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Monday Volume 533 10 October 2011 No. 203

HOUSE OF COMMONS OFFICIAL REPORT

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES ()

Monday 10 October 2011

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

MEMBERS OF THE CABINET

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

PRIME MINISTER,FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY AND MINISTER FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE—The Rt Hon. David Cameron, MP DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL—The Rt Hon. , MP FIRST SECRETARY OF STATE AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. , MP CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER—The Rt Hon. , MP AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR JUSTICE—The Rt Hon. , QC, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT AND MINISTER FOR WOMEN AND EQUALITIES—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR BUSINESS,INNOVATION AND SKILLS—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WORK AND PENSIONS—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR HEALTH—The Rt Hon. , CBE, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR EDUCATION—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR TRANSPORT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT,FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR NORTHERN IRELAND—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR —The Rt Hon. Michael Moore, MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WALES—The Rt Hon. , MP SECRETARY OF STATE FOR CULTURE,OLYMPICS,MEDIA AND SPORT—The Rt Hon. , MP CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY—The Rt Hon. , MP LEADER OF THE AND CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER—The Rt Hon. Lord Strathclyde MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO—The Rt Hon. Baroness Warsi

DEPARTMENTS OF STATE AND MINISTERS Business, Innovation and Skills— SECRETARY OF STATE AND PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE—The Rt Hon. Vince Cable, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. , MP (Minister for Universities and Science) John Hayes, MP (Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning) § Mark Prisk, MP The Rt Hon. , MP § Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint (Minister for Trade and Investment) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Edward Davey, MP Edward Vaizey, MP § Baroness Wilcox — MINISTER FOR THE CABINET OFFICE AND —The Rt Hon. , MP MINISTER OF STATE—The Rt Hon. , MP PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES— , MP , MP Communities and Local Government— SECRETARY OF STATE—The Rt Hon. Eric Pickles, MP MINISTERS OF STATE— The Rt Hon. Greg Clark, MP The Rt Hon. , MP (Minister for Housing and Local Government) PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARIES OF STATE— Andrew Stunell, OBE, MP Robert Neill, MP Baroness Hanham, CBE ii HER MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT—cont.

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

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

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

§ Members of the Government listed under more than one Department

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

THE SPEAKER—The Rt Hon. , MP

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

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

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION The Rt Hon. The Speaker (Chairman), The Rt Hon. , MP, Sir Paul Beresford, MP, Mr Frank Doran, MP, , MP, The Rt Hon. Sir George Young, MP SECRETARY OF THE COMMISSION—Dorian Gerhold ASSISTANT SECRETARY—Joanna Dodd

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

MANAGEMENT BOARD Robert Rogers (Chief Executive), David Natzler (Director General, Chamber and Committee Services), (Director General, Information Services), Andrew Walker (Director General, HR and Change), John Borley, CB (Director General, Facilities), Myfanwy Barrett (Director of Finance), Joan Miller (Director of Parliamentary ICT) (External Member), Alex Jablonowski (External Member) SECRETARY OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD—Matthew Hamlyn

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

PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS—John Lyon, CB PARLIAMENTARY SECURITY CO-ORDINATOR—Peter Mason

10 October 2011

THE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES OFFICIAL REPORT

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

SIXTIETH YEAR OF THE REIGN OF HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II

SIXTH SERIES VOLUME 533 TWENTY-FOURTH VOLUME OF SESSION 2010-2012

The south Asia region is one of the United Kingdom’s House of Commons highest engagement priorities, and the Ministry of Defence enjoys strong historic relationships with most countries Monday 10 October 2011 in the region. We have developed a broad range of positive initiatives to enhance co-operation between Ministers, senior officials and military officers, and The House met at half-past Two o’clock continue to work to broaden and deepen those links in support of the Government’s strategic objectives.

PRAYERS : I join the Secretary of State in his tribute to the dead. May I also tell him that he has our full support, not least in deepening our security ties [MR SPEAKER in the Chair] with south Asia? Will he use this opportunity to explain to the House his involvement in ? Oral Answers to Questions Dr Fox: I shall be delighted to do that, especially in front of so many Members with a new interest in defence. In 1996, when I was a Minister in the Foreign Office, DEFENCE I worked on what became known as the Fox agreement, which was part of the early peace talks in Sri Lanka. In recent years I have been attempting to work again for The Secretary of State was asked— reconciliation in that country, and to encourage investment in it. As I said when I spoke there recently, there will be Security Relationships (South Asia) no future for Sri Lanka unless all citizens, whatever their gender, religion or ethnic origin, are treated in the 1. Greg Hands (Chelsea and Fulham) (Con): What same way and allowed to realise their full potential. steps he is taking to establish security relationships in South Asia. [72899] : I thank my right hon. Friend for the sterling work he has done in respect of Sri Lanka. Will 6. Paul Uppal (Wolverhampton South West) (Con): he elaborate on the work that he has done in relation to What steps he is taking to establish security relationships the Sri Lanka Development Trust, and specifically on in South Asia. [72904] the work that Ministers have done in that regard?

The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): Dr Fox: As I have said, the point of involvement in First, I am sure the House will wish to join me in Sri Lanka is to create greater stability which will contribute paying tribute to Lance Corporal Jonathan McKinlay to stability in the region. I was particularly keen to see a of 1st Battalion the Rifles and Marine David Fairbrother mechanism for investment that could reduce some of of Kilo Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines, who the regulatory restrictions imposed by the Sri Lankan were killed in on 14 and 19 September Government, on the basis that a proportion of the respectively. Our thoughts, as ever, are with their families profits would go into social projects that would benefit and friends, for whom this will be an immense personal ethnic minorities. I still hope that that project will tragedy. succeed, and give it my full support. 3 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 4

Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): Is not the The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): general problem in south Asia as a whole the massive Since entering office, we have made significant progress growth, modernisation and aggressive posturing of the in transforming defence. The new Defence Board and Chinese military? As the Chinese launch a blue water the Major Projects Review Board are up and running. battle fleet, thanks to the Secretary of The Defence Infrastructure Organisation and the Defence State’s handling of our affairs we will have no aircraft Business Services organisation have both been established. carriers from which planes can fly for the next 10 years. We have appointed the first commander of the new Joint Forces Command. In addition to the specific Dr Fox: For some 17 of the last 20 centuries China recommendations in Lord Levene’s report, we have has been the world’s biggest economy, but our thoughts completed the basing and reserves reviews, and, even tend to be forged in the period when it was not. China more importantly, established a broadly affordable future will emerge as a global superpower, and as an Asian defence programme. This ambitious, but achievable, superpower it has a right to a blue water capability. programme of work is part of transformation across What we must try to keep in check is what China’s defence, the likes of which has not been seen in a intent may be, as well as the capability. Looking at the generation. two together will give us an idea of the sort of threat that we may have to counter in the future. Matthew Hancock: I commend the Secretary of State on the substantial work that he has done so far in implementing the Levene report and ask him to stick to (Wolverhampton North East) (Lab): his guns in dealing with the £38 billion hole in the I know that the Defence Secretary has a long-standing budget. Has he had any word of apology from the interest in Sri Lanka. Can he tell us how many times he Opposition? has visited that country since becoming Defence Secretary, and how many of those visits were on official Government business? Dr Fox: I think it is unreasonable for my hon. Friend to expect an apology from the Opposition as they do not yet understand what they did. They are still deficit Dr Fox: I have been there twice; I am not sure deniers who not only fail to recognise what they did to whether it was three times. One of those visits was on the MOD budget, but do not yet understand what they official Government business, when I met a number of did to the broader British economy. politicians. I also took the opportunity to deliver a lecture on behalf of my friend Mrs Kadirgamar—widow of the late Lakshman Kadirgamar, who was a Tamil Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent) (Lab): Levene Foreign Minister—in which I set out what I thought recommended strengthening financial and performance was a vision that should cut across Sri Lankan politics. management to ensure affordability and accountability. I believe there is a widespread view in the House that Sri However, the National Audit Office rated the MOD’s Lanka needs reconciliation and an understanding of response to the major projects report as weak, and what happened at the end of the war, and that there criticised the Department for not submitting the multi- must be transparency about who was responsible so million pound costs for contract cancellations. When that the country can move on to a proper process of will Parliament receive the necessary details to be able reconciliation. to scrutinise these big ticket decisions? Dr Fox: The Department will be fully audited on its Mr (North East ) (Con): equipment programme, and let me tell the hon. Gentleman May I return my right hon. Friend to the subject of his one of the big differences we have made. The Defence current responsibilities? Given that Afghanistan is in Board is the primary decision-making body of the south Asia, can he tell us whether he agrees or disagrees MOD, and we inherited a board that had 24 members with General McChrystal’s assessment of how we are and was not chaired by the Secretary of State, which in doing in that country? my view was an utterly absurd position to be in. We now have a Defence Board of nine, chaired by the Secretary Dr Fox: General McChrystal’s assessment was, in my of State and with far more vertical management structures, view, a touch pessimistic; I think we have come a long accountability and responsibility. way. He was referring to the period from 2001 onwards, and we did not make sufficient progress for a large Defence Exports proportion of that time. However, I would argue that since 2006, and particularly since the American surge, we have had the correct force densities to achieve what 3. (Romsey and Southampton North) we wanted. We are now increasingly able to hold the (Con): What steps he is taking to promote defence military territory and are increasingly tactically successful, exports. [72901] but there must be greater progress in the political and economic spaces. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence (Mr Gerald Howarth): Ministers and officials from across Levene Review the Government continue actively to promote British defence exports overseas, led by the Prime Minister and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence. 2. Matthew Hancock (West Suffolk) (Con): What Last month the UK hosted the defence and security progress he is making in implementing the equipment exhibition, which served to showcase the recommendations of the Levene review of defence best of the UK’s defence and security industries, and reform. [72900] was attended by me and my ministerial colleagues. The 5 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 6 exhibition—[Interruption.] Hold it. The exhibition afforded to impress on the that it already operates us the valuable opportunity of meeting overseas delegations the T-45 Goshawk, much of which came from Brough, and British and overseas companies. and I hope that it will be able to buy the Hawk. Although the aircraft is unlikely, in serial numbers, to Caroline Nokes: I thank the Minister for that response, be built in the United Kingdom, the company hopes and particularly for drawing attention to an exhibition that there will be real prospects along the whole supply at which companies from my constituency were exhibiting. chain for British industry. Will he join me in congratulating Britain’s defence industry, which remains the second largest exporter in Mr Russell Brown (Dumfries and Galloway) (Lab): I the world and employs more than 300,000 people in the am sure the Minister recognises that one of our best UK, and can he confirm whether the coalition’s policies engineering manufacturing sectors, which is world-leading on defence exports have seen any change compared as well as cutting edge, is the defence sector. Obviously, with those of the previous Government? that brings with it the potential rewards of defence exports. Will he give a commitment that ongoing investment Mr Howarth: I thank my hon. Friend for that very in research and technology will be linked closely to the challenging question, because this Government have a scope to promote exports? great deal to be proud of, and one thing we have brought to the business of promoting defence exports is Mr Howarth: Exportability is a key component of all enthusiasm for helping our friends and allies to protect our procurement decisions; we are trying to build in themselves in what is a very dangerous world. I am exportability, not only to generate revenue, but to reduce delighted to be able to tell my hon. Friend that in the the unit costs of the equipment to our armed forces. I past year the UK’s share of the defence export market can also tell the hon. Gentleman that we would not be has increased by 4%, which is no mean feat. having to make some of the difficult decisions that we are having to make had it not been for the destruction John Woodcock (Barrow and Furness) (Lab/Co-op): of the public finances by the previous Prime Minister If the Minister is being so enthusiastic and it is all going and the shadow Secretary of State for Defence. If they so well, can he tell the House why British Aerospace has had not destroyed the public finances of the United been forced to cut 3,000 jobs across the north-west and Kingdom, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State Yorkshire, citing the failure of exports as one of the would not have had to make the difficult decisions that principal reasons for its decision? he has had to make.

Mr Howarth: BAE Systems did not actually cite Defence Contracts (SMEs) exports as being one of the problems. What it cited was the fact that it is a multinational company operating in 4. Andrew Stephenson (Pendle) (Con): What progress a number of markets where there is pressure on the he has made on increasing the number of small and budgets—its principal market is the United States of medium-sized enterprises bidding for defence contracts. America. It may have escaped the hon. Gentleman’s [72902] attention, but the US is looking to make defence cuts of $1,000 billion over the next 10 years, and that is affecting The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence us all. However, the good news is that the fact that the (Peter Luff): This Government value the flexibility, US has to make savings means that it may well be more responsiveness and innovation that SMEs bring to defence, receptive to the sort of products made in his constituency which is why we are taking a number of actions to make and in others across the United Kingdom. it easier for them to participate in defence programmes, both as direct suppliers and as subcontractors. We are Mr David Davis (Haltemprice and Howden) (Con): simplifying our bidding and contracting processes to The Minister is doing an excellent job of promoting make them easier for SMEs. I now chair an SME forum British defence exports. The purpose of a defence export for representatives of small businesses, so that they can Minister is to promote exports so that our industry will better understand and respond to the particular issues be reinforced and strengthened, thereby helping to defend they face in doing business with the defence community. the country. He will know that, as part of its strategy, We will also set out a number of more specific measures BAE Systems intends to sell 350 to 500 Hawks to the in the White Paper that we will publish later in the year USA, not one of which will be built in Britain, and that on equipment, security and technology. the company is, at the same time, closing a factory in my constituency, costing 900 jobs. Does he think that that Andrew Stephenson: I thank the Minister for that is consistent with the Government’s strategy of trying answer. I recently met Stephen Shepherd of S Dawes to defend the British defence industry? Weaving and Chris Blackadder of Howorths Textiles—both are manufacturers in Nelson, in my constituency. Those Mr Howarth: I was very grateful to my right hon. SMEs are interested in bidding for more work from the Friend for bringing the trade unionists representing MOD. I would be grateful if the Minister could offer workers at both Brough and Warton to see me at the them and other SMEs in my area any advice on bidding Conservative party conference in Manchester the other for and winning more contracts. day. I will tell the House what I told them, which is that we believe that the Hawk is a fantastic, proven training Peter Luff: I am happy to reassure my hon. Friend, aircraft—I have had the privilege of flying it recently. and Mr Shepherd and Mr Blackadder, that we have a As he knows, the new T2 has the most sophisticated cunning plan to help SMEs, as I hope my original onboard air-combat simulator. The company and I are answer suggested. For example, we are revising our working very hard, along with my ministerial colleagues, internal guidance to ensure that SMEs are not rejected 7 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 8 at the pre-qualification stage on the basis of rigid believe the figures or trust them, because they are turnover-to-contract value ratios. I would be very happy extraordinarily low. I have seen the vibrancy of the to arrange for Mr Shepherd and Mr Blackadder to meet Scottish defence sector for myself on a number of visits departmental officials to ensure that they are fully and I believe that the share of business is much higher. I informed of the opportunities they now have. invite the hon. Gentleman to abandon his ludicrous plans for an independent Scotland and join me in Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (Lab/ building a still more robust defence industrial base in Co-op): In answer to a question I tabled in June, the Scotland rather than talking it down all the time. Minister suggested that only about 50 of some 6,000 new contracts placed directly by the MOD in 2010-11 across Mark Lancaster (Milton Keynes North) (Con): I the UK are known to have been awarded to Scottish-based congratulate the Minister on the steps he is taking to SMEs. Given that that is based on an estimate, does he encourage more SMEs to bid. One criticism we often not agree that it is unacceptable that the MOD does not hear from SMEs is that they are lured into bidding for have the actual figures so that we can scrutinise the contracts, only to lose out to much larger firms at the amount of work going to SMEs and, at the same time, last round with little or no feedback from the MOD. end some of the myths promoted by the separatists? May I encourage the Minister to ensure that in such cases SMEs get full feedback on why their bids have Peter Luff: I sort of agree with that question and I failed? sort of do not. I do not think that it is our job to keep careful records of exactly which SMEs get which business, Peter Luff: I absolutely agree with my hon. Friend, but it is part of our job to ensure that Scotland shares who makes a very powerful point. If any hon. Member fully in the benefits of defence expenditure. I get very has an example of an SME receiving inadequate feedback surprised when the Scottish nationalists frequently represent from my Department, I want to hear about it. SMEs Scotland as in some sense losing out, which the hon. deserve full feedback. They have an awful lot that they Gentleman alluded to in his question. That is simply can bring to defence; their innovation and the cost not the case. I have visited Scotland on many occasions savings they can offer are extremely important and they over the past few months and seen the massive footprint must be told why they have failed when they do fail. of defence in Scotland and the massive contribution made to employment and jobs, all of which will be at Comprehensive Spending Review risk in an independent Scotland. 5. Ian Austin (Dudley North) (Lab): What assessment () (LD): Westland helicopters he has made of the adequacy of his Department’s has a licensing agreement with Boeing to build Chinook budget during the comprehensive spending review helicopters. Why was the order for 14 new Chinooks period; and if he will make a statement. [72903] worth £1 billion given direct to Boeing rather than the licensing agreement being used to give the order to The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): Westland so that it could take on half the work? On 18 July 2011, I announced that the defence budget is now broadly in balance over the decade and adequate Peter Luff: I think it is stretching a point a bit to to enable the Department to fulfil its objectives, including define AgustaWestland as an SME, but nevertheless I success in Afghanistan and Libya, delivery of the Future am happy to confirm that I happen to have in front of Force 2020 and the major process of transformation me the previous Government’s defence industrial strategy, that follows the strategic defence and security review. which says of AgustaWestland that it is important to understand that AgustaWestland’s role is Ian Austin: Men and women in the west midlands “neither predefined nor guaranteed, but dependent on their have always made a huge contribution to the armed performance and the value for money of their propositions.” forces, not least at MOD Donnington, which provides a Our position is very similar and I am happy to be able first-class logistics service, ensuring that forces get the to confirm to my hon. Friend that the contract we have right kit in the right place at the right time. Will the for the construction of the new Chinook helicopters Secretary of State assure the House that he will use will lead to some £350 million-worth of work flowing to those resources to ensure that the logistics commodity the British supply chain, which— services site at Donnington is retained as the main logistics site for the MOD, safeguarding the 2,000 jobs Mr Speaker: Order. We are extremely grateful to the that depend on it, and will he meet representatives of Minister, but we need to move on. the work force to discuss this issue?

Angus Robertson (Moray) (SNP): Last week, in a Dr Fox: I and any of my ministerial colleagues will be written answer, the Minister confirmed that the MOD’s very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss the estimate for the number of contracts issued in the last issue. We are keen to retain as much of the defence financial year was 2,370 in but only 50 in infrastructure, naturally, as possible within the constraints Scotland. Does he believe that that is fair and equitable? we are set given the budgetary position in which the Department finds itself. First, may I pay tribute to the Peter Luff: I do not know about you, Mr Speaker, but excellent logistics the hon. Gentleman has described? I am a half-full man, and the Scottish nationalists seem We will do what we can to retain what we can. to be talking about half-empty glasses. I think the hon. Gentleman is quoting extremely selectively from the Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): One of the answer I gave him and, for what it is worth, I share his really excellent initiatives that my right hon. Friend has disappointment about the SME performance. I do not pressed for to make capacity in defence affordable is the 9 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 10 decision to move various elements towards the reserves. Mr Robathan: I think the hon. Gentleman and I May I ask when we can expect a full response to the would agree a great deal about this. We are extremely reserves review? He has already given a very positive concerned about the future of many badly injured preliminary response. service personnel when they leave the armed forces, and that is why we have put in place a transition protocol. It Dr Fox: I would like to be able to do it before is also why I often have meetings with Ministers in the Christmas, but, as my hon. Friend will understand, Department of Health—indeed my next one is on there is a lot of very detailed work to be undertaken. Wednesday—to discuss how, going forward, we can Perhaps the biggest challenge is the fact that we are better serve those who are badly injured. I beg your pouring £400 million into the reserves over this indulgence, Mr Speaker, but the hon. Gentleman will Parliament—an unprecedented amount to put into that know of the Army recovery capability that was put in organisation, which was very badly run down by the place by the previous Administration, which is similarly previous Government. There will be challenges in absorbing helping very badly injured people to go forward with that amount of money and, of course, the rate at which their lives in future. we are able to build up the reserves will determine the rate at which we are able to change the ratio with the Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): The question I was regulars. about to ask was properly asked by the hon. Member for Halton (Derek Twigg), so I shall sit down. Gemma Doyle (West Dunbartonshire) (Lab/Co-op): The Government have used the issue of cost as the main Mr Speaker: The hon. Gentleman is setting an example reason they are scrapping the office of the chief coroner. that others could usefully follow. This is a Justice lead, but it affects fallen servicemen and women and their bereaved families. The Royal British Dan Byles (North ) (Con): Effective Legion has submitted a compromise proposal in which medical support is essential to any operation, so will the it outlines reforms that could be made to the coronial Minister join me in wishing 22 Field Hospital a successful system at a much lower cost than the Government forthcoming tour of Afghanistan, particularly as some estimate. Has the Secretary of State reviewed this proposal 30 servicemen and women from 22 Field Hospital are in and does he support it? the Public Gallery watching these proceedings?

Dr Fox: I have had conversations with ministerial Mr Robathan: I certainly join my hon. Friend in colleagues over this and although I am broadly sympathetic wishing 22 Field Hospital a good tour. May I say to any to some of the changes outlined, the hon. Lady is right Member of the House on either side who has seen the that this is a Justice lead. For her to say that the excellent work done by our medical personnel—both Government simply use cost as a means of having to regular and reservist—out in Bastion and elsewhere make reductions is, again, not to understand what it is that we should be very grateful to them for the hard to inherit a budget with a £38 billion black hole. Of work they do? Many reservists give up several months course we have to learn to live within our means, and we of their time to help our armed forces. do not yet know from the Opposition what their budget would be and which parts of the SDSR they accept and Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): The right do not accept. In fact, we hear very little from them hon. Gentleman has said that the Government are except negative criticism. It seems they have nothing committed to the Army recovery capability introduced constructive at all to say on the matter. by the last Labour Government. A key element of that was the tracking of personnel in the health service once Medical Care they had left the armed forces. Is that still part of the programme, and if so, when will the deadlines for 7. Derek Twigg (Halton) (Lab): What recent implementation be met? discussions he has had on the medical care of wounded service personnel and veterans. [72905] Mr Robathan: The hon. Gentleman rightly says that we are pursuing the policy of the last Government, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence because on this occasion it was quite right. We are (Mr Andrew Robathan): Given the importance that the indeed tracking personnel. I am afraid that this is a whole Government, and especially my right hon. Friend work in progress, but I will ensure that he receives an the Secretary of State for Defence, place on this issue, update when there is something to update him on. both he and I have numerous discussions with ministerial colleagues and others across the Department, Government Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): The right hon. Gentleman and the community and voluntary sector on a regular will be aware of the close collaboration between the basis. Ministry of Defence and the NHS in dealing with traumatic injuries through the joint unit. Bearing in Derek Twigg: I thank the Minister for his answer. He mind that the NHS does not provide the same level of will be aware of the concerns expressed by families care for our wounded military personnel, is there not a recently about the care for seriously wounded and injured case for the NHS and the MOD setting up a joint unit service personnel who will have to be discharged from to deal with ongoing treatment? the armed forces because of their injuries—including about their care in the NHS thereafter. What mechanisms Mr Robathan: The hon. Gentleman is quite right. have he and his colleagues put in place to ensure that The question of how the transition protocol works is those service personnel get the same standard of care as very important, particularly when it comes to health that provided currently by Defence Medical Services? issues. We already have a national centre in — 11 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 12 the Queen Elizabeth hospital—and I was at the opening Nick Harvey: The shadow Secretary of State makes a in January; it deals with trauma in particular. We are very good point, and that is certainly something we going forward with the Department of Health to ensure would want to see as we go forward. There are countries that proper treatment is available. We will announce a that we hoped would have played a more active part in report on prosthetics shortly, because we must make the engagement in Libya, and we very much hope that proper treatment available for people who are injured in they will bear more of the responsibility. It is too early the service of their country, and who suffer throughout yet to have any particular international agreements in their lives as a result. place, but he can rest assured that work is in progress towards the objective that he identified. Training and Support (Armed Forces) Eurofighter Typhoon 8. Kevin Brennan ( West) (Lab): What assessment he has made of the co-operation on training and support 9. Margot James (Stourbridge) (Con): What recent of with armed forces in the middle assessment he has made of the export prospects for the east and north Africa; and if he will make a statement. Eurofighter Typhoon. [72907] [72906]

The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence Defence engagement has a long and continuing role in (Peter Luff): Typhoon has already been exported to contributing to wider UK regional objectives through and Austria, where it is in operational programmes of world-class training and education. Our service. It is also competing in a number of other relationship with many countries includes work on counter- important markets. Oman has announced its intention terrorism that is important to the security of the United to buy Typhoon, and India has selected it for the final Kingdom. That engagement creates lasting relationships phase of its medium multi-role combat aircraft competition. with our armed forces and enhances our ability to work It is also competing in a number of other countries, together towards regional security and stability. including Japan, Malaysia and Qatar. I confidently expect an increase in interest in Typhoon, Kevin Brennan: Have British armed forces played any following its highly successful air defence and ground role in the training of forces involved in repression in attack roles over Libya, in which it has consistently Saudi Arabia or ? demonstrated exceptional levels of reliability, performance, accuracy, and overall cost-effectiveness over and above Nick Harvey: We do not believe so, but we have our very high expectations. trained staff over a period of years in those countries, and it is impossible to say with any certainty what they Margot James: I thank my hon. Friend for his answer. have subsequently gone on to do. When engaging in Does he agree that Typhoon’s success is down to UK training programmes, we do our utmost to spread British leadership in the design and manufacture of world-class principles and approaches to military activity, and have aircraft and that Government support is needed, not done so for many years, in the hope that that will rub off just to maximise export potential but to defend this on the countries we are training. vital national interest? (Newark) (Con): Having been involved in a very similar training team, albeit some time ago, Peter Luff: On the question of supporting exports, I I can confirm the value of such training teams, but the know the close interest that my hon. Friend takes in weight and burden of those teams falls heavily on the Japan, particularly through her role in the UK-Japan combat arms. Can the Minister reassure the House that 21st century group. I am happy to reassure her of the cuts in personnel will take into account the need to close interest that I personally have taken in the export maintain our combat power for training roles such as campaign to Japan, which I visited in April, where I those under discussion? discussed Typhoon with many Japanese interlocutors. I am hopeful of a successful outcome. She is absolutely Nick Harvey: My hon. Friend makes a good point. right, too, to emphasise the importance of the underlying Obviously, as numbers contract, the demands put on all design skills and technology—for example, our strong our personnel are difficult to balance, but the work to support for Europe’s first second-generation active which he alludes, and to which he has given his time in electronically scanned radar will be key to our success the past, is very important for all the reasons that I have in these export campaigns. specified, and we will ensure that that is taken into account in deciding force numbers. Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab): Ministers talk rather too often about buying off the peg from our Mr (East Renfrewshire) (Lab): I join in international partners, including the USA which, we the Secretary of State’s earlier condolences to the relatives understand, is struggling at the moment, too. Should of those who have lost their lives in Afghanistan. The Ministers not seek to enhance sales, encourage value for whole House will be in awe of the remarkable money from British companies and ensure that we professionalism of our forces, and all that they have retain jobs and skills in the UK? Perhaps the Minister achieved in Libya as part of a wider coalition, so will can tell the House whether, given the fall in international the Minister for the Armed Forces update the House on demand for top-quality British goods such as the Typhoon progress in persuading other allies who are less involved and subsequent job losses, he intends to ensure that in the fighting to bear more of the burden in helping to such phrases are not used in future and that orders go train and stabilise the country? to the UK first. 13 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 14

Peter Luff: I welcome the hon. Lady to her new Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): position and, as it is her first outing, I will be relatively Does my right hon. Friend agree that the report by the kind in my response to her. [Interruption.] Ihavetosay Select Committee on Defence on the handling of assets that I have read with considerable interest her party’s by the Ministry of Defence in 2009-10 is another damning defence review procurement document, which advocates indictment of the mismanagement of the MOD under a similar policy in relation to off-the-shelf and modified the previous Government? off-the-shelf, so she should read what her own party is suggesting before criticising us. As for her comment Nick Harvey: It is true that there has been a problem that demand for Typhoon is falling, it is true that the with inventories and accounting for equipment. Audit four partner nations are stretching out production, but processes have identified that, on occasions, that has demand is rising fast around the globe, and I am been a matter of misclassification of items. The situation confident that Ministers have a strong commitment to in practice is probably less gloomy than it sometimes their export diaries, which will lead— looks in reports. Mr Speaker: Order. We need to move on; I am grateful Mr Speaker: Mr Michael Connarty—not here. to the Minister. [Interruption.] Order. The Minister’s answers are simply too long—we need to make progress. Defence Exports Mr (Wyre and Preston North) (Con): I am grateful for the efforts that the Defence Secretary and his team have made to try to export Typhoon and 13. (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD): secure jobs for my constituents in Lancashire at Samlesbury What steps he is taking to ensure that any increase in and Warton. However, should the British Government the level of defence exports is transparent. [72911] be successful in helping to win those orders abroad, what guarantees can we try to secure from BAE that 19. Dr Julian Huppert () (LD): What steps this is good news for work in Lancashire, and not just he is taking to ensure that any increase in the level of good news for BAE shareholders? defence exports is transparent. [72917] Peter Luff: I think that it is guaranteed that it will The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): be good news for Lancashire. Of course, the precise The UK has one of the most rigorous and transparent composition of the bids is a matter for the company, export control systems in the world. All applications to but I think that it understands the importance of protecting export controlled military goods are assessed against its design skills in my hon. Friend’s constituency, for the consolidated EU and national arms export licensing which he speaks up vigorously and effectively in the criteria, and decisions are published in the quarterly House. reports on strategic export controls. Following the , the undertook a review of Military Equipment export licensing for equipment that might be used for internal repression. That concluded 11. Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab): “that there was no evidence of any misuse of controlled military What procedures exist to ensure that British military goods exported from the United Kingdom.” —[Official Report, equipment used in operations abroad does not fall into 18 July 2011; Vol. 531, c. 79WS.] the hands of others. [72909] Tom Brake: In July the Foreign Secretary said that The Minister for the Armed Forces (Nick Harvey): more work needed to be done between the Foreign and Robust accounting and security measures exist to prevent Commonwealth Office and the Department for Business, the loss of equipment through theft. In the rare event Innovation and Skills to strengthen certain aspects of that equipment is damaged and cannot be recovered UK arms control. There is an even greater urgency for because of a risk to life or likely loss of further equipment, this work to be done following reports today of an it is destroyed to prevent it from being used by others. investigation into a EADS Saudi defence contract. Can the Minister set out what work has been done on Steve McCabe: I thank the Minister. In the light of transparency and UK arms control and how, with a his response, can he say anything more about the policy of providing weapons to any willing country, he announcement at the weekend of a £1 million fund to will ensure that those weapons do not fall into the stop weapons proliferation in Libya? Does that fall wrong hands? within his domain, and exactly what is that money going to be used for? Nick Harvey: Every export licensing application is considered on a case-by-case basis against our strict Nick Harvey: The concerns that we have in Libya do export controls. In terms of transparency, detailed not relate to our own equipment that our troops have information on our export policy is on the Foreign used, but relate to a proliferation of equipment that we Office website. Information on decisions by destination believe may now be at large in Libya, much of it having is listed on the BIS website, and the licensing criteria are been previously held by the Gaddafi regime. It is in the also published. My right hon. Friend is right to say that interests of everyone around the globe that that situation further work is ongoing between the Department for is contained and controlled as quickly as possible, and Business, Innovation and Skills and the Foreign Office, we have sent personnel out to assist the new Government and they are at present working out how that will be in Libya in getting those munitions under control. taken forward. 15 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 16

Dr Huppert: The Minister is, I am sure, aware of the The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): number of cases in which there have been allegations The National Security Council, chaired by the Prime that defence exports have ended up with people whom Minister and attended by myself and other ministerial we would not want to have them and used for purposes colleagues, meets regularly to discuss the ongoing operations that we would not want to see. He will also be aware in Libya, including stabilisation. In terms of recovering that there are a number of cases of defence lobbyists the costs of operations in Libya from the national acting in a shady and disreputable manner. Will transitional council, NATO’s intervention in Libya under he—[Interruption.] Will he consider taking further steps a clear UN mandate has saved countless lives and is to ensure transparency in who gets the weapons, what helping to bring new hope to a country that has suffered checks there are and how lobbyists operate? tyrannical rule for 42 years, but the UK did not play a leading role in this action for financial return. Nick Harvey: The Government are committed to a thriving British defence and security industry because it : Given the extended nature of the is vital for our economy. It is worth more than £6 billion Libyan conflict, the tribal nature of the country and the a year to the economy, but we will maintain strict experience in Iraq, will the Defence Secretary assure me export controls. We promote defence exports that are that maximum attention will be given to conflict prevention consistent with the criteria, because that strengthens and conflict resolution issues from now onwards, so British influence and helps support British industry and that we do not have a recurrence of victory followed by jobs. great difficulties thereafter? Dr Fox: That is a key question. I visited Libya at the (Rhondda) (Lab): We all want a strong weekend. The right hon. Gentleman mentioned Iraq, defence industry, but we also want a responsible one, but Libya has three big advantages coming out of this which is why I am proud of the fact that it was a Labour conflict compared to Iraq. First, we were careful not to Government who abolished the manufacture, use and cause civilian deaths, which has given the impression sale of cluster munitions in this country. The protocol that we value human life higher; secondly, we did not also places an obligation on us to try to make sure that target civilian infrastructure, so it is likely that the other countries, including our allies, are no longer using country will be able to move much more quickly to cluster munitions, because all too often such use means economic recovery; and thirdly we encouraged the NTC that many civilians are killed or maimed many years not to engage in a process similar to de-Ba’athification. afterwards. What are the Government doing now to I therefore find Libya in a much better place than Iraq make sure that the Americans stop using cluster munitions? was.

