Friday Volume 506 5 March 2010 No. 51

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

Friday 5 March 2010

£5·00 © Parliamentary Copyright House of Commons 2010 This publication may be reproduced under the terms of the Parliamentary Click-Use Licence, available online through the Office of Public Sector Information website at www.opsi.gov.uk/click-use/ Enquiries to the Office of Public Sector Information, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU; e-mail: [email protected] 1117 5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1118

David Cairns (Inverclyde) (Lab): I congratulate my House of Commons hon. Friend on bringing forward his Bill. Will it address the non-grocery products that supermarkets sell? I am Friday 5 March 2010 thinking, for example, of petrol, whereby the local pricing policy of large grocery retailers leads to a great The House met at half-past Nine o’clock distortion. In Inverclyde, which has some prosperous areas but also a lot of deprivation, the petrol prices that grocery retailers set are higher than those in many much PRAYERS more prosperous areas of Scotland. I am grateful to a The Chairman of Ways and Means took the Chair as constituent of mine, John MacNeil, who has driven all Deputy Speaker (Standing Order No. 3). around Scotland pricing petrol. Will my hon. Friend’s Bill address the supermarkets’ local pricing policy on Mr. Andrew Dismore (Hendon) (Lab): I beg to move, that product? That the House sit in private. Question put forthwith (Standing Order No. 163). Albert Owen: My hon. Friend makes an important Question negatived. point, and, indeed, I attended a debate about petrol prices in Westminster Hall. It is a big issue, and there Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill are market failings in that area, too. In order to move forward, we need the Office of Fair Trading to undertake Second Reading an inquiry into petrol pricing. The OFT and the 9.35 am Competition Commission could recommend to the Government a policy on those imbalances, which my Albert Owen (Ynys Môn) (Lab): I beg to move, That hon. Friend has described. They are evident in all our the Bill be now read a Second time. constituencies, and I represent a periphery area, where I am delighted to move the Second Reading of this we face exactly the same problems. Not only are some Bill, the principle of which has gathered support from of the large retailers and supermarkets varying their those in all parts of the House since it was introduced in petrol prices; they are having a huge impact on independent December. It is appropriate that I put on the record my suppliers, many of which have had to close down. sincere thanks to the Grocery Market Action Group, which consists of a powerful alliance of organisations, John Penrose (Weston-super-Mare) (Con): I apologise including the Association of Convenience Stores, the for butting in on the hon. Gentleman so early in his Rural Shops Alliance, the Independent Fruit Growers speech, but I want to back up the point that he was Association, the British Brands Group, the National making in response to that last intervention. Does he Farmers Union, ActionAid UK, Traidcraft and Banana agree that it would be inappropriate to use an ombudsman Link. Many of those organisations have lobbied Members to stick up for the oil companies, many of which are to attend today’s debate, and they are very supportive of larger than the supermarkets concerned? There might Members’ support for the Bill. be an issue of the kind that has just been discussed, but The action group is ably chaired by the hon. Member an ombudsman would be the wrong way to deal with it. for St. Ives (Andrew George), and I pay tribute to him for his long-standing campaign to address the imbalance Albert Owen: I agree. We are talking about not only in the grocery market. The group has played a constructive the retailers of petrol but the distributors and oil companies. role since it was set up in 2006, when the Competition Although we need a fresh independent inquiry into the Commission began its latest inquiry into the retail pricing mechanism, I do not think that this Bill—or, sector. I thank also the Farmers Union of Wales and, indeed, an ombudsman—is the way forward for that. particularly, my local Ynys Môn branch, which has lobbied me for a long time—since I was first elected in Mr. Christopher Chope (Christchurch) (Con): Does 2001, in fact. It has argued in a forthright and coherent the hon. Gentleman accept that there have been many manner for a grocery code of practice and an ombudsman inquiries that have always come down in favour of to implement the code effectively, and I have led a saying that an active market is operating and that there number of union delegations to meet Ministers in the are additional costs in rural areas that have to be borne House, including the Minister with responsibility for by somebody? However, how is petrol retailing associated food, farming and the environment, my hon. Friend the with groceries? As I understand it, those are what this Member for Poplar and Canning Town (Jim Fitzpatrick), Bill is about. who was very receptive to the idea of an ombudsman. I also acknowledge the farmers unions’ dairy industry Albert Owen: I do not think that the hon. Gentleman campaigns to secure a fair price for producers, given was listening to what I said. What he has mentioned is what they consider to be market failings. I agree with not in the Bill. An important point was raised about the them and hope that in some way the Bill will address variations in petrol prices across the United Kingdom, that imbalance, too. and he says that many inquiries have favoured the I want to make it clear that I am not anti-supermarket, retailers and the oil companies on the issue. Indeed, in nor indeed are the terms of the Bill. In fact, I am the past there have been many inquiries in respect of the pro-supermarket. I am also pro-small shops, pro-small issues raised by my Bill today. However, the most recent convenience shops, pro-local suppliers and, above all, one came to the conclusion that there were market pro-consumer. The supermarkets are the major retailers, failings. That is why there is a new code and why we and they are important contributors to the local economies need a new ombudsman. We need an up-to-date inquiry of all our constituencies and, indeed, the country’s by the Office of Fair Trading into petrol prices in the wealth. future. 1119 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1120

Mr. Andrew Dismore (Hendon) (Lab): Perhaps I can Albert Owen: I agree, and I thank the hon. Gentleman raise a different point and get my hon. Friend off the for all the support that he has given me and for his work petrol issue. I am here to support his Bill, but one of with the National Farmers Union and the Grocery the issues in relation to supermarkets is suppliers from Market Action Group to establish the code and make the developing world. Bearing in mind that we are in sure that we have the inquiry. I will develop my argument Fairtrade fortnight, does my hon. Friend consider that and deal with the issue in greater detail. his Bill does anything to support developing-world suppliers, which often get a raw deal from supermarkets? Mr. Roger Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire) (LD): I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will agree with me Albert Owen: Yes, indirectly. This is about choice. We on a point that he might develop later. The issue is not are all lobbying and campaigning for greater choice and all about prices; it is about terms of trade as well. I greater brands, and Fairtrade is an important source of recently discovered a supermarket that tried to increase those. The Bill will help. Many of the organisations that its credit terms to 90 days. That is an impossible situation lobbied hard for it welcome that, because they believe for a small supplier, so the matter is about more than that it will do something to help them in future. price—it is about terms of trade as well. Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): Earlier, the hon. Gentleman said that he was pro-consumer and that he saw an Albert Owen: It is, and that comes under the umbrella imbalance between the power of the supermarkets and of fairness. As my hon. Friend the Member for Hendon that of the suppliers. Presumably, therefore, he wants (Mr. Dismore) said, the issue is about fair trade, including the appointment of the ombudsman to result in higher Fairtrade suppliers. The whole ambit is covered by what payments from supermarkets to suppliers. That would the code will produce, but the Bill is specifically about inevitably lead to higher prices for customers. Given the ombudsman. that he is so in favour of consumers, will he tell us by Before I took those interventions, I was praising the how much he expects prices to go up and the kind of supermarkets for their importance in the local and rise that he thinks would be acceptable? national economy. In the United Kingdom, the food retail sector represents about £110.4 billion. The Albert Owen: I thank the hon. Gentleman for that supermarkets are at the end of the supply chain; at the intervention. What is involved is not what I say as I other end are the producers, farmers and suppliers. I develop my argument, but what the Competition want there to be an interdependency between them all, Commission says independently. but at this time that does not exist. That is why we need the new code and an ombudsman as a referee. Philip Davies: No, it’s what you’re saying. As I said, the purpose of the Bill is to institute both Albert Owen: I have not even developed the argument, fairness and firmness—the fairness that the new code of so I could not have said that. What I am saying is that I practice will provide, and the firmness that a referee am pro-supermarket, pro-supplier and pro-consumer. would bring. That is exactly what a grocery market If the hon. Gentleman wants to argue against that, that ombudsman could do in overseeing the grocery supply is up to him, but it is on the basis of that standpoint that code of practice, to which I shall refer as “the code” I bring the Bill to the House—to make sure that the from now on. code is properly applied and adhered to. I use the term “referee”, and there is an important rugby analogy. Like rugby, the grocery market is a Andrew George (St. Ives) (LD): I congratulate the rough game. It needs rules and a referee to ensure that hon. Gentleman on the Bill. May I clarify something? they are adhered to on all sides. That is what I argue in On the requirement for a supermarket ombudsman, the the Bill. I share the aim of many in the House that we Competition Commission found not, as the hon. Member need a rich diversity of suppliers, producers and brands, for Shipley (Philip Davies) suggested, that the mechanism and small and large retailers, along with the supermarkets, involved should be price sensitive and price setting, but to provide real choice and real value for the consumer. simply that it should oversee the necessity for fair The need for the code was established as a result of a dealing. The issue should not be and is not about price full and comprehensive inquiry by the Competition setting. Commission, at the request of the Office of Fair Trading, into the supply of groceries by retailers in the United Albert Owen: The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. Kingdom; I stress that the Bill covers the whole of the We are talking about fairness. The Competition United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Commission identified that there was an imbalance and The inquiry started in May 2006. After two long years, that there were market failings and unfairnesses. The the commission reported in April 2008. Its findings Bill would rectify that. The code has been in place since made it very clear that there was an adverse effect on 4 February; what we are looking for is a referee to competition and it provided remedies to rectify those oversee it. It is as simple as that. market failings. Mark Williams (Ceredigion) (LD): I congratulate the hon. Gentleman on bringing forward the cause. He will Philip Davies: The hon. Gentleman says that the be aware of polling evidence that suggests that consumers Competition Commission’s report was very clear. However, are very much in favour of the creation of an ombudsman; does he concede that the economist Professor Bruce a YouGov poll identified that eight out of 10 consumers Lyons, one of the two Competition Commission panel were. Does the Bill not also represent a huge opportunity members working on supplier issues, concluded that the for supermarkets to present themselves in a positive ombudsman would be counter-productive? He opposed light? the setting up of an ombudsman. 1121 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1122

Albert Owen: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for Albert Owen: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that intervention. I said that the report was clear; I did highlighting that point; I am sure that other hon. Members not say that it was unanimous. There was a lone voice, will do the same. Some supermarkets have embraced and the hon. Gentleman is desperate to jump to it. not only the code but an ombudsman, because they There was, however, a huge majority in favour of believe that that is in their interests as well as in the establishing the code and the ombudsman. I see where interests of suppliers and consumers. At the end of the the hon. Gentleman is coming from, but in a democracy day, we all want to reach the goal of a healthy food we have to go with the majority. I believe that he is a industry and grocery industry in Britain. democrat and I am sure that when I have developed my I have lobbied and campaigned for an ombudsman arguments he will support the Bill because it is about for an awfully long time. Having somebody independent firmness and fairness, and I am sure that he is decent of Government and the supermarkets making the decisions person who believes in both. It will be difficult for him would have the advantage of giving confidence to suppliers to argue against that principle. to invest for the long term and take long-term decisions. Paragraphs 2, 3 and 5 of the report’s summary were My Bill has been the subject of a lot of discussion in clear that there was an adverse effect on competition. the press. I welcome the announcement by the Conservatives Paragraph 2 states: that they agree that there have been market failings in “We found that, in many important respects, competition in the current circumstances and that we should have an the UK groceries industry is effective and delivers good outcomes independent ombudsman to right that wrong. In January, for consumers, but not all is well.” the Government accepted the need for a body independently I am sure that the hon. Member for Shipley (Philip to enforce the code of practice. The Minister for Further Davies) is listening to this first part. The paragraph goes Education, Skills, Apprenticeships and Consumer Affairs, on: my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff, West (Kevin “We have concerns in two principal areas. First, we found that Brennan), announced that the Government accepted several grocery retailers have strong positions in a number of the Competition Commission’s recommendations and local markets. Barriers faced by competing grocery retailers that said that a consultation would be undertaken on the could otherwise enter these markets mean that consumers get a new code, which came into force on 4 January 2010—not poorer retail offer in terms of prices, quality and service than a consultation on whether we need an ombudsman but would otherwise be the case, while those grocery retailers with on how best that ombudsman should be housed and strong local market positions earn additional profits due to weak have the tools to enforce the code. I am very grateful competition in those markets.” that as we go into the next general election, the two The report continued: major parties support the appointment of an ombudsman, “Second, we found that the transfer of excessive risk and as do all the other parties in this House. I am speaking unexpected costs by grocery retailers to their suppliers through from a position of strength and consensus in promoting various supply chain practices if unchecked will have an adverse this Bill. It has always been my intention, and that of its effect on investment and innovation in the supply chain, and sponsors, to create that consensus across the House to ultimately on consumers.” ensure that we get the best deal for suppliers and for That is why we are battling for consumers as well as for consumers. I hope that we can move forward on that suppliers. The report says, in part 5 of its summary, united front. “We will be tightening the provisions of the Supermarkets Of course, there are those who oppose the Bill, including Code of Practice and broadening its application such that more the British Retail Consortium and, as my hon. Friend grocery retailers will be required to abide by its terms. We will also the Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) said, some of the be seeking legally binding commitments from grocery retailers to supermarkets are divided on the issue. However, I believe establish an Ombudsman to oversee the revised Code. If we that the momentum is going in its favour and that the cannot secure suitable undertakings from these grocery retailers, we recommend that Government takes the necessary steps to supermarkets will find that they have nothing to fear facilitate the establishment of the Ombudsman.” from fairness in the grocery market supply chain. That is a very clear conclusion by the Competition Commission on this matter. Mark Williams: The hon. Gentleman has alluded to the British Retail Consortium, which has described his The commission was also very fair in wanting an proposal as a new “multi-million pound bureaucracy”. undertaking from the retailers to establish themselves, It obviously has ramifications in terms of costs. However, during a reasonable period, the appointment of an the National Farmers Union has said that the cost of ombudsman. However, the voluntary agreement did the ombudsman would be as minimal as 0.005 per cent. not deliver that conclusion, and no undertaking was of the turnover of the supermarkets, which amounts to reached for such an office. The commission recommended some £70 billion. Given what he is trying to achieve, that the then Department for Business, Enterprise and surely that represents real value for money. Regulatory Reform should establish an ombudsman “to give the Ombudsman the power to levy…penalties on the Albert Owen: Yes, I agree with the NFU. I do not retailers for non-compliance.” agree with the NFU on all issues—in fact, there are some on which I am diametrically opposed to it—but Mr. David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op): I thank my on this one, I have worked with it, and I have seen the hon. Friend for introducing this excellent Bill. Does he figures. An independent analysis of those figures comes accept that part of the problem with trying to get a to the same conclusion about the costs. I believe that response from the supermarkets is that they are utterly they could be absorbed quite easily. In proposing a code divided? It is a myth to pretend that all supermarkets and an ombudsman, we are seeking fairness whereby are opposed to an ombudsman, and that is why we need suppliers can invest for the long term, can display more to legislate on behalf of the good. innovation, and can give more choice to the consumer. 1123 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1124

Mr. Chope: Does the hon. Gentleman believe—it is “ensure fair dealing between retailers and their suppliers…promote not clear from his Bill—that a complainant should be competition for the benefit of consumers…enforce the Groceries able to complain to the ombudsman and remain Supply Code of Practice… (“the Code”), including the investigation anonymous? The supermarkets have said that that would and determination of complaints and disputes under the Code; and…fulfil the purposes set out in the Recommendations from be a grave breach of natural justice. What is his position the Competition Commission to the Minister of State for Business, on the matter? Innovation and Skills on 4 August 2009”. It is therefore clear what the Bill is intended to do. It has Albert Owen: I certainly do not agree that it would be widespread support, and I believe that we should move against natural justice. A supplier—perhaps a sole trader— forward and establish an ombudsman as soon as it is who has a long-term contract with a supermarket and practical to do so. depends on it for his or her livelihood might find that Clause 1(4) calls for the ombudsman to be independent the supermarket had retrospectively changed the conditions of the OFT. There has been some debate about that, of the contract. In taking the complaint to the ombudsman, and I fully understand why, but to me, an independent that person should have some cover whereby the facts ombudsman is one that will investigate and make a can be presented, the contract can be produced, and the determination on conduct allegedly in breach of the outcome can be arrived at transparently. They should code thoroughly and objectively, without outside have the benefit of not being named, because their interference. It will have to build up trust and be easy to livelihoods depend on it. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman access by suppliers, retailers or the OFT itself. It is supports sole traders and small businesses. The Competition important that it be independent, and seen to be Commission recommended, in the interests of fairness, independent, in dealing with the complaints brought by that they should be added to the ombudsman’s those three groups and bodies. responsibilities. Philip Davies: I understand the hon. Gentleman’s Mr. Dismore: Surely the real issue is the inequality of point, but can he explain how on the one hand he is arms between a small supplier and a mega-multinational asking the OFT to establish the ombudsman, and on supermarket. The supermarket is of course entitled to the other saying that it should be independent of the know the case that it has to meet, but that does not OFT? How on earth can it be independent of the OFT necessitate the identification of the individual who has if it has been appointed by it? made the complaint, who could be eaten up alive by the giant power of the supermarkets. What is important is Albert Owen: The answer is quite easily—we lay that the supermarkets know the case that they have to down the principles and allow the ombudsman to get make—the gist of the case, as we say in other aspects of on with its work, listen to complaints and act on the the law that we debated earlier this week. evidence that it is given. It is very simple. Parliament sets up many independent bodies and accepts their Albert Owen: My hon. Friend is an accomplished findings, so I do not see there being a conflict. lawyer, and he understands these things far better than I do. That concern is not covered in the Bill, but there is John Penrose: This is potentially a point of contention, no hidden agenda. The intent is to help and support the but it is one of detail and does not undermine my small supplier and small trader overcome the existing party’s basic principled support for the idea of an imbalance in the grocery market. He is absolutely right ombudsman, which the hon. Gentleman has mentioned. about that. It seems possible to argue that an ombudsman within the OFT would be a good deal cheaper, because it Andrew George: The hon. Gentleman is making an would avoid duplication while having have all the same important point. Further to the anonymity of complainants, powers as the ombudsman that he proposes. I hope he it is more important to emphasise that the ombudsman accepts that the OFT itself is independent and has all should be able to undertake investigations on a proactive the determination and resolution that he wants in his basis, because even if a complainant to were to act independent ombudsman. I am not sure why having an anonymously, it would be pretty clear, at a very early independent ombudsman independent of an independent stage of the investigation, where the original complaint OFT is necessarily an advantage over having the might have come from. When the OFT undertook an ombudsman within the OFT itself. Perhaps he could inquiry into the effectiveness of the supermarket code explain. of practice published in February 2004, it found that suppliers would not complain because of what they Albert Owen: I can explain my position, but I am described as a climate of fear as regards the consequences uncertain of the Conservatives’ position given what the should they use the remedy available to them. hon. Gentleman has just said. My understanding is that they want an independent ombudsman within the OFT, Albert Owen: The hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. and that is what I am saying. I think we are at one on Let us not forget that the inquiry undertaken by the that. The issue is not whether it is housed within the Competition Commission took some two years and OFT, although there is a debate to be had about that in included cases and evidence from a wide range of Committee if the Bill progresses. What is important is bodies, and its conclusion was that the ability to make that it carries out its duties fairly and transparently, and anonymous complaints was required by some small that all sectors—the OFT itself, retailers and suppliers—have businesses. There is no hidden agenda in the Bill. We confidence in it. cannot put everything in it, but the intent is as I am I agree with the hon. Gentleman, because I do not outlining. Clause 1(3) sets out the purpose of the want to set up an empire—a block of flats with ombudsman, which is to “Ombudsman” on the door, a wide range of suites on 1125 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1126 the fifth floor and so on. I want an effective body that Many of the Bill’s clauses are technical, and there will adhere to its responsibility. I am not really worried were many points that I would have liked to put into it whether it is housed in the OFT’s building, but I want it but could not. However, I have explained that the need to be independent in that it makes its own decisions, so for the ombudsman has come from the Competition that the code can be applied correctly. Commission, not from vested interests. The commission I have to be honest with the hon. Gentleman and say has examined the matter thoroughly. The hon. Gentleman that I do have some concerns about the OFT, which is said that the OFT could set it up, and I think we can all why we both want to have an ombudsman. If we were agree about that, because the OFT is set up in such a 100 per cent. confident in the OFT, we would not be way that it can deal with competition issues, but the arguing for an ombudsman. The word “independent” ombudsman’s independence is crucial. makes some people worry that we are going to set up a The Bill has cross-party support, and I have talked to complete independent body, but whether that is necessary a number of Members about it. Its sponsors come from is a matter for debate. We need to establish the principle all parts of the House, which is important. The debate that we all share and ensure that the ombudsman does outside has also been useful. Yesterday there was a its job effectively. reception hosted by the Grocery Market Action Group, and many organisations were there. I would have liked Philip Davies: The hon. Gentleman says that he does more dialogue with the supermarkets, but some of them not want to set up a great empire, which I am sure is a made their views clear in statements to the press. There great relief to everybody, but clause 1(5) states: are divisions between them, and the ones that have “The Ombudsman may appoint staff which the Ombudsman already accepted the code, as they will have to, have thinks are necessary for the fulfilment of the Ombudsman’s nothing to fear from a referee or an ombudsman. I functions.” make that point time and time again. If we have the That seems a pretty wide-ranging ability for him to fairness and firmness of an ombudsman, we can all appoint as many people as he wants, in order to create benefit. So I welcome the Government’s moves in response such an empire. to the Competition Commission’s report, and I believe that the Bill can help and be a vehicle for creating the post of ombudsman in law. Albert Owen: Again, the hon. Gentleman tries very hard to drag this down, but he is not succeeding. If he is We all value this country’s food industry—its diversity suggesting that the ombudsman could do the job on his and strengths. The small and the not-so-small organisations own, handling a flood of complaints from retailers, throughout the supply chain—producers, suppliers and suppliers and the OFT, he needs to consider the matter retailers—are important to us, and they need each other more seriously. There need to be certain resources, but to survive. The Competition Commission held an extensive whether there could be economies of scale, perhaps inquiry and concluded that there are market failings. A through joint use of IT equipment and so on with the voluntary code has not delivered fairness for suppliers OFT, can be debated if the Bill proceeds into Committee. or consumers. The new code of practice has been in place since Andrew George: The exchange about the ombudsman’s 4 January to ensure fairness and reduce the risk to independence was particularly helpful, because the extent suppliers that many hon. Members identified in their of that will clearly be an issue for detailed debate. It is interventions. If we reduce the risk to suppliers, we encouraging that, as I understand it, we all agree that allow them to invest for the long term, which allows for the ombudsman must not be able to be overruled by the innovation, better quality products, more variety and director general of the OFT. If there are ways of saving more choice for the consumer. To ensure that the policy costs by bringing the ombudsman under the same roof and the code work, we need the ombudsman. I hope as the OFT, with the same front-of-house facilities, or that the House will accept that today. If I catch your other ways of avoiding loading additional costs on eye, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I would like to comment on those who are paying for the service, we should consider others’ remarks later. them. We are all moving in the same direction—we believe fundamentally that the ombudsman should not 10.11 am be overruled by the OFT. Andrew George (St. Ives) (LD): I support the Bill, on Albert Owen: The hon. Gentleman eloquently makes which I congratulate the hon. Member for Ynys Môn my point for me. That is what we agree about—there is (Albert Owen). As a sponsor, the most helpful thing I more agreement than disagreement between all the parties can do is not take too much time on a Friday morning. about the need for an independent ombudsman. However, Having engaged in debates on the issue on several the hon. Member for Weston-super-Mare (John Penrose) previous occasions, I refer hon. Members to my remarks made the valuable point that the details are a matter for in those debates. debate, which we should have in Committee to tighten Today is St. Piran’s day—Cornwall’s patron saint’s up the Bill and ensure that we are all singing off the day. For a Cornishman to be away from the country of same hymn sheet. Cornwall and up here in England’s capital city of London It is important that the independent ombudsman has shows my commitment to the Bill. To be here on St. real teeth to do its job, so that it can build trust. If it Piran’s day shows commitment above and beyond the were seen as just part of the OFT, perhaps retailers and normal call of duty for a Cornishman. I am missing out small suppliers would not have the faith to go to it. on many processions and celebrations in Cornwall to They might feel that the OFT was an arm of government, demonstrate my support for the excellent measure. with its director general making the decisions. That is I am pleased that we have the Bill after so much work why we want to establish an independent ombudsman. over so many years by many organisations from diverse 1127 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1128

[Andrew George] Albert Owen: The hon. Member for Shipley made an important point. However, under the Bill, suppliers and backgrounds and interests. In the Grocery Market Action retailers will be able to complain about any injustice. I Group, organisations such as Traidcraft, ActionAid cannot understand the problem. If he thinks that there and Friends of the Earth work co-operatively in the is an imbalance, and that huge suppliers are unjust to same room with the National Farmers Union and the the retailer, the complaint can be made. British Brands Group. That demonstrates the breadth of interest and concern that has brought people together to seek fundamental fair dealing. Andrew George: I am grateful for that. The hon. Gentleman is right. I hope that, in Committee and at Those who are involved in the proposals have never other stages of the Bill’s passage, fair trading working argued that the supermarkets’ actions are in some way both ways—the boot could be on either foot—will be evil and that they must be stopped. Their behaviour in emphasised. Of course, it is possible that a Cornish the past couple of decades has been entirely rational in potato grower would approach the chief executive of a the context of the market. It is rational for them to use large supermarket and say, “Here are my potatoes. their power in the marketplace to drive the hardest You’re selling them two for the price of one, you’re bargain that they can to sustain the highest possible paying and I want the money up front a month in share price and dividend for their shareholders. They advance. If there’s any wastage that damages the good are in competition with their few rivals, and that is how name of my product, or you damage my reputation by they must judge their success as companies. not handling my goods properly, after I’ve delivered However, those who are concerned and come from them to you in pristine condition, you’ll pay a fine. If constituencies such as mine, where many small suppliers— you don’t agree to those terms, I won’t supply you.” small growers, small farmers, fishermen and others—supply When the boot is on the other foot and the supermarkets the supermarket chains, ask when effective, successful, wish to complain to the ombudsman that their suppliers clever, even creative use of market muscle become abuse. are treating them unfairly, the ombudsman should examine Buyers’ impact on the suppliers and what has been both sides of the relationship. However, the Competition going on behind the scenes has been investigated and Commission’s point is that it has found questionable considered for many years. Those of us who have been practices working the other way, and that suppliers are involved and concerned about the matter have urged the being treated unfairly. It has clearly concluded that an Competition Commission and the Office of Fair Trading ombudsman is needed to uphold the principle of fair over the past 10 years to acknowledge that rather dealing, which is why the Bill is vital. questionable practices have occurred. Those practices I do not wish to speak for very much longer, but one are in the interests neither of suppliers who wish to element of the Bill that needs to be emphasised strongly—I innovate, nor of consumers, who want a good range of highlighted it in an intervention—is the need for the products at competitive prices in the shops. ombudsman to be able to undertake investigations proactively, as well as on the basis of overt or anonymous Philip Davies rose— complaint. Ultimately, the Bill will benefit not only the market, but consumers, who have a massive interest in Andrew George: I emphasise to the hon. Gentleman the measure. before he intervenes that the Competition Commission Supermarkets could also benefit significantly. Those clearly found in its report evidence of the transfer of with a turnover of more than £1 billion will be covered excessive risk and unexpected costs, which have an by the Bill, and many such supermarkets support impact on supplier innovation and ultimately on the it—admittedly, some only conditionally. They should consumer’s best interests. embrace the measure, because at the end of the day, if they have nothing to hide, they have nothing to fear. At Philip Davies: The hon. Gentleman paints a picture the end of each year when the ombudsman reports, of supermarkets being supplied exclusively by quaint, what could be better for supermarkets than the ability small farmers, when—because supermarkets are so big, to say that the ombudsman has investigated them, have so many customers and need so many products—most found that their relationship with their suppliers is suppliers tend to be big multinational companies, some positive, and given them a clean bill of health? of which are bigger than the supermarkets. When he talks about supermarkets abusing their market muscle, John Penrose: I take the hon. Gentleman’s point why is he so determined to stand up for huge, multinational about investigations. It is entirely possible that if the suppliers when the supermarkets are negotiating with source of an anonymous tip-off needs to be protected, them to try to reduce the price for the consumer? they can be so protected if the ombudsman, the OFT or whoever carries out an investigation discovers the Andrew George: I am grateful for that intervention. information in the files of a supermarket—that can be Of course, when there is no evidence of unfair dealing an effective way in which to maintain the anonymity of between the suppliers and the supermarkets, there is no a whistleblower. However, that relates to an earlier case to answer. The ombudsman’s ability to investigate discussion, to which we may have to return in the trading practices is a back-stop, so if the hon. Committee, on whether the ombudsman should be Gentleman is right, there will clearly be no case to part of the OFT, which obviously already has such answer. The Competition Commission investigated the investigative powers. There is a danger of duplication matter more thoroughly than I believe the hon. Gentleman and heavy-handed intervention, because the powers has been able to do, and it has reached clear, balanced already exist. We might need to deal with that more conclusions. detailed point in Committee. 1129 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1130

Andrew George: I entirely acknowledge that that needs only be good thing. Many people in this country are further investigation in Committee, but my response concerned about the self-sufficiency of the UK production now is that if the OFT had been using such powers, we and supply base. The uncertainty created by the relationship would not be here discussing the need for an ombudsman. between supermarkets, suppliers and producers has in I am critical of the OFT and its attitude towards such turn created a climate in which growers and producers matters, because it does not wish to look beyond satisfied frequently go out of business—the margins are so small customers at the checkout and through the supply chain. that the viability of many sectors is in question. Greater That has always been a problem for those of us who are stability and certainty within the market will improve concerned about supermarkets’ suppliers. However, the British production and self-sufficiency. hon. Gentleman makes a perfectly fair point. Legislators need to be aware of, and to continually monitor, such John Penrose: I am concerned by the hon. Gentleman’s matters, so that we do not end up absurdly over-regulating last couple of remarks. Will he clarify that there is a or engaging in heavy-handed interventions. distinction in his mind—because there certainly is in There are tremendous advantages in the Bill for the many other hon. Members’ minds—between the proposal larger retailers. If at the end of each year they can be for a grocery market ombudsman and his party’s wider seen to have been exonerated by the ombudsman, they proposal for a food industry regulator? The Bill is for a could shout about it and use it in their publicity. It smaller, more circumscribed body, and if the hon. would be good for supermarkets’ public relations if Gentleman wished to push it a little further he might non-governmental and campaign organisations congratulate find that the cross-party unity starts to fray rather them when an ombudsman’s report proves that they rapidly. have treated their suppliers fairly. Andrew George: That is a fair intervention and one Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): Does the hon. Gentleman that might be probed further in Committee. One issue agree that the ombudsman’s approval could be like fair that is very much open to debate is how far up the trade flags? Supermarkets could gain a similar kudos supply chain this measure would go. The Competition and display a similar badge to show that they are proud Commission originally suggested in its recommendations of what they are doing. in 2008 that the supermarket ombudsman should concern itself with the ultimate supplier to the supermarkets, but many of the primary producers see those ultimate Andrew George: That parallel is entirely right. In suppliers as being in the pocket of the supermarkets as previous debates on the matter, I proposed that a food they pass on the demands of the supermarkets down trade regulator—that is what I proposed to call such a the supply chain. The ombudsman should have the body—should be able, at the end of each year, having ability to take complaints from primary producers, and undertaken proactive investigations, to provide such a I hope that we will have the opportunity to investigate charter mark or badge to a retailer and give them that that issue further. level of exoneration. I have spoken for longer than I intended, but I have That would also reassure retailers’ customers. The taken several interventions through which we have been National Federation of Women’s Institutes is concerned able to explore the issue. This is an excellent measure. I about the future of the dairy industry, but many other know that the Government have been consulting on it bodies are informing their members—millions of people— since 4 February, and I hope that responses are coming about the impact of the relationship between supermarkets in thick and fast. There is strong support from my party and suppliers. People are concerned, but when they go for the Government’s move on this issue—albeit that it into supermarkets, they are not always aware whether is late in the day. We want to see the measure on the their purchases are a good or bad thing or whether they statute book and the ombudsman in place as soon as are sending the right signals. The transparency and possible. reassurance of an ombudsman would be welcome for both consumers and supermarkets, which the latter should embrace. 10.32 am Mr. David Drew (Stroud) (Lab/Co-op): I am delighted Mr. Roger Williams: Another benefit for supermarkets to speak in support of this excellent Bill. I know that and large retailers is the ability to plan for a continuity the eyes of the world may not necessarily be on us this of supply. That is important for both them and their morning, but that is a great shame, because we are customers. Agricultural support used to encourage supply, doing something worthwhile that will bring fairness butwehavenowmovedawayfromthat.Ifweareto into the lives of producers and consumers. Most have continuity, we must have profitability right the way people I talk to believe in the need for fairness in the along the supply chain. A regulator could achieve both food chain in particular, as well as in all other aspects of that and continuity of supply. consumption. I pay tribute to my hon. Friend the Member for Ynys Andrew George: I strongly agree. That is one reason Môn (Albert Owen) for introducing this Bill. It brings why the National Farmers Union of Scotland and the to a head the campaign that the hon. Member for St. Farmers Union of Wales support such a measure—I Ives (Andrew George) has led admirably, and I am pay tribute to the latter, which has pursued this line for pleased to add my support today. It is wonderful that longer than the other farmers’ unions. One beneficial we are doing the work for the three Front Benches. I outcome, which I would have thought British-based hope we can make some progress today, given that large retailers would have acknowledged, is that a consensus has broken out— supermarket ombudsman would provide and underpin stability to British growers and producers. That can Mr. Chope indicated dissent. 1131 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1132

Mr. Drew: Well, as with all consensus, there are those three of which said that it was not worth their while who choose to break it. We might be able to win them commenting. The one that did comment, however, was over with the power of our arguments and the clarity of interesting. I cannot say who it was, of course, because I our rhetoric. do not know—it was sent back anonymously—but the I declare an interest, as a Co-operative MP as well as comment concerned a classic abuse well known within a Labour MP, and I have lobbied the Co-operative the trade but probably not among most consumers. One Group for some time on this issue. I like to think that it hears about it when one asks a supplier how retailers will come off the fence eventually and support the idea retaliate if they feel that the supplier is not playing by of an ombudsman. It is a democratic organisation, and the rules of the supermarket’s game. sometimes it takes time to get a decision on a particular The products of those 100 suppliers are well known, issue. The Co-operative Group has more to gain than so it would be foolhardy for supermarkets to take most from this Bill, because of its belief in mutuality, action against them. If a customer says he wants a tin of fairness, justice and openness, so I hope it will support so-and-so, a bottle of this or a packet of that but does the measure and help to move towards a strong ombudsman not get it, he might go to a competitor, so supermarkets that does the job properly. never take action against a main product line. However, This has been a long fight, and as in all long fights, it if they feel that a supplier is being difficult or not is very satisfying to be almost within sight of the end of meeting their requirements—the supplier might be bringing the road, although we will not know how it will work undue pressure to bear—they could take action against until it is tried. I do not want to count my chickens the secondary product lines or, in particular, the new when it comes to this bit of the food chain until we have ones that the supplier might wish to introduce. How a seen whether the ombudsman—if and when set up—has supplier introduces a new product is entirely dependent not only the power, but the willingness to perform the on retailers—where they put them, what deals are done activities we would like to see. As both my hon. Friend and how willing they are to buy them—so suppliers live and the hon. Gentleman said, it is pleasing that the Bill in fear of the supermarkets’ ability to exact retribution. would give the ombudsman the ability to be proactive, We have to talk about that culture of fear. We are but the office holder has to be willing to use that power. here to build bridges, but we must consider the context. I pay tribute to the coalition led by the hon. Gentleman, Even the biggest suppliers live in fear of what could who has brought together a good group of happen to them. This is not about corner shops or small organisations—listed by my hon. Friend—representing producers facing difficulties if they lose a contract, but a wide range of interests. That variety of interests has about the big guys still fearing the even bigger guys. I been a useful argument against those who claim that thought the rugby referee analogy, used by my hon. this is a narrow, sectarian Bill on behalf of narrow, Friend the Member for Ynys Môn, was a good one, so I sectarian interests. In fact, if we were to add up the shall take it further. Were this about the odd trip, a push millions of people represented by the organisations in in the line-out or a ball being chucked into touch when question, it suggests that we are on the side of the it should really have been kept in the field of play, all I angels, and I am proud to be on that side of the argument. would say is, “Well that, I’m afraid, goes on.” However, It takes a brave Member to take on the Women’s Institute, that is not what we are talking about; we are talking as a former Prime Minister knows only too well. Certain about the intricacies of the front row—the odd bit of hon. Members need to tread very gently. eye-gouging and the occasional use of the boot to make The hon. Gentleman made it clear that we have been it clear who is in control of the game and who stands to dismayed by the lack of action by the Office of Fair lose if they push their luck too far. That might have Trading and the Competition Commission. This proposal gone on in the old days of rugby, but in these days of is the culmination of the latest review, but there have cameras and so on, people are less inclined so to behave, been previous reviews and some of us were unhappy particularly given that they could end up with a fine with the outcomes, which were unclear and did not help after the game or—dare I say it?— a ban. [Interruption.] our cause. We are pleased that the statutory code of We have not got on to the ear-biting—we will leave that practice will now be overseen by the ombudsman, for another day. apparently. That is what the ombudsman would do. It is about Another important issue—although it is not within introducing fairness, justice and transparency to the the purview of the Bill—is the planning arrangements operation of the food chain and, more generally, the that affect supermarkets. That is another area of dispute supply chain. and, without making allegations, I can say that there is a degree of anti-competitive practice. As I say, that is Philip Davies: To continue the rugby analogy, does not part of this Bill, but it is part of the overall context the hon. Gentleman not fear that, with a potentially in which we have seen a growing coalition around the proactive ombudsman, some suppliers might fake blood introduction of an ombudsman. or an injury? Some three years ago, I conducted a survey to look at why it was so difficult to achieve clarity in the relationship Mr. Drew: That is very good, so I shall continue the between the suppliers and the supermarkets. It was an analogy. If people are found to have cried wolf, they will anonymous survey and the aim was to try to elicit face even greater retribution, but this time, not only will information from the 100 leading suppliers—by size—so the supermarket be having a go at them; they will face that they would be encouraged to give evidence to the the full power of the ombudsman and could have their Competition Commission inquiry that was then in progress. manager removed, their players banned and so forth. I shall explain why the basis of that inquiry had to be I ask this question genuinely, as I always do: what do one of anonymity. I wrote to 100 leading suppliers the supermarkets have to fear from the introduction of asking for anonymous replies, but received only four, an ombudsman? Three arguments have always been 1133 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1134 used against it. The first is that the supermarkets do not Bill would give the right to suppliers to go to an need one, because there is nothing wrong, everything is ombudsman, but not to consumers to go to the ombudsman above board and everybody is happy. Why, therefore, and complain that the consequences of its work were did evidence have to be given in confidence and that the costs of products were rising and that they were anonymously? The reason, of course, is that that is not having to pay more. the case. The second argument is that an ombudsman is It would be bizarre if the House let the Bill pass on too expensive, but the hon. Member for St. Ives has the nod, when it has been so strongly attacked by one of exploded that myth. It is not too expensive; this is a most successful entrepreneurs this country has ever minor cost, expected to be about £5 million shared produced—Sir Terry Leahy, the chief executive of Tesco. among the biggest retailers and supermarkets. The cost When he was interviewed by The Financial Times on is minimal. 12 February, he said: The third argument goes, “We can best do this ourselves, “I’m not in favour of an ombudsman. Everyone knows and we don’t need these terrible people from Government supermarkets are one of the most competitive industries around. interfering and setting up this apparatus.” As I said in That competition puts power in the hands of the consumer”. an intervention to my hon. Friend the Member for Ynys He asked: Môn, however, supermarkets are divided on that. Some “In a free society, why would you want an ombudsman if there would welcome an ombudsman, because they have accepted are no problems now as far as consumers are concerned?” that there is unfairness in the system and want to have He concluded: their names cleared in the light of allegations that might swim around, and which might blacken their names “An ombudsman would be there to protect suppliers but should be there to protect consumers.” along with those of retailers who clearly are offending. So I welcome what we are trying to do. Nia Griffith: Does the hon. Gentleman not agree that I welcome the fact that all three Front Benches have the profits made by the supermarkets are the motivation signed up to the proposal and that we have established, for such statements, and that, while the consumer will in setting up the ombudsman, some key principles, fare very well as a result of the Bill, the profits of the including transparency and the ability to investigate, supermarkets may be adversely affected by it? with the possibility of clear action—including punishment—following. It would not have to include Mr. Chope: Some supermarkets are profitable and punishment or fines, however: there might simply be a some are not. Those that are not profitable go to the need to consider how an aspect of the supply chain wall. There is clearly enormous scope for new market operates. Other key principles include fairness and entrants. Aldi and Lidl, for instance, saw the opportunity proportionality. The latter point, which perhaps no one to push into the supermarket business, where there is has touched on, is underestimated: we are talking about currently a lack of competition, and they have exploited not the imposition of massive fines, but proportionate the gaps in the market. The successful supermarkets responses where malpractice has been established, and have grown. They are the ones that have kept in touch justice being exacted to ensure that those who have with their consumers. caused the problems learn from their mistakes. We all know examples of supermarkets that have I also welcome the international aspect of the proposal, failed. When I was a student, my local supermarket was because some of the greatest unfairness occurs against Safeway. Safeway is no longer on the high street, because those who import, usually from the developing world, it failed. When I was a teenager being brought up in and are subject to all manner of restrictions and malpractice. Cornwall, where my parents lived, there were no I hope that we can identify that and try to restore supermarkets there, and I recall the sense of excitement fairness to the terms of trade. I hope, therefore, that when Marks & Spencer opened one in Truro. As the there will not be any opposition to the measure. There hon. Member for St. Ives (Andrew George) will confirm, might be criticism, but the right place for a critique of, Truro now has an enormous Tesco, an enormous and for improving, the Bill is in Committee. Sainsbury’s and a very successful Marks & Spencer, and I am pleased to be sponsoring three other private not far outside Truro there is a very successful Asda. Members’ Bills—somewhat foolishly, perhaps—which There was a time when the Cornish peninsula was is why my time is even more valuable than normal. starved of the competition and choice that comes with However, if I am chosen to sit on this Bill Committee, I supermarkets. It is regrettable that, as far as I know, hope that we can further improve the Bill, because that Waitrose has not yet extended its services to the peninsula, would be the right place for a critique and to put in and I hope it will not be long before it does. I am place the detail necessary to make the Bill do what we delighted to be speaking immediately after the hon. want it to do. I hope, therefore, that the Bill gets a Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew), who is a member of Second Reading shortly, and that there is, building on the Co-operative party. There was a great air of excitement this unanimity, a desire to reintroduce greater fairness in my constituency when the Co-op store in Christchurch into a supply chain—what was a food chain—that has closed and was replaced by a Waitrose. That is what worked well in the past, but which in recent years has happens in the real marketplace. been subject to an imbalance between the supermarkets and suppliers. Albert Owen: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for reeling off the names of all the supermarkets that have 10.49 pm moved to Cornwall. We experienced the same situation in north-west Wales during the 1980s, when there were Mr. Christopher Chope (Christchurch) (Con): I am very few supermarkets in the area. That has now changed. against the Bill. It is wholly misconceived, and I shall, Because people are feeling a little wealthier and able to without shame, speak on behalf of the consumer. The spend more, they are attracting more retailers, including 1135 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1136

[Albert Owen] receive a lot of complaints from people who say that it raised expectations but has not delivered the goods. Waitrose in my constituency. I welcome that, and Waitrose There are many other examples. welcomes the idea of an ombudsman. It is not true that all supermarkets oppose the idea. Many are in favour of Albert Owen: The hon. Gentleman has identified two it, and see it as the way forward. Members who oppose the Bill. Would he care to list those outside the House who oppose it, apart from Sir Mr. Chope: Some supermarkets may see it as the way Terry Leahy, whom he mentioned earlier? It is a fact forward, but it is possible that they have not looked at that the National Farmers Union, the Women’s Institute the Bill very carefully. I think the Bill constitutes a grave and various other bodies that are represented in all our distraction from the real issues affecting consumers constituencies have thought about the issue. They are and, indeed, suppliers. consumers, and they have concluded that the current One of the biggest problems for a supplier based in system is unfair. Does the hon. Gentleman simply ignore Cornwall is the cost of taking his goods to market. That what they say and what the Competition Commission is largely due to the cost of transport and the high taxes says? charged on diesel, which discriminate against suppliers from the more remote parts of the country. What will Mr. Chope: I shall not respond to the hon. Gentleman’s the Bill do about it? Nothing whatsoever. challenge and list everyone who opposes the Bill, but my hon. Friend the Member for Shipley referred to one What about the common agricultural policy, which is distinguished individual who has already spoken out probably the greatest burden that consumers of grocery against it. I hold no brief for the British Retail Consortium, products in this country have to bear? I am glad to see but it seems to represent a lot of retailers: in other that the hon. Member for Stroud agrees with me about words, a lot of shopkeepers up and down the country. If that. The common agricultural policy probably adds the British Retail Consortium is against the Bill, as I about £1,000 a year to the average family’s grocery bill. understand it to be, I am sure that its members are That is the big issue we should be trying to address, but against it. If they are not, they will soon be resigning the Bill avoids it. What about the costs of regulation from the consortium in accordance with the principles imposed by Government on supermarkets, other retailers of the marketplace. and suppliers? What about the VAT that is imposed on an increasingly wide range of supermarket products, I can say with some confidence that if consumers including, I understand, Pringles? What about all the realised that the Bill would push up the prices they pay extra regulations that are constantly being introduced, in the supermarkets, they would be opposing it in large and which discriminate against the small supplier? numbers. They would be lobbying and petitioning against it. I am sure that if they realised that, under the Bill, The House should be addressing those major issues, they would have no right to bring cases to the ombudsman rather than going along with the superficially attractive or to make representations about the consequences of idea of creating an ombudsman whom the Bill would the restrictions on competition that the Bill would allow to impose unlimited fines and costs on grocery impose, they would be eager to speak out on the subject. suppliers and supermarkets, and to reach determinations based on anonymous complaints against which there We are sent to this place by our electors to exercise could be no appeal other than on a point of law. The our judgment on the issues before us. Despite the comments Bill pushes arbitrariness far beyond what is reasonable. of the Bill’s promoter and others who say they support Those who are campaigning against it are well advised, it, the evidence I have seen when one looks beneath the and I am glad that they have support from Members of surface shows that the Bill will just lead to a lot more Parliament. There may not be many Members in the bureaucracy and expense and will interfere in one of Chamber today, but I know that my hon. Friend the our most successful industries—our retail industry. That Member for Shipley (Philip Davies) and I are not alone highly competitive industry delivers much lower grocery in our concern about the Bill. prices to consumers in the United Kingdom than are found in almost any other part of Europe. Those prices would be even lower if we could address the ghastliness Mr. Drew: Will the hon. Gentleman tell us—for the of the common agricultural policy. I shall not go further benefit of Hansard, if for no other purpose—who is down that route, Mr. Deputy Speaker, but may I just say opposing the Bill? that it is important that those of us who think this Bill wrong should have the courage of our convictions and Philip Davies: I am. oppose it on Second Reading? [Interruption.]

