportion of the costs of High Speed 2 he this pollutant are higher in Central London. expects to be met from European Union funds. [18587] The Government are committed to working towards EU air quality limits and like most other member states Mr Philip Hammond: In considering their approach plans to use the provisions in the Air Quality Directive to the funding of a new high speed network, one of the which permit until 2015 to meet the limits. DEFRA is Government’s objectives will be to ensure that third working closely with the Department for Transport, the party funding contributions are maximised. This may airport operator (BAA), the Mayor of London, and include contributions from European Union funding local authorities to develop and implement measures to streams, in particular the Trans-European Networks help meet NO2 limits as soon as possible. programme, under which the Government expects funding for high speed rail projects to be a priority. However, it Animal Housing: Animal Welfare is unlikely that the level of European Union funding available will be sufficient to cover more than a small Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for proportion of the overall costs of any new high speed Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent line. assessment her Department has made of the effect on small sanctuaries of the definition of a zoo set out in Thameslink the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. [18666]

Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Richard Benyon: The Act defines a zoo as an Transport if he will estimate the number of (a) establishment where wild animals are kept for exhibition additional peak-time passengers to be transported and to the public and which is open for seven or more days (b) passenger hours to be saved as a result of the in a year. It covers a wide range of animal collections, completion of the Thameslink programme. [17931] from large traditional zoos to butterfly gardens, and the Department’s assessment is that sanctuaries may fall Mrs Villiers: The appraisal of the Thameslink within the definition. The Act provides that where small Programme forecasts that by 2026 there will be an numbers of animals are kept, or where the collection additional 30,000 passengers carried on Thameslink has only a small number of different species, dispensations services in each three-hour peak period. This equates to can be made which reduce the inspection requirements an overall saving of 18,500 passenger hours over each for those establishments. In some cases, collections can three-hour peak period. be exempted from the provisions of the Act entirely. West Coast Main Line Local authorities have responsibility for implementing the Act, including for assessing collections and the application of the Act to them. Mr Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what information his Department holds on Departmental Pay projected passenger numbers on the West Coast Main Line until 2020. [16825] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what allowances Mrs Villiers: The Department for Transport does not and payments in addition to salary were available to hold projected passenger numbers for the West Coast officials in her Department and its non-departmental Main Line to 2020. public bodies in each year since 1997; and what the The ‘High Speed Two Baseline Forecasting Report’ monetary value was of payments and allowances of projects an increase in passenger demand on the West each type in each such year. [18756] Coast franchise from 7.7 million passenger miles in 2008 to 12.6 million passenger miles in 2021, an increase Richard Benyon: The information requested is not of 64%. held centrally and can be provided only at disproportionate The report is available at: cost. http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/hs2ltd/ Departmental Sick Leave appraisalmaterial/pdf/baselinereport.pdf Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for how many ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS days on average her Department’s staff in each pay grade were absent from work as a result of ill health in Air Pollution: Heathrow Airport 2009-10. [18571]

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Richard Benyon: The following table shows the average Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps her number of working days lost through sickness by grade Department is taking to meet EU air quality targets at equivalent in DEFRA and its Agencies in 2009-10 Heathrow and in the surrounding area. [18333] Grade AWDL

Richard Benyon: EU air quality limits for all air AA 13.3 pollutants except nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are met at AO 11.5 Heathrow and the surrounding area. Road transport is 9W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 10W

Bankruptcies and liquidations in agriculture, hunting and forestry, UK Grade AWDL 2008 2009 EO 7.6 Trading-related bankruptcies of 147 198 HEO 5.3 individuals SEO 3.7 Company liquidations (both 65 73 Grade 7 4.3 compulsory and creditors’ Grade 6 5.1 voluntary) SCS 1.5 Note: Data are not available on a consistent basis before 2008 because of All grades 7.8 changes to the classification system. Information for England and Wales is not published separately. Equivalent data for Scotland are Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, only available for company liquidations (there were three in each of 2008 and 2009). Equivalent data for Northern Ireland are not Food and Rural Affairs how many officials in her available. More information can be found at: Department have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five http://www.insolvency.gov.uk/otherinformation/statistics/insolv.htm to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 Source: to 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to Insolvency Service 100 days, (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) Farmers: Income more than 200 days, (l) more than three months, (m) more than six months and (n) one year on paid sick Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, leave (i) consecutively and (ii) in total in each year since Food and Rural Affairs what recent estimate her 1997. [18759] Department has made of the level and proportion of income for farmers that is expected to come from (a) Richard Benyon: The information requested could be single farm payments, (b) agri-environment schemes provided only by incurring disproportionate costs. and (c) diversified activity in each of the next five years. [18395] Diversified Farm Businesses Mr Paice: The Department does not make forecasts Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for for future years of the contributions to Farm Business Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what Income arising from single farm payments, agri-environment information her Department holds on the number of schemes and diversified activity. 2008-09 is the most its staff who have operated diversified farm businesses. recent year for which data on farm business income by [18939] ‘cost centre’, including from single farm payment, agri- environment schemes and diversified activity, are available. Richard Benyon: DEFRA does not hold a central This is shown in the following table for all farm types. register of this information and it is not certain whether More detailed figures by farm type can be found in this information exists at local level. Gathering local Farm Accounts in England (Table 5) available at: management information could be done only at a http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/foodfarm/ disproportionate cost to the Department. farmmanage/farmaccounts/2009/ Table 1: Average farm business income by ‘cost centre’ (£ per farm), Equality England 2008-09, all farm types Farm business income (£/farm)

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Agriculture 17,700 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she Agri-environment and other 4,900 has to publish equality impact assessments undertaken payments by her Department as part of the comprehensive spending Diversification out of 5,300 review; and if she will make a statement. [18195] agriculture Single Payment Schemes 23,000 Richard Benyon: DEFRA is taking equality into account Total (Farm Business Income) 150,900 in its work in response to the spending review. Equality 1 Income from the ‘cost centres’ may not sum to the total due to impact assessments will be published in the normal rounding. course of business alongside any decisions on specific Source: Farm Business Survey policies taken subsequently. This is in line with the Government’s intention that fairness will be a key feature Figures of total farm business income by farm type of our approach to meeting the fiscal challenges that we for 2009-10 will be published on 28 October 2010. This face as a nation. will be further broken down by ‘cost centre’ to provide the breakdown by single farm payment, agri-environment schemes and diversified activity when published in Farm Farmers: Bankruptcy Accounts in England on 16 December 2010. Both publications will be available at: Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/foodfarm/ Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate farmmanage/fbs/ she has made of the number of farmers who applied for bankruptcy in each of the last five years. [18393] Food: Labelling

Mr Paice: Information on bankruptcies of individuals Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for and company liquidations in England and Wales is Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) if she will reported for agriculture, hunting and forestry as a whole. take steps to promote the introduction of a country of 11W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 12W origin labelling regime for meat and fish products to Staff numbers 2009-10 provide that a single country of origin may be cited only Average number of whole-time if the animal was born, reared and slaughtered in one equivalent persons employed during the year country; [18852] (2) what steps she is taking to introduce mandatory Permanent staff 2,413 country of origin labelling for (a) all fresh meat Temporary and contract staff 223 products and (b) the meat ingredient in processed meat Total staff numbers 2,636 and fish products; and if she will make a statement. Staff costs 2009-10 [18853] £

Mr Paice: Discussions are continuing on an EU food Permanent staff salaries 93,200,000 information regulation that includes new rules on origin Agency, temporary staff and inward 3,260,000 labelling. There are calls to extend mandatory origin secondees labelling and the UK is playing an active role in the Total staff costs 96,460,000 debate so as to ensure consumers are provided with accurate and meaningful information. We are also discussing with the food industry ways in which they can voluntarily Public Bodies: Reform provide more and clearer origin information to assist consumers. Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Food and Rural Affairs (1) what estimate she has made Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent of the potential saving to the public purse of the discussions her Department has had with supermarkets reconstitution of the Darwin Advisory Committee as a and food companies on food labelling policy. [18938] committee of experts in each of the next five years; [18353] Mr Paice: The Secretary of State and I regularly meet (2) what estimate she has made of the potential major food retailers and trade associations representing saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Commons all sectors of the food industry supply chain to discuss a Commissioners in each of the next five years; [18354] range of issues including food labelling. In line with (3) what estimate she has made of the potential DEFRA’s Structural Reform Plan, we are in discussions saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Committee with key bodies in the food chain about ways in which on Agricultural Valuation in each of the next five years; food businesses can provide more and clearer information [18355] on food origin, particularly for meat and dairy products. (4) what estimate she has made of the potential Human Rights saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Commission for Rural Communities in each of the next Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, five years; [18356] Food and Rural Affairs what estimate she made of the (5) what estimate she has made of the potential cost to her Department and its non-departmental public saving to the public purse of the reconstitution of the bodies of compliance with (a) domestic, (b) European Air Quality Expert Group as a committee of experts in and (c) other international human rights requirements each of the next five years; [18357] in each year since 1997; and if she will make a statement. (6) what estimate she has made of the potential [18754] saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Animal Health and Welfare Strategy England Implementation Richard Benyon: The Department for Environment, Group in each of the next five years; [18358] Food and Rural Affairs does not collate information on the costs of compliance with human rights requirements. (7) what estimate she has made of the potential The Department takes account of the domestic and saving to the public purse of the abolition of the international human rights framework in developing all Agricultural Wages Committee in each of the next five its policies and practices, as it does other relevant legal years; [18359] obligations. An accurate estimate of the total cost of (8) what estimate she has made of the potential compliance with human rights obligations could not be saving to the public purse of the abolition of the made without incurring disproportionate cost. Agricultural Wages Board for England and Wales in each of the next five years; [18360] Natural England: Manpower (9) what estimate she has made of the potential saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Martin Vickers: To ask the Secretary of State for Agricultural Dwelling House Advisory Committees in Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many each of the next five years; [18361] people were employed by Natural England in 2009-10; and at what cost to the public purse. [19188] (10) what estimate she has made of the potential saving to the public purse of the reconstruction of the Richard Benyon: The following information on staff Advisory Committee on Pesticides as a committee of numbers and costs in 2009-10 has been extracted from experts; [18362] Natural England’s 2009-10 Annual Report and Accounts, (11) what estimate she has made of the potential which are available at: saving to the public purse of the reconstitution of the http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/about_us/annualreports/ Advisory Committee on Packaging as a committee of default.aspx experts in each of the next five years; [18363] 13W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 14W

(12) what estimate she has made of the potential bodies are to be reconstituted as expert committees we saving to the public purse of the abolition of the Advisory do not envisage significant financial savings to be generated. Committee on Organic Standards in each of the next The 2011-12 budgets for the new committees have five years; [18364] not been agreed and will be fixed in the light of the (13) what estimate she has made of the potential Government’s spending review. saving to the public purse of the reconstitution of the Advisory Committee on Hazardous Substances as a Saving to public purse over each committee of experts in each of the next five years; Body of the next five years [18365] Advisory Committee on Negligible—to be reconstituted (14) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Hazardous Substances as a committee of experts to the public purse arising from the abolition of Food Advisory Committee on c£40,000 per year from Britain in the next five financial years; [18374] Organic Standards (15) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Advisory Committee on Negligible—to be reconstituted Packaging as a committee of experts to the public purse arising from the abolition of the Advisory Committee on Negligible—to be reconstituted Inland Waterways Advisory Council in the next five Pesticides as a committee of experts [18375] financial years; Agricultural Dwelling House c£13,000 per year (16) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Advisory Committees to the public purse arising from the reconstitution of Agricultural Wages Board for Negligible—changes to include the National Standing Committee on Farm Animal England and Wales agricultural workers within the Genetic Resources as a committee of experts in the scope of national minimum wage legislation expected to be [18376] next five financial years; cost neutral (17) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Agricultural Wages Committee c£10,000 per year to the public purse arising from the reconstitution of Air Quality Expert Group Negligible—to be reconstituted the Pesticide Residues Committee as a committee of as a committee of experts experts in the next five financial years; [18377] Animal Health and Welfare Not applicable—body already (18) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Strategy England dissolved to the public purse arising from the abolition of the Implementation Group Commission for Rural c£4.5 million of savings per year Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution in the Communities from 2011-12 but final figure to next five financial years; [18378] be determined through the (19) what estimate she has made of the likely savings spending review to the public purse arising from the abolition of the Committee on Agricultural Negligible—Committee has not Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee in Valuation sat for over 10 years the next five financial years; [18379] Commons Commissioners Negligible—work of the Commons Commissioners has (20) what estimate she has made of the likely savings concluded to the public purse arising from the reconstitution of Darwin Advisory Committee Negligible—to be reconstituted the Veterinary Residues Committee as a committee of as a committee of experts experts in the next five financial years; [18380] Expert Panel on Air Quality Not applicable—body already (21) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Standards dissolved to the public purse arising from the reconstitution of Farm Animal Welfare Council Negligible—to be reconstituted the Zoos Forum as a committee of experts in the next as a committee of experts Food from Britain Not applicable—body already five financial years; [18381] dissolved (22) what estimate she has made of the potential Inland Waterways Advisory c£200,000 per year savings to the public purse of the reconstitution of the Council Farm Animal Welfare Council as a committee of National Standing Committee Negligible—to be reconstituted experts in the next five financial years; [18389] on Farm Animal Genetic as a committee of experts (23) what estimate she has made of the likely savings Resources to the public purse of the abolition of the Expert Panel Pesticide Residues Committee Negligible—to be reconstituted as a committee of experts on Air Quality Standards in the next five financial Royal Commission on c£300,000 per year years. [18390] Environmental Pollution Spongiform Encephalopathy Negligible—functions to be Richard Benyon: Estimates we have made of savings Advisory Committee transferred to Department of to the public purse from changes to DEFRA’s arm’s Health length bodies over each of the next five years are given Veterinary Residues Committee Negligible—to be reconstituted in the following table. as a committee of experts The timescale for implementing the decisions on arm’s length bodies announced by the Minister for the Cabinet Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Office and Paymaster General, the right hon. Member Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the for Horsham (Mr Maude) on 14 October 2010, Official statement of 14 October 2010, Official Report, columns Report, columns 505-06, will vary for each body and 505-06, on public bodies reform, what estimate she has depend on legislative or administrative processes. made of the number of employees to be (a) redeployed The proposed changes to DEFRA’s arm’s length or relocated and (b) released from their contracts as a bodies will contribute modest savings. The main benefits result of the abolition or reconstitution of each public of the arm’s length bodies reform proposals are to body within her Department’s area of responsibility so increase their transparency and accountability. Where designated in the statement. [18341] 15W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 16W

Richard Benyon: No estimate has yet been made of Alistair Burt: Our objectives in Helmand province are the number of employees (a) to be redeployed or closely coordinated with coalition partners and the relocated, or (b) to be released from their contracts as a Government of Afghanistan and are set out in the result of the abolition or reconstitution of each affected jointly-agreed Helmand Plan. Progress will continue to public body within DEFRA’s area of responsibility. be monitored on a quarterly basis. We are currently DEFRA will work closely with those delivery bodies working with our Afghan partners to develop a joint affected by the announcement on 14 October 2010, with Helmand Inteqal (Transition) Plan for the period 2011-14. other Departments, devolved Authorities and other bodies This plan will be an agreed strategy for taking Helmand to determine which aspects of work will need to continue, to the point at which full responsibility for security will and to identify those employees in scope to be either transfer to the Afghans. The plan will include milestones redeployed and/or relocated, or to be released from and mechanisms for measuring its effectiveness. There their contracts. is clear evidence of progress already made in Helmand over recent months, particularly in central Helmand, Rural Communities: Comprehensive Spending Review for example in Lashkar Gah, Nawa and Garmsir. Azerbaijan: Foreign Relations Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps her Department is taking to ensure that the nature of rural Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for communities is reflected in the outcome of the Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his most recent assessment is of the state of relations between comprehensive spending review. [18937] the UK and Azerbaijan. [18507] Richard Benyon: It is the responsibility of every Government Department to ensure that the needs and Mr Lidington: Relations between the UK and Azerbaijan interests of rural people, businesses and communities are excellent. During my visit to Azerbaijan on 20-21 are addressed fairly in the Spending Review. DEFRA October I had an opportunity to discuss the expanding has supported this by providing each Department with links between our two countries with President Aliyev guidance to assist them in carrying out analysis of and members of his government. British companies are whether rural and urban communities will be affected the largest investors in Azerbaijan, and my visit supported in different ways by spending decisions, and by providing further investment. The UK and Azerbaijan work together Her Majesty’s Treasury with advice to help it identify on a range of issues of mutual interest, including cultural potential adverse rural impacts of these decisions. DEFRA exchanges. officials will continue to assist Departments in As part of our strong relationship, we continue to understanding the likely rural impacts as the Spending remind Azerbaijan that the modern, prosperous future Review is implemented. that it seeks would be supported by further economic and democratic reforms and peace with its neighbours. Water Charges I raised this, and the importance of fair elections in November, during my visit. Mr Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Bahrain: Politics and government Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) if she will assess the feasibility of a national social tariff for water charges; [18508] Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he (a) (2) what discussions she has had with Ofwat on a plans to make and (b) has made representations to the national social tariff for water charges. [18510] Kingdom of Bahrain on the forthcoming elections to the Nuwab Council. [19024] Richard Benyon: In the final report of her independent Review of charging for household water and sewerage Alistair Burt: We welcome the holding of elections in services, Anna Walker made a range of recommendations the Kingdom of Bahrain. We will be closely following on water affordability generally, and more specifically the elections and look forward to working with new in relation to affordability issues in the South West. members of the Nuwab Council. We maintain a regular As recommended by Anna Walker, Ofwat is looking high-level dialogue with the Government of the Kingdom into the specific South West recommendations. I have of Bahrain on a wide variety of issues including their met with Ofwat to discuss its initial findings, and we are political reform programme and elections. awaiting its final advice ahead of public consultation on this and other key issues raised in the Walker Review. British Nationals Abroad: Prisoners

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his most recent FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE estimate is of the number of British citizens being held as (a) prisoners and (b) political prisoners in each Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations country. [18433]

Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Mr Jeremy Browne: The following table gives the and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has latest detainee figures which show a snap shot of British made of the likely effectiveness of the Government’s nationals in detention whom we have assisted, as of 31 strategy in Helmand province to December 2014. March 2010. We do not hold a separate figure for [18598] political prisoners. 17W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 18W

Half-yearly detainee figures as at 31 March 2010 Half-yearly detainee figures as at 31 March 2010 Country FCO post Males Female Total Country FCO post Males Female Total

Afghanistan Kabul 6 0 6 Cyprus Nicosia 11 0 11 Albania Tirana 3 0 3 Czech Republic Prague 1 0 1 Algeria Algiers 1 0 1 Denmark Copenhagen 3 0 3 Angola Luanda 0 0 0 Dominican Santo 12 2 14 Argentina Buenos Aires 9 3 12 Republic Domingo Armenia Yerevan 0 0 0 Ecuador Quito 8 2 10 Australia Sydney 111 3 114 Egypt Alexandria 0 0 0 Brisbane 59 3 62 Cairo 21 3 24 Canberra 0 0 0 Eritrea Asmara 0 0 0 Perth 18 2 20 Estonia Tallinn 2 0 2 Ethiopia Addis Ababa 3 3 6 Melbourne 84 7 91 Fiji Suva 1 0 1 Austria Vienna 3 1 4 Finland Helsinki 1 0 1 Azerbaijan Baku 1 0 1 France Bordeaux 19 0 19 Bahrain Bahrain 2 0 2 Lille 37 0 37 Bangladesh Dhaka 0 0 0 Lyon 6 1 7 Barbados Bridgetown 6 7 13 St Vincent 000 Marseille 13 0 13 and the Paris 55 2 57 Grenadines Gambia Banjul 1 1 2 St Kitts 1 0 1 Georgia Tbilisi 0 0 0 Antigua 5 0 5 Germany Berlin 56 1 57 Grenada 1 5 6 Dusseldorf 46 6 52 Dominica 1 0 1 Munich 14 1 15 Belarus Minsk 0 0 0 Ghana Accra 5 0 5 Belgium Brussels 12 0 12 Greece Athens 13 2 15 Belize Belmopan 0 0 0 Corfu 0 0 0 Bolivia La Paz 1 1 2 Heraklion 1 0 1 Bosnia and Sarajevo 0 0 0 Rhodes 0 0 0 Herzegovina Botswana Gaborone 0 0 0 Thessaloniki 0 0 0 Brazil Brasilia 2 0 2 Zakynthos 0 0 0 Rio de Janeiro 8 4 12 Guatemala Guatemala 202 Sao Paulo 13 10 23 City Guyana Georgetown 3 3 6 Brunei Bandar Seri 000 Begawan Suriname 1 1 2 Bulgaria Sofia 1 0 1 Hungary Budapest 1 0 1 Burma Rangoon 0 0 0 Iceland Reykjavik 0 0 0 Cambodia Phnom Penh 8 0 8 India Chennai 0 0 0 Cameroon Yaoundé 0 0 0 Kolkata 0 0 0 Canada Ottawa 1 0 1 Mumbai 4 0 4 Montreal 3 0 3 New Delhi 8 0 8 Toronto 17 1 18 Goa 2 0 2 Vancouver 12 0 12 Indonesia Jakarta 11 0 11 Chile Santiago 1 0 1 Iran Tehran 1 1 2 China Beijing 2 0 2 Iraq Baghdad 2 0 2 Chongqing 0 0 0 Ireland Dublin 90 11 101 Shanghai 3 0 3 Israel Tel Aviv 1 0 1 Italy Florence 3 0 3 Guangzhou 1 1 2 Milan 9 2 11 Hong Kong 15 4 19 Naples 7 0 7 Colombia Bogota 4 0 4 Venice 3 0 3 Cali 0 0 0 Rome 9 2 11 Cartagena 0 0 0 Jamaica Kingston 41 24 65 Medellin 0 0 0 Japan Tokyo 16 3 19 Congo Kinshasa 1 0 1 Osaka 10 0 10 (Democratic Rep) Jerusalem Jerusalem 0 0 0 Costa Rica San José 3 0 3 Jordan Amman 0 0 0 Croatia Zagreb 1 0 1 Kazakhstan Almaty 0 0 0 Cuba Havana 0 0 0 Kenya Nairobi 2 0 2 19W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 20W

Half-yearly detainee figures as at 31 March 2010 Half-yearly detainee figures as at 31 March 2010 Country FCO post Males Female Total Country FCO post Males Female Total

Korea (North) Pyongyang 0 0 0 South Africa Cape town 6 1 7 Korea (South) Seoul 1 0 1 Pretoria 6 2 8 Kuwait Kuwait city 8 3 11 Spain Alicante 36 2 38 Latvia Riga 1 0 1 Barcelona 22 2 24 Lebanon Beirut 0 1 1 Ibiza 9 0 9 Libya Tripoli 0 0 0 Las palmas 13 0 13 Lithuania Vilnius 0 0 0 Luxembourg Luxembourg 3 0 3 Madrid 70 8 78 Macedonia Skopje 0 0 0 Malaga 144 5 149 Malawi Lilongwe 0 0 0 Palma 18 0 18 Malaysia Kuala 202 Tenerife 16 1 17 Lumpur Malta Valletta 8 1 9 Sri Lanka Colombo 4 0 4 Mauritius Port Louis 0 0 0 Sudan Khartoum 0 0 0 Mexico Mexico city 0 1 1 Sweden Stockholm 22 2 24 Cancun 0 0 0 Switzerland Berne 6 0 6 Moldova Chisinau 0 0 0 Geneva 3 0 3 Mongolia Ulaanbaatar 1 0 1 Syria Damascus 5 1 6 Montenegro Podgorica 1 0 1 Taiwan Taipei 18 0 18 Morocco Rabat 3 0 3 Tajikistan Dushanbe 0 0 0 Marrakech 0 0 0 Tanzania Dar Es 101 Tangier 6 2 8 Salaam Thailand Bangkok 87 1 88 Mozambique Maputo 0 0 0 Chiang Mai 2 0 2 Namibia Windhoek 1 0 1 Nepal Kathmandu 1 0 1 Laos 1 0 1 Netherlands Amsterdam 32 1 33 Trinidad and Port of Spain 7 7 14 New Zealand Wellington 7 0 7 Tobago Nigeria Lagos 0 0 0 Tunisia Tunis 2 1 3 Norway Oslo 30 4 34 Turkey Ankara 3 0 3 Oman Muscat 5 0 5 Bodrum 3 3 6 Pakistan Islamabad 25 0 25 Istanbul 4 5 9 Karachi 2 0 2 Izmir 1 0 1 Panama Panama city 8 2 10 Antalya 3 0 3 Papua New Port Moresby 0 1 1 Guinea Marmaris 2 0 2 Peru Lima 31 3 34 Fethiye 0 0 0 Philippines Manila 19 0 19 Turkmenistan Ashgabat 0 0 0 Poland Warsaw 3 0 3 Uganda Kampala 0 0 0 Portugal Lisbon 13 1 14 Ukraine Kiev 0 0 0 Oporto 1 2 3 United Arab Abu Dhabi 18 1 19 Funchal 6 0 6 Emirates Portimao 2 0 2 Dubai 33 3 36 Qatar Doha 4 0 4 USA Atlanta 61 7 68 Romania Bucharest 4 0 4 Boston 31 2 33 Russia Moscow 0 0 0 Chicago 32 4 36 St Petersburg 0 0 0 Houston 84 4 88 Ekaterinburg 0 0 0 Los Angeles 95 6 101 Rwanda Kigali 0 0 0 New York 87 8 95 St Lucia Castries 4 0 4 Orlando 89 18 107 Saudi Arabia Riyadh 3 0 3 San Francisco 79 8 87 Senegal Dakar 3 0 3 Serbia Belgrade 3 0 3 Washington 32 5 37 Pristina 0 0 0 Uruguay Montevideo 0 0 0 Seychelles Victoria 0 0 0 Uzbekistan Tashkent 1 0 1 Sierra Leone Freetown 1 0 1 Venezuela Caracas 11 3 14 Singapore Singapore 4 0 4 Vietnam Hanoi 1 1 2 Slovakia Bratislava 1 0 1 Yemen Sanaa 1 0 1 Slovenia Ljubljana 2 0 2 Zambia Lusaka 0 0 0 Solomon Honiara 0 0 0 Zimbabwe Harare 0 0 0 Islands Total 219 2,393 256 2,649 21W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 22W

Civil Liberties : Zimbabwe We cannot provide details of payments made in connection with specific schools. This is necessary to Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for avoid disclosures that could identify individual members Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports of staff and their families. he has received on civil rights in Zimbabwe. [18663] Departmental Public Expenditure Mr Bellingham: We regularly receive reports on civil rights in Zimbabwe, from non-governmental organisations Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for working within Zimbabwe and from our embassy in Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions Harare. Recent examples include analyses of Zimbabwe’s he has had with (a) the Chancellor of the Exchequer media and of constraints on freedom of expression and (b) the Secretary of State for International during the constitutional outreach process. Development on reductions to his Department’s We welcome the opening up of space for civil society, expenditure in 2010-11. [16102] which remains a strong force in Zimbabwe, but are concerned that human rights abuses continue, particularly Alistair Burt: My right hon. Friends the Foreign around the rule of law. Repressive legislation and limited Secretary, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the media freedom are outstanding issues which affect all Secretary of State for International Development have Zimbabweans. We continue to call, both bilaterally and discussions in the normal course of business on the with EU member states, for the restoration of internationally work and resources of the Government overseas. accepted civil and political rights standards in Zimbabwe. Diplomatic Immunity Departmental Private Education

Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Nuttall: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much his and Commonwealth Affairs how many foreign (a) Department spent on continuity of education allowance diplomatic staff and (b) members of the household of at (a) Charterhouse School, (b) Dulwich College, (c) such staff his Department had been granted diplomatic Eton College, (d) Harrow School, (e) Marlborough immunity on the latest date for which figures are College, (f) Rugby School, (g) Westminster School, available. [19236] (h) Winchester College, (i) Cheltenham Ladies College, (j) Roedean School, (k) St Paul’s School, (l) Fettes Alistair Burt: The foreign diplomatic community in College and (m) Gordonstoun School in the last 12 months the UK numbers around 25,000, inclusive of dependants. for which figures are available. [11453] Falkland Islands: Oil Alistair Burt: It is a condition of their employment that members of the diplomatic service must be prepared Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for to serve anywhere in the world at any time during their Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions career, sometimes at very short notice. Those with children Ministers in his Department have had with the have a legal obligation as parents to ensure that their government of (a) the Falkland Islands and (b) children receive a full-time education from the age of Argentina on oil exploration in the waters around the five years. Most parents prefer to take their children Falkland Islands. [19023] with them abroad, but in some countries we do not permit staff to take their children either for health or Mr Jeremy Browne: There is a very regular dialogue security reasons. In others, local schools of an acceptable between Ministers and officials and the Falkland Islands standard are not available. It is long-standing practice Government on oil exploration issues. I have discussed that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) oil exploration, along with many other issues, when I helps staff meet their potentially conflicting obligations have met Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly Members. by providing financial support for their children’s education Ministers of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK where staff choose this, or are obliged to do have had no recent direct discussions with Argentina on so given local conditions in the country to which they oil exploration in the waters around the Falkland Islands. are posted. Continuity of education is also an important In 2007, Argentina chose to withdraw from a 1995 Joint factor, particularly at secondary level. Declaration on Hydrocarbons Co-operation in the South The FCO refunds standard term fees up to a ceiling Atlantic. We remain keen to foster a constructive which is reviewed annually.Staff choosing a more expensive relationship with Argentina in the South Atlantic. school must pay the difference in cost themselves. The maximum amount the FCO will pay is determined by Falkland Islands: Sovereignty an independent survey conducted by ECA International, which is used by public and private sector employers Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for whose staff work across the world. Various factors, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has including availability of places (sometimes at short received recent representations from the government of notice) and proximity of other family members, influence Argentina on the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. which schools staff choose for their children. The FCO [19022] would allow staff children to attend the schools listed but would only refund fees up to the ceiling. The ceiling Mr Jeremy Browne: The Government of Argentina figure for a senior boarder for the academic year 2010-11 make regular protests and representations on the sovereignty is £8,236 per term. All but one of the schools named in of the Falkland Islands. The most recent example, the question charge fees above the ceiling, so parents dated 20 October 2010, is an Argentine reply to a using these schools would have to contribute to the fees. United Kingdom reply to an original Argentine protest 23W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 24W note concerning floating scientific data collecting buoys Nagorno Karabakh in Falkland Islands waters. While small details of the United Kingdom’s responses to these representations Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for may change, the main substance does not; the United Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Kingdom has no doubt about its sovereignty over the progress has been made in the OSCE Minsk Group Falkland Islands, and the principle of self determination, discussions on the future of Nagorno-Karabakh. enshrined in the UN charter, underlies this position. [18506] There can be no negotiations on sovereignty unless and until the islanders so wish. Mr Lidington: The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe Minsk Group continues to Henderson Island encourage all parties to commit to a durable, peaceful settlement of the conflict, and to reduce tensions along Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Line of Contact that separates the two sides. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent steps The Minsk Group co-chairs (from France, the US his Department has taken to preserve biodiversity on and Russia) visited Baku, Yerevan, Nagorno-Karabakh Henderson Island. [18856] and conflict-affected parts of Azerbaijan on their recent Field Assessment Mission on 4-13 October. They used Mr Bellingham: The UK Government are aware of the visit to reinforce the need for increased dialogue the challenges the Overseas Territories face in their between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The UK continues responsibility to preserve their biodiversity, and we to support the work of the Minsk Group. work alongside Overseas Territory Governments to provide support and assistance in areas where they need help. Pitcairn Islands On Henderson Island, the UK Government are working closely with the Royal Society for the Protection of Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Birds (RSPB), the Pitcairn Government and others to Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the eradicate rats and on 18 October the RSPB announced Minister for Overseas Territories plans to visit the plans to proceed with a rat eradication programme in Pitcairn Islands in 2010-11. [18854] the summer of 2011. The Overseas Territories Environment Programme has provided £188,000 of funding to RSPB Mr Bellingham: Since 2009 we have improved access since 2007 for work towards the eradication of rats to Pitcairn by providing a regular shipping service with from Henderson and a further £103,000 has been committed the charter of MV Claymore. Despite this, getting to for the implementation phase. In addition to this, I and from Pitcairn remains difficult and time-consuming. recently co-hosted with the RSPB a reception in support It is, therefore, unlikely that I shall be able to visit the of Henderson Island World Heritage Site, providing island in 2010-11. them with a prestigious venue to present to potential donors. Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Iran: Bahai Faith assessment he has made of the state of UK relations with the Pitcairn Islands; and if he will make a Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign statement. [18860] and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment his Department has made of the human rights situation of Mr Bellingham: Following extensive consultation between the UK Government and the people of Pitcairn, a new the Baha’i population in Iran. [18516] governance structure was introduced in April 2009 and a new Constitution in March 2010. The Government of Alistair Burt: We remain concerned for the Baha’i the Pitcairn Islands is now in better shape than before community in Iran. During meetings with the Iranian to respond to the many governance challenges it faces. ambassador, I have made clear my concerns over the reduced rights and continuing harassment of members A Foreign and Commonwealth Office official is based of the Baha’i community, including the imprisonment on the island providing liaison with the Governor’s of the seven leaders of the Baha’i community. We will Office and a sizeable community of “off-islander” continue to remind Iran of the international commitments professionals provide law and order, health and social it has freely signed up to, and urge the Iranian Government welfare services. The Government provides budgetary to cease its harassment of the Baha’i minority, and to aid of around £2 million per year—for the island population respect the rights of all minority groups. which is around 50—to cover 98% of Pitcairn’s budgetary needs. The Wellington-based Governor and Deputy Governor visit at least once a year and, on her visit to Ministers: Pay the island in September 2010, our current Governor discussed with the community ongoing development Mike Gapes: To ask the Secretary of State for work to move Pitcairn towards greater self-sustainability, Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what estimate he including the Government’s investment in a windpower has made of the cost to the public purse of ministerial project to reduce its reliance on diesel. salaries in his Department in 2010-11. [18142] Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Alistair Burt: It is estimated that the Foreign and Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Commonwealth Office will spend £187,514 on ministerial discussions he has had with his international salaries in 2010-11. counterparts on the Pitcairn Islands. [18861] 25W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 26W

Mr Bellingham: Our main international interlocutor with the head of Uganda’s police and the Ugandan in discussions regarding Pitcairn is New Zealand. My Government about the activities of the Kiboko Squad. officials regularly liaise with, and are assisted by, New We have also raised the importance of the police balancing Zealand colleagues over a range of supply and support its responsibility to maintain order with its duty to act issues that affect Pitcairn. These include policing, the as an independent body that respects the freedoms of judiciary, and social welfare. Officials have also been in expression and assembly. close contact with French and French Polynesian colleagues We assess that Uganda has made some progress in over medical evacuation and shipping issues. My right improving the framework for its next elections in 2011, hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and I have not been partly in response to the recommendations of the involved in any of these discussions ourselves. Observation Missions to the 2006 elections. These include Uganda: Human Rights amendments to electoral legislation and update of the voter register. We do however retain concerns about the evenness of the playing field between Government and Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Opposition, and challenges to freedom of expression Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent and assembly. It will be particularly important to the reports he has received on (a) freedom of speech in prospects for free, fair and peaceful elections in 2011 Uganda and (b) confiscation by the Ugandan that Uganda’s Electoral Commission and the Ugandan authorities of copies of The Correct Line, Uganda police force demonstrate their independence and under Museveni, by Dr Olive Kobusingye; and if he competence during the campaign period and in the will make a statement. [18677] organisation of the polls. We are providing a range of assistance to support Mr Bellingham: Freedom of expression is a right democratisation in Uganda, including technical support recognised by the Constitution of Uganda. I am encouraged to the Electoral Commission through a Deepening by some reports of progress in upholding this right, Democracy Programme funded by the Department for including the recent abolition of the crime of sedition International Development. We will also continue to by the Constitutional Court of Uganda, and continuing raise the importance of free, fair and peaceful elections evidence of free and lively debate in Uganda’s media. with the Ugandan authorities and Uganda’s political But I am concerned by reports of restrictions on freedom leaders. I did so myself with President Museveni and of expression, including the impounding by the Uganda Professor Ogenga Latigo, the Leader of the Opposition Revenue Authority at Entebbe Airport of a shipment of in Parliament, when I visited Uganda in July. Dr Kobusingye’s book “The Correct Line, Uganda under Museveni”. UN Convention on the Rights of the Child I understand that the Ugandan Minister of Internal Affairs, in a statement to the Ugandan Parliament on Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for 19 October 2010, said that Dr Kobusingye’s book had Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which programmes been impounded because of irregularities in the shipping and projects he has funded to raise awareness of the documentation. This contradicted an earlier statement UN Convention on the Rights of the Child overseas in to Parliament by the Minister, in which he suggested the last five years. [18585] that the shipment had been impounded for security reasons. I understand that part of the shipment has now Mr Jeremy Browne: There are a number of funding been released and that Uganda’s Daily Monitor newspaper sources within the Foreign and Commonwealth Office is serialising Dr Kobusingye’s book for a wide readership. which support the promotion of human rights around We will continue to raise the importance of upholding the world. This includes the Strategic Programme Fund fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, for Human Rights and Democracy, which has as one of with the Government of Uganda. This will be particularly its key objectives the supporting of programmes and important as Uganda prepares for presidential and projects which promote the rights of the child. Many of parliamentary elections in 2011. our missions overseas use their Bilateral Programme Budget funds to promote the rights of children within Uganda: Politics and Government their host countries. However, we do not centrally record specific child related projects that raise awareness of the Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for convention as distinct from other objectives. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he The UK also currently provides over £2.5 million in has received on the treatment by Ugandan police of Dr voluntary contributions to the UN Office of the High Kizza Besigye on 9 June 2010; what assessment he has Commissioner for Human Rights. Some of this funding made of (a) the extent of implementation in Uganda is used by the Office to support their work in monitoring of the 2006 recommendations of the EU and the and implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Commonwealth on the Electoral Commission and (b) the Child. the prospect of free, fair and peaceful elections in Uganda; and if he will make a statement. [18675]

Mr Bellingham: On 9 June 2010, an opposition rally ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE in Kampala led by Dr Kizza Besigye was broken up by the police. Members of a vigilante group known as the Departmental Contracts ‘Kiboko Squad’ assaulted Dr Besigye and other demonstrators. Members of the Kiboko Squad were Andrew Bingham: To ask the Secretary of State for arrested following the assault but were subsequently Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has released without charge. We have raised concerns directly made of the effectiveness of quality management statements 27W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 28W in assisting with contract decisions by his Department; each year since the Department’s inception; and what and what assessment he has made of the effects on the the monetary value was of the largest 20 payments prospects for small businesses of winning contracts of made in each such year. [18792] such statements. [19017] Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) was created in October 2008. Climate Change assesses quality statements at pre- An element of DECC’s overall pay award is allocated to qualification and tender stages and uses these to evaluate in year and end of year non consolidated performance both the ability of the company to deliver the project awards. These payments are used to drive high performance and any value for money implications. A wide range of and are paid to members of staff who demonstrate suppliers including small businesses have proved themselves exceptional performance, for example by exceeding targets successful in satisfying the requirements of quality set or meeting challenging objectives. management statements. The following table shows the number of in year Departmental Pay performance awards (figures based on the financial year) and end of year performance awards (based on Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy due date of 1 April (SCS) and 1 August (non SCS) each and Climate Change how many officials in his year) that were awarded and the value of the largest 20 Department received bonuses and other payments in payments in each year.