Nick Harvey: I very much agree with the hon. Mr Philip Hollobone: Given that the cost of our Gentleman’s comments; I, too, was a campaigner on involvement in Libya is about £260 million and rising, that issue. I am very pleased that the UK duly signed up at the same time as we have the biggest budget deficit in to that, but clearly our ability to control the US is no the G20, should we not be asking Libya and/or the greater now than it was at the time of the convention. Arab League to repay the cost, just as the Kuwaitis did We will continue to apply pressure on the Americans, after the first Gulf war? but we need to be realistic about the likelihood of their changing their policy. Dr Fox: As I said, we went into Libya not on the basis of recovering the costs, but because we believed there to Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): What discussions has be an imminent humanitarian disaster. Mindful of such the Minister had with our European partners to ensure disasters in previous generations, we can be proud that that when a licence is refused by the United Kingdom, we averted this one. How costs are apportioned and similar steps are taken by our European partners and whether other countries can help with those wider costs they do not take advantage of our progressive approach can be discussed, but only after the conflict has been to export licensing abroad? concluded, which it has not yet been.

Nick Harvey: That is a good question. I will check Mr Speaker: On question 14, I call Mr John Spellar. what sharing of information we have with our EU allies when we turn down an application, and I will write to Mr John Spellar (Warley) (Lab): No. 15, Mr Speaker. the hon. Gentleman in due course. Mr Speaker: I do not think that the right hon. Gentleman has quite taken my hint, but I am sure that he can ask Libya his question under this one with great dexterity. Mr Spellar: Is there not great concern in Libya about 14. Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) the future of the surface-to-air missiles? When I asked (LD): What meetings he has had with his ministerial the Minister for the Armed Forces about this back in colleagues on the stabilisation of Libya. [72912] June, he said: “We continue to assess the situation in Libya closely, including 17. Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): What the potential proliferation of man-portable anti-aircraft missiles.”— discussions he has had with his ministerial colleagues [Official Report, 28 June 2011; Vol. 530, c. 672W.] on recovering from the national transitional council in From his answer earlier, he does not seem to have been Libya any of the costs to his Department of the doing a great deal. This is a major threat and we need deployment of armed forces to that country. [72915] some evidence of urgency and some results. 17 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 18

Dr Fox: This is one of the issues that I discussed at beyond 2014 and what signals we send to Afghanistan the weekend. The right hon. Gentleman is right that it is and Pakistan about our determination to provide regional an urgent matter. We have provided a small team of UK stability. We have already said that we will take charge military specialists to work alongside the Libyans and of the officer training and are encouraging the United States in preventing surface-to-air missile other countries to do the same. I anticipate that there proliferation. We have already disarmed a number of will be a role for special forces and mentoring and these missiles and identified a large number of sites training as well as what I have set out. That is one of the where further activity will take place. issues we discussed at the NATO summit last week, and we will set out further details at the Chicago summit in Topical Questions May.

T1. [72924] John Robertson (Glasgow North West) T4. [72927] Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): (Lab): If he will make a statement on his departmental Given the great pressure on MOD finances, has my responsibilities. right hon. Friend considered following the example of the shadow Defence team by accepting very substantial The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): sponsorship from generous British defence companies, My departmental responsibilities are to ensure that our such as Cellcrypt? country is properly defended now and in the future, that our service personnel have the right equipment and Dr Fox: No. training to allow them to succeed in the military tasks and that we honour our . T3. [72926] Robert Flello (Stoke-on-Trent South) (Lab): The Royal British Legion has said that the creation of John Robertson: Does the Secretary of State agree the chief coroner with his junior Minister, the Under-Secretary of State for Defence, the hon. Member for Aldershot (Mr Howarth), “is essential to improving bereaved Armed Forces families’ experience of military inquests” that brave Gurkha veterans should be described as asylum seekers, or does he agree with the Gurkha and that Government proposals will justice campaign that these comments are shocking and “fail to meet the needs of bereaved Armed Forces families.” unacceptable—or is the cat out of the bag on immigration The Secretary of State’s rant about his budget shows and defence cuts? that he has not read the Royal British Legion’s proposals, so will he, in the quiet moments that I am sure will Dr Fox: I am afraid that the hon. Gentleman has follow later this afternoon, take the time to explain to done a grave disservice to my hon. Friend, who never the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Justice that used any such words and has the highest regard for all failing to introduce a chief coroner will be a betrayal of those sacrifices made in the past. our brave military personnel?

[72925] Andrew Stephenson (Pendle) (Con): Many T2. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence small and medium enterprises in Pendle are keen to (Mr Andrew Robathan): As I thought had been made know when the yellow book review will be completed. pretty plain earlier, this is a matter for the Ministry of Is the Minister in a position to update the House on Justice, not the Ministry of Defence. However, I hope progress? that everyone in the House would agree that the important thing is that well-trained coroners do a good job in their The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence inquests on deceased service personnel. That is what we (Peter Luff): I am delighted to be able to do precisely are working to achieve, and I know that the Ministry of that; it was published a few hours ago. [HON.MEMBERS: Justice is determined that that shall happen. “Read it out!”] It runs to more than 100 pages, so I think that I would be in trouble with the Speaker if I did that. Section 4 is specifically about SMEs. I invite the T8. [72931] (Broxtowe) (Con): Members whole House to pay careful attention to this important of the armed forces often have to move very quickly and document and to take part in the consultation on it. with short notice, which can affect the education of their children, particular if it happens when school has Mr Jim Murphy (East Renfrewshire) (Lab): May I already started. Will the Minister therefore congratulate say how much I agree with the Secretary of State when the George Spencer academy in my constituency, which he says that we cannot allow the unpopularity of the intends to change its policy so that priority is given to Iraq conflict in many quarters to prevent us from standing such children, especially those moving to the Chetwynd up for what we believe in other countries around the barracks, which is also in my constituency? world? That is why there remains consensus across parties about the action in Libya and Afghanistan. Mr Robathan: I certainly join my hon. Friend in However, now that there is a timetable for the drawdown congratulating that school. She will know that admissions of our combat role in Afghanistan, can he update the codes can now allow favourable treatment for children House on how much longer he anticipates Her Majesty’s of service personnel, and we must not forget that the forces remaining engaged in Libya? Department for Education has introduced the pupil premium, which will also benefit service children. We Dr Fox: We have set out, in accordance with the plans have also put £3 million forward to assist schools that President Karzai himself has set out, that we do not have a disproportionate number of service children plan to have a combat role in Afghanistan beyond the when they have problems. In general, though, service end of 2014. The big question now is what we do children do rather better in education than other children. 19 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 20

T5. [72928] Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/ the formation of a Government as soon as possible—a Co-op): Is the Secretary of State aware that the future Government who include all elements of Libya’s geography of high science, research, innovation and design in our and ethnic make-up and are cross-generational. country very much depends on a fine balance among the defence industries, universities and the private T9. [72932] Tom Greatrex (Rutherglen and Hamilton sector? Many of us believe that that is now at risk West) (Lab/Co-op): The Under-Secretary of State for because of failing demand from the defence sector. Defence, the hon. Member for Aldershot (Mr Howarth), waxed lyrical in earlier answers about his support for Peter Luff: I am very sorry indeed that the previous small and medium-sized businesses and for SME exports, Government introduced such massive cuts to the defence so why are his Government forcing them to bear more science budget, which did great harm to the issues that of the cost of showcasing their equipment throughout the hon. Gentleman is rightly concerned about. I can the world? reassure him that the defence White Paper on equipment, support and technology, which will be published later The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence this year, will address these issues very seriously, because (Mr Gerald Howarth): We are not imposing additional he is right to draw the House’s attention to this very burdens on industry, but clearly we have to take into important question. account the costs of supporting it in these difficult times and in view of the economic inheritance that we were bequeathed by the last lot. Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con): I recently visited the Brentford air cadets, squadron 342, Bob Russell (Colchester) (LD): What future does the in my constituency and was really impressed by the Secretary of State envisage for the Ministry of Defence training that the young people are given in respect, ? discipline and community responsibility. What more can we do to encourage more young people to get Mr Robathan: The Ministry of Defence police are, involved in the cadets? sadly, as everybody else is, touched by the strategic defence and security review because of the £38 billion Mr Robathan: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for black hole that we were left, but I envisage a future for that question, because I, too, absolutely support the the Ministry of Defence police—providing security for cadet forces. They do fantastic work that is very much our service personnel and their families—and I visited in tune with the Government’s policy of the national them in Portsmouth dockyard only last month. citizen service. They keep children off the streets and give them excellent training and discipline, which I Mr (Coventry North East) (Lab): The think we all applaud. We also have the youth engagement future of European security will be enhanced by military review, but I will brief her on that later if she would like, capability, interoperability and co-operation; it will not because you, Mr Speaker, would stop me if I went on be enhanced by an unnecessary duplication of military too long now. headquarters. What more can we do to convince our European colleagues that that is not a sensible proposal, T6. [72929] Kerry McCarthy (Bristol East) (Lab): The particularly at a time when defence budgets are falling Secretary of State and I have a considerable number of across the continent? constituents who work at the MOD’s Abbey Wood site in Filton. There is real uncertainty there at the moment Dr Fox: The Government oppose, and I have always about how many jobs will be lost, what new work will very strongly opposed, any concept of an EU military be sent there and what work will be lost. Could he give headquarters—and we will continue to do so, whether some certainty to the people working at the plant about any proposal is made up-front or attempted with permanent the future of their jobs? structured co-operation through the Lisbon treaty. NATO is the cornerstone of defence in Europe, and it shall Peter Luff: I make regular visits to the Filton Abbey continue to be so, because it brings the United States Wood site, as the hon. Lady knows, to discuss those into the defence of Europe. Such a concept would be a issues with the staff, and I appreciate the concern that diversion, as the right hon. Gentleman says, and a they face. The chief of defence matériel, Bernard Gray, dilution of scarce resources; it would not produce one is currently conducting a full review of matériel strategy bullet, one battle tank or one aircraft; it would be and how the organisation will be structured in future, pretentious; and it would be bureaucratic—none of and I hope that its outcome will give precisely the which commends it to me. certainty that she rightly seeks for her constituents. Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): The Ministry of Defence has invested considerably in additional reserve (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con): I congratulate forces, which are welcomed by many of us across the the Secretary of State on the leadership that he has House. What steps might the Secretary of State be able shown on Libya. What action is he taking with his to take to ensure that the jobs of our reservists, such as Libyan counterparts to help prevent the risk of insurgent those serving in 6th Battalion The Rifles in my constituency, activity, in preparation for the national transitional will be protected, especially given that 10 of them are council taking complete control? returning from Afghanistan this week?

Dr Fox: The first thing that we require is an end to Mr Robathan: My hon. Friend is quite right to raise hostilities; then we require disarmament and the militia’s that issue, and I pay tribute to those reservists who go incorporation into national forces; and then we require out to Afghanistan, including those from 6 Rifles. We 21 Oral Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Oral Answers 22 have the Reserve Forces Act 1996 and the Reserve years—up to 16 years—to show itself. I am sure that the Forces (Safeguard of Employment) Act 1985, both of hon. Gentleman has read the report of my hon. Friend which should protect reservists deployed on operations, the Member for South West Wiltshire (Dr Murrison), but he is quite right to raise the issue, which we keep called “Fighting Fit”, which leads a way forward. under close review. Things are not perfect yet, but we are going forward. We are deploying additional mental health nurses across Mrs Madeleine Moon (Bridgend) (Lab): Ministry of the country in NHS hospitals and we are working Defence medical services has a good record of engagement closely with Combat Stress to ensure that ex-service with the carers of wounded service people, but when personnel get the opportunity, through both a call line servicemen are transferred to the NHS system, carers and otherwise, to get treatment as necessary. It is extremely are often told that, because of patient confidentiality, important that they get that treatment. they cannot be engaged with and information cannot be shared. Will the Minister ensure that such continued engagement with carers takes place for service personnel, Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): Today is world especially those with traumatic brain injury or mental homeless day. What recent progress has the Secretary of health problems, once they enter the NHS? State made in reducing the number of ex-service people who find themselves homeless? Mr Robathan: The hon. Lady raises a very important issue, of which I was not aware. Practitioners in the Mr Robathan: This looks like my afternoon. NHS certainly should get full medical records from the Although there are homeless ex-service personnel, in military medical services. If she were able to raise some fact their number is much less than one might expect. specific cases with me, I would be most interested to Analysis has shown that those ex-service personnel who hear them, and I look forward to hearing from her. are homeless very often left the forces some 20 and more years before. Mr Graham Stuart (Beverley and Holderness) (Con): The reason why so much public money has been invested Mr Kevan Jones (North Durham) (Lab): It is 3.8%. in BAE technology is to protect British interests and British jobs. What steps can Ministers take to ensure that jobs at Brough and other BAE sites are retained in Mr Robathan: I hear from the Opposition Front this country and not shipped abroad? Bench that the figure is 3.8%, and one might expect more than that. We do work with Veterans Aid in Mr Howarth: As I have tried to explain to the House, , among others, to ensure that the maximum since we took office we have made huge efforts, led by support available is given to ex-service personnel who, the Prime Minister, to promote these first-class British unfortunately, find themselves homeless. products. The Typhoon is a world beater—not, as some press commentators have suggested, a cold war legacy Katy Clark (North Ayrshire and Arran) (Lab): Is the programme. It is the most advanced combat aircraft in Minister aware of the campaign by the Royal British the world today, and the Hawk is the most proven and Legion Scotland to get a Ministry of Defence hospital effective military training aircraft. We are working flat unit based in Scotland? I understand that the tendering out to try to promote those in the interests of the process for that is due to commence in 2013. Will the constituents of everybody in the House today. Minister look into the issue and try to get a better geographical spread for such units? Mr Gerry Sutcliffe (Bradford South) (Lab): What further support are the Government going to give to Dr Fox: The hon. Lady is absolutely right, and it is ex-service people who belatedly discover that they have something that we will look at. As I said at the conclusion post-traumatic stress disorder? of the basing review, it is essential to remember that Her Majesty’s forces are for the whole Union, not for any Mr Robathan: The hon. Gentleman raises a very one part of the Union. Having them more evenly spread important issue, not least because PTSD can take many is part of what the United Kingdom is all about. 23 10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 24

Defence Responsibilities Records currently show total payment of some £5,800 over the total period. He has not received any payment 3.32 pm from me while in government. He has a very wide range of long-standing business, international relations and The Secretary of State for Defence (Dr Liam Fox): I political links of his own. He did not receive any payment would like to take this opportunity to inform the House as a result of the meeting in Dubai, nor has he been about my defence responsibilities in the light of considerable involved in any defence procurement issues. media coverage and the interim report this morning by As a matter of transparency, I would like to inform the . I would like to discuss the the House that I have met Mr Werritty in the margins of meeting in Dubai in June 2011, my relationship with trips of various sorts overseas, including annual leave Mr Werritty and my involvement in Sri Lanka. If I may, and holidays with family and friends, on a total of Mr Speaker, I will take these in turn. 18 occasions. As I said yesterday, I accept that it was a mistake to As the permanent secretary points out today in her allow distinctions to be blurred between my professional report, Mr Werritty visited me at the Ministry of Defence responsibilities and my personal loyalties to a friend. over 16 months, either in my office or in the refreshment Mr Speaker, I am sorry for this. I have apologised to the facilities, on 22 occasions. The majority of these were Prime Minister, to the public, and, at the first opportunity short social meetings. In only four instances were others available, to the House. present. Three related to Sri Lanka and one was with Let me deal first with the Dubai meeting, which has , known socially to both of us. It was been the subject of so much speculation. Mr Werritty also during one of these meetings in June that I first first met Mr Boulter of Cellcrypt on 1 April 2011 in learned about, and told him to stop, using his business Dubai. This meeting was arranged by the lobbying firm card stating that he was my adviser. Mr Werritty was Tetra. At this time, Mr Boulter asked for a meeting to never present at regular departmental meetings. During discuss Cellcrypt. Nothing happened for the next three private meetings we did not discuss either commercial months, but during the week of 13 June, Mr Werritty or defence matters. He had no access to classified was dining in Dubai at a nearby table and Mr Boulter documents, nor was he briefed on classified matters. again requested a meeting. Mr Werrity suggested that it As I said yesterday, I accept, with the benefit of might be possible the following day, as I was coming hindsight, that I should have taken great care to ensure through on my return from visiting forces in Afghanistan. a more transparent separation of Government, party The meeting—[Interruption.] political and private business and that meetings were properly recorded to protect myself and the Government Mr Speaker: Order. Let me say at this early stage that from any suggestion of wrongdoing. Again, I accept my the Secretary of State is making a full statement. It is a personal responsibility for this. The permanent secretary matter of basic courtesy that that statement be heard. is making arrangements to ensure that such a separation By now the House can trust me, I think, to ensure that of powers will exist in the future. In addition, because I there will be a full opportunity to question the Secretary do not believe that to be enough, Mr Werritty will not of State, but he must first be heard. make private visits to the MOD in future, will not attend international conferences where I am present, Dr Fox: Thank you, Mr Speaker. and we will not meet socially abroad where I am on The meeting took place on the morning of 17 June, official business. This should ensure that no appearance where there was a general discussion about Cellcrypt of potential wrongdoing will occur in the future. and what it might be able to do to support the MOD. At Since 1996, when I was a Foreign Office Minister, the end of the meeting, in the interests of probity, I have been involved in attempts to help resolve the Mr Boulter mentioned that he was in a dispute with 3M conflict in Sri Lanka. As the war with the Tamil Tigers alongside the MOD, and I acknowledged this. Beyond drew to a close, I worked with a number of others in this, there was no discussion of the case or any individuals business, banking and politics. It was my aim to create a involved, nor was any classified information discussed. mechanism that would allow reconstruction funding to That night, Mr Boulter sent e-mails claiming that he occur through the private sector. This was called the Sri had had discussions on the issue of George Buckley’s Lanka Development Trust, which seeks to promote knighthood. This correspondence later became the basis post-conflict reconciliation and development in Sri Lanka. of a blackmail case in the United States. I made it clear The aim was to use a proportion of profits made to that I was willing to testify that I had never had any fund development projects in Tamil communities. Neither such discussions. Subsequently, Porton Group has since myself, Mr Werritty nor others sought to receive any clarified that Harvey Boulter did not in fact discuss the share of the profits for assisting the trust. matter of the knighthood. During the Shangri-La dialogue of the International I accept that I should not have had a meeting with a Institute for Strategic Studies in 2010, I attended a potential commercial supplier without an official being bilateral meeting with the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister. present. This was entirely my fault and I take full This was attended by Mr Werritty and MOD officials responsibility for it. After the meeting, however, I notified and was minuted. The purpose of the meeting was to my private office and asked them to prepare a brief on make it clear that although I would no longer be able to the subject of Cellcrypt. participate in the project, the others involved would Let me turn now to Mr Werritty, whom I first met in continue to do so. 1998. While I was in opposition, he worked as a paid In December 2010, Mr Werritty and I met with the intern in my House of Commons office and at this time Sri Lankan President in London. This was not an official had a parliamentary pass. He also received payments visit, hence why it was held in the Dorchester hotel. In for research work undertaken during my time in opposition. July 2011, I gave a lecture hosted by Mrs Kadirgamar, 25 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 26 the widow of my friend and Tamil former Foreign a full list of topics discussed and those who attended, Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, who was assassinated and any actions taken by his private office or his special by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in 2005, as the advisers following those meetings? House will know. Mr Werritty is a personal friend of The Secretary of State has admitted that distinctions Mrs Kadirgamar and helped with the arrangements, as between his professional responsibilities and personal it was a personal not a ministerial commitment. I know loyalties have been blurred. Again, the ministerial code that there are some in the Sri Lankan diaspora who do is clear on this. Paragraph 7.3 says: not want any contact with the current Sri Lankan “On appointment to each new office, Ministers must provide Government, but as I said in my lecture, unless we have their Permanent Secretary with a full list in writing of all interests reconciliation based on mutual tolerance and respect which might be thought to give rise to a conflict.” for all citizens regardless of ethnic origin, we will not Paragraph 7.4 continues: find peace in that island. “Where appropriate, the Minister will meet the Permanent I have made it clear throughout this process that my Secretary and adviser on Ministers’ interests to desire is to be as transparent as possible, and I accept agree action on the handling of interests.” where I have been at fault, as Ministers must. Following So on their first day in a new job every Minister has to the interim findings, the Prime Minister has asked the make a declaration. Under paragraph 7.5 of the code, Cabinet Secretary to work with the permanent secretary statements of ministerial interests are published every to complete the report, addressing all the remaining six months, and the Secretary of State’s entry makes questions that have been raised publicly and privately interesting reading. There are mentions of good by this issue, and I shall fully and willingly co-operate organisations such as the Strawberry Line project in his with this. constituency, but there is no mention of his adviser who ran a defence consultancy, arranged his meetings and Mr Jim Murphy (East Renfrewshire) (Lab): I remind handed out his business cards across the world. the House of my properly declared interest and thank Did the Secretary of State provide full and complete the Secretary of State for his statement. I have enjoyed disclosure to his permanent secretary about his links to shadowing him in the House of Commons, and until and his defence consultancy, Security now we have had a good working relationship. Indeed, Futures? What advice did the permanent secretary give he will know that I defended him for the first month of him and what was agreed on the handling of this this case, until he started to defend himself and his interest? Will the Secretary of State now publish the answers unravelled, but this whole crisis is self-inflicted. record of the information that he supplied to his permanent There have been daily revelations which barely 36 hours secretary when he took up this job? In the media this ago he described as “baseless”, but yesterday he was morning, the former Chief of the Defence Staff, Sir Jock forced into a partial and belated apology. It is not a Stirrup, is reported as saying that he raised his concerns partial apology we want; it is full and complete disclosure with the Secretary of State for Defence’s office. Is this of all the issues, so today we will listen with great care to true, and has the current or any previous permanent any questions that he does not fully answer. secretary ever raised their concerns about his professional Some will question the loyalty of a friend who abuses proximity to Mr Werritty with him or his office? his contacts in that way, and many will doubt the Looking at the ministerial code, it is clear that, on judgment of a Secretary of State who willingly allows paragraphs 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4 and 7.5, the Secretary himself to be professionally compromised in that manner. of State has driven a coach and horses through the But this is not just about the Secretary of State’s judgment; rules. He cannot believe that today’s partial apology it is also about his conduct and breaches of the ministerial gives him a free pass round breaches of the ministerial code. The code is clear. Paragraph 7.1 says: code. Our forces look to him for leadership. When they “Ministers must ensure that no conflict arises, or could reasonably step out of line, when they break the rules, they take be perceived to arise, between their public duties and their private responsibility and accept the consequences. They, and interests”. we, expect no less of the Defence Secretary. We all hope Yesterday the Defence Secretary apologised for the that he has done nothing wrong, but the only way to “misleading impression” that his actions may have given. clear his name is total transparency, which is why this His apology in itself is an admission of a breach of the case should now be referred to the independent adviser code. So it is beyond doubt that he has breached the on Ministers’ interests. ministerial code; the only issue is on how many grounds In conclusion, we might never know what got the and on how many occasions? Secretary of State into this crisis—whether it was arrogance, Paragraph 5.2 of the code says: naivety or hubris. The British people “Ministers have a duty to give fair consideration and due “expect the highest standards of conduct…We must be...transparent weight to informed and impartial advice from civil servants” about what we do and how we do it. Determined to act in the The Secretary of State claims that the infamous meeting national interest, above improper influence”. in Dubai happened by chance. Today we have another [Interruption.] Government Members might shout about version of events: he has told the House that he did not that, but those are not my words; they are the words of discuss defence or classified matters with Mr Werritty. the Prime Minister in the foreword to the ministerial code How then did Mr Werritty know his diary and how he of conduct. The Prime Minster must now apply those was travelling back from Afghanistan? Why did the standards to the Secretary of State, otherwise the ministerial Secretary of State exclude civil servants from that meeting? code will not be worth the paper it is written on. Did he ask for advice and briefing before the Dubai meeting? Did he seek civil service advice in advance of Dr Fox: I am not entirely sure what questions arise any of the 22 meetings with Mr Werritty? If so, will the from that. The right hon. Gentleman asked why no civil Secretary of State publish all such advice, together with service advice was sought before social and private 27 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 28

[Dr Fox] inside this House, as they reflect the judgments made not just by the media, but by the public in general. meetings. The answer is that civil service advice is not Serious issues have been raised here. I accept that, and I sought before social and private meetings. He asked accept that they must be investigated fully, which is why when the permanent secretary raised concerns. The I said I would co-operate with the Cabinet Secretary on permanent secretary raised the matter of the business all the issues raised. It is important not only to be clear cards with me in August. I told her that I had dealt with that, as I believe, there was no wrongdoing, but to that in June when I first saw them. I demanded that they recognise that the perception of wrongdoing also has to should not be used again and that any subsequent cards be eliminated. should not display either the portcullis or a reference to me as Secretary of State. The right hon. Gentleman has Mr James Arbuthnot (North East Hampshire) (Con): spent most of his time over the last few days focusing on My right hon. Friend has said that he has made a the meeting in Dubai with Cellcrypt. I have set out how mistake, and he has apologised to the House. Will he the meeting came about, what the conversations were accept that many people believe that, compared with during the meeting, what conversations did not take the important issues with which he has to deal, this is place, what Mr Boulter said did take place and the pretty small-scale stuff? Will he please concentrate on action I took as a consequence, which was to ask my issues such as the conflict we are continuing to fight in private office for a full briefing. No commercial contracts Afghanistan, the shortage of money in the Defence were made and no financial gain was made as a result of budget and the implementation of the strategic defence any of those discussions. When a man who was involved and security review? in a blackmail case is feeding information to the media, which is often taken without question, it is rather difficult Dr Fox: I am grateful to my right hon. Friend, who to take the shadow Secretary of State beginning his does not have to remind me of the list of serious statement without telling us the specifics of the declaration projects with which we are currently dealing—not least he was making, which is that his Front Bench team took with our armed forces in combat in Libya and Afghanistan. £10,000 from Cellcrypt, the company at the centre of all It is important for me to continue with that work. We this, to visit the United States. I hope that today I have will certainly not be diverted from the important issues. answered as many questions as I can, perhaps the I nevertheless think it important for those in front-line shadow Secretary of State might want to answer some politics to be big enough to say that they are sorry and that arise for him. have made a mistake if they have done so.

Sir (Kensington) (Con): May I, as a Ann Clwyd (Cynon Valley) (Lab): As Mr Werritty former Defence Secretary, pay tribute to the robust and joined the Secretary of State, attending defence meetings effective leadership that my right hon. Friend is giving, in various countries, will the right hon. Gentleman which I hope he will continue to give to a Ministry of assure us that at no stage during those meetings were Defence that has sadly drifted in recent years? With security issues or security relationships raised? Will he regard to what he said about links with Sri Lanka, may also assure us that Mr Werritty had no pecuniary interests I, from my own personal knowledge going back to the whatever in any of the items under discussion at any of time when he served with me in the Foreign Office, the meetings? confirm that my right hon. Friend made sterling efforts to try to broker peace between the various factions in Dr Fox: The right hon. Lady raises a key point with Sri Lanka? I think it is a tribute to his integrity and his which I thought I had already dealt, but let me deal with qualities that he has continued to advance that cause in it again for her. I have made it clear that at no point did the years since. Mr Werritty attend departmental meetings; that at no Dr Fox: I am grateful to my right hon. and learned point did he have access to classified documents; that at Friend for that. A great deal of work is still to be done no point did he have classified briefings; and, therefore, in Sri Lanka, and I am very pleased that I was able, that at no point was any issue of security affecting the eventually, to make an official visit as Secretary of United Kingdom either discussed or put at risk. As for State. I hope that the United Kingdom, with all its the pecuniary interests of Mr Werritty in those particular historical links to the country, will be able to use the conferences, I am confident that he was not dependent levers at our disposal to try to bring peace to a region on any transactional behaviour to maintain his income. where, sadly, too little has been done in recent years to try to bring reconciliation. Richard Ottaway ( South) (Con): I congratulate the Secretary of State on what he has achieved in the Mr Dennis Skinner (Bolsover) (Lab): Experience shows Ministry of Defence to date. Does he agree with one of that over the last 40 years these decisions are very rarely the oldest maxims in politics? Advisers advise; it is decided by the raucous voices behind the Government Ministers who decide. Front Bench. What the right hon. Gentleman really has to consider is the fact that his friends in the right-wing Dr Fox: It is Ministers who decide, and, as I have press—not, now, ,butThe Mail on Sunday, said, I am still awaiting any information or proof that today and probably Kavanagh of any advice that I was given changed the way in which The Sun—are against him. It looks to me like Cameron I made a decision. There has been a lot of speculation is going to get his Fox. and a lot of innuendo, but if someone has an accusation to make—that there was wrongdoing, that there were Dr Fox: It is certainly possible to keep a good bottle financial transactions, or that advice was given that just a little bit too long. The hon. Gentleman makes a changed a ministerial decision—let that person come valid point—that these issues are not decided purely forward with it. 29 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 30

Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): This Dr Fox: As soon as I had information from the civil afternoon the Secretary of State said, “with the benefit service that there might have been a mistake in a of hindsight… I should have taken great care to ensure parliamentary answer, I did what you would expect us a more transparent separation of Government…political to do, Mr Speaker, and corrected it immediately. It and private business”. However, we know that he was seems that if we correct mistakes of one kind or another, warned by Sir Jock Stirrup and Bill Jeffrey, the then we are now regarded as lacking in judgment. I think it permanent secretary, about his relations with Mr Werritty. absolutely correct that, when we make a mistake, we Will he tell us why he ignored their advice and shuffled apologise for it; but, as I said earlier, if the hon. Gentleman them off quickly, and will he publish their advice? or anyone else has a substantial charge to make, let him or her bring it out into the open rather than whispering Dr Fox: The two individuals that the hon. Lady from the weeds. mentioned were not shuffled off quickly; they retired after long and distinguished service to the armed forces Tony Baldry (Banbury) (Con): Those of us who were and to the civil service. In any case, as I said earlier, I in the House in 1996 will recall my right hon. Friend, as accept that there was a lack of transparency and clarity, a Minister in the Foreign Office, devoting considerable and that, as the permanent secretary pointed out in her efforts and energy to the peace process in Sri Lanka. I report this morning—which I suggest the hon. Lady read am sure that any reasonable Member would think it —there is a need for more mechanisms in the Department commendable that he has consistently supported the to ensure that the ministerial code is clearly implemented. peace process and those involved in it, and I fail to understand why there should be a scintilla of criticism Nadine Dorries (Mid Bedfordshire) (Con): I believe of him for wanting to maintain those contacts and help that this may be the first time that the shadow Secretary to bring peace to that benighted island. of State, the right hon. Member for East Renfrewshire (Mr Murphy), has mentioned a registered interest. If Dr Fox: I agree that it would be surprising if anyone that is the case, I wonder whether he could tell the did not want that peace to occur, but we have to accept House how long he has had that registered interest, and that there are forces in that country, and even more in why it has not been mentioned before. the diaspora, who do not want anyone to deal with the current Sri Lankan Government. My point is this: however much people may regret what the current Mr Speaker: Order. The question needs to be put to Government have done or dislike them, unless we deal the Secretary of State. However, it is on the record now, with that Government and get proper reconciliation, we and I do not think that the House can wait any longer will not be able to get peace in that island. [Interruption.] to hear from Mr Peter Bone. The hon. Member for North Durham (Mr Jones) shouts “Foreign Office” from a sedentary position. The Foreign Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): I think that Office, through the Foreign Secretary, agreed that I Members on both sides of the House will welcome the should make that visit and, indeed, cleared the speech Secretary of State’s action in coming to the Dispatch that I gave, as it believed that because of the contacts I Box. I do not recall that, in all my time in Parliament, a had developed over time in Sri Lanka, I was in a good Minister has come to the Dispatch Box voluntarily to position to try to take the process forward. In respect of answer such questions. However, there is one group of achieving peace, what matters is what works, rather people whom we have forgotten today: our armed forces, than what is a departmentally strictly delineated process. in Afghanistan and also in Libya, who will be amazed that the House could be packed with Members wishing Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): to discuss a matter relating to a business card when they The Secretary of State has twice failed to respond to a have a superb Secretary of State getting on with the job. specific question, so may I ask him for a third time? When was he made aware that first the permanent Dr Fox: I accept that tribute with particular humility, secretary and then the Chief of the Defence Staff were given that my hon. Friend has a son serving in our concerned about this relationship, what was the advice armed forces at present. I think it important for us to given to him, and what he did he do as a result of that deal with issues such as this and for them to be fully and advice? transparently addressed, but I also think it important for me to recognise that I have very important issues Dr Fox: As have I said, I was not aware of any direct with which to deal. I have just come back from Libya, approach from them. The first direct approach I can where I was over the weekend. Those were not, perhaps, remember was when my current permanent secretary the best two days on which to be incommunicado, but came to me in August and said that she had grave none the less a very important task is still in hand. I concerns about the use of a business card that had realise that a great deal of attention and time will have “adviser to the Secretary of State” printed on it. She to be given to it, and I still fully intend to ensure that asked what I was going to do about it, and I was able to that is my primary objective. reply to her that I had already, in June of that year, decided to stop those cards and demand that they not Paul Flynn (Newport West) (Lab): I thank the Secretary be used again. of State for the letter in which he apologised for misinforming the House on a matter earlier this year, Richard Harrington (Watford) (Con): With the revelations but his judgment is what is in question today. He today that the Labour Front Bench took money from confessed his lack of judgment yesterday. Is he a fit Cellcrypt, is it not clear that we are witnessing a conspiracy person to take what can be life or death decisions between a desperate business man and a rotten Labour affecting our troops in Afghanistan? party? 31 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 32

