Monday Volume 537 12 December 2011 No. 239

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Monday 12 December 2011

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2011 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Parliamentary Click-Use Licence, available online through The National Archives website at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/information-management/our-services/parliamentary-licence-information.htm Enquiries to The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU; e-mail: [email protected] 499 12 DECEMBER 2011 500

domestic violence. Let me also offer Home Office Ministers House of Commons our support if they wish to challenge the actions of their colleagues in the Ministry of Justice, who are Monday 12 December 2011 seeking to restrict access to legal aid for victims of domestic violence. Does the Home Secretary agree that that should happen, so that we send a strong message to The House met at half-past Two o’clock victims that they should not have to wait until the first punch is thrown before they get help?

PRAYERS Mrs May: The hon. Lady is right that we need to ensure that we have the right definition of domestic [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] violence. That is why the Government are consulting on the appropriate definition and ensuring that we have a cross-Government definition, which, sadly, the previous Oral Answers to Questions Labour Government did not have. Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): I thank my right hon. Friend for her answer to the excellent opening question and urge her to look at the Home Affairs Committee HOME DEPARTMENT report on domestic violence from the previous Parliament. If she implements its recommendations, a lot of the The Secretary of State was asked— issues will be resolved. Violence against Women Mrs May: I thank my hon. Friend for his reference to the work previously done by the Home Affairs Committee 1. Claire Perry (Devizes) (Con): What steps she is on this important issue. The Government are looking taking to tackle violence against women. [85716] across the board at sources of proposals for dealing with this problem. As I have said, our cross-Government The Secretary of State for the Home Department action plan included 12 Departments and made a significant (Mrs Theresa May): A comprehensive cross-Government number of commitments to ensure that we do what all action plan on tackling violence against women and in the House would want: end violence against women girls was published on 8 March this year. It includes and girls. 88 commitments from 12 Departments to improve the provision of services for victims of violence and to Target Sports Clubs prevent violence from happening in the first place. We have already delivered 22 of those commitments. 2. Chris Heaton-Harris (Daventry) (Con): What her policy is on the designation of (a) target sports clubs Claire Perry: I thank the Home Secretary for that where historical pistols are studied and shot and reply. Also part of this Government’s work is a pilot (b) other target sports clubs. [85717] scheme running in Swindon and Wiltshire in which perpetrators of domestic violence are effectively banned The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick from the family home, rather than the family and the Herbert): Clubs that wish to keep and use historical women being forced to move out, as happened previously. pistols and weapons must have Home Office authorisation. My right hon. Friend will be pleased to know that, since There are strict criteria governing the designation of July, under the terms of the scheme, 82 abusive perpetrators sites under the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997, which have been removed from family homes. The head of are set out in the guidance issued by the Home Office. Wiltshire victim support unit said that the programme is reaching women who have never been helped before. Chris Heaton-Harris: Northampton target sports club Will my right hon. Friend please tell us when the pilot is based in my constituency. A number of members wish might be rolled out nationally? to study and shoot historic pistols of some worth but are struggling with the licensing regime because they Mrs May: I thank my hon. Friend for that question. are within 30 miles of another licensed club. Will the She is absolutely right that domestic violence protection Minister help us with that query and help to sort this orders do what hon. Members across the House have out? always felt is right: ensure that when a domestic violence incident takes place it is the perpetrator who is not able Nick Herbert: I understand my hon. Friend’s concern. to stay in the home, rather than the victim being forced I am aware that the Northampton target sports club out, as has happened so often in the past. We commenced was refused designated-site status last month because a pilot in Greater Manchester, West Mercia and Wiltshire, there were other suitable sites within a reachable distance. and a second wave of pilot areas started in October in I also understand that circumstances may have changed Grater Manchester and West Mercia, which we are because another site is full. Therefore, a new application looking to run for at least a year before we assess them will be looked at properly. properly. Kate Hoey (Vauxhall) (Lab): Will the Minister give as Stella Creasy (Walthamstow) (Lab/Co-op): The much support as possible to the wonderful Olympic Opposition welcome press reports this weekend that the sport of pistol shooting, which suffers terribly from Deputy Prime Minister wants to widen the definition of some of the rather knee-jerk legislation that went through 501 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 502 this place some time ago? Will he ensure that pistol waiting for a reply from the Home Office. Will the shooters are given every support possible to train in this Home Secretary look again at the whole system and country so that they do not have to go abroad to ensure that proper efforts are made to find people who Switzerland to train for the Olympics? are legitimately trying to continue their stay here?

Nick Herbert: I know of the hon. Lady’s long-standing Mrs May: I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising concern. The Government seek to draw the distinction that issue and I remind him and other hon. Members between the unlawful use of weapons, which we aim to that the Chairman of the Home Affairs Committee deal with as robustly as possible, and the lawful possession asked Members of Parliament to write to the Home of such weapons. We have the tightest set of firearms Office to say whether they had any cases of the sort that controls in the world, but sporting shooting, particularly the hon. Gentleman mentions. The work that we have in relation to the Olympics, is of course important. been doing is of course clearing up the chaotic mess in the asylum system that was left, sadly, by the last UK Border Agency Government.

3. Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): What Mr Don Foster (Bath) (LD): With tourism vital to recent assessment she has made of the operational places such as Bath, it is worrying that the more and effectiveness of the UK Border Agency. [85718] more people who travel abroad from countries such as India and China tend not to come to this country The Secretary of State for the Home Department because they think that the UKBA is unwelcoming. (Mrs Theresa May): I should like to pay tribute to the Should we not at least have a special visa for 2012 to many dedicated and hard-working staff of UKBA, who commemorate the Olympics and the diamond jubilee, do a good job, working day in, day out to keep our and have the application forms in the language of the border secure and enforce immigration rules. There is tourist rather than in English? certainly more to be done. The agency’s new chief executive, Rob Whiteman, has a vision to make further Mrs May: I fully understand the benefits and importance improvements. I share that vision. of tourism to certain parts of the United Kingdom such as my right hon. Friend’s constituency. I assure Gavin Shuker: Has the Home Secretary yet received him that special arrangements have been put in place by the interim internal report on this summer’s security the UKBA for those who are travelling to be part of or lapse, and if so can she tell me how many people were to view the Olympics next summer. wrongly allowed into Luton airport in my constituency? Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): Mrs May: As the hon. Gentleman knows, we have Last month, the Home Office claimed that seizures of made available some figures from the early assessment class A drugs by the UKBA were up. That was described of the success rate of the pilot that was run in the by the chair of the UK Statistics Authority as summer. We are of course awaiting the independent “highly selective in its choice of statistics, in order, it seems, to investigation by the chief inspector of the UK Border show the UK Border Agency in a good light”. Agency, which will not be available until the end of In reality, official statistics show that UKBA seizures of January. class A drugs fell last year. Overall, there were barely half the number of seizures than in 2008-09. Given that Oliver Heald (North East Hertfordshire) (Con): There 452,000 people take ecstasy in the UK each year, does has been a warm welcome in the House and the country the Home Secretary think that seizing only 300 ecstasy for the firmer approach being taken by this Government, tablets is good enough? but can the Home Secretary give us any further information on the ending of the bogus colleges scam, and to what Mrs May: Seizures have gone up in the past six extent the Government are able to influence events in months. If the hon. Lady is as concerned about drugs as the Mediterranean to ensure that better naval patrolling she appears to be from her question, I look forward to takes place to turn back boats carrying illegal immigrants? the Opposition welcoming the drugs strategy that the Government have introduced. Mrs May: I am happy to tell my hon. Friend that there are now more than 450 colleges that have not been Domestic Violence against Men accredited under the scheme or did not apply to be accredited, which gives us a clear message about whether 4. Karl McCartney (Lincoln) (Con): What steps she is they were actually providing education. On his second taking to tackle domestic violence against men. [85719] point, it is important for this country to work with other countries and help them to improve their border The Minister for Equalities (Lynne Featherstone): The security, so that the problem of people entering Europe Government recognise that men can be victims of domestic and then the United Kingdom is reduced. violence, and take this issue very seriously. Later this week, we will launch a fund of £225,000 over two years Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North) (Lab): I understand to support services focusing explicitly on male victims that some 98,000 cases have been put in what the Home of sexual and domestic violence. That is in addition to Office calls the “controlled archive section”, and it the Home Office funding provided each year to the claims that many of the people involved cannot be men’s advice line, which provides support and signposting found or located. As a constituency MP, I have many services for male victims, and to Broken Rainbow, which such people coming to see me, and they are living here provides support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender and going through an application or appeal, and simply victims. 503 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 504

Karl McCartney: I welcome the announcement of the Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD): One new fund by the Minister, as it will bring much-needed of the key features of the checks and balances that will support for the victims of this deplorable crime. Will my operate on the police and crime commissioners are the hon. Friend also confirm that all domestic violence police and crime panels. Will the Home Secretary confirm awareness campaigns run by this Government will be that the effectiveness of the police and crime panels will clearly aimed at supporting both female and male victims not be hindered by arbitrary restrictions such as a lack of domestic violence? of access to senior police officers or experts or a budget that is so tight that it will restrict the PCPs’ ability to Lynne Featherstone: I can assure my hon. Friend that meet on a regular basis to scrutinise the police and that is indeed the case. The recent teenage abuse campaign crime commissioners? was aimed at both young men and women, because both can be subject to abuse from their contemporaries. Mrs May: I thank my right hon. Friend for his question. I recognise the interest that he has consistently shown in ensuring that the police and crime panels have Police and Crime Commissioners the powers necessary to scrutinise the work of the police and crime commissioners. They will be different 5. Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con): What from police authorities, so their role will not be the recent progress she has made on the introduction of same. We have set out clearly the interaction that they police and crime commissioners. [85720] should have with the police and crime commissioner and with the chief constable of the police force area. As The Secretary of State for the Home Department for budgets, our overall aim is that the new regime will (Mrs Theresa May): The first PCC elections will take cost no more than police authorities do today. place on 15 November 2012. I recently tabled a protocol setting out how the new policing governance arrangements Police Efficiency will work and issued the shadow strategic policing requirement, which sets out the national threats that the 6. Simon Hart (Carmarthen Westand South Pembrokeshire) police must address. Subject to parliamentary approval, (Con): What steps she is taking to improve efficiency London will move to the new PCC model in January. within police forces. [85721]

Michael Ellis: I congratulate the Home Secretary on The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick her achievement in this flagship legislation and on the Herbert): We are supporting police forces in their drive fact that in a year’s time PCCs will be rolled out across to improve efficiency, including through reducing the country. What steps can the Government take to bureaucracy, more effective procurement, collaboration ensure that prospective candidates for this important and sharing services. position will come from a wide diversity of backgrounds? Simon Hart: Is the Minister satisfied that local forces are doing enough to share the costs of facilities such as Mrs May: I thank my hon. Friend for his comments. I human resources and IT with other public bodies and add to his congratulations the name of my right hon. other emergency services? Friend the Policing Minister, who played a significant role in ensuring that the legislation was steered through Parliament for it to be in place in September. I am keen Nick Herbert: It is important that police forces do to ensure that we have a diversity of candidates. We are more to take up such opportunities. We have already now looking into a number of ways in which we can seen an increase in the collaboration between police promote an understanding of the role of the police and forces over operational matters, but there are valuable crime commissioners. My right hon. Friend marked the opportunities to collaborate and share services for the one year to go to PCCs on 21 November with a speech back-office functions such IT and human resources, on a new era in policing. We will be publishing a which would result in significant savings. That is what consultation, setting out proposals that PCCs act as we are encouraging forces to look at. commissioners for victim support services. Andrew Miller (Ellesmere Port and Neston) (Lab): I welcome the idea of police forces sharing services, especially Tony Lloyd (Manchester Central) (Lab): Given that in areas such as forensic science. Given the Government’s the Home Secretary has made it clear that she wants strategy, is that not likely to result in the reforming of police commissioners to have authority with respect not the Forensic Science Service? just to policing but to the criminal justice system, will she heed the important advice of the Association of Nick Herbert: Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would reflect Chief Police Officers that antisocial behaviour orders on the mismanagement under the previous Administration should still be part of the things at the disposal of that left the Forensic Science Service on an unsustainable police commissioners, the police and the criminal justice footing. system? Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): The innovative Mrs May: I note the rather clever way in which the use of information technology can make a huge difference hon. Gentleman weaved the antisocial behaviour order to police efficiency. Will the Minister have a look at into that question. As he knows, we consulted on replacing companies, such as Sepura and RealVNC in my the current regime of ASBOs with a new regime that is constituency, that are working already with police forces clearer, less bureaucratic and easier to use. We will be in the UK and the US to make it easier for the police to introducing legislation in due course. do their job? 505 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 506

Nick Herbert: I strongly agree with my hon. Friend businesses in Rochdale a misery. If they breach the about the importance of good police IT, which we seek ASBO, these youths will get a criminal record, but to improve. It is for forces to commission these services, according to page 18 of the Government’s consultation but we have announced that we intend to set up a new document, “More Effective Responses to Antisocial vehicle—a force-owned IT body—to commission IT Behaviour”, a breach of the Government’s proposed and seek improvements, because it is so important that crime prevention injunction police officers have good IT in order to fight crime “would not result in a criminal record.” effectively and not waste time on bureaucratic processes. Will the Secretary of State confirm that that is the case?

Gang-related Crime Mrs May: The hon. Lady is well aware that we will be implementing several proposals to deal with antisocial 7. Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) (Con): What behaviour and gangs, and I remind her that I have steps she is taking to prevent vulnerable young people referred already this afternoon to what we are doing from being drawn into gang-related crime. [85722] with gang injunctions. In the case to which she referred and similar cases, gang injunctions will be available. The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mrs Theresa May): In November, I presented the “Ending London Bombings (Inquests) Gang and Youth Violence” report to the House. Today, I have notified 22 areas that they will be offered targeted 9. Debbie Abrahams (Oldham East and Saddleworth) funding and support by the new ending gang and youth (Lab): What progress she has made on implementing violence team, details of which I will place in the the recommendations of the report of the coroner’s Library. I will shortly extend gang injunction powers to inquests into the London bombings of 7 July 2005; and prevent gang violence by 14 to 17-year-olds and will if she will make a statement. [85724] launch a consultation on the penalties for illegal firearm supply and importation. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (James Brokenshire): The Government Christopher Pincher: I am obliged for that answer. responded to the coroner’s report, accepting the three Chief Inspector Ian Coxhead, Tamworth police and recommendations directed to Government and taking other agencies have launched Project Turnaround to action on other issues raised in her report. We are identify potential problem youngsters early and to help progressing work on those recommendations and areas them to keep on the rails, rather than going off them. of concern and will provide a full report on progress in Will my right hon. Friend commend that initiative, March 2012. which has been rolled out across Staffordshire, and consider it as best practice for other chief constables? Debbie Abrahams: I thank the Minister for his response. Mrs May: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for bringing He will be aware that the Foulkes family, who are Project Turnaround to the notice of the House and I constituents of mine, lost their David in the Edgware congratulate Chief Inspector Coxhead and all those road bombing. He unfortunately died. In addition to who work with him on their work. It seems to be a good wanting the coroner’s recommendations implemented example of what we talked about in the “Ending Gang in full, they and other families are keen to see greater and Youth Violence” report—of police working with accountability of the security services to Parliament. other agencies to find the best solutions for individuals Will the Minister commit to that today? and either prevent them from becoming gang members or turn them away from gangs. James Brokenshire: I certainly recognise the contribution that the families have made, and I pay tribute to the Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op): Does work of the hon. Lady’s constituent. The Government the Home Secretary agree that this is a key area for a attach the utmost importance to the recommendations joined-up approach across Government? By that I mean outlined in the coroner’s report and are fully committed a Government who believe in keeping youth services to seeing through the implementation of actions to active and working in our communities, and a Government address them. She will be aware of the Green Paper on who believe that 1 million unemployed people is justice and security, which examines the role and powers unacceptable and will lead to trouble later. of the Intelligence and Security Committee, including its ability to obtain wide-ranging information from Mrs May: The Government do indeed have a joined-up intelligence agencies. The Government will report back approach on that. The report was the result of work by to the House shortly on progress made and the consultation. an inter-ministerial group that I chaired, working closely with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for National Crime Agency Work and Pensions and with representations from several Departments, including the Department for Education 10. Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con): What and the Department for Communities and Local progress she has made on the establishment of the Government. I am pleased to say that the inter-ministerial National Crime Agency. [85725] group will continue to meet to monitor the work that the team are doing as a result of the report. Indeed, we The Secretary of State for the Home Department held our first such meeting last week. (Mrs Theresa May): We are on course to establish the National Crime Agency in 2013, subject to the passage Gloria De Piero (Ashfield) (Lab): Last week, the of legislation. To drive early progress, work on the four ringleaders of a gang of youths were given antisocial operational commands is under way. The Organised behaviour orders after making the lives of shoppers and Crime Co-ordination Centre, which is part of the intelligence 507 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 508 hub, is now established, and the UK cyber-security are necessary to assist enforcement agencies and deter strategy sets out the role of the cybercrime unit. Keith offenders, including introducing a new licence regime Bristow, the NCA director general, is in post and will for scrap metal dealers and prohibiting cash payments. drive progress further. We are also working with the Association of Chief Police Officers to establish a dedicated metal theft taskforce. Stephen Mosley: One of the concerns raised when the Home Secretary announced the launch of the NCA in Mr Holloway: Metal theft costs us a huge amount of the summer was about the future of the Child Exploitation money in this country, as the Minister knows, whether and Online Protection Centre. Is my right hon. Friend it is of dodgy copper wire or lead from churches such as confident that CEOP’s role in protecting children will those in Ifield in my constituency. Is there any argument be enhanced and improved by its inclusion in the NCA? for seizing the entire inventories of metal dealers found to be purchasing what are effectively stolen goods? Mrs May: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising an issue that was raised when the NCA was announced. I am pleased to say that CEOP is indeed one of the James Brokenshire: I certainly recognise the impact commands in the National Crime Agency. Peter Davies, that metal theft has on our communities, with the the chief executive office of CEOP, has made it clear estimated cost ranging anywhere between £220 million that and £777 million per annum. We underline and recognise the seriousness attached to metal theft, which is why we “we know that we will go into that future”— are seeking to establish a new taskforce better to inform that is, as part of the NCA— intelligence and ensure that those responsible for such “with our brand, purpose and operating model intact.” crimes are brought to justice. Indeed, Peter Davies sits on the programme board and will work closely with Keith Bristow on the agency’s Craig Whittaker: Calder Valley private and social operating model. As part of the NCA, CEOP will not landlords have reported to me the rising number of only be able to continue doing what it does today, but instances of houses in between tenancies being totally will be able to enhance its work, improving the vital ripped apart—including water pipes, gas pipes and, work of protecting children. indeed, electric wiring—causing thousands of pounds worth of damage. Does the Minister agree with me that Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab): The Home Secretary the time has come for legislation to clamp down on will recall that on 21 October she wrote to me saying rogue metal dealers who trade in such items? that she would write to the Select Committee on Home Affairs shortly with the full details of which functions James Brokenshire: The Government do not legislate would be transferred from the National Policing lightly and have undertaken a range of work to tackle Improvement Agency to the National Crime Agency. It metal theft through non-legislative means. However, we is now six weeks since that letter, and in 12 weeks’ time have now reached the stage where the only conclusion is the NPIA will be abolished. When will she be in a that new legislation is needed to tackle metal theft. We position to write to me with a full list of the functions are therefore in discussion with other Departments to that will be transferred, or will she accept the Committee’s agree on the most appropriate option for bringing these recommendation that she should delay the NPIA’s closure changes forward. until all the functions are properly transferred?

Mrs May: The right hon. Gentleman may have Nadine Dorries: Does the Minister think it is time to misspoken in his question. He referred to the NPIA change the law on the scrap metal industry? On Friday I closing in 12 weeks. It will not be closing in 12 weeks: met Alf Hitchcock, the chief constable of Bedfordshire, we have already made it clear that the NPIA will be who informed me that his police force had targeted the closed by the end of December 2012, to allow time for dealers. The police found people coming along with the full and proper transfer of its functions, where stolen scrap metal, some of whom had driven vehicles necessary, to other organisations. We will inform Parliament there with stolen red diesel. The law at the moment of the transfer of those functions shortly. pertains to an Act that was designed around the days of Steptoe and Son; is it not time to change the law? Metal Theft James Brokenshire: As I thought I had already indicated, 11. Mr Adam Holloway (Gravesham) (Con): What we believe that existing regulation of the scrap metal steps she is taking to tackle metal theft. [85726] industry through the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964 needs to be revised, as the law is no longer fit for 12. Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con): What purpose. We need to combine that with further enforcement steps she is taking to tackle metal theft. [85727] and better intelligence, which is why the ACPO metal theft working group is seeking to equip police forces 17. Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con): What with the necessary tactical information to assist Bedfordshire steps she is taking to tackle metal theft. [85734] and other police forces in cracking down on this crime.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab): Has Department (James Brokenshire): The Government the Minister had any discussions with Virgin Trains, for recognise the growing problem of metal theft and are example, and the police about what happens to the taking urgent steps to address it. The Home Office is metal stolen from the railway lines, which can pose a discussing with other Departments what legislative changes severe hazard to public safety? 509 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 510

James Brokenshire: I absolutely agree with the hon. James Brokenshire: I am aware of the strong interest Gentleman about the risk, threat, inconvenience and that the House attaches to this issue, which is evidenced serious harm that can be caused by stealing cabling and by the fact that there are nine questions about it on signalling equipment from the railways. The hon. today’s Order Paper. I believe that that constitutes a Gentleman may be aware that the British Transport record number of Home Office questions on a single Police has the lead role in respect of the work conducted issue. My noble Friend Lord Henley, the Minister by ACPO; it is actively engaged in that and is working responsible for crime prevention and antisocial behaviour with the rail industry, recognising the particular problems reduction, is well aware of the concern felt by Members that the hon. Gentleman has identified and the threats of both Houses, and has told me that he would be very posed to rail infrastructure. willing to meet members of the all-party parliamentary group. Mr Tom Clarke (Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill) (Lab): Is the Minister aware of the appalling crime two years ago in the area of the former Auchengeich pit in Riot (Damages) Act 1886 my constituency relating to a beautiful piece of sculpture built by the community in honour of the 47 brave men who had lost their lives in a tragedy of 1959? The 13. Paul Goggins (Wythenshawe and Sale East) (Lab): community came together again and built another statue. What plans she has to review the Riot (Damages) Act I have no criticism of Strathclyde police, but does the 1886. [85728] Minister agree that on such issues the closest co-operation among forces throughout the UK is helpful? The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick Herbert): A review of the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 is James Brokenshire: I agree with the right hon. Gentleman. under way, and will consider all options for reform. It Many sickening crimes have occurred where monuments will include all learning from the August disturbances, and places that exist to celebrate our war dead or and will involve consultation with people affected by important historical incidents have been desecrated. I them who made claims under the Act as well as think the whole House will join me in utterly condemning organisations involved in the recovery. We expect it to those responsible for these appalling actions. That is why be completed before the end of the current financial we are moving forward by tackling the problem with the year. new taskforce. I agree with the right hon. Gentleman that providing better intelligence and co-ordination is Paul Goggins: I commend the Minister for the positive helpful, which is precisely what we will do and are way in which he is engaging with Greater Manchester already doing. police authority, which, as he knows, carries a liability of more than £9 million as a result of the disorder in Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): I welcome the August. As he conducts his review, will he ensure that importance that the Minister attaches to this issue, but there is more clarity about responsibilities and the financial it should not be too difficult to sort out. All he needs to support given to police authorities by the Home Office, do is to ensure that sellers verify their identity when and that more pressure is put on the insurance industry selling metal and that each transaction is recorded, and to deal with claims promptly? to make cash payments for scrap metal illegal. That seems pretty simple to me and to businesses in the black Nick Herbert: I agree with the right hon. Gentleman. country that are calling for those measures. Why can we We have been concerned about the rate at which payments not get on with this more quickly? have been made, and last week I convened a meeting with representatives of the insurance industry to discuss James Brokenshire: We are moving forward with this the matter. They assured me that, according to their quickly. That is why we are taking the action that I have latest assessment, some two thirds of businesses have outlined today. We are also dealing with the aspects that received a partial or full payment. However, there ought he mentioned—on the regulation of the scrap metal to be processes to ensure that people are paid more industry, on having stronger enforcement powers to swiftly, and such processes need to be sorted out by ensure that those responsible for these actions are held police authorities and the industry. accountable for them, and on ensuring that we move to a cashless model of payment. Those are precisely the areas on which we are focusing, and we will report back Paul Maynard (Blackpool North and Cleveleys) (Con): to the House shortly. Many of the people who have made claims under the 1886 Act have done so because of damage to their Mark Garnier (Wyre Forest) (Con): My hon. Friend motor vehicles, but in 1886 the car had only been will know that not just schools and churches but voluntary invented for a year. Can the Minister assure me that his organisations, such as the one that runs the Severn review takes into account all the possible forms of Valley railway in my constituency, have been victims of damage so that no one will be excluded? this invidious crime. He will also know that an all-party group on combating metal theft was set up last week Nick Herbert: It is true that uninsured vehicles are under the joint chairmanship of my hon. Friend the not covered by the Act, as no one envisaged the need for Member for Dudley South (Chris Kelly) and the hon. them to be. They would be covered if they were on Member for Hyndburn (Graham Jones). Will the Minister private property, but not if they were in a public place. agree to meet me, along with other officers of the Of course, if vehicles are insured, a claim can be made all-party group, to discuss how we can combat metal against the insurers. This is one of the issues that we theft? shall have to consider in the review. 511 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 512

Police Funding The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Lynne Featherstone): This Government are committed to ending the abusive practice of forced 14. Lilian Greenwood (Nottingham South) (Lab): marriage and ensuring that victims are protected, as What discussions she has had with police authorities this is indefensible and never acceptable. The Government on the police funding settlement for 2012-13. [85731] provide practical support to victims through the forced marriage unit, and we have today published a consultation The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick on whether forced marriage should be made a criminal Herbert): Last Thursday I laid the provisional police offence. grant report for 2012-13 before the House. It set out provisional allocations of the Home Office core settlement Caroline Dinenage: I thank the Minister for that for police authorities for 2012-13, and is now the subject answer and warmly welcome today’s announcement of of a consultation. I will consider all responses carefully. a public consultation on this shameful practice. Does she agree that it is vital that the Government work Lilian Greenwood: The Deputy Prime Minister says closely with the relevant communities to ensure that that the funding settlement for Nottinghamshire police women are no longer discouraged from reporting forced is “manageable”, but the police themselves say: marriages? “The Government’s inequitable cuts will impact on frontline policing in Nottinghamshire”. Lynne Featherstone: My hon. Friend makes a very Who does the Minister think my constituents should important point, and working with the communities is believe? the only way deal with this issue. We want people to come forward and we do not want families to be deterred, so it is only by working with communities that we are Nick Herbert: Of course dealing with budget reductions likely to achieve our aims. is challenging for police forces, but we are convinced that they can do it. I recently met members of the Nottinghamshire force, including the chief constable, Home Department (Croydon Office) and we discussed the issues. The chief constable has acknowledged the difficulty of the decisions involved, 16. Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): What assessment but has also said that she is she has made of the effectiveness of the appointments “doing all we can to protect frontline services and target resources booking system at her Department’s offices in Croydon. to areas where the public are most commonly affected”. [85733]

Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): The police settlement, The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): The which, as the Minister acknowledged, was published effectiveness of these systems is continuously monitored, last week, takes a further £700 million out of the police including customer satisfaction with appointments booking. budget at a time when we are seeing worrying increases In Croydon, the UK Border Agency offers appointments in crime, with violent crime, burglary and theft all going for temporary and permanent migration at the public up in last month’s figures. Senior police officers have inquiry office, and for claiming asylum at the asylum already expressed their concern that the settlement means screening unit. they will have to do far more than can be achieved through efficiency savings. If the police, in responding Kevin Brennan: One of my constituents has been to this consultation, feel that it is inadequate to meet trying since August, both online and by telephone, to policing challenges next year, will the Minister think get an appointment for any day and any time. I know again? Will he ensure that the 3,000 extra police officers that the Minister is assiduous so, rather than just listen that the Liberal Democrats called for are put in place? to what his officials tell him, will he do a bit of mystery shopping and try to get an appointment, online on his Nick Herbert: I note what the right hon. Gentleman home computer or by telephone, to see whether or not says about these issues. He is trying to give the impression the system is working in practice? that a further reduction in funding has been announced, but he knows that that is not the case; these reductions Damian Green: I am always happy to take the hon. were announced beforehand, as part of the review, and Gentleman’s advice. He does not say whether this relates they have not changed in relation to the proposed to the asylum screening unit or a general immigration allocation for forces. I also note that he is coming appointment. forward with his familiar solution—Labour’s only policy on the police—which is to call for more public spending. It is that attitude that got this country into the mess that Kevin Brennan: It is general. we inherited from the previous Government. Perhaps he might have something more constructive to say about Damian Green: In that case, I will look at the efficiency policing in future. of the system. I should tell the hon. Gentleman that over the past quarter, customer satisfaction with that Forced Marriage booking system has improved markedly. Some 84% of customers surveyed stated that they were “very” or “fairly”satisfied with the effectiveness of the appointments 15. Caroline Dinenage (Gosport) (Con): What steps booking system. If he wishes to give me the name of the she is taking to tackle the practice of forced marriage. person who is trying hard to get an appointment, I will [85732] ensure that they get one. 513 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 514

Migration activity. Our next steps are to break the link between temporary and permanent migration by restricting 19. Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): settlement rights and to reform family migration. Members What estimate she has made of the likely level of net of this House have played a crucial role in shaping these migration in 2015. [85736] reforms and I welcome the opportunity for further such contributions in this afternoon’s Government debate, The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): The which will be ably led by my hon. Friend the Minister latest published estimates show net migration in the for Immigration. year to March 2011 at 245,000. That figure remains too high, which is why the Government are pressing ahead Mr Amess: While I recognise that my right hon. with their reform of the immigration system. This will Friend has a very tough job as Home Secretary, does bring numbers down to sustainable levels in the tens of she understand my disappointment? When I first became thousands by 2015. MP for Basildon, we had one police station; by the time I left we had three and Lord Mackay of Clashfern had Mr Bain: The Prime Minister has said that, “No ifs, opened a magnificent courthouse. I then became the no buts”, net migration will fall to the tens of thousands Member of Parliament for Southend West, where there by the end of this Parliament. Given that net migration are a huge number of elderly people and where I started into the UK was 32,000 higher in the 12 months to off with three police stations, and I will shortly have March 2011 than it was in the previous 12 months, does none. the Minister believe that he will ever meet this target? Nicholas Soames (Mid Sussex) (Con): Resign. Damian Green: Yes, I do. I find complaints about high immigration from those on the Labour Benches a Mrs May: I feel the need not to let it rest there, bit rich, given what they did to the immigration system. Mr Speaker, but to respond to the question that my I simply point the hon. Gentleman to the figures for the hon. Friend the Member for Southend West (Mr Amess) past six months, because over the past two quarters the asked. I am sure that he will agree that what matters is figures have started coming down. We are beginning to accessibility to police. That is why one thing the Government make a dent in the disaster of Labour’s immigration are doing is reducing the amount of bureaucracy that policy. the police have to deal with so that they can get out on the streets more. It is also why a number of forces up Amber Rudd (Hastings and Rye) (Con): I welcome and down the country are considering accessibility in a the roll-out of the e-Borders system, but what role will different way, rather than simply having fixed police the border police command play from 2013, as part of stations. I understand that Essex, for example, has seven the National Crime Agency, in helping to reduce illegal mobile police stations that go to areas where people immigration? congregate, such as supermarket car parks, to increase accessibility to the police for members of the public. Damian Green: I am happy to assure my hon. Friend that it will play a significant role. Of course, as well as having the policies that bring the overall numbers down Yvette Cooper (Normanton, Pontefract and Castleford) we need proper enforcement mechanisms to ensure that (Lab): At the end of this month, the control orders they can be properly implemented. The National Crime legislation expires and the police and security services Agency and the border command within it will play a will have just six weeks’ transition to get the new weaker significant role in improving the security of our borders. terrorism prevention and investigation measures and extra surveillance in place. The assistant commissioner Mr Speaker: I call David Morris. of the Met, in a recent letter placed in the Library of the House, confirms the Met’s position last summer that David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): “it would take at least a year to recruit and train additional Thank you, Mr Speaker, but I believe that my question surveillance teams”. 21 has already been answered. She also says that “not all the additional assets will be immediately in place”. Mr Speaker: The hon. Gentleman is in danger of setting a trend. If others followed it, our proceedings Why, then, is the Home Secretary so determined to would conclude more speedily. I am grateful to him for push ahead with weaker counter-terror powers so quickly? his self-denial. Why does she not delay them and avoid piling extra pressure and risk on to the Met in the new year? Topical Questions Mrs May: The right hon. Lady knows full well that T1. [85741] Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): the Metropolitan Police Service and the Security Service If she will make a statement on her departmental will not have just six weeks to put transitional arrangements responsibilities. in place. They have been aware for some time that TPIMs would come in and extra funding would be The Secretary of State for the Home Department available for extra surveillance. Subsequent to the letter (Mrs Theresa May): As the House just heard, this sent by the assistant commissioner, the Metropolitan Government are committed to controlling immigration Police Commissioner has written to the Chairman of and reducing net migration. We have already introduced the Home Affairs Committee to make it absolutely an annual limit on the number of non-EU workers, clear that effective transitional arrangements from control overhauled the student visa route and increased enforcement orders to TPIMs will be in place to ensure that we 515 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 516 continue to do what we want to do and what everybody detention of children overnight? What can she do to wants us to do: that is, maintain the security of people improve processes between local authorities and the in this country. police?

Yvette Cooper: But the Met have been put in a very Nick Herbert: I note the hon. Lady’s point and we difficult position. This is Olympic year and they will will study the report when it is produced by the Howard have considerable additional pressures from policing League tomorrow. the games, from counter-terrorism and from an £80 million budget gap. There are no guarantees that it will not have T5. [85745] Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con): to stump up for some of the riot compensation, too. What progress has the Minister made in identifying The letter from the Met says that bogus colleges and what reassurances can he give to “it is not possible to assess fully how the measures will work with legitimate colleges in Brighton and Hove? the additional capability until both are fully in place and bedded in.” The Home Secretary is forcing the police to conduct an The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): As my experiment with security in Olympic year. The letter right hon. Friend the Home Secretary said a few minutes says: ago, the number of colleges that did not register when the new proper accreditation system came in was more “We will…seek to ensure that there is no substantial increase in than 470. Some but not all of those will have been overall risk to the UK.” bogus colleges, so we have swept away a vast raft of Why does this Home Secretary want to be personally bogus colleges. Reputable colleges can now be assured responsible for any increase in the overall risk to the that we have a proper accreditation system. If they UK in Olympic year as a result of the timing of her satisfy that system, their students and the wider community legislation? Why does she not think again? will know that they are genuine colleges.

Mrs May: The right hon. Lady knows that when we Mr David Lammy (Tottenham) (Lab): I wrote to the introduced TPIMs we were able to give assurances Secretary of State two weeks ago asking her to review about the mitigation of risks in relation to TPIMs and the Independent Police Complaints Commission’s handling their replacement of control orders. I ask her to reflect of the Mark Duggan case. Given the catastrophe that on why the coalition Government reviewed counter- was this morning’s pre-hearing inquest and the family’s terrorism legislation when we came to power. It was declaring no public confidence in the IPCC, will she because of a concern about the impact of some of the now look at its handling of the case and the thoroughness legislation that her Government had introduced. It was of this investigation? a rebalancing of the necessary role of ensuring national security and maintaining civil liberties that led us to review that legislation. We have in place measures that I Nick Herbert: I have just replied to the right hon. believe will enable us to provide the security that we Gentleman. I have spoken to the acting chairman of the need to provide. The package of measures includes IPCC about the matter and the investigation, and he TPIMs and extra money for surveillance for both the has assured me about the investigation’s integrity. We Security Service and the police, and I am confident that therefore see no reason at the moment to order any that package will give them the degree of cover they review. It is important that the investigation takes its need to ensure that we maintain security. course properly.

T2. [85742] Greg Mulholland (Leeds North West) (LD): T7. [85747] Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con): My constituent Altaf Sadique had his car registration Will the Minister explain what she is doing to ensure plate cloned earlier this year. He reported that to the that the families of missing people get the help and police, who accepted the report and are aware that his support they need when a loved one goes missing? car remains in west Yorkshire, but he continues to get fines from all around the country and the police say it The Minister for Equalities (Lynne Featherstone): We is nothing to do with them. Will the Minister look have published the new missing children and adults seriously at having a national strategy to ensure that strategy, which has three important provisions. The first police forces co-operate to deal with this serious of these is prevention and reducing the number of problem? people who go missing in the first place. The second is protection and reducing the harm to those who do go The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick missing. The third is provision—providing support and Herbert): I will certainly look into the matter that my advice to missing persons and their families by referring hon. Friend raises and I am happy to discuss it further them promptly to agencies and ensuring that they with him. Police co-operation in all matters is, of course, understand how and where to access help. desirable. Bill Esterson (Sefton Central) (Lab): Merseyside police T6. [85746] Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): have been very successful in cutting metal theft in my Tomorrow, the Howard League for Penal Reform will constituency, particularly by working with reputable publish a report showing that about 50,000 children, traders. They deserve congratulations on their approach. including about 10,000 girls, spent the night in police Will the Home Secretary help the police across the custody in both 2009 and 2010. Will the Home Secretary country and back Labour’s four-point plan, including look urgently at the inappropriate and overuse of the tougher police powers to close down rogue traders? 517 Oral Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Oral Answers 518

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Paul Flynn (Newport West) (Lab): Can the Minister Home Department (James Brokenshire): I welcome the give me the precise total number of prisons in Britain work of Merseyside police and other police forces around that are free from the use of illegal drugs? the country in dealing with metal theft. It is why we are moving forward with the metal theft taskforce, and why Nick Herbert: I will write to the hon. Gentleman with that will also be responsible for greater co-ordination, that information. but I hear the points that the hon. Gentleman makes about penalties. That is something that we are actively Esther McVey (Wirral West) (Con): May I draw attention considering in the context of our review of the current to the Merseyside police force and how it has handled legislation. [Interruption.] staffing changes and efficiency savings over the past year? Not only has the force hit all its targets, but crime Mr Speaker: Order. The House must come to order is down 3%, antisocial behaviour is down 6%, and to hear Mr Gavin Barwell. public confidence is up 5%, so despite the scaremongering from the Opposition, it is possible to have efficiency T8. [85748] Gavin Barwell (Croydon Central) (Con): savings and a decrease in crime. Despite the tough settlement for the Metropolitan police, our borough commander in Croydon has found the Mrs May: I join my hon. Friend in paying tribute to resources for a dedicated team to tackle gangs. Given the work that is being done by the Merseyside force in that gang members played a key role in the riots in relation to the savings that it is making in its budgets. As Croydon on 8 August, can my right hon. Friend confirm Chief Constable Jon Murphy has said, that Croydon is one of the 22 areas to which she “It’s not salami slicing but re-engineering the whole organisation.” referred that will benefit from Government funding? As my hon. Friend has shown, that can be done effectively, saving money but providing a good service to the public. Mrs May: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for giving [Interruption.] me the opportunity of doing just that. I can confirm that Croydon is one of the 22 areas that will be receiving funding. That funding will be distributed according to Mr Speaker: Order. The questions must be heard and the proportion of 10 to 24-year-olds in each of the Ministers must be heard. 22 areas, and I can tell him that on that basis Croydon has the fourth highest proportion and will therefore Tessa Munt (Wells) (LD): The Home Secretary is receive the fourth highest sum of funding. aware that women prisoners will only ever move between women’s prisons, and similarly young people will only Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): The weekend before move through young offenders institutions. What last, 13 British citizens including, disgracefully, a Member discussions has she had with her counterparts at the of this House, were present at a party in a French Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the restaurant where members of that group—[Interruption.] Ministry of Justice to ensure that we look at prison It is no laughing matter—where members of that group education for women as a cluster and for young people toasted the Third Reich and chanted “Hitler, Hitler, as a cluster, instead of relying on local arrangements? Hitler,” behaviour which, I understand, is illegal in France. Will the Home Secretary give me her assurance Mrs May: My hon. Friend raises an important issue, that she will be contacting her French counterparts and and behind it lies the important issue of the number of giving them every promise that the matter will be dealt women who go to prison. For many women, an alternative with? arrangement might be more appropriate, which is something Baroness Corston raised in her report on women in Mrs May: I found it difficult to find in the hon. prison. I will certainly take on board my hon. Friend’s Gentleman’s question something relating to the Home point and ensure that it is put to the Secretaries of State Office. I understand the question that he raised, and I for Business, Innovation and Skills and for Justice. understand that the individual in question has apologised. Mr Speaker: I have been saving the hon. Gentleman T9. [85750] David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) up. I call Mr Peter Bone. (Con): I welcome plans to set up a professional body for policing. Does my right hon. Friend agree that such Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): Does the a body would be an ideal opportunity to promote the Immigration Minister agree that on rare occasions importance of high-quality training, which is very something good comes out of the European Union and much in the interests of our police officers? that we should appoint a national rapporteur on human trafficking? Nick Herbert: I agree with my hon. Friend. We have an important opportunity now to set up a professional Damian Green: I am afraid that on this issue I am body for policing to focus on the need to provide more Eurosceptic than my hon. Friend, as I do not high-quality training for police officers and to set standards. believe that a national rapporteur would improve our I am grateful to the senior police leadership for engaging already very effective combating of human trafficking. in our work to discuss the issue. We will be bringing Indeed, only two other EU member states have such a proposals before the House. rapporteur. 519 12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 520

EU Council employs 100,000 people in Birmingham and a further 150,000 people in Scotland. It supports the rest of the economy in Britain and more widely in Europe. 3.30 pm We were not asking for a UK opt-out, special exemption The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): With permission, or a generalised emergency brake on financial services Mr Speaker, I would like to make a statement on last legislation. They were safeguards sought for the EU as week’s European Council— a whole. We were simply asking for a level playing field for open competition for financial services companies Hon. Members: Where’s Nick? in all EU countries, with arrangements that would enable every EU member state to regulate its financial Mr Speaker: Order. The House must calm itself, sector properly. To those who say that we were trying to taking whatever medicaments are required for the purpose, go soft on the banks, nothing could be further from the and the Prime Minister’s statement must and will be truth. We have said that we are going to respond positively heard. to the tough measures set out in the Vickers report. There are issues about whether this can be done under The Prime Minister: Thank you, Mr Speaker. current European regulations, so one of the things we I went to Brussels with one objective: to protect wanted was to make sure we could go further than Britain’s national interest, and that is what I did. Let me European rules on regulating the banks. The Financial refer to what I said to the House last Wednesday. I made Services Authority report on RBS today demonstrates it clear that if the eurozone countries wanted a treaty just how necessary that is—[Interruption]—and perhaps involving all 27 members of the European Union, we instead of talking Opposition Members will remember would insist on some safeguards for Britain to protect their responsibility for the mess that they created. our own national interests. Some thought that the Those who say that this proposed treaty change was safeguards I was asking for were relatively modest. all about safeguarding the eurozone, and so Britain Nevertheless, satisfactory safeguards were not forthcoming, should not have tried to interfere or to insist on safeguards, so I did not agree to the treaty. Let me be clear about are fundamentally wrong as well. The EU treaty is the exactly what happened, what it means for Britain and treaty of those outside the euro as much as it is for those what I see happening next. inside the euro, so creating a new eurozone treaty within the existing EU treaty without proper safeguards would Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): Où est Clegg? have changed the EU for us, too. It would not just have meant a whole new bureaucracy, with rules and competences Mr Speaker: Order. I apologise for interrupting the for the eurozone countries being incorporated directly Prime Minister. I hope that Members have now got it into the EU treaty; it would have changed the nature of out of their system. The statement will be heard. Right the EU—strengthening the eurozone without balancing hon. and hon. Members on both sides of the House will measures to strengthen the single market. have ample opportunity to question the Prime Minister, Of course, an intergovernmental arrangement is not but courtesy and parliamentary convention dictate that without risks, but we did not want to see that imbalance the statement will be heard. hard-wired into the treaty without proper safeguards. To those who believe that that was not a real risk, I tell The Prime Minister: Thank you, Mr Speaker. them that France and Germany said in their letter last Let me take the House through the events of last week that the eurozone should work on single market week. At this Council, the eurozone economies agreed issues such as financial regulation and competitiveness. that there should be much tighter fiscal discipline in the That is why we required safeguards, and I make no eurozone as part of restoring market confidence. That apology for it. is something that Britain recognises as necessary in a Of course, I wish those safeguards had been accepted, single currency. We want the eurozone to sort out its but frankly I have to tell the House that the choice was a problems. That is in Britain’s national interest because treaty without proper safeguards or no treaty—and the the crisis in the eurozone is having a chilling effect on right answer was no treaty. It was not an easy thing to Britain’s economy too, so the question at the Council do, but it was the right thing to do. As a result, eurozone was not whether there should be greater fiscal discipline countries and others are now making separate arrangements in the eurozone, but how it should be achieved. for the fiscal integration that they need to solve the There were two possible outcomes: either a treaty of problems in the eurozone. They recognise that this all 27 countries, with proper safeguards for Britain; or a approach will be less attractive, more complex and more separate treaty in which eurozone countries and others difficult to enforce, and they would prefer to incorporate would pool their sovereignty on an intergovernmental the new treaty into the EU treaties in future. Our basis, with Britain maintaining its position in the single position remains the same. market and in the European Union of 27 members. We Let me turn to what this means for Britain. Britain went seeking a deal at 27 and I responded to the remains a full member of the European Union, and the German and French proposal for treaty change in good events of the last week do nothing to change that. Our faith, genuinely looking to reach an agreement at the membership of the EU is vital to our national interest. level of the whole of the European Union, with the We are a trading nation, and we need the single market necessary safeguards for Britain. Those safeguards—on for trade, investment and jobs. The EU makes Britain a the single market and on financial services—were modest, gateway to the largest single market in the world for reasonable and relevant. We were not trying to create an investors; it secures half of our exports and millions of unfair advantage for Britain. London is the leading British jobs; and membership of the EU strengthens centre for financial services in the world, and this sector our ability to progress our foreign policy objectives, too, 521 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 522

[The Prime Minister] strengthening the IMF’s capacity to help countries in difficulty across the world. But IMF resources are for giving us a strong voice on the global stage on issues countries, not currencies, and cannot be used specifically such as trade and, as we have seen in Durban this week, to support the euro—and we would not support that. climate change and the environment. There also needs to be greater competitiveness between So we are in the European Union and we want to be. the countries of the eurozone. To be frank, the whole of This week there will be meetings of the Councils on Europe needs to become more competitive. That is the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy, and way to more jobs and growth. Many eurozone countries Agriculture and Fisheries. Britain will be there as a full have substantial trade deficits as well as budget deficits. member of each one, but I believe in an EU with the If they are not to be reliant on massive transfers of flexibility of a network, not the rigidity of a bloc. We capital, they need to become more competitive and are not in the Schengen no-borders agreement, and trade out of those deficits. The British agenda has neither should we be, because it is right that we use our always been about improving Europe’s competitiveness, natural advantage as an island to protect ourselves and at recent Councils we have achieved substantial against illegal immigration, guns and drugs; we are not progress on completing the single market in services, in the single currency, and while I am Prime Minister we opening up our energy markets, and exempting micro- will never join; we are not in the new euro area bail-out businesses from future regulations. This has been done funds, even though we had to negotiate our way out of by working in partnership with a combination of countries them; and we are not in this year’s euro-plus pact. that are in the eurozone and outside it. Similarly, on this When the euro was created, the previous Government year’s EU budget, it was Britain, in partnership with agreed that there would need to be separate meetings of France, Germany and Holland, that successfully insisted eurozone Ministers, and it is hardly surprising that on no real increases in resources—for the first time in those countries required by treaty to join the euro chose many, many years in the EU. to join the existing eurozone members in developing future On defence, Britain is an absolutely key European arrangements for the eurozone. Those countries are player, whether leading the NATO rapid reaction force going to be negotiating a treaty that passes unprecedented or tackling piracy in the Indian ocean. Our partnership powers from their nation states to Brussels. Some will with France—[Interruption.] have budgets effectively checked and re-written by the European Commission. None of this will happen in Mr Speaker: Order. I apologise for having to interrupt Britain. But, just as we wanted safeguards for Britain’s the Prime Minister. Those on the Opposition Front interests if we changed the EU treaty, we will continue Bench, at the moment, are making the most noise. to be vigilant in protecting our national interests. [Interruption.] Order. This is not acceptable. The Leader of the Opposition will have an opportunity to reply on An intergovernmental treaty, while it does not carry behalf of the Opposition, and his colleagues must conduct with it the same dangers for Britain, is none the less not themselves with a degree of reserve. without risks. The decision of the new eurozone-led arrangement is a discussion that is just beginning. We The Prime Minister: Thank you, Mr Speaker. want the new treaty to work in stabilising the euro and putting it on a firm foundation. I understand why they Our partnership with France was crucial in taking would want to use EU institutions—but this is new successful action in Libya. Britain will continue to form territory and does raise important issues that we will alliances on the things we want to get done. We have want to explore with the euro-plus countries. So in the always had a leading role in advocating the policy of months to come we will be vigorously engaged in the enlargement and, at this Council, we all celebrated the debate about how institutions built for 27 should continue signing of Croatia’s accession treaty. That was one to operate fairly for all member states, Britain included. European treaty I was happy to sign. The UK is supportive of the role of the institutions, not Let me conclude with this point. I do not believe least because of the role they play in safeguarding the there is a binary choice for Britain: that we can either single market, so we will look constructively at any sacrifice the national interest on issue after issue or lose proposals with an open mind. But let us be clear about our influence at the heart of Europe’s decision-making one thing: if Britain had agreed treaty change without processes. I am absolutely clear that it is possible to be a safeguards, there would be no discussion. Britain would full, committed and influential member of the European not have proper protection. Union but to stay out of arrangements where they do Finally, let me turn to the next steps. The most not protect our interests. That is what I have done at this pressing step of all is to fix the problems of the euro. As Council. That is what I will continue to do as long as I I have said, that involves far more than simply medium-term am Prime Minister. It is the right course for this country. fiscal integration, important though that is. Above all, I commend this statement to the House. the eurozone needs to focus, at the very least, on implementing its October agreement. The markets want Edward Miliband (Doncaster North) (Lab): May I to be assured that the eurozone firewall is big enough, start by thanking the Prime Minister for his statement? that Europe’s banks are being adequately recapitalised, We all note the absence of the Deputy Prime Minister and that problems in countries like Greece have been from his normal place. properly dealt with. There was some progress at the The reality is this: the Prime Minister has given up Council, but far more needs to be done. The eurozone our seat at the table; he has exposed, not protected, countries noted the possibility of additional IMF assistance. British business; and he has come back with a bad deal Our position on IMF resources remains the one I set for Britain. The Prime Minister told us that his first out at the Cannes G20 summit. Alongside non-European priority at the summit was to sort out the eurozone, but G20 countries, we are ready to look positively at the euro crisis is not resolved. There is no promise by 523 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 524 the European Central Bank to be the lender of last resort, agree with him. He said that the outcome leaves Britain there is no plan for growth and there is little progress on “isolated and marginalised”. Does the Prime Minister bank recapitalisation. Will he first tell us why his promise agree with that assessment? How can he expect to of action did not materialise and what that will mean persuade anybody else that it is a good outcome when for the British economy in the months ahead? At the he cannot persuade his own deputy? summit that was meant to solve these problems, the The Prime Minister claims to have wielded a veto. Let Prime Minister walked away from the table. me explain to him that a veto is supposed to stop Let me turn to where that leaves Britain. Many people something happening. It is not a veto when the thing feared an outcome of 17 countries going it alone. Few that you wanted to stop goes ahead without you. That is could have anticipated the diplomatic disaster of 26 going called losing. That is called being defeated. That is ahead and one country—Britain—being left behind. called letting Britain down. I have not finished with The Prime Minister rests his whole case on the fact that the Prime Minister yet. Next, I want to ask him— 26 countries will not be able to use the existing treaties [Interruption.] or institutions. That is apparently the win that he got for this country. However, can he confirm that article 273 Mr Speaker: Order. I am worried about the health of of the treaty on the functioning of the European Union the right hon. Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas Soames). allows those countries to use the European Court of He must calm himself and have a lie down, if necessary, Justice? No doubt they will end up using the Commission’s while we listen to the Leader of the Opposition. services and, yes, even the buildings—the point that he made in the negotiations. In case anyone had any doubt, Edward Miliband: Next, I want to ask the Prime that was confirmed yesterday by the absent Deputy Minister about how he ended up with this outcome. The Prime Minister, who said: proposals he tabled, when he tabled them and his failure “Well it clearly would be ludicrous for the 26, which is pretty even to try to build alliances for them suggest someone well the whole of the European Union…to completely reinvent…a who did not exactly want a deal. Can he confirm that whole panoply of new institutions.” what he actually proposed was to unpick the existing The Prime Minister will not even be sent the agenda for rules of Lady Thatcher’s Single European Act as regards the meetings that will start in January. He will read the internal market? Given that those proposals would about decisions affecting British business in the pages have changed 25 years of the single market, why did he of the Financial Times. make them in the final hours of the summit? The Prime Minister’s next claim was that he did not Where were the Prime Minister’s allies? If he wanted want to sign up to the fiscal rules being imposed on a deal, why did he fail to build alliances with the euro area countries. Can he confirm that no one even Swedes, the Dutch, the Poles and Britain’s traditional proposed that those would have applied to Britain? The supporters? If he really did want to protect the single next claim in his statement was that he did what he did market and financial services, why did he not seek because the treaty posed a grave threat to our financial guarantees that those issues would be discussed only services industry. However, over the whole course of the with all 27 members in the room? weekend, he has been unable to point to a single proposal In any case, the Prime Minister should not have in the proposed treaty that would entail the alleged walked away, because the truth is—[Interruption.] Just destruction of the City of London. Will he tell us what calm down. The truth is, the treaty will take months and the threat was? months to negotiate. Other countries have carried on In any case, there is nothing worse for protecting our negotiating and carried on fighting for their national interests in financial services than the outcome that the interest. The real answer is this: he did not want a deal, Prime Minister ended up with. Will he confirm that he because he could not deliver it through his party. He has not secured one extra protection for financial services? responded to the biggest rebellion of his party in Europe The veto on financial services regulation—he did not in a generation by making the biggest mistake of Britain get it. The guarantees on the location of the European in Europe for a generation. Banking Authority—he did not get them. Far from So this is a bad deal, which we ended up with for bad protecting our interests, he has left us without a voice. reasons, and it will have long-lasting consequences. It is The sensible members of his party understand that a decision that means we are on the sidelines, not just as well as anyone. What did Lord Heseltine say— for one summit but for the years ahead. The Prime [Interruption.] Oh, how significant! That is what the Minister said in this House on 24 October that what Tory party now thinks of Lord Heseltine. What did he mattered say at the weekend? “is not only access to that single market but the need to ensure “You can’t protect the interest of the City by floating off into that we are sitting around the table”. the middle of the Atlantic.” He went on: It is no longer the Conservative party of Lord Heseltine; “That is key to our national interest, and we must not lose it is the Conservative party of the hon. Member for that.”—[Official Report, 24 October 2011; Vol. 534, c. 38.] Stone (Mr Cash), who went out on Friday saying that Well congratulations, Prime Minister, that is exactly what this was exactly what he had always wanted. you have done. He has done what no Prime Minister What about the rest of British business, which the ever thought was wise—to leave the room to others, to Prime Minister does not seem to have been thinking abandon our seat at the table. about? The danger is that the discussions about the The Prime Minister says he had no choice. He did. single market, on which it relies, will now take place He could have stayed inside and fought his corner; he without us. Only this Prime Minister could call that should have stayed inside and fought his corner. Faced leadership. The Deputy Prime Minister clearly does not with a choice between the national interest and his 525 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 526

[Edward Miliband] the answer is no, he should have the honesty to say that I was right to keep Britain out of it. And let me just say party interest, he has chosen the party interest. We will this: just because the right hon. Gentleman is in opposition rue the day this Prime Minister left Britain alone, does not mean that he should oppose Britain’s interests. without allies, without influence. It is bad for business, it is bad for jobs, it is bad for Britain. Sir Peter Tapsell (Louth and Horncastle) (Con): May I declare my admiration and full-hearted support for The Prime Minister: A lot of sound and fury, but one my right hon. Friend at this definitive moment in his crucial weakness—the right hon. Gentleman has not first premiership, and query whether this Brussels summit told us whether he would sign up to the new treaty. He achieved anything of strategic value to protect the had about 15 minutes, and he could not tell us whether threatened European banking system? Without the long- he is for it or against it. Has it got enough safeguards in delayed and still unpromised massive support of the it, or has it got too few safeguards? Would a Labour European Central Bank and the Bundesbank, the euro Government back it, or would they veto it? Let me tell is doomed—[HON.MEMBERS: “Doomed!”] Yes, doomed— him: if you cannot decide, you cannot lead. and as Chancellor Merkel has said, the European Union Inasmuch as there were some specific questions, let is doomed with it. me try to answer them. The right hon. Gentleman asks what the threat was to financial services. Why cannot he The Prime Minister: I certainly agree with my right understand that if you allowed a new treaty of 17 members hon. Friend on the balance of effort that has been given, within the EU, without proper safeguards, huge damage on the one hand, to new treaty powers and changes, could be done to the single market and to financial and, on the other, to actually looking at what needs to services? He asks what will happen when this new be done, particularly in the short term, in terms of the organisation goes ahead. Of course, a new organisation firewall, bank recapitalisation and action by the ECB. cannot do anything that cuts across the existing treaties More needs to be focused on those things rather than or the existing legislation, so he does not even understand on the medium-term power changes in the EU, which I how the European Union works. do not think are being hovered over by the markets, The right hon. Gentleman asks what we gained from which are working out whether countries can pay their the veto. I will tell him: we stopped Britain signing up to debts. In that regard, my right hon. Friend is right. a treaty without any safeguards. That is what we gained. On the issue of the City and financial services, the Mr Jack Straw (Blackburn) (Lab): There was no right hon. Gentleman completely fails to understand draft treaty before the European Council last Thursday that this is a nationwide industry. It is not just the City and Friday; there was a set of draft conclusions. Will of London; it is the whole of our country. I have to say, the Prime Minister set out the paragraph numbers that there was not a word about the report today showing he thinks would have damaged Britain’s interests had that Labour was to blame for the appalling regulation we agreed to them? Will he also confirm that we had a of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Then, of course, we had veto on a financial transactions tax before the Council a lecture—[Interruption.] and that we still have one; and that financial services regulation was subject to qualified majority voting before Mr Speaker: Order. Members must calm down. I have last Thursday and still is? my eye on one hon. Gentleman from the north of England who entered the House 32 years ago and The Prime Minister: As I said in my statement, the should know better. eurozone members wanted to create a new treaty within the EU, which has all sorts of dangers. If the right hon. The Prime Minister: Of course, then we had a lecture Gentleman looks at the letter that Angela Merkel and on how to negotiate. I have to say that I am not going to Nicolas Sarkozy sent, he will see that they specifically take any lessons from people who gave in time after wanted the 17 to look at issues such as financial services time to the comfy consensus rather than ever stand up and the market within that treaty. Without safeguards, a for Britain. Just look at the record: the previous Government treaty within a treaty would have been far more dangerous joined a bail-out scheme even though it was not protecting than a treaty outside the EU. a currency that they were a member of; they gave up the rebate even though they got nothing in terms of the Let me repeat this point: a treaty outside the EU reform of agriculture; and they signed up to the Lisbon cannot do anything that cuts across European treaties treaty but never had the courage to put it to the British or European legislation. Of course, that is not without people. Every time, they just go along with what others its dangers, but my judgment was that without safeguards, want. an EU treaty was more dangerous. The Leader of the Opposition also talked about growth and jobs. Let me just say this: his plan, alone in Sir Malcolm Rifkind (Kensington) (Con): The leadership Europe, is to spend more, borrow more and increase of the Prime Minister in Brussels compares favourably debt by more. All the while, if he wants to join the euro, with the refusal of the Leader of the Opposition over he needs to understand that the treaty that is being three long days to indicate whether he would have established would actually make that illegal. The very supported the treaty. The public will come to their own thing he wants to do in Britain he wants to ban in conclusion. Brussels. Does the Prime Minister agree that the term “two-speed But the key question the right hon. Gentleman cannot Europe” is inaccurate, because it implies a destination answer is this: does he back this treaty or not? If the that all countries will reach except over a different answer is yes, he should have the courage to say so. If period? Whereas, is it not the case that the UK and 527 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 528 perhaps other countries will never find it possible to of the eurozone and towards enhancing the opportunities accept a destination that involves not only a single provided by the single market, both of which are essential currency, but fiscal union, tax harmonisation and to the economic prosperity of this country? supranational control of budgets? Is it not necessary to have a fundamental debate about whether Europe can The Prime Minister: Let me repeat again to the right become a Europe à la carte in order to survive? hon. and learned Gentleman that I do believe that it is in Britain’s interest to be in the European Union and to The Prime Minister: My right hon. and learned Friend be active, especially on those dossiers where that is in makes an important point. This is not about the speed our interest—chief among which is the single market. If at which different organisations travel: it is about the we want to see what will make a difference to the single fact that Europe already has different facets. Britain is currency and the success of the eurozone, nothing matters not in the single currency or in the Schengen no-borders more than competitiveness, where Britain should be agreement, but we are a leading member of the single very active, with others both in the eurozone and outside, market and we play a huge role in foreign and defence to drive forward changes. We are fully committed to policy throughout Europe and NATO. We should not keeping up that work. be embarrassed about that, and we should do what is in our national interest—rather than thinking that the Margaret Hodge (Barking) (Lab): Any politician with right thing to do is to sign up whether or not it suits us. experience of doing business in Europe knows that you never go to a key European meeting without having David Miliband (South Shields) (Lab): Will the Prime done extensive and thorough preparatory work, so that Minister confirm that in all the negotiations since 1973 as you walk in you are pretty much sure of the outcome the United Kingdom has never lost a significant vote on you will get. Either the Prime Minister did not bother to financial services regulation? Why does he think that his do the preparatory work, and betrayed Britain’s long-term negotiating tactics in the future would fail where those interests through sheer incompetence, or he had made of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair succeeded, and up his mind before to use the veto because he was afraid why does he think that it is helpful to have driven nine of his own Back Benchers. Which of those two was it? other members of the European Union who are not in the euro into Franco-German hands? The Prime Minister: Let me say to the right hon. Lady that I went to Brussels wanting a result at 27, but there were safeguards that I believed that Britain needed. The Prime Minister: For all the right hon. Gentleman’s Frankly, you can have all the experience of negotiating experience, I think that he is very naive about what is in the world, but if you are not prepared to say no from happening in Europe over financial services. Time and time to time, you do not have any influence or power. again—[Interruption.] Mr John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con): I congratulate Mr Speaker: Order. Members must calm themselves. my right hon. Friend on his excellent statesmanship. I am concerned for them, and I also feel that the Prime Does he agree that Britain has much more negotiating Minister must be heard. strength today, because Europe knows that it is dealing with a Prime Minister who will say no if he needs to, The Prime Minister: There have been any number of than when we had two Prime Ministers who gave in to examples of frankly discriminatory legislation against bad deal after bad deal, including giving away our financial services in the European Union that have rebate for no good reason? affected Britain very badly. Let me give the right hon. Gentleman one example. At the moment, the ECB is The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my right hon. taking Britain to court on the basis that we should not Friend. It is the case that on too many occasions under be able to clear euros through London. So we would be the previous Government, Britain was outnumbered, put in the extraordinary position that banks in Britain but on the issue of the rebate, it was given away for could clear Swiss francs, dollars and yen, but—even nothing in return simply because they wanted to go though we are in the single market—we could not clear along with a cosy and comfortable consensus. Sometimes euros. That is one example of discriminatory legislation. it is necessary to say no. In my judgment, we did not When you are faced with a situation in which the have the safeguards that we needed, so, as a result, it 17 eurozone members want to go into a further treaty was right not to agree to this treaty. within the European Union, with all the powers and force that would have—[Interruption.] They are not Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): Out of every going to have a treaty within the European Union: they European Council meeting, there are perceptions and are doing it outside—it is right to seek safeguards. That realities. The Prime Minister did list some of the realities, is why the right hon. Gentleman is naive not to understand but may I put it to him that the perception around the that. world, in not just Europe but the United States, is that we have committed a diplomatic catastrophe? The words Sir Menzies Campbell (North East Fife) (LD): May I “isolated” and “Britain” are fused. To come back from congratulate my right hon. Friend on his unequivocal that, will he assure the House that in all future negotiations, statement that our membership of the European Union he will take with him the Deputy Prime Minister, who, is vital to our national interests, and express the hope I believe, spoke for Britain? that he may give it some wider currency in his own party? He mentioned both the single market and the The Prime Minister: The right hon. Gentleman, like eurozone. What practical steps can our Government so many of those who oppose what has happened, is take now to assist in reaching a solution to the problems part of exactly the same group of people who wanted us 529 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 530

[The Prime Minister] The Prime Minister: I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his kind remarks. I have long believed, to join the single currency in the first place. They are and still believe, that the balance of powers between never prepared to recognise that there are occasions Britain and Europe is not right, and I would like some when we need to safeguard our nation’s interests and we of those powers returned. As Prime Minister, I specifically have to be able to say no. got the bail-out power back through my first negotiations on the European stability mechanism treaty. In the Mr Peter Lilley (Hitchin and Harpenden) (Con): Does my latest negotiations, we prevented a treaty from going right hon. Friend agree that the best way to increase ahead at the level of 27 because there were not adequate one’s influence within Europe and, indeed, within a safeguards. Frankly, I think that we will see now a coalition Government is to set up one’s position and period of great change in Europe. No one quite knows stick to it? where this new organisation outside the European treaties will go, what powers it will seek and how it will act. The Prime Minister: I am very grateful to my right Neither does anyone know exactly how the eurozone hon. Friend for that question. I always find this slightly will develop. My job in government is to protect and surprising. Before going to Brussels I set out exactly defend the national interest at all times, and that is what what I was going to do and what I would do if I could I will continue to do. not get the safeguards. I did exactly what I said I was going to do, but apparently in politics these days that is Richard Ottaway (Croydon South) (Con): As someone very surprising. who is not known for his hostility to the European Union, I fully support the Prime Minister for what was Mr Nicholas Brown (Newcastle upon Tyne East) (Lab): an inevitable decision. However, the relationship between Will the Basel III regulatory regime for financial services the fiscal compact of the 26 and the European Union apply in the United Kingdom? remains uncertain. In particular, the fiscal compact reads: The Prime Minister: I am afraid that I missed the “The objective remains to incorporate these provisions into the beginning of the right hon. Gentleman’s question. treaties of the Union as soon as possible.” Mr Speaker: Does the right hon. Gentleman wish to In the light of that, does he agree that the battle for repeat his question? Britain’s interest still has a long way to go?

Mr Nicholas Brown: Will the Basel III regulatory The Prime Minister: The other EU countries recognise regime for financial services apply in the United Kingdom? that going ahead at less than 27 has its disadvantages: they do not have the power and authority of the European The Prime Minister: Yes. institutions fully behind them and it will make some of the things that they want to do more difficult. None the Mr Andrew Tyrie (Chichester) (Con): The Prime Minister less, we have set out our position. We believe that those must be right to do whatever is required to protect the safeguards are necessary, and I will not, and have not, 1.3 million jobs in our financial services sector. Will he changed my mind about that. I want to make this point confirm that the current EU proposals for the so-called one more time because I am not sure that everyone has maximum harmonisation of bank regulations could taken it fully onboard: the disadvantage for those countries prevent us from implementing the conclusions of the that will have a treaty outside the EU is that it means Vickers commission to make our banks safer with a that nothing can be done in that treaty that cuts across ring-fence? the EU treaties or the legislation adopted under them. That is an important safeguard, given that we could not The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right. get the safeguard within the EU treaties. One of the things that we are concerned about is that if we want to take the extra action in this country to make Several hon. Members rose— our banks safe, including what Vickers is recommending, there is a danger—and this is the current advice—that Mr Speaker: Order. If I am to accommodate the large the current European regulatory framework could stop number of Back Benchers, as I always wish to do, we us doing that. That is exactly the sort of safeguard—it is will require brevity, a textbook example of which will entirely reasonable, modest and relevant—to ask for now be provided by Mr Chris Bryant. [Laughter.] in these negotiations. We did not get it, so, as a result, I was not content to go ahead with the treaty. Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I think, Mr Speaker, that that was an example of irony. Mr Nigel Dodds (Belfast North) (DUP): May I, on The single most important thing that our voters have behalf of my right hon. and hon. Friends, commend the seen over the past weeks and months has been the crisis Prime Minister for the stance that he took at the European in the economies across the whole of Europe, which is Council? Indeed, his stance has been welcomed by the depressing the economy in this country as well. They First Minister and many in the community in Northern want to ensure that they have jobs to go to next year. Ireland. The question is where we go from here because Last week, the Prime Minister surrendered an opportunity there is still qualified majority voting. We can still be to do that; he surrendered his seat; and he surrendered outvoted by perhaps a vindictive Europe. Will the Prime to his Back Benchers. Is he not ashamed of himself? Minister now indicate what his next step will be to change the fundamental nature of the relationship that The Prime Minister: And it all started so well! The we currently have towards one based on co-operation hon. Gentleman is right to say that there is a crisis of and free trade and away from ever-closer political union? jobs and opportunity across Europe, and a lot of that is 531 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 532 linked to the chilling effect of the eurozone crisis. Some need, surely, is to work in parallel to ensure that we have of that crisis needs to be resolved by better fiscal outcomes that are not divergent, but deliver a strong integration, and we can argue about whether that requires pound and a strong euro. the treaty change being pushed for by France and Germany, but the real agenda—to help the eurozone The Prime Minister: I am very grateful for that question. and to help growth and jobs—is about competitiveness Of course it is important to recognise in a coalition and the single market, and about ensuring that, even in Government that both sides of that coalition cannot the short term, there is the big bazooka, the re-capitalisation always achieve everything that they want to. However, of the banks and the proper programme for Greece, it is important that we work together, and where we which are all things that Britain has been pushing for. absolutely have agreed is on the importance of a programme of getting our economy back on track. It has been of Mr William Cash (Stone) (Con): On the protection of huge benefit—and will continue to be of benefit to our the national interest, will my right hon. Friend gently country—that two parties have put their interests aside remind the Deputy Prime Minister and the Leader of to work for the common good. the Opposition that even Edward Heath’s 1970 White Paper confirmed that we have to maintain and use the Tony Lloyd (Manchester Central) (Lab): The thing veto in the national interest and to protect the fabric of that was obviously lacking last Friday was any reference the European Union—then the European Community—as to growth or any ambition to get growth in the European a whole? To adapt William Pitt’s phrase, my right hon. economy. Can the Prime Minister dispel the rumour Friend has exerted all his influence to ensure that Britain that he offered no leadership on that by telling us what is protected. Does he take it that Europe will learn from proposals he tabled on European growth? his example? The Prime Minister: I am afraid that that is completely The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s wrong. Britain has been very consistent, tabling proposal support. I agree that it is important that, when considering after proposal for growth. It is a British proposal to changing the institutions of the EU, there must be complete the single market in energy, a British proposal unanimity, and the veto is there for a purpose—if you to complete the single market in services and a British feel that the national interests are not being protected. proposal, which has just been passed, to exempt all It is important that we maintain that in the EU. micro-businesses—those with fewer than 10 employees— from future European regulation. Britain has the most Sir Stuart Bell (Middlesbrough) (Lab): The Prime pro-growth, pro-enterprise, pro-single market Government, Minister talked of us being a trading nation, of investment and that is the way it is going to stay. in jobs and of the importance of the eurozone. Why, then, did he not help the Greeks in their bail-out? Why Mr Bernard Jenkin (Harwich and North Essex) (Con): has he not supported the European financial stability May I congratulate my right hon. Friend on sticking to facility? Why is he not helping the European stability a very simple principle of fairness in the European mechanism? Building on the questions from the right Union: that the institutions for the 27 are there for the hon. and learned Member for North East Fife (Sir Menzies 27? May I also remind him and those on the Opposition Campbell) and my hon. Friend the Member for Rhondda Benches—and, indeed, the BBC—that he has the support (Chris Bryant), what specific measures can the Prime not only of the Conservative party but of the British Minister announce today to help the euro, trade, investment people for what he has just done? and jobs? The Prime Minister: I am grateful for what my hon. The Prime Minister: I respect the hon. Gentleman, Friend says. The absolute key to this issue about the who has a long track record on these issues, but on the institutions is actually what the new organisation does, Greek bail-out I am afraid I just do not support him. rather than necessarily what the institutions do. The key Britain was not in the original Greek bail-out—rightly, is to protect the single market and those things that are I think—and we should not be in subsequent Greek vital for Britain. As I keep repeating, the fact is that an bail-outs. Frankly, the last Government made a mistake organisation outside the EU treaties is not allowed to in getting us into the euro bail-out mechanism. We have cut across those treaties or the legislation under those got out of that, but that does not mean that Britain is treaties. It would be a greater danger to allow a treaty of not a generous nation that wants to help its allies. We 17 to go ahead within the EU, with all the additional have lent £5 billion to Ireland, and our economies are powers, bureaucracy and everything else that involves, very integrated. I think the Irish are doing some very unless, of course, you can get the safeguards I was difficult things to get their economy back on track, and seeking. we support them in the work they are doing. Mr David Winnick (Walsall North) (Lab): We have Several hon. Members rose— heard the Prime Minister give his account of the meeting. Can arrangements now be made urgently for the Deputy Mr Speaker: Order. I appeal again for single, short Prime Minister to explain to the House why he is very supplementary questions. much opposed to what has occurred?

Malcolm Bruce (Gordon) (LD): Given that we are The Prime Minister: Let me be clear: the negotiating facing the worst financial crisis in living memory, does approach of the Government was agreed by the the Prime Minister agree with me that the UK coalition Government before I went to Brussels, because it was Government have a policy for dealing with it and that very important to set out and agree the safeguards that unfortunately the eurozone does not? What we now we believed were necessary—I also set them out to the 533 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 534

[The Prime Minister] for Britain would be to go into a treaty, including a new treaty of the 17 at the EU level, that did not safeguard House, by the way—and that was agreed. However, it is our interests. Of course I would rather that our protocol of course important to recognise that it is no surprise had been accepted and that those protections and safeguards that Conservatives and Liberal Democrats have not had been put in place; they were not, so the greater always agreed about European integration. But, as I danger would have been to go ahead with a treaty say, we have both put aside our interest to work in the without those safeguards. national interest in having a Government who are able to clear up the mess that the hon. Gentleman’s party left. Mr Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) (Lab): Given that Britain has, or perhaps had, many natural friends and allies in Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con): If there were ever the rest of Europe, why does the Prime Minister think any doubt before, may I tell the Prime Minister that he failed to persuade a single one of them of his case? there is none today in the minds of the British people that we are led by a Prime Minister with the courage to The Prime Minister: There is great understanding of put our country’s interests first? I thank him for displaying Britain’s interests in the European Union and great the bulldog spirit in Brussels last week, but will he support for our backing of the single market, particularly discuss the long-term future of Europe with members among countries like Holland, Sweden and Germany of the European economic area and Switzerland and and the Baltic states. We have just achieved a breakthrough Turkey, which have customs union with the European deal—something the right hon. Gentleman never achieved Union, to ensure that we are all working together? in all his years in government—of a freeze in the EU budget. Britain did that by having allies and supporters The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s in the EU who backed our move. support but would repeat the point I made last Wednesday. Of course Britain has a key interest in being in the Andrea Leadsom (South Northamptonshire) (Con): European Union. I do not believe that the sort of Does the Prime Minister share my concern that Opposition options that other countries have outside the European Members just do not get it? They talk about the need to Union give them anything like the influence that we create jobs in Britain, yet they criticise him for looking have, because it is not just the markets we need open; it after Britain’s financial services that provide 11% of our is a say over the rules of those markets. That is what tax base and 2 million jobs in this country and are our membership of the single market gives us in this country. biggest net export. When are the Opposition going to understand that my right hon. Friend was standing up Mr Michael Meacher (Oldham West and Royton) for British interests? (Lab): Is it not utterly bizarre that the Prime Minister has marginalised this country and recklessly thrown The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a good away Britain’s international influence, from Washington point—that the financial services go way beyond the to Beijing, solely to protect the City from regulation City of London. As I said in my statement, 100,000 people when it is urgently in need of some regulation? In any are employed in the financial services in Birmingham, case, his veto cannot protect the banking sector from and the sector makes up 7% of UK employment; it is any future EU finance directives. Is he not therefore responsible for £1 of every £9 collected in tax, and ashamed that never before has so much been thrown 3% of our trade surplus. It is a hugely important industry. away for so little or, indeed, needlessly for almost nothing? There would be a threat if there were a treaty of the 17 in the EU without the proper safeguards; that is why The Prime Minister: The right hon. Gentleman clearly I vetoed that approach. wrote his questions before coming to the House and listening to my statement. As I set out in the statement, Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): Is this not the we were not seeking special protections for the City; we same Prime Minister who month after month has been were seeking a level playing field. Indeed, in some ways, castigating working people for not staying at meetings we were asking to be able to have more regulation here to deal with pensions? He has walked out, without in the UK, not least because of the shambles of RBS. using his veto; he has walked out, without getting a Let us be clear: the Financial Services Authority report rebate like Mrs Thatcher; and he has walked out without today names only three politicians as culpable—Tony a couple of opt-outs like Major. As Del Boy would say, Blair, the former Prime Minister and the shadow Chancellor, what a plonker! who was the man partly responsible for this complete shambles that we now have to clear up. The Prime Minister: I can absolutely assure the hon. Gentleman that I did not at any stage walk out of the Martin Horwood (Cheltenham) (LD): This morning meeting. What I did was to press Britain’s interests as a The New York Times questioned whether this country’s British Prime Minister should. interests—or, indeed, the City’s interests—were not at greater risk, following this weekend’s events. Looking Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): Now that forward, what positive reassurance can the Prime Minister the Prime Minister has cast his vote on Europe so give to potential foreign investors that we will remain at effectively in Brussels, does he think there is any chance the heart of European economic decision making? that the British people might one day have an opportunity to do something similar over here? The Prime Minister: International investors know that Britain has the advantage of being a member of the The Prime Minister: I wondered how long we would single market, but outside the eurozone and the euro. I take to reach that issue. I believe that this is the most would say to the hon. Gentleman that the greatest risk important use of a referendum: if there is a proposal for 535 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 536 this House of Commons, or any Government, to pass for what the Prime Minister had done in Brussels, but powers from this House to somewhere else, we should does he share my concern about the fact that the most ask the British people first. That, for me, in a parliamentary cowardly and negative attacks over the weekend came democracy, is the right use of a referendum. However, not from the Labour party—which is incapable of as we are not signing a treaty, I think that the whole opposition—but, unfortunately, from the Liberal issue of a referendum does not arise. Democrats? That cowardice is surpassed only by the absence of the Deputy Prime Minister from the Chamber Mike Gapes (Ilford South) (Lab/Co-op): Does the today. Prime Minister believe that if Baroness Thatcher and John Major had followed his negotiating tactics, we The Prime Minister: I am afraid that I do not agree would have had the Single European Act or the opt-outs with my hon. Friend, grateful though I am for her on Maastricht that John Major negotiated with Chancellor support. We have to recognise that we are in a coalition, Kohl? and that parties in a coalition cannot achieve all the things that they want to achieve. I think that we must The Prime Minister: The point about the Single European praise each other in the coalition when we make sacrifices Act is that it was in Britain’s interest, which is why on behalf of the country. Margaret Thatcher signed it. The Maastricht treaty was only in Britain’s interest if we could get an opt-out from The Liberal Democrats did agree to the negotiating the single European currency, and that is what John strategy that we pursued. I can be very clear: I came to Major achieved. I could not get a treaty with safeguards, the House, I said what I was going to do, and I then did so I was right to say no. what I had said I was going to do, because I could not achieve the safeguards that I wanted. That was a very Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin) (Con): I congratulate straightforward way in which to act, and, I hope, one the Prime Minister on his leadership on this issue and that every Member on this side of the House can support. on putting the British national interest first, unlike the Labour party when it was in power for 13 years. Has he Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): At what stage of seen the results of an opinion poll today, which show the negotiations did the Prime Minister realise that huge support in the country for his actions, unanimous France and Germany would do their best for us not to support among Conservative Members, and, most sign? As this is a period of Christmas cheer, can he give revealingly and interestingly, the support of 49% of us an undiplomatic reply? Liberal Democrat voters? The Prime Minister: My right hon. Friend— The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend [Interruption.] Well, we often agree. It was obviously a for his support. The key issue for me was not whether developing situation, but I had a meeting with Angela this would be popular today, tomorrow or next week, Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy before the Council began. but what was the right thing for Britain, and I judged I had been to see the German Chancellor three weeks that a treaty without safeguards was not right for Britain. before the Council, I had been to see the French President [Interruption.] For all the interruptions from Opposition a week before the Council, and I think that there was a Members, I think that until they answer the question good prospect of making an agreement. Conversations “Would you sign this treaty?”, a little bit of silence is were also held with a huge number of Finance Ministers needed. and other Government leaders. Clearly the 27 would rather have a deal at 27. They see the problems and Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green): Given difficulties of what they are proposing, but in the end that it was precisely the City of London’s deregulated they were not willing to give the safeguards—rational, recklessness that did so much to exacerbate the impact moderate, reasonable and sensible though they were—and, of the financial crisis in this country, can the Prime as a result, I think I did the right thing. Minister tell us why he persists in behaving as if the interests of the City were synonymous with the national Jacob Rees-Mogg (North East Somerset) (Con): I am interest, which they clearly are not? sure that the Prime Minister will want to know that the toast of the people in Somerset was to the pilot who The Prime Minister: I am not sure that the hon. Lady weathered the storm, because he has stood up for was listening, but the point is that there are some ways democracy, he has stood up for free trade and he has in which we actually want to regulate banks and financial stood up for free markets, and this is to be wonderfully institutions more, but are not able to because of the commended. European Union rules. Some of the other issues that I was considering were specifically about discrimination: The Prime Minister: I thank my hon. Friend for his it is quite wrong that we, as a member of the single such full-voiced support. market, are not able to deal in euros in the same way as we are able to deal in dollars and yen. Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab): The This was a very straightforward set of undertakings, Prime Minister said that he went to Europe seeking a and it was not about special protection for the City. I treaty change and, had he got that treaty change, he hope that I got that across in my statement, and I hope would have had to have held a referendum. If that is the that the hon. Lady will support us when we reach those case, can he confirm that success in his eyes would have regulations. been a referendum? If so, why does he not hold one?

Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con): Over the The Prime Minister: With huge respect to the hon. weekend it was impossible to meet a resident of Mid Lady, I think that she is wrong on both counts. I did not Bedfordshire who was not full of praise and admiration go to Brussels seeking a treaty change; the point was 537 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 538

[The Prime Minister] The Prime Minister: I think what my hon. Friend says is important. The treaties belong equally to those who that if a treaty change was put forward, there needed to are in the euro and those who are out of the euro. The be safeguards for Britain. That is the first point. The key thing is that if there are going to be further changes second point is that I did not go thinking that a treaty to those treaties—if you are going to allow the eurozone change would necessarily lead to a referendum, because members to do something within the architecture of the I was not willing to sign up to a treaty change that European Union—it is important to get safeguards for passed power from Britain to Brussels, so I am afraid those countries that are not in the euro, not going to that both parts of her question are inaccurate. I also did join the euro, want to safeguard the single market and not go to Brussels with an impossibly long list of recognise that there is a potential threat to financial demands because of pressure or anything else; I went to services. That is what we were about in Brussels and Brussels with a set of proposals that were modest, that is what matters. reasonable and relevant. Several hon. Members rose— Nicholas Soames (Mid Sussex) (Con): Will my right hon. Friend reassure successful, outward-looking businesses in Mid Sussex, some of which are understandably anxious Mr Speaker: Order. Once again, I appeal to Members about the consequences of what may flow from this to help each other by being brief. weekend, that what the United Kingdom seeks is an adaptable, flexible and competitive EU, and that we will Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab): Given the current continue to play a full and creative role in Europe, as economic crisis in Europe, does the Prime Minister well as fortifying our important, substantial bilateral believe that the Europe 2020 strategy still has a future as relations elsewhere? a successor to the Lisbon benchmarks, and is he confident that we will achieve those shared goals? The Prime Minister: I agree wholeheartedly with what my right hon. Friend says and I will reassure those The Prime Minister: The short answer is that the 2020 businesses. The absolutely key thing is that the single strategy needs to have a future and we must encourage market, which is fully protected by the European European Union countries to spend more time focusing Commission, the European Court of Justice and all the on what really drives growth, which is completing the institutions of the EU, is unchanged. We have full single market, rather than some of these initiatives membership of those treaties and of that organisation, on medium-term fiscal austerity and big transfers of and because the other EU members are going for a sovereignty. I know that they are important—and treaty outside the EU, that protection will remain. I particularly important for some in the EU—but real would say to those businesses that not only do we growth will be driven through the single market. maintain the single market, but we will keep up the pressure for something else they need, which is a more Steve Brine (Winchester) (Con): May I remind the fundamental solution to the crisis affecting the eurozone. Prime Minister that we on these Benches and the vast majority of the British people support what he did last Mr Elfyn Llwyd (Dwyfor Meirionnydd) (PC): The week and are very glad that it was this party leader and UK is 90,000 square miles in area, but the Prime this party leader alone who was speaking up for Britain Minister seems to think that only one square mile is of at this summit? Does he agree with one of his predecessors? any importance. May I put it to him that his colleague—the She said: self-styled “pragmatic revolutionary”—the Deputy Prime “Europe is strongest when it grows through willing co-operation Minister was heavily supportive of the Prime Minister and practical measures, not compulsion or bureaucratic dreams.”— on Thursday and Friday, but was yesterday condemning [Official Report, 22 November 1990; Vol. 181, c. 451.] him? Does the Prime Minister have any idea what he is thinking now? The Prime Minister: I am very grateful for my hon. Friend’s support. The point I made in my statement The Prime Minister: On the issue of financial services, about Europe being a network, not a bloc, is completely this is not about just one square mile of the United consistent with that. We should not be shy about its Kingdom. I think of people working in the financial developing as a network, with some networks we want services industry in Cardiff, and I think of banks, to be in and others we do not. building societies and insurance businesses right across Wales. They need to know that there is fair regulation within the EU and they want those safeguards too. It is Frank Dobson (Holborn and St Pancras) (Lab): Will not just about those industries on their own; it is about the Prime Minister confirm that British banks and the support they give to the other industries as well. finance houses hold about £75 billion of bonds issued by eurozone Governments and that in the event of a Conor Burns (Bournemouth West) (Con): May I add default, with nobody representing Britain, he will still my words of support for the Prime Minister, who at the be expected to get the British taxpayer to bail some of weekend kept faith with this House and, more importantly, them out? with the country? Can he confirm that, as the Foreign Secretary said yesterday, the existing treaties of the The Prime Minister: The exposure of the British European Union belong to all 27 member states and banks to European countries is published by the Bank that there can be no question of the eurozone countries of England—quite right, too—and obviously we want having recourse to the institutions, mechanisms and to avoid a collapse of the eurozone and to ensure that it procedures of those treaties? takes the necessary steps to prevent that from happening. 539 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 540

This Government will obviously always do whatever is concessions to the lickspittle Eurofanatics on the Lib necessary to safeguard our financial system and the Dem Benches as a result of doing the right thing for economy. Britain last week?

Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): Against the The Prime Minister: I am always grateful for my hon. odds, an excellent deal on climate change was agreed in Friend’s support but he tends to take it just a little too Durban this weekend, with the UK playing a leading far. The coalition is right for Britain and I want it to go role alongside our EU counterparts. Would the Prime on working for the good of Britain. We have to recognise Minister reflect on whether such constructive and positive that that sometimes means we cannot get the things we diplomacy might be a better approach to securing British want. interests than rushing for the exit? Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): Will the Prime Minister The Prime Minister: I certainly agree that the Durban explain specifically what safeguards are in place today outcome is worth while and it is a staging post towards for the City of London and British interests that were another global deal, which is very worth while. I am not in place last week? afraid I do not see any contradiction between being incredibly positive and constructive and having a bottom The Prime Minister: Clearly, if we had been able to line. When you have a bottom line, it is quite important achieve the protocol on financial services there would that you stick to it. have been greater safeguards, but the safeguard we do have is that we are not signing up to a treaty that could have put that industry in danger. Hugh Bayley (York Central) (Lab): Over the years to come, as a result of the Prime Minister’s decisions, Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): I congratulate my economic and financial power will inevitably drain away right hon. Friend on his bold and courageous stance in from London to Frankfurt. How is that in the interests the early hours of the morning last Friday and I should of British manufacturing or British financial services? like to pass on the thanks that many of my constituents have expressed to me over the weekend. Will he confirm The Prime Minister: This is exactly the argument that that of the nations at the European Council that did was made about the euro. I remember it very well. sign up to an agreement, the Parliaments of Bulgaria, People said that if we did not join the euro, Frankfurt Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania and others would be the major financial centre of Europe and not such as Hungary still need to approve and ratify it? Britain. Frankly, it was scaremongering then and is scaremongering now—from the same people. The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a very good point. We do not yet know exactly how the new Mr David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) (Con): organisation and treaty will develop or how many countries I welcome the Prime Minister’s statement and his standing will sign up to it. There will then be a huge process up for British interests, which I am sure will be widely involving very detailed scrutiny by and punishment supported across the whole country. Does my right hon. from the European Commission if Governments draw Friend remember the words of the former Prime Minister, up inappropriate budgets or have a structural deficit of Tony Blair, after a confrontation with Europe, when he greater than 0.5%. Labour left us a structural deficit said: of—what was it?—7% or 8%? There are big processes to “If we are isolated and we are in the right, then that’s the go through before the treaty is either finalised in March correct position” or implemented, for which it will again have to be put to to be in? Would he not agree? Parliaments and, possibly, even to referendums as well. There are many hoops to go through. The Prime Minister: Yes. Austin Mitchell (Great Grimsby) (Lab): I am not going to criticise the Prime Minister for using his veto Malcolm Wicks (Croydon North) (Lab): Is this the because that job can safely be left to his Liberal Democrat first case in recorded history of a proud premiership colleagues who are hawking their consciences around team relegating itself to a second division, cheered on the media. Surely, however, he would have done better by the new English Tea party? to use the big bazooka later when the undemocratic and deflationary consequences of this Merkozy diktat became The Prime Minister: Again, this is the same argument clear, because at that stage he would have had lots of that we had at the time of the debate about whether allies, which he should have had now and used now. Britain should join the euro and it is largely the same people making it. They were in favour of it and felt that The Prime Minister: The hon. Gentleman makes an not joining the euro meant relegating oneself to the interesting argument. There are big questions to answer second division. Frankly, I am glad that Britain is out of for the countries that are signing this. I think you have the euro. We are able to set our own interest rates and to have that sort of fiscal co-ordination with a single make our own decisions for the benefit of our economy currency—he and I probably agree that that is one of here in Britain and we are better off because of it. It is many reasons why we should not join a single currency. the same arguments from the same people; they were My job at that European Council was to stand up for wrong then and they are wrong now. Britain’s interests and that is what I did.

Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): The Prime Minister Mr David Nuttall (Bury North) (Con): I welcome the should be in doubt that he did the right thing last week. stance taken by the Prime Minister. Given that the Will he confirm that he will not make any further policy other members of the European Union refused to agree 541 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 542

[Mr David Nuttall] Sir Robert Smith (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) (LD): In Aberdeen in the north-east of Scotland and in even to the very modest proposals that he put forward, Norway, there is considerable concern that the draft what chance is there of their ever agreeing to allow this regulations on offshore drilling for oil and gas threaten country to regain control over such matters as those the gold safety standard achieved in the North sea. Will covered by, for example, the working time directive? what happened last week make it easier or more difficult to get the qualified minority necessary to make sure The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s that those regulations are withdrawn and a directive is question, but I am not as pessimistic as he is that there used as a means of implementing them? is no prospect of rebalancing powers within the European Union. There are possibilities and opportunities. We The Prime Minister: I do not think what happened did that in terms of the bail-out fund and I think there last week will have any impact on that decision because will be opportunities in future. these are issues that are dealt with properly in the single market, and an organisation set up outside the EU Stewart Hosie (Dundee East) (SNP): The concordat cannot cut across existing treaties or existing legislation. on the co-ordination of European Union policy is very We should work very hard to make sure we get a good clear—it requires the UK Government to engage with deal for the North sea. the devolved Governments in the formulation of UK policy, but that clearly did not happen on this occasion. Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North) (Lab): The great former How will the Prime Minister now explain to Cardiff, Labour politicians Peter Shore and Bryan Gould both Belfast and Edinburgh that adopting an isolationist said that the single currency would fail, and they have policy and abdicating all leadership is anything other been proved absolutely right. Does the Prime Minister than damaging and dangerous? accept that the choice is between a controlled deconstruction of the euro or an uncontrolled crash, and will he make this point to his European colleagues? The Prime Minister: I do not accept that. In the final analysis, our relations with the European Union are a reserved issue for the UK Parliament and the UK The Prime Minister: What I would say to the hon. Government. To be fair to this Government, we have Gentleman is that “I told you so” is not an economic gone further than any previous Government on the policy. I have every sympathy with what he says. I have issues that really matter to people in Scotland—about never supported Britain joining the euro because a the single market, fisheries and decisions taken within the single currency implies a single economic policy and a European Union—to work very constructively with the single fiscal policy, and trying to run those things across other Administrations. different democracies is so incredibly difficult. That is what they are struggling with, but if I am asked what is Britain’s interest today, I would say that it is for the Elizabeth Truss (South West Norfolk) (Con): Does eurozone to sort out its problems. A break-up of the the Prime Minister agree that Britain’s influence in the eurozone would have very severe consequences for banks world is dependent on our economic strength, our across Europe and also for banks here in Britain, and productivity and our competitiveness, and that we should could trigger some very, very difficult economic times. not trade away these valuable assets? In spite of what the hon. Gentleman says, we should be working constructively to encourage eurozone countries The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important to do what is necessary, particularly in the short term, point. Every country in Europe is challenged at present to stabilise a difficult situation. in relation to its economy, and it is very important to make sure that we are safeguarding Britain’s interest, Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): May staying in the single market, seeking extra safeguards I warmly congratulate the Prime Minister on standing for finance and other industry, and making sure we can up for British interests last week and on refusing to take grow out of this crisis. the approach of Labour, who signed away £7 billion of British rebate for nothing in return? Kate Hoey (Vauxhall) (Lab): The Prime Minister must know that right across the UK, the majority of the The Prime Minister: I thank my hon. Friend for his public and—dare I say it on the Opposition Benches?—the support. What we do not know is what the Opposition’s majority of Labour voters support what the Prime approach is to this issue. Despite all the fury we have Minister has done. He knows that that is the reality. heard from those on the Opposition Benches, they Does he agree that instead of seeing ourselves isolated cannot tell us whether they support the treaty proposal in Europe, what the public want to see now is our or not. looking to be much more internationalist and less little Europeanist? Stephen Timms (East Ham) (Lab): Britain will continue to be subject to EU single market financial services The Prime Minister: I have great sympathy with what regulation. Do we not now have a major problem in the hon. Lady says. What it requires is both action that we will be absent when many of those rules are within Europe on issues that matter to us, such as the drawn up? single market, and a recognition that we should be refreshing and restoring our links with other parts of The Prime Minister: That is absolutely not the case the world, whether it is the Gulf, the Commonwealth because this new organisation cannot draw up or pass or the fast-growing countries of south-east Asia. This proposals that cut across EU treaties or EU legislation. Government are committed to doing all those things. The right hon. Gentleman knows this well. It is the case 543 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 544 that Britain has suffered from some of the regulation The Prime Minister: As ever, I am grateful for her that has come out of Brussels on financial services, and support. that we need greater safeguards. If we cannot get those safeguards within a treaty, it is better that those countries Mr Wayne David (Caerphilly) (Lab): Is it correct that are in a separate treaty. That is a better safeguard than the Deputy Prime Minister said that he is not here the alternative, and that is the point that he needs to because he does not want to be a distraction? understand. Gavin Barwell (Croydon Central) (Con): The Leader The Prime Minister: The point is that the Deputy of the Opposition’s argument that one should never Prime Minister and I agreed the negotiating strategy for leave an empty seat at the table is surely a criticism of the European Council, and that is important because it the previous Government’s failure to join the euro. was the whole Government who were doing it at the Council. [HON.MEMBERS: “What?”] There has been an empty seat at the table ever since we did not join the euro. Does my right hon. Friend agree that somebody who is never Greg Mulholland (Leeds North West) (LD): The Prime prepared to disagree with our European friends, even Minister was negotiating as the Prime Minister of the when that is in British interests, is not fit to hold the coalition Government. Does he agree that now is not office of Prime Minister? the time to listen to either those who say that we should leave the EU, or those who say that we should push into The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s political and fiscal union, and can he tell the British support. His point about the creation of the euro being people that he will stick to the coalition policies and get the fundamental moment that created these tensions in the economy back on its feet? Europe is entirely right. The previous Government’s position was that they wanted to get us into the euro, The Prime Minister: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman but they realised that that was not possible. I think that and absolutely confirm that that is the case. The coalition that is still their policy. It was the creation of the euro is united in wanting to have growth policies across that fundamentally changed the relationship in Europe, Europe and in promoting the single market in a very but even they decided that it was okay for eurozone active way, and I can guarantee that we will continue to countries to meet on their own. That is not being do that. isolated; it is recognising the reality that Britain does not want to be in the euro, so we cannot stop the Meg Hillier (Hackney South and Shoreditch) (Lab/ meeting going ahead. Co-op): The Prime Minister had the opportunity to Mr Kevin Barron (Rother Valley) (Lab): Given that visit Feltham and Heston last week and arrived late at last Thursday was not about joining the euro but about the European summit. How many leaders of the 26 other protecting the interests of the euro as a currency and, EU member states did he speak with in the fortnight therefore, the interests of our national economy, as the before the summit? Prime Minister has said this afternoon and on several occasions over the past few weeks, why has he walked The Prime Minister: First, I went to Feltham and away from such a responsible position and allowed our Heston because I do not believe in the normal chicken economy potentially to be attacked if there is no success theory that Prime Ministers should stay away from in looking after the interests of the euro? We did it with by-elections, so I am proud to have gone. I spoke to a Ireland, and rightly so, so why are we not looking at wide audience of DHL employees who live in the taking action more widely to protect the interests of constituency and encouraged them to vote Conservative this country? before Christmas. After that, I popped in to see my son’s nativity play, which was also a rare joy. I got to the The Prime Minister: What we did with Ireland, as a European Council some time before it started and met very close neighbour, long-standing friend and integrated the Italian Prime Minister, the French President and the economy, was give it a bilateral loan, which was the German Prime Minister. In addition, I had had a series right thing to do. I do not accept that the proposal put of telephone calls with the Dutch Prime Minister, the forward on Thursday night and Friday morning is the Swedish Prime Minister and many others besides. I am most important part of delivering a successful euro. We sure that the hon. Lady understands—it is called multi- need to spend more time on the single market, on tasking. competitiveness and on short-term measures to stabilise the eurozone. I simple do not believe that whether a Geoffrey Clifton-Brown (The Cotswolds) (Con): My treaty is within or without the EU will make a huge right hon. Friend had no option but to use his veto, if difference to the future of the euro. British interests were to be protected. Does he agree that the euro sovereign debt crisis is still the most Several hon. Members rose— important threat to us all and that that is what our Mr Speaker: Order. Short, single-sentence questions eurozone partners ought to be concentrating on, rather and the Prime Minister’s characteristically pithy replies than unwanted treaty changes? would enable me to get in all Members who are still standing. I ask them to help me to help them. The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a very good point. I quite understand why particularly the Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): I have received Germans want this fiscal union and want tougher rules an important message to pass on to the Prime Minister: because they do not want to see irresponsible behaviour “The efforts of the Prime Minister on Thursday night repeat itself. One can debate whether that actually requires gave me great pleasure. Yours ever, Mrs Bone.” change in the treaty or not, but we have to spend more 545 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 546

[The Prime Minister] constituencies such as mine rely directly on the EU and on Britain being at the centre of the EU. Now that we time on the other parts of solving the crisis, which are no longer at the table, who is going to stand up for are to do with short-term changes and longer-term those jobs? competitiveness. The Prime Minister: I say to the hon. Lady, first, that Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op): The the RBS report reminds us of the terrible effect on the Prime Minister is aware that this situation represents rest of the economy when the banking system goes one of the most fundamental changes in our national wrong because it is not regulated properly, so there is a politics and in European politics. Will he assure the very important connection. Secondly, other businesses House that in all his future negotiations he will be require us to safeguard the single market, and that is mindful to look after not just financial services but the exactly what I did. manufacturing sector and other service industries that do not have a part to play in the City of London? Mike Weatherley (Hove) (Con): Given that we are the The Prime Minister: I completely agree with the hon. second-largest contributor to Europe, does the Prime Gentleman. I do not see financial services on their own, Minister agree that without our contribution Europe because they obviously have a role in supporting the would fail? rest of the economy. The key in terms of Europe for the rest of the economy is the single market, and that is The Prime Minister: It does mean that we have a huge what we are determined to safeguard. amount of influence in the EU, and that we do drive, particularly in the area of single-market policies. My Chris Heaton-Harris (Daventry) (Con): The UK wields hon. Friend makes the point that we have to ensure that its influence in the EU in many different ways, and our we get value for money, however, and that is why I am net contribution to the EU in 2010-11 was £9.2 billion. so keen that we manage to achieve a freeze in the EU We are the second-largest net contributor, so perhaps budget this year. we could become a little more like the unions with Labour and demand a little more influence for our Gregg McClymont (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and money. Kirkintilloch East) (Lab): There is great concern throughout the business community about the implications of the The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a good Prime Minister’s walk-out from the European summit. point, which is that we are a major player in the European Will he reassure the House that the uncertainty caused Union, not least because we are the second-largest net by that decision will not impact upon real jobs in the contributor, which gives us a huge amount of influence. real economy of the United Kingdom? We have safeguarded the European Union and its treaties— not allowing them to be changed if we were not able to The Prime Minister: I can certainly give the hon. get the safeguards that we needed. Gentleman that assurance, because we can say to international investors, to businesses looking at Britain, Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): Does the Prime “Youhave all the advantages of the single market—access Minister know the whereabouts of the Deputy Prime to Europe’s markets—but we are not in the eurozone. Minister; and will their tiff lead to separation and divorce? Of course, we are affected by what happens in the eurozone, but our interests are just over 2%, whereas The Prime Minister: No. countries in the eurozone with budget deficits like ours have interest rates more like 5%, 6%, 7%.” David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con): I should like to pass on the hugs, best wishes and kisses from people in Macclesfield, who are very grateful for the stance that Margot James (Stourbridge) (Con): Is my right hon. the Prime Minister took last week. Under the previous Friend aware of the words this morning of Chancellor Government, from 2005 the burden of EU regulation Merkel’s spokesperson on last week’s vote? He said that cost British businesses billions of pounds each year. “this changes absolutely nothing of the fact that Britain is one of What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to reduce, our closest partners and one of our most important allies and rather than increase, the burden of EU regulation? friends… We want to make the single market a joint success, and that is something for which we have Britain on our side… Britain thus remains a very important partner for Germany.” The Prime Minister: I am grateful for that question. We are working extremely hard, particularly in the area Does my right hon. Friend not share my surprise that if of the single market, to encourage the Commission, the German Chancellor can accept that it is perfectly which is now looking at reducing the burden of the possible to stand up for one’s national interest and be a regulation that it passes and, specifically, the burden of good European, that fact should elude the Opposition? regulation on businesses that employ fewer than 10 people. We have for the first time secured the idea of a moratorium: The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes a very there will not be more regulations on them in the good point. That leads to something else, which is that coming years. the countries that are like-minded on single-market issues—Holland, Germany, Sweden, the Baltic states—want Pat Glass (North West Durham) (Lab): May I remind Britain to be there when we are discussing single-market the Prime Minister that it is the jobs of not just the issues. That is another reason I do not believe that this banks and the City of London which matter here? separate treaty and separate organisation will cut across Millions of jobs throughout the country and in the single market. 547 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 548

Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): For the sake of Europe would not be in the economic and political clarity, can the Prime Minister tell the House where the mess that it is in now if we had not had to wait nearly Deputy Prime Minister is and why he is not here for this 40 years before a British Prime Minister came back and extremely important statement? said that he or she had used the veto. Can the Prime Minister tell us how, and when, he is going to repatriate The Prime Minister: The Deputy Prime Minister some of the powers that have been so carelessly given agreed to the negotiating strategy. I am not responsible away? for his whereabouts, but I am sure he is working extremely hard. The Prime Minister: I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman’s support. As I said, we have brought back Mr John Baron (Basildon and Billericay) (Con): The the bail-out power. We have prevented Britain from Prime Minister’s veto has rightly struck a chord with joining this treaty without the safeguards. I believe the nation. May I suggest that instead of this being the there will be opportunities in the future. There are end of the affair, it should be the start of a process to areas, particularly in terms of costly regulation, where recalibrate our relationship with the EU based on free Britain has paid a high price for European regulation, trade and growth and not on political union and regulation, and we should use future opportunities to act on that. which has cost this country so much? Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): I bring some grandfatherly The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s advice to the proceedings. I urge the Prime Minister to support. Our position is that we want to get the best out let the dust settle, keep calm and carry on carefully, but of Europe for Britain. That means a focus, yes, on the please to abandon the Carlos Tevez approach to Europe. single market, but it is not purely about a focus on Bridges need to be built, and the first bridge the Prime trade—it is about recognising that that market is not Minister can build is to get Tory MEPs to rejoin the just open for our goods but that we have a say in setting group of mainstream European conservatives. the rules. That is absolutely key to our national interest. The Prime Minister: I am very grateful for the Paul Blomfield (Sheffield Central) (Lab): What will grandfatherly advice. I remember the advice that the the Prime Minister say to those leaders of the manufacturing hon. Gentleman used to give me when we both cycled in sector who believe that his actions have deeply undermined to the House of Commons many years ago, so I will their interests? They include Ian Rodgers, the director take it carefully on board. I will also take away the of UK Steel, who said today that Carlos Tevez reference and give it a bit of thought. “we are going to become less relevant in political decision-making”. Karl Turner (Kingston upon Hull East) (Lab): It is becoming increasingly obvious to everyone that the Lib The Prime Minister: I do not agree with that. A lot of Dem partners in this coalition are completely pointless. these arguments were made when Britain did not join As the Prime Minister does not know the whereabouts the euro. A number of organisations, media outlets and, of his deputy, will he assure the House and Mrs Clegg indeed, political parties and political leaders said, “If that he will send out a search party to look for him? you stay out of the euro, you’ll marginalise Britain and it’ll be bad for our economy.” That was not the case. They were wrong then, and I think they are wrong now. The Prime Minister: Did the hon. Gentleman really wait one hour and 34 minutes for that? I am keen to hold on to the rebate and I think that his constituents Dan Byles (North Warwickshire) (Con): Most post-treaty might want a rebate as well. analysis has focused on the use of the veto, but can the Prime Minister confirm that the detail of the fiscal union proposed by the rest of the European Union Mr Sam Gyimah (East Surrey) (Con): We are hearing would, quite remarkably, render the Opposition party’s from outside the House an answer that the Leader of entire economic policy illegal? the Opposition would not give on whether he would have signed the treaty last Thursday. His aides are saying that he would not have signed it. Will the Prime The Prime Minister: That is a very good point. We Minister press him further to give us an answer on know that the leader of the Labour party is committed whether he would have signed the treaty? to joining the euro, if he is Prime Minister for long enough. At the same time, if he supported this treaty—but The Prime Minister: I am very grateful to my hon. frankly we have not heard today whether he is for it or Friend for looking at Twitter or whatever else it is that against it—and joined this treaty he would make his the Leader of the Opposition now uses. I gather that it own policy illegal and he would be fined by the European is possible for the Leader of the Opposition to come Commission for the policies that the shadow Chancellor, back on that. Perhaps he can confirm whether he would who I see is now not here either, has signed him up to. have signed the treaty. I am happy to give him a few more minutes if we get a bit of clarity. Graham Stringer (Blackley and Broughton) (Lab) rose—[Interruption.] Mr Speaker: I think that the sensible approach, in conformity with convention, is to stick to questions to Mr Speaker: Order. The House will want, without and answers from the Prime Minister in this Chamber. exception, I hope, to hear Mr Graham Stringer. Bill Esterson (Sefton Central) (Lab): In the words of Graham Stringer: Thank you, Mr Speaker. one business leader today, 549 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 550

[Bill Esterson] Mr Ronnie Campbell (Blyth Valley) (Lab): How many countries outside the European Union have free trade “Margaret Thatcher was a constant thorn in the side of European agreements with it? leaders, but she never vacated the negotiating table; I am anxious by the implications of what the prime minister has done.” The Prime Minister: There is a growing number, with When will the Prime Minister give business in this countries such as Mexico, and now we have the Korea country the reassurance that it needs about the impact free trade agreement. I am very keen to try to finalise that his walking away will have on jobs and the economy? the Japan free trade agreement. Huge effort should be made to have such treaties, because they are good for The Prime Minister: I think that business does understand both sides. that we must be in the European Union for trade, growth and jobs, and that our membership of the single Alun Cairns (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con): May I pay market is key. However, there is a lot of damaging tribute to the Prime Minister for his practical approach regulation coming from Brussels and we need to stand to the negotiations last week? May I also say that his up to that. When new treaties are suggested that involve practical, obvious negotiating style now seems to be huge fiscal changes and other changes in the European supported by the Leader of the Opposition, whose Union, it is right that Britain should seek safeguards. I aides are briefing the press that he would not have am not hearing the same message from business that the signed the agreement, in the same way that the Prime hon. Gentleman is hearing. Minister did not?

Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands) (Con): We The Prime Minister: Ah. Either the Leader of the have heard much this afternoon about the number of Opposition has no control over his aides, who are people who are employed in financial services. More randomly briefing the press about his position, or he than 2,000 of those jobs are located in my constituency failed to tell the House, in his minutes and minutes of of Staffordshire Moorlands. Can the Prime Minister speaking, that he would not have signed the treaty. If reassure those employees that the action that he took you would have signed it, you can say I made the wrong last week was in their interests and that it will safeguard decision, but if you would not, you will have to accept their jobs and not put them at unnecessary risk? that I made the right decision. You either have to have the courage of your convictions or give an answer. The Prime Minister: I can certainly do that. My hon. Friend makes the important point that this is an industry Jonathan Ashworth (Leicester South) (Lab): Will the that is based around the country and not just in London. Prime Minister confirm that his veto does nothing to However, the protections of the single market go far strengthen financial services in the way that he would beyond the financial services industry. want? Now that he has adopted a position of isolation, does he think he is more or less likely to win those Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): The Prime Minister has safeguards in the future? likened his experience of EU negotiations to playing chess against 26 different people. Will he therefore tell The Prime Minister: The key safeguard that we did us what attempts he has made to build alliances with get was against a treaty without proper protections and countries that have similar views to the UK, which safeguards for the single market. It was in Britain’s could have played with him rather than against him? interest to do that, and that is what the hon. Gentleman needs to understand. The Prime Minister: Year after year, Ministers have had to stand at this Dispatch Box and apologise as Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) the EU budget has gone up by 3%, 4%, 5% or more, (LD): After last week’s isolation, can the Prime Minister because it is decided by qualified majority voting. I put confirm that he still agrees fully with the words of the together a qualified majority bloc so that we could get a coalition agreement that real-terms freeze in the budget. There was help from “Britain should play a leading role” Germany, France, Sweden and Holland. That is exactly the sort of constructive role that we play. and be “a positive participant in the European Union”, Mrs Anne Main (St Albans) (Con): I am pleased that and that in that way we will help solve the economic we have a Chancellor who understands that we need to crisis and bring growth and jobs to the United Kingdom? take tight control of the fiscal reins of this country and that we have a Prime Minister who understand the The Prime Minister: I completely agree with that. We difficult questions that need to be asked. I am surprised are members of the European Union, and that membership that we have a Leader of the Opposition who does not has not changed, nor have the treaties that govern the understand any of that and who cannot make his mind single market. up. May I ask, with all humility, when the great British public will have the chance to have a say on Europe? Alex Cunningham (Stockton North) (Lab): We all know that an ill-prepared Prime Minister failed to build The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend the alliances and friendships to ensure that Britain’s for her support. I have given my answer on a referendum. best interests were protected in Europe last week. What I think that there is a role for referendums in a parliamentary will he be doing on his days off, when the leaders of the democracy, but that comes at the moment when a other 26 EU nations are sitting around a table, working Government or a Parliament proposes to give up power, hard and discussing economics that affect countries rather than at other times. both inside and outside the eurozone? 551 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 552

The Prime Minister: What I will be doing is sorting May I ask the Prime Minister why it was better to out the mess that the hon. Gentleman’s party left when placate his Back Benchers than stay in the room, stand it left office. up and fight for British interests?

Chris Kelly (Dudley South) (Con): My right hon. The Prime Minister: There are two points. First, the Friend might be interested to hear that I have recently FSA mentions only three politicians, one of whom is visited businesses in Dudley South that are now exporting the shadow Chancellor. On placating people, if the hon. to markets such as Mexico, Brazil and the far east. Gentleman casts his mind back to last Wednesday, he Given the decline of the European Union’s share of will find that I was not particularly placating anybody world GDP and world trade over the past decade, does with the moderate and reasonable requests I was making he agree that we need to ensure that we have robust of the European Union. It was leadership on behalf of relationships with the rising powers in Asia and south Britain, not any one part of it. America as much as with the declining powers in the EU? Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con): My right hon. Friend will be aware that he has the overwhelming The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is right. What support of my constituents from across the political we want to have is the best of both worlds. We want to spectrum. If we are to safeguard jobs and expand the have the single market in Europe and use it to drive free economy, we must be equally robust in all our EU trade deals with countries in south and central America negotiations. He will know that the common fisheries and the far east, so that we maximise trade for Britain, policy adversely affects my constituency. Will he assure Europe and the world. my constituents that his colleagues will follow his lead when negotiating on that matter? Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab/ Co-op): Is it not more likely than not that the 26 member The Prime Minister: I know how important the cod states other than Britain will increasingly agree among issue is to my hon. Friend’s constituents and people themselves courses of action on financial services, the right across that region. I will ensure that Ministers in single market and other matters, and that even if Britain the coalition Government stand up for our fishermen. still has the right to oppose them in the full EU, it will not be able to stand out against 26 countries that have effectively agreed a position among themselves? Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): The Prime Minister has stated that he wanted to deal at the level of 27 nations. Why, then, did he end up having bilateral The Prime Minister: The new organisation outside discussions with just three? the EU cannot draw up or implement agreements on financial services or other things that have an impact on the single market. Those things have to be done through The Prime Minister: The point is that it is quite clear the Single Market Council. Of course there will always that when it came to the issue of wanting a change to be difficulties at that Council, where frankly my right the treaty—[HON.MEMBERS: “Answer!”] I am answering hon. Friend the Chancellor has to fight Britain’s corner the question very directly. It was clear that the Germans very hard, but the danger for us was allowing the treaty and the French were leading the charge on wanting a of the 17 to come into the EU without proper safeguards. change to the treaty, so it was very important to have That is why we behaved as we did. discussions with them, but I also had discussions with the Dutch, the Swedish, the Irish and many others. Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) (Con): Is my right hon. Friend aware that François Hollande, the front-runner Nadhim Zahawi (Stratford-on-Avon) (Con): May I for the French presidency in next year’s elections, has add my support to the Prime Minister and to the said that if elected he will tear up the accord because it coalition Government for taking a tough decision under is not right for France? Does that not suggest that there difficult circumstances? Will he confirm that over and are socialists who appreciate it when Britain stands up above our contribution to the EU, we buy more from for herself? Sadly, they are not our socialists. Europe than we export to it? The difference is about £100 billion in product, which the eurozone will need at the moment to help it out of its crisis. The Prime Minister: I do not want to get drawn into the French election campaign, because despite reports to the contrary I am still on extremely good terms with The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important my friend Nicolas Sarkozy, as the Libya campaign point. We have a large trade deficit with Europe, apart proved. I will say one thing: at least the Opposition from in one area: financial services. Frankly, I wish our leader in France has told us what he thinks. I can see the economy was more rebalanced. We are aiming to rebalance Opposition Front Benchers tweeting, blogging and poking it, but it is important in the meantime that we recognise for all they are worth, but they still do not have a policy. realities.

Gordon Banks (Ochil and South Perthshire) (Lab): Mr William Bain (Glasgow North East) (Lab): Successful The Prime Minister has referred to today’s Financial completion of the single market could add 7% to UK Services Authority announcement, and I have to say gross domestic product. After Thursday’s summit and that he has selective memory loss, because it was he who the Prime Minister’s policy of isolation, does he believe was calling for less and lighter-touch regulation of our that he has more or fewer allies in Europe for something financial services when he was in opposition. that is vital to our national interest? 553 EU Council12 DECEMBER 2011 EU Council 554

The Prime Minister: We have huge amounts of allies Mr Speaker: Order. I simply say—[Interruption.] and support for action on the single market. If the hon. Order. I am perfectly capable of handling these matters Gentleman looks at what has happened in the past myself. If I wanted help, I certainly would not ask Back 18 months, he will see that there have been more positive Benchers of any party, or anybody else for that matter. steps taken by the European Commission on the single I simply say to the hon. Gentleman that he asked his market than there have been for the past 10 yeas or question earlier, and it was perfectly in order for him to more. If we look at what is happening on the services do so, but we are here discussing the European summit directive, energy, small business, we see that the penny and the Prime Minister’s statement on it. The hon. has finally dropped that Europe has a role, but it needs Gentleman is an ingenious fellow— to be about deregulation. That is no coincidence. One reason is that of the 27 countries sitting around the Ian Austin rose— table, only four are run by socialists. Mr Speaker: Order. I am being helpful to the hon. Dr Thérèse Coffey (Suffolk Coastal) (Con): Many Gentleman. I have known him since we were at university jobs in Suffolk rely on a fair, level playing field in the together 29 years ago, and I have probably forgotten single market. If last Friday morning was not the time more about him than he knew in the first place. I am to stand up for British interests, when is? being kind to him and he has said enough for today. He can use other methods to get his point across, and I am The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is right. Institutional sure that he will. arrangements and treaty arrangements in the EU must be agreed by unanimity. If anyone is not content with Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con): It is only the what is being put forward, it is perfectly acceptable to tough action taken by my right hon. Friend’s Government do what I did and say, “I am not happy to go ahead with to tackle our own deficit that has made us a safe haven the treaty without these safeguards.” in Europe and given us a choice last week. Is it not the case that if we had followed the economic policies Toby Perkins (Chesterfield) (Lab): The Prime Minister advocated by the Opposition, it would not be the eurozone has heard from Members on both sides of the House asking us for help, but us going to beg Europe to bail about the worries of manufacturing industry. Will he us out? say specifically which exporting firms think that his actions last week will make exports easier rather than The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend makes an important harder—which ones have come out and supported his point. At the last election, British and Greek interest move? rates were pretty much equivalent at about 4.5% and we had similar sized deficits. What has happened since is a The Prime Minister: Frankly, I have found huge support huge increase in Greek interest rates and a decline in from the business community for what I have said—and British interest rates, partly because we have a plan—and that spans a huge number of different industries. Many have shown that we have a plan—to deal with our debts industries are asking what we will do about the problem and our deficit. of excessive regulation. That should be dealt with through the single market, which we will continue to do. Esther McVey (Wirral West) (Con): The Populus poll reported today shows that only 14% of the public Mr Robert Buckland (South Swindon) (Con): As opposed the Prime Minister’s actions. Does that not someone who has long advocated a positive role for show that Members on this side of the House are totally Britain in Europe, may I welcome my right hon. Friend’s in touch with public opinion and the Opposition are decision on Friday as the right one for this country? not? Will he further commit the Government to carry on engaging strongly with our European partners to ensure The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend more jobs and growth in the single market? for that point. What I also noticed from that poll, which says that more than 50% support what we have done The Prime Minister: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s and—as she says—14% are against, is that the leader of support. I have spoken to a number of people over the the Labour party does have a constituency of opinion last few days, in my party and others, who have a long among the people who have not made up their minds. history of supporting Britain’s membership of the EU and who think that what I did was right. Of course we David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): need to engage, and in terms of the single market we May I congratulate the Prime Minister on the strength need to make that engagement even more powerful in he has shown in leading this country? The tabloid press the weeks and months ahead. But it was right, on this says that £40 billion would have gone over to Europe, or occasion, to say no to this treaty. £642 for every man, woman and child in this country. I thank the Prime Minister for stopping that happening, Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): There is one member and will he point out to the Leader of the Opposition—who of the Government who does not seem to share his now says that he would not have signed the treaty—that colleagues’ antipathy for all things European, but after instead of being cast adrift on the waves of the Atlantic, sitting through and paying for a dinner at which guests we are now the financial lifeboat of Europe? toasted the Third Reich and chanted “Hitler, Hitler, Hitler”—[Interruption.] Members on the other side of The Prime Minister: I am grateful to my hon. Friend the House may not take this seriously, but why has the for his question. The point about the budget is important Prime Minister not sacked— because, as a net contributor, every extra percentage 555 EU Council 12 DECEMBER 2011 556 point of budget increase does result in a big transfer Royal Bank of Scotland (FSA Report) from Britain to Brussels, so it is important that we have managed to achieve a freeze. 5.24 pm The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr Mark Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con): May I Hoban): With permission, Mr Speaker, I should like to congratulate the Prime Minister on his strong and make a statement. decisive leadership and on doing not only what is best Today the Financial Services Authority published its for Britain, but best for the 2,000 of my constituents report on the failures that led to the near collapse of the who work in financial services? Royal Bank of Scotland. It is a thoroughly detailed report, listing a catalogue of management and regulatory The Prime Minister: I thank my hon. Friend, who has failures that almost felled one of the world’s largest made a number of sacrifices on my behalf over the last banks. Given the billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money 18 months, one of which is waiting to the very last in that was needed to bail out the bank, not once, but this marathon question session. I am delighted that he twice, and for a total sum of £45 billion, it is right that believes that we have done the right thing for Britain taxpayers are told the full story. and for Brighton, and I praise him for his very hard It is fair to say that the report makes for depressing work in his constituency. reading. For the shadow Chancellor, it is as damning as it is depressing. The report lays bare the gross failures of Mr Speaker: I am extremely grateful to the Prime the regulatory regime that was devised and driven by Minister and other colleagues, as 101 Back Benchers the shadow Chancellor and his party. had the opportunity to question the Prime Minister in It is now well known that the tripartite system set up the 88 minutes of exclusively Back Bench time on this by the previous Government failed spectacularly in its statement. I thank colleagues for their co-operation. mission to maintain stability. The decision to divide responsibility for assessing systemic financial risks between three institutions meant that in reality no one took responsibility. As the report laments, the FSA was solely responsible for the entire range of financial regulation issues, from the prudential soundness of major systemically important banks, to the conduct of some 25,000 financial intermediaries. The failure of regulatory culture was equally significant as the failure of institutional design. The report says: “What was wrong in the case of RBS was the FSA’s overall approach to prudential supervision, rather than the execution of this approach in relation to RBS.” More than that, the report says that it was an approach that “responded to political pressures for a ‘light touch’ regulatory regime.” The report singles out the shadow Chancellor as one of the three senior Labour politicians who were responsible for this “sustained” pressure. It quotes his first speech as City Minister in which he said “nothing should be done to put at risk a light-touch, risk-based regulatory regime.” It was political dogma at the cost of prudential regulation, and it left us hamstrung with a complacent regulator, powerless against the risks in the financial system. It meant that the FSA failed sufficiently to challenge RBS management over its decisions, and was over-reliant on the firm’s own assessment of its position. Rather than exercising judgment and foresight, the FSA adopted a tick-box and reactive approach to regulation. Left to its own devices, without proper regulatory oversight, RBS got away with some of the most shocking decisions taken by any bank in the years and months leading to the crisis in late 2008. Poor judgment was fostered by a style of management and governance that promoted a culture of aggressive risk-taking over prudence. That was most clearly demonstrated by RBS’s decision to grow its investment bank by aggressively expanding its structured credit and leveraged finance activities. That build-up of risk was compounded by RBS’s relentless pursuit and purchase of ABN AMRO. The current chairman of RBS said that the acquisition was “the wrong price, the wrong way to pay, at the wrong time and the wrong deal.” 557 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 Royal Bank of Scotland 558 (FSA Report) (FSA Report) [Mr Mark Hoban] We will not make the same mistakes as the previous Government but will ensure that we have a system of As the House is aware, it was the losses in the RBS regulation that secures our financial stability while protecting investment banking arm that crippled the entire bank. our competitiveness, and we have already made substantial As the credit trading losses mounted, the bank’s excessive progress in that ambition. I welcome the action already reliance on short-term wholesale funding and its weak taken by the FSA to strengthen its supervisory capacity, capital position were brutally exposed, and led to its to become a more intensive and intrusive regulator and near collapse. to improve its ability to ensure that banks are well governed. The British economy is still recovering from the near We continue to lead the international debate to impose collapse of RBS and the wider financial system just higher capital requirements and tougher funding standards three years ago. Recovering from that crisis is this on banks across the globe, and we will resist any attempt Government’s No.1 priority. We simply cannot afford a to unpick Basel III in Europe. With the world focused repeat of it, which is why we have embarked on fundamental on the strength of bank balance sheets, this is not the reform of our regulatory system. As the House is aware, time to pander to vested interests. We will ensure that the Government are legislating fundamentally to reform Basel III is implemented in full and that we can go further the failed tripartite system. We are establishing a permanent to impose higher capital standards where necessary to financial policy committee inside the Bank of England. meet risks unique to our sector. Its job will be to monitor overall risks in the financial We know that the financial sector will continue to be system, identify bubbles as they develop, spot dangerous a critical part of our economy and our recovery, and we interconnections and stop excessive levels of leverage are committed to supporting the sector and protecting before it is too late. It is exactly the kind of judgment the open and competitive markets that have allowed and foresight that we needed in the years preceding the the sector to flourish in the UK, but that success cannot last crisis. come at a cost to the wider economy. That means We are also abolishing the Financial Services Authority getting the structure and substance of regulation right in its current form, and creating a new Prudential and correcting the mistakes of the previous Government. Regulation Authority with a focus on micro-prudential Today’s report reminds us of the gross failures of the regulation. Prudential regulation of banks will go back previous regime and the previous Government. This to where it belongs, under the auspices of the central Government will not repeat those mistakes. We will bank, as a subsidiary of the Bank of England, bringing reform the regime to preserve the innovation that fuels micro and macro-regulation under one roof. the sector’s success without putting the wider economy The PRA will be a focused, expert regulator. Whereas at risk and to build a successful but stable financial the FSA was responsible for thousands of financial services sector. I commend this statement to the House. services firms, the PRA will focus exclusively on the prudential regulation of deposit-takers, insurers and Chris Leslie (Nottingham East) (Lab/Co-op): The investment banks. And when regulating banks, it will report confirms that there was institutionalised dysfunction have the single statutory objective of promoting safety at the heart of the Royal Bank of Scotland and confirms and soundness. Responsibility for the protection of what we all know—that there was a collective failure of consumers and the conduct of financial services firms regulation not just in Britain but around the world, and will transfer to the new Financial Conduct Authority, that there were failures not just of one individual, leaving the PRA free to focus first and foremost on stability. institution, political party or Government but failures We are also working closely with the FSA and the that allowed irresponsible bankers to take excessive Bank of England to ensure that the new PRA has the risks and cause a global financial crisis. powers that it needs to ensure that banks do not take Labour Members have accepted our responsibilities, excessive risks and that directors who act improperly and as my right hon. Gentleman the shadow Chancellor face appropriate penalties. We will consider carefully the said, for the part that the previous Government played further recommendations made in the report, particularly in that global regulatory failure, we are deeply sorry. Lord Turner’s suggestion that it should be made easier Acknowledging our part in those global failings is the for action to be brought against the directors of failed banks. right approach to take, so let me ask the Minister: does I share the frustration of many Members that it has he accept that the Conservatives got it wrong too? not been possible to bring action against those responsible During the 2007 debates on Northern Rock, he beseeched for the failures at RBS, but strengthening legal powers the Treasury in this area would raise some complex issues, and we “to counter the pressure for greater regulation”, will want to reflect carefully and listen to a range of and talked of views before deciding on any action. The report into the failure of RBS fully complements “the strength of our regulatory regime” our analysis of the faults of the previous regime and and how it was supports our wider reforms to the banking system. We “vital that this crisis does not erode that standing”.—[Official will respond to the recommendations of the Independent Report, 12 December 2007; Vol. 469, c. 391.] Commission on Banking next Monday. We have already It would be unparliamentary to call the Minister a said, though, that we support in principle not only a hypocrite but perhaps he needs some medical advice ring fence around better-capitalised high street banks to about his selective amnesia. Let us have some contrition protect them against investment banking losses but, from the Conservative party, which never once called when things go wrong, a bail-in of private investors, not for more regulation or criticised the FSA for not having a bail-out by taxpayers. Together with recovery and enough powers. In fact, it argued precisely the opposite. resolution plans, that means that we are working to The Chancellor of the Exchequer, who is sitting on the ensure that banks can fail in an orderly fashion without Front Bench, complained constantly of burdensome any recourse to taxpayers’ money. and complex regulations. 559 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 Royal Bank of Scotland 560 (FSA Report) (FSA Report) The FSA is clear that there was a collective failure, The regulators did not do enough, and we have to but there was also clarity about how the regulator was learn lessons. However, ultimate culpability rests on the at fault. Specifically, the report says that the monitoring shoulders of the bankers involved. It is astonishing that of RBS’s capital position was “reactive”, and that deeply irresponsible decisions by those bankers should “supervision of liquidity” was a “low priority”. The FSA have forced a £45 billion bail-out, and yet no enforcement did not scrutinise the trading book or loan impairments action is brought and nobody is punished. It is about adequately, and the takeover of ABN AMRO was not time that this Government stopped pandering to the big questioned sufficiently. Can the Minister say, first, whether banks and took action to speed up banking reform and the FSA had the co-operation of all former RBS directors, rein in the excessive bonus culture. and whether they were all interviewed? His statement was somewhat vague about action against those Mr Hoban: The approach taken by the hon. Gentleman, responsible—he says that he will reflect carefully. Can who seeks to try to blame everybody for the crisis, we take it then, reading between the lines of his statement, overlooks the key role that the shadow Chancellor—who that the Government will not pursue action to disqualify is not in his place today—played in the design of the former RBS directors from sitting on other company regulatory system that led to the problems we saw at boards? RBS. That design—driven by the shadow Chancellor, Secondly, the Minister says that he will “consider” who took great credit for it—meant that no backstops tough action to ensure that bankers who jeopardise the were in place when RBS took those decisions. solvency of our retail banks cannot escape responsibility. The other point that the hon. Gentleman should bear There should be a new strict liability requirement specifically in mind is that only three politicians are named in the for banking directors. If the Minister does not amend report as having put pressure on the FSA to adopt a the draft Financial Services Bill to achieve that, we will light-touch regulatory regime. One was Tony Blair, one table amendments to that effect. The report suggests was the right hon. Member for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath that future bank takeovers should require formal approval (Mr Brown), and the third one—the person who is by the regulator, which was not required when RBS missing from the Opposition Front Bench today—is the took over ABN AMRO. That is sensible, so can the shadow Chancellor, the person who in his first speech Minister say whether he will amend the draft Bill as City Minister called on the FSA to adopt a light-touch accordingly? regulatory regime, a regime that, when confronted with Thirdly, will the Government take steps to strengthen the challenge of RBS, turned from a light touch to a the corporate governance of large public companies, soft touch. It is, of course, the taxpayer who has picked including banks? Regulators have to do a better job, but up the bill for the fundamental flaws in Labour’s regulatory shareholders also need to be able to exert their authority. regime. Fourthly, will the Minister agree to implement the legislation The hon. Gentleman talked about disqualification of already approved in law to publish the pay deals of RBS directors. It is a pity that the previous Government everyone working in the banking sector earning more did not think about that issue in the aftermath of the than £l million? The Government have dragged their financial crisis. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of feet on this issue. A simple signature to a statutory State for Business, Innovation and Skills has referred instrument is all that is needed. Surely it is important to the report to counsel to see whether it is possible to have transparency and accountability for all the high disqualify the directors of RBS. earners in the banks, not just the richest eight in each bank, as he has conceded so far. The hon. Gentleman talked about approval for acquisition. We will look carefully at the proposal Lord Fifthly, the report highlights a culture of incentive Turner made, but the reality is that the FSA had powers fees for City advisers, whose rewards are greatest if to intervene, but chose not to use them—partly as a large takeovers are completed. The report recommends consequence of the light-touch regime foisted on them ending that bias in the advisory fee structure. Why did by the previous Government. the Minister ignore that recommendation in his statement? Does he agree that the proposal would make good When the hon. Gentleman talks about bonuses, let us sense? The FSA and the Government did not see the not forget that it was under the previous Government financial crisis coming, but neither did the Bank of that bonuses could be paid out in cash and taken England. Is the Minister certain that putting all the new straight away. Under the regime in place now, bonuses regulatory powers in the hands of the Bank will work? are deferred, paid out in shares and can be clawed back. Is there a risk that the accountability of the Bank of Let us not forget that the moment that it was possible to England—an important point—is substandard in his exercise the maximum leverage on Sir Fred Goodwin—the current proposals? Will he accept the suggestions from banker Labour knighted—was the moment when it the Select Committee on the Treasury and others that gave away his pension scheme. So I will take no lessons those safeguards need to be significantly enhanced? from the Labour party on the way in which we should We of course support moves to enhance prudential deal with the problems of RBS. regulation, but there is always a danger of fighting the The hon. Gentleman referred to the Bank of England last battle, especially when there could be a eurozone and seemed to question whether it was able to take on credit crunch just around the corner, so is the Minister the additional responsibilities. I thought he was moving not taking his eye off the ball? Will he acknowledge that away from his party’s position of supporting the package the new European supervisory structures are incredibly of reforms that we have put forward. Let me remind powerful and that, by mishandling negotiations in Europe him that it was the Bank of England that identified the so badly, the Government have jeopardised our ability problem of the mispricing of risk in the financial markets. to influence and steer those European regulations, which The problem was that the regulatory structure it had to can overrule the tougher capital buffers for our banks, deal with meant that the Bank did not have the power to as suggested by the FSA here in Britain? tackle the problem—nor, indeed, did the FSA. What we 561 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 Royal Bank of Scotland 562 (FSA Report) (FSA Report) [Mr Hoban] and intense programme of supervision. I think that that has yielded dividends during the last two or three years, are faced with is a problem of dealing with the regulatory and that it is an important part of his record that we regime left to us by the previous Government. They should recognise. chose not to make these reforms when they were in government; we are taking action now to ensure that we Mr David Ruffley (Bury St Edmunds) (Con): The have the right regime in place to tackle those risks and Government’s proposed new regime will be judgment-based, ensure that we have a stable, but successful, financial not rule-based, and will therefore require banking services sector. supervisors of much higher quality than we have seen hitherto. What steps will the Financial Secretary take to Mr Andrew Tyrie (Chichester) (Con): A previous ensure that such people are in place under the new regime? regime was not required to explain itself when it made mistakes, and neither did the Financial Services Authority. Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend is right to recognise that The fact is that the almost 500 pages of this report the quality of supervision needs to be higher than it was would never have been written had it not been for the in the pre-crisis days. The need for much more engagement unremitting pressure from the Treasury Select Committee. by better qualified banking supervisors is a priority not I would like to thank my colleagues on that Committee just for the FSA but for the Bank of England, which for helping me to secure this report from the FSA. will be introducing measures for precisely that purpose. Furthermore, to make sure that the report was of adequate quality, we took the unprecedented step of sending our Stewart Hosie (Dundee East) (SNP): The Minister own specialist Committee advisers into the FSA with said that the FSA had failed to challenge the RBS full powers to examine papers and personnel in order to management sufficiently over its decisions. That is a check that the papers underlying the compilation of this masterful understatement. In October 2007 the FSA report were fairly reflected in it. had precisely four and a half staff in RBS: half a Is it not now crucial that the new regulators—the manager and four team members. It was possibly the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority— biggest bank in the world, it was systemically important, are subjected in future to far more vigorous parliamentary and its asset base was bigger than the GDP of the scrutiny than the FSA has been in the past? Will the United Kingdom. Will the Minister guarantee that, Government commit in the draft legislation to secure a irrespective of the future shape of banking and regulation, much higher level of parliamentary scrutiny of these the RBS’s successors—the Prudential Regulation Authority powerful quangos than we have had hitherto? and the Financial Conduct Authority—will always have enough of the right people in such systemically important Mr Hoban: I, too, commend the work of my hon. banks, so that we never encounter such a situation again? Friend and his Select Committee, along with the work done by Bill Knight and Sir David Walker in scrutinising Mr Hoban: That is an important question. I referred the FSA’s report and making consequent improvements earlier to the pressure under which Tony Blair put the to it. One of the challenges we face is, as my hon. Friend FSA to adopt a proportionate regulatory regime. One said, to ensure that there is proper scrutiny. He commented of the examples put to the then Prime Minister about on the fact that it took the pressure of his Committee the light-touch quality of the regime was the fact that to produce this report. The reality is that the existing there were only six people supervising HSBC, and even powers in section 14 of the Financial Services and fewer have been supervising RBS. I understand that Markets Act 2000 to require a report to be produced there has been almost a fourfold increase in the number where there is regulatory failure have never been exercised. of RBS supervisors, and I think that that is a much One measure we have put in place in the Bill is to enable better approach. We must ensure that there is intrusive, such reports to be produced on a more regular basis—not intensive supervision, and that requires not just more at a Minister’s request but in response to objective resources, but a higher quality of resources. triggers to ensure that reports are published in a timely fashion so that we can learn the lessons from past Matthew Hancock (West Suffolk) (Con): I warmly mistakes. I think that is a helpful way of enabling welcome the report. I think that the proposal to debar Parliament to hold the regulators to account. We look directors from high office in future should be implemented forward shortly to responding not just to my hon. so that we can ensure that rewards are not received for Friend’s Select Committee report, but to that of the failure at the top, but will the Minister also consider the pre-legislative scrutiny Committee. proposal to debar others mentioned in the report who John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab): Is the position of were culpable? Hector Sants at the Bank of England still credible following the report, and does the Minister agree that it Mr Hoban: I think that we should give careful would not be tenable for anyone connected with the consideration to the idea of debarring people who have FSA to replace Sir Mervyn King as the next Governor been incompetent and mismanaged their leadership of of the Bank of England? institutions. That applies to the directors of those institutions, but it may also apply to the politicians who Mr Hoban: As the hon. Gentleman will know, RBS designed the system in the first place. was regulated by the retail division of the FSA, while Hector Sants was managing director of the wholesale Frank Dobson (Holborn and St Pancras) (Lab): Let division. He took charge of the FSA about three months me begin by declaring an interest: my wife and I have before the ABN AMRO acquisition, and one of the both current and deposit accounts with the Royal Bank things on which he should be commended is the way in of Scotland. As one who was always in favour of which he has led its implementation of a more intrusive tougher regulation of banks, I must also confess that 563 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 Royal Bank of Scotland 564 (FSA Report) (FSA Report) I do not recall encountering an organisation before the Mr Hoban: It was my party, through the work done collapse which could be described as “Tories for tougher by Lord Sassoon, that examined the regulatory system banking regulation”. set up by the previous Government, identified some of Will the Minister confirm that the failures extend the challenges and determined that the best thing to do beyond the area that he has cover? Will he confirm that was to reform that system. We have recognised the the auditor, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu—which received challenges and the failings of the previous regulatory substantial fees—did not seem to notice that there was system, and proposed measures to improve it, and to anything wrong, and that the benighted rating agencies, ensure that it serves consumers and ensures a stable, which keep telling us what should be happening now, successful financial services business. gave triple A ratings to both RBS and ABN AMRO right up to the day on which the balloon burst? Several hon. Members rose— Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle): We have Mr Hoban: The right hon. Gentleman makes some quite a few Members to get in, so please could we have important points, and clearly a number of institutions brief questions and answers? involved with RBS and the regulatory system more widely should bear responsibility for what happened, but let us be absolutely clear that the principal responsibility Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): The shadow Minister for the failure of RBS lies with its management. said that the regulation did not work and the regulator did not do anything sufficiently. Surely the reason for that was because the regulator was put under sustained Mike Crockart (Edinburgh West) (LD): I should, and unacceptable political pressure by two former Prime first, declare that the global headquarters of RBS is in Ministers and by the current shadow Chancellor. Will Gogarburn in my constituency. Today’s report apportions my hon. Friend confirm to the House that this Government, blame for the RBS demise on previous RBS management, and the Treasury under the stewardship of this Chancellor, insufficient challenge by the FSA and Labour’s light-touch, would not put such pressure on regulators and that the lip-service regulations; this Government are now dealing constitutional convention as to how a Government with those. Will the Minister join me in recognising that should work with regulators will be properly observed? one group not blamed was the tens of thousands of ordinary employees of the bank, who have continued Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend makes an important to work in an exemplary way, despite more than 27,000 point. We have made it clear that we want to give the redundancies and a slump in the bank’s fortunes and new regulatory organisations that independence, power, share price, which was previously a major element of authority, discretion and judgment to get on with their their benefits package? Does he agree that today’s report job, so that we ensure that we tackle issues that need to is no reflection on them? be tackled and ensure that there is tough regulation where that is needed. For example, we are going to Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend makes an important introduce powers for the Financial Conduct Authority point. Responsibility clearly rests with the leadership to ban particular products—a power that has not been of RBS, not with those working in the bank’s branches, available so far. We are prepared to take those tough those working at its insurance company and others, decisions and let the regulators get on with their job. who did their job properly and to the highest standards. It is important to recognise that, having identified regulatory Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab/ issues to address, his party and my party came together Co-op): One of the features of the RBS takeover of in a coalition Government committed to regulatory ABN AMRO was that lots of people warned against it reform. The Labour party was wedded to the status quo at the time, and not just with hindsight—many people and to the regulatory regime that allowed this to happen in the financial services and elsewhere warned of severe unchecked. That party should take its full responsibility, consequences. Was the decision to go ahead with that just as we should recognise the excellent work that takeover about not just the role of Sir Fred Goodwin, people at RBS did. but the fact that those who were meant to prevent him from doing such things did not do so? Was this not only Mr Pat McFadden (Wolverhampton South East) (Lab): about a question of regulation, but about a culture of The report makes it clear that the primary responsibility takeover, acquisition, internationalisation and over-ambition for the collapse of RBS lies with the firm. The shadow which was at the heart of the problems of RBS and Minister was big enough to say what he did about past other places? What will the Minister’s proposals do to regulation, and the Minister’s anger would be more prevent that kind of attitude from affecting future credible if he and his party had not continually called managements and future banks when the current financial for lighter regulation. The Minister had said: crises have passed? “Effective light-touch, risk-based…regulation is in the interests of the sector globally, and the Government need to send that Mr Hoban: The hon. Gentleman makes some important message more strongly to the US Administration and Congress”.— points. It is important that shareholders play a more [Official Report, 28 November 2006; Vol. 453, c. 995.] active and engaged role in businesses in which they have a holding. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State The Chancellor had said: for Business, Innovation and Skills has commissioned “I fear that much of this regulation has been burdensome, John Kay to conduct a review of long-term interest in complex and makes cross-border market penetration more difficult.” business and business investment. We need to strengthen If people are going to admit culpability on regulation, corporate governance in boards, as they clearly were the truth is that those on both sides of the House need not sufficiently robust in their challenge to executives. to look in the mirror. Is that not the case? One of the things that has happened in the FSA is that a 565 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 Royal Bank of Scotland 566 (FSA Report) (FSA Report) [Mr Hoban] arrangements for directors are robust. Under the previous regime, bonuses could be paid out in cash straight away. much more robust approach is being taken to understanding Over the past couple of years, tougher rules have been and examining people who want to hold positions of put in place to defer bonuses, to make sure that they are significant influence in our major banks, including those paid in shares and to claw back bonuses where there has who want to become board members. That is a good been failure. That is a tough regime in place and it way not only of raising the quality of people in the should make sure that the incentives of directors are in boardroom, but of ensuring that they are robust enough line with those of shareholders. to stand up against a dominant and aggressive chief executive officer. Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): What are the issues inhibiting the Minister from making a clear commitment Stephen Barclay (North East Cambridgeshire) (Con): to strengthen legal powers so that action can be brought Will my hon. Friend ensure that the rules allow enforcement against directors of failed banks? action against incompetence? The point being missed by Labour Members is that there are more than 6,000 pages Mr Hoban: I understand the frustration expressed in of FSA rules. There is no shortage of rules, but they do the hon. Gentleman’s question. We need to look carefully not allow enforcement against incompetence; they allow at the proposals in Lord Turner’s report and we will it only against dishonesty. That is what has fettered the have the opportunity to legislate in the Financial Services hand of the FSA and what angers my constituents, who Bill, if appropriate, but the hon. Gentleman would not are aggrieved that individual directors of RBS have not want me to engage in a knee-jerk response to a report faced sanction. that was only published first thing this morning. I want to ensure that we have the right measures in place, whether Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend makes an important through company law or regulation, to ensure that we point and he speaks with some experience, having worked have good-quality people running such organisations. with the FSA. We need to look carefully at the fit and proper person test for people becoming registered with David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): The report the FSA to ensure that they are good quality, and can makes it clear that had the Basel III legislation been in do the job properly and competently. place, the AMRO transaction could not have happened. Will the Minister confirm that it remains his intention Dr William McCrea (South Antrim) (DUP): I welcome to implement Basel III as soon as possible and ideally the Minister’s statement. It is right and proper that we before 2019? review past failures and learn from them, but how can we use the current situation to get the banks to lend to the hard-pressed small and medium-sized businesses Mr Hoban: It is our commitment to implement Basel III. crying out for finance they urgently need, especially in We want to ensure that it is implemented consistently Northern Ireland, where credit is particularly squeezed? across the whole of Europe in capital requirements directive IV and we are pushing for member states to Mr Hoban: The hon. Gentleman makes an important have the freedom to go further and raise capital standards point about the credit situation in Northern Ireland, when they believe it is in their interests to do so. We and I know that the hon. Member for East Antrim want to see tougher regulation of banks and that requires (Sammy Wilson) pays close attention to it. We need to better and more capital and better and more liquidity. ensure that banks are sufficiently well capitalised to enable them to lend to businesses. One of the things that David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): the hon. Gentleman may have noticed from last week’s The FSA’s report mentions three Ministers in the previous report from the European Banking Authority is that no Government who applied sustained political pressure to UK banks required additional capital, because they are give a light touch, shall we say, to the regulation. Can already well capitalised and should be in a position to my hon. Friend tell me who they were? lend, as was demonstrated by the third quarter Project Merlin figures. Mr Hoban: It is interesting, is it not? It is not often that we see particular Ministers highlighted in reports Nadhim Zahawi (Stratford-on-Avon) (Con): This report published by independent bodies. The three who are is a damning indictment of the decisions taken by the mentioned are Tony Blair, the right hon. Member for previous Government, so it is regrettable that the shadow Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath (Mr Brown) and the shadow Chancellor could not be here to apologise in person to Chancellor. The shadow Chancellor took great pride in the House and to the country. Does the Minister agree taking credit for the design of the regulatory structure, that the something-for-nothing culture allowed to fester which failed, and he compounded those mistakes in the under the previous Government is something that this design of the structure by putting pressure on the FSA Government will not allow and that they will examine to go for a light-touch regime. The taxpayer has picked how to shift the dynamic in boards in systemically up the consequences of the failure to design that structure important businesses so that non-execs are able to challenge correctly and of the inappropriate pressure to have a powerful CEOs and hold them to account? light-touch regime when it came to the regulation of RBS and others. The taxpayer is paying the cost and the Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend makes an important Opposition should be apologising for that. point, because there was a culture, as documented in the report, that meant that directors on the board of RBS Richard Fuller (Bedford) (Con): Although the report did not challenge the CEO sufficiently robustly. That includes useful forward-looking recommendations, its needs to change. We also need to ensure that the incentive review of the actions of executives, directors, regulators 567 Royal Bank of Scotland 12 DECEMBER 2011 568 (FSA Report) and Ministers that led to the crisis amounts to 487 pages Durban Climate Change Conference of “Oops!” That includes the laughable statement on page 352 that 6.2 pm “deterrence will most effectively be achieved by bringing home to The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change such individuals the consequences of their actions.” (Chris Huhne): With permission, Mr Speaker, I wish to Does the Minister agree that deterrence would be more make a statement on the outcomes of the United Nations effectively achieved by those people hearing the clunk climate change conference in Durban, which concluded of the prison door and the turning of the key? only yesterday. I was present for the last week and a bit of the conference, along with my colleague the Minister Mr Hoban: My hon. Friend is right to say that many of State, Department of Energy and Climate Change, taxpayers up and down the country who have seen the hon. Member for Bexhill and Battle (Gregory Barker), £45 billion poured into RBS want to know why action who has responsibility for climate change. has not been taken against its directors. Today’s report After the disappointment of Copenhagen, last year’s is an attempt to address those issues. It recognises that Cancun conference showed that the UN climate process there are some problems with the sanctions available to was back on track. The Durban conference was designed the FSA and in the Companies Acts, and we are committed to build on that outcome and our aims were therefore to reviewing them and seeing which tougher sanctions higher. At our most optimistic, we hoped to agree a can be put in place to deal with directors who let down road map to a new global legally binding agreement to the businesses they work for and the customers they replace or supplement the Kyoto protocol. Unlike Kyoto, serve. it would incorporate emissions targets for all countries other than the poorest and least developed. It would be accompanied by agreement to a second commitment period of the Kyoto protocol from 2013. We also aimed to encourage countries to strengthen their voluntary pledges to reduce emissions in the years before any new agreement entered into force and we hoped to establish the green climate fund. I am pleased to say that, following two weeks of intense negotiations, we achieved each of those key aims. The talks resulted in the adoption of the Durban platform, a road map to a global legal agreement applicable to all parties. Negotiations for the new agreement, which will begin early in 2012, are to conclude as early as possible and not later than 2015 and the commitments in the new agreement will take effect from 2020. The conference explicitly recognised the global gap between countries’ existing emissions reduction pledges to 2020 and the global goal of limiting average temperature increases to below 2° above pre-industrial levels. It launched a work programme for ratcheting up ambition, a process that will be reinforced by a forthcoming review of the scientific evidence. The conference also agreed to adopt, next year, a second commitment period of the Kyoto protocol. Many details remain to be worked out over the coming months, including specific emissions reduction targets, the length of the commitment period and a process for dealing with surplus emissions allowances, but the headline message is clear: the Kyoto architecture—the rules and legal framework for managing emissions—has been preserved and can be built on in the future. The conference also resolved to establish the green climate fund to support policies and activities in developing countries. The UK is one of the few countries to have pledged climate finance beyond the initial fast-start period, and we will make an announcement on the green climate fund once its design is completed. The conference also resolved to establish a work programme to consider sources of long-term finance for developing countries with the aim of mobilising at least $100 billion a year by 2020. Progress was made on several other parts of the international climate regime, including reporting guidelines for developed and developing countries; the creation of the adaptation committee, which will provide advice and ensure coherent action on adaptation; the establishment in 2012 of the technology 569 Durban Climate Change Conference12 DECEMBER 2011 Durban Climate Change Conference 570

[Chris Huhne] need to take to prevent dangerous climate change. The gap is too large and I hope that the Secretary of State executive committee to facilitate the development of will say a little more about how the UK will be leading low-carbon technologies; further details of the framework efforts to narrow it. for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest Secondly, I welcome the fact that Durban has degradation; and a process for establishing new market- re-established the principle that climate change must be based mechanisms to deliver effective reductions in tackled through a framework of international law that emissions at least cost. incorporates both developed and developing countries. As well as the substantial diplomatic and technical It is undeniable that developed countries bear responsibility outcomes I have outlined, the Durban conference saw for significant historical emissions and, in the light of a highly significant political realignment. More than that, I welcome a second commitment period for the 120 countries formed a coalition of high ambition in European Union to the Kyoto protocol. However, it is support of a road map to a global legally binding deal. equally true, given the rate at which many developing Many African and Latin American states, the group of countries’ economies and emissions are growing, that least developed countries and the Alliance of Small any meaningful treaty on cutting carbon emissions must Island States joined the EU to argue for the road map to be legally binding and include developing countries too. a new agreement. That realignment has laid a firm The Secretary of State will know, for example, that political foundation, grounded in common interest, on while developed countries are likely to meet the collective which we can build future achievements. Kyoto target of a 5.2 % reduction in greenhouse gas I am sure that the House will wish to join me in emissions by 2012, global emissions of carbon dioxide paying a sincere tribute to the British team of negotiators. rose by 45% between 1990 and 2010. The challenge Drawn from across government and supported by the now, as I am sure the Government recognise, is translating Foreign and Commonwealth Office and its posts, ours the principles and aspirations that were agreed at Durban was one of the smallest of the G8 countries’ delegations, into a treaty that can actually deliver the cuts in greenhouse but what it lacked in quantity it made up for in quality. gases we need. Its members played a key role in many of the detailed As the Secretary of State himself has admitted: negotiating groups, sometimes on behalf of the entire European Union. The UK operated within and through “There are still many details to be hammered out”. the EU delegation, co-operating closely with representatives May I ask him to give the House a little more detail on of other member states and the European Commission. the following issues? What safeguards were put in place By working together with our European partners, we at Durban to ensure that the next round of negotiations were able to deliver more effectively for the British will deliver a legally binding global agreement by 2015? national interest and for our shared ambitions. How does he intend to use our strong relationships with In conclusion, the Durban conference represents a countries such as the United States and Canada, as well significant step forward. It has re-established the principle as India and China, to help to broker a global agreement? that climate change should be tackled through international Also, and importantly, how does he plan to monitor the law, not through national voluntarism. It has persuaded progress that is being made and to keep the House up the major emerging economies to acknowledge, for the to date? first time, that their emissions commitments will have to Thirdly, I welcome the establishment of the green be legally bound. It has encouraged all countries, also climate fund, negotiations for which started at Copenhagen for the first time, to admit that their current climate under the stewardship of my right hon. Friend who is policies must be strengthened and it has established the now the Leader of the Opposition. If properly financed, green climate fund to support the poorest countries in it will provide vital support to the poorest countries to tackling and responding to climate change. It has also cut their carbon emissions, mitigate the effects of climate preserved the invaluable legal framework of the Kyoto change and underpin the positive support for a global protocol while at the same time opening the path to a legal framework. Again, although important details are new, more comprehensive and more ambitious global yet to be agreed, this serves as a warning about the agreement. It was a clear success for international length of time it can take for an idea shared to become co-operation. an idea implemented. On the detail of the fund, will the We still have much to do. Durban alone will not limit Secretary of State say a little more about how he global warming to 2° above pre-industrial levels, but expects the necessary resources to be raised so that it is we have taken a clear and vital step towards our goal. up and running as soon as possible, and what contribution I commend the statement to the House. he expects the UK to make? Although progress has been made at Durban, it has Caroline Flint (Don Valley) (Lab): I thank the Secretary also shown the scale of the challenge we face and the of State for early sight of his statement and join him in need for a strong European voice making the case to paying tribute to the British team of negotiators. Whatever tackle climate change. The Secretary of State himself our differences with the Government over their handling said that the Durban conference showed that we can and delivery of policies at home, there is consensus across achieve more working with our partners in Europe than the House that the only way we will tackle climate we can on our own. We can only compare that with the change is by getting all countries signed up to a legally outcome of last week’s EU summit, which left us isolated. binding framework to cut their carbon emissions. In As the Deputy Prime Minister’s chief parliamentary that vein, the progress made at Durban is to be applauded. and political adviser, the hon. Member for North Norfolk First, I welcome the recognition in the Durban agreement (Norman Lamb), put it: of the emissions gap—the difference between the action “Our new position comes with very real risks. To be in a that countries have committed to and the action we minority of one is not good.” 571 Durban Climate Change Conference12 DECEMBER 2011 Durban Climate Change Conference 572

Will the Secretary of State reassure us that the UK’s UK team. That was confirmed at the time by our legal voice within Europe on climate change will not be advisers—under some great pressure, I have to say, as undermined as a result of the Prime Minister’s actions? we huddled at 4 in the morning, or whatever time it was, Finally, does the Secretary of State agree that reducing in the plenary room. They also advised some of our carbon emissions and preventing climate change are partners in that coalition of the willing. I think that we as much about example as exhortation? He has been got a good deal that means exactly what it says. generous enough to recognise the record of the previous I very much take on board the key point that we need Labour Government. We reduced the UK’s greenhouse to ensure that our environmental goals are not seen as gas emissions by more than 21% compared with emissions an obstacle to development. That is an agenda on which in 1990, thereby exceeding our Kyoto target. We also I want very much to work with the Indian Environment passed the Climate Change Act 2008, which was a Minister to ensure that there are viable and effective world first, binding the UK Government in law to pathways to development at every level of income per reduce carbon emissions by a third by 2020 and by head. I was particularly proud to participate in the 80% by 2050. launch of Ethiopia’s zero-carbon growth programme The Secretary of State will know that there is genuine with the support of the Mauritian and UK Governments. concern across the House about the Government’s Prime Minister Meles was at the launch as well. At the commitment to being the greenest Government ever, middle-income level, there is the example of Costa not least today when the cuts to the feed-in tariff for Rica. At the high-income level, let me respond to the solar power come into effect. We hear that the Green right hon. Lady’s point about what we are doing investment bank will be delayed, and the future of domestically.I was very pleased that an objective assessment carbon capture and storage is in doubt, so I ask him to of what is being done by European countries, which reassure me and the House that alongside our international was produced last week by Germanwatch, concluded efforts to reach agreement to cut carbon emissions and that the UK had the second-best framework for dealing tackle climate change, the Government will not lose with carbon emissions of all 27 member states of the sight of the need to make the UK cleaner, greener and a EU, behind only Sweden. However, our ministerial world leader in the low carbon economy. team likes to come first, so we will work on that. On the key issue concerning our allies, such as the US Chris Huhne: I very much welcome the right hon. and Canada, the right hon. Lady is absolutely right that Lady’s response. It is very valuable, when going into we need to build our relationships there and ensure that negotiations such as those at Durban, to know that they can be brought into that agreement as well. She there is widespread consensus across the House on the asked for details of the global climate fund and about key goals we are aiming for. I pay tribute to hon. our support for it. We stand ready to support it and we Members on both sides of the House, particularly those have already disbursed £1 billion of the £1.5 billion who have been following these issues closely, in helping allocated for fast-start finance. We are one of very few to sustain that consensus. countries to have a programme of financial commitments The emissions gap is too large and we will work on it. for developing countries beyond the fast-start finance As the right hon. Lady rightly said, one of the key period. We have allocated £2.9 billion in total for the issues has been the importance of monitoring. One comprehensive spending review period and, as I said in thing that the UK Government have actively encouraged my statement, I very much hope that we will be able to has been the development of the emissions gap report make an announcement in due course when we have from the United Nations Environment Programme. I concluded the arrangements on the shape of the green had a very fruitful meeting with Achim Steiner in climate fund. Durban, and I know that the programme will continue to build on that. I very much hope that that monitoring Finally, the right hon. Lady rightly mentions the will build gradually over time to become the environmental importance of working with our European partners. and climate change equivalent of the sort of regular This is a particular example of the success of European reporting that we have from the OECD and particularly diplomacy. As one member state we would not be able from the International Monetary Fund on the world to achieve anything like as much as we have been able to economic outlook. It would be good to have a regular achieve working closely with the other 26 member states world climate change outlook or global climate change and contribute to that with the undoubted expertise we report. have within the UK team. Importantly, when it came to the key negotiations, it was perceived in the plenary that On the legal side, the step forward is very significant. the European Union was acting together, and that we As the right hon. Lady will no doubt have read in the were very much prepared to carry through on our press, there was an attempt, right up to the last moment, threat. Often in these negotiations a good bit of leverage to insert into the final text the words “legal outcome”, is needed, and we were prepared to carry out our threat which had been defined in the past by India and China that we would not go ahead with the second commitment as merely decisions of the conference of the parties. period of the Kyoto protocol unless we had those key That would not have been adequately legally binding assurances that the future agreement would be legally for our purposes in terms of an overall treaty. It was binding. therefore an essential objective of the European Union’s team to take out those words and insert words that In addition to the change that I described in the could not be interpreted as a voluntarist approach but politics of the conference, it is highly significant that could mean only that there was a legal agreement with China, India and Brazil, but particularly China and real force. The compromise from the Brazilians which India, have moved substantially in the direction of we finally adopted does exactly that—on the advice we accepting that we need an overall agreement which will received from the very able international lawyer on the reach a global solution to the problem. 573 Durban Climate Change Conference12 DECEMBER 2011 Durban Climate Change Conference 574

Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): May I offer my right Chris Huhne: The Prime Minister has made his position hon. Friend many congratulations on what has been on other matters quite clear. On negotiations, from my achieved? Does he agree that one of the major achievements experience in Brussels—I know that the Deputy Prime of Durban was that for the first time everyone in the Minister had a similar experience when we were Members world, including the major emitters—the United States, of the European Parliament—I can say that it is absolutely India and China—are now committed to the same key that one has to be in the room where one’s interests process of a legally binding agreement? For the first are being affected. That is essential. In Brussels there is time ever, everyone is going in the same direction towards an adage that is one of the first rules of negotiating: if the same objective. A simple machinery of government you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. I have an question: will the funding for the green climate fund awful feeling that we should bear that in mind in all come from the budget of my right hon. Friend’s Department aspects of international negotiations, but my hon. Friend or that of Department for International Development? can rest assured that when it comes to the UK’s participation in the United Nations framework convention on climate Chris Huhne: We have to determine the exact way we change, we were in all the key rooms at all times. At one disburse money for the green climate fund. As I say, we point last year in Cancun, for example, I can assure him will make an announcement in due course. My hon. that we—[Interruption.] The UK delegation—the team. Friend is right to say important it is that everybody has What generally happens is that the group of people who signed up to that global agreement. are deciding on the key compromises gets smaller and smaller. I can assure my hon. Friend that at every stage of the game, right the way through to the final huddle, Barry Gardiner (Brent North) (Lab): I congratulate the UK was represented. That is a central negotiating the Secretary of State and his team on what was achieved objective. at Durban. It was a vindication of the European negotiating position. Can he provide the House with further clarity on the climate fund money after the start-up period? Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): I gave a little Will he confirm that at least 50% of that money will be latitude there, but I am not looking for an extension of provided for adaptation and that the bulk of it will not the first statement. go to mitigation, as was part of the original agreement? Will he also comment, please, on the gap there will be between the conclusion of the negotiations no later Dr Alan Whitehead (Southampton, Test) (Lab): I than 2015 and the 2020 deadline for implementation of congratulate the Secretary of State on the outcome of those commitments? There is a perception in emerging a conference that was widely regarded as unlikely to economies that the earlier they conclude the negotiation, succeed, even in the objectives that have been set down the bigger the gap will be in what those commitments now. It is substantially because of the EU’s negotiating deliver in 2020. position and the British role in it that that very good outcome was achieved, even though there is a great deal moretodo. Chris Huhne: Let me answer the last part of that question first. The most encouraging thing is that we Will the right hon. Gentleman expand on the role of dealt with both time periods. There is a clear commitment Connie Hedegaard, the EU Commissioner for Climate to dealing with a single over-arching global agreement Action, originally from the Danish Conservative People’s from 2020, but there is also a clear set of procedures— party, in careful negotiation, keeping the parties together admittedly, no numbers yet—for addressing the emissions and making sure that the EU presented a united front gap from now through to 2020, so the process will not and that no one withdrew from that? Will he confirm stop in 2015. We have achieved great progress in getting that the EU position, which I hope will develop up to real action. The contrast is often noted between Canada, 2020, will have the full-hearted participation of the UK which is a signatory to Kyoto protocol but is busting all as the new treaty approaches a conclusion? its targets, and China, which is not bound on emissions but is doing an awful lot. We are able to do an awful lot Chris Huhne: Yes, Connie Hedegaard led the European and that is very important. Union efforts very ably, drawing on her experience in Adaptation is key and yes, that will be essential to the Danish politics and then in Europe. That was a critical efforts of the green climate fund, particularly the public part of the success. I reiterate, however, that it is not funding. It is much more difficult to get private funding merely a question of finding the right negotiating strategy, for adaptation measures—that is much easier on the which is what the European Union did. The EU understood mitigation side. I expect that the publicly funded aspect from the word go that it was crucial that we move will be higher than 50%. I draw the hon. Gentleman’s pressure on to the big emitters, China in particular, attention to the recent OECD report, which found that from the other developing countries and that we establish our existing commitments on and support for adaptation that new relationship with a substantial number of measures were among the best, and that will continue. developing countries. That was ably led by Connie Hedegaard. Andrew George (St Ives) (LD): Notwithstanding the The other thing that I would highlight is that when answer that my right hon. Friend gave the right hon. one gets into negotiations and has a number of essential Member for Don Valley (Caroline Flint), what lessons asks, the negotiating counterparties have to believe that can we take from the conference when negotiating one is serious and not going to buckle. In the past it has international agreements? Does he believe that the UK’s been the case that some of the more herbivorous members contribution to this welcome outcome would have been of the European Union have been taken as willing to made easier or more difficult had we adopted an isolationist buckle. We did not do that on this occasion and as a posture? result we got every single one of our asks. 575 Durban Climate Change Conference12 DECEMBER 2011 Durban Climate Change Conference 576

Zac Goldsmith (Richmond Park) (Con): I, too, Chris Huhne: The power of example is quite powerful, congratulate the Secretary of State on the progress that as the Minister of State and I have discovered. We have has been made, particularly given that I do not think substantial credit for what this Government are doing anyone really believed that there would be progress. I on development among African countries and other also welcome the declaration relating to the Congo developing countries, and I think that that power of basin—the second largest tract of rain forest in the example is carrying over to other developed countries. I world—which was launched by the Minister of State, very much hope that others will join in helping to fill the my hon. Friend the Member for Bexhill and Battle green climate fund. A number of countries have already (Gregory Barker). The Secretary of State mentioned been prepared to make conditional pledges, including progress on reducing emissions from deforestation, and the Government of Korea, and I am sure that there will I was hoping that he could be a little more specific. be others.