Number of recipients receiving an in year or end of year award 20 highest payments

20081 172 Awards ranged from 192 to £2,500 Highest 20 values were: £2,500 x 1, £1,000 x 2, £950 x 2, £750 x 11, £700 x 4 2009 672 (comprising of 362 end of year awards) for Awards ranged from £100 to £13,500 Highest 20 values were awarded as non performance during 2008-09 consolidated end of year performance awards and were: £13,500 x l, £12,500 x 4, £12,000 x 1, £10,500 x 1, £10,000 x 12, £9,000 x 1 20102 141 (comprising of 49 end of year awards) for Awards ranged from £100 to £12,500 Highest 20 values were awarded as non performance during 2009-10 consolidated end of year performance awards and were: £12,500 x 1, £10,000 x 5, £7,500 x 13, £7,000 x l 1 Figures only include in year awards as no end of year awards were payable by DECC for the 2008 period. 2 Figures only include in year and SCS end of year awards as the end of year awards for non SCS staff have not yet been paid.

Departmental Recruitment in the Warwick and Leamington constituency. This represents around 14% of all households. Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many senior civil service staff Nuclear Power Stations: Insolvency his Department has recruited in each year since its inception; at what cost to the public purse such Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy recruitment was undertaken in each such year; and if and Climate Change what his policy is on the he will make a statement. [17389] Government’s position as operator of last resort in the event of the insolvency of a private owner of a nuclear Gregory Barker: DECC was created in October 2008. installation. [18597] In 2009 we held five senior civil service open competitions at a total cost of £220,212.45. Charles Hendry: Safety and security of nuclear In 2010 we held one open competition at a cost of installations are of paramount importance and would £25,675.70. be key considerations for Government in the event that a nuclear operator became insolvent. The Government Open competitions were held to ensure that DECC would of course consider each case in its specific recruited the best available candidates to take forward circumstances and context. its new remit.

Fuel Poverty: West Midlands NORTHERN IRELAND Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent estimate he has made Economic Situation: Northern Ireland of the number and proportion of households in Warwick and Leamington constituency in fuel poverty Mr Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for where all members of the household are over the age of Northern Ireland (1) what estimate he has made of the 65 years. [19295] likely growth in the private sector of the Northern Ireland economy in each of the next three years; [19346] Gregory Barker: Sub-regional fuel poverty figures are (2) what estimate he has made of the likely effects on not available split by age. the number of jobs in the (a) private and (b) public The most recently available sub-regional split of fuel sector in Northern Ireland of the spending reductions poverty relates to 2006, and shows that there were announced in the Comprehensive Spending Review. around 6,600 fuel poor households across all age groups [19347] 29W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 30W

Mr Paterson: It is now for Northern Ireland Ministers The total working days lost to sickness absence and to set their budgets following the Spending Review the estimated cost to the Department in each successive announcement. The impact of the Spending Review on 12-month period are as follows: both the public and private sectors will depend on their decisions. Average gross We are working closely with HM Treasury and Northern Period Working days lost cost (£) Ireland Executive Ministers on our shared objective of October 2008 to 117 24,060 rebalancing the Northern Ireland economy on the basis October 2009 of sustained growth in the private sector, and the Treasury November 2009 to 160.5 32,958 will be publishing a consultation paper about this later October 2010 in the year. Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for Women and Intelligence Services: Northern Ireland Equalities how many officials in the Government Equalities Office have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five to Ms Ritchie: To ask the Secretary of State for 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to Northern Ireland pursuant to the answer of 11 October 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to 2010, Official Report, column 516W, on the intelligence 100 days, (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) services, on what date each meeting at ministerial level more than 200 days, (l) more than three months, (m) was held in the last 12 months; and who attended each more than six months and (n) one year on paid sick such meeting. [18080] leave (i) consecutively and (ii) in total in each year since its inception. [18790] Mr Paterson: The interface between my national security responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Lynne Featherstone: The Government Equalities Office Minister of Justice is facilitated by regular meetings (GEO) was created in October 2007 and sickness absence between us. Representatives of the PSNI also attend. data for GEO as a separate Department are available They have taken place on 19 May, 18 June, 27 July and from October 2008. 20 September 2010. They are supplemented by ad hoc The data requested in each successive 12-month period consultation and information exchange as and when are as follows: required. October 2008 to November 2009 to Number of days October 2009 October 2010 WOMEN AND EQUALITIES 0-5 29 51 6-10 3 0 Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings 11-15 1 1 15-20 0 0 Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for Women and 21-25 0 1 Equalities how many officials in the Government Equalities 26-50 0 1 Office have been (a) subject to disciplinary action, (b) 51-75 1 0 removed from post, (c) transferred to another position 76-100 0 0 and (d) dismissed for matters relating to their (i) disciplinary 101-150 0 2 record and (ii) performance in each year since 1997. 151-200 0 0 [18788] 201+ 0 0

Lynne Featherstone: The Government Equalities Office Human Rights was established in October 2007. Since then, three officials have been subject to disciplinary Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for Women and action (one in 2008; two in 2009). Equalities what estimate she has made of the cost to the No officials have been removed from post, transferred Government Equalities Office of compliance with (a) to another Department or dismissed for matters relating domestic, (b) European and (c) other international to their disciplinary record or performance. human rights requirements in each year since its inception; No disciplinary cases have occurred in 2010. and if she will make a statement. [18785]

Departmental Sick Leave Lynne Featherstone: No separate estimates are made of Government Equalities Office costs in these areas. Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities how many days the Government Equalities Office has lost to staff sickness in each year since its inception; and what estimate she made of the cost to JUSTICE her Department of sickness absence in each such year. [18789] Capita

Lynne Featherstone: The Government Equalities Office Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (GEO) was created in October 2007 and sickness absence how many contracts his Department has with Capita; data for GEO as a separate Department are available and how much it has paid to Capita under such from October 2008. contracts in 2010-11 to date. [18630] 31W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 32W

Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice has seven formal Mr Blunt: According to data held by the Ministry of contracts with Capita Group plc. Justice, there were 72,813 defendants found guilty at all The total spend with Capita Group plc by the Ministry courts for offences of “stealing from shops and stalls” of Justice for the first quarter (April, May, June) 2010-11 (shoplifting) under the Theft Act 1968 Sec 1, in England was £1,527,592. and Wales in 2009. These data, published on 21 October 2010, are the latest available. Comprehensive Spending Review The figure given relates to persons for whom these offences were the principal offence for which they were Robert Flello: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice dealt with. When a defendant has been found guilty of (1) what assessment he has made of the likely effects on two or more offences, the offence selected is the one for HM Land Registry of the proposed reduction in his which the heaviest penalty is imposed. Where the same Department’s budget announced in the comprehensive disposal is imposed for two or more offences, the offence spending review; [19427] selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum (2) what assessment he has made of the likely effects penalty is the most severe. on the operations of the Office of the Public Guardian Courts: Devon and Cornwall of the proposed reduction in his Department’s budget announced in the Comprehensive Spending Review. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice [19428] what recent assessment he has made of the potential effects on (a) caseload, (b) processing times and (c) Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice is developing the number of adjournments in courts in Devon and firm plans to deliver its priorities within the funding Cornwall of HM Courts Service expenditure baselines announced in the spending review. We will be reductions of (i) 10, (ii) 20 and (iii) 30 per cent. [18829] consulting widely on proposals for change but as yet no internal budgets have been set. Mr Djanogly: The outcome of the spending review Convention on the Rights of a Child for the Ministry of Justice was announced on 20 October. No assessment has yet been made of the effects of spending reductions on courts in Devon and Cornwall. Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for The Government are committed to ensuring that there Justice whether the Commission on a British Bill of is an efficient and effective justice system. Rights will consider the extent to which children’s rights under the Convention on the Rights of a Child Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings are protected in UK law. [18584] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Government will make a how many officials in his Department have been (a) statement to Parliament on the scope of the Commission subject to disciplinary action, (b) removed from post, on a Bill of Rights in due course. (c) transferred to another position and (d) dismissed for matters relating to their (i) disciplinary record and Convictions: Shoplifting (ii) performance in each year since its inception. [18703]

Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Kenneth Clarke: The following table provides the Justice how many convictions there were for offences numbers of MoJ and NOMS staff that have been relating to shop theft in the latest period for which dismissed from March 2007 to March 2010 and the figures are available. [19141] reason for dismissal.

Dismissals March 2007 to March 2008 April 2008 to March 2009 April 2009 to March 2010

Capability 68 94 93 Conduct 278 182 223 Made redundant 3 32 1 Other dismissals 164 239 236

The following figures provide the numbers of NOMS in each pay grade were absent from work as a result of staff that have been regraded, as a result of disciplinary ill health in 2009-10. [18575] actions. Please note that NOMS are only able to provide this data from January 2009. Mr Kenneth Clarke: The figures requested are given From 1 January 2009 to 31 March 2009 a total of four in the following table: employees were downgraded/regraded of 359 employees who underwent conduct and disciplinary proceeding. Grade Average sickness (days)1 From 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010 a total of 16 employees were downgraded/regraded of 891 employees who underwent AA 12.3 conduct and disciplinary proceeding. AO 10.9 EO 8.2 Departmental Sick Leave HEO 6.6 SEO 6.0 Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice G7 4.1 for how many days on average his Department’s staff G6 3.9 33W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 34W

with (a) domestic, (b) European and (c) other Grade Average sickness (days)1 international human rights requirements in each year SCS 2.9 since its inception; and if he will make a statement. Unknown 8.0 [18700] All grades 10.0 1 Average working days lost to sickness per staff year. For year ending 31 March Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice does not 2010. collate information on the costs of compliance with Reducing sickness absence is a key priority for managers human rights requirements. The Ministry takes account across MoJ and its agencies. Locally owned targets are of the domestic and international human rights framework in place for all business areas. These are supported by in developing all its policies and practices, as it does action plans with activities designed to tackle sickness other relevant legal obligations; an accurate estimate of absence through early intervention, continuing effective the total cost of compliance with human rights obligations management of each case and encouraging staff to could not be made without incurring disproportionate return to work as soon as they are able. cost. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Prisoners how many days his Department has lost to staff Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for sickness in each year since its inception; and what Justice how many prisoners refused to comply with estimate he made of the cost to his Department of direction for a relocation to another prison in the latest sickness absence in each such year. [18704] period for which figures are available; and for what reason in each case. [19485] Mr Kenneth Clarke: The days lost in the Ministry of Justice due to staff sickness in each year since its Mr Blunt: Data are not held centrally on the numbers inception, were: of prisoners who have refused to comply with a move to another prison, nor for what reason they have refused April to March each year Total days lost to comply. 2007-08 794,078 This information could be obtained only at 2008-09 731,042 disproportionate cost as it would involve a manual 2009-10 749,723 trawl through the individual records of every prisoner to ascertain if they were compliant during each move to The estimated cost, to the Ministry of Justice, for the another prison. days lost in each year since it inception is: Prisoners’ Release April to March each year Estimated cost (£ million) Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 2007-08 87.1 how many and what proportion of prisoners were 2008-09 84.4 released (a) before the scheduled end of sentence, (b) after the scheduled end of sentence and (c) on the day 2009-10 88.9 scheduled for the end of sentence in each year since 1997. [18838] Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many officials in his Department have had (a) Mr Blunt: The following table shows the total number fewer than five days, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 of offenders released from determinate custodial sentences days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 in each year from 1998-2009; the number and proportion days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to 100 days, (i) 100 to who were released before the scheduled end of sentence; 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) more than 200 days, and the number and proportion who were released at or (l) more than three months, (m) more than six months after the scheduled end of sentence. This is the most and (n) one year on paid sick leave (i) consecutively recent data available, and figures for 1997 are not held and (ii) in total in each year since 1997. [18705] centrally. The term “scheduled end of sentence” has been Mr Kenneth Clarke: In the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) interpreted as the normal statutory release date when these data are unavailable. Sickness absence data are prisoners serving determinate sentences must be released collated centrally to provide information for management, automatically (e.g. the half-way point for prisoners but they are not reported on in the categories requested. serving a standard determinate sentence under the Criminal Gathering the data requested would require analysing Justice Act 2003). Over the period 1998-2009, offenders each notification of sickness absence sent in by managers could be released before their scheduled end of sentence across MoJ.This could be achieved only at disproportionate under two early release schemes: Home Detention Curfew cost. (which was introduced in 1999) and End of Custody The Civil Service internet site includes published Licence (which was introduced on 29 June 2007 and information in respect of sickness absence for the civil withdrawn in March 2010). service as a whole, although reports do no go as far Using the data held centrally, it is not possible to back as 1997. distinguish between those released after and on the day of their scheduled end of sentence. The table therefore Human Rights shows a total for these two groups. These figures have been drawn from administrative Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice IT systems which, as with any large scale recording what estimate he made of the cost to his Department system, are subject to possible errors with data entry and its non-departmental public bodies of compliance and processing. 35W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 36W

Prisoners released from determinate sentences, 1998 to 2009 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Total 79,000 85,500 86,200 83,100 86,400 84,800 86,100 84,200 82,400 85,500 94,900 91,200 number released

Releases on — 14,847 15,510 13,649 20,456 21,188 19,294 17,296 13,666 11,428 11,721 11,534 Home Detention Curfew (HDC) Releases on —————————16,19731,31829,371 End of Custody Licence (ECL)

Percentage —1718162425222117131213 HDC releases Percentage —————————193332 ECL releases

Releases — 70,600 70,700 69,500 65,900 63,600 66,800 66,900 68,700 57,900 51,900 50,300 not on HDC or ECL

Percentage —8382847675787983685555 releases not HDC or ECL Notes: 1. ECL was introduced on 29 June 2007, so the total number of ECL releases in 2007 covers the period from 29 June-31 December 2007. 2. Figures for the total number of releases and releases not on HDC or ECL are rounded to the nearest 100.

Prisoners: Devon and Cornwall Prisoners: Education

Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) what recent assessment he has made of the potential how much his Department spent on education services effects on prisoner numbers in Devon and Cornwall of for prisoners in each year since 1997. [18835] Probation Service expenditure reductions of (a) 10, (b) 20 and (c) 30%; [18830] Mr Blunt: Education services for prisoners are funded (2) what recent assessment he has made of the potential by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills effects on the (a) caseload of Devon and Cornwall (BIS), devolved to the Skills Funding Agency, formerly Probation Service and (b) provision by that service of the Learning and Skills Council (LSC). (i) court reports and (ii) supervision of people on parole The Learning and Skills Council assumed responsibility licences of Probation Service spending reductions of for planning and funding the integrated Offender Learning (A) 10, (B) 20 and (C) 30%; [18832] and Skills Service (OLASS) in England on 31 July 2006. (3) what recent assessment he has made of the potential OLASS funds the delivery of skills for offenders (aged effects on (a) staff headcount and (b) prisoners in 15 and over) held in English Public Sector prisons for Devon and Cornwall of Probation Service spending both sentenced prisoners and those held on remand. reductions of (i) 10, (ii) 20 and (iii) 30%. [18833] In Wales, from April 2006, commissioning responsibilities for offender learning and skills provision became the Mr Blunt: To reduce the budget deficit, the Government responsibility of Director of Offender Management in are examining all areas of public expenditure, including Wales. Responsibilities for learning and skills provision the criminal justice system, to see where savings can be for those in custody in Wales transferred to the Welsh made. Now that the outcome of the Spending Review Assembly Government with effect from 1 April 2009. has been announced, the Ministry of Justice will decide how funding is to be allocated. We will work with Data is available on spend since 2001. The following Probation Trusts to ensure that they are able to provide Table 1 includes spend directly relating to the OLASS the reports requested by the courts and to supervise provision and also spend associated with the employment offenders sentenced to community orders or on release of Heads of Learning and Skills in prisons, Libraries from custody, in accordance with sentencing guidelines. and Higher Education in public sector prisons in England and Wales. Work to protect the public and to reduce re-offending is a key priority. All Probation Trusts should ensure that Table 1 savings are achieved by streamlining administration Total spend (£ million) and improving working practices. Funding should be 2001-02 57 focused on front line services, to protect the public and 2002-03 73 reduce re-offending. 37W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 38W

Table 1 by the Learning and Skills Council and the total budget Total spend (£ million) allocated for the same period was £123 million1. The average cost per learner was £1,327. 2003-04 116 2004-05 126 In the 2007/08 academic year, there were 115,807 2005-06 151 learners engaged in learning and skills provision in 2006-07 156 custody, funded by the Learning and Skills Council and 2007-08 161 the total budget allocated for the same period was £142 million1. The average cost per learner was £1,224. 2008-09 171 2009-10 181 In the 2008/09 academic year, there were 98,324 learners engaged in learning and skills provision in £29 million of the growth between 2005-06 and 2009-10 custody funded by the Learning and Skills Council and (inclusive) was as a result of additional education allocations the total budget allocated for the same period was £160 to support the places flowing from the prison Capacity million1. The average cost per learner was £1,631. Programme. 1 Direct Offenders Learning and Skills Service (OLASS) spend The National Offender Management Service (NOMS) only. This does not include libraries, Heads of Learning and provides both physical resources and staff to support Skills and associated costs. educational activities for prisoners. It is not possible to Note: separately identify these costs which are not held centrally. The number of learners and the Offenders’ Learning and Skills Training for prisoners is undertaken, mainly by Prison budget identified includes those for Young Offenders aged 15-17. Service staff, while prisoners work or are engaged in The Offenders Learning and Skills budget also includes spends on Information Advice and Guidance (IAG) service which was an various areas such as prison industries, catering, physical integral part of OLASS contracts. education, land based activities, industrial cleaning and laundries. The central costs of the training elements of these, mainly production functions, are not kept centrally. Prisoners: Food NOMS gained co-financing organisation status in January 2009 and successfully bid for a total of £50 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice million of European Social Funding to enhance the how much his Department spent on food and skills and employment services to offenders in prison refreshment services for prisoners (a) in total, (b) per and the community. NOMS has been granted the funding prisoner per meal and (c) per prisoner per day in each over 27 months to increase offenders’ employability and year since 1997. [18834] improve their access to mainstream support provision. Funding has been extended into a second phase up to Mr Blunt: The full cost of providing meals and beverages 2013. for prisoners in public sector prisons in England and Wales includes a number of elements. These include Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice staff and prisoner labour, food, training (staff and how many prisoners were engaged in education services prisoner), kitchen and servery facilities, utilities and in each year since 1997; and what the average cost to other overheads, including management overheads, and the public purse per prisoner was of providing such all of these costs are not collected centrally. services. [18836] It is however possible to separately identify the cost of food (including beverages—see Table 1. Responsibility Mr Blunt: The information requested is not held. for determining the establishment food budget lies with The Skills Funding Agency is able to provide information the governing Governor who will set aside a realistic on the number of learners engaged in learning and sum that will meet the dietary needs of the population skills provision funded by the Skills Funding Agency, of the establishment. (formerly the Learning and Skills Council) from the Prisons provide breakfast, lunch and dinner together Individualised Learner Records (ILR), and the budget with all condiments and beverages. The estimated average allocated by DfES/DIUS/YJB in the 2006/07 academic food cost per meal per prisoner is based on the year (August 2006 to July 2007), in the 2007/08 academic understanding that breakfast, lunch and dinner account year (August 2007 to July 2008) and in the 2008/09 for approximately 20%, 40% and 40% of the daily food academic year (August 2008 to July 2009). expenditure. But these percentages will vary from one In the 2006/07 academic year, there were 92,371 establishment to another and are for illustrative purposes learners engaged in learning and skills provision, funded only.

Table 1 (£) Per prisoner per meal (for illustration only) Estimated total1 Estimated average daily food Year ending 31 March (£ million) Breakfast Lunch Dinner expenditure per prisoner1

2010 60 0.44 0.88 0.88 2.20 2009 62 0.46 0.92 0.92 2.31 2008 56 0.42 0.85 0.85 2.12 2007 51 0.39 0.79 0.79 1.97 2006 49 0.39 0.77 0.77 1.93 2005 43 0.36 0.73 0.73 1.87 39W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 40W

Table 1 (£) Per prisoner per meal (for illustration only) Estimated total1 Estimated average daily food Year ending 31 March (£ million) Breakfast Lunch Dinner expenditure per prisoner1

2004 45 0.36 0.72 0.72 1.81 2003 42 0.34 0.69 0.69 1.72 2002 40 0.35 0.70 0.70 1.74 2001 34 0.33 0.66 0.66 1.64 2000 35 0.29 0.58 0.58 1.46 1999 35 0.29 0.58 0.58 1.44 1998 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 1997 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a = Not available. 1 The data has been calculated using available management information from the NOMS finance systems and assumes that all transactions have been allocated and recorded against the correct accounting codes.

Prisoners: Housing In addition, for the two years 2007-08 and 2008-09 an overall cost per prisoner has been calculated and is Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice included in the table. The overall average costs comprise what the average cost to the public purse per day of the public and private sector establishments’ direct resource housing a prisoner in each category was in each year expenditure, increased by an apportionment of costs since 1997. [18837] borne centrally by HMPS and the National Offender Management Service. This involves some estimation. Mr Blunt: The average direct establishment cost of The figures do not include prisoners held in police and keeping a person in prison for the years from 1997 is as court cells under Operation Safeguard, nor expenditure detailed in the following table. met by other Government Departments (e.g. for health These average costs comprise the prison establishments’ and education). The prisoner escort service is included. direct resource expenditure as published in the Annual Due to changes in scope and accounting treatment Report and Accounts of Her Majesty’s Prison Service over this period, the figures are not necessarily directly (HMPS) (or for 2008-9 in an addendum to the NOMS comparable. Figures are subject to rounding. Agency Annual Report and Accounts). Costs are allocated to categories on the basis of the major use of each Figures for 2009-10 are being produced and will be prison at the end of each year. published later in the year.

£ Establishments’ cost per prisoner per day Overall cost per prisoner per day Function 1999- name 1997-98 1998-99 2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2007-08 2008-09

Male 56 60 61 62 67 67 68 69 71 77 81 81 104 105 category B Male 45 47 50 50 51 55 57 59 60 60 62 62 91 100 category C Male 100 107 115 114 112 119 127 130 138 143 144 146 204 203 dispersal Female 78 80 70 68 71 87 96 100 106 89 127 116 166 148 closed Female 78 76 84 84 83 98 111 120 121 113 114 107 159 153 local Female 44 47 59 73 61 71 76 80 79 84 72 91 108 138 open Male 49 52 59 73 63 81 93 96 94 88 90 91 131 136 closed YOI Male 98 126 130 82 96 123 120 124 111 120 144 153 185 juvenile Male local 53 57 60 65 63 62 65 67 69 69 73 73 101 106 Male open 44 46 53 48 56 57 52 56 61 65 59 54 87 89 Male open 68 70 76 80 70 52 106 92 99 106 113 101 166 152 YOI Male 505759647072———————— remand centre Semi open ————6469687074666971101111 Cluster—————————6162609499 41W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 42W

£ Establishments’ cost per prisoner per day Overall cost per prisoner per day Function 1999- name 1997-98 1998-99 2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2007-08 2008-09

Mixed ——————————87—93— male local and female closed Contracted 29————————————— out Prison 51 56 60 64 63 66 70 72 74 73 77 76 107 112 totals:

Prisoners: Interviews prisoners’ sentences in each of the last 10 years; and for what reasons days were so added in each such year. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if [19400] he will bring forward proposals to enable prisoners to give media interviews; and if he will make a statement. Mr Blunt: The National Offender Management Service [19041] records the number of findings of guilt against prisoners at internal disciplinary hearings (adjudications) where Mr Blunt: It is currently possible for prisoners to have additional days were imposed. This information is given access to journalists in order to give interviews but these in the following table. Some prisoners may have received are conducted under very strict conditions and only in more than one award of added days. The table also exceptional circumstances, as set out in Prison Service shows the type of offence for which added days were Instruction 37/2010 which is available in the Library of awarded. More detailed figures on offences and punishments the House and on the Prison Service website. are available in “Prison Statistics England and Wales” for the years 2000-02, and the Offender Management Prisoners: Sentencing Caseload Statistics for the years 2003-09, on the Ministry of Justice website at: Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/ Justice how many additional days were added to prisonandprobation.htm

Number of punishments of additional days imposed, and types of offence 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

All offences 63,918 59,690 32,793 6,368 9,454 12,040 12,566 13,460 12,792 11,550 Violence 10,620 9,308 5,263 1,006 1,089 1,353 1,122 1,028 872 854 Escape/abscond 717 588 426 414 374 232 135 93 81 63 Disobedience/disrespect 21,563 21,441 11,692 1,215 1,814 2,341 2,295 2,462 2,142 1,687 Wilful damage 2,896 2,625 1,558 479 498 531 523 558 541 537 Unauthorised 22,506 20,321 10,458 2,741 5,127 6,979 7,936 8,742 8,648 7,990 transactions Other offences 5,616 5,407 3,396 513 552 604 555 577 508 419

‘Violence’ includes assault, fighting and detaining was published on 21 October 2010 and gives a breakdown against another person’s will. ‘Disobedience/disrespect’ of offenders sentenced by number of previous convictions includes disobeying a lawful order, threatening behaviour and cautions. and refusal to work. ‘Unauthorised transactions’ includes Number and percentage of offenders who were sentenced for indictable offences possession of unauthorised items and drug offences. by number of previous convictions and cautions, 2007-09 2007 2008 2009

Sentencing Number of offenders sentenced First time offenders 33,968 33,937 33,560 Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for 1 -2 previous convictions/cautions 57,556 57,148 56,637 Justice how many persons convicted of (a) between 3-6 previous convictions/cautions 71,549 70,975 69,956 five and nine, (b) between 10 and 14 and (c) 15 or 7-10 previous convictions/cautions 41,623 42,901 41,446 more offences in each of the last three years did not 11-14 previous convictions/cautions 29,190 31,140 30,165 receive a custodial sentence for any such offence. 15 or more previous convictions/ 79,952 90,055 91,120 [19479] cautions All offenders 313,838 326,156 322,884 Mr Blunt: The following table shows the total number of offenders sentenced, number of offenders who do Number of offenders who do not receive an immediate custodial sentence not receive an immediate custodial sentence and percentage First time offenders 24,979 24,386 24,731 of offenders who do not receive an immediate custodial 1-2 previous convictions/cautions 49,735 48,788 48,139 sentence. These figures are derived from table 6.2 of 3-6 previous convictions/cautions 58,090 57,103 56,717 ‘Sentencing Statistics: England and Wales 2009’ which 43W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 44W

Number and percentage of offenders who were sentenced for indictable offences FTE rates1, 2 by number of previous convictions and cautions, 2007-09 Grade (equivalent)3 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 2007 2008 2009 AA 11.61 7-10 previous convictions/cautions 29,683 30,527 30,092 AO 9.75 11-14 previous convictions/cautions 19,082 20,242 20,431 HO 7.84 15 or more previous convictions/ 47,649 53,497 56,671 HEO 5.64 cautions SEO 5.12 All offenders 229,218 234,543 236,781 G7 3.86 G6 2.83 Percentage of offenders who do not SCS 2.17 receive an immediate custodial sentence Unknown 4.16 First time offenders 73.5 71.9 73.7 1 Data presented reflects the current Cabinet Office definition, setting a maximum 1-2 previous convictions/cautions 86.4 85.4 85.0 absence of 225 days per person, and excludes data for weekends, annual leave 3-6 previous convictions/cautions 81.2 80.5 81.1 and bank holidays. Excludes staff who have been classed as on zero pay. 2 7-10 previous convictions/cautions 71.3 71.2 72.6 Average working days lost per full-time equivalent are calculated by dividing the total working days lost for each period by a weighted average of the first of 11-14 previous convictions/cautions 65.4 65.0 67.7 the month strengths for the period, with the strengths at 1 January at the start 15 or more previous convictions/ 59.6 59.4 62.2 and end of the period receiving a weighting of 0.5, and the strengths at the first cautions of the other months in the period a weighting of 1. 3 All offenders 73.0 71.9 73.3 Equivalent civil service grades have been used to amalgamate the various MOD non-industrial, industrial and trading fund grades. The figures have been drawn from the police’s The MOD is committed to reducing sickness absence administrative IT system, the police national computer, and occupational health advice and support is available which, as with any large scale recording system, is to all employees and their line managers. Guidance and subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. training is available to line managers on managing The figures are provisional and subject to change as absence; we actively encourage the use of return to more information is recorded by the police. work interviews and have trigger points in place for the commencement of management action. We are currently Small Businesses: Tribunals reviewing all of our absence policies. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many officials in his Department have had (a) fewer how many owners of small businesses employing 10 than five days, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) people or fewer have applied to participate in the 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) employment tribunal system since May 2010. [18924] 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to 100 days, (i) 100 to 150 days, Mr Djanogly: As the respondent to an employment (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) more than 200 days, (l) more tribunal claim, an employer can provide details to the than three months, (m) more than six months and (n) tribunal on the number of people employed by the one year on paid sick leave (i) consecutively and (ii) in business. This information may assist the tribunal in total in each year since 1997. [18729] understanding the context of the claim. However, the Mr Robathan: The Ministry of Defence is committed employment tribunal does not hold information centrally to reducing sickness absence, and occupational health on the number of owners of businesses, employing 10 advice and support is available to all employees and people or fewer, who have applied to participate in the their line managers. Guidance and training is available tribunal system as there is no business need or benefit in to line managers on managing absence; we actively doing so. The information can be provided only at a encourage the use of return to work interviews and have disproportionate cost by manually checking each individual trigger points in place for the commencement of case file. Even then, the data contained in case files may management action. We are currently reviewing all of not necessarily identify the number of people employed our absence policies. as the disclosure of this information is not mandatory. Data on the number of working days taken by civilian staff in the format required cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate costs. The Cabinet Office DEFENCE has published annual sickness absence reports for the Departmental Sick Leave civil service from 2003 to 2007, these can be viewed at the following website: Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/about/resources/sickness/ for how many days on average his Department’s staff in sickness.aspx each pay grade were absent from work as a result of ill From January 2008 the MOD has submitted sickness health in 2009-10. [18568] absence rates to the Cabinet Office in terms of the total number of days lost through sickness absence split Mr Robathan: Sickness absence rates by average working between short-term and long-term sickness absence. days lost (AWDL)per full-time equivalent (FTE) employee Long-term absence is defined as over 28 consecutive in the Ministry of Defence for the 12 months ending 30 calendar days. June 2010, the latest information available, are shown in The following table shows the number of days lost the following table. through sickness absence over a rolling 12-month period. The table includes non-industrial and industrial staff The table includes non-industrial and industrial staff and the staff of the four MOD trading funds, but and the staff of the four MOD Trading Funds, but excludes staff in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and locally excludes staff in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and locally engaged civilians for whom sickness absence data are engaged civilians for whom sickness absence data is not not readily available. readily available. 45W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 46W

Period of sickness absence Days lost (short-term) Days lost (long-term)

1 January 2007 to 31 December 2007 319,308 374,023 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008 303,718 361,559 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008 300,973 328,816 1 October 2007 to 30 September 2008 297,951 325,799 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2008 297,671 316,404 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009 291,174 304,924 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 283,007 299,880 1 October 2008 to 30 September 2009 288,527 296,960 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2009 284,930 296,752 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010 288,126 303,616 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 284,369 300,357

Ex-servicemen: Radiation Exposure managing sickness absence, and providing meaningful jobs. The Department already has robust policies in Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for place for these areas. Defence with reference to the written ministerial The Department also has a wide range of measures statement of 21 April 2009, Official Report, columns in place to monitor and manage the mental health and 6-7WS, on nuclear test veterans’ health research, what well-being of military personnel. Research by the Academic progress his Department has made on identifying the Centre for Defence Mental Health confirms that personnel research required to investigate the health needs of benefit greatly by being within well-led units with good nuclear test veterans; when he expects to receive the support from their colleagues, and managing this is a report of the working group established to take the key chain of command responsibility. projects forward; and if he will make a statement. The Defence Medical Services deploy uniformed mental [19102] health staff on major operations to provide advice, assessment and care to personnel in theatre. In the UK. Mr Robathan [holding answer 22 October 2010]: The community-based mental health care is available at Ministry of Defence remains concerned about the health 15 MOD-run regional Departments of Community and well-being of those who have served and in that Mental Health (plus centres overseas), while in-patient context, following discussion with veterans’ representatives, care, when necessary, is provided in specialist NHS has now placed a contract to take forward a health mental health facilities. needs audit of Nuclear Test Veterans (NTV). The audit will gather and record the direct experience and views of We are always looking for ways in which our mental NTV in relation to their health and social care needs, health services can be extended, and a report into the and there will be scope to include input from veterans provision of mental health support to the armed forces about their children’s experiences. and ex-service personnel (commissioned by the Prime Minister from Dr Andrew Murrison MP) was published The work is being earned out by Miles and Green earlier this month. This makes a wide-ranging number Associates, an independent health consultancy. They of recommendations that the MOD and Department of will be using a postal survey and hold focus groups Health will be looking to introduce. Two of the key around the UK. Miles and Green are liaising closely recommendations are due to be introduced immediately: with the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association to a dedicated 24-hour support line for veterans, and the develop the detailed scope of the audit and promote placing of 30 dedicated mental health nurses in mental participation among veterans. The work began in September health trusts to ensure the right support is organised 2010 and is expected to take about six to eight months specifically for veterans. to complete and report.

Mental Illnesses Military Decorations

Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for what assessment he has made of the recommendations Defence how many George Medals have been awarded relating to his Department of the report by the Government in each of the last three years. [19179] Office for Science, Foresight on Mental Capital and Wellbeing; if he will ensure that his Department’s policy development process takes account of psychological Mr Robathan: The George Medal was instituted, research into subjective wellbeing; and if he will make a together with the George Cross, on 24 September 1940. statement. [18456] It is awarded to civilians for acts of great bravery, but not so outstanding as to merit consideration for the Mr Robathan [holding answer 21 October 2010]: In George Cross. The George Medal is also awarded to addition to the wider approach taken by the Department military personnel for those acts for which military of Health, the Department for Business, Innovation honours would not normally be granted, such as acts of and Skills, and the NHS, the report’s relevance to the great bravery not in the presence of the enemy. Ministry of Defence civilian staff relates, in the main, The following table shows the number of George to policies to improve well-being at work, employee Medals that have been awarded to military personnel support, flexible working, training and development, since 2008. 47W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 48W

Obtaining information on project completed from 2001 Number of George Medals awarded to 2004 would incur disproportionate cost as electronic records and hard copy project paperwork prior to 2004 2008 0 have been archived. 2009 1 + 1 bar 2010 3 Africa: Poverty

The Ministry of Defence does not hold the figures for Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for the number of George Medals that have been awarded International Development what assessment he has to civilians. made of the effectiveness of (a) structural adjustment programmes and (b) poverty reduction strategy papers Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for on reducing poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa. [18590] Defence how many Conspicuous Gallantry Cross medals have been awarded in each of the last three Mr O’Brien: Structural adjustment programmes (SAPs) years. [19276] were economic policy reform programmes supported by World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mr Robathan: The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross is lending in the 1980s and 1990s, which aimed to improve awarded in recognition of acts of conspicuous gallantry macro-economic stability and economic growth. The during active operations against the enemy. SAPs of the 1990s helped to lay the macro-economic The following table shows the number of Conspicuous policy foundations for many sub-Saharan African countries Gallantry Crosses that have been awarded to military to achieve faster economic growth since 2000. However, personnel since 2008. they were often criticised for inducing adverse social impacts. Number of Conspicuous The poverty reduction strategy paper (PRSP) approach Gallantry Crosses awarded was launched by the World Bank and IMF in 1999 to 2008 5 help guide their financing and aid received from other 2009 6 donors, and to ensure that debt relief under the heavily 2010 11 indebted poor countries (HIPC) programme would help to reduce poverty. Core principles of PRSPs are that Trident strategies are country-owned, multi-year and designed to achieve poverty reduction results, particularly those Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for linked to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Defence whether he plans to publish the report on the PRSPs are still the basis for many World Bank and IMF lending programmes. Trident Value for Money Review. [17298] There have been numerous assessments of the impacts Dr Fox: The Value for Money Review’s outcomes of SAPs and PRSPs. The Secretary of State has not were published within the Strategic Defence and Security made a formal assessment of the effectiveness of SAPs Review, published on Tuesday 9 October 2010. or PRSP’s in reducing poverty in sub-Saharan Africa. What we are interested in going forward, is how to make faster progress against the MDGs and deliver value for money with all UK aid. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Capita Afghanistan: Overseas Aid Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State International Development how many contracts his for International Development what recent assessment Department has with Capita; and how much it has paid he has made of the distribution of aid in Afghanistan. to Capita under such contracts in 2010-11 to date. [18886] [18624]

Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International Mr Duncan: The Department for International Development is currently reviewing all our country Development (DFID) currently has no contracts with programmes, including our programme in Afghanistan. Capita, therefore our expenditure for 2010-11 is zero. The Bilateral Aid Review is focusing on results, delivery mechanisms and the relationship between costs, outputs Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings and outcomes. It also takes account of what other donors are doing, and considers where DFID can add Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for International value. The review will be completed by February 2011. Development how many officials in his Department have been (a) subject to disciplinary action, (b) removed Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State from post, (c) transferred to another position and (d) for International Development how many aid projects dismissed for matters relating to their (i) disciplinary sponsored by his Department have been completed in record and (ii) performance in each year since 1997. Afghanistan since 2001. [18887] [18709]

Mr Andrew Mitchell: The total number of Department Mr Duncan: Available information on the number of for International Development (DFID) projects active Department for International Development (DFID) since 2004 is 130, of which 80 have been completed. staff that have been subject to disciplinary action, removed 49W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 50W from post, transferred to another position or dismissed Financial year £ in each year since 1999 is provided as follows. Where the total number of staff concerned is fewer then five we 16,572 are unable to provide more specific data as this could 15,131 potentially identify the individuals involved and so breach 14,330 confidentiality. Information prior to 1999 cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate cost. 13,268 13,268 Number of 13,268 staff subject to Removed Transferred 12,889 disciplinary from to another Number 12,889 action post position dismissed 12,874 1999 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 12,874 2000 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 12,690 2001 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 12,020 2002 n/a n/a n/a 5 12,020 2003 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 2004 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 11,779 2005 n/a n/a n/a Under 5 11,779 2006 20 Under 5 Under 5 5 11,779 2007 29 Under 5 Under 5 9 11,779 2008 23 Under 5 Under 5 5 2009 18 Under 5 Under 5 Under 5 2005-06 30,591 2010 (to 14 Under 5 Under 5 Under 5 date) 24,762 n/a = Information not available without incurring disproportionate 24,182 cost. 23,361 Departmental Pay 22,590 21,888 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for International 18,327 Development how much was paid to officials in his 14,966 Department and its non-departmental public bodies in 14,966 bonuses and other payments in addition to salary in 14,843 each year since 1997; how many officials received such 14,155 payments; and what the monetary values was of the largest 20 payments made in each such year. [18707] 14,155 14,155 Mr Duncan: Details of the total value of performance- 14,000 related pay and other payments in addition to salary in 13,438 each financial year from 2004-05 are included in the following table. The figures provided do not include 13,135 payments to cover the reimbursement of business expenses 13,135 nor the reimbursement of education fees. 12,467 12,453 Financial Year Total (£) 12,450 2004-05 4,105,496 2005-06 5,429,535 2006-07 7,535,239 2006-07 30,474 2007-08 7,985,906 30,474 2008-09 8,557,449 26,833 2009-10 10,072,164 21,019 20,317 There are 13 categories of payment aggregated in the totals above and it is not possible to provide the numbers 19,578 of individual members of staff receiving payments as 18,427 many will have received payments under more than one 17,777 heading. The following table provides details of the 17,777 20 largest payments made in each financial year. 17,531 Financial year £ 17,288

2004-05 24,674 16,671 24,674 16,179 18,125 16,143 51W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 52W

Financial year £ Financial year £

16,143 21,558 16,143 21,423 16,143 20,685 16,143 16,143 2009-10 42,134 16,143 41,185 41,086 2007-08 33,283 39,276 33,283 36,421 33,283 36,421 33,283 36,421 30,494 36,421 30,494 36,421 30,367 36,421 29,710 36,421 27,543 36,421 23,176 36,421 20,195 36,421 20,191 35,515 20,187 34,128 17,167 33,401 17,167 31,730 17,167 30,106 17,167 29,847 17,167 16,993 Information prior to financial year 2004-05 cannot 16,993 be provided without incurring disproportionate cost. The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, DFID’s only non-departmental public body, does not employ 2008-09 33,615 staff and has therefore not made any such payments. 33,615 33,615 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for International 32,614 Development what allowances and payments in addition 32,236 to salary were available to officials in his Department in 28,123 each year since 1997; and what the monetary value was of payments and allowances of each type in each such 27,575 year. [18708] 25,849 25,565 Mr Duncan: Details of the allowances payable in 25,342 addition to salary, together with the total value of each 24,451 payment type from 2004-05 are included in the following 23,656 tables. The figures provided do not include payments to cover the reimbursement of business expenses nor the 23,430 reimbursement of education fees. Where the total number 23,409 of staff concerned are less then five, we are unable to 22,700 provide more specific data as this could potentially 22,517 identify the individuals involved and so breach 21,859 confidentiality. Information prior to 2004-05 cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate cost.