Dr Fox: I think we should keep our discussion within Mr David Davis (Haltemprice and Howden) (Con): the realms of reasonable debate, but I understand the The Secretary of State said that this issue will not be reasons for my hon. Friend’s anxiety. Huge amounts of resolved in this House. Nevertheless, in coming to the criticism have been emanating from Cellcrypt in recent House and presenting his apology to it, he has acted times, and the Opposition have said that all they want is both properly and honourably. Let us put this issue in to get information. As it has come to light that, in fact, context. He has been attacked and criticised today by they took a lot of money from that company, we need members, or previous members, and supporters of the to know when, and on what terms, that happened, Blair and Brown Governments, for whom a single meeting because it raises a potential conflict of interests. without officials or a record was not an issue; they made it a whole system of sofa government. Furthermore, Ian Lucas (Wrexham) (Lab): Will the Secretary of in some cases they took very large sums from the State confirm that he had meetings with Mr Werritty on attendance of that and changed public policy. Can the defence matters in which Mr Werritty had a pecuniary Secretary of State confirm to this House that he neither interest, and if so, why does he think he was asked to be gained financially, either personally or politically, nor there? changed public policy in any way as a result of these meetings? Dr Fox: As I have made clear, I am not aware of any specific interests in that sense at all, but if the hon. Dr Fox: I know exactly what my right hon. Friend is Gentleman thinks there was any particular pecuniary referring to, but I want to get back to the point that interest, I am sure the Cabinet Secretary would love to where there are serious allegations we do have to treat hear from him, as would I. them seriously. I go back to the point I made earlier, which was that my contacts with Mr Werritty were neither for his financial gain in any of the issues I have Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con): Is it not the mentioned, nor for my financial gain. However, I do case that taking a close interest in a dangerous and think that in terms of making sure that there is total divided country with a civil war going on does, indeed, transparency, we have to make every effort not only to amount to an interest, but is it not also the case that the behave properly, but to be seen to behave properly. framers of the ministerial code took it for granted that people reading it would understand the difference between Thomas Docherty (Dunfermline and West Fife) (Lab): a public and a private interest? On the issue of the meeting with the President of Sri Lanka, can the Secretary of State give assurances to the Dr Fox: I am sure that is correct, but although we House that the President of Sri Lanka was clear as to may understand that, it does not allow any of us to Mr Werritty’s status in that meeting? absolve ourselves of our responsibility to ensure that it is fully transparent and understandable. As I said in a Dr Fox: Yes, the meeting in London, as the hon. previous answer, although the code is clearly set out, we Gentleman will remember, was not an official visit to must now ensure that we put in place processes that this country by the President. I was very keen to talk to make it properly waterproof. him about some of the projects that I had been running in opposition but was not going to be able to run in Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): It would appear that if government. That meeting included the Sri Lankan anyone wanted to breach the Secretary of State’s security Foreign Minister, a long-standing friend of mine, and arrangements all they had to do was check the travel the governor of the bank of Colombo, who is also a plans of Mr Werritty. Can the Secretary of State take long-standing acquaintance. I simply wanted to try to me through this: one day Mr Werritty just happened to make it clear that much as I would not be able, as the be in a Dubai restaurant at the table next to that of Secretary of State and a member of the Government, to somebody who had a pecuniary interest in defence continue with what I had done in opposition, there were procurement and defence expenditure—Mr Boulter—and those who were willing to continue to do that in politics that just happened to be the day before the Secretary of and business. I hope that they will be successful. State was passing through Dubai? We are being asked to accept that, but can the Secretary of State say—I did Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): Listening to my not hear his answer earlier on—how Mr Werritty knew right hon. Friend’s statement one gets the impression of the Secretary of State’s travel arrangements? that a company, Cellcrypt, spent hundreds of thousands on lobbyists to try to get a contract and failed to do so. Dr Fox: Very simply, because I told Mr Werritty, who Will he confirm that that understanding is correct? was in Dubai with his girlfriend at the time, that I would Having failed to get that contract, the company then be passing through and that we should meet up. The tried to buy the politics of the Labour party, which is hon. Gentleman will have to take my word for it that now throwing rocks. Does that not have profound there was a chance meeting with Mr Boulter, and I implications for our politics, on both sides of the House? think that that is perfectly reasonable. [Interruption.] Labour Members are saying, “It is classified”, but we Dr Fox: Following the meeting in Dubai, when I had are allowed to tell our friends and family where we are been interested in what Cellcrypt could bring to the going to be as Ministers, because all Ministers, in ministerial Ministry of Defence, I immediately called my private down time, will want to try to get their diaries to office and asked to be provided with a briefing that I coincide. If the Opposition are saying that we can never, could get on my return. The correct way to make as Ministers, divulge to anybody—friend or family—what decisions about procurement is through our regular is in our diary, that is an utterly ridiculous position to procurement process. It is quite reasonable to talk to take. contractors, as we do on a regular basis. All Ministers 33 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 34 talk to contractors on a regular basis about what they or did he hide it from his private secretary and the may or may not bring in terms of capability to the permanent secretary? If he did make it clear, was he MOD. The question is whether, having been given that ever given advice that this should not be done? information, we make snap decisions or we put it through due process, and this—Cellcrypt—is being put through Dr Fox: Like all Ministers, on taking office I believed due process. that I was fully within the ministerial code. As I have said to the House several times today, I accept that I (Lewisham, Deptford) (Lab): The have allowed the blurring of the distinctions on occasion Secretary of State has told us today that on 18 separate and I fully accept my personal responsibility for that. I occasions he met Mr Werritty on overseas trips. In my do not believe that there was a specific allegation for me experience as a Minister, in the margins of visits the to deal with at the time, nor a specific interest to deal diary secretary records where the Minister intends to with. be. Was that the case on the 18 separate occasions on which the Secretary of State met his friend on official (Bournemouth West) (Con): May I say visits? to my right hon. Friend that Combat Stress came to the House of Commons earlier today, to the Speaker’s Dr Fox: As I said earlier, there were a wide range of apartment, to launch the next phase of its campaign, visits, and they included overseas visits that were family “The Enemy Within”, highlighting the plight of veterans holidays and so on. I included them all for the sake of who are suffering from mental illness due to the scars of completeness. A number would have been conferences, war? As the Secretary of State made his statement on such as the International Institute for Strategic Studies defence responsibilities, he will doubtless have those Shangri-La dialogue in Singapore or Bahrain, for example, responsibilities in mind. It is the mood on the Government that Mr Werritty was attending in any case. Many of Benches that we hope that the matter will quickly be put the occasions would have been on the margins and behind him so that he can get on with the excellent job would not have been political meetings. Of a very small he has been doing as Secretary of State. number of the meetings I have had, which I set out today, three were about Sri Lanka, where I included Dr Fox: My hon. Friend is not the only one who him because of the experience we had in opposition, would like this put behind us quickly, but I think that it and one was with a member of the diplomatic staff who is more important that it is put behind us thoroughly we happened both to know personally. I know that the and comprehensively. I do not wish in any way to right hon. Lady is trying to get to genuine and legitimate diminish the seriousness of some of the questions that concerns, but I can assure her that we have tried at all have been raised and I hope that what I have set out times to separate the professional work abroad, either today, and the process the Prime Minister has set out party political or governmental, and the social. for the Cabinet Secretary to examine further questions, will ensure that such an inquiry is thorough rather than quick. Nadhim Zahawi (Stratford-on-Avon) (Con): Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Labour party’s so-called independent report on defence procurement was supported Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab): The Secretary of State ON.MEMBERS: “Hear, hear.”] I am sure that by the same company, Cellcrypt, as is funding Front-Bench is right—[H hon. Members will agree with everything I am about to trips overseas? say. The Secretary of State is right that it is perfectly understandable for a Minister, when travelling abroad, Dr Fox: I was aware of that issue. The right hon. to bump into a friend. It is also perfectly understandable Member for East Renfrewshire (Mr Murphy) talked for a Minister, even in politics, to have a friend— about his declared interest today, but I think that it [Interruption.] The hon. Gentleman is one of mine, so would have been better to have been frank and upfront he should be careful. However, the Secretary of State is and to have said that the particular company concerned stretching our credulity by suggesting that he could is the central company in many of the allegations about have done so on 18 separate occasions. Will he provide the meeting in Dubai on which the shadow Secretary of us with a list of the meetings when he went abroad when State has so focused. I am not saying that that would in Mr Werritty was not present? Is the only reason that any way diminish his case, but I think it would have Mr Werritty was able to be there because he had access been better for transparency all round. to the Secretary of State’s diary? From what we see he is going to continue to have access to it—surely, that is Huw Irranca-Davies (Ogmore) (Lab): I apologise for inappropriate. my voice, Mr Speaker—I was shouting at the television over the weekend. Several years ago, on my first day as a Dr Fox: In general, it is inappropriate for the civil Minister in the Wales Office, the ministerial code was service or anyone else to release ministerial diaries, put in front of me and I was asked clearly and precisely which could be a threat to the security of the Minister whether there were any associations with individuals or or to national security. Where Ministers choose to give organisations that I should declare. I declared them, information in advance about where they will be to including my long historical link with the Scout Association. family or friends, that is perfectly reasonable. I would I was advised at that point—and I listened to my private say to the hon. Gentleman that Ministers—particularly secretary—to break that link on a temporary basis and Defence and Foreign Ministers—travel abroad with as far as I know that organisation was not involved in excessive regularity and I would be happy to provide arms lobbying or trading, and neither is it now. Did the him with a list of I have been abroad, excluding Secretary of State make clear his association to this those 18 times, over the year and a half that I have been individual and to this lobbying company at all points Secretary of State. 35 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 36

Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): My right recognise that the trials and tribulations that we face in hon. Friend has been very frank indeed in accepting public life are nothing compared with the threats facing that it was a bad mistake not to have an official present those in our armed forces. at the Dubai meeting and he has apologised for that. Does he also accept that the main victim of an official Mr Frank Roy (Motherwell and Wishaw) (Lab): The not being present was he himself? Had an official been Secretary of State has just told the House that Mr Werritty present and had a proper note been taken, it would not had no access to confidential material. The House have been possible for anyone else at the meeting to knows that the Secretary of State’s diary is highly misrepresent what was said and then have to withdraw confidential. Has the Secretary of State ever shown it afterwards. Mr Werritty a copy of his diary, or discussed what was in his diary? Dr Fox: Yes, it does damage to me as the Minister to have failed to take the appropriate precautions of having Dr Fox: As I have said, it is entirely appropriate for a meeting minuted and having an official attend. It also, Ministers to show anybody they like what is in their sadly, does damage to the Government in that it might diary. What is not acceptable, under departmental rules, give the appearance of something being wrong. However, is for the Department to release a diary to any third I will say to my hon. Friend that it beggars belief that a party when that is not agreed by a Minister. However, particular individual at that meeting, Mr Boulter, has because of the question that the hon. Gentleman raises, said that I discussed with him a knighthood and said I have instructed the Department not to release any part that I was going to have the Cabinet discuss a knighthood of my diary, on paper, to any individual—friend or being taken away. I was very clear that I was willing to otherwise. give evidence in a US court if required, because I was very clear about what was said and what was not said. David Morris (Morecambe and Lunesdale) (Con): Mr Boulter has subsequently given a totally different First, I would like to thank my friend for being so version of events, which, sadly, leads me to believe that up-front and honest. I have known him for many years, he is a very poor witness and lacking in credibility. and he has always been an upstanding gentleman. Let us put this in the truest context: the Opposition are Emma Reynolds (Wolverhampton North East) (Lab): trying to accuse him of some kind of negligence, but I should like to ask the Defence Secretary again today 10 years of no spending reviews have been forgotten exactly how many unofficial visits he has made to Sri about; that is true negligence, and that should be put Lanka, who sponsored those visits, why they are not before the House today. That is what the troops are registered in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests worried about. and what role Mr Werritty played in any meetings during those unofficial visits that the Secretary of State Dr Fox: All those involved in the complex matters of had with Government officials in Sri Lanka. defence and national security will want to ensure that we are able to put this issue to bed as quickly as possible and to deal with it, as I said, as thoroughly and transparently Dr Fox: There are no meetings that were unofficial as possible, because there are great issues at stake for that were not recorded and I made one official visit as our country, our armed forces, and those countries that Secretary of State. As I have said, the role of Mr Werritty we are involved with. I hope that we, and the Cabinet in that was, first, in the official meeting, to organise the Secretary, can deal with this as quickly as possible. I lecture for the Kadirgamar Institute, which he did, assure my hon. Friend that in the meantime I will not be and, secondly, to ensure that we were able to try to get deflected from what I understand are the great burdens continuity in the efforts we were trying to bring to and responsibilities of my office. investment and subsequent diversion of profit into social projects. I think that is an enterprise that is still worth following. Angela Smith (Penistone and Stocksbridge) (Lab): Can the Secretary of State inform the House whether any information has been passed to Adam Werritty Gavin Barwell (Croydon Central) (Con): May I commend concerning the legal case involving Porton Capital and my right hon. Friend for his apology to the House and 3M? for his answers to the questions that have been raised? Over the weekend, I met two servicemen who are shortly Dr Fox: As far as I am aware, the only information to be deployed to Afghanistan. Now that those answers has come from Porton Capital’s lawyers, who sent a have been provided, I am sure that they will want him, clarification following the meeting in Dubai to say that and indeed the whole House, to focus on that conflict the account of the meeting given by Mr Boulter was and on sorting out the mess in the defence budget that incorrect. The lawyers accepted, on the legal case that we inherited from the previous Government rather than Porton Capital faced with 3M, that none of the accusations on this story. made by Mr Boulter were correct, and no confidential information was given. Dr Fox: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his very kind words. We will continue to focus on those issues (Portsmouth North) (Con): I want because we cannot afford not to. They are literally a to place on record my support for the Secretary of matter of life and death and they have to be what we State. There is no one I would rather have going in to give our greatest attention to. These political matters bat for our armed forces and our country when it comes are matters of extreme discomfort for those of us in the to the difficult issues in his in-tray. Can he assure me firing line and for our families; however, we have to and the House that the issues in his statement will not 37 Defence Responsibilities10 OCTOBER 2011 Defence Responsibilities 38 detract from the way that he deals with the other issues business card and that it was not appropriate for anyone in his in-tray, and particularly our immediate opportunities to say that they were an adviser to the Secretary of to get our allies to pull more weight? State. At that point, I made it very clear that they should be withdrawn and not used again. They were Dr Fox: It would be disingenuous of me to say to the funded privately, and have nothing to do with public or, House that being confronted, as some of my other indeed, my money. colleagues have been, by a non-stop bombardment from the media, day in, day out, and the effect that that has Bob Stewart (Beckenham) (Con): May I commend on our families, does not in some way make it more my right hon. Friend on not changing his programme, difficult to get on with our daily work. I thank my hon. and on going to visit our armed forces abroad, when it Friend for her comments, and say to her that when we must have been tempting for him to come home are confronted with these situations, we sometimes find immediately, given what was happening here? I have unexpected resilience. listened carefully to what he said today, and I personally am very satisfied. May I advise him to go back to his Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab): May I clarify job, which is looking after our armed forces, who are in that the Secretary of State has told the House today combat in two operational theatres? That is what he that his officials were, on his instructions, routinely must concentrate on now. giving out details of his ministerial diary to Adam Werritty, who then passed on that information to the Dr Fox: Again, I am grateful to my hon. Friend. I people sat next to him at a dinner table in Dubai? Is intend to concentrate very much on those issues, which that, in essence, what he has told the House today? remain at the top of my in-tray. As I said, we in the House understand that those outside have legitimate Dr Fox: The hon. Gentleman will see, when he looks concerns and that they have a right for them to be at the official record, that that is not what I said. I was addressed, and I think that the correct way to do so is perfectly capable, without officials, of telling any of my for the Cabinet Secretary to continue the investigation friends where I would be, if I wanted to meet up with begun by the permanent secretary. I can only reiterate them. We have to be very clear—the permanent secretary my willingness to co-operate in every way that I possibly is clear about this in her report today—that it has to be can with that investigation. understood by the civil service that it does not give out to anybody details of ministerial diaries unless that is Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab): What personally sanctioned by a Minister. was the perfectly innocent explanation offered up by Mr Werritty when the Secretary of State had to confront Dan Byles (North Warwickshire) (Con): I strongly him about touting around false business cards? echo the sentiments of my right hon. Friend the Chairman of the Defence Committee and others: British servicemen Dr Fox: He—Mr Werritty—accepted that he should and women are daily risking their lives in the deserts not have done so, and I think that with hindsight, he and mountains of Afghanistan, and they will be looking would think twice about doing so. Having made that in bewilderment at the priorities of Her Majesty’s loyal clear, he told me that he would get new business cards, Opposition. Will the Secretary of State confirm to the not use those ones again, and he accepted that what he House that he will not allow smear, innuendo, and lack had done was wrong. of substance on the part of the Opposition to distract him from the important business of his job? Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): May I welcome the statement by the Secretary of State Dr Fox: When these stories began to appear in earnest today and his apology? It is clear that some errors have last Wednesday during our party conference, I faced the been made, and it is quite right that the Cabinet Secretary option of trying to stay and deal with immediate issues should look into those matters. However, it is also clear or attending the NATO ministerial in and that there was no breach of security, and I assure the going on to the planned visit in Libya to Tripoli and Secretary of State that he retains not only my support Misrata. Had I decided to cancel any part of that but the support of these Government Benches? official programme because of what was happening domestically and politically in the United Kingdom, it Dr Fox: The permanent secretary makes it clear that would have sent the wrong signal, not only in this at no time was Mr Werritty given access to confidential country, but to our allies and to those who are fighting information or any security information to which he for us overseas. should not be given access; and that no documents or briefings were given. I am afraid that these accusations Toby Perkins (Chesterfield) (Lab): Returning to the that national security was breached, which is probably subject of the business cards that said that Mr Werritty the most serious accusation that could be thrown at any was the adviser to the Secretary of State, and which the Government Minister, are utterly baseless. If anyone Sri Lankans believed were true, will the Secretary of knows of a genuine case where they believe that to have State confirm that those business cards were known to happened, they have a duty to bring it to the Cabinet him before he asked for them not to be used in June, and Secretary. If they do not do so, they should do what is will he say whether they were funded from his parliamentary appropriate and not say anything about it at all. expenses or from of Ministry of Defence expenditure? Pat Glass (North West Durham) (Lab): The Secretary Dr Fox: I was first aware of them in June, when I saw of State has told us today that Mr Werritty was present them for the first time. I commented that it was with him on 18 separate occasions on overseas visits, inappropriate for a portcullis to be used on a private but he has told us that some of those were family 39 Defence Responsibilities 10 OCTOBER 2011 40

[Pat Glass] Eurozone holidays. I think we could all accept that. I have done a quick mental calculation. Since May 2010 I have had 4.32 pm two family holidays. Could the Secretary of State clarify The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr George Osborne): for us how many of those occasions were family holidays I would like to update the House on the situation in the and how many were official visits? eurozone and what we are doing to mitigate the impact of the crisis on the UK. Dr Fox: There were a number of different categories, Markets remain exceptionally volatile. Since July stock as I said. Some of them were overseas visits where I was markets are down by 11% in the UK, 12% in America, there purely on a defence basis. Some were conferences, 23% in France and 24% in Germany. Bond spreads have for example, where I may have been speaking and widened significantly for a number of European countries. Mr Werritty might have been a delegate. Some were Bank shares have lost a quarter of their value in the long weekends when my wife and I were abroad. Some past three months, and yesterday the Governments of were longer family holidays. One was a skiing holiday. France, Belgium and Luxembourg came together to We need to understand that Ministers have downtime rescue the major European bank Dexia. on visits. In particular, when we have long overseas visits, we try to manage our political time, our party Although the weakness of the US economy, and its political time often, and our personal time. It is unreasonable recent downgrade, have contributed to the lack of to think that we should not have any private time at all. confidence gripping world markets, it is clear to all that the epicentre of this crisis lies in the eurozone, so we (Filton and Bradley Stoke) (Con): I need a comprehensive solution that puts our largest would also like to put on the record my support for my trading market on a much more stable footing. In a right hon. Friend. The way that he has come to the string of international meetings, including the recent House today, with honesty and courage, to make his flurry that began with the G7 meeting in Marseille, statement without any pressure from elsewhere has Britain has helped to lead the international community been excellent. Given where we are, with our troops in in setting out what the components of a solution should action all over the world and with the challenges that we look like. face, it is time that we move on from this and concentrate We have again pressed our argument in calls over the on the job in hand. past couple of days which I, the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister have made to the leaderships in Dr Fox: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for much of Germany, France, the institutions of the European the help that he has given me in recent days. I finally say Union and international bodies such as the International this: where there are serious issues of probity to be dealt Monetary Fund. Half an hour ago the Prime Minister with, we need to deal with them in an open and transparent spoke to the President of the United States about the manner. I hope I have helped with that process today, issue. but I shall continue to co-operate with the Cabinet In short, we need a comprehensive solution which Secretary in doing so. However, there is an equal duty ring-fences vulnerable eurozone countries, recapitalises on those who have genuine allegations of wrongdoing Europe’s banks and resolves the uncertainty about Greece. to make that they bring them into the public domain. Ring-fence, recapitalise, resolve—let me take each in When we get sniping from the sidelines and innuendo, it turn. First, we need to see the eurozone members increase does nothing to improve the health of our political the firepower of their bail-out fund. If they are trying to process. I hope that if those exist who have such accusations, protect larger countries, ¤440 billion is sadly not enough. they bring them forward. I will be very ready to give my How they increase that firepower—whether by using explanation, but what I think is unacceptable is this more paid-in resources, more leverage, or more help constant sniping and undermining without, it appears, from the European Central Bank—is up to them. What genuine substance. I can confirm is that Britain will not be a part of any permanent eurozone bail-out fund. We have provided a bilateral loan to Ireland with the support of the House, in recognition of our exceptionally close economic and social ties. But when we came to office we inherited a situation where we were also part of the EU-wide bail-out fund, the European financial stabilisation mechanism. As the price that we extracted for ratifying the treaty change creating the permanent bail-out fund, British taxpayers have made no contribution to the eurozone bail-out of Greece and will not be part of the permanent fund. Alongside the ring fence, we need the second r, which is recapitalisation. The European bank stress tests have not been nearly tough enough, as proved by the fact that Dexia did not fail them. At the beginning of the year, I said that the new stress tests must be much tougher. The IMF now estimates that sovereign credit strain could have a direct impact of about ¤200 billion on European banks, and at last the European Banking Authority is working on a plan to test leading European 41 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 42 banks against higher capital ratios and more credible “clearly the impact of the rest of the world on the UK does benchmarks on their exposure to sovereign debt. European threaten our recovery. That’s why we took action today to try to nations will need to set out the backstops that they have head that off.” in place to raise capital privately if they can or provide I made it clear last year that I would follow exactly the public capital if they cannot. same procedures that my predecessor established. I Detailed work by the Financial Services Authority therefore agreed to the request and authorised a further confirms that UK banks are much better capitalised £75 billion of asset purchases. I think that this is the and more liquid than many of their European counterparts. right response to the deterioration in the international As the IMF showed in its recent assessment of the UK situation. economy, the core tier 1 ratios of all the major UK That is what the can do. Although banks are in double-digit territory, which compares well we have gone further than the last Government in to most European peers. On Friday, the credit rating extracting commitments from all the high street banks agency Moody’s downgraded 12 UK banks. However, it to increase SME lending and extending loan guarantees, stated explicitly that the I believe that we can do more domestically to get credit “downgrades do not reflect a deterioration in the financial strength flowing, including credit easing. of the banking system or that of the government”. The purpose of a credit-easing programme will be Rather it is the recognition of the success of the not only to lower the risk of another credit crunch, but Government’s efforts to reform banking and remove the to bring about a structural improvement in access to perceived taxpayer guarantee for banks deemed too big finance for mid-sized and small businesses so that a to fail. That is the direction in which policy should be loan from their local bank is not the only source of moving. finance, addressing one of the long-standing problems in the British economy. This action will sit alongside the The third r is a resolution of the situation in Greece. other measures we have announced to improve our The weekly drama of troika visits, parliamentary votes infrastructure, invest in science and make it easier to and uncertainty about the disbursement of future tranches employ people. We will announce more details alongside of international funds are causing great instability for the autumn forecast next month. All this recognises that the whole world. Our advice to European neighbours our economic problems do not all come from abroad; about what needs to happen is provided in private, but many were home grown. Last week’s revisions to the our overall intent is very public. The speculation about GDP data revealed that Britain had one of the biggest Greece’s future needs to end. The eurozone needs to booms in the entire world, followed by the deepest come to a clear decision now and stick to it, and that recession of any major economy other than Japan’s. We decision needs to be based on a rigorous and realistic went into that bust with the biggest structural deficit in assessment of what is really happening in Greece and the G7 and came out with a deficit forecast to be the the debt dynamics of that country’s economy. Such an biggest in the G20. assessment should be provided by the IMF. We need to ensure that the IMF has enough resources to support None of the measures I have described would be economies around the world that require the help of the possible if Britain did not have what the Governor of international community. the Bank of England himself described last week as Ring-fencing, recapitalisation and resolution—that “a credible plan to repay our debts”. is what needs to happen now. At the same time, the Fiscal responsibility allows the British authorities to be eurozone countries need to undertake structural reforms monetary activists. Without that credible plan, market to make their economies more competitive and move interest rates in Britain would soar as they have in other towards greater fiscal integration to underpin the single European nations. Instead, interest rates here are just currency. At the same time, we must ensure that Britain 2.5%, half of what they are in Spain and Italy. A 1% rise is not part of that integration and that our influence is in interest rates would take £10 billion out of the protected. These things are required by the remorseless pockets of British families through higher mortgage logic of monetary union. That is the comprehensive costs and lead to more repossessions and job losses as package—all these things—that we have been urging companies failed. These low interest rates are hard won and will urge again at the G20 Finance Ministers meeting and easily lost. I can confirm that the credit rating on Friday and the European Council meeting, which agency that downgraded the United States, Standard & has now been moved to the end of next week. We Poor’s, has this month affirmed our triple A rating, but believe that the package must be in place as soon as it made it clear that the greatest threat to that rating feasible and certainly no later than the G20 leaders would be if summit in Cannes in less than four weeks. Our time frame has been clear and is now broadly accepted by the “the ’s commitment to fiscal consolidation international community. Indeed, there are now signs of falters.” progress from the leadership of the eurozone. We will not take that risk with our nation’s credibility and our interest rates. The crisis in the euro may now been inching towards resolution, but it has already delivered a huge knock to These are difficult times. There is no doubt that a international confidence. I said earlier this summer that solution to the eurozone crisis is urgently needed. It Britain could not be immune from what was happening would provide the greatest boost available to the British on our doorstep. Sadly, that has proved to be the case. economy this autumn. We have been leading the That is the principal reason given by the independent international effort to help the eurozone find that solution Monetary Policy Committee for its decision to request while at home taking the steps needed to ensure that authorisation to undertake further quantitative easing. Britain rides out the storm. I commend this statement As Mervyn King said in interviews explaining his decision, to the House. 43 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 44

Ed Balls (Morley and Outwood) (Lab/Co-op): Let What do we have today from the Prime Minister? Do me start by thanking the Chancellor for making his we have a report back from weekend meetings with statement and for advance notice of it. It is right that he President Sarkozy and Chancellor Merkel? No, because has today updated the House and the country on the our Prime Minister was not at the meetings; he was too ongoing crisis in the eurozone. It is also right that he busy dealing with a local difficulty. Instead, we have and I will have the opportunity to debate the ongoing another interview in the , and his solution growth crisis in the British economy in the House on is that eurozone leaders need to get out their “big Wednesday. bazooka”. Their what? He could have called for political A year ago the Prime Minister told the House that our backing for the European Central Bank to act as a economy was lender of last resort in return for credible fiscal policies, “out of the danger zone”—[Official Report, 15 December 2010; for a euro area debt guarantee or for a European plan Vol. 520, c. 901.] for jobs and growth, but “big bazooka”—what does it mean? Can the Chancellor explain? I made the mistake We warned then that there was a global hurricane of looking it up on this morning, and I warn brewing in the eurozone, America and across the developed hon. Members, “Do not make the same mistake.” world. We also warned the Chancellor that ripping out the foundations of the house here in Britain with a To be fair, and in conclusion, the Prime Minister did reckless approach to deficit reduction was the wrong call this morning for a five-point plan to deal with the approach. The global hurricane is now swirling around eurozone crisis, although it was not clear from the us. With the eurozone crisis deepening, and in advance Chancellor’s statement what those five points are or add of Wednesday’s debate, will he tell us today whether he up to, but let us hope that, with Britain badly exposed, still believes that Britain is out of the danger zone and our growth flatlining, unemployment rising and borrowing that we are still a “safe haven” in a turbulent world? set to be higher than planned, when the Chancellor With the European Central Bank unwilling to cut its comes back to the House on Wednesday he will agree to interest rates, is it really the crisis in the eurozone that back our five-point plan for jobs and growth here in has prompted the Chancellor to change so radically his Britain. views on quantitative easing? Two years ago he called it “the last resort of desperate governments when all their other Mr Osborne: I welcome the shadow Chancellor to his policies have failed”. place. When I heard that the Labour leadership were We will return to the British economy on Wednesday, clearing out their shadow Treasury Front-Bench team but the Chancellor is right to say today that the crisis in today, I was worried that the Conservative party would the eurozone now constitutes a direct threat to our lose its greatest electoral asset, but it is great to see him flatlining economy, not least because only Greece and still in his place. Portugal in the eurozone have had lower growth than Let me address the right hon. Gentleman’s specific Britain in the past year. With no growth, it is no wonder questions. First, he asked about the exposures to eurozone our interest rates are so low. He is also right to say that nations. The FSA publishes the appropriate information the threat is not only to our exporters, but to the on that, on the exposures overall to peripheral economies stability and solvency of our banking system. Can he and to other eurozone banks, and it is appropriate that update the House on his latest estimate of the full it does so. On RBS, I touched specifically on that issue, exposure of UK banks to euro sovereign debt? Is the because there has been speculation, but let me make it House of Commons Library estimate of a $187 billion very clear: in our assessment, and in that of the FSA, exposure correct? Is it correct that, as part of his RBS is well capitalised and liquid. contingency planning, the Treasury has been working On the eurozone facility, let me answer the right hon. on detailed plans to inject further capital into Royal Gentleman’s specific question. I believe that it should Bank of Scotland? be broad in application, as well as deeper in funds, and The Chancellor is also right that it is a great relief undertake as many operations as is required. He talks that Britain is not a member of the eurozone, although about meetings, but let me reassure him that I have been I was rather surprised to hear him last week give the to many, many meetings over the past few weeks. There credit to the Foreign Secretary, who was in opposition, has not been a shortage of meetings; there has been a on the Back Benches and writing history books at the lack of leadership from eurozone leaders in those meetings. time. I have long given up hope of getting any thanks But, that is changing, and that is very welcome. from the Chancellor for that vital judgment. Above all, Frankly, it is absolutely astonishing that a shadow the Chancellor is right: eurozone leaders have prevaricated Chancellor, who led his entire party through the Division too long and need to get their act together to put in Lobby in July to vote against the increase in IMF place a credible plan before next month’s G20 meeting. resources initiated at the London summit by the previous Back in July, the Chancellor told the Financial Times Prime Minister, should accuse us of a lack of leadership in an interview that eurozone leaders had to “get a in the international community. Let us just imagine if grip”, and he called for a eurobond, but what has that vote had been won—presumably the right hon. happened since? Precious little. Has he urged eurozone Gentleman cast his vote hoping to win the Division—we, leaders not just to increase EFSF funding, but to widen alone in the world, I think, would not be ratifying the its role to help recapitalise troubled banks and to put in increase in IMF resources, and I would have to turn up place first-loss guarantees on sovereign debt to stop at those meetings and explain, “I am very sorry, but contagion in Spain and Italy? Rather than talking to the the British House of Commons does not want to use newspapers over the summer, perhaps the Chancellor the Bretton Woods institutions to help us with one should have gone to those meetings and urged a Europe- of the greatest financial crises of the century.” As I say, wide plan for jobs and growth to get unemployment his lectures on leadership come a little thin, and perhaps falling and deficits down. he should practise what he preaches. 45 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 46