Chris Huhne: I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for his Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith) (Lab/ interest in that area and the work he has done. The Co-op): At the most recent Energy and Climate Change Congo basin initiative is absolutely crucial. We aim to questions I expressed my concern about progress in the work with some interesting projects through bilateral negotiations. I would like to put on the record my support from the UK Government for some key forest tribute to the Secretary of State and his team for their nations, which will be in the Amazon, the Congo basin work in helping to secure substantial progress. He mentioned and Indonesia. Further progress was made through the the importance of monitoring and information in the technical achievements in the working groups, which he period running up to 2015, but he will also be aware will find set out in the full agreement. that there is a danger that things might go a little quiet after the negotiations in Durban and that in the run-up to 2015 there might yet again be last-minute political Caroline Lucas (Brighton, Pavilion) (Green): The pressure and attempts to put decisions off to another Secretary of State talked about the importance of day. What steps can be taken to ensure that there is an monitoring. Monitoring is important, but so is action. opportunity for a political focus from now until 2015 I am deeply worried that, unless we see much faster not only in the UK, but in other countries, to ensure action, we risk going down in history as the species that that we have an agreement in 2015? For example, what spent all its time monitoring it own extinction, rather review mechanisms are in place to allow politicians and than taking active steps to avoid it. The Durban agreement Governments to have an impact on the negotiations to will not limit global warming to 2°, as he acknowledged, ensure that they result in the type of agreement we want which means that we are on course for exceedingly in 2015? dangerous climate change, so what will he do to ensure that the EU moves as fast as possible, unilaterally if necessary, to a 30% reduction target by 2020? Chris Huhne: The UNFCCC process provides numerous opportunities, including through the groups around it, such as the Major Economies Forum and the Clean Chris Huhne: I am grateful to the hon. Lady for her Energy Ministerial meeting, which we will host next question. Action is the most important ultimate benchmark spring, in order to bring political leadership to the of what we do, but I urge her not to underestimate the whole process. I was very encouraged by what happened importance of knowledge in informing action. One of at Durban and that the political leadership is increasingly the key gaps that we need to fill in this area is regular there, and we need to build on that. reporting and attention on the gap between what we are doing and what we need to do to hold the global temperature rise to within 2°, beneath the level that Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) (LD): I congratulate would create dangerous climate change. I have had my right hon. Friend and all those involved in the discussions not only with Marcin Korolec, the Environment negotiations in Durban on a very welcome outcome, Minister of Poland, which currently holds the presidency especially after so many disappointing climate change of the Council of the European Union, but with Martin talks. I wholeheartedly agree with the remarks of the Lidegaard, the Energy and Climate Change Minister of hon. Member for Brighton, Pavilion (Caroline Lucas) Denmark, which will hold the presidency for the first on the need for the EU to step up its own emissions half of next year. I had good conversations with him in targets, but that will clearly be a challenge, given the Durban and am confident that the Danes will bring global economic difficulties we face. Will my right hon. forward some clear time within the Council to ensure Friend tell us more about the progress being made on that we make real progress towards some of the key the Technology Executive Committee to promote low- staging posts in reaching 30%. Perhaps most progress carbon technology so that we can simultaneously boost will be made on the energy efficiency directive, because our economy and reduce emissions? it should be relatively easy to agree and we know that energy efficiency measures tend to have benefits outright. We are thinking about how to do that and I hope that Chris Huhne: Progress is being made in that regard. the European Union will be able to move forward on The key is to ensure that appropriate progress is made domestic action in the first six months of next year. at different levels of development. Much can be achieved in some of the poorer developing countries where there are low levels of development by ensuring, for Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con): I thank my right example, that people simply use more efficient forms of hon. Friend and his team for their work. What does he burning wood for cooking. We are making progress on intend to do to encourage other countries to sign up to the technological issue, but it applies at all levels of the green climate fund and follow the UK’s lead? development. 577 Durban Climate Change Conference12 DECEMBER 2011 Durban Climate Change Conference 578

Rushanara Ali (Bethnal Green and Bow) (Lab): How them out? I am concerned about his comment that few much funding has the international community raised countries other than the UK have contributed to the towards the $100 billion green climate fund and what fund so far. international leadership are he and the Government providing to ensure that other Governments make a Chris Huhne: I should make it clear that no one has strong commitment to meet the goal of reaching the full contributed to the green climate fund so far, because it amount urgently, rather than waiting for 2020? has not been set up. The agreement at Durban, which after all was reached only yesterday morning at 6 o’clock, Chris Huhne: Perhaps I should clarify that the $100 billion was to set up the fund, so the hon. Gentleman is being a year commitment relates to not only the green climate slightly churlish in expecting us to have sorted out all fund, but other sources of finance. It is obviously due the details and got the fund up and running within when the agreement comes into force from 2020, but in 24 hours or so of reaching the agreement. I have no the meantime we have fast-start finance. I have already doubt that it will happen; there are a number of pledges said what our commitment is. A number of websites are already and, as I have said, we stand ready to make available that add up where we have got to in relation to announcements in due course. I said to the hon. Member international pledges. I do not have the figure at the for Bethnal Green and Bow (Rushanara Ali) that I moment, but I will be happy to respond at the next would write to her on the latest state of play on international Energy and Climate Change oral questions or to write commitments generally to fast-start finance, for example, to the hon. Lady with the latest information. and I am happy to copy in the hon. Gentleman on that answer. Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con): For a UN treaty on climate change to be meaningful and successful, Mr Graham Stuart (Beverley and Holderness) (Con): all the major emitters in the world must be part of it, so As president of GLOBE in the House of Commons, it was encouraging to hear that the United States, may I thank the Secretary of State for attending the China, India and Brazil are part of this agreement. launch of the second GLOBE climate legislation study, How satisfied is the Secretary of State that the treaty which shows tremendous action taking place in many obligations are legally binding, that those nations are countries and most of all in developing countries? Does not just paying lip service and that they will deliver on he agree that there is an enormous benefit to the UK the commitments we are expecting? economy from closer bilateral work with India and, perhaps in particular, China in the light of the visit, hosted by GLOBE recently, of Xie Zhenhua, the Chinese Chris Huhne: The key point on legally binding treaties Minister with responsibility for such matters? is that they are not a sufficient condition for dealing with the problem. We must have follow-through in Chris Huhne: Yes, I agree very much that the relationships national action, but such treaties are a necessary condition. that we are increasingly building with China and India I cannot think of any international problem that has are very valuable and absolutely key to the agenda’s been resolved without a legal framework. For example, success. We have to make it clear that there is no conflict the idea that President Reagan could have gone to between the absolutely legitimate expectation of developing Moscow and suggested that international nuclear countries to be able to raise the living standards of their disarmament or the strategic arms reduction treaty people and our need to protect our children and our process could proceed with voluntary pledges would grandchildren, and their children and their grandchildren, have been regarded as laughable. We have stressed, and from the effects of climate change. One of the most will continue to stress, that the key objective is to ensure passionate and moving speeches that I heard in Durban that this is done through a legally binding international was from a Bangladeshi Minister, who described the treaty that provides everyone with an assurance that we real threat that there is to his country and to his people are all moving. if we do not get a grip on climate change. There is a lot of national action. One of the great myths is that we are the only country doing anything, Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): I commend the Secretary by which I mean that when I talk to fellow Energy and of State for his statement and the ongoing work that it Climate Change Ministers I find that they all say, “But reflects. He mentioned the resolution on a work programme we’re the only country doing something.” In fact, there to look at long-term sources of finance for developing is a tremendous amount of action. One useful initiative programmes. When does he anticipate the programme I participated in was the launch of the GLOBE international commencing? Does he believe that the UK’s input will study of parliamentarians interested in this area, which be on an EU axis, and do the possible sources of set out clearly the amount of action being undertaken finance include in that context a financial transaction through legislation right around the world. We will tax? ensure that that process continues. Chris Huhne: The work programme will kick off, and Mr Mike Weir (Angus) (SNP): There is a gap between it is up to the UNFCCC secretariat to arrange the promise and delivery not only on emissions, but—as details, but I do not anticipate any time being lost in often happens at international conferences—on the amount setting it up and getting it under way. The details of of money pledged for funds. The green climate fund is those represented on it will be settled through the important, because climate justice demands that many process, but we as a Government are keenly interested countries suffering from climate change need help now, and have a lot of expertise in the area, so I hope that we but who does the Secretary of State expect to put will be able to play a full part and, depending on how money into the fund, how soon it will be in place and that is determined, be represented on any group that how soon will money be given to such countries to help pushes the work programme forward. 579 Durban Climate Change Conference 12 DECEMBER 2011 580

On the financial transaction tax, the hon. Gentleman Points of Order will know that we as a Government support financial taxes in general. We have moved on our own banking 6.45 pm levy, for example, further and faster than other European Caroline Flint (Don Valley) (Lab): On a point of countries, and we take the view that we can have further order, Mr Deputy Speaker. As we approach the Christmas taxes on financial services, but that if such a tax touches recess, Her Majesty’s Opposition still await overdue answers areas that are very mobile, as a financial transaction tax to parliamentary questions: two from November, 10 from obviously would do, it must be concluded at a global last week and 10 from today. Twenty of those are from level. It cannot be done in only one country, because if the Department of Energy and Climate Change, so it is the activity switches to other centres, and one through your office may I ask that all measures are simply loses out on all the revenue that one anticipated. taken to ensure that written parliamentary questions With that very important caveat of realism, the issue are answered, so that we have the information to do our certainly has been talked about, but I do not believe job well? that it is very likely to make progress, given the stand that other key parties have made against a financial Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Members on transaction tax—and I am thinking in particular of the the Treasury Bench will have heard the right hon. United States. Lady’s plea, and I am sure that Ministers will do what they can to ensure that answers are forthcoming speedily. David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con): The Secretary Of course, there will be other opportunities between of State will be aware that in the last year of the now and the recess for her to pursue those matters. previous Government we were 25th out of 27th on the Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): percentage of our energy that came from renewables, On a point of order, Mr Deputy Speaker. May I seek ahead only of Malta and Luxembourg in the EU. Did your advice on the answer that the Home Secretary gave that impair his ability to lead by example in Durban; me this afternoon at Home Office questions? It related and will he confirm that by the end of this Parliament to statistics to which the Immigration Minister and the we will have gone a substantial way to correcting that? Prime Minister have referred, but about which the chair of the UK Statistics Authority, Sir Michael Scholar, has Chris Huhne: I thank my hon. Friend for that point. raised concerns—in terms of breaching the statutory He is absolutely right that the record that we inherited code of practice, the ministerial code and the published from the previous Government placed us 25th out of guidance on the handling of official statistics, issued by 27 EU member states on installed renewables, and I am the Cabinet Secretary. determined that, having worn the dunce’s cap for some The Home Secretary used those figures again this time, we shall make all the best efforts to get out of the afternoon, and in the light of that can you, Mr Deputy dunce’s corner and be the fastest-improving pupil in Speaker, request that the statistics to which she referred the class. are now placed in the Library and fully published, so that all parliamentarians can scrutinise them? Currently, the Commons is at a disadvantage, as only the Government have sight of them and keep referring to them. Mr Deputy Speaker: That is not a matter for the Chair. Ministerial answers are the responsibility of Ministers, but, again, Members on the Treasury Bench will have heard the hon. Lady’s plea. 581 12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 582

Immigration Damian Green: The right hon. Gentleman is right, and I will address that point later. Some of the measures that we are taking are precisely to promote integration. 6.47 pm My colleagues in the Department for Communities and The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): I beg Local Government have their own strategy for dealing to move, with that on the ground. Of course, immigration policy can contribute to integration by ensuring that those That this House has considered the matter of immigration. who come here can, for example, speak English. That is It is very important that the Government have found one of the changes in the rules that we have introduced time for this debate today. Immigration is a big issue for in certain parts of the immigration system. It is an many millions of people, and this Government, unlike absolutely basic point that if someone wants to come their predecessors, are not going to sweep the debate and settle in a country, they should wish to integrate to under the carpet. It is very important, because immigration some extent, and they should therefore be able to speak stands at the centre of what we want this country to be. some English. I hope that the right hon. Gentleman On the one hand, we know what benefits immigration agrees with that. brings to this country’s culture, society and economy. As I say, this country has clearly gained huge advantages Many of our communities have been enriched by the from immigration, but on the other hand, the people of contribution of generations of migrants, and it is absolutely this country have a right to know that the Government right that in today’s competitive global economy we are protecting their jobs, enforcing tough requirements attract the brightest and the best to this country. on those who come here, and sending home those who break the rules. That is why three things are essential. Barry Gardiner (Brent North) (Lab): The Minister First, it is essential to control the overall numbers talks of attracting the brightest and the best to our coming here for long periods. Secondly, and equally country. I had a meeting with him a week or so ago importantly, we must establish a system that is properly about those brightest and best students who came to selective among those who want to come here—one this country to study at the TASMAC business school. that brings to the country people who can support our They have been subject not only to the fraud perpetrated development but keeps out those who cannot or will on them by TASMAC, which went into liquidation, but not. Thirdly, the system must properly enforce the rules. to the Home Office now saying that they came to this Let me start by talking about the need for a focused, country to study on one basis, namely that they would selective immigration system. The system that this be allowed to work for 20 hours in the afternoon, but Government inherited was not only chaotic but that that will no longer be admissible, given that they indiscriminate. The previous Government’s approach have to extend their visas because the college has gone was about unlimited immigration, with no limits on tier bust. Does the Minister think that that is fair; and does 1 or tier 2 of the points-based system; tier 1 general and he think that it is the way to attract the brightest and tier 1 post-study work for workers with no job offer; best in the future? large numbers of supposedly the most skilled immigrants ending up in low-skilled jobs; little-used routes for Damian Green: The hon. Gentleman is aware, because investors and entrepreneurs; and no restriction on the he has indeed had a meeting with me, that we must have length of stay for intra-company transfers. Since the rules in place. A huge number of bogus and fraudulent points-based system was introduced in 2009, student colleges have been closed down, one way or another. Of visa numbers went up from 232,000 to a record 320,000. course, genuine students will have been caught up in In 2010, the UK Border Agency had to suspend student that, and we give those genuine students 60 days to find applications in some regions because of abuse. a properly accredited college to move to. I think that Our first task, therefore, was to impose some much- two months is a fair time in which to ask people to find needed rigour. We have already looked at all the migration a new course. [Interruption.] The hon. Gentleman continues routes to ensure that they are selective in the ways that to chunter from a sedentary position, but he has to we want them to be—through work, study, family, and accept that we must enforce the rules and do so fairly; settlement by workers. We carried out public consultations that is why we have the 60-day period. The alternative is on each one of those routes. By next April, we will have to allow potentially bogus students to come here, or reformed them all so that they better meet the needs genuine students to come here and be exploited by of this country. We have imposed an annual limit of bogus colleges. The tough action we have taken in this 20,700 sponsored workers with a specific job offer. We field is not only good for our immigration controls but have closed the tier 1 general route and replaced it with good for genuine students who want to come here—the a smaller, more focused exceptional talent route. We brightest and the best to whom I referred—and who have restricted tier 2 to graduate-level occupations and will no longer be exploited and defrauded by the bogus intermediate-level English speakers. We have restricted colleges that have existed for far too long. intra-company transfers to 12 months unless the person coming is earning £40,000 a year or more. Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): The Minister We have done the same sort of thing on the student said that one of the advantages of the system has been routes. We have introduced tougher entry requirements attracting the brightest and the best and the culture that requiring higher language competency and evidence of they add to this country, but surely for us to benefit the ability to pay maintenance. Any educational institutions from their culture, they need to integrate with us. Are that want to bring in students from overseas will be there not areas of the country where almost no integration highly trusted sponsors and will be vetted by the relevant has taken place and there are now serious political inspectorate so that there will be proper inspections and difficulties? proper accreditation in future. Post-study workers will 583 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 584 need a skilled job offer under tier 2 if they want to stay Mr Frank Field: Is not the reason the net migration in the UK. We have also consulted on reforms to the figures are disappointing that there has been a collapse overseas domestic worker route. Some 15,000 visas are of migration from this country? If the migration rates issued to overseas domestic workers each year, and we had continued at their former pace, the Minister would will restrict this in future. On the family migration have had much more impressive figures to report. On route, we have consulted on new measures to tackle the three reports that he is promising the House on abuse of family migration; to promote integration, as families, on students and on citizenship, will he be a I said; and to reduce burdens on the taxpayer. Within little more definite about when we will know what the the next few months, we will bring forward proposals Government’s plans are in this next stage of trying to that will achieve all those aims. tighten up on immigration? Let me pause for a second on a point about the family route, because I should make it clear that the main Damian Green: The student changes have largely benefit of this aspect of our reforms will be better been announced. Those that did not come into force community cohesion. No longer will people, usually last April or October will come into force next April. young women, be brought half way across the world, I hope that within a few weeks of the House’s return we with no knowledge of our language or our culture, to will be able to announce proposals on settlement and, live lives cut off from the mainstream of British society. following that, on the family route. It is not fair on them, and it is particularly not fair on On the right hon. Gentleman’s first point, emigration their children, who need mothers who can explain the has fallen and is at its lowest level since 2001. It may world in which the children live in the language they use well return to trend at some stage. However, Government outside the home. policy needs to be about controlling what we can control. Settling in Britain should be a privilege, not an automatic Clearly, emigration is not under the direct control of the add-on to a temporary way in. We are therefore going Government. Immigration numbers have only just started to break the automatic link between work and settlement. coming off the top, as I indicated a few minutes ago. Only those who contribute the most economically will The policies that I have announced will, over the years, be able to stay. The Migration Advisory Committee has bring that number down markedly. That is the main given us recommendations on how to achieve this. reason why I am confident that we can hit our targets. Finally— Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): All Government Members would acknowledge the chaotic situation that my hon. Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I thought that the Friend inherited. One difficulty of that inheritance is hon. Gentleman might be going to say a little more the number of failed asylum seekers who were left by about what the Migration Advisory Committee has the previous Government and who are still here. I cannot recommended. It has suggested a lower threshold and a believe that I am alone among colleagues in what I find higher threshold, and I wonder which of those two he is when I investigate the immigration status of the people aiming for. who come to see me. I discover that they have been told that they have exhausted all their remedies and have Damian Green: I think that that comes under the been advised to leave. Of course, they have no intention heading of a nice try. The hon. Gentleman will have to of doing so because they wish to remain in the UK and wait until we have fully assessed the recommendations know that if they manage to remain here for a long of the Migration Advisory Committee, and the House time, there is always a chance that the courts will give will be told at the proper time when we have come to a them some right to remain here under human rights proper decision. legislation. Therefore, this is a question not just of Finally, across the main routes we have raised the stopping the routes for people coming in, but of dealing level of the English language levels required. Those with failed asylum seekers who have no right to be coming to the UK across these routes must be able to within the jurisdiction. speak sufficient English to play a full role in our society. In 18 months, we have completely reformed vast Damian Green: My hon. Friend is right. I will come tracts of the immigration system, and there are the first on to the subject of removals shortly, if he can hold on. small signs—I agree that they are small straws in the The other way to improve the asylum system is to wind because of the chaos we inherited—that our policies ensure that it is faster. If we leave failed asylum seekers are starting to make an impact. The most recent published here for many years, as the previous Government did, quarterly statistics for June to September 2011 show they establish rights that enable the courts to leave that student visas issued under tier 4 are down by them here. That is why I am so pleased to report that 13% and main work visas are down by 18% on the same 59% of new asylum claims now get a decision within a period in 2010. The very latest net migration figures to month. The asylum system is completely transformed March 2011 are also encouraging, showing a fall since a from what is still the public image of it. Indeed, half of recent peak for the year ending September 2010. However, new asylum claims are now entirely decided within six I will not disguise from the House the fact that this is a months. I assure him and the House that the asylum long and difficult process. Net immigration was rising system is genuinely unrecognisable from the state that it rapidly in the last three years of the previous Government. was in a few years ago. That is why we said at the general election that it would I talked about a selective immigration policy. It is not take the whole of this Parliament to bring it down to just about numbers. We want the brightest and the best sustainable levels—to the tens of thousands annually to come here, and we want to support economic growth. that we think appropriate—and why we have been That is why we have consulted so carefully business and taking the necessary steps since day one of this Government. the higher education sector on our reforms. On the 585 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 586

[Damian Green] that the common travel area is as robust as it should be. I am determined to do that and so are the Government work front, every month since we introduced the limit, of the Irish Republic. the visas on offer have been undersubscribed. It is Under e-Borders, we already screen more than 90% of important for the House to know that not a single non-EU flights and more than 55% of all flights into valuable worker has been prevented from coming here and out of the UK. We are continually extending the by our limit. To promote the brightest and the best, we number of routes and carriers covered. More than made the investor and entrepreneur routes more attractive 10,000 wanted criminals, including murderers, rapists and accessible, for instance through an accelerated path and those responsible for smuggling drugs or humans to settlement. The latest quarterly figures show that the into the country, have been arrested at the border as a numbers for both investors and entrepreneurs have result of such advance passenger screening. As a result more than doubled compared with the same period last of joint working with the French authorities and the use year. We have opened a new route for exceptional of improved technology, it has become even more difficult talent, through which applicants do not need a job offer for clandestines to evade border controls. That has but must be endorsed by a competent body as world-leading resulted in a significant reduction in the number of talent. attempts to cross illegally from France to Dover from Britain has always been a nation with a worldwide more than 29,000 in 2009 to 9,700 in 2010. That is a reputation in the education sector. We want top students significant strengthening of our border between Calais to come here. We cannot have world-class education if and Dover. our institutions are closed to the outside world. That is To move on to the point raised by my hon. Friend the why our changes to the student visa route are raising the Member for Banbury (Tony Baldry), we are tackling standards for licensing colleges that sponsor foreign those who come here illegally as well as those who have students. Only colleges offering a genuine, high-quality come for a limited amount of time and then not gone education will be able to sponsor international students home. We are making life more uncomfortable for those in future. people. Those who are not compliant in one area usually Being selective is also about enforcing the rules robustly. are not compliant in others. We are therefore working Our border controls must be strong. The idea of the ever more with organisations such as the Driver and UK border starting at Dover or Heathrow is becoming Vehicle Licensing Agency, the NHS and credit reference increasingly out of date. Where it is appropriate, we will agencies to track people down and encourage them to continue to export our borders so that they start at go home of their own accord. We tell credit reference airports and visa application centres around the world. agencies about illegal immigrants so that they cannot If people come through France, the borders may start at easily access credit. juxtaposed controls at Calais or Gare du Nord in Paris, We are also focusing on criminals who facilitate or Brussels, rather than at Dover or St Pancras people staying here illegally, such as sham marriage International. We are working hard with France and facilitators and passport factories. The UKBA and Her Belgium to ensure that people cannot exploit their Lille Majesty’s Revenue and Customs are working together tickets to come to this country. We will continue to to come down hard on rogue businesses that use illegal work with the authorities of other countries to align labour to evade tax and minimum wage laws. The first and strengthen border security arrangements. We now year of that joint work resulted in more than 130 arrests have a network of staff who work abroad with carriers and potentially hundreds of thousands of pounds of to ensure that only correctly documented passengers tax liabilities for HMRC. A targeted campaign this are brought to the United Kingdom. summer saw more than 550 arrests. We are seeing the results. On 25 November, a Moroccan serial fraudster One statistic not often quoted about the UKBA is who used a fake identity to get British citizenship and that last year it refused 385,000 visa applications. Every claim an estimated £400,000 in benefits was sentenced year, many thousands more people without the correct to nearly seven years in prison. Last month, a Vietnamese documents are prevented from boarding planes overseas woman was found guilty of conspiracy to facilitate and in the first place. That is the best way to protect our smuggle immigrants from Vietnam to Europe and was borders, rather than waiting for people to come to this sentenced to five years in prison at Maidstone Crown country, as we used to do. court.

Mr Russell Brown (Dumfries and Galloway) (Lab): Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con): Can my The Minister knows, from discussions that he and I right hon. Friend confirm whether there are any plans have had, about the problem with southern Ireland. to extend nationally the pilot scheme that is being Can he tell the House how many people have been undertaken in Peterborough to remove people who are refused entry from the south of Ireland into the north? not exercising their rights under the former worker registration scheme and the free movement directive? It has been very successful, with the UKBA working with Damian Green: As the hon. Gentleman knows, there both the local police and the local authority to remove are no border controls between southern Ireland and those individuals, who at the moment are a burden on Northern Ireland because we all subsist in the common the public purse. travel area. However, I am happy to tell him, as I think I have before in this House, that I am shortly to visit Damian Green: I am pleased to hear from my hon. Dublin to sign a memorandum of understanding with Friend, who has a long history of campaigning on the the Irish Government that will strengthen the common issue on behalf of his constituency, that he has seen travel area. He makes a valid point, from his constituency signs of the success of that activity in Peterborough. As interest in the port of Stranraer, that we need to ensure he knows, the problem to which he refers is concentrated 587 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 588 in particular areas, so we are not planning to roll the Somewhere between 10,000 and 20,000 cases are still scheme out nationally. That would not be the best use of live, either because there has been a long process or, in resources. We want to concentrate on the two or three some cases, because people have reached the end of the areas in which that problem is most acute. road in their legal process, but there are some countries Apart from the successful arrests and prosecutions to which it is extremely difficult to remove people, for that I have talked about, we are also working to remove various reasons that the House will understand. As I people more quickly to more countries. Between May said, if he has specific examples, he should let me know 2010 and October this year, we completed a total of and I will take a look at them. 68 special charter flights of people being removed who As I said, the asylum process is much better than it had no right to be here, which resulted in 2,542 removals. used to be, but there is still much that we can do to We are also tackling the problems of the past as they improve it further. We have specifically initiated an relate to foreign national prisoners. We are starting the asylum improvement programme aimed at bringing deportation process earlier and removing foreign criminals about improvements in the speed, efficiency and quality quicker than ever. of decision making. For example, we have introduced Finally, being selective is also about protecting the an entirely new approach to managing the return of most vulnerable. Britain should always be open to those families who have no right to remain in this country. genuinely seeking asylum from persecution. As I have The aim is to encourage and support families to leave said, the asylum system is demonstrably better than it voluntarily, with financial and practical assistance, without was a few years ago. Over the past 15 months, we have the need for enforcement action. The number of children reduced by a quarter the number of asylum seekers entering detention at immigration removal centres and awaiting a decision on their application. short-term holding facilities fell from 1,119 in 2009 to 436 in 2010 and to just 65 in the first 10 months of 2011. In addition, 14 children entered our pre-departures Barry Gardiner: I welcome much of what the Minister accommodation in Sussex from its opening in the middle has said, but there appears to be a glitch in the legacy of August to the end of October. casework that is being cleared up, and I would be grateful if he addressed it before concluding his remarks. As I hope I have demonstrated to the House, we have When those who have been locked in the last phase of taken vigorous and necessary early action to tackle the the legacy casework are brought to the attention of the problem. I know how much passion it raises, and I Home Office, instead of the Home Office addressing know how many pressure groups hold strong views on some of its failings that have left those people in limbo-land, all sides of the argument. We need to have these discussions. it is fast-tracking them for deportation. The genuine If mainstream, moderate politicians do not discuss concerns about how their cases have been dealt with immigration, we will leave the field clear to the extremists, have not been addressed. whether the British National party, the English Defence League or the Islamists, whose only desire is to stir up hatred. Damian Green: I do not think I understand what the hon. Gentleman means about them being fast-tracked We in this House must lead and shape the immigration to deportation. That is a legal process, and among the debate, and to do so Members of all parties need to powers that the Immigration Minister does not have—sadly, have a clear basis for their policies. I will be generous I sometimes think—is the power to decide how fast the to the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant). I do courts operate. not expect Labour to have a fully worked out policy yet, and I will refrain from teasing him by quoting the noble Lord Glasman’s view about Labour’s lack of honesty Barry Gardiner rose— on the issue when it was in government. However, I think it is legitimate to ask one simple question. Does Damian Green: I may have misunderstood the hon. the Labour party think that immigration at current Gentleman, so I give way to him again. levels is too high? If it cannot or will not answer that question, it cannot play a serious part in this important Barry Gardiner: Perhaps I did not explain the matter debate. as clearly as I should have done. What is happening is As I have said, immigration can be beneficial to that when a Member of Parliament makes representations Britain, but the unsustainable levels that we have seen on a case that has been outstanding, often for many over the past decade have been damaging to our economy, years, and highlights times when the Home Office has our society and our country. That is why the Government failed to respond appropriately or has lost documents, are working so hard to get a grip on immigration and the people in question are suddenly being called in for provide an immigration system that encourages the deportation instead of the MP receiving a response that right people to come here and keeps out those who adequately addresses the past loss of documents or would harm us. It is not an easy task, and it will take failure on the part of the Home Office. Basically, those years rather than months, but it is an absolutely essential people are taken out of the system by being taken out of task for the future well-being of our society. I can assure the country, and the problem is not resolved or tackled. the House that the Government are implacably determined to get this right. Damian Green: If the hon. Gentleman knows of individual cases in which that is happening, I know he 7.17 pm will be assiduous in writing to me on the subject. All I Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): I will start with the can sensibly say is that, as he says, there was clearly a issues on which I completely and utterly agree with the problem. We have now investigated every one of the Minister. First, I agree that this is not an issue we cases that was left as part of that terrible legacy, and the should—[Interruption.] I am sorry, the Minister is wittering vast majority of people involved have received a decision. something, I think. [Interruption.] He is carrying on. 589 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 590

[Chris Bryant] to migrate to Argentina but could not get a job there. He ended up coming back here and became the first MP The Minister said that he believed this House should for Rhondda. consider immigration on a regular basis, and he is The Minister referred to the fact that many British absolutely right that if serious politicians in the mainstream people go abroad, but it strike me that British people political parties do not talk about immigration, we abroad are often far and away the worst at integrating vacate the scene and leave it to extremists from other into local communities—one has only to visit Buenos political parties and those who have no desire to foster Aires, where there are more piped bands than there are good community relations. in Stirling and Edinburgh put together, to recognise Sometimes the debate gets heated, although I suspect that enculturation is not the primary focus of British it is not going to get very heated this evening if the people when they go to other countries. proceedings so far are anything to go by. Some talk For that matter, one has only to look at areas of about immigration in this country is undoubtedly racist, south Wales to see that inward migration has been a but I have never subscribed to the view that just because vital part of the economic success of the past. Calzaghe somebody thinks immigration is the single most important is a not-unknown south Walean name, because people political issue facing the country, that makes them came from many places to work in the mines at one racist. If I were to think that, I would probably be time. The English-Welsh word for a coffee shop is telling most of my constituents that they were racists. “brachi” because many thousands came from Badi in That is not because the Rhondda is full of people who Italy in particular to work in the mines as that was have come to this country in recent years. In fact, I where the work was. Likewise, many came from Ireland believe that of all the constituencies in the land it is the and even a few from England. one where fewest people were born outside the UK, but The problem, of course, is that migration has very that does not mean that my constituents are not directly many different vectors. It is not, as some have assumed, affected by many of the issues that are enveloped in the that migration to this country has been stimulated whole issue of immigration. because we have a supportive welfare system or a strong There is a great deal of misunderstanding. Many NHS. In actual fact, the vast majority of migration is have confused asylum with immigration, and serious caused by elements that push people away from their politicians have always wanted to keep those issues home country, be that war, famine or political instability, apart, as the Minister for Immigration has. which often leads to asylum. I remember a debate a few I asked the Minister whether the Government had weeks ago with the Immigration Minister on migration decided where they were going on the threshold salary from north Africa. He was optimistic that the situation that somebody should have if they were to bring in a developing in the Maghreb would mean that many dependant. He said it was a “good try”, but I asked fewer would come to the UK than were originally solely because I thought the Government had an expected either for asylum or other reasons, but the announcement to make today. I suspect that they were most recent figures show that there has been a significant originally going to announce something, which was migration to the UK and a significant increase in the why they decided to hold this debate, but suddenly there number of asylum cases. That issue will inevitably have were other important matters to be discussed, the to be kept under review. announcement disappeared, and with it went the Home One other potential vector, which other hon. Members Secretary. have addressed on other occasions, is climate change. If It is a simple fact that because world travel is now so the seas of the world rise because of climate change, much easier for the vast majority of people, there is there is a strong likelihood that some of the poorest inevitably more migration. People can physically move people in the world will not only want to move but have around the world and relocate, and many more do no choice but to do so, because many of their homes are so. Occasionally—I am sure all hon. Members have in the most exposed areas. heard of this in their constituency surgeries—people I agree with the Minister that migration is not always go abroad on holiday, meet somebody and fall in love good. Very often, refugees end up extremely disoriented with them and want to bring them back to this country. when they arrive in this country, either because their For that matter, my parents met not in this country but language skills are not brilliant or because they do not in Spain—they were both British—and came back to understand the system—they might not even understand the UK. what side of the road we drive on and things like that. I Many other things have affected migration in recent was struck by that the other day. There was a fight in years, not least the fact that countries that were once Tesco Metro and a young man, who had clearly been closed to the rest of the world have opened up, Spain drinking, was shouting at the shopkeepers, “You have being a classic example. Under Franco, Spain was closed no understanding. I am in this country. I am allowed to many, and people could not easily get a visa to go to be in this country, but I am not allowed to work.” It there or vice versa. Similarly, most of the eastern bloc of turned out he was Albanian. Who knows how he will the EU was closed, as were Portugal and many other manage to get himself home? The pain of many of places. those who are forced to travel the world because they In addition, the UK, which is primarily a trading are simply seeking a better place for themselves can be nation, has always had much inward and outward writ large. migration. In Wales, we are particularly conscious that, Often the receiving communities are ill equipped, at the turn of the 20th century, when there were no jobs either financially or culturally, to welcome people. When in south Wales, many Welsh people went to live in the number of asylum claimants in the UK was at its Argentina, which is why there is a large community of highest—not necessarily because of anything that had Welsh speakers there. Indeed, William Abraham tried happened in this country, but because of factors in 591 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 592 other parts of the world at a time of particularly and the NHS. It is not just whether migrants are employed; unstable international relations—many communities in it is also their need for services that we ordinarily expect this country found it genuinely very difficult to take on for our citizens. board the number of people who went to live there, even though they wanted to be welcoming. Chris Bryant: Indeed, and in a sense that is the In addition—this is what I am most aware of in my conundrum that the Government have to try to resolve. constituency because a number of constituents have At some point, they will obviously change the threshold raised it with me—many feel that there are few jobs out from its present low level, but if they go for a significantly there at the moment as it is, particularly at the lower end higher figure, the danger is that it will introduce an of the scale. There are few jobs for manual labourers, unfairness. The strange thing is that while people might and when they get them, they are sometimes turfed out be intrinsically opposed to individuals in general being after just three or four months because somebody comes allowed to bring others into this country, they tend to from another EU country and is prepared to do the job adopt a slightly different attitude when confronted by more cheaply. A constituent came to me last week. He individuals that they have got to know. was delighted when three months ago his son got a job The NHS also has specific needs in relation to migration. in Gloucester—he travelled there and back every day—but Several hon. Members have approached me about problems then his son and the five others who were employed that their local accident and emergency units are having, were sacked and their jobs taken immediately by people because these days many doctors do not want to work from Poland. The vast majority of my constituents in those units—there can be violence, many people are simply do not understand why that should be so and drunk and there is no ongoing care for patients. Many feel that there is a fundamental unfairness in the system. trusts, and many local health boards in Wales, have been looking to recruit internationally, but it is impossible No hon. Member will today suggest that we should for them to do so because of the way in which the rules change all the EU’s provisions. Labour Members have are structured. That is placing a very precise burden on already accepted that we should have introduced transitional some accident and emergency units. Of course it would arrangements for the countries that joined the EU more be better if we planned better so that we did not have recently. We should have gone along with countries that skills shortages, but in some parts of the country they did so, and we underestimated the number of people do exist. who would come to this country. Of course, two more countries will have full rights in 2014, and it will be Mr Stewart Jackson: We all believe in evidence-based interesting to hear the Government’s estimate of the policy making, rather than the anecdotal points that number of people who will come to the UK from them. the hon. Gentleman is making. In that case, why did Although it is easy to identify some of the problems his Government, when they were in power, specifically in relation to immigration, it is not always easy to prevent the publication of information in the form of identify the answers. I have been lobbied quite ferociously research by the Department for Communities and Local by quite a lot of lesbian and gay organisations on what Government that considered the impact of immigration they term “gay asylum”, which is when somebody comes on local services? to this country because they will be persecuted for their sexuality in their country. Those organisations believe Chris Bryant: I do not have the faintest idea. If the that nobody should be sent back to their country to face hon. Gentleman wishes to write to me, I will try to give discrimination and a difficult life. Although I wholeheartedly him a better answer. Yes, my point is anecdotal, in that agree that we should not send lesbian and gay people the Government have a figure for certain forms of back to Iran to face almost certain imprisonment, it is accident and emergency doctor provision in the whole very difficult to have a simple, straightforward open of the UK, and there is no shortage across the whole door for anybody who chooses to claim that they are country, just in certain areas. That is why we may need lesbian or gay. I suspect that the problem is not as some tweaking to ensure that we are able to maintain simple as people would want it to be. the services on which we all rely. There are similar issues Similarly, I raised the issue of family members coming in relation to nursing, not least because one of the to this country. Nobody in the House would believe that elements of migration that we must bear in mind is that somebody bringing a spouse or a member of their many British nurses—although no statistics have been family to this country should be able to do so and then provided since 2008—are choosing to work in countries put a burden on the state. The question though, as the such as Canada, New Zealand and Australia. It is Migration Advisory Committee has pointed out, is therefore difficult for us to plan precisely. what placing a burden on the state means exactly. Does it mean that someone should not be in receipt of benefits Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): One or does it mean that at no stage in the future should that of the challenges for the NHS is that many of the person receive anything from the state? That determines overseas students who come to study health sciences the level at which the threshold would be applied. in our world-leading universities have been built into the staffing plans of our health services. That is partly Some of the poorer constituencies and communities where the gap comes from. I am concerned about the are of course concerned that the rule will allow rich knock-on effect of our recruiting overseas and the brain people to go abroad, fall in love and bring someone drain from developing countries. It is important, however, back, but poorer people will not be able to do that. The that we do not pull the rug from under our NHS plans danger is that the rule is unfair. and those elsewhere in our public services.

Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): The hon. Gentleman Chris Bryant: The hon. Lady makes several fair referred to being a burden on the state, which also points. She is right about not wanting to steal lots makes me think of problems connected to education of doctors from other parts of the world, although 593 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 594

[Chris Bryant] of 2010, 158,180 work visas were issued. Similarly, the number of tier 2 applicants who were successful in people often want to work here for a few years and take obtaining visas is virtually identical to that for the year their expertise back to developing countries—a positive before. As the Minister said, his cap has not yet cut into contribution that we can make. At this very moment, the numbers because it is relatively generous, but what is the minor injuries unit in Llwynypia is closed because the point of the cap if nobody has yet been refused the accident and emergency unit at the Royal Glamorgan because of it? in south Wales is not able to recruit internationally. It In the first quarter since the new cap was introduced, has tried to recruit nationally several times, so there is a 37,000 work visas were issued. The number of intra- problem and we need to be able to plan for our services. company transfers, which the Minister condemned when Universities face similar issues, because—as the Minister we were in power, has gone up from 26,554 to 30,000 in said—it is vital that the brightest and the best come to July. My biggest anxiety about the Government’s record the UK to study. If they do not, we will not have the is illegal immigration. Contrary to the figures the Minister best universities and the brain drain will continue and gave, the number of removals and voluntary deportations cause long-term productivity problems. That is why has been going down quite significantly since the general some of what the Minister is suggesting in relation to election. Between 2007 and 2010, the number was always the university route—the right to study in the UK—is above 60,000. In 2008, for example, 67,981 people were right, although I wonder whether some specific elements removed or voluntarily deported. In the nine months need tweaking. For instance, it is suggested that someone from January to September this year, the number was should be allowed to do a course for only five years, down to 38,865—a 12% fall on last year’s figures. There with no extension to six or seven years unless they are was no increase, as the Minister told us earlier, or as the already earning £35,000, but junior doctors are on Prime Minister said a few weeks ago. Indeed, the Prime about £29,000 and staff doctors on £34,000. There is Minister specifically said, therefore a danger in the Government’s proposals. “illegal immigrants, 10% increase in arrests”.—[Official Report, 9 November 2011; Vol. 535, c. 278.] Tristram Hunt (Stoke-on-Trent Central) (Lab): Is my That is completely and utterly factually incorrect. hon. Friend aware of particular concerns in the Indian The figures show that in the third quarter of last year, subcontinent about rules on studying in the UK whereby 4,730 people were arrested. This year, the figure is Indian students have to return immediately after graduation, 4,141—a fall of 12%; not an increase. when many of them would wish to spend a year working here to pay back their fee? Similarly, the number of non-asylum cases refused entry at port and removed has fallen from roughly Chris Bryant: Of course there are concerns, but ensuring 7,000 a quarter to just 3,822 and a little bit more in each that students go home once they have completed their of the subsequent three quarters. In addition, this year courses is an important part of what we need to do if we the Government have engaged in an ill thought through are to address migration issues. However, this should be and unconvincing pilot scheme, which effectively lowered based on evidence not on anecdote. My concern is that the level at which our security was being guaranteed. in some cases the evidence points to the fact that the I raise those figures because we need to be careful vast majority of those doing further educational courses about the use of statistics by this Government, especially have every intention of returning and not of staying by this Minister. Sir Michael Scholar, who attacked the illegally. Minister for releasing inaccurate and deliberately misleading The Government have fallen for some easy answers statistics on drug seizures, said: and have made a mistaken promise. The Minister rather “The Statistics Authority considers that the fact and manner of skirted over the Government’s commitment, which is to the publication of the 4 November press release, in advance of the cut net migration to tens of thousands—no ifs, no buts, official statistics, was irregular and inconsistent with the statutory Code of Practice, and also with the Ministerial Code and published as the Prime Minister said. The Home Secretary also guidance on the handling of official statistics issued by the said that the aim was to reduce net migration from the Cabinet Secretary.” hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands by the end of this Parliament, saying “Listen very carefully, In normal parlance, that means that the Minister has I shall say this only once”, in her best “‘Allo, ‘Allo” broken the rules and should be sacked. In essence, that accent. The only problem is that actually the figures is what Sir Michael Scholar is saying. He says quite have gone up. In the year ending March 2010 the figure precisely that the Minister has broken the ministerial for net migration was 222,000, and the year to the end code. of March 2011 saw an increase to 245,000. When I wrote to Gus O’Donnell about this, he gave The Minister said that there were only some parts of this answer in mandarin: the equation that we could do anything about, but that “The Home Office press office has also given assurances to the he none the less remains committed to a net migration Department’s Chief Statistician that it will work more closely target. He can do something about net migration if he with statisticians and analysts to ensure that this oversight will wants to persuade more British people to go and live not happen again.” elsewhere, but that is why we have some concerns about In other words, he is confessing that in the publication the precise way in which the Government have worded of statistics the Minister sought to mislead not this their target. House but elsewhere. In relation to those who want to come to this country Of the eight named day questions that I tabled at the to work, the Government have used rhetoric that makes beginning of November, not one has been answered, it seem as though there is a cap of 20,700 in total, but despite the fact that it is a full month after the date in actual fact, in the 12 months from the third quarter when they should have been answered. 595 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 596

I have some specific questions for the Minister. First, Chris Bryant: The Minister has not said whether he on family migration, what threshold income are the thinks the figures are too high. As the Prime Minister is Government leaning towards for a person bringing in a all too happy to say on very many occasions, it is for dependant, and when will they announce it? him to answer questions; it is not for us to do so. Secondly, the NHS has no details of the number of We will support the Government on many things, but staff coming into this country and being employed by it not on everything. We will support them when they seek either from within the EU or from outside the EU. It is to tighten the system against illegal immigration, difficult to form a coherent strategy on NHS staffing international criminality and trafficking. We will also or immigration until such statistics are produced. support them when they seek to ensure a robust and fair Will the Government set about doing so as soon as set of migration rules that do not undermine our economic possible? prosperity or communal support for the system. Thirdly, has the Home Office done any specific analysis of the needs of accident and emergency departments 7.48 pm around the country? The Migration Advisory Council Nicholas Soames (Mid Sussex) (Con): Uncharacteristically, is now suggesting that everyone on tier 2 visas should I am losing my voice. If it finally runs out, I shall just sit have a visa for only five years and that it should be down. non-renewable unless they are on £35,000 or more. Is that the view of the Government, and what effect do I thank my hon. Friend the Minister for so clearly they think that will have on NHS staffing? Has any setting out the Government’s position. He has brought analysis been conducted of British nurses emigrating to immeasurable good sense to this very difficult portfolio. other countries? Again, that is vital information if we When I think that 10 years ago, a Labour Minister at want to ensure that we have proper staffing. the Home Office, Beverley Hughes, described me as being a racist for even having an Adjournment debate In addition, the Home Office estimates that there will on immigration, I can see that we have come a long way. be 70,000 to 80,000 fewer students coming into this country because of the changes in provisions. What As the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) estimate has the Minister made of the financial effect said, it is important that we can discuss this serious on colleges around the country, and when precisely do matter in a clear, open, sane and humane way. I regret they expect to be achieving those numbers? having to say that over the years of the Labour Government, what was already a problem turned into a really, really Furthermore, a consultation is under way on tier 5 of serious problem, and this Government now have to put the points-based visa system, which proposes shortening right something that is of great concern to an enormous visas from 24 months to 12 months. This scheme is number of our constituents. In those terms, I warmly largely used under the medical training initiative, which welcome this debate and thank the Government for allows doctors from other parts of the world, particularly making time for it. That is a clear recognition by them from developing parts of the world, to train in the NHS of the widespread public concern about the scale of for two years. All those involved in the scheme say that immigration to the United Kingdom. if we were to cut the scheme to one year, people would not receive sufficient training to be effective when they That concern was illustrated by the remarkable response go back. to a Migrationwatch petition on the Downing street website calling for immigration to be kept below 70 million. A consultation is under way on the domestic worker One hundred thousand people signed it within a week. visa. As the Minister has said in previous debates, when The right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr Field) and people come in on this visa, they are tied to an employer; I are in touch with the hon. Member for North East they are terrified and are in virtual domestic servitude. Derbyshire (Natascha Engel), the Chairman of the They are treated appallingly with uncertain hours and Backbench Business Committee, about how this should uncertain pay. If, as the consultation suggests, they are be followed up, and we hope to have—indeed, the unable to change their employer in future, there is a real Committee has said that we can have—a specific debate danger that we will be consigning more people to domestic early next year, after the Government have announced servitude and to a more difficult situation. When will their measures on economic and family migration that the Government announce their policy on that? are now under consideration. My final question is on trafficking. Last year, the Today, however, I would like to make three broad Association of Chief Police Officers stated that it was points: first, that the Government’s policy objective is aware of 2,600 women being trafficked for sexual clearly the right one; secondly that migration to Britain exploitation in this country—a much higher figure than can and must be reduced; and thirdly that encouraging the number dealt with in the system. Is it not time that the outflow of non-EU migrants who no longer have we have a means of dealing with people once they have the right to remain in Britain will be the key to further been trafficked and once the trafficking has already progress once the first round of measures is in place. occurred in this country, and that we do more about I congratulate the Government on their strategic using the Department for International Development’s decision to reduce the level of net migration to tens of budget and other budgets to ensure that people are not thousands and on sticking to that objective. This is the trafficked here in the first place? first time in British history that any Government have had the courage to establish such a firm objective for Damian Green: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman immigration. Such an objective is essential. We need to for giving way after his long list of questions. I asked be absolutely clear that after the rapid increase in him one, and in half an hour he has not even addressed immigration since 1997—a catastrophic public policy the central issue. Does he think that immigration is too failure—we now face a fundamental choice: either we high at the moment? allow population growth to continue indefinitely, with 597 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 598

[Nicholas Soames] It is this 200,000 net migration of non-EU citizens that the Government can and must control. My second all that it would imply for our public services, environment point, then, concerns how that control might be achieved. and society, or we take the firm and sometimes difficult The focus must be on the largest flows: students, economic measures to bring immigration under control. migration and marriage, in that order. Non-EU student Governments in Britain have traditionally been reluctant visas are still being issued at a rate of almost 1,000 a to talk about the size of our population lest they be the day. There has clearly been massive abuse of this route, butt of puerile references to Chinese birth control policy. with literally hundreds of dubious colleges being closed Nevertheless, we must face the fact that two thirds of down in recent years, and rightly so—I warmly commend our population growth is now a result of immigration. my hon. Friend the Minister on the vigorous action that Yet this is the only component that is potentially under he has taken on this matter. Government control. If, therefore, population growth is Nobody disputes the benefit to the higher education to be kept within reasonable bounds, immigration simply sector and to the British economy more generally of has to be reduced—and reduced substantially. foreign students who come to study here and who later The most recent population projections from the return home—many of them as lifetime and greatly Office for National Statistics underline that point. It valued friends of Britain—but it seems to me that there has assumed that immigration will continue at a rate of are three main problems associated with this area of 200,000 a year—about the average of the past 10 years—but immigration: first, in spite of the Government’s efforts if that level is allowed to continue, the UK population so far, there might still be a number of bogus courses will hit 70 million in about 16 years and will continue and colleges being used by students; secondly students rising indefinitely beyond that period. Given that neither are still allowed to do too many courses and a number of the other two components—the birth rate and the of repeat courses; and thirdly a number of students, death rate—is likely to change very much in that period, although here legally, overstay at the conclusion of their this is a mathematical certainty. courses. It is sometimes claimed that the ONS projections Bogus students are a serious problem. At the end of have been unreliable. The immigration lobby dines out the day, they come here to work illegally and send on an error that the statisticians made nearly half a money home, and in doing so they undercut British century ago at a range of 35 years. Methods have workers and allow unscrupulous employers to compete improved greatly since then. Nobody claims perfect unfairly with employers who provide a decent wage and accuracy but, in fact, over the past 50 years, and at a decent conditions. The Government are absolutely right 20-year range, the ONS population projections have to crack down on this abuse, but they now need to go been accurate to plus or minus 2.5%. further and ensure that in countries of immigration The figure of 70 million is not simply a round number; concern students are interviewed at posts overseas to it is a marker by which we can judge the success or ensure that they are genuine and that they intend to otherwise of our immigration policy. It also flags up for return home after their course. the public exactly what is involved. We are talking about Those are the two critical tests, but the present box-ticking an extra 7 million in 16 years, of which 5 million will be system severely constrains the ability of entry clearance a direct or indirect result of immigration. The public are officers to conduct them and act on their findings. That perfectly clear that they do not wish to see a population must change and change soon. I also suggest to my hon. increase on anything like that scale, and it is therefore Friend the Minister that the UK Border Agency be absolutely incumbent on the Government to take effective instructed to visit many more of these colleges so that it action. can truly satisfy itself as to the infrastructure, staff and In seeking to take such action, the Government have validity of the courses being taught. This is a major been criticised for choosing net migration as the objective problem and I know that he is dealing with it with great of immigration policy. It is suggested—correctly, of vigour. course—that the Government cannot control British emigration or immigration from the European Union. The second largest inflow is of economic migrants, A glance at the numbers, however, shows that those two and here I must stress that we must be extremely careful flows have generally cancelled each other out. It also not to impede the economic recovery on which everything shows that the real problem stems from an imbalance in depends. British and international firms must know migration from outside the European Union. For the last that they can bring essential staff into this country to seven years, we have had something like 300,000 such develop and expand their businesses. They must also immigrants every year while only 100,000 have left. have stability and predictability if they are to operate effective personnel policies. Fortunately, the Government Mr David Ward (Bradford East) (LD): I think that we have taken that into account in allowing intra-company all accept what the right hon. Gentleman has said about transfers of senior staff with no restriction on numbers. immigration from outside the EU and about how They have also provided 20,000 or so work permits a immigration from within the EU is not controllable, but year, of which, under the current economic circumstances, does he not agree that the behaviour of many Governments only about half have been taken up. The Government towards some of their own citizens—principally the Roma are also now proposing to break the previously almost —in some parts of Europe is increasing the pressure on automatic link between gaining a work permit and them to leave those countries and come here, because we achieving permanent settlement in Britain. That is a treat them a good deal better than their own countries do? fundamental step and is a suggestion originally put forward by the cross-party group on balanced migration, Nicholas Soames: That is probably self-evidently true which I co-chair with the right hon. Member for but it does not alter the fact that the figures remain Birkenhead. The details still need to be worked out, and correct, as I have said. we anxiously await the Minister’s decision. However, we 599 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 600 believe that the proposal will provide a means of meeting mean losing control over the scale and, indeed, the the needs of employers while also limiting the impact fundamental nature of our very society. We are also on population growth. in serious danger of losing public confidence in the I suspect that much of the concern in the business Government’s ability to protect and control our borders. community has stemmed from the interim arrangements That is a fundamental duty of Government which must put in place shortly after the election, which caused a be most resolutely addressed. great deal of confusion. The longer-term arrangements I am grateful for the opportunity to speak in this should now be allowed to settle down, to ensure, as I debate. Let me again tell my hon. Friend the Minister have mentioned, the predictability and stability that, in that I applaud the way in which he is tackling this practice, are so important to both employers and employees. difficult problem. There should be no more talk at all about whether Britain is “open for business”. Of course it is: it always 8.4 pm has been and it always will be. The 40 million foreign citizens who arrive in Britain every year are surely firm Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): It is a huge evidence of that. Not only is such talk is wrong; it also pleasure and honour to follow my right hon. Friend the damages the interests of business and this country. Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas Soames), who has spoken out on this issue again and again, including The third major route is the family route. Clearly when abuse was heaped on anyone who tried to do so. I there can be no question of preventing British citizens also praise my hon. Friend the Minister, who has brought from entering into genuine marriages with foreign nationals. great energy to one of the most difficult briefs in However, the public interest is engaged when they propose Government. What I am about to say will be pretty to live in the UK. The Government are clearly right to bleak, frankly, but not one word of it should be taken as ensure that those who choose to make their married life a criticism of the huge amount of energy and intellect here should have enough English on arrival to participate that he has brought to his job. from the outset in our community. I wholly endorse the It is curious, looking through one’s postbag, how remarks of the right hon. Member for Birkenhead, who many of the pressing issues facing Britain today—housing is very sorry that he cannot be here tonight. He has shortages, congestion on roads and public transport, made the point that there are large areas in this country water shortages, pressures on public infrastructure of where no integration has taken place, to the great every kind—derive largely from a single, common factor: disadvantage of the communities concerned, the population growth, to which my right hon. Friend communities surrounding them and the people living referred. We are one of the most densely populated there who are not part of those communities. Those countries in the world, with 255 people per square problems will cause great social disturbance in this kilometre. During the time of the last Labour Government, country unless dealt with sensitively but firmly. We immigration policies encouraged an unprecedented influx must ensure proper integration in future. The Government from EU and non-EU countries, which has boosted are also right to question whether the taxpayer should, populations in some urban areas to near crisis point. in effect, subsidise marriage to a foreign partner. In Between 1997 and 2009, after deducting the number of addition, measures are needed to deal with cases where those leaving, more than 2 million extra people were young people come under severe social pressure to recorded as settling in the UK, a surge that is unprecedented. marry someone resident abroad. More effective use of However, for the first time, those figures were calculated interviews could help in such cases, which fall short of without using embarkation records, so the true figure forced marriage, but only just. may be much higher. The ONS projections to which my Thirdly, and lastly, the announcement of Government right hon. Friend referred have been upgraded again policies early next year will complete the first round of and again. For example, in 2004 they indicated that by measures to address the scale of immigration. We must the middle of this century our population would reach then watch how the numbers develop. There is, however, 67 million. In just three years that projection was increased an important aspect to which we must shortly turn our to 77 million, and it continues to rise. attention. I refer to the outflow of non-EU migrants, I believe we need to look at gross rather than net which, as I mentioned earlier, has been substantially migration figures, for several reasons. First, many of less than the inflow. That is due to large numbers those leaving are elderly people, looking to spend their staying on in Britain, either legally, by extending their retirement abroad in the sun. In contrast, the vast stays, or illegally. We need to ensure that those extending majority of immigrants are young. First-generation their stay are doing so for valid reasons. The new Home immigrants typically have large families compared with Office policy of requiring students to progress to a indigenous families. There is a further, obvious point, higher level of study before their stay can be extended is which was well understood in this country until the a step forward. We also need much more effective middle of the last century, which is that because we are measures to deter and remove those who no longer have basically overcrowded we always used to have more any right to be here. people leaving, precisely to find homes in emptier lands. I have gone into a certain amount of detail, because Today, housing pressures are caused by domestic factors, this, as so often, is where the devil resides. However, we such as family breakdown, increased longevity and so must not lose sight of the wider picture. Over the last on, which have led to smaller household sizes, so if we 15 years, we have issued something like 2 million visas a do not have a degree of net emigration, we will have to year, but have had no record of individuals as they have keep building more and more. arrived and departed. As a result, the Government have no idea who is in this country or why they came in the Chris Bryant: The hon. Gentleman’s last comment—that first place. A clear set of policies is now being instituted the reason many British people have gone around the to attend to that. They must succeed. Failure would world and settled elsewhere is because Britain is 601 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 602

[Chris Bryant] including the rise caused by the bulge in immigration, will have to be built on precious protected land or else overcrowded—is factually wrong. The parts of the country more communities will have to be exposed to the dangers from which many people left—Scotland and Wales—are of flooding. the least crowded. In fact, they mostly went because Water supplies in many parts of the country are there were no jobs in this country or, originally, because under strain, too. In fact, our national average per of religious persecution. It is nothing to do with capita is now lower than that of Spain and Portugal. As overcrowding. more water is abstracted from aquifers and rivers, the flow in rivers falls, killing wildlife and scarring the Mr Brazier: One can go back quite a long way, into countryside. religious persecution and earlier history, but we were very keen to encourage, for example, the Australians to Immigration is putting considerable pressure on our keep an assisted package programme going for nearly schools, too. A report by London Councils stated that two thirds of the last century. Much of that was precisely on current projections, London is 18,000 places short. to reduce overcrowding. There was also a degree of It is not just London. Between 1998 and 2010, the internal re-location—for example, with the setting up of proportion of children in primary schools in England new towns outside London—but we encouraged movement for whom English is not the first language very nearly abroad, as well as out of our major cities. doubled to 16%, and in inner London native English- speaking children are in the minority. The noble Lord Everybody agrees that previous generations of Knight, until recently a Labour Education Minister, immigrants have brought huge benefits, in such fields as admitted that business, science, sports and the arts. We all have friends “undoubtedly there can be problems” from a variety of different communities. My family has particularly benefited from a doctor, without whom two in schools with large numbers of non-English speakers. of my sons would not be alive today, who is a recent That is massively to understate the handicap suffered by immigrant. However, few people recognise the sheer all the other children in those schools. impact of population growth on our country today, and The number of arrivals from overseas registering I want to focus on two issues: housing and infrastructure. with a GP has increased dramatically. One of the hardest The most serious social and economic issue facing hit NHS specialties has been midwifery, as birth rates middle and lower middle-income families in Britain have risen most sharply in areas where numbers of today is the shortage of housing, and not just in the immigrants are high. When Labour came to power in south-east where land is at the highest premium. The 1997, one baby in eight was born to a foreign-born huge inflows of population that took place under the mother. That has now risen to one in four. last Government are going to require very large releases My hon. Friend the Minister for Immigration has put of land, much of it countryside, even without any it well: the real questions are how Britain can benefit further population growth. Our house prices today, most from immigration and what controls do we need despite some fall from the peak during the recession, to maximise those benefits and minimise the strains. remain very high by international standards and, crucially, The last Labour Government—we still have not had an in relation to our falling incomes. answer from the shadow Minister as to whether he As the Prime Minister pointed out the other day, the believes immigration is too high—maintained that average age of first-time buyers has risen to 37. Many immigration was good for Britain and the British economy families are now burdened for much longer than ever as a whole since immigrants boosted GDP. Of course it before with heavy mortgages, so adults have to work is true that on average immigrants pay more tax than longer hours and for more years in an attempt to service they receive in benefits or consume in public services. those mortgages. An OECD survey showed a few years Many, especially the kind of immigrants who came ago that a higher proportion of people in this country through in generations before Labour opened the borders, feel they are working more hours than are good for make a gigantic contribution, but taking an average their family life than people in any other major country disguises the bottom end of the spectrum. in the developed world. Many of those who arrived in Britain under the last Shelter paints an equally bleak picture of the rental Government, particularly from the Asian subcontinent, market. More than half of local authorities in England were unskilled and joined often insular communities have a median private rent for a two-bedroom house in which incomes were already low and in some cases that costs more than 35% of median take-home pay. the unemployment rate was near to 50%. Pakistani and Families are forced to cut their spending on essentials—food, Bangladeshi communities, for example, were those most heating or whatever—to pay the cost of rent or the likely to enter the UK through the family route after the mortgage. primary purpose rule was dropped. The Government have set out plans to revive building, Baroness Flather, the first Asian woman to receive a which was at an all-time low at the end of the last peerage, caused outrage when she made a brave speech Government, but that will have the knock-on effect of in the House of Lords. She said: causing huge problems for infrastructure. The Environment “The minority communities in this country, particularly the Agency, for example, estimates that 5 million people live Pakistanis and the Bangladeshis, have a very large number of in flood-risk areas in England and Wales, and as climate children and the attraction is the large number of benefits that change accelerates, that number will no doubt rise. Yet follow the child.” in a county like mine—Kent—the majority of all land She went on to say: that does not fall into a protected category is now on “Nobody likes to accept that or to talk about it because it is floodplains, so much of the building we are going to supposed to be very politically incorrect.”—[Official Report, House have to provide to cope with our existing population, of Lords, 13 September 2011; Vol. 730, c. 706.] 603 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 604

Of course it is true here as in countries all over the heavy criticism from big business and elements from the world that the trend is for birth rates in ethnic groups left must not put them off. It is time to recognise that we that integrate to go towards the national average. The must take much stronger action if we want to head off problem, as the right hon. Member for Birkenhead the most severe social consequences and a backlash (Mr Field) has pointed out, is that under the last orchestrated by some unattractive people in the extremes— Government we grew significant numbers of communities not just from indigenous people, but increasingly from where there was no integration and no trend in birth many concerned people in our settled ethnic minority rates or anything else towards the national norm. The communities. whole economic argument has largely ignored the costs to the overburdened public purse in infrastructure and the loss of quality of life to the population, as overcrowding 8.19 pm worsens. Mark Simmonds (Boston and Skegness) (Con): I There are powerful voices that welcome continued recognise—as did the Minister—the significant historical heavy immigration. Big business benefits from the arrival benefits that immigration has brought to this country. of large numbers of people willing to work, since they However, I strongly agree with the direction of Government drive down the cost of labour at the expense of the policy in this regard. I agree about the necessity to living standards of the indigenous workforce; and the reduce the number of immigrants to tens of thousands wives of the better-off are able to get help in the home by the end of the current Parliament, the necessity for at a fraction of a living wage for local people, but then migrants to be able to converse in the English language, they and their families are not usually struggling to pay and the necessity to clamp down on clear abuses, particularly their mortgages and watching their children’s education those relating to student visas. I fear that yet more may being destroyed in schools with dozens of languages. need to be done if we are to get a grip on the issue, given that, as my right hon. Friend the Member for Mid Sussex Mr Ward: The hon. Gentleman has made two references (Nicholas Soames) rightly pointed out—or intimated— to education and attainment in schools, about which I abuses are still happening in the system. know something. There is no evidence that indigenous During the 18 months or so for which he has been in children for whom English is the first language suffer as his post, the Minister has made a significant and positive a result of the presence of children with other first contribution by trying to address major challenges following languages. The evidence to support that view is just not an almost complete abdication of responsibility in the there. years during which the Labour party did not even attempt to control immigration. The word “unlimited”, Mr Brazier: I have just quoted the words of a former used by the Minister, encapsulates those years very Labour Education Minister, and I will write to the hon. clearly and accurately. However, we need a sophisticated Gentleman if he would like me to find a study for him. approach in order not to deter people who constitute highly skilled additions to our work force, particularly Mr Stewart Jackson: I am afraid that the hon. Member in research science. I am thinking especially of stem cell for Bradford East (Mr Ward) is incorrect. There is research, the pharmaceutical industry and other scientific evidence to suggest that. The Minister acknowledged in technologies about which I know there is great concern. a Westminster Hall debate earlier this year that children We also need a sophisticated, and detailed, approach if without English as their first language are 19% less we are not to deter students who genuinely come to the likely to succeed in key stage 2 SATs. That is an important United Kingdom to gain some of their education, especially issue, particularly for primary schools. those from the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China who may be our future trading partners—or future political leaders, or other significant Mr Brazier: I am most grateful to my hon. Friend. I figures in those economies. They are the people who shall not repeat the powerful point my right hon. Friend will go home and have a positive impact on their own the Member for Mid Sussex made about students, but countries in relation to the UK. there is a very real issue to consider. At a time when the domestic take-up of degree courses is likely to shrink Dr Whiteford: The Scottish universities, which are sharply, I suspect that the problem will grow more mostly research-led ancient institutions, are competing acute. with Canadian and Australian universities—the best Middle-income and lower middle-income Britain is universities in the world—for the best students. They hurting: with long working hours, high levels of debt are concerned about the tone of the Government’s new and rising prices in so many sectors, people struggle approach, fearing that it will deter students before they to meet their mortgages and rent payments and they have even gone through the visa process. see their standard of living eroded. There is a severe shortage of homes, and overcrowding in many schools, Mark Simmonds: I understand the concern felt by the hospitals and prisons, too. We are trying to cope with hon. Lady and the Scottish universities. I know that the strains of a growing population. Infrastructure is there is also concern about some of the main research also desperately overstretched in so many ways, with universities in England, which I share. However, I do issues of flooding, water supplies, roads and land not agree with the hon. Lady about the Government’s preservation looming. tone. I think that the tone of the Immigration Minister We all recognise the huge contribution that moderate has been absolutely right: it has been considered, thoughtful, levels of immigration have made to this country in the measured and calm. The Minister has tried to strike the past. I welcome the measures that Ministers and the important balance between ensuring that we control Government have taken. I would argue, however, that immigration and ensuring that the right people come to the coalition has a long way to go on this issue. The the UK. 605 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 606

[Mark Simmonds] formula. It is more than twice the percentage increase in the next local authority area, and that too is not reflected I want to make a slightly different contribution to the in any funding formula. debate. Rather than talking about immigration in generic Boston is the only local authority outside London terms, I intend to talk—unashamedly and unapologetically that has featured in the figures for the top 20 increases —about my constituency, and about the impact that in immigration in each of the last five years. That is not immigration has had on Boston. I do not mean immigration reflected in any funding formula. Boston is second only from outside the EU; I mean immigration within the to Newham in percentage terms when it comes to EU and, in particular, from the A8 countries. upward revisions of the 2010 mid-year population estimates. Let me explain to those who do not know the That is not reflected in any of the public sector funding Lincolnshire town of Boston that its economy is focused formulae. The published projected population increase primarily on agriculture, horticulture and the food- in the borough of Boston was 0.4% but, according to processing sectors, and on tangential businesses such as the latest ONS report, the actual figure is 8.7%. As I haulage. For some time migrant labour has been essential have said, I believe that that is an underestimate. None to the efficient working of the agricultural economy—not of that is reflected in the funding formulae. That raises just in the fields but in the pack houses—and, increasingly, serious questions about the capacity of infrastructure to that of the tourism industry on the east Lincolnshire to cope and the efficient provision of public services. coast. There is a significant mismatch between the population My personal view is that those who have come from and the funding that is supposed to cope, which leads to within the EU and are here legally and legitimately, stress and tension in communities. I wish to give the paying taxes and making a contribution, should be House three specific examples of the impact, the first of welcomed into our communities, and that their contribution which relates to the Lincolnshire police authority. Some should be recognised. The shadow Minister, the hon. in this House with long memories will recall the riots Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant), was right to that took place in Boston in 2004, which were partially acknowledge that a mistake was made back in 2004 but not solely driven by migration issues and pressures. when this country did not adopt the derogation that In November this year, a proposal was made for an was adopted by many other EU countries. That has, anti-immigration march in Boston, to be organised by without question, exacerbated what was already a difficult those with local concerns about the scale of migration. problem. We must also ensure that migrants from within I must put on the record the fact that the organisers the EU who come here primarily to work are not reflected responsibly on this when they heard that the exploited, and those who have been involved in stopping anti-fascist league was going to march at the same time that exploitation—particularly the Gangmasters Licensing and that their march was sucking in extreme and far-right Authority—should be congratulated on their work. individuals who would not have been welcome in Boston. However, none of us must underestimate the pressures and strains on communities and those responsible for Complex policing issues and additional costs are not trying to deliver our public services. reflected in the funding formula: community tensions; significant crime and disorder issues, although it must When a country’s needs are assessed, the fundamental be said that the vast majority of crime in Boston and tenet must be the population of a particular area. I have Lincolnshire is still committed by UK citizens; additional long argued that public sector funding formulas do not costs for interpreter services—6,500 hours’ worth in reflect the population of my community, and I know Lincolnshire in the 2010-11 financial year; and significant that my hon. Friend the Member for Peterborough road policing issues, such as a lack of insurance and (Mr Jackson) has advanced the same argument in relation people not understanding our drink-driving laws. That to his constituency. That is just as true of Boston as it is is all in the context of Lincolnshire having the lowest of Peterborough. The problem has been exacerbated by number of police officers per head in the country and the last Labour Government’s manipulation of the formulae the lowest funding of any police force. to enable them deliberately to transfer resources away from rural communities. The second area that I wish to discuss is the health The House may be interested to know that in its service. The proportion of births to non-UK mothers recent report the Office for National Statistics acknowledges has more than doubled in Boston since 2001. That that the previous basis for calculating migration numbers— trend suggests that an increasing number of migrants the labour force survey—was not good at capturing are not transient and are choosing to settle in Boston migration trends. The ONS uses a much more accurate and in Lincolnshire with their families. In 2001, 5% of assessment, event though I believe that it too is an babies in Boston were born to non-UK mothers, whereas underestimate. It includes calculations of national insurance the figure is now 35%—significantly above the national numbers and flag 4, the patients’ register. Those data average—and 81% of those are from EU accession take account of children and of people over 65, which countries. That trend is accelerating, not decelerating. the labour force survey did not. It also acknowledges Last year, the borough of Boston had its largest number that only 50% of the migrant population register with a of national insurance registrations—nearly 2,500—with GP, and that one third of migrants may be missed. In Lithuania and Latvia topping the nationality poll. other words, it already acknowledges that the new statistics That creates pressures: migrant populations finding it that it produced about a month ago were an underestimate. difficult to access health services and mental health It used to be very difficult to base the numbers on services, with all the subsequent, associated challenges; evidence, but at last the ONS is starting to get to grips enormous strain on the sexual and reproductive health with the process. Its report confirms that between 2005 services; greater pressure on community services; language and 2010, the figure for Boston’s cumulative immigration barriers; major causes of morbidity and mortality, which was revised upwards to 218%, and that figure, which is are especially driven by lifestyle choices; and severe the highest in the country, is not reflected in any funding pressure of local health service utilisation, especially at 607 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 608 general practitioner surgeries and at accident and emergency I do not want to prolong the debate about schools—the attendances when migrant populations do not know hon. Member for Canterbury (Mr Brazier) has just left how to access primary care. the Chamber—but I benefited from an education in a The third and final example that I wish to give the French state school, where half the pupils spoke a House relates to the pressures on Boston borough council, foreign language, so I think that it is not the number of which estimates that at least 10,000 more migrants are children with a mother tongue, per se, but the level of living in the borough than the official statistics state—The investment that is relevant. Times guide to the House of Commons estimates that I welcome today’s debate. The Liberal Democrats there are 17,500 more. Considerable issues arise as a have not been scared of debating immigration. In the result, some of which relate to licensing, because operators past, that has perhaps worked to our disadvantage and from central and eastern Europe are now opening their it might have been advantageous had we not debated own shops. They are of course welcome and perfectly the matter quite so openly. A number of Members entitled to do that, but they must operate within the law highlighted the fact that the mainstream parties’ failure and they do not necessarily understand the law relating to be willing to debate such matters created a vacuum to the sale of alcohol. Several stores have had to be that others occupied. We are collectively reclaiming that closed, and hon. Members will remember the tragedy ground and enabling measured debates to take place. that took place just before the summer recess when five I shall not criticise Labour Members as I know that migrants were killed in my constituency when an illegal there are many demands on their time, but I am a little still exploded. Other issues that have to be addressed surprised by the rather sparse attendance on the Opposition relate to unlicensed taxis; environmental health—those Benches for this critical debate. issues are too numerous to mention, but they include the safety, origin, preparation and storage of food; a Chris Bryant: We went for quality. significant increase in noise complaints; antisocial behaviour; and illegal campers—single male foreign nationals of Tom Brake: The Front-Bench spokesman makes a no fixed abode. point about quality, but quality can also come from One of the real problems we have in Boston relates to Back Benchers in some circumstances. the very good point that my hon. Friend the Member for Canterbury (Mr Brazier) made about housing. The Chris Bryant: Youonlyhavetwo. houses in multiple occupation are a significant problem, particularly in the small streets with terraced housing Tom Brake: I am not going to prolong the debate that that occupy the centre of the historic town in Boston. I am having with the hon. Gentleman from his sedentary The council is hopelessly insufficiently resourced to position—he can calculate the percentages in respect of deal with it and with the associated car parking and van the parties represented here tonight. parking problems. I welcome the fact that almost the Minister’s first Other hon. Members have dealt with the issue of words pointed out the benefits that immigrants bring to primary education, so I have not even mentioned it. this country, as in a measured debate the benefits and However, there are two or three primary schools in the disbenefits of immigration are discussed. I welcome the centre of Boston where 50% of the pupils have English action the coalition Government have taken to close as a second language, and that causes intense educational down some of the illegal routes used to get into the UK issues. To be fair, the schools have had some support jobs market, especially the action taken to speed up the from Lincolnshire county council, but they require more. asylum process. It works to everybody’s advantage, In conclusion, Ministers must focus both on reducing including asylum seekers here, if that process deals with net migration and on providing resources and support cases rapidly rather than allowing things to drag on for to communities with large EU-migrant populations—that years. At the risk of offending my coalition partners, is not regularly discussed. Ministers must adjust public I must point out that that issue was not particularly sector funding formulae, insisting on accurate and fair linked to the previous Labour Government and that, funding that reflects the populations that are actually in historically, there have been issues with addressing asylum a geographical area. I sometimes hear the argument claims swiftly. Soon after I was elected in 1997—other that it is too complex to open the funding formulae up Members who were elected at that time will remember again. I do not accept that argument and the ONS this—I found that I was hearing about cases that had report makes it very clear in which areas populations been under review for a number of years. I am pleased have dropped. We need to acknowledge that there must that we are now on top of that process. be a balance between populations and funding formulae I do not want to make general points about immigration, and in the borough of Boston the imbalance is acute but I have a couple of specific points. Appropriately, the because there are insufficient resources to deal with the Minister mentioned the Lille issue and the attempts to much-needed economic migration to drive economic enter the UK without the appropriate documentation. growth in rural Lincolnshire. I hope that the Government have looked at whether other routes are being used in that way and whether, as 8.35 pm new transport links are set up, other routes might suffer Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD): It is a from that problem. I hope that we are addressing that pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Boston and issue. Skegness (Mark Simmonds). He was perfectly right The Minister pointed out that the coalition Government to draw attention to the time lag and the failure of have dealt significantly with a blot on Labour’s record—the funding formulae to adjust to cope with a different local number of children being detained. We have largely demographic locally—a point that both our parties addressed the detention of children pre-departure, but used to raise in opposition, and rightly so. there might still be an issue with reducing the number of 609 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 610