2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 Number of Number of Number of Payment description Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients

Performance related pay 872,540 1,716 824,438 1,116 1,014,215 1,223 Overseas cost of living 905,052 570 1,564,780 715 2,253,622 747 allowance Overseas hardship 1,362,679 587 1,985,124 728 2,900,101 754 allowance 53W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 54W

2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 Number of Number of Number of Payment description Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients

Overseas relocation 367,955 237 348,025 210 522,789 270 allowances Representation 168,698 297 165,010 317 251,682 364 allowances Overseas maintenance 58,661 125 50,358 123 58,110 122 allowance Market allowances 322,466 235 391,032 237 393,243 231 Foreign language 5,039 5 1,172 1—858 1— allowance On call allowance 8,666 28 26,543 45 43,749 49 Inner London dispersal 475 1— 456 1—456 1— Hazardous locations 30,536 46 69,709 65 91,362 61 allowance Fire warden and 1,450 29 1,650 32 4,183 84 evacuation pay Footwearallowance44290000

2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Number of Number of Number of Payment description Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients Total (£) recipients

Performance related pay 1,334,953 1,648 670,978 79 1,426,279 1,443 Overseas cost of living 2,160,074 785 3,055,481 802 3,748,731 801 allowance Overseas hardship 3,117,035 788 3,485,680 800 3,624,147 797 allowance Overseas relocation 551,788 279 555,462 275 528,589 244 allowances Representation 261,238 353 242,583 340 199,253 309 allowances Overseas maintenance 58,088 139 59,184 126 43,144 90 allowance Market allowances 358,421 210 322,108 168 322,343 171 Foreign language 1,223 1— 910 1—858 1— allowance On call allowance 57,784 47 74,090 76 76,038 69 Inner London dispersal 228 1— 228 1—228 1— Hazardous locations 78,930 48 83,774 43 98,504 67 allowance Fire warden and 5,000 97 4,400 88 4,050 81 evacuation pay Footwearallowance000000 1 Data withheld where the number of recipients are less than 5.

Departmental Sick Leave Average working days lost to sickness absence Job grade Days Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Band B1/higher executive officer 5.7 International Development for how many days on Band B2/executive officer 8.9 average his Department’s staff in each pay grade were Band C1/administrative officer 14.3 absent from work as a result of ill health in 2009-10. Band C2/administrative assistant 17.9 [18578] Overall 4.9

Mr Duncan: The number of average working days Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for lost (AWDL) to sickness absence at each job grade in International Development what estimate he made of the Department for International Development (DFID) the cost to his Department and its non-departmental during financial year 2009-10 is as follows. public bodies of compliance with (a) domestic, (b) Average working days lost to sickness absence European and (c) other international human rights Job grade Days requirements in each year since 1997; and if he will make a statement. [18706] Senior civil service 1.7 Band A1/grade 6 0.9 Band A2/grade 7 2.4 Mr Duncan: The Department for International Band A2(L)/senior executive officer 3.7 Development (DFID) does not collate information on the costs of compliance with human rights requirements. 55W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 56W

DFID takes account of the domestic and international Developing Countries: Maternity Services human rights framework in developing all its policies and practices, as it does all other relevant legal obligations. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for An accurate estimate of the total cost of compliance International Development pursuant to the answer of with human rights obligations could not be made without 14 September 2010, Official Report, column 920W, on incurring disproportionate cost. developing countries: maternity services, what datasets his Department collects on its maternal and newborn Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for International health programmes in each (a) region and (b) country. Development how many days his Department has lost [18665] to staff sickness in each year since 1997; and what estimate he made of the cost to his Department of Mr O’Brien: In order to assess the effectiveness of sickness absence in each such year. [18710] our programmes to improve maternal and newborn health, the Department for International Development Mr Duncan: Details of the number of days lost to (DFID) draws on national data and statistics, as well as sickness absence in the Department for International data and statistics collected by DFID’s partners, including Development (DFID) in each financial year since 2005-06 agencies such as the GAVI Alliance and the Global and an approximation of the associated costs of such Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria. sickness absence are provided in the table. Information At the global level, DFID also draws on data from prior to 2005-06 cannot be provided without incurring the United Nations Statistics Division’s Millennium disproportionate cost. Development Goal (MDG) database, to assess progress against MDGs 4 and 5, pertaining to maternal and Financial year Number of days lost Approximate to sickness absence sickness absence cost child health. (£) This data is also informing the ongoing Bilateral and 2005-06 11,171 1,900,123 Multilateral Aid Reviews. 2006-07 9,001 1,529,824 Henderson Island: Biodiversity 2007-08 10,052 1,709,363 2008-09 9,903 1,683,180 2009-10 9,112 1,548,526 Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much funding his Department plans to allocate to programmes related to Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the preservation of biodiversity on Henderson Island International Development how many officials in his in each of the next three years. [18857] Department have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 Mr Duncan: Through the Overseas Territories to 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 Environment Programme, the Department for International to 100 days, (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, Development (DFID) is contributing £18,000 in 2010-11 (k) more than 200 days, (l) more than three months, and £85,000 in 2011-12 towards a project to eradicate (m) more than six months and (n) one year on paid rats from Henderson Island. A successful eradication sick leave (i) consecutively and (ii) it total in each year will help preserve this unique island’s World Heritage since 1997. [18711] status and secure the long-term future of its wildlife.

Mr Duncan: Details of the number of Department Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for for International Development (DFID) staff who have International Development what recent assessment his had total annual sick absences within the ranges requested, Department has made of future levels of biodiversity in each financial years since 2007-08, are provided as on Henderson Island; and if he will make a statement. follows. Information on the number of consecutive [18858] absences and details prior to 2007-08 cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate cost, sufficient Mr Duncan: The Overseas Territories Environment Programme (OTEP), a joint programme of the Department Sickness absence for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign periods 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 and Commonwealth Office (FCO), has funded research Fewer than five days 560 299 318 into the impacts of Pacific Rats on the wildlife of Five to 10 days 198 139 148 Henderson Island and feasibility studies of their eradication. 10 to 15 days 78 61 64 These studies have concluded that a number of species, 15 to 20 days 33 34 33 such as the Henderson Petrel, are under severe threat 20 to 25 days 14 21 22 with over 90% of chicks eaten by rats. Permanent 25 to 50 days 51 40 42 eradication of rats without damaging other wildlife is 50 to 75 days 15 22 20 reported to be technically feasible. 75 to 100 days 10 6 6 Overseas Aid 100 to 150 days 7 7 9 150 to 200 days 2 4 5 Morethan200days472Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for International More than 3 months 32 28 25 Development how much funding his Department has More than 6 months 6 14 11 allocated to support (a) food aid programmes and (b) More than 1 year 4 4 1 agricultural development in each country in (i) sub-Saharan Africa and (ii) Asia in each of the last five years. [18519] 57W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 58W

Mr O’Brien: Details of the Department for International (b) DFID bilateral expenditure on agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa Development’s (DFID) expenditure are published annually and Asia in Statistics on International Development (SID) which £000 is available on the DFID website and in the Library of 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 the House. The relevant figures are reproduced as follows. Namibia 596 289 — — — (a) DFID bilateral expenditure on food aid in sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria 3,021 2,609 1,835 1,039 1,037 Asia Rwanda 282 1,995 1,394 1,090 3,230 £000 Sierra —1716796 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Leone Somalia — 500 — 735 123 (i) Sub- Saharan South 599 463 292 259 — Africa: Africa Burundi — 2,640 — — — Southern 50 100 — — — Africa Chad — 524 — — — Development Eritrea -4 — -243 — — Community Ethiopia 386 464 182 20,744 13,700 St Helena 22 40 14 4 123 Guinea — — 155 40 — Sudan — — — 3,213 9,290 Kenya — — 215 165 12 Swaziland — 89 1 — — Lesotho 584 607 471 644 406 Tanzania 4 80 164 221 54 Liberia 163 124 — — — Uganda 305 98 90 304 239 Malawi 710 867 177 — 1,506 Zambia 43 55 59 35 13 Niger — — 183 39 — Zimbabwe — — 25 2,747 4,419 Somalia — — — — 65 South of 192 110 279 104 6,950 South 526 1,138 1,326 — — Sahara Africa regional Sudan 740 936 747 — — Swaziland — — 1,722 798 — (ii) Asia: Uganda — 2,000 9,500 8,000 — Afghanistan 3,408 12,938 3,212 22,308 14,498 Zambia 4,370 569 447 831 36 Bangladesh 9,815 13,341 15,675 18,857 17,450 Zimbabwe 2,510 5,852 10,808 10,594 1,538 Burma 284 566 540 689 2,064 South of 16—— ——Cambodia 1,851 2,291 1,245 2,397 3,369 Sahara regional China 2,877 2,707 2,525 3,718 2,980 East Timor 150 154 150 — — India 16,105 22,545 20,241 19,646 16,809 (ii) Asia: Indonesia — 34 47 34 6 Afghanistan — — 3,000 — — Kazakhstan 117 — — — — Bangladesh 6,745 790 3,891 4,320 5,225 Kyrgyzstan 469 674 620 1,240 496 Burma 178 371 764 659 1,871 Nepal 5,409 5,096 5,148 9,772 10,734 India 414 117 110 319 271 Pakistan 1,372 1,790 4,384 1,569 3,264 Nepal — — 317 — — Philippines — — 1 1 1 Pakistan — — 74 — — Sri Lanka 17 31 23 42 33 Vietnam 596 2,039 734 123 -243 Tajikistan 499 598 545 847 741 Yemen — — 457 1,710 1,495 Vietnam 12,393 4,641 3,951 1,193 2,414 Asia 32 — -35 — 558 Yemen — — — 576 1,736 regional Asia 104 — — 25 44 regional (b) DFID bilateral expenditure on agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia £000 Pakistan: Overseas Aid 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State (i) Sub- for International Development what types of aid his Saharan Africa: Department has given to Pakistan to assist with the Botswana — 35 — — — aftermath of the recent floods; and what the (a) monetary value and (b) cost of that aid has been. [18888] Congo, — — — 698 59 Dem Rep Ethiopia 544 23 15,492 4,204 21,378 Mr Andrew Mitchell: I refer the hon. Member to my Gambia -18 — — — — written statement of 12 October 2010, Official Report, Ghana 4,632 1,045 3,008 2,723 1,839 column 12WS, which sets out details of UK aid for the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan. The UK Government Kenya 1,049 1,421 472 110 -16 are providing £134 million, of which goods in kind Lesotho 364 306 150 155 99 account for £1,967,680. This figure does not take account Liberia — 280 — — — of transportation costs and is subject to exchange rate Madagascar 22 18 16 — — fluctuations. Malawi 723 2,546 2,529 2,547 1,615 Mozambique 364 491 331 427 583 In line with standard humanitarian practice, none of this funding has been provided to the Government of 59W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 60W

Pakistan. For further details of organisations to the Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth floods, I refer the hon. Member to my written answer of Office (FCO) are in contact regularly about DFID’s 11 October 2010, Official Report, column 125W, and to ongoing humanitarian aid programme in Sri Lanka, the Floods Monitor on DFID’s website. which is aiding displaced persons and funding de-mining. Pitcairn Islands World Bank Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions he has Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for had with (a) Ministerial colleagues and (b) his International Development how much his Department international counterparts on the Pitcairn Islands in allocated for expenditure through the World Bank in the last six months. [18855] each of the last five years; for what purposes such funding was used; what evaluation he has made of the Mr Duncan: There have been no formal meetings, but outcomes of the expenditure; and if he will make a I expect Ministers to meet to discuss a new strategy for statement. [18849] the Overseas Territories in due course. Mr Duncan: The Department for International Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Development (DFID) provides core funding to the International Development how much funding his International Development Association (IDA) of the Department allocated to programmes in the Pitcairn World Bank. IDA is the concessional arm of the bank, Islands in each of the last 10 years. [18859] providing low interest loans and grants to programmes in 79 of the poorest countries to boost economic growth, Mr Duncan: The Department for International deliver the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Development (DFID) has provided the following amounts and improve living conditions. DFID funding to IDA in to Pitcairn over the last 10 years: the last five years is as follows:

Financial year Amount (£) Financial year £ million

2009-10 1,790,000 2005-06 364.8 2008-09 2,115,000 2006-07 493 2007-08 1,462,000 2007-08 493 2006-07 1,837,000 2008-09 524 2005-06 2,582,000 2009-10 620 2004-05 1,314,000 2003-04 64,000 The UK also contributes to Trust Funds that are 2002-03 53,000 administered by the World Bank Group. This includes funding to large Global Funds such as the Education 2001-02 26,000 Fast Track Initiative or Climate Investment Funds which 2000-01 18,000 have their own governance structures and where the bank acts as a financial intermediary.DFID also contributes Sri Lanka: Armed Conflict to country level and thematic Trust Funds. The bank have just issued a paper which sets out Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State major achievements from IDA financing over the last for International Development what discussions he has decade, including saving at least 13 million lives, providing had with the Sri Lankan Government on the return of access to a clean water source to over 113 million people Tamils to their homes. [18885] and bringing better education to more than 100 million children each year. Mr Duncan: Ministers have not had any discussions with the Sri Lankan Government regarding the return DFID is carrying out a Multilateral Aid Review to of Tamils to their homes. However, the British high assess the effectiveness of IDA and others. This is to commissioner in Colombo discusses this issue regularly ensure that we get best value for money from UK with the Government of Sri Lanka, to encourage the contributions to these organisations. The results of the Sri Lankan authorities to allow those people who remain review will be published in February 2011. in camps for internally displaced people to return to their home areas as soon as possible.

Sri Lanka: Overseas Aid ATTORNEY-GENERAL

Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Departmental Visits Abroad for International Development what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on the distribution of aid to the David Simpson: To ask the Attorney-General how Tamil population in Sri Lanka. [18884] much the Law Officers’ Departments spent on overseas visits for senior officials in the last 12 months for which Mr Duncan: Ministers have had no direct discussions figures are available. [18399] with the Foreign Secretary regarding the distribution of aid to the Tamil population in Sri Lanka. However, The Attorney-General: The information requested is officials from the Department for International contained in the following table: 61W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 62W

Border Controls: France Department Overseas travel cost (SCS)1 (£) TSol2 12,473 Mr Woolas: To ask the Secretary of State for the CPS3 41,935 Home Department what recent discussions she has had SFO 18,884 with the French government on the border controls at NFA 994 (a) Calais, (b) Gare du Nord and (c) Charles de 1 Data cover financial year 2009-10. Gaulle airport. [19066] 2 TSol data also cover AGO and HMCPSI 3 CPS data include costs for RCPO from 1 October 2010. RCPO data Damian Green: The UK holds regular discussions, at prior to this date could be provided only at a disproportionate cost. both ministerial and official level, with the French Female Genital Mutilation authorities on the issue of border controls at French ports, including Calais. My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary and I have both met with French counterparts Valerie Vaz: To ask the Attorney-General how many to discuss migration issues, including the juxtaposed prosecutions have been brought in respect of offences controls and wider bilateral co-operation, and it is relating to female genital mutilation in each of the last expected that agreement will soon be reached on the five years. [18442] next phase of UK-France collaboration at the border controls at Calais and other northern ports. The Attorney-General: There have been no prosecutions in respect of offences relating to female genital mutilation The Secretary of State has not held any recent discussions in the last five years. with the French Government on border controls at Paris Gare du Nord or Charles de Gaulle airport. The UK Border Agency operates immigration controls at Gare du Nord where UK Border Agency officials are in regular contact with their French counterparts about HOME DEPARTMENT matters of mutual interest and to ensure the security of the UK border. No rail services operate to the UK from Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse Charles de Gaulle Airport and there is no UK border control at the location. Mrs Grant: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much her Department has Borders: Personal Records spent on national public awareness campaigns to reduce the level of (a) alcohol abuse, (b) drug abuse and (c) Lindsay Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for the domestic violence in each of the last five years. [18323] Home Department what assessment she has made of the effect on the e-Borders programme of the absence James Brokenshire: The following table summarises of an agreement at EU level on passenger data Home Office spend on national public awareness campaigns requirements for journeys within the EU. [17734] to combat (a) alcohol abuse, (b) drug abuse and (c) domestic violence in each of the last five years. Damian Green [holding answer 18 October 2010]: The figures provided refer to the cost of media for The Government are committed to e-Borders and to TV, print, radio, cinema and posters excluding VAT, ensuring that we can progress this programme in a advertising production and related fees. timely and cost-effective way. The decision to terminate the e-Borders contract £ with the prime supplier, Raytheon Systems Limited Domestic (RSL), and re-let the contract to another supplier was Alcohol abuse Drug abuse violence based on the poor performance of RSL to date. The 2009-10 1,716,361 442,130 0 Government are determined to get value for money 2008-09 2,790,203 717,397 0 from their major contracts and require the highest 2007-08 2,900,411 898,509 0 standard of performance from their suppliers. 2006-07 2,206,718 3,467,021 800,384 The failure of RSL to progress overall delivery has 2005-06 92,204 1,524,701 534,587 led to us being unable to make an assessment of the effect that the lack of EU agreement would have had on the Programme. Alcoholic Drinks: Prices Officials continue to engage in regular dialogue with the EU Commission and member states on matters Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for the relating to the e-Borders programme. These include a Home Department what steps she plans to take to mutual understanding of how the programme operates implement her proposal to prohibit the sale of alcohol in a way that is compatible with EU law on free movement below cost price following the consultation on Re-balancing and data protection. the Licensing Act 2003; and if she will make a statement. [19121] Capita James Brokenshire: The Government are committed to banning the sale of alcohol below cost price. We are Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for the considering all options and plan to introduce this measure Home Department how many contracts her Department at the earliest opportunity without unduly impacting on has with Capita; and how much it has paid to Capita industry or responsible drinkers. under such contracts in 2010-11 to date. [18629] 63W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 64W

Nick Herbert: The Home Office currently has two EU Law contracts with Capita. It has not so far incurred expenditure against these contracts in 2010-11 to date. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Criminal Records Bureau Home Department (1) what estimate she has made of the cost to her Department and its non-departmental Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the public bodies of implementing and monitoring compliance Home Department pursuant to the answer of with legislation transposing EU requirements in each 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 201W, on the year since 1997; and if she will make a statement; Criminal Records Bureau, what estimate she has made [18778] of the number of people who were in receipt of out of (2) what estimate she has made of the cost to her work related benefits for up to 30.86 days on average Department and its non-departmental public bodies of because of the time taken for the Criminal Records compliance with (a) domestic, (b) European and (c) Bureau to process a disclosure in the latest period for other international human rights requirements in each which figures are available. [18618] year since 1997; and if she will make a statement. [18779] Lynne Featherstone: The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) does not hold the information requested. The Damian Green: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I bureau’s system stores information based upon each gave on 19 July 2010, Official Report, column 27W, in application and not on each individual applicant. Each which I provided details of the estimate which the application is treated as a new application and the Home Office had made of known costs to the Department current employment status of the individual is not resulting from statutory obligations which stemmed captured in the application process. Therefore it is not from EU legislation over a requested one-year period possible to identify if the person is on benefits or not. (July 2009 to June 2010). The Home Office has no Criminal Records: East Sussex central estimate of the costs to the Department or its non-departmental public bodies of compliance with Amber Rudd: To ask the Secretary of State for the human rights requirements (domestic and international) Home Department how many people (a) nationally or with legislation transposing EU requirements. Such and (b) resident in Hastings and Rye constituency have an estimate could be collated only at a disproportionate been subject to more than one Criminal Records cost. Bureau check within 12 months during the latest Impact assessments are increasingly valuable in period for which figures are available. [18424] determining the costs of EU proposals and, in preparing or contributing to them, we would normally aim to Lynne Featherstone: The data provided in the following identify all the costs likely to arise, including those of table represents all applications received by the Criminal significance falling on the public sector. Records Bureau (CRB) within the period 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2010 inclusive. European Arrest Warrant: Dr Daniel Ubani

More than one Stephen Barclay: To ask the Secretary of State for the application 1 October 2009 Applications received for Home Department on what date her Department received to 30 September received by applicant at an application for the arrest of Dr Daniel Ubani under 2010 CRB same postcode Percentage the European arrest warrant procedure. [17732]

All Applications 4,422,102 526,899 11.9 Nick Herbert [holding answer 18 October 2010]: The Hastings and 10,197 1,173 11.5 Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) received a Rye Applications European Arrest Warrant (EAW) in respect of Dr Daniel The data represents where more than one application Ubani from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) on 9 has been received where the applicant has the same March 2009. The warrant was returned to the CPS by postcode. It excludes applications received prior 1 October SOCA requesting minor corrections. The amended EAW 2009 and applications received by post on 30 Sept 2010. was received by SOCA on 12 March and sent to Germany These cases will include where the applicant has on 13 March 2009. applied for different posts. Extradition EU Economic Migrant Cap Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many UK citizens have Home Department what assessment her Department been (a) extradited and (b) transferred to face criminal has made of the effect on foreign direct investment of proceedings in each other EU member state in each the inclusion of inter-company transfers within the year since 1997; [7528] proposed non-EU economic migrant cap. [18929] (2) how many applications for UK citizens to be (a) Damian Green: The Government’s consultation on extradited and (b) transferred to face criminal the introduction of an annual limit on those admitted proceedings in each other EU member state in each to work in the UK from outside the European Union— year since 1997 were successful; [7529] including the coverage of limits—closed in September. (3) how many applications for UK citizens to be The Government will bring forward their proposals in extradited to face criminal proceedings were made by due course. The Government will publish a full impact each non-EU state in each year since 1997; and how assessment when their proposals are announced. many such applications were successful. [7530] 65W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 66W

Nick Herbert: Since 1 January 2004, extradition between Business year 2009-10, British Nationals, EAW cases and surrenders EU member states has been governed by the Framework Requesting country Requests Surrenders Decision on the European Arrest Warrant (EAW). The Belgium 8 1 Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and Crown Office (for Scotland) are the designated central authorities Cyprus 1 3 for the receipt and transmission of EAWs within the Finland 1 0 UK. Under the EAW process “surrender” is used to France 20 5 describe “extradited” and “transferred”. Germany 27 2 Greece 11 1 Since the inception of the EAW on 1 January 2004 up Hungary 1 1 to 31 March 2010, 145 UK citizens have been surrendered Ireland 9 4 to other European member states pursuant to EAWs. Italy 6 0 Information on the member state that issued the EAW Latvia 0 1 is available for the period 1 October 2008 to 31 March Lithuania 2 0 2010. It should be noted that surrenders do not correlate Luxembourg 1 1 to the requests made in the same period. Some surrenders Malta 1 2 can occur weeks or months following the initial request. Netherlands 29 8 The following tables identify the member states that Poland 2 1 made the request. Portugal 3 0 Data on the member states which have issued EAWs Slovenia 3 0 for 101 UK citizens surrendered in the period prior to Spain 31 11 1 October 2008 is unavailable. This data could be provided Sweden 1 0 only by a manual examination of all SOCA case records Total 157 41 for that period. This would incur a disproportionate Extradition requests received, 1997 to 2009 cost. Requests The nationality of persons subject to extradition received Surrendered Not returned requests from EU member states was not routinely 1997 107 43 27 recorded prior to 2004. To provide the figures for 1997 1998 111 45 45 to 2004 would incur disproportionate cost as this would 1999 101 38 25 require a manual examination of Home Office files. 2000 78 47 28 2001 133 55 42 The third table shows the number of extradition requests made to England and Wales (and Northern 2002 137 53 54 Ireland since 1 April 2008) and processed by the Home 2003 114 55 39 Office since 1997. Due to the way in which extradition 2004 99 50 41 requests have been recorded by the Home Office, the 2005 54 62 37 following information will include all requests made 2006 64 45 38 outside the EAW framework. It will therefore include 2007 49 29 25 some requests made by EU member states prior to them 2008 57 17 18 operating the EAW. It has not been possible to break 2009 81 38 31 down these numbers so as to identify either the person’s nationality or the state which requested extradition as It is not possible precisely to tally the number of this would entail a manual examination of all files, requests received with the number of those extradited which would again incur disproportionate cost. or not returned (whether discharged by the courts or Secretary of State, withdrawn by the requesting state Finally, it should also be emphasised that an extradition etc.) in a defined period for a number of reasons. At any request is not always finalised in the same year as a one stage there are a number of active extradition request is made. The figures quoted may, therefore, requests under consideration which will not count as include extradition requests made before 1997. either surrendered or not returned until they have been finalised. October 2008 to March 2009, British Nationals, EAW cases and surrenders Additionally there may be a small number of people, Requesting country Requests Surrenders subject to extradition proceedings, who for example have absconded, are serving a domestic sentence, or Cyprus 1 0 have not been arrested but remain wanted. These cases France 5 0 also cannot be closed until a final outcome has been Germany 5 0 reached. A further complicating factor is that some of Greece 2 0 the return figures will relate to requests made before the Hungary 2 0 start of the defined period. Ireland 2 0 Italy 2 0 Human Trafficking Lithuania 1 0 Netherlands 7 2 Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Romania 1 0 Department what steps her Department is taking to Spain 6 1 ensure that the UK Border Agency works together with Total 34 3 (a) police officers and (b) local authorities to identify individuals who may have been trafficked. [19474] 67W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 68W

Damian Green: The UK Border Agency (UKBA) The UK Border Agency is unable to provide definitive works together with police officers and local authorities data on the applicants address at the time of application. within the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). The The information provided is therefore the applicants NRM is designed to make it easier for all the different last known address. agencies that could be involved in a trafficking case The data in the Library of the House of Commons such as the police and local authorities to co-operate; to list applications made for indefinite leave from April share information about potential victims and facilitate 2009 to March 2010 for applicants living in the their access to advice, accommodation and support. Peterborough city council area. The NRM Strategic Monitoring Group, which includes This is internal management information and is subject local authority and law enforcement representatives, to change. This information has not been quality assured oversees the NRM and looks to resolve issues as they under National Statistics protocols. arise. Immigration: Agriculture Detailed trafficking guidance that highlights the importance of working with the police and local authorities Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home has been issued to all UKBA staff: Department whether she has made an assessment of the Guidance for Competent Authorities available at: likely effects of her Department’s cap on immigration http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/ on the number of (a) farmers, (b) directors, (c) partners policyandlaw/asylumprocessguidance/specialcases/guidance/ and (d) spouses in each agricultural sector in 2010-11. competent-guidance [18496] Guidance for front-line staff available at: Damian Green: The Government’s consultation on http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/ the introduction of an annual limit on those admitted policyandlaw/asylumprocessguidance/specialcases/guidance/ to work in the UK from outside the European closed in trafficking-guidance?view=Binary September. The Government will bring forward their UKBA also has strong regional partnership proposals in due course. The Government will publish a arrangements in place. Regional immigration crime teams, full impact assessment when their proposals are announced. for example, are comprised of both UKBA staff and Immigration: Kettering seconded police officers. The agency also has local immigration teams across the country that work alongside Mr Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for the the police, HM Revenue and Customs, local authorities Home Department how many applicants for indefinite and other local partners to ensure compliance with, and leave to remain in the UK had their last known address enforce, our immigration laws. in (a) the borough of Kettering and (b) Northamptonshire in the latest period for which figures are available; how Immigration many such applicants were successful and of which nationalities the applicants were. [18582] Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Damian Green [holding answer 21 October 2010]: the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 14 The UK Border Agency is unable to provide definitive October 2010, Official Report, column 403W, on data on the applicants address at the time of application. immigration, from what countries of origin those people The information provided is therefore the applicants normally resident in the Peterborough City Council last known address. area who (a) applied for and (b) were granted indefinite The following table lists applications made for indefinite leave to remain. [19104] leave from April 9 to March 10 for applicants living in the borough of Kettering and in Northamptonshire. It Damian Green: All the data requested have been also shows the number of these applicants that were placed in the Library of the House of Commons. subsequently granted.

2009 2010 Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March Total

Kettering Number of 1016171613124599218140 applications made Number of 911131512114579186120 these applications granted

Northamptonshire Number of 104 100 106 115 88 86 50 40 81 97 103 116 1086 applications made Number of 82 75 88 102 72 77 44 36 65 84 84 94 903 these applications granted 69W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 70W

This is internal management information and is subject Investigatory Powers Tribunal to change. This information has not been quality assured under National Statistics protocols. Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for the A full breakdown of the above by nationality can be Home Department if she will bring forward proposals found in the Library of the House of Commons (supplied to create a right of appeal in respect of the rulings of in Annex A, B, C and D of background note). the Investigatory Powers Tribunal. [18021]

Immigration: Law Nick Herbert: The Government consider that the tribunal acts as a quasi court of appeal in respect of the Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the remit set out for it in the Regulation of Investigatory Home Department what estimate her Department has Powers Act 2000, and therefore is not considering proposals made of the cost to businesses of familiarisation with to create a right of appeal in respect of its rulings. provisions of immigration law. [18930] For example, the tribunal has wide jurisdiction to consider complaints regarding the use of interception Damian Green: No estimate has been made of the powers and as regards the interception of communications general costs faced by the private sector in familiarising to investigate whether the persons against whom a itself with immigration law. However, whenever there is complainant makes allegations have intercepted a significant change in immigration law, the costs of communications of the complainant and to investigate familiarisation associated with that change are estimated. the authority for any interceptions that are found to For example, the impact assessment for the introduction have occurred. A claim may be based on an allegation of interim limits on migration (IA No: HO0007 published that a convention right has been violated or on other on 28 June 2010) presented an estimate of £60,000 for a public law grounds. one-off cost to the private sector. This estimate was Further, a claim can be brought against any of the based on the costs of time taken by regulated private intelligence services in relation to their use or handling sector advisers to familiarise themselves with the changes. of any intercepted material, whether by reference to the convention or on other public law grounds. The tribunal Immigration: Overseas Students has extensive powers to require the disclosure or provision of documents and information. Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when she expects the review of the Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for the points-based immigration system as it relates to Home Department if she will bring forward proposals overseas students to be completed; and if she will make to establish further accountability mechanisms in a statement. [19088] respect of the Investigatory Powers Tribunal. [18022]

Damian Green: The Government are reviewing all Nick Herbert: The Government consider that the migration routes to the UK and expect to announce any tribunal itself provides an oversight role in respect of changes to the system in due course. the use of certain powers defined in the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 by the intelligence services; Internet and therefore there is no need to establish further accountability mechanisms for it. Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for the In support of these powers, members of the tribunal Home Department what steps she is taking to implement must either hold or have held high judicial office, or be a her Department’s proposals to end the storage of internet qualified lawyer of at least 10 years’ standing. The and email records without good reason. [18268] president of the tribunal must hold or have held high judicial office. The tribunal has extensive powers to Nick Herbert [holding answer 19 October 2010]: As require the disclosure or provision of documents and part of the Strategic Defence and Security Review, the information. Further, when investigating or considering Government have confirmed that preserving the ability any claim, the tribunal may require the Interception of of the security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies Communications Commissioner to provide “all such to obtain communication data in accordance with law is assistance” as it thinks fit. And finally, the tribunal has vital to the work these agencies do to protect the public. power to award compensation and to make such other The reasons they may require the disclosure of such orders as it thinks fit including orders quashing or data, subject to strict safeguards, include safeguarding cancelling any warrant and orders requiring the destruction national security and for purposes including preventing of any records of information which has been obtained and detecting crime and, in an emergency, preventing in exercise of any power conferred by a warrant. If a death and injury. Communications data transaction claim is successful, the tribunal is required to make a records are generated, processed and retained by report of its findings to the Prime Minister. communications service providers in the course of their business. By notice under regulations, service providers Khat may be required to retain securely specific data for 12 months where those data are not otherwise retained. Ms Gisela Stuart: To ask the Secretary of State for The Government will not require any unnecessary or the Home Department pursuant to the answer of disproportionate retention of data under the regulations 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 304W, on and will ensure that our response to changing technology khat, whether her Department has undertaken a is compatible with the Government’s approach to breakdown of the use of khat by ethnic origin of users. information storage and civil liberties. [18550] 71W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 72W

James Brokenshire: The preliminary findings on the majority of applications being processed within UK level of khat use from the British Crime Survey are Border Agency customer service standards. based on only six months data and as such it is not The UK Border Agency aims to process 90% of possible to provide a robust breakdown of estimates of non-settlement applications within 15 working days, khat use by ethnic origin. 98% within six weeks and 100% within 12 weeks. For settlement applications, the target is to process 95% Passports: Islamabad within 12 weeks and 100% within 24 weeks. Actual processing times for applications resolved during August Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for that were lodged, for example, at the visa application the Home Department how many passports are being centre in Islamabad, are shown in the following table. held at the embassy in (a) Islamabad and (b) Abu The most popular types of visa application are included Dhabi pending return to visa applicants. [17729] in the table. Details of processing times for other categories of application, and for processing times for applications Damian Green [holding answer 18 October 2010]: I lodged at the other visa application centres in Pakistan, am pleased to report that the Pakistan visa operation can be found on the following website: has performed well throughout this summer, with the www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk

Percentage Processing time weeks Application type 15 (days) 6 12 24

Family visit 80 91 98 99 PBS Tier 4 90 94 97 99 Settlement 67 78 92 98

As of 14 October, the Islamabad operation has 715 Bassetlaw, Newark and Sherwood (B) Division had 292 live applications for non-settlement UK visas pending police officers on 31 March 2010 and 267 police officers decision and 3,236 in respect of settlement applications, on 31 March 2007. while the Abu Dhabi operation has 1,958 live applications for UK visas pending decision. The figure for Abu Police: Compensation Dhabi includes 393 passports held pending the processing of applications from the Gulf. Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for the This information is based on Management Information. Home Department how much compensation has been It is provisional and subject to change. paid to people whose properties were wrongly forcibly entered by the police in each of the last three years (a) Police: Arrests nationally and (b) in Milton Keynes. [19119]

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Nick Herbert: Chief police officers are responsible Home Department how many arrests have been made for the exercise of policing powers by their officers and under section 14 of the Policing and Crime Act 2009 for the management of the budgets for their individual (a) nationally and (b) by each police force since April forces. The information on compensation payments is 2010. [19473] not collected centrally.

Nick Herbert: The information requested on arrests Police: Dorset is not collected centrally. The arrests collection held by the Home Office covers Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for the arrests for recorded crime (notifiable offences) only, Home Department how much funding per head of broken down at a main offence group level, covering population was allocated to Dorset Police Authority categories such as violence against the person and robbery. for the financial year (a) 2010-11 and (b) 1996-97. The data reported to the Home Office cannot be broken [19071] down into specific offences. Nick Herbert: The information available is set out in Information on arrests in 2010-11 is planned for the following table. publication in March 2011. The Government do not distribute grant to police Police: Bassetlaw authorities on a per capita basis. The police funding formula used includes data relating to demographic and John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the social characteristics to reflect the relative needs of each Home Department how many police officers there were police authority area. Police grants allocated by the in Bassetlaw (a) on the latest date for which figures are Department for Communities and Local Government available and (b) in 2007. [19106] and the Welsh Assembly Government also take into account the relative tax base of each police authority. Nick Herbert: Police personnel statistics are not collected Grant allocations in 2010-11 were damped to limit by the Home Office by parliamentary constituency. The year-on-year variations. 73W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 74W

Dorset police authority total grant funding 1996-97 and 2010-11 Police authority total grant funding, 1996-97 and 2010-11 Total grant Total grant £ million funding Resident funding Resident Force 1996-971 2010-112, 3, 4 Police 1996-971 population 2010-113 population 2 4 authority (£ million) 1996-97 (£ million) 2010 Kent 145.5 223.3 Dorset 54.7 672,987 75.7 712,842 Lancashire 146.7 231.5 1 Total grant funding comprises: general grant (Home Office police grant and Leicestershire 85.4 134.8 Communities and Local Government revenue support grant and national Lincolnshire 52.7 75.8 non-domestic rates) and capital provision. Merseyside 208.9 302.1 2 The mid 1996 population estimates are based on the 1991 census. ONS have published a back series for the same period, aligned to the 2001 census. Metropolitan 1,563.1 2,292.9 3 Total grant funding comprises; general grant (Home Office police grant and Norfolk 66.7 102.1 Communities and Local Government revenue support grant and national North Wales 61.6 93.1 non-domestic rates) and specific grants include crime fighting fund, neighbourhood policing fund/community support officers, basic command unit fund and rule 2 North Yorkshire 61.1 88.6 grant, Welsh top-up and capital provision. Northamptonshire 51.2 86.6 4 The population figures used in the 2010 settlement were 2004-based sub-national Northumbria 178.2 279.3 projections. Note: Nottinghamshire 107.5 160.6 Under the terms of the neighbourhood policing fund, forces that do not employ South Wales 138.7 203.6 the agreed number of PCSOs will have some money deducted from their budget South Yorkshire 144.3 227.9 the following year. Sources: Staffordshire 97.6 137.4 Grant figures—Home Office Suffolk 52.8 82.2 Population data—ONS Surrey 77.9 118.2 Police: Equipment Sussex 131.6 195.7 Thames Valley 174.6 276.9 Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for the Warwickshire 42.4 63.0 Home Department if she will take steps to increase the West Mercia 89.3 141.7 use of body-worn video and camera equipment by West Midlands 317.7 552.0 police officers. [19035] West Yorkshire 239.5 384.8 Wiltshire 52.3 /b.3 Nick Herbert: Body-worn video and camera equipment Total England and 6,018.5 9,339.3 is one of a number of tools that can make a contribution Wales 1 Total grant funding comprises: General Grant (Home Office Police Grant to fighting crime and antisocial behaviour. However, and Communities and Local Government Revenue Support Grant and decisions on the deployment and use of such equipment National Non-Domestic Rates) and Capital Provision. are operational matters for chief officers based on their 2 Total grant funding comprises: General Grant (Home Office Police Grant and Communities and Local Government Revenue Support Grant and assessment of the policing requirements of their respective National Non-Domestic Rates) and Specific Grants include—Crime Fighting forces. Fund, Neighbourhood Policing Fund/Community Support Officers, Basic Command Unit Fund and Rule 2 Grant, Welsh Top-up and Capital Provision. Police: Finance Please note: Under the terms of the Neighbourhood Policing Fund, forces that do not employ the agreed number of PCSOs will have some money deducted from their budget the following year. 3 Total grant funding excludes the following for comparison purposes: Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for the Dedicated Security Grant, Counter Terrorism Funding, Pensions Top-up Home Department how much funding was allocated to Grant and some minor grant flows. each police authority area for the financial year (a) 4 Total grant funding figures taken after the in-year reductions to Core Government funding of £125 million finalised in July. 2010-11 and (b) 1996-97. [19070] Police: Pay Nick Herbert: The information requested is set out in the following table: Police authority total grant funding, 1996-97 and 2010-11 Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the £ million Home Department what payments to the (a) current Force 1996-971 2010-112, 3, 4 and (b) previous chief constable of Essex police (i) have been made during each of the last three years and Avon and Somerset 135.7 207.3 (ii) are planned for each of the next two years. [15709] Bedfordshire 51.0 81.8 Cambridgeshire 57.1 93.9 Nick Herbert: Chief officers’ pay and benefits are Cheshire 85.0 137.2 negotiated nationally through the Police Negotiating City of London 28.5 109.6 Board and provisions for these are contained in the Cleveland 67.6 108.0 2003 Police Regulations and Determinations. It is for Cumbria 51.0 76.9 the police authority to determine payments other than Derbyshire 81.1 128.8 salary to the chief constable, in accordance with legislative Devon and Cornwall 132.0 214.2 requirements. Information about these payments is held Dorset 54.7 75.7 by police authorities and is not held centrally by the Durham 65.2 102.8 Home Office. Dyfed-Powys 41.6 64.1 Essex 133.9 204.7 The salary for the chief constable of Essex police for Gloucestershire 51.7 69.6 each of the last three years is shown in the following Greater Manchester 315.6 521.9 table. Gwent 55.8 92.7 The Government’s policy is to freeze the pay of Hampshire 152.0 236.7 public sector workers earning over £21,000 for two Hertfordshire 76.8 138.7 years. We would expect this to apply to police officers, Humberside 94.9 145.4 but future decisions on officers’ pay will take account of 75W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 76W the review of remuneration and conditions of service Police: Sick Leave and any recommendations from the Police Negotiating Board. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the The salary for the chief constable of Essex police for Home Department how many days each police force each of the last three years is shown in the following lost to sickness absence (a) in total and (b) per officer table: in each of the last three years. [18814] Chief constable salary Nick Herbert: The available data are provided in the £ following tables which show the total contracted hours From 1 December 2007 137,211 lost to sickness by police force, 2007-08 to 2009-10. From 1 September 2008 140,847 Figures are provided as ‘hours lost’ rather than ‘days From 1 September 2009 144,510 lost’, as days lost to sickness are not collected centrally. From 1 September 2010 148,194 This provides more accurate figures as it allows for the effect of different shift lengths.