I end by saying this. We will have our debate on the increase in asset prices and also pushing up British economy, but it would be hard to imagine the the risk chain. I defer to the right hon. Gentleman’s shadow Chancellor coming back from the Labour view on this, but what did not work so well was an conference with his party’s economic credibility even increase in bank lending; that did not happen as a result lower than it was before he began the conference season, of QE, although the Government at the time hoped that but there is still no recognition from him that his it would. As he knows better than anyone, the Government Government spent too much money, ran up a big also created the asset purchase facility with the idea that budget deficit when times were good and spent more the Bank of England might purchase some corporate money than they had available—even though that is paper; it ended up purchasing only around £1 billion-worth. acknowledged by , who was Prime Minister I thought that it was sensible, therefore, that alongside at the time. The shadow Chancellor still thinks that the the Bank’s action on QE we separately, as a Government answer to a debt crisis is to spend more money. His accountable to the House, looked at credit easing options, five-point plan is, of course, a complete abandonment which directly try to address the bank lending issue and of the plan set out by the last Chancellor of the Exchequer, enable the Government—again, directly accountable to to which, as I understood it, the Labour party was still elected people—to look at a range of assets that one in theory committed. can buy, such as small business loans. When we listen to the combined speeches of the shadow Chancellor and the Leader of the Opposition, On the question of Greece, I have to be a little they seem to amount to more regulation and more tax careful; I alluded to that in my statement when I said on businesses—indeed, they confirm the Labour party’s that the advice that we are giving on Greece is private. reputation as the anti-business party. The shadow But our public intent is very clear: the Greek situation Chancellor has managed to get the Labour party into has to be resolved. It is very debilitating for the world an extraordinary position for an Opposition—of complete that at the moment each week goes past and there is irrelevance: irrelevant at home and irrelevant abroad. another event risk around Greece—the troika turns up, The leader of the Labour party asked a good question— there is a parliamentary vote in Greece. Of course, a lot “Why would you bring back to run the of the frustration of eurozone members is not so much banks?” But why on earth would we bring the shadow at the impact of austerity, but at the feeling that they Chancellor back to run the British economy? have that the Greeks have not done what they promised to do. But as I say, if the right hon. Gentleman will Mr (Wokingham) (Con): When the forgive me, I will continue to give my specific advice on Chancellor gave his authority to create another £75 billion Greece to my eurozone neighbours in private. of money, what forecast was he given about the impact that that will have in the next couple of years on the Mrs Anne Main (St Albans) (Con): I am pleased that price level and therefore on real incomes? So far it has my right hon. Friend is taking a robust approach towards been high inflation that has clobbered real incomes and our economy, but does he share my concern that the depressed demand. eurozone’s attempt to open up our benefits and pensions pots this September will derail his efforts to make sure Mr Osborne: As my right hon. Friend will know, in that we get money back to the British taxpayer? its most recent quarterly bulletin, the Bank of England did an assessment of the impact that the previous round of quantitative easing had had; it thought that that had Mr Osborne: I am very clear that the resources we increased GDP by 1.5% to 2%, but that it had also provide to the should be well spent. increased inflation. However, the Bank was very clear Indeed, there is a whole separate agenda that we have that in recommending or requesting further quantitative not touched on today of getting the European Union easing, it was still aiming to hit its inflation target in the better focused on trying to encourage growth and required two-year period. competitiveness across the entire continent. Like, I suspect, my hon. Friend, I also share the frustration about the Mr (Edinburgh South West) (Lab): I application of European law that means that we have to am glad that the Chancellor now realises that the policy end up paying benefits to people who are not in this of quantitative easing was, in fact, a good one and did country. That is one of the frustrations that Governments help get our economy growing. Can he tell us how he in the past have had to deal with, and we are looking at plans to ensure that the additional £75 billion gets out whether there are potential avenues around it. of the bank vaults and on to the high street? He has mentioned the credit support scheme, on which we have Sir Stuart Bell (Middlesbrough) (Lab): It was no not yet got some details, but I am sure that he would doubt an oversight that the Chancellor did not mention agree that it is important that the money finds its way the conference at the weekend between President Sarkozy out into the economy. and Angela Merkel where they called for a rapid and On the question of Greece, is there now an acceptance global response that had to be in place by the time of that the present austerity policies being visited on that the G20 meeting in July. The Prime Minister responded country are not going to work? Were the reports coming by saying that he did not want to put a single euro into out of the IMF a couple of weeks ago—that there saving the euro after 2013. He said that he did not want would have to be some sort of write-down of Greek the involvement of the investment bank and that all he debts—accurate? wanted was participation through the IMF—which, incidentally, I did not vote against earlier in the year. Is Mr Osborne: Let me deal first with the right hon. this what we call being at the heart of Europe and Gentleman’s question about quantitative easing. I think punching above our weight, or are we moving towards a there is general recognition that what worked was the two-speed Europe? 47 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 48

Mr Osborne: I did not directly mention the meeting the United Kingdom will not be saddled with the financial at the weekend between the French President and the burden of saving the euro? Will he continue actively to German Chancellor, but I alluded to it when I said that engage with banks to save the financial viability of there were signs of progress, as the meeting was one of small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK? those signs. They have now decided to delay the European Council until the end of next week to give them more Mr Osborne: The hon. Gentleman makes a good time to put together a package, the components of which point about the financial burden. Obviously we bear a are becoming clear. The timetable that we first identified burden as an economy that is closely inter-connected of the Cannes summit being the last possible point with the eurozone, but we took a decision that we when we can resolve this is now generally accepted. On wanted to get Britain out of the EU27 mechanism, and the hon. Gentleman’s substantive point about international we put considerable negotiating effort into doing that. resources, I commend him for his sensible vote in defying That meant not just the current mechanism, with its the imposed by the shadow Chancellor. ¤60 billion capacity which had been established—we are still part of that—but ensuring that the permanent : There were some people on your side as well. bail-out mechanism did not include people who were not in the euro. If the members of the euro want Mr Osborne: Let me address this. There certainly monetary union and want to move towards greater were some people on my side, and no doubt some of fiscal union, it is not reasonable to ask countries that them may ask me about it today. I am very happy to are not in the euro to be part of one of the key stand up and explain why I think that is wrong, why mechanisms of that union, which is a bail-out fund. Britain has been a founding member of the IMF, and why the international institutions like the IMF and the Mr Douglas Carswell (Clacton) (Con): The bail-out- World Bank are absolutely central in trying to get an and-borrow approach to dealing with the crisis in the international response to economic problems. However, eurozone has not worked. We can call it the three R’s there is a big difference between Back-Bench Members —ring-fence, recapitalise, resolution—but it is still bailing of this House deciding to vote against this issue as a out, and bail-out simply begets more bail-out: more matter of conscience and the shadow Chancellor leading public liability to rescue rich men from the folly of their the entire Opposition into an official vote against an investment decisions. When will my right hon. Friend IMF package that—let us remember this—was supposed advocate a new approach, one that works: instead of to be the crowning achievement of the last Prime Minister’s bail out and borrow, default and decouple? premiership. When we look back at the last Prime Minister’s premiership, the one thing we say he got right Mr Osborne: The first thing I would say to my hon. was the London G20 summit, and then the shadow Friend is that he is right to allude to the debt dynamics Chancellor leads his party into the Division Lobby in some of the countries involved, and I mentioned that against it. That is pathetic. specifically in the case of Greece. The difference between the Greek situation and the Irish situation at the moment Martin Horwood (Cheltenham) (LD): Does the shows that countries can take different paths, and with Chancellor agree that if your neighbour’s house is on political will they can deal with their problems. However, fire, with or without exits, and if it threatens to set yours if the political system is unable to address those problems, on fire too, the sensible, constructive and intelligent the rest of the international community has to step in. thing to do is to protect your own house, do your best to My hon. Friend’s second allusion—the decoupling—is, help your neighbour to put out the fire, and not start an I guess, a reference to the break-up of the euro. As he argument about where the boundary line falls between knows, I was against Britain joining the euro—I perhaps the two properties—or, as Labour Members suggest, did not argue the case on quite as many occasions as he throw away the fire extinguisher? did—but as the world stands today, the break-up of the euro would be absolutely calamitous for the British Mr Osborne: There are quite a lot of fire analogies economy, and it is not in our interests to advocate that. there. We are trying to do those things. First, we are It is profoundly in our national interest to try to make trying to protect our own country. Of course, this was monetary union work. Monetary unions can be made an independent decision of the Bank of England, but to work, but greater fiscal integration and fiscal union when it made its decision it explicitly referenced what are needed, and—this is a crucial additional part—we was happening in the eurozone as the principal reason also need the competitiveness of the other, peripheral for doing so. Secondly, we are very actively engaged European economies to be greatly improved. with the eurozone in trying to find this international solution to its problems. I mentioned all the conversations Mr George Mudie (Leeds East) (Lab): The Chancellor that have been had just in the past 72 hours or so. There has said that the asset purchase facility is the best way have been a string of international meetings where we to get money into the real economy and stimulate have made forceful interventions. We have helped to growth. Why is the Bank of England refusing to use the push the eurozone in the right direction, but there are asset purchase facility, when the last Government used also people—leaders—in the eurozone who are trying it successfully, and instead allowing the money to be to lead it in the right direction as well. The hon. Gentleman’s channelled through the banks, which keep hold of it for point about the rather remarkable vote by Labour Members their own security, and not to be sent into the real against the IMF is well made. economy?

Dr William McCrea (South Antrim) (DUP): In these Mr Osborne: I am not sure that the asset purchase challenging times for UK families, can the Chancellor facility was the enormous success that the hon. Gentleman assure the House that hard-pressed taxpayers throughout implies. It probably did do a good job—again, I defer to 49 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 50 the views of the Chancellor at the time, who would have market, competition policy and financial services. Key seen the data closer up. The asset purchase facility components of the measures will include some transfer helped to stop the collapse in the corporate bond market of resources: in effect, the European financial stability at the time, but it never led to the big increase in lending fund is becoming a sort of central resourcing fund. The that the previous Government hoped it would. The measures will also mean greater surveillance and mutual Bank of England did not make use of the £50 billion vetoes and the like over each other’s budget policies. I facility that was made available. Although the facility have raised the issue of eurobonds, as have the Italian remains, to date the Bank has made use of only around Finance Minister and the chair of ECOFIN. I think £1 billion. Instead of revisiting the theology, as it were, there will be a number of components. In the end, it has of who is responsible and the role of the Bank, my view to be, in part, a decision for the eurozone itself to take has been that in order to maintain the proper division of the lead, provided that our interests are protected. responsibility between the Bank and the Government, I cannot help but make the observation that one who are accountable to Parliament, the Government of the things we are learning about the eurozone is that should undertake credit easing operations with their if we have a single currency, we need much greater own balance sheet, and that is what we are working on co-ordination of economic policy. That is rather contrary at the moment. to the Scottish National party’s approach, which is to maintain a single currency but to have a dis-integration (Sevenoaks) (Con): What was the of fiscal co-ordination. point of the European Banking Authority conducting two rounds of stress tests that excluded any serious test Mr William Cash (Stone) (Con): On the issue of of banks’ exposure to sovereign debt? Surely it is in the growth, will the Chancellor accept that, last year, our interests of eurozone Governments to have such exposure trade deficit with the eurozone went up from minus made more transparent and to start facing up to how to £4 billion to minus £38 billion in one year alone? Does tackle it? he recognise that this has a great deal to do with the problem of over-regulation and that we need to repatriate Mr Osborne: My hon. Friend makes a very good social and employment legislation so as to create growth point. We repeatedly argued that the stress tests should in small and medium-sized businesses? Will he also face be tougher and more credible, but there were strong down the Deputy Prime Minister, as the vested interests that did not want to see that happen and did the other day? did not want to confront some of the problems in their own banking system. They are now having to confront Mr Osborne: Speaking as a member of the Conservative those problems, however. The fact that Dexia passed party, I would make it clear, as the Prime Minister has the test, and that when it identified a capital shortfall it done, that if a future treaty should arise, as it may well was in the low billions of euros across the entire European do, we will argue the case for bringing back certain continent—given that tens of billions of euros were powers to this country. I am sure that we will have a required to deal with the Irish problems that occurred very active debate about what those powers should be— around Christmas—demonstrates that those tests were not credible enough. To be fair, I do not think this is an Mr Ronnie Campbell (Blyth Valley) (Lab): And throw EBA problem; it is more a problem with the membership union rights out of the window? of the EBA, but the association is now, with our support and encouragement, finally conducting what I think Mr Osborne: I am sure the hon. Gentleman can put will be a much more credible set of assumptions for the in his bid for things he would like to see repatriated. European banking system. Perhaps there would be some powers, so that a Government led by the union man, the leader of Stewart Hosie (Dundee East) (SNP): I thank the the Labour party, could get their way more easily. But Chancellor for his statement and for giving me early we will have that debate in due course; it is not active at sight of it. He said that the eurozone countries needed the moment in European circles. I suggest that we focus to undertake structural reform and to move towards on the immediate issue at hand, which is resolving the greater fiscal integration—he later mentioned fiscal union— eurozone crisis. and that that would form part of a comprehensive package that he had been urging. He has not, however, Alison McGovern (Wirral South) (Lab): In response described what he means by fiscal integration or fiscal to the right hon. Member for Wokingham (Mr Redwood), union. Would they involve the European Union controlling who is no longer in his place, the Chancellor described 2% or 3% of countries’ gross domestic product, or the Bank of England’s analysis of the impact on inflation 20% or 30%? Would they involve a counter-cyclical of the last round of quantitative easing. At a time when stability mechanism, or an enhanced European stability British people have less and less cash in their pockets, fund? Wouldthe measures be applied uniformly, irrespective few issues could be more important. [Interruption.] of debt ratios or savings ratios? It is important that we [HON.MEMBERS: “It’s ringing for you!”] hear publicly what the Chancellor is saying in private, if Will the Chancellor tell the House, perhaps by telephone, we are to avoid speculation and confusion over the or by e-mail, whether he has requested any analysis UK’s position when none need exist. from his civil servants in the Treasury of the forecast for the impact on inflation of the current round of QE? Mr Osborne: The debate on how that fiscal union should take shape is just starting in the eurozone, and Mr Osborne: I think the phone would have been we can contribute to that debate while ensuring that flying through the air rather than ringing, if it had been Britain is not part of it and that Britain’s important the last Prime Minister. Of course we have made our national interests are protected in regard to the single own examination of the impact of QE. When I became 51 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 52

[Mr George Osborne] Monetary Fund, G20 Finance Ministers later this week and the European Council next week. It all culminates Chancellor, I set out the procedures I would follow if in the G20 meeting of world leaders at Cannes. That there were a request from the Monetary Policy Committee. really is the moment when the world needs to be in no I set it out within weeks of coming into office and I said doubt that there is a solution to the eurozone problems I would follow exactly the procedures set out by my and that we have the firepower and strength in the banking predecessor—that if there were a request, we would system to deal with them. If we do not deal with them, accede to it. I also believe that the MPC has come to the the situation will go from bad to even worse. However, as right judgment; its judgment was independent, but I I say, it would not be sensible to advocate to our European believe it was right. colleagues the break-up of the euro. That would greatly diminish what we had to say in these meetings, as it Nadhim Zahawi (Stratford-on-Avon) (Con): The shadow would not be seen as practical—[Interruption.] Well, I Chancellor would like a pat on the back for keeping us also think it would be wrong, as it is not in Britain’s out of the euro. Will the Chancellor tell us how much national interest to see the euro break up. the euro preparations unit cost under the previous Government? Graham Stringer (Blackley and Broughton) (Lab): The Chancellor of the Exchequer says that he wants Mr Osborne: I am afraid I do not have the figures to to make the euro work, although he also says that it is hand, although I will definitely bring them to our the epicentre and the cause of instability in the world debate on Wednesday. What I do know is that when I economy, and he talks about co-ordination of fiscal arrived in the Treasury, the euro preparations unit still policy and cash transfers. Is that not just a euphemism existed, and we had to shut it down. Perhaps it was for taking central control away from many of the peripheral something that the shadow Chancellor did not get democracies in Europe, and does not the loss of democracy round to in all those years at the Treasury when he was in countries many of which were recently fascist pose a running British economic policy during the golden era. greater danger than an orderly break-up of the euro?

Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North) (Lab): A number of Mr Osborne: The eurozone was also described as the eurozone members will be condemned to permanent epicentre by the president of the European Central deflation, low growth and high unemployment and will Bank, Jean-Claude Trichet. require ongoing fiscal handouts unless and until they The hon. Gentleman is right: we are talking about the can leave the euro. Britain is well placed to advise on exercise of greater control over the finances of other such a process. Whatever the Chancellor says publicly, nations by the eurozone authorities, which is one of the will he be offering that advice privately? reasons we should be very grateful that Britain is not part of those arrangements. The hon. Gentleman mentioned Mr Osborne: I think that is called a trick question. some of the social and political strains that that might The hon. Gentleman has been an absolutely consistent lead to. As I have said, those who follow the remorseless and principled opponent of the euro. When I first logic of monetary union end up with greater fiscal arrived in the House in 2001, he was making the argument union, which involves all sorts of sovereignty issues for then and he is still making it now, and I respect him all the countries in the euro; but I must add that I do not for it. As I have said, however, “I told you so” is not an recognise the image of the green pastures of a break-up economic policy at the moment. He may well be right of the euro and what might happen after that event in about the problems of combining the economies of Greece. I think that political and social tensions could different countries with totally different structural problems, be considerably higher in countries such as Greece if competitiveness rates and so on, let alone fiscal policies. they left the euro, and that such action could bring He is right about all that, but we have to deal with the about the situation to which the hon. Gentleman referred world as it is, and at a time like this I do not think that and which none of us want to see. advocating the break-up of the euro is in our national interest. We need to make the euro work. Monetary Several hon. Members rose— unions can be made to work, but that involves things like fiscal transfers. At last, I think, the eurozone is Mr Speaker: Order. A great Members are still seeking facing up to that. to catch my eye, and I am keen to accommodate them, but progress so far has been at best leisurely. What is Mr (Harwich and North Essex) (Con): required is brevity, a legendary example of which will May I remind my right hon. Friend of what he said on now be provided by Mr David Tredinnick. 24 September, when he reminded the world that there were six weeks to save the euro? If we get to 5 November David Tredinnick (Bosworth) (Con): Is not the and this crisis is grinding interminably on, will it not be fundamental problem with the Greeks that even if a time to start advocating the advice of Lord Lawson, package is agreed, there is no way the Government can who advocates an orderly break-up of the euro in order implement it, because the tax authorities have themselves to restore growth to European economies and limit the said that they are not going to do so? A depreciated or, liabilities that are constantly building up the longer this indeed, a new currency for Greece would give my Hinckley crisis goes on? constituents and others some chance of buying cheaper Greek holidays and stimulating the economy. Mr Osborne: My hon. Friend is right to remind us that the G20 summit in Cannes is the last of a string of Mr Osborne: As I have said, I was always one of international meetings that have involved the G7, ECOFIN, those who said that Britain should not join the euro. I which the Treasury Secretary attended, the International worked alongside my right hon. Friend for Richmond 53 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 54

(Yorks) (Mr Hague) when he was Leader of the Opposition, then extended to Portugal, then Ireland, then Spain, and helped him to write many of the speeches that set then Italy, and now questions are being raised about the out that case. Although the shadow Chancellor keeps French banks, which France is seeking address, and a talking about the important role that the right hon. Belgian bank has fallen over this weekend. In the end, Member for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath (Mr Brown) we can look at what the credit rating agency who gave played in all that, I do not recall lots of passionate us the triple-A rating said last week. It said that the speeches about why Britain should not join the euro; rating would come under downward pressure if but no doubt he was doing his work in private. “the coalition Government’s commitment to fiscal consolidation Let me say this about the Greek situation. If Greece falters”. were to leave the euro, there would be a balance of There would be an automatic downgrade if we were payments crisis. Greece does not have a primary balance, to follow the Opposition’s approach. That would lead to so there would automatically be a need for a huge higher interest rates, hitting families and leading to international programme. The idea that leaving the euro more repossessions and more job losses. That is the would get it out of needing international assistance, or path to ruin, and we know what it is like because we out of the clutches of the International Monetary Fund, have been down it before under the shadow Chancellor. is just fanciful, because it would need such a programme. There would be a balance of payments crisis and there Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab): The would probably be runaway inflation as well, which Chancellor of the Exchequer has laid great emphasis would wipe out any competitiveness gains. this afternoon on credit easing, but he has said he I think that we are depicting a nirvana of Greek exit cannot tell us how that will operate until the autumn from the euro which does not exist. Greece is in a very statement, although it will be an alternative to bank difficult position, and it needs to work through its finance. When will small and medium-sized enterprises problems. actually get something from this process?

Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab): The private sector Mr Osborne: As I said, we have already extended the is not creating the jobs that the country needs. Will the loan guarantees that we inherited. We have concluded a Chancellor now review his massive cuts in the public deal with all the high street banks—not just the two that sector? Forty-six per cent. of workers in my constituency were nationalised under our predecessors—to get an work in the public sector; what chance have they of increase in SME lending. We want to go further, however, employment if there is a double jobs whammy, in both and we will set out the full details in the autumn the public and the private sector? statement, when the hon. Lady will, no doubt, be present to ask me a question. Mr Osborne: The hon. Gentleman is the shadow Chancellor’s Parliamentary Private Secretary—[HON. Joseph Johnson (Orpington) (Con): Can the Chancellor MEMBERS: “No, he’s not.”] Oh, he has been promoted! It confirm that Moody’s downgrades of 14 UK banks on is a complete clear-out. Well, well. We are very pleased Friday reflected the planned and progressive withdrawal to see that the shadow Chancellor is still in his place. of state support for the banking system and a reduction Let me draw the hon. Gentleman’s attention to what of the likelihood of further taxpayer bail-outs for the was said by Digby Jones, one of the members of the last UK banks, rather than any weakening of the UK Government. [Interruption.] It is funny how Labour banking system per se? Members disown these people. They booed Tony Blair, and now they are attacking their former Trade Minister. Mr Osborne: Yes, I can confirm that. Moody’s was Anyway, he said that the Labour leadership was explicit in saying that that was not a reflection of “displaying poor statesmanship at a time when the country needs financial conditions in the UK or the financial strength leaders, not players to a union gallery”. of the Government. Rather, it was a recognition of the He also said that their policies were fact that the current Government are trying to move away from the taxpayer either implicitly or explicitly “a kick in the teeth for the only sector that generates wealth, that pays the tax and creates the jobs” standing behind our largest banks. That is sensible policy, and I hope it commands support on the Opposition in this country. He added: Benches. “Pro-business? Not!” It is the businesses that will create the jobs in this Michael Connarty (Linlithgow and East Falkirk) (Lab): country, and being the anti-business party will not get Returning to the eurozone rather than our domestic Labour anywhere. concerns, I agree with the Chancellor about the difficulty that would arise if Greece were to leave, or be forced out Margot James (Stourbridge) (Con): Does my right of, the eurozone. Although he will not tell us his policy, hon. Friend recall the howls of derision from Opposition will he give us an estimate in respect of the secure fund Members when he warned 18 months ago of the possibility for the eurozone? It has been said that ¤2,000 billion of a Greek-style economic catastrophe engulfing this would be required for that fund. How great a contribution country’s economy? Now that the threat of contagion from the International Monetary Fund and the World has reached even Italy, what is his assessment of the dangers Bank is the Chancellor going to argue for in order to to the UK economy of slowing down implementation bolster the ability of the eurozone to see itself through of the deficit reduction strategy? the crisis and save Greece from being pushed out?

Mr Osborne: My hon. Friend makes a good point. Mr Osborne: We are not arguing for an increase in When we first said, “Look at Greece”, Opposition IMF resources as part of the Greek programme, but I Members all said, “Well, that couldn’t happen here.” It did make reference to the broader resourcing of the 55 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 56

[Mr George Osborne] asked me about earlier. They have meant that our credit default swap rates, our interest rates and market interest IMF. That is increasingly an issue because of its flexible rates, our credit rating and so on have been protected at credit lines to Poland and Mexico—neither country is a time when many other European countries have in the eurozone, of course. The truth is that after taking experienced real market volatility. into account the IMF’s existing commitments and the buffers it needs to maintain in order to operate as an Mr Marcus Jones (Nuneaton) (Con): Following the institution, it does not have a huge amount of resources— problems in the eurozone, there seems to have been a although by most people’s standards it does have a suggestion in some quarters that an EU-wide financial huge amount, of course. Its resources amount to about transaction tax should be explored. Will the Chancellor ¤400 billion, but that is not as large as some people categorically confirm to this House that he will strongly imagine. There is therefore a debate about whether to oppose any such move? try to increase the IMF’s resources, but we are not discussing a possible increase of resources in the IMF Mr Osborne: I am not against a financial transaction programme to Greece. tax in principle; after all, Britain already has one—the stamp duty on shares. What I am against is a European (Bromsgrove) (Con): During the 2008 financial transaction tax that operates only on the European crisis, it turned out that credit default swap spreads were continent and is imposed in Europe. If we can get a better indicator of the financial health of a borrower global agreement, with the United States, China and than credit ratings. Over the last 18 months our credit others, on a world financial transaction tax, all well and default swap spread has fallen dramatically, and in the good, although I do not think that is terribly likely. If last few weeks it has, for the first time, been lower than we do not have that, all this business currently conducted that of France and Germany. Does the Chancellor have in the UK would immediately depart to the United a reason why that might have happened? States. We saw the same thing happen when Sweden imposed a financial transaction tax—all the business Mr Osborne: I think it is a reflection of the fact that departed to London. I am therefore against a European people around the world believe that we have “a credible financial transaction tax, although, as I say, if we can plan”—those were the words used by the Governor of get global agreement, all well and good. the Bank of England last week—to repay our debts. Let us remember that we have the largest budget deficit of Ms Gisela Stuart (Birmingham, Edgbaston) (Lab): It any forecast for the G20. That is the situation we is deeply uncomfortable to hear Ministers say from the inherited and we are trying to bring that deficit down. Dispatch Box that they give advice in private but they Other countries with much lower deficits have got into do not share it with the House. I wish to give the trouble because they have not had credible plans, presented Chancellor another chance by asking him whether he agrees by a united Government and implemented with a good that as Greece is unable to regain its competitiveness— majority in their Parliament. We have those things and because it cannot devalue—he is therefore in favour of we are going to keep them. permanent bail-outs. Another term for those is “permanent gifts”, because that country cannot regain competitiveness. (Llanelli) (Lab): Many small businesses and manufacturers across the country are still very Mr Osborne: As the hon. Lady knows, these are very worried. They have seen growth stall under the Chancellor’s market-sensitive issues and I have to be careful, as the policies and now they see the crisis in the eurozone. Can UK’s Finance Minister, in what I say about the Greek he explain, simply and clearly, how his policies are situation. However, I was pretty clear in my statement going to help stimulate growth and help these companies in saying that the debt sustainability of Greece had to have the growth that they need, particularly given that add up. That is the issue that has to be confronted with many of them are going to lose a lot of business when Greece in the coming weeks. public procurement contracts come to an end? Several hon. Members rose— Mr Osborne: The hon. Lady says that public procurement projects are going to come to an end. The British Mr Speaker: Order. At one point I thought that the Government are going to be spending £3 trillion over hon. Member for Reading East (Mr Wilson) had toddled the next four years, so let us make sure that that money out of the Chamber, but I am delighted that he is back is well spent and that good British businesses, small and in his place and we want to hear him. large, are able to avail themselves of the procurement that will take place under a £3 trillion Government Mr Rob Wilson (Reading East) (Con): My right hon. budget. But of course I do not underestimate the difficulty Friend was right to be concerned in his statement about of the situation the world faces at the moment and the money finding its way to small and start-up businesses. situation that Britain faces because of its exposure to May I urge him to consider streamlining the current, the world and to the problems that it itself created in overly complex enterprise investment scheme and add recent years. I understand that, but the whole world is tax relief to those business angel investors who are experiencing slow growth at the moment. We have making their savings available to small businesses in this actually grown more this calendar year than the United country? Such an approach would give a much-needed States and we are currently forecast to grow more next boost to small business in this country. year than France and Germany. That is just a reflection of the fact that our problems are being experienced by Mr Osborne: My hon. Friend will be pleased to know other countries but our solutions have kept us out of that we have just announced reforms to the EIS to make the financial danger zone, which the shadow Chancellor it more generous and, we hope, simpler to claim. 57 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 58

Mark Durkan (Foyle) (SDLP): The Chancellor has Mr Osborne: The vote in the Bundestag was very repeated that the FSA confirmed that UK banks are encouraging. Of course, it is easier for us in the House better capitalised and more liquid than many of their of Commons to say that the Germans must act and that European counterparts. Is that assurance enough for we must create this fund, but we must understand that him and how assured is he about the level of UK banks’ German taxpayers are being asked an awful lot—although exposure to sovereign debt in the eurozone? I would say that that was one of the consequences of a single currency. Nevertheless, it is reassuring that the Mr Osborne: As the hon. Gentleman will understand, vote in the Bundestag was passed not merely with a that has been kept under close surveillance at the straightforward majority but with the so-called Chancellor’s Treasury—certainly for as long as I have been Chancellor, majority. and no doubt before. We are well aware of the exposure of UK banks to the eurozone peripherals. However, we Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): I have satisfied ourselves that even with those exposures—as very much welcome the action my right hon. Friend has I said, the FSA has made much of the information announced about quantitative easing and credit easing. public—banks such as RBS are well capitalised and Will he say whether he thinks it would be helpful for the liquid and do not have the kinds of problems that some UK economy if our European partners were to adopt banks on the continent have. the same policy, given that 40% of our exports go to Europe? (Devizes) (Con): It is my belief that the fiscal activism of this Government has created headroom Mr Osborne: I think I had better leave their monetary for the next round of quantitative easing. Will the policy to the European Central Bank and not offer Chancellor tell us what he thinks would have happened them such advice. if we had carried on spending under the plans of the previous Government and whether there would have Several hon. Members rose— been any room at all for a further round of QE? Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Order. I am Mr Osborne: My hon. Friend is right to call it fiscal going to ask for very short questions as we will move on activism, because one has to step in and take difficult at 5.45 pm, irrespective of whether Members are still decisions, which the Opposition have ducked, to get the standing. deficit under control, to have a credible plan and to allow monetary policy greater freedom of manoeuvre. Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): For five We are monetary activists while being fiscally responsible centuries, British policy has been to oppose any hegemon and that is the right approach. The alternative advocated on Europe, whether a single religion, a single state, a by the Opposition is a big increase in interest rates— single economic model or a single ideology. Why is the [Interruption.] Let me let hon. Members into a little Chancellor so keen on creating a fiscal and monetary secret. The Chancellor does not set the interest rates. union that would dictate terms of commerce, trade and They are set not only by the Bank of England but by the banking rules to this country? markets and if we abandoned our plan and suffered the credit downgrade that the shadow Chancellor is, in Mr Osborne: That was quite a sweep of history. Of effect, advocating, interest rates would go up, families course, Britain has always sought to maintain the balance would face higher mortgage bills, people would lose of power in Europe and one could argue that the their homes, businesses would go bust and jobs would enlargement policy was quite a successful extension of be lost. That is not a path we will go down. that policy, but the decision has already been taken with the monetary union and we have to make it work Derek Twigg (Halton) (Lab): May I refer the Chancellor because we would be directly impacted by its failure. to Hansard from 12 September, column 770? He might recall that I raised with him the serious problems that Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): Is not the small businesses are having in gaining access to financial euro like the parrot in the Monty Python sketch—dead, support, based on talking to businesses in my constituency. extinguished, without life—and is not the German Will he tell me what changed in the three weeks between Chancellor like the shopkeeper in saying that it is actually 12 September and his speech at the Tory party conference? healthy and that we really must buy it? Should not the If the policy he announced then turns out to be a Chancellor be like John Cleese and say, “This is dead practical source of extra help, I will welcome it, but he and we should bury it”? made no mention of it on 12 September and seemed to suggest that enough was being done anyway. Mr Osborne: I think the parrot was a Norwegian blue, and Norway is not in the euro. Mr Osborne: I always listen closely to my Cheshire colleagues. Chris Heaton-Harris (Daventry) (Con): Although the Chancellor is completely focused on the eurozone crisis, Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): Does my right hon. I am sure that it will not have slipped his notice that Friend take comfort in the result of the German meanwhile the and the European Parliament’s vote at the end of last month, when it Parliament are asking for more regulation and more effectively created a fund with conditions? Does he see money. Could he please instruct his officials to ensure that as a generation of political support for the robust that, whilst negotiations on these very important matters action that the Prime Minister has been talking about regarding the eurozone are going on, we kill some of over the past few days? the bad ideas that are flowing from elsewhere in Europe? 59 Eurozone10 OCTOBER 2011 Eurozone 60