Mr. Chope: In anticipation of the intervention from Mr. Deputy Speaker (Sir Alan Haselhurst): Order. It the hon. Member for Stroud, I have it made clear that I may come as a surprise to hon. Members that the hon. oppose the Bill. My hon. Friend the Member for Shipley Member for Christchurch (Mr. Chope) was as concise opposes it as well. I cannot speak for others, but it is a as he was, but attention and vigilance is wise at all times. pretty good rule of thumb when we are legislating in I call Nia Griffith. this place that if there is a consensus between the Front Benches, it will be very bad for the country. That may 11 am not be apparent initially, but it usually becomes apparent later. The ghastly Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, for instance, Nia Griffith (Llanelli) (Lab): Thank you, Mr. Deputy was passed on the basis of consensus. So, in the end, Speaker—you take the very words out of my mouth. was the ghastly high hedges legislation, which some of I begin by congratulating my hon. Friend the Member us opposed. It was passed with no debate whatsoever, as for Ynys Môn (Albert Owen) on coming so high in the part of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, and I ballot and on choosing this extremely important issue 1137 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1138 out of the many different topics available. Introducing most attractive qualities of the Bill is the extent to this Bill is crucial, and we have waited a long time for it. which it will send a powerful message about the ability We have seen the report from the Competition Commission of primary producers to innovate and to invest, because and we have been told that this Bill a helpful way it will take away some of their concerns and the risks to forward, yet there has not been an opportunity to get it which they have been subjected by the behaviour of enacted—it is high time that we did. some retailers? We can often get lost in nostalgia, thinking back to the time when every village had a little row of shops, but Nia Griffith: I agree with the hon. Gentleman. It is we must remember that that was the time before the crucial that we should stop portraying farmers as simply motor car—or the time when many people, mostly whingeing; what they want is a fair deal. They want women, had no access to motor cars—so every bit of their concerns to be taken seriously and they want a fair shopping had to be carried home. Shopping was therefore price. The price of milk has not kept pace with inflation done on a daily basis. Of course we have moved on from at all—the price has been ridiculous—and those farmers that and all of us like to enjoy the full range of consumer need our protection so that they obtain a fair price. outlets available to us. We love going into the specialised They are not asking for special treatment; they are shop where somebody who has a real love of their asking for fair treatment. I recall the time, some 30 years product and their trade can spend hours telling us all ago, when the whole fair trade movement was very new. about it, but we also love going into a big supermarket A street theatre would show a banana being chopped and getting everything done very quickly. into pieces to illustrate how much the producer got, how much the middle people got and how much the We are very lucky in Llanelli because we still have an consumer actually paid. We have come an extremely indoor market, which has many of the traditional stalls long way since then—we have come so far that people where people can do a good morning’s shopping and can buy an enormous range of Fairtrade products, and come home with all sorts of valuable products, many of supermarkets are becoming proud of the fact that they which are locally produced. Obviously, we all want to are stocking them. They boast that they do. ensure that there is fairness, be it in respect of the local corner shop, which we value because we can easily pop We need to value our home producers in the same in at any time—day or night—the supermarket, the way. This week, as part of Fairtrade fortnight, we are indoor market in Llanelli or the specialist producer. celebrating the progress that we have made on fair trade Even the British Retail Consortium refers to the code of in respect of products that come from developing countries, practice. If it is so keen on the code, it is difficult to see but we must ensure that we do the same for our local why it opposes the idea of a “referee”, as my hon. producers. We need to ensure that they are also valued Friend the Member for Ynys Môn has termed the for what they produce. I have never quite understood ombudsman. It is right that we should have proper rules the logic of selling lettuces at two for the price of one. and regulations and a proper code. People end up being tempted to buy two lettuces for the price of one, only for them to go home and find that they have already got a few lettuces in the bottom of the Philip Davies: The hon. Lady goes on about that, but fridge. It is extremely difficult to get through a large the code that she mentions is overseen by the Office of quantity of lettuce in a short time, no matter how good Fair Trading, so why do we need an ombudsman? the quality, and the product does not keep for ever and ever. Nia Griffith: The Competition Commission has taken evidence and made a recommendation, so it has clearly Philip Davies: The hon. Lady seems to be giving the gone into this issue far more thoroughly than perhaps impression that supermarkets impose things such as the hon. Gentleman or I can possibly do in the short “buy one get one free” offers on suppliers, who do not space of time available to us. It is clear that huge want to pursue them. In the real world, it is suppliers distortion has resulted from the fact that there are one who always insist that supermarkets make these offers or two large players in this market, and we therefore because the suppliers see that as a way of marketing need to strengthen the tools that we have to deal with their products. “Buy one get one free” offers are the them. That is why we want a grocery market ombudsman. result not of supermarkets imposing them on suppliers, Dairy farmers in my constituency face considerable but of suppliers coming to supermarkets because they difficulty. Again, we can recall what happened in the want to do them. past. I remember accompanying my grandmother when she went to cook and clean on a local farm, and at that Nia Griffith: We will have to beg to disagree on some stage milking was still done by hand, with the milk put of these points. The supermarkets have enormous power in churns. We have moved on—of course we have, and there is enormous potential for distortion of the because everybody needs to upgrade. High standards market. One decision made by one very large player can need to be met on hygiene and efficiency, and huge have a huge knock-on effect on everybody else in the investment by farmers is required to meet them. All that market. We are considering fairness here; we are not needs to be financed and we know how difficult it is for considering special treatment. We are not being soppy, some of the young people in our constituencies to romantic and overly nostalgic and we are not assuming remain in farming. We know how difficult it is to raise that nothing should ever change. We accept that there the capital to make those necessary investments and to has to be change and that the modern world requires bring everything up to the required standards. enormous changes to be made by our farmers and producers. We therefore require a fair and level playing Mark Williams: I very much agree with what the hon. field, whereby everything that is thought to be in any Lady is saying. Does she agree that morale has sunk to way unfair or anomalous can be examined by an an all-time low in the dairy sector and that one of the independent ombudsman, who can then take up the 1139 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1140

[Nia Griffith] unreasonable pressure was applied. As the hon. Member for Brecon and Radnorshire (Mr. Williams) said, it is issues and examine whether there is a way of making not just a matter of price. It might also be a matter of things fairer and whether anybody is being badly done terms and conditions. We know that, with the difficulties by. It is important to make it clear that we are not of the economic downturn over the past year and a half, against the supermarket and we are not against the ready income is important to the small supplier. We consumer. know that being paid promptly can make a huge difference We all understand that modern life is such that people between being in business or going out of business. It is benefit enormously from having a range of shops to not simply a matter of price—terms and conditions which they can go. We know that people sometimes come into it, too, and so might such things as exclusivity want to do everything under one roof in a hurry and clauses and ways in which the producer can be hemmed they want the enormous variety that can be put on in or forced into a position in a manner that, frankly, we display by the supermarkets. We also know that at other would term bullying in many other spheres of life. The times people want the shop that is just down the road producer cannot wriggle out or choose who they supply. from them because it is convenient and easy to reach. We are busy talking about choice from the point of view What is important is that any one player or any one of the consumer, but the producer also needs freedom institution is not so large and dominating that other to act so that they can get what they feel is the best price people do not receive any form of fair play. for their product and are not hemmed into a particular way of production and supply for a particular chain. As I say, we are not looking back and we are not trying to recreate some sort of ideal from the past, To sum up, we need to live in the modern world—we which of course was never quite such a golden era as we should not be nostalgic for times gone past—in which always seem to imagine. We are living in the modern we, as consumers, are ethical and demand good standards, world and are trying to get a fair deal so that the and choice. We want to have the specialist, the corner consumer can know that when they go to buy products, shop, the market and the supermarket, but we also the people who have produced them receive a reasonable recognise that the difficulties facing the farming industry price. The consumer demands that nowadays. The consumer at the moment mean that we could lose the ability to demands Fairtrade products, demands to know whether produce our own products such as milk. I hear people companies that import clothing from third-world countries saying that we could be importing our milk from abroad are using child labour and wants to know whether the before long. If someone goes out of business, they staff in the local supermarket are allowed to join a trade cannot simply press a button and start all over again. union. Consumers are very ethical and discerning. We all know how long it takes to restock and to build up a herd and a viable dairy farm. It is worrying to hear that some of our dairy farmers think, yet again, that they Mark Williams: The hon. Lady will agree, I am sure, might have to pull out of the industry. They would be with the point that has been made repeatedly this added to the many hundreds who have already done so. morning—the annual report that the ombudsman will We are talking about food security and about a basic be required to provide to give a bill of health on the product, such as milk, having to be brought in from performance of the supermarkets in these matters will abroad. give the consumer exactly the kind of information that is required. Far from this being a supermarket-bashing It might come as a surprise to my hon. Friends to debate, it is about empowering consumers to make hear that we now produce more of our own food than decisions on the behaviour of the supermarkets. That we did back in the 1950s, when we had a large empire should surely be welcomed. and were dependent on imports. However, it is important that we should look to the future and consider how we nurture and protect producers in all sectors. We know Nia Griffith: Indeed. The interest in ethical investment that people have to be responsive. Corus, in my constituency, and in wanting to spend one’s money in businesses that which produces tins for many well-known brands, has one feels are ethical is growing daily. People want to to be extremely responsive and it has kept going through make ethical investments, whether by investing in certain the economic downturn because of its immense flexibility. companies or shopping in certain places. Consumers It is prepared to switch in a fortnight the style and are asking questions. They are asking whether people quantity of tin that it provides for certain big producers are treated fairly—whether staff are treated properly in because of changes in consumer patterns. If consumers the local supermarket or whether the producer gets a suddenly want more baked beans, more tinned fruit or fair price. If the ombudsman can give a bill of health to whatever, the Corus packaging plant in my constituency a supermarket, it will be proud of that fact. It will can change the type of tin that is required very quickly. probably want to badge it in some way and to talk it up We need such flexibility from the producer, but we do in their local community. It is important that we get full not want a situation in which producers cannot survive. consensus behind the idea, as it is through the support That is the importance of this Bill. Without a grocery of the law-abiding majority that we make laws in this ombudsman, we might well see the end of many of our country, and that applies in this case. The supermarkets dairy farms. That is one of the main reasons why I that are doing the right thing, that care about the price support the Bill promoted by my hon. Friend the Member that they pay their producers and that look after their for Ynys Môn. staff and consumers are not worried by the idea of a referee. 11.17 am The idea that a referee could be damaging in any way seems completely absurd. Clearly, the idea is that those John Penrose (Weston-super-Mare) (Con): I start by who play fair are dealt with fairly. The only difficulty congratulating the hon. Member for Ynys Môn (Albert would arise if there was exploitation or if totally Owen) on having come so high in the ballot—although 1141 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1142

I am never sure why we congratulate each other on what more dark arts that have been practised for a long time is essentially a matter of chance—and on laying out this by the front-row union have been reduced in any way. I Bill in an extremely logical and careful way. He put the suspect that they are going on, but in a modified form case very strongly and is also benefitting from widespread since the advent of camera use. consensus across most of the House—certainly in the I was pleased to hear from my hon. Friend the three major parties. He explained that and some of the Member for Christchurch (Mr. Chope), because he factors that have led to the building of that consensus spoke up strongly in favour of consumers. The hon. over many years. I congratulate him on that, too. He Member for Ynys Môn also said that he is a supporter handled many interventions with a great deal of courtesy of supermarkets as well as of consumers and supermarket and logic and therefore managed to deal with an awful suppliers, and it is worth reiterating the point that lot of the points that were likely to come up later in the supermarkets have driven down prices for us all. They course of his remarks. have expanded choice and quality over many years, and The hon. Gentleman covered two issues that are they are, in general, in an incredibly competitive sector worthy of extra detail. The first was the question of that I suspect all hon. Members use regularly. It would large suppliers versus small ones and the second was be rather double-dealing of us to pretend that they do that of whether the proposed ombudsman should be in not offer something that is tremendously important not or out of the Office of Fair Trading. I propose to come only to us personally but to pretty much every one of back to them in a moment if I can. our constituents. It is very easy to demonise them while I am not sure whether it is necessary for me to make forgetting that the reason they are so successful is that a this point, Mr. Deputy Speaker, but I shall make it great proportion of our voters shop in them every week. anyway on the precautionary principle. My wife used to work for a couple of large supermarkets— Philip Davies: And work in them. Albert Owen: So did mine. John Penrose: Indeed. People are voting with their John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman says that his wife feet, and supermarkets are therefore a very important did, too. I am not sure whether it is necessary to declare and valued asset in this country. such non-interests, if I can put it that way, but I shall It is also true, as my hon. Friend the Member for apply the precautionary principle just so that it is on the Christchurch pointed out, that supermarkets have built record. up a notable supply base in many areas over a great deal The hon. Member for Ynys Môn was followed by the of time. There has been much discussion in this debate hon. Member for St. Ives (Andrew George). As someone about the negative effects of the strong negotiating with the name of Penrose—a solid Cornish name—I tactics used by supermarkets in some sectors, but that is sympathise that he cannot be too close to Cornwall on by no means universal. I hope that it will be widely St. Piran’s day, which is very important in that part of accepted that in the prepared foods and ready meal the world. He is a leading light in the Grocery Market sector, a strong supply base has been built up in close Action Group and I suspect that today is therefore an partnership with the supermarkets. Indeed, the sector important day for him and everybody else in that would not have been anything like as successful as it organisation. It represents something of a victory on now is without that kind of very close partnership and which they obviously deserve to be congratulated. trust between supplier and grocery chains. It is worth pausing to mark the important distinction that the hon. Member for St. Ives made between fair Albert Owen: In the spirit of the consensus in which dealing and price setting. It is vital that everyone the hon. Gentleman is making his comments, let me ask acknowledges that the Bill is proposing a mechanism to whether he has read the excellent report by Professor force and drive home fair dealing, and that it is not Roger Clarke of the Cardiff business school, who looked about price setting. If the Bill were to trip over the line into this issue in his report, “The Impact of a Groceries between fair dealing and price setting, I think that none Ombudsman on Consumers’ Best Interests”. In the of us would support it. My party would certainly have report, he acknowledges the benefits that supermarkets great difficulty in doing so. bring to consumers but, as I highlighted in my speech, Albert Owen indicated assent. he also says that if we had an ombudsman to increase fairness and to regulate the market properly, there would Andrew George indicated assent. be greater innovation from suppliers, which would give greater choice and value to the consumer. John Penrose: That is an important principle to establish. To be fair, when I gently asked the hon. Member for John Penrose: I thank the hon. Gentleman for his St. Ives to distinguish between the ombudsman system intervention. It is for precisely the reasons he has just that would be set up by the Bill and his party’s proposals given that my party supports the principle of having an for a food market regulator, he was kind enough to ombudsman, and I was just trying to make the point draw a distinction and to say that this Bill would involve that many consumer benefits have resulted from the an entirely smaller operation. way in which supermarkets have developed over time. The hon. Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) then came However, we could still do better. The Competition into the debate. He was broadly, indeed strongly, supportive Commission’s report makes that very clear. I think that of the Bill. The only part of his argument on which one the report that he has just quoted was among the input or two of us might depart was his comments about to the Competition Commission report that was accepted modern front-row forwards in rugby. I suspect that he by the commission and adopted as part of the report. was being sweetly naive in assuming that some of the That logic is very robust. 1143 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1144

[John Penrose] Mr. Roger Williams: The hon. Gentleman makes an important point, but some small producers supply bigger The hon. Member for Llanelli (Nia Griffith) made processors. I am thinking about the report that the some supportive comments and made the point very Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee will cogently that no matter what prior experiences some of soon produce on Dairy Farmers of Britain. I do not us might have had within our families in previous want to pre-empt the report’s findings, but one thing is generations—I think that she mentioned her grandmother certain—that group has gone bust, and that has caused who had been involved in dairy farming—we have to huge problems for very small milk producers. Does the live in the modern world. It is therefore important that hon. Gentleman agree that we need to look at the whole we set up an architecture of institutions that will work food industry, including both small producers and larger to ensure that will cover the things that the grocery processors? ombudsman will do in the modern world. So, she was also strongly supportive. John Penrose: The hon. Gentleman’s intervention I return to the two issues that I mentioned at the start illustrates my point. It is important to protect people of my remarks—large suppliers and whether the grocery who are vulnerable to over-muscular negotiating tactics market ombudsman should be in or out of the OFT. I but we must not try to extend protection to companies accept the point made by hon. Member for Ynys Môn that are either large enough not to need it or to those that these issues should be discussed in more detail in that are just making bad decisions. There are other Committee. If the Bill reaches that stage, we will have reasons why companies go bust. I would not want to an opportunity to explore the best way of dealing with comment on the case that the hon. Gentleman mentions, them. Let me put on the record my party’s starting but we do not want to start intervening when a dairy point on this issue. We would be quite nervous about processor, or any other intermediary, goes bust for having a grocery market ombudsman who sought to other reasons, because at that point we are on a slippery protect large oil companies, or large international or slope; that is the thin end of a very large wedge. multinational suppliers such as Coke or Pepsi, many of It is important for us to limit the role of the grocery which are a great deal larger than Morrisons, Sainsbury’s market ombudsman so that it applies purely to companies or any of our British supermarkets. We would be very that need protection from over-muscular negotiating nervous about an ombudsman who sought to protect tactics, and for us not to try to protect those companies such suppliers from our domestic supermarkets. We do from other follies, or other mistakes that they make, not think that it would be intelligent or necessary for which are part of the normal risks of doing business. the ombudsman to do that, and we would therefore want to ensure that there are adequate safeguards in the Mr. Williams indicated assent. Bill, should it get to Committee, to make sure that the ombudsman would be focused on the smaller end of the supplier spectrum, which is inherently more vulnerable John Penrose: I see the hon. Gentleman nodding, so I simply because those suppliers do not have the kind of think that he agrees with the distinction that I am bargaining power that they would need if they were to making. go toe to toe with an organisation the size of Tesco or Morrisons, for example. Philip Davies: My hon. Friend is making some very good points that appear to me to be in direct opposition I am reminded of a story that is not quite an urban to the Bill. He talked about the thin end of the wedge, myth—probably a rural myth—that circulates widely in but by supporting the Bill—albeit tentatively, it seems—he my constituency about a local company, Yeo Valley, is supporting a thin-end-of-the-wedge approach, because which is a successful organic dairy and yoghurt producer. in many different industries big companies negotiate It supplies most of the major supermarkets and it has contracts with smaller companies in the same sector. If thrived by not being beholden to any one of them by my hon. Friend is saying that we need an ombudsman ensuring that not too large a proportion of its business in the food retail industry, surely we will at some point goes to Tesco, Sainsbury’s or any of the others. If any of need an ombudsman to deal with big companies negotiating them try to use muscular negotiating tactics, it is able to with smaller companies across all industries. withstand them because it has diversified its customer base. It has done that very successfully, and so that is a good model. The story that circulates locally—I have John Penrose: I thank my hon. Friend for that no idea whether it is true, but it illustrates my point—is intervention and for the chance to clarify what I was that when a supermarket buyer turned up at Yeo Valley saying, as I was clearly not being as translucent as I and said, “Now, look here, we need to reduce the price should have been. We support the principle of the that we pay you for your yoghurts,” the chief executive grocery market ombudsman, but I was trying to put of Yeo Valley called his distribution centre and asked it down a marker for Committee, should this Bill make it “Will you please call back the lorries that are currently to Committee, to point out that there are issues that will on their way” to that company’s depot “because it can’t need to be greatly clarified and solidified. Without that, pay for the goods?” Apparently, there ensued a rather the Bill could be quite dangerous. rapid climbdown from the supermarket’s buyer for the My hon. Friend is right to point out the dangers of simple reason that he knew that Yeo Valley could afford the thin end of the wedge. The distinction between the to do that. There is a point to be made about not trying market that we are talking about and any of the others to protect people who do not need protection and about to which he alluded is that there has been a Competition not trying to protect people against bad negotiating Commission report on the former, and that report said tactics at the expense of people who are capable of that there was a specific set of problems. As to whether producing good negotiating tactics, such as my constituent he is willing to accept the conclusions of that report, I from Yeo Valley. doubt it, as I have listened to his earlier remarks. It is 1145 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1146 important to say that I would not wish to extend the him to continue dairy farming, so I would like to think principle to any market that had not been the subject of that I have some knowledge of that side of the equation, a Competition Commission report that reached similar too. It is for others to decide whether the Competition conclusions; I agree with him that such a move would Commission looked into the issue in more detail than I be an extremely dangerous thin end of a wedge, and have done, but I hope that hon. Members will acknowledge would, I am sure, potentially give rise to grave concerns that I do at least have some knowledge of the supermarket in all parts of the House. industry; given some of the contributions made, it The second point—we have already discussed it, so I would appear that some hon. Members who have spoken will not take up too much of the House’s time on it—is do not. the question of whether the ombudsman should be in We need to start with basics. I do not know what it is or outside the Office of Fair Trading, or at arm’s length about this country, but we seem to have an obsession from it but within it, or whatever. It seems from the with knocking anybody or anything that happens to be remarks of the hon. Member for Ynys Môn that we are successful. If anything is successful, we want to cut it substantially agreed on the importance of independence; down to size and pull it to pieces. The supermarket there were nods all round when we discussed the matter industry is one of the most impressive industries in this in his speech, so I will not belabour the point. I should country. We should be immensely proud of it; it has just say that I suspect that there is quite a lot of detailed achieved so many things, including for consumers, in discussion to be had—again, in Committee—about how terms of lowering price. In fact, the Competition we achieve that independence. There may be some Commission itself said: discussion about the best kind of institutional architecture “Food prices declined, in real terms, by around 8 per cent to achieve the aim on which we are all agreed. That is a between 2000 and August 2007…This decline in real food prices is point for another day. likely to have delivered significant benefits to consumers as shopping bills for the same basket of goods would now be lower in real I hope that it is now clear that the Conservative party terms than was the case seven years ago.” is in favour of the measure in principle. There are a few That is one of the great legacies of supermarkets in this items of detail to consider, but they are very important; country. I am sure that the hon. Member for Ynys Môn, who is the promoter of the Bill, does not expect a blank cheque Mr. Roger Williams: If the hon. Gentleman looks at from anybody. However, we are broadly supportive. We those figures, he will find that the decline in farm-gate think that the move is good and will advance the cause prices was far greater than the decline in retail prices, of both supermarket suppliers and consumers, if done and that leads one to suppose that the supermarkets in the right way, and we therefore look forward to the were maintaining or increasing their margins while putting Bill making progress. pressure on the smaller producers. Philip Davies: The hon. Gentleman is completely 11.33 am wrong about that. Anybody who knows anything about the supermarket industry, and particularly those who Philip Davies (Shipley) (Con): It is a pleasure to have worked in it, know that it is one of the most—if follow my hon. Friend the Member for Weston-super-Mare not the most—competitive industries in this country. (John Penrose), who made some telling points—points My time working for Asda showed that it was based on by which I was heartily encouraged. I was certainly a particularly simple formula: increase volumes and more encouraged by his contribution than by some of reduce margins. What the hon. Gentleman said is therefore the earlier contributions. completely and utterly wrong. What supermarkets have We have already been round the houses somewhat in been doing year after year is reducing their margins and a topical debate that took place on the issue on 21 January. increasing their volumes. That is what has delivered However, with your permission, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I lower prices. would still like today to make some of the points that I Milk is a prime example. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman made in that debate. I am used to many of my contributions will tell us what huge profit margin he thinks supermarkets falling on stony ground, but to say that that speech have when selling milk. Actually, they do not have a clearly fell on stony ground would be an understatement, huge profit margin; milk is one of the most competitive so it appears necessary to reiterate some of the points. products sold in supermarkets. Profit margins for It seems that a depressingly familiar approach has supermarket retailers on products such as milk are very been taken. We stand in this House pontificating about low indeed, if not non-existent. The idea that farmers things of which we have absolutely no knowledge. That are suffering on the back of huge profit margins for appears to have been done in spades this morning. The retailers is simply wrong. hon. Member for St. Ives (Andrew George) made the John Penrose: Without wishing to intervene in the point that the Competition Commission had looked discussion about milk—that topic has been very fully into the issue in more detail than I had. He may or may debated, not just here but in many other forums—perhaps not be right about that; other people can judge. However, one of the reasons why there is a disconnect between although in this debate I have no interest to declare, I what my hon. Friend is saying and what was said in the would like to think that I have some experience to previous intervention is that there are, of course, other declare, having worked for a supermarket chain for players in that supply chain. I am thinking particularly 12 years before entering Parliament. I would like to of some of the dairy firms. There is a degree of finger- think that I do have some knowledge of the industry. pointing going on between supermarkets and some I would also like to think that I have some knowledge dairy firms, on the subject of who exactly is getting this of the problems to which hon. Members referred, given notional extra margin that everyone thinks may be out that my stepfather was a dairy farmer who went out of there somewhere. Everyone is saying, “It’s not me, guv; business because it was no longer financially viable for it’s the other lot.” 1147 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1148

Philip Davies: My hon. Friend is right. I reiterate that prepared to pay for it. There is no magic formula. There people should not presume that just because the farmers are no black arts in the front row, as was mentioned have struggled on a particular product, the consequence earlier. It is a simple formula for success. Why on earth is that the supermarket has a huge profit margin on that would we want to try and stop supermarkets being product. There are, as he says, others involved. successful and doing what they do so well—looking after their customers? Albert Owen: What the hon. Member for Weston- super-Mare (John Penrose) said in his intervention is Another myth is that supermarkets make big profits right. An ombudsman would not point the finger, but only because they have a terrible relationship with their look to see where the problem lay and could deal with suppliers and screw them into the ground at every it. That is the point. If the hon. Member for Shipley opportunity, and therefore that we need an ombudsman (Philip Davies) had listened to my opening remarks, he to intervene and stop that practice. That might be the would know that I talked about the whole supply chain, populist view out there and it might sound perfectly not just the supermarkets, and I was not simply knocking plausible, but in the real world, no supermarket could the supermarkets. If there is an injustice in the supply even begin to work on that basis. chain, it should be rectified. I am sure he cannot disagree As my hon. Friend the Member for Weston-super-Mare with that. made clear, a supermarket can be successful only if it has some product on the shelf. A supermarket does not Philip Davies: The only possible worthwhile consequence become successful by selling fresh air. By definition, of an ombudsman is that the suppliers will be paid particularly in such a competitive marketplace, one of more than they are now. If that is not the consequence the things that supermarkets must always be conscious of an ombudsman, there seems to me to be no point in of is having a good relationship with their suppliers. anyone here proposing one. In view of the small profit They need a good relationship with their suppliers margins that supermarkets run to, any increase that because, unlike other industries, food retailing is very goes to any part of the supply chain will inevitably be difficult to predict. Knowing how much stock to have passed on to the consumer. on the shelves on any given day is not easy. A ludicrous argument has been perpetuated today, most notably by the hon. Member for St. Ives, who We all go to the supermarket—I am as guilty as the suggested the apparently painless panacea of a grocery next person—and want to buy something that is off sale ombudsman—the cost will be X million pounds a year— because the supermarket has run out. We go crackers which will be of great benefit to the supplier, to the about that because it is so inconvenient when there is supermarket chain and to the consumer. What kind of nothing on the shelf. Knowing how much product to drivel is that? The system cannot possibly have all those order on any given day is not easy and depends on all consequences. sorts of factors. One large factor that affects the amount of stock a supermarket has on its shelves is the weather. If, in a debate in the House, hon. Members were to say, “I want to see suppliers paid more by supermarkets, On a hot sunny day, people will want to buy lots of and I think that is a legitimate aim,” and if they bottles of lemonade. That might not be a problem, acknowledged that that would lead to an additional because the supermarket can have large quantities of cost to the consumer and/or to the supermarket, we that in stock and it does not go off. Also, in hot weather, would at least be having a frank and honest debate, and people want to buy lots of salads and not so many I could agree or disagree with that. But for people to vegetables. In colder weather or when it is raining, stand up and say, “We’re going to have an ombudsman people want to buy more vegetables, not salads. The that will cost X amount of money, and the supplier will supermarket cannot have a huge over-stock of those benefit, the supermarket will benefit and the consumer things or they will go to waste. will benefit,” is treating everybody as if they were utter Supermarkets must be very good at predicting the idiots. That scenario is just not possible. It is some kind weather and trying to predict what the demand for of dream world. products will be on a particular day. Given the vagaries I urge hon. Members to be clear about the consequences of the British weather and therefore the uncertainty of setting up an ombudsman and to have the courage of about the quantity of a product likely to be sold on a their convictions. If they believe in the principle of an specific day, it is essential that a supermarket has good, ombudsman to give more money to suppliers from strong, close relationships with its suppliers, especially retailers, they should at least be open and honest about its fresh food suppliers, because it needs some flexibility what the full consequences of that policy would be. in how many of a particular product they will supply at I was making the point that in this country, we seem very short notice. to want to knock successful industries. It is important I can assure hon. Members that if a supermarket was to realise why supermarkets have become so successful. not treating its supplier well or fairly, or was not giving Like other successful businesses, supermarkets have it a sufficiently good income, the goodwill that the become successful for one main, overriding reason—they supermarket relies upon in order to get the right amount look after their customers. Every business that is successful of product to the shop on a particular day would has achieved that status because it looks after its customers quickly go. The idea that supermarkets can thrive by and looks after its staff. Any organisation that looks screwing suppliers into the ground might be a plausible after its customers and its staff will be successful. All theory, but I am afraid it is one born out of utter failed businesses have two things in common—they do ignorance. not look after their customers or their staff. What supermarkets have done, incredibly successfully, is provide their customers with what they want, at a Mr. Drew: The hon. Gentleman said that without a time when they want it and at a price that they are smile. 1149 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1150

Philip Davies: Indeed, because it is true. If the hon. Front Bench. I believe that my Front Benchers are Gentleman knew anything about the supermarket industry grossly mistaken, and that their support for the proposal or had ever worked in it, he would know that that was is very un-Conservative. true. Albert Owen: The hon. Member for Weston-super-Mare Mr. Drew: Some years ago the Environment, Food made a logical response to the Bill. It was not about and Rural Affairs Committee undertook an inquiry three and a half votes in Liberal constituencies or into the so-called missing 4p in the milk industry. What minorities on the fringe; it was about a whole body of that ascertained was exactly the pressure that the retailers our constituents who support the proposal. I am clear exerted on the processers, who then exerted it on the about where the hon. Member for Shipley (Philip Davies) producers. Is he saying that our report was completely stands on the matter of the ombudsman, and about wrong? how far away his stance is from that of his Front-Benchers, but the code was set up because of market failings, so Philip Davies: I suspect that it probably was not does he accept the need even for a code? brilliant. I will not say that it was completely wrong. Most things have an element of truth in them and the Philip Davies: I am not a big fan—[Interruption.] I rest is made up to suit the prejudices about the subject. am going to answer the question. I am not a big fan of But, of course, nobody here is saying that supermarkets the code, but it is in place and there is nothing that I can are not tough negotiators. Of course they are, but do about it. It is far too stringent and it goes far too far, suppliers are tough negotiators, too. Anybody who but its existence knocks out completely the argument thinks that suppliers just roll over and do as they are for an ombudsman, and we will return to that point told is living in a fantasy land. later. However, it is incredibly curious that my hon. Friends are in favour of the ombudsman. It makes no If Labour Members want to start tangling with suppliers rational sense, and I shall come back to the reason why such as Mars, Pepsi and Procter & Gamble because an ombudsman is not a good idea—whatever side of they think that they are an easy target, I say to them, the argument one happens to take. “Please feel free. Set up your own supermarket and see how far you get with them, because you’ll find that they On suppliers, I shall expand on my intervention about are very tough cookies, indeed.” Why on earth the hon. offers on the hon. Member for Llanelli (Nia Griffith). Member for Ynys Môn (Albert Owen) wants to waste Owing to a few misapprehensions, the hon. Member for time setting up an ombudsman to support companies Ynys Môn may well think that many people in the such as Procter & Gamble, Mars and all the other big country are in favour of setting up an ombudsman, and multinational companies, many of which have marketing if those misapprehensions were cleared up that support budgets that supermarkets could only dream of, is might no longer exist. The idea that supermarkets insist beyond me. Some people might need help in the world, that suppliers introduce and pay for “buy one get one but Procter & Gamble does not. free” deals is, frankly, out of cloud cuckoo land. In fact, suppliers fall over themselves, saying to retailers and Mr. Drew: Can the hon. Gentleman explain why his supermarkets, “We want to do a ‘buy one get one free’ own Front-Benchers think that the proposal is such a on our product,” and, “We want to do this product at good idea? ‘three for the price of two’.” Many companies, such as Procter & Gamble and Philip Davies: No, I cannot. It does not surprise me in Mars, introduce such special offers because of their the slightest that the Labour party is in favour of setting colossal marketing budgets. They want people to try up an ombudsman, because we all know its modus their product, and they judge, probably rightly, that operandi: it has to stick its nose into everything; it does consumers will do so if it is part of a special offer, such not trust anybody to look after their own interests; the as “buy one get one free”. The companies hope that, state knows best and has to protect everybody—even, it when the offer ends, people will have formed the habit seems, big multinational companies; and the Government of buying that product and will continue doing so. Such have to intervene in every nook and cranny of everybody’s offers are inspired not by the supermarket but by the lives. It comes as absolutely no surprise to me, therefore, suppliers, which want more people to buy their products. that the Labour party is in favour of a grocery ombudsman. It is a marketing strategy carried out by the supplier for Equally, it comes as no surprise to me that the Liberal the benefit of the supplier. Democrats are in favour of the proposal, because they My experience at Asda is in direct contradiction to have detected—no doubt in their focus groups—that what the hon. Member for Llanelli said. Things might they might get two and a half or three extra votes out of well be different now because it is five years since I left, doing so in seats that they need to win at a general but during my time there, when suppliers came to us election. As we all know, the Lib Dems will say absolutely saying that they wanted to do a “buy one get one free” anything if they think that, on the back of it, there are or a “three for the price of two” offer on their products, two or three extra votes to be gleaned in a marginal seat. we said that we would prefer it if they did not. This is On the point behind the hon. Gentleman’s intervention, not a state secret. Rather than having a special offer that I must say that it is incredibly curious and, equally, applied for only one week or month, meaning that a disappointing that a Conservative party that is supposed customer would have to have the pure luck of being in to be against Government-inspired quangos and at the right time to take advantage of it, we would have Government intervention—that wants to try to let people preferred a permanently lower price. get on and run their own lives—is in favour of a grocery We would ask suppliers whether they would be prepared ombudsman. I am afraid that I cannot offer any explanation to invest the money that they would have put into a for that, other than the contribution from my hon. special offer in a smaller but more permanent price Friend the Member for Weston-super-Mare, on the reduction. We thought that that would be better for our 1151 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1152

[Philip Davies] In response to an intervention by my hon. Friend the Member for Christchurch (Mr. Chope), the hon. Member customers—particularly, I might add, for pensioners for Ynys Môn talked about anonymous complaints, who lived on their own and might not want two products and the hon. Member for Hendon (Mr. Dismore) said for the price of one or three for the price of two. They that anonymous complaints were to be welcomed because would prefer a permanently lower price. The idea that suppliers would be driven into the ground by the nasty, supermarkets force suppliers into making special offers unscrupulous supermarkets if they made it clear that is completely and utterly wrong. they had complained. However, as I said, the code I come back to the intervention made by the hon. clearly states that a retailer may only de-list a supplier Member for Ynys Môn. If people realised the things for genuine commercial reasons, and expressly not for that I have mentioned and if the myths that have been exercising its rights under the code of practice. built up were exposed, perhaps his constituents would I am afraid that these concerns are completely null not be so keen on a grocery ombudsman. A lot depends and void, because such practices are already banned on how the question is framed. If we say to people, under the existing code, which is overseen by the OFT. “Nasty, big, terrible supermarkets are screwing suppliers That means that any supplier who feels that they have into the ground. Do you think that there should be an been badly treated by the supermarkets can go to the ombudsman to try to referee that relationship?”, of OFT to say that the code has not been abided by. The course people will say yes. However, if we say, “An OFT already provides independent, effective scrutiny of ombudsman is going to be introduced and the upshot the code whereby suppliers can raise their concerns and will be higher supermarket prices,” a different answer grievances. When the OFT commissioned research on might be gleaned from those same constituents. I am the previous code in 2005, it found that, by and large, not entirely sure that the public would support a grocery supermarkets were compliant with the code, and found ombudsman when they realised the full facts of the no evidence that disputes between supermarkets and matter and the full implications. suppliers were leading to any significant impact on The hon. Gentleman mentioned the groceries supply competition in this market. code of practice, and I want to spend a bit of time on Even if one is in favour of all this intervention and that. I should set the scene. We have to realise that the more draconian parts of the code, setting up an supermarkets are already the most regulated part of the ombudsman is a solution looking for a problem, because food sector. There has been a code of practice for the the solution is already there—it is called the Office of four largest grocery retailers since 2002. The new code, Fair Trading, which oversees the code that everybody which came into effect only on 4 February, if my signed up to. Given what hon. Members said earlier, it memory serves me, will apply to the 10 companies that seems that they support the code of practice that has cover more than 90 per cent. of the groceries sector by been agreed. Why do we need an ombudsman when the sales. OFT is already there to deal with any complaints? It is a It seems to me that hon. Members here do not complete and utter waste of time. We hear hon. Members understand the full implications of the new code, which on both sides of the House saying that we need better builds on the code that was already in place. The new regulation and smarter regulation, and that we do not code adds a requirement to put all agreements in writing want excessive regulation, yet they are proposing to set within three days of the agreement’s being made. That is up an additional body that duplicates the existing role a huge undertaking for a supermarket. The average of the OFT with regard to the grocery supply code of Asda store, which is what I know most about, will practice. That is completely and utterly pointless. probably have in the region of 40,000 products on sale What would happen in the real world if we had a at any one time, so putting all the agreements in writing grocery ombudsman? That was considered by Professor within three days is a big commitment. Lyons, who was one of the panel members during the The new code puts a prohibition on retrospective Competition Commission’s investigation, and one of changes to agreements, which was one of the points the two panel members who worked on the supplier made by hon. Members. The Competition Commission issues work stream. The hon. Member for Ynys Môn considered that such changes were the principal manner said that the findings of the commission were clear, but in which excessive risks or costs could be transferred not unanimous. He may well think that, but I would not from retailers to suppliers, but it has to be pointed out concede that they were clear. Professor Lyons is a that the changes are prohibited even when they are to professional economist with particular expertise in this mutual advantage. A retrospective change to an agreement field. I would be so bold as to say that he has more can sometimes be of benefit both to the retailer and the expertise than those who have contributed to this debate. supplier. For example, if an order for extra stock is It therefore seems to be particularly notable that it was made, that may well be to the benefit of the supplier. Professor Lyons who dissented from the majority view However, even those changes are prohibited. The code on the panel and objected to the proposal for an imposes a prohibition on charging suppliers for shrinkage. ombudsman. The commission’s report states that Professor The Competition Commission believed that the retailer Lyons was best placed to control the risk of shrinkage and “believed that the Ombudsman would be counterproductive…He minimise losses. The code has an overarching “fair was concerned that the Ombudsman may find a role ‘proactively’ dealing” provision, which the Competition Commission representing the interests of suppliers, including global manufacturers considered balances the need to curtail unreasonable and large intermediaries, which he considered would reduce the benefits of competition.” behaviour on the part of retailers with the need to allow a measure of commercial flexibility. It states that a He believed that an independent ombudsman, as proposed retailer may only de-list a supplier for genuine commercial by the hon. Gentleman, would be reasons, and expressly not for exercising its rights under “susceptible to external pressures and regulatory creep.” the code. I could not put it better myself. 1153 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1154

Anyone who lives in the real world knows exactly Indeed, I share my hon. Friend’s view that a cosy what will happen. The ombudsman will not sit there for consensus in this place leads to the inevitable consequence a year, at the cost of x million pounds, and at the end of that something is wrong. it say, “During the course of the previous year, I can We have clarified that we do not believe that the report that I had nothing to do.” That is not how that ombudsman will sit and do nothing even if there is kind of quango operates. If nothing is reported to it, it nothing to do, and that he will, as Professor Lyons said, will go out and stick its nose into matters on which find a proactive role in representing suppliers’ interests, nobody has reported a particular problem. That was even when no particular problems are reported to him. clearly what Professor Lyons concluded. It was interesting that the hon. Member for St. Ives was The OFT has previously reported that it could not so dismissive of Professor Lyons. Contributors to the see any material breaches of the supermarket code of debate have said time and again that we need the practice, so we can presume that the same thing will ombudsman, not because they think so or have evidence happen with the new code of practice. If an ombudsman or know what they are talking about, but because the is set up and the supermarkets stick faithfully to the Competition Commission said that we need one. Yet new code of practice, does anybody here seriously believe the hon. Gentleman was quick to discount the opinions that the ombudsman will produce a report each year of Professor Lyons, who was one of two panel members saying, “In the course of the last year I did nothing, I on the Competition Commission who examined the have absolutely nothing to report and I do not envisage supplier issue work stream. Why was the hon. Gentleman doing a great deal for the next year either”? If anyone so quick to dismiss him while praying in aid the body on wishes to intervene to say that that is what they expect, I which he served? I would have thought that his views will be delighted to take their intervention. Now is their were particularly relevant. opportunity. We know exactly what will happen. The ombudsman will start sticking his nose in and the only possible Andrew George rose— consequence of that interference will be increasing the cost to retailers of the products that they buy from the suppliers. If that does not happen, there is no point in Philip Davies: I have one taker. the Bill. The inevitable further consequence is higher prices in the supermarket. I hope that those who support Andrew George: The hon. Gentleman prays in aid a the Bill will make it clear that they are happy with professor who is entitled to his opinion. There is a higher prices. It would be helpful if they said by how debate about this matter, and as the hon. Member for much they were prepared for prices to increase. Ynys Môn (Albert Owen) made clear, Professor Roger The hon. Member for Ynys Môn said that the Clarke from the Cardiff business school has undertaken ombudsman would cost around £5 million and that that a deep study and takes a contrary view. His paper, represented 0.0007 per cent. of sales in supermarkets, or which was published last year, concluded clearly that something along those lines. I am sure that he will the introduction of an ombudsman would protect the correct me if I am wrong, but I have not seen a limit on interests of shoppers and would the cost of the ombudsman in the Bill. Indeed, as I “lead to more choice, better quality products and lower prices.” made clear in an intervention, the exact opposite applies Of course there is debate among academics, just as because the measure would give the ombudsman free there is in the Chamber. The hon. Member for Shipley rein to appoint as many staff as he deemed necessary to (Philip Davies) is entitled to his view, just as others are carry out his duties. Instead of a curtailed minimal cost, to theirs. There is a debate, and he seems to have drawn we are invited to support an open-ended cost so that the his own conclusions, which is fair enough. ombudsman is free to build his empire and make it as big as he wishes.