[Tom Brake] 8.45 pm Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con): It is a children detained on entry to the UK and the length of pleasure to follow the right hon. Member for Carshalton time for which they are detained. Some organisations and Wallington (Tom Brake). Much of the discussion in have suggested that there should be no detention of the debate tonight is based on anecdote. One of the children on entry, but that would mean operating an problems is that we have not had an opportunity recently open border policy, which the Government, rightly, are to look at fact-based evidence. We can all unite around not doing. If that policy were adopted, it might lead to the idea that if we do not debate these issues in a children being trafficked here by people who were not moderate and mainstream way, the extremists will polarise their parents. The Government should aim to minimise people and drive wedges between our communities. the number of children detained on arrival in the UK They would like nothing better than to propagate violence, who have to be returned. hatred and dislike among communities of different The biggest challenge for the Government is, perhaps, ethnic groups, religions, creeds and so on. that of overstayers and people who are already here Not since the House of Lords Select Committee on illegally. The Minister has set out a number of measures Economic Affairs undertook a proper analysis in 2008 that the Government are taking in that respect. There is has there been such a study enabling us to identify the still a major issue regarding the number of employers costs and benefits of large-scale immigration. It would being prosecuted. As long as employers are willing to be remiss of those on the Government Benches not to employ people illegally, that will act as a magnet, so any mention the lamentable policy of the previous Government. other activities that the Government can undertake in I hope the shadow Minister or his hon. Friend the that area would be very welcome. Member for Kingston upon Hull North (Diana Johnson) The hon. Member for Boston and Skegness said that will come to the Dispatch Box to ask the philosophical we need a flexible system of immigration to ensure that question that will inform Labour’s view, if it is developing we have the skills we need coming into the UK. The policy to be a future Government—whether it believes Minister might be aware of some recent research by the that immigration is too high or not. That is a question London chamber of commerce and industry, which that voters are entitled to ask and to which they are found that nearly a quarter of the companies that entitled to receive an answer. responded to the survey had looked outside the EU for I pay tribute to the work of the cross-party group on staff because they believed that employing a non-EU balanced migration and the work of my right hon. migrant would help them to grow into markets beyond Friend the Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas Soames) the EU. It will be to the advantage of the UK and our and the right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr Field), export-led recovery if, on occasion, we allow people who have done a great job, ably supported by with appropriate skills from non-EU countries to enter Migrationwatch. For nine years Migrationwatch has the UK jobs market. ploughed a lonely furrow, having been introduced as The Government are looking at safeguards for overseas racist and as having some kind of hidden agenda to domestic workers. Members might be aware that it is propagate community discord. Nevertheless, it has often very difficult for domestic workers who are brought concentrated on the facts and more often than not been here and, in different ways, abused by an employer to right in raising the tenor of the debate and allowing get out of what sometimes amounts to unpaid servitude. mainstream politicians to debate in a meaningful way I welcome the fact that the Government are looking at based on facts. this, and I hope that we will be given some information The facts have not been good for the previous tonight or later about the safeguards that the Government Government. It has fallen to the present Government to are looking at introducing for overseas domestic workers clear up the mess and the legacy of uncontrolled, who experience abuse from their employer. unrestricted immigration. As my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary has said, 2.2 million people net entered the country between 1997 and 2009. We have not yet Chris Bryant: There are two suggestions on the table: had a proper analysis of that, although in fairness the that the visa should be completely abolished, and that right hon. Member for Morley and Outwood (Ed Balls) an employee would be tied to the employer who brought was honest enough to say after the general election, them in and would not be able to change employer. about the immigration from eastern Europe, that Surely the second of those suggestions would make it “there has also been a direct impact on the wages, terms and more likely that people would be caught in servitude. conditions of too many people...incommunities ill-prepared to deal with the reality of globalisation, including the one I represent. . . As Labour seeks to rebuild trust with the British people, it is Tom Brake: I thank the hon. Gentleman for his important we are honest about what we got wrong.” pertinent intervention. The Government need to explain If I was a cynic, I would say that is because the Opposition what safeguards will be in place for a worker who comes lost the election, but people now look to them to put here, is linked to one employer and has no alternative flesh on the bones and to develop the mea culpa of the but to work for them. right hon. Member for Morley and Outwood. We need an immigration system that is flexible, fair and secure, and the coalition Government are moving Chris Bryant: Having heard many confessions in my swiftly in that direction. Our ability to sell to the wider time, I am not going to give a lengthy mea culpa. We population the benefits of immigration that is helpful have already said that immigration was too high, which to the UK depends on the coalition Government being was in part because we got the element resulting from able to demonstrate that we, and not the people traffickers, countries joining the European Union wrong and did are deciding who comes to the United Kingdom. not introduce a points-based system soon enough. In 611 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 612 answer to the hon. Gentleman’s question, yes of course Another concern relating to education that we must we think that immigration has been too high and that it not forget is churn. Many of the low-wage and low-skilled should be lower. people who work in horticulture, agriculture and food processing and packaging in Boston and Peterborough Mr Jackson: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for come here for short periods, which disrupts their that, but there is a more insidious element to Labour’s children’s education. For instance, overall in Peterborough, proposals and its record in office, which was articulated 4,767 pupils—31%—did not have English as their first by Mr Andrew Neather, a speech writer for Tony Blair, language. Of 2,103 pupils with key stage 2 results, who was famously quoted as saying that the idea was 21% were not in the city at the beginning of their school to rub the right’s nose in mass immigration in order to year, and 22%, or 450 pupils, were in the foundation make a political point. It was a systematic policy of stage but were not put in for key stage 2 SATs. That one mass migration pursued by the previous two Prime simple example is important in terms of the training, Ministers and the Labour Administration. expertise, skills and knowledge of the teachers required to teach those children. Chris Bryant rose— I shall draw the Minister’s attention to some specific issues. On the A2 accession of Bulgaria and Romania and, particularly, the moratorium on the free movement Mr Jackson: I will make some further progress. of labour, it would not be appropriate to change in 2013 The House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee our policy on that restriction. It is an extremely important found in its report on immigration, the most comprehensive issue, because the potential mass migration of large such report brought before Parliament in the past 10 years, numbers of low-wage and low-skilled people from Romania that and Bulgaria would have a significantly negative effect “we have found no evidence for the argument… that net immigration… on the UK labour market in 2013, and I welcome the generates significant economic benefits for the existing UK preliminary findings of the Migration Advisory Committee population… The overall fiscal impact of immigration is likely to in making that clear to Ministers. Serious consideration be small”. should be given to derogation for a further period—perhaps That might be true, but we do not know because there to 2015 or 2017. has not been a sufficiently robust analysis, which would On the inter-relationship between the Home Office be interesting, by either the Government or other academic and the Department for Work and Pensions, we must bodies. What is certainly not in doubt is the public clarify the issue of the right to reside and the habitual support we have for pursuing a robust, fair and transparent residence test, particularly the operation of the Immigration immigration policy. Last month YouGov polled the (European Economic Area) Regulations 2006. The House British public and found that, on a proposal to restrict of Lords Merits of Statutory Instruments Committee, net migration to 40,000 a year, which would prevent this in its 26th report, found that the DWP had done insufficient country’s population growing to 70 million by 2027, work in looking at the impact and ramifications of the 69% supported the idea and only 12% opposed it. end of the workers registration scheme, and that is I support the range of policies pursued by the Minister, important in terms of people’s access to benefits such as whose has been open and collaborative on the concerns jobseeker’s allowance, pension credit and child tax credit. that hon. Members have in their constituencies, for I am concerned, too, about the European Commission example on student visas, family migration, income infringement proceedings and its reasoned opinion, which thresholds, language proficiency, temporary workers essentially breaks the social contract, established over and promoted integration. However, I wish to speak in many years in this country, that one does not receive a similar vein to the comments of my hon. Friend the benefits unless one has a demonstrable link to this country Member for Boston and Skegness (Mark Simmonds), and has paid taxes to this country. I draw the House’s who in a measured, well-argued and intellectually coherent attention in particular to the case of Mrs Patmalniece, a contribution identified the issue we have in Peterborough, Latvian woman who claimed pension credit, having although I will not reiterate his points exactly. never worked a single day in this country. That cannot be right for my constituents or for the constituents of Let me tell hon. Members a little about education. any hon. Member. I secured a debate in Westminster Hall, to which the Minister of State, Department for Education, my hon. I am concerned also about criminal records data in Friend the Member for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton the European Union, because in respect of sharing such (Mr Gibb) replied, in which I proposed incorporating data we are not properly using regulation 19(1B), which the number of pupils for whom English is an additional came into effect in June 2009 as an amendment to the language as a key factor in the pupil premium. In those 2006 regulations. If we are using it, we are doing so areas where there are pressures specifically as a result of reactively. It is not right that someone with a criminal eastern European migration—there are probably fewer record can get on a coach in Lithuania and turn up in than two dozen such areas—the need for extra resources Boston, Peterborough or any other urban or rural as a result of language difficulties should be factored in. centre in the United Kingdom. For example, in the academic year 2010, of the 528 pupils at Beeches primary school in the central ward of Mark Simmonds: My hon. Friend is, as always, making Peterborough, only six spoke English as their first language. a well informed and articulate contribution. Is he aware There are many such schools in Peterborough, although of the recent case in my constituency, where a Lithuanian not necessarily at that level, but close to it. That will gentleman, who had been convicted in Lithuania of an inevitably have a massive impact on educational attainment axe murder, turned up in Boston and killed a lady, and simply because the resources needed to bring all those that it was not until he was convicted in a British court children up to the appropriate standard will be significant. that the information came out? My hon. Friend is 613 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 614

[Mark Simmonds] However, we have, over a number of years, allowed the notion—the myth—to grow up that there is some unalloyed making the pertinent point that we should put in place benefit in allowing uncontrolled immigration to our structures to stop people with such convictions entering country. the UK in the first place. The hidden economic costs of uncontrolled immigration are becoming clear. We are told that cheap labour is a Mr Jackson: I thank my hon. Friend for that helpful good thing—and of course immigrants are cheap. They intervention. do the jobs that nobody else wants to do, they take a I know the Minister will tell us that the Schengen wage that nobody else wants to take, and they keep information system, SIS II, is coming down the line, costs down. However, although uncontrolled immigration and that we will be able to share criminal records data may put a cap on wage inflation, it also puts a cap on across all 27 nations of the European Union, but that productivity. Businesses that can benefit from cheap will not happen until 2015. We have the power at the workers have no incentive to be more productive. In the moment under regulation 19(1B) to exclude people in long term, that is not a sensible economic model. I hope respect of public policy, public security and public that the Government will take further action to crack health, and we should look again at being much more down on businesses that use illegal immigrants—to find pro-active in that respect. them and to make sure that those illegal immigrants are Non-European Union immigration is a massively deported in order to send a message that there is no important issue on which we made a bond of trust in future and no profit in this sort of thing. our manifesto at the election. It was the No. 1 issue on The right hon. Member for Southampton, Itchen the doorstep in my constituency. Let us not forget the (Mr Denham) recognised the phenomenon that is created important impact of eastern European immigration on by the large volume of cheap labour in his constituency. local authorities, health authorities, primary care trusts It creates resentment among hard-working workers and and police services across the country. The Government jobseekers who cannot get a job or the wage that they are doing a good job and going in the right direction. would like because of the volume of immigrants. Polly We need a policy towards immigration that is based on Toynbee, hardly an acolyte of the right, has also complained fairness to individuals and to the taxpayer, and we need about that phenomenon. The House of Lords, hardly a transparency. Above all else, we need to clear up the home of the left, has recognised that large-scale immigration appalling legacy left to us by the previous Government. can have an impact, particularly on youth unemployment. A quotation in its 2008 report states: “Given the age and skill profile of many of the new immigrants, 9pm it is possible that ‘native’ youngsters may have been losing out in Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) (Con): I must admit the battle for entry-level jobs.” that I was planning not to take part in this debate That is of real concern to us. It is certainly of real because very little has been said with which I disagree, concern to people who are looking for work. but I decided not to let that stop me, so I shall continue The House of Lords has also pointed out that there is and make some generic points as briefly as I can. It is an issue with our infrastructure. As my hon. Friend the unfortunate and ironic that so few Members are present Member for Canterbury (Mr Brazier) said, housing and for this important debate, which is of concern to many transport are put under greater strain by uncontrolled of our constituents, but I put that down to what one immigration. It is no coincidence that in the years after might call statement fatigue. I trust that it in no way 2002, which saw the greatest increase in immigration, reflects on the stellar cast of speakers on both Front there was a 60% increase in the number of people Benches from whom we have heard and will hear during waiting on social housing lists. Immigrants who have the course of the evening. been here for a period of time are 30% more likely to be We all know that this is a very important debate. living in social housing than those born in the UK. That When we speak to our constituents on the doorstep or creates resentment and fuels a feeling of futility. Many on the phone, or meet them in our surgeries, we know people see the 3 million jobs created between 1997 and that they are concerned about immigration. I recently 2010 by the previous Government as a success, but 75% ran a survey in my constituency, and I would say that of those jobs were taken by immigrants. What message about seven in 10 people mentioned immigration as one does that send to young people in this country? of their top five concerns. It is an issue that our constituents People are angry. They are angry that the previous talk about, but for a very long time we in this place have Government did not seem to listen to their concerns not talked about it. I pay tribute to my right hon. Friend and they are worried that the present Government may the Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas Soames), to the also ignore their concerns. I hope that in his remarks, right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr Field), and to the Minister will put front and centre the importance of organisations such as Migrationwatch UK for wresting telling people what the Government are doing to deal this issue from the arms of extreme, unsavoury voices with uncontrolled immigration, such as the cap on the and bringing it back into the mainstream, where it number of skilled workers coming into the country; the should properly be debated. I hope that we shall continue, zero cap on unskilled workers coming into the country; year after year, to debate it in this Chamber in order to and the desire for, and insistence on, language skills represent the very real concerns of our constituents. among spouses so that they can integrate and contribute There is no doubt in my mind that immigration has to society. Those are important messages that the enriched our country culturally and intellectually. People Government need to recapitulate time and again, so have come here and founded businesses, employed people, that the constituents who talk to us about this issue and created empires. They have helped us to become the understand that the Government are doing something country that we are; we are a nation of immigrants. about it. 615 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 616

Tom Brake: Does my hon. Friend agree that the Chris Bryant rose— expansion in apprenticeships is a concrete example of the Government doing something about the issue by Gavin Barwell: I would give way to the hon. Gentleman, giving people here the skills that they need to get the but a number of other Members wish to speak, so I am jobs that are available? going to restrict my remarks to seven or eight minutes. Christopher Pincher: My right hon. Friend makes a Also under the Labour Government, net migration pertinent point. He pre-empts what I am going to say increased fivefold to 250,000 by 2010. That gave rise to next. two major concerns. The first was about population growth and pressure on services, and Members have We have talked in this debate about the importance of spoken a lot about that in the debate. This morning I controlling the supply side of immigration by stopping visited a project called the Well in my constituency. It is people who wish to come to this country from doing so. run by the Salvation Army, but a number of different It is also important to deal with the demand side of the public agencies are involved in it. It deals with people equation. Our welfare system—that is rather a neat and who are either sleeping rough, sofa-surfing or have organised way of describing the mess that we inherited— profound housing difficulties. They often have mental costs us £194 billion a year. It pays hundreds of thousands health, alcohol or drug problems as well. It was interesting of people not to work and keeps them trapped in to see both at that project and at the Nightwatch dependency and on welfare because it is not worth their scheme in Croydon, which provides food parcels to while working. Is it any wonder, therefore, that employers people who are in profound housing difficulties, that need to plug the labour gap by importing people to take there were a significant number of people from eastern the jobs that people on welfare cannot or will not take? Europe in need of those services. They came to the UK It is economic madness to pay people not to work while looking for a better economic future but have not found importing labour and placing a strain on our infrastructure it, but they are unable or unwilling to return. in so doing. Immigration has given rise to a second concern, My right hon. Friend is absolutely right to say that which has not really been referred to in the debate we need measures such as apprenticeships to get our because it is not part of the polite political discourse. If indigenous young people into work, and we also need we are honest, there are people in this country who feel to ensure that the welfare system, the Work programme that their local community has changed demographically and universal credit get young people and those who during the course of their lifetime and is not the place are long-term unemployed into work. That will choke that it used to be. That is not my view of my local off demand from employers for imported labour. The community, but when I canvassed door to door in the checks at our ports and airports and the other rules that run-up to the election, I found that there were people the Minister for Immigration has put in place will also who felt like that and we need to recognise that. choke off the supply side of uncontrolled immigration. I believe that the Government have got the balance Both those effects are increased by the fact that the right. The message that the Prime Minister gave during impact of migration in our country is particularly the general election campaign, when he said that he pronounced in certain parts of the country. About wanted to deal with immigration so that it was no 12% of the UK population as a whole were born abroad, longer an issue for the British people, showed sound but in Greater London that figure rises to about judgment. I look forward to hearing what the Under- 36%, and in some London boroughs it is even higher Secretary of State, my hon. Friend the Member for Old than that. Bexley and Sidcup (James Brokenshire), has to say, and That concern about migration led to one particularly I hope that he will say it in such terms as to give the damaging effect in some of our communities. When the British people confidence that the Government are going Conservative Government left office in 1997 there was to take control of the issue so that it does not lie not a single British National party councillor in this dormant, untouched and taboo, as it did for so many country but, as a result of the huge increase in migration, years. a number of extremists were elected to public office. Thankfully, the number is now declining again. 9.10 pm Before I touch on a couple of further measures that Gavin Barwell (Croydon Central) (Con): I welcome I should like the Government to take, I wish to set out the Government making time for a debate on this my views, because it is important for a Conservative subject. It is a sensitive issue but, as the Minister for representing a demographically highly mixed part of Immigration said in his introductory remarks, it is one London to recognise that in the past the Conservative of major public concern, and if the main political party has been perceived, to some degree rightly, as parties do not address it, we leave space for extremists unwelcoming to people from overseas who have tried to to flourish. settle in this country. Concern about the issue has risen up the political My view is very much that immigration is a good and agenda during my political lifetime, and one has only to necessary thing. If we examine our population, we see look at the Library paper on migration statistics to see that the baby boomer generation is ageing and that if why. Almost as soon as the previous Labour Government we do not bring in some people of working age, we will came to office, there was a significant increase in the have fewer working people supporting more pensioners. level of immigration. The hon. Member for Rhondda If we believe in the UK as a global trader, we clearly (Chris Bryant) sighs wearily, but one has only to look at need to have links with countries around the world and the chart in the Library brief to see that effect. Over the people need to be able to come here and set up businesses. course of the Labour Government’s time in office, I sit on the Select Committee on Science and Technology immigration into this country doubled. and am very passionate about our best universities 617 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 618

[Gavin Barwell] African or Asian-sounding surname need to send about twice as many job applications as people with a traditional having the ability to attract the best and brightest talent English name. from around the world. I also see in my home town the Secondly and finally, many UKBA staff live in my vibrancy that migration can bring. constituency. In a period of austerity, they are doing the It is possible, however, to have too much of a good very best they can to maintain and improve the service thing, which is what I contend we have had. Government they provide, both in retaining control of our borders policy needs to pass seven tests, the first of which is and in ensuring that decisions on migration are made tone. It is so important that we do not demonise migrants. quickly and fairly. I want to pay tribute to the work that They are doing what any Member of the House would UKBA staff are doing within a tough environment do in the equivalent situation. within the agency, which is a result of the failures of the previous Government and the banking crisis that were not their fault. Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): The hon. I am sorry that I cannot elaborate any further on Gentleman is extremely progressive and moderate on some of the issues that I wanted to mention, but I want such issues, but did the Conservative party general to allow other hon. Members the time to speak. election pledge pass the tonal test that he speaks about? 9.18 pm Gavin Barwell: I believe that my hon. Friend the Jackie Doyle-Price (Thurrock) (Con): It is a pleasure Immigration Minister, who is not in the Chamber, to address this very mature debate on what can be an absolutely passes that test. Under the previous Government, emotive subject. Because of its emotiveness, there has policy was loose, but sometimes rhetoric was extremely been some reticence on the part of mainstream politicians tough, whereas the Minister is toughening up policy to address it in any substantial way, which has led to a while passing that tonal test. belief among some of our constituents that we are out Migrants are doing what any hon. Member would of touch with their concerns. As many hon. Members do—they are seeking a better life for them and their have said, that has left the agenda open to those with families—and we must not demonise them as individuals more sinister motives. I am grateful, therefore, to have as we seek to address immigration. the opportunity to address the subject. I am proud that we in this country have given a safe Numbers are part of the issue. The House has already haven to those fleeing persecution, that we are seen as a touched on the balance between net and global figures, beacon of freedom and opportunity and that so many so I will not. However, it is a question not just of how people wish to pursue their lives here, but for too long, many, but of whom. I want to talk about the best and our borders have been too open. We have allowed levels brightest academics from around the world, because the migration beyond what our society can manage, as my Government have introduced a new special tier 1, whereby right hon. Friend the Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas 1,000 such people are allowed in each year. It seems Soames) so eloquently expressed. That brings a risk to bizarre to me that there is no limit on the number of the liberal values that Britons take for granted. I would professional footballers who have reached a certain also like to make it clear that in my experience this is not standard who can come into the country, but we apply a an issue that divides communities on the basis of race, limit of 1,000 a year to the best and brightest scientists. unless the people addressing it approach it with racist None of my constituents who are concerned about values. Some of the biggest critics of the way in which migration object to people of ability, who will create migration has been handled are our established ethnic wealth for the country, coming here. minority communities who are fully integrated into The Minister spoke persuasively in his opening speech society. The problems associated with immigration relate about removing either people who are here illegally or to volume and criminality, not race. With that in mind, people against whom a decision has been taken. One I want to focus my comments on illegal immigration. thing I would like the Government to do is investigate The Government have taken welcome steps to limit how we can use our aid budget to help in that regard. I legal migration, but the tools that they have employed am a great believer in what the Government are doing will not have a significant impact on those who are on overseas aid, but there is a lot of popular concern happy to break the law to enter our country. The about it in this period of austerity. One thing we could Government need to do more to improve enforcement do is say to countries that one condition of the aid and they need to examine whether any aspect of our law package we provide is having an agreement with the needs to change to enable this. In particular, I wish to UK to accept back foreign citizens who have committed highlight the weaknesses in the Human Rights Act 1998 crimes in this country. which are impeding the ability of the UK Border Agency In the last minute that is available to me, I want to and the Government to enforce rules effectively against touch briefly on two issues. First, on integration, other those who have overstayed and should be removed. hon. Members have spoken passionately about the One example is the right to a family life, which importance of people learning English, but immigration appears to be fuelling the idea that all people need to do is a two-way street. The main obligation is on the is have a baby and their application will have to be immigrant to fit in with British society when they arrive, approved. I have lost count of the number of cases of but we as a society need to ensure that we are welcoming that that I have seen in my surgeries. I have also had to people who come into our midst. Britain has a proud examples of people finding fiancées or manufacturing record in that regard, but research shows the barriers relationships. In particular, because of the right to free that many immigrants still face. The National Centre movement, those relationships do not need to be with for Social Research has found that people who have an British citizens, but with people from anywhere across 619 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 620 the EU. One gentleman who came to see me was applying economic conditions are causing great difficulties, families for leave to remain because he was engaged to be do not understand why so many people can come from married to his fiancée who was from Latvia. Only a overseas to compete for the finite number of available matter of weeks after receiving leave to remain he came jobs. to see me to say that they had separated and, although At a time when people in the public services are they had not actually married, she had taken out several having to bear their share of the savings that are needed loans using his surname and he was being pursued for to tackle the spiralling deficit created by the previous the debts. I am sorry to say that I did not have much Government, they do not see how this is helped by sympathy for him. allowing large numbers of additional people to move I am pleased that the Government have taken action into concentrated areas. When they try to express their to tackle sham marriages, and I pay particular tribute to legitimate concerns, they are too often viewed as racist. Father Tim Codling of St John’s church in Tilbury, who However, it is not racist to talk about immigration. In suddenly realised that he was officiating at a lot of most cases, the concerns are based not on race but on weddings between eastern Europeans and Africans, who numbers. were often wearing ill-fitting wedding outfits. He alerted Many of my constituents who contact me about the UKBA which unearthed a major sham wedding immigration policy are from ethnic minorities. They scam, which led to severe prison sentences for the main desperately want an immigration system in which the perpetrators—all very welcome. public as a whole can have confidence, because that is Of the 200-plus immigration cases I have handled, a prerequisite for effective and sustainable community approximately half of them involved people who had cohesion. broken the immigration rules in some way and ended up My constituents want a legitimate debate about the staying here illegally for a prolonged period. That issue numbers of people coming into the country and about has to be tackled as a matter of urgency. I appreciate restricting the number of visas. Halesowen and Rowley that it is very difficult. Often these people assume Regis is fortunate to have a strong local community that numerous identities and put in multiple claims, all of is made up of people of different backgrounds, races which slows down the UKBA’s attempt to catch up with and faiths who work well together and alongside each them. More often than not, the authorities cannot catch other. When local people do not feel able to voice up with them, with the result that we cannot begin to legitimate concerns over immigration policy and do not quantify with any accuracy the number of people who believe that mainstream political parties are reflecting are here who should not be. those concerns, we have seen first hand how that creates When such people come to see me, I ask how they are a vacuum, which those who seek to divide our society supporting themselves given that they are not legally are all too eager to fill. allowed to work because of their immigration status. Earlier this year, the Ahmadiyya Muslim community’s They say that they are supported by their friends and book stall in Cradley Heath was attacked by thugs from family. I think it is a fair assumption that they are the English Defence League. I have worked closely with working illegally, and we need to take more action to the community and know how much good work it does tackle some of those abuses. to promote cohesion across the area through its outreach My hon. Friend the Minister referred to the recent programmes and community work. It does not distinguish case of a bogus asylum seeker who had managed to between people of different faiths or different backgrounds. claim up to £400,000 of benefits by making illegal Its efforts to raise money for Russells Hall hospital and claims for disability allowances. It is a case that demonstrates its work to sell poppies for the Royal British Legion not only the social evil of benefit tourism, which is benefit the whole community. ripping off the British taxpayer, but the way that people The EDL’s attack was based on ignorance and fear. intent on coming to this country illegally will exploit the Although we should never base our response on its asylum system and our good will in wishing to provide agenda, it is important that we look at some of the a safe haven for those escaping persecution. The more factors that allow extremist groups to gain support. The desperate effect is that such behaviour also undermines Government’s actions to limit the number of economic public sympathy for these people. We need a way to migrants coming into the country from outside the EU appraise asylum claims more quickly. are an important start. It will take some time before the Those are clear failings on the part of the UKBA, but effect of this ceiling feeds into official figures, but an it is simply overwhelmed by the size of the task in the appropriate limit that is properly enforced is essential if face of these abuses. I have talked about the policy we are to restore faith in a system that has run out of changes needed to curb immigration, and I encourage control. the Minister to look at how the law can be strengthened However, we must also recognise that any quota is in so that when criminality is identified it is dealt with addition to the large number of people coming to work promptly and effectively, and we can tackle the problem in Britain from within the European Union. The free of illegal immigration. movement of workers is a key part of the European single market and one of the most important benefits that we gain from our membership of the European 9.24 pm Union. The ability of workers to move from one member James Morris (Halesowen and Rowley Regis) (Con): state to another benefits not only the workers concerned It is fair to say that immigration is a source of frustration but many businesses that are able to transfer highly for many of my constituents. Despite any number of skilled workers between offices in different countries. Government initiatives over the past few years, the Issues clearly arise when large numbers of workers number of people entering the country continues to be from less wealthy member states wish to move to other much higher than it was 20 years ago. At a time when countries where wages and benefit payments are much 621 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 622

[James Morris] European Union. All they get is a simple passport check. Then they are entitled to come into the country, higher. The previous Government’s decision not to live in a house or flat, find employment and, crucially, implement transitional agreements to restrict the number apply for benefits—all because they came from a member of workers entering Britain from the new EU member state of the European Union, not from the rest of the states in 2004 was little short of a disaster. Only Britain, world. Ireland and Sweden chose to allow, from day one, an When in opposition, the Government specifically unrestricted right to work, and as a result Britain attracted pledged to bring immigration from non-EU countries far higher migration from those new member states down to the tens of thousands before the next election. than would otherwise have been the case. That seriously I applaud that sentiment, but I would like them to go undermined public confidence in the immigration system, further. I believe the time has come to conduct a wholesale and that problem remains. Last week, Croatia signed its re-evaluation of all our benefits policies. Within that, accession agreement to join the EU in 2013. It is essential I would specifically end the agreement with other EU that we do not repeat the mistakes of the previous countries. Government. Why do I think we should have tougher border checks? A third area that must be addressed if we are to build Because not having them is very expensive—expensive confidence in the system is bureaucracy, because few financially, expensive for our young people trying to things are more guaranteed to destroy that public confidence find low-skilled jobs and expensive for our housing than cases in which people with no right to stay in this market. If we prevent foreigners from settling in Britain, country cannot be removed. Most of us will be aware of more money will stay in the country. There will also be cases in or near our own constituencies where red tape less demand on houses, keeping the property markets in has prevented the rules from being properly enforced, check and allowing our first-time buyers to get on the and the Minister will be aware of a recent one involving property ladder, especially in south-east England. There a patient at Russells Hall hospital in Dudley just outside will also be fewer people applying for the same number my constituency. The patient was a Pakistani national of jobs, thus reducing unemployment. Other countries whose visa had expired four years before. The hospital are tough on this, including the USA. Why does Britain declared him fit enough to be discharged in August last have to be a soft touch? Rather than having people come year, but he remained at the hospital until this autumn to this country, we should be encouraging them to stay because of difficulties in arranging a medical escort to in theirs, and to generate the wealth that goes with that. accompany him home and problems in finding suitable Every time Europe is discussed, I am grateful for two nursing care in Pakistan. The 14 months that he spent things: first, that we did not join the euro; and secondly, at the hospital cost the NHS about £100,000. We must that we did not sign the Schengen agreement. As it is, make it easier to remove people who have no right to the thought that some 437 million people of the EU are remain in Britain more quickly and effectively. allowed to come to the UK chills my blood. If we had We must never forget the important contribution that committed to Schengen, they would be able to come migrants have made to our society, economy and culture into the UK without anyone even checking their passports. over many centuries, and we can take pride in our It is bad enough that one can go from Cyprus to Calais history of welcoming people from around the world without one’s passport being checked; imagine if we and, on the whole, in Britain’s record of creating strong had signed away any advantage that the channel affords and diverse communities, but the Government are right us as well. to recognise that sustainable community cohesion within Before I finish, I would like briefly to pay a tribute. an integrated society is possible only if people have The men and women who go to work at our ports of faith that the immigration system is not a floodgate. My entry on a daily basis deserve our recognition. If our constituents look to the Government to build on their armed forces are protecting our borders in Afghanistan, positive actions so far and to deliver on our promise to the UK Border Agency has an equal responsibility at bring immigration levels back under control. home. There would be no point conducting operations 9.32 pm across the world if our border agency did not conduct Mr Andrew Turner (Isle of Wight) (Con): It is a great its work with a similar professionalism here. I know that pleasure to follow my hon. Friend the Minister and my occasionally things appear to go wrong, but I also know hon. Friends the Members for Peterborough (Mr Jackson) that it is never intentional, and we must remember that. and for Boston and Skegness (Mark Simmonds), who We are talking about dedicated public servants doing a made brilliant contributions. difficult job, and I welcome that. Migration is a contentious issue that until recently no I call on the Minister to have a good look at those one really dared discuss. The noble Lord Howard of wanting to come into the UK from outside Europe, but Lympne brought it to the fore when he was the Conservative I would also like the policies that allow arrivals from party leader, but it was not for another five years until within the EU to be thoroughly reviewed too—this is both main parties recognised it as a problem to be one way in which the Prime Minister can really look addressed. The Conservatives have led the way on the after our national interests. Let us get tough on them. issue since the last general election. The shores of this island are ours, not Europe’s. We should be able to decide who lands upon them. The facts are well documented but it does good to repeat them: the most recent figures show that in the year ending September 2011, 540,000 people entered 9.38 pm Britain with the intention of staying for longer than six Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): months, of whom 186,000 came from the Commonwealth, We have had an interesting debate this evening, with the both old and new, and 200,000 from the rest of the Minister and the shadow Minister using their opening world excluding the EU. That leaves 150,000 from the remarks to set the measured tone with which we should 623 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 624 always conduct debates on immigration. As constituency been bandied around. He highlighted issues relating to Members of Parliament, we all know that immigration students, workers and marriage. I was struck by the fact frequently crops up when we talk to constituents. I not that that other hon. Members spoke about the tone of only represent a port city, but I have a university in my the debate about students. We know that higher and constituency with many overseas students. I also live in further education are key economic growth areas for the an area that has many seasonal workers who come for country, and we do not want to put off good students the agricultural work that needs to be done. from coming to our good institutions because of the There is a general consensus around the Chamber perception that the system is stacked against them. that we need to control immigration. We acknowledge, The hon. Member for Canterbury (Mr Brazier) made of course, the benefit of immigration to this country some remarks about overcrowding, which I found a over many years. We also acknowledge the genuine little odd, considering that, as my hon. Friend the asylum seekers, whom we want to assist and provide a Member for Rhondda mentioned in an intervention, safe haven for in this country. However, I am sure we all huge areas of this country are not well populated. I agree that we also need tough enforcement for illegal represent the city of Hull in East Yorkshire, where there immigrants—those who should not be here, those who is a quite a lot of space in some areas. The hon. are overstayers. We need to tackle that problem. Gentleman made the important point that immigrants On the whole, we have had a considered and sensible pay more tax than they often receive in benefits. I believe debate. However, I was a little disappointed that the we should reflect further on that. Minister could not be more generous in his opening The hon. Member for Boston and Skegness (Mark remarks about some of the positive steps that were Simmonds) represents an area I know a little, and I am taken through the points-based system. I understand familiar with issues to do with agricultural workers and and acknowledge that the Government are adapting the seasonal character of the population. He made a and changing it, but the system in place now was strong and passionate case about resources for his area, introduced by the last, Labour Government. I also but I would refer him to the migration impact fund, dispute the notion that when the coalition Government which was introduced by the last Government to support came to power in 2010 the system was in chaos. That is areas that were seeing a certain level of immigration not correct. Instead, the coalition is building on many into their local communities. of the positive steps and measures introduced by the The right hon. Member for Carshalton and Wallington previous Government. (Tom Brake) was very brave to make comments about My hon. Friend the Member for Rhondda (Chris the number of Labour Members in the Chamber after Bryant) made some thoughtful comments in his opening the non-appearance of his leader today in the most contribution. He identified some of the difficult issues important statement the House has had for quite some surrounding immigration, including those to do with time, but I will move on. I found his comments about marriage and family reunion and the debate on economic his manifesto promise interesting. It was a promise to independence and when it is appropriate to set the level stop holding children in detention, but of course that of financial support necessary for someone to bring a promise changed once the Liberal Democrats were in husband or wife into the country. My hon. Friend also government. talked about gay asylum issues, which I believe we The hon. Member for Peterborough (Mr Jackson) should have a long, hard think about. All hon. Members focused on the Opposition’s policies on immigration know how important is the NHS and how it has benefited rather than on his own party’s proposals. I suggest that in the past from immigration and the dedication of he look at the figures showing that net migration of nurses, doctors and health service workers. I hope that 245,000 for the year ending March 2011 compares with when the Minister concludes, he will answer the points net migration of 222,000 in March 2010. That is something that my hon. Friend raised and deal with domestic to reflect on, particularly in respect of whether his workers and trafficking, too, as many hon. Members Government’s policies are working. are concerned about them. The hon. Member for Tamworth (Christopher Pincher) I would like to highlight some of the local issues said that the Government had struck the right balance. raised by individual Members. My hon. Friend the We must pay special attention to the statistics, and Member for Brent North (Barry Gardiner) talked about ensure that they have been authorised. The hon. Member students who had been left high and dry by bogus for Croydon Central (Gavin Barwell) spoke about what colleges. I hope that the Immigration Minister will revisit was happening in his constituency. Obviously that is that point, as I know my hon. Friend is still concerned important, but let me gently remind him that—as I that the students who legitimately applied for their recall—the first BNP councillor was elected in 1993 in status have been left in a difficult position. Legacy cases Tower Hamlets, when we had a Conservative Government are important, too, and the Home Office needs to and the Liberal Democrats controlled Tower Hamlets accept that it has not always responded as quickly or as council. effectively as it should to them. The hon. Member for South Basildon and East Thurrock My hon. Friend the Member for Dumfries and Galloway (Stephen Metcalfe) spoke about sham marriages and (Mr Brown) mentioned the port of Stranraer, as he has scams, and of course we all agree with him that such on many occasions, in the context of southern Ireland activities must be dealt with quickly and effectively. He and the ability to travel to the mainland from there. said that the UKBA had been overwhelmed, which was I am sure that the Minister will want to pursue that an interesting comment given the 6,500 jobs that will be further with my hon. Friend. lost in the agency in the coming years. The right hon. Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas The hon. Member for Halesowen and Rowley Regis Soames) talked about the projections for the UK (James Morris) spoke of an effective removal regime, population, mentioning the figure of 70 million that has and gave a good local example. I think that all Members 625 Immigration12 DECEMBER 2011 Immigration 626

[Diana Johnson] was introduced in 2009, the number of student visas increased from 232,000 to a record 320,000. We have want to ensure that the removal regime is as effective taken the clear approach that the view and policy of the and speedy as possible when that is appropriate. The previous Government were not sustainable, so we have hon. Member for Isle of Wight (Mr Turner) referred to imposed some much-needed rigour on the system through: the need to strengthen checks at the borders, and to the an annual limit of 20,700 sponsored workers with a job hard work of UKBA staff. I am sure that the whole offer; closing the tier 1 general route and replacing it House agrees with him about that. with a smaller, more focused exceptional talent route; Members took advantage of the opportunity to discuss accelerated settlement for the biggest investors and all the issues involved, and this was a good debate. most successful entrepreneurs; restricting tier 2 to graduate- However, I fear that the Government’s rhetoric does not level occupations and intermediate-level English speakers; match the reality represented by the statistics. We recall restricting intra-company transfers to 12 months, unless the debacle over the summer involving the UKBA someone is earning £40,000 or more; and introducing immigration checks, when Ministers clearly did not tougher entry requirements, with higher language have a grip on what was happening on the front line, competency and evidence of maintenance requirements, and we know that there are 6,500 UKBA job losses to whereby all educational institutions are to be highly come. We do not know whether the Government’s policies trusted sponsors and vetted by the relevant improved will be effectively implemented. My hon. Friend the inspectorate. However, there is more to be done, which Member for Rhondda pointed out that 12% fewer is why the Government will be announcing reforms to illegal immigrants, overstayers and criminals had been settlement and the family route in due course. removed this year than last year. Some important contributions have made by hon. We must be alive to this issue. We must pay attention Members, and I will try to respond to as many as I can to the statistics, and must hold the Government to in the time left to me. My right hon. Friend the Member account in the months and years to come. We shall see for Mid Sussex highlighted the need to take action on whether they can deliver on their commitment to reducing the student route. Statistics show that one in five net migration to tens of thousands. students—or about 21%—appeared to remain in the migration system five years after the end of their course, 9.47 pm which highlights clearly why we need to take action. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indeed, we have fundamentally reformed the student Home Department (James Brokenshire): We have had an visa route, with measures including a tightening of the informative and measured debate, and it is important to regime for licensing colleges that sponsor foreign students; note that the Government found time for it. As many restrictions on the entitlements of students, including Members have pointed out, we should be able to discuss the right to work; and the closure of the post-study immigration with candour, openness and honesty, basing work route from April 2012. The hon. Member for our evidence on the facts. My hon. Friend the Member Rhondda highlighted the issue of the post-study work for Halesowen and Rowley Regis (James Morris) spoke route, which we believe is far too generous. In 2010, one of the need to ensure that the subject was not off limits, in 10 UK graduates was unemployed and 39,000 non-EU as I think we have done today. As was clear from many students took advantage of post-study work. The figure speeches, it is a matter of significant concern to our was 47,000 between January and September this year, constituents. My right hon. Friend the Member for Mid which is why we will close the post-study work route Sussex (Nicholas Soames), for instance, highlighted the from April 2012. support for the Migration Watch e-petition. I wish to comment on the points raised by a number I welcomed the 10 speeches from Back Benchers, of hon. Members, particularly my hon. Friends the although I was disappointed and slightly surprised that Members for Canterbury (Mr Brazier), for Boston and they were all made by Government Members. As I have Skegness (Mark Simmonds), and for Peterborough, said, it is important for the subject not to be off limits about the pressures on public services. Those pressures and for a broad debate to take place across the Chamber. are the reason why the Government have commissioned Let me remind the House of this Government’s approach research into the impact of migration on UK employment to immigration, which is about balance. Britain benefits and the take-up of public services, and we will be from immigration and has always done so, but it will publishing this work in due course. We have commissioned continue to do so only if immigration is properly controlled. the Migration Advisory Committee to examine the That means that the unsustainable level of net migration national impacts on employment, congestion and national in recent years must be brought down. It is not unfair to services, and its report will be published early next year. characterise the previous Government’s approach as On the point made by my hon. Friend the Member not being about controlled migration; it was more for Boston and Skegness about scientists and researchers, characterised by unlimited migration. Following the the Government’s changes to the points-based system pushing by my hon. Friend the Member for Peterborough have all been made with the needs of the science, (Mr Jackson), the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris academic and research communities in mind. A number Bryant) accepted that the level of migration had been of routes are available depending on the individual’s too high, so we look forward to the development of level of experience or the length of time needed in the further policy and of the debate in the weeks and UK, including at tier 2, which is the main route for months ahead. those coming to work as scientific, academic or research The hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North staff, where the possibility of a long stay is available. (Diana Johnson) highlighted the points-based system. Migrants with PhDs are given extra points and migrants I am sure that we will return to these issues in the future, must meet the resident labour market test and be paid but I wish to set out one fact for her. When that system the appropriate rate for the job, with a minimum salary 627 Immigration 12 DECEMBER 2011 628 of £20,000. We have clearly reflected on the needs of idea that the border starts at Dover or Heathrow will science in the proposals and on the exceptional talent become increasingly old-fashioned. To reiterate the point route, through which 700 of the 1,000 places in the first made by my hon. Friend the Minister for Immigration, year have been earmarked for the use of exceptionally we want to export our borders so that they start at talented scientists, academics and engineers. airports and visa application centres around the world. Let me comment on the points made by my right In so doing, we will ensure that we have stronger, more hon. Friend the Member for Carshalton and Wallington effective controls. (Tom Brake) about children in detention. We have People have a right to know that the Government are radically changed the system to ensure that the welfare protecting their jobs, keeping a firm grip on those who of the child is at the heart of the decision and the come here and sending home those who break the rules. removals process. This Government have introduced That is the approach the Government have taken and very important and significant change and my right will continue to take in the best interests of our citizens, hon. Friend was right to highlight that. our economy and our country. It is very much that sense My hon. Friend the Member for Peterborough of balance that we have adopted in our policies. Immigration highlighted the issue of A2 nationals and, as he said, is a vitally important subject for this country. the Migration Advisory Committee has made a clear case for extending the restrictions on Bulgarians and 10 pm Romanians. He may be aware that on 23 November, Motion lapsed (Standing Order No. 9(3)). restrictions on how Bulgarian and Romanian nationals access the UK labour market were extended until the Business without Debate end of 2013, which means that those nationals will continue to require permission from the UKBA before they can work in the UK. Let me make it absolutely DELEGATED LEGISLATION clear that this Government will always introduce transitional Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing controls on all new EU member states as a matter of Order No. 118(6)), course. That is a very important statement to underline and put on the record, recognising to some extent the CORPORATION TAX comments made by my hon. Friend the Member for Isle That the draft Investment Trust (Approved Company) (Tax) of Wight (Mr Turner). Regulations 2011, which were laid before this House on 7 November, My hon. Friend the Member for Thurrock (Jackie be approved.—(Mr Vara.) Doyle-Price) highlighted the issue of the European Question agreed to. Court of Human Rights and article 8. The Government will revise the immigration rules to reinforce the public interest in seeing foreign criminals and those who have BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE (14 DECEMBER) breached our immigration laws removed from this country. (NO. 2) I talked about a balanced immigration policy. We Ordered, want the brightest and the best to come to the UK and That at the sitting on Wednesday 14 December the Speaker we want to support economic growth. I know that that shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on: point was, in many ways, underlined by my hon. Friend 1. the Motions in the name of Sir George Young relating to the Member for Tamworth (Christopher Pincher) when Carry-over (Bills brought in upon a ways and means resolution), he talked about the economy and how this issue factors Third reading (bills brought in upon a ways and means resolution), Sessionality (supply), Consideration of estimates and Questions in. That is why we have consulted widely on all our on voting of estimates, &c. not later than one and a half hours reforms with business and with the higher education after their commencement; and sector. Every month since we introduced the limit the 2. the Motion in the name of Sir George Young relating to visas on offer have been under-subscribed, so not a Public bodies: scrutiny of draft orders not later than three single valuable worker has been prevented from coming hours after commencement of proceedings on the Motions here. specified in paragraph 1; To promote the brightest and the best we made the and such Questions shall include the Questions on any Amendments investor and entrepreneur routes more attractive and selected by the Speaker which may then be moved.—(Mr Vara.) accessible, for instance through an accelerated path to settlement. The latest quarterly figures show that numbers POLITICAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL for both investors and entrepreneurs have more than REFORM doubled compared with the same period last year. We have opened a new route for exceptional talent under Ordered, which applicants do not need a job offer but must be That Yasmin Qureshi be discharged from the Political and endorsed by a competent body as world-leading talent. Constitutional Reform Committee and Paul Flynn be added.— By introducing these important changes, we have underlined (Mr Vara.) the sense of balance and their contribution to the economic well-being of our country. CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT Our border operations are key in ensuring the Ordered, effectiveness of our migration policies, guarding against That Mr Gerry Sutcliffe be added to the Culture, Media and abuse and circumvention of the visa system and illegal Sport Committee.—(Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, on behalf of the immigration. It is important to understand that the old Committee of Selection.) 629 12 DECEMBER 2011 Pregnancy Counselling 630

Pregnancy Counselling their own history. Surely we should do all we can as a society to ensure that women, regardless of their choice Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House in such circumstances, do not have to live with regret, in —(Mr Vara.) do now adjourn. many cases for the rest of their lives. At the heart of the proposal that all women should 10.1 pm access independent counselling where the source of that Gavin Shuker (Luton South) (Lab/Co-op): I am extremely counselling does not have a financial interest in their grateful to you, Mr Speaker, for granting this Adjournment decision is a concern about the current arrangements. debate. Three months ago, during our debates on the At present the only available taxpayer- funded pregnancy Health and Social Care Bill, an amendment upholding counselling is given by those working for abortion providers. a notion supported by 78% of the British public, that Some have suggested that this means that counsellors “a woman should have a right to independent counselling when will act unprofessionally, in a directive fashion. I do not considering having an abortion, from a source that has no financial suggest that, but I do have a concern. interest in her decision” When a pregnancy counsellor also works for an was put to the vote. It was voted down by a majority of organisation that provides abortions, there is an underlying three to one. I know this all too well because I intervened direction of travel. The expectation, for both the in the debate to say why I hoped it would not go to a organisation and the woman accessing the service, is Division. It felt misplaced in the legislation and followed that the normal process will conclude in the termination a fractious debate that had been conducted in the of a pregnancy. papers and the media. It descended, as all such debates seem to, into a political bun fight. Indeed, one of the Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): Given few voices of moderation—hon. Members might be that the law gives a woman the right to choose, does the surprised to hear me say this—was the Under-Secretary hon. Gentleman agree that a woman should also have of State for Health, the hon. Member for Guildford the right to choose from where she gets her counselling? (Anne Milton), who is in her place tonight. I have a wonderful lady in my constituency, Sarah The Government are rightly engaging in a consultation Richards, who receives no funding for the women who process to see how best to improve pregnancy counselling come to her. She does not badger them in any direction. services. It is in that context that I sought this Adjournment Would the hon. Gentleman like to see a woman such as debate. I hope that we can show, as a House, that we Sarah Richards who provides such a service receiving have the maturity to ask a simple question without the same payment as the British Pregnancy Advisory descending into accusations either of betrayal or of Service receives for the women it counsels? compromise. The question we must ask is this: do the present arrangements for pregnancy counselling, when Gavin Shuker: The hon. Gentleman makes an extremely a woman is deciding whether to undergo a termination good point about the experiences in his constituency. I procedure or to make arrangements for seeing her will go on to talk about the system that I think might be pregnancy through, serve us well? able to facilitate something along those lines and address I should like to quote a few women who have spoken some of the concerns that, quite understandably, many about their experiences of the pregnancy counselling people will have when they hear about those who are system as it is currently constituted. All these women currently outside the system coming in as well. received taxpayer-funded counselling; they really are It is reasonable to expect that women are offered, the most important voices we could hear from this should they want it, counselling that does not have a evening. A woman called Jennie had a bad experience. connection and an underlying association with only one She said, outcome. “I felt this counsellor was disinterested. I actually told her to pay attention because this was important to me that I had this counselling. It was like she was thinking about her shopping and Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) (Lab): My hon. I was just choosing a handbag.” Friend is making a very thoughtful case. Does he agree Emma said: that we particularly want to avoid late terminations? They are stressful for women and they are obviously a “I felt irritated with the counsellor because she presented my cause of great concern. How would he be sure that abortion options like it was a sweet shop; ‘So what would you prefer? The pills that will do this, this and this or you could have a directing women to sources of counselling outwith abortion surgical procedure.’ I was so angry; I just told her I didn’t care.” providers would not cause delay? Other women have reported that they felt pregnancy option counselling simply was not made available to Gavin Shuker: My hon. Friend makes an extremely them. A woman called Kerry said: good point. Where terminations are to occur, they “They did not offer me counselling. I was crying and screaming should happen early. There is a concern that women as I went for the abortion but they still went through with it. I was who desire the kind of context in which they can make pressurised by my boyfriend. It is the first thing I think about in their own decision are provided for as well. There will the morning and the last thing at night.” always have to be a balance in any system, but there is Patricia was not offered counselling either. She said: an inherent risk in the system as it is currently constituted “I was never given any options. When I took the second pill that women are not able to access that counselling. I was sent home to have the abortion. I have not stopped crying It is reasonable that independent pregnancy counselling ever since.” should be made available to all women who are considering It is tempting to dismiss these experiences, but they their options. It might surprise the House to know that are real. Any mature debate will, I hope, avoid the there is no legal guarantee that such counselling is accusation that these women are in some way rewriting available. 631 Pregnancy Counselling12 DECEMBER 2011 Pregnancy Counselling 632

Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con): I commend the hon. I know I speak for many, both in the Chamber and Gentleman for introducing this important debate. Does outside, when I say that my preference would be for he also agree that where such counselling is offered, it abortion clinics not to be provided in pregnancy options should be provided by counsellors who have specialist counselling, ensuring that every woman seeking such training and experience in advising those who are in the counselling would know that there is no financial relationship situation he describes? between counselling and the provision of a termination. However, I accept the Government’s position that the Gavin Shuker: The hon. Lady makes an extremely right way forward on this issue is through consultation good point. I agree, and I will go on to say a few words that allows all parties to express their views. It seems about some of the criteria that we should look for in entirely practical and plausible for the Government, people providing such counselling in future. using the resources currently available, to develop a I believe it is perfectly reasonable, in a debate as system in which every woman considering her pregnancy complex and fractious as this, to suggest that given the is offered counselling, should she wish to have it. issues we have talked about, the most sensible thing Non-directive pregnancy options counsellors, who the Government could do is take out of the equation are excluded from the present state settlement, can the financial link between counselling and the procedure. offer practical advice and help for women who choose I accept that there are opinions in all parts of the to take their pregnancy to full term and often an House, but one simple principle to enact—and one ongoing support relationship. The focus of existing potentially complex thing to do—would be to take the providers, understandably, is whether to abort or not. financial link out of the process. Many would see it as Just as choices are wider than simply whether or not to wrong that pregnancy counselling is currently monopolised have an abortion, so counselling should give recognition by those who are pro-choice. There is an imbalance in to and advice on adoption and fostering when a woman the system which means that, by and large, counselling considers continuing with her pregnancy. is provided only by private abortion clinics. I encourage Let me turn to the inevitable charge that allowing hon. Members, whatever their perspective on the issue, counsellors who are pro-life in their personal lives into to consider this simple question: can it really be right the system would be inherently damaging to women. It that the only taxpayer-funded pregnancy counselling starts with an assumption that the present system is available is currently given by those working for abortion both neutral and independent and hinges on a prejudice providers? about those who hold such convictions. Allow me humbly Counselling in this context should always be non- to disagree with this notion. First, if the debate this directive, client-centred and universally available, and autumn taught us anything, it is that no one is neutral. the right to it should be legally protected, but I do not On an issue of conscience, right-minded and well-meaning believe that it should be subject to a duopoly, as it is at people will rightly disagree and end up on different sides present. If a provider can produce genuinely client-centred of the debate, but they will hold a position of conscience and non-directive counselling that is free from a financial that they feel strongly about, hence my suggestion that link to any given procedure, I believe that the NHS we do what we can do now, hence my call to break the should fund it. There are more than two such providers financial link between counselling and the termination in the UK today. procedure, and hence my desire to ensure that there is no nagging doubt at the back of any woman’s mind In that light, I very much welcome the commitment about who is looking out for their interests. that the Minister gave the House in September. She said: Secondly, there is an assumption that people cannot “Whether women want to take up the offer of independent park their personal convictions at the door. Every counsellor counselling will be a matter for them, but we are clear that the knows that pressure in any direction is counter-productive offer should be made.”—[Official Report, 7 September 2011; for a woman who wants to continue her pregnancy but Vol. 532, c. 384.] needs the space to reach that conclusion herself. In a She also spoke of the difficulty in defining what was new system, every counsellor should know that, whether meant by “independent” in this context. For some it they are personally pro-choice or pro-life, any moves simply means non-directive, but for others it means that depart from non-directive principles should endanger independence from finance or independence of the their ability to do such work in future. organisational structure from the abortion provider. As Equally, I hope that being pro-choice would mean I understand it, her Department has not yet given any being pro-all-the-choices available to women and that assurance that the offer of independent counselling some providers are more expert at providing additional would by definition mean counselling by persons or choices to those currently available and funded within bodies without any kind of vested interest in abortion the present system. That is why I hope that providers provision. I ask her to reflect on this and reiterate her who, as many Members have mentioned, are doing commitment that women will be offered independent amazing work to support women who would otherwise counselling and that the way to ensure that is by creating have felt no option but to undergo an abortion will be a regulatory framework that recognises the provision of welcomed into our present system. alternative sources of pregnancy counselling to those As a House, we have always had the ability to bridge offered by the big two. divides, overcome prejudices we see in one another and In this country we have more than 40,000 trained together find a better arrangement for those we are here counsellors who are members of either the British to serve. I feel certain that there are women who are let Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy or the down by the current arrangements. The right response UK Council for Psychotherapy.I hope that the Department for us is to come together in a spirit of respect, excluding will liaise with both organisations and the Royal College no one or their views. The ongoing consultation by the of Psychiatrists in developing an entirely new approach Government is an opportunity for us to do so, and I to how pregnancy counselling is provided in this country. hope that we will not be found lacking. 633 Pregnancy Counselling12 DECEMBER 2011 Pregnancy Counselling 634

10.15 pm case are very serious. The aim of the consultation will be to propose ways to strengthen existing counselling The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health options for women where they are good, improve the (Anne Milton): I thank the hon. Member for Luton services where they fall short, and set out detailed South (Gavin Shuker) for bringing this important issue options to achieve that goal. to the fore in the House again. It is testament to how important the issue is that, at this late hour, the House is filled with many Members who take an interest in it. Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Fife) (Lab): People rightly feel very strongly about it, and he has I commend my hon. Friend the Member for Luton made some very important points. In this debate, whatever South (Gavin Shuker) for securing this well-measured our respective positions, I think we all agree that women debate. The Minister will be aware that the Health and who face a decision about whether to proceed with their Social Care Bill is going through the House of Lords. pregnancy need support, advice and, indeed, counselling; Will she guarantee that before the Bill leaves the other often, it is a very difficult decision for women to make. place and comes back here, she will bring forward a measured package to make sure that there is a consultation The hon. Gentleman supported the amendment about these issues? introduced by my hon. Friend the Member for Mid Bedfordshire (Nadine Dorries), and since that debate officials in the Department of Health have been developing Anne Milton: I thank the hon. Gentleman for his and looking at proposals for a consultation on the intervention, but there is no need for this to be dealt counselling options in the independent sector and in the with in legislation. Before today, I have given my word NHS for all women considering abortion. at this Dispatch Box that we will carry out the consultation I am working with Members from both sides of and bring forward the best options in finding the best the House to look at how we might proceed with the way to make sure that women have an offer of counselling consultation, and I have been impressed by what should they wish to take it up. It is important to the hon. Gentleman referred to as the “maturity” of remember that women who access services sometimes that group of people, who, despite starting from quite do so from a wide variety of directions—they may opposite ends of the debate, have come together to find self-refer or come from their GP. What matters is that out where we agree and, at the end of the day, to ensure we get the offer in the right place. We need to consider that we put forward a consultation that looks at what is whether the woman should have the one offer or whether best for women. the offer needs to be continually open because she might turn it down in the first instance, at the first The consultation will consider how to develop an appointment, but want to take it up, say, a week down offer of counselling that is impartial and supportive the line. It is important that we get the detail right. We and, as part of the process, we will look at who is best do not need to put it into primary legislation; in fact, it placed to offer counselling. It is not about automatically would arguably be inappropriate to do so. I repeat that including or excluding any one type of organisation; I have said from this Dispatch Box, on more than one what matters is that we define clearly the outcomes that occasion, what we will do. we want for women. It is important to focus on the process, but we need to be clear about what we are As the hon. Member for Luton South said, there is trying to achieve. concern that there is a conflict of interest in that counsellors are paid for procedures and yet also expected to provide Officials have visited several counselling providers to entirely impartial advice to women. Although there are find out more about the services that are offered in no formal quality standards in place for counsellors and terms of the process, the qualifications that their counsellors no minimum standards for training or qualifications, hold, and what people should expect on booking a we have found that the majority of counsellors who counselling appointment. Some organisations are abortion work in independent sector abortion providers are registered providers, some are services that refer people to abortion with the British Association for Counselling and providers, and others do not make direct abortion referrals. Psychotherapy. Underpinning membership of, and Official recently visited a Marie Stopes International accreditation by, this organisation is a thorough ethical clinic and a BPAS clinic, and what they found was quite framework that counsellors must abide by. However, interesting. During the consultation, I am sure that we sufficient concern has been expressed, so we are looking will hear from many other people with experience of at everything in the round to make sure that the sector is those services. not only independent but has the confidence of the The proposals are still being developed, and, on an public that it is independent. It is important to say that issue that has sought to divide the House in the past, independent sector abortion providers and organisations and on which there are sometimes very strong views, it that refer women for an abortion are subject to the is important that we go into the consultation with one Secretary of State’s approval and monitoring by the mind. We are confident that, as a result of the work, Care Quality Commission. Marie Stopes International, counselling arrangements will be improved. That is the which is one of the leading abortion providers, has purpose of the work, and we want to take into account reported that 20% of its clients decided not to go everyone’s point of view so that we put together for through with the termination following counselling. consultation the right document that asks the right That is an interesting statistic. questions and includes the right options, and so that we Pregnancy counselling is about providing women with hear and know exactly what is the best way forward. a non-directional and non-threatening service in which It is clear that good work, delivered by different they can explore the issues. Some will immediately providers, is going on in many places, but we need to decide on their course of action, and others will still be make sure that all women are offered a consistently unsure about what to do at their first appointment with good service. The repercussions of that not being the a health professional. This can sometimes make it very 635 Pregnancy Counselling12 DECEMBER 2011 Pregnancy Counselling 636 difficult to provide the uniform standard of care that is of opportunity. I have no doubt that when we offer so important. What is right for one woman will not young women counselling, it will be an opportunity for necessarily be right for another, and so a flexible service some women to unearth all sorts of other issues in their that can respond as far as possible to individual women’s lives, such as domestic violence and sexual abuse. I hope needs is essential. Moreover, we do not want to create that all Members agree with the principle behind this, as barriers or to instil delays in the service. Counselling I think they do, even though we sometimes disagree can help a woman to recognise conflicting emotions about the small print. I hope that the hon. Member for and feelings and allow her to accept that there may be Luton South and all hon. Members will continue to no perfect, straightforward answer to this crisis in her work with us to get this right. life. Most importantly, it allows her time and space to reach an informed decision. There is evidence that Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con): I congratulate counselling can help women, particularly vulnerable my hon. Friend on the stand that she is taking, even women, to make a decision with which they are comfortable. though some of her statistics have slightly mystified me. We have also heard anecdotal evidence from women Before she completes her speech, will she tell the House who feel that they could have been helped by counselling roughly when, after the consultation next January or before making their decision to have an abortion. February, she believes we will come to a new arrangement Counselling must be balanced. Effective counselling for abortion counselling? must be confidential, non-directive, non-judgmental, supportive and understood by the person to be independent Anne Milton: As I have said, I am working with of any assessment for legal approval for abortion. It Members on all sides of the debate to get the consultation needs to happen away from the influence of family or document right, with the right options and the right friends. The hon. Member for Luton South highlighted offer. The consultation will last for 12 weeks and I then the case of a woman who felt pressurised by her boyfriend hope to bring forward the arrangements. There are and I know that some women feel pressurised by their issues with the number of counsellors who are available families. and with the pathways. These things never happen as Contraception has been free on the NHS since 1974. quickly as I would like. I always wish that things could It has helped millions of people to avoid unintended happen yesterday, but sadly they cannot. pregnancy and to plan their families as they wish. There are 15 methods of contraception and we have seen a Thomas Docherty: Will the Minister confirm whether recent increase in the number of women choosing highly she thinks that it will happen before or after the Health effective methods of long-acting contraception. and Social Care Bill passes out of the House of Lords? Although abortion rates for all ages have remained stable, between 2007 and 2010 the abortion rate fell for Anne Milton: It is not for me to prejudge the passage those aged 24 and under, and the number of abortions of any Bill, particularly when it is in another place. I am overall fell. In 2007 there were just shy of 200,000 abortions, determined to get on with this work. It is not dependent whereas in 2010 there were 189,574, which is a decrease on the Bill. We need to move forward so that we can get of nearly 10,000 in the space of three years. That is the process in place for the offer to be made as soon as good, but we clearly have a great deal of work to do. possible. Ideally, we do not want to face anything near those The hon. Member for Luton South rightly said that numbers. We must ensure that young people have good no one is neutral. We want women to receive advice on relationships and sex education so that they can make all the available options and to get support in making good choices for their lives. their decisions. We want them to have the offer of In conclusion, this work is about ensuring that all independent counselling so that when they make a women considering an abortion get the best possible decision, they feel sure in their hearts that it is right for service, which they not only need, but deserve. We are them not just for today, but for the rest of their lives. looking to build on the recent early successes of the Question put and agreed to. increasing access to psychological therapies programme and to use that model to develop options for pregnancy counselling. We have had discussions with the officials 10.29 pm leading that team in the Department and there is a lot House adjourned.

61WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 62WS

“double bottom line” of both achieving significant Written Ministerial environmental impact and making financial returns. Potential investments will be assessed against the following Statements objectives: Green Impact—Accelerating investment to advance the UK’s transition towards a green economy, including Monday 12 December 2011 reducing greenhouse gas emissions; improving resource efficiency; and protecting and enhancing the natural environment and biodiversity, which includes improving water and air quality, reducing noise pollution and BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS improving land use amenity; Sound Finances—Deploying capital and expertise as Green Investment Bank a responsible investor and managing risks to achieve positive portfolio returns and, in so doing, preserving and building its capital base as an institution with The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and enduring green impact; and Skills (Vince Cable): On 24 May 2011, I made an oral Additionality—Operating alongside other market statement setting out the Government’s plans for a participants in response to market failures, leveraging green investment bank (GIB). I explained that establishing their capabilities where appropriate, to introduce and an effective, enduring GIB would be a major undertaking mobilise additional investment and achieve green impact. and gave a commitment to update the House on further There has been considerable interest in the location milestones in future. of the GIB, with around 20 locations expressing interest The Government have made significant progress towards to date. The Government welcome this, and are committed the establishment of an independent GIB, which will be to an open and transparent process for deciding the a key component of the UK’s transition to a green location of the GIB. I have today published a document economy. As I explained in May, the Government will setting out details of the process that will be followed need to ensure that the GIB complies with state-aid and the criteria which I will be taking into account in rules. We have had a constructive dialogue with the reaching my decision on location. The document also European Commission and are now in a position to provides information about the likely structure of the formally notify our proposals. The Government will be GIB, and explains that it is expected to have between seeking a broad remit for the GIB, including approval 50 and 70 staff in the period to 2015. Copies of the to make investments on commercial terms across the document have been placed in the House Libraries and full spectrum of the green economy. Where we are will be available to download on the BIS website. I seeking scope for the GIB to provide finance on state-aided intend to announce my decision on the bank’s location terms, we have developed strong evidence that such aid in February 2012. is necessary in the particular sector concerned and that I announced in May that Sir Adrian Montague had this will not unduly distort competition or interstate agreed to chair an advisory group, comprising independent trade. finance experts, to advise Government on the setting up It will be important that GIB is in a position to be and strategic direction of the new institution. I appointed fully operational as soon as possible after state-aid nine other members in August, and the group has met approval. I therefore intend to form the company shortly three times. Its advice has greatly contributed to the and to begin the formal recruitment process for the progress made towards establishment of the GIB, board and senior management team next month, with a particularly in relation to the detailed drafting of the view to appointing the chair in spring 2012. GIB’s strategic priorities. The bank will operate independently from Government, It is, however, clear that, in advance of state-aid but will agree its strategic priorities with the Government approval for the GIB, we need to take immediate action for each spending review period. Subject to approval by to accelerate private sector investment in the UK’s the European Commission, we have identified the following transition to a green economy. I have therefore set up a priority sectors over the spending review period to new team within my Department to drive investment in 2015-16: the UK’s green infrastructure from April 2012. The offshore wind power generation; team, which will be called UK Green Investments, will commercial and industrial waste processing and recycling; be staffed by finance professionals, whose track records energy from waste generation, including gasification, pyrolysis are widely known and respected in the City. and anaerobic digestion for the production of heat and/or Drawing on funding of £775 million for the next power; financial year, UKGI will invest up to £100 million in non-domestic energy efficiency, including onsite renewable commercial and industrial energy efficiency projects energy generation and heat; and and will stand ready to make major co-investments with support for the green deal. private finance in offshore wind projects. UKGI is also At least 80% of the funds committed by the bank seeking managers for up to £100 million to invest in over the spending review period will be invested in these waste projects and is now calling for expressions of priority sectors. interest from experienced fund managers in the waste As I explained in May, the initial capitalisation of the infrastructure sector. GIB will be £3 billion. From 2015, the GIB will be given The Government will make investments during this powers to borrow, subject to public sector net debt period under section 8 of the Industrial Development falling as a percentage of GDP. The GIB will work to a Act 1982. I have established an Investment Committee, 63WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 64WS including members of the Industrial Development Advisory help the most disadvantaged pupils make the transition Board, to advise me on investment proposals made by from primary to secondary school. This approach received UKGI. the highest support with 44% of those responding backing its introduction. DEFENCE Increasing overall funding for the premium next year to £1.25 billion will enable the coverage of the premium Accommodation to be extended to a further 500,000 million pupils, while at the same time increasing the level of the premium from £488 to £600 per pupil. This will ensure that a The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence higher proportion of underachieving children are able (Mr Andrew Robathan): Following a review into support to benefit from the extra funding provided through the provided to senior officers, the Ministry of Defence premium. (MOD) has disestablished the status of “Official Service Residence” this financial year. Schools will have the freedom to spend the premium, The MOD is committed to identifying efficiencies which is additional to the underlying schools budget, in and savings where possible whilst maintaining essential a way they think will best support the raising of attainment operational capability. As part of this commitment a for the most vulnerable pupils. comprehensive review into the support provided to We urge schools and local authorities to encourage senior officers has been conducted and concluded that parents to register their child as eligible for free school areas of the business could be improved by simplifying meals so that each school receives their maximum pupil the management of service families accommodation premium entitlement. and by harmonising the support provided to senior To ensure transparency and accountability, schools officers across defence. will be required from September 2012 to publish online In the past, a number of service properties were information about how they have used their pupil premium granted official service residence status if the post held allocations. New measures will be included in the by the occupant involved significant official entertaining performance tables that will capture the attainment of duties. This status conferred an enhanced package of pupils covered by the pupil premium. furniture, fixtures and furnishings but it has now been We will continue to provide the pupil premium for discontinued, so service families accommodation is now children in care who have been looked after for more all managed to the same standard. In addition, the than six months, recognising that they need additional support provided to more senior officers, such as domestic support to help them raise their educational achievement. assistance for official hospitality, has been reduced and harmonised across the services. These changes are captured We will also continue to provide a premium for in a new tri-service policy which also revises the rules children of parents in the armed services, who face and regulations in relation to official hospitality. particular challenges. The level of this service child These measures will ensure that the support provided premium will be £250 in 2012-13, up from £200 in is appropriate and driven by business need, and they 2011-12. will lead to savings in due course. The properties that Annex A were formerly classed as official service residences will Accompanying documents no longer form a separate grouping for purposes of These products can be found online at: management information. http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/ adminandfinance/financialmanagement/ EDUCATION schoolsrevenuefunding Pupil Premium 2012-13 Example pupil premium allocations using the Ever 6 indicator applied to the January 2011 school census.