Total contracted hours lost to sickness, by police force, 2007-08 to 2009-101, 2 2007-08 Police staff3 Police officers Hours lost Hours lost Number of officers Hours lost per officer

Avon and Somerset 279,280 283,296 3,407 83 Bedfordshire 69,073 111,583 1,207 92 Cambridgeshire 84,087 113,233 1,379 82 Cheshire 118,479 129,479 2,181 59 Cleveland 68,978 107,024 1,692 63 Cumbria 63,142 90,912 1,246 73 Derbyshire 89,851 152,707 2,095 73 Devon and Cornwall 216,410 267,228 3,529 76 Dorset 85,050 109,082 1,518 72 Durham 65,630 118,117 1,632 72 Dyfed-Powys 65,963 94,055 1,194 79 Essex 212,218 244,024 3,385 72 Gloucestershire 75,407 115,511 1,353 85 Greater Manchester 327,095 603,624 8,034 75 Gwent 81,245 139,511 1,487 94 Hampshire 189,525 250,608 3,912 64 Hertfordshire 138,882 173,323 2,162 80 Humberside 97,242 112,863 2,243 50 Kent 191,132 248,472 3,718 67 Lancashire 150,713 248,684 3,675 68 Leicestershire 113,278 152,801 2,241 68 Lincolnshire 67,255 98,677 1,201 82 London, City of 22,521 43,334 830 52 Merseyside 210,672 295,674 4,477 66 Metropolitan Police 1,266,688 1,757,619 31,460 56 Norfolk 83,018 120,546 1,578 76 Northamptonshire 76,567 79,856 1,309 61 Northumbria 149,370 309,263 3,983 78 North Wales 55,789 99,459 1,579 63 North Yorkshire 104,083 133,364 1,581 84 Nottinghamshire 159,620 186,740 2,369 79 South Wales 141,232 306,786 3,244 95 South Yorkshire 200,673 240,930 3,201 75 Staffordshire 126,934 193,350 2,269 85 Suffolk 70,791 99,844 1,319 76 Surrey 117,200 133,628 1,944 69 Sussex 201,575 236,489 3,075 77 Thames Valley 221,754 293,268 4,186 70 Warwickshire 74,868 92,691 1,036 90 West Mercia 140,973 184,595 2,486 74 West Midlands 324,456 587,302 8,412 70 West Yorkshire 275,824 389,012 5,822 67 Wiltshire 98,281 115,805 1,210 96 Total 6,972,820 9,864,366 141,859 70 77W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 78W

2008-09 Police staff3 Police officers Hours lost Hours lost Number of officers Hours lost per officer

Avon and Somerset 260,928 317,150 3,355 95 Bedfordshire 70,132 90,826 1,244 73 Cambridgeshire 88,268 116,197 1,450 80 Cheshire 111,190 113,254 2,180 52 Cleveland 68,212 101,653 1,756 58 Cumbria 78,621 83,958 1,284 65 Derbyshire 82,072 134,960 2,137 63 Devon and Cornwall 199,253 257,557 3,556 72 Dorset 91,909 107,349 1,512 71 Durham 66,271 109,677 1,588 69 Dyfed-Powys 37,784 57,403 1,197 48 Essex 213,384 246,184 3,484 71 Gloucestershire 73,215 103,205 1,372 75 Greater Manchester 353,729 524,989 8,232 64 Gwent 83,161 147,317 1,438 102 Hampshire 196,680 242,568 3,811 64 Hertfordshire 151,945 176,399 2,172 81 Humberside 110,427 110,997 2,110 53 Kent 192,391 243,886 3,799 64 Lancashire 155,294 188,447 3,753 50 Leicestershire 98,886 117,227 2,363 50 Lincolnshire 77,665 95,704 1,229 78 London, City of 23,909 36,197 813 44 Merseyside 197,316 301,056 4,494 67 Metropolitan Police 1,208,950 1,727,755 32,610 53 Norfolk 95,796 123,653 1,668 74 Northamptonshire 74,065 62,458 1,326 47 Northumbria 147,453 268,203 4,111 65 North Wales 63,209 106,006 1,586 67 North Yorkshire 95,973 123,104 1,460 84 Nottinghamshire 155,372 174,299 2,408 72 South Wales 134,192 293,434 3,146 93 South Yorkshire 213,912 221,364 3,053 73 Staffordshire 131,584 189,389 2,211 86 Suffolk3 — — 1,291 — Surrey 134,050 122,932 1,872 66 Sussex 217,044 229,711 3,196 72 Thames Valley 220,804 266,064 4,317 62 Warwickshire 63,226 100,394 994 101 West Mercia 160,629 168,618 2,471 68 West Midlands 266,137 464,709 8,637 54 West Yorkshire 289,576 403,193 5,854 69 Wiltshire 93,387 108,914 1,229 89 Total 6,848,000 9,178,361 143,770 64

2009-10 Police staff3 Police officers Hours lost Hours lost Number of officers Hours lost per officer

Avon and Somerset 218,924 240,253 3,302 73 Bedfordshire 83,451 88,117 1,246 71 Cambridgeshire 90,802 95,316 1,471 65 Cheshire 95,697 98,397 2,155 46 Cleveland 58,594 87,062 1,724 50 Cumbria 72,937 90,131 1,238 73 Derbyshire 92,577 132,494 2,074 64 Devon and Cornwall 211,290 261,306 3,556 73 Dorset 99,891 95,693 1,486 64 Durham 77,506 103,425 1,507 69 Dyfed-Powys 49,831 82,126 1,195 69 Essex 232,834 234,760 3,606 65 79W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 80W

2009-10 Police staff3 Police officers Hours lost Hours lost Number of officers Hours lost per officer

Gloucestershire 67,675 100,609 1,309 77 Greater Manchester 360,672 547,773 8,148 67 Gwent 79,173 106,905 1,437 74 Hampshire 96,555 120,712 3,748 32 Hertfordshire 136,114 137,857 2,130 65 Humberside 90,131 93,859 2,058 46 Kent 199,509 221,283 3,787 58 Lancashire 161,842 223,784 3,649 61 Leicestershire 92,714 106,436 2,317 46 Lincolnshire 79,475 119,403 1,206 99 London, City of 22,699 42,640 852 50 Merseyside 209,892 304,163 4,516 67 Metropolitan Police 1,240,001 1,767,339 33,367 53 Norfolk 87,164 102,755 1,662 62 Northamptonshire 87,421 74,093 1,343 55 Northumbria 162,765 249,849 4,187 60 North Wales 66,913 109,296 1,590 69 North Yorkshire 89,196 95,986 1,486 65 Nottinghamshire 138,200 160,437 2,409 67 South Wales 155,178 269,962 3,148 86 South Yorkshire 196,337 170,991 2,953 58 Staffordshire 136,221 176,142 2,161 82 Suffolk 39,344 58,899 1,246 47 Surrey 145,888 124,528 1,890 66 Sussex 207,022 206,261 3,213 64 Thames Valley 251,601 295,599 4,434 67 Warwickshire 67,674 94,909 973 98 West Mercia 144,268 173,596 2,391 73 West Midlands 252,498 495,483 8,626 57 West Yorkshire 249,995 351,388 5,758 61 Wiltshire 69,924 64,476 1,181 55 Total 6,768,392 8,776,492 143,734 61 1 Figures are provisional and have not been verified by forces. 2 Figures on sickness absence are collected as hours lost. Figures on days lost are not collected centrally. 3 Figures for staff include police staff, police community support officers, designated officers and traffic wardens. They do not include police officers.

Police: Working Hours http://www.tisonline.net/ Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Two tables follow: Table 1 shows the past spend on Home Department how much each police force spent overtime by force (split by officer and staff overtime); on overtime (a) in total and (b) on average per officer Table 2 calculates overtime spend by officer, based on in each of the last three years. [18866] data from Table 1 and police officer strength recorded in Home Office Annual Data Returns. Nick Herbert: Information about police service expenditure, including overtime, is available on the website of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance Accountants

Table 1: Spend on overtime by force (split by officer and staff overtime) £ million Spend on officer overtime Spend on police staff and PCSO Total spend on overtime overtime Force 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Avon and 6.996 6.535 6.239 1.216 1.403 1.348 8.212 7.938 7.587 Somerset Bedfordshire 3.993 3.962 4.079 0.401 0.447 0.485 4.394 4.409 4.564 Cambridgeshire 4.238 4.584 3.37 0.32 0.481 0.406 4.558 5.065 3.776 Cheshire 6.925 4.425 4.554 1.677 2.08 1.415 8.602 6.505 5.969 Cleveland 4.369 3.81313 3.306 0.352 0.33 0.339 4.721 4.15 3.645 Cumbria 2.444 1.712 1.359 0.741 0.748 0.385 3.185 2.46 1.744 Derbyshire 4.854 4.256 3.533 0.791 0.761 0.47 5.645 5.017 4.003 81W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 82W

Table 1: Spend on overtime by force (split by officer and staff overtime) £ million Spend on officer overtime Spend on police staff and PCSO Total spend on overtime overtime Force 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Devon and 6.548 6.467 5.12 1.113 1.295 1.183 7.661 7.762 6.303 Cornwall Dorset 3.243 3.181 2.608 0.555 0.533 0.466 3.798 3.714 3.074 Durham 3.596 2.702 2.678 0.282 0.348 0.34 3.878 3.05 3.018 Dyfed-Powys 2.566 2.329 2.339 0.269 0.29 0.307 2.835 2.619 2.646 Essex 11.732 9.623 7.714 1.561 1.47 1.157 13.293 11.093 8.871 Gloucestershire 3.353 2.662 3.519 0.378 0.327 0.295 3.731 2.989 3.814 Greater 23.322 23.319 20.875 3.255 3.534 2.766 26.577 26.853 23.641 Manchester Gwent 4.134 3.548 3.299 1.265 1.277 1.203 5.399 4.825 4.502 Hampshire 11.48 8.871 8.091 2.012 1.575 1.187 13.492 10.446 9.278 Hertfordshire 7.272 7.196 5.663 1.107 1.124 1.166 8.379 8.32 6.829 Humberside 6.874 5.402 5.598 1.295 1.184 1.129 8.169 6.586 6.727 Kent 1— 10.084 7.055 0.564 2.286 1.597 1— 12.37 8.652 Lancashire 8.918 7.801 7.004 1.072 1.121 1.052 9.99 8.922 8.056 Leicestershire 5.476 5.169 4.527 0.583 0.602 0.381 6.059 5.771 4.908 Lincolnshire 3.708 2.68 2.49 0.418 0.368 0.373 4.126 3.048 2.863 London, City of 2.731 2.141 2.342 0.283 0.223 0.211 3.014 2.364 2.553 Merseyside 11.071 10.8465 10.853 1.876 1.84 2.203 12.947 12.69 13.056 Metropolitan 144.957 137.876 1— 18.67 17.396 1— 163.62 155.27 1— Police Norfolk 4.201 3.298 3.034 0.54 0.54 0.468 4.741 3.838 3.502 Northamptonshire 3.478 2.829 1— 1.005 1.083 1— 4.483 3.912 1— Northumbria 7.878 7.424 1— 0.017 1.178 1— 7.895 8.602 1— North Wales 3.626 2.738 3.056 0.489 0.504 0.583 4.115 3.242 3.639 North Yorkshire 2.996 2.477 3.992 0.744 0.669 0.845 3.74 3.146 4.837 Nottinghamshire 1— 5.469 6.057 1— 0.848 0.727 1— 6.317 6.784 South Wales 1— 6.449 6.18 1— 0.771 0.58 1— 7.22 6.76 South Yorkshire 10.167 8.329 9.209 0.456 2.09 2.076 10.623 10.419 11.285 Staffordshire 5.104 4.969 5.277 0.621 0.582 0.603 5.725 5.551 5.88 Suffolk 3.543 2.856 2.1 0.38 0.454 0.414 3.923 3.31 2.514 Surrey 5.93 4.643 0.088 1.841 1.962 0.701 7.771 6.605 0.789 Sussex 5.946 6.598 6.684 0.629 0.92 0.912 6.575 7.518 7.596 Thames Valley 13.762 1— 10.767 2.35 1— 2.187 16.112 1— 12.954 Warwickshire 3.753 3.33 2.341 0.702 0.434 0.435 4.455 3.764 2.776 West Mercia 5.56 5.77 4.864 0.641 0.742 0.576 6.201 6.512 5.44 West Midlands 24.152 21.301 17.95 2.27 2.16 1.9774 26.422 23.461 19.92 West Yorkshire 18.128 13.79 12.496 6.889 7.395 2.708 25.017 21.185 15.204 Wiltshire 1— 3.18 1— 1— 0.568 1— 1— 3.748 1— 1 Data unavailable Source: Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy Table 2: Overtime spend per officer Officer strength FTE at March 31 of financial year Spend per officer (£) Force 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Avon and Somerset 3,407 3,355 3,302 2,054 1,948 1,890 Bedfordshire 1,207 1,246 1,246 3,309 3,180 3,274 Cambridgeshire 1,380 1,450 1,471 3,072 3,162 2,290 Cheshire 2,181 2,180 2,142 3,175 2,030 2,126 Cleveland 1,692 1,756 1,724 2,582 2,171 1,917 Cumbria 1,246 1,284 1,238 1,961 1,333 1,098 Derbyshire 2,095 2,137 2,074 2,317 1,992 1,703 Devon and Cornwall 3,529 3,556 3,561 1,855 1,819 1,438 Dorset 1,518 1,512 1,486 2,137 2,104 1,754 Durham 1,632 1,589 1,507 2,203 1,701 1,777 Dyfed-Powys 1,194 1,197 1,195 2,149 1,945 1,958 Essex 3,385 3,484 3,606 3,466 2,762 2,139 Gloucestershire 1,353 1,371 1,309 2,478 1,942 2,689 Greater Manchester 8,034 8,232 8,148 2,903 2,833 2,562 83W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 84W

Table 2: Overtime spend per officer Officer strength FTE at March 31 of financial year Spend per officer (£) Force 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Gwent 1,487 1,438 1,437 2,781 2,467 2,296 Hampshire 3,912 3,811 3,748 2,934 2,328 2,159 Hertfordshire 2,162 2,172 2,130 3,364 3,313 2,659 Humberside 2,243 2,110 2,058 3,064 2,560 2,721 Kent 3,718 3,799 3,834 1— 2,655 1,840 Lancashire 3,675 3,753 3,649 2,427 2,079 1,919 Leicestershire 2,241 2,363 2,317 2,443 2,187 1,954 Lincolnshire 1,201 1,229 1,206 3,086 2,180 2,064 London, City of 830 813 852 3,288 2,632 2,748 Merseyside 4,477 4,494 4,516 2,473 2,414 2,403 Metropolitan Police 31,460 32,610 33,367 4,608 4,228 1— Norfolk 1,575 1,668 1,665 2,668 1,977 1,822 Northamptonshire 1,309 1,326 1,343 2,657 2,133 1— Northumbria 3,983 4,111 4,187 1,978 1,806 1— North Wales 1,579 1,586 1,590 2,297 1,726 1,922 North Yorkshire 1,581 1,460 1,486 1,895 1,697 2,687 Nottinghamshire 2,369 2,408 2,409 1— 2,271 2,514 South Wales 3,244 3,146 3,148 1— 2,050 1,963 South Yorkshire 3,201 3,053 2,953 3,176 2,728 3,119 Staffordshire 2,269 2,211 2,161 2,249 2,248 2,442 Suffolk 1,319 1,291 1,246 2,687 2,212 1,686 Surrey 1,944 1,872 1,890 3,051 2,480 47 Sussex 3,075 3,196 3,213 1,934 2,065 2,080 Thames Valley 4,186 4,317 4,434 3,288 1— 2,428 Warwickshire 1,036 994 973 3,624 3,352 2,406 West Mercia 2,486 2,471 2,391 2,236 2,335 2,034 West Midlands 8,412 8,637 8,626 2,871 2,466 2,081 West Yorkshire 5,822 5,854 5,759 3,114 2,356 2,170 Wiltshire 1,210 1,250 1,181 1— 2,544 1— 1 Data unavailable Note: It should be noted that some officers will claim no overtime during a year, but the Home Office does hold information on the number of these officers. Source: Home Office Annual Data Returns

Serious Crime Divisions: Prostitution James Brokenshire: The Metropolitan police have provided the following table which shows the number of John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for visits carried out by SCD9, broken down by the borough the Home Department how many brothel visits have in which they were carried out. been made by officers from Serious Crime Division 9 in the Metropolitan police area in each month since January 2010. [16073]

BOCU brothel visits 2010 January February March April May June July August Total

Waltham Forest — 5 11 4 —32631 Hackney— 4—————— 4 Newham—441—2——11 Tower Hamlets — — 1 ————1213 Greenwich—— 8———— 311 Westminster 8 2 — 8 — — 1 1 20 Camden2—1——11813 Wandsworth—————— 1— 1 Islington ————— 1—— 1 Hammersmith and ——————— 1 1 Fulham Lambeth 1——————— 1 Barking and ——————— 1 1 Dagenham Bromley——————112 85W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 86W

BOCU brothel visits 2010 January February March April May June July August Total

Kingston upon ——— 1———— 1 Thames Ealing — — — 1———— 1 Brent —————— 7— 7 Barnet — — 1 — — 1 2 — 4 Haringey 2 1 — 1 — 1 1 — 6 Enfield ————— 1 1— 2 Redbridge————— 1—— 1 Lewisham———————— 0 Kensington and ———————— 0 Chelsea Southwark ———————— 0 Bexley ———————— 0 Havering ———————— 0 Croydon———————— 0 Hillingdon ———————— 0 Sutton ———————— 0 Merton ———————— 0 Harrow ———————— 0 Richmond upon ———————— 0 Thames Hounslow ———————— 0 132

Work Permits Data on grants of settlement made on the basis of employment with a work permit to both principal applicants Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for the and spouses and dependants combined are published in Home Department how many grants of settlement have Table 4.3 in the quarterly series the ‘Control of Immigration: been made (a) on the basis of employment with a work Quarterly Statistical Summary, United Kingdom’. permit and (b) to (i) spouses and (ii) dependants of Settlement data for third quarter 2010 are scheduled for those granted settlement on the basis of employment publication on 25 November 2010. with a work permit in each of the last eight quarters for Home Office statistical publications are available from which figures are available. [19083] the Library of the House and from the Home Office Research, Development and Statistics website at: Damian Green: The latest available quarterly statistics http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/immigration-asylum- (Q3 2008 to Q2 2010) are provided in the following table. stats.html

Grants of settlement1, 2, 3 by selected category of grant, excluding EEA and Swiss nationals4, Q3 2008 to Q2 2010 Number of persons 2008 20095,6 20106 Broad category of grant Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2

Employment with a work permit after 5,585 5,710 6,510 6,140 6,605 6,165 7,675 5,915 five years spouses and dependants 7,360 8,185 9,110 9,245 9,835 8,620 11,060 7,965 Of which: spouses 3,030 3,350 3,655 3,685 4,105 3,660 4,605 3,255 dependants 4,335 4,840 5,455 5,560 5,730 4,965 6,455 4,710 1 Figures rounded to the nearest five and may not sum to the totals shown because of independent rounding. 2 Includes reconsideration cases and the outcome of appeals. 3 May include a small number of cases in which a decision is recorded twice, where an individual has dual nationality. 4 Data exclude dependants of EEA and Swiss nationals in confirmed relationships granted permanent residence. 5 Revised figures. 6 Provisional figures.

COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT to develop a mutual model for the Audit Commission; and if he will make a statement; [18537] Audit Commission (2) whether he has assessed the merits of establishing a fully mutual model to undertake the functions of the Audit Commission; and if he will make a statement. Mr Love: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (1) pursuant to the answer of [18555] 7 September 2010, Official Report, column 179W, on Robert Neill: As my right hon. Friend, the Secretary Audit Commission, what steps his Department is taking of State told the House on 7 September 2010, Official 87W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 88W

Report, column 179-186, we will consider a range of Duty Officer Allowances options for moving the Audit Commission’s in-house We also pay the following historical allowances to a practice to the private sector. The Government would small number of staff on a reserved rights basis: be happy to see a mutual set up by existing Audit Market Related Allowance Commission staff, if this proves to be appropriate and Typing Proficiency Allowance practical. The Commission has appointed Gareth Davies as Managing Director of its audit practice and he is ADP Allowance leading the practice’s work on these matters. In addition, non-consolidated payments are made to high performing staff at the end of each performance Charities: Finance year and the Department operates a scheme for all staff below the senior civil service under which individuals or Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for teams may receive a small non-consolidated award in Communities and Local Government what estimate he recognition of an outstanding contribution over a limited has made of the monetary value of local authority period. funding for (a) all charities, (b) charities working with The following table shows the amount paid to officials children, young people and families in each year since in allowances and bonuses since that date. 2007-08; if he will make an estimate of the equivalent figure for (i) 2011-12, (ii) 2012-13, (iii) 2013-14 and (iv) £ 2014-15; and if he will make a statement. [19267] Allowances Bonuses

Andrew Stunell: The latest figures (for 2007-08 from 2006-07 514,000 838,250 the NCVO’s UK Civil Society Almanac 2010) show 2007-08 569,000 1,018,350 that local authorities fund the voluntary sector to the 2008-09 522,000 1,284,549 value of £6.6 billion. Data on funding to charities working 2009-10 674,000 1,188,133 with children, young people and families is not held centrally. Spending decisions are, and will continue to be, a Fire Services: Bassetlaw matter for local authorities. We have a rich diversity of voluntary organisations, charities, faith groups, John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for co-operatives, social enterprises and local housing trusts—all Communities and Local Government how many (a) of who already make a huge contribution to local life. retained and (b) full-time fire crew there were at each The big society means using their potential and involving fire station in Bassetlaw on the latest date for which them even more in delivering what people want. I do figures are available. [19105] not expect local authorities to respond by passing on disproportionate cuts to other service providers, especially Robert Neill: This information is not held centrally the voluntary sector. and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. I also draw the attention of my hon. Friend to my The latest levels of staffing of wholetime and retained Department’s press release of 14 October 2010 on the firefighters are collected for each Fire and Rescue Authority. valuable role of the voluntary sector, a copy of which I Figures for Nottinghamshire and England are provided have placed in the Library of the House. in the table. Levels of staffing of wholetime and retained firefighters in Departmental Pay Nottinghamshire and England in 2009-10 2009-10

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for 1 Communities and Local Government what allowances Wholetime and payments in addition to salary were available to Nottinghamshire 565 officials in his Department and its non-departmental England 29,735 public bodies in each year since 1997; and what the monetary value was of payments and allowances of Retained duty system2 each type in each such year. [18738] Nottinghamshire 198 England 11,899 Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and 1 Full-time equivalent Local Government was created in 2006. 2 In 24-hour units of cover We are currently carrying out a review of all allowances Source: paid in DCLG. The following allowances are payable to Fire and Rescue Services Annual Returns to CLG officials in the Main Department: Fire Services: Finance Temporary Responsibility Allowance Recruitment and Retention Allowance Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Procurement Allowances Communities and Local Government what plans he Accountancy Allowances has for the future funding of fire authorities; and if he Analyst Allowances—introduced in 2009 will make a statement. [18670] Supervisory Allowances Robert Neill: The provisional Local Government Finance Private Office Allowances Settlement for the period from 2011-12 will be announced On-Call Allowances in late November or early December, as in previous Fast Stream Allowances—being withdrawn years. This includes the provisional formula grant allocations Detached Duty Allowances for fire and rescue authorities. 89W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 90W

Fire resource expenditure will reduce by 13% in real terms One of the issues the recently established Ministerial over the spending review period. Within this, central Working Group on Preventing and Tackling Homelessness Government grants to local authorities will be reduced will consider is how to increase transparency of information by 25% over the period. These savings will be back-loaded available to communities to support them in meeting to years three and four of the period so that fire and the needs of homeless people. rescue authorities will have the time to make changes and reforms necessary without impacting on the quality Mr Umunna: To ask the Secretary of State for or breadth of services offered to their communities. Areas Communities and Local Government (1) what his most where we believe significant saving can be found include: recent estimate is of the number of people who are Flexible staffing arrangements homeless (a) nationally, (b) in London, (c) in Lambeth Improved sickness management borough and (d) in Streatham constituency; [18499] Pay restraint and recruitment freezes (2) what definition of homelessness his Department Shared services/back office functions uses for the purposes of compiling statistical information. [18554] Improved procurement Sharing chief fire officers and other senior staff Grant Shapps: Statutory homelessness data collected Voluntary amalgamations. includes the number of households accepted by local housing authorities as eligible for assistance, unintentionally Homelessness homeless and in priority need, and therefore owed a main homelessness duty (to secure that suitable Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for accommodation is available). If a settled home is not Communities and Local Government what methodology immediately available, the authority must secure temporary his Department uses to collect data on homeless people; accommodation until a settled home becomes available and whether he plans to take further steps to identify as and this information is also collected. These are published such homeless people who do not present themselves to by the Department in the quarterly Statistical Release local authorities for assistance. [18431] on Statutory Homelessness via the CLG website at: Grant Shapps: Data are collected quarterly from local http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ housing authorities on their activities under homelessness housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/homelessnessstatistics/ legislation and are published by the Department on the publicationshomelessness/ CLG website. These statistics include information on The following table gives the most recent figures for decisions on applications for housing assistance, the households accepted as owed a main homelessness duty number of households accepted as owed a main and households in temporary accommodation in England, homelessness duty and the number of households in London and Lambeth. temporary accommodation arranged by local authorities Quarter 2, 2010 under homelessness legislation: Number and rate per 1,000 households http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ Households in housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/homelessnessstatistics/ Households accepted temporary publicationshomelessness/ as owed a main accommodation at Information is also collected on rough sleeping. Since homelessness duty the end of the during the quarter quarter 1998, only councils in areas with a known, or suspected, rough sleeping problem were required to conduct an Lambeth 222 (1.8) 1,546 (12.8) official rough sleeper count—which meant that only London 2,300 (0.7) 37,910 (11.9) 70 councils submitted information to central Government. England 10,100 (0.5) 50,400 (2.3) Figures published in July 2010 showed that under this Notes: previous method, on any given night there were 440 rough 1. Figures are provisional. sleepers in England. However, when the remaining 2. Totals may not equal the sum of components because of rounding. 256 councils provided estimates of the scale of the 3. Lambeth figure is as reported. London and England figures include estimates for any non-responding authorities. problem in their areas, this added a further estimated Source: 807 rough sleepers—taking the national total to 1,247 P1E quarterly returns. rough sleepers on any given night. These figures are Information is also collected on rough sleeping. Since published on the CLG website here: 1998, only councils in areas with a known, or suspected, http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/corporate/ rough sleeping problem were required to conduct an statistics/roughsleepingcount2010 official rough sleeper count—which meant that only Under new guidance all councils across England 70 councils submitted information to central Government. will now provide information on rough sleeping. This move Figures published in July 2010 showed that under this follows consultation with homelessness charities and previous method, on any given night there were 440 rough councils and is aimed at getting a clearer picture of the sleepers in England. However, when the remaining scale of the problem in each area so more targeted 256 councils provided estimates of the scale of the support can be provided to some of the most vulnerable problem in their areas, this added a further estimated in society. 807 rough sleepers—taking the national total to 1,247 rough The Department also collects data on the users of sleepers on any given night. These figures are published Supporting People services which include some rough on the CLG website at: sleepers and single homeless people with support needs. http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/corporate/ These statistics are published quarterly by the department statistics/roughsleepingcount2010 on the CLG website: Under new guidance, all councils across England will http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ now provide information on rough sleeping. This move housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/supportingpeople/ follows consultation with homelessness charities and 91W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 92W councils and is aimed at getting a clearer picture of the Robert Neill: Information is not available centrally on scale of the problem in each area so more targeted support the effect of the repeal of business rate relief on revenue can be provided to some of the most vulnerable in society. levels split by the property types requested. The following table gives the street count and estimates Planning Permission in England, London and Lambeth for 2010.

Street counts Estimates Total Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government in what Lambeth 9 — 9 circumstances a local planning decision may be called London 241 76 317 in for determination by the Secretary of State; and if he England 440 807 1,247 will make a statement. [19143] Notes: 1. The 2010 local authority street counts were carried out between Robert Neill: The power to call in planning applications January 2009 and May 2010. for Secretary of State determination is set out in s.77 of 2. Local authorities who did not carry out a count submitted a single figure estimate of the number of people sleeping rough on any given the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. This gives night as at June 2010. Ministers wide discretion about how to use the call-in The figures provided in this answer are available both power. Call-in policy is set out in the Caborn statement in the Library and via the CLG website at the links of 1999 of 16 June 1999, Official Report, column 138W, provided. which makes it clear that Ministers will be very selective about what is called in. The Department does not collect data on homelessness at parliamentary constituency level. Localising decision making and planning is central to the Government’s policy. Ministers have made it clear Local Government that they will exercise the power to call in only very sparingly where matters of significant national interest Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for and policy are concerned. Communities and Local Government when he expects to introduce proposals to devolve powers and responsibility Residential Property Tribunal Service: Mobile Homes to town and parish councils; and if he will make a statement. [19093] John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: Town and parish councils already have Communities and Local Government when he plans to a wide range of powers at their disposal. In the forthcoming lay before the House secondary legislation to transfer Localism Bill we intend to make provision to achieve jurisdiction for park homes to the Residential Property our commitments to devolve further powers to local Tribunal. [19183] government and communities, including the area of parish involvement in neighbourhood planning. Grant Shapps: The secondary legislation to transfer the jurisdiction will be laid before the House as soon as Mr Nuttall: To ask the Secretary of State for possible. Communities and Local Government what plans he has to enable local authorities to reintroduce the committee Social Rented Housing: Repairs and Maintenance system. [19248] Stephen Barclay: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: As set out in ‘The Coalition: Our Communities and Local Government whether he plans Programme for Government’, we are committed to to review the provisions of the Housing Act 2002 and allow councils to return to the committee system should associated guidance on housing allocation to enable they wish to. We intend to provide for this in our positive behaviour by tenants in respect of property forthcoming Localism Bill. maintenance to be taken into account in the allocation Local Government: Sick Leave of social housing. [18551]

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities Andrew Stunell: Section 167 (2A) of the Housing Act and Local Government what information his Department 1996 already gives local authorities the power to take holds on the number of days lost to sickness absence in into account certain factors for the purposes of determining each local authority in each of the last three years. relative priorities between applicants in the reasonable [18882] preference categories when allocating accommodation. Examples of such factors are given in the legislation Robert Neill: The information requested is not held and include any behaviour of the applicant (or a member centrally, because councils manage their own work forces of their household) which affects his or her suitability and the Department has no direct role in local government to be a tenant. This would include good tenant behaviour work force matters, including councils’ policy on managing as well as poor behaviour. absence. We have no plans to review the legislation in this Non-domestic Rates: Wolverhampton respect.

Paul Uppal: To ask the Secretary of State for Voluntary Organisations: Newton Abbot Communities and Local Government what effect on levels of revenue the removal of business rate relief on Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for (a) industrial property, (b) retail property, (c) commercial Communities and Local Government how much property and (d) office accommodation has had in funding his Department allocated to voluntary groups respect of Wolverhampton. [19001] in Newton Abbot in each year since 2005. [18564] 93W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 94W

Robert Neill: The Department’s records do not hold The Electoral Commission will be responsible for information about grant payments to the voluntary running the referendum. After the Bill was introduced, sector by geographical area so the information requested the Commission released a statement on 22 July 2010 could be provided only at disproportionate cost. However, announcing that they believe it should be possible to if you would like to provide us with a list of voluntary deliver the different polls if the key risks are properly groups in Newton Abbot we could let you know the managed. We are working closely with the Electoral grant payments made over the period. In addition, as Commission and others to maximise the benefits of part of the Department’s transparency agenda, grant combination and ensure the polls on 5 May 2011 are spending over £500 for 2008-09 and 2009-10 can be delivered effectively. found online on my Department’s website.

EDUCATION HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION Opening of Parliament Departmental Contracts

Kate Hoey: To ask the hon. Member for Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Middlesbrough, representing the House of Commons Education what estimate he has made of the monetary Commission what the cost was of the State Opening of value of the contracts between his Department and Parliament in 2010. [18650] private sector companies which will be cancelled under his Department’s planned spending reductions. [10169] Sir Stuart Bell: The cost to the House of Commons of the State Opening of Parliament in 2010 is estimated Tim Loughton: We are in the process of reviewing to have been £177,000, which represents the Commons contracts from which savings can be made through contribution to costs shared with the House of Lords. renegotiation or termination. The total value of those contracts and the potential savings will not be known until the full review is complete. LEADER OF THE HOUSE Departmental Manpower Private Members’ Bill

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Leader of the House if he Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for will bring forward proposals to provide more time for Education how many (a) officials and (b) external advisers are working on the forthcoming green paper the committee stage of private Members’ Bills. [18994] on special educational needs and disabilities. [16560] Sir George Young: I am giving consideration to how the time available for private Members’ Bills in the Sarah Teather: Work on the Green Paper on special current long Session should be increased, including educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is being led time available for committee stage. by three full-time equivalent officials. These officials are working closely with colleagues in the Department for Education’s SEND division, as well as officials from across the Department and across Government. DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER This Division also employs one professional adviser Referendums: Scotland who supports the Division’s overall activity, which includes advising on aspects of the Green Paper. Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister To inform the Green Paper, the Department has whether he made an assessment of the findings of the sought a number of views through informal discussions 2007 Gould report on Scottish elections before selecting with experts, voluntary organisations, local authorities, 5 May 2011 as the date for the proposed referendum on teachers, parents and a call for views consultation. the voting system for election to the House of Commons. [18235] Sixth Form Education: Capital Investment Mr Harper: The Gould Report identified a number of contributory factors which led to a high number of Yvonne Fovargue: To ask the Secretary of State for spoilt ballot papers in 2007. Most of these, such as the Education whether he plans to allocate capital funding introduction of a new electoral system and combined to sixth form colleges funded by the Young People’s ballot papers, will not be in play on 5 May 2011. Learning Agency at the same level as that allocated to further education colleges through the Train to Gain The Report also recognised that there are benefits to programme for the purposes of renovating buildings combining elections such as reducing cost, achieving and facilities. [15590] higher turnout and minimising disruption to voters. In evidence to the Scottish Affairs Committee on 21 September Tim Loughton [holding answer 16 September 2010]: 2010, Mr Ron Gould said: The Capital Review announced on 5 July 2010, in the “I do not believe that the same factors which led to voter context of the budget pressures and emerging policy, is confusion and the large number of rejected ballots at the last examining the Department’s capital programmes including Scottish Parliamentary and Municipal elections would arise if both the (Scottish) Parliamentary Election and the Referendum capital funding to sixth form colleges, and will make were held on the same date. The marking of yes or no on a recommendations on the future shape of all its capital referendum ballot is much easier to understand and carry out investment for the next spending review period and than the requirements of marking an STV ballot.” beyond. It will conclude its work by the end of the 95W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 96W calendar year. We intend to determine capital allocations Collaborating with the Ministry of Justice and the British as soon as possible thereafter. The Review team has Institute of Human Rights (BIHR) to develop a curriculum been tasked with exploring new approaches to school resource for teachers on the UNCRC, to be used with Key Stage 3 building, and ensuring investment is focused on areas in pupils. Right Here, Right Now - Teaching Citizenship through Human Rights was published in 2007; the greatest need - those educational establishments in most disrepair, to deal with the urgent demand for The Department provided funding to UNICEF for its Rights Respecting Schools initiative which encourages and helps schools primary school places from rising birth rates, and ensure to embed the UNCRC into their ethos and curriculum; that future capital investment represents good value for In July 2008, the Department held an event for children and money and strongly supports the Government’s ambitions young people and key stakeholders to discuss UK’s reporting to to raise standards and tackle disadvantage. the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and a follow up event was held in September 2009 to discuss the UN Committees Teenage Pregnancy Concluding Observations; As part of the 20th anniversary of the ratification of the Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for UNCRC on 20 November 2009), the Department, with the Office Education what steps he is taking to reduce the number of the Children’s Commissioner held a celebration event led by children which was aimed at raising awareness of the UNCRC of teenagers who become pregnant in England. [15616] among children and young people. Sarah Teather: The reduction in the under-18 conception The Government operate a number of web-based portals, enabling children and adults to access information about the rate over the last decade—to the point where it is at its Convention. For parents and young people, DirectGov has a lowest level for over 20 years—is positive. But it does popular UNCRC section. For children under 10, DirectGovKids not mask the fact that England still has high teenage has a section on the UNCRC, developed in conjunction with pregnancy rates compared with many other countries. UNICEF. There is also specific information available on the web We want local areas to continue to prioritise reducing for people who work with children, for example, through teachernet. teenage pregnancy rates, using the international evidence Voluntary Organisations: Contracts and the lessons from areas where teenage pregnancy rates have fallen fastest, to accelerate progress. There Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for are clear social and economic benefits from investing in Education what contracts his Department has awarded actions to prevent teenage pregnancies and improve to voluntary sector organisations in the last two years; outcomes for teenage parents and their children. These and what the monetary value was of each such will contribute to local strategies to: reduce child poverty contract. [17607] and health inequalities; and improve public health. We are currently reviewing the curriculum, including Sarah Teather [holding answer 18 October 2010]: To the place of sex and relationships education (SRE) gather the information required to identify all the contracts within it. We will be announcing our plans later this and monetary value of each contract awarded to voluntary year. But whatever the status of SRE in future, we are sector organisations in the last two years would exceed clear that it should focus more on relationships. We the disproportionate cost threshold. know that parents are concerned about the early Details of all new central Government contracts will sexualisation of children and the worrying levels of be published in full from January 2011. violence reported in teenage relationships and believe that high quality SRE can help children and young Written Questions: Government Responses people to: cope with the pressures they face to have sex—from both their peers and the media; and to Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for understand what is meant by sexual consent. Education when he plans to answer question (a) 14560 We are also considering how best to ensure that on the school lunch grant, (b) 14561 on the home sufficient accessible, young people-friendly contraceptive access scheme and (c) 14564 on the School Food Trust. and sexual health services are available in each local [17066] area, so that sexually active young people do not risk having unprotected sex, which can result in an unplanned Sarah Teather: The responses to the hon. Member’s pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection. We will questions were issued on 13 October 2010. be publishing a Public Health White Paper later this PQ 14560: 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 324W year. PQ 14561: 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 323W UN Convention on the Rights of the Child PQ 14564: 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 325W. Young People: Obesity Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what programmes and projects his Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has funded to raise public awareness of Education what guidance his Department issues to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in the schools on reducing obesity among persons aged under last five years. [17433] 16 years; and if he will make a statement. [5636]

Sarah Teather: The Government are committed to Sarah Teather: The Department for Education does the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) not issue any specific guidance to schools on reducing and to raising awareness of the Convention. obesity. However, this Government recognise that through The Department has supported and funded a number physical education, competitive school sport and healthy of initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the Convention eating, schools can help address the problem of childhood in the last five years such as: obesity. In the past, the Department has made available 97W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 98W guidance and resources to help schools provide a healthy 2008-09, (ii) 2009-10 and (iii) 2010-11 on the latest date environment by providing nutritious school lunches, for which figures are available. [18498] improving participation in high quality PE and sport opportunities, helping children learn about health through Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the personal, social, health and economic education and responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have practical activities such as cooking. Guidance from asked the authority to reply. DfE and Department of Health was issued to schools Letter from Stephen Penneck: on how they can support the National Child Measurement As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Programme, which collects height and weight data on have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question primary school pupils in reception and year 6. concerning the proportion of officials who were identified as being (a) from black and minority ethnic backgrounds and (b) disabled who left the Civil Service before retirement age in (i) 2008-09, (ii) 2009-10 and (iii) 2010-11 on the latest date for which CABINET OFFICE figures are available. (18498) Civil Servants: Resignations Civil Service Statistics are published annually by the Office for National Statistics on the National Statistics website. Statistics for 2010 will be published on 19 November 2010. The requested Mr Umunna: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet estimates for the years 2008 and 2009 are attached at Annex A. Office what estimate he has made of the proportion of Since April 2010, there has been no default retirement age across officials who were identified as being (a) from black the Civil Service, but we have used an age of 65 years for the and minority ethnic backgrounds and (b) disabled purpose of making these estimates. who left the civil service before retirement age in (i) Annex A

Civil service employment: civil service leavers before retirement age1,2 All employees 20083 20093 Headcount % Headcount %

Black and/or minority ethnic 2,790 5.6 2,160 5.7 Disabled 1,970 3.9 1,710 4.5

All civil service leavers before retirement age 50,140 100 38,020 100 1 Numbers are rounded to the nearest ten. 2 For the purpose of this analysis retirement age has been taken to be 65 years. 3 Survey reference date 31 March. Source: Annual Civil Service Employment Survey.