Philip Davies: I note that the hon. Gentleman did not take up my offer to say what he thought the ombudsman Albert Owen: The hon. Gentleman is trying to confuse would do, so I rescind the statement that I had one the House. The Competition Commission’s report makes taker. It seems I had none. He says that we are having a clear the cost to the retailer. It has been estimated at debate, but if it were not for me and my hon. Friend the £5 million, which is 0.005 per cent. of the sales of the Member for Christchurch, we would not be. As my hon. some of the largest retailers. The only variant would be Friend made clear earlier, we have yet another cosy the number of complaints about the retailer. The formula consensus in the House. Nobody wants to stand up and is in clause 12—I am sure that he has understood that. say something practical, because they think some people However, the setting up costs would, of course, be might be opposed to it or offended by it. separate. As my hon. Friend made clear, the history of cosy consensus in the House is not happy. He gave a list of Philip Davies: I can do no better than read from the examples, and I will add a couple more if he and you, Bill, then people can make up their own minds about its Mr. Deputy Speaker, will allow me. I believe the Child implications. It states: Support Agency was supported by all parties, and it has “The Ombudsman may appoint staff which the Ombudsman been a complete and utter disaster. I might even add our thinks are necessary for the fulfilment of the Ombudsman’s membership of the exchange rate mechanism, which functions.” everybody thought was a marvellous thing but which People can interpret that as they wish. I interpret it to had catastrophic economic consequences for this country. mean that the ombudsman may appoint as many staff We do not accept that a cosy consensus between the as he deems necessary to carry out his job. If he wants Front Benchers guarantees that something is right. to start empire building—I suspect that that will happen 1155 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1156

[Philip Davies] so, I hope he tells people that that would mean that they will be paying an extra £6.5 billion a year in their because that is what happens with all such quangos—the shopping bills. Bill would give him or her an open-ended opportunity to recruit as many people and make the empire as big as Mr. Williams: I will try once more. The hon. Gentleman they see fit. I have quoted from the Bill—I do not intend says that the supermarkets are not trading unfairly in to mislead anybody; people can make up their own any way. Presumably therefore, in his analysis, the minds. ombudsman would not make any award or decision First, the Bill provides for an open-ended cost for that increases what supermarkets pay to suppliers. However, setting up the ombudsman. So that we know where we he has given the figure of 1 per cent., which assumes stand, we must always be clear that, when we refer to that there is unfair trading to the tune of £1.3 billion. cost, it will ultimately be borne by the consumer. The hon. Gentleman estimates that the cost to the consumer Philip Davies: This is very hard work. I will try to of setting up the ombudsman will be £5 million—that explain my point to the hon. Gentleman for the third limit is not in the Bill, and he might wish to consider time. Perhaps detention and a bit more homework is introducing it in Committee—but that is not the cost required. I will try to give him one more opportunity to that consumers need to worry about. The cost that grasp this point. The only reason to set up the ombudsman consumers ought to be worried about is the higher is to make supermarkets give more money to suppliers—if prices that they will be expected to pay as a result of the he has a different reason for setting up the ombudsman, ombudsman’s decisions. perhaps he could tell me what it is. However, I presume The grocery market in this country is worth in the that he is in favour of an ombudsman because he thinks region of £130 billion a year. What extra moneys do we that it will deliver more money from supermarkets to expect supermarkets to pass on to their suppliers as a suppliers. The fact is that every 1 per cent. extra that result of the ombudsman’s intervention? Let us be goes from the supermarket to the supplier will mean a modest and say that suppliers will get a 1 per cent. £1.3 billion cost that will ultimately be borne by the increase in their income from supermarkets as a result consumer. of the ombudsman being set up. I am sure the hon. Gentleman had something much more ambitious than If the hon. Gentleman believes that setting up the 1 per cent. in mind, but based on the size of the grocery ombudsman is such a good thing, and that it is a price market at the moment—it might grow—that would worth paying, he should have the courage of his convictions mean that suppliers could expect a further £1.3 billion. and say so. To try to pretend that any extra money that Who will pay that extra cost? The consumer will pay. goes to the supplier from the supermarket will not cost Even if the grocery ombudsman delivers onlya1per the consumer or the supermarket anything—which seems cent. increase in income for suppliers as a result of the to be the length and breadth of the argument that we empire that will be set up, that will cost consumers in have heard so far—is ridiculous. People are not stupid, this country £1.3 billion. What a surprise that nobody and they can see that that is a ridiculous argument. If mentioned that earlier and told the public what the cost anybody gets extra money, it must come from someone would be to them through higher shopping bills! else, and in this case, it will come from the consumer. Those consumers are our constituents. All I am urging We are in the midst of a recession. People are losing hon. Members to do is to be up front with their constituents their jobs and struggling to get by, and many fear for about what they are proposing, instead of just telling the future, yet hon. Members, who seem to be occupying them the benefits that will occur. Why do people in this an ivory tower today, seem happy to pass billions of country have so little faith in Members of Parliament? pounds of costs on to their constituents when they can It is because they think that their MPs are not straight least afford it. with them and do not tell them all the facts. People think that MPs do not tell them the bad news as well as Mr. Roger Williams: The hon. Gentleman has picked the good news. Let us try to put that right, be open and a figure of 1 per cent. Does that mean that supermarkets up front with our constituents and tell them the full are underpaying suppliers by £1.3 billion as a result of consequences of introducing the ombudsman—higher their unfair practices? Is that the assumption he is prices at the checkout. That is an inevitable consequence making with the figures he has picked out of the air? of the Bill, and it is very depressing that hon. Members will not be up front with their constituents. Philip Davies: I shall try to speak more slowly for the I return to the point made by my hon. Friend the hon. Gentleman’s benefit. Those who propose the Member for Christchurch in his all-too-brief speech. ombudsman take the view that supermarkets are screwing He hit the nail on the head when he described the Bill as suppliers into the ground. Therefore, from their fiddling while Rome burns. We have hon. Members perspective—I do not believe that an ombudsman is supposedly championing our hard-pressed suppliers necessary—the ombudsman will be useful only as a today—we keep being reminded how hard-pressed they means by which to divert more money from the supermarket are—and yet those same Members are the greatest to the supplier. I am merely following through the advocates of piling more and more costs on to those consequences of that for our constituents, namely by suppliers, including employment costs, additional saying that there will be an increase in prices. regulations and other burdens. For instance, the cost of I suspect that the hon. Gentleman has a more EU regulations drives many companies, and farmers, to ambitious figure than 1 per cent. in mind. I am simply despair. The biggest issues facing many suppliers are the illustrating what every 1 per cent. more that goes from increase in regulation, red tape and employment costs. the supermarket to the supplier will mean for the consumer. Those are driving suppliers into the ground and are far He might think that a 5 per cent. increase is necessary. If more important than their relationship with the 1157 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1158 supermarkets. But those hon. Members who act as the sometimes hard to find somebody who will stand up self-appointed champions of the suppliers are also the and put it, if people think that the proposals are popular. greatest cheerleaders for the extra regulation, costs and However, it would do a great disservice to a very successful taxation that is imposed on them. I suggest that it industry, of which we should be incredibly proud—the would be more helpful to the suppliers to consider those supermarket industry—were somebody not to speak up issues. and put the other side of the argument. To try to give Who would be protected by the Bill? It would not be the impression that supermarkets are mean-spirited many of the small producers and farmers. Instead, it organisations—they are not—would be unfair to the would be large multinational companies that will use millions of people who work in the food retail sector the threat of this legislation to try to bolster their and supermarkets and who are rightly proud of the negotiations with supermarkets. Those companies make companies for which they work and of how their companies hundreds of millions of pounds of profit every year, look after their staff, suppliers and customers. It would and the effect of the ombudsman will be to deliver even be grossly unfair on consumers were we not to put the bigger profits to those big multinational suppliers at the other side of the argument, because the one thing that I expense of the consumer who will have to pay more. I can guarantee is that, if a grocery ombudsman is set up, am sure that the hon. Member for Ynys Môn, as a good there will be only one loser at the end of the day: Labour man, believes in the redistribution of wealth, consumers—our constituents—who are often the poorest but it is beyond me how on earth he can justify redistributing people in our constituencies. They go to supermarkets wealth from some of the poorest of his constituents, because they have the cheapest prices, and they will be who go to supermarkets specifically because they deliver the ones who suffer as a result of grandstanding by low prices—they might be on fixed incomes, and it some hon. Members in the House who know very little, might be all that they can afford—to some very big, I am afraid, about the industry to which they want to multinational suppliers. I have no idea on what basis do so much damage. that could be considered fair, but it is not my definition of fairness. It would do the poorest of his constituents a 12.30 pm great disservice by wanting to line the pockets of some very big, multinational companies. That is the only The Minister for Regional Economic Development and possible upshot of an ombudsman. Co-ordination (Ms Rosie Winterton): I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member for Ynys Môn (Albert Owen) Following on from the point about suppliers, I must on raising an important issue. I think we have all noted point out, because a great disservice is being done to his genuine concern and desire to protect the businesses supermarkets today, that supermarkets are some of the that supply supermarkets with grocery produce, and his most proactive organisations in getting small suppliers wish to ensure that commercial relationships in the up and running, taking on their products and helping sector are conducted fairly. He has been a champion of them to get started and to grow and thrive. Without the the cause, and his speech demonstrated the passion with actions of many supermarkets, many small suppliers which he has pursued it. would have gone down the pan an awfully long time I pay tribute to my hon. Friends the Members for ago. I remember, from my time at Asda, receiving a Stroud (Mr. Drew) and for Llanelli (Nia Griffith), and thank you letter from a bakery, I believe—either way, it to the hon. Member for St. Ives (Andrew George), who was a small business—to Asda for helping and supporting has also been supportive. The hon. Member for Weston- it through a difficult period. Without that help, it would super-Mare (John Penrose) raised points with which I not have been able to survive and flourish. The idea that shall try to deal later. It was obvious that the hon. it is a one-way street of supermarkets trying to drive Members for Christchurch (Mr. Chope) and for Shipley smaller suppliers and retailers into the ground is not (Philip Davies) held a different opinion, but they have borne out by the facts. form when it comes to issues such as this. Their desire to In many cases, supermarkets go over and above what abolish the national minimum wage was an indication is expected of them. I think I am right in saying—I will of their view that any interference from Government in happily be corrected—that Morrisons has introduced a the form of regulation intended to look after workers’ scheme under which it pays its smallest farmers within rights was to be resisted at all costs. That is part of their seven days. That is a fantastic initiative that is doing an philosophy. awful lot to help—I presume—those small suppliers that need rapid cash flow. Given how the Government Mr. Chope: If the Minister wishes to give my Bill a sometimes treat their suppliers, it does not behold people plug, can she please get it right? The Bill would enable in the House to want to set up a Government-inspired people to opt out of the minimum wage, rather than quango to lecture retailers, which are often good at abolish it. paying their suppliers quickly, on how they should be looking after them. In many cases, food retailers and Ms Winterton: That is a tremendously appropriate supermarkets are some of the best in the industry at Bill to present during an economic downturn, I must looking after their suppliers and paying them promptly. say. It certainly shows where the hon. Gentleman is It would be wrong for people to be left with the impression, coming from on the protections that have been introduced from this debate, that supermarkets are among the for workers. worst offenders, when they are not. As for the Bill we are discussing today, I assure my I do not intend to delay the House further. On all hon. Friend the Member for Ynys Môn that the these issues, particularly where we have a consensus Government share his concern. The Bill provides for the between the Front-Bench spokespeople, it is important creation of a grocery market ombudsman, and sets out to hear the alternate view. There is always another side a number of rules against which the ombudsman would of an argument, but unfortunately in this place it is monitor and enforce compliance with the grocery supply 1159 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1160

[Ms Rosie Winterton] The commission concluded that, if left unchecked, this would ultimately have a detrimental effect on consumers code of practice. As Members have said, the code was because it would lead to lower quality goods, less choice drawn up by the Competition Commission. It was one of goods or less product innovation. That is exactly the of the commission’s recommendations following its market point that addresses the issues raised by the hon. Members inquiry into the supply of groceries in the United Kingdom, for Shipley and for Christchurch, but I do not think which resulted in a report published in April 2008. they were listening to it—I can come back to it. I thank the commission for its thorough examination During the investigation the commission received of the issues, and for the hard work of all its staff details of 380 concerns from suppliers and supplier during the investigation. I also commend it for producing associations. Nearly half the concerns related to the the new code, and for its valiant efforts—sadly, they transfer of excessive risks or unexpected costs from proved fruitless—to win the agreement of the largest grocery retailers to suppliers, and one third related to grocery retailers to set up an ombudsman scheme requirements for retrospective payments or other voluntarily. Its investigation was exhaustive. I understand adjustments to previously agreed supply arrangements. that it received more than 100 submissions from grocery These practices were identified despite the existence of retailers, and more than 600 from a wide range of the supermarket code of practice, which had been drawn suppliers, consumers and local authorities from all over up following the 2000 broad- based investigation into the United Kingdom. Some 80 hearings were staged, grocery retailing conducted under the Fair Trading involving all the interested parties, and a number of Act 1973. That earlier investigation highlighted the other meetings were held as well. existence and operation of a group of practices that operated against the public interest in relation to the Mr. Nigel Evans (Ribble Valley) (Con): Can the Minister behaviour of five grocery retailers towards their suppliers. tell us how many submissions came from farmers or At that time, the commission decided that any main farm workers? As she will know, there are a great many party with more than an 8 per cent. share of grocery farmers in my constituency. A problem in the past has purchases for resale from its stores is, for the most part, been the driving down of the amount of money they able to control its relationship with suppliers to its own receive for their goods, which is great for consumers but advantage, whereas the smaller multiples are not able to not for producers. In the long term, we need a little bit do so to anywhere near the same extent. The commission of fairness for both. therefore specified that a grocery retailer with a national Ms Winterton: The hon. Gentleman makes a good share of grocery sales of more than 8 per cent. should point. What he describes is exactly what the Competition be required to comply with the code of practice. The Commission was trying to get to grips with because supermarket code of practice was the result. there had been so many complaints. I do not know The original five grocery retailers identified by the exactly how many farmers made representations, but I commission were Asda, Safeway, Sainsbury’s, Somerfield know from the speech made by my hon. Friend the and Tesco. Somerfield was later found to have less than Member for Ynys Môn that the National Farmers an 8 per cent. share and so did not become a signatory. Union has been very supportive of the work that he and Safeway was subsequently acquired by Morrisons, which others have done. agreed to be bound by the supermarket code as if it In addition to the hearings, questionnaires, surveys were a signatory. The OFT has overseen the operation and other industry publications were used and the of the code since its creation. It reviewed the code in commission also used its legal powers to ensure that 2004 and published an independent audit of retailers’ other essential information was provided and could be compliance with it in March 2005. In addition to the taken into account. The result was a 270-page report audit, the OFT called for evidence to cover other aspects containing more than 30 detailed appendices and, as I of the supply of groceries by grocery retailers that had a say, very important and valuable work. The inquiry negative impact on competition. concluded that although the market is generally working The OFT decided in August 2005 not to refer the well, there are concerns about the long-term future of market to the commission. It reconsidered this decision the supply chain. following an appeal to the Competition Appeal Tribunal The commission’s main concern was about the exercise lodged by the Association of Convenience Stores, and it of buyer power by certain grocery retailers in respect of decided to make a reference in May 2006. One of the their suppliers of groceries, particularly through their factors that persuaded the OFT to reconsider its decision adoption of supply chain practices that transferred was the existence of evidence to suggest that buyer excessive risks and unexpected costs to those suppliers. power had increased since 2000, and that that power The commission was at pains to point out that the could have a deleterious effect on consumer choice. exercise of buyer power by grocery retailers is likely to When it completed its final report, the commission have positive implications for consumers, especially where took evidence from a large number of parties and made the competition between grocery retailers is effective, as a convincing case for the need for an independent body consumers benefit through lower prices and this can to monitor and enforce the code. However, the commission also spur innovation in the supplier chain. However, the does not have the power to set up new bodies, and it exercise of buyer power can raise concerns in certain sought over many months of discussions and consultations limited circumstances. to obtain voluntary undertakings from retailers to establish The commission found that when, in the hope of an ombudsman scheme. Unfortunately, it was unsuccessful gaining competitive advantage, grocery retailers transfer in that endeavour. excessive risks or unexpected costs to their suppliers, As a result of its inability to reach an agreement with the likelihood is a lessening of suppliers’ incentives to retailers, the commission recommended in August 2009 invest in new capacity, products and production processes. that the Government take the necessary steps to establish 1161 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1162 an ombudsman with the powers to enforce the code and fresh food academy to offer training in retail craft food to levy financial penalties on retailers that fail to comply skills. It also has ambitious plans to increase the number with it. This chain of events culminated in the commission’s of its staff who take part in its company-wide training market inquiry and subsequent report, which contained scheme to 22,000 by April and to 100,000 by spring next the recommendation that is the subject of the debate year. Morrisons is believed to have one of the largest today. retail skills training programmes in the UK. It certainly The commission believes that the code will be much deserves credit for its efforts to boost the skills of its more effective if adherence to it is monitored by an work force, and I hope that its training targets will serve ombudsman who can address the “climate of fear” the as an inspiration to other employers. existence of which under the previous code of practice Tesco also makes a valuable economic contribution. many of the suppliers mentioned. The Government It is one of the region’s largest employers, with more have already announced that an ombudsman will be than 12,000 staff in more than 100 stores across Yorkshire able to accept and investigate anonymous complaints. and the Humber, and it created more than 500 jobs in That is a crucial difference and one that paves the way the region last year in new and extended stores. The for far more effective enforcement of the code. The Goole distribution centre has a straw-powered combined commission has recommended that an ombudsman heat and power plant that can put energy back into the should be able to accept complaints from parties at national grid. Next month, construction will start on a every stage along the supply chain, rather than just new store in Hornsea in east Yorkshire, creating 270 new from those who directly supply the supermarkets. Finally, jobs that will be available through Jobcentre Plus as an ombudsman will be able to investigate recurring part of the local employment partnership programme. complaints against a particular retailer. These important Making sure that we have a competitive and diverse differences between the OFT’s current role and the retail sector that delivers value for money and promotes proposed remit of the ombudsman will give the new consumer choice is an objective that I strongly support. code real teeth and help to ensure that it is more In my capacity as a Minister in the Department for effective than the one it replaces. Communities and Local Government, I am the The debate has understandably concentrated on the Government’s champion for markets. Since taking on mistreatment of some suppliers, but I strongly believe that responsibility last year, I have seen how important we should not lose sight of the fact that grocery retailers it is that we do not allow consumer choice in a particular are doing a good job overall, as recognised by the locality to be constrained by the dominance of a select Competition Commission in its 2008 report. One instance group of large retailers. It is in everyone’s interest to that has been highlighted is the fact that households are make sure that our town centres are vibrant, attractive spending less of their income on food thanks to reductions places to visit and that they offer an interesting mix of in prices across a wide range of goods. The commission large and small retailers. Traditional street markets are found that between 2000 and 2007, food prices declined an excellent way of drawing shoppers into an area, in real terms by approximately 8 per cent. That continued increasing footfall and benefiting the shops and other a trend that the commission had observed in an earlier businesses nearby. Markets are also a valuable testing investigation, which showed a decline in food prices of ground for entrepreneurs with a good idea but a limited 9.4 per cent. I am sure that we are all aware that prices budget. A market stall is a good way of keeping overheads have risen somewhat more recently, but that has been down while trying out new projects and growing a small brought about by a number of different supply and business. That is why we have taken steps, through our demand factors. We also know that an ever-increasing town centre first policy, to promote retail diversity and number of consumers use supermarkets because of the to prevent local monopolies from developing. convenience, choice and range that they offer. Consumers The policy that we have instituted gives local authorities also benefit from a competitive market that offers good the tools that they need to preserve the character and value for money. individuality of town centres across the planning system. Supermarkets are an important source of jobs and We have tried to create the right environment for diversity investment. Retail accounts for about 10 per cent. of of retail outlets, and it is important to see today’s gross domestic product, with groceries making up 50 per discussion in the light of that, because the issue is about cent. of that and providing about 1.5 million jobs. using a whole range of approaches to shape attractive Asda, which the hon. Member for Shipley has mentioned, shopping districts that everyone can enjoy; helping to is a good example. It is based in Leeds and employs tens safeguard the vitality of local communities; and making of thousands of people in the region in its stores, its sure that there is not an over-dominance of one sector. head office and the cluster of distribution and recycling I welcome a code that has effective enforcement and centres in the Castleford, Pontefract and Doncaster that helps farmers and other producers to develop their areas. Its parent company, Wal-Mart, which is the largest business and contribute to their local economy in the retailer in the world, has created its international centre way that I described. The recommendation that led to of marketing excellence at Asda house in Leeds. That is the commission’s code of practice was designed to a tribute to the faith that that major company has in the remedy exactly the kind of problems that smaller suppliers skills and talent of the people of Yorkshire and the and smaller retail outlets can face. The code of practice Humber. As the Minister for Yorkshire and the Humber, strengthens and broadens the existing supermarket code and as the MP for Doncaster, Central, I am very proud of practice. that our region has been chosen as the home of that The new grocery supply code of practice, which came centre of excellence. into force on 4 February this year, applies to all companies Morrisons, another supermarket chain that has its that are active in the sector and have an annual retail headquarters in Yorkshire, plans to create 5,000 new groceries turnover of £1 billion or more. Retailers such retail jobs by the end of the year and will set up a new as Waitrose, Iceland, the Co-op and Marks & Spencer 1163 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1164

[Ms Rosie Winterton] there is a legitimate need for the grocery supply code of practice to be independently monitored and enforced. will all be subject to the provisions in the code for the At the same time as ensuring effective enforcement of first time. It introduces independent, binding arbitration the code, we are keen to preserve flexibility in commercial for the first time, and makes it clear that retailers may negotiations between suppliers and retailers over prices de-list a supplier—in layman’s terms, stop trading with and other commercial elements of the supply agreement. them—only for genuine, commercial reasons. A retailer We are determined not to place any unnecessary costs cannot stop trading with a supplier simply because the on business, particularly in a period of economic difficulty. supplier has complained that the retailer has not kept to That is one of the reasons why we are consulting on the the terms of the original agreement. That is very important, scope, scale and responsibilities of the new ombudsman. as many suppliers told the commission that they were We want to make sure that we get this right. The reluctant to use the complaints process in the old code Competition Commission inquiry raised a number of due to their concern that they might be identified, and complex and important issues for the groceries market, because of the resulting likelihood of being de-listed by consumers and the wider economy. We are seeking the retailers. views on the following issues: what powers the body The new code also places the burden of proof on the monitoring and enforcing compliance with the code retailer to demonstrate that where the supplier has should have, in addition to being able to hear anonymous complied with requests made, that was achieved voluntarily. complaints; which existing bodies might assume these It introduces an overarching fair dealing provision, responsibilities; how the body should be funded; what requiring retailers to act in good faith, and without the access arrangements should be for the new body; distinguishing between formal and informal agreements. whether a sanctions regime should be introduced, and In broad terms, the Bill introduced by my hon. how might it operate alongside an appeals mechanism. Friend the Member for Ynys Môn seeks to enact the The consultation exercise is due to close on 30 April, Competition Commission’s recommendations, establishing and we hope to receive a large number of responses, an ombudsman to oversee the code that I have just encompassing as broad a spectrum of views as possible. described. As I stated at the outset, the Government are No doubt many hon. Members in the Chamber will sympathetic to the Bill’s objectives. The Bill seeks to wish to respond to the consultation in as much detail as establish the independent grocery market ombudsman; they have spoken this morning. I am sure that my hon. to provide funding for them; and to provide a duty to Friend the Member for Ynys Môn will be delighted to establish and publish procedures and guidelines for know that we have produced a Welsh language version undertaking their work. of the consultation, which was published on 5 February. The Bill would also give the ombudsman responsibility We want to ensure that the views expressed by respondents for investigating and adjudicating on alleged breaches to the consultation are adequately reflected in the legislation of the code, and grants powers to gather information, that brings the ombudsman into being. impose monetary penalties, award costs, and enforce Because of the pressure and the hard work that many monetary penalties and costs orders. In addition, it of my hon. Friends have put into ensuring that the would require the ombudsman to give reasons for decisions. Government are fully cognisant of all the important It would also provide for appeals against decisions and issues at stake, and because of the support from Members for the publication of reports on all complaints, as well in other parts of the House, we support the principles of as for an annual report on the discharge of its functions. the Bill. I pay tribute to my hon. Friend the Member for I shall be clear with the House about what we said in Ynys Môn for all the work that he has done in introducing July 2008, when we set out our formal response to the the Bill. We may need to table amendments to the Bill at Competition Commission’s report. I quote: a later date. However, the principles that he has encapsulated in it are exactly the right ones. “The Government notes that the CC will be creating a new strengthened and extended GSCOP and that the CC will be The debate has been very thorough, and some excellent seeking undertakings from grocery retailers to establish a GSCOP points have been made, particularly by Labour Members. Ombudsman to monitor and enforce compliance with GSCOP. The principles in the Bill are a sound basis on which to The CC has recommended that if it does not obtain satisfactory proceed, and the Government are therefore content for undertakings within a reasonable period, BERR should take the it to go forward into Committee. necessary steps to establish the Ombudsman. Should this be the case, the CC also recommends that BERR takes steps to give the Ombudsman the power to levy significant financial penalties on the retailers for non-compliance.” 1pm The Government are also on record, in a reply to the Albert Owen: I shall briefly respond to what, as my hon. Member for St. Ives, as committing themselves to right hon. Friend the Minister said, has been an excellent carrying out a full consultation before deciding on the and, in many ways, measured debate. She was right to way forward. I know that the hon. Gentleman met my spell out the detail of the Competition Commission’s ministerial colleague with responsibility for competition findings, and I too support its work. It has done an with a delegation from the grocery market action group, awful lot of work over a long period, and that is to be which he chairs. welcomed. The Government have listened to all sides of the I shall briefly make a couple of important points. The argument relating to the introduction of a groceries hon. Members for St. Ives (Andrew George) and for ombudsman. The issue is not straightforward. There Weston-super-Mare (John Penrose) were clear that the are many aspects that need to be carefully weighed up, fundamental point of this Bill is fair dealing, not price but we have taken it very seriously. After careful setting, and I too make that clear. The Bill is in the consideration, the Government have recognised that interest of supermarkets, as the hon. Member for St. Ives 1165 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill5 MARCH 2010 Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill 1166 said, and I believe that by embracing the ombudsman, Question put, That the Bill be now read a Second they will have a charter to look to for the future. That is time. important. The House divided: Ayes 44, Noes 0. My hon. Friend the Member for Stroud (Mr. Drew) Division No. 100] [1.3 pm rightly said that he, as a Co-operative party member, needs to lobby the co-operative movement harder, because, AYES importantly, all the mutuals are now trying to break ranks and get on board with the ombudsman. It will not Bottomley, Peter Mackinlay, Andrew be long before the big four supermarkets come along Brown, Lyn MacShane, rh Mr. with them. Burt, Alistair Denis Cairns, David Mates, rh Mr. Michael The hon. Member for Christchurch (Mr. Chope) Campbell, rh Sir Menzies McCarthy, Kerry made a brief—by his standards—12-minute contribution. Chapman, Ben McCarthy-Fry, Sarah I did not agree with much of what he said, although he Corbyn, Jeremy Merron, Gillian made a good attack on the common agricultural policy Dismore, Mr. Andrew O’Hara, Mr. Edward and Europe. Interestingly, he said that the consensus in Drew, Mr. David Owen, Albert the House was not good for legislation, but I think that Evans, Mr. Nigel Pearson, Ian on this occasion the consensus among the Opposition Follett, Barbara Penning, Mike and Government Front Benchers is very welcome. George, Andrew Penrose, John Gerrard, Mr. Neil Pound, Stephen My hon. Friend the Member for Llanelli (Nia Griffith) Gove, Michael Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm is a champion of consumers and suppliers not just in Herbert, Nick Smith, rh Angela E. her constituency, but in Wales, and a great supporter of Hillier, Meg (Basildon) farmers and, in particular, dairy farmers. The hon. Howarth, rh Mr. George Steen, Mr. Anthony Member for Weston-super-Mare is right—and I am Johnson, Ms Diana Taylor, Ms Dari happy to say it—that the Bill needs a little tweaking in R. Taylor, Matthew Committee. We cannot include everything, but in Jones, Helen Waterson, Mr. Nigel Committee we will have to look at the issue of the OFT Jones, Mr. Kevan Williams, Mark and where the ombudsman is housed. The safeguards Kaufman, rh Sir Gerald Winterton, rh Ms Rosie that he asked for, however, can be added in Committee. Keetch, Mr. Paul Tellers for the Ayes: The hon. Member for Shipley (Philip Davies) seemed Khan, rh Mr. Sadiq Nia Griffith and to say that just because he has worked in the industry, Kirkbride, Miss Julie Mr. Roger Williams nobody else understands it, and that was disappointing. I did not boast about this at the beginning of the NOES debate, but I have spent more years in retail than he has. Tellers for the Noes: Philip Davies We do not have to be experts on everything, however, Mr. Christopher Chope and because in this House we are generalists. We can understand what is going on; we can understand what is going on in Question accordingly agreed to. the lives of our constituents; and we are here to be champions for them. I repeat: the Bill is not anti- Bill to stand committed to a Public Bill Committee supermarket; it is pro-suppliers and pro-consumers. (Standing Order No. 63). 1167 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1168 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Care Homes and Sheltered complexes in the UK do not have pet policies. It is not Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill the case that there is a rule that applies across the whole country that needs to be changed; the fact is simply that Second Reading a lot of places have not even addressed the issue. That is what causes such distress. 1.14 pm Mr. Andrew Dismore (Hendon) (Lab): I greatly support Mr. Nigel Waterson (Eastbourne) (Con): I beg to the aims of the hon. Gentleman’s Bill. Does he know move, That the Bill be now read a Second time. what proportion of care homes have banned pets? I It is a great pleasure to be able to introduce my Bill. I certainly agree with him about the importance of the begin by thanking its sponsors, who, as you will see, matter, having recently visited a home in my constituency. Mr. Deputy Speaker, are a cross-party group. I particularly An animal is not just good for the owner but becomes thank the hon. Member for Broxtowe (Dr. Palmer), adopted by the care home as a whole and provides who introduced a very similar Bill not long ago. I am support and comfort for all the residents. grateful to him for all his help and encouragement on Mr. Waterson: I am most grateful for that intervention. this Bill. The hon. Gentleman is right. Some charities—the hon. It is a staggering and depressing fact that about Gentleman may have come across them—bring pets 38,000 healthy animals are put down every year simply into care homes for a couple of hours so that residents because their owners are going into a care home or can pet and play with them. Clearly, there is a benefit sheltered housing project and the rules do not allow from that. I cannot help him with the statistics, which them to take their pet with them. That is bad enough, are difficult to obtain. I suspect that one reason for that but it is also estimated that a further 100,000 pets have is that people have not thought through the policies—there to be given up for adoption for the same reason. Many is simply a knee-jerk reaction of, “Oh, we don’t want the become so distressed because of being abandoned by fuss and bother of a pet,” with no distinction made their owners that they eventually have to be put down. between budgerigars at one end of the scale and Irish That is totally unacceptable in a civilised country. Many wolfhounds or rottweilers at the other. other countries, such as France and the USA, have laws In many cases, a blanket ban on pets is applied for no aimed at allowing people to keep their beloved pets. reason other than that the provider has not given the Some enlightened councils in the UK, such as Wandsworth, issue any serious consideration. That results in many have shown how positive policies can easily be brought older people being faced with little choice but to give up in and have great benefits. their pet. While some facilities may allow pets, few have It is bad enough for someone to reach the point in an official policy on the subject. For example, the their life at which they need to move into a care home or manager of a facility may be particularly animal friendly sheltered housing—it is a stressful moment involving a and happy to allow residents to keep pets, but what lot of upheaval and often distress. happens when that manager moves on? That ad hoc approach is extremely fragile. It does not present a clear Mr. Nigel Evans (Ribble Valley) (Con): Does my hon. position to residents, staff or anybody else. Friend accept that as people become elderly and perhaps A few months ago, I had the pleasure of speaking at live alone, a pet is a friend to them and can keep them the annual meeting of Sussex Housing and Care, which company? If they have to go into a home either because has many homes in and around my constituency. It had of failing health or because there is no one to look after just been given the gold Community Animal Welfare them, the fact that they lose the friend that has been Footprints for housing award by the Royal Society for with them as a companion for many years will be even the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. It won the silver more distressing. We therefore need a change in the law award in the previous year. It is a shining example of to ensure that that does not happen. how care homes can strive for a policy that has a direct Mr. Waterson: I am grateful to my hon. Friend. I impact on the quality of residents’ lives. Once such an know that he is a doughty campaigner in his constituency organisation applies its mind to the issue, it often turns for older people and their rights. out not to experience many practical problems with it. It is important that we try to put a stop to this A constituent, Mrs. Maureen Martini, raised a related needless trauma for older people. I am particularly problem, which could perhaps be considered in Committee, interested in the matter not simply because of my with me. She lives in a sheltered housing complex, experiences as a local MP, or indeed as vice-president of which is well known to me. She has always owned dogs Age Concern Eastbourne, but also in my role as shadow and she lost her last dog due to illness only in December. Minister with responsibility for older people. All politicians She wants to adopt another small dog and she is looking talk about giving older people dignity and security, and to adopt one that is already four years old. She finds a nationwide policy on pets could help lift one particular that, although her landlord, the Anchor Trust, which burden from many older people. We may look at the seems to be one of the enlightened landlords, has a demographics. I believe some experts say that one in small pets policy, she cannot get the animal rescue four babies born today will live to see their 100th birthday. centres to give her a small dog. They seem to impose The population is ageing and people are living longer their own rules and requirements on the availability of and longer, so this problem will get more acute if suitable pets. She says: anything. “I am finding this very upsetting and frustrating… I have always kept a dog and it is routine for me to care for it, motivating Approximately 25 per cent. of all people over retirement me to go outdoors regularly which is something that I am missing age own pets at the moment. I am indebted to the very much. Providing company for me at home … is also something Society for Companion Animal Studies, which has done that I am missing very much.” a huge amount of work on the topic. Its research shows That is a typical case of an older person who can see the that the majority of care homes and sheltered housing health benefits of having a pet. 1169 Care Homes and Sheltered 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1170 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill According to the Pet Food Manufacturers Association the elderly. Indeed, residents who would otherwise make survey, distress caused by the loss of a pet was observed frequent demands on staff time often focus on their by staff in 39 per cent. of homes that were sampled—an companion animals for much of the day. increase of 4 per cent. since Rowntree conducted a In conclusion, I should point out the careful wording similar survey in 1993. of the safeguards in the Bill. As I said, there is an Pets are an important source of physical, emotional overall assumption that care home and sheltered housing and social support. They have proven health benefits providers will not refuse permission for a domestic pet for older people and can improve even cardiovascular to accompany its owner, but the pet must be of a species as well as mental health. They are also a great antidote authorised by the Secretary of State, so the most outlandish to loneliness, which can afflict so many older people. We and potentially dangerous animals would hopefully not know through the work of organisations such as Age be authorised. Concern that one in four people of pension age suffer Mr. Dismore: As I said, I support the hon. Gentleman’s from depression at one time or another. Bill, but I have a little trouble with the wording of this The figures that the SCAS produced speak for themselves. aspect of it. In Committee, will he consider including Pet owners are 40 per cent. less likely to die from a heart the size of animals or the breeds of dogs? He mentioned attack and 30 per cent. less likely to have a stroke. They that a giant rottweiler is not exactly the same as a have 30 per cent. less risk of developing heart failure Yorkshire terrier, so perhaps that provision needs a little and are more likely to survive a heart attack or stroke. tidying up, because a dog is a dog—it could be very Moreover, routines of pet care are linked with routines small or very big. of self care. Pets are recognised as one of the key factors in promoting well-being, according to Age Concern Mr. Waterson: The hon. Gentleman makes a good and the Mental Health Foundation. As in my constituent’s point, although I have come across some fairly vicious case, pets encourage greater exercise and activity, and Yorkshire terriers in my time, particularly when out older pet owners score more highly on activities of daily canvassing. I will be happy to take that on board in living. Committee. Basically, animals must be of a species authorised by the Secretary of State, so we are not The National Ageing Research Institute in Melbourne, talking about wolves, tigers or pythons, as I said, or Australia showed: anything of that sort. “Aged and disability service providers believe that companion There could be an objection to a pet if the safety of animals play an important role in clients’ lives in the key areas of other residents is affected. That is important, because companionship, health and well-being. Companion animals were we do not want to allow a pet that is going to annoy, perceived as offering a significant contribution to the quality of upset or worry other residents. In addition, clause 1(2)(c) life… The positive pet person relationship in the aged and disabled sector is a valuable link that must now be not only recognised but refers to the welfare of the animal—a view could be acted upon by the government, health and community care taken that an animal would not benefit from entering sectors”. the accommodation with its owner. There is also a provision for the accommodation provider to charge a Of course, there are reservations, and I imagine the fee to cover the cost of having a pet, and one for an Minister will raise some of them—I hope she does not appeals procedure, which is fairly simple and not do so extensively because we do not want to run out of burdensome. time for this important legislation. For example, an animal could outlive its owner. I gather that that does The principle is right, but we have also thought not happen very often, and that when it does, the through the practicalities, and the Bill deals with potential owner’s friends or family, or indeed other residents, objections and provides safeguards for residents, care often agree to look after it. As the hon. Member for home and sheltered housing operators, and animals. As Hendon (Mr. Dismore) said, pets living in care homes I said at the beginning of my speech, the problem, and sheltered accommodation often become part of the which arises simply because many homes and projects more general community, and in many instances, other have not thought through a policy, will only become residents take a share in the care of the animal. That worse and more widespread as more people live longer. routine of shared care might continue if the owner dies This is one matter on which we can do something or is no longer able to care for the animal. positive to help older people, and make their transition from their homes to care homes or sheltered housing, There are concerns about pets—particularly dogs—going which can often be very painful, that little bit easier. I into such accommodation and not mixing well or not commend the Bill to the House. getting adequate exercise and the question of who is responsible for veterinary care. Other residents could be 1.30 pm frightened of, or allergic to, animals. I am arguing not Mr. Paul Keetch (Hereford) (LD): I shall be brief, as for a blanket policy so that every pet from python to requested by both sides of the House, but I wish to budgerigar must be admitted to a care home or sheltered support this important piece of legislation. I commend housing, but simply for a basic legal presumption that the hon. Member for Eastbourne (Mr. Waterson) on pets should be permitted, subject to appropriate discussion the Bill. As he has said, the health benefits for elderly about all possible eventualities, and provided they do people—and the wider community—are well known, not cause a nuisance to other residents. and they should be encouraged. It is unfortunate that so Care providers could legitimately and understandably many good, healthy animals have to be destroyed. face opposition if any extra burdens were placed on The hon. Gentleman is right that we need to consider them, but as the studies have shown, an intelligent pets several issues in Committee—I hope that the Bill reaches policy allows into care homes animals that would reduce Committee. He mentioned the problem of residents the burden on staff by improving the quality of life for who may have pet allergies, and that certain pets may 1171 Care Homes and Sheltered 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1172 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill [Mr. Paul Keetch] cage or restrictive environment. Many pets are put down because a loving home cannot be found for them. not be suitable, perhaps because they are unruly. One Sometimes, they will have been for some time with a care home owner in my constituency also raised the loving family that, owing to circumstances, have had to issue of damage being done by the pets of residents, and move to different premises where pets are not allowed. we need to consider that. Those issues aside—and they If we can save the lives of those pets, we will demonstrate can be addressed in Committee—I hope that the Bill the compassion towards animals that this country has goes through, and it has my and my party’s support. shown for generations and centuries. Pets give an awful lot; is it not time that we gave something back to those 1.31 pm pets? I commend the Bill to the House. Mike Penning (Hemel Hempstead) (Con): It is a privilege to support the Bill introduced by my hon. 1.35 pm Friend the Member for Eastbourne (Mr. Waterson) on The Minister of State, Department of Health (Gillian behalf of the Opposition. The Bill has been drafted Merron): I congratulate the hon. Member for Eastbourne cleverly and concisely, and it addresses many of the (Mr. Waterson) on bringing the Bill before the House, concerns that we have heard today. Some areas could be and my hon. Friend the Member for Broxtowe (Dr. Palmer) tightened up, and the hon. Member for Hendon on introducing a previous, similar Bill—the hon. Gentleman (Mr. Dismore) has highlighted some of those. Those has already acknowledged my hon. Friend’s contribution. points can be addressed in Committee. Organisations such as Blue Cross, the Dogs Trust and I hope that the Government will support the Bill. the Society for Companion Animal Studies have all Indeed, I hope that they will go further than not opposing expressed sympathy with the Bill’s aims. I also pay it and work with my hon. Friend to get it through in the tribute to the Cinnamon Trust, a charity helping older short time we have left in this Parliament. It is an people to keep their beloved pets, and thank it for its important Bill that addresses an issue of natural justice, advocacy and for supporting prospective care home which may be an old concept but is eminently sensible. residents and helping them to make the right decisions Why should someone who is leaving local authority about their care. Its work relates to today’s debate. I also housing, where they may have lived for many years, to thank other hon. Members for their contributions and move into sheltered accommodation managed by the for making clear their support for the Bill. same authority, be forced to get rid of a pet that they I listened carefully to the comments of the hon. may also have had for many years? Member for Eastbourne, and I share his concern about We all visit care homes and sheltered accommodation the lack of consideration of this matter in places where in our constituencies, so we know that they can be very there is a blanket ban, without thought, on pets. That lonely places. There may be many people there, but works against the kind of compassion to which the hon. residents can be isolated, perhaps because they have Member for Hemel Hempstead (Mike Penning) referred. difficulty hearing or other problems associated with old The point made by the hon. Member for Eastbourne age. Having a pet, even something as trivial—I do not about distress is hugely important, and I particularly like the word trivial, so perhaps I should say cuddly—as wanted to reflect on his comments about the major a budgerigar could be the stimulus that residents need contribution made by pets to the physical, social and to make their lives more fulfilling. emotional well-being of older people in particular. I particularly liked his acknowledgment that pets can be The hon. Member for Hendon mentioned the size of an antidote to loneliness. It shows why the Bill is of dogs, and he is right that some accommodation would importance to the House. not be suitable for, for example, a St. Bernard, but would be suitable for a Jack Russell or a Pom. It is only The decision to enter a care home or sheltered housing right and proper that this House looks at what is best is an important one. I know well that it often coincides for our constituents, especially those in state-owned with the lack or loss of independence or mobility, so accommodation paid for by the taxpayer. anything that can help people to retain a sense of themselves and their lives—pets have a role to play in Clause 2 addresses the concerns of the private sector, that—and to help the transition is to be welcomed. and the wording is important for those who fear this legislation might be imposed on them. It takes into Mike Penning: I am sure that it was not intentional, consideration the type of premises, the other residents but the Minister suggested that these issues concern and the benefits of having a pet. only older people in sheltered accommodation, but of For the second time today we have a consensus. I course there are younger people, often with specialist hope that the Government will support the Bill and physical or mental needs, for whom a pet is an essential assist its passage. I hope that they will not just pay lip part of their lives. Sometimes, however, they cannot service to the Bill, but get involved. I hope that the keep them because they are not permitted in the Whips put people on the Committee who want the Bill accommodation. This matter concerns not just older to go through, rather than those who would seek to people, but people in need more generally. hold it up. If that happens, the quality of the lives of many of our elderly constituents could be improved by Gillian Merron: The hon. Gentleman is absolutely being able to keep their pets with them. right, and his comments have reminded me to say There are rescue centres for many different pets around something else in praise of pets: they provide much to our constituencies, and it is only right and proper that all of us, whatever our age. As the hon. Member for the Bill ensures that the type of pet is suitable for the Eastbourne rightly pointed out, however, there is a premises—frankly, animals that some people call pets I group about which we should be particularly concerned. would like to see in the wild, rather than in any form of Nevertheless, we should speak up for the role of pets 1173 Care Homes and Sheltered 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1174 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill and their positive contribution to many lives—those of excuse, but simply as an illustration of the work of the not just older people, but people in sheltered housing Cinnamon Trust. It is true that 750 out of 18,500 is a whatever their age. small proportion, but I just wanted to make the point The parliamentary timetable gives the Bill no chance about the work of the Cinnamon Trust, and what it of succeeding, but I wish to put on the record how offers and how it assists. I do not deny for one moment much we appreciate the sentiment and intent behind it, the sentiments behind the Bill. and I would like to extend to the hon. Gentleman the If it is not possible for an owner to take their pet into opportunity to discuss this important matter further. a care home, or if an owner dies, the Cinnamon Trust He made the legitimate point that there should be a will care for and attempt to find a new home for the national policy on pets and older people. I should like pet—again, hon. Members had concerns about that to do something about that. issue. The trust runs two sanctuaries for that purpose As we have heard, pets can provide companionship, and it assists 14,000 people a year with 20,000 animals. I reassurance and affection for people who may be feeling am sure that hon. Members will find those figures more isolated than ever, especially if their circumstances impressive in their reach. have changed. I know from experience how valuable contact with animals can be. My friend Janice, who lives Mike Penning: The work that the Cinnamon Trust in Lincoln, has had her rather lovely dog Millie trained does is fantastic but, as we have heard from my hon. by the charity Pets As Therapy, to which I believe the Friend the Member for Eastbourne (Mr. Waterson), hon. Gentleman referred. Janice gives her time—as well thousands of animals are put down unnecessarily simply as Millie’s—to visit people in care homes. As I have because the legislation is not in place to protect people seen, Pets As Therapy provides behaviour-assessed, when they go into a care home or sheltered accommodation. vaccinated animals and trained volunteers, such as Millie The vast majority of the homes that the Minister mentioned and Janice, to go to hospitals, hospices and care homes. are in the state sector—they are local authority homes—so I have been struck not just by the difference that Pets As the Government are in control. The Cinnamon Trust Therapy makes to individuals, but by the dedication of does wonderful work, but the reason for introducing the the staff and the animals. They make 6 million bedside Bill is because the trust cannot do everything and the visits a year. As the hon. Gentleman pointed out, that is legislation needs to be changed. just one way in which people can benefit from pets. I cannot emphasise too strongly how much I approve Gillian Merron: May I gently suggest that the hon. of the sentiment behind the Bill. Of course we do not Gentleman should hear me out a little further, because I want a ban on pets in care homes or sheltered housing. wish to discuss care homes and, indeed, sheltered housing, Independent providers of care and accommodation are which would also rightly be covered by the reach of the currently able to make individual decisions on the basis Bill? However, it is important to find out where we are of their circumstances. That is the most practical approach starting from before we work out the best way to go. that we have encountered so far, and although it is not Many local councils and care providers, as well as the perfect, it has led to practical arrangements. Government’s Directgov information service, publicise I have already mentioned the Cinnamon Trust, the the work of the Cinnamon Trust to potential residents national charity that works on behalf of older people and provide links to it on their websites. and their pets. I pay tribute to the work of the trust and Although the Government agree with the principle of its founder and chief executive, Averil Jarvis MBE. It the Bill, there are a number of practical difficulties with has a network consisting of some 16,000 volunteers it in its current form and it is important to draw those to who help owners to care for their pets. It aims to keep the attention of the House. Indeed, the hon. Member owners and pets together. It provides dog-walking services, for Eastbourne has raised some of them in a very buys food for pets, and helps to keep them clean and honest fashion. Although I freely admit that the matter healthy when their owners are housebound. It also appears at first glance to be straightforward, I know, temporarily fosters pets when their owners need hospital having gone into it, that it involves many complexities. care. Its work seems to me to do a great deal to fulfil the The Bill’s drafting has sought to address that, and we Bill’s sentiments, and I am sure hon. Members will join have heard an acknowledgment in the debate that we me in congratulating it. would need to go further. There are many competing As the hon. Gentleman knows, the Cinnamon Trust considerations and there is no single easy answer. operates a register of pet-friendly care homes, which pet It may help the House if I were to outline some of the owners who are no longer able to live independently in main obstacles involved, but before I do so I wish to their own homes can use to find suitable places. About refer back to the data on the number of animals that it 750 of the 18,500 care and nursing homes in England is said are destroyed. We understand that the figures are listed as pet-friendly, although they may restrict the come from a report that is 12 years old and, unfortunately, types of pets that they will accommodate. As we have we have not been able to verify them as being more up heard today, a large dog would obviously be less likely to date. It would be useful to do so, and perhaps as we to be admitted than a small rodent or a budgerigar. extend this discussion about the number of animals that are put down or have to be re-homed, the hon. Gentleman Mr. Waterson: Unless I misheard the Minister, her will seek to do so. statistics are pretty damning. My arithmetic suggests that if those statistics are accurate, only one in 20 care On those obstacles, first, not all care homes or sheltered homes is pet-friendly. Does that not underline the need accommodation are suitable environments in which to for legislation along these lines? keep pets. The layout of many premises, where residents have their own rooms or apartments but share social Gillian Merron: I am sure that the hon. Gentleman’s and recreational spaces, could make it difficult to ensure maths is correct. I was not presenting the figures as an everyone’s preferences are accommodated. Secondly, 1175 Care Homes and Sheltered 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1176 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill [Gillian Merron] to discount the idea of allowing pets to stay with their owners. That is the key point that the hon. Member for reconciling the wishes of all residents can be difficult; Eastbourne correctly made. some may prefer not to share their environment with Wherever practical, local government and its partners animals, but might hesitate to voice their objections in in the independent and private sectors should consider case it leads to disputes with fellow residents, and others allowing pets in some of their care homes—and, indeed, may be allergic to, or even afraid of, animals. Thirdly, as in as many as possible. When I read the Bill, that is what I am sure hon. Members will agree, it is important to I understood it to want. As the hon. Gentleman has ensure that pets are properly exercised and cared for. rightly identified, there are major providers of housing Those residents who are frail or in poor health might and care—Housing 21 and the Anchor Trust, about find it difficult to do so themselves, however much they which we have already heard—that are happy to consider might wish to. That could put providers and their staff allowing tenants and residents to keep their pets. We under pressure to care for residents’ pets. In principle, would encourage others to follow their example. that might not be a problem and, where staffing, layout and circumstances allow, the sector could, perhaps, There is a wider point to be made about pets in care provide extra staff and support, but the difficulty with homes and sheltered housing. Clearly, we all want to see the Bill in its current form is the fact that the legislation, the best conditions in care homes and supported if it were to force all such accommodation to allow pets, accommodation, and I understand the role that pets would be likely to result in extra cost to the taxpayer. can play. However, many people have told us that what Some 60 per cent. of the cost of residential care in they would really like, above all, is to remain in their England is funded by local authorities or the NHS, own home. Of course, if one lives in one’s own home, which pays for the nursing element of residential care. one is free to keep a pet. I feel that increasing the Obviously, we would have to consider that. number of people who can stay in their own home will help with this important matter. We do not want to Although our thoughts might turn to our own faithful sweep the whole thing under the carpet, but we want to and favourite family pets—a tabby cat, or a Yorkshire reduce the number of people for whom the only option terrier, as we have already mentioned—I am sure that I is to leave their home. do not need to remind hon. Members that pets come in The Government are keen to ensure that as many all shapes and sizes. Some people keep rats; others keep people as possible are supported in remaining in their snakes or spiders. The keeping, exercise and food home for as long as they wish. That would greatly help requirements of a kitten are different from those of a people to keep their pets. The House will be aware that Great Dane, and different again from those of a tarantula. that is what the Personal Care at Home Bill, which is Finally, although the risk is likely to be small, pets currently going through Parliament, is all about. It might bring with them certain health risks such as focuses on providing personal care for those who live in infections or parasites that are carried or transmitted by their own home, including in sheltered or supported animals. Of course, those infections and parasites will accommodation, and will support those adults with the differ depending on whether the pet is a kitten, a Great highest personal care needs in England. It will enable all Dane or a tarantula. Those who are frail or in poor those people with the greatest care needs, including health might, of course—this is important—have less many with serious dementia or multiple sensory resistance to infection. impairments, to protect their savings. It will also benefit I have concentrated on why it might not be practical, a wider group of people by maintaining or improving with the Bill as drafted, for people to keep pets in care their ability to live at home for longer and, of course, by homes and sheltered housing, but it is important that helping them to keep their pets. Let me give a sense of the House considers the wider questions about the role scale regarding the number of people for whom we seek of local and central Government and the autonomy of to do that. The Bill guarantees free personal care to individual providers. As hon. Members are aware, a 280,000 of those people with the highest needs, of number of care homes—the latest estimate suggests whom 110,000 will receive free personal care for the 750, or about 5 per cent.—allow pets. Although it is first time. Currently, those 110,000 people receive personal limited, there is some availability. care but have to pay for it, either in part or in full, themselves. Of those 110,000, some 90,000 are older Care home and sheltered housing providers are primarily people aged 65 or over, and 20,000 are younger adults independent, private sector organisations. We understand aged 18 to 64. from the Elderly Accommodation Counsel, the charity The Personal Care at Home Bill is a step towards that advises older people on housing and care, that of setting up a new national care service. the 500,000 sheltered housing units, nearly half—that is 255,825 units—will consider accepting pets. The scale Mr. Deputy Speaker (Sir Michael Lord): Order. I am of the challenge is different in sheltered housing to the reluctant to stop the Minister, but she is in danger of challenge in residential and care homes. Again, there is talking about a kind of accommodation that is not some degree of availability. Sheltered housing providers before the House today. Limited reference to that is in are paid from local budgets and operate under local order, but the Bill is specifically about care homes and contracts with local government. We would not wish to sheltered accommodation and the way that pets can be second-guess or dictate conditions to the market. dealt with in such accommodation. Instead, the decision about whether or not to allow pets is in the hands of the care home and sheltered Gillian Merron: I understand that point, Mr. Deputy housing operators, working closely with the relevant Speaker. This is an extremely important issue, and I local authorities. However, we want to encourage both simply wished to illustrate that one thing that we can do the home care sector and local authorities not immediately is assist people in making their own decisions and in 1177 Care Homes and Sheltered 5 MARCH 2010 Care Homes and Sheltered 1178 Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill being equipped to keep their independence in their own have discussions with him and others to find a way home. That includes being able to keep their pets. forward, because what is most important is that we put There are huge challenges to making such changes. first the interests of those who, unwillingly, find themselves However, it is important to end the lottery of charging potentially or actually separated from their pets. We for personal care so that we can have a fairer, simpler must also work with those who provide the care and and more affordable system in order to have national accommodation; I know that that, too, is of interest to consistency as well as better information and advice. him. That would give people a greater chance of staying in We do not, at this stage, actively oppose the Bill, but their own home through reablement or early intervention. we seek a way of making a practical difference to the It would prevent people from becoming more dependent people who rely on us to assist them to find greater and would help them to regain more independence in dignity and independence, and greater companionship order to allow them to stay in their own home. People from their pets. tell us that they want to remain in their own home, and I am in no doubt that that is not just about wishing to see 2.3 pm familiar surroundings but about wanting to have support there and the companionship of pets. We want to help Mr. Waterson: I thank all those who have spoken in people become more independent in the community. this debate, and I am delighted that there is such consensus That is of benefit to the people concerned, the community, among all parties that the proposals are a good idea. I and the national health service. especially thank the Minister, who has taken real trouble to go into the matter in such depth. I particularly The other way in which we would seek to give people endorse what she said about the Cinnamon Trust and support so that they can remain in their own homes, other bodies that are involved with the issue generally. where they can keep their pets, is by having extra care housing. That, too, provides independence and choice I remind the House that the Bill is directed entirely at to people with care and support needs. It is innovative people who are obliged, through their life circumstances, housing with a care option, 24-hour support, meals, to go into care homes or sheltered accommodation. It domestic help, and leisure and recreation facilities, in an has no ambitions to go beyond that and look at the environment that is genuinely safe for the tenants. That issue of long-term care; I leave it to greater minds than could be a modern-day alternative to residential care, mine to address that conundrum in due course. and the challenge before us—the question of whether I am grateful for the Minister’s suggestion that I pets are allowed—would not have to be considered. The withdraw the Bill to hold further discussions, and I Government have made many millions of pounds available hope she will not take it amiss if I decline that kind to extend independence and choice. offer, but I do accept her offer of lack of opposition to, There is no doubt in my mind that the Bill has been if not support for, the Bill as it stands. She is, of course, introduced with absolutely the best of intentions, and I absolutely right: thanks to the exigencies of the electoral again commend the hon. Member for Eastbourne and process, the Prime Minister finally has to have a general my hon. Friend the Member for Broxtowe for bringing election, whether he likes it or not—it cannot come too this serious matter before the House. It deals with soon, as far as I am concerned—and the Bill will not, in independence and dignity, and enables us to see and practical terms, make any more progress. Ordinarily, it acknowledge the role that pets have to play, but as I would go into Committee, and that would be the right said, I do not believe that there is one simple way of moment at which to address the practicalities that have achieving the aim, and that is why it is important to rightly been raised in debate by everybody, including refer to the fact that more people should have the the Minister. chance to make their own decisions on pets, as on many However, I should like to test the mood of the House other matters. on the proposals. Who knows?—in the next Parliament The Government understand and very much share a new Government might take an even more enthusiastic the sentiment behind the Bill, and are sympathetic to its position on the idea than the present Government, or aims. I would like to restate that we do not wish there to another Member might be fortunate enough to win in be any move in the other direction—a point that the the ballot and put it forward for a third time. In any hon. Gentleman mentioned. We do not want there to be event, I should like to see whether the House is prepared any ban on pets in care homes or sheltered housing. to give the Bill a Second Reading. That would send a message, on behalf of all parties, to people out there However, the challenge before us is that, as we know, who are affected that we do care, we do understand and the parliamentary timetable will not allow the Bill to we want to do something about the problems. succeed. As the hon. Gentleman has acknowledged, there are practical obstacles to implementing the Bill on Question put and agreed to. this important matter. For those reasons, I ask him Bill accordingly read a Second time; to stand committed whether he will withdraw it in its current form. I offer to to a Public Bill Committee (Standing Order No. 63). 1179 5 MARCH 2010 Marine Accident Investigation 1180