The Minister of State, Department for Education (Sarah Teather): I am today confirming the funding Review of Teachers’ Standards available for schools in England in 2012-13, through the pupil premium and what this means in terms of funding per pupil. The pupil premium targets additional money at pupils from the most deprived background to help The Secretary of State for Education (Michael Gove): them achieve their full potential. Sally Coates is today submitting to me the second and final report of her independent review of teachers’ In 2012-13 the amount available for the pupil premium standards. will double from £625 million in 2011-12 to £1.25 billion. It will further rise to £2.5 billion by 2014-15. I established the review in March this year. Chaired The Government have decided that eligibility for the by Mrs Coates, principal of Burlington Danes Academy, pupil premium in 2012-13 will be extended to pupils it brought together leading head teachers, teachers and who have been eligible for free school meals (FSM) at other educational experts. The review was tasked with any point in the last six years. Earlier this year we establishing new standards that are clear, unequivocal consulted on options for extending the coverage of the and easy to use, and which can support teachers’ pupil premium. As a group, children who have been professional development and performance management. eligible for FSM at any point in time have consistently The review’s first report, submitted to me on 14 July lower educational attainment than those who have never 20111, recommended that a single new set of teachers’ been eligible for FSM. Up to £50 million of the £1.25 billion standards should be established to replace the existing will be used to support a summer school programme to standards for qualified teacher status and the core 65WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 66WS professional standards. I accepted those recommendations, Ministers will exchange views on the outcome of the and the new teachers’ standards will come into effect in 17th session of the conference of the parties to the September 20122. United Nations framework convention on climate change The Government welcomed Mrs Coates’s and the 7th session of the meeting of the parties to the recommendations to establish streamlined new teachers’ Kyoto protocol in Durban, 28 November to 9 December standards that set out very clearly and concisely the 2011. elements of high-quality teaching that should be expected Ministers will also hear progress reports on: a proposal of every teacher. The new standards place a welcome for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the emphasis on the importance of good subject knowledge, Council concerning the export and import of hazardous behaviour management, and meeting the needs of pupils chemicals (recast); a proposal for a directive of the of all abilities and aptitudes. We are committed to European Parliament and of the Council amending raising the quality of teaching in all our schools, so that Directive 1999/32/EC as regards the sulphur content of pupils and their parents can be confident that they are marine fuels; and a proposal for a directive of the receiving the highest quality education. Clear and rigorous European Parliament and of the Council on control of standards play an important role in ensuring that high major accident hazards involving dangerous substances. quality of teaching that all should expect. The following topics will be covered under “any other The review’s second report is now recommending business”, either via a report or presentation from the that the existing post-threshold, excellent teacher and Commission, presidency, or a member state: advanced skills teacher standards should be discontinued Convention on migratory species; as standards. Further, the review recommends that a Preparing a global legally binding instrument on mercury; new master teacher standard should be introduced to Preparatory meetings for Rio+20; define the characteristics of the most effective classroom teachers. “Planning for biodiversity”; EU eastern partnership countries’ co-operation in climate We welcome the proposal to establish a new standard policy; that identifies and recognises those teachers who are Restriction or prohibition of genetically modified organisms; demonstrating excellent practice in the classroom, and who are making the most significant positive impact on Protection and sustainable development of the Carpathians; their pupils. The proposal of a single master teacher Priority substances in water policy; standard has the potential to bring much greater simplicity Programme for the environment and climate action (LIFE); and clarity to what is at present a complex and highly Monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions relevant bureaucratic system of standards. to climate change at a national and European Union-level; My Department will now take forward further work Fuel quality directive; to explore the implications of discontinuing the current Implementation of regulation on fluorinated greenhouse post-threshold, excellent teacher and advanced skills gases; teacher standards. This will include asking the school EU steps to reduce plastic carrier bag usage; teachers’ review body to consider the implications for Establishing a common European industrial risk sharing teachers’ pay. facility; The first and final reports of the review are published Solution for a green economy; on the Department for Education’s website: Emissions trading scheme/aviation; http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/ Combating desertification; teachingandlearning/reviewofstandards Control of trans-boundary movement of hazardous wastes Copies of both reports, and of my correspondence and their disposal; with Mrs Coates, have been placed in the Libraries of REACH and the candidate list of substances of very high both Houses. concern; 1http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/pdf/r/ Annual growth survey; first%20report%20-%2012%20july%202011.pdf Work programme of incoming presidency. 2http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/pdf/l/ letter%20from%20michael%20gove%20to%20sally%20coates.pdf

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS General Affairs Council (5 December 2011) Environment Council (19 December 2011) The Minister for Europe (Mr David Lidington): I The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and attended the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Brussels Rural Affairs (Mrs Caroline Spelman): I will represent on 5 December. the UK at the Environment Council in Brussels on The GAC was chaired by the EU presidency, Mikolaj 19 December. Dowgielewicz, Secretary of State for European Affairs At this Council, the presidency will seek the adoption of Poland. A provisional report of the meeting and all of Council conclusions on the EU biodiversity strategy conclusions adopted can be found at: to 2020: towards implementation; and on the road map http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/ to a resource efficient Europe. docs/pressdata/EN/genaff/126578.pdf. 67WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 68WS

The agenda items covered were as follows: for movement on their EU path. A decision on Serbia’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) candidate status would be taken at the December European Council. The Council also agreed further tangible steps In a public session, Ministers noted the presidency’s towards Kosovo’s EU future. The Council took note of report on MFF which can be found at: the progress Montenegro has made towards opening http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/st17448- accession negotiations, which would also be considered re01.en11.pdf. at the December European Council. The incoming Danish presidency undertook to take European Court of Justice forward this work with the aim of adopting the MFF by the end of 2012. The presidency made a short presentation on the state of play regarding proposals to improve the efficiency Preparation for the December European Council of the Court. Ministers discussed preparations for the December European Council with the President of the Council, Herman Van Rompuy. HOME DEPARTMENT On the eurozone, I and others stressed the need for increased transparency and full interaction between the Justice and Home Affairs Pre-Council Statement 17 eurozone members and the 10 non-members. During discussions on Council conclusions, I set out UK views on energy and made proposals for references The Secretary of State for the Home Department to our shared concerns about the regime in Iran. (Mrs Theresa May): The Justice and Home Affairs Council is due to be held on the 13 and 14 December in My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will report Brussels. My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State to Parliament after he has attended the European Council for Justice, the Scottish Solicitor-General, (Lesley Thomson) on 8-9 December. and I will attend on behalf of the United Kingdom. As Commission Work Programme for 2012 the provisional agenda stands, the following items will The Commissioner for Inter-Institutional Relations be discussed. and Administration, Maros Sefcovic, presented the The Council will begin in mixed Committee with Commission’s work programme for 2012 (see following Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland (non-EU link). The report cites restoring the EU’s economy as its Schengen states). There will be an update, supported by top priority. a written report, on the Commission-led project to http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/ implement the central element of the second generation st17394.en11.pdf. Schengen Information System (SIS II); the UK will continue to reiterate its support for the continuation of Annual Growth Survey the current SIS II project. Commissioner Sefcovic also outlined key elements of There will also be a state of play on certain issues the 2012 annual growth survey (see following link). The regarding the draft regulation amending Council Regulation incoming EU presidency, Denmark, added that they (EC) No 539/2001 which lists the third countries whose would hold a series of bilateral discussions with member nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing states on the report in January 2012. the external borders and those whose nationals are http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/ exempt from that requirement. The UK is not bound by st17229.en11.pdf. this regulation as we do not participate in the migration Enlargement aspects of the Schengen acquis. In its conclusions (see link at the beginning of this The presidency will invite an exchange of views by statement) the Council reiterated the importance of the member states on the EU response to increased migration enlargement process in generating far-reaching political pressures. This item builds on discussions at the last two and economic reform and securing stability and democracy; Councils; it will include combating illegal migration in and looked forward to developing a new approach the context of migration flows from the south-east towards those negotiating chapters dealing with judiciary (including the Greek-Turkish border) and the southern and fundamental rights and justice, freedom and security, Mediterranean. The UK supports increased efforts to tackling them early in the enlargement process. The combat illegal flows across the external border and Council welcomed Turkey’s continued commitment to within the EU, including closer co-operation between the negotiation process and the political reform agenda, Frontex, the European Asylum Support Office and and, with strong support from me, positively noted the Europol. We believe this should be linked to further Commission’s proposal for a positive agenda with Turkey work “upstream” in countries of origin and transit, in support of negotiations. The Council welcomed the using the tools of the EU’s global approach to migration, successful completion of accession negotiations with as well as joint efforts to combat the abuse of free Croatia, while also highlighting the need for continued movement. efforts to reform further where necessary, and looked Over lunch the presidency will seek a steer from forward to the signature of the accession treaty in the Ministers on the key issues blocking negotiations regarding margins of the December European Council. Schengen governance, namely the choice of legal base On the western Balkans, I reiterated the UK’s strong for the Schengen evaluation mechanism and the role the commitment to the future of all countries of the western Commission should play in taking decisions to reintroduce Balkans being in the EU once the required conditions border controls. are met. Discussion was particularly focused on Serbia In both mixed Committee and main Committee there and Kosovo. On Serbia, the Council agreed that progress will be a presentation by the Commission and first on Serbia’s relationship with Kosovo was the key criterion exchange of views on proposals for new JHA funding 69WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 70WS programmes under the multi-annual financial framework Government support this proposal and have agreed to (MFF) 2014-2020. The package includes a communication waive our treaty rights to three months consideration of and proposals for four regulations establishing a new opt in so that the Council can proceed without us. internal security fund and the asylum migration fund However, the text remains subject to scrutiny in Parliament (AMF). While the Government welcome the flexibility and we have therefore not exercised our opt-in in order and potential efficiency that will be offered from merging to give the Committees an opportunity to consider the the six existing funding programmes into two programmes, agreement. we are concerned about the size of the overall budget There will be a discussion on cross-border itinerant proposed by the Commission. We will also need to criminality. The issue of “mobile itinerant organised consider our participation under the JHA opt-in crime groups” was identified as one of the eight EU arrangements. crime priorities for 2012-13 and is being addressed as The presidency will seek support for its proposal on a one of eight projects under the EU policy cycle (on process for early warning, preparedness and management tackling organised crime), being overseen by the Standing of asylum crises. Instead of a clause allowing transfers Committee on operational co-operation on internal under the Dublin regulation to be suspended, the proposal security (COSI). The UK has decided not to participate would envisage a provision in the Dublin regulation in this project at this time as the UK does not focus on requiring member states to provide data about their itinerant criminals as a distinct group (“itinerant groups” asylum system to the European Asylum Support Office do not feature in the UK threat assessment as we (EASO) and for action plans to be drawn up if it consider all organised crime by crime-type and threat appears that their systems may be facing difficulties. area). The Government can support this in principle provided The Justice day will begin with the presidency seeking the action plans are drawn up by the member states to obtain general agreement on the provisions of the themselves, acting through EASO, and not by the proposed regulation on succession and wills. As the UK Commission. has not opted in to this proposal it will not participate The Commission will then present its proposals on in any vote on these guidelines. the global approach to migration and mobility. The The presidency will also be looking to reach agreement current global approach provides the overarching on certain elements of the proposal to modify the framework for much of the EU’s work with third-country regulation on jurisdiction and the recognition and partners on migration. The UK welcomes the Commission’s enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters proposals for a renewed global approach, which should (Brussels I). The regulation lays down rules governing provide additional opportunities to work in conjunction the jurisdiction of courts and the recognition and with EU and international partners on migration, including enforcement of cross-border judgments in civil and combating illegal immigration. While we welcome a commercial matters in the member states. The Government more comprehensive global approach, it is essential that opted-in to the proposal in March. it remains non-binding, and allows member states to Next there will be a debate of specific issues of the decide on participation in various initiatives on a case- regulation on a EU common sales law. This proposal by-case basis. The Government will continue to ensure was presented at the October JHA Council where the that any participation is compatible with the UK’s Commission confirmed it would offer an alternative immigration policy. contract law regime that would form part of the law of The presidency may attempt to secure agreement on each member state but would not harmonise national the date for the removal of controls on Bulgaria and contract law systems. Romania’s sea and air borders with countries in the The Council will discuss the European Investigation Schengen area. This is dependent on the outcome of Order (EIO). The EIO is a draft directive aimed at discussions at the European Council on 9 December. streamlining the process of mutual legal assistance between The UK will not have a vote at this Council on this issue participating EU countries. The UK has opted in. The as it concerns borders elements in which we do not presidency will be seeking to reach a general approach participate. (agreement) on the EIO. A partial general approach to The Council will be presented with a package of articles 1-18 was achieved at the June JHA Council. counter-terrorism (CT) items covering the EU action There have been significant improvements to the original plan on combating terrorism, the EU CT strategy and draft of the EIO and we are considering our position in the report on the implementation of the strategy on relation to the current text. The EIO also remains terrorist financing. The UK welcomes the work that is subject to parliamentary scrutiny. being done at an EU-level to mitigate the terrorist There will then be a debate on the draft directive on threat, in particular the work around data-sharing and establishing minimum standards on the rights, support aligning internal and external CT activities. It will be and protection of victims of crime. The presidency will important moving forward that the member states stay be looking to agree a general approach and a scrutiny focused on the implementation of the chemical, biological, waiver has been granted by both Houses. radiological and nuclear (CBRN) and air cargo security action plans. The presidency will then provide an update regarding the draft directive on the right of access to a lawyer in The presidency will want to adopt the Council decision criminal proceedings and on the right to communicate and to sign the EU-US passenger name records (PNR) upon arrest. This is the third proposal on the EU’s agreement, which was published on 24 November. The criminal procedural rights road map which sets minimum agreement will provide an unequivocal basis in EU law standards for the rights of the defence. This presidency for the transfer of PNR data by EU-based carriers also gave an update on this directive at the October to the US Department of Homeland Security. The JHA Council. 71WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 72WS

Next, the Commission will present proposals for two WORK AND PENSIONS new funding programmes in the area of justice, rights and citizenship for the period 2014-2020. These are to replace the existing funding programmes in the current Social Security Benefits Uprating fundamental rights and justice framework. The overall objectives of the proposed justice programme are to promote judicial co-operation in civil and criminal matters, The Minister of State, Department for Work and facilitate access to justice and to prevent and reduce Pensions (Steve Webb): I am pleased to announce the drug supply and demand, while the objective of the proposed social security benefits rates for 2012, which rights and citizenship programme is to contribute to the are set out in the table below. The annual up-rating of creation of an area where the rights set out in the treaty benefits will take place for state pensions and most on the functioning of the European Union, and in the other benefits in the first full week of the tax year. In charter of fundamental rights are promoted and protected. 2012, this will be the week beginning 9 April. A corresponding provision will be made in Northern Ireland. Finally, the presidency will be providing a state of play update to Council on the negotiations on EU Rates Rates accession to ECHR. The negotiating mandate was agreed (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 at the JHA Council in June 2010, and a draft version of shown) an accession agreement was produced by experts with knowledge of the convention system in June 2011. This ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE is now subject to further consideration. higher rate 73.60 77.45 lower rate 49.30 51.85

WORK AND PENSIONS

BEREAVEMENT BENEFIT Bereavement Benefit (Public Consultation) Bereavement payment (lump sum) 2000.00 2000.00

The Minister of State, Department for Work and Widowed parent’s allowance 100.70 105.95 Pensions (Steve Webb): One of the key tasks that the Government have faced over the past year and a half Bereavement Allowance has been to fundamentally reassess the role the welfare system should play in the 21st century. standard rate 100.70 105.95 We recognise that spousal bereavement is a life-changing event. Emotionally, socially, economically, bereaved people age-related face the task of re-establishing themselves and adjusting age 54 93.65 98.53 to their new circumstances. We know that this journey 53 86.60 91.12 varies considerably according to personal circumstance, 52 79.55 83.70 with people drawing on a wide range of support 51 72.50 76.28 mechanisms to get them through. Bereavement benefits 50 65.46 68.87 form an important part of the state safety net at this 49 58.41 61.45 time. 48 51.36 54.03 But these benefits have fallen outside the recent reviews 47 44.31 46.62 of the wider welfare system. Indeed, they have rarely 46 37.26 39.20 undergone any kind of critical scrutiny to establish 45 30.21 31.79 whether they provide effective support after the loss of a spouse or civil partner. To address this we are today publishing a consultation CAPITAL LIMITS—rules common to Income Support, Income BASED Jobseeker’s paper on the future of bereavement benefits. We are Allowance, income-related Employment and Allowance, Pension Credit, seeking views on how in the future these payments Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit unless stated otherwise should support those of working age who suffer the loss of a husband, wife or civil partner. We are aware we upper limit 16000.00 16000.00 need to strike a balance between providing appropriate upper limit - Pension Credit guarantee No limit No limit support at a critical time, while encouraging those of credit and those getting Housing Benefit working age to support themselves and their families /Council Tax Benefit and Pension Credit through employment when they feel able to do so. guarantee credit Payments made under the war pensions scheme or Amount disregarded - all benefits except 6000.00 6000.00 armed forces compensation scheme will not be affected Pension Credit and Housing Benefit and Council Tax benefit for those above by this review. The review will not impact those already the qualifying age for Guarantee Credit in receipt of bereavement benefits at the point at which Amount disregarded - Pension Credit 10000.00 10000.00 a new scheme is introduced. and Housing Benefit and Council Tax A copy of the document will be available in the Vote Benefit for those above the qualifying Office later today. age for Pension Credit child disregard (not Pension Credit or 3000.00 3000.00 Further details will be available on the Department Employment and Support Allowance) for Work and Pensions website at http://www.dwp.gov.uk/ amount disregarded (living in RC/NH) 10000.00 10000.00 consultations/2011/bereavement-benefit.shtml. 73WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 74WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

disabled child 53.62 56.63 Tariff income £1 for every £250, or part thereof, between the amount of capital Carer 31.00 32.60 disregarded and the capital upper limit ESA components Tariff income - Pension Credit and HB/CTB where claimant/ partner work-related activity 26.75 28.15 is over Guarantee Credit qualifying age Support 32.35 34.05 £1 for every £500, or part thereof, between the amount of capital disregarded and capital upper Alternative maximum Council Tax limit Benefit second adult on IS, JSA(IB), 25% of 25% of ESA(IR) or Pension Credit Council Tax Council Tax first adult(s) student(s) 100% of 100% of CARER’S ALLOWANCE 55.55 58.45 Council Tax Council Tax second adult’s gross income :

COUNCIL TAX BENEFIT -under £180.00 15% of 15% of Council Tax Council Tax -£180.00 to £234.99 7.5% of 7.5% of Personal allowances Council Tax Council Tax Single

18 to 24 53.45 56.25 DEDUCTIONS—rules common to Income Support, Jobseeker’s 25 or over 67.50 71.00 Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 Housing Benefit and Council tax benefit unless stated otherwise lone parent 67.50 71.00 Non-dependant deductions from housing benefit and from IS, JSA(IB), ESA(IR) and Pension Couple 105.95 111.45 Credit dependent children 62.33 64.99 aged 25 and over in receipt of IS and JSA(IB), Pensioner in receipt of main phase ESA(IR), Single/lone parent has attained the 137.35 142.70 aged 18 or over, not in 9.40 11.45 qualifying age for Pension Credit remunerative work but under 65. couple - one or both has attained 209.70 217.90 the qualifying age for Pension Credit aged 18 or over and in but both under 65 remunerative work single/lone parent - 65 and over 157.90 161.25 - gross income: less than £124.00 9.40 11.45 couple - one or both 65 and over 236.80 241.65 - gross income: £124 to £182.99 21.55 26.25 - gross income: £183 to £237.99 29.60 36.10 - gross income: £238 to £315.99 48.45 59.05 Premiums - gross income: £316 to £393.99 55.20 67.25 - gross income: £394 and above 60.60 73.85 Family 17.40 17.40 family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 Non-dependant deductions from council tax benefit Disability aged 18 or over and in remunerative work Single 28.85 30.35 - gross income: £394 or more 8.60 9.90 Couple 41.10 43.25 - gross income: £316 - £393.99 7.20 8.25 - gross income: £183 - £315.99 5.70 6.55 enhanced disability - gross income less than £183 2.85 3.30 Single 14.05 14.80 others, aged 18 or over 2.85 3.30 disabled child 21.63 22.89 Couple 20.25 21.30 Deductions from housing benefit Service charges for fuel severe disability Heating 21.55 25.50 Single 55.30 58.20 hot water 2.50 2.95 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 Lighting 1.75 2.05 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 Cooking 2.50 2.95 75WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 76WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

State Pension on own insurance (Cat 58.80 61.85 AorB) Amount ineligible for meals long term Incapacity Benefit ISCS 54.75 57.60 threeormoremealsaday Group 13 Type 5 single claimant 24.05 25.30 each person in family aged 16 or 24.05 25.30 Severe Disablement Allowance 32.90 34.60 over each child under 16 12.15 12.80 less than three meals a day Carers Allowance 32.70 34.40 single claimant 16.00 16.85 each person in family aged 16 or 16.00 16.85 short-term Incapacity Benefit (over 52.70 55.45 over state pension age) each child under 16 8.05 8.45 breakfast only - claimant and 2.95 3.10 short-term Incapacity Benefit (under 42.65 44.85 each member of the family State Pension age)

Amount for personal expenses 22.60 23.25 Child Dependency Increases - (not HB/CTB) payable with; State Pension; Widowed Mothers/ 11.35 11.35 Parents Allowance; Third party deductions from IS, JSA(IB), ESA(IR) and Pension Credit for; short-term Incapacity benefit—higher rate or over state pension age; long-term Incapacity Benefit; Carer’s Allowance; Severe Disablement arrears of housing, fuel and water costs 3.40 3.55 Allowance; Industrial Death Benefit (higher council tax etc. and deductions for rate); ELDS and ILS.

NB—The rate of child 8.10 8.10 child support, contribution towards maintenance (CTM) dependency increase is adjusted where it is payable for the eldest standard deduction 6.80 7.10 child for whom child benefit is lower deduction 3.40 3.55 also paid. The weekly rate in such cases is reduced by the difference (less £3.65) between the ChB arrears of Community Charge rates for the eldest and court order against claimant 3.40 3.55 subsequent children. court order against couple 5.30 5.60

DISABILITY LIVING ALLOWANCE fine or compensation order standard rate 5.00 5.00 Care Component lower rate 3.40 3.55 Highest 73.60 77.45 Middle 49.30 51.85 Maximum deduction rates for recovery of overpayments (not CTB/ Lowest 19.55 20.55 JSA(C)/ESA(C)) ordinary overpayments 10.20 10.65 Mobility Component where claimant convicted of fraud 13.60 17.75 Higher 51.40 54.05 Lower 19.55 20.55 Deductions from JSA(C) and ESA (C) Arrears of Comm. Charge, Council Tax, fines & overpayment DISREGARDS recovery Age 16-24 17.81 18.75 Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit Age 25 + 22.50 23.66 Earnings disregards Max. dedn for arrears of Child Maintenance (CTM) standard (single claimant) 5.00 5.00 Age 16-24 17.81 18.75 Couple 10.00 10.00 Age 25 + 22.50 23.66 higher (special occupations/ 20.00 20.00 circumstances) lone parent 25.00 25.00 DEPENDENCY INCREASES childcare charges 175.00 175.00 childcare charges (2 or more 300.00 300.00 Adult dependency increases for spouse or person looking after children) children —payable with; permitted work higher 95.00 97.50 permitted work lower 20.00 20.00 77WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 78WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

Other Income disregards (a) under state pension age 42.65 44.85 adult maintenance disregard 15.00 15.00 (b) over state pension age 52.70 55.45 war disablement pension and war 10.00 10.00 widows pension state pension, long term widowed mothers/parents 15.00 15.00 incapacity benefit, allowance severe disablement allowance, Armed Forces Compensation 10.00 10.00 unemployability Scheme supplement - payable when student loan 10.00 10.00 dependant student’s covenanted income 5.00 5.00 (a) is living with claimant 67.50 71.00 Income from boarders (plus 50% 20.00 20.00 (b) still qualifies for the tapered 45.09 45.09 of the balance) earnings rule additional earnings disregard 17.10 17.10 Income from subtenants (£20 20.00 20.00 Earnings level at which ADI is fixed from April 08) affected when dependent is not living with claimant; Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, state pension. 58.80 61.85 Income-related Employment and Support Allowance and Pension long-term incapacity benefit. 54.75 57.60 Credit unemployability supplement. 55.55 58.45 Earnings disregards severe disablement allowance 32.90 34.60 standard (single claimant) 5.00 5.00 Couple 10.00 10.00 Carers allowance 32.70 34.40 higher (special occupations/ 20.00 20.00 circumstances) Other Income disregards Earnings level at which child dependency increases war disablement pension and war 10.00 10.00 are affected widows pension widowed mothers/parents 10.00 10.00 for first child 205.00 215.00 allowance additional amount for each 27.00 28.00 Armed Forces Compensation 10.00 10.00 subsequent child Scheme student loan (not Pension Credit) 10.00 10.00 Pension income threshold for 85.00 85.00 student’s covenanted income (not 5.00 5.00 incapacity benefit Pension Credit) Pension income threshold for 85.00 85.00 Income from boarders (plus 50% 20.00 20.00 contributory Employment of the balance) Support Allowance Income from subtenants (£20 20.00 20.00 fixed from April 08) EMPLOYMENT AND SUPPORT ALLOWANCE

EARNINGS RULES Personal Allowances Single Carers Allowance 100.00 100.00 under 25 53.45 56.25 25 or over 67.50 71.00 Limit of earnings from 95.00 97.50 councillor’s allowance lone parent under 18 53.45 56.25 Permitted work earnings limit – 95.00 97.50 higher 18 or over 67.50 71.00

- lower 20.00 20.00 Couple both under 18 53.45 56.25 Industrial injuries 4940.00 5070.00 both under 18 with child 80.75 84.95 unemployability supplement both under 18 (main phase) 67.50 71.00 permitted earnings level (annual both under 18 with child (main 105.95 111.45 amount) phase) one 18 or over, one under 18 105.95 111.45 (certain conditions apply) Earnings level at which adult dependency (ADI) increases are both over 18 105.95 111.45 Affected with: claimant under 25, partner under 53.45 56.25 18 short-term incapacity benefit claimant 25 or over, partner 67.50 71.00 where claimant is under 18 79WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 80WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown) claimant (main phase), partner 67.50 71.00 Couple—one or both has 209.70 217.90 under 18 attained the qualifying age for Pension Credit but both under 65 161.25 Premiums single / lone parent—65 and over 157.90 Couple—one or both 65 and over 236.80 241.65 enhanced disability Premiums Single 14.05 14.80 Couple 20.25 21.30 Family 17.40 17.40 Family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 severe disability

Single 55.30 58.20 Disability couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 Single 28.85 30.35 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 Couple 41.10 43.25

Carer 31.00 32.60 Enhanced disability Single 14.05 14.80 Pensioner disabled child 21.63 22.89 single with WRAC 43.10 43.55 Couple 20.25 21.30 single with support component 37.50 37.65 single with no component 69.85 71.70 Severe disability couple with WRAC 77.00 78.30 Single 55.30 58.20 couple with support component 71.40 72.40 Couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 couple with no component 103.75 106.45 Couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40

Components disabled child 53.62 56.63

Work-related activity 26.75 28.15 Carer 31.00 32.60 Support 32.35 34.05 ESA components

HOUSING BENEFIT work-related activity 26.75 28.15 Support 32.35 34.05 Personal allowances INCAPACITY BENEFIT

Single Long-term Incapacity Benefit 94.25 99.15 Under 25 53.45 56.25 25 or over 67.50 71.00 entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 Short-term Incapacity Benefit (under state pension age) lower rate 71.10 74.80 lone parent higher rate 84.15 88.55 Under 18 53.45 56.25 18 or over 67.50 71.00 Short-term Incapacity Benefit entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 (over state pension age) lower rate 90.45 95.15 Couple higher rate 94.25 99.15 both under 18 80.75 84.95 one or both 18 or over 105.95 111.45 Increase of Long-term Incapacity claimant entitled to main phase 105.95 111.45 Benefit for age ESA higher rate 13.80 11.70 lower rate 5.60 5.90 dependent children 62.33 64.99 Invalidity Allowance (Transitional) Pensioner Higher rate 13.80 11.70 single/lone parent has attained 137.35 142.70 the qualifying age for Pension middle rate 7.10 5.90 Credit but under 65. lower rate 5.60 5.90 81WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 82WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

INCOME SUPPORT INDUSTRIAL INJURIES DISABLEMENT BENEFIT

Personal Allowances 18 and over, or under 18 with Single dependants 100% 150.30 158.10 under 25 53.45 56.25 90% 135,27 142.29 25 or over 67.50 71.00 80% 120.24 126.48 70% 105.21 110.67 lone parent 60% 90.18 94.86 under 18 53.45 56.25 50% 75.15 79.05 18 or over 67.50 71.00 40% 60.12 63.24 30% 45.09 47.43 Couple 20% 30.06 31.62 both under 18 53.45 56.25 Under 18 both under 18—higher rate 80.75 84.95 one under 18, one under 25 53.45 56.25 100% 92.10 96.90 one under 18, one 25 and over 67.50 71.00 90% 82.89 87.21 77.52 both18orover 105.95 111.45 80% 73.68 70% 64.47 67.83 60% 55.26 58.14 dependent children 62.33 64.99 50% 46.05 48.45 40% 36.84 38.76 Premiums 30% 27.63 29.07 20% 18.42 19.38 family / lone parent 17.40 17.40 Maximum life gratuity (lump sum) 9980.00 10500.00 pensioner (applies to couples 103.75 106.45 only) Unemployability Supplement 92.90 97.75 increase for early incapacity Disability higher rate 19.25 20.25 Single 28.85 30.35 middle rate 12.40 13.00 Couple 41.10 43.25 lower rate 6.20 6.50

Maximum reduced earnings 60.12 63.24 enhanced disability allowance Single 14.05 14.80 disabled child 21.63 22.89 Maximum retirement allowance 15.03 15.81 Couple 20.25 21.30 Constant attendance allowance severe disability exceptional rate 120.40 126.60 Single 55.30 58.20 intermediate rate 90.30 94.95 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 normal maximum rate 60.20 63.30 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 part-time rate 30.10 31.65 disabled child 53.62 56.63 Exceptionally severe disablement 60.20 63.30 allowance

Carer 31.00 32.60 JOBSEEKER’S ALLOWANCE

Relevant sum for strikers 36.00 38.00 Contribution-based JSA— Personal rates INDUSTRIAL DEATH BENEFIT under 25 53.45 56.25 25 or over 67.50 71.00 Widow’s pension higher rate 102.15 107.45 Income-based JSA— personal lower rate 30.65 32.24 allowances Widower’s pension 102.15 107.45 under 25 53.45 56.25 83WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 84WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

25 or over 67.50 71.00 Additional amount for severe lone parent disability Single 55.30 58.20 under 18 53.45 56.25 couple (one qualifies) 55.30 58.20 18 or over 67.50 71.00 couple (both qualify) 110.60 116.40

Couple Additional amount for carers 31.00 32.60 both under 18 53.45 56.25 both under 18—higher rate 80.75 84.95 Savings credit one under 18, one under 25 53.45 56.25 one under 18, one 25 and over 67.50 71.00 threshold—single 103.15 111.80 both18orover 105.95 111.45 threshold—couple 164.55 178.35 maximum—single 20.52 18.54 maximum—couple 27.09 23.73 dependent children 62.33 64.99

Amount for claimant and first 209.70 217.90 Premiums spouse in polygamous marriage Additional amount for additional 72.35 75.20 family / lone parent 17.40 17.40 spouse

Pensioner Non-State Pensions (for Pension Credit purposes) Single 69.85 71.70 Statutory minimum increase to Increase by: 5.20% Couple 103.75 106.45 non-state pensions

Disability PNEUMOCONIOSIS,BYSSINOSIS, AND MISCELLANEOUS DISEASES SCHEME AND Single 28.85 30.35 THE WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION (SUPPLEMENTATION) Couple 41.10 43.25 Total disablement allowance and major incapacity enhanced disability allowance (maximum) 150.30 158.10 Single 14.05 14.80 disabled child 21.63 22.89 Partial disablement allowance 55.55 58.45 Couple 20.25 21.30

Unemployability supplement 92.90 97.75 severe disability increases for early incapacity - Single 55.30 58.20 higher rate 19.25 20.25 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 middle rate 12.40 13.00 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 lower rate 6.20 6.50 disabled child 53.62 56.63 Constant attendance allowance exceptional rate 120.40 126.60 Carer 31.00 32.60 intermediate rate 90.30 94.95 normal maximum rate 60.20 63.30 Prescribed sum for strikers 36.00 38.00 part-time rate 30.10 31.65

MATERNITY ALLOWANCE Exceptionally severe disablement 60.20 63.30 allowance Standard rate 128.73 135.45 MA threshold 30.00 30.00 Lesser incapacity allowance maximum rate of allowance 55.55 58.45

PENSION CREDIT based on loss of earnings over 73.60 77.45

Standard minimum guarantee SEVERE DISABLEMENT ALLOWANCE Single 137.35 142.70 Couple 209.70 217.90 Basic rate 62.95 69.00 85WS Written Ministerial Statements12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 86WS

Rates Rates Rates Rates (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 (Weekly rates unless otherwise 2011 2012 shown) shown)

Age-related addition (from Dec STATUTORY ADOPTION PAY 90) Higher rate 13.80 11.70 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 Middle rate 7.10 5.90 Standard Rate 128.73 135.45 Lower rate 5.60 5.90

STATUTORY MATERNITY PAY STATE PENSION Category A or B 102.15 107.45 Category B (lower)—spouse or 61.20 64.40 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 civil partner’s insurance Standard rate 128.73 135.45 Category C or D—non- 61.20 64.40 contributory STATUTORY PATERNITY PAY

Additional pension Increase by: 5.20% Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 Standard Rate 128.73 135.45 Increments to:-

Basic pension Increase by: 5.20% ADDITIONAL STATUTORY PATERNITY Additional pension Increase by: 5.20% PAY Graduated Retirement Benefit Increase by: 5.20% (GRB) Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 Inheritable lump sum Increase by: 5.20% Standard Rate 128.73 135.45

Contracted-out Deduction from Nil Nil STATUTORY SICK PAY AP in respect of pre-April 1988 contracted-out earnings Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 Contracted-out Deduction from Increase by: 3.00% Standard rate 81.60 85.85 AP in respect of contracted-out earnings from April 1988 to 1997 WIDOW’S BENEFIT

Graduated Retirement Benefit 0.1189 0.1251 (unit) Widowed mother’s allowance 100.70 105.95

Increase of long-term incapacity Increase by: 5.20% Widow’s pension for age standard rate 100.70 105.95 age-related Addition at age 80 0.25 0.25 age 54 (49) 93.65 98.53 53 (48) 86.60 91.12 Increase of long-term incapacity 52 (47) 79.55 83.70 for age 51 (46) 72.50 76.28 higher rate 19.25 20.25 50 (45) 65.46 68.87 lower rate 9.65 10.15 49 (44) 58.41 61.45 48 (43) 51.36 54.03 47 (42) 44.31 46.62 Invalidity Allowance (Transitional) for State Pension 46 (41) 37.26 39.20 recipients 45 (40) 30.21 31.79 higher rate 19.25 20.25 middle rate 12.40 13.00 Note: For deaths occurring lower rate 6.20 6.50 before 11 April 1988 refer to age- points shown in brackets.

7P Petitions12 DECEMBER 2011 Petitions 8P

The Secretary of State has carefully considered this Petitions application but in his opinion, the proposals do not: involve a conflict with national policies on important Monday 12 December 2011 matters; have significant effects beyond their immediate locality; give rise to substantial regional or national controversy; raise significant architectural and urban OBSERVATIONS design issues; or involve the interests of national security or of foreign Governments. Nor does he consider that there is any other sufficient reason to call the application in for his own determination. He has therefore decided COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT the application should be determined at local level, and has not called it in. Proposed Development on Coastal Road, Bolton-le- The decision as to whether to grant planning permission Sands (Lancashire) will therefore remain with the council. The Petition of residents of Bolton-le-Sands and others, Declares that the Petitioners are opposed to planning JUSTICE application 10/00830/0UT, relating to a proposed development on Coastal Road, Bolton-le-Sands, as the Sentencing (Knife Crime) Petitioners believe that there is no demand for any The Petition of residents of the London Borough of further development in the area as many properties are Enfield, not fully occupied and many are already on the market; that there are insufficient employment opportunities in Declares that the creation of a new offence of using a the area for any incoming inhabitants; that there is knife to threaten or endanger a person is welcome, as is insufficient space in local schools for incoming children; the proposal to introduce a mandatory six month custodial that there will be increased pressure on what the Petitioners sentence for those convicted of this offence; further believe are already overstretched local NHS services; declares that the new offence and sentence is only set to that the development will change the character of the apply to those over 18 years of age, despite serious knife area, with a detrimental impact on the landscape and crimes being committed in this borough and elsewhere residential amenities, including causing the loss of open by people younger than 18. spaces that enhance the quality of life of everyone in The Petitioners therefore request that the House of the area; that the development will cause a loss of Commons urges the Secretary of State for Justice to grazing land and essential hedgerow habitats; that the give urgent consideration to amendments to ensure that development presents a risk to the canal and species in the new offence also applies to under 18s. the canal ecosystem; that the development will result in And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Nick the joining up of the villages of Bolton-le-Sands and de Bois, Official Report, 21 October 2011; Vol. 533, Hest Bank and that there will be an increase in vehicular c. 1249.] traffic on already busy roads, particularly on Coastal [P000970] Road which has seen numerous accidents in recent Observations from the Secretary of State for Justice: years. The Government are determined to tackle the scourge The Petitioners therefore request that the House of of knife crime that can blight people’s lives. This is why Commons urges the Government to use any means new offences of using an article with a blade or point or possible to overturn the decision of Lancaster City offensive weapon to threaten another person and cause Council to approve the development on Coastal Road, an immediate risk of serious physical harm to that Bolton-le-Sands. other person are being introduced in the Legal Aid, And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by David Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill. Morris, Official Report, 24 November 2011; Vol. 536, When introduced in the Bill the offences applied a c. 562.] minimum custodial sentence of six months’ imprisonment [P000986] for an adult but did not apply a minimum sentence to juveniles aged under 18 years. Observations from the Secretary of State for Communities In the light of concerns raised about the need to send and Local Government, received 9 December 2011: a clear message to under-18s that the Government The Secretary of State for Communities and Local consider knife crime unacceptable, the Secretary of Government is aware that a planning application was State for Justice has decided that it is appropriate to submitted to Lancaster City Council in respect of the extend a minimum custodial sentence of a four-month above development. He is advised that on 14 November detention and training order to 16 and 17-year-olds the council resolved to grant planning permission subject found guilty of these new offences. Amendments providing to a section 106 legal agreement being signed. for this were tabled on 31 October 2011 in the House of The Secretary of State might decide to call-in an Commons Report Stage of the Legal Aid, Sentencing application for his own determination if he considers and Punishment of Offenders Bill. that it raises matters of more than local importance, but As has been the case for mandatory sentences other his policy is to be very selective about this. The Government than murder, these provisions allow for a court to are committed to give more power to councils and disapply the minimum sentence where the particular communities to make their own decisions on planning circumstances of the case, which for a 16 or 17-year-old issues, and believe planning decisions should be made at will include having regard to the welfare of the child, the local level wherever possible. would make it unjust to apply it. 9P Petitions12 DECEMBER 2011 Petitions 10P

The Government concluded it is right to apply a within the community. This does not mean that younger minimum custodial sentence to 16 and 17-year-olds for children will not get custody but that the court will these aggravated knife offences which risk serious physical decide on the basis of the individual case what penalty harm, but do not consider it appropriate to apply this to should apply. younger children who may be dealt with more effectively 459W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 460W Written Answers to HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION Computers

Questions Chris Ruane: To ask the hon. Member for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, representing the House of Monday 12 December 2011 Commons Commission, pursuant to the answer of 13 October 2010, Official Report, column 290W,on computers, how many of the laptops and desktop computers returned to PICT in the 2010 refresh programme were sold to (a) SCOTLAND hon. Members, (b) agencies, companies or other individuals and (c) as scrap; and how much revenue was raised in Departmental Audit each of these categories. [85301] John Thurso: Disposal of obsolete ICT equipment Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland arising from the 2010 refresh programme for hon. Members what criteria his Department uses when deciding whether was undertaken by two third-party suppliers, one covering and when to hold an internal audit; and if he will make constituency offices and another covering the estate. In a statement. [85644] both cases, after destruction of data to specified and certified standards, the choice between resale or destruction David Mundell: The Scotland Office follows the guidance was a commercial one taken by the suppliers. in the HM Treasury publication ‘Government Internal Audit Standards’. No equipment was sold to hon. Members. Nearly 2,760 laptops and desktops were sold to third parties or Departmental Public Bodies destroyed by the suppliers during the relevant period. Revenue amounting to £70,122 was received as a result. This figure includes revenue from the disposal of some Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for printers from the estate which cannot be separately Scotland what risk registers are held by the non- identified. Comparable figures are not available separately departmental public bodies for which his Department for sales to third parties and destruction. is responsible; and if he will make a statement. [85710]

David Mundell: The Scotland Office is responsible for the Boundary Commission for Scotland which has a WALES risk register in place. In addition, regular discussions take place between my officials and Commission staff Departmental Audit regarding the work of the Commission and other relevant matters. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what criteria her Department uses when deciding Departmental Responsibilities whether and when to hold an internal audit; and if she will make a statement. [85647] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland Mr David Jones: The Wales Office has an annual what steps his Department is taking to ensure social internal audit programme, which is agreed by the Audit value is included when services are commissioned by his Committee and internal audit. The areas tested each Department; and if he will make a statement. [85663] year change according to the Audit Committee’s priorities for the year. David Mundell: Other than minor or bespoke purchases, the Scotland Office does not undertake direct procurement Departmental Responsibilities or tendering projects. It utilises existing service contracts between suppliers and the Scottish Government or the Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales Ministry of Justice. what steps her Department is taking to ensure social value is included when services are commissioned by Unemployment: Young People her Department; and if she will make a statement. [85666] Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to meet the Scottish Mr David Jones: The Wales Office has no executive Government Minister for Youth Unemployment before agencies, and all services used by the Department are January 2012. [86204] under Ministry of Justice procured contracts.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, Departmental Risk Assessment the right hon. Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore), has written to Angela Constance Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales MSP to congratulate her upon her appointment as the what risk registers are held by the non-departmental new Scottish Government Minister for YouthEmployment. public bodies for which her Department is responsible; He intends to meet Ms Constance at the earliest opportunity and if she will make a statement. [85713] available to discuss how the UK and Scottish Governments will continue to work together to support Scotland’s Mr David Jones: The Wales Office is not responsible young people into employment. for any non-departmental public bodies. 461W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 462W

NORTHERN IRELAND Departmental Written Questions Departmental Responsibilities Chris Ruane: To ask the Prime Minister how many and what proportion of questions for ordinary written Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for answer received a substantive response within (a) 10, Northern Ireland what steps his Department is taking (b) 20, (c) 30 and (d) more than 30 sitting days in the to ensure social value is included when services are 2010-12 session to date. [85938] commissioned by (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies; and if he will make a statement. [85662] The Prime Minister: Out of 270 ordinary written questions tabled, 265 received a substantive response Mr Paterson: The Northern Ireland Office uses approved within 10 days. All remaining questions were answered public procurement policies to achieve the most within 20 days. advantageous combination of cost, quality and sustainability to meet the Department’s requirements. My Department does not have executive agencies. ATTORNEY-GENERAL

PRIME MINISTER Departmental Audit Cabinet Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General what criteria (a) the Law Officers’ Departments and (b) its Mr David Hamilton: To ask the Prime Minister public bodies use when deciding whether and when to pursuant to the written ministerial statement of 24 hold an internal audit; and if he will make a statement. October 2011, Official Report, column 1WS, on the [85629] Cabinet Manual, (1) whether he expects chapter two of the Cabinet Manual on Elections and Government The Solicitor-General: The Treasury Solicitor’s Formation to have any legal status in the event of a Department (TSol) is responsible for handling internal future hung parliament; [86228] audits for itself, the Attorney-General’s Office and HM (2) whether he plans to re-issue the Cabinet Manual Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI). (a) when relevant legislative changes are made, (b) The TSol Internal Audit Service complies fully with when relevant changes to the machinery of Government Government Internal Audit Standards. Each year an are made, (c) when a significant EU treaty is signed annual internal audit plan, identifying individual internal and (d) on a regular calendar based timescale. [86229] audits and their proposed timing, is prepared and approved by the Audit Committee. This annual plan is designed The Prime Minister: As stated in the preface of the to meet the assurance needs of the Accounting Officer, Cabinet Manual, it is not intended to be legally binding Board and Audit Committee. During the year the internal or to set issues in stone. We expect it to evolve in form audit plan may be updated, with the approval of the and content over time. Accounting Officer and Audit Committee, to reflect Departmental Internet changes to TSol’s operations, risk profile or assurance needs. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Prime Minister if he The Director of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and will ensure that the 10 Downing street website is the chair of the Audit Committee agree an annual plan updated to include meetings he has had since March of reviews with the SFO’s internal auditors to provide independent assurance that the SFO’s risk management 2011. [86174] and internal control processes are operating effectively. The Prime Minister: An updated list has been When deciding on the topics and timing of internal published. It can be found on the Cabinet Office audits within that plan the SFO considers planned website: business initiatives for the coming year, financial reporting requirements and previous NAO/Internal Audit report http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/ministerial- findings. gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-external-organisations- april-june The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is the largest of the Law Officers’ Departments. The CPS Head of Departmental Publications Internal Audit (HIA) is responsible for determining which internal audits are undertaken based on CPS’ Dan Jarvis: To ask the Prime Minister how many (a) management’s assessment of the risks to the achievement leaflets, (b) posters and (c) reports his Office has of organisational objectives. The criteria used by the published since May 2010; how much each cost; and HIA when deciding whether and when to hold an which company (i) published and (ii) designed each. internal audit are: [82990] The significance of the activity/system to the achievement of organisational goals, and the maintenance of the CPS’s reputation. Mr Maude: I have been asked to reply. The degree to which an activity mitigates risks identified on the For the purposes of administration, 10 Downing Corporate Risk Register. street is an integral part of the Cabinet Office. I refer The findings of recent audit or HMCPSI activity. the hon. Member to the answer I have given him today Cumulative audit knowledge of the robustness of controls and on this matter. compliance in place in a system. 463W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 464W

The level of change in a system—to people, process, technology, inputs, and its operating environment. Financial years Excise cases The difficulty of the objective, the complexity of the system 2008-09 240 and the level of IT/automation. 2009-10 263 The novelty of the activity and risk assessment. 2010-11 271 The financial materiality of the system. 2011-to date 320 The stated needs for assurance of the accounting officers. The known plans of the HMCPSI and National Audit Office in relation to the activity/system in question. ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS Departmental Responsibilities Agriculture: Subsidies Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General what steps his Department is taking to ensure social value is Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for included when services are commissioned by (a) the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she has Law Officers’ Departments and (b) its public bodies; made an estimate of the number of (a) hon. Members and if he will make a statement. [85670] and (b) Members of the European Parliament who receive funding from the common agricultural policy. The Solicitor-General: The Law Officers’ Departments [84000] are required to follow EU procurement rules and Government procurement guidance to ensure best value Mr Paice: No such estimate has been made. It would for money. Government procurement best practice not be possible to do so without incurring disproportionate encourages small and medium sized enterprises to tender cost as it would require considerable cross-checking for procurement opportunities and recognises the between, for example, lists of hon. Members interests importance of environmental, social and economic and the database of beneficiaries of common agricultural concerns. policy funds. Simply searching the database for hon. In line with Government procurement policy the Law Members’ (or MEPs’) names would not identify any Officers’ Departments normally use pre-tendered pan- businesses in which they had an interest. government contracts wherever possible for the supply of services. Such contracts will have been awarded Animal Welfare: Circuses following an open competition process led by either the Government Procurement Service (formally the Office Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for of Government Commerce-Buying Solutions) or another Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the Government Department or public sector body. answer of 8 November 2011, Official Report, column 221W, on animal welfare: circuses, for what reasons it Departmental Risk Assessment was considered that to ensure full participation assurances should be given to participants that the data collected Mr Thomas: To ask the Attorney-General what risk would be confidential; and if she will make a statement. registers are held by the public bodies for which the [82081] Law Officers’ Departments are responsible; and if he will make a statement. [85715] Mr Paice: The decision to agree to confidentiality for these specific papers rests with the previous Government. The Solicitor-General: The Law Officers’ Departments The participants have reiterated to this Government do not have responsibility for any other public bodies. that confidentiality should be maintained and, having Prosecutions: Tobacco considered the circumstances, the Government’s view is that confidentiality should be respected.

Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Attorney-General Mr Leech: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, how many people have been prosecuted for selling Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made illegal tobacco products in each of the last five years. of legal advice submitted to her Department by Animal [85625] Defenders International on 7 June 2011 on the conformity of a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses with the The Attorney-General: Excise offences include evasion (a) Human Rights Act 1998 and (b) European Services of duty on alcohol and hydrocarbon oils as well as directive. [83456] tobacco products. There is no specific offence of selling illegal tobacco products. Mr Paice: The Government’s assessment of the legal The following table provides information relating to advice submitted by Animal Defenders International the number of completed prosecutions, by defendant, are protected by legal professional privilege which is not for “excise” offences where charges were laid under ordinarily waived. The Secretary of State for Environment, SI 70 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. Food and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the It is not possible to break this data down further Member for Meriden (Mrs Spelman), does not propose without retrieving files at disproportionate expense. to waive privilege on this occasion.

Financial years Excise cases Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006-07 358 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she plans 2007-08 330 to publish proposals for a licensing scheme for wild animals in circuses. [84433] 465W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 466W

Mr Paice: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I compulsory slaughter of TB test reactor animals (i.e. gave to the hon. Member for Cambridge (Dr Huppert), which have given a test result consistent with being during the oral answers to questions on 13 October infected with bovine TB) and non-reactor (“direct contact”) 2011, Official Report, columns 467-68. animals.

Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Harriett Baldwin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which bodies are Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the (a) advising her Department on the proposals for a initial capital cost and (b) ongoing maintenance costs licensing scheme for wild animals in circuses. [84434] are of the SAM computer system for logging cases of bovine tuberculosis. [83569] Mr Paice: DEFRA has had, or will shortly have, discussions on our proposals for a licensing scheme for Mr Paice: The initial capital cost of the SAM system wild animals in circuses with the RSPCA, Animal Defenders for bovine TB is £12.8 million and the annual running International, Born Free, CAPS and PAWSI. cost (hosting and application support), on average, £153,000 per annum. Animal Welfare: Performing Arts SAM will enable savings in staff costs specifically related to bovine TB of over £2.3 million per annum. In Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for addition, the investment will allow legacy systems, that Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent are approaching the end of their economic lives and are assessments she has made of the adequacy of the welfare rapidly becoming unsupportable, to be retired, with standards applicable to animals used in the performing consequential savings in support costs. Specifically this arts industry. [84580] system will automate the administrative process relating to bovine TB (which accounts for approximately 50% of Mr Paice: No such assessments have been made of Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency’s animal welfare standards applicable to the performing core business), improving both speed and quality. The arts as a whole. DEFRA is currently considering the time required to enter test results and to remove infected adequacy of welfare standards in the context of performing animals will be minimised as a result of reducing manual wild animals in travelling circuses, and will consult on data entry and preventing any possible errors in duplicate proposals for this in early 2012. data entry. Bovine Tuberculosis Dangerous Dogs

Dan Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many cases Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what correspondence of bovine tuberculosis have been recorded in camelids she has received on the effects on local authority budgets in each of the last 12 months. [82340] of dealing with dangerous dogs in England. [81000]

Mr Paice: The Animal Health and Veterinary Mr Paice: There are no records of Ministers having Laboratories Agency provides DEFRA with data on received correspondence on this subject from local the number of cases of camelids it has examined for TB authorities. However, we are aware of their concerns each quarter and the number positive for M. bovis on regarding the costs facing them. culture. Cumulative figures are published in the statistics section of DEFRA’s website. Dogs: Tagging The numbers of cases reported in the last 12 months have been: Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment October- July- she has made of the case for compulsory micro-chipping December January- April-June September of dogs. [80463] 2010 March 2011 2011 2011

Cases examined Mr Paice: The Government are considering a range Alpacas 12 17 35 40 of measures to deal with dangerous dogs and irresponsible Llamas 1 1 1 1 dog ownership. One of the proposals under consideration is the compulsory micro-chipping of dogs. We have made it a priority to look at the complex issue of Numbers positive for M. dangerous dogs and will shortly announce measures to bovis tackle them and make our streets safer. Alpacas 2 4 3 0 Llamas 0 0 0 0 Imports: Israel

All data provided for 2011 are provisional and subject Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for to change as more becomes available. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what total The figures represent submissions of individual animals volume by (a) value and (b) tonnage of fresh fruit and rather than premises (i.e. several submissions may be vegetables was imported from Israel in each of the last from the same premises) and are made up of a combination five years; and what proportion by (i) value and (ii) of voluntary submissions from a range of farms and tonnage (A) had and (B) did not have a certificate of also multiple submissions from a small number of conformity with marketing standards issued by the TB-restricted herds undergoing repeat TB testing and Israeli authorities. [82408] 467W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 468W

Mr Paice: The requirement for a certificate of conformity are not covered by the standards—but for information is only relevant for imports of those particular products import figures for this crop are also included in the which are covered by EU marketing standards for fresh following tables: fruit and vegetables. Certain products such as potatoes

Table 1: Total (a) value and (b) volume of fresh fruit and vegetables, as regulated by EU marketing standards, for 2006-10 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Description £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes

Fresh fruit 30,513 37,075 31,316 41,503 24,824 31,707 27,633 31,813 27,194 28,989 Fresh vegetables 14,547 13,610 18,285 15,847 12,815 12,427 14,920 25,225 16,237 18,115 Source: HM Revenue and Customs. Data prepared by DEFRA. Table 2. Total tonnage and proportion of imports, as regulated by EU marketing standards, that (a) had (b) did not have a certificate of conformity issued by the Israeli authorities Tonnes Percentage With certificate Without Total With certificate Without

2007 23,099 5,297 28,396 81 19 2008 33,011 17,917 50,928 65 35 2009 9,050 6,547 15,597 58 42 2010 17,418 11,561 28,979 60 40 20111 11,963 3,127 15,090 79 21 1 Until 22 November 2011 Note: July 2009—changes to the marketing standards saw the number of specific marketing standards reduced from 36 to 10. Table 3. Total (a) value and (b) volume of imports of potatoes 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Type Description £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes £000 Tonnes

Potatoes New potatoes; 25,500 82,306 31,005 101,086 31,338 103,091 18,861 63,508 18,900 61,236 fresh or chilled Potatoes-other 1,329 4,018 2,057 7,295 2,719 10,484 4,373 16,970 771 2,107 (main crop/ ware); fresh or chilled Potatoes total 26,829 86,323 33,062 108,381 34,057 113,575 23,234 80,477 19,672 63,343 Source: HM Revenue and Customs. Data prepared by DEFRA.

Livestock: Disease Control she has made of the number of animals subjected to mulesing in England in the latest period for which Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for figures are available; and what assessment she has made Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment of the effect of this practice on the welfare of the she has made of the risk to human and animal health of animal. [84665] the use of antibiotics on farm animals as a preventative measure. [84664] Mr Paice: Mulesing is not a permitted procedure in the UK. There have been no reported illegal mutilations Mr Paice: All veterinary medicinal products must of animals in this way in the UK, therefore no assessment satisfy extensive safety criteria, which include safety to of this practice has been made on the welfare of the the animal being treated, safety to humans and safety to UK-reared animal. the environment before being granted a marketing authorisation. Efficacy and quality criteria must also be Veterinary Laboratory Service: Redundancy satisfied. There is also a specific requirement for manufacturers to supply data to address the area of the development of resistance new antibiotic products prior Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for to authorisation. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what impact Veterinary medicinal products containing antibiotics assessment her Department has conducted on (a) the loss are available only on veterinary prescription. Where of 81 members of staff in the rationalisation of the products have been authorised for use in food producing Veterinary Laboratory Service and (b) what impact the animals, the greater majority are authorised for the loss of 81 staff members will have on the level of service treatment of disease. This authorisation includes the provided by the Veterinary Laboratory Agency; and if treatment of groups of animals when not all individual she will place (i) the impact assessment and (ii) the animals have developed the symptoms of the disease. A academic model on which the proposed rationalisation minority of veterinary medicinal product containing is based in the Library. [77730] antibiotics are authorised for the prevention of disease in farmed animals and these include those used to Mr Paice: In April 2011 the AHVLA executive team prevent mastitis in dairy cattle at drying-off. initiated a review of the delivery of laboratory services across England and Wales. This work followed the Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for earlier AHVLA sustainable surveillance project which Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate recommended that the post mortem examination of 469W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 470W carcases, which makes up the most critical aspect of Armed Forces: Education surveillance work, be de-coupled from the provision of laboratory service functions, removing the requirement Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for for co-location of the two work areas. Defence what steps he is taking to ensure that education No formal impact assessment is required for changes and training for armed forces recruits aged between 16 such as these. Under the current Better Regulation and 18 years meet the minimum standards recommended Guidance it states that if there is no impact on regulation by the Wolf Review of vocational education; and what and there is no increased cost to the end user then no the cost of meeting these standards is. [85336] impact assessment is required. The decision on which laboratories would retain laboratory services was based Nick Harvey [holding answer 8 December 2011]: The on a number of factors including future needs for Government’s acceptance of the recommendations of specialist skills, staff capacity to deliver the volumes of the Wolf Review of Vocational Education, means that work, facilities required, and retaining resilience of functional skills and GCSEs will be the only recognised service delivery. pathways to achieve the compulsory English and maths The basis for the new delivery model is not an academic elements of an apprenticeship. The armed forces are study; it is our experience of the model used successfully committed to the introduction of functional skills and at the University Veterinary Schools surveillance centres some areas already exceed the minimum requirements at both Liverpool and London. At these sites the university laid down in the Wolf Report. All areas will meet these staff accept carcase material and then forward samples requirements within the timescales laid down, under onto the relevant AHVLA regional laboratory as no transition arrangements for the introduction of functional testing is carried out at the veterinary schools. skills. The onward submission of tests to other laboratory The costs of delivering apprenticeships for those sites is also common practice at all post mortem sites, so aged between 16 and 18 years are embedded in the total this is an extension of existing practice. training costs and cannot be separated without incurring The ability to respond to disease outbreak with a disproportionate cost. surge in capacity is maintained as confirmatory tests for notifiable diseases are carried out by Weybridge which Armed Forces: Food is not part of the regional laboratory network. AHVLA is confident that service levels will not be reduced with Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for the proposed changes. Defence what changes have been made to the Pay As You Dine scheme since May 2010. [86011] Written Questions: Government Responses Mr Robathan: There have been no changes to the Pay Natascha Engel: To ask the Secretary of State for As You Dine scheme since May 2010. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects to answer question 70107, on electronic training aids for cats, tabled by the hon. Member for North East Armed Forces: Housing Derbyshire on 2 September 2011 for answer on 6 September 2011. [80908] Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what estimate he has made of the number Mr Paice: I apologise to the hon. Member. My answer of (a) Army, (b) RoyalNavyand(c) RAF personnel on electronic training aids for cats was published on in Afghanistan who will return to a different 24 November 2011, Official Report, column 436. accommodation when they have completed their deployment in the next year; [84977] (2) how many (a) Army, (b) RoyalNavyand(c) DEFENCE RAF personnel in Afghanistan will be informed of the location of their service accommodation on return from Armed Forces: Cadets their deployment; [84978] (3) how many (a) Army, (b) RoyalNavyand(c) Stephen Barclay: To ask the Secretary of State for RAF personnel overseas will return to a different Defence pursuant to the answer of 30 November 2011, accommodation having completed their deployment in Official Report, column 974W, on armed forces: cadets, the next year; [84980] if he will consider extending the central provision of insurance for sea cadet forces to cover buildings insurance. (4) how many (a) Army, (b) RoyalNavyand(c) RAF personnel currently overseas will be informed of [85175] the location of their service accommodation on return Mr Robathan: Sea cadet units are independent charities from deployment in the next year. [84981] in their own right, affiliated to the Marine Society and sea. cadets subject to certain conditions being in place. Mr Robathan: No service families with a member Each unit therefore is responsible for funding its own away on operational deployment will be asked to move running costs, including buildings insurance, which they to a different service family accommodation property do in the main with considerable success. The Marine during their deployment. Society and sea cadets provide a competitive package Personnel in single living accommodation are not through their insurers with a free direct debit service for generally moved to alternative accommodation while units to spread this through the year. There are no away on operational deployment. Information is not current plans to increase the central provision to include held centrally and could be provided only at buildings insurance. disproportionate cost. 471W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 472W

Armed Forces: Leisure Mr Robathan: Ministry of Defence (MOD) officials are in discussions with the Department for Transport Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for the utilisation of the rail network at the MOD site in (1) what estimate he has made of the number of local Bicester. authorities in (a) England, (b) Wales, (c) Scotland The Department for Transport is supportive of the and (d) Northern Ireland which offer discounts for MOD’s proposals including retention and exploitation local authority-owned leisure services for (i) serving of rail connections. members and (ii) veterans of the armed forces; [85686] (2) what discussions he has had with ministerial Ex-servicemen: Employment colleagues in the Department for Communities and Local Government on local authorities offering discounted Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for leisure services to (a) serving servicemen and women Defence (1) how many veterans of the armed forces and (b) veterans of the armed forces. [85687] have found long-term work through the Employment Support Programme in each year since its creation; Mr Robathan [holding answer 8 December 2011]: [84070] The Ministry of Defence (MOD) welcomes all initiatives (2) how many armed forces veterans have found to offer discounts to serving personnel or veterans. long-term work through the Full Resettlement While no estimate or formal discussions have taken programme in each year since its creation; [84993] place, the MOD held an armed forces community covenant conference with the Local Government Association for (3) how many veterans have found long-term work local authorities in England on 1 November 2011. In through the Career Transition Partnership (a) in total the discussions and workshops that took place, the issue and (b) in each year since its creation. [83821] of offering discounts to members of the armed forces community was discussed, with some local authorities Mr Robathan [holding answer 29 November 2011]: providing examples of what discounts they offered. This information is not collected by the Ministry of Ultimately decisions on these matters must be for the Defence (MOD) as it would require former service local authorities themselves. personnel to notify the MOD when they have obtained or changed employment. However, the Career Transition In addition, the MOD provides, through an agreement Partnership (CTP) undertakes a survey at six months with a contractor, a Defence discount scheme which is after discharge and the following table lists the total open to all those who are serving, have served, their number of service leavers who have gained employment families, MOD civil servants, cadets, reservists and NATO within six months of being discharged since 2005. We personnel serving in the UK. The scheme has partnered do not maintain records for individual programmes ran with over 1,200 businesses offering thousands of discounts by CTP. across the UK. The scheme has an active membership of over 190,000 members; is free to join; and is easily Number of career transition accessed through the website: clients employed within six www.forcesdiscounts-mod.co.uk Financial year months of discharge Departmental Public Expenditure 2005-06 9,811 2006-07 11,819 2007-08 12,673 Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for 2008-09 8,666 Defence what efficiency savings his Department made in 2010-11; what savings he expects to make in (a) 2011-12 2009-10 10,047 and (b) 2012-13; what targets he has set for each of This indicates that, over the period, some 95% of these years; and if he will make a statement. [85232] CTP clients have secured employment within six months of leaving. Mr Philip Hammond: The efficiency programme set out in the 2010 spending review began at the start of the Iran: Nuclear Weapons current financial year. The previous financial year was covered by the value for money programme that saved £2.8 billion over the years covered by the 2007 Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for comprehensive spending review. Defence what his assessment is of the potential for the weaponisation of the Iranian nuclear programme. The Ministry of Defence is committed to realise [85230] £3.2 billion in efficiencies over the spending review period. Detailed analysis of our performance against Nick Harvey: In November the International Atomic these measures will be reported annually, after the Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed departmental accounts have been audited. “serious concerns” Departmental Railways about credible information that “indicates that Iran has carried out activities relevant to the Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence development of a nuclear explosive device.” what discussions his Department has had with the It also suggests that some activities relevant to the Department for Transport on the potential for greater development of such a device may still be ongoing. We use of his Department’s rail infrastructure in and around share these concerns and continue to call for full Bicester following the re-opening of the east-west rail implementation by Iran of United Nations Security link between Oxford and Milton Keynes. [85763] Council and IAEA Board of Governors Resolutions. 473W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 474W

Post Codes Number of days QRA launched Number Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006 (since September) 2 Defence whether his Department uses postcodes for 2007 24 purposes other than the postage of mail. [84173] 2008 15 2009 14 Mr Robathan: Postcodes are used in the Ministry of 2010 14 Defence for purposes other than the postage of mail 2011 18 but it is not possible to provide a definitive and detailed list of these uses, because this information is not held Strategic Defence and Security Review centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. The following examples are no more than indicative. Defence Analytical Services and Advice (DASA) use Richard Drax: To ask the Secretary of State for postcodes as the basis for aggregating statistics on stationed Defence (1) if he will review the Strategic Defence and location, as published in TSP 10—UK Regular Forces Security Review in the light of global instability; Stationed Location and available online at: [84625] http://www.dasa.mod.uk/applications/newWeb/www/index.php (2) if he will review the Strategic Defence and ?page=48&thiscontent=100&pubType=0&date=2011-11-17&dis Security Review in the light of rising unemployment. Text=01%20Oct%202011&from=historic&topDate=2011-11-17 [84626] &PublishTime=09:30:00 The postcodes are used to identify an individual’s Mr Philip Hammond: No. Events have demonstrated base location and to count how many people are stationed that the central finding of the Strategic Defence and within a particular base, local authority, region, or Security Review—the need for the UK to adopt an country. adaptable posture—remains appropriate. Postcodes have also been used to group the responses to administration surveys into rough areas by using the Warships: Wrecks first part of the postcode eg SW1A 2HB would be collated with other responses in the SW1A area, cross referenced to the post town. Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what steps his Department is taking to identify and contact the current owners of HMS RAF Lossiemouth Aboukir, HMS Hogue and HMS Cressy to seek their assistance in preventing further disturbance to these Sir Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State three war graves; [86047] for Defence (1) pursuant to the answer of 9 November (2) whether there are provisions in the contract of 2011, Official Report, column 368W,on RAF Lossiemouth, sale of the wrecks of HMS Aboukir, HMS Hogue and European Fighter Aircraft, for what period of time HMS Cressy to provide for the proper treatment of RAF Lossiemouth undertook the Quick Reaction Alert human remains; [86049] North role when resurfacing work was undertaken at RAF Leuchars; and on how many occasions aircraft (3) what steps his Department is taking to ensure from RAF Lossiemouth were (a) scrambled and (b) that the salvors fulfil their legal obligations to land and launched in that role during that period; [83902] report any recovery of personal possessions of the crews of HMS Aboukir, HMS Hogue and HMS (2) on how many occasions aircraft from RAF Leuchars Cressy. [86050] have responded to incidents which (a) involved and (b) did not involve aircraft from foreign powers in the last 10 years. [83903] Mr Robathan: Departmental records indicate that these three wrecks were sold, apparently for scrap, in Nick Harvey: The choice of the Quick Reaction Alert 1954. We are aware that salvage subsequently took (QRA) base or bases used for each incident is at the place in the 1950s and 1960s. Records do not identify discretion of the tactical commander and forms part of the purchaser. the deterrent value of our QRA posture. Therefore, it is No details remain on the circumstances of the sale or departmental policy only to release limited statistics of the provisions of the agreement. relating to QRA launches. It is the responsibility of the salvors to comply with QRA statistics are no longer held for incidents prior the appropriate national legislation wherever wreck material to September 2006. All launches of the QRA force from is landed, whether this comprises of the ship’s fixtures September 2006 were either for Russian military aviation and fittings or the personal possessions of individuals. (Bear or Blackjack aircraft) which approached the NATO Notwithstanding the particular circumstances of these Air Policing Area (for which the UK has responsibility) three wrecks, the Ministry of Defence is continuing to or aircraft within UK civil airspace that were causing liaise and work with the Dutch authorities with respect concern to air traffic controllers. The aircraft that were to the activities of salvors based in the Netherlands and causing concern to civil controllers were a range of on issues related to naval wreck protection in general. aircraft types registered in a range of countries, including the UK. Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for The number of days on which RAF QRA aircraft Defence what his policy is on the protection of have been launched from all QRA bases since September maritime war graves in international waters; and if he 2006 is as follows: will make a statement. [86048] 475W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 476W

Mr Robathan: The Government view wrecked military contact with senior management, the ARC and the vessels, wherever they may lie, as being the last resting National Audit Office all inform the precise timing of places of those who lost their lives in the ship’s sinking. individual internal audits. As a general principle we believe that such sites should The equivalent information for the Department’s remain undisturbed to the maximum extent possible. public bodies is not held centrally, though the criteria With regard to the protection of such wrecks in used by them would be set by each individual body’s international waters, depending on the circumstances of own board and audit committee. the individual case we would look to make use of our rights in international law together with domestic legislation Departmental Secondment where appropriate. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many secondees are CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT working in his Department and its associated public Broadband: Expenditure bodies; from which organisations; for how long each secondment is due to last; and if he will make a statement. [85813] Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Department has invested in broadband infrastructure John Penrose: There are 16 secondees working in the in each of the last three financial years. [85566] Department for Culture, Media and Sport as outlined in the following table. Mr Vaizey: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has been responsible for broadband Home organisation Expected leaving date Work area delivery since April 2011. The Department has £530 Royal Parks 30 October 2012 DCMS million to support broadband infrastructure over the Qualifications 19 October 2012 DCMS period to 2015, and indicative funding allocations for Curriculum each local authority area and the devolved Administrations Authority were announced in the summer. Each area needs to Electoral 7 November 2012 DCMS undertake a procurement to select a broadband supplier Commission and funding will be paid in accordance with the achievement National Audit 31 October 2012 DCMS of delivery targets by the supplier. No projects have yet Office reached this stage and consequently no payments have English Cricket 16 April 2012 DCMS been made so far. Currently eight local broadband Board projects are in procurement and a further four local Royal Air Force 31 October 2012 Olympic Games areas have agreed Local Broadband Plans. Together, Olympic Delivery 30 September 2012 Olympic Games these represent nearly half of the allocated funding. Authority The other areas of the country are currently developing DWP 31 October 2012 Olympic Games their plans. Olympic Delivery 31 December 2011 Olympic Games Authority Departmental Audit Olympic Delivery 30 November 2012 Olympic Games Authority Transport for 20 April 2012 Olympic Games Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for London Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what criteria (a) Transport for 30 December 2011 Olympic Games his Department and (b) its public bodies use when London deciding whether and when to hold an internal audit; Hitachi 1 August 2012 Olympic Games and if he will make a statement. [85634] Olympic Delivery 31 December 2012 Olympic Games Authority John Penrose: This Department’s internal audit function Olympic Delivery 30 September 2012 Olympic Games is provided by the Department for Communities and Authority Local Government’s Internal Audit Services (IAS), which Olympic Delivery 30 September 2012 Olympic Games operates to Government Internal Audit Standards. IAS Authority produces an annual audit plan that is agreed with the Department on the basis of need, priority and expected We do not collate this information for our non- value added, and is approved by its Audit and Risk departmental public bodies. Accordingly, I have asked Committee (ARC). The plan includes a core package of each of their chief executives to write directly to the audits on controls and compliance, necessary to provide hon. Member for Harrow West. Copies of the replies assurance to the accounting officer at the year end and will be placed in both House Libraries. which will support the annual Governance Statement (which replaces the Statement on Internal Control this Ofcom: Finance financial year). In addition, there is a programme of risk-based work, which reflects the Department’s priorities and high-level risk registers and is developed during the Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for year in the light of changes in the risk environment. The Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the budget is plan also contains a flexible allowance—for ad hoc for Ofcom for the period 2008 to 2016. [85355] advisory work and to enable timely response to changes in risk profile or other developments during the year. Mr Vaizey: Ofcom’s budgets for 2008-09 to 2011-12 Prior experience, assessment of urgency and regular inclusive are shown in the following table: 477W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 478W

CompeteFor has been funded by the regional Budget (£ million) development agencies in England along with the devolved 2008-09 133.7 Administrations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and 2009-10 136.8 Wales. 2010-11 142.5 Radio Frequencies

2011-12 Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Including six months post 119.8 Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he Excluding post (115.8) has made of the monetary value of receipts from the auction of 4G spectrum. [85352] Ofcom has not set its budget beyond 2011-12. However, the funding cap agreed by HM Treasury as part of the Mr Vaizey: We have made no estimates of the monetary recent spending review, and from within which Ofcom value of receipts from auctions. Similar auctions for 4G will set future budgets for the years 2012-13 to 2014-15 spectrum across Europe have raised significantly different inclusive, are shown in the following table: amounts. The recent German auction raised a total of ¤4.4 billion for spectrum in three bands and France’s Budget (£ million) recent auction of Spectrum at 2.6 GHz raised ¤936 million 2012-13 125.9 in total. This has to be compared with spectrum auctions 2013-14 121.0 in other countries which raised much lower amounts, 2014-15 119.7 Sweden raised approximately ¤233 million for the 800 MHz band in its recent auction and Finland raised approximately ¤3.8 million in its auction of 2.6 GHz spectrum. It should be noted that the forthcoming auction in the Olympic Games 2012: Contracts UK may be under different terms to those and the UK market is different to markets in those countries. Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost was Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for of operating the London 2012 Business Network in Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he each year since its establishment. [82097] has made of the monetary value of receipts from the release of spectrum below 5 GHz. [85356] Mr Prisk: I have been asked to reply. Mr Vaizey: We have made no estimates on the likely The Department has interpreted this question as revenues that could be generated by the release of the being the cost of the CompeteFor service (the website 500 MHz of publically held spectrum. The purpose of chosen by London 2012 for the publication of Games- the release is to generate innovation and commercial related contract opportunities). opportunities for industry rather than to generate revenue. CompeteFor cost £3.633 million to develop, which In addition the exact bands to be released have not been included concept development, specification, decided yet and this would be a significant factor in implementation and testing, and establishing the support determining the value of the spectrum to industry. structure. Sports A summary of the operating costs of CompeteFor for each financial year is shown as follows: Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for CompeteFor (website and Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will estimate Financial year helpdesk) (£) the financial benefit to the economy of international sporting events staged in the UK for each of the last 1 2007/08 220,000 three financial years. [85473] 2008/09 1,226,633 2009/10 1,201,555 Hugh Robertson: The evidence we have of financial 2010/11 853,163 benefits to the economy from international sporting 2011/12 (projected) 799,230 events staged in the UK relates to events supported 1 December to March through UK Sport’s Major Events Programme. While these are supported to deliver a wide range of impacts, In addition, CompeteFor employs a buyer engagement research shows that for every £1 of investment into service, helping buying organisations to ensure they are those events, a net economic impact of £4.87 has been supported and to maximise their use of CompeteFor. felt in the host economy, generating a projected overall The cost of the buyer engagement service for each impact of £48 million from an investment of £9.86 million. financial year is shown as follows: The £6 billion investment in the building of the Olympic Park and Village has already had 98% of Financial year Buyer engagement service (£) contracts awarded to British businesses and over 40,000 2007/08 587,000 people having worked to build the Olympic Park and 2008/09 1,036,082 Village by the time all work is complete. The whole of 2009/10 993,980 the UK stands to gain from the wide range of opportunities 2010/11 1,066,301 created by the 2012 Games, through businesses winning 2011/12 (projected) 772,085 Games-related work, increased tourism and cultural celebrations. 479W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 480W

Sports: VAT DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER Departmental Written Questions Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on Chris Ruane: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how the decision by HM Revenue and Customs that the many and what proportion of questions for ordinary provision of sports league services is subject to VAT at written answer received a substantive response within the standard rate. [85499] (a) 10, (b) 20, (c) 30 and (d) more than 30 sitting days in the 2010-12 session to date. [85937] Hugh Robertson: I recently wrote to the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, my hon. Friend the Member The Deputy Prime Minister: The information is not for South West Hertfordshire (Mr Gauke), about the held in the format requested. VAT treatment of sports leagues. The Exchequer Secretary Of the 564 questions tabled to me for ordinary written to the Treasury clarified that the standard rate of VAT answer between 12 May 2010 and 30 November 2011, has always been in place for sports leagues. They issued 493 (88%) received a substantive response within the the Revenue and Customs Brief 04/11 in February to five sitting day deadline. make clear this position. Domestic Visits Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Deputy Prime he has made of the potential effects on levels of Minister how many visits he has undertaken in an participation in sport of the decision by HM Revenue official capacity to (a) Scotland, (b) Wales and (c) and Customs that the provision of sports league Northern Ireland since his appointment; and whether services is subject to VAT at the standard rate. [85500] he plans to visit Northern Ireland in 2012. [86209]

Hugh Robertson: Neither the Department nor Sport The Deputy Prime Minister: During my time in office England have made a specific assessment of the potential I have visited Scotland three times, Wales twice and effects on levels of participation in sport by the VAT Northern Ireland once. My travel plans for the forthcoming treatment of sports leagues. However, we do record year have not been confirmed. participation levels in sport via the Taking Part Survey and Active People Survey which can be found at the Travellers: Caravan Sites following links: http://www.culture.gov.uk/what_we_do/research_and_statistics/ Chris Ruane: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what 4828.aspx consideration has been given by the Collaborative and Spatial Planning Group of the British-Irish Council to http://www.sportengland.org/research/active_people_survey.aspx the availability of sites for Irish Travellers across British and Irish jurisdictions; and if he will place the most Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for recent work programme of that group in the Library. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will offer [85880] assistance to providers of league sport services whose businesses are affected by the HM Revenue and The Deputy Prime Minister: There has been no such Customs decision that the provision of such services is consideration by the British-Irish Council Collaborative subject to VAT at the standard rate. [85501] Spatial Planning group. The British-Irish Council provides a consultative, Hugh Robertson: The Revenue and Customs Brief inter-executive forum that allows its members to consult, 04/11, issued in February by HM Revenue and Customs: discuss and exchange views on a range of issues, on a http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/briefs/vat/brief0411.htm confidential basis. Biannual updates of the Collaborative Spatial Planning group’s work can be found in the advises businesses who feel they have been affected by British-Irish Council summit communiqués, available incorrect advice to contact the HMRC Complaints to the public through: Team. The Department does not have an intention to provide an additional service for such businesses. http://www.gov.je/britishirishcouncil/Pages/index.aspx

Television: Licensing COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Hywel Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what information Council Tax his Department holds on the number of television licences issued in (a) England, (b) Wales, (c) Scotland Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for and (d) Northern Ireland in each of the last three years Communities and Local Government (1) if he will for which figures are available; and how much income estimate the average level of council tax per capita for was generated. [86172] (a) Suffolk Coastal, (b) Teignbridge, (c) Breckland, (d) Mid Sussex, (e) South Oxfordshire, (f) South John Penrose: My Department does not hold information Cambridgeshire, (g) East Lindsey, (h) Isle of Wight on the number of television licences broken down by and (i) Wealden in each year between 2008-09 and nation. The BBC does not calculate these figures. 2011-12; [85315] 481W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 482W

(2) if he will estimate the average level of council tax (and its bodies where the service provides the internal per capita for (a) Newcastle-under-Lyme, (b) Preston, audit function) through: discussions with senior (c) Middlesbrough, (d) Poole, (e) Arun and (f) Elmbridge management; the National Audit Office; and reviews of in each year between 2008-09 and 2011-12; [85316] high level risk registers. These are agreed with the Audit (3) if he will estimate the average level of council tax and Risk Committees and are reviewed throughout the per capita for (a) Ipswich, (b) Halton, (c) Nuneaton and year to reflect changes in the risk profile. The timing of Bedworth, (d) Slough, (e) Norwich, (f) Thanet, (g) internal audit reviews is determined as part of this process. Reigate and Banstead, (h) Torbay, (i) Windsor and Maidenhead, (j) Oxford, (k) Canterbury and (l) Departmental Communication Blackburn with Darwen in each year between 2008-09 and 2011-12. [85317] Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many (a) Robert Neill [holding answer 6 December 2011]: Figures press officers, (b) internal communications officers, (c) on average council tax per dwelling and average band D external communications officers, (d) communications council tax by local authority can be found at: strategy officers and (e) other positions with a http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/ communications remit were employed by (i) his Department, localregional/localgovernmentfinance/statistics/counciltax/ (ii) its agencies and (iii) each non-departmental public Figures on council tax requirements by local authority body sponsored by his Department on the most recent can be found at: date for which figures are available. [84199] http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/ localregional/localgovernmentfinance/statistics/ Robert Neill: All departmental staff employed in revenueexpenditure/ communications roles are members of the Department’s Communication Directorate, which comprises external Mid-year population estimates by local authority communications division and corporate communications area are published by the Office for National Statistics. division, managed by the Director of Communication. http://www.statistics.gov.uk/hub/population/population- change/population-estimates At the time the current Administration took office in May 2010, the Department employed 72 people with a Council Tax Benefits communications remit. As at 30 November 2011, there are 52 staff working in communication roles in the Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Department. As part of the Department’s organisational for Communities and Local Government what progress restructuring, the Communication Directorate’s staffing his Department has made on the implementation of levels will decrease further during 2012, with seven council tax benefit localisation. [85579] members of staff leaving by April. Of the current staffing: external communications Robert Neill: The consultation on proposals for localising currently employs 25 communications officers working support for council tax in England closed on 14 October on a combination of press, marketing, speechwriting 2011, and the Government will publish a formal response and news planning. This equates to 23.4 full-time equivalent in due course, alongside draft legislation. The Department posts, as some members of staff are employed part is continuing to discuss its proposals, and plans for time. There are 15 people who work predominantly on enabling local schemes to be implemented by April press office duties. 2013, with Local Government. Corporate communications currently employs 23 communications officers working on internal Departmental Audit communication, web management, print/publishing and the Info4Local internet service. This equates to 22.6 full-time Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for equivalent posts. Four other communications specialists Communities and Local Government what criteria (a) within Communication Directorate work directly with his Department and (b) its public bodies use when policy directorates. deciding whether and when to hold an internal audit; The Department does not hold a comprehensive, and if he will make a statement. [85633] up-to-date record of the communications posts across all of its public bodies. However, the Department and Robert Neill: Internal audit services in the Department its public bodies are increasingly working together to for Communities and Local Government provide the provide communication services more efficiently, reflecting internal audit function to the Department, and six of the best practice that we are encouraging local government the 18 executive agencies, non-departmental public bodies, to follow. The number of communication specialists public corporations and public body for which the across the Department and its public bodies will be Department is responsible. The others use their own reduced by a further 17 full-time equivalent posts by criteria for deciding what should be audited and this October 2012. information is not held centrally. The delivery of internal audit services is governed by Departmental Judicial Review Government internal audit standards and these standards ensure a consistent and robust approach to the delivery Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities of services, including the determination of the scope of and Local Government what applications for judicial Internal Audit plans. review have been made against his Department (a) in Internal audits are undertaken by internal audit services the last Parliament and (b) since May 2010; whether as part of agreed annual internal audit plans. These are each such application (i) succeeded, (ii) failed and (iii) compiled by looking at the risk profile of the Department remains pending; what legal costs were incurred by his 483W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 484W

Department for each such application; in each failed The Government have committed to providing the application whether he applied for costs against the Procedure Committee with information relating to written applicant and whether they were (A) awarded and (B) parliamentary question performance on a sessional basis paid; whether his Department (1) paid for and (2) and will provide full information to the committee at offered to pay for the legal costs incurred by each such the end of the Session. Statistics relating to Government applicant; and what the total cost to the public purse Department’s performance for the 2009-10 parliamentary was of payment of the legal costs for each such applicant. Session were previously provided to the committee and [80708] are available on the Parliament website.