Employment: Public Sector The number of people employed in the public sector in Redcar constituency is not available. Ian Swales: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The available data are attached at Annex A. Office what estimate he has made of the number of Annex A: Public Sector Employment1,2,3 people employed in the public sector in (a) the UK, Headcount (thousand) (b) the North East and (c) Redcar constituency in UK4 North East5,6 each of the last 13 years. [19504] 1998 5,168 — Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the 1999 5,221 239 responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have 2000 5,302 235 asked the authority to reply. 2001 5,394 234 Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated October 2010: 2002 5,501 251 2003 5,665 254 As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question 2004 5,785 253 concerning the number of people employed in the public sector in 2005 5,883 268 (a) the United Kingdom (b) the North East and (c) Redcar 2006 5,849 263 constituency, in each of the last thirteen years. (19504) 2007 5,797 263 Estimates of employment for the UK public sector are taken 2008 5,777 284 from the ONS release on Public Sector Employment at 2009 6,069 290 www.statistics.gov.uk 2010 6,051 285 The ONS’s preferred estimates of regional public sector 1 Annual figures relate to June Q2 except the North East for 1999 employment are based on returns from public sector organisations. which relates to December Q4. These estimates supersede previous estimates of regional employment 2 Estimates are based on where people are employed. 3 derived from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). Data up to 2007 are Northern Rock classified to the public sector from 9 October 2007, based on the LFS and are adjusted to compensate for seasonal Bradford and Bingley classified to public sector from 26 September variations in employment. Data from 2008 onwards are based on 2008, Royal Bank of Scotland Group and Lloyds Banking Group actual returns from public sector organisations and have not been classified to the public sector from 13 October 2008. 4 Figures for the UK are seasonally adjusted. seasonally adjusted. 5 1998-2007 seasonally adjusted and based on returns from the LFS. The number of people employed in the public sector in the 6 2008-2010 not seasonally adjusted and based on returns from public North East is not available before 1999. sector organisations. 99W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 100W

Immigration: Transcaucasus Ovarian Cancer

Robert Halfon: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Gavin Barwell: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what recent estimate he has made of the number Office what the five-year survival rate from ovarian of people originating from (a) Armenia, (b) cancer was in the latest period for which figures are Azerbaijan and (c) Georgia who are resident in the available. [18828] UK. [18502] Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated October 2010: Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated October 2010: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I As Director General for the Office for National Statistics have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what the (ONS), I have been asked to respond to your Parliamentary five-year survival rate from ovarian cancer was in the latest period Question to Secretary of State for the Home Department, concerning for which figures are available (18828). the number of people from (a) Armenia, (b) Azerbaijan and (c) ONS publishes cancer survival rates calculated from the date Georgia who are resident in the UK [18502]. of diagnosis. The latest estimates available, based on the Annual Population The latest figures available show that five-year relative survival Survey, are for the 12 month period of January to December for ovarian cancer, in England, was 41 per cent for women, aged 2009. These are shown in the table below. 15-99 years, diagnosed in 2003 - 2007 and followed up to 2008.1, 2 Estimated population resident in the United Kingdom, by selected Survival figures for England published by ONS, for 21 common nationalities and country of birth cancers, are available on the National Statistics website at: Thousand http://www.statistics.gov.uk/StatBase/ Country of birth Nationality Product.asp?vlnk=14007 Estimate CI+/- Estimate CI+/- 1 Relative survival is the probability of survival (shown here as a percentage) after correction for other causes of death. Armenia n/a n/a 1 1 2 Ovarian cancer is defined by the International Classification of Azerbaijan 2 2 2 2 Diseases, tenth revision (ICD-10) codes C56, C57.0, C57.7. Georgia 3 2 2 2 n/a = “not available” CI = Confidence Interval Strategic Defence and Security Review: Climate Change Source: Annual Population Survey (APS)/Labour Force Survey (LFS), ONS Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has to include in the remit of the Lone Parents: Brighton Strategic Defence and Security Review consideration of the effects of climate change and resource competition. Simon Kirby: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet [18321] Office how many lone parents were resident in Brighton, Kemptown constituency in each of the last Mr Letwin: The National Security Strategy (NSS), 10 years. [19011] which was published on 18 October, assessed that competition for resources—such as energy, water or Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the food—among or within other countries can result in responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have instability which may impact on the UK’s national asked the authority to reply. security, for example in the form of conflict or increased Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated October 2010: migratory pressures. It also assessed that the physical effects of climate change are likely to become increasingly As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your request to ask the Minister for significant, exacerbating existing tensions around the the Cabinet Office how many lone parents were resident in world. The Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR), Brighton, Kemptown constituency in each of the last 10 years for which was published the following day, makes which figures are available (19011). recommendations for improving the Government’s ability Estimates, based on the Annual Population Survey, for lone to consider and tackle these issues, and establishes clear parent families which include at least one child aged under 16, are governance structures and accountability. given in the table below. Data are available for 2004 to 2008. This is based on the 2008 parliamentary constituency boundary, Teenage Pregnancies: Peterborough which contained 10 electoral wards, one more than the current constituency. Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Minister for the Number of lone parent families with at least one child under 16 in Cabinet Office pursuant to the answer of 14 September Brighton, Kemptown constituency 2010, Official Report, columns 998-99W, on teenage Estimate (thousand) pregnancies, how many pregnancies were recorded 2004 3 among women aged 15 to 17 years living in 2005 3 Peterborough City council area in 2009; and if he will 2006 2 make a statement. [19103] 2007 2 2008 2 Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Source: responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have APS asked the authority to reply. 101W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 102W

Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated October 2010: Mr Harper: The Government are keen to ensure that As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I disabled people are supported to participate in political have been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many and public life and that the electoral process is accessible pregnancies were recorded among women aged 15 to 17 years to all electors. This reflects our commitment to the UN living in Peterborough City Council area in 2009 (19103). Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Figures on conceptions are estimates based on the number of and in particular the obligations set out in Article 29. live births, stillbirths or legal abortions. They do not include miscarriages and illegal abortions. Because of the confidentiality This is why the Cabinet Office has made an early of data on abortions and stillbirths, figures on conceptions at commitment as part of our coalition document to specific ages are not published for small areas, such as Peterborough introduce extra support for disabled people who want City Council, because of the risk of disclosing such information. to become MPs, councillors or other elected officials. There were 168 conceptions to women under 18 years of age in We are currently looking at the detail of how best to Peterborough Unitary Authority in 2008 (the most recent year for support disabled people who want to enter political life. which figures are available). The data for 2008 are provisional. In working up detailed policy proposals, we will draw on the evidence set out by the cross-party Speaker’s Third Sector: Surveys Conference and involve the expertise of disabled people and disabled people’s organisations at an early stage. Sir Alan Beith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The Electoral Administration Act 2006 (“EA Act Office for what reasons his Department has decided to 2006”) and associated legislation contain measures aimed undertake a second wave national survey of charities to make the voting process more accessible for disabled and social enterprises. [18593] electors. Returning officers are required to display an enlarged version of the ballot paper in polling stations Mr Hurd: The National Survey of Charities and and to provide upon request at polling stations a large Social Enterprises is the largest and most far reaching hand-held sample copy of the ballot paper for the survey of its kind, and is vital in providing detailed assistance of visually impaired voters. Returning officers information on the state of the sector at a local level. must also ensure that each polling station is supplied The first wave of the survey in 2008 proved invaluable with a tactile voting device which is designed to enable to the sector and local statutory bodies in identifying blind and partially sighted voters to cast their vote and addressing key local issues, and has informed both independently without revealing their voting intentions national and local policy. to a third party. The Government have set out a clear role for the Electoral officers are also required to make information voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in and documents about the electoral process available to building a stronger civil society and the second wave of electors in other languages and formats, including Braille the survey will be key to providing information needed and audio format. to effectively support the sector in this role. The survey results, which will be fully published at: There are also a number of provisions in legislation which are specifically intended to support disabled electors www.nscsesurvey.com to vote at elections. These include provision that, on will provide citizens, communities, the sector and local application to the presiding officer, disabled voters in and central Government with real insight into the current polling stations may cast their vote with the assistance environment for the sector, in addition to an unprecedented of a companion. level of evidence on the sector over time. This data will be crucial in supporting evidence-based decision-making Local authorities have a statutory responsibility for in response to public spending reductions, holding designating polling places and must carry out a full government account on its support for the sector, and assessment of polling places at least every four years to providing the tools to drive real change in local areas. ensure that, so far as it is practicable, all venues are accessible to electors who are disabled. This should UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with mean that polling places are regularly checked for Disabilities accessibility, and consideration given to making reasonable improvements where practicable. Kate Hoey: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The Government are also aware that for some groups Office what steps his Department is taking to ensure in society, including electors who are disabled, e-voting compliance with Article 29 of the UN Convention on can assist them to overcome barriers to participation. the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in respect of This may be an area that needs closer consideration as participation in political life in regard to its provisions to how information technology can assist in the absence for (a) ensuring that voting procedures, facilities and of a full e-voting solution being put in place alongside materials are appropriate, accessible, easy to the existing paper-based model, which is a model that understand and use, (b) protecting the right of persons many trust and expect. Where there are issues with the with disabilities to vote by secret ballot in elections and existing paper-based system, the Government will look public referendums without intimidation and to stand at the evidence and identify what needs to be taken for elections, to effectively hold office and perform all forward to address those issues. public functions at all levels of government, facilitating the use of assistive and new technologies where Peter Bottomley: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet appropriate and (c) guaranteeing the free expression of Office what steps his Department has taken to ensure the will of persons with disabilities as electors and to that its activities are compliant with the provisions of this end, where necessary, at their request, allowing Article 29 of the UN Convention on the Rights of assistance in voting by a person of their own choice. Persons with Disabilities on participation in political [18594] and public life. [17888] 103W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 104W

Mr Harper: The Government are keen to ensure that Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the disabled people are supported to participate in political responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have and public life and that the electoral process is accessible asked the authority to reply. to all electors. This reflects our commitment to the UN Letter from Stephen Penneck: Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have and in particular the obligations set out in Article 29. been asked to reply to your question concerning what definition This is why the Cabinet Office has made an early of a workless household the Department for Work and Pensions commitment as part of our coalition document to uses. 17958. introduce extra support for disabled people who want Official statistics on workless households are produced by the to become MPs, councillors or other elected officials. Office for National Statistics. The definition of a workless household is a household that includes at least one person aged 16 to 64 and We are currently looking at the detail of how best to where no individuals aged 16 and over are in employment. support disabled people who want to enter political life. In working up detailed policy proposals, we will draw on the evidence set out by the cross-party Speaker’s CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Conference and involve the expertise of disabled people and disabled people’s organisations at an early stage. Next Generation Broadband There are a number of provisions in legislation which 16. Stephen Metcalfe: To ask the Secretary of State are specifically intended to support disabled electors to for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what progress vote at elections. These include provision that, on application he has made on his plans to roll out next generation to the presiding officer, disabled voters in polling stations broadband. [18958] may cast their vote with the assistance of a companion. Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Government are committed to The Electoral Administration Act 2006 (“EA Act delivering the best superfast broadband network in 2006”) and associated legislation also contain measures Europe by 2015, including into rural areas. Last week, aimed to make the voting process more accessible for the Chancellor announced four superfast broadband disabled electors. Returning Officers are required to pilot projects, in Cumbria, Herefordshire, North Yorkshire display an enlarged version of the ballot paper in polling and the Highlands and Islands as a first step to delivering stations and to provide upon request at polling stations this. These pilots will be the first projects supported a large hand-held sample copy of the ballot paper for using the £530 million funding for broadband that my the assistance of visually impaired voters. Returning right hon. Friend the Chancellor announced as part of Officers must also ensure that each polling station is the spending review. supplied with a tactile voting device which is designed to enable blind and partially sighted voters to cast their Arts Council England vote independently without revealing their voting intentions to a third party. 17. Simon Hughes: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has Electoral officers are also required to make information for the future of Arts Council England; and if he will and documents about the electoral process available to make a statement. [18959] electors in other languages and formats, including Braille and audio format. Mr Vaizey: The Arts Council plays a vital role in Local authorities have a statutory responsibility for bringing expertise and impartiality to arts funding and designating polling places and under the EA Act 2006 providing support to artists and arts organisations. It have an obligation to carry out a full assessment of will continue to do so in the future. polling places at least every four years to ensure that, so Arts and Creative Industries far as it is practicable, all venues are accessible to electors who are disabled. This should mean that polling 18. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for places are regularly checked for accessibility, and Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment consideration given to making reasonable improvements he has made of the effect on the economy of changes in where practicable. his Department’s levels of funding for the arts and creative industries. [18960] The EA Act 2006 allows certain prescribed persons, e.g. a local councillor, or 30 or more local electors, to Mr Vaizey: As part of their settlement we have asked make representations to the Electoral Commission to the Arts Council to limit cuts in the overall budget for review the local authority’s decision. arts organisations to just 15% in real terms. I am Disabled electors may choose to vote by post as an confident that this relative level of protection, combined alternative to voting in a polling station. The law allows with an increase in lottery funding over the coming an Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) to dispense years will allow the arts and creative industries to with the requirement for postal vote applicants to provide continue to play a vital role in our economy. a signature if the ERO is satisfied that the applicant is Broadband unable to do so due to the elector being disabled. Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he has Unemployment taken to ensure the rapid roll-out of superfast broadband across the country. [18222] Gregg McClymont: To ask the Minister for the Mr Vaizey: I have been asked to reply in my capacity Cabinet Office what definition of a workless household as a Minister in the Department for Business, Innovation his Department uses. [17958] and Skills. 105W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 106W

The Government are committed to delivering the Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings best superfast broadband network in Europe by 2015, including into rural areas. Last week, the Chancellor of Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, the Exchequer announced four superfast broadband Olympics, Media and Sport how many officials in his pilot projects, in Cumbria, Herefordshire, North Yorkshire Department have been (a) subject to disciplinary and the Highlands and Islands as a first step to delivering action, (b) removed from post, (c) transferred to this. These pilots will be the first projects supported another position and (d) dismissed for matters relating using the £530 million funding for broadband that the to their (i) disciplinary record and (ii) performance in Chancellor of the Exchequer announced as part of the each year since 1997. [18745] spending review. Departmental Contracts John Penrose: The Department’s HR department holds records from 2000. We are not able to break down the information into disciplinary and performance issues. Andrew Bingham: To ask the Secretary of State for The information we are able to provide is as follows: Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of quality Transferred management statements in assisting with contract Number of Removed to another decisions for the 2012 London Olympic games. [18999] disciplinaries from post position Dismissed

2000-01 1 0 0 0 Hugh Robertson: The use of quality management 2001-02 1 0 0 0 statements in the selection of suppliers, leading to contract 2002-03 0 0 0 0 award decisions, is recognised good procurement practice. 2003-04 4 0 0 1 The vast majority of contracts by value for the London 2004-05 2 0 0 2 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games will be awarded 2005-06 0 0 0 0 by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) with a significant 2006-07 2 0 0 2 number awarded by the London Organising Committee 2007-08 0 0 0 0 for the Olympic Games (LOCOG). 2008-09 2 0 0 0 While LOCOG is a private company not bound by 2009-10 0 0 0 0 public procurement regulation, the ODA is a DCMS 2010-11 4 0 0 0 public body. As such, DCMS officials have reviewed ODA procurement policy and are satisfied that it Departmental Pay encompasses good procurement practice. Specifically, the ODA uses a “balanced scorecard” of Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, criteria at both the prequalification stage to select a Olympics, Media and Sport how much was paid to shortlist of suppliers to invite to tender and at the officials in his Department and its non-departmental tender evaluation stage in selecting the successful supplier. public bodies in bonuses and other payments in The balanced scorecard considers five broad criteria addition to salary in each year since 1997; how many areas including quality management and reviewing the officials received such payments; and what the quality management statements of prospective suppliers. monetary value was of the largest 20 payments made in DCMS officials have also reviewed LOCOG procurement each such year. [18743] policy and are satisfied that LOCOG also adopts good practice consideration of quality management statements John Penrose: The Department makes bonus payments in its contract award process. to its staff for two purposes: (a) special bonuses to It is, however, recognised that a good quality management reward outstanding contributions in particularly demanding statement is no guarantee that a supplier will in fact tasks or situations; and (b) performance related bonuses perform well in practice. Therefore appropriate to reward highly successful performance over a whole consideration of other factors, such as health, safety, year. Awards were made in line with Cabinet Office environmental capabilities, financial viability, construction principles and guidelines on performance-related pay. quality and others, are taken into account as part of the Such information that is available is shown in the “balanced scorecard” to select suppliers. tables.

Financial year 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Number of staff awarded special bonuses and 206 168 235 327 371 420 391 performance related bonuses Total all bonuses (£) 206,403 215,285 293,241 392,114 520,713 582,167 608,587

£ Largest 20 bonuses of any type 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

1 8,500 7,000 12,000 14,000 13,000 35,000 49,500 2 6,000 7,000 6,000 10,000 11,000 30,000 40,000 3 6,000 7,000 6,000 10,000 10,000 15,000 12,500 4 5,000 6,000 5,000 10,000 10,000 13,500 12,500 5 4,500 5,000 5,000 8,250 10,000 13,500 12,500 107W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 108W

£ Largest 20 bonuses of any type 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

6 4,500 5,000 5,000 8,250 9,500 12,000 12,000 7 4,500 5,000 5,000 8,000 8,500 11,000 11,000 8 4,500 4,000 4,000 8,000 8,500 11,000 10,000 9 4,000 3,500 4,000 8,000 8,500 11,000 10,000 10 4,000 3,500 4,000 6,500 8,500 11,000 10,000 11 4,000 3,400 4,000 6,065 8,500 11,000 10,000 12 3,500 3,000 4,000 6,000 8,500 9,000 10,000 13 2,716 3,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 9,000 10,000 14 2,500 2,500 4,000 5,000 7,500 7,000 10,000 15 2,500 2,500 4,000 5,000 5,800 7,000 9,500 16 2,500 2,500 4,000 4,500 5,800 7,000 8,000 17 2,500 2,500 3,500 4,500 5,800 7,000 8,000 18 1,750 2,500 3,500 4,500 5,800 7,000 8,000 19 1,700 2,500 3,500 4,000 5,800 7,000 8,000 20 1,700 2,500 3,000 3,750 5,800 7,000 8,000

The Department does not hold information prior to The Department does not hold information prior to 2003. 2003. Data on payments by non-departmental public bodies is not held centrally and I will ask the chief executive of each body to write to the hon. Member. Departmental Sick Leave

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what allowances and Olympics, Media and Sport for how many days on payments in addition to salary were available to average his Department’s staff in each pay grade were officials in his Department and its non-departmental absent from work as a result of ill health in 2009-10. public bodies in each year since 1997; and what the [18567] monetary value was of payments and allowances of each type in each such year. [18744] John Penrose: The table shows the average number of John Penrose: The types of allowances that are paid working days lost due to ill-health in my Department in to staff in the Department and their monetary values 2009-10. are shown in the table. Allowances are paid on a monthly basis in addition to basic salaries. Average working days lost by Civil service pay grade staff year Data on allowances or payments by non-departmental public bodies is not held centrally and I will ask the AA/AO 23.1 Chief Executive of each body to write to you. EO 5.6 HEO/SEO 4.0 Allowance type Total amount (£) G7 1.9 G6 3.3 2003-04 Recruitment and retention 106,464 allowance SCS 1.4 2004-05 Recruitment and retention 125,010 Total 4.7 allowance Specialist allowance 9,455 Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, 2005-06 Recruitment and retention 89,820 allowance Olympics, Media and Sport how many officials in his Department have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five Specialist allowance 61,464 to 10 days, (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 2006-07 Recruitment and retention 84,666 25 days, (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to allowance 100 days, (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) Specialist allowance 101,886 more than 200 days, (l) more than three months, (m) 2007-08 Recruitment and retention 86,211 more than six months and (n) one year on paid sick allowance leave (i) consecutively and (ii) in total in each year since Specialist allowance 108,983 1997. [18747] 2008-09 Recruitment and retention 106,736 allowance Specialist allowance 101,478 John Penrose: The table shows the total number of officials who were on leave due to sickness absence in 2009-10 Recruitment and retention 97,376 allowance the Department in each year since 2003. Specialist allowance 123,090 (i) Officials who were on leave due to sickness absence Private office allowance 25,669 consecutively in each of the category could be provided only at a disproportionate cost. 109W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 110W

Length of absence 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

< 5 days 187 213 225 270 279 324 378 5-10 days 29 23 16 36 33 38 31 10-15 days 0 10464510 15-20 days 4234053 20-25 days 1022114 25-50 days 1786307 50-75 days 0231110 75-100 days 1010022 100-150days1000120 150-200days1000003 >3 months 0001024 >6 months 0000023 >1year0000000

The Department does not hold information prior to My current priority is to win the world cup bid for 2003. 2018; however, I am continuing discussions with the football authorities on the question of governance reform Digital Economy Act 2010 and club ownership. To their credit, the Premier League has already taken Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, steps to introduce a number of new rules for this Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment he has season, specifically in the areas of club ownership. This made of the appropriateness of the implementation by includes a new means and abilities test, requiring proof Ofcom of its regulatory duties under the Digital Economy of funds of prospective new owners as well as a Act 2010; and if he will make a statement. [18459] strengthening of their Owners and Directors Test (formerly known as the fit and proper persons test). Mr Vaizey: I have been asked to reply in my capacity However, we are examining what further action might as a Minister in the Department for Business, Innovation be necessary. and Skills. This Department is in regular contact with Ofcom, Olympic Games 2010: Skipton particularly in respect to their work on developing the code of practice known as ‘The Online Copyright Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Infringement Initial Obligations Code’. As an independent Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his Department regulator, Ofcom’s compliance with its statutory duties is taking to ensure a legacy for Skipton and Ripon is a matter for Ofcom itself, and Ofcom is directly constituency from the London 2012 Olympics. [18935] accountable to Parliament. Hugh Robertson: The Government and the London Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Olympics, Media and Sport what responsibilities he has Paralympic Games (LOCOG) established the Nations for oversight of the discharge by Ofcom of its responsibilities and Regions Group to ensure UK-wide engagement under the Digital Economy Act 2010 in respect of and to maximise the legacy from London 2012. This sectors which are the policy responsibility of the Secretary group works directly with representatives from each of of State for Business, Innovation and Skills; and if he the nations and English regions to realise the sporting, will make a statement. [19495] economic, and cultural benefits of the 2012 games. Across the UK over 850 cultural and sporting Mr Vaizey: Ofcom operates independently of government programmes have been awarded Inspire Marks, 63 being and is responsible for its own compliance with its statutory in the Yorkshire and Humberside region. Over 14,000 duties. Ofcom is, however, directly accountable to schools and colleges have registered for LOCOG’s education Parliament. programme Get Set, 1,262 are registered in the region. In Ripon and Skipton 17 schools and colleges have Football registered for Get Set. In addition 6,290 companies in the region have registered Mr Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, on Competefor (the website where London 2012 contract Olympics, Media and Sport what recent representations opportunities are advertised), and 32 contracts have he has received on his proposals for reform of football been awarded to Competefor suppliers. Not all the governance rules in respect of ownership of Premier information on ‘supply chain’ level contracts is in the League football clubs. [19298] public domain. There may be other companies that have secured ‘supply chain’ contracts in the region. Hugh Robertson: The Department has received numerous Locations across the UK, particularly those that are representations from Members of Parliament and members hosting international teams in pre-games training camps of the public about the ownership of some of our top (PGTCs), have additional opportunities to realise the Premier League clubs. I am aware of the strength of economic benefits of the games. Five agreements have feeling. been signed with teams to hold PGTCs in the region. 111W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 112W

Public Libraries For those areas where local TV is not deemed to be viable on digital terrestrial, internet protocol television Mr Nuttall: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, such as YouView may offer a future solution to make Olympics, Media and Sport what plans his Department local television services technically and economically has to modernise public libraries. [19235] viable.

Mr Vaizey: Our priority is to identify opportunities Television: Broadcasting for the public library service to operate more effectively and efficiently. The Future Libraries Programme, which Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, I launched in July, is finding new ways to deliver library Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he services without cutting the front line services that has had on the establishment of local television stations; communities want and need. It provides the chance to and if he will make a statement. [19090] try new and innovative methods like shared resources, different governance models and co-locating with other Mr Vaizey: The Secretary of State has met with services. Further details of the Future Libraries Programme existing national broadcasters and other interested parties can be accessed on the Museums, Libraries and Archives to discuss local TV.The Government appointed investment Council’s website at banker Nicholas Shott to look at the conditions necessary http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/programmes/the_future for commercially viable local TV in the UK and he has _libraries_programme met with various interested parties as part of his work. Sports: Public Participation He is due to present his final conclusions by early December. Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has had discussions with the (a) London Organising Committee HEALTH of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games and (b) Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance and Mayor of London on changes to the route of the Healthcare Associated Infections marathon from that specified in the original bid document; and if he will make a statement. [19012] John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his most recent assessment is of the performance Hugh Robertson: Responsibility for the route of the of the Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Olympic and Paralympic marathon events in 2012 rests Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections. with the London Organising Committee of the Olympic [19168] and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). LOCOG wrote and sought endorsement from the Olympic Board members, Anne Milton: The chair of the Advisory Committee which includes the chair of the British Olympic Association, on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated the Mayor of London and the Secretary of State for Infections (ARHAI) carries out periodic appraisals for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. The route has each of the ARHAI members. Appointments are reviewed been endorsed by these Olympic Board members. The regularly. route has been chosen for operational reasons. It helps However as part of the implementation of the changes keep London moving on busy competition days, minimises to the Department’s advisory non-departmental public disruption to other games events, and best meets athlete bodies (ANDPBs), we will be implementing a periodic and spectator requirements. review process, of all our significant advisory committees Television and ANDPBs which will incorporate an assessment of performance and effectiveness. Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for A formal review has not been conducted but the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what timetable Department’s assessment at present, is that ARHAI he has set for the implementation of his proposals for makes a valuable contribution to developing the evidence local television services; and if he will make a base for Government policy. statement; [19412] Advisory Committee on Borderline Substances (2) what plans he has for the implementation of his proposals for local television services in (a) urban and John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (b) rural areas. [19413] what his most recent assessment is of the performance of the Advisory Committee on Borderline Substances. Mr Vaizey: Nicholas Shott is currently conducting an [19167] independent review of local TV in the UK and will present the Secretary of State with his final conclusions Mr Simon Burns: The Advisory Committee on Borderline by early December. This will form the basis of a local Substances (ACBS) has recently undergone a review of media action plan which we will consult on in the next its processes and the Department is content that the few months. Subject to Nicholas Shott’s findings, we ACBS is effective. hope to see the first local TV stations licensed from Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens 2012. Nicholas Shott’s interim findings suggest that local John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health television on digital terrestrial is only likely to be viable what his most recent assessment is of the performance in certain areas of the UK, which Government are of the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens. considering. [19166] 113W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 114W

Anne Milton: The Department’s assessment of the Appointments Commission performance of the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens (ACDP) is that it provides essential and high John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health quality expert scientific advice on all aspects of dangerous what his most recent assessment is of the performance pathogens and that there is continuing need for its of the Appointments Commission. [19162] advice. ACDP also provides advice to the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs and to the Mr Simon Burns: The Appointments Commission Health and Safety Executive. A review of ACDP formed continues to effectively carry out their role in making part of the review of the Department’s use of science national health service public appointments. undertaken by the Government Office for Science in Cancer: Charities 2008. A formal review of the performance of the chairman of ACDP has just been concluded prior to confirmation Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for of his reappointment for a further term. Health whether his Department plans to work with Departmental sponsors undertake regular performance cancer charities to promote his Department’s Signs and reviews of the members of ACDP and these form the Symptoms campaign. [19128] basis of recommendations for their continued appointment to the committee. The Department is currently reviewing Paul Burstow: We are working with a number of the remit and terms of reference of the ACDP, prior to cancer charities on the two centrally run regional campaigns its reconfiguration as a departmental committee of and 59 local campaigns that we are supporting to raise experts. awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer. We are also keeping a broader range of cancer charities Advisory Group on Hepatitis in touch with the plans, giving them opportunities to contribute as they wish. John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his most recent assessment is of the performance Care Quality Commission of the Advisory Group on Hepatitis. [19164] Mr Graham Stuart: To ask the Secretary of State for Anne Milton: A review of all members and the Chair Health what estimate he has made of the cost to the of the Advisory Group on Hepatitis (AGH) by the public purse of setting up the Care Quality Department’s sponsor and Secretariat was conducted Commission; and what estimate he has made of the in summer 2010. All members and the Chair were proportion of the care home information gathered assessed on categories such as attendance and scientific through its registration process which had already been contribution at meetings and their support and commitment collected by former social care bodies. [18686] to the AGH more generally. All members were assessed Paul Burstow: In 2006, the Department announced as either excellent or good in these aspects. The outcome that the costs of setting up the Care Quality Commission of the review was fed back to members and the Chair (CQC) would be in the region of £140 million. The individually and a record is held by the Secretariat. Department has since estimated that the costs of setting In addition, the AGH prepares an annual report for up the Care CQC, and winding-up predecessor the Chief Medical Officer which is published and available organisations, were approximately £140 million between on the AGH website at: 2006-07 and 2009-10. www.dh.gov.uk/ab/AGH/index.htm?ssSourceSiteId=en CQC is independent, and is responsible for developing As part of the implementation of the changes to the and implementing its own methodology for assessing Department’s advisory non-departmental public body providers. It inherited information from its predecessor (ANDPB) the Department will be implementing a periodic body, the Commission for Social Care Inspection, and review process, of all significant advisory committees supplemented this with information to assess provider and ANDPBs which will incorporate an assessment of compliance with regulations and make decisions for performance and effectiveness. registration under the Health and Social Care Act 2008. It is not possible to make an estimate of the proportion Alcohol Education and Research Council of registration information gathered by previous bodies.

John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Mr Graham Stuart: To ask the Secretary of State for what his most recent assessment is of the performance Health how many care home registrations the Care of the Alcohol Education and Research Council. Quality Commission has (a) lost and (b) failed to [19163] process within the target timescale for processing since its inception; and how many complaints regarding the Anne Milton: The Alcohol Education and Research Commission (i) the Commission and (ii) his Department Council (AERC) is an independent body. It has charitable has received in that period from care home providers. status and administers a fund to support research into [18687] the prevention of alcohol-related harm. The Department Paul Burstow: The following information has been does not provide any funding for this non-departmental provided by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). public body. (a) CQC has advised that it is aware of two instances of providers As set out in the Department’s Report of the Arm’s reporting that their application had been lost. Length Bodies Review, the AERC will be abolished as a (b) In the period 2009-10, CQC registered 7,241 providers under NDPB and remain as a charity. The decision means it the Care Standards Act (CSA) 2000. Of those registrations, will be free to continue and develop its research programme 75.2% were processed within the target timescale for completing to inform some of the key questions on alcohol policy. registration. 115W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 116W

In the period April to September 2010, CQC registered The Department’s Arm’s Length Body Review, published 4,082 providers under the CSA. Of those registrations, on 26 July 2010, concluded that the Council for Healthcare 89.3% were processed within the target timescale for Regulatory Excellence does currently fulfil an ongoing completing registration. need to quality assure professional regulation. At 1 October 2010, CQC had registered 9,400 providers of adult social care under the Health and Social Care Dental Services Act 2008 (the 2008 Act). All providers that applied within the timeframe were registered. Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (i) From 1 April 2010 to 13 October 2010, CQC received 73 what estimate he has made of the cost to the public complaints in relation to CSA activity, 2008 Act registration, or purse of transferring the commissioning of NHS transition to the 2008 Act registration system. None of these primary dental care to the NHS Commissioning complaints was pursued to the second stage of the corporate Board, as referred to in his Department’s White Paper complaints procedure; nor were any complaints taken to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. on Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS. [18439] (ii) The Department has not received any formal complaints from care home providers, although it has received 223 items of Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper “Equity and correspondence relating to issues in care homes or residential care Excellence: Liberating the NHS” set out proposals for that have been dealt with as official correspondence. fundamental changes to the ways that the national health service is structured and run. The precise costs of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome transferring the commissioning of NHS primary dental care to the NHS Commissioning Board will not be known until the new organisations that will underpin Mr Anderson: To ask the Secretary of State for the new system have been designed in more detail. Health whether blood donated by people with myalgic Four consultations relating to how the new organisations encephalomyelitis will be removed from the blood bank should be designed—specifically covering “transparency in circumstances in which such donors are found to on outcomes, liberating the NHS: local democratic have the xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related legitimacy in health” and “commissioning for patients virus. [19310] and regulating healthcare providers”—have recently closed and once the results of these have been analysed we will Anne Milton: There are no plans to remove from publish the costs of the new system in an impact assessment. storage blood donated by any donors found to have the A further two consultations on other aspects of reform xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV). set out in the White Paper—“specifically an information An expert subgroup of National Expert Panel for revolution”and “greater choice and control”have recently New and Emerging Infections (NEPNEI) met in May been launched and will close in January. 2010, to consider all available evidence about XMRV and conduct a risk assessment. The subgroup concluded Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health that XMRV can infect humans but there is currently no which body will be responsible for commissioning evidence that it causes human disease and that on the salaried primary care dental services under the evidence before the group, no public health action is proposals in his Department’s White Paper on Equity required at this time. Since the subgroup meeting in and Excellence: Liberating the NHS. [18440] May there has been no new scientific evidence that would change the conclusions of the subgroup. In July Mr Simon Burns: Under the proposals set out in the 2010, the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, White Paper “Equity and Excellence: Liberating the Tissues and Organs, similarly did not recommend further NHS”, the NHS Commissioning Board would, subject measures at present. Both groups will continue to monitor to the outcome of consultation, be responsible for the situation. commissioning primary care dental services. Further details will be available at the introduction of the Health Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence Bill into Parliament, which will follow later this year. Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what role consultants in dental public health will what his most recent assessment is of the performance have in commissioning NHS dentistry under the of the Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence. proposals in his Department’s White Paper on Equity [19171] and Excellence: Liberating the NHS; [18441] (2) what role dental practice advisers will have in the Anne Milton: The Department has nominated a senior structure of the NHS under the proposals in his official as sponsor of the Council for Healthcare Regulatory Department’s White Paper on Equity and Excellence: Excellence with overall responsibility for oversight of Liberating the NHS. [18446] its performance. Assessment is an ongoing process. The Department monitors the arm’s length body performance Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper “Equity and regularly through quarterly accountability meetings, which Excellence: Liberating the NHS” refers to creation of a include an annual review of performance. NHS Commissioning Board and a new Public Health In 2009-10, the Department considered the Council Service, to integrate and streamline existing health for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence’s performance to improvement. The NHS Commissioning Board will have been good and that their work had made a positive take on responsibility for commissioning national health contribution to promoting the health, safety and well-being service primary dental services, while the primary care of patients and other members of the public. trusts’ responsibilities for local health improvement will 117W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 118W transfer to local authorities. Local authorities will employ legislation, guidance and other forms of prescription. the Director of Public Health jointly appointed with The full response to this question could be made only at the Public Health Service. To discharge their functions disproportionate cost. and responsibilities, both the Public Health Service in local authorities and dental service commissioners will Doctors: Africa need appropriate advice and input from dental public health consultants, dental practice advisers and their Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for teams, working with local clinicians. Health how many doctors currently working in the NHS gained their primary medical qualification in (a) Departmental Carbon Emissions Malawi and (b) Uganda. [17614]

Jeremy Lefroy: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Simon Burns: The following table sets out the Health whether he has made an estimate of the change number of doctors working in England, who gained in the level of carbon dioxide emissions from his their primary medical qualification in Malawi and Uganda Department since May 2010; and what steps he plans as at 30 September 2009. to take to meet his Department’s target of reducing All doctors1 by country of primary qualification such emissions by 10 per cent. by May 2011. [16811] Number of all doctors1

Mr Simon Burns: The latest data on performance of Malawi 24 each Department towards the 10% reduction target is Uganda 73 publicly available on the: 1 Excludes hospital and community health services medical hospital www.data.gov.uk practitioners and medical clinical assistants, most of whom are general practitioners working part time in hospitals. website: Notes: http://data.gov.uk/departmental-performance-co2-emissions- Information about country of qualification is derived from the General reduction-date Medical Council. For staff in dental specialties, with a General Dental Council registration, the country of qualification is therefore Performance data is reported monthly, within four weeks unknown. of the month end. The next data release (to the end of Data Quality: September 2010) will be available by the end of October The NHS Information Centre for health and social care seeks to 2010, and similarly published to: minimise inaccuracies and the effect of missing and invalid data but responsibility for data accuracy lies with the organisations providing www.data.gov.uk the data. Methods are continually being updated to improve data The Department’s current estimate of reduction in quality. Where changes impact on figures already published, this is the level of carbon emissions since May 2010 is just assessed but unless it is significant at national level, figures are not above the 10% required. changed. Impact at detailed or local level is footnoted in relevant analyses. Projects under way that will help us meet our target Source: include: The NHS Information Centre, Medical and Dental Workforce Census. replacing our desktop personal computers with network interface Drugs: Prisoners boxes and centralising storage; decommissioning a number of information technology servers; Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for reduction of air-conditioning requirement in server rooms; Health what proportion of prisoners participating in impact of new lighting system on the 6th floor of Skipton detoxification programmes are receiving gradual House; reduction prescriptions. [19084] impact of new ventilation and air-conditioning system on the nd 2 floor of Richmond House; Paul Burstow: None of the prisoners reported as introduction of Voltage Optimisation; receiving detoxification programmes in 2009-10 had replacement of lamps; received a gradual reduction prescription. Longer duration installing sub meters in one building; treatments, including gradual reduction prescriptions, replace Air Handling Unit Fan assembly; and are reported within the extended prescriptions data the move of the Medicines Healthcare products Regulatory collection category. Agency to a more efficient building. In 2009-10, 36,323 prisoners received treatment on The target of reducing emissions by 10% applies to detoxification programmes of less than 21 days prescribed the three Headquarter buildings in which the Department treatment. In the same period, 23,744 prisoners received has direct responsibility for energy use, and those occupied treatment on extended detoxification programmes. Since by NHS Connecting for Health and the Medicines extended programme data include both maintenance Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. and slow reduction treatments, and the proportion of each is not separately identified, we do not know how Departmental Legislation many prisoners received gradual reduction prescriptions.

Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Drugs: Rehabilitation Health how many statutory duties were placed on local authorities by legislation introduced by his Department Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for in each year since 1997; and if he will make a Health what his most recent estimate is of (a) the statement. [17021] number of people under the age of (i) 18 and (ii) 16 years who are being prescribed (A) methadone and (B) Mr Simon Burns: The Government are committed to buprenorphine/subutex and (b) the average dose of reducing top down burdens on local authorities from each medication prescribed for one such patient. [17092] 119W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 120W

Sarah Teather: I have been asked to reply. Mr Simon Burns: The indicators recommended for The National Drug Treatment Monitoring System inclusion in the Quality and Outcomes Framework are (NDTMS) collects information on the number of young part of the current national general practitioner contract people in specialist substance misuse services in England. negotiations between the General Practitioners Committee 498 young people under the age of 18 received of the British Medical Association and National Health pharmacological interventions in 2008-09. Of these, 66 Service Employers. Discussions between the two parties were under 16 years old. NDTMS does not distinguish are currently ongoing. between opiate substitute drugs (such as methadone or Expert Advisory Group on AIDS buprenorphine) and other prescribed drugs (such as Ritalin for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and it is important to note that pharmacological interventions John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health in this context include prescribing for detoxification, what his most recent assessment is of the performance stabilisation and symptomatic relief of substance misuse. of the Expert Advisory Group on AIDS. [19172] Information on the doses prescribed is not recorded within NDTMS or held centrally. Anne Milton: In terms of ongoing assessment of Youngpeople’s substance misuse is markedly different effectiveness of the Expert Advisory Group on AIDS to that of adults. Young people tend to have shorter (EAGA), the chair, secretariat and departmental sponsor histories of substance use and have used lower levels of last conducted an appraisal of the performance of all of drugs for shorter periods. They are therefore much less EAGA’s members in 2009. Regular meetings are also likely to be physically dependent. Just 2% of young held to review EAGA’s activity and identify future people in treatment in 2008-09 were using heroin or crack priorities. In addition, the quality and educational benefits cocaine as their primary substance. Substitute prescribing of EAGA meetings are evaluated regularly. for under-18s is therefore rare. Instead, interventions As part of the implementation of the changes to the for young people centre on psychosocial counselling-based Department’s advisory non-departmental public body therapies. Of the 498 young people receiving (ANDPBs), we will be implementing a periodic review pharmacological interventions in 2008-09, all but 36 received process, of all our significant advisory committees and psychosocial and other interventions as well. ANDPBs which will incorporate an assessment of performance and effectiveness. Epilepsy General Practitioners: Finance Teresa Pearce: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what recent discussions he has had with Damian Hinds: To ask the Secretary of State for representatives of epilepsy groups on the future of Health what steps he plans to take to ensure that epilepsy services in the National Health Service; payments to GP practices for the improvement of [18690] premises are maintained at adequate levels under his (2) whether he plans to take steps to ensure that proposals to pay such practices according to a formula proposed GP consortia comply with the National based on capitation and patient list size. [19044] Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines on services for people with epilepsy; [18692] Mr Simon Burns: The Government are committed to (3) what assessment he has made of the ability of working towards fair and equitable arrangements for al proposed GP consortia to commission epilepsy services elements of general practitioner funding, including support appropriately. [18693] for premises. We will discuss these issues with the profession over Paul Burstow: At the 12 October Westminster Hall the coming period. debate on epilepsy services, I gave an undertaking to meet with the All-Party Parliamentary Group and patient Genetics and Insurance Committee groups to discuss in more detail some of the issues that were raised during the debate. These meetings are currently John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health being arranged. what recent assessment he has made of the performance Health professionals are expected to take into account of the Genetics and Insurance Committee. [19157] National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines on epilepsy when providing care for those Anne Milton: There has been no recent assessment with epilepsy. This arrangement will continue with the made of the performance of the Genetics and Insurance introduction of general practitioner (GP) consortiums. Committee. We will be working to ensure that GP consortiums As part of the implementation of the changes to the have the skills to commission effective, and appropriate, Department’s advisory non-departmental public bodies services for those living with epilepsy. (ANDPBs), the Department will be implementing a periodic review process (three yearly), of all our significant Epilepsy: Pregnancy advisory committees and ANDPBs which will incorporate an assessment of performance and effectiveness. Wherever Teresa Pearce: To ask the Secretary of State for possible this will be conducted by an independent expert. Health whether he plans to encourage GPs to comply with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Health Protection Agency Excellence’s recommendation in the proposed Quality and Outcomes Framework for 2011-12 for GPs to talk John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health to women with epilepsy about drug risk during what recent assessment he has made of the performance pregnancy. [18691] of the Health Protection Agency. [19156] 121W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 122W

Anne Milton: The Health Protection Agency (HPA) Human Genetics Commission submits quarterly performance reports to the Department against an annually agreed business plan. Departmental John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health officials meet regularly with the HPA throughout the what recent assessment he has made of the year. An annual accountability review is held to discuss performance of the Human Genetics Commission. the HPA’s performance against key targets. The HPA [19153] continues to provide a good performance in its vital work of protecting the public health. Anne Milton: In 2008, the Department published a review of the Human Genetics Commission. The review’s Health Services findings are available on the Department’s website at: www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/ Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_084690 for Health what plans the NHS Commissioning Board has to adopt the third edition of the Specialised Human Tissue Authority Services National Definitions Set. [19455]

Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper “Equity and John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Excellence: Liberating the NHS”set out the Government’s what recent assessment he has made of the intention that the NHS Commissioning Board will performance of the Human Tissue Authority. [19152] commission national specialised services and regional specialised services set out in the Specialised Services Anne Milton: The Human Tissue Authority (HTA) is National Definitions Set. The consultation on these held to account through quarterly review meetings and proposals, which closed on 11 October, asked for views an annual review of performance with the departmental on whether any of the services currently commissioned sponsor team. as regional specialised services could potentially in the The Government are of the view that the HTA has future be commissioned by general practitioner consortia. discharged its statutory functions effectively. The consultation responses are currently being analysed. Independent Review Panels: Performance Hepatitis C: Ealing

Mr Virendra Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health for Health how many cases of hepatitis C were (1) what recent assessment he has made of the performance diagnosed in Ealing, Southall constituency in each year of the Independent Review Panel on the Advertising of Medicines; [19149] since 2007. [19075] (2) what recent assessment he has made of the Anne Milton: Data collected by the Health Protection performance of the Independent Review Panel for the Agency (HPA) does not collect laboratory confirmed Classification of Borderline Products; [19150] cases of hepatitis C by constituency as this is not a (3) what recent assessment he has made of the routine data output. performance of the Herbal Medicines Advisory Committee; However, the HPA published hepatitis C diagnosed [19155] cases by region for each year from 1995 to 2008 in its (4) what his most recent assessment is of the performance annual report1. The totals for London region were of the Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance 1,016 cases (2007) and 972 cases (2008). and Healthcare Associated Infections; [19169] A total of 8,812 cases of hepatitis C were reported in (5) what his most recent assessment is of the performance 2 2009 in England and Wales . of the Committee on the Safety of Devices. [19170] Regional data will be available shortly. 1 HPA. Hepatitis C in the UK. 2009 Annual report. Table 2: Mr Simon Burns: The Medicines and Healthcare Laboratory reports of hepatitis C infection by English region: products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) keeps the assessment 1995-2008. of the performance of both the Herbals Medicines 2 HPA. Hepatitis in England and Wales: annual reports for 2009. Advisory Committee and the Advisory Board on the Health Protection Report 4(34) (27 August 2010). Registration of Homeopathic Products under continuous review and holds regular meetings with its chairmen. In Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority addition annual appraisals of the respective chairmen are held. This process will remain unchanged. John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health The Independent Review Panel on the Advertising of what recent assessment he has made of the performance Medicines and the Independent Review Panel for the of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. classification of Borderline Products meet infrequently [19154] and as a result no formal recent assessment has been made of performance. Reports on the activities of these Anne Milton: The Human Fertilisation and Embryology bodies are approved by Ministers and presented to Authority (HFEA) is held to account through quarterly Parliament annually. review meetings and an annual review of performance MHRA holds regular meetings with the chairman of with the departmental sponsor team. the Committee on the Safety of Devices to review The Government are of the view that the HFEA has progress and effectiveness of the advice given and the discharged its statutory functions effectively. actions proposed by this committee. 123W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 124W

Medical Treatments Mr Simon Burns: The National Joint Registry Steering Committee has played an important role in driving Mr Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health forward a programme of work that has made the National whether the National Institute for Health and Clinical Joint Registry one of the leading device registries in the Excellence plans to consult on the proposed protocol world. to be used to determine whether it assesses products, As part of the implementation of the changes to the services and technologies for rare conditions or refers Department’s advisory non-departmental public bodies, them to the Advisory Group on National Specialised we will be implementing a periodic review of all our Services. [18430] significant advisory committees, which will incorporate an assessment of performance and effectiveness, and Mr Simon Burns: The National Institute for Health will be conducted, whenever possible, by an independent and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is currently working expert. with the secretariat of the Advisory Group for National Specialised Services (AGNSS) to develop a set of protocols NHS: Charities which will set out the circumstances in which NICE will suggest treatments for very rare conditions for consideration Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for by AGNSS. We understand that NICE has no plans to Health what his estimate is of the amount of money consult separately on the protocols although they will donated to NHS institutions through charitable giving be incorporated into its “Topic Selection Guide for in (a) Norfolk and (b) England in each of the last five Technology Appraisals” which is reviewed and consulted years. [19125] on periodically. Paul Burstow: The Department does not collect or Mental Illness hold the information requested. They are available from the individual charity accounts, also held by the Charity Commission. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance his Department issues on the use The Regulatory Reform (National Health Service of neuroleptics in the management of psychosis-related Charitable and Non-Charitable Trust Accounts and conditions. [18932] Audit) Order 2005 came into effect on 31 March 2005. The Order removed the requirement whereby most Paul Burstow: The National Institute for Health and NHS bodies in England and Wales were required to Clinical Excellence published guidance on the treatment prepare two separate sets of accounts—one to the of schizophrenia in March 2009, which includes guidelines Department (or National Assembly for Wales) and the on the use of neuroleptics. The guidance can be seen on other to the Charity Commission. the institute’s website at: The requirement to submit two separate accounts http://guidance.nice.org.uk/CG82/Guidance was a requirement that had been in place since the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 1995 Minor Injuries Units: Closures came into force. Related costs had to be met by the charitable funds themselves which reduced the benefits Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for they provided. Health what recent representations he has received on The Regulatory Reform Order removed this dual the potential closure of small injuries units at accounting burden by requiring NHS bodies to submit community hospitals; and if he will make a statement. the accounts of their charitable funds only to the Charity [19134] Commission.

Mr Simon Burns: We are aware of no recent NHS: Drugs representations on the potential closure of small injuries units at community hospitals, other than those made by Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Health my hon. Friend in two recent pieces of correspondence how much the NHS has spent on medicinal drugs in with the Department and a further two parliamentary each of the last five years; and how much he expects it questions. to spend in the next two years. [18599] As set out in the recent White Paper, the Government are committed to devolving power to local communities Mr Simon Burns: Medicinal drugs expenditure includes where the people, patients, general practitioners (GPs) national health service expenditure in primary care and and councils are best placed to determine improvements the Hospital and Community Health Service (HCHS). in their local national health service. Any changes to Primary care expenditure reflects amounts paid to services must have support from GP commissioners, pharmacy and appliance contractors and amounts patients and the public, be based on sound clinical authorised for dispensing doctors and personal evidence and support patient choice. administration in England. HCHS expenditure includes medical gases and drugs prescribed in hospitals but dispensed in the community. The following table provides National Joint Registry Steering Committee details of NHS expenditure on medicinal drugs in each of the last five years: John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health NHS medicinal drugs expenditure what recent assessment he has made of the £ million effectiveness of the National Joint Registry Steering Committee in carrying out its functions. [19200] 2005-06 9,999 125W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 126W

NHS medicinal drugs expenditure Nurses: Africa £ million

2006-07 10,562 Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 10,937 Health how many nurses currently working in the NHS gained their primary medical qualification in (a) 2008-09 11,397 Malawi and (b) Uganda. [17613] 2009-10 11,920 Sources: Anne Milton: The Nursing and Midwifery Council Prescription Pricing Division of the NHS Business services Authority, England, Department of Health Finance Division, Foundation Trust (NMC) collects data on the number of admissions to year-end accounts. the NMC register by overseas country. The number of The table shows direct primary care trust (PCT) nurses admitted to the register in the year ending 31 March drugs expenditure and indirect drugs expenditure arising 2008 is shown in the following table. through PCT commissioning activities. Revenue allocations are made to PCTs, which include funding for drugs Number although this is not identified separately. Decisions on Malawi 3 expenditure are made locally based on local needs and Uganda 4 priorities. The Department does not publish forecasts of future levels of drugs expenditure. Nurses: EU Nationals

NHS: EU Nationals Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what procedures his Department follows to Nick de Bois: To ask the Secretary of State for Health establish whether nurses and midwives from other EU what steps his Department takes to ensure that people member states have sufficient English language skills to coming from other EU member states to work in the practise in England. [19487] NHS have (a) adequate English language skills and (b) the relevant required level of clinical expertise. [19424] Anne Milton: The Department has no direct role in establishing whether nurses and midwives from other Anne Milton: Under automatic recognition procedures European Union member states have sufficient language provided for by Directive 2005/36/EC, the relevant skills to practise in England. competent authority is required to check that a health Under the recognition procedures provided for by or social care professional from the European economic Directive 2005/36/EC the Nursing and Midwifery Council area (EEA) applying for inclusion on its register holds a (as the competent authority for nurses and midwives in recognised qualification, listed in the directive that has the United Kingdom) is required to check that professionals been issued by an EEA competent authority. Under the from the European economic area applying for inclusion general system procedures the competent authority is on its register hold a recognised qualification listed in required to check the qualifications of the incoming the directive or that the qualification they hold meets migrant on a case by case basis to ensure that the the minimum standard they set. qualifications held meet the minimum requirements set Post registration it is for employers and contracting by the competent authority. Identity checks and character bodies to ensure that any nurses or midwives they employ references may be undertaken, but the regulators may or contract with have the necessary skills and competencies not apply additional checks other than those provided (including language competence) for the job. for by the directive at the point of registration. We understand that the healthcare professions regulatory Prescriptions: Fees and Charges bodies cannot test the language skills of migrant workers from the EEA before registering them because of the Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for restriction in the directive. Registration depends on Health what plans he has for the implementation of his whether or not the migrant has the appropriate qualification proposal to introduce free prescriptions for people with to practice their profession. It does not mean that a long-term conditions. [19496] professional has demonstrated that he or she is fit to do a particular job in a particular place. Mr Simon Burns: The Government announced in the An employer or a contracting authority should satisfy Spending Review that some programmes proposed by themselves of a candidate’s skills and competencies, the previous Government will not be taken forward. including their ability to communicate to the required This includes free prescriptions for people with long-term standard for the post. Clear guidance has been issued to conditions. This decision does not affect the medical national health service bodies on this issue, which applies conditions that are exempt under the current system. equally where a candidate is from the EEA. We will continue to look at options for creating a fairer system of prescription charges and exemptions in England, Following the recent Health Select Committee’s report taking into account the overall national health service on the use of overseas doctors in providing out-of-hours financial context. services the Government will explore whether there is a more effective system for undertaking checks on the Primary Care Trusts language knowledge of primary care practitioners. Once registered, a health or social care professional is Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for bound to observe the professional standards set by the Health what his most recent estimate is of the initial relevant healthcare regulatory body and action against costs incurred in respect of ending primary care trusts any breaches of those standards could be taken against and replacing them with GP consortia in (a) England an EEA professional as normal. and (b) Birmingham. [18545] 127W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 128W

Yvonne Fovargue: To ask the Secretary of State for by December 2010, no patient should wait longer than Health what his most recent estimate is of the initial 31 days for subsequent radiotherapy, as set out in the costs likely to be incurred in respect of ending primary Cancer Reform Strategy. care trusts and replacing them with GP consortia in The National Radiotherapy Dataset project team is (a) England and (b) Wigan. [19029] working with providers to improve collection of data on IMRT and Adaptive Radiotherapy (which covers IGRT) Mr Simon Burns: The White Paper “Equity and using standard OPCS-4.5 (which has introduced codes Excellence: Liberating the NHS” set out proposals for for these interventions) clinical coding conventions. fundamental changes to the ways that the national However, as with the introduction of new codes, the health service is structured and run. data entry levels and quality need to improve before the The precise costs, at both national and local level, of reported activity can be validated. Release of the the abolition of primary care trusts and the advent of radiotherapy dataset is governed by Radiotherapy Clinical general practitioner consortia will not be known until Information Group, part of National Radiotherapy the new organisations that will underpin the new system Advisory Group. April 2011 is the proposed date. have been designed in more detail. Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition Four consultations relating to how the new organisations should be designed—specifically covering “transparency on outcomes, liberating the NHS: local democratic John Healey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health legitimacy in health” and “commissioning for patients what recent assessment he has made of the and regulating healthcare providers”—have recently closed effectiveness of the Scientific Advisory Committee on and once the results of these have been analysed we will Nutrition in carrying out its functions. [19199] publish the costs of the new system in an impact assessment. Anne Milton: As part of the implementation of the A further two consultations on other aspects of reform changes resulting from the Department’s advisory non- set out in the White Paper—specifically “an information departmental public bodies review, we will be implementing revolution”and “greater choice and control”have recently a three yearly review process of all our significant been launched and will close in January. advisory committees, including the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition, which will incorporate an Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health assessment of performance and effectiveness. what arrangements he has made for the proposed phasing out of primary care trusts. [19194] Swine Flu: Vaccination

Mr Simon Burns: Under the proposals in the White Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Paper, “Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS”, Health whether his Department has (a) commissioned primary care trusts (PCTs) will be abolished from April or (b) evaluated research on a potential link between 2013. By this time, there would be a comprehensive the swine influenza vaccine and the development of system of general practitioner (GP) consortia with statutory Guillain-Barre syndrome. [18525] responsibility for commissioning most national health service health care services and an independent NHS Anne Milton: The association between swine flu vaccine Commissioning Board whose responsibilities would include and Guillain-Barre syndrome is being continuously assessed commissioning those health care services for which GP by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory consortia are not responsible. This proposed timetable Agency (MHRA). This assessment is based on review is designed to enable emerging consortia to work on a of individual case reports as well as epidemiological collaborative basis with PCTs during the period up to studies conducted across Europe from the start of the April 2013 to ensure a smooth transition to the new immunisation campaign to investigate any association. arrangements. This includes a study from the British Paediatric Surveillance Analysis of the consultation on the implementation Unit funded by the Department. of the proposals set out in the White Paper is currently Epidemiological studies are ongoing to further assess under way. The Government response will be published this possible association and MHRA will carefully evaluate in due course. such data in conjunction with other European member states. Radiotherapy Waste Disposal: Health Hazards Gavin Barwell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of NHS patients who receive Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Health radiotherapy were treated with IMRT or GRT in the what recent research his Department has (a) latest period for which figures are available. [18616] commissioned, (b) evaluated and (c) conducted on the potential effects on health of emissions from energy Paul Burstow: It is currently not possible to identify from waste plants. [18096] Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy or Image Guided Radiotherapy from other forms of radiotherapy treatment Richard Benyon: I have been asked to reply. within the Hospital Episode Statistics available to the DEFRA has commissioned the following research on Department. the potential effects on health of emissions from energy The Department is working with the national health from waste plants: service to implement a National Radiotherapy Dataset “Review of Environmental and Health Effects of to support the implementation of the commitment that, Waste Management: Municipal Solid Waste and Similar 129W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 130W

Wastes”, by Enviros Consulting Ltd and university of Conditions of Employment Birmingham with Risk and Policy Analysts Ltd, Open university and Maggie Thurgood. This was evaluated Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, through peer review by the Royal Society and published Innovation and Skills what estimate his Department in 2004. has made of the (a) time and (b) financial costs to “Emissions from Waste Management Facilities: small businesses incurred in observing the statutory Frameworks for Assessment of Data Quality and Research duty to consider Right to Request requests from employees. Needs (WR0608)”, by Environmental Resources [18904] Management Ltd. This is due to be published later this year following evaluation by peer review. Mr Davey: We estimate that two hours of employee “Exposure-response relationships for bioaerosol time, and three hours of management time are required emissions from waste treatment processes (WR0606)” to process a request that is dealt with formally. This by the Institute of Occupational Medicine. This was works out at approximately £62 per request. evaluated through peer review by a bioaerosols expert Where a request is appealed we estimate four hours of and was published in 2009. employee time and six hours of management time to Further information on this research can be found on process an appeal that is dealt with formally. This works the DEFRA website at: out at approximately £123 per appeal. www.defra.gov.uk We have assumed that these costs apply to all sizes of The Environment Agency recently commissioned a business at the same rate. review of the health effects of combustion processes, including incineration, and expects to publish a report Credit Reference Agencies by the end of the year. Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has had recent discussions with credit reference agencies on the process for correcting BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS inaccurately recorded data. [19419]

Business Mr Davey: There have been no recent discussions with credit reference agencies on this matter. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for If the credit information held on file is incorrect, Business, Innovation and Skills what information his consumers are advised to write to the credit reference Department holds on the number of its staff who have agency or direct to the lender. The agency is under a run a small business employing fewer than 10 people statutory obligation to inform the consumer within 28 (a) in and (b) outside the South East. [18895] days if it has removed the entry from the file, amended the entry or taken no action. If, after writing to the Mr Davey: This information is not recorded centrally lender or the credit reference agency, the information is in BIS. still wrong or no response is received, the consumer is advised to contact the Information Commissioner. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Earlier this year credit reference agencies agreed a Innovation and Skills how many representatives of small package of measures designed to improve consumers’ businesses serve on (a) boards of and (b) advisory access to and understanding of their credit reference committees associated with his Department. [18896] files. I announced this on 12 July 2010.

Mr Davey: Details of members of the boards of the Data Protection: EU Countries Department’s public bodies (including advisory NDPBs) are not held centrally, and can be found on the website Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for of the body or in their annual report and accounts. Business, Innovation and Skills what recent progress The Public Bodies Report 2010, showing the list of has been made on developing a secure communications BIS’s public bodies as at 31 March, is due to be published system based on quantum cryptography for data towards the end of November. transmission to and from EU Member States. [16665] Lists of the public bodies of BERR and DIUS, as at 31 March 2009, are available at the following links: Nick Herbert: I have been asked to reply. http://www.bis.gov.uk/files/file53723.pdf Quantum cryptography as a basis for data transmission http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/corporate/docs/d/10-591- is being developed mainly within academia but also by dius-public-bodies-2009.pdf a small number of commercial companies in Europe. It In addition we have four ad hoc advisory groups. The is not a fully mature technology and there are no number of small business representatives on each of immediate plans for the UK Government to develop a these are as follows: secure communications system for data transmission to and from EU member states based on it. Communications Automotive Council: two members between EU member states are currently protected by Industrial Biotechnology Innovation and Growth Leadership Government approved cryptographic codes. There are Forum: two members currently no approved cryptographic codes using quantum Regulatory Policy Committee: two members cryptography for data transmission nor any immediate The Gateways to the Professions Collaborative Forum: 0 members. prospect of any being submitted for approval. 131W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 132W

Departmental Internet In line with Cabinet Office requirements, BIS publishes information about staff sickness absence on a quarterly Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for basis. The latest return showing absence between 1 July Business, Innovation and Skills what consideration his 2009 and 30 June 2010 is available on the BIS website at: Department has given to increasing the accessibility http://www.bis.gov.uk/about/performance-reports and attractiveness to small businesses of its website. This shows that 13,036 days have been lost to sickness [18915] during this period. No central information is held about the cost of Mr Davey: The BIS corporate website serves a broad sickness absence in BIS; however, information about range of audiences, with businesses comprising around absence costs in the wider civil service is available in 20% of visitors. The sections of the site of most interest reports published by the Cabinet office from 2003 to to small businesses are ‘Policies: Enterprise and business 2007. These can be viewed at: support’ and ‘Policies: Employment matters’. http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/about/resources/sickness/ The ‘Enterprise and business support’ and ‘Employment sickness.aspx matters’ sections of the site have recently been reviewed and reorganised to simplify access to the information Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, they contain on policy, legislation and services. They Innovation and Skills how many officials in his Department also provide clear signposting to Business Link guidance have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five to 10 days, where relevant. (c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days, More generally, BIS is continuously reviewing its web (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to 100 days, content and structure to make the site more accessible (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) more than and engaging for all users. 200 days, (l) more than three months, (m) more than six months and (n) one year on paid sick leave (i) In line with the cross-Government channel strategy, consecutively and (ii) in total in each year since his content that provides practical guidance to small businesses Department’s inception. [18777] has moved from the BIS website to the Business Link site, which is the official Government website for businesses. Mr Davey: The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) was created on Friday 5 June 2009 from Departmental Sick Leave the merger of the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and the Department Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) which Business, Innovation and Skills for how many days on ceased to exist from that date. average his Department’s staff in each pay grade were Detailed breakdowns of absences within BIS are not absent from work as a result of ill health in 2009-10. centrally available; however, on a quarterly basis, in line [18565] with Cabinet Office requirements, we publish quarterly absence data on the BIS website. This includes the Mr Davey: The Department for Business, Innovation numbers of days lost to long-term absence (more than and Skills (BIS) was created on Friday 5 June 2009 from 21 working days), and short-term absence over the last the merger of the Department for Business, Enterprise 12 months; and the number of staff with no absence at and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and the Department all over the period. The latest return showing absence of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) which between 1 July 2009 and 30 June 2010 is available on the ceased to exist from that date. BIS website at: In line with Cabinet Office requirements, BIS publishes http://www.bis.gov.uk/about/performance-reports information about staff sickness absence on a quarterly basis. The latest return showing absence between 1 July Departmental Work Experience 2009 and 30 June 2010 is available on the BIS website at: http://www.bis.gov.uk/about/performance-reports Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for This includes information about the average number of Business, Innovation and Skills how many interns his working days lost to sickness at each grade during this Department has engaged in the last 12 months; and period. The average figure across all BIS staff is 3.8 working how many were (a) unpaid, (b) remunerated with days lost. expenses only and (c) paid a salary. [17216]

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Davey: This Department has employed about Business, Innovation and Skills how many days his 23 interns and summer placement students in the last Department has lost to staff sickness in each year since 12 months. All interns are paid either a training allowance his Department’s inception; and what estimate he made or the basic pay for the grade of work they are doing. of the cost to his Department of sickness absence in each such year. [18776] Employment Mr Davey: The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) was created on Friday 5 June 2009 from Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the merger of the Department for Business, Enterprise Business, Innovation and Skills for what employment and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and the Department legislation his Department is responsible; and what of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) which progress has been made on the Government’s proposed ceased to exist from that date. review of employment law. [18912] 133W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 134W

Mr Davey: BIS is responsible for a number of areas of The employment regulation regime is one of the employment regulation. These include the national factors behind the success of the UK labour market and minimum wage (NMW), working time, age discrimination, this is recognised by a number of international measures dispute resolution, trade union law and family-friendly including the World Economic Forum’s “Labour Market policy. Efficiency” indicator (which ranks the UK eighth out of We are considering employment regulations area by 139 countries) and the World Bank’s Doing Business area, over the long-term, and we have started to engage “Employing Workers”indicator (ranking the UK 35th out with interested parties as part of the review process. We of 183 countries). expect to make an announcement on progress in the Furthermore the OECD in its seminal Jobs Study coming weeks. Review in 2006 identified the UK as one of the ‘successful employment performers’ and, despite the recession, the Flexible Working UK still has one of the highest employment rates in the world. Across the OECD, its “Employment Protection Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Legislation” indicator ranks the UK second only behind Innovation and Skills what estimate his Department the US. This feature has worked in tandem with the has made of the cost to small businesses of the extension Government’s welfare to work policies. The Government’s of the right to request flexible working. [18903] proposals for work programme and benefit reform aim to enhance these welfare to work policies. Mr Davey: On 30 September I announced the extension The UK is rated as the best location in the European to the right to request flexible working to all parents of Union for the attraction of foreign skills1 and a survey children aged 17, from the 1 April 2011. I have published by Manpower conducted in 2009 found that companies a full impact assessment on this extension. The overall in the UK have fewer difficulties in recruiting skilled cost to small businesses of this extension is estimated at workers than in most other European locations. around £1 million per annum. This estimate assumes The UK is the number one recipient in Europe of that the additional take-up rate of flexible working is 2 the same across all firm sizes. FDI projects . The UK is also the most attractive destination in Europe for FDI, according to the Ernst I have not yet made an estimate for the extension to and Young European Attractiveness Survey 2010. the right to request flexible working to all employees, but I will publish an impact assessment on the extension Source: alongside the consultation document. 1 Institute of Management Development, 2009. 2 Ernst and Young/European Investment Monitor Surveys. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (1) what plans he has to Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for bring forward further proposals for the right to request Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has assessed flexible working; [18905] the effect on inward investment of the introduction of (2) what progress is being made on his Department’s additional paternity leave. [18907] consultation on extending the right to request flexible working to all employees; [18909] Mr Davey: A full impact assessment of the costs and (3) what steps he is taking to consult small businesses benefits to businesses of additional paternity leave was on his proposals on the right to request flexible made prior to the introduction of regulations. No working. [18910] assessment was made of the indirect effect on inward investment. Mr Davey: I plan to consult on the extension to the The impact assessment can be found at: right to request flexible working to all employees in due course. http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/employment-matters/ docs/09-1209-consultation-doc-paternity.pdf I will make the consultation document available to small business employers alongside all other interested parties. Further Education On 15 September I ran a round table event at No. 10 to discuss consultation plans with a number of employers Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for and representative groups. This event included a number Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he has to of small business employers. implement his proposal to introduce student loans for people taking courses at further education colleges; Foreign Investment in UK and if he will make a statement. [19497]

Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Hayes: As set out in the spending review Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has announcement on 20 October 2010, for adult further made of the effect on foreign direct investment in the education and skills training the balance of funding will UK of the application of UK and EU employment law. be shifted from the taxpayer towards the individuals [18906] and employers who benefit, including though the introduction of student loans The Department is Mr Davey: Employment legislation in the UK is considering the outcomes of the spending review alongside constructed in a way that allows the greatest freedom the responses to the recent consultation Skills for Sustainable for business and workers to find types and patterns of Growth, which asked for views on the development of a work that suit them while still maintaining universal new skills strategy. The outcomes of this will be published basic minimum rights. later in the autumn. 135W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 136W

Higher Education and Student Finance Independent Higher Education: Curriculum Review Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (1) what plans he has Teresa Pearce: To ask the Secretary of State for for the future of the funding currently allocated by Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment he has regional development agencies to strategically made of the effect of the proposals in the Browne important and vulnerable subjects; [18870] review of higher education on future graduates who are (2) what assessment he has made of the effects of the (a) men and (b) women. [18688] implementation of the proposed reform of non- departmental public bodies on levels of support for Mr Willetts: Lord Browne conducted an independent strategically important and vulnerable subjects; [18871] review of higher education funding and student finance (3) what estimate he has made of the likely change in which was published on 12 October. The Government the level of funding for strategically important and have accepted the broad thrust of the recommendations vulnerable subjects in each of the next three years; and will undertake their own equality assessment which [18872] we will publish alongside the Higher Education White (4) what estimate he has made of the likely change in Paper during the winter. the level of funding for high-cost science subjects in each of the next three years; [18873] Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills if he will estimate the Higher Education: Curriculum number of universities which will be in operation (5) what assessment he has made of the contribution 12 months after the implementation of the proposals of of strategically important and vulnerable subjects to the Browne Review of higher education. [18848] economic growth; [18874] (6) what estimate he has made of the likely change in Mr Willetts: We have no reliable evidence on which to the level of funding for each strategically important and make such an estimate. Our reforms to higher education vulnerable subject as a proportion of the total budget will provide strong incentives for institutions to focus allocated to such subjects in each of the next three on providing high quality teaching as efficiently as years; [18875] possible. Over time, popular and successful institutions (7) what factors he took into account when will be able to grow and we expect new providers to allocating funding for strategically important and enter the sector providing they can offer teaching to the vulnerable subjects; [18876] high standards students will expect. HEFCE will monitor (8) what proportion of the cost of courses in strategically the financial health and sustainability of institutions to and important vulnerable subjects in universities was protect the public investment in higher education. But covered by (a) central government and (b) tuition fees HEIs are autonomous institutions and, if a university in the most recent period for which figures are available. mismanages its affairs, we cannot offer a guarantee of [18877] protection. Mr Willetts: The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) is charged with distributing teaching Higher Education: Admissions grant to higher education institutions according to a methodology it determines. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State plays no part in the discharge of that Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for function. He cannot direct the amount of grant to be Business, Innovation and Skills (1) how many people awarded to any particular subject or institution. In resident in each parliamentary constituency applied to broad terms the funding system is designed to recognise each higher education institution in each of the last five the relative costs of teaching. Each subject is allocated years for which information is available; [19107] to one of four price groups A to D. The range of (2) how many people resident in each parliamentary teaching grant per full time equivalent undergraduate constituency applied to enter an undergraduate course student ranges from £15,804 in group A to £3,951 in at each higher education institution in each of the last group D. In addition institutions receive fees of up to five years for which information is available; [19108] £3,290 per student per year. So for example the fee would cover 45% of the cost of a price group D course (3) how many undergraduate students normally such as business studies, whereas the fee would cover resident in each parliamentary constituency were 17% of the cost of a group A course such as medicine. accepted to each higher education institution in each of Once allocated to a price group all subjects in that are the last five years for which information is available. treated equally in terms of the allocation of core teaching [19109] grant. The right hon. Member the then Secretary of State Mr Willetts: Information on applicants and accepted wrote to HEFCE in 2004 seeking advice on which applicants by individual institution is held by UCAS. subjects are of such national and strategic importance UCAS do not issue data by higher education institutions that without additional support they may not survive as this is the subject of a confidentiality agreement through the usual operation of the market in student between UCAS and the institutions. applications. Those courses currently identified as Information on the total number of applicants and Strategically Important or Vulnerable Subjects (SIVS) accepted applicants, produced by UCAS, will be placed are: in the Libraries of the House. Chemistry, Engineering, Maths and Physics 137W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 138W

Modern Foreign Languages and some area studies On 7 October 2010, Ofcom, the independent regulator Quantitative Social Science for the UK communications industry issued a statement Islamic studies (“Review of the wholesale local access market”) which Advances in science and technology are key to UK introduced new regulatory obligations on BT. economic growth and social prosperity. To achieve long- In particular, BT is required to supply wholesale term progress, the UK relies on a strong base of science access to its new fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) and fibre- and engineering skills at all levels within the population to-the-premise (FTTP) networks to other providers so and a healthy and thriving research base. that they can offer competing services to consumers. However, it should be noted that not all Science Given the current economic and technical circumstances, Technology Engineering and Maths courses (STEM) this wholesale access will take the form of a virtual are designated as SIVS. Equally SIVS status does not access connection. necessarily indicate that a subject is expensive to deliver. In addition, BT will be required to open up its duct Foreign languages and maths are in price group C for and pole infrastructure so that other providers can example. deploy their own fibre access networks. HEFCE has chosen to support SIVS through a series These two new regulatory obligations are intended to of projects and initiatives aimed at maintaining entry to support both competition and investment in superfast these subjects and building capacity in the higher education broadband services. sector. The total amount of funding since 2005/06 is £350 million. Media Future funding will be dependent upon the outcome of the spending review for higher education and the Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Regional Development Agencies. It will inform my Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking right hon. Friend the Secretary of State’s annual grant to encourage plurality in the media market. [19063] letter to HEFCE which will set the level of funding for 2011-12 and the allocations to the Regional Development Mr Vaizey: I have been asked to reply. Agencies in the same period. The Government believe it is important for the media The Browne Review recommended that future public to reflect different viewpoints at the national level and funding of higher education should concentrate on to safeguard democratic debate. Plurality in the media priority subject areas. In addition it recommended changes market is protected by promoting effective competition to the bodies currently funding and regulating the system. in relevant markets and regulating mergers to ensure The Government will respond to these and the other they do not result in a loss of such competition. Statutory recommendations in its forthcoming Higher Education rules enforced by Ofcom separately place absolute White Paper. restrictions on cross media ownership. Exceptionally, the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills may intervene in a media merger to address Human Rights concerns about the need to maintain plurality in media ownership. Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he made of the cost Mobile Telephone Contracts to his Department and its non-departmental public bodies of compliance with (a) domestic, (b) European Ian Swales: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, and (c) other international human rights requirements Innovation and Skills what recent representations he in each year since his Department’s inception; and if he has received on cooling-off periods for mobile telephone will make a statement. [18772] contracts; and if he will make a statement. [19120]

Mr Davey: The Department for Business, Innovation Mr Vaizey: I have received no recent representations. and Skills (BIS) does not collate information on the Contracts are normally enforceable from the time they costs of compliance with human rights requirements. are concluded and statutory cooling off periods are The Department takes account of the domestic and provided only in exceptional circumstances where consumers international human rights framework in developing all may be in a particularly vulnerable position, for example, its policies and practices, as it does other relevant legal when making contracts in their home or at a distance. obligations; an accurate estimate of the total cost of There are no statutory cooling off periods specifically compliance with human rights obligations could not be related to the purchase of mobile phones. made without incurring disproportionate cost. North of England Internet Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for Innovation and Skills how many visits (a) Ministers Business, Innovation and Skills what his policy is on and (b) officials of his Department have made to (i) ensuring that all internet service providers have (a) Skipton and Ripon constituency, (ii) Yorkshire and the equal access to fibre optic cables and (b) equal Humber and (iii) the North of England since May opportunities to lay new cables. [18528] 2010. [18897]