Mr Osborne: We are also arguing strongly for a real Mr Osborne: Of course, we make contingencies for freeze in the budget and—I alluded to this earlier—a all possible outcomes—and people should not take that change in the direction of European policy making so either way because we plan for all situations. I do not that we do not price this entire continent, including want to comment specifically on the issue that my hon. ourselves, out of the world market. Friend raises about Greece, but I have made it very clear that the situation in Greece needs to be resolved. It Mr (East Surrey) (Con): Does the needs to come to a decision and stick to it, and it needs Chancellor agree that, in the short term, quantitative to get the debt dynamics in that country right. easing could produce a weaker pound, and that within clearly defined limits that could help to boost exports Richard Graham (Gloucester) (Con): Given the close and therefore drive growth? correlation between my right hon. Friend’s disciplined approach to spending, the ratings of our sovereign debt Mr Osborne: I have made it a policy not to comment and the low interest rates from which our constituents on the value of sterling and I do not intend to break benefit, has the Treasury been able to calculate the that policy right now. likely impact on our interest rates of the shadow Chancellor’s higher spending policies so that we can calculate the true cost on the average family’s mortgage Penny Mordaunt (Portsmouth North) (Con): Many of the widely discredited plan B that he advocates? of my constituents do not want the UK to be part of any new, permanent EU bail-out mechanism. Will the Mr Osborne: We have not done that calculation, but Chancellor confirm that under this Government we will my hon. Friend has given me a very good idea for not be part of such a mechanism? Wednesday’s debate. We know, because we have all experienced it, what Labour policies lead to: a completely Mr Osborne: I certainly can confirm that, and it is uncontrollable budget deficit; a negative outlook for down to the hard negotiating effort of the Prime Minister our nation’s credit rating; and interest rates that were at the European Council where it was agreed to would tracking Spain’s. We have been there under the Labour wind down the temporary EU27 fund and that the party, and it is remarkable that when it cleared out the permanent bail-out fund would not include Britain. shadow Treasury team, it did not clear out the man most responsible in this Parliament for getting Britain Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) (Con): With instability into this economic mess. in the eurozone and fever in the markets, any Government who contemplated changing three of their five Treasury Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con): Ministers would be sending a very dangerous signal. In his statement, the Chancellor quoted the sage remarks Does my right hon. Friend have any advice for any of the former Minister, Lord Jones. Perhaps it is the wannabe political leaders when they choose to sack half Chancellor’s modesty that prevented him from quoting of their Treasury Bench? these remarks that Lord Jones made about the fact that we are sticking with plan A: Mr Osborne: As far as I can tell, they got rid of all the “The markets of the world will say, ‘well done George’. That people who wanted the shadow Chancellor to be the will mean that interest rates are low”, leader of the Labour party and the leader has put in that we keep our triple A rating, and that we do not place all the people who wanted him to win. That tactic become Greece. was used by the last two leaders of the Labour party, as well, at the Treasury. Mr Osborne: We should certainly listen to the sage words of the former Labour Trade Minister. Andrew Stephenson (Pendle) (Con): In addition to the structural reforms and other measures that the Chancellor Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con): Deficit reduction outlined in his statement, what is he doing to ensure has kept us ahead of the curve, so our triple A rating that the eurozone follows the lead he is showing in the has been maintained and interest rates are lower than UK by cutting regulations to stimulate business growth? they otherwise would be. Is it the same with quantitative easing, that it will keep us ahead of the curve if the Mr Osborne: There is greater recognition in other eurozone does not make the right decisions in the next European member states that we need to make the three or four weeks? European continent more competitive, and the pamphlet that we sponsored on making Europe more competitive, Mr Osborne: As I said, it was an independent decision which the Prime Minister presented at the European of the Bank of England. In the explanation that the Council, was endorsed by a number of other member Governor gave of why the Bank took the decision, he states. explicitly referred to the situation regarding the euro. I agree with that decision. Work done by the Bank of Jake Berry (Rossendale and Darwen) (Con): England suggests that the method can work. International media, particularly in the USA, are beginning to say that it is a matter of when, not if, Greece defaults Mr David Nuttall (Bury North) (Con): Following the on her sovereign debt and leaves the euro. If “I told you bail-out of Dexia, does my right hon. Friend consider so” is not the basis of a good economic policy, what that there is an increased risk of the credit rating of credible and mature plans do we have to deal with the other eurozone countries, particularly Belgium, being Greek default? downgraded? 61 Eurozone 10 OCTOBER 2011 62

Mr Osborne: Of course, a number of eurozone countries New Schools have seen their credit rating suffer, and have seen it downgraded. That has impacted on the cost of borrowing for their Government and their citizens. That is one of 5.42 pm the reasons why it is so important that we maintain a The Secretary of State for Education (Michael Gove): credible fiscal policy—something to which the Governor Mr Deputy Speaker, with your permission, I would like of the Bank alluded last week, and to which all business to make a statement on the next steps in our school organisations have alluded. As far as I can see, only the reform programme. Just a few weeks ago, we opened the shadow Chancellor now opposes that. first 24 free schools—new comprehensive schools free from central and local government bureaucracy, designed Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): I thank the to tackle educational inequality, widen choice and raise House for its co-operation. We managed to get everyone standards. Those schools have provided great head teachers in, within time. with a new opportunity to extend educational opportunity, and they have given parents who had been denied a choice the chance to secure educational excellence for their children. In the most disadvantaged areas of Enfield and Bradford, outstanding state school teachers have opened new schools for children who have been denied the good school places that their parents wanted. In Norwich, the new free school is open from 8 am to 6 pm, 51 weeks a year. In Haringey, Birmingham and Leicester, inclusive schools with a religious ethos, whether Jewish, Sikh or Hindu, now provide parents with more choice. In Hammersmith and north Westminster, outstanding academy sponsors are extending to primary schools the superb education that they have already been providing for secondary school children. Across the country, new schools, by increasing choice, are forcing existing schools to raise their game. By embodying the principle that every child should have access to a great education, free schools are helping to advance social mobility and make opportunity more equal. It is because we want to make sure that more children benefit that we are today accelerating the pace of reform. The 24 free schools set up in the past year were established in record time. It took the Governments of and five years to establish 15 city technology colleges, and it took Tony Blair eight years from winning office before the first 17 academies were established. The speed with which the first 24 free schools have been set up is astounding, and credit is due to the teachers and parents behind them, and to the superb team of officials at the Department for Education who oversaw the reform. The establishment of free schools is just one of a series of reforms that we have taken forward explicitly to raise standards in the state sector. We have also ensured that more than 1,000 schools have been able to convert to academy status, each enjoying new freedoms, and each using those freedoms to help other schools. When Tony Blair was Prime Minister, he argued that having 400 academies would be transformational; we now have three times that number. We are using the academy programme to transform underperforming schools. This year, more underperforming schools than ever are becoming sponsored academies. Outstanding schools that enjoy academy status are increasingly sponsoring underperforming schools. By extending academy freedoms to more great schools, the capacity is created to turn round more disadvantaged schools. We have explicitly targeted those secondaries where fewer than 35% of children get five good GCSEs and those primaries where fewer than 60% of children get to the proper level in English and mathematics. We are targeting those local authorities with the worst 63 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 64

[Michael Gove] which has been set up by a community group in the constituency of the right hon. Member for Leigh (Andy concentrations of poor schools, and we will lift the Burnham), and they join eight free schools already in floor standard below which no secondary school should the pipeline for opening in 2012. fall, so that schools know that by the end of this Altogether, the number of wholly new schools, UTCs Parliament at least half their students must get five and free schools that have been approved to go ahead good GCSEs. Under this Government, there will be no from 2012 is 79. Once they are open, more than 100 new excuses for underperformance. schools will have been established by the coalition Sadly, one area where England has underperformed Government to help to raise standards for all. More for years is vocational education, but under our reforms than 70% of the free schools given the go-ahead today and the leadership of my hon. Friend the Minister for are in the 50% most deprived areas of the country. Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, that More than 80% of the schools are in areas where is being addressed. I was pleased that, this weekend, population growth means that we need more good England came fifth in the WorldSkills championships, school places. Every single one of those schools was outstripping nations such as Germany and, indeed, born out of the passion, the idealism and the commitment France and proving that, when it comes to vocational to excellence of visionary men and women. skills, our young people are world beaters. [Interruption.] The proposer of one of the new schools we approve I am always happy to acknowledge that our United today, Mr Peter Hyman, explained in The Guardian why Kingdom is stronger for all its constituent parts. he was opening a free school—and his feelings are We are building on that success, because there is a shared by every promoter of free schools and UTCs: new model of academy whose development has the “There is no cause greater in our country today, no mission potential to be particularly transformational—the university more important, than giving all children an education that inspires technical college. Thanks to the leadership shown by them to do great things.” Lords Adonis and Baker, and the vision of Sir Anthony I could not agree more, which is why I commend this Bamford of JCB, the first university technical college statement to the House. opened its doors in September last year. Educating young people from the age of 14 to 19, with a curriculum Stephen Twigg (Liverpool, West Derby) (Lab/Co-op): oriented towards practical and technical skills, with I welcome the Secretary of State’s statement today and support from industry and sponsorship from a university, thank him for providing a copy of it in advance. these schools have the potential to transform vocational At the Conservative party conference last week, the education in this country immeasurably for the better. Secretary of State said: They combine a dedication to academic rigour—with the JCB UTC delivering GCSEs in English, maths, the “We’re fortunate in this country that we have so many good sciences and modern languages—with the adult disciplines schools. We’re fortunate that we have so many great teachers.” of the workplace. Longer school days and longer school I agree with that. May I thank him on behalf of the terms contribute to a culture of hard work and high Opposition for his fitting tribute to Labour’s education aspirations. record? The JCB UTC was joined by another in Walsall this Like the Secretary of State, I am pleased to echo the September, and three more are in the pipeline. If we are words of Peter Hyman in The Guardian, and I congratulate to ensure that the benefits of UTCs, academies and free the university technical colleges and free schools that schools reach many more children we have to up the have secured approval today. UTCs are an exciting pace of reform. That is why I am delighted to be able innovation modelled, as he said, on the highly successful to announce today that my Department has given the JCB academy in Staffordshire established under the go-ahead to 13 new UTCs in Bristol, , previous Government. However, there is a real risk that Burnley, Bedfordshire, Daventry, Liverpool, Newcastle, the success of the UTCs will be undermined at birth by Nottingham, Plymouth, Sheffield, Southwark, Wigan the stringent requirements of the English baccalaureate. and at Silverstone race track. This Baker’s dozen of There is a basic contradiction at the heart of Government UTCs will specialise in skills from engineering to life policy. The rhetoric is often about freedom and autonomy, sciences, and I am convinced they have the potential to but the reality is that the Government want to dictate change the lives of thousands for the better. the details of the school curriculum from the Department. In addition, I am delighted that today we can more The Government’s emphasis on the central importance than double the number of free schools approved to go of English and maths is absolutely right and I support through to the next stage of opening by confirming that them in that, but are we really saying to successful 55 new applications have been accepted, including the schools and colleges such as the JCB academy that they first fully bilingual state-funded schools—Brighton bilingual will be punished because they offer engineering rather primary school and Europa school in Oxfordshire. They than the full range of E-bac subjects? In the summer of include schools set up by existing strong educational 2011 this academy, the first UTC and the model for providers such as the Dixons academy and Cuckoo what the Secretary of State is announcing today, scored Hall academy. They include the London Academy of 0% on the E-bac. How can that make sense? Surely if Excellence—a school for sixth-formers set up by Brighton we are going to increase the status and quality of college with the aim of getting talented pupils from vocational education, we need a modern baccalaureate, disadvantaged backgrounds into our leading universities. a policy championed by my predecessor and by Lord Baker? They also include a school led by Peter Hyman, a As we showed in government, Labour supports former Downing Street policy adviser turned deputy experimentation and innovation in how we set up new head who wants to create new opportunities for pupils schools. Our academies programme proved that good in east London. They also include Atherton free school, schools can indeed be delivered. The question for the 65 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 66

Government’s free schools policy is will the new schools opportunity, will they drive up standards, will they have established be good ones. Will they extend opportunities, a fair admissions policy and will they close the attainment particularly in deprived areas? Will they drive up school gap? Those are four sensible tests, and I would add a standards in their localities? Will they be based on a fair fifth—can they ensure that we have a low-cost way of admissions policy? Most important of all, will they help adding capacity to our school system so that exactly the to close the attainment gap between children from rich solution to the problem that he alluded to, the need for and poor backgrounds? That is the basis on which we good school places, was found at the lowest possible will scrutinise and challenge the Government’s policy. cost? The Secretary of State’s belief in the programme is The hon. Gentleman asked me about capital and ideological. Our scrutiny will be evidence-based. drew attention to the difficulties that we have with However, the bigger challenge is the hundreds of capital in the Department for Education. These difficulties, schools that need new capital investment and that are I am afraid, are a consequence of economic decisions not in today’s announcement, including in areas with a that were taken while he was out of the House by his severe shortage of school places. Is not the central successors in the Labour Government, and they landed problem here that the Secretary of State got such a us with a poisoned economic legacy. We are doing our terrible spending review settlement for schools capital very best to deal with it, and one of the things that we from the Treasury a year ago—a cut of 60% in schools can do is ensure that we get more schools more cheaply. capital, compared with a Government average cut of That is why I am so delighted that as well as the 29%? His failure to persuade the Treasury to give education additional sums that have been made available for school the settlement given to other Departments means that repair, and as well as the additional sums that we are thousands of children will continue to go to schools making available for new schools, the free schools with out-of-date facilities, leaking roofs and asbestos. programme has seen schools being delivered at a unit Today we have an announcement that focuses on just cost lower than was the case under the Labour 68 new schools. We wish those schools well, but there Government’s school building programme. are 24,000 schools in England. The Opposition will Finally, the hon. Gentleman asked me whether I support reform, investment and innovation that benefit regretted not getting the same settlement for the Department all schools so that we can improve standards for children for Education as other Government Departments. No, in all our communities. I do not regret it. I am delighted that we secured the same level of funding in cash terms for education as the Michael Gove: May I thank the hon. Gentleman for previous Government had secured. I am delighted that his generous words and welcome him back to the Front we had the best revenue deal of any domestic Department, Bench? He was a superb Minister in the Department for apart from the Department of Health. I am overjoyed Education. Like Lord Adonis and the right hon. Member that, thanks to the support of our coalition partners, for Sheffield, Brightside and Hillsborough (Mr Blunkett), there is £2.5 billion of additional money going in the he was a reformist in government and I am more than pupil premium to the very poorest schools. It is additional happy to underline my appreciation for the work that he money being spent in a progressive cause, and it is did. He is the third shadow Education Secretary whom deliverable only thanks to the leadership shown by two I have faced across the Dispatch Box. His two predecessors parties working together in the national interest. indulged in raucous opportunistic assaults on our reform programme and were promoted as a consequence. I Mr Graham Stuart (Beverley and Holderness) (Con): realise that there is now a battle between ambition and The Secretary of State is bringing choice and diversity principle in the hon. Gentleman’s breast. I know that he to our education system while seeing off his shadow at will choose principle, as he always has done throughout the same time. his political career. For too many 14-year-olds school is an ordeal from I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for the support which they learn and benefit not at all. I welcome the that he has given to the university technical colleges. support for more UTCs, but for those who do not have They are emphatically a cross-party achievement. Lord the choice of a UTC, what steps will the Secretary of Adonis played a part. I think others, including the right State take to ensure that young 14-year-olds can go to hon. Member for Morley and Outwood (Ed Balls), college instead of school if they wish? acted as fairy godfathers to the project. I am delighted that UTCs have their support. Michael Gove: My hon. Friend makes a very good It is important to recognise that the English baccalaureate point, which is that we need to think hard about the is there to ensure that students pursue the sort of paths that those from the age of 14 will follow. One of subjects that will get them into universities. The great the things that I believe we can do is ensure that high advantage of university technical colleges is that they quality further education colleges make available their also have that link with higher education institutions resources, whether through sponsoring underperforming that help to raise aspiration for all. There is no single schools or allowing lecturers or others from FE colleges tool that will raise aspiration in all our communities. We to operate in schools. Following on from the Wolf have to use whatever tools are to hand. I believe that the report, we have already changed the law to allow that to English baccalaureate, as so many head teachers are happen. But there is more that can be done to integrate demonstrating, helps alongside high quality vocational the great work that FE colleges and schools do. education, to raise aspirations and increase the number of students going into higher education. Mr Frank Field (Birkenhead) (Lab): May I challenge The hon. Gentleman said that when he was looking the slight complacency that I noticed in the Secretary at free schools, he wanted to apply a series of tests. The of State’s speech when he referred to UTCs? Is it not tests that he asked me to apply are: will they extend true that if we are going to do anything about the 67 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 68

[Mr Frank Field] Dan Rogerson (North ) (LD): I welcome the Secretary of State’s confirmation that the programme competitive position of this country and if we are going will focus on providing capacity where it is needed. to win new markets and offer rising living standards in However, when considering applications, will he also this country, we do not want a Secretary of State bear in mind the need for new providers to work alongside coming to the House offering 13 UTCs. We want a existing providers to complement provision? Secretary of State coming and offering 113 such bodies. When does he expect to announce the next round of Michael Gove: It is right that we ensure, when new UTCs? When he does, I hope he will include Birkenhead schools are established, that they add to the great schools in the list. already there—whether through a different type of pedagogy or capacity. I am grateful to the hon. Member Michael Gove: There are few parts of the country that for Liverpool, West Derby (Stephen Twigg) for underlining need schools of quality more than the areas around the point that I made at the Conservative party Merseyside. In Birkenhead, the young people who want conference—the fact that we need new schools and a better future are lucky to have such a great champion. need to reform should not take away for a moment from We will be bringing forward more UTC proposals, but the significant achievements that have been made over sadly our capacity to invest in schools of that quality is the past several years by schools and teachers doing a constrained inevitably by the poisoned economic legacy great job in the maintained sector. that we were left. Lilian Greenwood (Nottingham South) (Lab): How (Harlow) (Con): Does my right hon. will the Secretary of State ensure that my constituents Friend agree that UTCs are an essential instrument of are fully involved in, and consulted on, plans for the social justice, that they transform how we look at vocational new UTC in our city? education and that they provide young people with a conveyer belt to apprenticeships? Will he also confirm Michael Gove: Having visited Nottingham twice over that strong bids, such as that from Harlow college and the past six weeks, I am under no illusions about the Anglia Ruskin, will be considered in the next round and passion that Nottingham’s MPs and its people have for that there will definitely be funding for the next phase of improving educational performance. I shall do everything UTCs? possible to ensure that the local community is involved in plans that I think are exciting and will extend Michael Gove: Absolutely. My hon. Friend, like the opportunities to a particularly deprived constituency. right hon. Member for Birkenhead (Mr Field), wants me to go further and faster with reform. If only I could. (East Hampshire) (Con): May I I can confirm, however, that strong bids, such as those congratulate my right hon. Friend on the pace of his from Birkenhead and Harlow, which have not made the reforms and his constant focus on narrowing the gap for cut this time but which benefit from having very effective the underprivileged? Does he agree that the benefit of constituency advocates and strong backing from an free schools can be felt not just where they appear but outstanding college or a great university, are bids that much wider afield? The fact that such a school could be we would like to be able to support in the future. We set up helps to raise the bar. They can act as beacons of shall continue to work with bidders to try to ensure that excellence and innovation. they can be agreed. Michael Gove: My hon. Friend makes my own case Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab): On a recent visit to better than I could ever make it myself. It is true. We the Department by the Education Select Committee, have seen with the academy programme that excellent officials said that they were surprised by the rate of schools prompt the question, “Why can’t all schools be applications for academy status. Undoubtedly many like that?” As more schools adopt longer school days, schools will be applying for the right reasons—because longer terms and more personalised learning, parents they want to unleash the educational potential among increasingly ask, “Why can’t more schools offer what their teaching staff and youngsters. However, others these schools are offering?” It is a virtuous circle that will be drawn by the financial carrot—capital—or by raises aspiration and attainment for all. the fear of being left behind if they do not apply for that status. Is the Secretary of State certain that he has the John Mann (Bassetlaw) (Lab): Seventeen scheduled resources to fund this package appropriately without new academies, including three in my constituency, did leaving other schools behind? not go ahead this September because the Secretary of State cocked up the primary legislation on academies Michael Gove: Absolutely. That is a very good point. and private finance initiatives. By way of an apology, The hon. Gentleman, in local government and the will he guarantee to underwrite all the additional legal House, has always tried to ensure that we fund schools costs that these schools face because he messed up the equitably.We have always sought to ensure that maintained legislation? schools and academies are funded fairly. The word “carrot” is sometimes used to describe the incentives Michael Gove: As ever, I am grateful for the constructive inherent in academy status, but I want to make it clear tone taken by the hon. Gentleman. I have long admired that if a school becomes an academy, it does not receive his bipartisanship. I should point out that those PFI any additional money. It is just that it can spend money contracts were signed by the previous Government. on it pupils’ priorities—money that had hitherto been However, I shall refrain from criticising the Ministers spent by others on their behalf. responsible for signing them, and instead seek to work 69 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 70 with him to ensure that children in that particularly places in the borough but massively widen the choice important part of receive the support for parents of schools to which they might want to send that they deserve. their children?

Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con): I pay tribute to Michael Gove: I am grateful to be able to confirm that my right hon. Friend and the parents of Sandymoor on there will be a school that should take students, I hope, the announcement of the new free school there. The from both the constituency of the hon. Member for Sandymoor free school will provide a rigorous science-based Ealing North (Stephen Pound) and my hon. Friend’s education to all children, from whatever background, constituency. It is the extension of an already great offer which will produce the engineers, scientists and provided by an outstanding head teacher in the state entrepreneurs that this country needs to pay its way in sector. I am delighted that an area of significant population the world. growth is getting the additional capacity that it needs from an outstanding head teacher. Michael Gove: I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s support. I am convinced that the emphasis on science in Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) (Lab): I think that I was so many of the free school applications is exactly what a one of the few MPs who attended the skills olympiad. I 21st century education system needs. was impressed by what British young people could achieve, but I am concerned that the English baccalaureate Glenda Jackson (Hampstead and Kilburn) (Lab): In will reduce the practical skills that young people can a typically self-satisfied statement, the Secretary of State learn. Will the Secretary of State think again, as I have referred to the principle that every child should have asked him frequently to do, about including at least one access to a great education. The issue in my constituency subject in which young people are making, creating, is a desperate shortage of school places now, not only in doing and that will count towards the basic five GCSEs junior schools, but in secondary schools. What does he that he expects schools to provide? intend to do to ensure that those children benefit from what he regards as a basic principle? Michael Gove: I underline to the hon. Lady that the Michael Gove: I am delighted that one of the first free principal accountability measure for schools is five GCSEs, schools was opened in the hon. Lady’s constituency. I including English and mathematics. Among the other would be delighted to visit it with her. I am also delighted three GCSEs or equivalents, there can be a number of that organisations such as University college London applied, technical and vocational areas. The English have sought to extend academy provision in Camden. baccalaureate is a useful accountability measure and Sadly some small-r-reactionary and small-c-conservative raises aspirations, but it is not the be-all and end-all and elements in the local Labour party have not advanced it has never been the opinion of the Government that it that cause. I cannot imagine that she would make should be. We recognise achievement in all its forms, common cause with those who put ideology above and it is incumbent on everyone, on both sides of the children’s futures. House, to celebrate the achievement of those who succeed vocationally, as she did in the first half of her question. Neil Carmichael (Stroud) (Con): I welcome the Secretary of State’s decision today. I also think that he is absolutely Chris Heaton-Harris (Daventry) (Con): My right hon. right to quote Mr Hyman’s comments about inspiring Friend will not be surprised to hear that I am delighted young people to do great things. However, will he that the UTC for new technologies has been approved ensure that those great things include contributing to for Daventry. It is vital for raising aspirations among manufacturing and engineering in this country? young people in my constituency and the surrounding area. Part of the vision for the Daventry UTC is to use Michael Gove: My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We local procurement solutions for the design-and-build all know that in contributing to economic growth, we phase. It is envisaged that the lead sponsor, Moulton cannot at this stage anticipate all the skills that the jobs college, and its partners will be looking for local architects and companies of the future will require, but we know and contractors to assist with the design and build. Will that a rigorous training in mathematic and scientific there be flexibility in the procurement phase for UTCs disciplines will help. That is the emphasis of so many of to allow for this, as alluded to by the Chancellor in his the schools being set up today. previous statement?

Nic Dakin (Scunthorpe) (Lab): Will the Secretary of Michael Gove: I always defer to the Chancellor. State clarify whether the free schools and UTCs will be funded on projected student numbers rather than actual Robert Flello (Stoke-on-Trent South) (Lab): The Secretary student numbers like other schools? of State referred to faith schools in his statement. He might not be aware that there are a number of faith Michael Gove: We will ensure that in all free schools schools across the UK, including a couple in my city and UTCs, the existing funding mechanism for the first of Stoke-on-Trent, that, because they are voluntary 24 free schools and existing UTCs carries on. aided, are having to pay VAT on the Building Schools for the Future money that is being made available to Angie Bray (Ealing Central and Acton) (Con): Will them. Will he meet me to discuss this issue in greater the Secretary of State confirm that Ealing is on the list detail, because it is sapping huge amounts of money to get a new free school? If so, does he not agree that that should be going to children but is actually going to this will not only help to alleviate pressure on school the Treasury? 71 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 72

Michael Gove: I know that there are some excellent record. In his haste, how will he ensure that other new faith schools in Stoke-on-Trent, including an outstanding academies meet the same high standards that all Members Roman Catholic . I would be more across the House would like to see? than happy for either I or one of my colleagues to talk to the hon. Gentleman. Michael Gove: I am very grateful to the hon. Lady. I know she has returned to the Back Benches, so may I Jessica Lee (Erewash) (Con): In Erewash, we have say on a personal note that I thought she was a distinguished seen a number of academy schools established over the member of the shadow Cabinet and that she has fought past year, including two conversions by the Ormiston amazingly hard for her constituency? Her question trust, which stepped forward and opened those two absolutely gets to the nub of it. I am delighted that we schools during this academic year. The pace of change are supporting the new Victoria Park academy and that has already been mentioned, but for me it is the positive it is linked with Mossbourne academy. I will continue to response from head teachers and schools coming forward work with the Learning Trust in Hackney and will ask and taking this programme with gusto and enthusiasm the new chief inspector, whoever he or she may be, to that really shows that the drive for autonomy and keep a special eye on that borough. I am sure that he or excellence must go on. she, whoever they may be, will join me and ensure that it is at the top of their agenda. Michael Gove: I am really grateful to my hon. Friend, not least for the support she gave head teachers early in Sir (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): Will my the life of the coalition Government to overcome some right hon. Friend assure me that spending on free of the entrenched opposition to academy status. She schools will not endanger the funding that is needed to does a superb job as a constituency Member and I replace those schools that were left out of the previous know that future generations of children will thank her Government’s programme and are in a desperate for it. state, such as the Duchess’s community high school in Alnwick?

Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) Michael Gove: I can provide exactly that assurance. (Lab): The Secretary of State will be aware that, as well as new schools, we will have a new chief inspector of Stephen Pound (Ealing North) (Lab): May I assume schools, Sir Michael Wilshaw, whom I first met him from the subtle suggestiveness of the Secretary of when he was head of St Bonaventure’s school in Newham, State’s reply to the hon. Member for Ealing Central and where he ran an inner-city boys school that was 95% African Acton (Angie Bray) that the inspirational Alice Hudson and Afro-Caribbean and got outstanding results. Does of Twyford high school has been successful in the the Secretary of State agree that Sir Michael will bring proposals regarding north Greenford? The question I to the inspectorate the same inspired leadership and wished to ask before that matter was raised was whether emphasis on standards that he had at St Bonaventure’s he will answer the question I asked him in writing two school and at Mossbourne academy? months ago about whether teachers and head teachers in free schools will be subject to public sector pay Michael Gove: Obviously, Her Majesty has yet to controls. confirm her decision on who her chief inspector of schools will be. However, with regard to what the hon. Michael Gove: Yes and no. Lady has said, I could not have put it better myself. Stephen Pound: In which order? Dr (South West Wiltshire) (Con): My right hon. Friend has shown his concern for the Michael Gove: In that order. relative disadvantage often experienced by service children by including them in the pupil premium. One of the Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): Will my right hon. main problems is that those children, because they Friend join me in congratulating Andrew Snowdon and move around a great deal, are sometimes particularly his dedicated team in Crawley, who set up the new disadvantaged when they apply to the best schools. Discovery free school, which has been successfully open How will they be helped with free schools and their now for just over a month? Will he say how free schools admissions policies? and academies will help to increase admissions choice and capacity in my constituency, where that has been a Michael Gove: We hope that all maintained schools problem in recent years? will abide by a new admissions code, which is explicitly designed to make it easier for schools to manage in-year Michael Gove: I am very grateful to my hon. Friend, admissions and for service children to secure admission who was a very distinguished leader of West to the school of their parents’ choice. county council. In Crawley we need additional capacity and people also need proper choice. The Discovery free Meg Hillier (Hackney South and Shoreditch) (Lab/ school provides both. Co-op): Of the six secondary schools in my constituency, three have been built new and three rebuilt, thanks to Julie Hilling (Bolton West) (Lab): I, too, attended the the Labour Government, so I am pleased that the world skills event at the ExCel centre—I was supporting Secretary of State and the Government have agreed to a my constituent, Andrew Fielding, from MBDA, who proposed new 800-place academy near Victoria park in was competing in electronics. His employers and others my constituency. It has the benefit of being sponsored at the event told me how essential it is that young people by Mossbourne academy, which has a strong track are taught technology in school. What will the Secretary 73 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 74 of State do to ensure that there is good technology that the involvement of more than 130 companies in the teaching with up-to-date equipment for all young people UTC programme, as well as high-performing higher in all schools, not just technology colleges? education institutions, will help us to do just that.

Michael Gove: We are doing everything possible to Mrs Jenny Chapman (Darlington) (Lab): I am afraid attract new teachers into science, technology, engineering that I must inform the Secretary of State that the Tory and mathematics by transforming initial teacher training group on Darlington borough council somewhat and providing additional support for teachers who are embarrassed him recently by inviting Lord Baker to qualified in those disciplines. We will say more on that Darlington to discuss the prospect of a UTC. I do not when we publish our teacher training strategy, which I think that they fully understood the scheme, because in hope will be later this month or early next month. Darlington we have enough secondary school places. The scheme seems quite inflexible, as a new school James Wharton (Stockton South) (Con): I thank the would have to be established, rather than an existing Secretary of State for the support he has given me and one converted. Will the Secretary of State spare their the residents and parents campaigning for a new free blushes in future by allowing schools to convert, rather school in my constituency. Will he confirm that the than being brand new? statements he has given today mean that his Department will do all it can to support those campaigners to deliver Michael Gove: Rather than embarrassing me, Darlington the new school that is so badly needed in Ingleby Conservatives have shown that they have exceptionally Barwick. I cannot thank him enough for his support, good judgment by inviting Lord Baker rather than me which has meant an awful lot for parents and campaigners. to address them. I absolutely take the hon. Lady’s point. Will he confirm that the Department will give them its Sometimes we will look at existing schools to see how full and wholehearted support? we can allow them to develop a specialism that will support high-quality vocational learning.