Robert Neill: All litigation cases against the Department Homes and Communities Agency: Equality are managed by the Treasury Solicitors Department under a service level agreement. The litigation cases Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for include judicial reviews, statutory planning appeals (some Communities and Local Government what criteria were of which are also judicial reviews), compulsory purchase used to select the members of the Homes and Communities order challenges, personal injury, employment and Agency’s Diversity and Equality Working Group; and contractual cases. if he will make a statement. [86173] (a) In the last Parliament under the previous Administration from 5 May 2005 to 6 May 2010 there were on average 260 open Andrew Stunell: The Homes and Communities Agency cases at any one time and DCLG paid around £9,105,000 in total for that period; established an Equality and Diversity Board Advisory Group in June 2009. The Advisory Group acts in an (b) Since 7 May 2010 to 31 October 2011 there were on average 230 open cases at any one time, including legal challenges inherited advisory capacity for the agency on diversity and equality from the previous Administration. DCLG paid around £2,084,000 issues in relation to its operations as well as organisational in total for that period. The costs paid to the Treasury Solicitors issues. It has no authority over the activities of the included fees, disbursements and adverse costs. board, executive management team, staff or the agency’s To disaggregate this information further, for just judicial resources. Its terms of reference are available at: review cases and to identify applications that succeeded, http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/equality-and- failed, remains pending, costs awarded and paid could diversity-advisory-group be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Members serve a term of three years. The group has an independent Chair, Dorian Leatham, appointed by Departmental Pay the Homes and Communities Agency’s Board. Professor Peter Roberts represents the Agency Board. The Homes Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for and Communities Agency directly appointed three members Communities and Local Government whether any senior based on specific areas of expertise with the remaining staff in (a) his Department and (b) its Executive eight members being selected and appointed in April agencies and non-departmental public bodies are paid 2009 following an open competition. All members of by means of payments to a limited company in lieu of a the group are expected to demonstrate an expertise and salary; and if he will publish his policy on such payments. commitment to equality and diversity as well as an [85083] understanding of housing and regeneration. Group members are not paid (beyond reasonable travel and Robert Neill: No senior staff in the Department for subsistence claims). Communities and Local Government (either in the Department, its Executive agencies or non-departmental Housing: North East public bodies) are paid by means of payments to a limited company in lieu of a salary. The Department Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for does not have a formal policy in relation to this issue. Communities and Local Government with reference to Departmental Written Questions his policy on underoccupancy, what assessment he has made of (a) the availability of and (b) potential changes in demand for one-bedroom properties in (i) County Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Durham and (ii) the North East. [85562] Communities and Local Government what proportion of written questions for answer on a named day Andrew Stunell: Information is not available on the received a substantive answer within five working days total stock of one-bedroom properties in County Durham in each of the last six months. [85046] and the North East. Estimates of one-bedroom properties Robert Neill: The readily available information, which as a percentage of all new build properties are available relates to the month in which parliamentary questions in Table 254 at: were tabled, is shown in the following table. http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/housebuilding/livetables/ Number of named day Answeredontimeor There are 4,507 one bedroom local authority properties 2011 questions within five sitting days1 in Durham Unitary Authority accounting for 24% of May 48 44 the local authority’s stock. In the North East there are June 71 61 25,804 one bedroom local authority properties accounting July 55 54 for 22% of the local authority stock in the region. August 7 7 Estimates are not available for the future demand of September 24 21 one-bed properties. The Department does not forecast October 60 57 housing need. However, the Department publishes 1 Including non-sitting Fridays. household projections that show the number of households 485W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 486W by size that would form if previous demographic trends Mr Raynsford: To ask the Secretary of State for were to continue. These are available in Table 420 at: Communities and Local Government what estimate he http://www.communities.gov.uk/housing/housingresearch/ has made of the potential implications for housing housingstatistics/housingstatisticsby/householdestimates/ benefit expenditure of the extension of the Right to livetables-households/ Buy scheme under which homes sold will be replaced by hew homes let as affordable rents. [R] [85455] Housing: Population Grant Shapps: The Government have announced their intention to reinvigorate the Right to Buy—to support Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for social housing tenants who aspire to own their own Communities and Local Government what assessment home, by raising the discount to make it attractive to he has made of the effect on UK housing stock of (a) tenants across England. migration from the EU and (b) non-EU immigration. [85467] To support tenants and help build more affordable housing, we are matching this with a commitment that Andrew Stunell: The Department does not estimate for every additional home bought under Right to Buy, a housing need. However, the Department publishes new affordable home will be built. household projections, which are a trend-based view of We will issue a consultation on our proposals shortly the number of households that would form given a and intend to publish an Impact Assessment. projected population and previous demographic trends (including migration). Local authorities should use the Mr Blunkett: To ask the Secretary of State for projections as a part of the evidence base for assessing Communities and Local Government how many future housing demand. homes his Department estimates will be created from The number of households in England is projected to the revenue from the sale of social housing properties grow to 27.5 million in 2033, an increase of 5.8 million to their tenants at a 50 per cent. discount. [85475] (27%) over 2008, or 232,000 households per year. International migration, based on past trends, contributes Grant Shapps: The receipts generated by right to buy around 40% towards this projected increase in households. sales will be used not only to pay down the debt associated It is not possible to break this down into EU and with that property but also help to fund the delivery of non-EU migration. new affordable homes on a one for one basis. Government have committed to reduce net migration We will be consulting shortly on the best way to from the current hundreds of thousands to tens of ensure delivery of replacement homes across England. thousands per year. We have already introduced a series of measures in relation to migrant workers and students, Social Rented Housing: Armed Forces including a limit on the number of skilled workers, and will introduce measures on settlement and family later this year. Mr David Hamilton: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government pursuant to the answer of 30 November 2011, Official Report, Non-domestic Rates column 991W, on social rented housing: armed forces, (1) what steps his Department plans to take to measure Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for the effect of its proposed changes to the social housing Communities and Local Government if he will assess additional preference given to members of the armed the effect on rural areas of (a) any changes to the forces; [86357] arrangements for local retention of business rates and (2) for what reasons his Department decided it was (b) proposals for metropolitan areas to retain a greater necessary to consult on a change to the law in order to proportion of business rates. [85615] require local housing authorities in England to provide for former service personnel with urgent housing needs Robert Neill: The Government will shortly be introducing to receive additional preference in their allocation a Bill to give effect to their proposals for business rates scheme; [86358] retention. This Bill will be accompanied by an impact (3) whether he plans to collect information on (a) assessment setting out the Government’s initial views the number of armed forces personnel and veterans on on the impacts of the proposals. the waiting lists and (b) the councils which give additional preference to armed forces personnel and Right to Buy Scheme veterans in the future. [86359]

Mr Raynsford: To ask the Secretary of State for Grant Shapps: The Government believe it is right that Communities and Local Government what estimate he those who have put their life on the line for their has made of the number of homes that will be sold country should receive the priority for social housing under the new right to buy scheme in each year they need and deserve. We also believe that local authorities between 2012-13 and 2015-16. [R] [85454] in England who are required to implement the regulations, as well as others who are affected by them, should have Grant Shapps: We will be publishing a consultation the opportunity to comment on these changes. paper shortly seeking views on our proposals to reinvigorate We are considering appropriate changes to the system the right to buy and an impact assessment detailing the used by councils and housing associations to record impact of the proposed changes. lettings (the CoRe lettings log) so we can monitor the 487W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 488W number of social tenancies granted to service personnel. Andrew Stunell: The Best Value guidance, published Local authorities are already obliged to make their on 2 September, is statutory and local authorities are allocation scheme available to the public. required to have regard to it. The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, my right hon. Urban Areas: Finance Friend the Member for Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles), wrote to all local authority leaders and chief executives at the time of consultation on the revised Best Value Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for guidance. Following the consultation DCLG issued a Communities and Local Government pursuant to the press notice and wrote to all those who had been answer of 7 November 2011, Official Report, columns consulted informing them that the revised guidance had 25-6W, on urban areas: finance, which local authorities been published. have applied for support from the High Street Support scheme; how much was distributed to each local authority; Wildlife: EU Action and which bids for funding were turned down. [82058] Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill [holding answer 23 November 2011]: I Communities and Local Government whether his refer the hon. Member to my answer of 1 December Department is to be involved in the review of the 2011, Official Report, column 1027W.This outlines how implementation of the (a) Habitats and (b) Wild Birds practical support and financial funding has been given Directive. [85612] by local authorities to local residents and local firms through the Homelessness Support Scheme, the Recovery Robert Neill: Yes. My Department will be involved in Fund and the High Street Support Scheme. this review which will be led by DEFRA. Under these schemes, local councils have been in the lead in providing support. Central Government subsequently are reimbursing local councils for their costs retrospectively. TRANSPORT Since that answer, I can inform the House that my Department has made a second set of payments under Biofuels: Government Assistance the Recovery Fund, totalling £1,324,602. This relates to: Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for London borough of Croydon: £993,749. This includes funding Transport what funding her Department provides to for works to deal with dangerous structures, site clearance and assist the development of biofuels. [86241] emergency works to highways and footpaths, council tax discounts, street lighting and cleaning. Norman Baker: The primary support for biofuels is London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority: £194,484. through the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation (RTFO), The majority of this claim is for staff overtime costs. which obligates fossil road transport fuel suppliers to London borough of Lambeth: £64,989. This relates to additional produce evidence that a specified percentage of their staff costs for youth custody services and the clearing of debris. fuels for road transport in the UK comes from renewable Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service: £33,143, in respect sources. The RTFO includes a certificate trading mechanism of overtime and incidental expenses. to increase the efficiency of compliance. One certificate Nottingham city council: £28,482, for costs relating to overtime, is awarded for each litre of biofuel (or kilogram in the cleaning and emergency control centre operations, legal costs and case of biogas) supplied. From 15 December 2011, to youth activities. increase the support for innovative biofuels, two certificates Salford city council: £5,466. The expenditure relates to emergency will be awarded for each litre of biofuel produced from repairs, street cleaning and staff overtime. non-food cellulose or lignocellulosic material. There Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority: will also be two certificates for each litre of biofuels £2,206, for overtime costs. from wastes and residues. London borough of Lewisham: £2,083, relating to clearing debris. Cycling As I outlined in my earlier answer, the deadline for councils to claim back their expenditure which they Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for have incurred under the High Street Support Scheme is Transport how many (a) letters and (b) emails her 31 January 2012. Department has received on cycling in the last 12 months. [82959] I will update hon. and right hon. Members in due course on further payments that are made under the Norman Baker: The Department has received 136 schemes. letters and 135 emails regarding cycling in the last 12 months. Voluntary Organisations: Finance Dartford-Thurrock Crossing: Automatic Number Plate Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Recognition Communities and Local Government what steps he has taken to ensure local authorities follow best value guidance Gareth Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for when making decisions on the funding of voluntary Transport what estimate she has made of the cost of sector organisations; and if he will make a statement. installing automatic number plate recognition systems [85683] for use at the Dartford Crossing. [85460] 489W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 490W

Mike Penning: The proposals for an automatic number confirm the position as regards courts other than superior plate recognition (ANPR) system are currently being courts, or in relation to the Department’s seven executive considered as part of the preliminary design stage for a agencies would, I regret, incur a disproportionate cost. free-flow charging scheme at the Dartford Crossing. The organisations/legal proceedings mentioned above Final decisions on that design have yet to be taken are as follows: and therefore the cost of installation is yet to be determined. (1) R (First Essex Buses Ltd) v. Secretary of State for Transport and Anor [2009] EWHC 3024 (Admin) Departmental Audit (25 November 2009). First Essex Buses Ltd received funding by way of the Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport bus service operators’ grant. what criteria (a) her Department and (b) its public bodies use when deciding whether and when to hold an First Essex Buses Ltd was not successful in its application internal audit; and if she will make a statement. [85645] for judicial review. Costs were applied for and the payment for costs is being pursued. Norman Baker: Internal audit functions for the (2) Certain Bus Operating Companies in the Stagecoach Department for Transport, its executive agencies, trading Group (1) Certain Bus Operating Companies in the funds and non-departmental public bodies operate to a Go-Ahead Group (2) v. Secretary of State for Transport common methodology, which is consistent with the and Anor [2010] EWHC 223 (Admin) (16 February requirements of the standards issued by the Institute of 2010). Internal Auditors, and with Government Internal Auditing The organisations receiving funding by way of the Standards. bus service operators grant: Audit planning is designed to identify organisational objectives, risks to the achievement of objectives and I. The United Omnibus Company Limited controls used to manage risks in order to provide integrated II. Stagecoach West Limited assurance to each Accounting Officer. This is achieved III. Stagecoach (South) Limited through a combination of top-down and bottom-up IV. Lincolnshire Road Car Limited approaches to identify and prioritise audit assignments consistent with the following criteria: V. Midland Red (South) Limited alignment to key business/corporate plans, objectives and priorities; VI. Thames Transit Limited assures the mitigation of board-level strategic risks, and key VII. East Kent Car Company Limited risks for constituent parts of each organisation; VIII. Stagecoach Devon Limited reflects the maturity of existing internal control frameworks, IX. Cambus Holdings Limited risk management processes and assurance sources; provides coverage of core internal/compliance functions; X. East Midland Motor Services Limited revisits areas audited in previous years that require follow-up; XI. East Kent Road Car Limited activity mandated by HM Treasury, Cabinet Office, etc; XII. Solent Blue Line Limited where appropriate, responds to management requests for advice XIII. Wiltshire and Dorset Bus Company Limited on improving the management of risks and internal controls/ XIV. Marchwood Motorways (Services) Limited. operations; or investigates impropriety and other irregularities (for example, arising from whistleblowing or allegations of The bus operating companies listed above were party fraud); to these five judicial review proceedings against the is delivered by the most appropriate assurance provider (for Secretary of State for Transport. Before the High Court example, does not duplicate work of others such as the external was willing to deal with the individual judicial reviews, auditors); and it chose to deal with “preliminary issues” on how the is scheduled when the activity will provide most value, within bus concessionary travel regime operates. (In the meantime the confines of the availability of audit resources and the need it stayed the five individual claims.) It found in favour of to provide an annual audit opinion. the Secretary of State on the preliminary issues and The resulting plan is presented to the Accounting awarded costs to the Secretary of State. Separately, in Officer and to the Audit Committee, who provide a ‘top relation to one discrete element of the bus companies’ down’ view, prior to formally agreeing the plan. claims, and which the Secretary of State had already conceded (called the “fixed sum” issue), the High Court Departmental Civil Proceedings ordered that the Secretary of State pay the claimants’ costs, but only up to the point in time of her concession. Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Following on from this, the litigation was settled, which organisations that have received funding from with both sides agreeing to bear their own costs. her Department have brought legal proceedings against her Department in the last five years; which such organisations were not successful in their actions; and Departmental Eggs whether her Department (a) applied and (b) was paid for costs in respect of such cases. [83895] Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State Norman Baker: During the last five years, there were for Transport what steps she is taking to ensure that the two sets of legal proceedings in the superior courts (in same standards of animal welfare for whole eggs apply both instances in the High Court) brought against the to imported liquefied eggs procured by (a) her Secretary of State by organisations that also received Department and (b) public bodies for which she is funding from the central Department for Transport. To responsible. [83790] 491W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 492W

Norman Baker: The requested information about the Norman Baker: The requested information about the steps DFT is taking to ensure that the same standards steps DFT is taking to ensure it meets Government’s of animal welfare for whole eggs apply to imported buying standards for catering is as follows. liquefied eggs is as follows: DFT Central Department DFT central Department Across all food groups DFT’s caterers achieve in The central Department does not use liquefied eggs. excess of 70% compliance with Farm Assured, Red DVLA Tractor and The Marine Stewards Council guidelines, depending on the time of year. Fruit and vegetables are DVLA do not use liquefied eggs. very difficult to comply with as many products are not PSA available from UK producers. But where and when they The Driving Standards Agency’s (DSA) supplier of shell eggs are, they always buy UK if financially viable. will be fully compliant with the requirements of the European Highways Agency Union directive 1999/74/EC on the welfare of laying hens by the end of 2011. These standards will be verified independently by The Highways Agency is currently considering how representatives of the British Lion scheme, which promotes the most effectively to reflect the Government’s Buying traceability, safety and quality of British eggs. DSA’s supplier of Standard for food and catering services via the current liquefied eggs uses British ‘Lion Quality’ Eggs to make their contractual arrangements in place for food-based facilities products. to be provided at some of its office locations, and future The Highways Agency such arrangements. The Highways Agency has taken no specific steps. DSA Other arm’s length bodies The Driving Standards Agency’s contractor is developing contractually-binding agreements with its key food suppliers The requested information is not held for the remainder of to ensure that they will adhere to guidance set out in the DFT’s arm’s length bodies as they do not have catering contracts in place. Government Buying Standards (GBS) document. They have engaged with the Agency’s main food Departmental Food supplier to review the specific criteria of the revised GBS document and are finalising the contract amendment. DVLA Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what proportion of food sourced by (a) DVLA procure all their food through the PFI Estates her Department and (b) public bodies for which she is Contract. However, under schedule 13 of this contract, responsible was procured from UK food producers in the service provider is obliged to comply with any Government guidance on sustainable food and farming, the latest period for which figures are available. [83791] in delivering the Catering Service to the Agency. To ensure compliance, the service provider is required to Norman Baker: The requested information for this produce all necessary, statutory reports relevant to the year relating to on-site catering facilities that the Department provision of the catering. A particular return required has some direct responsibility for is as follows: in this respect is, the ’Public Sector Food Procurement (a) Initiative’, which is produced annually and while we Proportion of food sourced from UK food review and, in some cases challenge the data; there has Organisational unit producers to be a balance in terms of keeping the costs down.

Department for Across all food groups over 70% of food Other Arm’s Length Bodies Transport headquarters is sourced to Farm Assured, Red Tractor The requested information is not held for the remainder building and The Marine Stewards Council of DFT’s arm’s length bodies as they do not have guidelines, depending on the time of year. catering contracts in place. Driving Standards 56% Agency Departmental Internet Driver and Vehicle 61% Licensing Agency Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many unique hits her Department’s website received in each of the last 12 months. [82956] (b) The requested information is not held by Trinity House Lighthouse Service and Northern Lighthouse Norman Baker: Website traffic to www.dft.gov.uk Board. Other Department for Transport non departmental over the last 12 months is as follows: public bodies either do not procure food or are minor occupiers and have no direct responsibility for on-site Page views Visits Visitors food procurement. November 2010 4,579,391 1,485,031 1,058,312 The Department cannot identify the origins of food December 2010 3,555,108 1,271,618 932,690 purchased under other arrangements including as part of external room hire or conference packages. January 2011 4,452,713 1,588,600 1,182,001 February 2011 4,165,102 1,488,597 1,109,981 March 2011 5,086,609 1,892,725 1,431,506 Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State April 2011 5,458,349 1,897,652 1,400,886 for Transport what steps (a) her Department and (b) May 2011 6,925,905 2,232,341 1,610,012 public bodies for which she is responsible are taking to June 2011 6,982,689 2,246,115 1,678,568 ensure that they meet the Government’s buying July 2011 4,340,203 1,494,544 1,131,922 standards for food and catering. [83792] 493W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 494W

Departmental Official Hospitality Page views Visits Visitors Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for August 2011 4,054,133 1,409,711 1,047,569 Transport what receptions and events have been hosted September 2011 4,019,494 1,357,722 1,028,532 by her Department since May 2010, including those sponsored by third parties. [84201] October 2011 4,563,834 1,566,376 1,170,278 Norman Baker: The requested information is as follows:

Organisational unit Event Date

Driver and Vehicle Licensing EUCARIS meeting—communications network of participating European May 2010 Agency nations to share data relating to motor vehicles and driving licences Vehicle Certification Agency Biennial Open Day June 2010 Driving Standards Agency Association of Industrial Road Safety Officers (AIRSO) study day— November 2010 attended by AIRSO members Driver and Vehicle Licensing “Deadly Mates” event—joint campaign between the Driver and Vehicle November 2010 Agency Licensing Agency, Driving Standards Agency and GoSafe Road Casualty Reduction Partnership Driver and Vehicle Licensing E-reg subgroup—Meeting held with registration authorities from across December 2010 Agency Europe Driving Standards Agency Presentation by Loughborough University’s Vehicle Research Safety February 2011 Centre—Relating to the work the university was doing on driver behaviour DFT Central (Rail Accident Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) visit—Presentation to IMechE September 2011 Investigation Branch) members on RAIB’s role and work Driver and Vehicle and EUCARIS meeting—communications network of participating European October 2011 Licensing Agency nations to share data relating to motor vehicles and driving licences Driver and Vehicle and Transport Select Committee visit to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing October 2011 Licensing Agency Agency DFT Central (Rail Accident Loughborough University visit—Vehicle Dynamics and Crash Worthiness November 2011 Investigation Branch) Course visit Maritime and Coastguard UK reception for the International Maritime Organization (27th Assembly) November 2011 Agency

This excludes all events held as part of day-to-day Norman Baker: In 2010-11 the Department for Transport business of the Department including working level allocated funding to the named local authorities as per meetings with stakeholders. the following table. This includes un-ringfenced funding The above also excludes events hosted at the Department for integrated transport block and highways maintenance for Transport headquarters building and by the Highways to local transport authorities for general capital investment Agency as the requested information is not centrally in transport. recorded and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Local authority Funding (£000) Birmingham 67,949 Departmental Older Workers Bradford 13,616 Bristol 117,530 Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Coventry 9,742 Transport how many people her Department employs Leeds 40,013 who are aged over (a) 55 and (b) 65. [83015] Leicester 12,439 Norman Baker: On 31 October 2011 the central Liverpool 18,596 Department and its seven executive agencies employed: Manchester 14,118 (a) 3,490 members of staff who were aged 55 to 64; and Newcastle 8,545 (b) 145 members of staff aged 65 and over. Nottingham 41,974 Of this total, the central Department employed 235 Sheffield 11,661 members of staff aged 55 to 64, and eight members of Wakefield 9,751 staff aged 65 and over. 1 Includes Cycling Town funding both in Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

Departmental Public Expenditure Funding that was allocated to Integrated Transport Authorities rather than individual local authorities but Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport which covers the areas named is given in a separate how much her Department spent in (a) Birmingham, table. It is not possible for the Department to disaggregate (b) Newcastle, (c) Wakefield, (d) Manchester, (e) this funding. This table also includes funding for rail Leeds, (f) Liverpool, (g) Coventry, (h) Bristol, (i) support given to Passenger Transport Executives but Sheffield, (j) Bradford, (k) Leicester and (l) Nottingham does not include the £70 million the Department provides in the latest financial year for which figures are available. to Merseytravel for the operation of the devolved Merseyrail [85449] network. 495W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 496W

Motor Vehicles: Lighting Integrated Transport Authority Funding (£000)

Greater Manchester ITA 260,744 Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for Merseyside ITA 39,820 Transport in how many accidents have poorly adjusted South Yorkshire ITA 48,745 headlamps of oncoming vehicles been a contributory Tyne and Wear ITA 85,138 factor in each of the last five years. [85675] West Midlands ITA 37,584 West Yorkshire ITA 94,130 Mike Penning: The requested information is not collected by the Department. However, Table 1 shows the number While some of the variation in the tables above will of reported personal injury road accidents in Great be due to the differing geographical sizes and transport Britain which had (i) “defective lights or indicators” or needs of areas, funding for local major schemes, including (ii) “dazzling headlights” recorded as a contributory PFI projects, has a large effect. factor, over the period 2006 to 2010. It is not possible to Revenue expenditure on transport is generally supported identify whether poorly adjusted headlamps of oncoming through the Department for Communities and Local vehicles contributed to these accidents. Government’s formula grant. Please note that contributory factors are reported The Department spends funds on the strategic road only for injury road accidents where a police officer network through the Highways Agency (HA). The HA’s attended the scene and reported at least one contributory reporting systems do not record actual expenditure for factor. These factors are largely subjective, reflecting local authority areas; expenditure is recorded by project the attending officer’s opinion at the time of reporting. and activity. It is recognised that subsequent inquires could lead to Likewise, funding for other transport projects in England, the reporting officer changing his/her opinion. such as rail projects, and spend by other executive Table 1: Reported personal injury road accidents1 by selected agencies of the Department for Transport is not available contributory factors, Great Britain 2006 to 2010 on the basis of local authority boundaries. Number of accidents1 with the following contributory factors attributed to the accident (i) Defective lights or (ii) Dazzling Electric Vehicles indicators headlights 2006 256 483 Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007 226 417 Transport what recent discussions she has had on the 2008 208 415 future of electric cars. [86243] 2009 182 365 2010 174 300 Norman Baker: Ministers and officials routinely discuss 1 Includes only accidents where a police officer attended the scene and ultra low emission vehicles, including electric cars and in which a contributory factor was reported meet key stakeholders including automotive manufacturers, charging infrastructure suppliers, power supply companies, Motor Vehicles: Registration other interested organisations and relevant Government Departments to inform these discussions. Mr Donohoe: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the cost to the public purse was of issuing V5C First Capital Connect: Snow and Ice vehicle registration certificates to all owners of cars; and if she will make a statement. [85523] Nadine Dorries: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what meetings Ministers in her Department Mike Penning: The new style V5C vehicle registration have had with First Capital Connect on preparations certificate has been issued since August 2010 to keepers for winter weather. [85796] of newly registered vehicles and to those keepers making changes to a vehicle’s registration details. These documents Norman Baker: Ministers have not held any recent would have been issued in the normal course of business meetings specifically with First Capital Connect on and represent no extra cost. preparations for winter weather. However, I have discussed Since October 2011, the document has also been winter preparations with the Association of Train Operating issued for vehicles which do not already have one, when Companies (ATOC) representatives on a number of they are re-licensed or declared to be off-road. This occasions since the summer. accelerated production is expected to cover the entire national vehicle fleet within 12 months and is estimated to cost around £6 million to complete. The DVLA is Members: Correspondence taking action to recover these costs from a third party.

Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when she plans to respond to the letter of Transport what discussions she has had with the Driver 6 October 2011 from the hon. Member for South and Vehicle Licensing Agency on (a) reducing the risk Northamptonshire. [85807] of theft of and (b) its procedures for safe disposal of defective blank V5C vehicle registration certificates. Mike Penning: I replied to my hon. Friend today. [86465] 497W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 498W

Mike Penning: Since the theft of V5C vehicle registration 2010-11, whether she has requested from the ORR a list certificates from a supplier or one of their subcontractors of the total investment in the railway industry received was identified in early 2007, discussions have taken from each (a) train operating company, (b) rolling place with the ministerial team on action to reduce the stock company, (c) freight company and (d) Network impact of the crime and changes have been made. Rail in each year from 2006-07 to date; and if she will Processes around the destruction of defective blank place this information in the Library. [R] [85685] V5C vehicle registration certificates have been tightened. Significant investment has been made at the Driver and Mrs Villiers: The Department has not requested this Vehicle Licensing Agency to ensure all waste, spoiled or information from ORR. With regard to investment in defective documents are destroyed securely on site. Also, rolling stock, I refer the hon. Member to my answer of tougher contract terms have been introduced for suppliers 1 December 2011, Official Report, columns 1020-21W. and more stringent audit controls surround the handling Network Rail publishes details of its investment annually of V5C vehicle registration certificates have been put in in its Delivery Plans. These are available on Network to place. Rail’s website.

Parking: Fees and Charges Roads: Accidents

Mrs Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what statutory provisions govern the time Transport how many (a) deaths and (b) serious allowed to a car driver to decide whether a pay and injuries have occurred on roads in Pendle constituency display car parking fee is reasonable before becoming in the last 12 months. [85753] liable to pay; and if she will make a statement; [85090] (2) what statutory provisions govern the amount of Mike Penning: In the 2010 calendar year (the latest time a car may be in a pay and display car park before period for which information is available), one person a car parking fee becomes payable; and if she will make was killed and 34 were seriously injured in reported a statement. [85091] road accidents in the Pendle parliamentary constituency.

Norman Baker: There is no legislation governing Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for these specific aspects of local authority car parks. It is Transport what estimate she has made of the number entirely for the car park owner to set the terms and of staged car accidents in the latest period for which conditions for parking on their land. figures are available; and what estimate has been made Railways: Buckinghamshire of the effects of such accidents on (a) car insurance premiums and (b) other costs to motorists. [85754] Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Mike Penning: The Department has made no estimate what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State of the number of staged car accidents, or the effect of for Defence on the potential for greater use of Ministry such accidents on motor insurance premiums and other of Defence rail infrastructure in and around Bicester costs to motorists. consequent upon the re-opening of the east-west rail link from Oxford to Milton Keynes. [85764] Detecting such incidents is largely for the insurance industry who set up the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) Mrs Villiers: Department for Transport officials have to detect and prevent organised fraud. The industry has worked with Defence officials to ensure they are aware also agreed to fund a specialist insurance fraud police of the potential effect of East West Rail on the value unit due to go live by January 2012. and use of Defence land at Bicester. This includes possible re-use of the MoD railway and freight Roads: Manholes infrastructure for commercial purposes. Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps her Department is taking to Transport what planning process she expects to be improve the standard of grip for (a) two wheeled followed in respect of the route and construction of the vehicles on manholes and (b) inspection covers on re-opening of the east-west rail link between Oxford roads in England. [85672] and Milton Keynes. [85765] Norman Baker: The majority of manhole and inspection Mrs Villiers: The East West Rail consortium has covers placed on the highway network are the responsibility proposed that full use is made of the permitted development of utility companies, with a small percentage under the rights of the railway, combining these with existing ownership of local highway authorities, and so are not local authority planning processes to expedite construction the responsibility of the Department for Transport. and reopening. However, the Department has been working with the Railways: Finance Institute of Highways and Incorporated Engineers (IHIE) to develop Guidelines for Motorcycling. Section 6.3.16 John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for of the guide encourages designers and maintenance Transport pursuant to the answer of 29 November engineers to ensure that covers should not be positioned 2011, Official Report, column 891W,on railways: private in the carriageway so as to impose a hazard to motorcyclists. sector and with reference to page 104 of the Office of The guide may be viewed on the IHIE website at: Rail Regulation’s (ORR) National Rail Trends Yearbook: www.motorcyclingguidelines.org.uk 499W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 500W

In addition, the British and European Standard intervention at Brimsdown in its initial industry plan. (prEN124) on “gully tops and manhole tops for vehicular The Government will set out their requirements for the and pedestrian areas” has been going through revision. railway for the five year period from 2014 to 2019 in the One of the areas being considered as part of this work High Level Output Specification, to be published in is the in-service skid slip resistance of the covers. July 2012. Consideration is also being given to an enhanced skid slip resistance value to improve consistency between the road surface and service covers placed in the highway. JUSTICE Roads: Repairs and Maintenance Free Schools: Planning Permission Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment her Department has made Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice of the cooling time for bituminous paving materials pursuant to the answer of 1 December 2011, Official used on roads for the purposes of determining reasonable Report, column 1042W, on free schools: planning times for such works to be carried out. [86069] permission, whether (1) his Department would return any capital receipts received from the sale of (a) Balham Mike Penning: There are a number of controlling youth court, (b) Haringey magistrates court, (c) Mid-Sussex factors for determining reasonable times for works to be magistrates court and (d) Sutton Coldfield magistrates carried out and the associated cooling times for modern court; [85902] bituminous paving materials. The principal ones are the (2) (a) Balham youth court, (b) Haringey material type, the weather conditions (air temperature magistrates court, (c) Mid-Sussex magistrates court and wind speed) and the thickness that the material is to and (d) Sutton Coldfield magistrates court are being be laid at. offered for sale at market value. [85944] On behalf of my Department, the Highways Agency has carried out extensive research in this field over Mr Djanogly: These courts will be sold at market many years. The Highways Agency’s Specification for value and the capital receipts retained by the Ministry Highways Works of Justice to delivery justice services. http://www.dft.gov.uk/ha/standards/mchw/vol1/index.htm incorporates the outcomes from the research, taking Alternatives to Prison: Females account of the modern bituminous materials used for pavement construction on the strategic road network. Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Research is ongoing into bituminous paving materials what his policy is on the provision of alternatives to that can be laid at lower temperatures. As these materials custody for women offenders; and if he will make a are mixed and laid at lower temperatures, they can be statement. [85496] compacted and opened to traffic more quickly than conventional bituminous materials. The research will Mr Blunt: The National Offender Management Service determine whether these materials are suitable for the (NOMS) has provided funding to help sustain a network heavy traffic using the strategic road network. of women-only community provision and has given a commitment to services with a proven track record of Steria tackling offending behaviour among women from 2012-13. NOMS also makes available accommodation to defendants, Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport who would otherwise be remanded in custody, through how many contracts her Department has awarded to the Bail Accommodation and Support Service. Finally, Steria since May 2010; and what the (a) purpose, (b) we are working with the Department of Health to monetary value and (c) net worth was of each contract. ensure that offenders with mental health problems receive [85478] treatment in the most appropriate and secure setting necessary. Norman Baker: The Department for Transport has not awarded any contracts to Steria since May 2010. Bail Tottenham Hale-Brimsdown Railway Line Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many people were bailed from the courts in Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport each of the last five years. [86039] whether she has made an assessment of the need for a third rail track between Tottenham Hale and Brimsdown Mr Blunt: The total number of defendants remanded on the line between London Liverpool Street Station on bail at all courts in England and Wales from 2006 to and Cambridge. [85892] 2010 can be viewed in the following table. Defendants remanded on bail at magistrates courts1 or the Crown court, 2006- Mrs Villiers: The Government have not made an 102, England and Wales assessment of whether a third rail track is needed Defendants (thousand) between Tottenham Hale and Brimsdown on the line Defendants between London Liverpool Street station and Cambridge. bailed by Defendants Defendants magistrates bailedbythe bailed by either In its London and South East Route Utilisation Strategy, 1,3 1,3 1,3 Network Rail assessed a number of infrastructure options courts Crown court court on this line—including a third track between Lea Bridge 2006 500.7 61.6 562.3 and Brimsdown—and has now proposed an alternative 2007 420.7 64.6 485.2 501W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 502W

Defendants remanded on bail at magistrates courts1 or the Crown court, 2006- Departmental Catering 102, England and Wales Defendants (thousand) Defendants Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State bailed by Defendants Defendants for Justice (1) whether food and catering services in (a) magistrates bailedbythe bailed by either 1,3 1,3 1,3 his Department and (b) public bodies for which he is courts Crown court court responsible plan to implement calorie labelling on 2008 478.6 66.5 545.1 menus and display boards; [85830] 2009 597.0 72.8 669.8 (2) what steps the food and catering services in (a) 2010 587.0 82.4 669.4 his Department and (b) public bodies for which he is 1 Includes those also held in custody at some stage and those failing to appear to responsible are taking to ensure the country of origin bail. 2 Magistrates courts data for 2010 are estimated. of foods are labelled on its menus and display boards. 3 Excludes defendants reported as failing to appear to a summons although [85831] some of these cases, having been initiated by a summons may have resulted in the defendant being remanded on bail. Note: Mr Blunt: Currently, the means for each prison to Some figures may not sum due to rounding. calculate the calorific value of their individual menus is Source: not available. To do this in all cases would require a full Justice Statistics Analytical Services, Ministry of Justice evaluation and is likely to require major capital investment at a time when public spending is under severe constraint. While MOJ are looking at aspects of menu provision Birmingham including identifying calorific values for certain recipes, there are currently no plans to include such information on daily menus. Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what expenditure his Department plans to incur by way NOMS sets out the specification for catering in the of (a) ring-fenced and (b) non ring-fenced grants in prison service Instruction 44/2010 which contains a set of minimum standards for prisons to implement. Prison Birmingham in each of the next three years. [85539] catering managers publish in advance pre-select menus covering between three and five weeks which are rotated Mr Djanogly: The Department’s planned expenditure over several months. by way of grants to organisations in Birmingham for Food for prisons is purchased and delivered through 2012-13 and 2013-14 is shown in the following table. mandated suppliers who have to comply with Food Labelling Regulations 1996. The voluntary inclusion of £ country of origin is not a requirement for all foods. 2012-13 2013-14 Suppliers will procure food from several different countries Ring-fenced 76,555 79,949 based on price and availability. Prisons will often not Non ring-fenced 60,000 60,000 know the country of origin of some products until the Total 136,555 139,949 day of delivery prohibiting this detail from being included on previously published menus. Decisions have not yet been taken on grant funding Departmental Responsibilities allocations for 2014-15. In addition to providing grants to organisations based Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice in Birmingham, the Department also provides grants to what steps his Department is taking to ensure social some national organisations, which are not specific to value is included when services are commissioned by Birmingham. (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies; and if he will make a statement. [85661] The figures above relate to the core Department. The YouthJustice Board (YJB), an Executive non-departmental Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Ministry of Justice set out public body of the Ministry of Justice, will be providing its strategic approach to competition in the Offender a grant to the Birmingham youth offending team in Services Competition Strategy1. This included defining each of the next three years. The size of these grants has a clear set of principles. These comprise: yet to be determined. competition activity should be focused on achieving mid to YJB grants are not officially termed as a ring-fenced, long-term savings, not finding the cheapest solution at the but in the context of their narrow statutory powers, such expense of quality; grants are only to be spent on matters relating to youth competition should be used to deliver public sector reforms, justice. ensuring providers are more effectively held to account for the outcomes they deliver; providers should be involved early to identify where efficiencies Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice could be realised in national or process-based functions through what assets his Department owns in Birmingham; and competition; what is the estimated value of each such asset. [85540] small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the voluntary and community sector (VCS) should be encouraged to participate to drive innovation; and Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice owns 14 freehold competition should be widely applied, with public sector providers properties in Birmingham. We do not hold up-to-date allowed to bid where we are competing localised services and data on the market value of all properties. Gathering robustly held to account where successful. this information would require a survey of the 1 http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/corporate-reports/moj/ properties. oscs.htm 503W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 504W

Departmental Risk Assessment Mr Blunt: The Offender Assessment System (OASys) is periodically updated to ensure that it provides a Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice reliable and valid assessment tool based on the latest what risk registers are held by the public bodies for research evidence. which his Department is responsible; and if he will make a statement. [85708] Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice whether the Offender Assessment System includes a Mr Djanogly: Each of the Ministry’s public bodies is section to identify speech, language or communication responsible for assessing which risks they are responsible needs in adult offenders. [85433] for, and for putting in place the appropriate processes to monitor and manage those risks. Mr Blunt: The Offender Assessment System (OASys) For many of the MOJ’s public bodies, the Department does record whether the offender has required the use of will monitor and manage the risks (for example, when a an interpreter, what language the offender speaks and public body is located within a MOJ building the MOJ whether the offender has communication needs. The corporate centre will have responsibility for any offender can also record any such needs within the accommodation risks). OASys Self Assessment Questionnaire. Risk registers are held by the following MOJ public Police Cautions bodies: Arms Length Body Mr Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Judicial Office of England and Wales Justice what provision he has made for public scrutiny Civil Justice Council of the practice of conditional cautioning. [85958] Family Justice Council Office for Judicial Complaints Mr Blunt: We are considering how transparency of out of court disposals could be improved in developing HM Chief Inspectorate of Prisons a clearer framework for their use. We will work with HM Chief Inspectorate of Probation partners across the criminal justice system to widen Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) access to information and education for the public and Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman (JACO) practitioners to increase the awareness and understanding Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) of conditional cautions. This will help the public to Office of Public Guardian have greater confidence that conditional cautions and Law Commission other informal and formal disposals are being utilised Legal Services Board (LSB) effectively and appropriately. Office for Legal Complaints (OLC) Prisoners: Per Capita Costs Prisons and Probation Ombudsman Sentencing Council for England and Wales Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Youth Justice Board for England and Wales (YJB) what the average cost per year is of accommodating a Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) prisoner serving an indeterminate sentence for public Administrative Justice and Tribunal Council (AJTC) protection. [86035] Court Funds Office (CFO) Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Mr Blunt: The average annual overall cost per prisoner Official Solicitor and Public Trustee (OSPT) in England and Wales for financial year 2010-11 is £37,000 (to nearest £1,000). The cost of a prisoner Parole Board serving an indeterminate sentence for public protection HMCTS (IPP) is not separately calculated. NOMS Average prisoner costs are calculated for each prison Legal Services Commission establishment and grouped by prison function on the Members: Correspondence basis of the major use of each prison. The calculations do not analyse costs by type of sentence or prisoner, and as a prisoner serving an indeterminate sentence Malcolm Wicks: To ask the Secretary of State for may be held in prison establishments of different functions Justice when he plans to reply to the letter from the during the course of the sentence, an average cost for a right hon. Member for Croydon North of 19 July 2011 prisoner serving an IPP is not available. concerning the circumstances leading to the death of the right hon. Member’s constituent, Umesh Chaudhary. The calculation for cost per prisoner is based on net [78706] resource expenditure related to prisons included in the annual accounts of the National Offender Management Mr Kenneth Clarke: I have now replied. I am very Service (NOMS) expressed in terms of the average sorry for the delay. prison population. This includes some estimation. Expenditure which is met by other Government Offender Assessment System Departments, such as expenditure on health and education, is not included. Expenditure recharged to the Youth Tom Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Justice Board in respect of young people is included. with reference to his planned review and redesign of Indeterminate sentence prisoners may be held in any the Asset structured assessment tool, whether he has prison providing it is appropriate to the security category any plans to similarly update the Offender Assessment of the prisoner and is best placed to meet the next System. [85432] identified need in the sentence plan. 505W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 506W

Full details of average cost per prisoner by prison Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for function for financial year 2010-11 can be accessed Justice what the average Energy Performance Certificate from the Ministry of Justice website under Management rating is of the prison estate. [86082] Information Addendum at the following link: http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/corporate-reports/ Mr Blunt: The average Energy Performance Certificate noms/annual-report-accounts-2010-11.htm rating of the prison estate is based on Display Energy Prisons: Energy Certificates (DEC) assessments of energy use in occupied buildings. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for The average DEC rating of the prison estate is 90.08 Justice how many prisons have installed energy (sample size 131 sites). efficiency measures since May 2010. [86078] Prosecutions: Fireworks Mr Blunt: Since May 2010 all public sector prisons have been part of a Carbon Trust carbon management Mr Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for programme (CMP). This has resulted in 51 sites installing Justice how many (a) fixed penalties were issued and energy saving technology directly, with a further five (b) prosecutions were brought relating to the misuse of sites having replacement equipment under the major fireworks in (i) St Helens South and Whiston constituency, maintenance programme. (ii) Merseyside and (iii) England in each of the last five years. [84659] Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will estimate the average annual heating and lighting costs in prisons if all prisons reached Mr Blunt: Data on the number of penalty notices for Energy Performance Certificate grade (a) A, (b) B, disorder (PNDs) issued in the Merseyside police force (c) C, (d) D, (e) E, (f) F and (g) G level. [86080] area and England for offences related to the misuse of fireworks and defendants proceeded against at magistrates Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice is unable to provide courts for throwing fireworks, in each year between the average annual heating and lighting costs in prisons 2006 and 2010 (latest currently available), can be viewed if all prisons reached Energy Performance Certificate in the table. These data are not available at constituency grade (a) A, (b) B, (c) C, (d) D, (e) E, (f) F and (g) level. G level as the information is not held centrally and Court proceedings data for 2011 are planned for could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. publication in the spring of 2012.

Defendants given penalty notices for disorder (PNDs) for offences related to fireworks and defendants1 proceeded against at magistrates courts for throwing fireworks2, in the Merseyside police force area and England, in each year between 2006-10 Area/offence 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Merseyside

PNDs issued:

Breach of fireworks curfew3 1 1——— Possession of category 4 firework3 3221— Possession by a person under 18 of adult firework3 105677 Throwing fireworks 27 20 19 28 26 Proceedings at magistrates courts:

Throwing fireworks 1 — 2 1 1

England

PNDs issued:

Breach of fireworks curfew3 51 37 19 13 23 Possession of category 4 firework3 25 22 23 56 22 Possession by a person under 18 of adult firework3 73 101 63 58 60 Throwing fireworks 639 607 500 317 330 Proceedings at magistrates courts:

Throwing fireworks 32 28 28 18 25 1 The figures given in the table on court proceedings relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with.Whena defendant has been found guilty of two or more offences it is the offence for which the heaviest penalty is imposed. Where the same disposal is imposed fortwoor more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. 2 Explosives Act 1875, section 80: Throwing, casting or firing any fireworks in or into any highway, street, public place etc. 3 Fireworks Regulations 2004 under section 11 of the Fireworks Act 2003. Note: Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have been extractedfromlarge administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services within the Ministry of Justice. 507W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 508W

Reoffenders the day-to-day management of offenders, including as a trigger to appropriate action in response to breach, for Nicky Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for example through formal warnings or enforcement action, Justice what estimate he has made of the number of but data on the total number of breaches do not form suspended sentences which have been breached by part of trusts’ routine reporting. offenders in (a) Leicestershire, (b) the East Midlands However, data are available on the reasons for termination region and (c) England in the last 12 months. [85941] of SSOs. These reasons include successful completion of the order as well as early termination for failure to Mr Blunt: The information requested is not held comply with requirements or for conviction of a further centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate offence. cost. The numbers of successful and unsuccessful completions Information on breaches of suspended sentence orders of SSOs for 2010-11 for (a) Leicestershire and Rutland (SSOs) by individual offenders is recorded by probation Probation Trust, (b) the East Midlands region and (c) trusts on their case management systems. It is used in for England are set out in the following table:

Suspended sentence orders, 2010-11 Total successful and Successful terminations Unsuccessful terminations unsuccessful terminations Percentage of unsuccessful (number) (number) (number) terminations

(a) Leicestershire and Rutland 551 273 824 33.1 (b) East Midlands 2,368 1,150 3,518 32.7 (c) England 29,037 11,450 40,487 28.3

The figures are a sub-set of the figures used to Victims: Terrorism calculate the rate of successful completion of orders and licences published in the NOMS Annual Report Jessica Morden: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010-11: Management Information Addendum: Justice when he plans to appoint a new Victims http://www.justice.gov.uk/downloads/publications/statistics- Commissioner. [81555] and-data/hmps/noms-annual-report-2010-11-addendum.pdf It should be noted that the figures in the column for Mr Blunt: We are considering the future of the role total successful and unsuccessful completions do not and intend to make an announcement shortly. We regard constitute all SSOs which terminated during the period. it as important that the voice of victims is heard by There are in addition a number which terminate for policy makers across the criminal justice system. other reasons, such as a conditional discharge or the death of the offender, which are treated as ‘neutral’ for Young Offender Institutions the purposes of the NOMS indicator and therefore excluded from the calculation. Mrs Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for The figures have been drawn from administrative IT Justice how many hours on average young offenders systems, which, as with any large scale recording system, aged (a) under 18-years-old and (b) between 18 and are subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. 20 years spent out of cells on (i) weekdays and (ii) weekends at each Young Offenders Institution in each Not all breaches of SSOs will result in early termination. month since April 2005. [85561] In line with National Standards for the Management of Offenders 2011 and the accompanying draft Practice Mr Blunt: Data for time out of cell on weekdays are Framework an offender who fails to comply with the collated by overall prison establishment and are not terms of his or her supervision on a community order disaggregated for different prisoner age groups in individual or suspended sentence order may be given one formal establishments. Data are no longer collated for time out warning in any 12-month period on an order before of cell on weekends but are available for the period breach action becomes required. April 2005 to March 2008. Third Sector Figures for time out of cell for each young offender institute (aged 18 to 20) and each young offender institute Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice holding young persons (aged under 18) for each month how much direct funding his Department has allocated since April 2005 are set out in a table for weekdays and to each civil society organisation in (a) 2010-11, (b) weekends where available. The table has been deposited 2011-12, (c) 2012-13, (d) 2013-14 and (e) 2014-15; in the Library. and if he will make a statement. [74818] The figures used in the answer have been drawn from administrative IT systems, which, as with any large-scale Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice funds a large recording system, are subject to possible errors with number of organisations that provide a wide range of data entry and processing. services, such as the provision of support for victims of crime, mediation services, work to reduce crime and Young Offenders: Expenditure debt advice. To determine which of those are civil society organisations and how much is specifically paid Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice or allocated to each of them over this five-year period how much the Youth Justice Board paid, including could be done only at disproportionate cost. VAT per person for a place in (a) a secure children’s 509W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 510W home, (b) a secure training centre, (c) a publicly-run Youth Custody: Enfield young offenders’ institution and (d) a privately-run young offenders institution in the latest year for which figures are available. [86022] Mr Love: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Mr Blunt: The average prices, including VAT where how many offenders aged 18 to 20 from the London charged, paid by the Youth Justice Board per child or borough of Enfield have been held in (a) young young person placed in a secure children’s home, secure offender institutions, (b) local prisons, (c) women’s training centre or a publicly run young offender institution prisons and (d) other parts of the secure estate in each as of 1 April 2011 are set out in the following table. For month since May 2009. [85259] reasons of commercial sensitivity I am not able to provide information in respect of privately run young offender institutions. As not all types of youth secure Mr Blunt: All young offenders serving sentences of accommodation attract a charge for VAT, the figures do DYOI are held in appropriately designated YOI not reflect the price of the services delivered on a like accommodation within the prison estate. The majority for like basis. of this accommodation is in dedicated YOIs, although some establishments in the estate have a dual designation (designated both as a prison and a YOI) and hold both Type of youth secure Average cost per place per year adult prisoners and young offenders. accommodation as of 1 April 2011 (£)1 The following table shows the number of remand or Secure children’s home 211,000 convicted unsentenced and convicted and sentenced Secure training centre 203,000 male and female prisoners aged 18 to 20-years-old with Public young offender institution 55,000 a recorded residential address or proxy in the London Notes: borough of Enfield who were held in predominant 1. Secure children’s homes—these services do not attract VAT. function male young offender institutions, predominant 2. Secure training centres—these services do attract VAT. function male local prisons, all female prisons and the 3. Publicly-run young offender institutions do not attract VAT. rest of the male estate on a set day in each month where 4. Privately-run young offender institutions do attract VAT. 5. These are costs to the YJB as at 1 April 2011. They are not intended data are available since May 2009. to represent the total cost of providing custody and related services to young people. For example, they do not include YJB funding to NOMS Prisoner Escort Management (PEM) for the provision of Prison Escort and Custodial Services (PECS) for young people. 6. For court ordered secure remand places (in the STC and SCH sectors) the YJB recovers one third of the costs from the home local authorities. 1 Including VAT where charged. To the nearest £1,000.

Number and location of male and female young adult offenders (aged 18 to 20) originating from London borough of Enfield 2009 2010 2011 Location May September November January March May July September

(a) Male young 51 34 27 29 30 24 23 36 offender institutions (b) Male local prisons 7 7 <5 <5 <5 5 <5 <5 (c) Female prisons <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 (d) Rest of the male <5<5<555586 estate

These figures have been drawn from administrative EDUCATION IT systems, which, as with any large scale recording system, are subject to possible errors with data entry Academies and processing. Information on a prisoner’s residence is provided by Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for prisoners on reception into prison and recorded on a Education how many (a) academies and (b) free central IT system. Addresses can include a prisoner’s schools there are in each local authority in England. home address, an address to which they intend to return [84923] on discharge or next of kin address and these figures are provided in the above table. Mr Gibb [holding answer 5 December 2011]: As of 1 December there are now 24 free schools and 1,463 If no address is given, a prisoner’s committal court open academies of which 319 are sponsored and 1,144 address is used as a proxy for the area in which a are converters. Details of how many are in each local prisoner is resident. These figures are also included in authority as at 1 November are included in the following the table above. No address has been recorded and no table. court information is available for around 3% of all prisoners, these figures are excluded from the table. Full details of schools that have formally applied for academy status, as well as a list of academies that have opened, can be found on the DFE academies website at: 511W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 512W

http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/ Table 1: Number of open academies, by academy type and local authority1 typesofschools/academies/a0069811/schools-submitting- November 2011, England applications-and-academies-that-have-opened-in-201011 Academy Sponsored Free Local authority converters academies schools Total Table 1: Number of open academies, by academy type and local authority1 November 2011, England Herefordshire 12 2 0 14 Academy Sponsored Free Hertfordshire 31 2 0 33 Local authority converters academies schools Total Hillingdon 11 2 0 13 Barking and 0000Hounslow 4 0 0 4 Dagenham Isle of Wight 0 2 0 2 Barnet 12 2 1 15 Isles of Scilly 0 0 0 0 Barnsley 0 1 0 1 Islington 2 2 0 4 Bath and North 9009Kensington and 0101 East Somerset Chelsea Bedford 9 1 0 10 Kent 50 17 0 67 Bexley 10 5 0 15 Kingston upon 0202 Birmingham 17 7 1 25 Hull City of Blackburn with 1102Kingston upon 4004 Darwen Thames Blackpool 1 0 0 1 Kirklees 7 0 1 8 Bolton 2 3 0 5 Knowsley 0 0 0 0 Bournemouth 3 2 0 5 Lambeth 5 2 0 7 Bracknell Forest 1 0 0 1 Lancashire 15 2 1 18 Bradford 2 5 2 9 Leeds 5 4 0 9 Brent 1 4 0 5 Leicester 0 1 1 2 Brighton and 0202Leicestershire 9 0 0 9 Hove Lewisham 1 3 0 4 Bristol City of 6 9 1 16 Lincolnshire 31 8 0 39 Bromley 24 1 0 25 Liverpool 1 5 0 6 Buckinghamshire 21 2 0 23 Luton 2 3 1 6 Bury 1 0 0 1 Manchester 2 9 0 11 Calderdale 14 1 0 15 Medway 10 4 0 14 Cambridgeshire 27 0 0 27 Merton 0 2 0 2 Camden 0 0 1 1 Middlesbrough 0 3 0 3 Central 16 1 0 17 Milton Keynes 10 1 0 11 Bedfordshire Newcastle upon 2103 Cheshire East 7 1 1 9 Tyne Cheshire West and 3205Newham 2 0 0 2 Chester Norfolk 9 6 1 16 City of London 0 0 0 0 North East 94013 Cornwall 38 1 0 39 Lincolnshire Coventry 6 2 0 8 North 2103 Croydon 6 7 0 13 Lincolnshire Cumbria 19 4 0 23 North Somerset 4 1 0 5 Darlington 10 1 0 11 North Tyneside 0 0 0 0 Derby 3 1 0 4 North Yorkshire 8 0 0 8 Derbyshire 10 2 0 12 Northamptonshire 13 6 0 19 Devon 42 1 0 43 Northumberland 2 2 0 4 Doncaster 8 5 0 13 Nottingham 9 5 0 14 Dorset 3 0 0 3 Nottinghamshire 14 4 0 18 Dudley 2 0 0 2 Oldham 4 3 0 7 Durham 6 1 0 7 Oxfordshire 2 3 0 5 Ealing 3 1 0 4 Peterborough 3 4 0 7 East Riding of 7007Plymouth 10 2 0 12 Yorkshire Poole 4 1 0 5 East Sussex 1 3 0 4 Portsmouth 0 1 0 1 Enfield 3 4 1 8 Reading 6 1 1 8 Essex 58 8 0 66 Redbridge 3 0 1 4 Gateshead 1 0 0 1 Redcar and 0101 Gloucestershire 41 2 0 43 Cleveland Greenwich 1 1 0 2 Richmond upon 0303 Hackney 1 5 0 6 Thames Halton 2 1 0 3 Rochdale 1 1 0 2 Hammersmith and 1225Rotherham 3 1 0 4 Fulham Rutland 4 0 0 4 Hampshire 21 2 0 23 Salford 2 2 0 4 Haringey 1 1 1 3 Sandwell 1 6 0 7 Harrow 7 0 0 7 Sefton 7 0 0 7 Hartlepool 0 0 0 0 Sheffield 1 3 0 4 Havering 10 1 0 11 Shropshire 2 0 0 2 513W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 514W

Table 1: Number of open academies, by academy type and local authority1 Mr Gibb: Our recent consultation on reforming the November 2011, England school funding system looked carefully at how rural Academy Sponsored Free Local authority converters academies schools Total schools should be supported. The Department for Education is considering responses to the consultation Slough 5 1 1 7 and discussing options with interested parties, including Solihull 8 4 0 12 those who represent rural areas, before we decide how Somerset 29 1 0 30 to proceed. We aim to consult on more detailed proposals South 0404in the spring. Gloucestershire South Tyneside 1 0 0 1 Free Schools Southampton 3 2 0 5 Southend-on-Sea 8 0 0 8 Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Southwark 5 9 0 14 Education what the selection (a) criteria and (b) St. Helens 0 2 0 2 process were for the recent grant awarded by his Staffordshire 10 6 0 16 Department for free school pre-application support. Stockport 1 1 0 2 [84544] Stockton-on-Tees 0 2 0 2 Stoke-on-Trent 2 5 0 7 Mr Gibb: The selection criteria and process were Suffolk 19 3 1 23 described in the public guidance for applicants for the Sunderland 4 3 0 7 grant. This has been placed in the House Libraries. Surrey 17 0 0 17 Sutton 14 0 0 14 GCSE: North West Swindon 16 1 0 17 Tameside 3 2 0 5 Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Telford and 3205 Wrekin Education what proportion of (a) looked after Thurrock 6 2 0 8 children and (b) other children gained five GCSEs or Torbay8008equivalent at grades A* to C in each of the last five Tower Hamlets 0 0 1 1 years for (i) the borough of Wirral and (ii) the North Trafford8008West region; and how many of those included GCSEs [85810] Wakefield 10 1 0 11 or equivalent in English and mathematics. Walsall 6 3 0 9 Waltham Forest 4 1 0 5 Tim Loughton: This information will be published Wandsworth 3 1 0 4 shortly. I will write to the hon. Member in due course Warrington 0 0 0 0 and place a copy of the letter in the House Libraries. Warwickshire 12 2 1 15 New Schools Network West Berkshire 3 0 0 3 West Sussex 5 5 1 11 Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Westminster 2 4 1 7 Education what agreement the New Schools Network Wigan 1 0 0 1 concluded with the Appointments Commission to Wiltshire 18 2 0 20 enable it to recruit for staff to launch free schools. Windsor and 1001 Maidenhead [84728] Wirral 6 2 0 8 Wokingham 3 0 0 3 Mr Gibb: Consistent with similar grant agreements, Wolverhampton 0 2 0 2 the Department for Education did not require New Worcestershire 17 1 0 18 Schools Network (NSN) to agree staff appointments York 2002with the Appointments Commission. NSN’s staff do Total 1,100 319 24 1,443 not launch free schools; they advise and support groups 1 School numbers include special academies. who are seeking to establish free schools. Source: Edubase, November 2011 Pupil Exclusions Academies: School Meals Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Kelvin Hopkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Education if he will publish the results of research Education how many children in each secondary commissioned from the School Food Trust on nutritional school year group were permanently excluded from (a) standards in academies. [81137] academies, (b) free schools and (c) other schools in (i) the 2011-12 academic year to date and (ii) each of the Mr Gibb: Results of the work commissioned from the previous three academic years. [82906] School Food Trust are expected to be published in spring 2012. Education: Rural Areas Mr Gibb: Information on the number of permanent exclusions in academies and other state-funded secondary Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Education schools from 2007/08 to 2009/10 is shown in the table. what consideration he has given to providing additional Information for 2010/11 and 2011/12 has not yet been grants to rural areas for the purposes of access to collected, and as a result there is no available information educational services. [83994] on free schools. 515W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 516W

Academies and other state-funded secondary schools1,2—Number and percentage of permanent exclusions by secondary school national curriculum year group3,4, England, 2007/08 to 2009/10 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 Academies Other state-funded Academies Other state-funded Academies Other state-funded secondary schools1,2 secondary schools1,2 secondary schools1,2 National curriculum year group No % No % No % No % No % No %

7 20 0.17 540 0.10 30 0.15 400 0.07 70 0.20 320 0.06 8 70 0.55 1,130 0.20 80 0.36 930 0.17 130 0.39 770 0.14 9 90 0.74 1,880 0.33 110 0.54 1,450 0.27 160 0.49 1,210 0.23 10 80 0.60 2,040 0.36 90 0.46 1,710 0.31 150 0.48 1,460 0.28 11 40 0.32 880 0.15 50 0.23 610 0.11 70 0.22 580 0.11 12 6— 6— 20 0.01 6— 6— 20 0.01 10 0.05 30 0.01 13 0 0.00 6— 6— 0 0.00 6— 6— 0 0.00 10 0.01 14 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 6— 6— 0 0.00 0 0.00 Total7 310 0.42 6,690 0.21 370 0.31 5,330 0.17 590 0.30 4,430 0.14 No of 83 8— 3,300 8— 133 8— 3,228 8— 203 8— 3,130 8— schools 1 Includes middle schools as deemed. 2 Includes city technology colleges. 3 Figures relating to permanent exclusions are estimates based on incomplete pupil-level data. 4 Secondary school National Curriculum Year Groups are classed as years 7 and above. 5 The number of permanent exclusions expressed as a percentage of all pupils in academies and other state-funded secondary schools by National Curriculum Year Group as at January each year. 6 Less than 5 exclusions or a percentage based on less than 5 exclusions. 7 Total includes some permanent exclusions where National Curriculum Year Group is below year 7 or not known. 8 Not applicable. Note: Totals may not appear to equal the sum of component parts because numbers have been rounded to the nearest 10. Source: School Census.

Pupil Premium in place to meet the standards. The School Food Trust will be able to offer help and share examples of good practice. Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what proportion of his Department’s budget Schools: Standards for the pupil premium has been spent on students in Pendle constituency since April 2011. [84730] Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps he is taking to seek to ensure that Mr Gibb: Schools in the Pendle constituency have schools which did not meet the Government’s GCSE been allocated £1.096 million for the pupil premium in targets in 2011 do so in future years. [83145] 2011-12. This is equivalent to 0.176% of the £625 million budget for the pupil premium in 2011-2012. To date, Mr Gibb: Sponsored academies are seen as the central £483,115 has been paid to Lancashire county council solution for dealing with serious, long-term for schools in Pendle. The remaining £612,885 will be underperformance in all schools. paid in two instalments in December 2011 and March When the 2011 secondary school performance tables 2012. containing data fully checked and agreed by schools are published in January, we will be looking at those schools that fall below the floor standard and, working with the School Meals school and their LA, we will seek to achieve the best possible solution to improve their performance. In most cases that solution will be to secure an academy sponsor Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for to provide the necessary support and challenge for the Education what plans he has to ensure healthy school school. meal standards. [84478] Students: Finance Sarah Teather: New standards for school food in maintained schools were introduced, through legislation, Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for in 2007. The regulations set out a combination of Education (1) how many learners aged 19 years at the food-based and nutrient-based standards. start of their course claimed Care to Learn in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011 to date; [85360] Governing bodies of maintained schools and local authorities are legally responsible for meeting the school (2) what the total expenditure was on learners food standards. If they do not, any person may complain, claiming Care to Learn who were aged 19 years at the through the normal local routes and ultimately to the start of their course in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and Secretary of State, who can then issue a direction to the (c) 2011 to date; and what the average expenditure per school if necessary. individual claimant was in each year. [85361] Parents play an important role in monitoring the Mr Gibb: These are matters for the Young People’s quality of food at their children’s school. We expect Learning Agency (YPLA) who operate the Care to maintained schools, as a minimum, to have arrangements Learn scheme for the Department for Education. Peter 517W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 518W

Lauener, the YPLA’s chief executive, will write to the Table B: Conceptions to under-18s by top-tier local authority, 2009 hon. Member with the information requested and a Number of conceptions to Rate per 1,000 girls copy of his reply will be placed in the House Libraries. under-18s aged 15 to 17 Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for South Tyneside MCD 161 57.8 Education when he plans to publish the outcome of his Sunderland MCD 288 52.8 consultation on Care to Learn; and how many Blackburn with Darwen UA 121 39.3 responses the consultation has received. [85377] Blackpool UA 183 67.4 Halton UA 140 58.9 Mr Gibb: The DFE consultation on options for the Warrington UA 155 42.2 future of the Care to Learn scheme received 329 responses. Cheshire East UA 197 29.3 We plan to publish the full consultation response on the Cheshire West and Chester 201 33.3 DFE website shortly. UA Cumbria 369 39.6 Teenage Pregnancy Bolton MCD 251 47.9 Bury MCD 137 37.6 Manchester MCD 491 67.2 Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for Oldham MCD 190 42.3 Education how many teenage pregnancies there were in Rochdale MCD 200 47.7 England in each year since 1997; and how many there Salford MCD 221 54.1 were in each local authority in the most recent period Stockport MCD 198 37.6 for which figures are available. [84881] Tameside MCD 255 60.1 Trafford MCD 119 29.7 Sarah Teather: England has declining teenage pregnancy Wigan MCD 304 50.2 rates. Between 1998 and 2009 (the latest data available), Lancashire County 893 39.4 under-18 conceptions have fallen by 18.1% to the lowest Knowsley MCD 137 41.9 rate in almost 30 years. Over the same period, 95% (142 Liverpool MCD 369 50.1 out of 150) of local authorities have seen a decline in Sefton MCD 165 29.3 their under-18 conception rates. However, this varies St Helens MCD 167 45.0 significantly with some areas achieving reductions of Wirral MCD 264 44.0 over 30%. East Riding of Yorkshire 214 34.7 The England latest quarterly rates for 2010 continue UA to fall. Annual under-18 conception data for 2010 will Kingston upon Hull UA 316 64.0 be published in February 2012. North East Lincolnshire 192 59.7 UA I have set out the specific information requested on North Lincolnshire UA 136 45.2 teenage pregnancies in the following tables. York UA 83 26.6 Table A: Conceptions to girls under 18, 1997 to 2009 North Yorkshire County 295 25.8 Number of conceptions Rate per 1,000 girls Barnsley MCD 230 52.5 to under-18s aged 15 to 17 Doncaster MCD 284 51.8

1997 40,463 45.5 Rotherham MCD 233 46.6 1998 41,089 46.6 Sheffield MCD 394 42.9 1999 39,247 44.8 Bradford MCD 430 41.0 2000 38,699 43.6 Calderdale MCD 184 47.4 2001 38,461 42.5 Kirklees MCD 370 48.5 2002 39,350 42.7 Leeds MCD 618 47.4 2003 39,553 42.1 Wakefield MCD 309 49.3 2004 39,593 41.6 Derby UA 233 51.0 2005 39,804 41.3 Leicester UA 251 47.1 2006 39,170 40.6 Nottingham UA 290 61.5 2007 40,366 41.8 Rutland UA 17 13.7 2008 38,783 40.5 Derbyshire County 477 33.3 2009 35,966 38.2 Leicestershire County 323 27.6 Lincolnshire 475 37.5 Table B: Conceptions to under-18s by top-tier local authority, 2009 Northamptonshire 525 40.2 Number of Nottinghamshire County 495 34.6 conceptions to Rate per 1,000 girls under-18s aged 15 to 17 Herefordshire, County of 102 31.2 UA Darlington UA 87 48.0 Stoke-on-Trent UA 258 61.1 Hartlepool UA 106 57.3 Telford and Wrekin UA 172 52.7 Middlesbrough UA 174 60.4 Shropshire UA 160 28.4 Redcar and Cleveland UA 139 51.7 Staffordshire County 631 39.8 Stockton-on-Tees UA 164 42.6 Warwickshire 355 36.3 County Durham UA 408 44.0 Birmingham MCD 975 48.7 Northumberland UA 195 34.9 Coventry MCD 335 59.7 Gateshead MCD 145 42.1 Dudley MCD 238 41.5 Newcastle upon Tyne MCD 210 47.5 Sandwell MCD 304 52.7 North Tyneside MCD 148 42.9 Solihull MCD 122 28.6 519W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 520W

Table B: Conceptions to under-18s by top-tier local authority, 2009 Table B: Conceptions to under-18s by top-tier local authority, 2009 Number of Number of conceptions to Rate per 1,000 girls conceptions to Rate per 1,000 girls under-18s aged 15 to 17 under-18s aged 15 to 17

Walsall MCD 307 59.4 Hampshire County 687 28.9 Wolverhampton MCD 242 52.6 Kent County 968 34.7 Worcestershire County 351 33.6 Oxfordshire 302 26.0 Luton UA 109 29.4 Surrey 427 20.7 Peterborough UA 171 54.5 West Sussex 412 29.1 Southend-on-Sea UA 128 43.7 Bath and North East 71 22.7 Thurrock UA 107 37.0 Somerset UA Bedford UA 115 39.5 Bournemouth UA 105 40.4 Central Bedfordshire UA 153 32.5 Bristol UA 310 50.6 Cambridgeshire County 305 28.4 North Somerset UA 123 34.8 Essex County 814 31.4 Plymouth UA 194 44.3 Hertfordshire 501 23.5 Poole UA 93 36.2 Norfolk 532 36.7 South Gloucestershire UA 130 27.4 Suffolk 373 28.5 Swindon UA 126 36.3 Camden LB 80 28.4 Torbay UA 131 55.3 Hackney LB and City of 163 48.6 Cornwall UA and the Isles 292 30.5 London of Scilly Hammersmith and Fulham 103 49.3 Devon County 396 29.7 LB Dorset County 220 28.1 Haringey LB 171 51.1 Gloucestershire 289 25.6 Islington LB 117 48.6 Somerset 314 30.0 Kensington and Chelsea LB 41 21.0 Wiltshire UA 283 29.7 Lambeth LB 218 59.5 Lewisham LB 235 55.6 Newham LB 220 50.3 Southwark LB 233 63.2 Tower Hamlets LB 132 40.7 CABINET OFFICE Wandsworth LB 128 46.9 Westminster City of LB 87 37.6 Big Lottery Fund: Public Appointments Barking and Dagenham LB 196 54.3 Barnet LB 142 23.0 Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Bexley LB 171 37.3 Office what remuneration the Chair of the Big Lottery Brent LB 158 38.2 Fund is receiving; how many days a week he works for Bromley LB 211 38.1 the Fund; for how long he has been appointed; and Croydon LB 295 45.7 whether he has been given ministerial guidance on the Ealing LB 168 34.1 performance of his duties. [85907] Enfield LB 208 38.5 Mr Hurd: The Big Lottery Fund UK Board chair is Greenwich LB 206 58.6 remunerated £21,600 per annum, with a time commitment Harrow LB 87 21.8 of six days per month. The appointment is for a term of Havering LB 170 36.4 four years which commenced on the 1 June 2011 to Hillingdon LB 164 35.3 31 May 2015. The chair has been given ministerial Hounslow LB 136 37.4 guidance on the performance of his duties. Kingston upon Thames LB 65 25.7 Merton LB 110 37.9 Charity Commission: Public Appointments Redbridge LB 181 34.7 Richmond upon Thames 56 19.6 Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet LB Office when he proposes to start recruitment for the Sutton LB 119 33.3 next Chair of the Charity Commission; what recruitment Waltham Forest LB 206 55.0 process will be followed; and if he will make a statement. Bracknell Forest UA 44 17.9 [85906] Brighton and Hove UA 149 36.5 Isle of Wight UA 75 30.4 Mr Hurd: The current Chair of the Charity Medway Towns UA 227 43.0 Commission’s term of office is due to end in July 2012. Milton Keynes UA 177 40.2 The recruitment of a successor will begin in the new Portsmouth UA 159 50.0 year. As a public appointment, the recruitment process Reading UA 107 43.8 will be conducted in line with the requirements of the Slough UA 78 35.1 Commissioner Public Appointments. Southampton UA 188 49.2 West Berkshire UA 77 21.3 Departmental Audit Windsor and Maidenhead 32 11.4 UA Mr Thomas: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Wokingham UA 51 16.9 Office what criteria (a) his Department and (b) its Buckinghamshire County 234 24.2 public bodies use when deciding whether and when to hold an internal audit; and if he will make a statement. East Sussex County 332 35.1 [85632] 521W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 522W

Mr Maude: Details of the Cabinet Office’s internal Mr Maude: The information is not held in the format audit work and that of the Civil Service Commission, requested and could be obtained only at disproportionate its sponsored executive non-departmental body, are cost. contained in their respective Statements of Internal Control. The statements are included in their annual Departmental Publications reports and accounts 2010-11. These publications are available in the House of Commons Library and on the Dan Jarvis: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet following websites: Office how many (a) leaflets, (b) posters and (c) http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/ reports his Department has published since May 2010; resource-accounts-2010-11.pdf how much each cost; and which company (i) published http://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/downloads/ and (ii) designed each. [83007] annual-report/cs-annual-report10-11.pdf Departmental Procurement Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office uses a number of channels and suppliers to publish leaflets, posters and reports such as the Central Office of Information (COI), Gordon Henderson: To ask the Minister for the The Stationery Office (TSO)—for the production and Cabinet Office what estimate he has made of the cost publication of Command and House papers—and existing of employing civil servants to undertake procurement internal resources such as our in-house reprographics for his Department in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and team. (c) 2010-11; and what estimate he has made of the cost of (i) employing civil servants and (ii) engaging Cabinet Office only keeps records centrally of leaflets, consultants to undertake procurement for his posters and reports that incur external costs. Information Department in 2011-12. [73192] on these are detailed as follows: Information provided by COI: Mr Maude: The estimated cost of employing civil The Cabinet Office published seven reports through servants to undertake procurement is as follows: COI between May 2010 and the end of March 2011 at a total cost of £90,695. (i) Each report was published £ million under Crown Copyright, (ii) no design costs were incurred. 2008-09 0.8 No leaflets or posters were published by COI during 2009-10 0.7 this period. 2010-11 0.4 Information provided by TSO: 2011-12 0.4 The Cabinet Office published one report through Consultants are only engaged to provide specialist TSO between May 2010 and the end of March 2011 at a commercial advice on particular projects where this is total cost of £640. This does not include reports published not available in-house, and may also be used in the in the name of the Deputy Prime Minister detailed in procurement process itself where suitable expertise is his PQ answered on 30 November 2011, Official Report, not available in-house. The use of these consultants, column 1000W. regardless of value, is subject to a strict set of approval No leaflets or posters were published by TSO during procedures, and prior approval must be sought in all this period. cases. The work involved in researching the finance systems to identify this expenditure in past years, and in consulting Employment all business units to analyse and forecast expenditure for 2011-12 would incur disproportionate costs. Mr Frank Field: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet The total cost of consultancy is published in the Office what proportion of households in each Cabinet Office Annual Reports and Accounts, available parliamentary constituency have (a) any adult and (b) in the House of Commons Library and on the Cabinet all adults who have never worked. [86350] Office website: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/cabinet- Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the office-annual-reports-and-accounts responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have The amounts are as follows: asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated December 2011: £000 As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking Administration 8,732 19,467 7,025 what proportion of households in each parliamentary constituency has a) any adult and b) all adults who have never worked [86350]. Programme 10,584 8,036 2,107 Total 19,316 27,503 9,132 The table shows estimates for part a) and relate to the period January-December 2010. The estimates are derived from the Departmental Public Expenditure Annual Population Survey (APS) and are not seasonally adjusted. An asterisk indicates that sample sizes are too small to provide reliable estimates for a particular parliamentary constituency. The Mr Byrne: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office table will be placed in the Library of the House. how much his Department spent in (a) Birmingham, For part b) it is not possible to provide reliable estimates for (b) Newcastle, (c) Wakefield, (d) Manchester, (e) parliamentary constituencies because the sample sizes are not Leeds, (f) Liverpool, (g) Coventry, (h) Bristol, (i) sufficiently large enough. Sheffield, (j) Bradford, (k) Leicester and (l) Nottingham As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject in the latest financial year for which figures are available. to a margin of uncertainty as different samples give different [85450] results. 523W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 524W

Government Departments: Procurement figures available are for 2010 and these are shown in the following table. These latest estimates were published on 24 November 2011. Philip Davies: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will estimate the number of government Long-term immigration to the UK of people who are EU citizens but whose country of last residence is not an EU state contracts which have not been awarded to UK companies due to EU procurement rules in each of the Estimate SE% last five years. [86036] 2005 9,000 25 2006 7,000 29 Mr Maude: UK Government contracts are awarded 2007 11,000 33 on the basis of value for money. Statistics from the 2008 9,000 23 European Commission indicate that 97% of UK 2009 10,000 32 Government contracts are awarded to UK-based firms. 2010 7,000 21 Note: Immigrants: EU Nationals SE% = Standard error percentage Source: International Passenger Survey (IPS), ONS Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office Standard error percentages (SE%) indicate the robustness of pursuant to the answer of 22 November 2011, Official each estimate. A migration figure with a standard error percentage Report greater than 25% is not considered to be reliable for practical , columns 333-4W, on immigrants: EU nationals, purposes. what the original countries of birth were of those EU nationals who have entered the UK in each of the last five years. [86327] Population: Babies

Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Mr Frank Field: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Office what estimate has been made of the number of asked the authority to reply. children in each constituent part of the UK who are Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated December 2011: aged under one. [86364] As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question, pursuant to the Answer of 22 November 2011, Official Report, responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have columns 333-4W, on immigrants: EU nationals, if he will provide asked the authority to reply. a breakdown of what the original countries of birth were of those Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated December 2011: EU nationals who have entered the UK in each of the last five As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I years (86327). have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question The Office for National Statistics produces estimates of long-term asking for an estimate of the number of children in each constituent international migration, primarily based on the International part of the UK who are aged under one year old (86364). Passenger Survey (IPS). The IPS is a continuous voluntary sample Table 1 shows the number of children aged under one year old survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics. in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland for mid-2010. The answer of 22 November 2011 provided long-term immigration This is the latest year for which population estimates are available. estimates of all EU citizens who were not born in the EU for each Table 1: Estimated resident population aged under one year old, mid- of the last five years. It is not possible to provide a reliable 2010 breakdown of what the individual countries of birth were of EU nationals coming to the UK for each of the last five years, due to Country Thousand the large standard errors associated with the estimates. A migration United Kingdom 795.2 estimate with a standard error percentage of more than 25 per cent is not considered to be reliable. England 675.4 Priti Patel: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office Wales 35.2 pursuant to the answer of 22 November 2011, Official Scotland 59.4 Report, columns 333-4W, on immigrants: EU nationals, Northern Ireland 25.2 how many EU nationals whose original country of Sources: origin is outside the EU have settled in the UK in each Office for National Statistics. National Records for Scotland. of the last five years. [86328] Northern Ireland Statistics Research Agency.

Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Public Sector: Mutual Societies responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Richard Graham: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated December 2011: Office what assessment his Department has made of As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I the performance of the mutuals pathfinders; and if he have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question, will make a statement. [85462] pursuant to the Answer of 22 November 2011, Official Report, columns 333-4W, on immigrants: EU nationals, how many EU nationals whose country of origin is outside the EU have settled Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office has recently reviewed in the UK in each of the last five years (86328). the progress of the Mutual Pathfinders, and has released a “Mutual Pathfinder Progress Report”, which is available The Office for National Statistics produces estimates of long-term international migration, primarily based on the International at the following link: Passenger Survey (IPS). The IPS is a continuous voluntary sample http://mutuals.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/documents/mutual- survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics. The latest pathfinder-progress-report 525W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 526W

Public Sector: Pay In 2012, there will be a number of opportunities for 16-year-olds in the north east to take part in a National Bill Esterson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Citizen Service pilot. The organisations providing these Office what estimate has been made of the real level of places are Academy of Youth, Catch 22, Future pay for staff working in the public sector in (a) Sefton Foundations, Safe in Tees Valley and v/Dame Kelly and (b) the UK in each of the next five years. [86057] Holmes Legacy Trust who are now actively recruiting in the area. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated December 2011: BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS As Director General for the Office for National Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Aviation: Treaties Question asking what estimate has been made of the real level of pay for staff working in the public sector in (a) Sefton and (b) the Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for UK in each of the next five years. (86057) Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer ONS does not make estimates of earnings levels for future of 17 May 2011, Official Report, column 149W, on periods, so no estimates have been made of real levels of pay for staff working in the public sector in Sefton and the UK in each of aviation: treaties, what recent progress has been made the next five years. on the ratification of the Cape Town convention. [85585] Public Sector: Pensions Mr Prisk: Since my answer of 17 May, the Department’s Steve Baker: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet officials have continued to work closely with industry Office what steps his Department is taking to ensure representatives to discuss the benefits of UK ratification that non-unionised public sector workers are represented and this has resulted in additional evidence being submitted. in pension negotiations. [85676] Officials are now considering all the evidence that has been provided to the Department. A Government Response Mr Maude: The Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the to the Call for Evidence will be published in the new right hon. Member for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and year. Strathspey (Danny Alexander), and I have been jointly leading discussions with a TUC delegation, as Business representatives of public sector workers, since February 2011. Formal consultations, as the usual method for Bill Esterson: To ask the Secretary of State for non-union members to comment on Government proposals, Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate he has have already taken place on proposed increases to employee made of the number of mentors available to support contributions from April 2012 in the civil service, teachers small businesses in (a) Sefton and (b) nationally. and NHS pension schemes. There were 13,834 responses [86349] from individuals. Mr Prisk: There are 70 mentoring organisations now Steria accessible via: www.mentorsme.co.uk Keith Vaz: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office and through them 11,000 mentors. This initiative is led how many contracts his Department has awarded to by business, not by Government, and the British Bankers’ Steria since May 2010; and what the (a) purpose, (b) Association (BBA) is co-ordinating and sponsoring the monetary value and (c) net worth was of each work. The website does not contain data on mentors at contract. [85480] regional or constituency level but the search facility on the website allows visitors to easily find a mentoring Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office has not awarded any organisation in their locality. contracts to Steria since May 2010. Our aim is to develop a network of over 40,000 Voluntary Work: Young People business mentors and the BBA is currently screening applications from other mentoring organisations who Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Minister for the wish to be listed on the portal. Cabinet Office what steps his Department has taken to The banks themselves are also contributing practical ensure that young people in the North East have access mentoring support alongside the other contributing to National Citizen Service programmes. [85565] organisations: the banks have made a commitment to have 1,000 bank mentors trained and deployed in not- Mr Hurd: We are committed to ensuring that as many for-profit mentoring organisations by the end of June young people as possible have access to National Citizen 2012. Service regardless of background or location. When Additionally, new grant funding of £1.2 million was commissioning providers for 2011 and 2012, we therefore announced by BIS on 16 November to recruit and train worked to ensure a good geographical spread of National 10,000 volunteer business mentors from the small business Citizen Service pilots across England. In 2011, Catch community via the Small Firms Enterprise Development 22, Princes Trust, Safe in Tees Valley and v/Dame Kelly Initiative (SFEDI). This is on top of funding of £700,000 Holmes Legacy Trust all offered places on National for 5,000 mentors announced by the Secretary of State Citizen Service pilots to young people in the north east. for the Home Department, my right hon. Friend the 527W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 528W

Member for Maidenhead (Mrs May), as part of the funding to bring superfast broadband to the third of package of support for female entrepreneurs on UK homes and businesses which will not be provided 4 November. for by the broadband market. There are currently nine SFEDI (the sector skills body for enterprise) is working procurement programmes operating in Cumbria, the with a range of trade associations and business Highlands and Islands, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, representative bodies who will be recruiting from among North Yorkshire, Lancashire, Rutland, Surrey and Wales. local business communities and the volunteer business The Government have allocated £17.13 million to mentors will be accessible through help stimulate broadband private investment in Cumbria www.mentorsme.co.uk and the Cumbria county council is in procurement procedures to select a supplier, or suppliers, to upgrade Business: Entry Clearances infrastructure to support improved broadband services. Race Online 2012 is the Government-supported Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for organisation led by Martha Lane Fox working to encourage Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer everybody in the UK, including older people living in of 10 November 2011, Official Report, columns rural areas, to access the internet. Latest figures from 459-60W, on business: entry clearances, if he will place the Office for National Statistics estimate that the number in the Library the representations he has received on of adults in the UK who had never been online fell by forward planning and Tier 2 visas. [82533] 300,000 to 8.43 million in the third quarter of 2011. Race Online 2012 has issued a report “Getting on—a Mr Prisk: I will place representations the Secretary of Manifesto for Older People in a Network Nation”. A State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the right hon. copy is attached and can be accessed at: Member for Twickenham (Vince Cable), and the Minister http://raceonline2012.org/sites/default/files/resources/ for Trade and Investment, my noble Friend Lord Green getting_on_august_2011.pdf of Hurstpierpoint, have received on forward planning and Tier 2 visas in the Libraries of the House. The company names will be redacted to protect commercial Further Education: English Language confidentiality. Departmental Public Expenditure Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent discussions Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Ministers in his Department have had with the Business, Innovation and Skills how many applications Association of Colleges on fee remission for English from employees to run services for which his for speakers of other languages courses; and if he will Department is directly responsible he has received since make a statement. [85493] May 2010; and if he will make a statement. [77614] Mr Hayes: The Secretary of State for Business, Mr Davey: There have been no applications, to our Innovation and Skills, the right hon. Member for knowledge, that have progressed through to procurement. Twickenham (Vince Cable), and I meet regularly with representatives from the further education sector to Export Credit Guarantees: Egypt discuss a wide range of issues. Learners in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance or Meg Hillier: To ask the Secretary of State for employment support allowance (in the work-related Business, Innovation and Skills whether any of the debt activity group) are eligible for full fee remission where owed by Egypt to the Export Credits Guarantee English language skills have been identified as a barrier Department comes from sales of military equipment. to entering employment. Further education colleges [84122] and training organisations also have local discretion to provide fully subsidised courses for people on a wider Mr Davey: The debt owed to the Export Credits range of benefits where the training is to help them Guarantees Department does not include military hardware enter employment. The Government continue to contribute i.e. aircraft, helicopters, tanks or missiles. It includes 50% towards English for Speakers of Other Languages export contracts relating to the supply of communications (ESOL) course fees for people who are settled here and equipment e.g. telephone and radio sets, to the Egyptian not eligible for full Government funding. We will no Government for use by the armed forces. longer fund ESOL courses delivered in the workplace. Financial Services: Older People Further education (FE) colleges and training providers are responsible for meeting the needs of their local community, and increased freedoms and flexibilities Rory Stewart: To ask the Secretary of State for that we have introduced will help them respond and Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking determine within their funding where this is prioritised. to promote financial inclusion for older people living in rural areas who do not have access to the internet. [75040] Higher Education Mr Prisk: Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK)—a team within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport— Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State delivers the Government’s broadband strategy, bringing for Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has superfast broadband to all parts of the UK. BDUK’s plans for further changes to higher education policy in main role is to allocate and distribute £530 million of 2013-14. [85583] 529W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 530W

Mr Willetts: We set out our plans for higher education output in the UK by encouraging higher levels of in the White Paper “Students at the Heart of the innovation, exports, business investment and technical System” Cm 8122. We have consulted on the White skills, as well as cutting excessive red tape. Paper proposals. We have also asked the Higher Education As set out in this Department’s Skills Investment Funding Council for England (HEFCE) to consult on Statement 2011 to 2014 (1 December 2011), overall future funding arrangements, including liberalising student investment in adult further education (FE) and skills number controls, in their forthcoming consultation on will be £3.8 billion in the 2012-13 financial year. teaching funding for 2013/14 and beyond. We will respond The Skills Funding Agency has responsibility for the to the White Paper consultation in the new year and a funding of post-19 FE and skills training and allocates Higher Education Bill will be introduced in 2012, budgets to individual FE colleges and training organisations, parliamentary time permitting. it does not allocate funding at the qualification level. From the 2011/12 academic year we introduced a single Liz Kendall: To ask the Secretary of State for adult skills budget. This will provide FE colleges and Business, Innovation and Skills what the average cost training organisations with the flexibility to offer the was of providing a level 3 or higher qualification for range and balance of programmes, from basic skills to adults aged 24 years old and over in the latest period higher-level skills, in the mode of delivery that will best for which figures are available. [86220] meet the needs of learners, employers and communities in line with demand. Mr Hayes: Based on information provided by the Skills Funding Agency, the average in year unit cost for Post Offices: Pilot Schemes level 3 and higher qualifications for adults aged 25 and over for the 2009/10 academic year is estimated as £1,350 for apprenticeship provision and £2,100 for classroom Ian Murray: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, based provision. Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer of 28 November 2011, Official Report, column 736W, on post The total public funding for individual qualifications offices, what recent discussions he has had with Consumer will depend on the length of the course, the subject area Focus on the volume of customer transactions in Post and whether the individual qualifies for full fee remission Office Local pilots. [86355] or the costs are shared between Government, the individual or the employer. Mr Davey: Departmental officials and I have regular From the 2013/14 academic year we are introducing a discussions with Consumer Focus on a range of topics, new system of further education (FE) loans, which including matters relating to the post office network. As shifts more of the responsibility for investing in learning I explained in my previous answer, the Post Office Local to individuals, and maintains support for adults to model and the range of services available is currently learn at advanced and higher levels. Sharing the same being piloted across the UK. In May 2011, Consumer progressive features as higher education (HE) student Focus published a detailed report, based on independent finance—no upfront cost to the learner, no repayments research, about the Post Office Local model which until earnings reach £21,000, and outstanding amounts showed that the model offers over 85% of the range of written off after 30 years—FE loans will use much of post office services and that these services account for the delivery infrastructure for HE student loans creating 97% of total customer transaction volumes across the a more coherent offer to learners. The introduction of network. loans is an important step, and we will be working closely with colleges, training providers and stakeholders Public Expenditure: Birmingham as we implement them for the 2013/14 academic year. Higher Education: Fees and Charges Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how much his Department spent in (a) Birmingham, (b) Newcastle, (c) Wakefield, (d) Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State Manchester, (e) Leeds, (f) Liverpool, (g) Coventry, for Business, Innovation and Skills how many (h) Bristol, (i) Sheffield, (j) Bradford, (k) Leicester institutions have set tuition fees below £9,000. [85582] and (l) Nottingham in the latest financial year for which figures are available. [85444] Mr Willetts: Of the 149 institutions that have submitted access agreements to Office For Fair Access (OFFA), Mr Davey: The Department does not maintain records there are 143 with estimated average tuition fees less of spend in individual towns and cities and the information than £9,000 (96%) after fee waivers. requested can be provided only at disproportionate cost. Manufacturing Industries: Training For information, the Department is committed to transparency and publishes details of monthly expenditure Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for on our website at: Business, Innovation and Skills what funding his www.bis.gov.uk/transparency/financial Department has provided to colleges and training and from August 2011 onwards, this information contained providers to train people for jobs in the manufacturing the postcode of the supplier. industry in 2011-12. [84825] Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Mr Hayes: This Government recognise the importance Innovation and Skills how much funding his Department of manufacturing and their key role in rebalancing the has allocated to Birmingham in (a) ring-fenced and economy. Working with industry, this Government are (b) non ring-fenced funding grants for each of the next taking action aimed at increasing growth in manufacturing three years. [85445] 531W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 532W

Mr Prisk: The Birmingham region, through the local to consider if there are particular groups of students enterprise partnership, can access a variety of funding they would especially wish to support and encourage. streams from the Department of Business, Innovation The guidance listed students who were looked after and Skills as set out in my response to the hon. Member children or care leavers (which includes those leaving on 23 November 2011, Official Report, column 452W. kinship care) as one example of such a group. To date the only funding this Department has allocated Institutions charging above £6,000 must agree Access to the partnership is through the Capacity and Start up Agreements with the Director of Fair Access setting which is ring-fenced. out the support they will provide to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, information about their Scholarships outreach and retention activities, and the benchmarks or targets that they will set themselves. 32 institutions Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for included milestones for care leavers in their Access Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking Agreements approved by the Office for Fair Access in to support young people leaving kinship care to access July 2011. the National Scholarship scheme; and if he will make a Tourism: Regional Development Agencies statement. [85494] Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Willetts: The National Scholarship Programme is Business, Innovation and Skills how much each regional designed for students whose family income is no greater development agency spent on promoting tourism in its than £25,000. Participating universities and colleges respective region in each of the last five financial years. establish their own eligibility criteria to determine whom [84833] to help from among this broad group of people. In most cases, young people leaving kinship care will be deemed Mr Prisk: The following figures refer to spending by independent and only the student’s own income, if any, regional development agencies (RDAs) on core tourism will be taken into account. and leisure objectives. RDAs have also spent money on Guidance to institutions about the programme published activities related to tourism initiatives such as specific by the Higher Education Funding Council for England regeneration projects. The cost of these related activities (HEFCE) suggested to institutions that they may wish are not included in the table.