Marine Accident Investigation Branch The Bill is simple and straightforward. The view of (Reports) Bill my colleagues is that it is likely to have ramifications and consequences, which is why they are keen to see it Second Reading taken into Committee, in order to be discussed further. 2.5 pm The marine accident investigation branch’s 2008 annual report, published in July 2009, shows that of 117 David Cairns (Inverclyde) (Lab): I beg to move, That recommendations issued for that period, 71 had already the Bill be now read a Second time. been accepted and implemented, while 31 had been I introduce the Bill in memory of my constituents accepted but were awaiting implementation. In the four-year Mr. Eric Blackley, Mr. Robert Cameron, Mr. Stephen period prior to that, of the MAIB’s 586 recommendations, Humphreys and Mr. Brian Aitchison, who died on 524 have been accepted and implemented, but 22 have 19 December 2007 when the Greenock-based tug, the been accepted and still await implementation. No one Flying Phantom, sank in thick fog on the River Clyde. I ever knows the one measure whose non-implementation set out all the reasons why the Bill is necessary when I might have an adverse effect in the future. introduced it as a ten-minute Bill on 20 October 2009, A duty already exists upon anyone to whom a and I will not test the patience of the House by repeating recommendation is addressed either to provide to the all the arguments that I made then. chief inspector, within 28 days, details of any implementing The Bill is extremely simple—two clauses, one substantive action, or to explain why none has been taken, and to clause—and gives force of law to recommendations allow the chief inspector to publish information concerning from the statutory reports from the marine accident those matters. We recognise that, although much work investigation branch. I am entirely realistic about where is already done to implement recommendations, there we are in the parliamentary timetable, but granting the are still some potential loopholes and something may Bill a Second Reading will be a small step on the road to need to be challenged. That is why the hon. Gentleman justice for the men who died, and will give some comfort has brought forward his Bill. to the noble grieving widows, whom I have met, and We are also conscious that shipping is a global activity, who strike me as women who are not seeking riches or and for sensible reasons much of its regulation is dealt for heads to roll, but who are seeking to ensure that no with internationally. It is not impossible to believe that, other families have to endure the awful and terrible occasionally, an MAIB recommendation might conflict suffering they have had to endure. I commend the Bill with international regulations or require international to the House. an agreement to be enacted. Likewise, recommendations could conceivably require legislation in other places. All 2.7 pm that would necessarily happen without consultation or Mr. Paul Keetch (Hereford) (LD): I shall be brief. I further investigation, and there might be impracticalities. congratulate the hon. Member for Inverclyde (David However, that is exactly the sort of thing that needs to Cairns) on bringing the Bill before the House. He does be considered in Committee. so in the fine tradition of the House—by taking a local We are quite satisfied that the hon. Gentleman has tragedy from his constituency and seeking to improve made his case for the Bill to be read a Second time, not legislation as a result, trying to ensure that something only given what he has said previously and today on good comes out of something bad. There are a number behalf of those whom he represents, but given that the of issues that the Liberal Democrats would like to awful tragedy involving the Flying Phantom on the examine in Committee, but we are happy to support the Clyde is still very much in people’s minds. The Bill Bill’s Second Reading today. should be taken into Committee, and I commend him 2.8 pm for bringing it forward on behalf of his constituents. Alistair Burt (North-East Bedfordshire) (Con): On 2.12 pm behalf of my colleagues in the Front-Bench transport The Minister of State, Department for Transport team, I am happy to comment on the Bill. Bedfordshire (Mr. Sadiq Khan): I, too, congratulate my hon. Friend is not noted for its relationship to the sea, but I am the Member for Inverclyde (David Cairns) on his success pleased to have the opportunity to speak today. in the ballot. Last night, I read the ten-minute Bill I congratulate the hon. Member for Inverclyde (David speech that he delivered on 20 October, and he referred Cairns) on introducing the Bill. In common with the in his introduction to the tragedy that occurred on remarks just made by the hon. Member for Hereford 19 December 2007, when the Greenock-based tug, the (Mr. Keetch), who spoke for the Liberal Democrats, I Flying Phantom, sank in thick fog on the River Clyde understand the burden of dealing with tragedy and with the loss of three of her crew. The dead men were taking forward some positive outcome. On Christmas Eric Blackley, aged 57, Robert Cameron, aged 65, and day 1984, nine of my constituents in my then constituency the skipper, Stephen Humphreys, who was just 33 years of Bury, North died in a house fire. One of the reasons old. There was one survivor, Brian Aitchison, from the why the fire was so tragic in its consequences was the borders. lack of smoke detectors in the house. I subsequently worked with the Greater Manchester fire brigade to David Cairns: My right hon. Friend gives me the improve the provision of smoke detectors in new build opportunity to correct something that I misstated at the and rented accommodation throughout the country. beginning of my speech. I was anxious to get the Bill The impact of death and tragedy makes any Member of under way and not to detain the House, and in so doing Parliament want to do whatever they can to try to I accidentally listed Mr. Brian Aitchison as one of the resolve the difficulties that might have caused the accident. deceased, rather than as a survivor. I apologise unreservedly That is exactly what the hon. Member for Inverclyde is to him and his family for any distress that my slip of the doing today. tongue caused. 1181 Marine Accident Investigation5 MARCH 2010 Marine Accident Investigation 1182

Mr. Khan: I also commend my hon. Friend’s sensitivity recommendations that the MAIB may issue as a result and the way in which he has dealt with the terrible of its investigations. Those recommendations are not circumstances that generated his interest in moving this enforceable by the Government, and that contributes a Bill. That is demonstrated by the correction he has just great deal to both the reality and the perception of made. independence. If the status of recommendations is changed Without qualification, I take very seriously the safety so that the Government become responsible for enforcing of the United Kingdom’s ships and the people who them, we will blur the line that exists between the work operate them. The Government are committed to an of the MAIB and that of the Department. That could ongoing policy of improving safety standards in the have serious implications for the way in which the marine environment, and the marine accident investigation MAIB operates. branch, or MAIB, performs a vital role in delivering One of the major factors that determines whether an that policy. Before we can discuss how to address the investigation results in meaningful and useful conclusions safety problems that go hand in hand with the operation is the degree of freedom that investigators have to of vessels, we must accept that there will always be, I am gather evidence, question witnesses and publish their afraid, an element of risk. findings. As an illustration of that principle, we consider matters of safety so important that there is a memorandum No matter how much regulation we implement or of understanding between the Crown Prosecution Service how much guidance we issue, there will always be and the investigation branches that, when there is any unforeseeable circumstances that can lead to tragic accidents. conflict, the needs of the technical investigation should That is not to imply that we should give up on trying to take precedence over the criminal investigation. reduce the likelihood of accidents. On the contrary, it is our task to ensure that those risks are as low as possible, Another element, for which we cannot legislate or and that the UK has an international reputation for negotiate, is the perception of the MAIB in the minds excellence in its approach to improving marine safety. of the parties involved in marine investigations. In We have many tools at our disposal to bring that about. many cases, the quality of evidence and testimony from One of the most powerful is the objective, independent those parties depends heavily on how they expect the investigation of marine accidents, carried out by the MAIB to use the information. Under the current marine accident investigation branch. The primary purpose arrangements, the MAIB is able to engage openly and of MAIB investigations is to examine the causes and candidly with those involved in accidents because there circumstances of an accident and to identify lessons to is an understanding that the evidence will be used as the reduce the risk of similar accidents in the future. To basis for recommendations about future safety, and not appreciate the MAIB’s role fully, it is essential for us to to determine liability or to apportion blame in relation accept that it does not seek to determine liability or to a specific accident. apportion blame for particular accidents. The elective nature of MAIB recommendations is an expression of David Cairns: I did not intend to ask my right hon. that philosophy, which is a crucial element that ensures Friend to give way, and this will be the last time that I the effectiveness of the branch’s work. do so. The worst possible argument that I have ever The MAIB was formed in 1989, partly in response to heard for not having a force of statute on this matter is the formal investigation in 1987 into the circumstances that when there has been a death or multiple deaths in attending the capsizing of the roll-on/roll-off passenger which the actions of people might have played a role, ferry, the Herald of Free Enterprise, which resulted in they will comply with the statutory body only on the the loss of 193 lives. Mr. Justice Sheen, the wreck understanding that it will not rebound on them at all in commissioner appointed to conduct the investigation, any legal way. This is the worst possible argument for expressed his concern at the widely held view that the MAIB reports not being statutory. There may be other Department of Transport, as it was then, could influence aspects that are international in nature, as the Opposition the outcome of investigations to ensure that it avoided spokesman said, or there may be things to do with how any embarrassment. the Health and Safety Executive or the courts operate. Saying that people will co-operate fully only because Mr. Justice Sheen judged that the safeguards in place there are absolutely no ramifications involved is a terrible at the time were insufficient to deflect that criticism, argument: nobody would co-operate with anybody under and part of his report recommended that consideration those circumstances. be given to how such investigations would be conducted subsequently. He also made the point that investigations should be commenced as soon as possible after accidents Mr. Khan: My hon. Friend will appreciate the parallels occur, to ensure the reliability of witness statements and with inquests, which are also inquisitorial, where there the integrity of evidence. is no apportionment of blame, and where the recommendations do not have the same statutory binding The then Government’s response was to establish a effect. I will come to other reasons; I have a list of them, marine accident investigation branch based on the model I am afraid. that had been operating successfully in the aviation The rationale for obliging the recipients of sector. Importantly, the MAIB was set up to act separately recommendations to comply with them appears to be from the Department, and its investigations inherited based on a perception that MAIB recommendations the independent character of the formal investigations otherwise carry no weight. In fact, however, the regulations that preceded it. governing the MAIB’s activities include provisions that To command the trust of industry and the public, the require the recipients of recommendations to take them MAIB must not only operate independently of the into consideration. They must then inform the MAIB Department, but be seen to do so. In practice, that of the action that they plan to take to implement the separation is partly achieved by the status of the recommendations, along with a timetable. If the recipient 1183 Marine Accident Investigation5 MARCH 2010 Marine Accident Investigation 1184

[Mr. Khan] recommendations the force of law, and it would be law made without the controls that we normally consider plans to take no action pursuant to the recommendation, essential. they must provide the MAIB with an explanation. Ignoring MAIB recommendations is not an option under the regulations, and doing so is likely to count Mr. Andrew Dismore (Hendon) (Lab): I am becoming against any recipient who fails to take action on a increasingly worried by my right hon. Friend’s contribution. recommendation that could have contributed to the He will not know this, but I was one of the solicitors prevention of any accident that occurs in the future. involved in the Zeebrugge ferry disaster, which I think is getting on for 30 years ago now. I dealt with a number When we discuss the way in which safety is regulated of cases and I remember the conclusions of Mr. Justice in the UK, we must not stop at the prominent work of Sheen and the difficulties of litigation. the accident investigators. Because of the MAIB’s direct involvement in the aftermath of marine accidents, its Claims for compensation are irrelevant, because they investigations and reports often command a high profile are dealt with under the Athens convention, effectively in the media and in public awareness. That is why on a no-fault liability basis. More importantly, I am significant attention can be paid to the MAIB’s concerned that my right hon. Friend is effectively saying recommendations; because they are so visible, it is easy that accidents at sea should not have the same protection to cast them as the primary response to marine tragedies as accidents on land, for which the Health and Safety and disasters. However, that characterisation misses the Executive can issue a prohibition notice or an improvement point of the MAIB’s role and that of the recommendations notice. The Bill promoted by my hon. Friend the Member that it issues, and it underplays the role of other people for Inverclyde (David Cairns) seeks to achieve the same and organisations that have a statutory duty for marine thing in relation to the MAIB. Why should not the same safety, such as the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, provisions apply? which has primary responsibility for regulating marine activity. Mr. Khan: My hon. Friend has obviously read my Independent accident investigation is just one piece speech, because I will come to that later. If he does not of the wider safety puzzle. Depending on the context of mind, I will deal with it then rather than put page 16 any particular accident, a broad range of individuals before page 11. He raises an important point, and I will and organisations may be responsible for ensuring safety. be happy to speak or write to him about it if I do not For example, employers are required to ensure the reach it in the next few minutes. health and safety of seafarers by the Merchant Shipping As I said, obliging recipients to comply with MAIB and Fishing Vessels (Health and Safety at Work) recommendations would lend those recommendations Regulations 1997, and this duty was expanded to include the force of law, which would be made without the the operators of vessels on inland waters by an amendment controls that we normally consider essential. MAIB made in 2001. Those regulations place duties on employers investigations and the recommendations that come from to identify the risks to safe working and to implement them are often necessarily broad in scope, so that all reasonable safeguards. MAIB recommendations may relevant factors contributing to an accident can be highlight areas of risk that contributed to particular considered and addressed. It is because the remit is so accidents, but it is clearly the responsibility of the broad that the MAIB can conduct the thorough and employer, in this case, to consider the implications of incisive investigations for which it is renowned. However, those recommendations and the overall effect of the the same breadth means that compulsory MAIB actions necessary to implement them. recommendations would lead unavoidably to the Any proposal that obliges the recipients of MAIB implementation of policies on matters that are currently recommendations to implement them would have the the preserve of the Secretary of State, who is accountable effect of making the MAIB responsible for the consequences to Parliament. Even if we ignore the administrative of that implementation. That is the key point that my problems and the impact that the proposals would have hon. Friend may have missed. Granting an investigative on the MAIB’s effectiveness as an investigator, delegating body such a degree of regulatory power runs counter to such wide law-making power without proper controls is the principles that underlie the UK’s current marine unacceptable. safety regime. At best, by making MAIB recommendations Another concern is that the proposals run counter to mandatory, we would duplicate the responsibilities of the Government’s commitment to better regulation. other regulators and employers. Since those responsibilities The five principles that underpin that commitment are carry with them a requirement to assess the risks and that regulation must be transparent, accountable, impacts of safety measures, the resourcing needs of the proportionate, consistent and targeted. Regulation based MAIB would increase dramatically and with no on MAIB recommendations would seem to meet only corresponding increase in the value that it delivers. one of those five criteria. Since the recommendations Beside the negative effect that the proposals would come from detailed investigations on which a report is have on how the MAIB operates and contributes to the produced, the regulation would at least be transparent improvement of marine safety, they would carry two to some degree. However, it would certainly not demonstrate other major implications for Government. The first is accountability, because the recommendations are not that they would effectively grant the MAIB a direction- directly overseen by Parliament. Causing recommendations making power. Currently, it is the responsibility of the to have the force of law does not guarantee proportionality, Secretary of State to legislate for shipping safety under because the MAIB does not conduct any form of cost- powers conferred in merchant shipping legislation, under benefit analysis of the effects that its findings might the scrutiny of Parliament. Obliging recipients to comply have in the broader commercial context of the operations with MAIB recommendations would lend those on which they have a bearing. 1185 5 MARCH 2010 Business without Debate 1186

I have already explained how existing legislation is DEPARTMENT FOR WORK AND PENSIONS balanced around the principles of risk assessment and (ELECTRONIC FILE RETENTION) BILL proportionality, and how the MAIB could not act as a Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second regulator without a massive increase in its budget. Because time. of the volume of marine accidents, it is impractical to conduct a detailed investigation into each one. The Hon. Members: Object. MAIB must assign its limited resources carefully so that they will reveal the most valuable safety lessons. Those Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 7 May. lessons and any associated recommendations may be specific to particular accidents or apply more broadly to similar circumstances. That is not a problem when LAND USE (GARDENS PROTECTION ETC) BILL recommendations are non-compulsory because recipients Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second can consider the matters raised and implement related time. measures in so far as that is necessary to ensure reasonable safety.However, that manner of making recommendations Hon. Members: Object. would be impossible under a regime that enforced them as law because they would not be suitably targeted for Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. the purposes of better regulation. Moreover, since all accidents will be investigated— BRITISH MUSEUM ACT 1963 (AMENDMENT) BILL 2.30 pm Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second Mr. Deputy Speaker (Sir Michael Lord): Order. Debate time. to be resumed what day? Hon. Members: Object. David Cairns: In the light of the Government’s entirely Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. unreasonable opposition to the Bill, I wish to withdraw it. VIDEO RECORDINGS (EXEMPTION FROM Mr. Deputy Speaker: I think “no date named” is the CLASSIFICATION) BILL answer. Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second The debate stood adjourned (Standing Order No. 11(2)). time.

Business without Debate Hon. Members: Object. Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March.

SHELTERED ACCOMMODATION (RESIDENTS) TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 BILL (AMENDMENT) BILL Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second Resumption of adjourned debate on Question time. (29 January), That the Bill be now read a Second time. Hon. Members: Object. Hon. Members: Object. Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. Debate to be resumed on Friday 30 April.

HUMAN RIGHTS ACT 1998 (MEANING OF DEVELOPMENT ON FLOOD PLAINS PUBLIC AUTHORITY) BILL (ENVIRONMENT AGENCY POWERS) BILL Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second time. time.

Hon. Members: Object. Hon. Members: Object. Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March.

COMPENSATION ACT 2006 (AMENDMENT) EMPLOYERS’ LIABILITY INSURANCE BUREAU BILL BILL Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second time. time.

Hon. Members: Object. Hon. Members: Object. Bill to be read Second time on Friday 12 March. Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. 1187 5 MARCH 2010 1188

CONTAMINATED BLOOD (SUPPORT FOR Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) INFECTED AND BEREAVED PERSONS) BILL Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House [LORDS] do now adjourn.—(Kerry McCarthy.) Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second time. 2.33 pm Hon. Members: Object. Norman Baker (Lewes) (LD): I am pleased to have Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. the opportunity to raise this important issue. It is perhaps symbiotic that I have this Adjournment debate while the Chilcot inquiry is in progress, with the Prime Minister PROSECUTION OF OFFENCES ACT 1985 giving evidence. While Sir John Chilcot is considering (AMENDMENT) BILL the overtly political issues of 2003, I will argue that it is Motion made, That the Bill be now read a Second not possible to secure closure on the events of 2003 time. until those surrounding David Kelly’s death have been properly investigated. Hon. Members: Object. David Kelly was, of course, intimately linked with the Bill to be read a Second time on Friday 12 March. events of 2003, not least through his briefing of Andrew Gilligan, which precipitated many of the problems that occurred early in that year and was the source of the suggestion that the Government’s dossier had been “sexed up”. I do not intend in the limited time that I have to go over those particular issues today. Suffice it to say that they are all extant and I hope that the Chilcot inquiry will reach a sensible conclusion that satisfies the population at large, who are currently not satisfied. However, there is no doubt that involvement in the Iraq issue caused David Kelly’s death, no matter how people think that occurred. I believe that this country and the world owe David Kelly a huge debt for his tremendous work as a United Nations weapons inspector on behalf of this country and, indeed, the world though the 1990s and the early part of this century. It is a tragedy for him, his family and his friends that he ended his life as he did. They deserved better than for him to be found dead in a wood on Harrowdown hill, particularly given that at the same time, the then Prime Minister was receiving 16—or was it 17?—standing ovations from the US Congress for providing an intellectual justification for the war in Iraq. I hope that some way can be found, even at this stage, for David Kelly to be recognised through a posthumous honour. Although I am told that that is not possible, I hope the Government recognise the case for it. They owe him that, not least for having briefed that he was a kind of Walter Mitty figure shortly after his death and for having tried to ruin his reputation in that way. I recognise that this remains painful for many people, not least David Kelly’s family and friends, but it is a matter of national importance—it is unfinished business, which is why I am returning to it today. In the limited time I have, I want to focus on the narrow issue of the process used to deal with his death. The Minister will be aware that the normal process for any unexplained or violent death is through a coroner’s court, with all the safeguards that that implies. That is a proper process, open to the public, with proper rules of engagement and cross-examination, and certain hurdles to overcome before particular verdicts can be reached. It is astonishing that in this most sensational—if that is the appropriate word—tragic and important death of the past decade, we will instead be given a non-statutory inquiry established under section 17A of the Coroners Act 1988. That provision was introduced by a previous Government for, I believe, defensible reasons. As I understand it, it was introduced to deal with multiple deaths with the 1189 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest)5 MARCH 2010 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) 1190 same cause. It was therefore used in February 2000 for the ground or slumped against the tree…These differences do not the investigation of 31 deaths in the Ladbroke Grove cause me to doubt that no third party was involved in Dr Kelly’s rail crash, the 311 deaths connected with Harold Shipman, death.” and the four deaths connected with the sinking of the It appears that Lord Hutton did not feel it necessary to Gaul in November 2003. On all those occasions, there resolve any of those matters, but I suggest that a coroner’s was a statutory inquiry and more than one death was court would certainly have sought to resolve them. involved. This is the only occasion in history that section Indeed, Lord Hutton concludes that if police officers 17A has been used for a non-statutory inquiry into a give conflicting evidence, it proves that they are telling single death. It is astonishing that Dr. Kelly’s death has the truth, because if they had been telling lies, they been investigated to a lower standard than any other would all have told the same story. I suggest that had similar death would have been. the police all told the same story, no one would have concluded that they had lied. The answer is that Lord Even that might have been passable if Lord Hutton Hutton was going to believe whatever he was told and had done his job thoroughly, but he did not—not by a failed to investigate conflicts of evidence when they long stretch of the imagination. I therefore want to were presented to him. There are other conflicts of argue today for a proper inquest to be held—there has evidence that I will not go into, given the limit on time, still not been one—and to invoke section 13(1)(b) of the but Lord Hutton failed to examine any of them during 1988 Act, on two grounds: first, insufficiency of inquiry; his inquiry. and secondly, the discovery of new facts or evidence. Either ground should encourage or persuade the Attorney- In a reply to me, the then Solicitor-General cited, as General to apply to the High Court for the inquest to be reasons for not pursuing the matter further, the evidence reopened, and I suggest that both provide a compelling of Alex Allan, the toxicologist, and Dr. Nicholas Hunt, case. the pathologist, at the Hutton inquiry. But she appeared not to know that Dr. Hunt changed his evidence in the The Minister will know that I wrote to the Attorney- run-up to the inquiry. That much was revealed by General on 4 September 2008 to make that request, and information and documentation released to me by the she has so far not seen fit to agree with my analysis. then Solicitor-General, who is now the Leader of the Doubtless the Minister will respond to that. House. She was very generous and provided lots of I shall refer to what Lord Hutton said about his own information that demonstrated that the Oxfordshire inquiry when he wrote subsequently in the “Inner Temple coroner had been leant on by a Minister. I am not Yearbook2004-2005”, which I accept is not a publication happy with coroners being leant on by Ministers, but that many people will have read. He stated: that is what the evidence shows. It also showed that “At the outset of my inquiry…it appeared to me that a substantial Dr. Hunt had changed his evidence. We do not know in number of the basic facts of the train of events which led to the what way he changed his evidence, but we do know that tragic death of Dr Kelly were already apparent from reports in he contacted Channel 4 in March 2004, indicating that the press and other parts of the media. Therefore I thought that he thought that the inquest should be reconvened. there would be little serious dispute as to the background facts…I In evidence to the Hutton inquiry after being asked thought that unnecessary time could be taken up by cross-examination on matters which were not directly relevant.” about any third-party involvement, the pathologist said that That appears to me as an admission from Lord Hutton “the features are quite typical, I would say, of self inflicted injury himself of “insufficiency of inquiry”, but we also need if one ignores all the other features of the case.” to consider the key witnesses who were simply not called or, in some cases, not referred to in Lord Hutton’s What does that mean? Lord Hutton never bothered to inquiry. The police officer in charge of the investigation ask. This is a charade of a legal process and the Government was Chief Inspector Alan Young—he has since been cannot let it stand as it does. promoted—of Thames Valley police. As far as I can A death certificate was issued in the name of the tell, he was not even mentioned in the Hutton inquiry, Oxfordshire coroner, giving the reasons for death. It let alone called to give evidence. Mai Pederson, who was issued on 18 August 2003—significantly, just barely was David Kelly’s contact in the US armed forces, after the Hutton inquiry started sitting. What was the probably knew David Kelly better than anyone else point of an inquiry to investigate the circumstances apart from his close family, but she was not asked to surrounding the death of David Kelly if the Oxfordshire give evidence. Indeed, it appears that she offered to give coroner, through an aborted inquest process—and that evidence, but the Thames Valley police told Lord Hutton is what it was—rushed out a certificate giving the reasons that she had nothing of value to say. for death before Lord Hutton had even considered the matter? The certificate includes as causes co-proxamol Then there is the conflicting evidence that Lord Hutton ingestion and coronary artery disease. It subsequently appeared to think it unimportant to clear up. There was turned out that Alex Allan, the toxicologist that the a huge amount of conflicting evidence in the police Attorney-General prayed in support of her decision not statements, including such basic matters as where the to reopen the inquest, actually gave evidence at the body was, how far it was from a tree or whether it was inquiry that the level of co-proxamol was insufficient to against the tree, and whether various possessions of cause death. In that case, why was it on the death David Kelly were near the body or not. Lord Hutton certificate? Why were coronary artery problems mentioned tried to resolve this by saying that when David Kelly’s GP said that he had no problems “entirely honest witnesses often give evidence as to what they saw with coronary artery disease? at the scene which differs as to details. In the evidence which I heard from those who saw Dr Kelly’s body in the wood there were The Minister will also be aware of the challenge that differences as to points of detail, such as the number of police several leading medical experts have launched, demanding officers at the scene and whether they were all in uniform, the a proper inquest and saying that, in their view, it is amount of blood at the scene, and whether the body was lying on clinically impossible for David Kelly to have died in the 1191 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest)5 MARCH 2010 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) 1192

[Norman Baker] court, it would be necessary to prove beyond reasonable doubt—that is the test—before a verdict of suicide can way that Lord Hutton described. They have asked for be returned. I challenge the Minister, or anyone else for information about the death and it has turned out that that matter, to tell me, on the basis of the farrago of Lord Hutton recommended—astonishingly—that the nonsense produced by Lord Hutton and the evidence information should be kept secret for 70 years. A coroner’s that has emerged subsequently, that that conclusion can inquest is normally a public event, but here is Lord be reached. It cannot be reached, and we owe David Hutton keeping information a secret for 70 years. What Kelly a proper investigation. We owe him an inquest, has he got to hide? However, that information is now which anyone else would have had they suffered a with a Government Department, so it is within the violent and unexplained death. That has so far been Government’s power to release it to the doctors, as they held back from David Kelly. We must have it now, and if have requested, and I trust that they will do so. I we do not, we will not be able to draw a line under the submitted a freedom of information request some time events of 2003, whatever Sir John Chilcot concludes. ago for that information to be revealed, but I have had no substantive reply despite the fact that the normal 2.48 pm statutory time for reply has now been exceeded. The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Mr. Michael The second reason for reopening this matter relates Wills): As is customary, I start by congratulating the to new evidence. I have not got time to go into this in hon. Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) on securing huge detail, but there is a lot of new evidence. It was the debate. I would also like to associate myself with subsequently discovered—by me I might say, through a some of his remarks. First, I agree that this was a freedom of information request to Thames Valley police— terrible tragedy, for Dr. Kelly, his family and many that there were no finger prints on the knife, despite the others. Secondly, I agree that this country owes a significant fact that Dr. Kelly was not wearing gloves. We are debt of gratitude to Dr. Kelly for his many years of invited to work out how he is supposed to have slit his distinguished public service. Thirdly, we should all recognise, wrists without leaving prints. Why was it left to me to as the hon. Gentleman did, that this incident was find that out? Why did Lord Hutton not find out that particularly painful and distressing for the family, and most basic fact in his inquiry? It suggests that he was continues to be so, and all of us need to approach the not at all thorough. There is also the fact that Mia matter with sensitivity. Indeed, I think that he has done Pederson, Dr. Kelly’s close friend, stated to a national that. Finally, he was right to highlight the fact that paper, The Mail on Sunday, that she had a meal with many people are not satisfied with what has happened, Dr. Kelly shortly before his death. He had had an and to that extent it remains a matter of legitimate accident—a painful injury to his right elbow—and as public concern. I agree with him on all those points. He his hands gripped the silver, he struggled to get a knife has been an indefatigable campaigner on the issue. through a steak he had ordered. How was he supposed Let me rehearse a few of the most salient facts before to cut his wrists, when he could not even cut through a I deal with the substance of what the hon. Gentleman steak? has said. As the House will know, Dr. Kelly’s body was I have not even gone into the medical evidence that found on the morning of Friday 18 July 2003 on the doctors have brought together. Suffice it to say that Harrowdown hill in Oxfordshire, near his home. He had when I asked the national statistician, Karen Dunnell, been missing since the previous day, and his death was how many deaths there had been, in 2003 in the entire then reported to the Oxfordshire coroner, Nicholas UK, from incising an ulnar artery—a tiny artery of Gardiner. On 21 July, Mr. Gardiner formally opened matchstick thickness in the wrist—I was told one. It and adjourned an inquest into Dr. Kelly’s death, as is does not add up, I am sorry to say. customary when investigations into a death are continuing. Then there is the issue about the helicopter. We have The purpose of an inquest is to establish who the subsequently found out, again from freedom of information deceased was, and how, when and where he or she came requests, and through my parliamentary questions to by his or her death. Any external investigations into the the Ministry of Defence, that the times and routes given death can be crucial evidence for the coroner, and can of at the Hutton inquiry for the helicopter have been course preclude the necessity for the coroner to undertake proved to be wrong. The MOD, in parliamentary answers his or her own investigations. to me, has contradicted the evidence given at the Hutton On 18 July 2003, the then Lord Chancellor, Lord inquiry, and a freedom of information request by a Falconer, appointed Lord Hutton to conduct a public journalist has demonstrated that the route of the helicopter inquiry into the death of Dr. Kelly. The terms of reference went directly over the place where Dr. Kelly’s body was were subsequently found, with heat-seeking equipment, and “urgently to conduct an investigation into the circumstances yet failed to detect the body. None of this adds up. The surrounding the death of Dr. Kelly”. Minister needs to recognise that and respond appropriately. The inquest was resumed briefly by Mr. Gardiner on The Minister will know that politicians from all 14 August 2003, to enable the final report of the post- parties have expressed doubts about the matter, and mortem examination on Dr. Kelly to be admitted as have gone public in doing so. He will also know that evidence. The examination had been undertaken by Dr. Mia Pederson’s lawyer in the United States, Mark Zaid, Nicholas Hunt, an experienced and Home Office-accredited on her behalf, has written to his Department demanding forensic pathologist, on 18 July 2003. Dr. Hunt submitted that the matter be reopened, because she is not happy his report to Mr. Gardiner on 25 July. Its conclusions with the matter either. He will know that I, and the were later made public in his evidence to Lord Hutton’s doctors, are pursuing the matter. I say to the Minister inquiry. that the lid cannot be kept—and nor should it be As the hon. Gentleman said, section 17A of the kept—on the matter for much longer. In a coroner’s Coroners Act 1988 allows for the adjournment of an 1193 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest)5 MARCH 2010 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) 1194 inquest in the event of a judicial inquiry into a death further delay. As I say, we are trying to do everything we which, in the Lord Chancellor’s view, will investigate can to make this process as transparent as possible. the death adequately.The then Lord Chancellor considered After considering all of the evidence, Lord Hutton that Lord Hutton’s inquiry would adequately investigate concluded that Dr. Kelly took his own life, and that the the cause of Dr. Kelly’s death. Therefore, in August 2003, principal cause of death was bleeding from wounds to under the provisions of section 17A(1) of the Act, he his left wrist which Dr. Kelly had inflicted on himself formally notified Mr. Gardiner of Lord Hutton’s inquiry. with the knife found beside his body. Lord Hutton also Mr. Gardiner found no exceptional reason to the contrary, found it probable that the ingestion of an excess amount and therefore adjourned the inquest, again in accordance of co-proxamol tablets, together with coronary artery with section 17A of the Act. disease, would have played a part in bringing about Dr. Kelly’s death. Lord Hutton was satisfied that no Norman Baker: Whose idea was it for the Oxfordshire other person was involved in the death and that Dr. coroner to issue a final certificate of death giving reasons Kelly was not suffering from any significant mental for the death rather than an interim certificate, which illness at the time he took his own life. would have been a possible option? Lord Hutton’s report was, of course, debated in this House on 28 January 2004, in response to the then Mr. Wills: As the hon. Gentleman knows, coroners Prime Minister’s statement. I am aware that, as the hon. are independent. They are not, as he suggested, subject Gentleman has again reminded the House, some people to ministerial pressure or intervention, and that was the have had a considerable degree of dissatisfaction with coroner’s decision at the time, as he knows. If he wishes Lord Hutton’s findings. Of course that persists to some to present evidence that, as he said, someone was leant extent today, as the hon. Gentleman has exemplified. on, I shall be happy to consider it, but these are serious However, the Government must consider whether there allegations, and I hope he can use terms more precise is any basis to go behind Lord Hutton’s findings and to than airy phrase like “leant on”. I assure him that if he re-examine the evidence heard during the inquiry, and writes to me, I will carry out a detailed examination and at this stage we do not have such a basis on which to respond to him. Alternatively, the responsible Minister proceed. We are always happy to consider new evidence will respond. The hon. Gentleman knows that I am not and I again suggest to the hon. Gentleman that if he normally the Minister who deals with this matter. If he feels he has new evidence to provide that should cause writes to me promptly, I will ensure that he receives a us to re-examine that decision, we will of course look at prompt response, before the election is called—whenever it and respond to him. I hope that he will take advantage that may be. of that opportunity, if he so wishes. Lord Hutton’s report was published on 28 January There was also some critical reaction—we heard this 2004. On the same day, the then Lord Chancellor sent again from the hon. Gentleman today—to Mr. Gardiner’s the report to Mr. Gardiner in accordance with decision not to resume the inquest into Dr. Kelly’s section 17A(3) of the 1988 Act. Mr. Gardiner then death. As I said, coroners are independent judicial invited representations on whether or not he should office holders, and operational decisions such as this are resume the inquest into Dr. Kelly’s death. At an open matters solely for them. It would not, therefore, be hearing in Oxford on 16 March 2004, Mr Gardiner appropriate for me, as a Minister, to comment on decided that there was no exceptional reason to resume Mr. Gardiner’s decision, other than to say that it was the inquest. taken fully in accordance with the provisions of section 17A of the Coroners Act 1988. It is important to note Lord Hutton conducted an extensive inquiry into that Dr. Kelly’s family, the people for whom Lord Dr. Kelly’s death. The hon. Gentleman has suggested Hutton’s inquiry carried the greatest of personal importance, that the inquiry was of a lower standard than it should accepted the findings on the mode and cause of his have been, but I remind the House that Lord Hutton is death, although I am aware that they had some reservations a very distinguished member of the judiciary. The inquiry about the extent to which the inquiry considered Dr. Kelly’s ran, in two stages, between 1 August and 13 October state of mind at the time and the duty of care owed to 2003. Evidence was taken from 74 witnesses, including him by his employers, the Ministry of Defence. Similarly, Ministers, civil servants, police officers and ambulance it is worth pointing out that Dr. Kelly’s family did not staff. Dr. Hunt, the forensic pathologist, gave evidence, challenge Mr. Gardiner’s decision not to resume the as did a toxicologist who examined items taken from inquest. Dr. Kelly’s body. Transcripts of the evidence were made available on the inquiry’s dedicated website, as were I am also aware—again the hon. Gentleman has documents that were submitted in evidence, where reminded the House of this—that calls have been made appropriate. That website can still be accessed today. by third parties for there to be a fresh inquest into Everything has been done to make the process as Dr. Kelly’s death. I believe that the House knows, and I transparent as possible. am sure that the hon. Gentleman does, that Ministers do not have any authority to order that a fresh inquest I will ensure that the freedom of information request should be held, even if it was considered that there were is chased up. I am sorry that the time limit was exceeded. grounds for such a decision to be taken. The only basis It should not have been. Time limits are there for a on which a fresh inquest could be held is under the reason. Unfortunately, there has been a considerable provisions of section 13 of the 1988 Act. Under that backlog in various areas, which is not acceptable. We section, the High Court are making considerable progress in clearing that backlog, but I agree with the hon. Gentleman that he should “on an application by or under the authority of the Attorney-General” have received a reply by now and I shall ensure that that can order a further inquest to be held. That can happen is chased up. I hope that we will get him a reply without only if 1195 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest)5 MARCH 2010 Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) 1196

[Mr. Wills] death. That is not to say that some of the evidence cannot be released, and that will be considered on a “by reason of fraud, rejection of evidence, irregularity of proceedings, case-by-case basis by the National Archive and in the insufficiency of inquiry, the discovery of new facts or evidence or Ministry of Justice. otherwise” Taking all that together along with the fact that—as the Court considers it far as the Government can see at this stage, based on the “necessary or desirable in the interests of justice”. information available to us—there is no new evidence to I am aware that a group of doctors is considering suggest that such a move is necessary, the Government making such an application, although I understand that cannot see that there is a basis on which to re-examine it has not done so to date. This has given rise to some the circumstances surrounding Dr. Kelly’s death. Having discussion in the media about what was mistakenly said all that, I know that the hon. Gentleman is an reported by the media as Lord Hutton’s “decision” to indefatigable campaigner and I am happy to give an bar for 70 years the release of some documents. Neither undertaking on behalf of the Government today that if Lord Hutton nor anyone else has imposed or ordered he comes forward with new evidence we will engage that the information not be disclosed for 70 years. Lord with him in discussing it and in seeing whether there is Hutton made that clear in a statement on Tuesday any reason to re-examine our position. I am grateful to 26 January. He said that he had “requested” that the him for his courtesy in listening to me and I am sure post-mortem examination report relating to Dr. Kelly that this dialogue will continue. not be disclosed for 70 years in view of the “distress” Question put and agreed to. that could be caused to Dr. Kelly’s wife and daughters. I agree that we should reflect on the distress that will potentially be caused to Dr. Kelly’s family by a very 3pm public re-visiting of the circumstances surrounding his House adjourned. 121WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 122WS

New arrangements to collect data on specialist teacher demand Written Ministerial and supply to manage supply effectively for the future; New training on severe learning difficulties, through the TDA, to ensure that all teachers have access to the quality professional Statements development materials that they need to develop their skills Copies of Toby Salt’s report and our initial response Friday 5 March 2010 have today been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

DEFENCE

CHILDREN, SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES Gurkha Pension Scheme (Annual Uplift)

Pupils with Severe, Profound and Multiple Learning The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence Difficulties (Teachers) (Mr. Kevan Jones): I am pleased to inform the House that with effect from 1 April 2010 there will be an increase in pensions paid through the Gurkha pension The Secretary of State for Children, Schools and scheme of 11.3 per cent. This is in line with inflation in Families (Ed Balls): On 28 September 2009 I asked Toby Nepal. Salt to carry out a review to identify key barriers to the It has always been our policy to ensure that Gurkha supply of adequately trained teachers for pupils with pensioners are treated fairly. The Gurkha pension scheme severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties (SLD currently costs some £55 million per year and will now and PMLD), and opportunities to improve this supply rise to £62 million as a result of this uplift. for the future. This increase ensures that Gurkha pensions are kept This is an important and timely review, which is a at a fair and appropriate level and demonstrates our vital part of the Government’s wider significant investment continuing commitment to the Gurkha pension scheme. in the SEN sector. I am very grateful for Toby Salt and It also reinforces the UK’s long-standing links with the his review team’s swift and thorough work on this. Government of Nepal, which we greatly value and The report calls for more to be done to attract and would wish to maintain. retain specialist teachers to meet the growing demand for their skills, and to build the next generation of HEALTH teachers with specialist skills. The evidence in the report highlights examples of existing good practice and specialist training, but also significant gaps in specialist knowledge Basildon and Thurrock University NHS Foundation and skills, and opportunities to acquire these, which it Trust recommends be addressed urgently. These include: improving the range of specialist opportunities offered to The Secretary of State for Health (Andy Burnham): trainee and newly qualified teachers, to encourage and inform Following my statements to the House on 30 November entry into specialist teaching; 2009, Official Report, c. 855-870 and 7 January 2010, increasing the quality and consistency of specialist professional Official Report, c. 13WS, I wish further to update the development opportunities available to experienced teachers in House on the situation at Basildon and Thurrock University mainstream and special schools, to widen and share specialist Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. skills and build on good practice; Chris Mellor, acting chair of Monitor, the regulatory addressing leadership issues in this specialist sector—a disproportionally high level of leaders in special schools are body for NHS foundation trusts, has written to me nearing retirement age, whose expertise will need to be replaced about the progress being made at the trust. His letter over the next five to seven years. dated 19 February 2010 has been copied to all local Evidence to inform the review was gathered from teachers, MPs and has also been placed in the Library. local authorities, training providers, parents and parent Monitor has advised that further progress has been networks, social partners and other national organisations, made at the trust since December 2009. With the support through a public call for evidence and in-depth interviews. of the taskforce, the trust board has put in place a series Existing data and research were also reviewed, including of key performance indicators (KPIs) aimed at focusing information on relevant international teacher supply attention on the areas of greatest clinical concern. systems. An expert advisory group of specialists in The trust has responded to specific concerns around SLD, PMLD and wider SEN issues provided challenge hospitalised standardised mortality rations (HSMR), and support to the work. hygiene and children’s services and learning disability We accept all of the recommendations in the review services and each of these areas are actively being and my Department will publish a plan later this month monitored. The taskforce has reported that progress to set out how Toby Salt’s recommendations will be has been made, especially against HSMR and hygiene. implemented, and how, over the next year, we will However, concerns remain around the pace and develop: sustainability of progress when the taskforce exits, governance at board level, and board leadership. A partnership with Teach First to bring top graduates into specialist teaching. Teacher training pilots will allow more Monitor has advised me of one further quality issue graduates to gain the skills they need to teach these children; since my last statement, which was an outbreak of A new six-month specialist course for new teachers to enable Legionella affecting two patients at the trust. Legionella them better to prepare for their first job working with children is an ongoing risk at the trust and they have significant with severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties; monitoring and controls in place as a result. 123WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 124WS