Mr Vaizey: BT Openreach runs the access part of Mr Davey: The Department’s Ministers have undertaken network and provides a service to communication providers 17 trips in total to the north of England during the (CPs) on an equivalent basis. period 12 May to 22 October 2010. 139W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 140W

Details of trips to the north of England undertaken The Government will implement the provisions of by the Department’s officials could be provided only at the revised Directive as part of our coalition commitment disproportionate cost. to a system of flexible shared parental leave. We will be consulting on this system in due course. Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development: Human Rights Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment his Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Department has made on the effect on small businesses Innovation and Skills what the Government’s policy of implementation of the EU Parental Leave Directive. was on the proposed incorporation of human rights [18891] standards into the revised Organisation of Economic Corporation and Development Common Approaches Mr Davey: The Parental Leave Directive implements at the meeting of that organisation in Paris on 23 and a social partner framework agreement on Parental Leave. 24 June 2010. [17003] The UK implemented the original EU Parental Leave Directive (96/34/EC) in 1999. Following the European Mr Davey: The 2007 OECD Council Recommendation Social Partners’ revision of the framework agreement, a on Common Approaches on the Environment and Officially revised EU Parental Leave Directive (2010/18/EU) which Supported Export Credits (the Common Approaches) was adopted by the European Council in March 2010. already includes the need for member Export Credit In November 2009 the Department for Business Agencies (ECAs) to review the human rights impacts of Innovation and Skills prepared an Impact Assessment projects they are asked to support which fall within the of the implications of the revised Directive, including ambit of the Recommendation. When undertaking a on small firms. This document is available through the review, ECAs are required to benchmark projects against following link: the relevant aspects of the World Bank Safeguard Policies http://www.bis.gov.uk/files/file53640.pdf which cover human rights issues such as indigenous peoples and involuntary resettlement or where appropriate Paternity Leave the Performance Standards of the International Finance Corporation which cover aspects of human rights such Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, as labour and working conditions, community health Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer of 13 October and safety and security, land acquisition and involuntary 2010, Official Report, column 335W, on paternity leave, settlement and indigenous peoples. what criteria his Department will use to determine The Government are supporting work being undertaken whether shared paternal leave works for businesses; by the OECD in its current review of the Common what method his Department used to estimate the Approaches to examine the scope for developing further proportion of small businesses to be affected by the the assessment of human rights impacts of projects introduction of additional paternity leave; what criteria supported by the ECAs, which will help inform the were used to determine whether a small business would content of a new Common Approaches agreement. be affected; and when his Department proposes to (a) ECGD is participating in that review. open and (b) close the consultation on its proposals for additional paternity leave. [18900] Overseas Trade: Mongolia Mr Davey: We will consult in due course on plans to John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, introduce shared parental leave, listening to employers Innovation and Skills what the monetary value was of and employer representatives’ views on how we can best (a) imports from and (b) exports to Mongolia of meet the needs of affected businesses. goods and services in each UK sector in each of the last A full impact assessment, including methodology five years. [19269] used to calculate the proportion of small businesses that would be affected by additional paternity Mr Prisk: This information requested on UK exports and imports of goods with Mongolia in each sector leave, is available at between 2005-09, as well as the total for UK imports http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/employment-matters/ and exports with Mongolia for 2008-09 will be placed in docs/09-1209-consultation-doc-paternity.pdf the Libraries of the House. Additional paternity leave regulations came into effect in April 2010 for parents of children due on or after 3 Parental Leave: EU Law April 2011. We have no further proposals on additional paternity leave on which to consult. Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Retirement: Age Innovation and Skills what steps his Department plans to take to implement the provisions of the EU Parental Leave Directive. [18890] Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (1) what plans his Mr Davey: The Parental Leave Directive implements Department has to consult on the ending of the default a social partner framework agreement on Parental Leave. retirement age; what the likely timetable is for such The UK implemented the original EU Parental Leave consultation; and what plans he has to consult small Directive (96/34/EC) in 1999. Following the European businesses; [18908] Social Partners’ revision of the framework agreement, a (2) what assessment his Department has undertaken revised EU Parental Leave Directive (2010/18/EU) which of the effect on small businesses of the end of the was adopted by the European Council in March 2010. default retirement age. [18923] 141W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 142W

Mr Davey: A consultation on our proposals for phasing on public spending, the overall level of funding for out the default retirement age commenced on 29 July. science and research programmes has been protected in The consultation document incorporates the impact cash terms over the entire period covered by the spending assessment which considers the impact on small firms. review. The closing date for the consultation was 21 October. Science and research resource funding has been ring- Alongside the consultation process, input is being fenced, creating a stable investment climate for science provided by a standing stakeholder engagement group. and research which allows universities and research Members include organisations representing employers, institutes to plan strategically, and should give businesses, including small business, for example the Federation of public services and charities the confidence to invest in Small Businesses and the British Chambers of Commerce. the research base. Royal Mail Esther McVey: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent estimate Mr Gale: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, his Department has made of the contribution that UK Innovation and Skills if he will take steps to ensure that science and technology research makes to the global Royal Mail (a) retains its name and (b) is able to economy. [18642] retain its Royal Charter in circumstances in which it is sold to an overseas buyer. [19265] Mr Willetts: Single estimates of the contribution of Mr Davey: The Government believe that Royal Mail the UK science and research base are not available as should continue to retain its name and other royal the benefits from science and research reflect in diverse associations as it will continue to be the provider of the areas of economic and social activity that cannot be universal postal service throughout the UK. easily aggregated together. We appreciate that there may be concerns about the International comparisons of the relative contribution potential for misuse of these associations in the future, of the UK to global advances in science and research so we propose to put in place safeguards to ensure that are followed through in the various assessments BIS they are used respectfully and appropriately at all times undertakes of the performance of the research base, and that mechanisms exist to remove these privileges if including necessary. 1. Annual returns under the economic impact reporting The Government are discussing these matters with framework—available on Research Councils’ websites. These give evidence of the international standing of funded by councils, peer the palace. reviewed as excellent and outstanding by international standards, as well as examples of international advice led by Research Penny Mordaunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Councils investments such as Natural Environment Research Business, Innovation and Skills whether he plans to Council (NERC) advice during the crises of international air make it a condition of the sale of Royal Mail that the space caused by the volcanic ash cloud. name Royal Mail be retained in perpetuity; and if he 2. Biannual international comparisons of spending and will make a statement. [19280] performance under the report “The International Comparative Performance of the UK Research Base” published in the BIS Mr Davey: The Government consider that any buyer website. In this the UK ranks second in the world (after the USA) of Royal Mail, for commercial reasons and in recognition attracting 9% of world publications, 12% of world citations and of the company’s heritage, would wish to continue to 14% of the world’s highly cited papers. The UK is also the most use the name without the need for any conditions to be productive research base among the large economies of the G8, when considering publications and citations per pound spent. placed on them. We do, however, recognise that there may be concerns Esther McVey: To ask the Secretary of State for about the potential for misuse of the name and other Business, Innovation and Skills what steps his Department Royal associations if Royal Mail in the future, so we is taking to assist science and technology research propose to put in place safeguards to ensure that they institutions in contributing to economic growth. [18643] are used respectfully and appropriately at all times and that mechanisms exist to remove these privileges if necessary. Mr Willetts: The announcements made in the spending review recognise that science and technology research Science: Research are critical to long term economic growth. Despite pressure on public spending, funding for science and Esther McVey: To ask the Secretary of State for research programmes has been protected in cash terms Business, Innovation and Skills what steps his Department at £4.6 billion per annum, ring-fenced for the four years is taking to maintain the UK’s attractiveness to the of the spending review. Over £200 million of funding scientific, technical and research sectors. [18641] will also be provided for an elite network of Technology and Innovation Centres. Mr Willetts: The UK’s research base is world leading: Government are putting in place a range of measures second only in research excellence to the United States, to encourage the contribution of science and technology as measured by journal publications and citations. This research institutions to economic growth. These include position is not maintained by the level of spending the Research Councils’ Pathways to Impact, HEFCE’s alone: the UK has the most productive research base in proposed Research Excellence Framework and reform the G8. to Higher Education Innovation Funding. The Technology This Government recognise the fundamental role of Strategy Board will be the Government’s prime channel science and research in rebalancing the economy and through which we incentivise business-led technology restoring economic growth. Despite enormous pressure innovation. 143W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 144W

Secondary Education Unemployment: North East

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking Innovation and Skills how many (a) sixth form to reduce the number of unemployed young people in colleges, (b) general further education colleges, (c) the North East. [18187] land-based colleges, (d) art, design and performing art colleges and (e) special designated colleges offer Chris Grayling: I have been asked to reply. courses to 14 and 15 year olds. [18540] Unemployment among young people is unacceptably high and the range of programmes we inherited is Mr Hayes: Information is not currently collected confusing. For these reasons, we will introduce a new centrally on the number of further education institutions single Work Programme in the first half of 2010. This which offer courses to 14 and 15-year-olds. However, will offer young people targeted personalised help and data are available on the number of Government-funded will be delivered through the best of private and voluntary learners aged 14 and 15-years-old participating in further sector providers. education institutions in 2008/09. However, we recognise that, in itself, the Work The following table shows the number of further Programme will not be enough. On 4 October we launched education institutions with learners aged either 14 or two new measures: Work Clubs as a way of encouraging 15-years-old participating on Government-funded courses people who are out of work to exchange skills and share in 2008/09. experiences and Work Together as a way of developing work skills through volunteering. We also announced Provider type Number of providers the new enterprise allowance which will support unemployed people who wish to move off benefits into Sixth form college 60 self-employment. We are continuing to develop further General further education 201 measures to encourage pre-employment training and college (including tertiary) work placements. Special college—agricultural 14 and horticultural college Working Hours: EU Law Special college—art and design — college Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Specialist designated college 1 Innovation and Skills what recent steps he has taken to Notes: maintain the UK’s opt-out from the provisions of the 1. Age is based on learner age at the start of the academic year Working Time Directive. [18902] (31 August 2008). 2. Information in this table is based on all Government-funded Mr Davey: The coalition Government are committed learners. 3. These data include FE, apprenticeships/work-based learning, adult safeguarded learning and university for industry to limiting the application of the working time directive funding streams. in the UK, including maintaining the flexibility provided Source: by the right of individuals to opt out of the maximum Individualised Learner Record. 48-hour working week. We have made, and continue to make clear to the Commission and to partners in Europe, that we will engage positively and constructively with Training: Females any further negotiations on the directive but that the UK position on the opt-out will remain absolutely firm. Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (1) what his most recent estimate is of the number of women who have TREASURY gained a qualification as a result of taking part in the Women and Work Sector Skills Pathway Initiative in BP: Tax Allowances (a) Redditch constituency, (b) Worcestershire and (c) England; [18647] Mr Meacher: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much BP has received in tax relief in (2) what his most recent estimate is of the number of respect of measures to clean up the oil spill in the Gulf women who have increased their salary levels as a result of Mexico; and what estimate he has made of the total of taking part in the Women and Work Sector Skills sum to be foregone by the Exchequer in such relief. Pathway Initiative in (a) Redditch constituency, (b) [18682] Worcestershire and (c) England. [18648] Mr Gauke: It is not appropriate for the Government Mr Hayes: Between April 2009 and March 2010 there to comment on the confidential tax affairs of individual were 196 learners across the national regions of England businesses. who reported achieving a qualification as a result of Child Benefit their participation in the Women and Work Programme. Data are not available at a regional or constituency Ann McKechin: To ask the Chancellor of the level. Exchequer (1) how many children in each constituency Between April 2009 and March 2010, 264 learners in Scotland live in households which will be affected by across the national regions of England achieved an the proposed changes to the administration of child increase in salary following training on the Women and benefit he announced on 4 October 2010; and what Work Programme. Data are not available at a regional estimate he has made of the average reduction in or constituency level. payments for such households; [16960] 145W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 146W

(2) how many households earning over £44,000 per Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings year are in receipt of child benefit in each constituency in Scotland. [16961] Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many officials in his Department have been (a) Simon Wright: To ask the Chancellor of the subject to disciplinary action, (b) removed from post, Exchequer how many and what proportion of (c) transferred to another position and (d) dismissed households in Norwich South constituency in receipt for matters relating to their (i) disciplinary record and of child benefit include (a) a higher rate taxpayer, (b) (ii) performance in each year since 1997. [18764] a lone parent and (c) both. [16532] Justine Greening: Information prior to 2005 was not Kate Green: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer held centrally and could be provided only at if he will estimate the number of children in Stretford disproportionate cost. Regarding disciplinary issues, it and Urmston constituency in households which will no is the Treasury’s policy not to release full details relating longer be eligible for child benefit when his proposed to numbers of staff fewer than five, where to do so rules on parental incomes are implemented. [17395] might lead to the identification of individual cases. On that basis the number of cases where disciplinary Steve McCabe: To ask the Chancellor of the action was taken in the Treasury in each of the last six Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of years were as follows: families in Birmingham, Selly Oak constituency who will no longer receive child benefit from 2013 under his Disciplinary Action proposals to withdraw child benefit from families Number where one or both parents are higher rate tax payers. 2005 1— [17308] 2006 9 2007 9 Paul Goggins: To ask the Chancellor of the 2008 1— Exchequer how many households including one or 2009 1— more higher rate tax payers are in receipt of child 2010 1— benefit in Wythenshawe and Sale East constituency. 1 Fewer than five [17551] There have been fewer than five dismissed for matters relating to their disciplinary record. There have been no Mrs Moon: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer such cases in respect of the other issues raised by my how many households in Bridgend constituency will be hon. Friend. affected by the proposed changes to the administration of child benefit; and if he will make a statement. Departmental Legal Costs [18210] Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Karen Bradley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the reasons are for the change in the Exchequer how many households in Staffordshire amount spent by his Department on legal advice Moorlands constituency (a) with at least one higher between (a) 2007-08 to 2008-09 and (b) from 2008-09 rate taxpayer and (b) with no higher rate taxpayers but to 2009-10. [13356] a taxable household income which exceeds the higher rate tax threshold for an individual claim child benefit. Justine Greening: It is regretted that the table provided [18420] in the answer given on 27 July 2010, Official Report, column 940W is incorrect. It shows expenditure on Graeme Morrice: To ask the Chancellor of the legal advice by HM Treasury charged to some but not Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of all relevant accounting codes. For the years 2007-08 and families in Livingston constituency in receipt of child following, reference to all relevant codes shows the benefit who will cease to be eligible for payments following spend for those years: following the implementation of his proposals to change the administration of child benefit. [18636] Financial year HM Treasury legal spend (£) 2007-08 10,660,950 Mr Gauke: Information on household income for 2008-09 23,100,900 Child Benefit claimants is not available at parliamentary 2009-10 120,850,000 constituency level. 1 Using OEP methodology. Child Benefit: Livingston These figures include spend on both internal and external legal services. A substantial portion of the latter was Graeme Morrice: To ask the Chancellor of the expended in connection with HM Treasury’s interventions Exchequer how many families in Livingston in the financial sector and has been recovered from the constituency are in receipt of child benefit. [18635] institutions concerned, so the figures do not reflect the net cost to HM Treasury. It is not possible to distinguish Mr Gauke: The August 2009 snapshot of all Child advice from other legal services such as litigation. Benefit claims shows that 15,195 families claim Child The increase in expenditure between 2007-08 and Benefit in the Livingston constituency on behalf of 2008-09 was due to the increased legal work required to 25,555 children. This information can be found at: enable the Treasury to respond to the financial crisis. http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/child_benefit/chb-geog- The slight decrease between 2008-09 and 2009-10 reflects aug09.pdf the changing nature and level of the interventions required. 147W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 148W

Departmental Redundancy Pay Information prior to 2002-03 is not available due to the introduction of a new accounting system at that Matthew Hancock: To ask the Chancellor of the time. Exchequer what severance payment was made to each The large increase in 2007-08 electricity charges was (a) Minister and (b) special adviser in his Department due to the introduction of Grouped Shared Services for who left office after the last general election. [14661] HM Treasury and the Office of Government Commerce which resulted in HM Treasury assuming responsibility Justine Greening: For information on severance payments for an additional three buildings. made to Ministers, I refer my hon. Friend to the reply Data on heating prior to 2005-06 are not available. given by the Minister for the Cabinet Office on 5 July 2010, Official Report, column 55W to the hon. Member The figure for 2007-08 included costs associated with for Perth and North Perthshire (Pete Wishart). Information Trevelyan House that was vacated in that year. The on salary levels for Ministers and other Government figures for 2007-08 and 2008-09 have been adjusted for officers paid through the Treasury payroll are published a large accrual reversal in 2008-09 relating to 2007-08. in the Treasury Group’s annual Resource Accounts, Additionally, the figure for 2009-10 includes elements copies of which are available in the Library of the for service charges relating to the two previous years House. that cannot be disaggregated. In line with previous administrations, the Prime Minister The large increase in telephone charges between 2006-07 will issue a written ministerial statement annually on and 2007-08 was due to the introduction of Grouped the total cost of special advisers. The total cost of Shared Services for HM Treasury and the Office of severance paid out to special advisers who left office Government Commerce. after the last general election will therefore be published Debt Management Office in due course. £000 Electricity Water Heating Telephones Departmental Sick Leave 2002-03 32 n/a n/a 111 Mike Freer: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 2003-04 26 n/a n/a 155 how many days on average his Department’s staff in 2004-05 39 n/a n/a 166 each pay grade were absent from work as a result of ill 2005-06 46 n/a n/a 146 health in 2009-10. [18572] 2006-07 65 n/a n/a 185 2007-08 56 n/a n/a 172 Justine Greening: The following table lists the average 2008-09 45 n/a n/a 176 working days lost per grade for HM Treasury employees 2009-10 64 n/a n/a 226 due to sick absence in 2009-10. Information prior to 2002-03 is not available due to Average working days lost per the introduction of a new accounting system at that Grade employee time. B 8.2 Spending on electricity covers the direct usage for the C 6.5 floors leased by DMO and a share of the common areas D 2.9 within the building. Electricity consumption for office E 2.5 space that is sub-leased by the DMO is recovered as SCS 0.6 income from the occupier. Average for Department 3.6 Spending on water consumption and heating is aggregated into the quarterly service charge invoice and Departmental Utilities is not separately identifiable from DMO accounting records. Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Asset Protection Agency Exchequer how much (a) his Department and (b) its £000 agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent on (i) electricity, (ii) water, (iii) heating and (iv) telephone Electricity Water Heating Telephones services in each year since 1997. [7579] 2009-10 n/a 2 n/a 6

Justine Greening: The available information is shown The APA was formed in December 2009. Spending in the following tables: on electricity and heating is paid by DMO and recharged HM Treasury as part of the quarterly service charge and is not separately £000 identifiable. Electricity Water Heating Telephones There was no relevant spending by the Royal Mint Advisory Committee during the period in question. 2002-03 288 15 n/a 1,667 2003-04 260 19 n/a 1,437 EU Budget 2004-05 332 13 n/a 1,924 2005-06 431 22 311 1,636 2006-07 398 34 311 1,376 Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Chancellor of the 2007-08 1,000 40 246 2,102 Exchequer what the outcome was of the discussions on 2008-09 908 24 234 2,031 the draft EU Budget for 2011 between the Economic 2009-10 855 50 250 2,160 Secretary to the Treasury and her counterparts in Brussels on 14 October 2010. [19214] 149W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 150W

Justine Greening: In meetings with Members of the Land Use European Parliament, the Belgian presidency, Commissioner Semeta and other senior Commission Simon Hart: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer representatives, I strongly argued the UK’s case for a what mechanisms are in place to assist people who have cash freeze: at a time of deep fiscal consolidation in been affected by fraudulent land banking schemes. member states, the Commission’s proposed increase in [17871] the 2011 EU budget of 5.8% is simply not acceptable. I explained that the UK Government will continue to Mr Hoban: Where land banking schemes fail within engage constructively in these negotiations, but are the definition of a Collective Investment Scheme in absolutely committed to seeing this increase reduced; section 235 of the Financial Services and Markets Act and that the House of Commons had supported the 2000, they can only be established, operated or wound Government’s goals on 13 October. I urged Members of up with authorisation by the Financial Services Authority the European Parliament to vote against a budget increase (FSA). on 20 October. The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) deals with Negotiations on the 2011 EU budget are ongoing. I complaints from consumers against firms that are regulated have made the UK Government’s position and aims by the FSA and can require firms to pay compensation. very clear to interlocutors at the EU level. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) can pay compensation to consumers with claims against Excise Duties: Liquefied Petroleum Gas firms that are regulated by the FSA and financially unable (or likely to be unable) to pay the claim themselves. Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Where a firm operating a land banking scheme is not what his policy is on the duty derogation applicable to regulated by the FSA, its customers will not have access liquid petroleum gas (a) until 2014 and (b) in to redress through the FOS and the FSCS. subsequent years. [18518] Loans: Interest Rates Justine Greening: The fuel duty rate on an energy equivalent amount of liquefied petroleum gas for road Chris Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer use is set by reference to the main rate of fuel duty on a if he will introduce a cap on the annual percentage rate litre of petrol. A differential currently equivalent to a that commercial companies can charge customers on 35.79 pence per litre reduction in duty came into effect unsecured loans. [18524] in April. Mr Davey: I have been asked to reply. Under plans inherited by the Government the differential I recently announced a joint BIS and HM Treasury is set to reduce by the equivalent of 1p per litre each review of consumer credit and personal insolvency and year from 2011 to 2014. Other uses of liquefied petroleum this Department issued a formal call for evidence on 15 gas remain exempt from fuel duty. The Chancellor October. Government have previously committed to keeps all taxes under review. give regulators the power to define and ban excessive Financial Services Authority: Fees and Charges interest rates on credit and store cards and our review will provide a framework for this, as well as other Simon Kirby: To ask the Chancellor of the coalition commitments, to be considered. Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effects The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) recently considered on small insurance companies of the Financial Services the possible introduction of price controls on interest Authority’s new fee structure; and if he will make a rates on products such as pawnbroking, payday loans statement. [19094] and home collected credit as part of its review of high cost consumer finance products. The review concluded Mr Hoban: The matter concerned is the responsibility that price controls would not be a suitable solution to of the Financial Services Authority (FSA), whose day- the concerns the OFT identified. The OFT made a to-day operations are independent from Government number of recommendations aimed at improving the control and influence. I have asked the FSA to write to market for consumers and these are also being considered the hon. Member on the issue he raises. as part of the review. Financial Services: Regulation Personal Income

Alun Cairns: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr Sanders: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with representatives if he will estimate the cost of recording the household of the financial services industry on the regulation of income of all households with children in (a) 2009-10, financial advisers. [19418] (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [18534] Mr Gauke: The information is not available in the Mr Hoban: The regulation of financial advisers is the format requested. HM Revenue and Customs does not responsibility of the Financial Services Authority (FSA), hold income information for all households with children. an independent body. Treasury Ministers and officials have discussions with Public Expenditure a wide variety of organisations in the public and private sectors as part of the process of policy development Caroline Lucas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer and delivery.As was the case with previous Administrations, what plans he has to publish equality impact assessments it is not the Government’s practice to provide details of undertaken by his Department as part of the comprehensive all such discussion. spending review; and if he will make a statement. [18278] 151W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 152W

Danny Alexander [holding answer 20 October 2010]: Mr Gauke: At the June Budget this Government showed On 20 October 2010 the Treasury published an overview their commitment to transparency by publishing more of the impact of the spending review on groups protected detailed distributional analysis of the impacts of their by equalities legislation. policies than has ever been done before. Charts A1-A4 However, the Treasury does not dictate the details of in the June Budget show the impacts of tax, tax credit how other Departments will live within their settlements— and benefit changes, including increases to the personal this will be for Departments to decide themselves. Other allowance and changes to VAT, and are available at: Government Departments will ensure that equality www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/junebudget_annexa.pdf considerations are taken into account when these decisions This analysis shows that the impact by 2012-13 of are made. Decisions about the publication of equality measures that can be robustly assessed is progressive. impact assessments are also for individual departments to make. The Government are committed to providing fair support to all groups. The June Budget announced With regard to its own spending, the Treasury will particular measures to help pensioners, including uprating ensure that equalities are taken into account as policies the basic state pension in April 2011 by at least the are developed following the spending review, in line equivalent of the retail price index. with its legal obligations.

Revenue and Customs: Retford Taxation: Domicil

John Mann: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many tax office staff are located in Retford; how Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Chancellor of the many such staff there will be in October 2013; how Exchequer how many (a) companies and (b) many there were in October 2007; and if he will make a individuals have moved their tax domicile offshore in the last five months; and what estimate he has made of statement. [19181] the consequent loss of revenue to the Exchequer through corporation tax. [18547] Mr Gauke: The number of staff located in the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) office at Kings Park house, Retford, in October 2007 and October 2010 is Mr Gauke: Information on the number of companies shown in the following table. As announced in 2008, as and individuals that have moved their tax domicile in part of HMRC’s Regional Review Programme, HMRC the last five months together with an estimate of the is withdrawing from Kings Park house in 2010-11 and consequent loss of revenue to the Exchequer is not there will be no back office staff in Retford in October available. 2013. Inquiry centre services will still be available for customers in Retford who need that level of support but VAT: Tax Rates and Bands the way these services are provided may change and the staffing provision has not yet been decided. HMRC staff in King’s Park house, Retford Chris Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer As at 1 October FTE1 HC2 what recent estimate he has made of the (a) administrative cost to and (b) change in the level of 2007 37.18 40 business for the retail industry of the proposed increase 2010 3.00 3 in the rate of VAT to 20 per cent. [18523] 1 FTE = Full-time equivalent. This is the equivalent number of full-time posts. Mr Gauke: The information requested is as follows: 2 HC = Headcount. This is the total number of staff working in the organisation, irrespective of working patterns. (a) The impact assessment published at June 2010 Tax Evasion Budget provides information on compliance costs to businesses of the increase of VAT to 20% in January Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Chancellor of the 2010 and available at: Exchequer whether he has made an estimate of the http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/junebudget_ likely cost to the Exchequer of tax evasion by (a) large impact_assessments.pdf businesses, (b) small and medium-sized enterprises Compliance costs information is not available at industrial and (c) individuals in the next (i) 12 months and (ii) sector level. five years. [18548] (b) The information requested falls within the Mr Gauke: No such estimates have been made. responsibility of the Office for Budget Responsibility HMRC published the latest available estimates of the (OBR), and I have asked the OBR to reply. tax gap in September 2010 in ‘Measuring Tax Gaps Letter from Robert Chote, dated 25 October 2010: 2010’, available at: As Chair of the Budget Responsibility Committee of the http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/measuring-tax-gaps- Office for Budget Responsibility, I have been asked to reply to 2010.htm.pdf your recent question: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent estimate he has made of (b) change in the level of Taxation business for the retail industry of the proposed increase in the rate of VAT to 20 per cent. 18523 Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer The interim OBR’s June 2010 Budget forecast incorporated whether he has made an assessment of the combined the estimated impact of policy measures announced at or before effects of the VAT rise and changes in the personal tax the Budget, including the increase in the standard rate of VAT allowance on those (a) under and (b) over the age of from 17.5 per cent to 20 per cent that will take effect from 65 years. [19344] 4 January 2011. 153W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 154W

The interim OBR applied a range of fiscal multipliers to help Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement inform its judgement on the overall impact of the June Budget Commission is responsible for the child maintenance measures on aggregate demand in the economy. These multipliers system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner are set out in Table C8 of the June Budget document. A figure of to write to the hon. Member with the information 0.8, for example, means that a measure which has a direct effect of raising revenue by 1 per cent of GDP is estimated to reduce requested and I have seen the response. aggregate demand in the economy by 0.8 per cent in the short run. Letter from Stephen Geraghty: For the June Budget the interim OBR applied a fiscal multiplier In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the of 0.35 for the impact of the change in the VAT rate. The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission, the Secretary estimated impact of the increase in VAT on real GDP has not yet of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance been published. In accordance with our publication procedure Commissioner. (which is available on our website at You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, in http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/d/ respect of how many children the Child Maintenance and Enforcement release_policy.pdf) Commission has collected maintenance payments through (a) the we will release this information on 18 November 2010, at Statutory arrangement and (b) private arrangements since 1 April 11am. This information will be published on the OBR website, 2010 [16097]. and copies of all published material will be made available to The number of children benefiting from maintenance through Parliament. the statutory maintenance service is routinely published in the Child Support Agency Quarterly Summary of Statistics which is available in the House of Commons library or online at: WORK AND PENSIONS http://www.childmaintenance.org/en/publications/ Anthony Bates stats0610.html As of June 2010, 849,100 children were benefiting from Mr Marcus Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for maintenance payments. Maintenance was collected through the Work and Pensions if he will make an assessment of the Child Support Agency collection service as well as through effectiveness of the Child Support Agency’s (CSA) maintenance direct arrangements set up by the Child Support management of the child maintenance case of Mr Anthony Agency where non-resident parents pay parents with care directly. Bates of Nuneaton; for what reasons the case remains The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission does not unresolved after three years; for what reasons the CSA hold a register of private arrangements nor does it collect the wrote to Mr Bates on (a) 11 May and (b) 15 May 2010; maintenance payments for them as these arrangements are genuinely and what recent assessment he has made of the CSA’s private. overall performance in managing child maintenance However, the Commission estimates that by the end of March 2010 an additional 60,000 children were benefiting from maintenance cases. [13800] payments via private arrangements following contact with the Maria Miller: The Child Support Agency has improved Commission’s Child Maintenance Options Service. its performance over the last few years against its objectives. This can be seen in the latest quarterly summary of Departmental Sick Leave statistics published on 28 July 2010: http://www.childmaintenance.org/en/publications/ Mike Freer: To ask the Secretary of State for Work stats0610.html and Pensions for how many days on average his The objectives set by Government for the Child Department’s staff in each pay grade were absent from Maintenance and Enforcement Commission, which has work as a result of ill health in 2009-10. [18576] responsibility for the Child Support Agency, are set out in its business plan for 20010/11: Chris Grayling: The number of days on average http://www.childmaintenance.org/en/pdf/Business-Plan- Department staff in each pay grade were absent from 2010.pdf work as a result of ill-health in 2009-10, as reported by Despite progress being made there remain important the Department’s personnel computer, is recorded in issues that need to be addressed to improve the service the following table. that the Child Support Agency is able to deliver. It is a priority to ensure that an effective child Staff pay grade Average days maintenance system is available to families as part of Administrative Assistant 9.9 the Government’s commitment to supporting shared Administrative Officer 10.1 parenting and promoting parental responsibility. These Executive Officer 7.7 issues are being considered with the management of the Higher Executive Officer 4.9 Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission and Senior Executive Officer 4.0 in light of the spending review. Grade 7 3.4 The details about individual cases are confidential so Grade 6 2.9 I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner, Senior Civil Service 2.2 who is responsible for the child maintenance system, to All pay grades 8.5 write to the hon. Member separately about the case of his constituent. The Department has cut average sickness absence by Children: Maintenance 25% from 11.1 to 8.4 days between March 2007 and September 2010. It is committed to further reducing Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Work sickness absence to below its Departmental target of and Pensions in respect of how many children the 7.7 days. Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission has collected maintenance payments through (a) the Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work statutory arrangement and (b) private arrangements and Pensions how many officials in his Department since 1 April 2010. [16097] have had (a) fewer than five days, (b) five to 10 days, 155W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 156W

(c) 10 to 15 days, (d) 15 to 20 days, (e) 20 to 25 days, (2) what discussions he has had with the Chancellor (f) 25 to 50 days, (g) 50 to 75 days, (h) 75 to 100 days, of the Exchequer on future budgetary allocations for (i) 100 to 150 days, (j) 150 to 200 days, (k) more than benefits in advance of the Spending Review; and if he 200 days, (l) more than three months, (m) more than will make a statement. [15716] six months and (n) one year on paid sick leave (i) consecutively and (ii) in total in each year since 1997. Chris Grayling: We are looking at a range of options [18717] for Welfare Reform, discussions continue and decisions on allocations will be made in the overall context of the Chris Grayling: The information requested is not spending review. available in the required format and could only be provided at disproportionate costs. The Department Employment Schemes: Dartford has cut average sickness absence by 25% from 11.1 to 8.4 days between March 2007 and September 2010. It is Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for committed to further reducing sickness absence to below Work and Pensions how many people in Dartford its Departmental target of 7.7 days. constituency participated in (a) a community taskforce and (b) work-focussed training programme in the last Disability Living Allowance 12 months. [18669]

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Grayling: Within the constituency of Dartford Work and Pensions what arrangements he plans to put between November 2009 and the end of July 2010: in place for the medical assessments to be introduced (a) 20 people started the Community Task Force; for all disability living allowance claimants from (b) 10 people started the Young Person’s Guarantee Work 2013-14; how such assessments will differ from those Focussed Training and 20 people started Routes into Work undertaken under current arrangements; and whether Pre-Employment Training. the new assessments will use the current A-Z of Note: Medical Conditions as guidance. [16902] Published official statistics are only currently available up until the end of July 2010. Maria Miller: The Chancellor announced in the Emergency Budget that the Government will introduce Employment Schemes: Disability a new assessment for DLA from 2013-14. The new assessment will be transparent, objective, fair and will Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for be based on identifying the barriers disabled people Work and Pensions how many people he expects to have to overcome to participate in society and live more have participated in the Work Choice programme by independent lives. 2015. [19266] The Department is currently in the process of developing options for the new assessment in consultation with an Maria Miller: We expect around 79,000 people to independent group of specialists comprising of disability have access to the Work Choice programme by 2015. organisations, relevant health professionals and others with expertise in this area. This process will consider the Employment Schemes: Peterborough nature of the assessment and what evidence will be required to support the new assessment and how that Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for evidence will be gathered and used. At this stage in the Work and Pensions pursuant to the Answer of 13 October development process the role of Customer Case 2010, Official Report, column 338W, on employment Management (CCM) Guidance has not been determined. schemes: Peterborough, how many people in Peterborough To ensure that all organisations and individuals with constituency completed (a) Community Task Force, an interest in this area have the opportunity to contribute (b) Routes Into Work and (c) YoungPerson’s Guarantee their views on this reform, we will be holding a public Work Focused training programmes the latest period consultation on the new proposals in autumn this year. for which figures are available. [18180] Employers’ Liability: Insurance Chris Grayling: Statistics on the numbers of completers is not available. Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for In the constituency of Peterborough and up to the Work and Pensions when he plans to respond to his end of July 2010: Department’s consultation on an employer’s liability (a) 90 people started the Community Task Force; insurance bureau. [19343] (b) 20 people started Routes into Work Pre-Employment Training; Chris Grayling: The public consultation closed on 5 and May 2010. We are currently considering the replies we (c) 30 people started YoungPerson’s Guarantee Work Focussed received and we will publish our response to the consultation Training. in due course. Note: Published official statistics are only currently available up until Employment and Support Allowance the end of July 2010.