£ million Expenditure on tourism RDA 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11

AWM 3.8 4.9 8.5 6.1 3.3 EEDA 1.5 1.8 1.4 1.1 1.1 EMDA 5.3 4.7 3.3 3.3 2.5 LDA 23.9 29.4 18.7 20.1 14.1 NWDA 6.1 8.9 4.5 4.7 2.5 ONE 10.8 10.6 11.3 7.2 4.7 SEEDA 2.3 2.3 2.4 2.5 1.6 SWRDA 3.2 2.6 1.3 1.3 1.3 YF 3.9 6 3.1 6.2 6.3

Veterinary Services: Fees and Charges estimate the number of hours officials in his Department have been engaged in the consultation. [85890] Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills if he will ask the Henry Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Competition Commission to investigate the pricing (a) how much funding from the public purse and (b) structures of the veterinary profession. [85466] how many official working hours was spent on the consultation on the reform of air passenger duty. Mr Davey: Where there are concerns relating to pricing [85979] structures in a market, responsibility for investigating and referring them to the Competition Commission primarily rests with the Office of Fair Trading as the Paul Maynard: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer responsible competition authority. what estimate he has made of (a) the cost to the public purse and (b) the number of working hours spent by his officials on the consultation on the reform of air passenger duty. [86184] TREASURY Miss Chloe Smith: The Government regularly consult Air Passenger Duty on a wide range of issues. The cost of public consultation is accounted for within annual departmental budgets, Mr Donohoe: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer which are published and available online. No separate what the cost to the public purse was of the consultation estimates are available for the cost of the air passenger on the reform of air passenger duty; and if he will duty consultation. 533W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 534W

Mr Donohoe: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer The Government considered changes to the APD what estimate he has made of the likely amount of air banding structure, alongside the base case of no change. passenger duty paid per passenger journey to (a) the A revenue neutral change would have required those Caribbean and (b) Hawaii following implementation of flying to band A and band B destinations (91% of his planned reforms to air passenger duty. [85891] passengers) to pay more. The Government therefore decided to retain the existing four APD distance bands. Henry Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether passengers from UK airports flying Business: Loans to the Caribbean or Hawaii will pay more air passenger duty following his reforms to the duty. [85978] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether companies that develop and export low carbon Paul Maynard: To ask the Chancellor of the technologies will be eligible to receive support through Exchequer whether he proposes that passengers from his proposed National Loan Guarantee Scheme. [85484] UK airports flying to the Caribbean will pay more air passenger duty (APD) than passengers flying to Hawaii Mr Hoban: All firms in the UK with annual turnover following his planned reform of APD. [86336] of up to £50 million will be eligible to apply for loans under the National Loan Guarantee Scheme. Miss Chloe Smith: Air passenger duty (APD) rates Child Benefit: Wales for 2012-13, which take effect from 1 April 2012, were published at the Autumn Statement. The rates are set out in Table 1 of the document entitled ‘Tables Confirming Jessica Morden: To ask the Chancellor of the Tax and Tax Credit Rates and Thresholds for 2012-13’, Exchequer how many (a) families and (b) lone parents which is available on the HM Treasury website at: receive child benefit in Wales; and how many such lone parents are women. [85814] www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/as2011_documents.htm Mr Gauke: The number of families receiving child Mr Donohoe: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer benefit in Wales can be found in the HMRC statistical when airlines were informed of the new air passenger publication ‘Child Benefit Statistics: Geographical Analysis’, duty rates applicable from 1 April 2012. [85904] available at: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/stats/child_benefit/chb-geog- Henry Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer aug10.pdf when airlines were informed of the air passenger duty As of August 2010, there were approximately 373,000 rates applicable from 1 April 2012. [85975] families in Wales receiving child benefit. Miss Chloe Smith: Budget 2011 announced that air Information on the number of lone parents is not passenger duty would be frozen for 2011-12 and the available. The child benefit administrative dataset does RPI increase assumed in the Office for Budget not contain any information on household composition Responsibility’s (OBR) forecast would be implemented of claimants. from 1 April 2012. The Autumn Statement of 29 November Departmental Audit confirmed the rates for 2012-13. The published rates are available on the HM Treasury website at: Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/as2011_documents.htm what criteria (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies use when deciding whether and when to hold an Mr Donohoe: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer internal audit; and if he will make a statement. [85646] which of the changes to air passenger duty announced in the Government response to the consultation on the Miss Chloe Smith: Internal Audit plans for the Treasury reform of air passenger duty are intended to achieve and its executive agencies are drawn up annually and greater simplification of the system. [85905] reviewed as required through the year. They are based on a review of management risk assessments, discussions Henry Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with senior managers, previous Internal Audit work what changes to air passenger duty announced in the and planned changes and developments, and also linked Government response to the consultation on the reform with the organisations’ objectives. The plans are established of air passenger duty are intended to achieve greater in consultation with, and subject to approval by, the simplification of the system. [85977] Accounting Officers, boards and the Audit Committees as appropriate. Paul Maynard: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of whether Departmental Responsibilities his planned changes to air passenger duty (APD) will result in greater simplification of the APD system. Mr Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer [86335] what steps his Department is taking to ensure social value is included when services are commissioned by Miss Chloe Smith: The Government consultation on (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies; and if he Air Passenger Duty (APD) emphasised a number of will make a statement. [85665] objectives, including fairness and the need to maintain revenues from the aviation sector. It is right that the Miss Chloe Smith: UK public procurement policy is aviation sector makes a fair contribution to the public to award contracts on the basis of value for money, finances. which means the optimum combination of cost and 535W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 536W quality over the lifetime of the project. Public sector Financial Services: Qualifications procurers are required to assess value for money from the perspective of the contracting authority using criteria Guto Bebb: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer linked to the subject matter of the contract, including what discussions he has had with the Financial Services compliance with the published specification. Authority as part of the retail distribution review on Wider socio-economic benefits that do not accrue to exempting financial advisers who have reached a the contracting authority cannot be taken into account certain age from professional requirements. [85435] at tender evaluation stage if they do not relate to the subject matter of a contract from the point of view of Mr Hoban: The Retail Distribution Review (RDR) is the contracting authority. a matter for the Financial Services Authority (FSA), an independent body. The FSA has consulted extensively Economic Growth on the RDR since 2006 and, in accordance with the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, has published Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the cost-benefit analyses of the proposals. Exchequer what assessment he has made of the levels The FSA is required under the Equality Act 2010 to of economic growth in (a) the UK and (b) other G7 have due regard to the need to eliminate unlawful countries over the last 12 months. [85580] discrimination in the exercise of its functions. This includes discrimination on the basis of age. Miss Chloe Smith: The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is responsible for producing independent economic National Income and fiscal forecasts. Its “Economic and fiscal outlook” published 29 November 2011 state that Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the “World activity has slowed since our March forecast, especially Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect in advanced economies. This reflects: the deepening of the euro of levels of domestic consumption on gross domestic area sovereign debt crisis and related weakness in the financial product over the last 12 months. [85581] sector; the supply chain effects from the Japanese earthquake; sluggish performance in the US labour and housing markets; and Miss Chloe Smith: The Office for National Statistics higher oil prices, partly related to unrest in the Middle East and (ONS) has published gross domestic product (GDP) by North Africa (MENA) region.” expenditure up to the third quarter of 2011. The level of The UK cannot be immune from these series of shocks, household consumption is 1.4% lower than the same which have weakened economic growth in the UK and quarter last year and the level of Government consumption other G7 countries over the last 12 months. is 2.9% higher. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) published its “Economic and fiscal Economic Growth: North West outlook” on 29 November 2011, setting out its forecasts for 2011. GDP growth in 2011 is forecast to be 0.9% Bill Esterson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with household consumption forecast to fall by 1.1% in pursuant to his autumn statement of 29 November 2011, contributing -0.7 percentage to growth in GDP 2011, Official Report, column 806, what plans he has for overall. Government consumption is forecast to rise by the development of the Atlantic Gateway. [85512] 2.2% in 2011, contributing 0.3 percentage points to GDP growth. Danny Alexander [holding answer 8 December 2011]: Poverty: Rural Areas Returning the UK economy to sustainable economic growth that is more balanced across the UK and sectors is a key priority. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the The Government are taking forward an ambitious implications of the findings of the Hill Report for his work programme with the eight core cities outside policy on rural poverty. [85965] London to help them maximise their growth potential, including consideration of financial tools and support Gregory Barker: I have been asked to reply. to drive forward key projects for the area. Professor Hills published his Interim Report in October We will be working closely with business, city leaders, 2011, and he is due to present his final report to chief executives and LEP chairs across the country to Government in early 2012. My officials and I will carry develop tailored deals to unlock growth, including how out an assessment of his recommendations and their to realise the ambitions in the Atlantic Gateway. implications at that time. Employment Public Expenditure: Northern Ireland

Richard Graham: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr Donaldson: To ask the Chancellor of the whether his Department has made an estimate of the Exchequer whether factors other than the application number of new jobs required to be created to maintain of the Barnett formula were used to determine the employment levels at a time of increasing population block grant to Northern Ireland announced in October growth in the next 20 years. [85482] 2010. [85894]

Miss Chloe Smith: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the Danny Alexander: In addition to Barnett consequential, answer I gave the hon. Member for Richmond Park the Northern Ireland Executive received an £25 million (Zac Goldsmith) on 7 December 2011, Official Report, to set up an access fund to ensure a fair and just column 365W. resolution of issues arising from the collapse of the 537W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 538W

Presbyterian Mutual Society. They were also granted an with post at the National Insurance Contribution and additional £175 million of borrowing in order to create Employer Office within the target timescale of 80 per headroom within NIE’s budget for a loan to the PMS cent. being dealt with within 15 days. [85960] administrator to facilitate an orderly disposal of assets. Mr Gauke: HMRC National Insurance Contributions and Employer Office redeployed staff from other work Public Sector: Pensions to bring customer correspondence to under the 15 days target. Currently 88% of post is less than 15 days old. Mr Anderson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 21 November 2011, Official Taxation: Energy Report, columns 179-80W, on public sector: pensions, to which individual trades union leaders the Chief Secretary Alun Cairns: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the Treasury was referring in his BBC TV interview. what assessment he has made of the effect of the [85380] proposed removal of the levy exemption certificate on energy intensive industries which depend on combined Danny Alexander: As I said during the interview of 6 heat and power plants. [85911] November 2011 and in my answer to the same Miss Chloe Smith: Budget 2011 announced that from parliamentary question on 21 November 2011, most of 2013, the new relief from the carbon price floor for the unions want to reach an agreement. combined heat and power will be introduced and the Discussions are ongoing and I am very keen that a existing relief from climate change levy provided through deal is reached with the trades unions. levy exemption certificates removed. A Tax Impact and Information Note on the removal Bill Esterson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer of the exemption was published on 6 December, alongside what assessment he has made of the effect on the level the draft legislation, and is available at: of pensions of the uprating of public sector pensions http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/tiin/tiin700.pdf for (a) current and (b) future pensioners. [85697] The Government are working with the Combined Danny Alexander: Public service pensions in payment Heat and Power (CHP) Association and its members in (or deferral) are uprated annually according to consumer order to develop a simpler, direct and more cost effective prices index, through the statutory link to the indexation means of support for combined heat and power stations. of the state second pension. The level of the relief from the carbon price floor for supplies of fossil fuels to good-quality CHP stations On 6 December 2011, Official Report, columns 163-65, that are intended to be used to generate electricity, will the Minister for Pensions my hon. Friend the Member be announced at Budget 2012. for Thornbury and Yate (Steve Webb), confirmed in an oral statement to Parliament that the state second pension Alun Cairns: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer will be increased by 5.2% in April 2012. The level of what assessment he has made of the effect of the proposed public service pensions for current pensioners will therefore carbon floor price on energy intensive industries which also increase by 5.2%. depend on combined heat and power plants. [85912] David T. C. Davies: To ask the Chancellor of the Miss Chloe Smith: An assessment of the impacts of Exchequer what estimate he has made of the total the carbon price floor is given in HMRC’s Tax Information annual increase in public sector pension payment and Impact Note published alongside the Budget. This expenditure arising from the proposed (a) guarantee is available online at: to protect full existing pension rights for those within http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2011/tiin6111.pdf 10 years of pension age and (b) change in the accrual The Department for Energy and Climate Change has rate for public sector schemes. [86237] carried out an assessment of the impact of all Government policies on energy bills for energy-intensive industries, Danny Alexander: On 2 November 2011, I announced published on 23 November, available at: an enhanced offer on public service pensions. This http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/aes/ included: impacts/impacts.aspx setting an objective that public service workers who, as of The Chancellor of the Exchequer, my right hon. 1 April 2012, have 10 years or less to their pension age see no Friend the Member for Tatton (Mr Osborne), announced change in when they can retire, nor any decrease in the amount at the autumn statement on 29 November 2011, Official of pension they receive at their current normal pension age. Schemes have been asked to determine the fairest way of Report, columns 799-810, a package of measures to reaching this objective, while ensuring that costs to the taxpayer reduce the transitional impacts of energy and climate in each and every year do not exceed the Office for Budget change policies on the costs of electricity for the most Responsibility forecasts of public service pension costs; and energy-intensive industries. The Department for Business, an increase in the accrual rate in the Government’s preferred Innovation and Skills will assess the impacts of the scheme design for public service pension reform, from 1/65ths package as the details are developed. to 1/60ths. This is an 8% cost increase. Taxation: Pensions

Revenue and Customs: Correspondence Mr Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent estimate he has made of the potential Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the revenue yield from setting the annual pension tax relief Exchequer what steps he is taking to improve the allowance at (a) £40,000 and (b) £80,000; and if he performance of HM Revenue and Customs in dealing will make a statement. [85198] 539W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 540W

Mr Gauke: HMRC estimate that setting the annual Written Questions: Government Responses pension tax relief allowance at: (a) £40,000 would yield around £600 million per year. Chris Leslie: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he plans to answer questions (a) 79735, (b) (b) £80,000 would cost around £1,200 million per year. 79736, (c) 79737, (d) 79738 tabled by the hon. This is when compared to the current £50,000 annual Member for Nottingham East on 7 November 2011 for allowance which was introduced for tax year 2011-12 answer on 10 November 2011. [86045] onwards. Mr Gauke: I have replied to the hon. Member. These estimates are on an accruals basis and exclude behavioural effects. HEALTH Mr Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Contraceptives what recent estimate he has made of the cost of restricting tax relief on pensions to 20 per cent. on incomes of over £100,000 per annum; and if he will make a statement. Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what guidance his Department plans to provide to [85200] local authorities on how to undertake a needs assessment of contraceptive services in their locality to Mr Gauke: HMRC estimate that the revenue yield ensure choice and open access to these services; and if from restricting tax relief on pensions to 20% on incomes he will make a statement; [86149] over £100,000 per annum would be £3.6 billion in (2) with reference to his Department’s proposed 2012-13, when compared to a position of full relief on reforms to the delivery of public health services, what contributions up to £50,000. This is on an accruals basis support and guidance his Department provides to local and excludes behavioural effects. authorities on commissioning comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services; and if he will make a statement; [86150] (3) with reference to his Department’s proposed reforms to the delivery of public health services, what sexual VAT: Electronic Publishing and reproductive health services local authorities will be required to commission to ensure choice and open access to such services; and if he will make a statement; Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Chancellor of the [86151] Exchequer whether his Department plans to introduce (4) whether his Department expects Public Health a zero rate of value added tax on e-books. [85381] England to produce guidance for (a) clinical commissioning groups and (b) local authorities on the commissioning of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services; Mr Gauke: Under EU law, VAT on electronic books and if he will make a statement. [86152] must be charged at the standard rate. Existing agreements with our EU partners do not allow the UK or other Anne Milton: It is the Government’s intention that, member states to introduce a new zero-rate or extend an subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care existing one to relieve e-books from VAT and they Bill, there should be a small number of activities that specifically exclude electronically supplied services, which local authorities will be mandated to commission. These includes e-books, from a reduced rate. activities will include appropriate provision of confidential, open-access sexual health services. However, it is not the intention to be overly prescriptive regarding the detail of how these services should be commissioned, or Working Tax Credit: Wales to constrain local authorities’ ability to design services which meet the needs of local people. The Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and the Health Jessica Morden: To ask the Chancellor of the and Wellbeing Strategies prepared by each local area Exchequer how many (a) male and (b) female lone will help to inform the commissioning of sexual health parents receive working tax credits in Wales. [86018] services, including contraceptive services, from April 2013. Clinical and service standards developed by bodies such as the National Institute of Health and Clinical Mr Gauke: The following table shows the number of Excellence, the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive male and female lone parents receiving working tax Health and the British Association of Sexual Health credit in Wales. and HIV are available to current service commissioners to help to inform commissioning decisions, and these Number of in-work lone parents benefiting from working tax credit by standards will be available to future service commissioners gender of parent as well. Thousand The Department will also work with colleagues both Female 60.9 in the national health service and in local authorities to Male 4.0 determine their need for guidance on commissioning Total 64.9 specific public health services such as sexual health services. 541W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 542W

Abortion: Research Baby Care Units: Manpower

John Pugh: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for what research his Department has (a) commissioned Health what assessment he has made of future staffing and (b) evaluated on the causes of multiple abortions levels of neonatal units for premature and ill babies in among (i) under 16s and (ii) under 18s. [85502] NHS hospitals. [86510]

Anne Milton: The Department has not commissioned Anne Milton: Work force planning is a matter for any research projects specifically on the causes of multiple local national health service organisations. They are abortions among young women aged under 16 and best placed to assess the health needs of their local young women aged under 18. However, the Government health community and will commission the required Office for London, which has now been abolished, number of training places to develop the work force to commissioned a research report published in January meet those needs. 2010, ‘Young People in London: Abortion and Repeat A safety and quality assurance process has been Abortion’. A copy of the report has been placed in the developed to ensure that any significant change proposed Library. in the clinical work force has involved clinicians at all levels, maximising their engagement, leadership and Abortion: Young People sign off. Baby Care Units: Nurses John Pugh: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many girls of school age who had abortions in the latest period for which figures are available has Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many specialist nursing staff are employed previously been on an at risk register. [85503] to care for premature or ill babies in NHS hospitals in each year since 2006. [86511] Anne Milton: Data on the number of girls of school age having abortions that have previously been on the at Anne Milton: It is for local national health service risk register are not collected by the Department. organisations to invest in training for specialist skills and to deploy specialist nurses in accordance with their John Pugh: To ask the Secretary of State for Health local needs. what proportion of people aged under 18 years who had abortions in the latest period for which figures are In December 2010, a new code for the capture of the available are recorded as having had a previous number of nurses working in neonatal nursing, including special care baby units (SCBUs), was introduced to abortion. [85504] enable the separate identification of this key aspect of the NHS work force via the electronic staff record Anne Milton: The latest period for which data are (ESR) system. Though the records for this new code are available is 2010. Of the 16,460 legal abortions carried currently incomplete it will in time help to inform more out on young women in England and Wales under the targeted commissioning for the education and training age of 18 years, 1,294 (7.9%) had undergone a previous of this specific staff group and therefore help to improve abortion. front line nursing for premature and sick babies. As the code for nurses working in neonatal nursing Antenatal Care: Wirral (including SCBUs) was only implemented in ESR on 25 February 2011 even the most recent published data Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for (August 2011) would contain very patchy coverage and Health what improvements have been made in the therefore would not be suitable for answering this question. antenatal care offered to families by antenatal contact Those nurses working in maternity services and paediatric at 28 to 36 weeks in the Wirral following his agreement nursing would be involved in a wider range of work on the early implementer site Piloting of Pathways. outside of the specific care of premature and sick babies [86365] (hence the inclusion of the new code) and therefore would not be suitable either. Anne Milton: The Wirral is one of 26 early implementer sites announced in March 2011 to demonstrate Children’s Centres: Departmental Coordination improvement and success in delivery of the new Health Visiting Service Vision and Family Offer as detailed in Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for the “Health Visiting Implementation Plan: A Call to Health what steps his Department is taking jointly with Action 2011-2015”. Pilot projects under way are looking the Department for Education to enable Sure Start at improving outcomes for children and families and children’s centres to focus on families in greatest need. ensuring greater awareness of, and alignment of local [86366] early years services. We are advised that in the Wirral, the results and Anne Milton: The Government want to retain a vibrant lessons learned from the projects will be captured as network of high-quality children’s centres which are case studies and shared within the region, as well as accessible to all families but focused on those in greatest nationally to ensure the spread of key learning and need. improvement practice. This will be achieved through The Department of Health and the Department for monthly knowledge sharing forums and specifically Education published their joint vision for services from through an end of year event in March 2012. pregnancy through to age five in ‘Families in the Foundation 543W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 544W

Years’ earlier this year. As part of this joint vision, the Number Government have also committed to doubling the number (million) of places on the family nurse partnership (FNP) programme by 2015. This is a preventive programme for vulnerable (i) Estimate over next 20 years for people with 17.9 young first time mothers and their babies. It offers (B) one or more long-term conditions intensive and structured home visiting, delivered by specially trained nurses, from early pregnancy until the Departmental Assets child is two. FNP is either connected to or delivered from Sure Start children’s centres in many areas and Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health family nurses encourage clients to use children’s centre what assets his Department owns in Birmingham; and services. what the book value is of each such asset. [85442] DFE is working with departmental colleagues on the Health Visiting community development training Mr Simon Burns: The Department has no assets programme to look at sharing resources more widely physically located in Birmingham. and explore joint training opportunities for health visitors and children centre staff. Departmental Audit DFE, working closely with the Department, will set out ways in which children’s centres should focus on families in greatest need in the Sure Start children’s Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health centres statutory guidance, which will be sent out for what criteria (a) his Department and (b) its public consultation in the new year. Local commissioners of bodies use when deciding whether and when to hold an health services, as well as local authorities and other internal audit; and if he will make a statement. [85639] partners, must have regard to the statutory guidance. Mr Simon Burns: The Department’s internal audit Payment by results approaches are also being developed plan, developed in line with government internal audit to strengthen the focus on the core purpose of children’s standards, that outlines all proposed internal audit reviews centres: to improve child development and school readiness is designed to align with departmental priorities and (including health and well-being) amongst young children key risks. It is a 12-month plan which is revised and and to reduce inequalities. This includes identifying, refreshed every quarter in line with Audit and Risk reaching and supporting the most disadvantaged families Committee meetings and updates to the Department’s to improve their parenting aspirations and skills and to strategic risk register. This allows for the addition of promote health and well-being. new work to meet new priorities and emerging risks The NHS Operating Framework 2012-13 includes throughout the course of the year. the requirement that strategic health authority and The proposed areas and broad timings for the reviews primary care trust clusters should work together to are discussed with the Permanent Secretary, presented deliver the number of health visitors required as part of to the senior executive team for their input and then the Government commitment to increase the number subsequently to the Audit and Risk Committee (which by 4,200 by April 2015, as set out in the ‘Health Visiting then reports to the Department Board) for comment Implementation Plan 2011-15—A Call to Action’ to and agreement. deliver the Healthy Child Programme, provide greater support to families and develop local community capacity The Department’s arm’s length bodies maintain similar in support of children and families working closely with arrangements, in line with government internal audit Sure Start children’s centres and other local services. standards, to develop a programme of internal audit intended to provide assurance to their board that adequate Chronically Sick People systems of internal control are in place and operating satisfactorily. Programmes of internal audit are authorised Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health by their Audit and Risk Committee, or equivalent, and what estimate he has made of the number of people in will consist of a range of reviews. Some audits will be the (a) working and (b) total population suffering routine work required to provide assurance to their from (i) one long-term condition and (ii) two long-term external auditors, others will be based on risk assessments, conditions; and what he estimates the above numbers typically involving the internal auditors, management will be in (A) 10 years time and (B) 20 years time. and the Audit and Risk Committee, or designed to [85757] cover specific risks around fraud and corruption.

Paul Burstow: The information requested is shown in Departmental Public Expenditure the following table. Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Number how much his Department spent in (a) Birmingham, (million) (b) Newcastle, (c) Wakefield, (d) Manchester, (e) (a) Number of people in work force with one or 10.7 Leeds, (f) Liverpool, (g) Coventry, (h) Bristol, (i) more long-term conditions Sheffield, (j) Bradford, (k) Leicester and (l) Nottingham (b) Number of people with one long-term condition 10.4 in the latest financial year for which figures are available. (i) [85440] (b) Number of people with two or more long-term 5.0 (ii) conditions Mr Simon Burns: The information requested is not (i) Estimate over next 10 years for people with 15.4 (A) one or more long-term conditions collected centrally. Such information as is available is shown in the following table. 545W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 546W

Primary care trusts (PCTs) net operating costs, 2010-11 Departmental Responsibilities City Primary care trust £000 Birmingham Birmingham East 762,260 Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and North PCT what steps his Department is taking to ensure social Heart of 589,000 value is included when services are commissioned by Birmingham (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies; and if he Teaching PCT will make a statement. [85658] South Birmingham 676,051 PCT Newcastle Newcastle PCT 527,308 Anne Milton: In line with United Kingdom public Wakefield Wakefield District 651,925 procurement policy, the Department and its arm’s length PCT bodies’ procurement policy is to award contracts on the Manchester Manchester PCT 1,045,190 basis of value for money, which means the optimum Leeds Leeds PCT 1,303,910 combination of cost and quality over the lifetime of the Liverpool Liverpool PCT 1,010,022 project. Public sector procurers are required to assess Coventry Coventry Teaching 585,246 value for money from the perspective of the contracting PCT authority using criteria linked to the subject matter of Bristol Bristol PCT 761,261 the contract, including compliance with the published Sheffield Sheffield PCT 988,515 specification. Bradford Bradford and 914,092 Wider socio-economic benefits that do not accrue to Airedale PCT the contracting authority cannot be taken into account Leicester Leicester City PCT 548,802 at tender evaluation stage if they do not relate to the Nottingham Nottingham City 554,422 subject matter of a contract from the point of view of PCT the contracting authority. Source: Audited summarisation schedules, 2010-11. Doctors: Foreign Nationals This table shows the net operating costs of those PCTs which are geographically the most closely associated Dr Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health with the cities named in the question. These costs do (1) how many non-UK doctors have been registered in not represent direct expenditure by the Department. (a) Suffolk Primary Care Trust and (b) England to PCT expenditure is funded from sums voted by Parliament provide out-of-hours care in each year since 2001; to the Department. Once those funds are allocated, it is [85458] for PCTs to decide locally how the money should be (2) how many locum doctors have been registered in used to address the health needs of their resident (a) Suffolk Primary Care Trust and (b) England to populations. provide out-of-hours care in each year since 2001. [85459] Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much funding his Department has allocated to Mr Simon Burns: This information is not held centrally. (a) (b) Birmingham in ring-fenced and non-ring Doctors are not required to register specifically to fenced funding grants for each of the next three years. provide out-of-hours care. Every doctor providing national [85441] health service primary care services must be on a Performers List held by a primary care trust (PCT). In England a Mr Simon Burns: The following table shows total doctor can only be on one PCT list at any one time. revenue allocations made to primary care trusts (PCTs) in the Birmingham area for 2011-12. E. Coli

2011-12 total revenue allocations PCT (£ million) John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many cases of E. coli 0157 infection were Birmingham East and North 747.3 reported in (a) 2006, (b) 2007, (c) 2008, (d) 2009, (e) Heart of Birmingham Teaching 578.4 2010 and (f) 2011. [85948] South Birmingham 650.2 Anne Milton: The Health Protection Agency (HPA) PCT recurrent revenue allocations are not broken carries out national microbiological and epidemiological down by service or policy area. It is for PCTs to commission surveillance of E. coli 0157. The HPA receives reports services to meet the health care needs of their local of laboratory human infections from microbiology populations, taking account of local and national priorities. laboratories throughout England and Wales and these data are collated and reported regularly in the HPA’s PCT allocations for 2012-13 will be announced shortly. Health Protection Report: This will be the last round of allocations made to PCTs, as, subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care www.hpa.org.uk Bill, from 2013-14 the NHS Commissioning Board The number of cases reported in England and Wales in would be responsible for the allocation of resources to the last five years are provided as annual and regional clinical commissioning groups, while the Department totals in Tables 1 and 2. Outbreak data are provided in would make grants to local authorities for their public Table 3. Data for 2011 will not be available until early health responsibilities. 2012. 547W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 548W

Table 1. E coli 0157 annual totals for England and Wales, 2006-10 Table 1. E coli 0157 annual totals for England and Wales, 2006-10 Number of E. coli 0157 cases Number of E. coli 0157 cases

2006 1,001 2009 1,034 2007 828 2010 793 2008 950 Total 4,606

Table 2: Regional totals of E. coli 0157 in England and Wales, by year for 2006-10

Region 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

East midlands 56 33 49 51 46

East of England 59 93 73 84 68

London 125 59 84 109 57

North-east 60 74 60 68 33

North-west 170 138 169 135 134

South-east 126 107 98 180 99

South-west 117 102 118 127 113

West midlands 50 45 104 78 82

Yorkshire and Humber 182 142 140 125 121

Wales 56 35 55 77 40

Total 1,001 828 950 1,034 793

Table 3: General outbreaks of infectious intestinal disease caused by E. coli 0157 in 2006-10

People affected

Mode of transmission Number of outbreaks Number Percentage

Foodborne1 20 273 35.9

Recreational water 3 21 2.8

Animal contact 18 170 22.4

Person to person 21 289 38.0

Other/outdoor events 2 7 0.9

All outbreaks (total) 64 760 —

1 Food is defined as provided in Regulation (EC) No 178/2002; i.e. a food is any substance or product, whether processed, partially processed or unprocessed intended to be, or reasonably expected to be ingested by humans, including drinking water. 549W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 550W

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Anne Milton: The actual United Kingdom prevalence Health what steps he has taken to ensure the for either Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or Fetal alcohol implementation of the recommendations of the Griffin spectrum disorder is unknown and there is no mechanism report into the outbreak of E.coli 0157 at Godstone currently for national data collection. Farm, Surrey in 2009. [85955] Four Seasons Health Care Anne Milton: Following publication in June 2010 of Professor George Griffin’s report of the independent investigation into the outbreak of E. coli 0157 at Godstone Liz Kendall: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Farm in 2009, the Godstone Multi Agency Implementation (1) with reference to comments made by the Minister Committee (GMAIC) was established to agree and for Care Services on Radio 4’s Today Programme, 6 implement action in response to the recommendations December 2011, on Southern Cross, what assurance made in the Griffin report. process his Department has undertaken on the financial viability of Four Seasons Healthcare; and if he will GMAIC was a multi-agency cross-government group publish the results of any such assurance process; that included representatives from the open farms industry, [86176] public interest groups and the National Farmers Union and was chaired by the Health Protection Agency (HPA). (2) what assurance his Department has received that GMAIC has completed its task, and a report of the Four Seasons Healthcare will seek to restructure its actions it has taken against each of the 43 recommendations finances following its takeover of Southern Cross care in the Griffin Report is published in full on the HPA’s homes; and when any such restructuring will be website: completed; [86177] www.hpa.org.uk/webw/HPAweb&HPAwebStandard/ (3) how many times (a) Ministers and (b) officials HPAweb_C/1317131725640 of his Department have met senior management of Four Seasons Healthcare in the last 12 months. [86221] Epilepsy: Health Services Paul Burstow: The chairman and chief executive of Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for Four Seasons Healthcare have met senior officials from Health what variation there is in the funding of Vagus the Department to explain the company’s financial Nerve Stimulation for refractory epilepsy by (a) position twice in the last 12 months. We will continue to primary care trusts and (b) specialised commissioning keep in close touch with the company. There have been groups. [85379] no meetings between the company and Ministers to discuss this issue. Paul Burstow: We have made no analysis of any variation in funding for vagus nerve stimulation for The company has explained its trading position and refractory epilepsy by primary care trusts and specialised its plans to deal with its debt restructuring. It has commissioning groups. stressed that its business model is very different to that of Southern Cross Healthcare. Unlike Southern Cross, Family Nurse Partnership Programme it owns the majority of its homes. It also reports that it is operating profitably and is better able to cope with Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for fluctuations in the market. Health (1) how many people worked in family nurse Four Seasons’ historic debt matures in September partnerships in each year since the inception of the 2012. The process to restructure the debt has begun and family nurse partnership programme; [85811] will be completed before the maturity date. The information (2) how many families received assistance from provided by the company is commercially sensitive and family nurse partnerships in each year since the it would not be appropriate to publish it. inception of the scheme. [86367] At present, the Department does not have concerns about Four Seasons’ financial position. However, we Anne Milton: Since 2007, the approximate number of are keeping the situation under review. family nurses and family nurse partnership (FNP) It is for the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to supervisors working (full-time equivalents) in local FNP register providers of adult social care services, including sites each year is 52 in 2007-08, 180 in 200-09, 270 in care homes. The registration process for care providers 2009-10, 295 in 2010-11. We expect there to be 430 by with the CQC requires that they declare their organisation the end of 2011-12. takes all reasonable steps to remain financially viable. The total number of clients to have received assistance Where the CQC has concerns regarding a declaration, it from the FNP programme to date (December 2011) is will ask further questions to determine whether the over 8,000. The approximate number of new families provider is compliant with Regulation 13 of the CQC who have joined FNP each year from 2007 was 1,189 in (Registration) Regulations 2009, which requires providers 2007-08, 889 in 2008-09, 2,331 in 2009-10, 2,583 in to ensure the “financial viability” of their enterprise, 2010-11 and 1172 so far in 2011-12. Families receive before deciding whether to register them. assistance from FNP for up to two and a half years. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Health Services: Cardiovascular System

James Wharton: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Health what information his Department holds on the whether NICE has any plans to publish a quality number of children with foetal alcohol spectrum standard on the treatment of cardiovascular disease. disorders. [85486] [85556] 551W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 552W

Mr Simon Burns: The National Institute for Health reformed across the United Kingdom, as part of a and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has already published programme of work emphasising the vital role of health Quality Standards on chronic heart failure and stroke, visitors and other specialist community public health and is developing further Quality Standards on stable nurses. The NMC will build on much of the work that angina, acute coronary syndromes (including myocardial has been led by the four UK health departments, including infarction), and thromboembolic diseases (including the work of the Health Visitor Programme. The Department pulmonary embolism). will contribute to the review. We are not aware of a date Further information on the Quality Standards NICE for which the review is scheduled for completion. are developing can be found at: www.nice.org.uk/aboutnice/qualitystandards/ Health Visitors: Training qualitystandards.jsp NICE, jointly with the National Quality Board, recently Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for ran an engagement exercise on the development of a Health how many health visitor training commissions library of Quality Standard topics for the national there were in each strategic health authority in 2011-12. health service. The list of proposed Quality Standard [85812] topics published as part of this exercise included the following cardiovascular topics: Anne Milton: The following table shows the number acute heart failure; of health visitor training commissions planned by each atrial fibrillation; strategic health authority (SHA) for 2011-12. hypertension; Planned health visitor training commissions 2011-12 by SHA secondary care management of malignant hypertension; Number of commissions lipid modification; North East 96 secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and cardiac rehabilitation; North West 111 Yorkshire and Humber 174 familial hypercholesterolemia; East Midlands 165 risk assessment of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors; West Midlands 182 peripheral vascular disease; East of England 236 varicose veins; and London 272 abdominal aortic aneurysm. South East Coast 154 The engagement exercise closed on 14 October 2011. South Central 130 Further information on the engagement exercise can South West 210 be found at: Source: Quarterly SHA Financial Management Returns www.nice.org.uk/getinvolved/currentniceconsultations/ NQBEngagement.jsp Health: Males An announcement on next steps will be made once the responses have been analysed. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Health Services: Males if he will estimate the number of men that are likely to suffer from testosterone deficiency syndrome in 2020. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Health [85554] whether he has any plans to include sexual history in the men’s health check. [85553] Anne Milton: Data on the number of men who suffer from testosterone deficiency syndrome are not currently Mr Simon Burns: The NHS Health Check programme held centrally and there are no plans at present to is a national public health programme for men and estimate the number of men that might suffer from the women in England aged 40-74. The purpose of the syndrome in 2020. programme is to identify an individual’s risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and diabetes, and for that Hospitals risk to be managed through appropriate follow up. There are no current plans to include sexual history as part of a check. Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which hospitals (a) he and (b) each other Health Visitors: Regulation Minister in his Department has visited since May 2010; and on what date each such visit took place. [85547] Mr Frank Field: To ask the Secretary of State for Anne Milton: The information requested has been Health when he expects to reform the regulation of the placed in the Library. health visitor role undertaken by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. [85815] KPMG Anne Milton: The review to reform the regulation of the health visiting profession is the responsibility of the Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Health how much his Department has paid (a) KPMG The NMC announced on 19 October 2011, that and (b) McKinsey since May 2010; and for what regulation of the health visitor role is to be positively services. [85469] 553W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 554W

Anne Milton: The following tables set out information bodies; and whether he has contributed to its policy from the Department’s central procurement system about review on addiction to medicines. [85384] the purchase order (PO) value the Department (includes core Department of Health and Connecting for Health) Anne Milton: Professor Malcolm Lader is one of the has awarded and paid KPMG and McKinsey since experts and stakeholders whose advice has been sought April 2010 (figures can only be provided for the full in the Department’s work on addiction to medicines. financial year 2010-11). Professor Malcolm Lader does not hold any official appointment within the Department, its Executive agencies KPMG LLP or non-departmental public bodies. Supplier name Type of services 2010-11 (£)

KPMG LLP Organisation and Change 3,990,592 Medical Certificates Management Consultancy Programme and Project 608,131 Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Management Consultancy when he expects GP practices to have access to systems Secondment 21,731 allowing them to issue electronic fit notes. [85759] Total — 4,620,455 Mr Simon Burns: We expect over half of the general McKinsey and Co Inc UK practitioner (GP) practices in England to have access to Supplier name Type of services 2010-11 (£) electronic fit notes using their GP systems during spring McKinsey and Organisation and Change 139,000 2012 with others to follow as the practices’ system Co Inc UK Management Consultancy suppliers develop their systems to incorporate this Total 139,000 functionality. The following table sets out information from the Mental Health Services: Hospital Beds Department’s central procurement system about the PO value the Department (includes core Department of Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Connecting for Health) has awarded to Health how many acute mental health beds there are in McKinsey since April 2011-12 (the current financial each mental health trust in England; and how many year, to date). such beds there are per 100,000 people. [85823] Supplier name Type of services 2011-12 (£) Paul Burstow: The Department does not collect the McKinsey and Organisation and Change 200,300 total number of acute mental health beds in each mental Co Inc UK Management Consultancy health trust in England or the number of beds per Total 200,300 100,000 people. However, the Department does collect data on the average daily number of mental health beds available in Malcolm Lader all trusts in England that are available overnight. Figures for the latest quarter (July to September Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011) are in the following table. The table also shows Health whether Professor Malcolm Lader holds any population data for England, and the number of beds official appointment within his Department or any of per 100,000 people for England. The population data its Executive agencies or non-departmental public cannot be broken down further.

Average daily number of available mental illness beds open overnight in Quarter 2 2011-12 for all trusts with mental illness beds in England Mid-2011 Available mental population Beds per Organisation illness beds (open estimate 100,000 code Organisation name overnight) (thousand) population

England 23,208 52,655 44.08

RR7 Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust 44 — — RTF Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 75 — — RX3 Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust 764 — — RX4 Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust 871 — — RBS Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust 7 — — RNN Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 134 — — RT2 Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust 519 — — RTV 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 304 — — RW3 Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 10 — — RW4 Mersey Care NHS Trust 408 — — RW5 Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust 629 — — RXA Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 287 — — RXV Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust 605 — — TAE Manchester Mental Health and Social Care Trust 248 — — 5NV North Yorkshire and York PCT 178 — — RCU Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust 24 — — RGD Leeds Partnerships NHS Foundation Trust 347 — — 555W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 556W

Average daily number of available mental illness beds open overnight in Quarter 2 2011-12 for all trusts with mental illness beds in England Mid-2011 Available mental population Beds per Organisation illness beds (open estimate 100,000 code Organisation name overnight) (thousand) population

RV9 Humber NHS Foundation Trust 222 — — RXE Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust 271 — — RXG South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 469 — — RY6 Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust 8 — — TAD Bradford District Care Trust 205 — — RHA Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust 1,023 — — RP1 Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 238 — — RP7 Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 227 — — RT5 Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust 432 — — RXM Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 302 — — RY8 Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust 73 — — R1A Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust 179 — — RLY North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust 211 — — RQ3 Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 44 — — RRE South Staffordshire and Shropshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 357 — — RXT Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust 691 — — RYG Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust 288 — — RYK Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 194 — — TAJ Black Country Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 201 — — RMY Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust 394 — — RRD North Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 399 — — RT1 Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust 326 — — RT6 Suffolk Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 142 — — RWN South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust 717 — — RWR Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 508 — — RAL Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust 1 — — RAT North East London NHS Foundation Trust 313 — — RKL West London Mental Health NHS Trust 609 — — RP4 Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust 8 — — RPG Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust 448 — — RQY South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust 529 — — RRP Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust 600 — — RRV University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 12 — — RV3 Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust 840 — — RV5 South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust 940 — — RWK East London NHS Foundation Trust 698 — — TAF Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust 189 — — RX2 Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 620 — — RXY Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust 565 — — 5CQ Milton Keynes PCT 63 — — 5QT Isle of Wight NHS PCT 64 — — R1C Solent NHS Trust 140 — — RNU Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust 439 — — RW1 Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust 637 — — RWX Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 235 — — 5F1 Plymouth Teaching PCT 146 — — RDY Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust 99 — — RH5 Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 168 — — RJ8 Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust 135 — — RTQ 2gether NHS Foundation Trust 226 — — RVJ North Bristol NHS Trust 22 — — RVN Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust 615 — — 557W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 558W

Average daily number of available mental illness beds open overnight in Quarter 2 2011-12 for all trusts with mental illness beds in England Mid-2011 Available mental population Beds per Organisation illness beds (open estimate 100,000 code Organisation name overnight) (thousand) population

RWV Devon Partnership NHS Trust 274 — — Notes: 1. Bed numbers were collected by consultant specialty and only include beds where the patient is under the care of a consultant and covered the following consultant specialties: 710 Adult Mental Illness 711 Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 712 Forensic Psychiatry 713 Psychotherapy 715 Old Age Psychiatry 2. ONS population estimates are not available for individual NHS organisations. Sources: 1. Department of Health form, KH03 2. Office for National Statistics, 2010-based National Population Projections—Table A1-4 www.ons.gov.uk/ons/publications/re-reference-tables.html?edition=tcm%3a77-229866

Midwives: Manpower knowledge and explicit support. In the case of access to neurosurgery, this will still be governed by local policy Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for although work is being undertaken to identify differences Health what steps his Department is taking to ensure in access to services. that the additional midwives the Government A clinical, financial and public patient experience undertook to provide are being provided at a local level and engagement process is being developed to support in the NHS; how many such midwives have already policy convergence for 2013-14 onwards. been provided; and how many he plans to provide in NHS: Negligence each year to 2015. [85490]

Anne Milton: The number of qualified midwives has Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for increased by 2.2% (450) since May 2010. However, it is Health (1) whether the NHS Litigation Authority is the responsibility of local NHS organisations to plan operating a moratorium on settling large claims; and if and deliver a work force appropriate to the needs of he will make a statement; [85881] their local population, based on clinical need and sound (2) in how many cases the NHS Litigation Authority evidence. has admitted liability but voluntary interim payments The Department has asked the Centre for Workforce have not been paid; and if he will make a statement; Intelligence to undertake an in-depth study of the nursing [85882] and maternity work force starting 2011-12 in order to (3) how many cases received by the NHS Litigation inform the future commissioning of training places. Authority have been resolved in terms of (a) liability This study will help inform our plans for the future. and (b) damages and fees in each month since May 2010. [85883] Neurology: Surgery Mr Simon Burns: The NHS Litigation Authority Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for (NHSLA) does not have a moratorium on settling large Health what assessment he has made of the effect of claims. The NHSLA is committed to appropriately interim funding decisions for neurosurgery made by resolving all claims as speedily as possible. specialised commissioning groups on (a) patients with The NHSLA does not have data on the number of rare clinical need and (b) their carers and families. cases where they admitted liability but voluntary interim [85378] payments have not been paid, because the NHSLA does not have a record of all instances where voluntary Anne Milton: During 2012-13, all money and interim payments were requested. accountability for the decision making processes for The number of clinical negligence claims settled by access to specialised services, will still be under the the NHSLA by month since May 2010 is shown in the control of primary care trusts (PCTs). following table. The table shows separately the number Commitments have been given to PCTs that no policy of settlements with no damages or costs and the number convergence will take place in 2012-13 without their of settlements with damages and/or costs.

Number of claims settled Month of settlement Nil damages and costs With damages and/or costs Total

May 2010 119 414 533 June 2010 102 477 579 July 2010 99 .515 614 August 2010 99 373 472 September 2010 81 510 591 October 2010 176 663 839 November 2010 182 640 822 December 2010 113 470 583 559W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 560W

Number of claims settled Month of settlement Nil damages and costs With damages and/or costs Total

January 2011 117 520 637 February 2011 128 549 677 March 2011 176 628 804 April 2011 73 437 510 May 2011 107 609 716 June 2011 121 575 696 July 2011 122 604 726 August 2011 146 722 868 September 2011 149 599 748 October 2011 269 589 858 November 2011 143 546 689 Note: The data covers the period up to 30 November 2011. Source: NHS Litigation Authority, 2011

Palliative Care The report of the third round of the audit notes that in 94% of documented cases discussions explaining the use of the LCP were held with relatives or carers. Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health However, as part of the report’s recommendations, it what steps his Department is taking to draw to the stresses that the decision that a patient is dying and in attention of (a) GPs and (b) hospital trusts the recent the last hours or days of life should be discussed with advice of the National Institute for Health and Clinical patients, where appropriate, and always with relatives or Excellence on the use of painkillers in palliative care. carers. [85990] Palliative Care: Community Hospitals Paul Burstow: The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is currently developing a clinical guideline on the safe and effective use of opioids Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for in palliative care and has not yet issued final guidance Health whether he has made any assessment of the to the national health service. relative importance of palliative care, rehabilitation and post-operative and respite care being delivered in NICE has published draft guidance for consultation local community hospitals. [85376] and stakeholders have until 6 January to comment on NICE’S provisional recommendations. The Institute Paul Burstow: The Government are committed to currently expects to publish its final guidance in May increasing care and access to treatment in the community. 2012. Local community hospitals provide a vital community resource to support patients in need of rehabilitation, Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health recuperation and respite care—preventing unnecessary what steps his Department is taking to ensure that admissions to hospitals and supporting a rapid return patients and their relatives are informed by clinicians to independence and good health. when hospital trusts are placed on the Liverpool care Subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care pathway. [85991] Bill through Parliament, power and responsibility for commissioning services will be devolved to more local Paul Burstow: The Liverpool Care Pathway (LCP) clinical commissioning groups, which will mean that the was developed by the Marie Curie Palliative Care Institute design of patient pathways and local services is always in Liverpool as an approach to support the delivery of clinically-led and based on more effective dialogue and good care in the last days of life. The Department of partnership with hospital specialists. Health is not responsible for the LCP, but recommends it as good practice. Prescriptions Before putting someone on the LCP, senior doctors and nurses involved in the patient’s care should agree Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for that death is very likely to be imminent and that being Health how many prescriptions were issued by (a) placed on the pathway will be beneficial to the patient. nurse independent prescribers, (b) community The LCP documentation is clear that a decision to use practitioner nurse prescribers and (c) doctors in each the pathway should always involve the patient and/or of the last 12 months for which figures are available. family members. [85491] The National Care of the Dying Audit—Hospitals, based on the standards of care within the LCP and run Mr Simon Burns: Information is not collected centrally by the Marie Curie Palliative Care Institute in collaboration on the number of prescriptions issued. Information is with the Royal College of Physicians, assesses the use of available for the number of items prescribed and the LCP and the quality of care provision. This audit is subsequently dispensed in primary care. The following one of those that must be reported in providers’ Quality table provides information, by category of prescriber, Accounts. for the latest 12-month period. 561W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 562W

Prescription items issued by category of prescriber in England, and dispensed, in the community, in the United Kingdom, from October 2010 until September 2011 Thousand Community practitioner Nurse independent nurse prescriber prescriber Doctors Other prescribers Total1

2010 October 161 1,011 78,156 33 79,361 November 166 1,058 78,128 37 79,388 December 157 1,102 81,552 33 82,845

2011 January 164 1,088 74,007 32 75,290 February 155 1,037 70,413 34 71,638 March 176 1,196 80,982 40 82,394 April 153 1,043 72,322 34 73,552 May 177 1,111 77,228 35 78,551 June 184 1,159 79,251 37 80,631 July 178 1,107 76,556 40 77,881 August 175 1,109 77,624 43 78,951 September 177 1,110 80,601 38 81,926 1 Figures may not sum due to rounding. Source: Prescribing Analysis and CosT tool (PACT) system.

Radiation Exposure The remaining costs were incurred supporting the United Kingdom national response. No direct costs were incurred supporting the International Atomic Energy Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Health Agency. Ongoing support is currently provided to what costs have been incurred by the Health Protection UNSCEAR and WHO. All of these costs were paid Agency following the incident at the Fukushima from the HPA Grant in Aid as part of the HPA’s UK nuclear plant in respect of collaboration with (a) health protection responsibilities. organisations involved with civil contingencies, (b) the World Health Organisation, (c) the International Steria Atomic Energy Agency and (d) the UN Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation; and Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health from what budget any such costs have been paid. how many contracts his Department has awarded to [85789] Steria since May 2010; and what the (a) purpose, (b) monetary value and (c) net worth was of each contract. [85476] Anne Milton: The total costs of staff time incurred by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) in connection Anne Milton: The Department’s central procurement with the accident at the Fukushima nuclear plant up system holds information on the following purchase until 8 December 2011 were £313,675 of which £2,459 orders (POs) relating to contracts awarded between were in support of the United Nations Scientific Committee May 2010 and November 2011. The following table sets on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), and out the date the PO was awarded, the service description £50,843 were in support of the World Health Organization for each transaction and the total value of the PO when (WHO) including travel costs to Geneva. awarded.

Date purchase order awarded Description of services Monetary value (£) Net worth (£)

15 June 2010 Implementation Management for the e-Learning for 33,120.00 33,120.00 Health Programme 17 November 2010 Commercial Management for the Strategic Commissioning 48,730.00 48,730.00 Development Unit

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE (Chris Huhne), has not had any discussions with representatives of the Climatic Research Unit at the university of East Anglia. Climate Research Unit All DECC ministerial meetings are published on a quarterly basis on the Department’s website at: Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions he registers/registers.aspx has had with representatives of the Climate Research Carbon Emissions Unit. [86249] Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: The Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change what the monetary value and Climate Change, the right hon. Member for Eastleigh was of the (a) Carbon Emission Reduction Target and 563W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 564W

(b) Community Energy Saving Programme in (i) 2008, selection process. We will not be making decisions about (ii) 2009, (iii) 2010 and (iv) 2011; and what the which projects to take forward before this process has monetary value of such schemes will be in (A) 2012 been completed. and (B) 2013. [85910] Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: These obligations are set in carbon Energy and Climate Change how much Government saving terms and my Department does not require or funding will be provided for carbon capture and storage collect data on actual expenditure. We do however demonstration projects in (a) 2011-12, (b) 2012-13, make estimates of costs in the Impact Assessments (c) 2013-14 and (d) 2014-15. [85900] published when the obligations are put in place or varied. We have estimated that obligated parties would Charles Hendry: We have made it clear that £l billion need to invest around £5,000 million to meet their is available to support CCS projects. We expect projects CERT targets (over the period April 2008 to December to come forward in this spending review period and for 2012) and around £350 million to meet CESP (October expenditure to be committed as part of that process. 2009 to December 2012). The detailed profile of spend will be determined by the CERT and CESP will be replaced by the Energy projects selected and when they require funding. We Company Obligation (ECO) in late 2012. As part of the and our partners also expect to invest £l25 million in recent Green Deal consultation we have proposed targets CCS R&D by 2015. for ECO which we estimate would cost around £1,300 million per year. Carbon Sequestration: Finance

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change what progress he has made and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of 6 on his inquiry into the outcome of the European Parliament December 2011, Official Report, column 211W, on vote of 5 July 2011 on carbon emissions targets; and carbon sequestration: finance, when the competition when he plans to publish the outcome of the inquiry. for the carbon capture and storage fund will close; and [86520] over what timetable he expects the carbon capture and storage competition fund to be distributed. [86233] Gregory Barker: There has been no inquiry by my officials into the European Parliament’s vote on EU Charles Hendry: We will be launching an accelerated greenhouse gas emission reductions, which took place process for the selection of CCS projects as soon as on 5 July 2011. possible. The detailed profile of spend will be determined by the projects selected and when they require funding. Carbon Sequestration Climate Change: International Cooperation Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what the expected timetable is for the development of carbon capture and storage Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for projects; and if he will make a statement. [85898] Energy and Climate Change what proportion of the funding he announced for climate finance in Africa in Charles Hendry: We will be launching an accelerated his speech at the Grantham Institute on 24 November process for the selection of CCS projects as soon as 2011 consists of funding previously announced by his possible. The Department is holding an Industry Day Department. [86007] on 16 December to provide further information on the CCS programme. Sponsors and developers of proposed Gregory Barker: I referred to a package of UK support to help Africa adapt to the impacts of climate change CCS projects, power generators, CO2 transport infrastructure providers, oil and gas field operators and and move to low carbon development paths in a speech at the Grantham Institute on 24 November 2011. I independent operators, and CO2 capture technology providers are invited to contact the Office of Carbon announced the full details of this package in Durban on Capture and Storage if they wish to attend. 6 December 2011. The package is all funded out of an existing funding Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for commitment—the UK’s £2.9 billion International Climate Energy and Climate Change what discussions he has Fund, which was announced in the 2010 spending review. had with Scottish and Southern Energy on the timetable for the development of carbon capture and Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for storage at Peterhead. [85899] Energy and Climate Change if the funding he announced to finance climate change adaptation and mitigation in Charles Hendry: Ministers hold regular meetings with his speech at the Grantham Institute on 24 November industry to discuss a range of energy and climate change 2011 will meet the transparency criteria promoted by issues. In addition, my officials hold regular discussions the International Aid Transparency Initiative. [86008] on specific issues relating to the development of Carbon Capture and Storage. Officials from the Office of Carbon Gregory Barker: Yes. This Government are committed Capture and Storage met with representatives of a to being open and transparent on how UK climate number of CCS project developers recently, including finance is spent. I announced a package of programmes SSE, to discuss the development of the UK CCS to finance climate change adaptation and mitigation in Programme and will be holding an Industry Day on Durban on 6 December. All of the programmes contribute 16 December to provide further information on the to UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) and 565W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 566W information will be published to meet the transparency the Coal Authority’s food and catering services are provided standards promoted by the International Aid Transparency by an external company under contract. The countries of Initiative. origin are not displayed. The majority of the food provided is sourced from the United Kingdom. The remainder comprises fresh salad produce, tinned tomatoes and other produce, the Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for origins of which will change during the year. Energy and Climate Change what steps he plans to take at the Durban conference on climate change to secure Departmental Flags global commitment to the Cancun summit aim of providing US $100 billion funding for climate change adaptation Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for and mitigation in the developing world. [86009] Energy and Climate Change how many flags his Department (a) owns and (b) maintains; and at what Gregory Barker: The UK has been working with EU cost in the last 12 months. [86250] member states and international partners at the Durban conference to make progress on long-term climate finance, Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and to ensure that developed countries meet their commitment Climate Change has one standard Union flag on one of to mobilise $100 billion of public and private climate its buildings at 55 Whitehall. finance per year by 2020. Specifically, we aim to make In the last 12 months, the Department has not incurred progress on the recommendations of the Advisory Group any costs in relation to the flag. on Climate Finance (AGF) and are looking to build on the work undertaken by the World Bank for G20 Finance Departmental Internet Ministers. Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Catering Energy and Climate Change what social media presence his Department has. [86244] Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether food and Gregory Barker: The Department has a social media catering services in (a) his Department and (b) public presence on Twitter, Flickr, YouTube and Facebook. bodies for which he is responsible plan to implement calorie labelling on menus and display boards. [85856] Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many unique hits his Gregory Barker: DECC receives its catering services Department’s website received in each of the last 12 through a contract procured by the Department for months. [86253] Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Guideline Daily Amounts (GDAs) labels, which provide information Gregory Barker: The Department’s website’s unique on calories, fats, saturated fats, salt and sugar, are hits for each of the last 12 months are as follows: provided on foods and have been rolled out across the DEFRA catering contract, which includes DECC. Website hits In relation to those DECC non departmental public 2011 bodies who have catering contracts: November 217,726 the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is planning to implement October 210,974 the labelling of calories on menus in the new year. September 126,156 the coal authority’s external catering services provider is developing August 118,362 menus and display boards for main courses on sale which will July 131,992 show calorie labelling. The menus and display boards will be June 134,867 available in the authority’s canteen as from February 2012. May 129,014 Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State April 112,181 for Energy and Climate Change what steps the food March 174,855 and catering services in (a) his Department and (b) February 118,218 public bodies for which he is responsible are taking to January 108,999 ensure the countries of origin of foods are labelled on its menus and display boards. [85857] 2010 December 94,428 Gregory Barker: DECC receives its catering services through a contract procured by the Department for Departmental Manpower Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The catering contractor has signed up to the industry principles, Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for agreed with DEFRA, for country of origin labelling for Energy and Climate Change how many staff of his meat and dairy products. The country of origin is Department are aged over (a) 55 and (b) 65 years. identified on menus by indicating either UK (British), [86246] EU or global. In relation to those DECC non-departmental public Gregory Barker: As of 30 September 2011, the bodies who have contracts covering catering: Department of Energy and Climate Change employed the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is planning to implement (a) 121 people who are aged over 55 years and (b) less country of origin labelling on menus in the new year; and than five who are aged over 65 years. 567W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 568W

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Pay Energy and Climate Change how many staff in his Department previously worked for a political party. Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for [86614] Energy and Climate Change how many staff in his Department receive salaries over £65,000 per year. Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and [86624] Climate Change (DECC) does not hold details of the Gregory Barker: There were 69 civil servants in the previous employment of its staff on a central database. Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) To search individual records to find this information receiving a salary of more than £65,000 as at 30 September would incur disproportionate costs. 2011. The salary figures used are base salary and do not Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for include any allowances or non-consolidated performance Energy and Climate Change How many people were related pay. working for his Department on (a) 11 May 2010 and Departmental Press Releases (b) 8 December 2011. [86626] Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: The number of civil servants employed Energy and Climate Change how many press releases by the Department of Energy and Climate Change his Department has issued in the last 12 months. (DECC) on specific dates is shown in the following [86257] table. Gregory Barker: DECC has issued 115 press releases Civil servants (including senior in the last 12 months. civil servants) Departmental Responsibilities 31 May 2010 1,018 30 November 2011 1,228 Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps his Department is taking to ensure social value is included when services The number shown above are quoted as full-time are commissioned by (a) his Department and (b) its equivalent. public bodies; and if he will make a statement. [85655] Gregory Barker: As part of its standard terms and Departmental Official Hospitality conditions, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) requires its suppliers to provide goods and services in accordance with good industry practice Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and legal requirements. This includes consideration of and Climate Change what receptions and events have areas with a social dimension such as health, safety and been hosted by his Department since May 2010, including welfare and the Equality Act. those sponsored by a third party. [84192] Departmental Reviews Gregory Barker: DECC uses a wide range of methods Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for and channels to ensure stakeholders and the public are Energy and Climate Change what departmental policy engaged with its policies. This includes hosting events reviews his Department has undertaken since 6 May itself, and where appropriate jointly with stakeholders, 2010; and on what date each such review (a) was across the UK to maximise reach and value for money. announced and (b) is expected to publish its findings. However, a comprehensive list of all receptions and [85876] events hosted by DECC since May 2010 is not held centrally and to assemble the information would entail Gregory Barker: The following table sets out, in order disproportionate cost. of date announced, the policy reviews announced and undertaken by the Department of Energy and Climate Engagement activity including events is reported regularly Change since 6 May 2010, the date each was announced, on the Department’s website at and the date each was published, or is expected to be www.decc.gov.uk published.

Policy review Date announced Date published/expected to publish

Review of the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme 27 July 2010 Headline results of the review were published in June 2011. A formal consultation on the details will be published in spring 2012.

Review of Climate Change Agreements 27 July 2010 The consultation was published in September 2011 and the Government response is expected in the new year.

Review of Ofgem 27 July 2010 A summary of conclusions was published 19 May 2011. The final report was published 12 July 2011.

Delivery Review 27 July 2010 Published 19 May 2011. 569W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 570W

Policy review Date announced Date published/expected to publish

Fuel Poverty Review HMG announced a review of the definition of fuel Professor Hills published his Interim Report 19 poverty as part of the comprehensive spending review, October 2011. The final report is due to be presented 20 October 2010. The Secretary of State for Energy to Government in early 2012. and Climate Change appointed Professor Hills to carry out a review of the current definition of fuel poverty on 14 March 2011. Review of the Feed-in Tariffs Scheme 7 February 2011 Findings on the fast-track element of the review were published on 9 June 2011. Overall findings from the comprehensive review will be announced during the first half of 2012. Low Carbon Innovation Delivery Review 21 March 2011 Outcomes will be published on the DECC website prior to the new year.

Drugs Gregory Barker: More than 600,000 of the poorest pensioners will receive a core group discount of £120 on Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for their electricity bills this winter. Regional, local authority, Energy and Climate Change what his Department’s or constituency breakdowns for this data are not available. policy is on mandatory drug testing of its employees. Energy: Prisons [86251]

Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Climate Change does not have a policy of undertaking Energy and Climate Change if he will estimate the mandatory drug testing of its employees. number of jobs that would be created in the energy efficiency sector if all prisons were upgraded to an Drugs: Offences Energy Performance Certificate grade (a) A, (b) B and (c) C level. [86077] Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Gregory Barker: We estimate that Government Energy and Climate Change how many officials of his programmes to promote energy efficiency in homes, Department have been disciplined for drug offences in businesses and the public sector will support 65,000 the last 12 months for which information is available. insulation sector jobs in 2015. However, job creation [86258] figures specific to energy efficiency improvements in the prison sector are not available. Gregory Barker: There have been no cases in the last 12 months where employees of the Department of Green Deal Scheme Energy and Climate Change have been subject to disciplinary procedures for drugs offences. Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy: Meters Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of 22 June 2011, Official Report, column 338W, on energy: housing, for what reason the recommendations of his Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Department’s joint working group with the Ministry of Energy and Climate Change what plans he has to Defence on improving the energy efficiency of service encourage the uptake of smart meter time-of-use family accommodation were not set out in the tariffs. [86074] consultation document on the Green Deal published this autumn. [85867] Gregory Barker: The Government’s smart meter technical specifications will mandate energy suppliers to install Gregory Barker: The two Departments are still meters with the functionality to support a range of considering whether Green Deal can work in the particular time-of-use tariffs. context of service family accommodation, and the Planned changes to the settlement system together alternatives that may be available if not. We were therefore with half-hourly data from smart meter readings will unable to include recommendations in the consultation enable energy suppliers to benefit to a greater extent document, but we will confirm the recommendations from lower wholesale market prices during periods of next year. None the less, in the consultation, we welcome off-peak demand. We expect suppliers to incentivise any comments on the impact of Green Deal and the customers to shift energy demand to off-peak periods ECO on particular groups. through developing and promoting attractive time-of-use tariffs. Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions he Energy: Pensioners has had with the Green Deal Finance Company consortium on the potential for Green Deal-backed Laura Sandys: To ask the Secretary of State for securities to reduce the cost of Green Deal finance. Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made [86075] of the number of pensioners who will receive the guaranteed £120 rebate on their energy bills under the Gregory Barker: The Secretary of State for Energy warm home discount scheme in each (a) region, (b) and Climate Change, the right hon. Member for Eastleigh local authority and (c) parliamentary constituency. (Chris Huhne), and I met with representatives from the [86392] Green Deal Finance Company on 2 November 2011 to 571W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 572W understand their proposals for providing low cost finance Charles Hendry: Support to the Government on the to Green Deal Providers. The Secretary of State for development of policy on plutonium management is Energy and Climate Change also spoke by phone to a part of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority’s (NDA) member of the consortium on 24 November 2011 following approved strategy. It is estimated that DECC and the the launch of the Green Deal and Energy Company NDA will spend around £3 million to £5 million to Obligation consultation. gather all of the information required throughout the next phases of the programme. Costs are anticipated to Alex Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for be met from within the existing budgets. Energy and Climate Change for what reason he has set the period for the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation consultation at eight weeks. [86083] Renewable Energy

Gregory Barker: The consultation length was set for Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy eight weeks on the basis of careful consideration. The and Climate Change what plans he has to promote (a) tight timetable for delivering the Green Deal legal anaerobic digestion and (b) small hydro developments framework to provide business certainty was the primary in Wales. [86189] reason. This has been accompanied by a comprehensive stakeholder engagement programme in advance of and during the consultation. Gregory Barker: We are promoting anaerobic digestion and hydropower across the UK, including Wales, through In line with best practice, we are also providing the provision of financial incentives. additional means for people to express their views, including a dedicated phone line, postal address, e-mail We are supporting (a) anaerobic digestion through address, blog with commenting function and web chat the feed-in tariffs (FITs) scheme and the renewables with officials. obligation (RO) which support small scale and large scale electricity generation respectively; and the renewable heat incentive (RHI) which supports the production of Nuclear Installations: EU Law heat and the injection of biomethane into the gas grid. We are supporting the development of (b) small Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for hydropower in Wales through FITs (<50kWs) and through Energy and Climate Change what steps he has taken to FITs and the RO (>50kWs). Since 2009 the number of implement European Council Directive 2009/71/ new hydro schemes licensed in Wales has increased EURATOM of 25 June 2009 establishing a nearly three times. Community framework for the nuclear safety of nuclear installations; what steps he has taken in In addition, DECC continues to work closely with response to infringement proceedings by the European the Environment Agency, which has streamlined its Commission against the UK for non-compliance with permitting process and is reviewing its Good Practice Directive 2009/71/EURATOM; and if he will make a Guide. DECC is consulting, before the end of this year, statement. [85216] on accreditation for those small hydro schemes seeking access to feed-in tariffs. DECC also provides updated Charles Hendry: The UK notified the European information on a range of alternative funding models Commission (EC) on 19 July 2011 that we had given for community hydro projects on DECC’s “Community effect to the Council Directive 2009/71/Euratom using Energy Online”: the existing UK regulatory regime. The EC have sought http://ceo.decc.gov.uk/en/ceol/cms/about_ceih/economics_ fund/ further information on two aspects of the UK’s economics_fund.aspx implementation—the provision of a correlation table Additionally, in January 2010, the Welsh Government and the implementation of the provisions in Gibraltar. launched the Ynni’r Fro programme, a scheme to support A correlation table was provided on 19 July 2011 even community scale renewable energy projects in Wales. So though the directive does not require it. We are liaising far, the programme has supported eight anaerobic digestion with the Gibraltarian Government to ensure the necessary and 65 hydro projects in Wales. The Environment Agency legislation is put in place even though there are no Wales and the Forestry Commission Wales have both nuclear facilities on Gibraltar to which this directive carried out detailed surveys of potential hydro sites in would apply. It is expected that this work will be completed Wales. This information is being utilised by the Ynni’r in early 2012. The UK Government will shortly be Fro team to match up the sites with communities interested writing to the EC to confirm that a correlation table has in taking hydro schemes forward. already been provided and to inform them of progress with implementation in Gibraltar. Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what discussions he has had with Nuclear Power private sector firms on proposals to develop (a) tidal power, (b) shale gas and (c) nuclear power in Wales. Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy [86190] and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the potential costs to (a) his Department and (b) the Charles Hendry: All formal ministerial meetings with Nuclear Decommissioning Authority of information external organisations are published on a quarterly gathering on (i) the market for mixed oxide fuel, (ii) the basis and can be found on the Department’s website via availability of reactors in which it can be burned and the following link: (iii) the costs and timescales for procuring services or http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ facilities. [85788] registers/ministermtgs/ministermtgs.aspx 573W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 574W

Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs (2) what proportion of the spending envelope for the feed-in tariff for each year of the current spending Barry Gardiner: To ask the Secretary of State for review period is allocated for new projects accredited in Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made that year. [84389] of the cost per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions saved through the feed-in tariff system in 2010-11. [84106] Gregory Barker: New installations in any year are not specifically allocated a proportion of the feed-in tariffs Gregory Barker: We cannot currently make this estimate, (FITs) budget. The available amount in the budget for as generation date for Year 1 of the FITs scheme has new installations in any year is impossible to predict in not yet been collated by Ofgem. advance, as it will depend on the level of installations in previous years. This is because the budget is cumulative, Barry Gardiner: To ask the Secretary of State for and must cover the cost of projects accredited in previous Energy and Climate Change (1) what proportion of the years of the scheme as well as new projects. spending envelope for the feed-in tariff for each year of the current spending review period is allocated to projects We estimate the proportion of the levies control accredited between 1 April 2010 and 31 October 2011; framework spending envelope taken up by projects [84388] accredited up to 31 October to be as follows:

Costs to consumers 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Total

£ million, nominal undiscounted FITs costs (rounded) 110 215 220 230 775 FITs budget (revised) 94 196 328 446 1,064 Costs as percentage of revised budget (rounded) 120 110 65 50 70 FITs budget (original) 80 161 269 357 867 Costs as percentage of original budget (rounded) 140 135 80 65 90

The table above shows the committed spend on FITs industry needs certainty as soon as possible, and will as a proportion of both the original and revised FITs strive to announce at the earliest opportunity. spending limits. The spending limit for FITs as originally published—the fourth line of the table—referred to projected additional expenditure over and above the Solar Power baseline of installations of less than 5 MW that would have been deployed in the absence of the FITs scheme (because some of those small-scale installations would Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for have come forward under the renewables obligation (RO)). Energy and Climate Change what recent estimate his Department has made of the number of people employed In the revised estimate of the FITs spending limit—the by solar photovoltaic manufacturing companies based second line of the table—that baseline has been in the UK. [85253] incorporated into the spending limit for FITs, as we judge that the small scale installations are more likely to Gregory Barker: It is difficult to accurately estimate, take up FITs in preference to the RO. The effect of this and forecast, number of jobs associated with any single adjustment is to increase the FITs spending envelope technology or sector, such as solar PV. However, there (as shown in the table) and reduce the RO spending are a range of methodologies that can, and are, being envelope by the same amount, compared with the original used to provide an indication; these inevitably lead to a spending limits published for each scheme. This is a range of estimates being calculated. technical adjustment to the published spending limits which merely provides a more accurate picture of the We estimate that, based on the number of solar money that was always available for each of the two photovoltaic (PV) installations by the end of October schemes. We have not made more subsidy available 2011, around 8,000 to 14,000 gross full-time equivalent overall, but DECC still has flexibility on how it meets (FTE) jobs have been supported by solar PV since the the overall levies control framework as long as expenditure introduction of the feed-in tariffs (FITs) scheme. The as a whole is controlled i.e. overspend on one policy can total number of people doing some solar PV work is be balanced by underspend in another. likely to be higher than this range because those who are involved in solar PV installations are also likely to undertake other tasks linked to their employment. In Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for addition, this estimate includes manufacturing jobs among Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish a range of other types. his Department’s response to the comprehensive feed-in tariff review phase one. [85779] Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of Gregory Barker: We plan to announce the outcome 21 November 2011, Official Report, column 44W, on of the current consultation on feed-in tariffs for solar solar power: feed-in tariffs, what the evidential basis is photovoltaics towards the end of January, and by 8 for the estimate that 1,000 to 10,000 gross additional February 2012 at the latest, in order to make it possible full-time equivalent jobs could be created in the solar to change rates from 1 April 2012. We are aware that the sector in the three years to 2014-15. [85776] 575W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 576W

Gregory Barker: It is difficult to accurately estimate, Solar Power: Feed-in Tariffs and forecast, numbers of jobs associated with any single technology or sector, such as solar PV. However, there are a range of methodologies that can, and are, being used to provide an indication, although these inevitably Mr Brady: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy lead to a range of estimates being calculated. and Climate Change how many households and The range of 1,000 to 10,000 gross full-time equivalent businesses in each region of the UK have installed solar jobs supported by solar PV is calculated by applying panels utilising the Government-subsidised feed-in estimates of the time taken for various tasks associated tariff scheme. [80572] with those installations from industry and independent consultants to projected installations between 2012-13 and 2014-15. They are then converted to a full-time Gregory Barker: The number of domestic and non- equivalent (FTE) basis. The wide range around the domestic solar photovoltaic (PV) installations registered estimate is largely due to the uncertainty surrounding for feed-in tariffs by region, as at end of September how the energy efficiency proposals could affect future 20111,are: take-up of solar PV.

Percentage of domestic PV Non-domestic3 PV Percentage non-domestic PV Region Domestic PV installations installations installations installations

East Midlands 6,943 9 107 7 East of England 9,470 12 127 9 London 2,364 3 103 7 North East 1,532 2 54 4 North West 5,042 7 102 7 South East 14,642 19 168 12 South West 14,251 19 271 19 West Midlands 5,311 7 135 9 Yorkshire and the Humber 8,471 11 86 6

England 68,026 88 1,153 80 Wales 4,135 5 88 6 Scotland 4,221 5 56 4 Unallocated2 584 1 148 10

Total 76,966 100 1,445 100 1 Data are sourced from the Central FIT Register maintained by Ofgem. The register is continually being updated and revised, so statistical reports extracted at a later date may not exactly match the totals presented here. Local authority data can be found on the DECC website http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/energy_stats/source/electricity/electricity.aspx titled ‘Feed-in Tariff Capacity (ET5.6)’. 2 Schemes that could not be allocated at local authority level. 3 Non-domestic installations include industrial, commercial and community installations.