Monitor has advised that while it is somewhat encouraged The Council discussed briefly the next steps in resolving by the quality improvements that have been made, it is the Czech Republic-Canada visa situation. An experts’ not yet in receipt of all the information required to meeting would take place on 15 March; the Commission make a full assessment of the extent and pace of progress. urged Canada and the Czech Republic to solve their This will be clearer in the next month when Monitor visa dispute before reporting back to the April JHA expect to receive the Dr. Foster data on HSMR for Council. December 2009 (these data are subject to a three-month A restricted session looked at the next steps for the lag time), the outcome of the CQC registration process, US terrorist tracking finance programme, following the further progress against the agreed KPIs and the European Parliament’s decision to reject the Council independent report assessing governance arrangements decision to conclude the EU-US agreement (SWIFT). at the trust. Both Justice and Interior Ministers agreed that they I will receive regular updates once Monitor’s board wanted a new permanent agreement between the EU has reviewed the trust’s progress and will continue to and US as soon as possible. provide these updates to the House. Over lunch, Interior Ministers discussed the current Libya-Switzerland visa dispute. The presidency said events had significantly improved over the previous HOME DEPARTMENT 10 days, with the short-term goal being the release of the remaining Swiss citizen in prison. Longer term, the requirement would be to address the link between Schengen Justice and Home Affairs Post-Council Statement arrangements and relationships with third countries. After lunch, the Mixed Committee (with non-EU The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Schengen States) had a brief discussion on the Schengen Home Department (Meg Hillier): The Justice and Home Information System II (SIS II). A statement, included Affairs (JHA) Council was held on 25 and 26 February in the Council minutes and agreed by member states, 2010 in Brussels. My noble Friend, the Under-Secretary indicated that a decision on the future of SIS II would of State for Justice, Lord Bach and I attended on behalf be taken at the April JHA Council following analysis of of the United Kingdom. The following issues were the results of the first milestone test in January. The discussed at the Council. presidency and Commission would take all steps necessary to ensure that the required information was made available The interior day began with a presentation by Cecilia in order to make a well-informed decision. The Government Malmström, the new Commissioner for Home Affairs, highlighted that if a decision were taken to terminate on her forthcoming priorities, which included publishing SIS II, member states needed to ensure that any chosen the results of a study of measures already in place on alternative had to be a viable option. passenger name records (PNR), which had been promised to the European Parliament, and a new proposal on EU The presidency presented draft conclusions on measures PNR. The Government welcomed the Commissioner’s for reinforcing the protection of the external border and commitment to the PNR initiative and looked forward combating illegal immigration. The Government said to seeing a proposal—in March if possible—highlighting this was an important long-term issue for all member that this should also cover intra-EU flights. states and emphasised co-operation with third countries and combating organised illegal crime as priorities. Following this, the Council agreed the internal security Successful projects with Turkey and Libya had strategy (ISS) without amendment. President Van Rompuy demonstrated what could be achieved to prevent illegal had agreed to bring the strategy to the spring European border crossing but the EU needs also to complement Council. The Government strongly support the ISS, this with increased efforts on returns. particularly references to an EC organised crime strategy. The Commission introduced new draft legislation to The presidency updated the Council on the first strengthen Frontex. The Government welcomed Frontex’s COSI (Standing Committee on operational co-operation work to date and hoped the new instrument would on internal security) meeting, which will take place on include measures to enable our officers to continue to 11 March. Member states identified five key objectives participate in joint operations. The Government also for this committee: a partly operational and partly looked forward to Frontex doing more work in assisting strategic role; co-ordinating the various agencies in the returns in future and welcomed stronger Frontex EU; assuming the functions of the Police Chiefs’ task co-operation with third countries, but regretted the force; assessing the effectiveness of existing legislative lack of a provision to use personal data (which was instruments; and providing the Council with regular critical in tackling the criminal gangs facilitating illegal reports on internal security. The Government have migration). The Commission said it would carry out an supported the creation of COSI and look forward to its overview of the EU-wide data exchange infrastructure first meeting. before proposing anything concrete on personal data The presidency presented the first draft of the European exchange for Frontex. Pact On International Drug Trafficking. The Government supported this initiative emphasising the need to ensure Finally, the Frontex executive director gave a presentation tangible output, proactive engagement with third countries, on the current situation at the EU’s external border and a focus on the East to tackle the supply chain, including new work programme initiatives for 2010. those responsible at the top, and to take into account During the day the Council also adopted the A ongoing activity and the EU drugs action plan. Work points where the UK national member to Eurojust, will be taken forward at expert-level working groups, Aled Williams, was confirmed as the new president of with the intention of agreeing the pact by the end of the Eurojust. Malta was agreed as the site of the European Spanish presidency. asylum support office. 125WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 126WS

The justice day began with the new Commissioner for other member states that intervened, expressed support Freedom, Security and Justice, Viviane Reding, deliver for accession as soon as possible and for early agreement a short presentation of her work. The presidency then on an appropriate mandate for negotiations with the outlined the state of play on the negotiations on a Council of Europe. proposed directive on the European protection order, designed to protect victims of domestic violence. The Government confirmed their support for the objectives Police Use of Firearms in England and Wales (2008-09) of the proposal and thanked the presidency for its work. The presidency then provided Justice Ministers with The Minister for Policing, Crime and Counter-Terrorism information about the state of play on the negotiations (Mr. David Hanson): The latest figures from 1 April on the proposed directive on interpretation and translation 2008 to 31 March 2009 show that: in criminal proceedings. The Government support this The number of police operations in which firearms were proposal and, following a discussion, the presidency authorised was 19,951—an increase of 57 (0.3 per cent.) on the concluded that it would give priority to reaching a rapid previous year. agreement. The number of authorised firearms officers (AFO’s) was 6,868—an The Council adopted the updated model agreement increase of 88 (1.3 per cent.) officers overall on the previous on joint investigation teams (JITs). The Government year. fully support this agreement which is based on practical The number of operations involving armed response vehicles experience and good practice. was 16,564—an increase of 1,139 (7.4 per cent.) on the previous year. During a presentation and debate on EU accession to the European convention of human rights, the presidency The police discharged a conventional firearm in four incidents (down from seven incidents in 2007-08). emphasised their intention to move the accession process along as quickly as possible. The Government, and all Full details are set out in the tables below:

Table 1: Number of operations in which firearms were authorised Year 2001-2 2002-3 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-9

AVON & SOMERSET 195 262 311 333 247 285 328 339 BEDFORDSHIRE 237 301 442 475 575 663 1,217 1,229 CAMBRIDGESHIRE 114 57 104 241 201 207 316 460 CHESHIRE 419 451 397 358 367 340 317 269 CLEVELAND 37 170 453 530 657 293 577 667 CITY OF LONDON 40 131 364 404 323 239 365 63 CUMBRIA 71 77 72 152 112 92 92 86 DERBYSHIRE 275 401 369 287 305 223 211 310 DEVON & CORNWALL 101 96 112 71 84 80 143 170 DORSET 184 193 231 223 263 354 258 369 DURHAM 89 83 156 144 291 340 206 181 ESSEX 323 312 275 296 432 245 529 529 GLOUCESTERSHIRE 165 185 127 176 229 280 162 132 GTR MANCHESTER 580 518 507 461 478 481 497 524 HAMPSHIRE 198 162 208 237 289 352 382 362 HERTFORDSHIRE 112 172 195 185 187 280 303 343 HUMBERSIDE 297 187 183 206 362 235 209 123 KENT 115 137 207 163 219 170 202 280 LANCASHIRE 232 238 318 241 240 410 388 281 LEICESTERSHIRE 300 268 295 260 363 334 318 347 LINCOLNSHIRE 477 392 386 294 220 157 158 133 MERSEYSIDE 1,020 628 751 733 669 727 829 556 METROPOLITAN 2,447 3,199 3,563 2,964 4,711 3,878 4,948 5,044 NORFOLK 175 200 178 195 175 153 174 274 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 43 138 148 158 137 156 159 120 NORTHUMBRIA 1,440 1,275 1,140 977 611 332 229 154 NORTH YORKSHIRE 92 100 147 185 183 282 329 289 NOTTINGHAMSHIRE 384 452 459 408 394 289 270 245 SOUTH YORKSHIRE 258 463 484 546 749 737 628 538 STAFFORDSHIRE 232 281 255 216 171 250 244 209 SUFFOLK 163 270 251 153 202 256 193 237 SURREY 245 247 203 151 222 222 375 479 SUSSEX 248 204 280 187 190 201 331 331 127WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 128WS

Table 1: Number of operations in which firearms were authorised Year 2001-2 2002-3 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-9

THAMES VALLEY 179 167 195 289 427 264 293 344 WARWICKSHIRE 130 149 164 124 180 162 150 145 WEST MERCIA 117 91 197 162 122 155 202 171 WEST MIDLANDS (1) 822 902 1,377 1,264 1,044 1,557 1,063 1,109 WEST YORKSHIRE 757 604 575 853 1,335 1,272 1,130 1,367 WILTSHIRE 45 58 63 88 139 226 128 158 DYFED POWYS 28 29 28 51 63 72 155 92 GWENT 20 37 40 81 94 133 334 152 NORTH WALES 302 259 197 223 350 340 259 185 SOUTH WALES 283 281 250 236 279 308 293 555 TOTAL 13,991 14,827 16,657 15,981 18,891 18,032 19,894 19,951 Source: See Notes for tables 1. Revised figures for 2007-8 from West Midlands Police

Table 2: Number of authorised firearms officers (AFOs) Year 2001-2 2002-3 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-9

AVON & SOMERSET 116 84 122 118 117 103 123 127 BEDFORDSHIRE 48 53 58 56 59 57 53 50 CAMBRIDGESHIRE 56 71 60 60 50 46 49 51 CHESHIRE 81 89 75 76 73 80 72 88 CLEVELAND 85 80 95 100 100 105 97 83 CITY OF LONDON 73 72 86 89 86 45 49 50 CUMBRIA 92 87 89 90 89 90 97 86 DERBYSHIRE 80 69 70 74 75 69 61 61 DEVON & CORNWALL 108 115 132 123 122 132 142 146 DORSET 57 59 60 64 62 67 71 79 DURHAM 86 102 97 103 100 102 89 82 ESSEX 180 184 186 202 205 220 225 223 GLOUCESTERSHIRE 71 80 82 93 92 94 95 97 GTR MANCHESTER 219 202 205 187 245 217 250 296 HAMPSHIRE 87 94 94 92 97 83 85 93 HERTFORDSHIRE 46 47 50 53 52 49 53 50 HUMBERSIDE 96 96 96 101 92 83 87 80 KENT 113 93 90 94 94 98 87 110 LANCASHIRE 138 129 122 115 123 103 143 105 LEICESTERSHIRE 69 68 51 53 59 67 64 73 LINCOLNSHIRE 91 87 78 86 87 75 77 69 MERSEYSIDE 78 84 94 93 129 139 153 154 METROPOLITAN 1,805 1,823 2,060 2,134 2,331 2,584 2,530 2,740 NORFOLK 104 109 114 125 119 127 114 106 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 51 56 52 50 56 59 53 50 NORTHUMBRIA 125 99 90 93 98 92 96 95 NORTH YORKSHIRE 66 64 60 56 78 67 67 63 NOTTINGHAMSHIRE 136 131 138 138 149 146 137 133 SOUTH YORKSHIRE 92 100 98 122 116 118 106 99 STAFFORDSHIRE 71 63 67 76 70 82 82 75 SUFFOLK 90 80 96 88 84 78 74 67 SURREY 62 48 53 49 51 45 54 54 SUSSEX 120 141 134 130 129 129 123 123 THAMES VALLEY 156 180 172 176 180 186 180 180 WARWICKSHIRE 50 51 46 53 55 59 63 66 WEST MERCIA 125 131 139 141 152 133 163 99 WEST MIDLANDS 111 110 124 134 145 175 177 165 WEST YORKSHIRE 116 132 140 130 150 148 147 135 WILTSHIRE 71 78 80 74 72 69 67 74 DYFED POWYS 77 62 58 79 68 72 67 63 GWENT 57 60 71 74 86 64 63 54 NORTH WALES 83 75 73 65 57 56 57 53 SOUTH WALES 138 125 139 134 130 115 138 121 TOTAL 5,776 5,763 6,096 6,243 6,584 6,728 6,780 6,868 Source: See Notes for tables 129WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 130WS

Table 3: Number of operations involving armed response vehicles (ARVs) Year 2001-2 2002-3 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-9

AVON & SOMERSET 173 215 249 312 167 192 292 231 BEDFORDSHIRE 172 269 414 419 534 639 1,171 1,188 CAMBRIDGESHIRE 43 45 155 172 160 172 221 366 CHESHIRE 523 337 356 773 807 793 642 221 CLEVELAND 13 63 86 154 285 290 554 661 CITY OF LONDON 39 131 364 275 234 183 200 63 CUMBRIA 53 45 65 134 90 72 74 56 DERBYSHIRE 253 363 312 254 257 183 187 252 DEVON & CORNWALL 76 32 94 54 54 76 120 138 DORSET 182 180 215 195 246 322 238 347 DURHAM 57 66 96 91 256 204 192 164 ESSEX 165 176 138 138 155 224 226 391 GLOUCESTERSHIRE 140 166 109 121 145 213 147 120 GTR MANCHESTER 528 406 440 364 306 214 196 460 HAMPSHIRE 116 108 128 167 178 270 271 247 HERTFORDSHIRE 81 129 157 155 160 226 262 311 HUMBERSIDE 273 170 158 184 335 232 183 94 KENT 89 132 193 124 183 373 364 325 LANCASHIRE 192 185 273 228 232 383 313 279 LEICESTERSHIRE 292 232 269 232 328 313 268 332 LINCOLNSHIRE 470 367 355 276 210 147 153 128 MERSEYSIDE 974 547 687 677 611 644 734 445 METROPOLITAN 1,667 2,447 2,423 2,322 2,572 2,770 2,303 3,283 NORFOLK 157 186 169 163 149 133 165 252 NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 25 90 99 89 101 119 127 117 NORTHUMBRIA 1,349 1,204 1,063 893 585 299 199 129 NORTH YORKSHIRE 60 67 110 144 208 268 318 287 NOTTINGHAMSHIRE 333 397 404 336 342 256 246 197 SOUTH YORKSHIRE 221 280 322 438 632 522 493 387 STAFFORDSHIRE 208 241 212 183 154 222 231 192 SUFFOLK 116 160 194 119 149 204 148 206 SURREY 225 240 190 140 204 209 380 469 SUSSEX 189 171 250 163 162 165 311 248 THAMES VALLEY 174 167 179 265 355 227 254 292 WARWICKSHIRE 104 31 138 102 144 121 113 100 WEST MERCIA 100 111 241 152 94 120 121 128 WEST MIDLANDS (1) 563 592 975 952 745 518 716 739 WEST YORKSHIRE 609 565 543 656 1,040 1,048 1,098 1,361 WILTSHIRE 43 39 28 54 124 190 359 499 DYFED POWYS 28 29 28 48 55 72 135 80 GWENT 16 16 23 74 85 109 257 138 NORTH WALES 265 198 153 180 299 295 221 156 SOUTH WALES 218 253 161 165 223 283 222 485 TOTAL 11,574 11,848 13,218 13,137 14,355 14,515 15,425 16,564 Source: See Notes for tables 1. Revised figures for 2007-8 from West Midlands Police

Table 4: Number of incidents where conventional firearms were discharged Year 2001-2 2002-3 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 2008-9

INCIDENTS (1) 1110459374 % OF INCIDENTS COMPARED WITH 0.079 0.067 0.024 0.031 0.048 0.017 0.033 0.020 NUMBER OF AUTHORISED OPERATIONS Source: Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) 1. Does not include discharges for animal destruction or discharges during police training Notes for tables: Source: Home Office Public Order Unit, based on information aggregated from figures provided by individual police forces as part of the Home Office Annual Data Requirement. This was followed by a further quality assurance process involving the Home Office asking individual forces to verify and sign off their figures. The information provided is a regular annual update of figures previously published (Official Report, 2 March 2009, Column 39WS), and on the Home Office website: http://police.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/operational-policing/police-firearms-use-2007-2008.html 131WS Written Ministerial Statements5 MARCH 2010 Written Ministerial Statements 132WS

Home Office guidance to forces for providing these figures is contained within the booklet “Annual Data Requirement, Police Personnel and Performance Data, Notes for Guidance”. For the purpose of this statistical return AFOs are deemed to be deployed when “they are required to conduct a specific task during which their possession of a firearm (with appropriate authorisation) is a required element” (Chapter 3, paragraph 3.1 “ACPO Manual of Guidance on Police Use of Firearms”). In addition to the total number of operations, a further sub-category is required regarding those operations where the initial or sole response is by armed response vehicle (ARV). Each incident will be classed as only one operation regardless of the number of personnel/deployments or tactics employed to deal with the incident. Deployments also include those incidents where AFOs “self-authorise” The number of officers authorised to use firearms as at 31 March 2009.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT one of six priorities. I shall stress that the Employment and Social Policy Council must focus on active inclusion of those farthest from the labour market with ownership New Education Strategy of the policy and responsibility for delivering results. The presidency will seek adoption of the Joint The Secretary of State for International Development Employment Report 2009-2010, and also the Joint Report (Mr. Douglas Alexander): I have deposited in the Library on Social Protection and Social Inclusion 2010. These today my Department’s new education strategy, entitled; annual reports summarise evaluation of member states’ “Learning For All: DFID’s Education Strategy 2010-2015”. progress and the EU’s employment situation and also The strategy has been placed in the Libraries of the key lessons from member states under the open method Houses and an electronically accessible version is available of co-ordination for social protection and social inclusion. on the DFID website at www.dfid.gov.uk/educationstrategy. They also look ahead to further planned work. The UK “Learning For All: DFID’s Education Strategy 2010- is content. 2015” outlines how DFID will contribute to helping the The presidency will also seek adoption of Council world’s children realise their full potential through access conclusions on the eradication of violence against women, to a quality basic education for all. followed by an exchange of views. The UK Government have been working closely with European partners to support the work being progressed on tackling this issue at the European level and welcomes these conclusions. WORK AND PENSIONS There will also be an exchange of views, following a presentation by a delegation of Ministers for Research, Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer on conclusions on European researchers’ mobility and Affairs Council careers adopted by the Competitiveness Council (internal market, industry and research). This item reflects work being undertaken under the banner of the European The Minister for Pensions and the Ageing Society research area, which is designed to advance the so-called (Angela Eagle): The Employment, Social Policy, Health “Fifth Freedom”—the free movement of knowledge and Consumer Affairs Council will be held on 8 March across Europe. One of its elements is work on researcher 2010 in Brussels. I shall represent the United Kingdom careers and mobility, intended to make research an on all items. attractive career option across Europe and promote cross-border mobility of researchers. The Competitiveness The presidency will seek political agreement on a Council agreed conclusions on careers and mobility on proposal for a Council directive which will implement a 1 and 2 March; these include sections on social security social partners’ framework agreement to protect hospital and pensions issues and the intention is that some of and healthcare workers at risk of injury and infection the research Ministers involved will present the conclusions from medical ‘sharps’ (including needle sticks, scalpels to EPSCO to raise the profile of these issues. and suture equipment). Most of the requirements are already covered in the UK by a combination of existing There will also be presentations from the Commission health and safety legislation and healthcare specific on the latest report on equality between women and legislation, codes of practice and guidelines: the UK men, which the UK welcomes, and also information will agree to the proposal. from the presidency on preparation of the Tripartite The main agenda item will be a Commission presentation, Social Summit due to take place before the spring followed by a policy debate on the Commission European Council. Communication on EU 2020 (which replaces the Lisbon Under any other business, the Chairs of the Employment strategy) published on 3 March. The UK response to Committee and the Social Protection Committee will the preceding Commission Consultation on EU 2020—‘EU give an oral presentation on their 2010 work programmes. Compact for Jobs and Growth’—proposed creating There will also be information on conferences held new jobs and up-skilling or re-skilling the workforce as under the Spanish presidency to date. 1413W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1414W

Mr. Thomas: The Prime Minister has committed up Written Answers to to £1.5 billion in Fast Start finance over the next three financial years from 2010-11 to 2012-13. 20 per cent. of Questions this total will be allocated for forestry, including planned investment in the Congo Basin Forest Fund. We are currently developing plans for 2010-11 and will determine Friday 5 March 2010 priorities for 2011-12 and 2012-13 as part of the next spending review.

Departmental Paper SCOTLAND Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what (a) suppliers and (b) Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State brands of (i) paper and (ii) paper products his for Scotland how many full-time equivalent staff of Department uses; and what his Department’s policy is each grade are employed by his Department to assist on the procurement of those materials. [320038] special advisers. [321142] Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for international Ann McKechin: The Scotland Office does not maintain Development (DFID) uses Office of Government records of the administrative time provided to special Commerce (OGC) framework contracts for the purchase advisers and therefore is unable to identify the full-time of all standard paper items such as A4 paper and equivalent figure. However, no staff are solely dedicated envelopes in the UK. The majority of products are to supporting special advisers. purchased from Banner Business Services, including general use paper from their Evolve range, which is made from 100 per cent. recycled content. More detailed information on paper products cannot be provided INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT without incurring disproportionate costs. Democratic Republic of Congo Departmental Temporary Staff

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development whether an environmental International Development from which companies his impact assessment has been conducted for each (a) Department sourced temporary staff in each of the last current and (b) proposed road building project funded three years; how many temporary staff his Department by his Department in Democratic Republic of Congo; employed in each year; and what the monetary value of how much funding for each such project was allocated the contracts with each such company was in each such to reducing the effect on these projects; and what the year. [320016] percentage of the budget for the environment and local population was in (i) 2008, (ii) 2009 and (iii) 2010. Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International [320086] Development (DFID) has formal arrangements with Margaret Hodge, Josephine Sammons and Manpower Mr. Thomas: All road rehabilitation projects funded to provide temporary staff at the administrative level. by the Department of International Development (DFID) In addition, professional and specialist temporary staff in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are subject can be appointed through specialist suppliers without to Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs). the involvement of DFID’s Human Resources Division. The following amounts have been allocated to address Subsequently, there is no central record of the total environmental and social impacts of road rehabilitation number of temporary staff employed or the associated projects currently funded by DFID: costs for each of the last three years. This information £12 million, or 15 per cent., of a total contribution of £78 million cannot be provided without incurring disproportionate from 2009 to 2013 for the ‘Pro Routes’ programme, in partnership costs. with the World Bank. £476,733, or 13 per cent., of a total contribution of £3.66 million Food: Overseas Aid from July 2009 to July 2011 for rehabilitation of roads in eastern DRC, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). Dr. Naysmith: To ask the Secretary of State for £435,949, or 15 per cent., of a total budget of £2.79 million for International Development what steps his Department the same period to rehabilitate a road from Kisangani to Ubundu plans to take to implement its commitment to in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme agricultural and food security research related to (UNDP). developing countries supported by the UK science base in co-operation with UK research councils. [319936] Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much funding has Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International been allocated to the Congo rainforest region as part of Development (DFID) is providing funds for agricultural the £1.5 billion commitment to the fast start global research to the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences financial package to help developing countries address Research Council (BBSRC). This enables us to harness climate change and its impacts agreed at Copenhagen; the UK’s world-class bioscience base to address the and if he will increase the fast-track funding challenges of agricultural growth and food security in contribution to $800 million per year. [320089] developing countries. 1415W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1416W

We fund two programmes jointly with BBSRC: a Mr. Michael Foster: The Department for International crop science programme, to which DFID contributes Development (DFID) prioritises steps to ensure that all £5.34 million; and a livestock disease research programme, our aid is effective, whether delivered by DFID or to which DFID contributes £9.7 million. through multilateral organisations. We are exploring a third collaboration with BBSRC For example we have recently conducted Portfolio into crop science which can help withstand the impact Reviews in the Education and Health sectors which of climate change. DFID is also working with the have shown that DFID is delivering excellent value. Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs DFID’s bilateral aid to the education sector, delivered (DEFRA) and other public sector funders to improve through Government systems, funds an estimated 5 million coordination of agriculture and food security related children through primary school. This aid is funding research. more children in developing countries than the number attending primary schools in the UK at just 2 per cent. Haiti: Earthquakes of the cost. Similar reviews on Governance and Civil Society are currently under way. Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what equipment was used by fire and rescue personnel deployed to Haiti; and if Millennium Development Goals he will make a statement. [320284] Mr. David Hamilton: To ask the Secretary of State Mr. Michael Foster: The following equipment was for International Development what his most recent used by the UK fire and rescue personnel deployed to estimate is of the additional aid required from Haiti; technical search equipment including cameras, contributing states in order to meet the Millennium listening devices and dogs; light concrete breaking Development Goals. [319953] equipment; hand tools including percussion rescue tool (PRT); chainsaws; lighting and generators; and medical Mr. Michael Foster: At the G8 Summit in L’Aquila kit including splints, pain relief and stretchers. last year the UK successfully called for an international assessment of what is needed to achieve the MDGs. The Ms Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for needs assessment will take a broad based approach to International Development how much funding his what is needed to achieve the MDGs, retaining aid as a Department has provided to each (a) multi-national central component, while also taking account of other organisation and (b) UK non-governmental issues such as trade, aid effectiveness, climate change organisation which it has funded as part of the Haiti and international and domestic policy frameworks. The relief operation; and if he will make a statement. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is [320285] currently undertaking this assessment and is due to produce a report in May. Mr. Michael Foster: Details of funding provided by the Department for International Development (DFID) to non-governmental organisations and multilateral Rwanda: Politics and Government organisations to help the relief operation in Haiti are provided in the following table. Mr. Bruce George: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent progress has £ been made on issues covered by point B.10 of the renewed Memorandum of Understanding between the Non governmental organisation UK and the Government of Rwanda, with particular Merlin 398,998 reference to the registration of opposition parties in Agency for Technical Co-operation and 400,000 advance of presidential elections in August 2010. Development (ACTED) [320173] Action Against Hunger (ACF) 1,000,000 Handicap International 500,000 Mr. Thomas: The UK Government are closely Oxfam 1,000,000 monitoring the progress made on the registration of political parties in Rwanda. Ten political parties are Multilateral organisation currently registered and a further two parties are attempting Office for Co-ordination of Humanitarian 1,000,000 to register. The Department for International Development Affairs (OCHA) (DFID) is aware that some parties are reporting registration World Food Programme (WFP) 2,000,000 difficulties and we are pressing the Government of Pan-American Health Organisation/World 300,000 Rwanda to ensure that full political rights, within the Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) framework of Rwandan law, are upheld. International Organisation for Migration 1,120,000 (IOM) Uganda: Armed Conflict International Federation of Red Cross and 1,000,000 Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for International Assistance International Development what humanitarian assistance his Department has provided to those Mr. Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for displaced and otherwise affected by the activities of the International Development what recent steps he has Lord’s Resistance Army; and what steps his taken to assess the effectiveness of his Department’s Department is taking to ensure the (a) delivery and international aid. [320058] (b) security of this assistance. [320343] 1417W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1418W

Mr. Thomas: In 2009 the Department for International Letter from Stephen Geraghty: Development (DFID) provided over £100 million for In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the humanitarian assistance to those affected by the activities Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive of the Lords Resistance Army (LRA). Of this, around reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child £70 million was provided through UN Humanitarian Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance Pooled Funds, and the remainder through other UN and Enforcement Commission. agencies, NGOs and other partners. You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what Monitoring and security procedures are built into all the Child Support Agency’s policy is on payment by credit card DFID programmes as standard. This allows staff to from individuals in arrears. [318742] assess the delivery and impact of UK aid, and closely The Child Support Agency has had the facility to accept credit monitor security risks. All UN pooled funds include and debit card payments since the introduction of Regulation 3 of the Child support (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2006. mechanisms that enable all donors to monitor the delivery This was introduced to provide access to a convenient and widely and security of assistance. used method of payment. The policy is to ensure the best payment agreement is reached with the non-resident parent without jeopardising the flow of regular maintenance payments. It is for the non-resident parent to WORK AND PENSIONS determine whether it is appropriate to use a credit card to make the payments required by such an agreement. Children: Maintenance I hope you find this answer helpful.

Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the total value of overpayments and Pensions what advice is given by the Child Support made by the Child Support Agency was in each of the Agency to people liable for maintenance payments on last three years. [318741] the use of credit cards to clear their arrears. [318745]

Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information requested and I have seen the response. information requested and I have seen the response. Letter from Stephen Geraghty: Letter from Stephen Geraghty: In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child and Enforcement Commission. Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission. You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the total value of overpayments made by the Child Support You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what Agency was in each of the last three years. (318741) advice is given by the Child Support Agency to people liable for maintenance payments who are (a) in arrears, (b) late in making The total value of child maintenance payments overpaid to a payments and (c) behind on their payment schedules on the use of parent with care is included in the table below. This includes credit cards to clear their arrears. [318745] figures over each of the last three financial years to January 2010. The Child Support Agency’s Debt Steer states that the starting £ point when negotiating an arrears payment plan is to require full repayment immediately. Where this is not possible, the aim will be April 2007 to March 2008 6,203,754.72 to reach an agreement that will achieve full recovery within, at April 2008 to March 2009 6,510,103.73 most two years, with the discretion to accept an arrangement April 2009 to January 2010 6,497,860.88 extending beyond this period where a client’s circumstances warrant it. These figures are for overpayments made by non-resident In all cases involving arrears, caseworkers are instructed to parents as a result of retrospective changes of circumstances and discuss payment options that could be available to the client. a consequent downward valuation of maintenance assessments. Caseworkers do not provide financial advice, or recommend one These recalculations usually occur as an outcome of new information payment option over another. Caseworkers can also signpost being provided to the agency. clients to other, independent organisations for financial help and Where an overpayment is made the money is refunded to the advice where appropriate. non-resident parent. I hope you find this answer helpful. I hope you find this answer helpful.

Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Mr. Weir: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and and Pensions what the Child Support Agency’s policy Pensions how many cases of absent parents in (a) is on payment by credit card from individuals in arrears Scotland and (b) Angus constituency the Child Support Agency is managing. [318801] on their maintenance payments. [318742]

Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information requested and I have seen the response. information requested and I have seen the response. 1419W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1420W

Letter from Stephen Geraghty: scheme cases with a full maintenance calculation or default maintenance decision. Figures are adjusted to reflect those cases In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the administered clerically. Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child I hope you find this answer helpful. Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission. Council Tax Benefits You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many cases of absent parents in (a) Scotland and (b) Angus Mr. Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State constituency the Child Support Agency is managing. [318801] for Work and Pensions what measures introduced by In December 2009, there are 112,810 live and assessed cases in her Department since May 2005 have made it easier for Scotland and 2,170 in the parliamentary constituency of Angus. (a) pensioners and (b) low income earners to claim These figures include old scheme cases with a full or interim council tax benefit. [319609] maintenance assessment as well as current scheme cases with a full maintenance calculation or default maintenance decision. Helen Goodman: Council tax benefit provides financial Figures are adjusted to reflect those cases administered clerically. assistance with payment of council tax bills to people I hope you find this answer helpful. on low income and plays an important role in helping to combat pensioner and child poverty. Modernising and Mr. Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for simplifying the claims process is a key part of the Work and Pensions how many cases relating to absent Department’s strategy to increase benefit take-up among parents resident in Milton Keynes the Child Support both pensioners and people of working age. We are also Agency is managing. [319003] introducing a range of measures to improve awareness among staff, customers and advisers of the help that council tax benefit can give to people both in and out of Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and work. Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance The main focus of activity to help poorer pensioners Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the has been the automation of the claims process. In information requested and I have seen the response. December 2005 a shortened, three page claim form was introduced for housing benefit and council tax benefit Letter from Stephen Geraghty: replacing a claim form that ran to 28 pages. Completion In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the of the form was undertaken on behalf of the customer Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive by officials in the Pension, Disability and Carers Service reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child at the same time as a claim to pension credit was made Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance over the telephone. The form was then sent to the and Enforcement Commission. customer to check and sign and return to the local You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how authority. many cases relating to absent parents resident in Milton Keynes the Child Support Agency is managing. [319003] From November 2008, the need for the customer to complete and sign a claim form was removed and Latest figures available show as at December 2009, the number of cases in Milton Keynes is 4,480. These figures include old housing benefit and council tax benefit claims data have scheme cases with a full maintenance assessment as well as been sent direct to the local authority. current scheme cases with a full maintenance calculation or This automated claims process has been further enhanced default maintenance decision. Figures are adjusted to reflect and since January 2010, all local authorities are able to those cases administered clerically. receive secure electronic transfer of data making the I hope you find this answer helpful. claiming process virtually automatic for all pensioner customers. Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Jobcentre Plus has successfully rolled out a new process Work and Pensions how many cases managed by the which makes claiming benefits, including council tax Child Support Agency relate to absent parents in (a) benefit, easier and faster for people moving into and Scotland and (b) Moray constituency. [319674] out of employment. The in and out of work process involves Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs and local Helen Goodman: The Child Maintenance and authorities, working with Jobcentre Plus to smooth the Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child transition for customers moving in and out of work maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance reducing the number of organisations the customer has Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the to contact at the point they make a new claim or when information requested and I have seen the response. they start work. Jobcentre Plus gathers all the information and evidence that is needed for housing benefit, council Letter from Stephen Geraghty: tax benefit and tax credits improving the speed and In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the accuracy of information sharing so that the right benefit Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive is paid more quickly. reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance The Department continues to explore ways to make and Enforcement Commission. the claiming process more automatic through wider use You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how of data sharing and also by data matching to assist local many cases managed by the Child Support Agency relate to authorities to identify customers with potential entitlement. absent parents in (a) Scotland and (b) Moray constituency. [319674] It will continue to look for service improvements on Latest figures show as at December 2009, the number of cases offer to pensioners for example by partnership working in Scotland is 111,050; of these 1,760 are in the Parliamentary with local authorities and other agencies and signposting Constituency of Moray. These figures include old scheme cases to the most appropriate contact point too pursue a with a full or interim maintenance assessment as well as current benefit claim. 1421W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1422W

Departmental Manpower The decrease in the total number of Fraud Investigation Service staff needs to be seen against the pre-recession Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work spending review efficiency challenge. There have been and Pensions how many full-time equivalent staff there significant productivity gains and elimination of waste have been in her Department’s (a) Fraud Investigation that have seen record numbers of benefit thieves caught Service and (b) Organised Fraud Unit in each year and sanctioned. The numbers in the Organised Fraud since 2006. [316364] Unit are a reflection of our commitment to tackle the serious and organised fraudsters who abuse the benefits Jonathan Shaw: The available information is in the system. table (data are not available prior to 2007): Departmental Written Questions Numbers of full-time equivalent staff in Fraud Investigation Service and Organised Fraud Unit since 2007 John Mason: To ask the Secretary of State for Work Total number of Fraud and Pensions how many questions tabled for answer on Investigation staff Total number of (excluding Organised Organised Fraud Unit a named day her Department received in each of the Date Fraud Unit staff) staff last 12 months; and to how many such questions her Department provided a substantive answer on the day March 2007 2,785 233 named. [305384] March 2008 2,671 201 March 2009 2,564 214 September 2009 2,557 218 Helen Goodman: The information requested is in the following table:

Named day questions by month tabled 2009 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Sept Oct Nov Dec

Number 20 21 19 9 6 29 34 17 17 14 18 answeredonor before the named day Number 62 83 91 29 47 65 43 44 53 35 34 answered after the named day Total number 82 104 110 38 53 94 77 61 70 49 52

Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Work rent paid; and what estimate she has made of the and Pensions how many and what percentage of average weekly payment made by such claimants in the parliamentary questions tabled for written answer by latest period for which figures are available. [318637] her Department on a named day in session 2008-09 received a substantive answer on that day. [307546] Helen Goodman: In August 2009, 48 per cent. of customers who received housing benefit under the local Helen Goodman: The Department answered 829 named housing allowance arrangements had a shortfall of day questions in session 2008-09, of which 252 (30.4 per £23 per week on average. This relates to shortfalls cent.) received a substantive reply on the named day. caused by a customer’s contractual rent being higher than the appropriate local housing allowance rate. David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what average time her Department Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for took to answer questions for (a) ordinary written Work and Pensions what percentage of those in receipt answer and (b) written answer on a named day in the of housing benefit in the private rented sector, last 12 months. [313648] excluding those in receipt of local housing allowance, have their benefit paid to (a) their landlord and (b) Helen Goodman: In the 12 months to 31 January 2010 themselves. [318813] the average time taken by the Department to answer (a) ordinary written questions was 14.0 sitting days Helen Goodman: The information is not available in and (b) named day questions was 8.9 sitting days. the format requested and could be obtained only at With effect from the current Session of Parliament, disproportionate cost. each Department will provide the Procedure Committee with sessional statistics on the time taken to answer Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for written questions. This implements recommendation 24 Work and Pensions what percentage of those in receipt of the 3rd report from the Procedure Committee, Session of local housing allowance have their benefit paid to 2008-09 (a) their landlord and (b) themselves. [318815]

Housing Benefit Helen Goodman: The local housing allowance, rolled out from 7 April 2008, uses the appropriate local housing Greg Mulholland: To ask the Secretary of State for allowance rate, based on the area where the person lives Work and Pensions what proportion of claimants of and the size of their household, to determine the maximum local housing allowance make an additional payment amount to be included in the housing benefit calculation. to cover the difference between benefit received and Customers can choose to rent properties with rents 1423W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1424W below the local housing allowance rate and are able to severely disabled people. The Government are committed keep the excess benefit up to a maximum of £15 per to providing real help to disabled people, particularly week. If the rent is higher than the local housing through the early stages of economic recovery. This is allowance rate they must make up the difference from why the Chancellor announced in the December 2009 other sources of income. pre-Budget report that attendance allowance would be In August 2009, 25 per cent of customers who received increased by 1.5 per cent.—bringing forward help when housing benefit under the local housing allowance it is most needed. Without this commitment, the recent arrangements had their benefit paid to their landlord negative growth in the Retail Prices Index would have and 72 per cent had their benefit paid to themselves. For meant that this benefit would not have increased in 3 per cent. of customers the payment destination 2010. information is not reliably reported. From 27 October 2008 we replaced incapacity benefits for new customers with the employment and support Mortgages: Government Assistance allowance and a revised medical assessment which focuses on what people can do, as well as what they cannot. Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Work The principal function of pension credit is to tackle and Pensions how much was spent by her Department pensioner poverty by topping up the incomes of pensioners on the Support for Mortgage Interest Scheme in (a) over 60 to the guaranteed minimum amount appropriate each of the last three years and (b) 2009-10 to date. to their circumstances. [316745] The information requested is in the table. Number of cases in payment and average weekly payment of Pension Helen Goodman: Annual expenditure on the Support Credit, Attendance Allowance, Incapacity Benefit/Severe Disablement for Mortgage Interest scheme in the last three years was Allowance and Jobseeker’s Allowance in the Banff and Buchan as follows: constituency in August 2009 Number of cases Average weekly £ million Benefit in payment amount paid (£)

2006-07 390 Pension Credit 4,570 48.81 2007-08 430 (households) 2008-09 430 Attendance Allowance 1,990 59.29 Incapacity Benefit/Severe 3,930 94.43 The latest available data are for the first quarter of Disablement Allowance 2009-10, for which the total expenditure on the Support Jobseeker’s Allowance 980 62.70 for Mortgage Interest scheme was £120 million. Notes: Source: 1. Benefit recipients are rounded to the nearest 10. 2. Average weekly amounts rounded to the nearest penny. DWP Quarterly Statistical Enquiry 3. Benefit recipients receiving more than one of these benefits will be counted under each benefit. Pension Credit: Essex 4. Attendance allowance totals exclude people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, for example if they are in hospital. Mr. Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 5. These data do not include claimants of employment and support and Pensions what estimate she has made of the allowance introduced from October 2008. number of pensioners resident in (a) Essex and (b) 6. All data refers to benefit recipients and will therefore exclude Southend eligible for but not claiming pension credit. credits only and nil payment cases. [320642] 7. Household is defined here as the number of individuals or couples in receipt of pension credit and equates to a “benefit unit” which, since 2006, also include same-sex partners. Two individuals who are Angela Eagle: Estimates of eligibility are not available not partners but live in the same house are counted as separate below the level of Great Britain. households. The latest estimates of the take-up rates and the Source: Department for Work and Pensions Information Directorate: Work number of those entitled but not receiving pension and Pensions Longitudinal Study. credit are published in the report “Income Related Benefits estimates of Take-Up in 2007-08”, which is State Retirement Pensions available in the House of Commons Library or on the DWP website at: Mr. Waterson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/irb.asp and Pensions (1) what mechanisms were in place to monitor the implementation of the financial Social Security Benefits: Aberdeenshire corrections made by her Department in respect of voluntary pension payments made between 1996 and Mr. Salmond: To ask the Secretary of State for Work 2002; [316300] and Pensions how many individuals are in receipt of (2) what financial corrections were made by the (a) pension credit, (b) attendance allowance, (c) Government in respect of reminders for voluntary incapacity benefit and (d) jobseeker’s allowance in pensions contributions in each year between 1996 and Banff and Buchan constituency; and what the average 2002; and whether those corrections were made only in weekly level of each benefit received was in the latest respect of individuals who had previously made period for which figures are available. [319346] voluntary pension contributions; [316301] (3) how much has been paid in pension back Jonathan Shaw: Attendance allowance provides an payments to overseas residents who did not receive important non-contributory, non-income-related and reminders about their voluntary pension contributions tax free cash contribution towards the extra costs of in each year between 1996 and 2002. [316302] 1425W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1426W

Angela Eagle: For the tax years 1996-07 to 2001-02 Atos Healthcare nurses must be fully registered (level 1) deficiency notices inviting customers with gaps in their Registered General Nurses without current or previous national insurance records to pay voluntary contributions restrictions or cautions with the Nursing and Midwifery were temporarily suspended. Following the suspension Council. In addition they must have at least three years my Department was responsible for contacting those post full registration experience. In individual cases, people who reached state pension age between 6 April solely at the discretion of the DWP chief medical 1998 and 24 October 2004, and were due to receive a adviser, the requirements that no cautions be attached deficiency notice for one of more of the above tax years. to registration and that the nurse must have a minimum An exercise started in September 2004 to contact such of three years post registration experience, may be waived. customers, where it would be beneficial for them to Atos Healthcare doctors and nurses are specifically consider paying voluntary contributions. trained to provide decision making authorities with Regulations allow for any customer who reached independent, accurate and authoritative advice and reports state pension age between 6 April 1998 and 24 October on the effects of disability. 2004 to pay voluntary contributions for the tax years Initial Training: varies in detail according to which benefit is 1996-07 to 2001-02. It is not possible to identify separately involved. However all such training follows a similar basic pattern, those who have made voluntary contributions after as follows: contact by my Department and those who have made Theoretical Training: Theoretical training commences with a them through their own inquiries. To date, following trainer led theory based course usually delivered to a group of payment of voluntary contributions by individual trainees in a classroom setting. Trainees who are new to the work customers, arrears of state pension amounting to of Atos Healthcare will receive instruction in such areas as disability analysis, customer’s rights, equal opportunities and £84.2 million have been paid to customers in Great professional standards. Detailed technical information relevant Britain and £30 million to customers resident overseas. to the benefit concerned is provided. All Atos Healthcare trainers This is based on current information as customers still have undergone specific training to prepare them for the role, have until 5 April 2010 to decide whether to pay such including practical sessions to enhance their understanding of voluntary contributions for these years. An annual how adults learn. breakdown of arrears attributable to voluntary Practical Training: Practical Training is the work undertaken contributions made in each of the tax years is not available. by the new recruits that is produced in a controlled environment. For examination centre based assessments the trainee is supervised Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and appraised by an experienced medical adviser as they complete and Pensions what recent representations she has their introductory cases. In the domiciliary visit based benefits the initial cases are monitored immediately on return to allow feedback received on the uprating of the additional state to be given without delay. [318621] pension; and if she will make a statement. Demonstration of understanding assessed by multiple choice examination: for incapacity benefit, employment and support Angela Eagle: The Department has received a number allowance and disability living allowance the trainee is required to of representations on the uprating of additional pension. attain a pass mark in a multiple choice questionnaire before they Increasing the basic state pension along with pension are allowed to proceed to the practical training. The questionnaire credit is the most effective way of getting help to over includes questions on the whole range of topics covered in the 11 million pensioners in Great Britain. training course. Demonstration of understanding by audit: In all benefits the In the absence of RPI inflation there is no legal initial cases produced by the trainee are target monitored by an requirement to uprate additional pension. We have therefore experienced medical adviser and the training cannot be considered decided to adopt a more equitable approach to helping as complete until the HCP has demonstrated that their work is pensioners by increasing the basic state pension which acceptable. Whenever any problems are identified appropriate goes to virtually all pensioners in Great Britain and feedback is provided. Further cases are monitored until the work pension credit which goes to the poorest. is shown to be satisfactory. If the situation is not rectified the HCP may be required to repeat the entire training process. Work Capability Assessment Continued lack of progress will result in the HCP being offered no further training and no further work. Approval: All HCPs must be approved by the chief medical Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Work adviser to the DWP and separate approval is required for each and Pensions what (a) medical training and (b) benefit area in which the HCP is involved. Approval is dependent diagnostic experience her Department requires of Atos on successful completion of all stages of their training process Medical Ltd. employees contracted to carry out work and ongoing demonstration that the work being carried out meets capability assessments. [318177] a satisfactory standard. Written Guidelines: As part of the trainees training and ongoing Jonathan Shaw: Atos Healthcare doctors must be support, HCPs are issued with guidelines pertaining to the benefit fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) involved. These guidance notes provide specific technical advice without current or previous restrictions, conditions or about the benefit concerned, outline best practise and contain general advice about disability analysis and service to the people warnings and hold a licence to practice from the date with disabilities. the GMC issues licences. In addition they must have at least three years post full registration (GMC or EEA— European Economic Area equivalent) experience. Alternatively for non EU graduates three years minimum TRANSPORT post full registration experience in the doctors native A19: North Tyneside country is required. In individual cases, solely at the discretion of the DWP chief medical adviser, the Norman Baker: To ask the Minister of State, requirements that no conditions or warnings be attached Department for Transport if he will take steps to to registration and that the doctor must have a minimum ensure that the proposed improvements to the junction of three years post registration experience, may be waived. of the A1058 and A19 are concluded in a way that 1427W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1428W makes appropriate provision for further future Mrs. Ellman: To ask the Minister of State, improvement works on the A19 to be carried out, with Department for Transport what steps he takes to assess particular reference to traffic flow arrangements during the performance of local authorities in respect of civil any period of construction. [320807] parking enforcement. [320959]