Michael Gove: Absolutely. When I visited my hon. Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con): In addition Friend’s constituency, he showed me not only a superb to welcoming the announcements made today, I would existing maintained school that needed additional support, also like to welcome the Government’s recent announcement which I was delighted to visit, but the parental campaigners of the £500 million pot for rebuilding the most dilapidated for the Ingelby Barwick free school. They were a model schools in the country, such as Todmorden high and of what the is about and I am delighted to Calder high in Calder valley, which never qualified offer them our support. under BSF because they overachieved and there was no deprivation. Will the Secretary of State look at guidance Mr (Greenwich and Woolwich) (Lab): for those many schools across the country that want to The Secretary of State is probably aware that the Greenwich convert to academies but are so dilapidated that the free school, which is one of those approved in his fabric of their buildings is a liability for the people statement, has not yet got premises. The site that the doing it? school is looking at is, in my judgment and that of others, including the education authority, very unsuitable Michael Gove: Those are two very fair points. I would for a secondary school. I understand his wish to proceed never want to prevent any school that wanted to become fast, but he will appreciate that going too fast without an academy from doing so, nor would I wish to coerce suitable premises could be a recipe for disaster for unduly any school that was reluctant to take that step, something that ought to be a success. Will he ensure but it is important that any judgment on capital be that his officials and the promoters of the Greenwich made on the basis of need, not on the status or location free school give more attention to finding a really suitable of any school. That is why schools such as the Duchess’s location? high school in Alnwick, a school I visited along with Todmorden high, which were not in the Building Schools Michael Gove: That is a very fair point. I know that for the Future programme, are being judged alongside some promoters have superb visions for their schools other schools that were, and they are being done so on a and that there is real demand, but in some areas, such as totally equal basis. London, there are difficulties in securing the right site. If we can work constructively, I am sure that we can Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab): Some two make it happen. hours ago, my right hon. Friend the Member for Rother Valley (Mr Barron) received a faxed letter from the Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con): May Under-Secretary of State for Education, the hon. Member I warmly welcome the new university technical college for East Worthing and Shoreham (Tim Loughton), announced by the Secretary of State today for Houghton announcing the opening of a free school in my constituency. Regis in my constituency? What difference does he It is called Rotherham, not Rother Valley. The proposed think it will make to the manufacturing industry locally, head teacher, Miss Charlotte Blencowe, is a failed which has had a challenging time in recent years? Conservative municipal candidate who was rejected from a job at Clifton comprehensive and wants to open Michael Gove: We are all committed across the House the school on a disused B&Q site next to one of the to rebalancing the economy and ensuring that, in addition busiest and most fume-filled roundabouts in south to our strength in financial services, we recover our Yorkshire. strength in manufacturing. If we are to do that, we need I have had no communication on the matter, and it is to ensure that children acquire the necessary mathematical going to cause real problems. We have falling rolls in and scientific skills at the earliest possible age. I think Rotherham, but we had the best GCSE results this year, 75 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 76

[Mr Denis MacShane] average £1,000 a year more. I personally think that, notwithstanding the real problems we have in dealing beating the Department’s own standards, so will the with the poisoned economic legacy of the previous Secretary of State, out of courtesy, meet me to discuss Government, we should do everything we can to reward the issue, and will he at the Dispatch Box now guarantee great professionals. Paying teachers more at every level that no money is to be taken from the existing education is something that we, across the House, should aspire to budget for Rotherham in order to allow Miss Blencowe do as resources allow. to award herself, as the Secretary of State said, the salary that she deems appropriate? Matthew Hancock (West Suffolk) (Con): The Secretary of State will know that in West Suffolk we have two Michael Gove: It is an uncharacteristic lapse from the proposed free schools at different stages of development normally high standards of bipartisanship and open- to replace closing middle schools. Will he join me in mindedness that the right hon. Gentleman brings to the urging parents not only in Brandon, at the Breckland House, and I am sorry that he feels churlish about the middle school, but in Ixworth and in Stanton to put establishment of a new school in his constituency. forward expressions of interest in joining the free schools— whether or not they come through, and I hope that they Mr MacShane: The letter was faxed to somebody do—in order to ensure that the project gets off the else. ground?

Michael Gove: I hope that this—I am sure, outstanding Michael Gove: Absolutely. One of the great things —new school will attract, from all of south and west about Suffolk as a local authority is that its leader and Yorkshire, students who will want to benefit from the its lead member for education recognise that, at a time high quality of education. It is always a pleasure to talk of change, embracing academies and free schools can informally to the right hon. Gentleman, and always a complement the already great state schools for which pleasure to work with him in his relentless crusade to they are responsible. As for visionary leadership in local put politics aside and our children first. government, you have to go a long way to beat Suffolk.

Richard Fuller (Bedford) (Con): The Secretary of (Reading West) (Con): Will the Secretary State must be heartened by the encouraging words from of State join me in congratulating the All Saints junior Members on both sides of the House for his policy free school, which opened its doors in my constituency announcement today, but, as he knows, there are still in September? The reason why parents pressed for it is Sirte-like pockets of opposition to his policies from quite simple: there is huge pressure on school places in stonewalling councils and knee-jerk ideologues in some Reading, parents and students are not able to obtain unions, including unfortunately the general secretary of their choice of feeder school, and the school’s opening the NASUWT, who today claimed that for young people will help parents and students throughout Reading. UTCs for young people Michael Gove: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his “could reduce their employment chances later on.” support, and I am delighted that Reading is one of the Does the Secretary of State agree that the best action areas benefiting. It is an area of real population growth. the shadow Secretary of State can take is to go back to his union paymasters and tell them to drop their opposition Mr Edward Timpson (Crewe and Nantwich) (Con): It to UTCs and free schools and get on board with a is only right that free schools and, indeed, academies policy that is all about social mobility in our country? should follow the school admissions code, particularly in relation to the high priority that should be given to Michael Gove: It is very good point by my hon. looked-after children. Yet, despite having been given Friend. The hon. Member for Liverpool, West Derby that highest priority for many years, there is still a (Stephen Twigg) is new to the job, but, on the basis of dearth of looked-after children in our best schools. everything that he has said so far, I think that there may What can the Secretary of State do to encourage new be a real change in the Labour party’s approach towards free schools and academies to play their part in raising the issue, so I encourage him on the path of virtue and the social mobility of, in particular, children in care? say no more than that. Michael Gove: Looked-after children, like children Pat Glass (North West Durham) (Lab): May I clarify who are eligible for free school meals, are eligible for the the Secretary of State’s response to my hon. Friend the pupil premium, which is a strong incentive for free Member for Ealing North (Stephen Pound)—that head schools either to prioritise admissions or to locate in a teachers and teachers in free schools will not be subject way that helps those children. More needs to be done, to the public sector pay freeze? Will there be any upper however, and we will bring forward some proposals, I limit at all, or will governors and trustees be able to pay hope, later this year to help ensure that the whole care those people whatever they want? Will there be a limit and education system is better oriented towards the so that such teachers cannot pay themselves 20% more welfare of looked-after and adopted children. than the lowest-paid member of staff? Andrew Stephenson (Pendle) (Con): I am delighted to Michael Gove: Not just free schools and UTCs, but welcome the news that the Visions Learning Trust’s all academies have the freedom to depart from national proposal to create a UTC in east Lancashire has been terms and conditions, and, as a result, teachers in approved. The bid was sponsored by Rolls-Royce, Fort academies, even though they are younger on average Vale Engineering, Graham Engineering, Weston EU, than teachers in other maintained schools, are paid on Training 2000 and many other significant employers in 77 New Schools10 OCTOBER 2011 New Schools 78 my constituency. Does the Secretary of Stage agree free schools and the growth in academies, we recognise that, in an area as reliant on manufacturing as Pendle, the achievement of the local authority and of the that is a huge boost to local businesses and jobs? leadership of existing maintained schools. I hope that, before too long, I will have the chance to come to Michael Gove: Yes, it was a cracking bid, and I am Bradford and talk to existing and new head teachers delighted that Pendle will benefit from it. about how we can all work together in the interests of Bradford’s children. Patrick Mercer (Newark) (Con): May I thank the Secretary of State for supporting the bids for free Mr Rob Wilson (Reading East) (Con): I warmly schools in Newark? He will share my delight at the welcome my right hon. Friend’s statement. I am delighted Grove school being placed top of the list of priorities by that the new school that I championed in Reading East Nottinghamshire county council, but what message does is moving towards a 2012 opening. Will he confirm that he now have for the Grove? UTCs are an essential addition to choice in our schools and join me in acknowledging the huge contribution Michael Gove: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for the that Lord Baker of Dorking has made to this successful way in which he has championed those schools in his programme? constituency that lost out as a result of the unfortunate cancellation of the Building Schools for the Future Michael Gove: I am delighted to underline my debt to programme, and I look forward to having a private both Lord Baker of Dorking and my hon. Friend, who meeting with him and then discussing how I and my was one of the early advocates of free schools and the ministerial team can do more to help schools in his pupil premium. I am absolutely delighted that this constituency. ministerial team is able to take forward proposals that he championed when we were in opposition. Dr Thérèse Coffey (Suffolk Coastal) (Con): I was thrilled to receive the letter from Lord Hill stating that Mr Steve Brine (Winchester) (Con): This morning, I the proposed school in Saxmundham has been given visited Harestock primary school in my constituency, clearance to go to the next stage, and I am sure that my where nearly 20% of pupils have a family member right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will join me in serving our country in the armed forces. The Secretary thanking parents, community leaders and the Seckford of State knows how warmly I welcome the new school Foundation for taking the scheme further, but what places that the Government have created, but many of advice does he have for certain head teachers in the service parents whom I met this morning are greatly neighbouring schools who see it as a competitive threat, concerned about the availability of school places in the rather than as a welcome addition to the educational system, as families return from Germany over the next offering in Suffolk? few years. Will the Secretary of State work with his colleagues at the Ministry of Defence to see that those Michael Gove: The experience so far of existing head families can come home with some confidence in the teachers, where new free schools have been set up, has next two or three years, instead of feeling fear, as they been in some cases concern before the application has do currently? come forward and, afterwards, some trepidation, but after the school has opened there has been a general Michael Gove: I absolutely will. Of course, it is for the recognition that wider choice and an emphasis on helping best of reasons that 14,000 service personnel are returning the most disadvantaged students has helped to raise the from Germany; thanks to the inspirational leadership prestige and reputation of state education overall, so of Baroness Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, we won the such proposals should be seen as friendly emulation cold war and are able now to welcome back the servicemen and not as a threat to any school. of the on the Rhine. We need to make sure that those who have worn the Mr David Ward (Bradford East) (LD): Last week, I Queen’s uniform enjoy the best possible education. The visited a school in Bradford, you will not be surprised to service premium and the additional changes that we are hear, Mr Deputy Speaker. Indeed, you will know that it making to the admissions code are part of that. Of was not in Bingley and Ilkley when I tell you that course, we have to work with the Ministry of Defence to 60% of the children in one year 3 class were not in it in do so, and I will be delighted to work—for many years year 1. We have more than 7,000 in-year starters in our to come, I hope—with my right hon. Friend the Member schools, and that exceeds the number of children who for North (Dr Fox), who is doing such a great start in reception class each year. That is the level of job in championing service families and defending the mobility and churn, so will the Secretary of State please armed forces covenant. tell me how on earth the local education authority is to fulfil its statutory responsibility for the strategic planning Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): Last but not of school places at the same time as maintained sector least, I call Dr . begins to fragment completely? John Pugh (Southport) (LD): To finish on a factual Michael Gove: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his note, how many free school applications have been question. I appreciate that one of the challenges in rejected or declined and what percentage is that of the Bradford is that we have not just huge population total? churn, but different communities with different needs and a requirement to ensure that those communities Michael Gove: More than 200 have been declined. I feel that they are part of one Bradford. It is therefore should emphasise that some of those were free school important that, when we bring forward proposals for applications that had significant merits, but required 79 New Schools 10 OCTOBER 2011 80

[Michael Gove] Protection of Freedoms Bill (Programme) (No. 3) additional work to take forward. One of the reasons why only some 50-plus were taken forward is that we wanted to make sure that every free school application 6.33 pm was meritorious. Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans): The debate The point was well made by the shadow Education may continue for 45 minutes. I should inform the House Secretary—the quality and performance of charter schools that Mr Speaker has selected the amendment on the in the United States was variable. However, in states Order Paper in the name of Mr Edward Leigh. where the performance of charter schools was strong, a filter had been placed by the authorising authority to The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the make sure that only the best applications went forward. Home Department (James Brokenshire): I beg to move, Overall, between a fifth and slightly more than a fifth—I That the Order of 1 March 2011 (Protection of Freedoms Bill do not know the exact percentage—of proposed schools (Programme)) be varied as follows— have been approved. One of the reasons for that is that, like the hon. Gentleman, we want to make sure that 1. Paragraphs 4 and 5 shall be omitted. when we spend public money, it goes to people who are 2. Proceedings on consideration and Third Reading shall be going to use it in the public interest. concluded in two days. 3. Proceedings on consideration shall be taken on each of those days as shown in the following Table and in the order so shown. 4. Each part of the proceedings shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion at the time specified in relation to it in the second column of the Table.

First day

Proceedings Time for conclusion of proceedings New Clauses and New 8.30 pm Schedules relating to, and amendments to, Chapter 1 of Part 1. New Clauses and New 10 pm Schedules relating to, and amendments to, Chapter 2 of Part 3. Second day

Proceedings Time for conclusion of proceedings New Clauses and New 5.30 pm Schedules relating to, and amendments to, Chapter 1 of Part 2. New Clauses and New 7.30 pm Schedules relating to, and amendments to, Part 5. New Clauses and New 9pm Schedules relating to, and amendments to, Part 4, Chapter 2 of Part 1, Chapter 2 of Part 2, Chapter 1 of Part 3, and Part 6; remaining New Clauses; remaining New Schedules; amendments to Part 7 and remaining proceedings on consideration.

5. Proceedings on Third Reading shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion at 10.00 pm on the second day. The programme motion provides two days for Report and Third Reading, and it follows more than 44 hours of consideration, over 10 days, in Public Bill Committee. During that time, the Committee was able to scrutinise carefully all aspects of the Bill. In Committee, much of the focus of the debate was on the provisions in respect of the retention of DNA, the further regulation of CCTV, the prohibition on 81 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 82 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) wheel clamping without lawful authority, the changes from what we would have seen from the previous to counter-terrorism powers and the reform of the Government; we would have had a day for consideration vetting and barring scheme and criminal records regime. of a Bill of this kind. It is right that those provisions should also be the focus The terms of the programme motion will come as a of our deliberations on Report. The programme motion disappointment to my hon. Friend the Member for has accordingly been structured to achieve that. Gainsborough (Mr Leigh) and the other right hon. and The motion provides for the provisions on the retention hon. Members who have put their name to new clause 1. of DNA and in respect of parking enforcement to be Despite the two days that we have set aside for Report, considered until 10 o’clock this evening. When we resume twice the normal allocation that we were accustomed to tomorrow, we will first consider the CCTV clauses, seeing in the last Parliament, regrettably it is unlikely followed by the amendments to the safeguarding and that the House will be able to consider all the new criminal records provisions in part 5. That will allow clauses tabled for debate. some time to consider the counter-terrorism and other provisions in the Bill before we move on to Third As I said, the programme motion has been constructed Reading at 9 o’clock tomorrow evening. to ensure that there is adequate time to consider the key provisions already in the Bill. I believe that that is the right approach. Although this is not the occasion to Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): My hon. consider the substance of new clause 1, which seeks to Friend said that the Government have generously given amend section 5 of the Public Order Act 1986, I fully the House two days at this stage of the proceedings. We recognise that the matter is of considerable interest to a have already lost three hours because the Government number of Members on both sides of the House. That decided to make three statements to the House; with much is clear from the number of right hon. and hon. one hand they provide time generously, but with the Members who have added their names to the new other they take that time away. clause.