Ms Ritchie: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Employment Schemes: Young People and Pensions (1) what correspondence he received from the Chancellor of the Exchequer on future reductions Ian Swales: To ask the Secretary of State for Work in spending on employment and support allowance and Pensions which programmes sponsored by his between April 2011 and March 2015; and if he will Department are designed to assist young people into make a statement; [15668] employment in Redcar constituency. [16530] 157W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 158W

Chris Grayling: Young people in Redcar have access modified OECD equivalisation factors for household size and to a range of programmes designed to help them into composition, as an income measure as a proxy for standard of employment. These provide jobsearch skills, temporary living. employment, help to become self employed, work 2. Figures have been presented on both a Before Housing Cost experience and volunteering to improve employablility. and After Housing Cost basis. For Before Housing Cost, housing Where people remain unemployed after 12 months, costs (such as rent, water rates, mortgage interest payments, structural insurance payments and ground rent and service charges) they enter Flexible New Deal. are not deducted from income, while for After Housing Cost they Unemployment amongst Britain’s youth is unacceptably are. high and this range of programmes is confusing. For 3. The Family Resources Survey is known to under-record some these reasons, we will introduce a new single work benefit receipt so the estimates presented should be treated with programme in the first half of 2010. This will offer caution. young people targeted personalised help and will be 4. Estimates from the Family Resources Survey are presented delivered through the best of private and voluntary rounded to the nearest 100,000 households. If the figure is less sector providers. In the meantime we will ensure young than 50,000, this would be rounded down to zero, so instead such people continue to have access to employment support figures are presented as “less than 50,000” or “negligible”. prior to the implementation of the work programme. 5. A working household has been defined as a household where at least one adult is in work. EU Law Industrial Injuries Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate he made of the cost to his John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Department and its non-departmental public bodies of Work and Pensions what (a) monitoring and (b) compliance with (a) domestic, (b) European and (c) investigations his Department undertakes in respect of other international human rights requirements in each compliance with the provisions of the Reporting of year since 1997; and if he will make a statement. Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995. [18337] [18712]

Chris Grayling: The Department for Work and Pensions Chris Grayling: The information is as follows: and its non-departmental public bodies do not collate (a) HSE monitors compliance rates with RIDDOR through information on the costs of compliance with human annual questions in the Labour Force Survey that is organised by the Office for National Statistics. This figure is published annually rights requirements. The Department and its non- by HSE as part of the national workplace health and safety departmental public bodies take account of the domestic statistics. For 2008/09, the compliance rate was estimated at and international human rights framework in developing 58% for non-fatal injuries. all their policies and practices, as they do other relevant (b) HSE may investigate compliance with RIDDOR where a legal obligations. An accurate estimate of the total cost complaint is made that a reportable incident has not been investigated of compliance with human rights obligations could not or where information of non-reporting comes to light during the be made without incurring disproportionate cost. course of other interventions such as a proactive inspection. Decisions on whether to investigate are guided by HSE’s Enforcement Housing Benefit Policy Statement and take into account factors such as the likely seriousness of any breach of the law, relevant information about the dutyholder’s past performance and HSE enforcement priorities. Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for HSE operational databases do not record investigations Work and Pensions (1) what his Department’s most into failures to report injuries, cases of ill-health and recent estimate is of the number of low-income dangerous occurrences under RIDDOR as discrete items working households in receipt of housing benefit; and consequently figures for the numbers of investigations [17570] are not readily available and may only be obtained at a (2) what his Department’s most recent estimate is of disproportionate cost. the number of low income working households receiving housing benefit in Scotland. [17573] Jobseeker’s Allowance: Pendle

Steve Webb: The most common measure of low Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for income used is based on a threshold of an income Work and Pensions what steps his Department is below 60% of contemporary median income, adjusted taking to assist residents in Pendle constituency who to take account of family size and composition. are in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance to enter Of the estimated 700,000 households where someone employment. [18586] is in work and recorded receipt of housing benefit, the number of households with income below 60% of median Chris Grayling: The Government aims to introduce a equivalised household income in 2008/09 was 200,000 new national Work Programme by summer 2011. This (30%) Before Housing Costs and 400,000 (54%) After will be an integrated package of support providing Housing Costs. personalised help to a wide range of customers—from The number of households in Scotland where someone jobseeker’s allowance recipients who have been out of is in work and recorded receipt of housing benefit is less work for some time, to customers who may previously than 50,000. have been receiving incapacity benefits for many years. Notes: Alongside the Work Programme we will deliver a 1. These statistics are based on Households Below Average (HBAI) more flexible advisory service in Jobcentre Plus, giving Income data sourced from the 2008/09 Family Resources Survey local offices more control and allowing them to deliver (FRS). This uses disposable household income, adjusted using in a way that is responsive to local needs. 159W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 160W

To get Britain working we also need to harness a wide Letter from Darra Singh: range of talent, ideas and good practice with help from The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question business, the public and voluntary sector and local asking what steps Jobcentre Plus takes to assist women who do deliverers of services. not have a full national insurance contribution record to re-enter We recently launched Work Clubs as a way of the work place. This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus. encouraging people who are out of work to exchange skills and share experiences; and Work Together as a Jobcentre Plus does not differentiate the support given to customers by way of their gender or national insurance contribution way of developing work skills through volunteering. We record. Customers wishing to re-enter the workplace can benefit also announced that we will introduce a New Enterprise from a range of help, including advice on jobsearch techniques, Allowance which will support unemployed people who signposting to appropriate job-search channels, skills training wish to move off benefits into self employment. and help with costs associated with returning to work. However, We are developing further options to encourage pre- eligibility for these services is often dependant on the customer’s circumstances, including the benefits they receive and the length employment training and work placements through of time they have been unemployed. Service Academies and greater insight into the world of As a minimum, all customers have access to an extensive work through Work Experience. database of job vacancies and can access jobsearch support material either from their local Jobcentre or on-line via the KPMG DirectGov website. Jobcentre Plus Personal Advisers provide support to customers, Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and partners of customers who are claiming a benefit, administered by Jobcentre Plus, or who are receiving Pension Credit. Personal and Pensions what the monetary value is of his Advisers work with each customer to agree a personalised return Department’s contracts with KPMG; and what the to work plan. This may include participation in one, or more, of monetary value is of each such contract entered into our employment and training initiatives, providing help such as since his appointment. [17051] support with developing a CV, confidence building, work trials, or work-focused training. Chris Grayling: We currently have two contracts with KPMG, one for £100,000 and one Pro-Bono contract National Insurance: Foreign Nationals which attracted a nominal consideration of £1. The monetary value of each contract entered into Mr Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Work since the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Pensions how many national insurance numbers appointment is £100,001. were issued to (a) non-UK EU nationals and (b) nationals of each non-EU state in each of the last eight Motability quarters for which figures are available. [19369] Chris Grayling: The information requested has been Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for placed in the Library of both Houses. Work and Pensions what recent assessment he has made of the value for money of the Motability scheme. [17669] Nottinghamshire

Maria Miller: Independent analysis commissioned by John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Motability indicates that the Car Scheme is typically and Pensions how many (a) staff of Jobcentre Plus 35% cheaper on a like-for-like basis then other lease and (b) other staff of his Department were based in (i) providers for the same models, reflecting the Scheme’s Retford and (ii) Worksop on (A) 1 October 2007 and economies of scale and the significant discounts it is (B) the most recent date for which figures are available; able to negotiate as a result. and how many such staff he expects to be based at At present, the Motability Scheme has over 300 models those locations on 1 October 2013. [19178] available which can be leased by a disabled person using the Higher Rate Mobility Component of their Disability Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus Living Allowance (currently £49.85 per week). Motability is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, provides regular updates to the Department and continues Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. to work with vehicle manufacturers and other business Member with the information requested. partners to deliver the best possible value for its disabled Letter from Darra Singh: customers. The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking how many a) staff of Jobcentre Plus and b) other staff at National Insurance Contributions: Females his Department were based in i) Retford and ii) Worksop on a) 1 October 2007 and b) the most recent date for which figures are available; and how many such staff he expects to be based at those Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for locations on 1 October 2013. This is something that falls within Work and Pensions what steps Jobcentre Plus takes to the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre assist women who do not have a full national insurance Plus. contribution record to re-enter the workplace. [17662] The information in the following table is set out in full-time equivalents. Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, October 2007 June 2010 Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. Retford Jobcentre Plus 14 22 Member with the information requested. Worksop Jobcentre Plus 47 51 161W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 162W

Table B: People from Black and minority ethnic communities October 2007 June 2010 Number of additional Composition of people from BME resultant eligible group Worksop (other 73 communities excluded (% BME) Department staff) Source: (i) £6,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 Dataview Jobcentre Plus continues to monitor workloads and as part of (ii) £7,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 that, staffing levels are reviewed on a regular basis. However, (iii) £8,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 staffing and spending plans for the business will be dependent on (iv) £9,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 the levels announced in the Spending Review settlement set out (v) £10,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 by HM Treasury. Until we have worked through the detail of this, (vi) £11,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 we are unable to give estimates of staffing levels for October 2013. (vii) £12,000 Less than 0.5 million 12 Note: Occupational Pensions Ranges are rounded to the nearest 500,000

Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for and Pensions if he will estimate the number of (a) Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the women and (b) people in black and minority ethnic number of people who would be excluded from the groups who would be exempted from the auto-enrolment requirement to pay into a workplace pension in into a workplace pension scheme if the level of qualifying circumstances in which the qualifying level of earnings, earnings were increased to (i) £6,000, (ii) £7,000, (iii) in 2006 earnings terms, was (a) £5,035, (b) £6,000, (c) £8,000, (iv) £9,000, (v) £10,000, (vi) £11,000 and (vii) £7,000, (d) £8,000, (e) £9,000, (f) £10,000, (g) £12,000. [19342] £11,000 and (h) £12,000. [19345]

Steve Webb: People are not saving enough for their retirement. The coalition agreement therefore makes Steve Webb: People are not saving enough for their clear the Government’s commitment to introducing retirement. The coalition agreement therefore makes automatic enrolment into a workplace pension. We clear the Governments commitment to introducing believe that this will bring about a step-change in the automatic enrolment into a workplace pension. We number of people saving for their retirement. believe that this will bring about a step-change in the The Pensions Act 2008 provides that, from 2012, number of people saving for their retirement. workers between the age of 22 and State Pension Age, The Pensions Act 2008 provides that, from 2012, with annual earnings in at least one job of more than workers between the age of 22 and State Pension Age, £5,035 (2006 earnings terms) will be eligible for automatic with annual earnings in at least one job of more than enrolment into a qualifying pension scheme, unless they £5,035 (2006 earnings terms) will be eligible for automatic are already participating in such a scheme. enrolment into a qualifying pension scheme, unless they Our analysis indicates that around 10-11 million people are already participating in such a scheme. will be eligible for automatic enrolment in a workplace This will not place a requirement on employees to pension scheme from 2012. That’s why automatic enrolment pay into a workplace pension scheme. They will be able is so important, but it’s crucial that we get the detail to opt out of the workplace pension scheme, and in right. So we instigated the Making Automatic Enrolment some cases the employer may contribute more than the Review to ensure that automatic enrolment is implemented minimum, reducing or even eliminating the need for an in the most effective way. employee contribution. An estimate of the numbers of (a) women, and (b) people in black and minority ethnic groups who would Our analysis indicates that around 10-11 million people no longer be eligible to be automatically enrolled into a will be eligible for automatic enrolment in a workplace workplace pension consequent on the qualifying level pension scheme from 2012. That’s why automatic enrolment of earnings being increased to (i) £6,000, (ii) £7,000, (iii) is so important, but it’s crucial we get the detail right. £8,000, (iv) £9,000, (v) £10,000, (vi) £11,000 and (vii) So we instigated the Making Automatic Enrolment £12,000 in 2006 earnings terms are provided in the Review to ensure that automatic enrolment is implemented following tables. The figures are rounded to the nearest in the most effective way. 500,000 because they are unlikely to be reliable below An estimate of the numbers of people who would not that level. The tables therefore include an additional be automatically enrolled into a workplace pension column, showing the composition of the resultant eligible consequent on the qualifying level of earnings being group. increased to £6,000, £7,000, £8,000, £9,000, £10,000, Table A: Women £11,000, and £12,000 in 2006 earnings terms is provided Number of additional Composition of resultant in the following table. women excluded eligible group (% women) Number of additional people who would be (i) £6,000 Less than 0.5 million 38 excluded from automatic enrolment (ii) £7,000 Around 0.5 million 37 (iii) £8,000 0.5 to 1 million 36 £5,035 0 (iv) £9,000 Around 1 million 35 £6,000 Less than 0.5 million (v) £10,000 1 to 1.5 million 34 £7,000 0.5 to 1 million (vi) £11,000 1.5 to 2 million 33 £8,000 1 to 1.5 million (vii) £12,000 Around 2 million 32 £9,000 1 to 1.5 million Note: £10,000 1.5 to 2 million Ranges are rounded to the nearest 500,000. £11,000 2 to 2.5 million 163W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 164W

opt-out following automatic enrolment, and it is very Number of additional people who would be excluded from automatic enrolment difficult to estimate the likely impact. What evidence there is from the United States, where schemes already £12,000 2.5 to 3 million operate waiting periods of up to 12 months, shows that Note: take up rates are still high and waiting periods do not Ranges are rounded to the nearest 500,000 seem to adversely affect opt-out rates. Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for Our assumptions of the numbers of people who will Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of opt out of automatic enrolment into a qualifying pension the likely effect of the introduction of a three-month scheme is based on analysis of the Department for waiting period before auto-enrolment into a workplace Work and Pension’s 2009 survey of individual’s attitudes pension scheme on (a) the level of pension provision and likely response to the workplace pension reforms. for (i) temporary and agency workers and (ii) all These rates are not dependent on the length of time an employees and (b) the number of people choosing to individual has been in employment, and therefore do opt out of such a scheme. [19356] not change as a result of introducing a 3 month waiting period. Steve Webb: People are not saving enough for their retirement. The coalition agreement therefore makes Pensions clear the Government’s commitment to introducing automatic enrolment into a workplace pension. We Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for believe that this will bring about a step-change in the Work and Pensions what recent consideration he has number of people saving for their retirement. given to the adequacy of pension providers’ The Pensions Act 2008 provides that, from 2012, management of environmental, social and governance workers between the age of 22 and State Pension Age, risks. [17743] with annual earnings in at least one job of more than £5,035 (2006 earnings terms) will be eligible for automatic Steve Webb: The Government fully supports the highest enrolment into a qualifying pension scheme, unless they standards of corporate governance and ethical behaviour are already participating in such a scheme. and considers such high standards can contribute to Our analysis indicates that around 10-11 million people better company performance by helping a board discharge will be eligible for automatic enrolment in a workplace its duties in the best interests of shareholders. The pension scheme from 2012. That’s why automatic enrolment Government continues to keep under review the role of is so important, but it’s crucial that we get the detail pension scheme trustees in the governance process and, right. So we instigated the Making Automatic Enrolment in particular, the adequacy of the rules that apply to the Review to ensure that automatic enrolment is implemented investment of scheme funds. in the most effective way. We estimate that the introduction of a three month Post Office Card Account Waiting Period would reduce the total number of people eligible for automatic enrolment by around 500,000 at Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for any particular point in time. Of course, many of these Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the people would go on to be automatically enrolled after monetary value of pensions and benefits payments that three months. have been transferred from his Department to holders Analysis of the 2007 Labour Force Survey indicates of the Post Office card account in each week of the that 22 percent of those in the eligible group, and in most recent 12 month period for which figures are employment for less than three months, are employed available; and what estimate he made of the proportion through an agency. This compares to 14 percent of the of such payments attributable to (a) state pension total eligible group who are employed through an agency. payments and (b) benefits other than the state Thus, we estimate that the introduction of a three- pension. [19501] month waiting period will exclude around 110,000 people employed through an agency from the eligible group for Steve Webb: The information is not available in the automatic enrolment. requested format. The following table provides details There is little direct evidence of the effect of waiting for each month during the 12 month period October periods on the likelihood of an individual choosing to 2009 to September 2010.

2009 2010

Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March April May June July Aug Sept

Total DWP payments into 1.66 2.17 2.10 1.47 1.58 1.90 1.87 1.57 1.67 1.62 1.84 1.63 POca (£ billion)

State Pension payments 0.75 0.96 1.06 0.58 0.72 0.88 0.89 0.73 0.74 0.74 0.88 0.73 (£ billion)

State Pension % 45.26 44.31 50.64 39.46 45.92 46.36 47.69 46.26 44.58 45.65 47.90 44.90

Non-State Pension benefits 0.91 1.21 1.04 0.89 0.85 1.02 0.98 0.85 0.92 0.88 0.96 0.90 (£ billion)

Non-State Pension % 54.74 55.69 49.36 60.54 54.08 53.64 52.31 53.74 55.42 54.35 52.10 55.10 165W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 166W

Gregg McClymont: To ask the Secretary of State for of those accounts has been opened to enable the account Work and Pensions (1) how many Post Office card holder to receive (a) the state pension and (b) benefits accounts were closed in each month of the most recent other than the state pension. [19503] 12 month period for which figures are available; and what proportion of those accounts had been used to Steve Webb: Information about the proportion of enable the account holder to receive (a) the state pension accounts used for (a) State Pension and (b) benefits and (b) benefits other than the state pension; [19502] other than the State Pension is not available in the requested format. The following table provides details (2) how many new Post Office card accounts were of the number of Post Office card accounts opened and opened in each month of the most recent 12 month closed during the 12 month period October 2009 to period for which figures are available; and what proportion September 2010.

2009 2010 Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March April May June July Aug Sept

POcas Opened 14,289 15,043 12,908 10,404 16,100 12,118 8,264 9,036 8,668 10,059 8,853 9,756 Closed 30,751 26,389 26,217 57,710 53,437 61,673 61,978 50,094 54,081 56,679 37,993 38,573

Poverty: Redcar poverty across the UK are published in Households Below Average Income (HBAI). This uses household Ian Swales: To ask the Secretary of State for Work income adjusted (or ‘equivalised’) for household size and Pensions (1) what proportion of (a) people, (b) using various thresholds of low income. As they are children and (c) pensioners in Redcar constituency based on survey data, poverty estimates published in were living in poverty in each year since 1997; [16535] HBAI only allow breakdowns to Government office (2) how many children were living in relative poverty region and analysis by parliamentary constituency is in Redcar constituency in each year since 1997. [16536] not possible. However, figures for the North East government office region are set out in Table 1, 2 and 3. Maria Miller: Estimates of the number and proportion of people, children and pensioners living in relative

Table 1: Number in millions and percentage of people in relative poverty in the North East of England, Before Housing Costs (BHC) and After Housing Costs (AHC) Million (and %) of individuals Relative poverty Period BHC AHC

1997-98 to 1999-2000 0.6 (26%) 0.8 (30%) 1998-99 to 2000-01 0.6 (26%) 0.7 (29%) 1999-2000 to 2001-02 0.6 (24%) 0.7 (27%) 2000-01 to 2002-03 0.6 (23%) 0.7 (26%) 2001-02 to 2003-04 0.6 (22%) 0.6 (24%) 2002-03 to 2004-05 0.6 (22%) 0.6 (24%) 2003-04 to 2005-06 0.5 (21%) 0.6 (23%) 2004-05 to 2006-07 0.5 (21%) 0.6 (23%) 2005-06 to 2007-08 0.5 (21%) 0.6 (24%) 2006-07 to 2008-09 0.6 (22%) 0.6 (25%)

Table 2: Number in millions and percentage of children living in relative poverty in the North East of England, Before Housing Costs (BHC) Million (and %) of children Period Relative poverty—BHC

1997-98 to 1999-2000 0.2 (34%) 1998-99 to 2000-01 0.2 (34%) 1999-2000 to 2001-02 0.2 (30%) 2000-01 to 2002-03 0.2 (32%) 2001-02 to 2003-04 0.2 (30%) 2002-03 to 2004-05 0.2 (31%) 2003-04 to 2005-06 0.2 (28%) 2004-05 to 2006-07 0.2 (28%) 2005-06 to 2007-08 0.1 (28%) 2006-07 to 2008-09 0.1 (28%) 167W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 168W

Table 3: Number in millions and percentage of pensioners living in relative poverty in the North East of England, After Housing Costs (AHC) Million (and %) of pensioners Period Relative poverty—AHC

1997-98 to 1999-2000 0.1 (31%) 1998-99 to 2000-01 0.1 (31%) 1999-2000 to 2001-02 0.1 (28%) 2000-01 to 2002-03 0.1 (27%) 2001-02 to 2003-04 0.1 (23%) 2002-03 to 2004-05 0.1 (20%) 2003-04 to 2005-06 0.1 (17%) 2004-05 to 2006-07 0.1 (17%) 2005-06 to 2007-08 0.1 (19%) 2006-07 to 2008-09 0.1 (18%) Notes: 1. These statistics are based on the Households Below Average Income series, sourced from the Family Resources Survey. 2. All estimates are based on survey data and are therefore subject to uncertainty. Small differences should be treated with caution as these will be affected by sampling error and variability in non-response. 3. The reference period for Households Below Average Income figures are single financial years. Three survey years have been combined as regional single year estimates are subject to volatility. 4. The income measures used to derive the estimates shown employ the same methodology as the Department for Work and Pensions publication ‘Households Below Average Income’ (HBAI) series, which uses disposable household income, adjusted (or ‘equivalised’) for household size and composition—an income measure that acts as a proxy for the standard of living. 5. For the Households Below Average Income series, incomes have been equivalised using Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) modified equivalisation factors. 6. Numbers of adults and children in low-income households have been rounded to the nearest 100,000, while proportions have been rounded to the nearest percentage point. 7. Relative poverty is defined as the number (or percentage) of given group (all people, children, pensioners) living in households with less than 60% of contemporary median household income. 8. Poverty for all people is presented on both a BHC and AHC basis. Children poverty is presented on a BHC basis and pensioners poverty on an AHC basis. This takes account of the notion that housing costs reflect the standard of living of working age families (with children), while they do not for pensioners, nearly three quarters of whom own their own home and therefore gain value from it that is not captured by the corresponding low housing costs relative to the working age population. Considering pensioners’ incomes compared to others after deducting housing costs allows for more meaningful comparisons of income between working age people and pensioners, and overtime. Source: Households Below Average Income, DWP

Redundancy: Wolverhampton South West offer pre-redundancy support including job search techniques, benefit advice and access to financial support to cover the costs of re-training. Paul Uppal: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Customers claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Wolverhampton and Pensions (1) what assistance his Department has South West have access to a range of support including jobsearch; provided to residents of Wolverhampton South West one to one advisor support, help with writing CVs, training, work constituency who have been made redundant in the last experience and more specialist help depending on the jobseekers 12 months; [17998] need and length of their claim. (2) what steps his Department is taking to assist Jobcentre Plus work with a number of local employers in the residents in Wolverhampton South West constituency area including Sainsbury’s, KFC, C&S Care, BHS and the Black who are in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance to secure Country Hotelier’s Consortium and brings their current vacancies to the attention of jobseekers living within the Wolverhampton employment. [17999] area. To develop new Get Britain Working measures including Work Clubs and Work Together, Jobcentre Plus works closely Chris Grayling: The administration of Jobcentre Plus with a number of voluntary and partner organisations within the is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, area such as Wolverhampton Voluntary Services Council. Darra Singh. I have asked him to provide the hon. I hope this information is helpful. Member with the information requested. Remploy Letter from Darra Singh: The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your questions Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work asking what assistance his Department has provided to residents and Pensions whether he plans to discuss with hon. of Wolverhampton South West constituency who have been made Members the future of Remploy Ltd. [19264] redundant in the last 12 months and; what steps his Department is taking to assist residents in Wolverhampton South West constituency Maria Miller: I am happy to consider and discuss who are in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance to secure employment. representations from all those who have an interest in This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive. improving the employment prospects of disabled people. Jobcentre Plus’s Rapid Response Service (RRS) is automatically Social Security Benefits : East Sussex offered to all employers declaring more than 20 redundancies. We may also offer the service to employers declaring less than 20 Amber Rudd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work redundancies. The service aims to enable people who are made and Pensions how many households in (a) East Sussex redundant to move quickly into alternative employment without the need to claim welfare benefits and can be accessed by people and (b) Hastings and Rye constituency were in receipt as soon as they are under notice of redundancy. In Wolverhampton of benefits other than disability living allowance of South West, Jobcentre Plus has worked with Wolverhampton more than £500 a week in the latest period for which Local Authority, Better West Midlands and other partners to figures are available. [18425] 169W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 170W

Maria Miller: The information requested is available Number of employment and support (ESA) commencements—Great only at Great Britain level. Latest estimates show that in Britain and abroad 2010/11 there are around 100,000 working age households Quarter Number of commencements in receipt of more than £500 a week in all benefits and February 2010 154,960 tax credits, including Disability Living Allowance. If Notes: Disability Living Allowance is excluded then around 1. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10. 50,000 working age households are in receipt of more 2. Data published at: than £500 a week. http://www.dwp.gov.uk/ (ESA) The Chancellor’s announcement of a benefit cap was 3. Employment and support allowance (ESA) replaced incapacity informed by high-level consideration of the broad impacts. benefit and income support paid on the grounds of incapacity for new We are now working up the more detailed design of the claims from 27 October 2008. caps. When we introduce legislation for the implementation 4. The figures relating to employment support allowance have been of the caps, we will publish an impact assessment. thoroughly quality assured to National Statistics standard however it should be noted that this is a new benefit using a new data source Note: which may not have reached steady state in terms of operational All figures are rounded to the nearest 50,000. processing and retrospection. Hence most recent data shown is provisional (P). Source: Source: DWP Policy Simulation Model, based on the 2008/09 Family DWP Information Directorate 100% WPLS. Resources Survey data.

Social Security Benefits: Disability State Retirement Pensions

Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Rachel Reeves: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many new claimants of (a) Work and Pensions what recent estimate he has made incapacity benefit and (b) employment and support of the number of (a) men and (b) women aged 50 to allowance there were in each relevant year since 2005. 59 years who are unable to work; and what assessment [16916] he has made of the likely effects on each of those groups of the implementation of the proposed change Chris Grayling: The information as requested is not in the state pension age. [19505] available. However, statistics on total on-flows to incapacity Steve Webb: The Government’s full response to the benefit/severe disability allowance and employment and review of State Pension age will be published shortly. support allowance are available. These are shown in the An impact assessment and equality impact assessment following tables, but will include both new claimants will also be published. These include gender impact and any subsequent repeat claims. covering the differences between men’s and women’s employment rates at older ages, and the reasons for Number of incapacity benefit (IB/SDA) commencements—Great Britain and abroad being out of the labour market. Copies will be placed in the library of the House. Number of commencements

2005 595,220 2006 578,190 Tribunals Service: Standards 2007 583,410 2008 542,900 Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 2009 54,390 and Pensions what recent assessment he has made of the performance of the Tribunal Service in respect of Quarter employment and benefit tribunals; and what plans he February 2010 8,770 has for future targets for the performance of that Notes: service. [17438] 1. Figures are rounded to the nearest 100. 2. Years are based on the sum of four quarters ending February, May, Mr Djanogly: I have been asked to reply. August and November. 3. Employment and support allowance (ESA) replaced incapacity The Tribunals Service Framework Document requires benefit and income support paid on the grounds of incapacity for new the agency to report its performance in its Annual claims from 27 October 2008. Report and Accounts, copies of which are available in 4. Data will include those claimants who make another claim to the Libraries of the House and on the Tribunals Service incapacity benefit/severe disability allowance. 5. Latest figures are for February 2010. website, www.tribunals.gov.uk. In addition, each year Source: Ministers have approved a Business Plan for the Tribunals Department for Work and Pensions, Information Directorate, 5% Service. Copies of this are also available on the Tribunals sample. Service website. The Tribunals Service has also published Number of employment and support (ESA) commencements—Great detailed official annual statistics for the operational Britain and abroad year 2009-10 and, most recently, for the first quarter of Quarter Number of commencements 2010-11. These are available on the website. November 2008 54,150 On 1 April 2011, the Ministry of Justice plans to February 2009 141,320 bring Her Majesty’s Courts Service and the Tribunals May 2009 160,740 Service into a new, single organisation. Performance August 2009 164,910 targets for that new agency will be published in the new November 2009 159,600 organisation’s first Business Plan. 171W Written Answers25 OCTOBER 2010 Written Answers 172W

Unemployed People: Vetting Steve Webb: The Department does not hold information about the income of Winter Fuel Payment recipients as Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Work this is not required to establish entitlement. and Pensions what estimate he has made of the number The latest available information about the numbers of unemployed people who are awaiting Criminal of people who received a Winter Fuel Payment in Erith Records Bureau checks to be completed before they and Thamesmead constituency is in the document Winter can commence work; and if he will make a statement. Fuel Payment recipients 2009-10 by Parliamentary [16726] Constituencies and Gender (All). This is available in the House of Commons Library and on the internet at: Chris Grayling: The information requested is not http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/index.php?paqe=wfp. collated centrally and could only be provided at a disproportionate cost. Unemployment: Older People Winter Fuel Payments Chris Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent steps his Department has Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Work taken to assist unemployed people aged over 55 years and Pensions how many people who are in receipt of into employment. [17601] the winter fuel allowance are aged (a) between 60 and 64 years, (b) 65 to 66 years and (c) 67 to 68 years; and Chris Grayling: The Department has announced plans how much has been paid in winter fuel allowance to for radical reforms to the welfare to work system, each such group in the latest period for which figures including the introduction of the new Work Programme, are available. [18661] due to be rolled out nationally from summer 2011. The Work Programme will support a wide range of customers, Steve Webb: Winter fuel payment recipients and including older people, and will offer an integrated and expenditure for 2009-10 in the age categories requested personalised system of back to work support for the are: first time. The Department currently has measures for Jobseeker’s Recipients Expenditure Allowance customers aged over 50 years who need Age (thousand) (£ million) more help because of age-related issues. The measures 60-64 3,340 637 are due to run until March 2011 and give customers extra interview time with an adviser and early access to 65-66 1,190 211 intensive help and work trials. Jobcentre Plus advisers 67-68 1,010 177 receive training on age issues where appropriate. Notes: 1 Figures for recipients are rounded to the nearest 10,000 and expenditure The Department worked with The Age and Employment figures are rounded to the nearest £ million. Network to develop a best practice guide for provider 2 Tables containing benefit expenditure by benefit, local authority organisations to use when delivering back to work and parliamentary constituency can be found at the following URL: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd4/index.php?page=expenditure services for customers aged over 50 years which launched Source: in July 2010. DWP Information Directorate 100% data. The Department’s Age Positive initiative supports employers with recruiting older workers, in addition to giving advice about training and retaining them. In August 2010, the initiative began working with business Winter Fuel Payments: Livingston leaders in nine main occupational sectors to encourage a change in workplace attitudes; manage the transition to operating without retirement ages; and maximise the Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for benefits from an age diverse workforce. Work and Pensions (1) how many individuals in Livingston constituency received the cold weather The Government is consulting on phasing out the payment in 2009-10; [18633] Default Retirement Age from April 2011, in order to help older people remain in work and bring about a (2) what the total monetary value was of cold change in attitudes amongst employers and individuals weather payments paid to recipients in Livingston about the benefits of working for longer. The consultation constituency in 2009-10. [18634] ends on 21 October and the Government response will be published in autumn 2010. Steve Webb: The information requested is not available. Data on Cold Weather Payments is not available by Winter Fuel Payment: Erith and Thamesmead constituency, but only by weather station. In 2009-10, Livingston was linked to the weather station Edinburgh Teresa Pearce: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Gogarbank. This weather station triggered payments and Pensions how many residents of Erith and on 5 occasions and each eligible individual in Livingston Thamesmead constituency in receipt of winter fuel constituency therefore received 5 Cold Weather Payments, payment are higher rate tax payers. [18846] each worth £25. ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 25 October 2010

Col. No. Col. No. CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT...... 1 CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT—continued Arts (Funding)...... 2 Tourism and Hospitality Sector ...... 4 Broadband ...... 6 UK Sport/Sport England...... 12 Commonwealth Games 2014 ...... 10 Community Arts Projects ...... 1 LEADER OF THE HOUSE ...... 17 Football Governance ...... 9 Business Committee...... 17 Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme ...... 5 Business Committee...... 21 Olympics Legacy...... 11 Parliamentary Calendar...... 19 S4C (Funding) ...... 8 Pre-legislative Scrutiny ...... 20 Topical Questions ...... 13 Select Committee Reports...... 18 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 25 October 2010

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 1WS JUSTICE...... 5WS “A Long-Term Focus for Corporate Britain” ...... 1WS Right to Information (Criminal Proceedings) ...... 5WS

CABINET OFFICE...... 3WS London Regional Committee Report TREASURY ...... 1WS (Government Response)...... 3WS ECOFIN...... 1WS National Infrastructure Plan 2010...... 3WS COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 4WS Tax Information Exchange (Netherlands Antilles). 3WS Ports Tax...... 4WS

DEFENCE...... 4WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 6WS Call-Out Orders: Reserves...... 4WS Cold Weather Payments Scheme ...... 6WS WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 25 October 2010

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 60W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS—continued Departmental Visits Abroad ...... 60W Paternity Leave ...... 140W Female Genital Mutilation...... 61W Retirement: Age ...... 140W Royal Mail ...... 141W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 129W Science: Research ...... 141W Business ...... 129W Secondary Education ...... 143W Conditions of Employment...... 130W Training: Females...... 143W Credit Reference Agencies...... 130W Unemployment: North East...... 144W Data Protection: EU Countries...... 130W Working Hours: EU Law ...... 144W Departmental Internet ...... 131W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 131W CABINET OFFICE...... 97W Departmental Work Experience...... 132W Civil Servants: Resignations...... 97W Employment ...... 132W Employment: Public Sector...... 97W Flexible Working...... 133W Immigration: Transcaucasus ...... 99W Foreign Investment in UK ...... 133W Lone Parents: Brighton...... 99W Further Education ...... 134W Ovarian Cancer...... 100W Higher Education: Admissions ...... 135W Strategic Defence and Security Review: Climate Higher Education and Student Finance Change...... 100W Independent Review...... 135W Teenage Pregnancies: Peterborough ...... 100W Higher Education: Curriculum ...... 136W Third Sector: Surveys...... 101W Higher Education: Curriculum ...... 136W UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Human Rights ...... 137W Disabilities ...... 101W Internet ...... 137W Unemployment ...... 103W Media...... 138W Mobile Telephone Contracts...... 138W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT . 85W North of England ...... 138W Audit Commission...... 85W Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Charities: Finance...... 87W Development: Human Rights ...... 139W Departmental Pay ...... 87W Overseas Trade: Mongolia ...... 139W Fire Services: Bassetlaw...... 88W Parental Leave: EU Law ...... 139W Fire Services: Finance ...... 88W Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT— ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS— continued continued Homelessness...... 89W Rural Communities: Comprehensive Spending Local Government ...... 91W Review ...... 15W Local Government: Sick Leave ...... 91W Water Charges...... 15W Non-domestic Rates: Wolverhampton ...... 91W Planning Permission ...... 92W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE .... 15W Residential Property Tribunal Service: Mobile Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations...... 15W Homes ...... 92W Azerbaijan: Foreign Relations...... 16W Social Rented Housing: Repairs and Bahrain: Politics and government ...... 16W Maintenance ...... 92W British Nationals Abroad: Prisoners ...... 16W Voluntary Organisations: Newton Abbot...... 92W Civil Liberties : Zimbabwe ...... 21W Departmental Private Education...... 21W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT...... 104W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 22W Arts and Creative Industries ...... 104W Diplomatic Immunity ...... 22W Arts Council England ...... 104W Falkland Islands: Oil...... 22W Broadband ...... 104W Falkland Islands: Sovereignty ...... 22W Departmental Contracts ...... 105W Henderson Island...... 23W Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings...... 106W Iran: Bahai Faith...... 23W Departmental Pay ...... 106W Ministers: Pay ...... 23W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 108W Nagorno Karabakh...... 24W Digital Economy Act 2010...... 109W Pitcairn Islands ...... 24W Football ...... 109W Uganda: Human Rights...... 25W Next Generation Broadband ...... 104W Uganda: Politics and Government ...... 25W Olympic Games 2010: Skipton...... 110W UN Convention on the Rights of the Child ...... 26W Public Libraries...... 111W Sports: Public Participation ...... 111W Television...... 111W HEALTH...... 112W Television: Broadcasting ...... 112W Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections ...... 112W Advisory Committee on Borderline Substances ..... 112W DEFENCE...... 43W Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens...... 112W Departmental Sick Leave...... 43W Advisory Group on Hepatitis...... 113W Ex-servicemen: Radiation Exposure...... 45W Alcohol Education and Research Council...... 113W Mental Illnesses ...... 45W Appointments Commission...... 114W Military Decorations...... 46W Cancer: Charities ...... 114W Trident ...... 47W Care Quality Commission...... 114W Chronic Fatigue Syndrome ...... 115W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 93W Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence ...... 115W Referendums: Scotland ...... 93W Dental Services ...... 116W Departmental Carbon Emissions ...... 117W EDUCATION...... 94W Departmental Legislation ...... 117W Departmental Contracts ...... 94W Doctors: Africa ...... 118W Departmental Manpower...... 94W Drugs: Prisoners ...... 118W Sixth Form Education: Capital Investment ...... 94W Drugs: Rehabilitation...... 118W Teenage Pregnancy...... 95W Epilepsy ...... 119W UN Convention on the Rights of the Child ...... 95W Epilepsy: Pregnancy...... 119W Voluntary Organisations: Contracts...... 96W Expert Advisory Group on AIDS ...... 120W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 96W General Practitioners: Finance...... 120W Young People: Obesity ...... 96W Genetics and Insurance Committee...... 120W Health Protection Agency...... 120W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE...... 26W Health Services ...... 121W Departmental Contracts ...... 26W Hepatitis C: Ealing...... 121W Departmental Pay ...... 27W Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority ... 121W Departmental Recruitment ...... 27W Human Genetics Commission...... 122W Fuel Poverty: West Midlands ...... 27W Human Tissue Authority ...... 122W Nuclear Power Stations: Insolvency ...... 28W Independent Review Panels: Performance...... 122W Medical Treatments...... 123W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Mental Illness ...... 123W AFFAIRS...... 7W Minor Injuries Units: Closures...... 123W Air Pollution: Heathrow Airport...... 7W National Joint Registry Steering Committee ...... 123W Animal Housing: Animal Welfare...... 8W NHS: Charities ...... 124W Departmental Pay ...... 8W NHS: Drugs...... 124W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 8W NHS: EU Nationals...... 125W Diversified Farm Businesses...... 9W Nurses: Africa...... 126W Equality ...... 9W Nurses: EU Nationals ...... 126W Farmers: Bankruptcy ...... 9W Prescriptions: Fees and Charges...... 126W Farmers: Income...... 10W Primary Care Trusts...... 126W Food: Labelling...... 10W Radiotherapy ...... 127W Human Rights ...... 11W Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition...... 128W Natural England: Manpower ...... 11W Swine Flu: Vaccination ...... 128W Public Bodies: Reform ...... 12W Waste Disposal: Health Hazards...... 128W Col. No. Col. No. HOME DEPARTMENT...... 61W JUSTICE—continued Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse...... 61W Small Businesses: Tribunals...... 43W Alcoholic Drinks: Prices ...... 61W Border Controls: France ...... 62W LEADER OF THE HOUSE ...... 93W Borders: Personal Records ...... 62W Private Members’ Bill...... 93W Capita ...... 62W Criminal Records Bureau...... 63W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 28W Criminal Records: East Sussex...... 63W Economic Situation: Northern Ireland...... 28W EU Economic Migrant Cap ...... 63W Intelligence Services: Northern Ireland ...... 29W EU Law...... 64W European Arrest Warrant: Dr Daniel Ubani...... 64W SCOTLAND...... 1W Extradition...... 64W Departmental Visits Abroad ...... 1W Human Trafficking ...... 66W Higher Education: Finance ...... 1W Immigration...... 67W Immigration: Agriculture...... 68W TRANSPORT ...... 2W Immigration: Kettering ...... 68W Boats: Licensing...... 2W Immigration: Law ...... 69W Buckshaw Village Station: Repairs and Immigration: Overseas Students ...... 69W Maintenance ...... 2W Internet ...... 69W Bus Services: Bedfordshire ...... 2W Investigatory Powers Tribunal...... 70W Departmental Legislation ...... 3W Khat...... 70W Driving Tests: Birmingham ...... 4W Passports: Islamabad ...... 71W High Speed Trains...... 5W Police: Arrests ...... 71W M4: Bus Lanes ...... 5W Police: Bassetlaw ...... 71W Merchant Shipping ...... 5W Police: Compensation...... 72W Railway Stations: North East...... 5W Police: Dorset...... 72W Railways...... 6W Police: Equipment...... 73W Railways: Fares ...... 6W Police: Finance...... 73W Railways: Finance ...... 7W Police: Pay...... 74W Thameslink ...... 7W Police: Sick Leave...... 76W West Coast Main Line ...... 7W Police: Working Hours...... 79W Serious Crime Divisions: Prostitution ...... 83W TREASURY ...... 144W Work Permits ...... 85W BP: Tax Allowances...... 144W Child Benefit...... 144W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION...... 93W Child Benefit: Livingston ...... 145W Opening of Parliament...... 93W Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings...... 146W Departmental Legal Costs ...... 146W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 47W Departmental Redundancy Pay ...... 147W Afghanistan: Overseas Aid ...... 47W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 147W Africa: Poverty...... 48W Departmental Utilities ...... 147W Capita ...... 48W EU Budget ...... 148W Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings...... 48W Excise Duties: Liquefied Petroleum Gas ...... 149W Departmental Pay ...... 49W Financial Services Authority: Fees and Charges..... 149W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 53W Financial Services: Regulation ...... 149W Developing Countries: Maternity Services ...... 56W Land Use ...... 150W Henderson Island: Biodiversity...... 56W Loans: Interest Rates ...... 150W Overseas Aid...... 56W Personal Income ...... 150W Pakistan: Overseas Aid ...... 58W Public Expenditure...... 150W Pitcairn Islands ...... 59W Revenue and Customs: Retford...... 151W Sri Lanka: Armed Conflict ...... 59W Tax Evasion ...... 151W Sri Lanka: Overseas Aid ...... 59W Taxation...... 151W World Bank...... 60W Taxation: Domicil ...... 152W VAT: Tax Rates and Bands...... 152W JUSTICE...... 30W Capita ...... 30W WALES...... 1W Comprehensive Spending Review...... 31W Departmental Drinking Water...... 1W Convention on the Rights of a Child ...... 31W Departmental Visits Abroad ...... 1W Convictions: Shoplifting ...... 31W Courts: Devon and Cornwall ...... 32W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES...... 29W Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings...... 32W Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings...... 29W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 31W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 29W Human Rights ...... 33W Human Rights ...... 30W Prisoners ...... 34W Prisoners: Devon and Cornwall ...... 35W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 153W Prisoners: Education...... 36W Anthony Bates ...... 153W Prisoners: Food...... 38W Children: Maintenance ...... 153W Prisoners: Housing...... 39W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 154W Prisoners: Interviews...... 41W Disability Living Allowance...... 155W Prisoners: Sentencing ...... 41W Employers’ Liability: Insurance ...... 155W Prisoners’ Release...... 34W Employment and Support Allowance ...... 155W Sentencing...... 41W Employment Schemes: Dartford ...... 156W Col. No. Col. No. WORK AND PENSIONS—continued WORK AND PENSIONS—continued Employment Schemes: Disability...... 156W Post Office Card Account ...... 164W Employment Schemes: Peterborough...... 156W Poverty: Redcar...... 165W Employment Schemes: Young People...... 156W Redundancy: Wolverhampton South West...... 167W EU Law...... 157W Remploy...... 168W Housing Benefit ...... 157W Social Security Benefits : East Sussex...... 168W Industrial Injuries ...... 158W Social Security Benefits: Disability...... 169W Jobseeker’s Allowance: Pendle ...... 158W State Retirement Pensions...... 170W KPMG...... 159W Tribunals Service: Standards...... 170W Motability...... 159W Unemployed People: Vetting...... 171W National Insurance Contributions: Females...... 159W Unemployment: Older People ...... 171W National Insurance: Foreign Nationals ...... 160W Winter Fuel Payment: Erith and Thamesmead ...... 171W Nottinghamshire...... 160W Winter Fuel Payments...... 172W Occupational Pensions...... 161W Winter Fuel Payments: Livingston...... 172W Pensions...... 164W Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. 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CONTENTS

Monday 25 October 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 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Leader of the House

Speaker’s Statement [Col. 26]

Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill [Col. 27] Further considered in Committee (Day 5)

Newport Passport Office [Col. 137] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 1WS]

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