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for PV installations, the eligibility date will be the date on Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of which a valid application is received by the FITs licensee, 22 November 2011, Official Report, columns 315-6W, normally the applicant’s electricity supplier. on renewable energy: feed-in tariffs, if he will make it his policy to ensure that all solar PV installations with Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for a commissioning date before 12 December 2011 are Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer of eligible for the existing tariff level. [85777] 25 November 2011, Official Report, column 616W, on feed-in tariffs, whether the second consultation on the Gregory Barker: An installation becomes eligible for comprehensive review will seek views on further feed-in tariffs (FITs) from its eligibility date. The term changes to feed-in tariffs for solar PV. [85868] “eligibility date”is defined in condition 33 of the standard conditions, of electricity supply licences, and is the Gregory Barker: Phase 2 of the consultation on the latter of either: comprehensive review will consider all non-solar photovoltaic tariffs and administrative aspects of the (a) the date on which the installation is commissioned; or feed-in tariffs scheme, including potential cost control (b) the date on which a valid application for FITs has been measures for all technologies. received by either Ofgem (in the case of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations with a declared net capacity of over 50kW) or a FIT licensee (in the case of solar PV installations with a declared net Taxation: Nuclear Power capacity of up to 50kW). Our consultation on FITs for solar photovoltaics Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for (PV) proposes that new tariffs will be implemented Energy and Climate Change whether he has had from 1 April 2012 but will apply to all new PV installations discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on with an eligibility date on or after a proposed “reference the potential introduction of a tax on the revenue date” of 12 December 2011. For the majority of solar generated by nuclear power stations. [85817] 577W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 578W

Charles Hendry: Tax is a matter for the Chancellor of http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/ the Exchequer, my right hon. Friend the Member for en_security/nonprolif/global_threat/reports/reports.aspx Tatton (Mr Osborne). DECC Ministers have regular conversations with HM Treasury Ministers on a wide range of issues. As was the case with previous Administrations, it is not the Government’s practice to WORK AND PENSIONS provide details of such discussions. Apprentices UK Global Threat Reduction Programme Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the and Climate Change how much his Department has number of 16 to 24-year-olds likely to participate in the contributed to the UK Global Threat Reduction Youth Contract in (a) the East Midlands and (b) Programme in each of the last three financial years; on Leicester City. [85783] what aspects of the programme such contributions are spent; and what the programme has published in each Chris Grayling: Over the coming weeks we will be of the last three financial years. [77287] working with Work Programme providers, employers and key stakeholders to develop the detail of the recently Charles Hendry: The UK Global Threat Reduction announced Youth Contract. Programme (GTRP) forms an important element of the Overall the Youth Contract will provide: UK’s counter-proliferation strategy. It delivers the UK 160,000 wage incentives, worth £2,275 each, available through contribution to the G8 Global Partnership against the the Work Programme; Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction, an extra 250,000 work experience or sector-based work academy a $20 billion ten-year programme agreed at the G8 places over the next three years, taking the total to at least Summit at Kananaskis, Canada in 2002 with an initial 100,000 a year; focus on the nuclear and chemical weapons legacies of at least 20,000 extra incentive payments worth £1,500 each for the former Soviet Union. employers to take on young people as apprentices; The Department of Energy and Climate Change extra support through Jobcentre Plus for all 18 to 24-year-olds; (DECC) is responsible for implementing the nuclear and and radiological parts of the GTRP. The Ministry of a new £150 million programme to provide support to some of Defence (MOD) manages the chemical and biological our most vulnerable 16 to 17-year-olds who are not in employment, elements of the programme. The Foreign & Commonwealth education or training. Office (FCO) holds the overall policy responsibility. No estimates for participation at local levels have yet For each of the last three financial years (2008-09; been made. 2009-10; 2010-11) the GTRP had a ring fenced budget of £36.5 million per annum, allocated to DECC for Departmental Assets both the DECC and MOD programmes. In 2010-11 DECC contributed an additional £9 million to GTRP, Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work in order that the UK fully met its share of the G8 pledge and Pensions what assets his Department owns in to the April 2011 Chernobyl pledging conference. Birmingham; and what is the estimated value of each Over the course of the Global Partnership, the UK such asset. [85542] has developed a mature portfolio of programmes aimed at: Chris Grayling: This response is based on the definition of assets referring to departmental buildings and their improving the security of nuclear materials; contents. Since 1998 the Department for Work and dealing with the Soviet nuclear submarine legacy in North Pensions (DWP) occupies the majority of its West Russia; accommodation across the country under a 20-year the destruction of Russia’s chemical weapons stocks; private finance initiative (PFI) known as the PRIME reducing the proliferation risk posed by unemployed former Contract. Under the terms of this PFI the Department Soviet nuclear weapon scientists by supporting the creation of leases back fully furnished and serviced accommodation alternative sustainable employment. from its private sector partner Telereal Trillium. This Further details of the annual expenditure breakdown covers a variety of building and facility management across all GTRP programmes can be found in the services. Therefore, the Department does not own building GTRP annual reports for 2008 (published spring 2009), assets in Birmingham, or in any other part of the 2009 (published spring 2010) and 2010 (published spring country. 2011), copies of which were placed in the House Library and which can also be found on the DECC website: Departmental Design http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/ en_security/nonprolif/global_threat/global_threat.aspx Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Work In addition to these three annual reports, in late 2009, and Pensions how much his Department has spent on DECC published a completion report on its Nuclear design in respect of (a) logos, (b) buildings, (c) Safety Programme, which closed in early 2009. In spring advertising, (d) stationery and (e) campaigns in the 2010 DECC published the findings of an independent last year for which figures are available. [80201] external impact evaluation of the UK-funded “Social and Economic Consequences of Nuclear Power Plant Chris Grayling: DWP spent £1,614,326 in 2010-11 on Closure” programme, which closed in 2007. Both these design, editorial and branding with regard to publicity reports are available online at: and marketing carried out by DWP Communications. 579W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 580W

In respect of buildings design, since 1998 the Department Health and Safety Executive for Work and Pensions occupies the majority of its Number accommodation under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) known as the PRIME Contract. Under the terms of Other positions with a 1 this PFI the Department leases back fully serviced communications remit accommodation from its private sector partner Telereal 1 Of which one is an interim. Trillium. This covers the provision of a variety of building 2 Includes newly created Office for Nuclear Regulation and facility management services including the Capital Communications function. Expenditure projects (CAPEX) where buildings require Independent Living Fund alterations to meet changing business requirements. Number Telereal Trillium’s estimate of design costs incurred on CAPEX projects during 2010-11 is £900,000 excluding Press Officers 0 VAT. Internal Communications 1 Officers External Communications 2 Officers Departmental Information Officers Communications Strategy 1 Officers Pete Wishart: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Other positions with a 0 communications remit and Pensions how many (a) press officers, (b) internal communications officers, (c) external communications National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) Corporation officers, (d) communications strategy officers and (e) Number other positions with a communications remit were employed by (i) his Department, (ii) its agencies and Press Officers 3 (iii) each non-departmental public body sponsored by Internal Communications 0 Officers his Department on the most recent date for which External Communications 119 figures are available. [84187] Officers Communications Strategy 3 Chris Grayling: Since the answer I gave to the hon. Officers Member for Angus (Mr Weir) on 9 February 2011, Other positions with a 14 Official Report, columns 318-19W, the Department has communications remit reduced communications staff by 24%. As a minimum 1 Including four interims. the number will reduce by a further 13% by March Pension Protection Fund 2015. Number Department for Work and Pensions Communications Directorate1 Press Officers 2 Number Internal Communications 2 Officers Press Officers (including 21 External Communications 2 Regional Press) Officers Internal Communications 47 Communications Strategy 0 Officers Officers External Communications 4 Other positions with a 0 Officers communications remit Other positions with a 40 communications remit Remploy Ltd 1 These figures include JCP and PDCS staff who have now Note transferred to the Communications Directorate. Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission Press Officers 2 Number Internal Communications 1 Officers Press Officers 3 External Communications 3 Internal Communications 9 Officers Officers Communications Strategy 2 External Communications 4 Officers Officers Other positions with a 2 Communications Strategy 8 communications remit Officers The Pensions Regulator Other positions with a 10 communications remit Number

Health and Safety Executive Press Officers 4 Number Internal Communications 2 Officers Press Officers 7 External Communications 112 Internal Communications 7 Officers Officers Communications Strategy 2 External Communications 1, 212 Officers Officers Other positions with a 16 Communications Strategy 5 communications remit Officers 1 Plus two non-payroll staff 581W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 582W

Departmental Pay Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether any senior staff in (a) his Department and (b) its Executive agencies and Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for non-departmental public bodies are paid by means of Work and Pensions what the cost to the public purse payments to a limited company in lieu of a salary; and was of Christmas bonus payments in each of the last if he will publish his policy on such payments. [85068] five years; and what proportion was spent on administration of the payment. [84619] Chris Grayling: The Department’s policy is that salaries are paid into employees’ bank accounts. Steve Webb: Christmas bonus expenditure for the last Some agency workers are deployed to provide short-term five years is shown in the following table. cover for absence or as specialist contractors providing specific expertise that is not available in-house and in The amounts shown exclude the cost of administrating these cases, payments may be made to limited companies the Christmas bonus payment as this information is not in lieu of a salary. available; the table only shows the actual money paid to customers. There are currently three senior staff (senior civil service level) working in the Department on an agency £ million basis, one in DWP and two in the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission, who are paid via Capita 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 Resourcing Ltd. Capita Resourcing Ltd provides a managed Christmas 126 127 823 121 122 service under contract for the supply of contingent bonus— labour to DWP and other Government Departments. contributory In the Office for Nuclear Regulation, an internal Christmas 19 20 221 32 32 bonus—non- agency of the Health and Safety Executive, two senior contributory staff are paid by means of payments to limited companies Total 145 147 1,044 154 155 in lieu of a salary. Notes: Departmental Procurement 1. Christmas bonus was increased to £70 in 2008-09, for one year only; in all other years it was £10. Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for 2. The majority of Christmas bonus payments are made with a qualifying benefit and, as such, it is not possible to disaggregate the Work and Pensions which services his Department has administration cost. However, these costs are minimal as the outsourced in each of the last five years. [84236] significant majority of payments are automated. Source: Chris Grayling: The Department for Work and Pensions DWP statistical and accounting data. have specifically outsourced the following services:

Contract identifier Contract name Service description Year

UI_DWP_001104 Fleet Lease and Management Official vehicle fleet including private user scheme vehicles and 2007 associated fleet management services UI_DWP_000281 Print and Associated Services Solution(PASS) Managed in a number of towers ranging from stationery to leaflets 2007 and core print services UI_DWP_000031 Contract for the provision of Temporary Workers Agency, temporary admin and clerical personnel (via a master 2007 vendor service) UI_DWP_000022 Occupational Health Framework Job assessment/ placement—mandatory referrals, work placement, 2008 pre-recruitment checks, attendance management, case conferences, physiotherapy advice UI_DWP_000024 Nursery Service In-house nursery provision for use by DWP and Department of 2008 Health staff at Quarry House UI_DWP_000026 Evaluation for Senior Staff Job Evaluation for Senior Staff (Jobcentre Plus) 2008 UI_DWP_000027 Employee Assistance Programme Counselling, Legal and Financial Helpline services for DWP employees 2005 UI_DWP_000029 Salary Sacrifice Scheme Tax efficient child care voucher service 2007 UI_DWP_000032 Legal Services Legal advice and guidance to the Estates function 2008 UI_DWP_000033 Legal Services Legal advice and guidance in respect of commercial legal issues 2008 UI_DWP_000036 Medical Advice to Staff Retiring on Medical Provision of medical advice to staff retiring on medical grounds 2009 Grounds UI_DWP_000038 Outplacement Support Advice and guidance for employees leaving as part of a management 2009 approved voluntary early release scheme UI_DWP_000039 Legal Advice Legal advice and guidance to the Corporate IT function in respect 2008 of IT contracts UI_DWP_000040 Well-being and Productivity Management Online well-being assessment and launch events 2009 UI_DWP_000044 Reward and Recognition Scheme Provision of small value reward scheme 2010 UI_DWP_000046 Legal Services Business Support, HR Services and Legal Service for Employment 2010 Law UI_DWP_002009 Westminster Play scheme Play scheme provision in Westminster 2010 UI_DWP_002012 Temporary Administrative Staff Temporary Admin and Clerical Personnel 2010 UI_DWP_000025 Nursery Service In House Nursery Glasgow BDC 2008 Various Learning and Development Services Multiple contracts for the delivery of staff learning and development 2006 training1 1 Learning and Development contracts—some of this provision may have been previously delivered in-house, some will have been traditionally deliveredbyan external supplier (outsourced). It is not possible to determine without examining each case in consultation with the business customer and/or HR. 583W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 584W

Departmental Public Bodies Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what risk registers are held by the public bodies for which his Department is responsible; and if Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work he will make a statement. [85714] and Pensions what criteria (a) his Department and (b) its public bodies use when deciding whether and when Chris Grayling: The risk registers held by the public to hold an internal audit; and if he will make a bodies for which my Department is responsible are statement. [85648] shown as follows: Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission Chris Grayling: Internal audit services in the Department There is an overarching risk register for each directorate and its public bodies work to the Government Internal within the commission. Audit Standards (GIAS), which are mandatory for all central Government Departments, agencies and Executive Health and Safety Executive non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs). These are Health and Safety Executive holds a corporate risk published on the HM Treasury website at: register which is supported by subsidiary project and http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/internalaudit_gias_0211.pdf directorate risk registers as appropriate. This framework applies to in-house internal audit Independent Living Fund services, shared services and to outsourced arrangements, The Independent Living Fund maintains a number and requires that: of risk registers: the chief audit executive must establish risk-based plans to a strategic risk register; determine the priorities of the internal audit activity, consistent five internal directorate risk registers; and with the organisation’s goals (Standard 2010); project risk registers. the internal audit activity’s plan of engagements must be based National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) Corporation on a documented risk assessment, undertaken at least annually. The input of senior management and the board must be National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) considered in this process (Standard 2010.A1); Corporation maintains two risk registers. The principal the chief audit executive must identify and consider the expectations register supports the identification and management of of senior management, the board and other stakeholders for all business and delivery risks within the organisation. internal audit opinions and other conclusions (Standard 2010.A2); The second register is focused on NEST Corporation’s and information security risks. the chief audit executive should consider accepting proposed Pensions ombudsman consulting engagements based on the engagement’s potential The pensions ombudsman have the following risk to improve management of risks, add value and improve the organisation’s operations. Accepted engagements must be included registers: in the plan (Standard 2010.C1). operational risk register; and a strategic risk register. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Pension Protection Fund and Pensions what steps his Department is taking to Pension Protection Fund has the following registers: ensure social value is included when services are commissioned by (a) his Department and (b) its Risk Universe; public bodies; and if he will make a statement. [85667] team risk registers; information risk registers; Chris Grayling: As part of the commissioning process, key process risk registers; all contracts above £10,000 in value are advertised on topic-based risk registers; Contracts Finder with those suitable for small and financial risk register; medium enterprises and voluntary organisations identified project risk registers; and a accordingly. tri-partite risk register. The Department, and its public bodies, consider social Remploy Ltd value in the initial stages of commissioning services by using sustainable procurement risk assessment methodology Remploy Ltd has: (SPRAM). a strategic risk framework (register); SPRAM is mandatory for all new contracts and high level business risk frameworks; and considers the impact of diversity and equality, people individual business and departmental registers. with disabilities, the use of supported factories and The Pensions Advisory Service businesses, the suitability of small and medium enterprises and voluntary organisations and questions whether or The Pensions Advisory Service has the following risk not there are unacceptable labour standards in the registers: supply chain. corporate risk register; Where relevant and proportionate, social value factors pensions risk register; can be scored as part of the evaluation process during service area risk registers; and the commissioning phase. Following contract award, project risk registers for major projects. suppliers are asked to complete periodical returns demonstrating how they have implemented those social The pensions regulator value aspects of the contract they are delivering. The Pensions Regulator has one risk register. 585W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 586W

Employment and Support Allowance: Expenditure Information on the numbers leaving ESA to move into work is not currently available. The Work Programme Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for has only been in place for six months, and the measures Work and Pensions what amendment he has made of of its success are long term. The Department is closely the projection made by the Office for Budget Responsibility monitoring all aspects of the Work Programme, and that expenditure on employment and support allowance will publish this information as soon as reliable and will be £1 billion more than previously expected by meaningful data are available, in accordance with guidelines 2015-16; and if he will make a statement. [85809] set by the UK Statistics Authority. Official statistics on referrals will be available from spring 2012, and on job Chris Grayling: The new projections made by the outcomes from autumn 2012. Office for Budget Responsibility of employment and support allowance (ESA) expenditure reflect the latest data on the number of claimants assessed as fit for Employment Schemes work, the most up to date assumptions on the composition of the caseload and the number of new claims. Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the average duration of work Employment and Support Allowance: Peterborough experience placements has been since January 2011. [85536] Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many individuals in Chris Grayling: This information is not available. Peterborough constituency currently in receipt of Work experience placements are expected to last for a employment and support allowance in the Work period of between two and eight weeks, with an optional Related Activity Group with a prognosis of six months extension to up to 12 weeks if the employer decides they are being migrated into work; and if he will make a would like to offer the participant an apprenticeship statement. [85338] and that offer is accepted.

Chris Grayling: The Department regularly publishes Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Work National Statistics which provide information on the and Pensions what steps he has taken to ensure Prime caseloads of various different benefits to the constituency Contractors to the Work Programme are using the level. This information can be found by using the tabulation Compact with the Voluntary sector in their discussions tool (‘Tabtool’) on the departmental website here: with subcontractors from the voluntary sector; and if http://83.244.183.180/100pc/tabtool.html he will make a statement. [85681] The Tabtool shows that as at May 2011, the latest data available, there were 1,620 people on employment Chris Grayling: The principles of the Compact have and support allowance in the Peterborough parliamentary been taken forward through the Code of Conduct which constituency and of these, 550 were in the Work Related underpins the DWP Commissioning Strategy. These Activity Group. principles are further embedded through the Merlin Information on the prognosis given by the Atos Standard which all Work Programme providers are Healthcare Professional following the work capability required to achieve as a condition of their contracts. assessment is available for claims flowing onto employment Merlin assessments will take place from spring 2012 and support allowance by local authority area rather and biannually thereafter. than parliamentary constituency. Note that on-flow The Merlin Standard will require that all subcontractors figures are not directly comparable to the caseload are treated fairly in their dealings with Prime Contractors figures provided above. and that supply chains remain robust and healthy. Primes Between March 2010 and February 2011 (the most that do not fulfil their obligations will be subject to recent period for which data are available) there were action for breach of contract and may lose their contracts. 2,090 new claims for employment and support allowance (ESA) in the Peterborough local authority area. Of Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for these 530 went into the Work Related Activity Group Work and Pensions how many young people in (a) the (WRAG) following the initial work capability assessment. East Midlands and (b) Leicester City have participated Of those claims going into the WRAG, 140 (26%) were in the work experience programme. [85785] given a prognosis of three months, 260 (49%) had a prognosis of six months and the remaining 130 (25%) Chris Grayling: Details of the number of young were given a prognosis of 12 months or longer. people who have participated in work experience from This information is taken from administrative data the East Midlands region, and Leicestershire parliamentary held by DWP, and assessment data provided by Atos constituencies is available and shown in the following Healthcare. All figures have been rounded to the nearest 10. table. ESA claimants in the WRAG will have the opportunity Work experience participants up to August 2011 to join the Work Programme, when the outcome from Number their work capability assessment is known. The Work Programme was launched on 10 June 2011 and is now East Midlands region 1,270 in place nationally. This is the biggest single payment by Leicester East 60 results employment programme Great Britain has ever Leicester South 70 seen, providing personalised support to an expected 2.4 Leicester West 60 million claimants over the next seven years. North West Leicestershire 30 587W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 588W

Work experience participants up to August 2011 In October, there were 11,010 people in Merseyside Number and 314,355 nationally aged over 18 who had been claiming JSA for six months or more. These figures South Leicestershire 20 include claimants who may have been referred to the Notes: 1. Data source—DWP LMS opportunities evaluation database Work programme and are therefore higher than the September 2011. number of people actually eligible. 2. Due to data protection protocols, any figures above 10 are rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not be the Housing Benefit sum of the individual cells. Source: Department for Work and Pensions, Labour Market Interventions Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Strategy Division. and Pensions how many social tenants he estimates will lose some housing benefit because they are under-occupying Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and their home; and how many and what proportion of Pensions how many young people (a) were referred to these he expects to be (a) pensioners and (b) disabled and (b) took up work experience placements in each people. [84772] month since January 2011. [85532] Steve Webb: From April 2013 we intend to restrict Chris Grayling: Figures are not available for the number housing benefit for working-age claimants living in the of young people referred to work experience. social rented sector where the claimant and the claimant’s The most recent statistics for work experience starts household under occupy their accommodation. were published on 16 November 2011, for the period We estimate that approximately 670,000 housing benefit January to August 2011. There have been a total of claimants are likely to be affected by the introduction of 16,360 work experience starts between January and size criteria in the social rented sector, and experience August 2011. A breakdown of this information can be reductions in housing benefit as a result. found in the following table: A breakdown of the categories of working age Work experience starts households affected is included in the equality impact 2011 Number assessment of the social sector size criteria, published January 60 to accompany the Welfare Reform Bill. February 290 The equality impact assessment can be found at: March 980 http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/eia-social-sector-housing-under- April 1,350 occupation-wr2011.pdf May 2,210 Notes: June 3,150 1. For housing benefit, the threshold between working-age and July 3,830 pension-age is determined by reference to the qualifying age for August 4,520 state pension credit. This is linked to planned changes in the state pension age for women. Notes: 1. Values are rounded to the nearest 10. 2. Exceptionally, a pensioner may choose to claim a working-age 2. Values less than 10 are suppressed and marked with a dash. benefit, such as income-based jobseeker’s allowance, rather than 3. Due to rounding totals may not be the sum of the individual cells. claiming pension credit. In these situations the claimant would be 4. Months are calendar months. assessed in line with the working-age rules for housing benefit. Source: 3. Alternative definitions of disability would produce differing DWP LMS opportunities evaluation database September 2011. estimates of the number of disabled households affected by the social sector size criteria. Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many 16 to 24 year olds in (a) Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for the East Midlands and (b) Leicester City have found Work and Pensions if he will estimate the number of sustainable employment following participation in the fathers aged (a) 16 to 24 and (b) 25 to 34 who will be work experience programme. [85782] affected by the extension of the shared accommodation rate of local housing allowance. [86348] Chris Grayling: This information is unavailable. However recent early analysis, based on a national sample of Steve Webb: The shared accommodation rate already 1,300 participants, indicates that less than half of applies to single people under 25, so no fathers aged 16 participants are claiming working age benefits after to 24 will be affected by the change in the age threshold. 13 weeks of starting a work experience placement. It is estimated that around 10,000 of the people Enterprise Allowance Scheme affected by the extension of the shared accommodation rate are non-resident parents who have some contact, Bill Esterson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work although not necessarily overnight contact, with children and Pensions what estimate he has made of the number who live elsewhere. of people registered as unemployed who are eligible for All of these are aged 25 to 34, and most are fathers. the enterprise allowance (a) in Merseyside and (b) This excludes parents who do not currently have any nationally. [86356] contact with their children. Source: Chris Grayling: The new enterprise allowance is available DWP analysis of Single Housing Benefit Extract, 2008/09 Family to unemployed people aged 18 and above who have Resources Survey and 2008 Families and Children Survey. This been in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance (JSA) for six estimate is based on a small number of sample survey cases and is months or more and who are not on the Work programme. subject to a large degree of uncertainty. 589W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 590W

Housing Benefit: Wales employment and support allowance reported at the Autumn Statement by the Office for Budget Responsibility; Jessica Morden: To ask the Secretary of State for and if he will make a statement. [86178] Work and Pensions for how many recipients of local housing allowance (LHA) in Wales the level of Chris Grayling: The first stage of incapacity benefit payment will change if (a) LHA rates are set at the reassessment began in October 2010 with a trial involving 30th percentile of local market rents and (b) LHA 1,700 customers from the Burnley and Aberdeen benefit levels are restricted to the four bedroom rate; and what centres. This trial was designed to provide early indicators about customer and staff reactions to the reassessment proportion of those affected will be women. [85908] process. Steve Webb: Estimates of the numbers affected in The data from the trial influenced changes to the Wales by the local housing allowance (LHA) changes initial assumptions for IB reassessment used in the are published on the Department for Work and Pensions expenditure forecasts. The trial results suggested the fit website: for work rate was higher than originally assumed. http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/impacts-of-hb-proposals.pdf Additionally, a higher proportion of claimants being moved onto ESA were placed in the support group than (Table 16 shows the impact of setting LHA rates at the initially assumed. However, the trial data need to be 30th percentile, and Table 20 shows the impact of used with caution as they may not reflect the national restricting LHA levels). picture. We will continue to monitor the assumptions Estimates of the proportion of those affected in used in the expenditure forecasts as more data becomes Wales who are women are not available. The published available. Equality Impact Assessment for the measures shows Income Support: Mortgages the estimated proportions affected by gender for Great Britain. This is available at: Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/lha-eia-nov10.pdf Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of (Annex E, Table 25 shows the impact of setting LHA expenditure on support for mortgage interest for rates at the 30th percentile, and Annex D, Table 20 people who receive employment and support allowance shows the impact of restricting LHA levels). in the (a) Support Group, (b) Work Related Activity Group and (c) Assessment Phase in each financial Incapacity Benefit: Aberdeen year to 2015-16. [86079] Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Grayling: The following table shows forecasts Work and Pensions how the results of the incapacity of housing requirements. Housing requirements include benefit reassessment pilots in Aberdeen and Burnley support for mortgage interest and other housing elements informed the recalculation of the future costs of not included in housing benefit.

£ million 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Assessment 1 17 22 22 25 18 17 18 21 WRAG0 821304452556371 SG 0 2 6 11 22 27 28 32 39 Total 1 28 49 64 92 97 100 113 131

Jobseeker’s Allowance: Young People Members in each of the last five years; and how many investigations were launched as a result of such Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Work referrals. [86006] and Pensions what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department of introducing weekly signing for all 18 Chris Grayling: All information received by the to 24-year-olds on jobseeker’s allowance from the fifth Department in relation to an allegation of benefit fraud, month of their claim. [85584] including that received through the National Benefit Fraud Hotline (NBFH) is treated as confidential. All Chris Grayling: The cost of providing weekly signing referrals to the NBFH are therefore anonymised so the was included as part of a package of support within the information requested is not kept by the Department. Youth Contract that is expected to cost nearly £1 billion Older Workers: East Midlands over the next three years. The final costs for weekly signing will be driven by the volume of claimants and the Department for Work and Pensions does not forecast Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for unemployment levels. Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of the effect of the youth contract on older employees in (a) East Midlands and (b) Leicester City. [85816] National Benefit Fraud Hotline Chris Grayling: Our existing programmes will be Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State supporting up to 350,000 young people over the next for Work and Pensions how many referrals through the two years, but we recognise that the current economic National Benefit Fraud Hotline were made by hon. situation means that some young people are still finding 591W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 592W that getting work is not easy. The Youth Contract is criteria will be affected by implementation of the being introduced with the aim of getting more young Welfare Reform Bill; and if he proposes to issue people involved in meaningful jobs and training early in guidance on the distribution of the Social Fund under their working lives to ensure that they are not left the new legislative framework. [85437] behind. This renewed effort is not expected to be to the Steve Webb: The eligibility criteria for an award from detriment of older workers, and we will continue to each type of Social Fund Payment is set out in the offer a full and effective package of support to help Department for Work and Pensions’ publication SB16—A older unemployed people through a range of flexible guide to the Social Fund available on the departmental support offered by Jobcentre Plus. For those at risk of website: long-term unemployment there is the Work programme, http://www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/specialist-guides/ and for those interested in setting up a business there is technical-guidance/sb16-a-guide-to-the-social/ the new enterprise allowance. The Welfare Reform Bill introduces universal credit. With the exception of pension credit, the qualifying PAYE benefits that are part of the eligibility criteria for most Social Fund payments will eventually be replaced by Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for universal credit. The Social Security Advisory Committee Work and Pensions how his Department plans to has been commissioned to carry out an independent participate in the April 2012 pilot of PAYE real time review of passported benefits and the links with universal information; and if he will make a statement. [86180] credit, including Regulated Social Fund. This review is still taking place and the Committee has been asked to Chris Grayling: DWP has been working closely with report by the end of January 2012. The Department will HMRC to ensure readiness for the implementation of publish the final report alongside its response by the PAYE real time information. DWP’s intention is to end of April. participate during the pilot year but will not be part of Winter fuel payments are Regulated Social Fund the initial pilot. HMRC have confirmed that there is payments. Eligibility is not linked to receipt of benefits sufficient employer representation for the pilot at April 2012. as they are paid to most people over women’s state pension age. There are no plans to change the current Poverty: Children eligibility criteria for winter fuel payments. Clause 70 of the Welfare Reform Bill will allow Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for budgeting loans to be awarded for funeral and maternity Work and Pensions what estimate his Department has expenses. This change will be implemented two months made of the number of children who would be living in after Royal Assent and the guidance will be updated poverty (a) before and (b) after housing costs in each accordingly. year from 2011-12 to 2014-15 on the basis of (i) the Only Community Care Grants have a local funding policies in place prior to the Autumn Statement and (ii) allocation and this will not be affected by the Welfare implementation of those policies. [86179] Reform Bill. Clause 69 of the Welfare Reform Bill ends discretionary Social Fund payments. Crisis loans and Maria Miller: The Government have not forecast community care grants will come to an end in April how many children they expect to be in poverty before 2013. They will be replaced by a combination of local and after the introduction of the policies announced in provision and a national scheme of payments on account the autumn statement for each year to 2014-15. Child of benefit, neither of which will be part of the Social poverty is dependent on a number of factors which Fund. Budgeting Loans will be phased out as universal cannot be reliably predicted. credit is introduced and will be replaced by budgeting Analysis shows an estimated increase of around 100,000 advances within universal credit. in 2012-13; on the measure used previously (i.e. the After April 2013 the remaining Social Fund Payments impact of tax and benefit changes on the number of have a national funding allocation and therefore guidance children living in households with an income less than on distribution of funding is not necessary. 60% of the median). But this does not represent a forecast of the actual Social Security Benefits change in child poverty year on year. When, as is currently and exceptionally the case, CPI is substantially John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Work higher than average earnings growth, uprating benefits and Pensions how many people received more than by CPI will act to reduce child poverty, all other things £10,000 in benefits in each parliamentary constituency being equal. in the most recent year for which figures are available. This measurement also does not take into account [84888] the value of public services which benefit children, such as education and health care. These are very important Chris Grayling: The information requested is not tools in improving life chances, particularly among available. poorer households. While information on DWP administered benefits is available at constituency level we do not hold complete Social Fund information on those benefits administered by other Government Departments and organisations. Restricting Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Work analysis to those benefits administered directly by DWP and Pensions what criteria are used to prioritise who may present a misleading picture of benefit receipt. In will receive payments from the Social Fund; how these addition, we estimate that developing an appropriate 593W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 594W methodology and quality assuring any analysis of DWP The available information has also been placed in the administrative data would exceed disproportionate cost Library. limits. Caseload information which is consistent with the The table provides estimates of the number of benefit Autumn Statement will be published on 21 of December units in receipt of benefit and tax credit income in at the following address: excess of £10,000 in 2009-10 based on the latest release http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd4/index.php?page=medium of the Family Resources Survey (FRS). _term The FRS is a clustered sample designed to produce A copy will also be placed in the Library. robust estimates at former Government Office Region (GOR) level. Sample sizes below this level will be small, Social Security Benefits: Foreign Nationals and not every area within a GOR will be covered by the FRS in any year, therefore we are not able to produce Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Work estimates at the constituency level. and Pensions (1) how many non-UK citizens were in Number of benefit units in receipt of benefit and tax credit income in receipt of each type of welfare benefit in each of the excess of £10,000 per year last five years; [84411] Number (2) how many non-UK citizens were registered with Jobcentre Plus in each of the last five years. [84412] North-east 300,000 North-west 800,000 Chris Grayling: The UK’s benefit payment systems Yorkshire and the Humber 500,000 do not record the nationality of claimants as nationality East midlands 400,000 itself is not a condition of entitlement. Therefore, it is West midlands 600,000 not possible to determine the number of non-UK nationals East 500,000 claiming benefit or registered with Jobcentre Plus from London 700,000 administrative data. South-east 700,000 I have commissioned work to release information South-west 500,000 regarding the nationality of benefits claimants at the point of registration for a national insurance number. I England 5,100,000 hope to make these preliminary statistics available shortly. Wales 300,000 In addition, I have asked my officials to look in to ways Scotland 500,000 of capturing nationality information at source. Northern Ireland 200,000 Social Security Benefits: Fraud United Kingdom 6,100,000 Notes: Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State 1. The Family Resources Survey is a nationally representative sample for Work and Pensions what steps he is taking to tackle of UK households. Data for 2009-10 was collected between April benefit fraud in Peterborough constituency; and if he 2009 and March 2010. will make a statement. [85225] 2. The figures from the Family Resources Survey are based on a sample of households which have been adjusted for non-response using multi-purpose grossing factors which align the Family Resources Chris Grayling: Fraud in the benefit system is a Survey to former Government Office Region population by age and serious problem, which is currently costing the taxpayer sex. Estimates are subject to sampling error and remaining non-response £1.6 billion a year in benefit and tax credit fraud. This error. loss is unfair, unaffordable and unacceptable. This is 3. Results have been rounded to the nearest 100,000. why our joint DWP and HMRC fraud and error strategy 4. The Family Resources Survey is known to under-record benefit receipt and so estimates should be treated with caution. published last October and measures in the Welfare 5. A benefit unit is defined as a single adult or a married or cohabiting Reform Bill are necessary and show that the Government couple and any dependent children; from January 2006 same-sex are absolutely committed to reducing the level of fraud partners (civil partners and cohabitees) are included in the same in the benefit system. benefit unit. 6. A benefit unit has been defined as in receipt of a benefit or tax These initiatives focus on preventing fraud and error credit if at least one member of the benefit unit is in receipt of income from entering the system in the first place, detecting and from at least one benefit or tax credit. correcting mistakes when they do happen, delivering Source: tough punishments for those who defraud the system, Family Resources Survey, 2009-10 and deterring those who would try to abuse the system Social Security Benefits in the future. Social Security Benefits: Young People Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate he has made of the likely Mr Byrne: To ask the Secretary of State for Work change in (a) benefits expenditure and (b) number of and Pensions what the off-flow rate has been of 16 to claimants for each benefit for which his Department is 24-year-olds from benefits into work since January responsible during the forecast period. [85439] 2011. [85535]

Chris Grayling: The latest forecasts of benefit expenditure, Chris Grayling: About 90% of young people who which are consistent with the 2011 Autumn Statement made a new claim for jobseeker’s allowance in January have been published at the following address: 2011 had left the count by October, the latest month for http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd4/autumn_2011_table_1a_ which data is currently available. These figures cover 18 and_1b.xls to 24-year-olds as those aged under 18 are not routinely 595W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 596W eligible for JSA. Individuals are not required to tell Young People: Peterborough Jobcentre Plus the reason they ended their claim and a significant minority of exits are to unknown destinations. Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State This means that, although many of those whose destination for Work and Pensions what plans he has for the Youth is not known are likely to have taken up work, it is not Contract in the Peterborough constituency; and if he possible to calculate an off-flow rate into work. will make a statement. [85337]

Chris Grayling: The Youth Contract will provide Tax Credits: Universal Credit more intensive support for all 18 to 24-year-olds including additional adviser time and weekly signing requirements. Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Work It will make available extra work experience and sector-based and Pensions what assessment he has made of the work academy places, including an offer of a work potential effect of the changes to tax credits announced experience place for every unemployed 18 to 24-year-old in the Autumn Statement on his Department’s target who wants one, before they enter the Work Programme. for the number of (a) children and (b) adults to be Work experience is delivered through local mechanisms taken out of poverty through the universal credit; and based on demand and need. It forms just part of a if he will make a statement. [85611] range of flexible measures which the Jobcentre Plus district manager can put in place to address the specific Chris Grayling: Universal credit will unify the current needs and requirements of unemployed young people system of means-tested out of work benefits, tax credits in Peterborough. and support for housing. As a result of the changes to A new wage incentive scheme, delivered through the tax credits announced in the autumn statement, it is Work Programme, will make it easier for employers to estimated that (a) an additional 50,000 children will be take on young people aged 18 to 24. We are talking to lifted out of poverty through universal credit, over and providers and employers about the best way of delivering above the number quoted in the Universal Credit Impact this new scheme and will make further information Assessment, and (b) no significant change to the number available to employers and others over the coming of adults lifted out of poverty. weeks as the design detail progresses. Extra funding will also be made available for the Department for Education to support the most vulnerable Unemployment NEET 16 and 17-year-olds into learning, an apprenticeship or job with training. Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of the effect Young People: Scotland of the Office for Budget Responsibility’s new unemployment forecasts on the ability of Work programme providers Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for to deliver existing contracts. [85550] Work and Pensions what proportion of funding for the Youth Contract will be allocated to applicants living in Chris Grayling: An assessment will be made following Scotland; and what proportion of such funding he discussions about the new unemployment forecasts between expects to be spent on (a) work placements, (b) wage DWP officials and Work programme providers. subsidies and (c) incentive payments. [86353] Chris Grayling: The YouthContract contains a number Work Capability Assessment: Mental Illness of elements including wage subsidies, extra support delivered through Jobcentre Plus, incentive payments for employers to take on apprentices and extra support Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for for 16 to 17-year-olds. We are working on the detailed Work and Pensions whether he plans to publish the design decisions and the final distribution of resources reports by the Mental Health and Fluctuating will depend on future volumes of 18 to 24-year-olds Conditions groups on the work capability assessment; claiming JSA. Therefore, the breakdown of spending and when any such publication will occur. [86347] for Scotland is not currently available. Where extra spending is earmarked for devolved issues, the Barnett Chris Grayling: We currently have no plans to formally formula will determine the allocation for Scotland. publish the reports submitted by Professor Harrington to us on the mental, intellectual and cognitive descriptors and the fluctuating conditions descriptors. Professor Harrington’s second independent review of INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT the work capability assessment was published on 24 Departmental Audit November. This contains a précis of the two reports’ recommendations as well as an update on the current Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for position regarding their consideration. International Development what criteria (a) his A copy of the mental, intellectual and cognitive Department and (b) its public bodies use when deciding descriptors report is available in the House Library. A whether and when to hold an internal audit; and if he copy of the fluctuating conditions descriptors report will make a statement. [85641] will be made available in the House Library once the Department have had a chance to consider it in detail Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International and have provided feedback to Professor Harrington Development (DFID) applies a risk based approach to and those involved in the production of it. planning its internal audit assignments. The annual 597W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 598W audit plan is developed through a combination of a Mr Andrew Mitchell: The UK negotiating position review of the Departments high level risk registers and for the 17th Conference of Parties to the United Nations discussions with senior management and the audit Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) committee. The audit plan is flexible to address the in Durban was agreed by the European Affairs Committee, evolution of the risk environment and the emergence of in which I actively participate. new risks. I regularly discuss issues concerning UK policy on climate change with Cabinet colleagues, including the Departmental Written Questions Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, my right hon. Friend the Member for Eastleigh (Chris Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Huhne), the Secretary of State for Environment, Food International Development what proportion of written and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for questions for answer on a named day received a substantive Meriden (Mrs Spelman) and the Prime Minister. answer within five working days in each of the last six months. [85061] Developing Countries: Population

Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Government have committed Tim Farron: To ask the Secretary of State for to providing the Procedure Committee with information International Development if he will consider the relating to written parliamentary question performance importance of population stabilisation for sustainable on a sessional basis and will provide full information to development in his preparations for the Rio+20 UN the Committee at the end of the Session. Statistics Conference on Sustainable Development. [85517] relating to Government Departments’ performance for the 2009-10 parliamentary Session were previously provided Mr Andrew Mitchell: The UK supports the focus of to the committee and are available on the Parliament the two themes of Rio+20: (a) green economy in the website. context of sustainable development and poverty eradication; Between 1 June and 30 November 2011 the Department and (b) institutional frameworks for sustainable for International Development received 170 written development. DEFRA are the Whitehall lead on Rio+20. questions for a named day. The number of written DFID is working with DEFRA and other Government questions for a named day that were not answered Departments to develop the UK position for the conference. within five working days, according to the month that In doing so, a range of sectoral and cross-cutting issues the question was tabled, is as follows: are being considered including the empowerment of women and girls. Month (2011) Named day questions answered after five working days Developing Countries: Water

June 0 Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for July 1 International Development whether he plans to attend August 0 the Sanitation and Water for All High Level Meeting September 0 on 20 April 2012; and if he will make a statement. October 12 [85527] November 4 Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International Developing Countries: Climate Change Development (DFID) strongly supports the work of the Sanitation and Water for All partnership to increase accountability of both developing countries and donors Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for for delivering results on the ground. International Development what progress his Department has made in meeting the commitment to draw a maximum It will be important to have a strong UK presence at of 10 per cent. of funding for climate change finance the next meeting and I intend to be there. from existing funding from his Department. [86351] Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Andrew Mitchell: The UK Government’s four-yearly International Development what steps his Department spending review set a budget of £2.9 billion for climate is taking to monitor the use of funds provided by his finance for the period 2011-12 to 2014-15, known as the Department to ensure that people have access to clean International Climate Fund. UK international climate water sanitation and other similar services. [85593] finance is Official Development Assistance (ODA) and is being met from within the rising aid budget. The Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International share of UK ODA devoted to climate finance accounts Development (DFID) is focusing more than ever before for less than 10% in every year of this spending period. on the results and value for money achieved through all our funding; the independent Commission on Aid Impact Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for has been set up to monitor this. By including access to International Development what (a) meetings, (b) clean water and sanitation as a high-level indicator in discussions and (c) correspondence he has had with the DFID’s Business Plan, we will ensure that we monitor (i) Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, our progress very closely in this area, and remain (ii) Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural accountable to the public for our results. Affairs and (iii) Prime Minister on formulating the For more information on how DFID monitors its UK’s negotiating position for the Durban Climate Change progress and results, please visit the DFID website at: Conference. [86352] http://www.dfid.gov.uk/About-us/How-we-measure-progress/ 599W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 600W

Richard Burden: To ask the Secretary of State for I have regularly pressed the Kenyan Government on International Development if he will attend the High the rights of refugees, including after my visit to the Level Meeting of the Sanitation and Water for All Dadaab refugee camp in July. When I last met Minister Partnership in Washington on 20 April 2012; what steps Saitoti, Kenyan Minister for Provincial Administration his Department is taking to improve access to sanitation and Internal Security, on 21 November, I again and water in developing countries; and if he will make a acknowledged Kenya’s generosity in hosting refugees, statement. [86021] but also raised the importance of not forcibly repatriating refugees. The Prime Minister has also made the same Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International points in a letter to President Kibaki. My officials are Development (DFID) strongly supports the work of following up with the Kenyan Government on the need the Sanitation and Water for All partnership to increase to restart registration. accountability of both developing countries and donors Overseas Aid: Education for delivering results on the ground. DFID recognise that it will be important to have a Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for strong UK presence at the next High-level Meeting in International Development whether his Department April 2012 and I intend to be there. has any programme to educate children on the The UK Government have committed to a series of contribution to overseas aid made by the UK. [84585] challenging targets concerning water and sanitation. These include making sure 15 million more people have Mr Andrew Mitchell: In 2010 I commissioned an access to clean drinking water, 25 million more people independent review of the Department for International have access to improved sanitation facilities and 15 Development’s (DFID) work to increase public awareness million more people are reached by hygiene promotion. of global poverty. I also closed a number of programmes designed to promote awareness of global poverty in the UK that failed to demonstrate real development impact Kenya: Asylum and value for money. Following the review, I decided that DFID would not fund any new development awareness projects and that funds would be redirected to front line Pauline Latham: To ask the Secretary of State for programmes in developing countries. International Development what steps the Government The coalition Government believe that every child are taking to support the Government of Kenya in should learn about the challenges of poverty and ensuring that additional camp sites within Kenya are underdevelopment which face children their own age in approved and equipped; and what steps the Government other countries, and about the potential of trade, wealth are taking to provide assistance to host communities creation and economic development to build a freer, around Dadaab camps. [85470] more prosperous world. DFID’s work over the last decade to integrate development issues into the school Mr Andrew Mitchell: I and other Ministers have curriculum has been successful in achieving this. DFID regularly pressed the Kenyan Government to make will continue to fund development education work in sufficient camp space available for refugees in Kenya, schools, and this work is now being put on a strategic including during my visit to Dadaab in July. The Kenyan footing. Government have since opened news camps in Ifo and Kambioos. In July, I agreed a £6 million package to provide support to more than 130,000 refugees, including nutrition, health care, water, sanitation, tents and cooking FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE equipment for refugees in existing and new camps. UK Afghanistan: Females support focuses on refugees in the camps, where needs are greater than in the surrounding host communities. The UN and other donors are providing support to the Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign host communities. and Commonwealth Affairs how many and what proportion of (a) hon. Members and (b) advisers included on the Government’s delegation to the Bonn Debbie Abrahams: To ask the Secretary of State for conference will be women. [85277] International Development what support the Government is providing to the government of Kenya to ensure that Alistair Burt: I refer the right hon. Member to my it (a) restarts registration of those Somalis fleeing answer of 28 November 2011, Official Report, conflict and seeking refugee status in Kenya and (b) columns 674-75W. fulfils its other obligations under international refugee law. [85487] Bangladesh: Asylum

Mr Andrew Mitchell: My Department does not directly Mr Ward: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign fund the Kenyan Government’s Department for Refugee and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has Affairs (DRA) which is responsible for registration of made of the treatment of Rohingyan refugees in refugees, but DRA does receive support through UNHCR Bangladesh; and if he will make a statement. [86354] (the UN Refugee Agency, which the UK does fund) and other donors. I am very concerned about the suspension Alistair Burt: The UK has raised concerns on this of registration of new refugees. Registration is important matter with the Government of Bangladesh bilaterally for the protection of refugees as well as in Kenya’s own and with EU partners. The Secretary of State for security interests. International Development, my right hon. Friend the 601W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 602W

Member for Sutton Coldfield (Mr Mitchell), raised Departmental Secondment concerns about the treatment of ethnic minorities with the President of Burma and senior officials during his Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for visit to the country on 15-17 November. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what secondments Officials from, our high commission in Dhaka have there have been to his Department from (a) industry visited the camps for displaced Rohingyas. The Department and (b) the third sector since May 2010; what the (i) for International Development provides core contributions purpose and (ii) duration is of each secondment; and to the European Commission Humanitarian Aid whether each secondment was to a policy development Department and UN agencies that directly support the role. [86129] Rohingya community. Mr Bellingham: A small number of staff have been Convention on the Protection of the Underwater seconded to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Cultural Heritage from both industry and the third sector since May 2010. The majority of these loans have been ad hoc. short Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for term arrangements and we do not hold a central record Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is of these informal secondments. A further seven staff on UK accession to the 2001 UNESCO Convention on from industry and the third sector have undertaken Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage; and if formal, longer term inward secondments to the FCO. he will make a statement. [86052] We are however unable to provide more detail as this could identify individual staff, and potentially breach Mr Bellingham: The British Government have adopted data protection principles. the Annex of the Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage as best practice for marine Departmental Written Questions archaeology but we do not believe that the case for ratification to the convention by the UK has been Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign made. This position will continue to be kept under and Commonwealth Affairs how many and what review. proportion of questions for ordinary written answer received a substantive response within (a) 10, (b) 20, Departmental Responsibilities (c) 30 and (d) more than 30 sitting days in the 2010-12 session to date. [85934] Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps his Mr Lidington: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Department is taking to ensure social value is included received 2,877 questions for ordinary written answer in when services are commissioned by (a) his this Session, tabled up to 31 October 2011. A total of Department and (b) its public bodies; and if he will 2,724 (94.7%) of these questions were answered within make a statement. [85657] 10 sitting days; 126 (4.4%) within 11 to 20 sitting days; 23 (0.8%) within 21 to 30 sitting days; and 4 (0.1%) in Mr Lidington: The information is as follows: more than 30 sitting days. (a) The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) The Government have committed to providing the has published a Sustainable Procurement Strategy: Procedure Committee with information relating to written parliamentary question performance on a sessional basis http://www.fco.gov.uk/procurement/Sus_Proc_Strategy and will provide this information to the Committee at which details how Procurement will deliver value for the end of the Session. Statistics relating to Government money in its contracting for goods and services while Department’s performance for the 2009-10 parliamentary also delivering benefit in sustainable terms, in the categories Session were previously provided to the committee and of environmental, economic and social and across supply are available on the Parliament website. chains. The FCO has published an SME Action Plan: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/about-us/working-for-us/contracts- Egypt: Exports procurement/sme which will support SMEs by implementing promotion Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for of procurement opportunities and removing any barriers Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports to the use of SMEs in the UK. he has received on any cases of internal repression in (b) FCO Services, a trading fund of the FCO addresses Egypt; if he will impose an embargo on the export of all social value in procurement through sustainability. This equipment subject to the UK Export licence regime to is illustrated in the procurement of zero emission electric Egypt; and if he will make a statement. [85168] vehicles and fuel efficient HGV trailer units for the European Lorry Fleet. FCO Services also works with Alistair Burt: The Secretary of State for Foreign and its logistics supplier to monitor and manage carbon Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member emissions. More broadly in respect of procurement of for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr. Hague), has made clear UK materials and services it applies standard pan government concerns about incidents of unrest and violence in contract terms, which reflect sustainability and equal Egypt in recent months. In his statement of 23 November opportunities/anti-discrimination requirements. he said that he was deeply concerned by the unacceptable Wilton Park uses the FCO Sustainable Procurement violence that had taken place around Tahrir Square and Strategy mentioned above and are also currently developing other parts of Egypt, and called on the Egyptian authorities a strategy to offer contracts to SME’s which will be to respect the right of peaceful protest and immediately based on the FCO’s. to cease the use of violence against protestors. 603W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 604W

We are aware of reports that UK manufactured teargas international community. The UK Government will has been used in Egypt. No licences for the export of continue to raise our concerns with the interim government, tear gas to Egypt have been granted since 1999. Since including the need to lift the public emergency restrictions that time UK export controls have been radically overhauled in early 2012. We will continue to work closely with including through the passing of the Export Control international partners to return Fiji to democracy. Act 2002 and the adoption of the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria. Under the Iran: Weapons consolidated criteria we will not issue licences for goods which will be used for internal repression or for aggravating Michael Ellis: To ask the Secretary of State for existing tensions or conflicts. Export licence applications Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he for Egypt, as for all countries, are kept under constant has received on shipments of arms and missiles by Iran review and every licence is scrutinised in light of changing to militant groups in Lebanon, Syria and the Gaza facts on the ground. We have no plans to impose an Strip. [85866] embargo on Egypt for all equipment subject to UK export controls. Alistair Burt: We remain deeply concerned by Iran’s support for militant groups in Lebanon, Syria and the Falkland Islands: Sovereignty Gaza Strip, including Hezbollah and Hamas. We have consistently stressed the negative impact this has on Dr Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for stability in the middle east and condemn it in all its forms. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has We assess that since the 2006 conflict with Israel, made representations to the government of Argentina Hezbollah has been rearmed to the extent that its in response to its (a) recent reassertion of that country’s capabilities exceed those in 2006. We assess that Iran is claim to sovereignty over the Falkland Islands and (b) the most significant provider of weapons, training and interference with fishing vessels in the seas surrounding funding to Hezbollah. the Falkland Islands. [86386] We judge that Hamas has rebuilt at least some of the capabilities it lost in the 2008-09 Gaza conflict. Since Mr Jeremy Browne: The UK Government have no then, Hamas may have acquired from Iran both a doubt about their sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, number of longer range rockets with the potential to there can be no negotiations on sovereignty unless or reach Tel Aviv and some advanced anti-tank guided until the Falkland Islanders so wish. The fundamental weapons. We assess that Iran is a significant provider of principle and right of self determination, as set out in weapons and funds to the group. the United Nations Charter and the International Covenant Iran also provides arms and funding to other rejectionist on Civil and Political Rights, underlies this position. We groups in the region, such as Palestinian Islamic Jihad. have made this position clear both directly to the Argentine Government and at international forums. We continue to monitor Iranian support to these groups closely. We will continue to push for full implementation The UK Government have repeatedly protested against of UN Security Council Resolutions, which call for the Argentine Presidential Decree 256, which has purportedly disarmament of these armed groups and prohibit weapons been the basis for recent interference with fishing vessels transfers, and support the UN sanctions committees in the vicinity of the River Plate basin. We have repeated pursuing and investigating sanctions violations. this protest on several occasions bilaterally, publicly and in letters circulated at the United Nations General Occupied Territories: Housing Assembly. We do not consider the decree to be compliant with international law, including the right of innocent Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign passage through territorial seas under the United Nations and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has convention on the law of the sea. There has been no had with the Israeli Government about the expansion interference with fishing vessels in Falkland Islands waters. of Israeli settlements. [85528]

Fiji: Christianity Alistair Burt: We regularly make clear that Israeli settlements in the Occupied Territories are wrong, illegal Mark Pritchard: To ask the Secretary of State for under international law and deeply counter-productive Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports to efforts to bring a lasting peace to the middle east he has received of closures of Methodist churches in conflict. Fiji; and if he will raise the issue of religious freedom The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth and freedom of speech with the Government of Fiji. Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond [85465] (Yorks) (Mr Hague), I and our ambassador in Tel Aviv have all raised the issue of settlements with the Israeli Mr Jeremy Browne: The British Government are authorities. The Foreign Secretary most recently condemned deeply concerned by reports of restrictions on the rights settlement activity publicly in his statements of 2, 9 and of freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and freedom 28 November. of association being placed upon members of the Methodist Church in Fiji. The right to assemble peacefully is at the Oil: Canada heart of a functioning democracy and helps to improve long-term social, political and economic stability. Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for On 12 October, I expressed my dismay to the Fijian Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent high commissioner to London at these developments discussions he has had with his Canadian counterpart and noted that this latest action by the authorities in on the environmental consequences of developing the Fiji could only serve to increase their isolation from the Alberta tar sands. [85768] 605W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 606W

Alistair Burt: The Secretary of State for Foreign and cuffing and shackling. In his discussions with the Public Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member Security Minister, the ambassador stressed the importance for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), has not discussed the UK placed on Israel fulfilling its obligations under the development of the Alberta oil sands with his international law. On 28 November 2011, I stated to the Canadian counterpart. House that the UK Government view the shackling of We regularly raise our concerns over the environmental children in detention as wrong. impact of oil sands extraction with the Canadian authorities, The Government of Israel have reaffirmed to us their most recently in discussion between the Minister of commitment to treating prisoners in line with international State, my noble Friend Lord Howell of Guildford, and human rights standards. The UK will continue to monitor the Canadian high commissioner on 20 September. the situation with regard to Palestinian prisoners in The Prime Minister discussed the European fuel quality Israeli prisons and encourage the Government of Israel directive in relation to Canadian oil sands with the to meet their stated commitments. Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, during his visit to Ottawa in September. Sarath Fonseka

Palestinians: Politics and Government Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign representations he has made to the Government of Sri and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has Lanka on the treatment of Sarath Fonseka. [85189] had with (a) his international counterparts and (b) representatives of international organisations about the Alistair Burt: On 18 November 2011, Sarath Fonseka, situation in Gaza. [85530] former head of the Sri Lankan army and rival of President Rajapaksa, was found guilty of spreading Alistair Burt: We are currently working closely with rumours likely to cause public alarm and disorder. The the Quartet, the UN and EU partners to raise more High Court sentenced Fonseka to three years in prison, strongly the situation of Gaza with the Israeli authorities. which he will serve in addition to the 30-month sentence We continue to call on Israel to ease restrictions on handed down in September last year after he was found access including access to humanitarian and medical guilty of misconduct by a military tribunal. supplies. We have consistently urged the Government of Sri Our ambassador in Tel Aviv raises these concerns Lanka to ensure its judicial process meets international regularly with Israeli authorities. It was also formally standards. raised by the UK at the annual Ad Hoc Liaison Committee meeting of donors in New York on 18 September both Shaker Aamer in the plenary session and in bilateral meetings with the Israeli delegation in the margins of the main event. Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for As the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond oral answer of 25 October 2011, Official Report, column (Yorks) (Mr Hague), reiterated to the House on 28 172, on Shaker Aamer, when his case was last raised at November 2011, Official Report, column 691: ministerial level; and what progress has been made on “We look to Israel to permit the further opening of Gaza so returning Shaker Aamer to the UK. [85181] that all Palestinian people can see a pathway to a better future, living side by side with a secure Israel. It is vital that Israel takes that action.” Alistair Burt: Shaker Aamer’s case was raised formally most recently at ministerial level by the Secretary of Palestinians: Prisoners State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Hague), with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, during and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has President Obama’s state visit to the UK in May this had with (a) his international counterparts and (b) year. The Government remain committed to securing representatives of international organisations about the Mr Aamer’s release and return to the UK and, as treatment of Palestinian prisoners by the Israeli previously stated, we wilt continue to raise his case with the United States Government at both official and authorities. [85529] ministerial levels. His release remains a decision for the Alistair Burt: We regularly discuss the issue of treatment United States Government to make, but our own of Palestinian prisoners by the Israeli authorities with determination and our efforts to return Mr Aamer to our international partners, including our EU counterparts. the United Kingdom will certainly continue. We also regularly meet international organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross. Somalia: International Assistance I discussed this matter during my visit in June with the Minister of Justice, indicating the UK’s concerns Mark Lazarowicz: To ask the Secretary of State for about both the detention and the treatment of Palestinian Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps the prisoners, including children. Our ambassador in Tel Government is taking to encourage parties in Somalia, Aviv raised the issue on 26 October 2011 during his visit including the Kenyan armed forces, to facilitate to the Israel Prison Service complex, at the invitation of humanitarian access in South Somalia. [85151] the Public Security Minister. He raised concerns over visitation rights and the treatment of minors, particularly Mr Andrew Mitchell: I have been asked to reply. 607W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 608W

I have regularly highlighted the importance of unhindered We believe that an inclusive political solution that humanitarian access and actively pressed donors to step addresses the underlying causes of the conflict is the up their funding support to humanitarian organisations best way to achieve lasting and equitable peace in Sri to meet priority needs wherever they are. Lanka. The Prime Minister has also written to President Sudan: Human Rights Kibaki on 10 November stating that the Kenyan incursion into Somalia must comply with international law and should not impede humanitarian operations. Officials Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for have followed up directly with the Kenyan security Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will review forces. UK officials have also raised concerns over his Department’s promotion of trade with Sudan in the humanitarian access in Mogadishu with the Somali light of human rights abuses in that country. [86338] Government and African Union Mission in Somalia. The ability of the UK to influence other non-state Mr Bellingham: There are no international restrictions actors inside Somalia is more limited, but we continue on trade with Sudan, other than an arms embargo to explore ways of indirectly doing so. imposed by the UN. At present we do not actively promote trade with Sudan, although assistance is provided by UK Trade & Investment in response to requests from South Africa: Freedom of Information British companies. We have made very clear to the Government of Sudan that the current conflicts and Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for human rights abuses are an obstacle to any increase in Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent our trade relationship, and it is their responsibility to reports he has received on the effect on the freedom of resolve those conflicts peacefully. the media in the Republic of South Africa of the Protection of State Information Bill. [85624] HOME DEPARTMENT Mr Bellingham: Britain is aware of strong concerns that have been raised by media and other rights groups Biometrics: Entry Clearances that the Protection of State Information Bill could limit media freedom in South Africa. Our diplomatic missions Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for the in Pretoria and Cape Town will continue to monitor the Home Department when (a) she and (b) the Bill closely through the remaining stages of the Immigration Minister were first informed that their parliamentary process. pilot programme was being used to stop biometric checks. [79849] Sri Lanka: Politics and Government Damian Green: I refer the hon. Member to the statement made by the Secretary of State for the Home Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Department, my right hon. Friend the Member for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports Maidenhead (Mrs May), on 7 November 2011, Official he has received on the progress of reconciliation in Sri Report, columns 44-61. Lanka; and if he will make a statement. [85190] Dangerous Dogs Alistair Burt: On 20 November, the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission sent their report to the Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for the Sri Lankan President. Many hope this report will mark Home Department how many dogs in England and a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s recovery from Wales were placed on the register of exempt dogs under conflict. I have called on the Government of Sri Lanka section 4(a) and (b) procedures under the Dangerous to seize this opportunity to demonstrate their commitment Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997 in 2010. [78712] to national reconciliation and accountability. I look forward to the Government of Sri Lanka setting out the Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. steps they will take in response to the report. So far this year, we have placed 421 dogs on the Index of Exempted Dogs through either the 4A or 4B Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for procedures. 42 of these were under the 4A procedure Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent and 290 under the 4B procedure. In 89 cases it has not assessment he has made of the progress of transitional been possible to identify under which procedure the justice in Sri Lanka since 2009. [85196] dogs have been placed on the index because this has not been stated on the contingent destruction order issued by the court. Alistair Burt: The UK has consistently called for an independent, thorough and credible investigation into Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 allegations of violations of international humanitarian and human rights law by both sides in the military Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for the conflict. Home Department how many people have been The Sri Lankan Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation prosecuted under section (a) 1(3), (b) 3(1) and (c) Commission (LLRC) presented their report to the Sri 3(3) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 in each year Lankan President on 20 November. We look forward to since 2007. [78752] the Sri Lankan Government publishing the report in full and setting out the steps they will take in response. Mr Paice: I have been asked to reply. 609W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 610W

I will arrange for a table showing the number of working with foreign governments, improving compliance persons proceeded against at magistrates courts, under and embedding staff in prisons ensuring that contact is the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, Sections 1(3), 3(1) and made with FNOs where staff are embedded, within five 3(3), in England and Wales, from 2007 to 2010 (latest days of their arrival. available) to be placed in the Library of the House. Annual court proceedings data for 2011 are planned for publication in the spring of 2012. Fraud: Shares Departmental Manpower David T. C. Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for the the Home Department what steps she is taking to Home Department how many UK Border Force staff ensure that the Serious Fraud Office pursues investigations were working on (a) customs and (b) immigration into boiler room fraud. [86490] checks at Heathrow in each week between 1 July and 1 November 2011. [79888] The Solicitor-General: I have been asked to reply. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is headed by the Damian Green: The total number of Border Force Director who acts under the superintendence of the officers working at Heathrow from 1 July to 1 November Attorney-General. The SFO investigates and prosecutes 2011 is set out as follows. This table shows the number the most serious and complex economic crime. of officers deployed on front line checks at Heathrow throughout the period. Where an alleged boiler room fraud that comes to the attention of the SFO meets the published selection Number criteria the SFO will consider the allegations. The selection criteria itself can be found on the SFO website at: July 957 http://www.sfo.gov.uk/victims/individual-victims/can-i-report- August 953 a-fraud-or-corruption-directly-to-the-sfo.aspx September 952 If an alleged boiler room fraud does not meet the October 944 SFO criteria it will be referred to another law enforcement organisation or regulator for investigation when appropriate. Deportation: Offenders Since October 2011 the SFO has successfully prosecuted 10 individuals involved in boiler room fraud. Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when her policy to remove foreign national prisoners on completion of their sentence was Immigration introduced. [79772]

Damian Green: Government policy is to deport foreign Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for the nationals where their presence in the United Kingdom Home Department if she will publish (a) the operational is not conducive to the public good. The power to advice note and (b) details of the ministerial decision deport a person on the grounds that their presence in implementing the trial of risk-based processes at the the UK is not conducive to the public good is provided border. [79887] by S3(5) of the Immigration Act 1971. S3(6)of the Immigration Act 1971 gave the courts the power to Damian Green: We are conducting an investigation recommend the deportation of foreign national prisoners. into all the relaxation of border controls. It would be These powers came into force on 1 January 1973. inappropriate to publish this information or comment The policy to remove foreign nationals who are liable further at this stage. to deportation dates from then. Although it has not been explicitly stated that we remove foreign national Chris Bryant: To ask the Secretary of State for the prisoners on completion of their sentence, as a matter Home Department how many (a) EU nationals and of practice we aim to remove foreign national offenders (b) non-EU nationals passed through border controls at the earliest opportunity. Under the terms of the Early in the UK between 28 July and 4 November 2011. Removal Scheme, which was introduced by the Criminal [79889] Justice Act 2003, foreign national prisoners serving fixed term sentences can be removed from prison and the Damian Green: Passenger arrivals figures for the third country up to a maximum of 270 days before the quarter of 2011 (July to September) are not yet available. half-way point of sentence. In 2010-11 43% of removals The latest published data for the first quarter of 2011 of foreign national offenders (FNOs) who met the along with figures for 2010 showing recent levels of deportation criteria took place during the early removal EEA and non-EEA nationals arriving in the United period. Kingdom are given in the table. These figures are numbers More generally we are improving performance by of journeys and include passengers in transit who do starting earlier, maximising Facilitated Returns Scheme, not pass through immigration controls.

Passenger arrivals to the United Kingdom including EEA and Swiss nationals, January 2010 to March 2011 Passengers admitted Q1 2010 Q2 2010 Q3 2010 Q4 2010 Q1 2011

Total (million) 19.7 26.2 33.3 22.3 20.2 611W Written Answers12 DECEMBER 2011 Written Answers 612W

Passenger arrivals to the United Kingdom including EEA and Swiss nationals, January 2010 to March 2011 Passengers admitted Q1 2010 Q2 2010 Q3 2010 Q4 2010 Q1 2011

Non-EEA nationals 2.4 3.3 4.0 2.7 2.4 British citizens 11.2 15.9 21.0 12.8 11.2 Other EEA and Swiss nationals 6.0 7.1 8.3 6.7 6.5 Notes: 1. Provisional figures. 2. Includes airside transfer/transit passengers of all nationalities who did not pass through immigration control. Source: Home Office, Migration Statistics. Published in table ad.01.q of ‘Immigration Statistics April to June 2011’.

Information relating to the second quarter (April to available from the Library of the House and from the June) of 2011 will be published on 24 November 2011 in Home Office Science website at: the Home Office Science publication, ‘Immigration Statistics July to September 2011’ and the third quarter will http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- be published on 23 February 2012. These data will be statistics/research-statistics/immigration-asylum-research/

ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 12 December 2011

Col. No. Col. No. HOME DEPARTMENT...... 499 HOME DEPARTMENT—continued Domestic Violence against Men...... 502 Police and Crime Commissioners...... 503 Forced Marriage ...... 511 Police Efficiency...... 504 Gang-related Crime ...... 505 Police Funding...... 511 Home Department (Croydon Office) ...... 512 Riot (Damages) Act 1886...... 510 London Bombings (Inquests)...... 506 Target Sports Clubs ...... 500 Metal Theft...... 507 Topical Questions ...... 513 Migration...... 513 UK Border Agency ...... 501 National Crime Agency ...... 506 Violence against Women ...... 499 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 12 December 2011

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 61WS FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 66WS Green Investment Bank ...... 61WS General Affairs Council (5 December 2011)...... 66WS

DEFENCE...... 63WS Accommodation ...... 63WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 68WS Justice and Home Affairs Pre-Council Statement .. 68WS EDUCATION...... 63WS Pupil Premium 2012-13...... 63WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 71WS Review of Teachers’ Standards ...... 64WS Bereavement Benefit (Public Consultation)...... 71WS ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS...... 65WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 72WS Environment Council (19 December 2011)...... 65WS Social Security Benefits Uprating...... 72WS PETITIONS

Monday 12 December 2011

Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 7P JUSTICE...... 8P Proposed Development on Coastal Road, Bolton- Sentencing (Knife Crime)...... 8P le-Sands (Lancashire)...... 7P WRITTEN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

Monday 12 December 2011

Col. No. Col. No. ATTORNEY-GENERAL ...... 462W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS—continued Departmental Audit...... 462W Scholarships...... 531W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 463W Tourism: Regional Development Agencies...... 532W Departmental Risk Assessment ...... 463W Veterinary Services: Fees and Charges ...... 531W Prosecutions: Tobacco ...... 463W CABINET OFFICE...... 520W BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS...... 526W Big Lottery Fund: Public Appointments ...... 520W Aviation: Treaties ...... 526W Charity Commission: Public Appointments...... 520W Business ...... 526W Departmental Audit...... 520W Business: Entry Clearances ...... 527W Departmental Procurement...... 521W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 527W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 521W Export Credit Guarantees: Egypt ...... 527W Departmental Publications ...... 522W Financial Services: Older People ...... 527W Employment ...... 522W Further Education: English Language ...... 528W Government Departments: Procurement ...... 523W Higher Education...... 528W Immigrants: EU Nationals...... 523W Higher Education: Fees and Charges ...... 529W Population: Babies ...... 524W Manufacturing Industries: Training ...... 529W Public Sector: Mutual Societies...... 524W Post Offices: Pilot Schemes ...... 530W Public Sector: Pay ...... 525W Public Expenditure: Birmingham...... 530W Public Sector: Pensions ...... 525W Col. No. Col. No. CABINET OFFICE—continued ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—continued Steria...... 525W Climate Change: International Cooperation ...... 564W Voluntary Work: Young People...... 525W Climate Research Unit ...... 561W Departmental Catering ...... 565W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 480W Departmental Flags ...... 566W Council Tax ...... 480W Departmental Internet ...... 566W Council Tax Benefits...... 481W Departmental Manpower...... 566W Departmental Audit...... 481W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 567W Departmental Communication ...... 482W Departmental Pay ...... 568W Departmental Judicial Review...... 482W Departmental Press Releases...... 568W Departmental Pay ...... 483W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 568W Departmental Written Questions ...... 483W Departmental Reviews ...... 568W Homes and Communities Agency: Equality...... 484W Drugs...... 569W Housing: North East...... 484W Drugs: Offences ...... 569W Housing: Population ...... 485W Energy: Meters...... 569W Non-domestic Rates...... 485W Energy: Pensioners...... 569W Right to Buy Scheme ...... 485W Energy: Prisons ...... 570W Social Rented Housing: Armed Forces...... 486W Green Deal Scheme...... 570W Urban Areas: Finance...... 487W Nuclear Installations: EU Law...... 571W Voluntary Organisations: Finance...... 487W Nuclear Power...... 571W Wildlife: EU Action ...... 488W Renewable Energy...... 572W Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs...... 573W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT ...... 475W Solar Power...... 574W Broadband: Expenditure...... 475W Solar Power: Feed-in Tariffs...... 576W Departmental Audit...... 475W Taxation: Nuclear Power...... 576W Departmental Secondment ...... 476W UK Global Threat Reduction Programme...... 577W Ofcom: Finance ...... 476W Olympic Games 2012: Contracts...... 477W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Radio Frequencies ...... 478W AFFAIRS...... 464W Sports ...... 478W Agriculture: Subsidies ...... 464W Sports: VAT ...... 479W Animal Welfare: Circuses...... 464W Television: Licensing ...... 479W Animal Welfare: Performing Arts ...... 465W Bovine Tuberculosis ...... 465W DEFENCE...... 469W Dangerous Dogs ...... 466W Armed Forces: Cadets ...... 469W Dogs: Tagging...... 466W Armed Forces: Education ...... 470W Imports: Israel ...... 466W Armed Forces: Food ...... 470W Livestock: Disease Control ...... 467W Armed Forces: Housing ...... 470W Veterinary Laboratory Service: Redundancy...... 468W Armed Forces: Leisure ...... 471W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 469W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 471W Departmental Railways...... 471W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 600W Ex-servicemen: Employment...... 472W Afghanistan: Females...... 600W Iran: Nuclear Weapons ...... 472W Bangladesh: Asylum ...... 600W Post Codes ...... 473W Convention on the Protection of the Underwater RAF Lossiemouth ...... 473W Cultural Heritage...... 601W Strategic Defence and Security Review ...... 474W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 601W Warships: Wrecks...... 474W Departmental Secondment ...... 602W Departmental Written Questions ...... 602W DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 480W Egypt: Exports...... 602W Departmental Written Questions...... 480W Falkland Islands: Sovereignty ...... 603W Domestic Visits ...... 480W Fiji: Christianity...... 603W Travellers: Caravan Sites ...... 480W Iran: Weapons...... 604W Occupied Territories: Housing ...... 604W EDUCATION...... 510W Oil: Canada...... 604W Academies...... 510W Palestinians: Politics and Government ...... 605W Academies: School Meals ...... 513W Palestinians: Prisoners ...... 605W Education: Rural Areas...... 513W Sarath Fonseka ...... 606W Free Schools...... 514W Shaker Aamer ...... 606W GCSE: North West ...... 514W Somalia: International Assistance...... 606W New Schools Network...... 514W South Africa: Freedom of Information...... 607W Pupil Exclusions...... 514W Sri Lanka: Politics and Government ...... 607W Pupil Premium ...... 515W Sudan: Human Rights ...... 608W School Meals ...... 515W Schools: Standards...... 516W HEALTH...... 540W Students: Finance ...... 516W Abortion: Research...... 541W Teenage Pregnancy...... 517W Abortion: Young People ...... 541W Antenatal Care: Wirral...... 541W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 561W Baby Care Units: Manpower...... 542W Carbon Emissions...... 562W Baby Care Units: Nurses...... 542W Carbon Sequestration ...... 563W Children’s Centres: Departmental Coordination.... 542W Carbon Sequestration: Finance...... 564W Chronically Sick People ...... 543W Col. No. Col. No. HEALTH—continued JUSTICE—continued Contraceptives ...... 540W Youth Custody: Enfield...... 510W Departmental Assets...... 544W Departmental Audit...... 544W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 461W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 544W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 461W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 546W Doctors: Foreign Nationals...... 546W PRIME MINISTER...... 461W E. Coli...... 546W Cabinet ...... 461W Epilepsy: Health Services ...... 549W Departmental Internet ...... 461W Family Nurse Partnership Programme...... 549W Departmental Publications ...... 461W Foetal Alcohol Syndrome ...... 549W Departmental Written Questions...... 462W Four Seasons Health Care...... 550W Health: Males ...... 552W Health Services: Cardiovascular System...... 550W SCOTLAND...... 459W Health Services: Males...... 551W Departmental Audit...... 459W Health Visitors: Regulation...... 551W Departmental Public Bodies ...... 459W Health Visitors: Training...... 552W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 459W Hospitals...... 552W Unemployment: Young People...... 459W KPMG...... 552W Malcolm Lader ...... 553W TRANSPORT ...... 488W Medical Certificates ...... 554W Biofuels: Government Assistance...... 488W Mental Health Services: Hospital Beds ...... 554W Cycling...... 488W Midwives: Manpower...... 557W Dartford-Thurrock Crossing: Automatic Number Neurology: Surgery...... 557W Plate Recognition...... 488W NHS: Negligence ...... 558W Departmental Audit...... 489W Palliative Care...... 559W Departmental Civil Proceedings...... 489W Palliative Care: Community Hospitals ...... 560W Departmental Eggs ...... 490W Prescriptions ...... 560W Departmental Food...... 491W Radiation Exposure ...... 561W Departmental Internet ...... 492W Steria...... 562W Departmental Official Hospitality...... 494W Departmental Older Workers...... 493W HOME DEPARTMENT ...... 608W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 493W Biometrics: Entry Clearances...... 608W Electric Vehicles ...... 495W Dangerous Dogs ...... 608W First Capital Connect: Snow and Ice...... 495W Dangerous Dogs Act 1991...... 608W Members: Correspondence ...... 495W Departmental Manpower ...... 609W Motor Vehicles: Lighting ...... 496W Deportation: Offenders...... 609W Motor Vehicles: Registration...... 496W Fraud: Shares...... 610W Parking: Fees and Charges...... 497W Immigration...... 610W Railways: Buckinghamshire ...... 497W Railways: Finance ...... 497W HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION...... 460W Roads: Accidents ...... 498W Computers ...... 460W Roads: Manholes ...... 498W Roads: Repairs and Maintenance...... 499W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 596W Steria...... 499W Departmental Audit...... 596W Tottenham Hale-Brimsdown Railway Line ...... 499W Departmental Written Questions ...... 597W Developing Countries: Climate Change ...... 597W TREASURY ...... 531W Developing Countries: Population ...... 598W Air Passenger Duty ...... 531W Developing Countries: Water ...... 598W Business: Loans...... 534W Kenya: Asylum...... 599W Child Benefit: Wales...... 534W Overseas Aid: Education...... 600W Departmental Audit...... 534W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 534W JUSTICE...... 500W Economic Growth...... 535W Alternatives to Prison: Females...... 500W Economic Growth: North West...... 535W Bail ...... 500W Employment ...... 535W Birmingham...... 501W Financial Services: Qualifications ...... 536W Departmental Catering ...... 502W National Income ...... 536W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 502W Poverty: Rural Areas ...... 536W Departmental Risk Assessment ...... 503W Public Expenditure: Northern Ireland...... 536W Free Schools: Planning Permission...... 500W Public Sector: Pensions ...... 537W Members: Correspondence ...... 503W Revenue and Customs: Correspondence ...... 537W Offender Assessment System...... 503W Taxation: Energy...... 538W Police Cautions ...... 504W Taxation: Pensions ...... 538W Prisoners: Per Capita Costs...... 504W VAT: Electronic Publishing ...... 539W Prisons: Energy ...... 505W Working Tax Credit: Wales ...... 539W Prosecutions: Fireworks...... 506W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 540W Reoffenders...... 507W Third Sector...... 507W WALES...... 460W Victims: Terrorism ...... 508W Departmental Audit...... 460W Young Offender Institutions...... 508W Departmental Responsibilities ...... 460W Young Offenders: Expenditure...... 508W Departmental Risk Assessment ...... 460W Col. No. Col. No. WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 578W WORK AND PENSIONS—continued Apprentices...... 578W Jobseeker’s Allowance: Young People ...... 589W Departmental Assets...... 578W National Benefit Fraud Hotline ...... 589W Departmental Design...... 578W Older Workers: East Midlands...... 590W Departmental Information Officers ...... 579W PAYE...... 591W Departmental Pay ...... 581W Poverty: Children ...... 591W Departmental Procurement...... 582W Social Fund...... 591W Departmental Public Bodies ...... 583W Social Security Benefits...... 592W Employment and Support Allowance: Social Security Benefits...... 593W Expenditure ...... 585W Social Security Benefits: Foreign Nationals...... 594W Employment and Support Allowance: Social Security Benefits: Fraud ...... 594W Peterborough ...... 585W Social Security Benefits: Young People ...... 594W Employment Schemes ...... 586W Tax Credits: Universal Credit...... 595W Enterprise Allowance Scheme ...... 587W Unemployment ...... 595W Housing Benefit ...... 588W Work Capability Assessment: Mental Illness...... 595W Housing Benefit: Wales...... 589W Young People: Peterborough...... 596W Incapacity Benefit: Aberdeen ...... 589W Young People: Scotland ...... 596W Income Support: Mortgages ...... 590W Members who wish to have the Daily Report of the Debates forwarded to them should give notice at the Vote Office. The Bound Volumes will also be sent to Members who similarly express their desire to have them. No proofs of the Daily Reports can be supplied, nor can corrections be made in the Weekly Edition. Corrections which Members suggest for the Bound Volume should be clearly marked in the Daily Report, but not telephoned, and the copy containing the Corrections must be received at the Editor’s Room, House of Commons,

not later than Monday 19 December 2011

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CONTENTS

Monday 12 December 2011

Oral Answers to Questions [Col. 499] [see index inside back page] Secretary of State for the Home Department

EU Council [Col. 519] Statement—(Prime Minister)

Royal Bank of Scotland (FSA Report) [Col. 556] Statement—(Mr Hoban)

Durban Climate Change Conference [Col. 568] Statement—(Chris Huhne)

Immigration [Col. 581] General debate

Pregnancy Counselling [Col. 629] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 61WS]

Petitions [Col. 7P] Observations

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 459W] [see index inside back page]