James Brokenshire: As my hon. Friend will appreciate, We agree that the issue should be examined further. there is a balance to be struck in all these proceedings. That is why, in the next few days, we will publish a We maintain that the programme motion strikes that consultation seeking views on whether section 5 should right and appropriate balance in respect of consideration be amended along the lines proposed by my hon. Friend of the Bill. the Member for Gainsborough. I will be happy to meet him to hear his views on this important issue. Once the consultation has concluded—it will run to early in the Andrew Miller (Ellesmere Port and Neston) (Lab): new year—the Government will set out their conclusions The Minister listed a number of items that the Committee as quickly as possible, so that they can inform the rightly dealt with in great detail. However, it did not debate on the issue while the Bill is in another place. I cover in any detail the issues raised in new clause 17, have no doubt that there will be other opportunities for which is enormously important to the whole research the House to consider section 5, either when we next community. Can the Minister guarantee that time will examine the Bill on its return from the other place or on be available for a debate on that new clause? some other suitable occasion. I can assure my hon. Friend that through the consultation we want to promote James Brokenshire: We have sought to structure the debate on this issue, not seek to curtail it, by widening programme motion to enable consideration of the Bill, and broadening it outside this House. and that is right and proper for Report. A priority appropriately has to be given to enable scrutiny of the Bill as drafted. Obviously, it is for the House to decide Sir Alan Beith (Berwick-upon-Tweed) (LD): I am within the programme motion the extent to which it will grateful for what my hon. Friend says, which helps debate particular clauses, but we have had to strike as to set in a more attractive context the otherwise fair a balance as we can on the provisions of the Bill to uncharacteristic step that was taken by moving new ensure that appropriate scrutiny is applied. clause 1 to the very end of the Bill’s consideration. Is he saying that the Government will facilitate a parliamentary opportunity to legislate if a clear conclusion emerges Mr Peter Bone (Wellingborough) (Con): I appreciate from these discussions? that my hon. Friend is a coalition Minister and not a Conservative one; before we got into power, the Conservative party was against having programme motions. James Brokenshire: The timing of the consultation is Given that we have lost three hours or so to statements, intended to be such that it can inform proceedings in would not a fair balance have been to have allowed us the other place. There may therefore be time, in the to go for three hours extra tonight? We have been away context of the consideration of the Bill as a whole, to be from this place for a long time; surely an extra three able to address issues that may come through from the hours this evening would have been fair. That is what consultation. I hope that my hon. Friend the Member democracy is about—we are not trying to force things for Gainsborough will accept the consultation as a through. Let us have three hours extra tonight. mark of our determination to undertake a proper review of section 5 and that on that basis he will agree not to press his new clause. James Brokenshire: My hon. Friend takes the issues of the House extremely seriously, and I respect him for We believe that the programme motion strikes the that. The Government have made important changes to right balance. I commend it to the House and ask how legislation is scrutinised. We are having two days Members to support it so that we can get on with on Report for the Bill, and that is markedly different debating the important issues that lie within the Bill. 83 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 84 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) 6.41 pm It is not acceptable to have these major issues debated in this way and rushed through the House. We did not Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): I sense that, deep do that when the Minister opposed our proposals on down, the Minister knows that he is on a sticky wicket DNA, which were fair and responsible. He needs to and that the programme motion is not really adequate reflect on that. If he does not, then I cannot support the for debating the issues before the House. hon. Member for Gainsborough for the reasons I have As the Whip responsible for this Bill, my hon. Friend outlined, as much as I wish him to have his say, but I the Member for Alyn and Deeside (Mark Tami), and will certainly not support the programme motion, and his colleagues, would have accepted the programme I ask my hon. Friends to vote against it. motion had we not had, as the hon. Member for Kettering (Mr Hollobone) said, three hours of statements, which have taken us up to 6.41 pm. This Bill determines the 6.45 pm very important issues of DNA that my right hon. Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con): I beg to Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull West and move amendment (a), after “Proceedings” on the first Hessle () wishes to discuss, and those day insert— discussions will reach their conclusion at 8.30 pm. Although ‘New Clauses relating to the Public Order Act 1986; and’. I disagree with him on those issues, I support his right to say what he wishes about his concerns. The concerns I have tabled this amendment to the programme of the hon. Member for Gainsborough (Mr Leigh) on motion because I simply cannot believe that the public order issues will not be debated at all because the Government are trying to stifle debate on new clause 1 programme motion means that we will run out of time. —the only new clause in the Bill to attract support from However, I cannot support the hon. Gentleman if he dozens of Members from all parties in this House. One presses his amendment to a vote, for the simple reason would have thought that the Government would welcome that it would knock out the business of my right hon. hon. Members trying to improve the Bill—is that such Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull West and an outrageous thing? One would have thought that they Hessle regarding the important issues of DNA. would welcome the fact that 65 Members have put their names to new clause 1. On reflection, the Minister will know that this is an inadequate programme motion that requires an 8.30 pm On Friday, the Joint Committee on Human Rights completion time for important issues of life and death, produced a voluminous report which says on page 61: which is what DNA is about. It is about the prevention “We support the amendment of the Public Order Act 1986 to of crime, the security of our citizens, and ensuring that remove all references to offences based on insulting words or our citizens can walk safely, free of fear of crime. Those behaviour. We consider that this would be a human rights enhancing issues will not be debated at the length that my right measure and would remove a risk that these provisions may be applied in a manner which is disproportionate and incompatible hon. Friend wishes. We have had debates in the past with the right to freedom of expression”. when I have sat where the Minister sits and he has sat where I am now. I suspect that if I had come along this One would have thought that surely a Government evening with a programme motion that provided for committed to free speech would realise that this was an one hour and 45 minutes—potentially even one hour important issue and allow some time for new clause 1 to and 15 minutes—on DNA, he would be standing here be debated, especially as it is normal, if not a convention, saying what I am saying. As a Minister, I moved programme for new clauses to be debated early on Report because motions from the Government Front Bench just as the they are debated last in our Committees. Because new Minister has; I know and respect that fact. I am not clauses are often not reached in Committee, it is normal averse to programme motions. My hon. Friends the for a Government who want to have open debate to Whips are not averse to programme motions, and, in allow them to be debated at an early stage on Report. the past, the Labour Government introduced programme This is one of the most extraordinary programme motions. However, there has to be an element of fairness motions that I have seen, because it ensures that no new about them. We cannot support a programme motion clauses are debated. Why have the Government done that gives us, potentially, one hour and 15 minutes on this? For the life of me, I do not know why we are being the life and death issue of DNA and upsets the hon. pushed to the back of the queue. There is no point in Member for Gainsborough because he is not having a having emollient words. There is not some small chance debate at all. that new clause 1 will be debated; as a result of this If I had moved that programme motion tonight, the programme motion, there is no chance that it will be Minister would have opposed it. If I had spoken as he debated or voted on. We have had three hours of has tonight, he would have opposed it. He will vote for statements, and we now have two hours to debate many it tonight, but he knows that he would vote against it if important issues. However, we are going to spend an he were in my place. In fairness to the Opposition, he hour and a half on car parking. I am sure that car should allow time for this debate and reflect on the parking is very important, but so is freedom of debate. programme motion. The hon. Member for Wellingborough How ironic that the Government are using their own (Mr Bone) made some sensible points, and we could powers under guillotine procedure to stifle a debate on have further discussions based on those. There is no freedom of speech. It is an extraordinary situation. problem with that. I will happily consider a small I know that we are discussing my amendment to the Adjournment of the House if Ministers want to discuss programme motion, not new clause 1 itself, but it is this with my hon. Friend the Member for Tynemouth worth saying that it is a very modest proposal that seeks (Mr Campbell). He is an amenable chap. We have only to change one line of legislation, would not cost worked together in the Home Office and we know the Government one penny, and would not affect anything about these matters, and he will help us to reach a in the manifesto or the coalition agreement. There conclusion. would have been no harm in our having a civilised 85 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 86 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) debate. Perfectly valid arguments could have been made and if people want to quote from it, they should be on both sides of the issue, and the Government would allowed to do so without PC Plod tapping them on the have got their way in the end, so why not have a debate? shoulder and telling them that it is against some piece of legislation. I do not want to be unfair to the Government, who have written to me and said that they are now going to All those things are happening under section 5 of the have a review. That is strange. We have been campaigning 1986 Act. There is something fundamentally wrong on this for a whole year. For several months, we got the with the way it is being used. That needs to be properly same letters from the Minister that we used to get from debated in the House of Commons and nowhere else. the previous Labour Minister, no doubt written by the The fact that the Government have agreed—only today, same civil servant sitting in front of the same potted as a result of all the pressure from colleagues—to plants and serving out the same cups of tea. We made discuss such matters with outside groups shows that no progress whatsoever. Yet suddenly, hey presto, because they acknowledge that there is a problem. All I am 65 people are prepared to put their name to new clause asking for is a debate. Why are the Government so 1 and because my amendment is selected for debate, we concerned about our new clause? What we are proposing get this promise of a review. Why is it starting tomorrow is hardly radical. It would not leave the police powerless or next week? Why did it not start six months ago, when to prevent public disorder. As the former Director of the amendment was put on the Order Paper? Is this a Public Prosecutions, Ken Macdonald, says in his legal very complex issue? I have not yet been consulted about opinion on new clause 1, there are plenty of other the issue, and neither have the National Secular Society, powers in existence to prevent or prosecute behaviour which supports the amendment, or the Christian Institute. that is abusive or risks a breach of the peace; indeed, we We are going to have a review, and the only people who have always had breach of the peace powers. There are will not be consulted formally are those of us in the numerous other powers that could be used, but section 5 House of Commons. What a strange situation. Is this is being used as a kind of catch-all and is chilling not the home of democracy? Is it not beyond the wit of debate. the Government and the programme managers to allow This is an important issue and the arguments are just three quarters of an hour for an important debate strong. The Government might even make a concession about freedom of speech? But no, the one body that will on it in the Lords—they have as good as admitted it not be allowed to debate the issue is the House of today—in which case why could they not make the Commons. We are told by the Government, “Oh, don’t same concession here, in the home of democracy? Why worry, we’ll have this review”—although there can be do they make concessions only in the other Chamber? I no debate in the House of Commons—“and then the feel passionately about new clause 1 because it is what House of Lords will debate it.” However, they could the Bill is all about. This Bill is called the Protection of have had such a review months ago. It is hardly rocket Freedoms Bill, but we are not being allowed to debate science: we are not talking about a technically complicated free speech. I thought that the aim of the Bill was to issue such as trying to reform the entire national health reverse the widespread erosion of civil liberties in recent service or anything like that years. Well, there is no greater civil liberty than freedom I say this to hon. Members on both sides of the of speech. It is the foundation of our civil freedoms and House: why do Governments—I am not talking about new clause 1, which is supported by people from all this Government; I mean all Governments—accept parties, is all about freedom of speech. amendments only in the House of Lords? Why not here? Why can we not accept the revolutionary proposal 6.54 pm that, in a grown-up way, a Member of Parliament might Dr Julian Huppert (Cambridge) (LD): I shall be brief. produce a cross-party amendment on a serious issue, I am not sure that the hon. Member for Gainsborough the Government could consider it on its merits and it (Mr Leigh) and I necessarily agree on all things in this might actually be agreed to? Why do all Governments area, but on this we completely agree. I am a signatory take the view that they are prepared to accept amendments to new clause 1, which I am delighted to support. It is only in the other place? Frankly, I have never been an essential that we look at this issue. We have heard, for enthusiast for House of Lords reform, but I am beginning example, that Liberty took up a case where somebody to think that until the other place is reformed, the was threatened with prosecution under section 5 of the Government will never take this place seriously. 1986 Act for peacefully holding a placard that said, We are talking about an important issue that is too “Scientology is not a religion, it is a dangerous cult”. serious to delay. There are so many cases, affecting That is a matter of opinion rather than a matter for people from all walks of life: demonstrators threatened prosecution. with seizure of property and arrest under section 5 of the Public Order Act 1986 for protesting against seal (Ipswich) (Con): It is also true. culling by using toy seals coloured with red food dye; the young man prosecuted for growling at two Labrador Dr Huppert: So the hon. Gentleman says, from a dogs; the countless street preachers harassed by police sedentary position. I tend to agree with him, but that is for daring to mention Bible passages that some people a topic for another debate. do not like. Just last month, a café owner in Blackpool I entirely support the new clause tabled by the hon. was told by the police that displaying verses from the Member for Gainsborough. However, I have concerns New Testament on a video screen was a breach of about his amendment to the programme motion. I section 5. What are the police suggesting? That we would like the issue debated, but I am concerned because should cut and paste things from the Bible but leave out we need to discuss issues such as DNA and fingerprinting. things that people do not like? Many people do not like DNA is a topic of particular interest to me, as someone many things from the Bible, but the Bible is the Bible who used to work on it, and we are at risk of reducing 87 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 88 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) [Dr Huppert] 6.58 pm our debate on it to something like an hour. I am James Brokenshire: I am grateful for the contributions concerned about that, and for that reason I shall not be of a number of right hon. and hon. Members to our supporting his amendment to the programme motion, consideration of the programme motion. As I said in although I support his proposed amendment to the Bill. my opening remarks, we judge it right that the programme I very much welcome what the Minister said about how motion should be drafted so as to allow this House to the Government are going to get on with it, and I hope scrutinise the key provisions that are actually in the Bill. that we will have an opportunity to discuss that in this I appreciate that a number of hon. Members would House. have wished to amend the Bill to include various other provisions—in particular, given the level of support for new clause 1, the amendment of section 5 of the Public Mr Bone: The hon. Gentleman is making a fair point. Order Act 1986. My hon. Friend the Member for Given what the Opposition spokesman said, does that Gainsborough (Mr Leigh) sought to characterise that mean that he will be voting against the programme as simple or straightforward. However, I would say to motion in toto, so that we can have proper debate? him that there are complexities attached, which is why the Government would prefer to consider and reflect on Dr Huppert: It might be tempting to vote against all the matter carefully, and to enable a public consultation these things. I would love to see a reform of our entire to take place so as to ensure that all relevant issues are process, so that time is not taken up on things that the considered in the round and to inform the debate. It is public simply do not understand. However, I will not worth mentioning that section 5 of the 1986 Act covers vote against the programme motion. I have seen what issues such as swearing at police officers and the case happens in the other place when there are no programme against the poppy burning on Remembrance day. It is motions, which is filibusters. I do not think that many therefore appropriate to ensure proper consultation before right hon. or hon. Members in this Chamber could taking any action. claim that they have not been aware of any filibusters in However, I reiterate that the intent is to move quickly this House or any efforts to waste time simply to put to enable consideration of the results of the consultation things off—not necessarily on this occasion, but on a in another place. Obviously, the consultation will provide number of others. I would like to see better self-government an opportunity for hon. Members, the Christian Institute, by this House and the other place, and then we could the police and many others to set out their views, and I move away from programme motions. look forward to the debate and to meeting my hon. Friend the Member for Gainsborough to hear his views Mr Hanson: If the hon. Gentleman voted against the at first hand. programme motion along with my hon. Friends and it The hon. Member for Cambridge (Dr Huppert) was defeated, the Government could, if they wished to, mentioned the Digital Economy Act 2010. He will be call an Adjournment, negotiate and then draft a new aware that the Government announced in August that programme motion that covered some of the points they did not intend to commence sections 17 and 18 of raised by Government Members and us. Nothing is the Act. There might not be time to debate his new finalised; such a programme motion could still be put in clause, but we are now working on a wide-scale review place. of the communications sector with a view to publishing a Green Paper by the spring of next year, and a draft Dr Huppert: I have not gone through the right hon. Bill by mid-2013. Policy on tackling online copyright Gentleman’s previous speeches on such issues to see infringement, including site-blocking, is being considered what he has said before, but such an Adjournment as part of that review and, given our intention to would take time and would be likely to result in even conduct that wide-ranging review, it would be premature less time for the debate. We need to move on, and I to act now to repeal sections 17 and 18 of the Act in personally would like to move on in my speech. isolation from any other legislative changes that might I very much welcome what the Minister said about be needed. the review. It is important and I look forward to it being We believe that the programme motion is right to introduced into the Bill. However, let me talk about one focus on the provisions of the Bill to ensure that this issue that I have with the programme motion, on which House is able to apply appropriate scrutiny to the I would be grateful for the Minister’s comments. New legislation before us. We have introduced important clause 11, which stands in my name, would repeal changes. I welcome the right hon. Member for Delyn provisions in the Digital Economy Act 2010 that the (Mr Hanson) to his new position in the shadow home Government have already accepted do not work and affairs team—he and I have had a number of debates on which they have accepted they will not use. It would be these issues, in relation to the Bill and elsewhere—but I helpful to debate that, so I would be grateful if the think that some of his comments were a bit rich, because Minister could say whether there will be any opportunity I can certainly remember previous occasions on which for that to happen. Debating that issue would be helpful, we have had less time than we have tonight to debate partly because I and others are passionate about supporting important legislation. This Government have made the creative industries, and creators have problems with important changes that will allow us to debate these piracy. The 2010 Act’s approach to web blocking simply matters for two days, rather than rushing them through does not work. I would like a debate in this House on in one day, as would have happened in the past. I the alternatives. I should therefore be grateful if the therefore commend the programme motion to the House. Minister would comment on the Government’s intentions Question put, That the amendment be made. with regard to those provisions in the 2010 Act now, if he will be unable to do so later. The House divided: Ayes 62, Noes 243. 89 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 90 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) Division No. 354] [7.1 pm Fallon, Michael Loughton, , Tim Macleod, Mary AYES Featherstone, Lynne Maude, rh Mr Francis Afriyie, Adam Lefroy, Jeremy Field, Mr Mark May, rh Mrs Theresa Aldous, Peter Leigh, Mr Edward Flynn, , Paul Baker, Steve Lewis, Dr Julian Foster, rh Mr Don McIntosh, Miss Anne Baron, Mr John Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Fox,rhDrLiam McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Bebb, Guto Lucas, Caroline Francois, rh Mr Mark McPartland, Stephen Beith, rh Sir Alan MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Freeman, George McVey, Esther Binley, Mr Brian Main, Mrs Anne Freer, Mike Mensch, Louise Brady, Mr Graham McCabe, Steve Fullbrook, Lorraine Menzies, Mark Bridgen, Andrew McCartney, Karl Fuller, Richard Mercer, Patrick Bruce, Fiona McCrea, Dr William Garnier, Mark Metcalfe, Stephen Cairns, Alun McDonnell, John George, Andrew Miller, Maria Campbell, Mr Ronnie Mills, Nigel Gibb, Mr Nick Milton, Anne Chope, Mr Christopher Nuttall, Mr David Glen, John Moore, rh Michael Connarty, Michael Paisley, Ian Goodwill, Mr Robert Morgan, Nicky Crouch, Tracey Raab, Mr Dominic Graham, Richard Morris, Anne Marie Davies, Philip Redwood, rh Mr John Grant, Mrs Helen Morris, David Davis, rh Mr David Robertson, Angus Grayling, rh Chris Morris, James Dobbin, Jim Sandys, Laura Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Mosley, Stephen Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Soames, rh Nicholas Griffiths, Andrew Mowat, David Drax, Richard Turner, Mr Andrew Gyimah, Mr Sam Mulholland, Greg Durkan, Mark Vickers, Martin Halfon, Robert Munt, Tessa Field, rh Mr Frank Walker, Mr Charles Hammond, Stephen Murray, Sheryll Murrison, Dr Andrew Godsiff, Mr Roger Walter, Mr Robert Hancock, Mr Mike Gray, Mr James Neill, Robert Weir, Mr Mike Hands, Greg Gummer, Ben Newmark, Mr Brooks Wharton, James Harper, Mr Mark Hart, Simon Newton, Sarah Whittaker, Craig Harrington, Richard Heaton-Harris, Chris Nokes, Caroline Whittingdale, Mr John Harris, Rebecca Hemming, John Norman, Jesse Williams, Hywel Henderson, Gordon Harvey, Nick Offord, Mr Matthew Wishart, Pete Hoey, Kate Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Ollerenshaw, Eric Hosie, Stewart Tellers for the Ayes: Heald, Oliver Opperman, Guy Jenkin, Mr Bernard Mr Philip Hollobone and Heath, Mr David Ottaway, Richard Knight, rh Mr Greg Mr Peter Bone Herbert, rh Nick Parish, Neil Hinds, Damian Paterson, rh Mr Owen Hoban, Mr Mark NOES Pawsey, Mark Hollingbery, George Penning, Mike Amess, Mr David Cable, rh Vince Hopkins, Kris Penrose, John Andrew, Stuart Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Horwood, Martin Perry, Claire Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Carmichael, Neil Howarth, Mr Gerald Phillips, Stephen Chishti, Rehman Bacon, Mr Richard Howell, John Pickles, rh Mr Eric Clappison, Mr James Baker, Norman Hunter, Mark Pincher, Christopher Clark, rh Greg Barwell, Gavin Huppert, Dr Julian Poulter, Dr Daniel Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Bellingham, Mr Henry Hurd, Mr Nick Prisk, Mr Mark Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Pugh, John Benyon, Richard James, Margot Coffey, Dr Thérèse Rees-Mogg, Jacob Beresford, Sir Paul Javid, Sajid Collins, Damian Reevell, Simon Berry, Jake Johnson, Gareth Colvile, Oliver Reid, Mr Alan Johnson, Joseph Bingham, Andrew Cox, Mr Geoffrey Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Birtwistle, Gordon Davey, Mr Edward Jones, Andrew Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Blackwood, Nicola Davies, David T. C. Jones, Mr David Robertson, Mr Laurence Blunt, Mr Crispin (Monmouth) Jones, Mr Marcus Rogerson, Dan Boles, Nick Davies, Glyn Kelly, Chris Rosindell, Andrew Bradley, Karen de Bois, Nick Kirby, Simon Rudd, Amber Brake, rh Tom Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Kwarteng, Kwasi Ruffley, Mr David Laing, Mrs Eleanor Bray, Angie Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Russell, Bob Doyle-Price, Jackie Lamb, Norman Rutley, David Brazier, Mr Julian Drax, Richard Lancaster, Mark Sanders, Mr Adrian Brokenshire, James Duddridge, James Latham, Pauline Scott, Mr Lee Brooke, Annette Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Laws, rh Mr David Selous, Andrew Browne, Mr Jeremy Dunne, Mr Philip Leadsom, Andrea Shapps, rh Grant Bruce, rh Malcolm Ellis, Michael Lee, Jessica Sharma, Alok Buckland, Mr Robert Ellison, Jane Lee, Dr Phillip Shelbrooke, Alec Burley, Mr Aidan Ellwood, Mr Tobias Leech, Mr John Simmonds, Mark Burns, Conor Elphicke, Charlie Leslie, Charlotte Simpson, Mr Keith Burns, rh Mr Simon Eustice, George Lewis, Brandon Skidmore, Chris Burstow, Paul Evans, Graham Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Smith, Miss Chloe Burt, Alistair Evans, Jonathan Lloyd, Stephen Smith, Henry Burt, Lorely Evennett, Mr David Lopresti, Jack Smith, Julian Byles, Dan Fabricant, Michael Lord, Jonathan Smith, Sir Robert 91 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 92 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) Soubry, Anna Wallace, Mr Ben Gauke, Mr David Maynard, Paul Spencer, Mr Mark Ward, Mr David George, Andrew McCartney, Karl Stephenson, Andrew Watkinson, Angela Gibb, Mr Nick McIntosh, Miss Anne Stevenson, John Weatherley, Mike Glen, John McLoughlin, rh Mr , Bob Webb, Steve Goodwill, Mr Robert McPartland, Stephen Stewart, Iain Wheeler, Heather Graham, Richard McVey, Esther Stewart, Rory White, Chris Grant, Mrs Helen Mensch, Louise Stride, Mel Williams, Mr Mark Gray, Mr James Menzies, Mark Stuart, Mr Graham Williams, Roger Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Mercer, Patrick Stunell, Andrew Williams, Stephen Griffiths, Andrew Metcalfe, Stephen Sturdy, Julian Williamson, Gavin Gummer, Ben Miller, Maria Swire, rh Mr Hugo Wilson, Mr Rob Gyimah, Mr Sam Mills, Nigel Syms, Mr Robert Wollaston, Dr Sarah Halfon, Robert Milton, Anne Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Wright, Jeremy Hammond, Stephen Moore, rh Michael Hancock, Mr Mike Mordaunt, Penny Teather, Sarah Wright, Simon Timpson, Mr Edward Hands, Greg Morgan, Nicky Young, rh Sir George Tomlinson, Justin Harper, Mr Mark Morris, Anne Marie Zahawi, Nadhim Tredinnick, David Harrington, Richard Morris, David Tyrie, Mr Andrew Tellers for the Noes: Harris, Rebecca Morris, James Uppal, Paul Bill Wiggin and Hart, Simon Mosley, Stephen Vara, Mr Shailesh Stephen Crabb Harvey, Nick Mulholland, Greg Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Munt, Tessa Question accordingly negatived. Heald, Oliver Murray, Sheryll Heath, Mr David Murrison, Dr Andrew Main Question put. Heaton-Harris, Chris Neill, Robert The House divided: Ayes 275, Noes 233. Hemming, John Newmark, Mr Brooks Henderson, Gordon Newton, Sarah Division No. 355] [7.15 pm Herbert, rh Nick Nokes, Caroline Hinds, Damian Norman, Jesse AYES Hoban, Mr Mark Offord, Mr Matthew Afriyie, Adam Carmichael, Neil Hollingbery, George Ollerenshaw, Eric Aldous, Peter Chishti, Rehman Hopkins, Kris Opperman, Guy Amess, Mr David Clappison, Mr James Horwood, Martin Ottaway, Richard Andrew, Stuart Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Howarth, Mr Gerald Parish, Neil Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Howell, John Paterson, rh Mr Owen Bacon, Mr Richard Coffey, Dr Thérèse Huppert, Dr Julian Pawsey, Mark Baker, Norman Collins, Damian Hurd, Mr Nick Penning, Mike Barwell, Gavin Colvile, Oliver James, Margot Penrose, John Bebb, Guto Cox, Mr Geoffrey Javid, Sajid Perry, Claire Beith, rh Sir Alan Crabb, Stephen Jenkin, Mr Bernard Phillips, Stephen Bellingham, Mr Henry Crockart, Mike Johnson, Gareth Pickles, rh Mr Eric Benyon, Richard Crouch, Tracey Johnson, Joseph Pincher, Christopher Beresford, Sir Paul Davey, Mr Edward Jones, Andrew Poulter, Dr Daniel Berry, Jake Davies, David T. C. Jones, Mr David Prisk, Mr Mark Bingham, Andrew (Monmouth) Jones, Mr Marcus Pugh, John Birtwistle, Gordon Davies, Glyn Kelly, Chris Raab, Mr Dominic Redwood, rh Mr John Blackwood, Nicola de Bois, Nick Kirby, Simon Rees-Mogg, Jacob Blunt, Mr Crispin Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Knight, rh Mr Greg Reevell, Simon Boles, Nick Doyle-Price, Jackie Kwarteng, Kwasi Reid, Mr Alan Bradley, Karen Drax, Richard Laing, Mrs Eleanor Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Brake, rh Tom Duddridge, James Lamb, Norman Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Robertson, Mr Laurence Bray, Angie Lancaster, Mark Ellis, Michael Rogerson, Dan Brazier, Mr Julian Latham, Pauline Ellison, Jane Rosindell, Andrew Bridgen, Andrew Laws, rh Mr David Ellwood, Mr Tobias Rudd, Amber Brine, Mr Steve Leadsom, Andrea Elphicke, Charlie Ruffley, Mr David Brokenshire, James Eustice, George Lee, Jessica Russell, Bob Brooke, Annette Evans, Graham Lee, Dr Phillip Rutley, David Browne, Mr Jeremy Evans, Jonathan Leech, Mr John Sanders, Mr Adrian Bruce, Fiona Evennett, Mr David Lefroy, Jeremy Sandys, Laura Bruce, rh Malcolm Fabricant, Michael Leslie, Charlotte Scott, Mr Lee Buckland, Mr Robert Farron, Tim Lewis, Brandon Selous, Andrew Burley, Mr Aidan Featherstone, Lynne Lewis, Dr Julian Shapps, rh Grant Burns, Conor Field, Mr Mark Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Sharma, Alok Burns, rh Mr Simon Foster, rh Mr Don Lilley, rh Mr Peter Shelbrooke, Alec Burstow, Paul Fox,rhDrLiam Lloyd, Stephen Simmonds, Mark Burt, Alistair Francois, rh Mr Mark Lopresti, Jack Simpson, Mr Keith Burt, Lorely Freeman, George Lord, Jonathan Skidmore, Chris Byles, Dan Freer, Mike Loughton, Tim Smith, Miss Chloe Cable, rh Vince Fullbrook, Lorraine Macleod, Mary Smith, Henry Cairns, Alun Fuller, Richard Maude, rh Mr Francis Smith, Julian Carmichael, rh Mr Alistair Garnier, Mark May, rh Mrs Theresa Smith, Sir Robert 93 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 94 (Programme) (No. 3) (Programme) (No. 3) Soames, rh Nicholas Wallace, Mr Ben Field, rh Mr Frank McKenzie, Mr Iain Soubry, Anna Walter, Mr Robert Fitzpatrick, Jim McKinnell, Catherine Spencer, Mr Mark Ward, Mr David Flello, Robert Mearns, Ian Stephenson, Andrew Watkinson, Angela Flint, rh Caroline Michael, rh Alun Stevenson, John Weatherley, Mike Flynn, Paul Miller, Andrew Stewart, Bob Webb, Steve Fovargue, Yvonne Mitchell, Austin Stewart, Iain Wharton, James Francis, Dr Hywel Moon, Mrs Madeleine Stewart, Rory Wheeler, Heather Gardiner, Barry Morden, Jessica Stride, Mel White, Chris Gilmore, Sheila Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Stuart, Mr Graham Whittaker, Craig Glass, Pat Morris, Grahame M. Stunell, Andrew Whittingdale, Mr John Glindon, Mrs Mary (Easington) Sturdy, Julian Wiggin, Bill Godsiff, Mr Roger Munn, Meg Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Williams, Mr Mark Goggins, rh Paul Murphy, rh Mr Jim Swire, rh Mr Hugo Williams, Roger Goodman, Helen Murphy, rh Paul Syms, Mr Robert Williams, Stephen Greatrex, Tom Murray, Ian Tapsell, rh Sir Peter Williamson, Gavin Green, Kate Nandy, Lisa Teather, Sarah Wilson, Mr Rob Greenwood, Lilian Nash, Pamela Thurso, John Wollaston, Dr Sarah Griffith, Nia Nuttall, Mr David Timpson, Mr Edward Wright, Jeremy Gwynne, Andrew O’Donnell, Fiona Tomlinson, Justin Wright, Simon Hain, rh Mr Peter Onwurah, Chi Hamilton, Mr David Osborne, Sandra Tredinnick, David Yeo, Mr Tim Tyrie, Mr Andrew Hamilton, Fabian Owen, Albert Young, rh Sir George Uppal, Paul Hanson, rh Mr David Paisley, Ian Zahawi, Nadhim Vara, Mr Shailesh Harris, Mr Tom Pearce, Teresa Vickers, Martin Tellers for the Ayes: Havard, Mr Dai Perkins, Toby Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Mark Hunter and Healey, rh John Pound, Stephen Walker, Mr Charles Mr Philip Dunne Hepburn, Mr Stephen Qureshi, Yasmin Hillier, Meg Reeves, Rachel NOES Hilling, Julie Reynolds, Emma Hoey, Kate Reynolds, Jonathan Abbott, Ms Diane Coaker, Vernon Hollobone, Mr Philip Riordan, Mrs Linda Abrahams, Debbie Coffey, Ann Hopkins, Kelvin Robertson, Angus Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Connarty, Michael Hosie, Stewart Robertson, John Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Cooper, Rosie Hunt, Tristram Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Alexander, Heidi Cooper, rh Yvette Irranca-Davies, Huw Rotheram, Steve Allen, Mr Graham Corbyn, Jeremy Jackson, Glenda Roy, Mr Frank Anderson, Mr David Creagh, Mary James, Mrs Siân C. Roy, Lindsay Ashworth, Jonathan Creasy, Stella Jamieson, Cathy Ruane, Chris Austin, Ian Cruddas, Jon Jarvis, Dan Sarwar, Anas Bailey, Mr Adrian Cryer, John Johnson, rh Alan Seabeck, Alison Bain, Mr William Cunningham, Alex Johnson, Diana Sharma, Mr Virendra Baker, Steve Cunningham, Mr Jim Jones, Helen Sheerman, Mr Barry Cunningham, Tony Balls, rh Ed Jones, Susan Elan Shuker, Gavin Curran, Margaret Banks, Gordon Joyce, Eric Skinner, Mr Dennis Dakin, Nic Barron, rh Mr Kevin Kendall, Liz Slaughter, Mr Andy Danczuk, Simon Beckett, rh Margaret Khan, rh Sadiq Smith, rh Mr Andrew Darling, rh Mr Alistair Begg, Dame Anne Lazarowicz, Mark Smith, Angela David, Mr Wayne Leigh, Mr Edward Smith, Nick Bell, Sir Stuart Davidson, Mr Ian Leslie, Chris Smith, Owen Benn, rh Hilary Davies, Geraint Lewis, Mr Ivan Spellar, rh Mr John Berger, Luciana Davies, Philip Lloyd, Tony Stringer, Graham Betts, Mr Clive De Piero, Gloria Love, Mr Andrew Stuart, Ms Gisela Blackman-Woods, Roberta Denham, rh Mr John Lucas, Caroline Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Blenkinsop, Tom Dobbin, Jim Lucas, Ian Tami, Mark Blomfield, Paul Dobson, rh Frank MacNeil, Mr Angus Brendan Thomas, Mr Gareth Bone, Mr Peter Docherty, Thomas MacShane, rh Mr Denis Thornberry, Emily Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Mactaggart, Fiona Timms, rh Stephen Brennan, Kevin Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Mahmood, Shabana Trickett, Jon Brown, Lyn Dowd, Jim Mann, John Turner, Mr Andrew Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon Turner, Karl Brown, Mr Russell Dromey, Jack McCabe, Steve Twigg, Derek Bryant, Chris Dugher, Michael McCann, Mr Michael Twigg, Stephen Buck, Ms Karen Durkan, Mark McCarthy, Kerry Umunna, Mr Chuka Burden, Richard Eagle, Ms Angela McClymont, Gregg Vaz, rh Keith Burnham, rh Andy Eagle, Maria McCrea, Dr William Vaz, Valerie Byrne, rh Mr Liam Efford, Clive McDonagh, Siobhain Walley, Joan Campbell, Mr Alan Elliott, Julie McDonnell, John Watson, Mr Tom Campbell, Mr Ronnie Ellman, Mrs Louise McFadden, rh Mr Pat Watts, Mr Dave Chapman, Mrs Jenny Engel, Natascha McGovern, Alison Weir, Mr Mike Clark, Katy Esterson, Bill McGovern, Jim Whitehead, Dr Alan Clarke, rh Mr Tom Evans, Chris McGuire, rh Mrs Anne Williams, Hywel Clwyd, rh Ann Farrelly, Paul McKechin, Ann Williamson, Chris 95 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 96 (Programme) (No. 3) Wilson, Phil Wright, David Protection of Freedoms Bill Winnick, Mr David Wright, Mr Iain Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Tellers for the Noes: [1ST ALLOCATED DAY] Wishart, Pete Graham Jones and Woodcock, John Mark Hendrick Consideration of Bill, as amended in the Public Bill Committee Question accordingly agreed to. Clause 3 PROTECTION OF FREEDOMS BILL (WAYS AND MEANS) PERSONS ARRESTED FOR OR CHARGED WITH A Resolved, QUALIFYING OFFENCE That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Protection 7.30 pm of Freedoms Bill, it is expedient to authorise— (1) the making of provision under the Act in relation to Alan Johnson (Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle) income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, stamp duty, stamp (Lab): I beg to move amendment 89, page 3, line 43, duty reserve tax or stamp duty land tax in connection with the leave out from ‘offence’ to end of line 44. transfer of property, rights or liabilities to the Disclosure and Barring Service by a transfer scheme; and Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): With this (2) the charging of fees in connection with making datasets, or it will be convenient to discuss the following: parts of datasets, available for re-use.—(Lynn Featherstone). Government amendment 1. Amendment 91, page 4, line 2, leave out ‘3’ and insert ‘6’. Amendment 92, page 4, line 4, leave out ‘3’ and insert ‘6’. Government amendments 2 to 5. Amendment 94, in clause 4, page 5, line 32, at end insert ‘Otherwise the retention period is 6 years.’. Amendment 83, page 5, line 34, at end add— ‘(4) If the person was under the age of 18 at the time of the offence the retention period is three years.’. Government amendment 6. Amendment 84, in clause 9,page 8, line 5, after ‘retained’, insert ‘for an initial period of six years, then’. Government amendment 7. Amendment 108, in clause 20, page 13, line 26, leave out from ‘must’ to end of line 28 and insert— ‘place a report in both Houses, after consultation with the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), on the suitability of a Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material (referred to in this section and sections 21 and 22 as “the Commissioner”. ‘(1A) Subject to the approval of a report laid under subsection (1) by resolution of both Houses of Parliament, the Secretary of State may appoint a Commissioner to be known as the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material.’. Government amendments 8 to 15. Amendment 109, in clause 25, page 16, line 27, at end insert— ‘(1A) The provisions of this Chapter may not come into force until the conditions of 20(1) have been met.’. Amendment 85, page 16, line 33, leave out ‘3’ and insert ‘6’. Amendment 86, page 16, line 39, leave out ‘3’ and insert ‘6’. Amendment 87, page 17, line 1, leave out ‘3’ and insert ‘6’. Amendment 88, page 17, line 4, after ‘derived’, insert ‘6 years or more’. Amendment 82, page 17, line 9, at end insert— 97 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 98

‘(d) in the case of material taken or derived less than six There is no question but that those convicted of a years before the commencement day from a person recordable offence should have their DNA stored who— indefinitely; that is not a point between us in this House. (i) was arrested for, or charged with, the offence and It is necessary but insufficient, as the Government (ii) has not been convicted of the offence, apparently accept which is why they seek to go further. The European Court ruled that indiscriminately keeping the destruction of the material at the end of the period the DNA of those arrested but not convicted of a of six years beginning with the day on which the recordable offence was not proportionate. It breached material was taken or derived.’ the famous article 8 on the right to privacy and family Government amendments 33 to 38, 65, 66, 72 and 73. life, which after last week’s shenanigans may well be known from now on as “the cat’s clause”. [Interruption.] Alan Johnson: There are several amendments in this That sounded good in front of the bathroom mirror group that seek to maintain the current position on this morning! The issue therefore is for how long the DNA retention, as agreed by this House in April 2010 DNA of those arrested but not charged or convicted under the Crime and Security Act 2010. We have debated should be retained, consistent with the principle of this issue many times, so Members will know that the necessity and proportionality. The Government say three argument centres around for how long the DNA of years, in accordance with the so-called Scottish model; those arrested or charged but not convicted should we say six years, in accordance with all the evidence. remain on the database. The Government say the period It is worth mentioning that the Crime and Security should be three years for those arrested but not convicted Act 2010 broke from the Scottish model in not retaining of a serious offence—the so-called Scottish model—whereas the physical material from which the DNA is derived. we say it should be six years if arrested but not convicted That must be destroyed within six months after it has of any recordable offence, as agreed by this House been translated into a series of numbers known as a 18 months ago. DNA profile. This meets an important criticism by the I realise that I am susceptible to the charge of being European Court and addresses the concerns of those an old, sad former Home Secretary revisiting the scene who are rightly worried about the purposes to which of previous debates, and I may well be guilty of that, such genomes could be put. The Scottish model retains but let me explain why I, and colleagues on both sides of the DNA of those arrested but not convicted of serious the House, have proposed these amendments. When I offences only for three years, with a provision for a two-year was Home Secretary—and the newly appointed shadow extension that is so complex, bureaucratic and time- Minister, my right hon. Friend the Member for Delyn consuming that it has never been used or even applied for. (Mr Hanson), was the police Minister—we took a lot of The three-year retention period used in Scotland is time and trouble over this topic. We looked at all the not based on any evidence or analysis that I can find. available research before coming down in favour of a The figure appears to have been plucked from the air. period of six years. I hope I can convince the House The Minister will tell us that a review of the Scottish that we made the right decision in 2010 and that moving system by a Professor Fraser a year after it was introduced to the so-called Scottish model would be a terrible and proves that the system works, but that review did not potentially disastrous mistake. assess whether a longer retention period would be beneficial This is a cross-party amendment. It is sponsored by or whether retention for three years was detrimental the hon. Members for Kettering (Mr Hollobone) and to solving serious crimes. The retention of the DNA of for Bury North (Mr Nuttall) as well as the five supporters those arrested but not convicted can be justified as whose names appear, along with mine, on the amendment necessary and proportionate under the terms of the paper: my right hon. Friends the Members for Salford European Court’s decision if their risk of being re-arrested and Eccles (Hazel Blears) and for Delyn, my hon. is higher than that of the general population. Analysis Friend the Member for Mitcham and Morden (Siobhain conducted by the Home Office suggests that that is McDonagh), and the hon. Members for Brigg and indeed the case and that the risk falls to that of the level Goole () and for Shipley (Philip Davies). of the rest of the population gradually over a period of That DNA is the most important breakthrough in six years. It dips after three years, but it leaves a significant modern policing, and a science in which Britain leads tail that is not eradicated until after six years. the world, is incontestable. It provides the police with This analysis also established that the propensity to 3,300 matches to crime scenes each month, which amount be re-arrested is not determined at all by the nature of to almost 40,000 a year. It has led to forensics—the use the original alleged offence; in other words, there is no of DNA and fingerprints—being the critical information case for maintaining the DNA of those arrested but not in securing a quarter of primary detections in routine convicted of serious offences. For instance, Mark Dixie, crimes such as burglary and car crime in England and the murderer of Sally Anne Bowman, had his DNA Wales, as against only 6% in the mid-1990s. It has made taken because he was involved in a brawl—a minor a contribution to the huge decline in those crimes. It has offence. The provisions in the 2010 Act which we seek also transformed the ability to detect the perpetrators to retain are therefore based on evidence, unlike the of the most serious crimes: murder, manslaughter and Scottish model which is based on no evidence whatever. rape. There were 832 positive matches in 2009. The The coalition partners decided to adopt the Scottish European Court of Human Rights has accepted that model when they were in opposition, since when they the use of DNA evidence can make a valuable contribution have struggled to make the facts fit their policy, rather to the prevention and detection of crime and the protection than their policy fit the facts. Therefore, every so often of the crucial rights to life, liberty and security. It said they ask for a new hazard curve—the research that was that any mechanism for the retention of biometric done when I was Home Secretary—the latest of which material must be justified as both necessary and they have published and circulated, claiming, tendentiously, proportionate to a legitimate aim. that it is broadly supportive of the approach taken by 99 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 100

[Alan Johnson] He continued: “He didn’t even live locally so we had no intelligence leads the Government. That is so in the way that health either.” professionals broadly support the Government’s NHS Under the Government proposals before the House reforms. This supposed new research comes up with an today, this rapist would have escaped justice. absolute minimum of three years, a wide variance and a health warning about the size of the data sample. Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab): Does my right hon. I have also today seen a piece of Home Office research Friend accept that not only would this person not have that the Department sought to bury, and which was been caught, but he may well have committed further painfully extracted from it through freedom of information offences? That answers the point made by the hon. requests. My right hon. Friend the Member for Delyn Member for St Albans (Mrs Main) about why it is will say more about this, but it shows that 23,000 people important that we take action on this database. every year who would be on the DNA database under our proposals but not under the Bill as it currently Alan Johnson: Given that we know that the nature of stands will go on to commit further offences. That rapists is to rape again if they get away with it, that is a illustrates the scale of the crime and security problems very important point. that will be created if the House defeats this amendment and supports the Government policy. Mr Pat McFadden (Wolverhampton South East) (Lab): My right hon. Friend is making a powerful case. Will he Mrs Anne Main (St Albans) (Con): I am intrigued by speculate as to why the Government are doing this? the figures the right hon. Gentleman cites. Is he suggesting Does he agree that it is based on the wrong-headed that being on the database for longer is a deterrent, and analysis that somehow the last Labour Government if so, why would people go on to offend? created a quasi-police state? If the Government start from that view, they will end up with legislation that Alan Johnson: Potential rapists, murderers, burglars does not protect the public, but puts them at greater and car thieves knowing about the science of DNA is risk. A few weeks ago, we saw that with the watering certainly a deterrent. The argument here, which the down of the protections against terrorism and now we Home Office shares both under its new management see it with this proposal. Why are the Government so and its old management, is that we need to look at that addicted to watering down the protection of the public? hazard curve. The propensity of those arrested to be rearrested is much higher than for the general population. Alan Johnson: It puzzles me. The Under-Secretary of The crucial issue is how long it takes for that curve to State for the Home Department, the hon. Member for even out. If we do not find that out and set this Old Bexley and Sidcup (James Brokenshire), is an accurately, we will wipe the DNA of people who are honourable man. He was engaged in these debates in likely to commit more crimes—some of them the most 2010 when the Labour Government were proposing serious crimes—and not have the DNA to find and what became the Crime and Security Act. I thought convict them. that things would have moved on since then. I read the record of the Committee stage of this Bill and saw the The Government persist in seeking to apply the Scottish arguments put forward by my hon. Friend the Member model in England and Wales, when all the evidence and for Eltham (Clive Efford), and I find the paucity of the the very strong police advice—from both sides of the Government’s case astounding. They latched on to border—is that Scotland should apply the model of something called the Scottish model. Incidentally, nobody England and Wales. Scotland’s rape conviction rate is has challenged me about there being no basis of any less than half that of England and Wales. The DNA research for the three-year provision—Labour was in database in Scotland is far less effective in solving crime power, by the way, so I am not knocking other parties. than that in England and Wales. In 2009-10, a DNA This was a figure plucked out of the air. The Government profile loaded on to the DNA database in England and are reluctant to examine this issue on the basis of the Wales had an 18% higher chance of finding a match evidence, even to the extent of completely ignoring the than was the case in Scotland. In 2008-09, 79 rape, police, who do have a bit of expertise in this area. murder or manslaughter cases were matched from DNA profiles belonging to individuals who had been arrested In 1995, a 17-year-old girl was walking home from a but not convicted, 36 of them for non-serious offences. night out in Banbury when she was forced into a car by The chief constable of the west midlands, who leads on two men, taken to an isolated area and repeatedly this issue for the Association of Chief Police Officers, raped. In 2003, Lee Ainsby was arrested for being estimates a loss of about 1,000 matches per year if we drunk and disorderly, and a DNA sample was taken. use three rather than six years. Two years later, in 2005, the evidence from the rape case was re-analysed and the DNA profiles were loaded into Let us, for a moment, turn those dry statistics into the the national database—one matched, that of Lee Ainsby. actual facts about the people we are here to protect. He had committed a non-serious offence and he would Abdul Azad was arrested for violent disorder—a non- not have been on that database under the Government’s serious offence—in his Birmingham home in February proposals. A sample taken from his brother matched 2005. A DNA sample was taken and he was released the second sample and so both of those rapists were without charge. Five months later, a stranger rape occurred caught and convicted. in Stafford, 25 miles away. There were no clues until skin from beneath the victim’s fingernails was profiled and was found to match the DNA taken from Azad. 7.45 pm The senior investigating officer said: The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the “We would never have caught him had his DNA not already Home Department (James Brokenshire): I just wish to been on the database”. check on the point that the right hon. Gentleman made 101 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 102 about that case. I believe he said that this individual had Government will continue to take DNA upon arrest, been convicted. As he knows, under the arrangements—I when every person from whom a sample is taken will be think that there is agreement on this point—where there innocent. They now propose, under amendment 5, to is a conviction, the DNA would be retained indefinitely. introduce a convoluted, bureaucratic system to retain the DNA of innocent people where Alan Johnson: I did not say that this individual had “the retention of the material is necessary to assist in the prevention been convicted. He had been arrested but not charged or detection of crime.” of a non-serious offence and his DNA remained on the So someone is innocent until proven guilty, unless they database. The Minister has all these statistics—the Home are innocent of a serious offence, in which case they will Office provided me with them, so it can provide him have their DNA retained under a procedure that is with them too. bureaucratic, convoluted and complex, and that the police are unlikely to use, as with the Scottish extension. (Dartford) (Con): Will the right hon. We are now to have the gloriously named “biometric Gentleman concede that unless we take the DNA of commissioner”. I remember when my son was small every man, woman and child in the country there will buying him a bionic man—Steve Austin was “the bionic always be instances when DNA is found at the scene man”—and we now have the biometric commissioner. and not matched with any offender? At best, he will have to open a file for each of the 17,000 suspected rapist, and the police will have to put forward Alan Johnson: I will not concede that argument because, a case in respect of every one of those 17,000 suspected as I said at the beginning, our job, in accordance with rapists that Rape Crisis says are likely to be wiped off the European Court of Human Rights judgment, was the DNA database. At worst, as Rape Crisis fears, those to come up with something that is necessary and 17,000 profiles, or a large proportion of them, will be proportionate. There has to be a logic to this; we cannot wiped. have blanket and indiscriminate retention of DNA. Although all the evidence points to the need to adopt Because that is the requirement on us, we need to this amendment, we all need to accept that much of the examine and research, as the Home Office and others research is based on projection. We do not have the six have done, the hazard curve for those arrested but not years of actual evidence required to make a proper convicted—that is the whole nature of this debate. The assessment, and if we carry the Bill unamended we Government are not proposing to not keep the DNA of never will. DNA profiles for those arrested but not those arrested but not convicted, they are not proposing charged or convicted that are more than three years old to take the DNA on conviction and they are not proposing will be wiped, never to be retrieved. Let us accept the to take the DNA when someone is charged. They are amendment so that the proper assessment of all the taking the DNA of those arrested but not convicted— evidence, when we have six years’ worth of it, can take innocent—for a reason; they think that it should be place in a few years’ time. We can go from six years kept for three years, with various permutations and lots down to three, but we will never be able to go from three of complications. Labour Members say that six years is years up to six, which is why my right hon. Friend the the correct level. shadow Home Secretary has implored the Government— I shall give a final example, because it is important they might be right about the three-year limit, although to translate all this into people rather than statistics. we doubt it, and it might even be necessary to have a In June 2009, Gary Grubb attacked two women while limit of four or five years—to wait until we have evidence working temporarily in Middlesbrough, indecently rather than projections. Is that not eminently sensible, assaulting them both and then fleeing for South Africa. given that we are dealing with life and death and issues However, a DNA sample from the crime scene matched that are so pertinent to criminal justice and so important a sample placed on the national DNA database after he to our constituents? was arrested but not convicted for drink-driving—a The role of the Home Office for the past 229 years of non-serious offence—in 2006. He was arrested when he its existence has been to weigh the rights of the individual tried to re-enter the UK in 2010 and was sentenced to against the needs of society as a whole. For the Government 10 years in prison. He would be free today if the to pursue their retention policy against all the available proposals in this Bill had been in force at the time. evidence and in the teeth of fierce opposition from the Let me say to Members on the Government Benches police, who will be restricted in their ability to catch that lots of these cases will crop up in the future and criminals, and in defiance of the sensible alternative of this will come back to haunt them if they decide to reviewing the situation when more reliable evidence is support what is in this Bill today. The Government are available, is a huge, avoidable and potentially catastrophic ignoring these and the many other examples of the folly error that they will live to regret. of their dogmatic approach. Their attempt to take the moral high ground consists of trotting out a mantra James Brokenshire: One point of agreement between about these measures being consistent with the principle me and the right hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull of innocent until proven guilty. That would be the case West and Hessle (Alan Johnson) is that I think that this only if DNA were taken on conviction. Everybody is is a question of balancing collective protection and innocent when it is checked against previous crime individual freedom. We can agree on that much, but in scenes—there is nothing wrong with that, apparently—and some ways the right hon. Gentleman is looking through the collective view is that DNA should be maintained to the other end of the telescope. Through the indefinite match against future crime scenes for a limited period. retention regime that was the hallmark of the previous The Government do not even seek to return to the Labour Government, he seeks to retain data and situation pre-2003, when DNA was taken upon someone’s information for as long as possible in case it becomes being charged, not upon their being arrested. The useful. I think he was accusing us of being dogmatic on 103 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 104