Chris Mole: The proposed improvements by the Mr. Khan: We have no plans to carry out such Highways Agency to the roundabout where the A1058 assessments. Councillors are accountable to the electorate, slip road and the A19 meet are an interim scheme rather than to the Government, for the performance of designed to relieve congestion at the roundabout in the their local authority. The Government’s longer term short term until a major improvement scheme can be vision for local government involves councils reporting delivered. In the Highways Agency’s contract for these less to central Government and more to their local works, there will be a requirement to maintain two lanes communities. in both directions for traffic on the A19 during peak periods. By increasing the available road space at the junction, CHILDREN, SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES this scheme should make it easier to manage traffic flow Class Sizes during the construction of further future improvements, such as the major improvement scheme for the Interchange. Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for During the development of the interim scheme, Children, Schools and Families what the average staff (a) discussions have been held with the designer of the to pupil ratio is in secondary schools in St. Albans (b) [320889] major improvement scheme to ensure that there is a constituency and England. minimum of abortive work, and that the two schemes Mr. Coaker: The following table provides the pupil:adult are compatible. The precise traffic management ratios for local authority maintained secondary schools requirements for the major improvement scheme will in St. Albans constituency and England, January 2009. not be decided until a contractor is appointed, but it is Within school pupil:adult ratio (PAR)1 in local authority maintained secondary envisaged that the scheme can be constructed without schools2 Year: January 2009, Coverage: St. Albans constituency and England major disruption, with two lanes maintained in both Secondary directions for traffic on the A19 and A1058 Coast Road during peak periods. England 10.7 St. Albans 11.5 Bus Services: Concessions 1 The within school PAR is calculated by dividing the total full-time equivalent (FTE) number of pupils on roll in schools by the total FTE number of all teachers and support staff employed in schools, excluding administrative and Mr. Harper: To ask the Minister of State, clerical staff. 2 Excludes city technology colleges and academies. Department for Transport if he will estimate the cost to Source: the Exchequer of mutual recognition of concessionary School Census bus travel passes between England and Wales. [320936]

Mr. Khan: It is difficult to predict the cost of mutual SOLICITOR-GENERAL recognition of concessionary travel bus passes across Departmental Paper the devolved Administrations because the precise pattern of passholder travel is not knowable in advance. However, Martin Horwood: To ask the Solicitor-General what the Department for Transport has commissioned some (a) suppliers and (b) brands of (i) paper and (ii) paper research and this suggested that mutual recognition, products the Law Officers’ Departments use; and what excluding Northern Ireland, could cost in the region of the Law Officers’ Department’s policies are on the £11 million per annum. This does not take into account procurement of those materials. [320021] the potentially significant costs of harmonisation of the different concessionary travel schemes which apply in The Solicitor-General: The information requested is England, Wales and Scotland. as follows: Attorney-General’s Office (AGO) Parking Offences Where possible, the AGO uses recycled paper products. Where it is not recycled, it is sourced from ‘well-managed Mrs. Ellman: To ask the Minister of State, forests’. The hand towels, which are currently ‘virgin Department for Transport what powers the Secretary pulp’ are being switched to a 100 per cent. recycled of State has to (a) suspend and (b) revoke the civil product once current supplies are exhausted parking enforcement powers exercised by a local Recycled authority; and what criteria he uses to determine Brand Supplier Paper type Size Weight content whether it is appropriate to exercise such powers. [320958] Evolve Eximedia Copier paper A4 80g/m 100 per cent. Steinbeis Banner Copier paper A3 80g/m2 100 per Mr. Khan: The Secretary of State has the power to cent. revoke a Statutory Instrument that designates the whole Xerox Banner Copier A4 80/gm Virgin or part of a local authority’s area as a civil enforcement Symphony paper— area for parking contraventions on the application of green that authority. Each application would be considered Letterheaded Eximedia Ministerial A4 100g/m Virgin paper paper on its merits. There is no power to suspend such an Viking Viking White Card A4 160g/m2 Virgin instrument. 1429W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1430W

Prior to the merger of the two departments in 2009-10 Recycled Brand Supplier Paper type Size Weight content Revenue and Customs Prosecutions’ Office (RCPO) obtained all its paper supplies, other than the fine Luxury Mayflower Toilet tissue — — 100 per quality bond paper, from Premier Beswick Paper mills, whisper cent. who are a recommended supplier from OGC. All the Tork Mayflower Hand towels — — Virgin premium paper provided by Premier Beswick is 100 per cent. Katrin classic Mayflower Kitchen roll — — 100 per recycled. cent. Treasury Solicitor’s Department The Treasury Solicitor’s Department (TSol) utilises National Fraud Authority (NFA) (a) Banner Office Supplies and Exi Serve Ltd. and (b) The NFA is committed to using suppliers that are paper products as follows: contracted via the Office of Government Commerce Buying Solutions Framework to ensure value for money; Size procuring paper products that are sustainably sourced Stationery items—supplier and brand both Banner where possible. In 2008-09 all paper products used by Office Supplies NFA were sourced from sustainable forests and are 100 A-Z index books A4/A5 0 per cent. recyclable. Current brands used are as follows: Memo pads A4/A5 Shorthand notebooks A5 Type Supplier Brand Specification Plain pads A5/A6 Post-it notes Small/medium/large Copier paper Lyreco UK Ltd. Navigator A4 and A3 80gsm Universal White Blue inserts/spines/corners — Printing paper Lyreco UK Ltd. Navigator A4 and A3 80gsm Photocopying paper (part recycled fibres) A4 Universal White Photocopying paper (part recycled fibres) A3 Banner Business Xerox A4 Symphony Tint Supplies 80gsm Green Envelopes—supplier and brand both Banner Office Supplies No orders were placed for paper packaging, craft A5 White Window 229x162 materials or hygiene products A5 Plain 229x162 between August 2008 and March 2009. A4 Window — Serious Fraud Office A4 Plain — Plain 254x178 SFO policy on the procurement of paper and paper Plain 381x254 products is (wherever possible) to meet the “Buy Window 110x220 Sustainable—Quick Wins” best practice specifications Plain 110x220 issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Plain 406x305 Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Suppliers used are ‘Talk paper’ Transit envelopes Medium/large and ‘KH packaging’. The brands are as follows:

Paper brand Stationery products—supplier Exi Serve Ltd; Brand Evolve Office Q-Connect Evolve Office 2 Hole Business storage boxes/archive boxes — Counsel note books — Drilled Data Copy Colour The Treasury Solicitor’s Departments policy is to Data Colour procure, where possible, all items of paper products Data Colour Every day from Banner Office Supplies under a framework agreement Crown Prosecution Service negotiated by HM Revenue and Customs and to ensure The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has a national that items are procured in the most cost-efficient and framework contract with Office Depot for the supply of environmentally manner possible. general stationery items and photocopying paper. CPS HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate Sustainable Procurement Policy mandates that relevant HMCPSI have adopted sustainable procurement and products are purchased in accordance with the Office of are working with TSol towards adopting their Government Commerce’s list of quick wins. e-procurement policy and framework. Wherever possible, The CPS does not keep central records of the brands HMCPSI are committed to meet the “Buy Sustainable— of paper products purchased and to obtain these details Quick Wins” best practice specifications issued by the would involve manually checking paper records throughout Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs the organisation and would incur disproportionate cost. (DEFRA). According to records supplied by Office Depot brands The following table shows the (a) suppliers (b) brands of paper purchased during 2008-09 include Niceday, of (i) paper and (ii) paper products bought during the Epson, Evolve, Hewlett Packard, Xerox, Datacopy, financial year 2008-09. Steinbeis and Conqueror. The CPS is a devolved organisation and it is possible (ii) Paper (a) Supplier (b) Brands (i) Paper products that additional paper products outside of the Office Depot contract have been purchased. To obtain details Lyreco UK Ltd. Evolve which is Copier/office — of these including the brands of items would incur 100 per cent. paper recycled content disproportionate cost. 1431W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1432W

Royal Family (ii) Paper (a) Supplier (b) Brands (i) Paper products Norman Baker: To ask the Solicitor-General which Paperback Ltd. Croxley Letterhead — Heritage which members of the Royal Family are entitled to the is 80 per cent. assistance of the Attorney-General in her capacity as recycled content legal adviser. [319371] Paperback Ltd. Evercolour Coloured paper — which is 100 per cent. recycled The Solicitor-General: The only member of the Royal content Family whom the Attorney-General, as Her Majesty’s Xerox (MOJ) Usually Xerox Report Printing — Attorney-General, is on occasion called upon to advise supplier own brand is the Queen. paper. No definite figure for recycled Royal Family: Wills content but meets Norman Baker: To ask the Solicitor-General (1) who government standard initiated the discussions between the Palace, Farrers, Pioneer Quality No information — Toilet paper and the Attorney-General’s Secretariat, the Attorney- Services and supplied by hand towels General, a Senior District Judge, and President of the their sub- contractor contractors Family Division on the practice of the sealing of royal Lyreco UK Ltd. Impega and — Envelopes wills, leading to the creation of a document considering Tyrek— the practices for the closure of royal wills which was company created in discussions before and after the death of the brands. They are endorsed by late Her Royal Highness the Princess Margaret the Forest Countess of Snowdon, but prior to the issue of any Stewardship proceedings; [319368] Council and are sourced from (2) if she will publish the record of the discussions sustainable between the Palace, Farrers, the Attorney-General’s forests and are 100 per cent. Secretariat, the Attorney-General, a Senior District recyclable Judge, and President of the Family Division on the practice of sealing of royal wills before and after the Hotels death of the late Her Royal Highness the Princess Margaret Countess of Snowdon, but prior to the issue Mr. Maude: To ask the Solicitor-General pursuant to of any proceedings to the sealing of royal wills. the answer to hon. Member for Ruislip Northwood of [319369] 9 February 2010, Official Report, column 861W, on hotels, at which hotels graded five star or above The Solicitor-General: There have from time to time bookings were made; for what (a) dates and (b) for many years been discussions between interested purposes the bookings were made; and whether the parties about the practice of the sealing of royal wills. It bookings were made on behalf of (i) Ministers and (ii) is not usual practice to comment on discussions undertaken civil servants. [320911] in confidence with the Royal Household or their legal representatives. The Solicitor-General: The following five star hotels were booked for civil servants carrying out official Norman Baker: To ask the Solicitor-General whether duties. SFO policy is that hotel expenditure should meet the Attorney-General attended a court hearing to the SFO hotel booking policy which compares favourably determine whether the will of (a) Her Majesty the with wider Government service policies. Hotels with Queen Mother and (b) Her Royal Highness the five star ratings have only been selected in exceptional Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon should be circumstances where other lower ratings were not available sealed. [319370] or suitable. The geographical location of the hotels has not been specified because all the bookings related to The Solicitor-General: The Attorney-General did attend investigations conducted by the Serious Fraud Office court hearings to determine whether the wills of Her into possible criminal activity. Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Her Royal Highness the Princess Margaret should be sealed. Hotel name Arrival

Hilton 25 May 2009 Hilton 25 May 2009 HEALTH Inter-Continental hotel 26 Aug 2009 Departmental Pay Radisson 20 May 2009 Radisson 15 Sep 2009 Radisson 02 Mar 2009 Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State Radisson 02 Mar 2009 for Health how much was paid in reimbursable Radisson 03 Aug 2009 expenses to special advisers in his Department in each [320477] Radisson 22 Apr 2009 of the last five years. Radisson 22 Apr 2009 Radisson 22 Apr 2009 Phil Hope: The Department paid the following amounts, Other unnamed hotel 05 Jul 2009 as reimbursable expenses, over the past five financial years: 1433W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1434W

Other strategies currently being implemented are: £ Subject to parliamentary approval, the Personal Care at Home 2009-10 (to date) 476.69 Bill will guarantee free personal care for 280,000 people with the 2008-09 738.62 highest needs and help around 130,000 people who need home 2007-08 1,156.28 care for the first time to regain their independence. 2006-07 501.49 ‘Shaping the Future of Care Together’ Green Paper, published 2005-06 1,081.34 in July 2009, sets out a vision of a National Care Service for all adults in England which is fair, simple and affordable. The Department has consulted widely on this reform and is currently Grimsby analysing the responses, which will feed into a White Paper later this year. The National Carer’s Strategy (‘Carers at the heart of 21st Mr. Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for century families and Communities’), launched in 2008. Health if he will set out, with statistical information The first National Dementia Strategy was published in February related as directly as possible to Great Grimsby 2009. constituency, the effects of his Department’s policies ‘Valuing People Now’, a three year strategy for people with on that constituency since 1997. [320181] learning disabilities published in January 2009. ‘New Horizons: A Shared Vision for Mental Health’, launched Ann Keen: The Government have put in place a in December 2009, to maintain improvements in mental health programme of national health service investment and services combined with a new cross-Government approach to reform since 1997 to improve service delivery in all parts promoting public mental health. of the United Kingdom. 93 per cent. of people nationally Since 1998, there are now 2.4 million fewer smokers in England now rate the NHS as good or excellent. The NHS as a result of the Government’s comprehensive tobacco control Constitution contains 25 rights and 14 pledges for strategy which has a measurable impact on reducing smoking patients and the public including new rights to be prevalence. treated within 18 weeks, or be seen by a cancer specialist Child obesity levels are reducing due to the efforts of families within two weeks and an NHS health check every five across England, supported by the Government’s obesity strategy. years for those aged 40 to 74 years. In 2008, 13.9 per cent. of children (aged two to 10) in England were classified as obese, compared with 17.3 per cent. in 2005. There is significant evidence that these policies have yielded considerable benefits for the Great Grimsby Overall, life expectancy at birth for men has increased from 74.5 years (1995-97 data) to 77.7 years (2006-08 data) while for constituency. For example: women, life expectancy at birth has increased from 79.6 years Figures for December 2009 show that in the North East (1995-97 data) to 81.9 years (2006-08 data). Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus: 99 per cent. of patients whose treatment involved admission to Health Services: Isle of Man hospital started their treatment within 18 weeks. 99 per cent. of patients whose treatment did not involve Andrew Mackinlay: To ask the Secretary of State for admission to hospital started their treatment within 18 weeks. Health whether Flybe has been consulted on the In December 2009, at the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole implications for carriers of the discontinuance of Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 98.5 per cent. of patients spent the reciprocal health agreement between the UK and less than four hours in accident and emergency from arrival to admission, transfer or discharge. the Isle of Man; and if he will make a statement. [318456] Between September 2002 and September 2008, the number of consultants at the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has increased from 120 to 141. Between Gillian Merron: The Department took the decision to September 2002 and September 2008 the estimated number of end the reciprocal healthcare agreement between the nurses has increased from 1,646 to 1,826. United Kingdom and the Isle of Man, as it no longer Between September 2001 and September 2008 the number of represents value for money to the UK taxpayer. Neither general practitioners (GPs) per 100,000 within the North East Flybe, nor other carriers, were consulted as part of that Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus has increased from 55.9 to 62.6. process. However, the Department will be targeting the 96.3 per cent. of urgent GP referrals to the Northern Lincolnshire tourist industry as part of a campaign to raise awareness and Goole Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust with suspected that the agreement with the Isle of Man will be ending. cancer are seen by a specialist within two weeks of the referral (as at December 2009). Illegal Immigrants In July 2009, a new GP-led health centre opened in Grimsby town centre. The health centre is open from 8 am until 8 pm, Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Health seven days a week, 365 days a year, and offers bookable appointments how many staff his Department and its agencies have and walk-in services for any member of the public. appointed who were later discovered to be illegal There is one publicly funded scheme in the area that serves this immigrants since 2005. [320445] constituency: a £12 million women and children’s unit at the Diana Princess of Wales Hospital, which opened in February 2004. Phil Hope: No illegal immigrants have been found to be working within the Department or its agencies in the Although statistical information is not available at a last five years. local level, Great Grimsby will have also benefitted from national policies in other areas. For example: Mobile Phones: Children Since 1997, gross current expenditure on personal social services has increased by around 70 per cent. in real terms with around 105,000 households now receiving intensive Lembit Öpik: To ask the Secretary of State for home care and 3,076 new extra care housing units—exceeding Health what steps his Department has taken to the original target of 1,500 new extra care units. increase awareness of its advice on the use of mobile 1435W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1436W telephones by children and young people under the age Horses: Anaemia of 16; and if he will make a statement. [320171] Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Gillian Merron: The Department’s leaflet, “mobile Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many cases phones and health”, including advice concerning children’s of equine infectious anaemia were reported in the UK use of mobile phones, is available on the Department’s in each of the last five years. [320968] website at: www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/ Jim Fitzpatrick: There have been two cases of equine PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_4123979 infectious anaemia reported in the UK in the last five years. The first was in Northern Ireland in September The Department keeps this leaflet under review to 2006, the second was in England in January 2010. ensure the presentation is fresh and effective. A copy has already been placed in the Library. Livestock: Exports Advice on using mobile phones is also available on the NHS Choices website at: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for www.nhs.uk/conditions/mobile-phone-safety/pages/risks.aspx Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many (a) The Health Protection Agency’s Radiation Protection unweaned calves, (b) cattle, (c) sheep and (d) other Division advises the Government on science matters livestock species were exported for (i) further fattening concerning electromagnetic fields and has recently reviewed and (ii) slaughter in 2009. [319974] its website advice on mobile phones at: www.hpa.org.uk/webw/HPAweb&HPAwebStandard/ Jim Fitzpatrick: Statistics on numbers of animals HPAweb_C/1195733769169 consigned for export from Great Britain are not routinely collated (although numbers of export consignments NHS: Finance are). Nor are statistics collated on whether consignments are for breeding, further fattening or slaughter, or numbers Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for of weaned or unweaned calves. Health what contacts the NHS has had with the Information for trade within the European Union is National Bullying Helpline; and whether the NHS has currently being sought through the European Commission. made any payments to (a) the National Bullying However, the system used to access this has been unavailable Helpline and (b) HR and Diversity Management since 22 February although the Commission has been Limited since 2004. [320132] contacted and is expected to provide this information shortly.The information for non-EU trade can be gathered Ann Keen: This information is not held centrally. Any by scrutinising the export certificates for each of the data on payments to the above bodies would be held at 49 consignments in 2009, though this could not be local trust level. One of the measurement criteria in the achieved within the timescale required for this response NHS staff survey is but will be supplied subsequently. “Percentage of staff experiencing bullying & harassment from staff (manager, team leader or other colleague) in the previous 12 months”. The next staff survey results are due on 17 March 2010. NORTHERN IRELAND

Departmental Languages

ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many (a) Ministers and (b) Flood Control civil servants in his Department received coaching in a foreign language in the last 12 months; what expenditure his Department incurred in providing such Lembit Öpik: To ask the Secretary of State for coaching; and in what languages such coaching was Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many dams, provided. [320541] reservoirs and lakes in England have a system of releasing water to provide storage for excess rain; and if Mr. Woodward: The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) he will make a statement. [320166] has not provided or funded, coaching in a foreign language to Ministers or civil servants in the last 12 months. Huw Irranca-Davies: The Environment Agency keeps a public register of the 2,102 (1,899 in England) large raised reservoirs which are capable of holding 25,000m3 Departmental Paper or more of water above natural ground level. The Environment Agency is the enforcement authority for Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for the Reservoirs Act 1975 in England and Wales. Northern Ireland what (a) suppliers and (b) brands of (i) paper and (ii) paper products his Department uses; The register does not contain details of the systems and what his Department’s policy is on the for releasing water from the reservoirs. However, most procurement of those materials. [320027] reservoirs do have such systems for operation and maintenance purposes. Mr. Woodward: The majority of divisions within the The Environment Agency is the operator for 182 flood Northern Ireland Office (NIO) use a central contract to storage reservoirs in England. The purpose of these procure copying paper. Suppliers on this contract are reservoirs is to provide storage for excess rain. Antalis; Banner; Office Depot and Supplies Team. 1437W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1438W

Brand details of copying paper procured through this Mr. Lammy: Independent studies have shown that contract are: excellent research improves the performance of existing Everyday Business recycled paper A4 80 gsm white; business, creates new business, delivers highly skilled Evolve Business recycled paper A4 80 gsm white; people to the labour market and attracts research and development investment from global business. Xerox recycled paper A4 80 gsm (various colours); Banner minute sheets A4 and A5 sizes 70 gsm; UKTI used the strength of the research base to attract 450 R and D investments to the UK between Steinbeis recycled paper A4 80 gsm white. 2007-08 and 2008-09. Separate arrangements are in place for our London Office, who source copying paper via locally based Business Funding suppliers. The local supplier used is Xerox. The brand of paper procured is Xerox Supreme recycled paper A4 80 gsm white. Mr. Bain: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how many All brands of copying paper procured by the Department businesses have received funding directly from his are 100 per cent. recycled. Department since 2008. [320214] There are local arrangements in place in each NIO location with landlords providing paper based products Mr. McFadden: During the economic downturn, the such as kitchen and toilet rolls. There is no central list of Government have supported thousands of businesses of the suppliers or brand names of these products. all sizes by way of a number of programmes through a Departmental policy is to procure recycled copying combination of grants, guarantees, investments and paper and paper products in line with the Quick Wins loans. Through the Enterprise Finance Guarantee, over targets set by the Government. 8,000 businesses have been offered loans totalling over £850 million. Through the Regional Transition Loan Illegal Immigrants Fund, over £40 million of loans have been agreed. And 160,000 businesses have been able to spread £5 billion in business taxes through allowing businesses more time to Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern pay their tax bill. Ireland how many staff his Department and its agencies have appointed who were later discovered to Statutory Redundancy Pay be illegal immigrants since 2005. [320448]

Mr. Woodward: The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) Natascha Engel: To ask the Minister of State, has not appointed any staff since 2005 who were later Department for Business, Innovation and Skills if he discovered to be illegal immigrants. will take steps to equalise eligibility for statutory redundancy pay for those aged under 22 and 22 or older. [320215]

Ian Lucas: The Government believe that the age BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS bands in the statutory redundancy scheme are objectively justified. The lower band is designed to encourage UK Innovation Investment Fund employers to recruit and retain younger workers.

Miss Kirkbride: To ask the Minister of State, Aerospace Industry: Skills Department for Business, Innovation and Skills when he expects the first funding to be disbursed from the Mr. Laurence Robertson: To ask the Minister of UK innovation investment fund. [320208] State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent assessment he has made of the skills Mr. McFadden: The UK Innovation Investment Fund requirement of the aerospace industry. [320216] brings together public and private sector finance to back the best of British Innovation. The fund has Kevin Brennan: We are working closely with aerospace appointed two managers, Hermes Private Equity and businesses to understand their requirements, and with the European Investment Fund. There is a total pool of organisations like the Sector Skills Council for Science capital of £325 million. £200 million will be invested Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies and the through the EIF’s UK Future Technologies Fund in Aerospace Defence Security Industries trade association, areas such as ICT,life sciences and advanced manufacturing. who are helping businesses plan their individual skills £125 million through the Hermes Environmental Innovation needs through a Strategic Workforce Planning tool. Fund will specialise in cleantech and low carbon. We Building on this, the Aerospace Defence Security Industries expect these two funds to begin investing over the next trade association is developing a Roadmap to provide a few months. clearer signal of the sector’s skills needs.

Science and Knowledge Transfer Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council

Linda Gilroy: To ask the Minister of State, Mr. Drew: To ask the Minister of State, Department Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what for Business, Innovation and Skills what projects will assessment he has made of the effects on the economy be funded as part of the Biotechnology and Biological of his Department’s policies on science and knowledge Science Research Council initiatives on animal disease. transfer. [320211] [319841] 1439W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1440W

Mr. Lammy [holding answer 3 March 2010]: BBSRC Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, has recently announced 16 projects that will be funded Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how through the ’Combating infectious diseases of livestock many students from each higher education institution for international development’ initiative. BBSRC is also have registered with the Flying Start—Make it Happen currently funding projects through other initiatives on campaign. [319916] endemic diseases, avian influenza, blue tongue virus and swine flu. Details are on the web at Mr. Lammy: The Make it Happen programme is http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/web/FILES/Publications/100215- aimed primarily at unemployed graduates; however, cidlid-brochure.pdf students—especially final year students—are not BBSRC is also involved in an initiative led by DEFRA discouraged from attending a Make it Happen event. on Emerging and major infectious diseases of livestock. The projects to be supported under this initiative have The following table shows the numbers of graduates yet to be assessed. and students to have registered with Make it Happen since its launch in September 2009, broken down by In addition to these initiatives BBSRC has also supported University, and whether a student or graduate, where research projects on animal disease through core funding this is known. to the Institute for Animal Health (IAH), which in

2008-09 totalled £9.5 million with a further £19.6 million Number of Number of of capital funding related to research on animal disease University graduates students in 2008-09. Aberystwyth, University of Wales 9 3 In 2008-09, BBSRC total spend on animal disease Anglia Ruskin University 5 1 research was around £31 million. Architectural Association School of 1— Architecture Copyright Aston University 34 10 Bangor, University of Wales 7 3 Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Minister of State, Bath Spa University 12 3 Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what Bedfordshire (University of Luton), 20 2 steps his Department is taking to protect copyright University of Bedfordshire privileges. [320580] Bell College 1 — Birkbeck, University of London 8 2 Mr. Lammy [holding answer 4 March 2010]: Copyright Birmingham City University 32 8 is a private property right. In the vast majority of cases Bournemouth University 94 16 of copyright infringement, the law provides this is a Brunei University 37 15 civil wrong. As such it is not for Government to intervene Buckinghamshire (Bucks) New 11 2 in the enforcement of a private right. The Government University are however aware of the need to ensure that the copyright Business Link 6 — framework is fit for purpose, such that copyright owners Business Support Organisation 1 1 Canterbury Christ Church 739 are able to take action to enforce their own rights if University appropriate. Our proposals in the Digital Economy Bill Cardiff University 18 — will improve the options available to copyright owners Central School of Speech and 1— in the case of online infringement of their rights. Our Drama, University of London strategy published last October, ‘Copyright—the way City University, London 18 13 ahead: A Strategy for Copyright in the Digital Age’, College of St. Mark and St. John 1 1 takes a broader view at changes that may be necessary Coventry University 32 37 to keep pace with developments. It can be found at: Cranfield University 8 3 http://www.ipo.gov.uk/c-strategy-digitalage.pdf Dartington College of Arts 2 2 The Government also believe there must be an De Montfort University (Leicester) 22 1 appropriate and proportionate legal framework in place Edge Hill University 7 1 to tackle criminal infringement of copyright. As part of Edinburgh College of Art 2 — this framework, the Digital Economy Bill will introduce Falmouth, University College 12 12 increased financial penalties for online and physical Glasgow Caledonian University 2 — copyright infringement. Glasgow School of Art — 1 Goldsmiths College, University of 19 3 Graduates: Government Assistance London Grimsby Institute of Higher and 2— Further Education Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, Harper Adams University 21 Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how College—Shropshire many people have attended each Make it Happen (a) Henley Management College 1 1 day and (b) roadshow event. [319915] Heriot Watt University 4 — Imperial College London 23 13 Mr. Lammy: The total number of people who attended Keele University 5 — a Flying Start - Make it Happen day between 27 October Kent Institute of Art and Design 2 — and 10 December is 1,066. Since January 2010 the King’s College, University of 26 16 London Make it Happen day events have been combined with Kingston University 59 86 the self-employment and business start-up programmes, Lampeter, University of Wales 3 — and between 19 January 2010 and 25 February 2010, Lancaster University 26 9 544 people have attended such combined events. 1441W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1442W

Number of Number of Number of Number of University graduates students University graduates students

Leeds Metropolitan University 66 37 University of Brighton 34 42 Liverpool Hope University 13 22 University of Bristol 11 9 Liverpool John Moores University 45 3 University of Buckingham 1 — London Business School, 31University of Central England — 1 University of London University of Cambridge 17 — London Metropolitan University 67 18 University of Central Lancashire 35 7 London School of Economics and 10 9 University of Chester 5 1 Political Science University of Chichester 5 — London South Bank University 27 8 University of Cumbria 9 — Loughborough University 26 2 University of Derby 19 28 Manchester Metropolitan 99 24 University University of Durham 16 — Middlesex University 37 12 University of East Anglia 4 — Newman College of Higher —1University of East London 29 7 Education University of Edinburgh 4 — Napier University 1 — University of Essex 12 2 Newcastle University 14 — University of Exeter 14 6 Newport, University of Wales 8 — University of Exeter (Cornwall) — 1 North East Wales Institute 2 — University of Glamorgan 10 2 Norwich School of Art and Design 1 — University of Glasgow 7 — Nottingham Trent University 23 4 University of Gloucestershire 6 7 Open University London 31 11 University of Greenwich 62 17 Other HE/FE Institution 49 15 University of Hertfordshire 40 52 Overseas University 20 — University of Huddersfield 24 4 Oxford Brookes University 36 90 University of Hull 46 4 Queen Margaret University College 1 1 University of Kent 35 14 Queen Mary, University of London 35 6 University of Leeds 60 38 Ravensbourne College of Design 1—University of Leicester 15 4 and Communication University of Lincoln 80 36 Robert Gordon University 7 1 University of Liverpool 37 20 Roehampton University 15 5 University of London 10 3 Royal Agricultural College, 1—University of Manchester 69 58 Cirencester University of Northampton 9 — Royal College of Art 1 — University of Northumbria at 82 Royal Holloway, University of 47Newcastle London University of Nottingham 31 17 Royal Veterinary College, 2— University of London University of Oxford 21 3 Royal Welsh College of Music and 1—University of Plymouth 36 18 Drama University of Portsmouth 40 18 School of Oriental and African 62University of Reading 17 16 Studies, University of London University of Salford 44 18 School of Pharmacy, University of 1—University of Sheffield 42 12 London University of Southampton 12 4 Sheffield Hallam University 69 52 University of St. Andrews 3 1 Southampton Solent University 15 5 University of Stirling 1 — St. George’s, University of London 1 3 University of Strathclyde 3 1 Staffordshire University 18 — University of Sunderland 7 — Surrey Institute of Art and Design, 71 University College University of Surrey—Guildford 12 71 Swansea Institute of Higher 3—University of Sussex 13 8 Education University of Teesside 4 2 Swansea University 6 — University of the Arts—Chelsea —1 Thames Valley University 28 5 College of Arts and Design The Arts Institute at Bournemouth 6 3 University of the Arts— 4— Camberwell College of the Arts The Open University 4 4 University of the Arts—Central St. 10 — Trinity and All Saints College 5—Martins (Leeds) University of the Arts—London 6— University College Birmingham 4 2 College of Fashion University College for the Creative 27 6 University of the Arts—London 12 5 Arts School of Communications University College London, 43 15 University of the Arts London 10 2 University of London University of the Arts of London 1 1 University of Aberdeen 2 1 University of the West of England 60 9 University of Bath 13 1 University of Ulster 1 — University of Birmingham 36 12 University of Wales Institute, 12 2 University of Bolton 64 22 Cardiff University of Bradford 31 5 University of Warwick 22 8 1443W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1444W

Table 11 of his Department’s Departmental Report for Number of Number of University graduates students 2009; and how much such funding was allocated to each such programme and initiative in the latest year University of Westminster 34 20 for which figures are available. [318920] University of Wolverhampton 49 37 University of York 26 25 Mr. Lammy [holding answer 3 March 2010]: The Worcester, University College 3 2 following received funding in 2008/09 from the “other York St. John University 11 1 innovation programmes” budget, referred to in Table 11 of the 2009 Departmental Report: Registrations where home 2,539 university and graduate or student £ million status is unknown Expenditure on National Measurement System Programmes 62 Depreciation and capital costs associated with the National 12 Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, Weights and Measurements laboratory site Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how Capital Expenditure on National Weights and 12 many unique visitors there were to the FlyingStart— Measurements laboratory site Make it Happen website in each month since it was British Standards Institute and UK Accreditation Service 6 launched. [319917] programmes DIUS/Technology Strategy Board collaborative activities 3 Mr. Lammy: The total number of unique visitors to Dividend received from Intellectual Property Office -7 the Flying Start—Make it Happen website since it was Intellectual Property Office cost of capital 3 launched on 24 September 2009 is 23,863. The figures Total 91 by month are: Music Number

2009 Mr. Amess: To ask the Minister of State, Department September 3,376 for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps his October 7,551 Department is taking to assist the music industry, with November 6,481 particular reference to intellectual property rights December 2,212 relating to that industry. [320604]

Mr. Lammy: This Department conducted a review of 2010 copyright last year. The resulting strategy: ‘Copyright—the January 2,912 way ahead: A Strategy for Copyright in the Digital Age’ February 1,330 was published in October 2009. It can be found at: http://www.ipo.gov.uk/c-strategy-digitalage.pdf Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, This covered copyright issues relating to a range of Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how creative industries, including the music industry, and much has been spent on (a) roadshow Make it Happen made a number of commitments which we are working events, (b) creating and maintaining the Make it to deliver. These include measures in the Digital Economy Happen website and (c) other activities involved in the Bill to combat online infringement of copyright. FlyingStart - Make it Happen campaign. [319918] The music industry is of course an integral part of the creative economy, for which the Department for Mr. Lammy: The total spend to date on the Flying Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has responsibility. Start—Make it Happen programme is £350,000. This is DCMS works closely with the music industry on a wide broken down as follows: range of issues and, among other things, is setting up a £68,000 for the Make it Happen days and programmes; number of community music rehearsal spaces around £69,000 for the creation and maintenance of the Make it England in order to encourage and develop grass-roots Happen Website; and talent. ‘Creative Britain—New Talents for the New £213,000 for other activities. Economy’, published in February 2008, and ‘Digital Britain’, published in June 2009, set the strategic direction Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, for the Government’s work to support the creative and Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how digital sectors respectively and a programme of work in many people have began a Make it Happen self- these areas is ongoing. employment and business start-up programme. [319920] Photographs: Copyright Mr. Lammy: 1,570 people have begun a Flying Start— Make it Happen self-employment/business start-up programme. Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent representations he has received on mandatory Innovation: Finance attribution of photographs to the photographer. [320581] Adam Afriyie: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what Mr. Lammy [holding answer 4 March 2010]: Ihave programmes and initiatives received funding from the recently received a number of representations from other innovation programmes budget referred to in photographers about Clause 42 of the Digital Economy 1445W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1446W

Bill which covers the treatment of Orphan Works and Student loan borrowers with accounts cancelled or written-off1 England Extended Licensing. Some of these have also referred to Financial year 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-094 the question of attribution. on — — — 100 100 UK law provides certain “moral rights”, including completion of 3 that photographers and creators of other works may IVA — = nil or negligible assert their right to be identified as the author when 1 The table shows the financial year in which the cancellation or write-off their work is used for certain purposes. There are, action was processed. The total includes both Mortgage Style and Income however, a number of exceptions including where a Contingent Repayment (ICR) borrowers. 2 The functionality for processing cancellation of IC loans due to death and work is intended for use in a newspaper, magazine or disability was put in place in 2008-09. Some write-offs due to death or similar periodical. I am aware that some photographers disability were processed manually in earlier years, but a number of such would like to see the law changed to require attribution write-offs dating back to previous years were processed in 2008-09 and are included in this figure. in all cases. 3 The functionality for processing write-offs due to bankruptcy and on As my Noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary completion of an IVA was put in place in 2007-08. Some write-offs due to bankruptcy or IVAs were processed manually in earlier years, but a number of of State for Postal Affairs and Employment Relations such write-offs dating back to previous financial years were processed in explained in the debates on the Digital Economy Bill, 2007-08 and 2008-09 and are included in figures for those years. the Government have noted the concerns of creators 4 Provisional Source: (including photographers) and will be keeping the issue Student Loans Company under review. The Strategic Advisory Board for Intellectual The number of student loan borrowers has increased Property is already looking at the broader issue of each year since loans were introduced in 1990, and it is moral rights. therefore expected that the number of loans cancelled or written-off will increase annually. Royal Mail Student loans have been exempt from bankruptcy arrangements since 2004, therefore the figures provided Lorely Burt: To ask the Minister of State, for write-offs due to bankruptcy in 2007-08 and 2008-09 Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what all relate to bankruptcy in earlier years. The Apprenticeships, plans he has for the future of Royal Mail sorting Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 contains the centres. [320740] provision to exclude student loans from Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs). Mr. McFadden: I have asked Adam Crozier, chief executive of Royal Mail, to respond directly to the hon. Technology Strategy Board Member as Royal Mail management has responsibility for the company’s operations. A copy of his reply will Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, be placed in the Libraries of the House. Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what Mail volumes continue to decline, by 8 per cent. in (a) projects and (b) companies have received funding the first half of the financial year (April to Sept 2009), from the Technology Strategy Board in each month due to increased use of digital methods of communication. since its creation; and how much funding was provided It is vitally important that Royal Mail can structure its for each. [307911] operations as efficiently as possible so that it can compete in a competitive communications market while continuing Mr. Lammy: Since it was established in July 2007 the to maintain the universal postal service at affordable Technology Strategy Board has provided grant funding prices. Royal Mail and the CWU are currently discussing to companies and collaborative R and D projects, and a wide ranging agreement covering modernisation of to knowledge transfer partnership projects. the postal network. A copy of the tables will be placed in the Libraries of Students: Loans the House.

Mr. Willetts: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills how FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE many borrowers had a Student Loan Company debt cancelled or written off in each of the last five years; Afghanistan: Politics and Government and in how many such cases action was taken because of (a) bankruptcy and (b) completion of an Mr. Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for individual voluntary arrangement. [319902] Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what definition of corruption his Department uses in respect of Mr. Lammy: The available information is shown in Afghanistan; and what steps he is taking to ensure that the table. Figures reflect the year in which the processing officials of his Department based in that country are of the write-off took place and not necessarily the year trained to recognise and report any such corruption. in which the circumstances surrounding the write-off [319019] occurred. Student loan borrowers with accounts cancelled or written-off1 England Mr. Michael Foster: I have been asked to reply. Financial year 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-094 Both the UK and Afghan Governments are party to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption Cancelled or 800 1,600 3,300 4,600 6,300 written-off2 (UNCAC) which defines corruption as; of which: (a) the promise, offering or giving to a public official, because of — — — 500 900 directly or indirectly, of an undue advantage, for the bankruptcy3 official himself or herself or another person or entity, in 1447W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1448W order that the official act or refrain from acting in the During the 21 July meeting both delegations reiterated exercise of his or her official duties; their respective positions on sovereignty and resettlement (b) the solicitation or acceptance by a public official, as expressed at the first round of talks held in London directly or indirectly, of an undue advantage, for the on 14 January. The delegations agreed on the desirability official himself or herself or another person or entity, in of a co-ordinated submission to the UN Commission order that the official act or refrain from acting in the on the Limits of the Continental Shelf for an extended exercise of his or her official duties. continental shelf in the Chagos Archipelago/BIOT region. A joint technical team would be set up with officials HMG officials based in Kabul and Lashkar Gah from both sides to look into the possibilities of a include Governance and Rule of Law advisors, who are co-ordinated response. The UK delegation proposed able to identify and advise on how to tackle corruption. that consideration be given to the possible creation of a The UK government also provides annual guidance to Marine Protected Area (MPA), which the Mauritians all embassies and overseas offices on reporting suspected agreed in principle. The UK delegation agreed to examine corruption. the Mauritian proposal to set up a mechanism to look Arms Control into the joint issuing of fishing licences for BIOT waters, and stated that such examination would also include Mr. Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for consideration of the implications of the proposed MPA. Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has UK relations with Mauritius are broad and deep, been made on negotiations on the content of the with regular contacts at all levels. The UK is Mauritius’ proposed UN Arms Trade Treaty; when he expects largest trade partner and second largest tourism market. negotiations to be completed and a text to be laid The UK and Mauritius have many shared international before the House; what discussions his Department has priorities and, subject to regional voting constraints, had with Shorts Bombardier on the effects of such a the UK and Mauritian Governments frequently take treaty on (a) that company and (b) the defence the same positions in international fora. Within regional industry; and what steps will be taken to consult blocs, such as the African Union (AU) and Southern representations of the defence industry if a draft Treaty African Development Community (SADC), Mauritius is agreed by the UN. [320941] is often a voice supporting UK aims. The Government also supports, through the EU, structural adjustment of Mr. Ivan Lewis: We have made very good progress in the Mauritian economy to cope with the loss of sugar securing overwhelming global support to start formal preferences. The UK will continue to develop this negotiations on an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in the UN relationship—later in the year, we will be marking the in July this year. These negotiations will continue through 200th Anniversary of UK involvement in Mauritius. 2011 and culminate in a UN Conference in 2012. We More immediately, the Privy Council will hold their would hope to lay a text before the House following second sitting in Mauritius this April. this. Members: Correspondence We maintain a regular dialogue with a large number of states in support of the UN ATT process, and with a wide range of UK stakeholders. We have not had Mr. Winnick: To ask the Secretary of State for discussions with Shorts Bombardier, but we are pleased Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he plans to to be working closely with the UK defence industry reply to the letter of 3 February 2010 from the hon. trade associations to ensure there is no unintended Member for Walsall North on a constituent. [320742] impact on the legitimate trade in arms. Chris Bryant: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office British Indian Ocean Territory: Environment Protection transferred the hon. Member for Walsall North’s letter of 3 February to the Department for International Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Development (DfID) for reply. I understand that DfID Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the replied on 3 March. answer of 22 February 2010, Official Report, column 211W, on the British Indian Ocean Territory: Middle East: Armed Conflict environment protection, what proposals were made by each of the bodies represented at the meeting on (a) 14 Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for January and (b) 21 July 2009; what response the Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a Government made to each of those proposals; and specific assessment of the extent of damage caused by what his policy is on relations between the UK and Israeli armed forces to projects in Gaza which have Mauritius. [320128] been (a) constructed and (b) financed with UK assistance since the Oslo Peace Accords. [320972] Mr. Ivan Lewis: During the 14 January meeting the delegations discussed the latest legal and policy Mr. Michael Foster: The UK Government have no developments relating to the British Indian Ocean Territory plans to make such an assessment. Given current (BIOT)/Chagos Archipelago. Both delegations set out circumstances in Gaza, it would not be possible to their respective positions on sovereignty and the UK gather the necessary data. also set out how the UK needed to bear in mind its treaty obligations with the US and our ongoing need of Nuclear Weapons: Proliferation the British Indian Ocean Territory for defence purposes. There was mutual discussion of fishing rights, environmental Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for concerns, the continental shelf and future visits to the Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the Territory by Chagossians. answer of 23 February 2010, Official Report, column 1449W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1450W

419, on nuclear weapons, what resources have been context, we meet regularly with political parties, including spent on solutions to (a) technical, (b) political Government and opposition parties. We continue to and (c) institutional challenges to prevent (i) vertical engage with the Government of Rwanda, both with and (ii) horizontal proliferation in each year since 1997; Ministers and with the National Election Commission, and what resources have been committed since to on the issues of registration and functioning of political promoting abroad (A) the expansion of the peaceful parties, as well as the wider matter of extending political uses of nuclear energy and (B) nuclear disarmament space in Rwanda, particularly with regard to the elections since July 2009. [320535] in August this year. We continue to support political and media freedom Mr. Ivan Lewis: The Foreign and Commonwealth in Rwanda and we engage regularly, both bilaterally Office has undertaken extensive activity across these and with our EU partners, to ensure that the Rwandan eight areas in collaboration with its global network of Government respects these issues. posts and other Government Departments, principally the Ministry of Defence, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (previously the Department of JUSTICE Trade and Industry and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform) and the Agencies. Departmental Paper The information requested is not immediately available and compilation could be attempted only at Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for disproportionate cost. Justice what (a) suppliers and (b) brands of (i) paper Rwanda: Politics and Government and (ii) paper products his Department uses; and what his Department’s policy is on the procurement of those Malcolm Bruce: To ask the Secretary of State for materials. [320037] Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he Mr. Wills: The Ministry of Justice currently use has received on (a) attacks on Rwandan presidential Banner Business Supplies Limited for all office paper candidate Victoire Umuhoza, (b) progress made and paper products that fall under the office stationery toward the registration of opposition parties and (c) category. During 2008/09 Banner was the sole provider the extent of political freedom in Rwanda in the run-up for all the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) to the 2010 presidential election; and if he will make a paper based products and Office Depot were the main statement. [319692] provider for all Wider Ministry of Justice paper based Mr.IvanLewis[holding answer 1 March 2010]: Our products. high commission in Kigali is in regular contact with the The wider Ministry of Justice did not collate this full spectrum of political opinion in Rwanda, including information centrally before 2009. However, a new Mme Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza. We are aware of procurement system has been established that will enable reports stating that Mme Ingabire was involved in an more data to be captured and maintained. Implementation altercation on 3 February when she attended a registration is due to complete shortly with information being available office in Kigali to obtain her identity card. The in the second quarter of 2010. circumstances are disputed, but Mme Ingabire was not The following table shows the brands, size, weight, herself harmed, although her driver was attacked by recycled content and volume purchased for paper only unknown assailants. and refer solely to NOMS. The Information requested We are aware of reports of opposition parties facing for paper products are not held centrally and could be difficulties registering prior to the elections. In this provided only at disproportionate cost.

Recycled content Volume purchased Brand of Paper Product Size Weight (percentage) (reams) 2008-09

Supplier Own Brand Paper A3 80gsm 1—10 Supplier Own Brand Paper A4 80gsm 1— 9,190 EP4 Paper A3 80gsm 80 7,400 EP4 Paper A4 80gsm 80 551,045 Evolve Paper A4 80gsm 100 812 Evolve Paper A4 100gsm 100 — Steinbeis Paper A4 80gsm 100 540 Conqueror Paper A4 100gsm n/a — Duplicating Coloured Paper A4 80gsm n/a 3,198 Index Card Index Card A4 150gsm n/a 134 Proprietary Coloured Card A4 200mu 1— 127 Xerox Paper A3 100gsm 1—— Xerox Paper A3 160gsm 1—15 Xerox Coloured Card A4 120gsm 1— 165 Xerox Paper A4 160gsm 1— 2,205 Xerox Coloured Card A4 160gsm 1— 1,620 Xerox Paper A4 80gsm 1— 245 Xerox Coloured Paper A4 80gsm 1— 11,303 Xerox Paper A5 80gsm 1— 1,280 1 Farmed from sustainable sources. 1451W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1452W

Prison industries provide a printing solution for the MoJ which also provides constructive employment for inmates. The information requested for recycled content is not held centrally and could be provided only as disproportionate cost.

Brand of Recycled content paper Product Item description Size (A3/a4) (percentage) Quantity

Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 35 A3 80 gsm Yellow (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 120 SRA3 — 128 gsm Colotech+ Silk (250 Sheets per Pack - 6 Packs per box) Xerox Paper 100g Colotech Mattor Silk SRA3 Paper SRA3 — 6 6 packs of 500 sheets = 3,000 sheets required Xerox Paper 100gColotech Matt or Silk SRA3 Paper SRA3 — 2 2 packs of 500 sheets = 1,000 sheets required. Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 45 A4 80 gsm Dark Red (Box of 2500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 7 A4 80 gsm Lilac (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 18 A4 80 gsm Pink (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 71 A4 80 gsm Yellow (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 80 gsm Salmon (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 121 A4 80 gsm Orange (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 15 A4 160 gsm Blue (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 3 A4 160 gsm Pink (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A3 80 gsm A3 80 546 Recycled+ (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A4 80 gsm A4 80 5,290 Recycled+ (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A4 80 gsm A4 80 1,053 Recycled+ (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A4 80 gsm A4 80 525 Recycled Supreme (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A3 80 gsm A3 80 255 Recycled Supreme (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A3 80 gsm A3 80 109 Recycled + (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A4 80 gsm A4 80 30 Recycled Supreme (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 14 A4 160 gsm Yellow (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 16 A4 80 gsm Blue (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 35 A4 160 gsm Ivory (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 158 A4 80 gsm Dark Yellow (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 55 A3 80 gsm Lilac (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Orange (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 35 A4 80 gsm Mid Blue (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) 1453W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1454W

Brand of Recycled content paper Product Item description Size (A3/a4) (percentage) Quantity

Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 80 gsm Mid Grey (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) — Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 21 A4 80 gsm Gold (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 10 A4 160 gsm Green (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Orange (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Gold (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Yellow (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Ivory (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 220 SRA3 — 4 gsm Colotech+ (Box of 750 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 1 A4 160 gsm Mid Grey (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 5 A4 160 gsm Dark Blue (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 2 A3 80 gsm Mid Grey (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 160 gsm Dark Red (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 107 A3 80 gsm Green (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 280 SRA3 — 5 gsm Colotech+Silk (125 Sheets per Pack – 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 5 A4 80 gsm Dark Green (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 6 A4 80 gsm Mid Grey (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 10 A4 80 gsm Mid Green (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 8 A3 80 gsm Dark Yellow (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 220 SRA3 — 7 gsm Colotech+ (250 Sheets per Pack - 3 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 7 A4 160 gsm Dark Yellow (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 2 A4 80 gsm Mid Pink (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 120 SRA3 — 25 gsm Colotech+ Silk (Box of 1,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 250 SRA3 — 1 gsm Colotech+ Silk (Box of 625 Sheets) Xerox Paper 100gColotechMatt 8 packs of 500 sheets SRA3 — 8 = 4,000 sheets required. Xerox Paper 100g ColotechSRA3 White Paper (500 SRA3 — 8 sheets per ream ) 3 reams per box . Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 160 SRA3 — 12 gsm Colotech+ (200 Sheets per Pack - 4 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 4 A4 80 gsm Dark Blue (Box of 2,500 Sheets) 1455W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1456W

Brand of Recycled content paper Product Item description Size (A3/a4) (percentage) Quantity

Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 30 A3 80 gsm Buttercup (500 Sheets per Ream–5Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 160 SRA3 21 gsm Colotech+ (Box of 800 Sheets) Xerox Cartridge Xerox Magenta cartridge -106R00654 Cartridge — 1 Xerox Label Laser Labels 003R96169 Label — 1 Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 140 SRA3 80 5 gsm Colotech+ Gloss (250 Sheets per Pack - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 10 A4 80 gsm Dark Green (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 1 A4 160 gsm Dark Green (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 205 A4 160 gsm Mid Grey (250 Sheets per Ream - 5 Packs per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 140 A4 — 13 gsm Colotech+ Gloss (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 55 A3 80 gsm Pink (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 54 A3 80 gsm Salmon (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 69 A3 80 gsm Blue (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 168 A3 80 gsm Ivory (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 23 A3 80 gsm Mid Blue (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 33 A3 80 gsm Mid Green (500 Sheets per Ream–5Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 48 A3 80 gsm Mid Pink (500 Sheets per Ream - 5 Reams per box) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 12 A3 80 gsm Pink (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 280 SRA3 — 6 gsm Colotech+ Silk (Box of 625 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White A3 80 gsm A3 80 22 Recycled Supreme (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper White SRA3 120 SRA3 — 12 gsm Colotech+ Gloss (Box of 1,500 Sheets) Xerox Label boxes 003R91224 peel off labels 99.1 x Label — 120 67.7 100 sheets per box (800 labels) Xerox Paper 003R97608 A3 Colotech+ Silk white A3 — 6 280gsm Xerox Paper 003R99077 Pink carbonless CF paper A4 — 30 Xerox Label 003R96289 68.1 x99.1 labels x 14 per Label — 40 sheet 100 sheets per box Xerox Label 003R91224 white labels 8 per sheet 100 Label — 20 per box Xerox Paper 003R97959A3x120grm Colotech A3 — 32 Xerox Paper 003R97977 Colotec +250grm SRA3 SRA3 — 18 Xerox Paper 003R97955 A3 Colotech+ white 100gsm A3 — 40 Xerox Paper 003R97956 SRA3 Colotech+ white A3 — 40 100gsm Xerox Paper reams 003R97955 A3 colotech+white A3 — 50 100gsm Xerox Paper 003R97955 reams A3 colotech+ white A3 — 96 100 grms Xerox Paper 003R97972 reams A3 colotech+ white A3 — 24 220 grms Xerox Paper 003R98105 reams A3 Xerox recycled A3 — 200 pure white paper 1457W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1458W

Brand of Recycled content paper Product Item description Size (A3/a4) (percentage) Quantity

Xerox Paper ream003R93217 Symphony A4 120grm A4 — 20 Ivory Xerox Paper 003R97608 A3 280grm A3 — 30 Colotech Silk White — Xerox Paper 003R97972 A3 220grm Colotech+ White A3 — 24 Xerox Paper 003R97513SRA3 Polyolefin Durapaper SRA3 — 6 255grmx600 Xerox Paper 003R97955 Symphony 80grms A3 green A3 — 30 Xerox Paper 003R97956 Colotech 100grms SRA3 SRA3 — 48 white Xerox Paper 023R02174 Poster paper 120grms A4 — 6 1067x30 mtrs Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 3 A4 160 gsm Dark Red (Box of 1,250 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 1 A3 80 gsm Dark Blue (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A3 — 1 A3 80 gsm Dark Green (Box of 2,500 Sheets) Xerox Paper Xerox Printing Paper Symphony Tint A4 — 3 A4 160 gsm Mid Green (Box of 1,250 Sheets)

Driving Offences resulted in (i) injury and (ii) death in the last 10 years. [320162] Mark Hunter: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what the average (a) fine and (b) custodial Claire Ward: The available information is provided in sentence was for convictions for motor offences which the following table.

Average fine and average sentence length for motor offences which resulted in death, 1998 to 2008 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

404 Causing death by dangerous driving1 Totalfined96446131233 Average fine (£) 620.0 1958.3 425.0 562.5 750.0 1200.0 3833.3 300.0 625.0 1250.0 1133.3 Total given 169 136 166 193 199 217 221 238 210 214 206 immediate custody4 ACSL 38.0 34.3 37.1 39.0 39.2 43.0 44.4 44.8 43.7 44.1 48.8 Total sentenced 203 173 193 226 228 233 241 254 223 233 221

406 Causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs Totalfined10010002010 Average fine (£) 200.0 — — 500.0 — — — 1000.0 — 1500.0 — Total given 58 45 49 48 61 58 59 62 64 65 45 immediate custody ACSL 37.1 41.7 38.3 43.4 40.9 44.0 43.4 42.4 40.8 39.2 46.6 Total sentenced 63 46 53 51 66 60 62 66 65 67 46

408 Causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving5 Totalfined—————————— 4 Averagefine(£)——————————875.0 Total given —————————— 0 immediate custody ACSL —————————— 0 Total sentenced —————————— 4 1459W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1460W

Average fine and average sentence length for motor offences which resulted in death, 1998 to 2008 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

409 Causing death by driving— unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured drivers6 Totalfined—————————— 0 Averagefine(£)—————————— 0 Total given —————————— 0 immediate custody ACSL —————————— 0 Total sentenced —————————— 0

804 Causing bodily harm by furious driving2 Totalfined30201201000 Average fine (£) 650.0 — 400.0 — 250.0 375.0 — 250.0 — — — Total given 16548572404 immediate custody ACSL 6.0 7.5 11.6 11.5 8.7 14.4 11.5 11.0 9.5 — 11.2 Total sentenced 9 11 12 7 13 11 1387511

3701 Aggravated taking where, owing to the driving of the vehicle, an accident occurs causing the death of any person3 Totalfined00100000000 Average fine (£) — — 250.0 ———————— Total given 1238881188684 immediate custody ACSL 36.6 34.9 36.5 39.0 38.3 42.0 42.7 43.5 42.1 42.1 47.5 Total sentenced 19 7 11 11 11 14 11 23 11 18 4 1 Road Traffic Act 1988. 2 Offences against the Person Act 1861. 3 Theft Act 1968 as added by Aggravated Vehicle-Taking Act 1992. 4 Excludes life and indeterminate sentences. 5 408 Causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving, (Road Traffic Act 1988 s.2B was added by the Road Safety Act 2006) commenced in August 2008. 6 409 Causing death by driving: unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured drivers, (Road Traffic Act 1988 S.3ZB was added by the Road Safety Act 2006) commenced in August 2008. Note: 1. These figures have been drawn from administrative data systems. Although care is taken when processing and analysing the returns, the detail collected is subject to the inaccuracies inherent in any large scale recording system. 2. These data have been taken from the Ministry of Justice Court Proceedings database. These data are presented on the principal offence basis. Where an offender has been sentenced for more than one offence the principal offence is the one for which the heaviest sentence was imposed. Where the same sentence has been imposed for two or more offences the principal offence is the one for which the statutory maximum is most severe.

Mark Hunter: To ask the Secretary of State for The proportion of convictions for dangerous driving Justice (1) how many people have been convicted of where the offender had a previous conviction for dangerous dangerous driving in each of the smallest geographical driving, as recorded on the Police National Computer, areas for which figures are available in each of the last by police force area, from 2000 to 2008 is given in 10 years; and what proportion of those convicted were table 2. repeat offenders in each year; [320164] The figures in this table are provisional and subject to (2) how many people in each age group have been change as more information is recorded by the police. convicted of causing death or bodily harm through PNC data have been used for this table rather than the driving in each of the smallest geographical areas for court proceedings data that forms the source of the which figures are available in each of the last 10 years; published conviction statistics, as the PNC provides and what proportion of those convicted were repeat information on the criminal history of offenders. Figures offenders. [320168] prior to 2000 are not available. The number of persons on the Court Proceedings Maria Eagle: The number of persons found guilty at Database found guilty at all courts in England and all courts in England and Wales of dangerous driving, Wales of causing death or bodily harm through driving, by police force area, from 1999 to 2008 (latest available) by age group and police force area (which is the smallest is shown in table 1. These figures have been drawn from geographic area for which statistics are available), from the Court Proceedings Database. 1999 to 2008 can be found in tables 3A and 3B. 1461W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1462W

Figures taken from the Police National Computer Court proceedings data for 2009 are planned to be show that between 2000 and 2008 three offenders were published in the autumn 2010. convicted for an offence of causing death or bodily harm through driving having been convicted previously for a similar offence.

Table 1: The number of persons found guilty at all courts in England and Wales for dangerous driving1, by police force area, from 1999 to 20082,3,4 Police force area 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 20083

Avon and Somerset 115 117 110 142 164 169 153 114 116 93 Bedfordshire 27 28 36 38 54 36 43 44 40 55 Cambridgeshire 77 61 67 74 95 78 72 77 52 50 Cheshire 80 83 79 77 97 104 70 84 72 59 City of London 3489687421 Cleveland 66 57 72 82 79 101 72 66 63 56 Cumbria 52 54 48 62 79 72 63 59 88 63 Derbyshire 86 88 95 107 105 108 58 60 65 54 DevonandCornwall75637878857567525754 Dorset 15243637525044233423 Durham 49 49 62 66 85 89 55 61 44 35 Essex 94 74 69 95 99 104 89 76 91 63 Gloucestershire 48 54 49 45 52 52 56 34 29 34 Greater Manchester 330 368 315 390 433 427 328 292 281 225 Hampshire 134 158 158 158 144 130 113 95 104 108 Hertfordshire 36 47 37 53 71 69 73 76 56 40 Humberside 67 79 82 75 103 91 79 94 79 80 Kent 66 62 66 93 116 94 93 91 76 76 Lancashire 129 138 120 156 147 132 117 135 126 87 Leicestershire 75 97 121 114 126 118 87 61 53 60 Lincolnshire 45 39 41 45 49 44 33 36 33 32 Merseyside 112 99 126 122 169 243 233 152 189 128 Metropolitan police 317 359 390 446 562 570 515 475 442 396 Norfolk 47 31 32 59 67 60 56 59 72 36 NorthYorkshire64616077657063736663 Northamptonshire 64 56 27 32 36 77 46 50 43 52 Northumbria 227 185 196 193 187 191 170 171 157 123 Nottinghamshire 101 118 125 148 218 167 128 103 93 95 South Yorkshire 121 165 116 143 194 149 126 121 115 114 Staffordshire614966817565701076285 Suffolk 54 43 50 60 50 51 42 36 67 54 Surrey 23292542503326233525 Sussex 71568275656483666154 Thames Valley 81 98 105 150 129 115 129 125 147 121 Warwickshire 36 28 29 35 40 33 63 63 51 43 West Mercia 111 72 78 106 108 102 117 104 89 92 West Midlands 231 289 349 451 448 488 397 413 320 272 West Yorkshire 205 186 162 247 278 279 249 178 216 183 Wiltshire 38 48 40 49 53 43 45 34 31 23 Dyfed-Powys 62 53 37 59 52 58 39 46 42 35 Gwent 86 95 64 86 95 79 84 68 60 44 NorthWales 57546352718574636355 South Wales 170 172 203 206 198 187 168 150 136 93

Total England and 4,008 4,090 4,174 4,915 5,451 5,360 4,695 4,314 4,118 3,534 Wales 1 Includes offences of aiding, abetting, causing or permitting reckless driving under the Road Traffic Act 1988 s.2 as amended by the Road Traffic Act 1991 s.2. 2 The figures given relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. When a 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 for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. 3 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 extractedfrom large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. 4 Excludes convictions for Cardiff magistrates court for April, July and August 2008. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services in the Ministry of Justice. 1463W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1464W

Table 2: Proportion of convictions for dangerous driving where the offender had a previous conviction for dangerous driving, as recorded on the Police National Computer1 Percentage Police force 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Avon and Somerset 21 19 22 27 22 18 19 15 18 Bedfordshire * * * 14 * * 14 * 19 Cambridgeshire 10 11 14 12 13 147** Cheshire 5 7 8 11 10 16 9 10 6 City of London ********* Cleveland 12 15 12 14 18 19 19 13 16 Cumbria 9 * 12 13 19 15 10 11 12 Derbyshire 11 9 13 11 13 11 13 16 13 Devon and Cornwall 16 6 17 11 15 4 11 14 14 Dorset ********* Durham * * 21 16 18 16 12 * * Dyfed-Powys **12*5**** Essex 156488106718 Gloucestershire 12 * * 27 19 **** Greater Manchester 11 14 19 18 14 22 18 15 14 Gwent 18 20 20 17 17 25 16 10 12 Hampshire 10 8 16 11 12 11 11 6 7 Hertfordshire * * 11 15 9 3 11 12 * Humberside 9 17 13 14 13 15 26 9 25 Kent 19899101191312 Lancashire 11 10 10 14 12 9 12 11 11 Leicestershire 181313151613221914 Lincolnshire ********* Merseyside 16 11 17 14 13 16 17 11 9 Metropolitan police 9 11 10 8 11 9 10 12 11 Norfolk * * 10 13 14 * 11 8 * North Wales 9 10 11 11 14 9 9 13 11 North Yorkshire 2 9 11 15 12 8 14 11 10 Northamptonshire 10 * 13 14 14 * * 10 * Northumbria 16 23 19 24 18 18 15 19 13 Nottinghamshire 11 17 15 19 18 19 11 26 11 South Wales 20 24 23 22 22 22 27 24 21 South Yorkshire 8 11 14 15 13 9 19 19 15 Staffordshire 9 13 6 13 18 4 12 10 11 Suffolk **1014***09 Surrey ********* Sussex * 13 6 13 17 9 7 14 10 Thames Valley 6 5 18 11 14 8 14 10 10 Warwickshire *****9109* WestMercia 8778109586 West Midlands 13 8 11 13 11 13 19 17 18 WestYorkshire111512161217151518 Wiltshire * * 12****** Total 121314141414141313 * Indicates that the total number of convictions recorded on the PNC was less than 50. For small numbers this could give misleading percentage changes. 1 As with any large scale recording system, the data are subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services Ministry of Justice.

Table 3A: The number of persons aged under 21 found guilty at all courts in England and Wales for causing death or bodily harm through driving1, by police force area, from 1999 to 20082,3,4 Police force area 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 20083

Avon and Somerset 212211121 1 Bedfordshire 2 1 1 — 1 — 1 2 — 1 Cambridgeshire 1 — — 3 — 1 1 — 2 1 Cheshire 1 2 1 —1353—— Cleveland —2—1——322— Cumbria — —12113—2— Derbyshire 31—1111—21 DevonandCornwall2131111017 2 Dorset —2111——22— Durham 1—11341—1— Essex —224—21124 Gloucestershire 2 — 1 — 3 1 — 2 1 1 1465W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1466W

Table 3A: The number of persons aged under 21 found guilty at all courts in England and Wales for causing death or bodily harm through driving1, by police force area, from 1999 to 20082,3,4 Police force area 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 20083

Greater Manchester 176196535— Hampshire 1111—1242— Hertfordshire 2 1 — — 3 2 — — 1 3 Humberside 1 5 1 —21111— Kent 1—1121—23— Lancashire —31233212 1 Leicestershire1—3—234—12 Lincolnshire 1 — 1 — 2 1 — 2 1 1 Merseyside 337574194— Metropolitan police 577767773 5 Norfolk —1222——32— NorthYorkshire—32211—332 Northamptonshire — — 2 1 —232—1 Northumbria —12233111 1 Nottinghamshire 1 — —32134—— South Yorkshire 3 —231485—— Staffordshire 2111—7—31— Suffolk — 1 1— 1———— — Surrey —2———11121 Sussex 4 3 3——— 3— 1 3 Thames Valley 155534—344 Warwickshire 1 1 1 3——— 2— 2 WestMercia 2—11113342 West Midlands 446845665 3 WestYorkshire137562105—5 Wiltshire 1—————— 1— 1 Dyfed-Powys 1 — — — 3 1 — 1 — 1 Gwent 22111—1—1— NorthWales 1 1———— 2 1— — South Wales 4113—4142—

Total England and Wales 58 68 78 73 77 80 91 92 71 49 1 Includes offences of: Causing death by dangerous driving; Causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs; Causing death by driving—unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured drivers; Causing bodily harm by furious driving; Aggravated taking of a vehicle where, owing to the driving of the vehicle, an accident occurs causing the death of any person. 2 The figures given relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. When a 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 for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. 3 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 extractedfrom large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. 4 Excludes convictions for Cardiff magistrates court for April, July and August 2008. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services in the Ministry of Justice.

Table 3B: The number of persons aged 21 and over found guilty at all courts in England and Wales for causing death or bodily harm through driving1, by police force area, from 1999 to 20082,3,4 Police force area 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Avon and Somerset 4 5 5 11 1086424 Bedfordshire 1 4 28624133 Cambridgeshire 4 10 45953857 Cheshire 6 7 35433324 City of London — — — — — 1———— Cleveland 1322354114 Cumbria 2 2 45274552 Derbyshire 34331044322 DevonandCornwall43524410468 Dorset 1—4223311— Durham 2114268——1 Essex 41810638465 Gloucestershire — 4 43154231 Greater Manchester 8 17 14 22 11 14 11 5 7 17 Hampshire 5 9 64734589 Hertfordshire 3275434245 Humberside 7 2 527710765 Kent 855102697610 Lancashire 4 1 653963109 1467W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1468W

Table 3B: The number of persons aged 21 and over found guilty at all courts in England and Wales for causing death or bodily harm through driving1, by police force area, from 1999 to 20082,3,4 Police force area 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Leicestershire 55635742114 Lincolnshire 5 5 6 4 8 102529 Merseyside 1 3 8 5 5 105452 Metropolitan police 23 19 21 24 28 23 25 24 26 24 Norfolk 2224323434 NorthYorkshire163438105104 Northamptonshire 2 5 34246768 Northumbria 5 5 46887664 Nottinghamshire 4 — 55795263 South Yorkshire 2 5 47593357 Staffordshire 1226747586 Suffolk —133123442 Surrey 22243—2382 Sussex 64263641275 Thames Valley 10 11 12 7 11 8 12 17 20 12 Warwickshire — 1 63225241 WestMercia 7475495475 West Midlands 6 12 14 7 9 10 10 10 8 6 WestYorkshire 7 81113111116151313 Wiltshire 6 3 52516134 Dyfed-Powys 26—1—12142 Gwent 14224—6—14 NorthWales 3—12414447 South Wales 11 9 49943754

Total England and Wales 179 202 221 244 240 247 260 212 253 238 1 Includes offences of: Causing death by dangerous driving; Causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs; Causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving; Causing bodily harm by furious driving; Aggravated taking of a vehicle where, owing to the driving of the vehicle, an accident occurs causing the death of any person. 2 The figures given relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. When a 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 for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the statutory maximum penalty is the most severe. 3 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 extractedfrom large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account when those data are used. 4 Excludes convictions for Cardiff magistrates court for April, July and August 2008. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services in the Ministry of Justice.

General Election 2010: Poole a statement within 30 days of the poll giving the time that the count began, explaining, why it did not begin before 2 am, and setting out the steps taken to begin the count by 2 am. Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (iii) the Electoral Commission to list those constituencies that what discussions he has had with returning officers in did not start the count before 2 am in its statutory report on the Poole on the timing of the general election vote count. conduct of the election. [320382] I am also aware that the acting returning officer for Poole has advised the Electoral Commission that he Mr. Wills: The acting returning officer for Poole has intends to commence the count on the night of the provided the Ministry of Justice with helpful information general election poll. on the practical issues surrounding the timing of the count at the next UK parliamentary general election. Grimsby This information along with the views received from other key stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission, Association of Electoral Administrators and SOLACE Mr. Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for helped to inform the clause that was inserted into the Justice if he will set out, with statistical information Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill (‘CRaG related as directly as possible to Great Grimsby Bill’), at Commons Report stage on 2 March which constituency, the effects of his Department’s policies amends schedule 1 to the Representation of the People on that constituency since 1997. [320184] Act 1983 (the Parliamentary Elections Rules) to provide that a returning officer must take reasonable steps to Mr. Wills: The Ministry of Justice’s work spans begin counting the votes given on the ballot papers as criminal, civil and family justice, democracy, rights and soon as practicable within four hours of the close of the constitution. Every year around 9 million people poll. The clause also requires that: use our services in 900 locations across the United (i) the Electoral Commission must produce guidance on this Kingdom, including 650 courts and tribunals and 139 duty; prisons in England and Wales. (ii) in instances where the count does not begin by 2 am, The range of the Department’s policies and actions is returning officers to publish and send to the Electoral Commission wide and the statistical information relating to it is not 1469W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1470W normally collected on a constituency basis. Consequently, Prisons: Databases some of the information requested in the question cannot be provided in the form requested except at a John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for disproportionate cost. Justice (1) when the Local Inmate Database System Although data on sentencing for the period is not available for was introduced; [320082] the constituency of Great Grimsby, it is available for Humberside. (2) what plans there are for the establishment of the This shows the total number of offenders sentenced annually was 20,950 in 1997 and 14,569 in 2008, the latest period for which Local Inmate Database System (LIDS); and what plans such information is available. there are for the future of the national LIDS database. [320083] The number of offences brought to justice for the Humberside area increased from 18,497 for the 12 months ending 31 March 2001 (the earliest period since which such data has been compiled) Maria Eagle: The Prison Service Local Inmate Database to 26,584 (provisional figures) for the 12 months ending 31 March System (LIDS) was introduced in 1989. 2009. LIDS is being replaced by a new case management With regard to prosecutions, data is not available for the system, called Prison-NOMIS (Prison-National Offender constituency of Great Grimsby. However, the total number of Management Information System). Prison-NOMIS is a defendants proceeded against at magistrates’ courts in Humberside national system with a centralised database. It is on was 26,798 in 1997 compared to 19,101 in 2008. schedule to be deployed to public prisons by summer The latest data, which covers reoffending in the period 1 October 2010. 2008 to 30 September 2009, showed that the three month reoffending rate for offenders on the probation caseload in North East Prisons: Drugs Lincolnshire was 12.53 per cent. After controlling for changes in the characteristics of offenders on the probation caseload, there was an increase in reoffending of 1.26 per cent. compared to the John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2007-08 baseline. Data is not available prior to 2007 on this basis. Justice (1) whether he has made an estimate of the The number of persons commencing court order supervision incidence of serious organised crime in prison which by the Probation Service in Humberside was 2,139 in 1997 and involves the trafficking of drugs; [320097] 3,450 in 2008. (2) what recent assessment he has made of the level 56,172 civil non-family proceedings were started in the county of serious organised crime activity in prisons. [320099] courts of Humber and South Yorkshire HM Courts Service (HMCS) area in 2008, compared to 61,944 in 1998, the first year Maria Eagle: Covert criminal activity is, of its nature, for which these figures are available. In respect of family law, there very difficult to quantify. were also 4,803 private law applications and 303 public law applications made in the county or High Courts of this HMCS Prisons have a well established security information area in 2008-09, compared to 4,530 and 385 respectively in reporting framework. Where concerns are identified 2003-04, the first annual period for which these figures are available. about a prisoner’s potential criminal activity, prisons In addition, at a national level: can draw on a range of measures to identify and disrupt that activity. Local communities are being better engaged in criminal justice – by giving them a say in the types of community payback NOMS is also fully engaged in action to address projects offenders carry out and allowing them to see justice being serious and organised crime strategically, including the done, for example through the use of high visibility jackets. work identified in the Government report ”Extending Offenders have now worked more than fourteen million hours, Our Reach: A Comprehensive Approach to Tackling with an estimated value to the taxpayer of over £80 million. Serious Organised Crime” to develop a strategy to Major constitutional reforms have been delivered, including manage serious organised criminals while in prison. devolution, the Human Rights Act, Freedom of Information, Lords Reform, and a new Supreme Court for the UK. Prisons: Females

Mike Wood: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice National Bullying Helpline (1) what arrangements have been made to re-categorise (a) HMP Morton Hall and (b) HMP Foston Hall Fiona Mactaggart: To ask the Secretary of State for from semi-open to closed prisons; and if he will make a Justice what contact the Prison Service has had with statement; [320165] the National Bullying Helpline since 2004; and whether (2) what assessment his Department undertook on the Prison Service has made any payments to (a) the the effect on women in prison of the removal of the National Bullying Helpline and (b) HR and Diversity semi-open category of prison. [320185] Management Limited in that period. [320135] Maria Eagle: On 11 February 2009 the National Maria Eagle: The Prison Service has national policies Offender Management Service (NOMS) announced the designed to keep prisoners, staff and visitors safe from re-designation of both HMP Morton Hall and HMP/YOI bullying. These policies do not promote the National Drake Hall from semi-open to closed prisons. There are Bullying Helpline. Whether prisons locally or offices no plans to change this decision. have ever had any contact with the National Bullying The re-designation, which took effect on 2 March Helpline since 2004 could be known only by contacting 2009, allowed NOMS to more effectively provide for the each prison and office and asking them to check available needs of all women prisoners through greater flexibility information. This would incur disproportionate cost. in the use of the estate. It has also improved closeness to According to information held centrally, no payments home for some women, supported the placement of have been made to either the National Bullying Helpline indeterminate sentenced women in accordance with or to HR and Diversity Management Limited. their needs, and in general enabled more women to 1471W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1472W access the resettlement regimes available at these two the location or ownership of phones seized. Many prisons. There was no requirement to move any of the phones and component parts are not attributable to women out of either prison as a result of the change. individuals. Prisons in England and Wales are instructed Both establishments retained their levels of internal and to send mobile phones and SIM cards found to a perimeter security and their resettlement regimes, including central unit for analysis, it is from this unit’s records their roles as specialist foreign national centres. Women that this answer is based. The figures contained in the suitable for open conditions are able to go these prisons tables have been drawn from administrative data systems. if such a move meets their resettlement needs. Although care is taken when processing data, the detail collected is subject to the inaccuracies inherent in any Prisons: Mobile Phones large scale recording system. These data are not subject to audit. John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many illicit mobile phones were found in The figures understate the actual number of finds, each prison in England and Wales in each of the last 12 because they do not include items retained by the police months; and how many of those phones were found for evidential purposes and phones not submitted for (a) on staff, (b) on prisoners and (c) in communal other reasons. It is not always appropriate to send areas. [320095] phones to the central unit and some phones sent are not interrogated. These have not been included in these Maria Eagle: The Government are committed to figures. NOMS is putting in place new procedures to reducing the number of mobile phones in prisons. We improve the accuracy of these statistics. have already strengthened the law through the Offender Management Act 2007, which made it an offence with a Tackling mobile phones in prison presents substantial penalty of up to two years’ imprisonment to bring a and increasing technological challenges, and while the mobile phone or component into a prison. We are also numbers of phones found clearly indicates the scale of taking forward legislation through the Crime and Security the challenge, it is also a reflection of prisons’ increasing Bill to criminalise the possession of devices, including success in finding them and better reporting. The following mobile telephones within a prison without authorisation. tables show the number of mobile phones and SIM cards that have been received from each of the prisons The National Offender Management Service (NOMS) over the last 12 months. does not hold centrally disaggregated information on

Mobile phone and sim cards submitted to central unit (February 2009 to January 2010) High Security February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Belmarsh—— 1—————————— 1 FullSutton——— 1——— 2—————— Frankland — 2———————————— Long Lartin 6211——1212—3—— Manchester 6633861215115412 Wakefield—————————————— Woodhill —————————————— Whitemoor —122——11—2——11 Total 121177861420255724

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Belmarsh——————— 2—— 1 3 FullSutton———————21116 Frankland — ————————— 0 2 Long Lartin 1 11111——111314 Manchester 5 1 1 6 — — 1 — 9 12 52 56 Wakefield—————————— 0 0 Woodhill — — — —1111——22 Whitemoor — — 1 2 — — 1 2 — — 6 11 Total 6239223711147594

London February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Brixton 3 5——2523 117632—— Feltham ——14131012141110123 2 7 9 Holloway———————— 3 4——— 1 Latchmere House —————— 1— 4 2—— 1— 1473W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1474W

London February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Pentonville — — — — 1 1 17 15 17 10 10 14 15 13 Wandsworth 2387912————2119—4 Wormwood 348714981286561311 Scrubs Total 8 12 30 27 59 57 41 39 49 40 42 43 36 38

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Brixton 2214124426997070 Feltham35893233421980 Holloway11 1 22——69 Latchmere House 2 2 2 3 5 1 1 18 6 Pentonville 10 11 21 18 16 14 17 19 9 5 133 120 Wandsworth — — 5 4———— 3 14850 Wormwood Scrubs 12 15 10 7 14 18 9 9 18 15 122 119 Total 30346051394138394433476453

Wales February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Cardiff 23221111343233 Swansea——1233——451153 Usk/Prescoed ————2111———— 1— Parc ——————13441—11 Total 23346535111353107

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Cardiff 11531146232830 Swansea 6544451111334242 Usk/Prescoed — — — 1 — — 1 1 — — 5 4 Parc 12——1—11251216 Total 88986617197118792

South East February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Albany ———— 1 1———————— Aylesbury——122612221211—— Blantyre House —————— 1——— 3— 2 2 Bronzefield—— 3 4——————3434 Bullingdon 1 —43224542—111 Camp Hill 2 2—————— 1——— 2 3 Canterbury 1511——113231—— Coldingley———————— 1——— 1 1 Cookham Wood ———— 2 2———— 1 2—— Dover 3 1—— 1 1—————— 8 5 Downview—— 1 2—————————— EastSuttonPark———————— 1 1———— Elmley 51535526644—112 Ford ——1111121111—— Grendon — — 1 1 18 9———————— Haslar —————————————— Highdown 1 — 16 14 6 2————5454 Huntercombe — — 1 2 — — 2 4 — —1122 Kingston 1 1———————————— Lewes —————————————— Maidstone 3 3 2 2————343313 Parkhurst 1126112—212321 1475W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1476W

South East February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Reading — — — 2 — — 2 1 — —2224 Rochester 1 1 5 6——————— 3—— Send —————— 1 1—— 2 3—— Springhill199————53858611 Standford Hill 221122161084141163 Swaleside4423446761010998 Winchester — —3213———— 1——— Total 4444475746364842443671664644

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Albany —————————— 1 1 Aylesbury87——766613145256 Blantyre House ———— 4— 2———122 Bronzefield4 4—————— 2 31519 Bullingdon 1 — 6 3 — —32232822 Camp Hill ————————1166 Canterbury 2 1————11211413 Coldingley34451 — — — 1 1 11 11 Cookham Wood ————————1145 Dover 2—645195423819 Downview————————1123 EastSuttonPark———— 1 2———— 2 3 Elmley 47221145123652 Ford ————— 1——1168 Grendon ——————————1910 Haslar —————————— 0 0 Highdown 4321——11444433 Huntercombe — — 1 1—————— 710 Kingston ———— 1————— 2 1 Lewes ———— 1 1———— 1 1 Maidstone5659——12562838 Parkhurst 10 9 4 6——— 2——2630 Reading 1————— 5 4——1213 Rochester — — —12313111018 Send — —1111———— 5 6 Springhill—121——11—1449 Standford Hill 6576181142558962 Swaleside456661175857277 Winchester 2 1 1 1———— 2 31010 Total 56534747483845395455596538

South West February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Ashfield——12—16611——22 Bristol ————33108667933 Channings 66664427331255 Wood Dartmoor 2 —861198334531 Dorchester1 1—— 2 3———————— EastwoodPark3 2—— 1 2—————— 4 6 Erlestoke—————— 1——————— Exeter 33——1—47113111 Gloucester 16 12 1 3———————— 1 1 Guys Marsh 3 1 — —54969719152617 Leyhill ————————1268105 Portland —————————————— Shepton Mallet — — 2 3 — —1131——11 The Verne 133312543232—— Total 3528212318204747302643425642 1477W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1478W

September October November December January Total

MSMSMSMSMSMS

Ashfield —— 1 1——————1113 Bristol 2 2 4 3—— 1———3634 Channings Wood —622——23213345 Dartmoor 31323165334836 Dorchester——1—1132——87 EastwoodPark1 1 1 1————— 11013 Erlestoke———————— 1 1 2 1 Exeter 242312————1822 Gloucester 33211——11—2621 Guys Marsh 18 17 349311138612093 Leyhill — — 7 8 18 15 12 11 5 4 59 53 Portland—————————— 0 0 Shepton Mallet 1 2———————— 8 8 The Verne 22223111122524 Total 32382827362337362118404370

East of England February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Bedford — — 4 2 — — 1 1——— 1—— Blundeston 5 9 —11112251333 BullwoodHall—————————————— Chelmsford 3 4————2121—3—— Edmunds Hill 11331313212155 Highpoint 16 10 633355113624 HollesleyBay539631651—23158 Littlehey 1 1 2 1—— 1— 1— 1 3—— The Mount — —17971822151210141213 Norwich231114782—3311 Peterborough 2 2 13 11 114965691012 WarrenHill—————————————— Wayland2234212534—575 Total 3735423921214861352928515551

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Bedford — 1 2 2—————— 7 7 Blundeston 1 1 5 3————— 21930 BullwoodHall1 1———————— 1 1 Chelmsford — — 1 — 1 —21331413 Edmunds Hill 4 1 — — 2 — 1 — — 1 22 19 Highpoint 1 3 — —1222334342 Hollesley Bay 5 4 10 11 11 4 12 8 13 11 92 64 Littlehey ————— 2———— 6 7 The Mount 8 7 12 11 355388101109 Norwich ——————————1720 Peterborough 13 10 7 10 3 1 9 11 8 11 82 92 WarrenHill—————————— 0 0 Wayland——6613——563141 Total 33284343221731254045435445

East Midlands February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Ashwell 355322 44—212 FostenHall —————————————— Gartree —— 1 1——————1911 GlenParva —— 3 4—————————— Leicester 231132547671065 1479W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1480W

East Midlands February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Lincoln 1 —12472512431

Lowdham Grange 5 2———————————— MortonHall—— 2 2—————————— North Sea Camp 21363———344731 Nottingham — 1 —11235—123—— Onley 1— 2 4—— 1— 2——— 1 1 Ranby 43441———4532—— RyeHill —1119688716248202116 Stocken ————551—11——22 Sudbury ————————— 1———— Wellingborough 9 14 5 6 10 11 — 1 14 13 2 1 11 8 Whatton —————————————— Total 2730384335372022526131574736

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Ashwell — 1——————— 11520 FostenHall —————————— 0 0 Gartree 107—————— 2 11519 GlenParva 1 2——————1157 Leicester 23215322224442 Lincoln 32543235——2832 Lowdham Grange —————————— 5 2 MortonHall—————————— 2 2 North Sea Camp 1 —583333223235 Nottingham 3 3———— 1 1— 61023 Onley 1 1 3———————116 Ranby 5 4————————2118 RyeHill 85786104355100116 Stocken 11—2——68121721 Sudbury 1 — 1——————— 2 1 Wellingborough — 1 10 15 10 6 10 11 10 13 91 100 Whatton —————————— 0 0 Total 36303338272429332333398444

West Midlands February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Birmingham 59462—574166128 Brinsford——141133228764 Dovegate 3 3 2 1 2—————— 2 3 DrakeHall—————————————— Featherstone15173522411118812—1 Hewell 45121010278109141212 Shrewsbury 1 2 1 — 1 — — — 1 1 — — 3 2 Stafford ————— 1—— 1—— 2—— StokeHeath4—1—3487462356 SwinfenHall33422111655424 Werrington ————————1123—— Total 3539152122212326384440514240

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Birmingham 5 9 11 9 10 11 6 9 16 15 86 90 Brinsford11354142333633 Dovegate——13142568343041 DrakeHall—————————— 0 0 Featherstone53—215231—5269 1481W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1482W

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Hewell 13612810711668888 Shrewsbury——1111—1——98 Stafford 2—1111——2—75 StokeHeath41131122——3533 SwinfenHall11131——3132730 Werrington —————————— 3 4 Total 31214346313221293231373401

York and Humberside February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Askham Grange —————————————— Doncaster — — 1 1———— 1———— 1 Everthorpe7 5——1211——16159 51011 Hull 447632710214312 Leeds 4 7 10 11 374177212— Lindholme ————32551481720118 Moorland open — —42251———— 1 2 1 Moorland closed 4443132233——22 NewHall —————————————— Northallerton—————————————— Wealstun—16711111125—— Wetherby 1 1—————————— 2 2 Wolds ————2191056——64 Total 2022323027322929494134353631

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Askham Grange —————————— 0 0 Doncaster 2 2 6112111813 Everthorpe——————————5447 Hull ————— 4————2832 Leeds 5 11 124524124558 Lindholme 11 99859741599782 Moorland open 133152452—2318 Moorland closed 6 7 — — 1 1 — — 2 1 26 28 NewHall—————————— 0 0 Northallerton—— 1 1—————— 1 1 Wealstun45113312——2027 Wetherby—— 1——— 1 1—— 5 4 Wolds 151389775211116863 Total 44502428263222193224375373

North West February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Altcourse232011921211821121116191113 Buckley Hall —————————— 3 2—— Forest Bank ————————————1315 Garth 42568124332441719 Haverigg436452——11———— Hindley24——1122———— 1 1 Kennet 1 7 7 6——1110 329592 Kirkham ————————11766313 Lancaster ———————————— 2 3 Castle Lancaster —1221———24222 1—— Farms Liverpool 3 — 6 10 43 42 25 29 29 30 7 8 3 1 Preston——101668——581533 Risley——58672210157924 Styal ———————————— 2 2 1483W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1484W

North West February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Thorn Cross 2 —21121211———— Wymott 4 3 — 1 18 16 11 8 8 6 10 8 5 9 Total 20 40 54 63 110 111 74 77 97 99 66 67 131 85

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Altcourse 10 13 17 16 63 61 30 25 69 73 278 302 Buckley Hall — ————221——55 Forest Bank 6 9 — — 3 —32553031 Garth 13534422586268 Haverigg1—114265313119 Hindley—————————— 6 8 Kennet 2 1———12—334737 Kirkham 15 12 17 2 51 17 21 11 30 13 205 75 Lancaster Castle 3 2 — 1—————— 5 6 Lancaster Farms — ——————— 4 73333 Liverpool 9 10 20 17 10 8——1420169175 Preston—————— 3 4——2844 Risley4211116932245873 Styal —— 3 3—————— 5 5 Thorn Cross 2 2124479852928 Wymott 10 9 7 10 3143228276 Total 63 63 82 66 148 109 83 64 145 141 1073 985

North East February March April May June July August MSMSMSMSMSMSMS

Acklington12224311——1—97 Castington —————————————— Deerbolt 4 2———— 1 3—————— Durham 2 2 1 2———————— 3 5 Holme House 4432—344—11121 Kirklevington 11109375—1—19212 Grange LowNewton—————————————— Total 2220159111169021131515

Grand total 262 284 304 323 363 357 353 377 407 396 376 425 476 393

September October November December January Total MSMSMSMSMSMS

Acklington5611858512105242 Castington——11——111133 Deerbolt — — 1——————166 Durham 3 5 1 1—— 4 2——1417 Holme House 35114345543134 Kirklevington 52962572326341 Grange LowNewton—————————— 0 0 Total 16181410141324152118169143

Grand total 355 345 386 373 399 337 350 325 430 423 4,461 4,325

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for of how this is undertaken. Analysis of the data found Justice how data found on illicit mobile phones in on illicit mobile phones provides a potentially valuable prisons is being analysed by the prison service. [320098] source of intelligence for prisons and law enforcement agencies. Guidance to ensure a greater level of consistency across the estate is due to be circulated shortly. Maria Eagle: Data found on illicit mobile phones found in prison is analysed by establishments. However, John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for for security reasons it is not possible to disclose details Justice how many pornographic or violent images of 1485W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1486W

(a) children and (b) adults have been found on illicit Trainee probation officer (TPO) costs mobile phones seized from prisoners in the last three Financial year Total (£ million) years. [320100] 2009-10 26.430 Note: Maria Eagle: Prisons are responsible for the analysis 1. The costs detailed include the trainee salary, pension contribution of the information recovered from mobile phones. Where and the university administration cost. Figures are only available there is evidence of a criminal offence, the matter is from 2003-04 when the Home Office took over responsibility for the referred to the police. However, the majority of phones higher education contracts. 2. The funding increase in 2004-05 was based on the assumption that seized are not attributable to individual prisoners. The Custody Plus would be implemented, requiring a rapid increase in National Offender Management Service does not hold probation officers. When the policy decision was made to suspend a centrally disaggregated record of the data found on this, trainee numbers decreased. The final cohort of Diploma in illicit mobile phones found in prisons. To provide the Probation Studies began their two-year course in October 2008 and information requested, we would need to contact all the drop in funding in 2009-10 represents the fact that there is only one cohort to fund between October 2009 and April 2010. The new prisons in England and Wales, ask them to check their Probation Qualification Framework will be launched in April 2010. local records and to submit this information to headquarters. This would incur disproportionate cost. Probation service officer (PSO) costs Financial year Training allocation (£)

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2003-04 n/a Justice whether he has made a recent assessment of the 2004-05 928,000 level of transfer between illicit mobile phones in 2005-06 772,000 prisons of violent or pornographic images. [320102] 2006-07 800,000 2007-08 800,000 Maria Eagle: Data found on illicit mobile phones 2008-09 2,520,100 found in prison is analysed by establishments. However, 2009-10 2,500,000 for security reasons it is not possible to disclose details Note: of how this is undertaken. Analysis of the data found The allocation for 2003-04 is not known. In 2005-06, areas were on illicit mobile phones provides a potentially valuable required to bid for PSO training funding. In 2006 to date, funding is source of intelligence for prisons and law enforcement provided for 1,000 PSOs at £800 per head per year and Areas are agencies. Guidance to ensure a greater level of consistency allocated maximum numbers calculated using the cash limit formula. across the estate is due to be circulated shortly. In 2008-09 and 2009-10, an additional investment was made in PSO training in preparation for the launch of the new Probation Qualification Due to the covert nature of mobile phone use in Framework in April 2010. prisons, we are not able to estimate the number of mobile phones or component parts in circulation, nor are we able to assess their usage. TREASURY Banks: Loans

Probation Officers Mr. Syms: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with UK Financial Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for Investments on the level of bank lending. [320390] Justice how much funding his Department and its Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Treasury Ministers and officials predecessor allocated for the (a) recruitment and (b) have meetings and discussions with UKFI as part of training of probation officers in each year since 1997. the process of policy development and delivery. As was [317631] the case with previous Administrations, the Government do not disclose the outcome or results of all such Maria Eagle: Recruitment funding is included in the meetings and discussions. general grant paid to areas for probation officer training delivery. However, information about the specific local Carbon Sequestration: Finance spend on recruitment was not routinely collected and to do so would incur disproportionate cost. Charles Hendry: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to paragraph 7.19, page 123, The following information is the best quality information of the pre-Budget report, Cm 7747, from what level the that is available but it has been transferred over time Government have doubled its support for carbon from the Home Office Adelphi finance system to the capture and storage technology. [320373] Prison Service Phoenix system and there is the possibility that there may be some gaps. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: At Budget 2009, the Government Details of the funding allocated for the training of made a commitment to fund two CCS demonstration probation officers is contained in the following tables. plants. At the pre-Budget report, the Government announced this commitment would be extended to fund Trainee probation officer (TPO) costs four demonstration plants. Financial year Total (£ million) Chemical Engineering: Government Assistance 2003-04 57.886 2004-05 63.272 Charles Hendry: To ask the Chancellor of the 2005-06 42.381 Exchequer with reference to paragraph 7.30, page 125, 2006-07 42.381 of the pre-Budget report, Cm 7747, from which budget 2007-08 44.762 the £30 million for the Teesside chemicals industry will 2008-09 41.663 be allocated. [320368] 1487W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1488W

Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The £30 million in support for Ian Pearson: Central civil government departments, the chemicals industry on Teesside is part of the £200 million their executive agencies and arm’s length bodies are extension to the Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) announced already required to record actual and vacant properties at 2009 pre-Budget report (PBR). on the e-PIMS database. The SIF, which is administered by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, was created in Budget Public Sector: Energy 2009 to support advanced industrial projects of strategic importance. Together with the PBR extension, it has Charles Hendry: To ask the Chancellor of the total funds of £950 million. Of this, £400 million is to Exchequer with reference to paragraph 7.32, page 125, be spent on low-carbon projects (including the Teesside of the pre-Budget report, Cm 7747, what the baseline is support). for the 10 per cent. reduction in public sector energy spending. [320367] Climate Change Levy Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The commitment to a 10 per Charles Hendry: To ask the Chancellor of the cent. reduction in public sector energy spending by Exchequer what estimate he has made of the monetary financial year 2012-13 is with respect to a baseline of value of receipts from the Climate Change Levy in (a) financial year 2008-09. 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12. [320512] Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Current estimates of Climate Renewable Energy: Finance Change Levy receipts for 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 are set out in Table B10 of the pre-Budget report 2009. Charles Hendry: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to paragraph 7.25, page 124, Economic Situation: Greece of the pre-Budget report, Cm 7747, from which budget the (a) £50 million for the development of offshore Mr. Syms: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer wind technologies and (b) £40 million for the what recent discussions he has had with his European development of low carbon energy and advanced green counterparts on the effects on EU member states of the manufacturing technologies will be allocated. [320366] fiscal situation in Greece. [320388] Ian Pearson: The Chancellor of the Exchequer has Sarah McCarthy-Fry: £50 million for the development regular discussions with European Finance Ministers of offshore wind technologies and £40 million for low on European economic matters. The situation in Greece carbon energy and advanced green manufacturing was discussed at the last ECOFIN on 16 February. technologies are to be funded from the £200 million extension to the Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) announced Excise Duties: Beer at 2009 pre-Budget report (PBR). The SIF, which is administered by the Department Mr. Todd: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for Business, Innovation and Skills, was created in Budget what discussions he has had concerning the proposal to 2009 to support advanced industrial projects of strategic levy a lower duty on cask beer; and if he will make a importance. Together with the PBR extension, it has statement. [320559] total funds of £950 million. Of this, £400 million is to be spent on low carbon projects (including the two Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Alcohol duty policy is restricted areas noted above). by EU rules. It is not possible to levy different rates of duty on cask beer compared to beer sold in other types Taxation: Domicile of packaging. Financial Services: Local Government Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what tests HM Revenue and Customs Mr. Stewart Jackson: To ask the Chancellor of the applies when determining domicile; and what Exchequer if he will request the Financial Services investigations are normally undertaken in the cause of Authority to make a formal response to the Second applying such tests. [320738] Report of the Communities and Local Government Committee, on Local Authority Investments: Role of Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Domicile is a concept of common the Financial Services Authority, HC287. [319729] law that is used in tax law for certain purposes. HM Revenue and Customs applies this legal concept to the Sarah McCarthy-Fry: The Financial Services Authority facts of each case, those facts being established through (FSA) responded to the Communities and Local the normal inquiry process. Government Committee’s first report, explaining that HMRC has produced detailed guidance on domicile the boundaries of regulation are set by HM Treasury, which gives an indication of the kind of information not the FSA. and documents that HMRC might request during an Public Bodies: Empty Property inquiry. These lists are not exhaustive. The guidance is available at: Mr. Maude: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/domicile-tier2.pdf with reference to the answer of 20 July 2009, Official Report, column 895W, on empty property, if he will Mr. Gordon Prentice: To ask the Chancellor of the take steps to require all central public bodies to report Exchequer how many UK citizens acquired a new their actual and vacant properties for the e-PIMS domicile of choice and retained long-term UK database. [320905] residence in each year since 2000. [320739] 1489W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1490W

Sarah McCarthy-Fry: This information is not available, To determine those personnel who have completed as individuals are not required to report their UK just a single course would require a manual search of domicile status or residence status to HM Revenue and records and could be provided only at disproportionate Customs unless either is relevant to their liability to UK cost. tax within that year. AWE Aldermaston UK Financial Investments: Expenditure

Mr. David Hamilton: To ask the Chancellor of the Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Exchequer what the cost to the public purse of (a) Defence whether research at the proposed new establishing and (b) maintaining UK Financial hydrodynamics facility at AWE Aldermaston will be [319053] Investments Ltd has been to date. [319954] undertaken exclusively for defence purposes. Sarah McCarthy-Fry: Information on establishing Mr. Quentin Davies: The work undertaken at the and maintaining UK Financial Investments Ltd during existing hydrodynamics facility at AWE Aldermaston 2008-09 is shown in Note 13.8.1 on page 214 of HM exclusively supports defence activities including the Treasury Group’s Annual Report and Accounts 2008-09 requirement to maintain the skills base for the UK’s (HC 611). deterrent capability. It is expected that this would also Information on spending in the current financial year be the case for any replacement hydrodynamics facility. will be available once the financial year has been completed Departmental Housing and the Treasury’s Resource Account, due for publication in the summer, has been audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General. Willie Rennie: To ask the Secretary of State for Further information on UK Financial Investments Defence how much his Department has spent on (a) Limited’s expenditure can be found in its Annual Report permanent and (b) temporary accommodation for and Accounts 2008-09, available at: civil servants in each of the last 12 months. [314198] www.ukfi.gov.uk Mr. Kevan Jones: I will write to the hon. Member when I have obtained the information, and will place a copy in the Library of the House. DEFENCE Substantive answer from Kevan Jones to Willie Rennie: Afghan Campaign Medal In my answer of 22 February (Official Report, column 19W) I undertook to write to you with details on permanent and temporary Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence accommodation for civil servants in each of the last 12 months. what assessment he has made of the merits of changing Civil servants transferring within the Department in the UK the rules under which members of the Royal Air Force may stay in temporary accommodation when they are sent on a Aero-Medical Evacuation Squadron at RAF Lyneham long-term temporary basis to a different work location outside of are ineligible for the Afghan Campaign Medal. [317537] reasonable daily travel of their home. They may also stay in temporary accommodation for a short period prior to occupying Mr. Kevan Jones: The criteria for campaign medals their permanent home following a transfer in the UK to a are always complex, and subject to periodic review. The location which gives help with relocation expenses. The number of employees staying in temporary accommodation following a Ministry of Defence is aware of the situation pertaining permanent or temporary transfer constantly fluctuates as employees to Aero-Medical personnel and consideration of their enter or leave the accommodation. To obtain the numbers for position is currently under active consideration and we each month would involve disproportionate cost, but on average, hope to reach a conclusion shortly. there are 250+ employees staying in temporary accommodation at any one time. This may be in private rented accommodation, Armed Forces: Bomb Disposal service messes or staying with family or friends in the new area. Costs for each of the last 12 months are as follows: Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 2009 temporary accommodation how many specialist bomb disposal staff were trained Month Amount (£) in the armed forces in each of the last three years. [320283] January 123,447 February 106,178 Bill Rammell: Specialist bomb disposal operators are March 129,840 highly skilled officers and senior non-commissioned April 122,364 officers of all three services that are trained to lead May 95,590 bomb disposal teams. The following table provides June 106,730 information on the number who have qualified as July 108,687 Conventional Munitions Disposal and/or Joint Service August 99,980 Improvised Explosive Device Disposal, and/or High September 102,421 Threat Improvised Explosive Device Disposal operators. October 104,422 As a result some personnel will have been recorded November 98,532 more than once. December 110,122

Training year Total The responsibility for permanent accommodation costs at the normal place of work is a personal one. However, civil servants 2007-08 101 who are transferred on permanent terms to a new location where 2008-09 101 they may receive help with relocation costs may be eligible to 2009 to date 100 receive assistance with Additional Housing Costs Allowance (AHCA). This payment provides a measure of help with additional housing 1491W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1492W costs for the new permanent home following a move to a more Training and Mentoring Team; and RFA Lyme Bay, expensive location. It is payable for nine years (inclusive of a taper supporting UK Mine Counter Measure forces working in the last four years). There are currently 1300 employees in in the Gulf. receipt of AHCA at some point in the nine year cycle. Payments to civil servants in each of the last 12 months are as follows: Trade Unions 2009 AHCA Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Month Amount (£) how many days staff of his Department and its January 429,135 agencies spent on trade union activity in the latest year February 421,516 for which figures are available; and what recent March 435,458 estimate he has made of the annual cost to the public April 322,936 purse of such activity. [320665] May 318,271 June 325,308 Mr. Kevan Jones: The Ministry of Defence makes July 338,113 certain facilities available to civilian employees who are August 323,388 accredited representatives or members, but not paid September 320,108 officials, of Trade Unions and Staff Associations recognised October 338,412 by the Department. November 336,157 Special Paid Leave or Unpaid leave may be given to December 327,434 accredited Trade Union (TU) representatives, for the Similar information from overseas areas could only be provided following TU Activities, which are specifically concerned at disproportionate cost. with TU policy: Attendance at a conference of a MOD recognised TU, whether Departmental Marketing as a delegate or trainee delegate; Representing a MOD TU on external bodies, relevant to Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence employment in the Civil Service e.g. at TUC meetings; pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Ruislip Duty as organiser or treasurer. Northwood of 5 January 2010, Official Report, column Members of a recognised TU, who are not elected representatives, 103W, on departmental marketing, how much his may be allowed reasonable time off, Special Paid Leave, for the Department and agencies have spent on advertising, following TU activities: marketing, public relations and publicity in relation to a conference of a recognised MOD TU, whether as a delegate the (a) Real Help Now and (b) Building Britain’s or as a trainee delegate; Future themed campaign to date. [320460] TU meetings at which branches consider the proposed resolutions for annual conferences; Mr. Kevan Jones: The Ministry of Defence has not branch committee meetings as a committee member who is not conducted any Real Help Now or Building Britain’s an accredited representative; and Future themed campaigns. representing the TU on external bodies relevant to employment in the Civil Service e.g. at TUC meetings. Departmental Theft The information regarding the amount of days MOD Mr. Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for employees spend on TU activity, and its cost, is not held Defence how many thefts of (a) personal items and centrally, and could be provided only at disproportionate (b) items which are the property of his Department cost. have been reported from the London offices of his Department in the last two years. [320228] CABINET OFFICE Mr. Kevan Jones: The Ministry of Defence Police Departmental Temporary Employment have recorded 26 thefts of personal property and nine thefts of MOD departmental property, from premises Grant Shapps: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet in London, during the period 1 February 2008 to 28 Office from which companies her Department sourced February 2010. temporary staff in each of the last three years; how many temporary staff her Department employed in Middle East: Navy each year; and what the monetary value of the contracts with each such company was in each such Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for year. [320020] Defence how many naval assets of each type are tasked under Operation Calash. [320970] Angela E. Smith: The information requested for the Cabinet Office is not readily available and could be Bill Rammell: One Royal Navy vessel is assigned to obtained only at disproportionate cost. Op Calash. This is either a Type 22 or Type 23 Frigate. Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels are ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE deployed in the middle east; and what are their tasks. Boilers: Government Assistance [320971] Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for Bill Rammell: The three Royal Fleet Auxiliaries deployed Energy and Climate Change what steps his in the middle east are: RFA Bayleaf, supporting UK, Department takes to ensure that boilers to be replaced NATO and Coalition forces in and around the under the boiler scrappage scheme are in working order Arabian Gulf; RFA Cardigan Bay, supporting the Iraqi before replacement. [320304] 1493W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1494W

Joan Ruddock: The boiler to be replaced under the agreed to jointly encourage research collaboration in Boiler Scrappage Scheme must be in working order this area. The UK Engineering and Physical Sciences (unless the applicant is over 60) to be eligible for a Research Council and the Indian Department of Atomic voucher. Energy will consider potential scientific areas for this In the first place we rely on a declaration by the enhanced collaboration at a joint meeting in the UK in applicant. This is checked by an onsite audit of a March 2010. The costs of this first step will be shared percentage of applicants before the replacement boiler between the two parties. is installed. DFID is supporting renewable energy initiatives in There is also a signed declaration on the voucher by remote areas through development programmes in Madhya the installer and applicant that the boiler removed was Pradesh and Orissa. In Orissa the project is focused on working where this is applicable. provision of solar lighting and in Madhya Pradesh it is focused on biogas cooking units. These renewable initiatives Carbon Emissions: Boilers are part of bigger state level programmes and comprise only a very small part of overall funding. Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for DFID is supporting power sector reforms in two Energy and Climate Change with reference to states, West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh, with an objective paragraph 7.36, page 127, of the pre-Budget report, to achieve more efficient public sector units. The initiative Cm 7747, what estimate he has made of the increase in in West Bengal is in partnership with the Department of greenhouse gas emissions likely to result from the Power and Non-conventional Energy Sources, Government manufacture of additional boilers as a result of the of West Bengal (up to £11 million from June 2008 to greener boiler incentive. [320370] March 2011). DFID has also supported capacity building of the power sector in West Bengal through the World Joan Ruddock: Based on manufacturers’ data on the Bank Trust Fund (up to $300,000 from June 2005 to lifecycle costs of a boiler, we estimate the greenhouse March 2009). In Madhya Pradesh the power sector gas emissions from a boiler’s manufacture are less than reforms project (2008-10, £20.4 million) supported 1 per cent. of its lifetime emissions, with 99 per cent. evaluation of renewables in three key sectors (1) small associated with the fuel consumed during its operation. scale industries, (2) municipal building and (3) water and waste water treatment. Under the next phase DFID Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for India will be providing support to build capacity of the Energy and Climate Change with reference to State Renewable Energy Agency. paragraph 7.36, page 127, of the pre-Budget report, DFID have also announced plans to provide the Cm 7747, what estimate he has made of the annual Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) with up to reduction in UK greenhouse gas emissions likely to £10 million over the next five years. This funding will result from the greener boiler incentive. [320371] help to bring electricity and clean energy to millions of the world’s poorest people by supporting renewable Joan Ruddock: We estimate the annual reduction in energy projects in India. As is routine, DFID is undertaking CO2 emissions from the boiler scrappage scheme at a full institutional assessment of TERI as part of their 110,000 to 140,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum. due diligence process before releasing funds. Also with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for DFID is providing £285,000 through Winrock International Energy and Climate Change with reference to India to develop sustainable business models for access paragraph 7.36, page 127, of the pre-Budget report, to energy in remote rural areas. Cm 7747, what estimate he has made of the effect on greenhouse gas emissions of the greener boiler Combined Heat and Power incentive. [320372] Jeremy Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Joan Ruddock: The Government have estimated that Energy and Climate Change when he expects to make there will be a saving of 110,000 to 140,000 tonnes of an announcement on the feed-in tariff rate for CO2 per annum. micro-combined heat and power. [320256]

Collaboration Agreements Mr. Kidney: The feed-in tariff rate for the micro-CHP ’pilot’, designed to support up to 30,000 installations Mr. Dai Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for with a capacity of 2kW or below, will be 10p/kWh. This Energy and Climate Change what recent collaboration rate was published in the Government’s Response to the agreements on energy projects have been concluded Feed-in Tariff Consultation on February 1 and can be with India; and what resources have been made found on the DECC website. available to support such collaboration. [319203] http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/ elec_financial/elec_financial.aspx Joan Ruddock: The UK recently announced a £4.9 million collaboration on solar technology, led by Departmental Consultants Research Councils UK with matched funding from the Indian Department of Science and Technology. Two Julia Goldsworthy: To ask the Secretary of State for projects will run for three years each with a focus on Energy and Climate Change how much consultants creating cheaper, more effective solar panel technology. employed by his Department have been paid (a) in As part of the Joint Declaration by the UK and India total and (b) in reimbursable expenses since its on civil nuclear co-operation, the two countries have inception. [314002] 1495W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1496W

Joan Ruddock: Since its inception on 3 October 2008 Mr. Kidney [holding answer 3 March 2010]: The the Department of Energy and Climate Change has Department has Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in spent £10,624,367 on consultancy services. place to monitor Eaga’s performance and hold regular Examples include advice on Combined Heat and meetings with Eaga at which time any concerns we have Power, the evaluation of capital grant applications and will be raised with them. Under the terms of the contract, renewable energy advice for which AEA Technology my Department and Eaga will review the current KPIs Services were paid £1,600, 000 a scoping study and the this year. Furthermore, my Department engages development of the Carbon Reduction Commitment independent Consultants and Quality Assessors, WYG, registry for which the Environment Agency were paid to audit Eaga’s performance. Over the past two years £930,000, and analysis to support renewables for which the quarterly scorecards have shown that Eaga have NERA were paid £151,000. principally met their key performance indicators. Provisions within the contract between the Department and Eaga It is not possible to identify all reimbursable expenses allows the Department to claim and be paid service without incurring disproportionate costs. credits for any failure by Eaga to reach a set target for delivery against key KPIs. To date, the Department has Departmental Disabled Staff not had to enforce the payment of service credits for failure to meet KPIs. Mr. Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Energy Supply: Fees and Charges and Climate Change how many and what proportion of staff in his Department are disabled; and what the Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for average salary in his Department is of (a) full-time Energy and Climate Change what recent estimate his disabled staff, (b) full-time non-disabled staff, (c) Department has made of the number of households on part-time disabled staff and (d) part-time non-disabled social tariffs for (a) gas and (b) electricity. [320518] staff. [317889] Mr. Kidney: Ofgem publish annual estimates of the Joan Ruddock: The Department of Energy and Climate number of customer accounts on social tariffs. Change (DECC) was created in October 2008 bringing http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Sustainability/SocAction/Suppliers/ together staff from Department for Business, Enterprise CSR/Documents1/ and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and Department for Monitoring_suppliers_social_spend_2008_09_final.pdf Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The At the end of March 2009, over 1 million customer number of employees within DECC and who have accounts were on social tariffs, an increase of 118 per declared a disability status was published in the Annual cent. from 460,000 customer accounts on social tariffs Civil Service Employment Survey (ACSES) by the Office as at 31 March 2008. for National Statistics on 20 January 2010. Of the 1 million (1,004,000) customer accounts on An extract is shown as follows: social tariffs at the end of March 2009, 493,000 were for DECC Civil service employment and disability status1 electricity; 470,000 were for gas and 41,000 were for Number/percentage duel fuel.

Disabled 40 EU Emissions Trading Scheme Non-disabled 200 Not declared or non-response 670 Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Total 910 Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made All employees with known disability status 240 of the price per tonne of carbon in the EU Emissions Disabled employees as percentage of known disability 16.5 Trading Scheme in (a) 2012 and (b) 2015. [320574] status 1 Numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Joan Ruddock [holding answer 4 March 2010]: DECC publishes estimated values of the EU allowance price The median earnings for non-disabled and disabled for use in appraising savings from policies that reduce employees is as follows: emissions in the sectors covered by the EU Emissions Trading System. £ Non-disabled Disabled The current valuation of EU allowances for 2012 provides a range between £13 and £28 with a central Full-time 37,710 31,900 value of £22. In 2015 the forecast is a range between Part-time 49,570 1— £13 and £29 with a central value of £23. These values 1 Data not available as disclosure could identify individuals. assume an EU 20 per cent. reduction on 1990 emissions, Note: Data compiled as at 31 March 2009. and do not factor in the potential for a higher EU target. Eaga: Warm Front Scheme The current published values have not incorporated the impact of the economic recession. Revised values Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy are being prepared and will be published shortly. and Climate Change what mechanisms his Department Fuel Oil: Prices uses to evaluate the performance of Eaga Ltd. in carrying out its Warm Front contractual obligations; Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of Energy and Climate Change whether his Department those mechanisms; and how many times Eaga Ltd. has has received any information on increases in domestic not met those obligations in each of the last two years. heating oil prices arising from difficulties in the delivery [319994] of heating oil during the recent severe weather. [320337] 1497W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1498W

Mr. Kidney [holding answer 4 March 2010]: This Wood: Imports winter we witnessed an increase in the price of heating oil, both wholesale and retail. Wholesale heating oil Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for prices reached a peak of $729.75 (8 January 2010), a Energy and Climate Change what information his 14-month high. Retail heating oil prices reached a peak Department holds on the proportion of wood pellets of 43.11p/1 (18 January 2010), a 15-month high. While used in heat and electricity generation which was distributors faced access problems due to poor weather imported in the last 12 months. [320521] conditions, heating oil prices are driven primarily by demand changes and crude prices, which increased in Mr. Kidney: The Department does not hold information the same period. on the proportion of wood pellets used in heat and The peak in prices follows on from a general upward electricity generation that were imported. However, in trend in the price of heating oil and crude oil since the 2008, three major power producers used either wood beginning of 2009. However current prices are still well pellets or wood chip, usually co-fired with other fuels. below the record levels reached in July 2008. Indeed the retail heating oil price is currently 42.20p/l (1 March 2010), 33 per cent. below the 2008 peak, while the wholesale heating oil price is currently $689/tonne (1 March WALES 2010), 53 per cent. below the 2008 peak. Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers Renewable Energy Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many full-time equivalent staff of each Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for grade are employed by his Department to assist special Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made advisers. [321145] of the level of carbon dioxide emissions per unit of electricity generated in the UK in each year since 1980. Mr. Hain: One member of staff (administrative assistant) [320364] as part of her duties provides support to the senior civil servants and special advisers, in relation to travel and Joan Ruddock: Table 1 shows the grams of carbon accommodation arrangements. dioxide emitted per unit of electricity generated by major power producers in the UK since 1980. Table 1: Carbon dioxide emitted per unit of electricity COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT gCO2/KWh 1980 815.3 Council Tax: Southend 1981 793.9 1982 771.3 Mr. Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for 1983 740.4 Communities and Local Government how many 1984 686.6 people have registered for council tax in Southend in 1985 688.2 each year since 1997. [320650] 1986 700.9 1987 714.2 Barbara Follett: Council tax is a property tax. Whether 1988 680.7 the resident(s) or the owner(s) of a property should be 1989 658.0 liable for council tax is for individual local authorities to decide. 1990 675.1 1991 665.5 Departmental Advertising 1992 630.5 1993 563.9 Mr. Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for 1994 544.2 Communities and Local Government how much his 1995 520.3 Department has spent on advertising in weekly and 1996 499.6 regional newspapers in each of the last three years. 1997 463.6 [321031] 1998 465.6 1999 437.6 Barbara Follett: I refer my hon. Friend to the reply 2000 464.4 given on 8 June 2009, Official Report, column 747W to 2001 478.1 my hon. Friend the Member for Stockport (Ann Coffey). 2002 464.6 2003 478.4 Departmental Internet 2004 482.4 2005 476.5 Mr. Heald: To ask the Secretary of State for 2006 500.8 Communities and Local Government how many 2007 491.9 designs for its website his Department and its 2008 487.5 predecessor has commissioned since 2005. [318656]

Provisional data for 2009 will be available after 29 July Barbara Follett: The Department’s website was redesigned 2010. in October 2005 and in August 2007. 1499W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1500W

Departmental Languages Barbara Follett: The Department publishes details of its central marketing communications spend on an annual Mr. Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State basis. Details for the last full financial year, 2008-09, are for Communities and Local Government how many available on the Department’s website at: (a) Ministers and (b) civil servants in his Department http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/corporate/pdf/ received coaching in a foreign language in the last 12 1298507.pdf months; what expenditure his Department incurred in In 2008-09 marketing communications activity on providing such coaching; and in what languages such help for homeowners and HomeBuy used the Real Help coaching was provided. [320412] Now brand, at a total cost of £1,372,511. No marketing communications activity used the Building Britain’s Barbara Follett: Records of the coaching received in Future brand. foreign languages for staff in Communities and Local The Department will publish details of central marketing Government are not held by the Department. However, communications spend for 2009-10 at the time of its data obtained from training coordinators within the 2010 Annual Report. Department shows that in the last 12 months no Minister has received coaching in a foreign language and the following table gives the details of the civil servants who Empty Property have received coaching in a foreign language during the last 12 months. Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Language Cost (£) Number of officials Communities and Local Government how many (a) empty homes and (b) homes which had been empty for French 2,910 12 more than six months there were in each region in each Chinese 1,500 2 of the last five years. [305068] Spanish 297.90 1 Departmental Marketing Mr. Ian Austin: Estimates of the proportion of empty homes and the proportion of homes empty for more Mr. Syms: To ask the Secretary of State for than six months in each region in each of the last five Communities and Local Government pursuant to the years are shown in the following table. answer to the hon. Member for Ruislip Northwood of There are a number of reasons why a property might 5 January 2010, Official Report, column 103W, on become empty, e.g. the current economic climate or departmental marketing, how much his Department where a property needs to be renovated before occupation and its agencies have spent on advertising, marketing, or where it is in probate. It is therefore important to public relations and publicity to the (i) Real Help Now draw a distinction between properties that have been and (ii) Building Britain’s Future themed campaign to left empty for less than six months and those that are date. [320494] vacant for longer.

Total empty homes and homes empty for more than six months (“long term”) in each region in each of the last five years as a percentage of total stock Percentage 2004 2005 2006 2007 Long term Long term Long term Long term Total vacants vacants Total vacants vacants Total vacants vacants Total vacants vacants

NorthEast42424242 NorthWest42425252 Yorkshire and the 42424252 Humber East Midlands 31323141 West Midlands 42323232 East of England 31313131 London 31313131 South East 31313131 South West 31313131 England 31313131 Sources: Council Taxbase and Council Taxbase Supplementary (CTB1 and CTB1S) returns from local authorities

Housing: Construction Mr. Ian Austin: The latest data on total affordable housing supply relate to 2008-09. In that year there were 10 affordable homes provided through acquisitions. Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Information on planned housing is available in ‘Regional Communities and Local Government how many new Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks’. (a) affordable homes and (b) homes for social rent have been built in Castle Point since 2008; and how Written Questions: Government Responses many homes of each type are planned to be built in (i) 2010 and (ii) 2011. [318083] Grant Shapps: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when he plans to 1501W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1502W answer Question 305068, on empty homes, tabled on Mr. Alan Campbell: The Home Office has introduced 3 December 2009. [319594] a range of policies and initiatives since 1997. However, it is not always possible to quantify their effects particularly Mr. Ian Austin: I have now replied to the hon. Member’s at constituency level. The available statistical information question. therefore relates to North East Lincolnshire. In terms of police recorded crime in North East Lincolnshire, between 2002-03 and 2008-09, total recorded HOME DEPARTMENT crime fell by 26 per cent. More specifically: Chorley Violence against the person—up 16 per cent. (down 1 per cent. in last year) Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for the Sexual offences—down 30 per cent. (up 8 per cent. in last year) Home Department if he will set out, with statistical Robbery—down 33 per cent. (down 17 per cent. in last year) information as closely related to Chorley constituency Burglary—down 38 per cent. (down 5 per cent. in last year) as possible, the effect on that constituency of the Offences against vehicles—down 62 per cent. (down 41 per policies of his Department since 1997. [314235] cent. in last year) Mr. Alan Campbell: The Home Office has introduced Other theft offences—down 12 per cent. (up 3 per cent. in last a range of policies and initiatives since 1997. The available year) statistical information relates to the Chorley Crime and Criminal damage—down 17 per cent. (down 18 per cent. in last Disorder Reduction Partnership area. year) In terms of police recorded crime, data prior to Drug offences—up 16 per cent. (down 26 per cent. in last year) 2002-03 is not directly comparable because of the (there has been increased recording of drug offences which was introduction of the National Crime Recording Standard mainly attributable to the increased use of police powers to in April 2002. Between 2002-03 and 2008-09, total issue cannabis warnings). recorded crime in Chorley fell by 13 per cent. More Data prior to 2002-03 is not directly comparable specifically: because of the introduction of the National Crime Sexual offences: down 21 per cent. (down 34 per cent. in last Recording Standard in April 2002. Additionally, no year). data at borough level is available prior to 1998-99. Robbery: down 43 per cent. (down 23 per cent. in last year). Cleethorpes comes within the North East Lincolnshire Burglary: down 44 per cent (down 1 per cent. in last year). Basic Command Unit. North East Lincolnshire BCU Offences against vehicles: down 56 per cent. (down 12 per had 263 police officers as at 30 March 2009. The number cent. in last year). of police officers has decreased by 115 since 2003. This Other theft offences: down 12 per cent. (down 5 per cent. in decrease in numbers is due to the transfer of various last year). functions from divisions to central services i.e. Command Criminal damage: down 1 per cent. (down 2 per cent. in last Centres, Traffic Units etc. Also, the recruitment of year). civilian Investigation Officers and Detention Officers Drug offences: up 22 per cent. (up 9 per cent. in last year) across Humberside Police Force has contributed to the (there has been increased recording of drug offences which is drop in police officer numbers. Comparisons with 1997 mainly attributable to the increased use of police powers to issue cannabis warnings). for North East Lincolnshire BCU are not available. Violence against the person rose by 71 per cent. between There were 49 Police Community Support Officers as at 2002-03 and 2008-09. Between 2007-08 and 2008-09 it fell by 30 March 2009 while there were none in existence 1 per cent. It reached a peak at 1,902 offences in 2004-05 and in 1997. has subsequently fallen to 1,302 offences in 2008-09 (a fall of The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 saw positive effects 32 per cent). with the statutory duty to create a Crime and Disorder Chorley comes within the Lancashire Southern Basic Reduction Partnership (CDRP). The CDRP (Safer Command Unit. Lancashire Southern BCU had 493 Communities North East Lincolnshire) has brought police officers as at 30 March 2009. The number of new ways of working in a cross cutting way with the police officers has decreased by seven since 2003. police, council and other key stakeholders and genuine Comparisons with 1997 for Lancashire Southern BCU partnership working to help tackle complex issues. are not available. There were 77 Police Community Support Officers as at 30 March 2009 while there were The CDRP paved the way for a number of community none in existence in 1997. safety initiatives which have benefited Cleethorpes. North East Lincolnshire has received funding under the Home The Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide Office Crime Reduction Programme and successor range of statistical information at parliamentary initiatives including the Safer and Stronger Communities constituency level, taken from the 2001 Census and Fund and the Basic Command Unit Fund. It has also other sources. This service is available on the National benefited from other targeted Home Office funding Statistics website at: streams which support work on drugs and alcohol http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk./ harm reduction, domestic abuse, neighbourhood crime Cleethorpes and justice, and antisocial behaviour. The Home Office Partnership Support Programme Shona McIsaac: To ask the Secretary of State for the helped review CDRP delivery structures and the future Home Department if he will set out, with statistical strategic development of the district’s CCTV system. evidence relating as closely as possible to Cleethorpes North East Lincolnshire is currently in receipt of funding constituency, the effects on that constituency of his from the Vigilance Programme which is helping to Department’s policies since 1997. [315242] accelerate the development of Integrated Offender 1503W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1504W

Management. This is seen as the next step in Sexual offences—down 11 per cent. (down 4 per cent. in achieving further sustainable reductions in crime across last year) the district. Robbery—up 42 per cent. (up 4 per cent. in last year) Before 1997 there were no bespoke powers to tackle Burglary—down 12 per cent. (down 2 per cent. in last year) antisocial behaviour but there are now a range of powers Offences against vehicles—down 24 per cent. (no change in to deal with this issue. These include Anti-Social Behaviour last year) Orders and Designated Public Places Orders (DPPO) Other theft offences—down 4 per cent. (down 4 per cent. in from the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001. last year) North East Lincolnshire’s CDRP and wider partnership Criminal damage—up 2 per cent. (down 9 per cent. in last approach has been recognised nationally as effective year) practice. For example, the delivery of its Family Intervention Drug offences—up 134 per cent. (up 26 per cent. in last year) Programme, which joins-up the resources of several (there has been increased recording of drug offences which is Government Departments, and its work on reducing mainly attributable to the increased use of police powers to antisocial behaviour and providing visible neighbourhood issue cannabis warnings). justice. Data prior to 2002-03 are not directly comparable The Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide because of the introduction of the National Crime range of statistical information at parliamentary Recording Standard in April 2002. Additionally, no constituency level, taken from the 2001 Census and data at borough level are available prior to 1998-99. other sources. This service is available on the National Milton Keynes Basic Command Unit had 419 police Statistics website at: officers as at 30 March 2009. The number of police http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk officers has increased by 73 since 2003. Comparisons with 1997 for Milton Keynes BCU are not available. Identity and Passport Service: Contracts There were 73 police community support officers as at 30 March 2009 while there were none in existence in Dr. Palmer: To ask the Secretary of State for the 1997. Home Department whether he made an assessment of Antisocial behaviour the merits of incorporating the specification for the Milton Keynes is to receive an additional £44,000 to Check and Send service in the requirements of tackle antisocial behaviour as part of the joint the Identity and Passport Service tender notice for the announcement in November 2009 by the Home Secretary procurement of front-office identity services. [319962] and the Communities Secretary of additional funding for tackling ASB. Meg Hillier: The following statement was made in the Drug-related offending Official Journal of European Union (OJEU) Notice with regards to Front Office Services: Since the inception of the national Drugs Intervention “IPS seeks expressions of interest from Service Providers for Programme (DIP) in 2003, Milton Keynes has received securing concessions to provide Front Office Services (FOS) Home Office funding to deliver the DIP programme to members of the public in connection with identity products enabling it to tackle and reduce drug-related crime issued by IPS and other government departments. These through targeting and steering individuals into treatment services may subsume the “Check & Send”assisted application to reduce their offending. In 2009-10 Milton Keynes process for UK passports.” received grant of £166,338. This gives the agency the option to include the “Check Tackling knives and Send” service as part of the Front Office Services if deemed appropriate after further discussion with the Thames Valley is part of the Tackling Knife Crime suppliers down selected at the Pre-Qualification and Serious YouthViolence Programme (TKAPIISYV) Questionnaire (PQQ) stage. and has been allocated £250,000 from the TKAP programme for 2009-10. This includes work with young Milton Keynes people and the community to prevent and educate about knife crime and serious youth violence. It will include the 13 to 24-year-old offender group who in Mr. Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for the Milton Keynes have a statistically significant impact on Home Department if he will set out, with statistical total knife crime. information related as directly as possible to North East Milton Keynes constituency, the effects on Milton Domestic violence Keynes of the policies and actions of his Department Milton Keynes has received funding and support and its predecessors since 1997. [316041] from the Home Office and Government office for the south-east (GOSE) to tackle domestic violence. This Mr. Alan Campbell: The Home Office has introduced includes Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference a range of policies and initiatives since 1997. However, MARAC funding 2008-09 (£15,000), Independent it is not always possible to quantify their effects particularly Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) funding 2007-08 at constituency level. The available statistical information (£20,000), Domestic Violence project 2003-05 ( £20,000) therefore relates to the Milton Keynes crime and disorder and A and E information sharing initiative 2006-07 reduction partnership area. (£10,000). In terms of police recorded crime in Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes is benefiting from GOSE regional between 2002-03 and 2008-09, total recorded crime rose support on improving performance of MARACs through by 8 per cent. More specifically: the commissioning of tailored MARAC chair training Violence against the person—up 85 per cent. (up 1 per cent. in providing them with the tools and skills to develop their last year) MARAC and improve delivery of NI32—reducing repeat 1505W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1506W victimisation. The Home Office have provided NI32 Other theft offences - no change (no change in last year) data collection workshops for MARAC co-ordinators. Criminal damage - no change (down 19 per cent. in last year) GOSE organises a regional Domestic Violence Drug offences - down 28 per cent. (down 22 per cent. in last Co-ordinators forum bringing together the local authority year) co-ordinators (including Milton Keynes) on a quarterly Data prior to 2002-03 is not directly comparable basis to share good practice, provide them with an because of the introduction of the National Crime opportunity to keep up to date with—and help inform— Recording Standard in April 2002. Additionally, no Government policy, discuss emerging issues and resolutions, data at borough level is available prior to 1998-99. encourage new ideas and provide mutual support. With regard to police numbers, the available information Alcohol related violence relates to the East Kent Basic Command Unit which GOSE provided Milton Keynes with advice in the had 448 police officers as at 30 March 2009. The number development of their Alcohol Strategy. Milton Keynes of police officers has increased by 17 since 2007 (different attends GOSE’s regional alcohol forum which is held boundaries where in place prior to this). Comparisons every two months. Where the work of the Department with 1997 for East Kent BCU are not available. There of Health colleagues, the HO alcohol lead, DCSF young were 67 Police Community Support Officers as at 30 March people’s alcohol lead and TKAPIISYV local advisor in 2009 while there were none in existence in 2000. ensuring the Most Serious Violence, Alcohol and Health ASB agendas are pulled together to deliver reductions in Kent is to receive an additional £64,000 to tackle violent crime. Milton Keynes £9,700 received from the AntiSocial Behaviour as part of the joint announcement Alcohol-related Partnership Activity Fund in 2008-09. in November 2009 by the Home Secretary and the Partnership support programme Communities Secretary of additional funding for tackling The Home Office and GOSE made a joint Partnership ASB. Programme intervention in Milton Keynes in 2007 to Tackling Knives help support improvements in the Milton Keynes Kent is part of the Tackling Knife Crime and Serious Community Safety Partnership. Following agreement YouthViolence Programme (TKAPIISYV). This includes of its recommendations there has been improvement in work with young people and the community to prevent partnership working to deliver on key aspects of the and educate about knife crime and serious youth violence. community safety agenda. Milton Keynes received £20,000 Kent has been allocated £100,000 from the TKAP in 2008-09 from the Partnership Support Programme. programme for 2009-10. Police BCU funding Milton Keynes BCU received an Alcohol Related Violence allocation of £150,204 for 2009-10. Thanet is part of the Alcohol Partnership Support Safer and Stronger Communities Fund (capital) grant Programme receiving funding for 2008-09 of £30, 000 In 2009-10 Milton Keynes received £73,000. and 2009 -10 of £30,000 for alcohol initiatives and The Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide communications. £25,000 has been used to assist Thanet range of statistical information at parliamentary in putting in place the necessary components for the constituency level, taken from the 2001 census and successful multi agency running of the night time economy other sources. This service is available on the National or other meeting place. The remaining £5,000 is for Statistics website at: communication work. http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk./ Domestic Violence For 2009-10 GOSE has provided Kent with £40,000 Thanet funding from the Home Office Private Place Violence regional funds for Independent Domestic Violence Advisers Dr. Ladyman: To ask the Secretary of State for the (IDVAs). The IDVA works with and supports high risk Home Department if he will set out, with statistical victims of domestic violence. information related as directly as possible to South In 2008-09 GOSE provided Kent with £35,000 funding Thanet constituency, the effects on South Thanet of his to increase their MARAC coverage across the region, Department’s policies and actions since 2000. [315633] and also funded MARAC training of £20,000 and IDVA funding of £40,000. Thanet is served by the East Mr. Alan Campbell: The Home Office has introduced Kent MARAC covering Thanet and Canterbury. Thanet a range of policies and initiatives since 1997. However, is benefiting from GOSE regional support on improving it is not always possible to quantify their effects particularly performance of MARACs through the commissioning at constituency level. The available statistical information of tailored MARAC chair training providing them with therefore relates to the Thanet Crime and Disorder the tools and skills to develop their MARAC and Reduction Partnership area. improve delivery of NI32 - reducing repeat victimisation. In terms of police recorded crime in Thanet, between The Home Office have provided NI32 data collection 2002-03 and 2008-09, total recorded crime fell by 3 per workshops for MARAC co-ordinators. cent. More specifically: Drug-related offending Violence against the person - up 27 per cent. (down 6 per cent. Since the inception of the national Drugs Intervention in last year) Programme (DIP) in 2003, Kent has received Home Sexual offences - up 10 per cent. (down 25 per cent. in last year) Office funding to deliver the DIP programme enabling Robbery - up 12 per cent. (up 17 per cent. in last year) it to tackle and reduce drug-related crime through Burglary - down 17 per cent. (down 7 per cent. in last year) targeting and steering individuals into treatment to Offences against vehicles - down 34 per cent. (down 15 per reduce their offending. In 2009-10 Kent received a grant cent. in last year) of £1,168,644. 1507W Written Answers5 MARCH 2010 Written Answers 1508W

Migration Impact Fund (MIF) (b) Kent award, which will include some benefit to Thanet The MIF will be targeted at projects which have £210,000 in respect of year one (2009-10) and £210,000 identified innovative solutions to migration related pressures. (in aggregate, as per year 1) provisionally awarded for Funding will be allocated to local projects from Government year two (2010-11); to promote the participation and Offices working closely with local partners. It will be inclusion of new migrants in Kent; mobile information targeted at projects which have identified innovative and advice service to hard to reach rural migrant workers; solutions to migration related pressures - where possible and one-stop-shop for migrants involving and benefiting a number of local services. Thanet will benefit from MIF through monies that were The Neighbourhood Statistics Service provides a wide awarded to Kent county council. range of statistical information at parliamentary (a) Thanet Specific constituency level, taken from the 2001 census and Czech/Roma Integration - £70,000 in respect of year other sources. This service is available on the National one (2009-10) and £90,000 provisionally awarded for Statistics website at: year two (2010-11) focused which is specifically Thanet http://neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Friday 5 March 2010

Col. No. Col. No. CHILDREN, SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES...... 121WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 123WS Pupils with Severe, Profound and Multiple Justice and Home Affairs Post-Council Statement. 123WS Learning Difficulties (Teachers)...... 121WS Police Use of Firearms in England and Wales (2008-09)...... 126WS DEFENCE...... 122WS INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 131WS Gurkha Pension Scheme (Annual Uplift)...... 122WS New Education Strategy ...... 131WS

HEALTH...... 122WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 131WS Basildon and Thurrock University NHS Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Foundation Trust...... 122WS Affairs Council ...... 131WS WRITTEN ANSWERS

Friday 5 March 2010

Col. No. Col. No. BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS ...... 1437W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—continued Aerospace Industry: Skills...... 1438W Departmental Consultants...... 1494W Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Departmental Disabled Staff...... 1495W Council ...... 1438W Eaga: Warm Front Scheme ...... 1495W Business Funding...... 1438W Energy Supply: Fees and Charges ...... 1496W Copyright...... 1439W EU Emissions Trading Scheme ...... 1496W Graduates: Government Assistance ...... 1439W Fuel Oil: Prices...... 1496W Innovation: Finance...... 1443W Renewable Energy...... 1497W Music...... 1444W Wood: Imports...... 1498W Photographs: Copyright...... 1444W Royal Mail ...... 1445W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Science and Knowledge Transfer...... 1437W AFFAIRS...... 1435W Statutory Redundancy Pay...... 1438W Flood Control...... 1435W Students: Loans ...... 1445W Horses: Anaemia...... 1436W Technology Strategy Board...... 1446W Livestock: Exports ...... 1436W UK Innovation Investment Fund...... 1437W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 1446W CABINET OFFICE...... 1492W Afghanistan: Politics and Government ...... 1446W Departmental Temporary Employment ...... 1492W Arms Control...... 1447W British Indian Ocean Territory: Environment CHILDREN, SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES ...... 1428W Protection ...... 1447W Class Sizes...... 1428W Members: Correspondence ...... 1448W Middle East: Armed Conflict...... 1448W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 1498W Nuclear Weapons: Proliferation ...... 1448W Council Tax: Southend ...... 1498W Rwanda: Politics and Government ...... 1449W Departmental Advertising...... 1498W Departmental Internet ...... 1498W HEALTH...... 1432W Departmental Languages...... 1499W Departmental Pay ...... 1432W Departmental Marketing ...... 1499W Grimsby...... 1433W Empty Property ...... 1500W Health Services: Isle of Man ...... 1434W Housing: Construction...... 1499W Illegal Immigrants...... 1434W Written Questions: Government Responses ...... 1500W Mobile Phones: Children ...... 1434W NHS: Finance ...... 1435W DEFENCE...... 1489W Afghan Campaign Medal...... 1489W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 1501W Armed Forces: Bomb Disposal ...... 1489W Chorley ...... 1501W AWE Aldermaston...... 1490W Cleethorpes...... 1501W Departmental Housing ...... 1490W Identity and Passport Service: Contracts ...... 1503W Departmental Marketing ...... 1491W Milton Keynes ...... 1503W Departmental Theft ...... 1491W Thanet ...... 1505W Middle East: Navy ...... 1491W Trade Unions ...... 1492W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 1413W Democratic Republic of Congo ...... 1413W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 1492W Departmental Paper...... 1414W Boilers: Government Assistance...... 1492W Departmental Temporary Staff...... 1414W Carbon Emissions: Boilers ...... 1493W Food: Overseas Aid...... 1414W Collaboration Agreements ...... 1493W Haiti: Earthquakes...... 1415W Combined Heat and Power ...... 1494W International Assistance...... 1415W Col. No. Col. No. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—continued TRANSPORT—continued Millennium Development Goals ...... 1416W Bus Services: Concessions ...... 1427W Rwanda: Politics and Government ...... 1416W Parking Offences...... 1427W Uganda: Armed Conflict ...... 1416W TREASURY ...... 1486W JUSTICE...... 1450W Banks: Loans ...... 1486W Departmental Paper...... 1450W Carbon Sequestration: Finance...... 1486W Driving Offences ...... 1457W Chemical Engineering: Government Assistance..... 1486W General Election 2010: Poole ...... 1467W Climate Change Levy...... 1487W Grimsby...... 1468W Economic Situation: Greece...... 1487W National Bullying Helpline ...... 1469W Excise Duties: Beer ...... 1487W Prisons: Databases ...... 1470W Financial Services: Local Government...... 1487W Prisons: Drugs ...... 1470W Public Bodies: Empty Property ...... 1487W Prisons: Females ...... 1470W Public Sector: Energy...... 1488W Prisons: Mobile Phones...... 1471W Renewable Energy: Finance ...... 1488W Probation Officers...... 1485W Taxation: Domicile ...... 1488W UK Financial Investments: Expenditure...... 1489W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 1436W Departmental Languages...... 1436W Departmental Paper...... 1436W WALES...... 1498W Illegal Immigrants...... 1437W Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers...... 1498W

SCOTLAND...... 1413W WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 1417W Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers ...... 1413W Children: Maintenance ...... 1417W Council Tax Benefits...... 1420W SOLICITOR-GENERAL...... 1428W Departmental Manpower...... 1421W Departmental Paper...... 1428W Departmental Written Questions ...... 1422W Hotels ...... 1431W Housing Benefit ...... 1421W Royal Family...... 1432W Mortgages: Government Assistance...... 1423W Royal Family: Wills...... 1432W Pension Credit: Essex...... 1423W Social Security Benefits: Aberdeenshire ...... 1423W TRANSPORT ...... 1426W State Retirement Pensions...... 1424W A19: North Tyneside...... 1426W Work Capability Assessment...... 1425W 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 Friday 12 March 2010

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CONTENTS

Friday 5 March 2010

Grocery Market Ombudsman Bill [Col. 1117] Motion for Second Reading—(Albert Owen)—on a Division, agreed to

Care Homes and Sheltered Accommodation (Domestic Pets) Bill [Col. 1167] Motion for Second Reading—(Mr. Waterson)—agreed to

Marine Accident Investigation Branch (Reports) Bill [Col. 1179] Motion for Second Reading—(David Cairns)—debate adjourned

Dr. David Kelly (Inquest) [Col. 1188] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 121WS]

Written Answers to Questions [Col. 1413W] [see index inside back page]