[James Brokenshire] their recent report on the Bill. We have considered the issue further and agree that it is appropriate to place this point in some ways, but he and his right hon. and such detail on the face of the Bill. Amendments 1 to 5 hon. Friends come at it from the perspective that they therefore remove from clause 3 the existing order-making want indefinite retention of everyone’s DNA for as long power for the Secretary of State to prescribe circumstances as possible. Our starting point is different. Our concept in which such retention would be permitted and replace is that of innocent until proven guilty, so we come at it with new section 63FA of the Police and Criminal this from a different direction. Evidence Act 1984. I shall address some of the right hon. Gentleman’s New section 63FA sets out the circumstances in which direct points, but, as this is a wide-ranging group of a chief officer of police may apply to the commissioner amendments, it might assist the House if I explain the to retain DNA profiles and fingerprints of those arrested Government’s amendments before responding to those for, but not charged with, a serious offence. The first tabled by the right hon. Gentleman and others. circumstance, in new section 63FA(2), is where the victim of the alleged offender is a minor, a vulnerable Clive Efford (Eltham) (Lab): Will the Minister give adult or is “associated” with the suspect. The second way? circumstance, in new section 63FA(3), is where none of the criteria in subsection (2) apply but the chief officer James Brokenshire: I will give way to the hon. Gentleman, none the less considers it necessary to retain the material who played a key part in Committee. I am sure that to prevent or detect crime. The chief officer must give I will welcome his contribution to the debate. the person to whom the biometric material relates a copy of the application made to the commissioner. It is Clive Efford: The Minister has just said that he has then open to that person to make representations to the accepted the principle of innocent until proven guilty, commissioner within 28 days and it will then fall to the but will he confirm that everyone who is arrested will, commissioner to determine the application based on at the point at which they are arrested, have their DNA these papers. Amendment 15 to clause 24 enables the sample taken and checked against the national DNA National DNA Database Strategy Board to provide database, so that principle does not hold? The Government guidance to the police in such cases, thus helping to accept the principle that innocent people will have their ensure consistency in the making of applications to the DNA retained for up to three years for various crimes, commissioner. Amendment 9 to clause 20 ensures that so does he accept that we are debating the principle of the provisions dovetail with the Terrorism Prevention who should have their DNA retained for three years or and Investigation Measures Bill. for six years? On the question of people’s civil liberties, In addition to the commissioner’s review function in will the Minister take into consideration the civil liberties individual cases, we believe that the commissioner should of those who might be the victims of crimes that will also have a more general oversight role. Amendment 11 not be detected because of the position that the Government therefore extends the role of the commissioner to provide have taken? him or her with a general function of keeping under review the retention and use of DNA and fingerprints James Brokenshire: I say to the hon. Gentleman—he by police and other law enforcement authorities. and I had a fair and clear debate on this matter in I draw the House’s attention to amendment 7, which Committee—that the Government take into consideration makes two further exemptions from the normal retention the position of the victim, which is why I said that that rules. First, new subsection (2A) of section 63T of principle was our starting point. That is why we are PACE, inserted by clause 17, ensures that the police can adopting the provisions in the Bill. We recognise that retain hard copies of material on case files. That is in more than 5.7 million people are on the national DNA order to ensure that a copy of the material remains database and about 70% of the profiles in the EU are on available for examination by defence experts, and potentially our national database, so it important—and our the Criminal Cases Review Commission, in accordance responsibility—to consider the issues extraordinarily with the disclosure provisions of the Criminal Procedure carefully to ensure that we judge the balance correctly. and Investigations Act 1996. The changes are therefore I shall go briefly through the Government’s amendments intended to ensure that the provisions discharge CPIA before returning to the important issues of principle compliance obligations. The CPIA exists to prevent and to do with the duration of retention. Government miscarriages of justice and I am sure that we would all amendments 1 to 15, 33 to 38, 65, 66, 72 and 73 agree that nothing in the Bill can undermine that purpose. fine-tune the provisions governing the retention of DNA. In order to enable the police to meet their obligations, In a number of cases, they pick up on points raised in new section 63T(2A) provides for the police to retain Committee. The key amendments all touch on the role the minimum amount of biometric material necessary. of the commissioner for the retention and use of biometric So the records on the DNA and fingerprint databases material and I shall detail those amendments first. would be destroyed in accordance with the existing When we considered clause 3 in Committee, the hon. provisions of the Bill, leaving only hard copies on the Member for Eltham (Clive Efford) and others expressed police case file that could be examined by the defence or concern that much of the detail about the arrangements the Criminal Cases Review Commission as necessary. for retaining biometric material taken from those arrested The second part of amendment 7, which inserts new for, but not charged with, a qualifying offence was left subsection (2B) of section 63T, arises from a concern to subordinate legislation. I gave the hon. Gentleman raised with us by Forensic Science Northern Ireland. an undertaking that the Government would take the The service was concerned that, because of the way that issue away and consider it. The Joint Committee on PACE is drafted, all samples taken compulsorily from a Human Rights also raised concerns about the issue in suspect would be caught by the requirement to destroy 105 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 106 them in clause 14 of the Bill. That would include DNA database and in 2009-10, the figure was 4.8 million material originating from another person that is evidence people. Now, let us look at the number of detections in of contact between people and would often be key those years. In 2004-05 there were 35,605 and in 2009-10 evidence in a trial examining that contact. An example there were 32,552, so when there were 2 million more may be where traces of victim’s blood have been taken people on the database, there were 3,000 fewer detections. from a suspect’s hand. New subsection (2B) of new I therefore challenge the suggestion of the right hon. section 63T therefore provides that where material is Member for Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle that taken from one person that originates from another it is the more people’s DNA is on the database, the more not required to be destroyed within six months but can effective it is. The figures do not necessarily equate in be retained for as long as is necessary in the same way as that way, as the historic evidence shows. crime scene material can because it is, essentially, crime scene material. Alan Johnson: The total number of detected crimes in which a DNA match was available fell by 11% between 8pm 2003-04 and 2008-09—that is what the Minister basically Let me address the amendments in the name of the just told us—but over the same five-year period, police right hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull West and recorded crime fell by 17.1%. So there was an 11% Hessle and others. As we have heard, the amendments reduction in DNA detections and a 17.1% reduction in return to the question of how long we should retain the recorded crime. Those are the figures that the Minister DNA and fingerprints of innocent people. They would of State, Department for Work and Pensions, the right replace the Government’s provisions, which meet our hon. Member for and Ewell (Chris Grayling) coalition commitment to adopt the protections of the tried to fiddle in the previous Parliament. Burglary was Scottish model, with the core of the previous Government’s down 29%, vehicle crime was down 40% and criminal Crime and Security Act 2010. damage was down 23%—so much for fewer cases being solved through DNA. Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab): Will the Minister give way? James Brokenshire: As a proportion of total detections, DNA detections have remained pretty static. If the James Brokenshire: I will, because I know that the right hon. Gentleman is right that the figures I gave hon. Gentleman has taken a close interest in these were all down to there being less crime—I think that is matters for some time. his argument—what he said about DNA detections would not be the case. Some 2 million extra people have Steve McCabe: The country’s police chiefs have rather been put on to the database and if hon. Members are helpfully told us that large numbers of those who were suggesting that that change has been positive and would arrested following the summer riots were arrested because generate many more detections, I am afraid to say that of matches against the existing DNA database. Has the that is not borne out by the evidence. Minister undertaken any work to ascertain how many of those would have escaped justice under his proposals? Mr David Davis (Haltemprice and Howden) (Con): I think this is quite a good indicator of how much the James Brokenshire: The hon. Gentleman highlights a Labour party played with the politics of this issue when key issue—the retention of the DNA of those convicted they were in government rather than dealing with the of offences, with which I absolutely agree. Some 75% of reality. The biggest handicap to the use of DNA in those who were engaged in the rioting—or, at least, evidence is collection at the crime site, which is very those who were brought before the courts—had committed poor. Our police have been poor at that for a long time prior offences. That clearly makes the point that there but Labour did nothing about that throughout the is a need to put the DNA of those who are guilty of entire period being discussed. crimes on the database, rather than keeping those who are innocent of any crime on it, which is the approach of the Opposition and was the approach of the previous James Brokenshire: My right hon. Friend makes a Government. The Labour party persists in its approach very important and powerful case about the effective of keeping the DNA and fingerprints of innocent people use of DNA and the fact that crime scene issues can be for many years, no matter what those people have been very important in the detection of crimes and in ensuring accused of and no matter how little evidence was ever that perpetrators are brought to justice. uncovered in relation to them. It is worth putting these issues into context. Of course, Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) DNA is important. I fully recognise the scientific (Lab): Will the Minister give way? breakthrough of being able to take DNA to search against the database and, most importantly, to retain James Brokenshire: I will give way because I know crime scene DNA evidence in a cold case database that the hon. Lady has focused closely on the against which matches can be made. However, the collection disproportionate impact that the DNA database can of DNA is part of a process of investigation and is not have on some minority communities. I will be very a panacea in itself. I think that if the Labour party interested to hear her thoughts. could have its way, it would continue with the previous approach of simply trying to put more and more data Ms Abbott: I will of course be supporting the amendment on the database regardless of people’s guilt or innocence. in the Lobby tonight, but is the Minister aware that the However, it is interesting to look at what has been the professor who devised the use of DNA detection processes, result of adding many more people on to the database. Professor Jeffreys, is against keeping the DNA of innocent In 2004-05, 2.8 million people were on the national people? He argues that the amount of DNA that has to 107 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 108

[Ms Abbott] misunderstand this research which did not assess whether alternative systems would have been more effective. It was also unable to be held for that purpose and the intrusion of civil review how many serious crimes went undetected as the relevant liberties that that brings is not justified by the marginal DNA profiles had been deleted and, therefore, was not in a position to conclude whether there was any detriment to the improvements in detection. detection of serious crime.” That is the hon. Gentleman’s Department’s evidence to James Brokenshire: The hon. Lady, who has taken a the Select Committee—collapse of stout party. close and personal interest in these issues for a number of years, makes an important point. I know that some James Brokenshire: Again, I would point to the right people will say that we should take everybody’s DNA hon. Gentleman’s colleagues in the Ministry of Justice, from birth and that this would solve all the problems, who obviously wrote the letter saying that Professor but neither party seeks to make that argument here, Fraser’s report came to the conclusion that there was no although some people may.The issue of disproportionality detriment to the detection of serious crime. As I have is very important when considering how to strike the highlighted, Professor Fraser’s report was wide-ranging right balance on what the retention period should be, in scope. Needless to say, we have a difference of view on how DNA is used and on the protections that are on this important point. afforded. That is why we have taken the approach we have in the Bill. Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): In deciding whether to support the amendment or the Government Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con): Will the Minister tonight, I have to balance the loss of rights of those give way? people who had crimes committed against them, or who may have crimes committed against them as a result of James Brokenshire: I will, because I know that my reducing the period of the retention of DNA from hon. Friend has put his name to some of the amendments. six years to three, against the injustice that might be visited on innocent people whose DNA is kept for three Mr Hollobone: On the gap between the fall in DNA years longer than it otherwise would be. Can the Minister detections and the fall in crime, my hon. Friend the tell me, in words simple enough even for me to understand, Minister is ignoring the deterrent effect, which my hon. what exactly the loss of human rights and the injustice Friend the Member for St Albans (Mrs Main) mentioned will be to those innocent people who have their DNA earlier. If one’s name is on the database, one is less likely kept for three years longer before it is wiped? Can he to commit crime and therefore will not be detected, so compare that with the suffering of victims who have the matches will go down less than the crime rate is crimes committed against them by people who will not falling. I think that my constituents will be alarmed that be detected? there are 23,000 people on this database whose details will be wiped if we go along with the Government’s James Brokenshire: This is about getting the right suggestions. The former Home Secretary has pointed people on the national DNA database. By that, I mean out that on the hazard curve, they are likely to be those who have been convicted of crimes. We should rearrested within that missing three-year period. focus on those who have committed crimes; we should look at recidivism and getting persistent prolific offenders, James Brokenshire: That point was made by the right those who have been in prison and those who have hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle, committed crimes on the national DNA database. but I pray in aid Professor Fraser’s report. I appreciate Interestingly, that was not the approach of the previous that the right hon. Gentleman says that the terms of Government; they were more fixated with keeping the reference were not wide enough and that it is not innocent on the national DNA database. If we take the appropriate to rely on the report, but those terms of approach that I suggest, we can ensure that we focus reference took account of available information and attention where it is needed, and that we do our duty—this experience elsewhere when the appropriateness of the is something that I take very seriously—when it comes Scottish system was considered. Indeed, it was the right to protecting the public and ensuring that the police can hon. Gentleman’s colleague in the other place, Lord do what is necessary. I certainly believe that the provisions Bach, who said: before the House will enable the police to do that. “In determining the appropriateness of the current legislation, Professor Fraser considered data on reoffending rates and conducted Dr Lewis: My hon. Friend is very generous in giving a wide consultation. He did not uncover any evidence to suggest way, particularly as he knows that this will not be a that this approach to retention has caused any detriment to the supportive question. With the greatest respect, he did detection of serious crime in Scotland.” not answer my question, which was: in practical, simple I therefore think it is appropriate to look to Professor terms, in what way will these innocent people—let us Fraser’s investigation, as he is a learned expert on accept that they are innocent—who will have their forensics, rather than simply trying to skate over and DNA kept on record for an extra three years suffer, or ignore it as the right hon. Gentleman appears to be doing. have their rights infringed? Can we compare that with the suffering and infringed rights of people who will Alan Johnson: According to the evidence that the otherwise have crimes committed against them by criminals hon. Gentleman’s Department gave to the Home Affairs who go unpunished? Committee, “It has been suggested that the research carried out into the James Brokenshire: When I look at the Members of Scottish system (by Professor Fraser) did not uncover any evidence Parliament who contact me about the DNA database, to suggest that the Scottish approach to retention had caused any there are not huge stacks of correspondence relating to detriment to the detection of…crime…However, that is to the retention of DNA. The correspondence relates to 109 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 110 the many people who complain about their DNA remaining saying that I suspect that there will be people who are on the national DNA database when they are innocent victims of crime because he rejects my right hon. Friend’s of any crime, and who say how that offends them. Let amendment this evening. us look at some of the cases involved. GeneWatch UK The Minister will know that my right hon. Friend has been quite helpful in highlighting the issues. There and I included the provisions that we are discussing in is the 12-year-old schoolboy arrested for allegedly stealing the Crime and Security Act 2010 after considerable a pack of Pokémon cards; the grandmother arrested for thought, and consideration of the European judgments failing to return a football that was kicked into her that were brought against us. We tried to balance the garden; the 10-year-old victim of bullying who had a civil liberties of the British people with their ability to false accusation made against her; and the 14-year-old secure their future, free of murder, rape and crime. The girl arrested for allegedly pinging another girl’s bra. Minister will know that there are balances to be struck; Those people have been arrested; their DNA would be ministerial life is about balances. I accept the point retained under the arrangements that the previous made by the hon. Members for New Forest East Government seemed to laud. That issue of injustice is (Dr Lewis), for Dartford (Gareth Johnson), and for very much at the heart of the matter. St Albans (Mrs Main): if the amendment tabled by my right hon. Friend is accepted, there will be people whose Mr Hanson: Will the hon. Gentleman place in the DNA is on the database for three years longer than the Library information on exactly how many letters he has Government propose. Those people may not commit a received on the topic and how many complaints he has further crime, and they may well feel aggrieved, but the had, as compared with the number of innocent people purpose of the House is to protect the rights of citizens who will be killed, raped, maimed or injured because of as far as we can. the proposals before the House? When my right hon. Friend and I were in government, and were Ministers in the Department in which the Minister is now privileged to serve, we felt that, within 8.15 pm European law and within the rights of protection of those liberties, we should try to extend the window of James Brokenshire: I am sorry that the right hon. opportunity so as to protect as many people as possible, Gentleman has chosen to try to take us down that path. by ensuring that DNA was collected. We have to balance I am speaking honestly and fairly about the correspondence the aggrieved feelings that the hon. Member for New that comes from hon. Members on both sides of the Forest East mentioned with the rights of citizens as a House on the injustice that some minority communities whole. There will undoubtedly be people who feel aggrieved, feel in particular. The hon. Member for Hackney North but we have to accept those consequences. Ministerial and Stoke Newington (Ms Abbott) has highlighted how life is about making not just judgments, but the right acutely many communities feel about the issue. judgments. On this occasion, the Minister has got that Ultimately, it comes down to a question of judgment judgment wrong. and balance. The Labour party, when in government, Britain is leading the world in DNA technology, did not focus properly on putting the guilty on the which provides critical investigative leads. The DNA database. We are focused on doing that, and on not database provides the police with almost 3,300 DNA retaining all the DNA of those innocent of any crime. matches per month. There were 832 positive matches The right hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull West on the DNA database in cases of rape, murder, and and Hessle may perhaps suggest that privacy is in some manslaughter and other serious crimes in 2009. My way a science, but it is not. Liberty cannot be decided hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Selly Oak on by testing in that way. It is a question of judgment (Steve McCabe) mentioned his concerns; Chris Sims, and looking at the evidence, and reaching a conclusion the chief constable of the West Midlands police, who on how to strike the balance fairly between collective leads on the issue not for the West Midlands but for the protection and individual liberty. Association of Chief Police Officers, has said that much As for what has been said about the previous more detailed information is important to ensure that Government’s proposals, the right hon. Member for we protect the public from serious crime. There is no Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle may pray in aid dispute about the fact that three years should be included all sorts of things, but there was very limited support in the Bill—both sides have accepted that. We are for the idea that six years was appropriate. We believe arguing for the maximum envelope that we introduced that the protection given by the Scottish model means in 2010, which will protect future victims of crime. that that is the right approach, and it strikes the right balance, and I therefore commend it to the House. (Oxford West and Abingdon) (Con): In the oral evidence given to the Select Committee on Home Affairs by Chris Sims of ACPO on 5 January Mr Hanson: I confirm to the Minister that this is a 2010, it was clear that while DNA evidence is an important matter of judgment—a judgment as to whether one is tool used by the police, it is just one tool that is used in on the side of victims and the prevention of crime. 0.67% of convictions. There are very difficult issues that the Minister knows we have wrestled with to do with balancing civil liberties Mr Hanson: Why make the police’s job harder? There with the protections that my right hon. Friend the are people who would be on the database because they Member for Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle (Alan have been caught—they have not been charged or Johnson) has so eloquently spoken about today. I pay convicted—whose DNA would be on record for between tribute to him; he has made a compelling case that three and six years. My right hon. Friend eloquently Government Members ignore at their peril. I do not say described cases that led to people being arrested who that to the Minister in a threatening way; I am simply would not otherwise be arrested. Those people have 111 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 112

[Mr Hanson] Who is responsible if a chief constable applies for a waiver, it is not dealt with, and the person concerned been arrested, and as a result they have not committed commits a further offence? more crimes: they have not gone on to rape if they are The Minister has not thought through his proposals, serial rapists; they have not gone on to kill if they are and as my right hon. Friend said, this is about people. It serial killers; and they have not gone on to commit is about John Warboys, the black-cab rapist, who was serious violence if they are individuals who commit caught because his DNA was stored when he was serious violence. The public is safer, so I do not understand arrested, but not charged, for a sex assault. [Interruption.] why the so-called party of law and order can sit back I would love to give way to the Minister, but his programme and watch a Minister roll back crime-fighting tools that motion allows us four more minutes of discussion, and would save people from becoming victims of crime in my right hon. Friend needs to reply. If he wishes to future. reconsider his position, I will certainly give way. The Unpublished evidence, which freedom of information black-cab rapist was caught as a result of DNA evidence. requests have dragged out of the Home Office—my [Interruption.] Well, Kensley Larrier, whom we discussed right hon. Friend the Member for Normanton, Pontefract at length in Committee in 2010—officials presented and Castleford () mentioned this last good information then, so it must be correct, as it was week—shows that every year, 23,000 people, who under the information supplied at the time—was arrested in Labour’s system would be on a DNA database will, May 2002 for the possession of an offensive weapon. under Government plans, go on to commit further His DNA would not be retained under Government offences. In the next eight minutes of this short debate, plans, but he was jailed for five years, and his name I urge the Minister to tell us which one of those added to the sex offenders register for life. 23,000 crimes he can explain to future victims of crime? Can he look them in the eye and say, “We could have Mark Dixie murdered 18-year-old Sally Anne Bowman stopped that and prevented it from happening, but we close to her home. DNA evidence was retrieved from chose, for the sake of the civil liberties of the few”—and the murder victim, and within five hours, he was under I accept those few do have civil liberties—“to allow arrest, and sentenced to life imprisonment. I do not 23,000 people to become victims of crime in future.” want to see other Mark Dixies wandering the streets in those three years; I do not want crimes to be Of those 23,000, some 6,000 a year will go on to committed by other individuals who could be caught commit serious crimes, including rape, sexual offences, and stopped. I accept that civil liberties issues are at murder and manslaughter. The Government’s so-called stake, but our job is to balance those civil liberties, and hazard curve supports Labour’s six-year retention plan, make a judgment that protects the public. I urge my rather than three years. Members do not have to believe right hon. and hon. Friends to support the amendment me or the Home Office: that is independently verified tabled by my right hon. Friend, because this is about by the House of Commons Library. Changes to DNA judgment. His judgment is right, and I believe that the evidence will make it harder, not easier, for the police to judgment of Opposition spokespeople is right. I believe catch and convict criminals. The Government’s weakening that, sadly, if the Minister does not change his mind, of the DNA database goes against Home Office evidence, the Government’s judgment will be shown to be flawed and 17,000 people arrested, but not charged with rape in due course. will, amazingly, be removed from the database, thus putting more women at risk. I hope that the Minister will reflect on that, and listen Alan Johnson: I have been a Member of the House to my right hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon for 14 years, and I have not heard such a feeble reply Hull West and Hessle, who has served this country in from a Minister, not because he is any way inadequate—he high office, and who has looked at the issue seriously to is a very good Minister—but because the paucity of the protect the public, as we all have. We will not crow in argument is unbelievable. We heard an argument from triumph if the Minister supports my right hon. Friend’s the Opposition that there was no research behind the amendment: we will cheer his common sense. If he does three-year Scottish model—that argument was not refuted. not support the measure, perhaps he can look at amendment The Opposition made the argument that there is no 108, which was tabled by my hon. Friend the Member evidence whatsoever that suggests that if someone is for Gedling (), whom I congratulate on arrested, but not convicted of a non-serious offence, his promotion to the shadow Cabinet, where he will that makes a difference to their propensity to go on and serve with distinction. My right hon. Friend’s amendment, be arrested for a serious offence. We put forward evidence which I am pleased to support, suggests that perhaps about the proportion of DNA evidence and forensics we could delay the measure for a few years, so that we that are used increasing from 6% in the mid-1990s to could consult ACPO on what is going to happen. 25% now, showing the importance of DNA evidence. At the moment, the Bill allows police forces to apply We put forward evidence of individual cases where, if to the so-called biometric commissioner for provisions the Government’s policy became law, murderers and on those who are arrested but not charged, which rapists would not be caught, because their DNA would means that police forces can effectively say that they do not be on the database. not want to have someone deleted from the database. The arguments that we get back are that the Government There could be an additional 17,000 cases, and how originally wanted to keep DNA indefinitely, which is much police time will be devoted to that? The Minister not pertinent to the argument today, or that we would is transferring risk from the Home Office to the chief have as many names on the DNA database as we could, constable of every force in the country, who will say, “I as though we were evil repressionists, which may be will not apply for that risk. I will not apply to ensure what the Minister believes, whereas those on the that that happens.” What will the work load be for the Government Benches are civil libertarians to the core, biometric commissioner? What resources will they have? despite the fact that most of them want to abolish the 113 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 114

Human Rights Act. The Government need to engage in Goodman, Helen Morden, Jessica the argument. There is no evidence for what they are Greatrex, Tom Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) seeking to do—no evidence whatever about three years. Green, Kate Morris, Grahame M. The evidence that has emerged since the Scottish model Greenwood, Lilian (Easington) was introduced in 2007 supports six years. All the Griffith, Nia Munn, Meg projections made by the Department indicate that DNA Gwynne, Andrew Murphy, rh Mr Jim Hain, rh Mr Peter Murphy, rh Paul should be kept for six years. Hamilton, Fabian Murray, Ian We are seeking to save the Government from themselves. Hanson, rh Mr David Nandy, Lisa Members on the Government Benches had better Harris, Mr Tom Nash, Pamela understand, as those who support the amendment Havard, Mr Dai Nuttall, Mr David understand, that the issue will come back to haunt the Healey, rh John O’Donnell, Fiona Government. The question put by the Leader of the Hendrick, Mark Onwurah, Chi Opposition to the Prime Minister about the number of Hepburn, Mr Stephen Osborne, Sandra rapists being wiped off the DNA database is only the Hillier, Meg Owen, Albert start. Ignore the amendment and the Government make Hilling, Julie Paisley, Ian trouble for themselves, as well as making this country a Hodge, rh Margaret Pearce, Teresa Hoey, Kate Perkins, Toby less safe and secure place. Hollobone, Mr Philip Pound, Stephen Question put, That the amendment be made. Hood, Mr Jim Qureshi, Yasmin Hopkins, Kelvin Reed, Mr Jamie The House divided: Ayes 232, Noes 291. Horwood, Martin Reeves, Rachel Division No. 356] [8.29 pm Hunt, Tristram Reynolds, Emma Irranca-Davies, Huw Reynolds, Jonathan AYES Jackson, Glenda Riordan, Mrs Linda Abbott, Ms Diane Cunningham, Alex James, Mrs Siân C. Robertson, John Abrahams, Debbie Cunningham, Mr Jim Jamieson, Cathy Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Cunningham, Tony Jarvis, Dan Rotheram, Steve Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Curran, Margaret Johnson, rh Alan Roy, Mr Frank Alexander, Heidi Dakin, Nic Johnson, Diana Roy, Lindsay Allen, Mr Graham Danczuk, Simon Jones, Helen Ruane, Chris Anderson, Mr David Darling, rh Mr Alistair Jones, Mr Kevan Sarwar, Anas Ashworth, Jonathan David, Mr Wayne Jones, Susan Elan Seabeck, Alison Austin, Ian Davidson, Mr Ian Joyce, Eric Sharma, Mr Virendra Bailey, Mr Adrian Davies, Geraint Kendall, Liz Sheerman, Mr Barry Bain, Mr William Davies, Philip Khan, rh Sadiq Shuker, Gavin Banks, Gordon De Piero, Gloria Lammy, rh Mr David Skinner, Mr Dennis Barron, rh Mr Kevin Denham, rh Mr John Lazarowicz, Mark Slaughter, Mr Andy Beckett, rh Margaret Dobbin, Jim Leslie, Chris Smith, rh Mr Andrew Begg, Dame Anne Dobson, rh Frank Lewis, Mr Ivan Smith, Angela Bell, Sir Stuart Docherty, Thomas Lewis, Dr Julian Smith, Nick Benn, rh Hilary Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Lloyd, Tony Smith, Owen Berger, Luciana Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Spellar, rh Mr John Betts, Mr Clive Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Love, Mr Andrew Stringer, Graham Blackman-Woods, Roberta Dowd, Jim Lucas, Caroline Stuart, Ms Gisela Lucas, Ian Blenkinsop, Tom Doyle, Gemma Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Mactaggart, Fiona Blomfield, Paul Dromey, Jack Tami, Mark Mahmood, Shabana Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Dugher, Michael Thomas, Mr Gareth Main, Mrs Anne Brennan, Kevin Durkan, Mark Timms, rh Stephen Mann, John Brown, Lyn Eagle, Ms Angela Trickett, Jon Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Eagle, Maria Marsden, Mr Gordon McCabe, Steve Turner, Karl Brown, Mr Russell Efford, Clive Twigg, Derek Bryant, Chris Elliott, Julie McCann, Mr Michael Twigg, Stephen Buck, Ms Karen Ellman, Mrs Louise McCarthy, Kerry Umunna, Mr Chuka Burden, Richard Engel, Natascha McClymont, Gregg Vaz, Valerie Burnham, rh Andy Esterson, Bill McCrea, Dr William Walley, Joan Byrne, rh Mr Liam Evans, Chris McDonagh, Siobhain Campbell, Mr Alan Farrelly, Paul McFadden, rh Mr Pat Watson, Mr Tom Campbell, Mr Ronnie Field, rh Mr Frank McGovern, Alison Watts, Mr Dave Chapman, Mrs Jenny Fitzpatrick, Jim McGovern, Jim Whitehead, Dr Alan Clark, Katy Flello, Robert McGuire, rh Mrs Anne Williams, Hywel Clarke, rh Mr Tom Flint, rh Caroline McKechin, Ann Williamson, Chris Clwyd, rh Ann Flynn, Paul McKenzie, Mr Iain Wilson, Phil Coaker, Vernon Fovargue, Yvonne McKinnell, Catherine Winnick, Mr David Coffey, Ann Francis, Dr Hywel Meacher, rh Mr Michael Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Connarty, Michael Gapes, Mike Mearns, Ian Woodcock, John Michael, rh Alun Cooper, Rosie Gardiner, Barry Wright, , rh David Cooper, rh Yvette Gilmore, Sheila Wright, Mr Iain Miliband, rh Edward Creagh, Mary Glass, Pat Miller, Andrew Tellers for the Ayes: Creasy, Stella Glindon, Mrs Mary Mitchell, Austin Mr David Hamilton and Cruddas, Jon Godsiff, Mr Roger Moon, Mrs Madeleine Graham Jones Cryer, John Goggins, rh Paul 115 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 116

NOES Jones, Mr Marcus Pugh, John Kawczynski, Daniel Raab, Mr Dominic Afriyie, Adam Duddridge, James Kelly, Chris Redwood, rh Mr John Aldous, Peter Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Kirby, Simon Rees-Mogg, Jacob Amess, Mr David Ellis, Michael Knight, rh Mr Greg Reevell, Simon Andrew, Stuart Ellison, Jane Kwarteng, Kwasi Reid, Mr Alan Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Ellwood, Mr Tobias Laing, Mrs Eleanor Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Bacon, Mr Richard Elphicke, Charlie Lancaster, Mark Robertson, Hugh Baker, Norman Eustice, George Latham, Pauline Robertson, Mr Laurence Baker, Steve Evans, Graham Laws, rh Mr David Rogerson, Dan Barker, Gregory Evans, Jonathan Leadsom, Andrea Rosindell, Andrew Baron, Mr John Evennett, Mr David Lee, Jessica Rudd, Amber Barwell, Gavin Fabricant, Michael Lee, Dr Phillip Ruffley, Mr David Bebb, Guto Fallon, Michael Leech, Mr John Russell, Bob Beith, rh Sir Alan Farron, Tim Lefroy, Jeremy Rutley, David Bellingham, Mr Henry Featherstone, Lynne Leigh, Mr Edward Sanders, Mr Adrian Benyon, Richard Field, Mr Mark Leslie, Charlotte Sandys, Laura Beresford, Sir Paul Foster, rh Mr Don Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Scott, Mr Lee Berry, Jake Francois, rh Mr Mark Lewis, Brandon Selous, Andrew Bingham, Andrew Freeman, George Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Shapps, rh Grant Binley, Mr Brian Freer, Mike Lloyd, Stephen Sharma, Alok Birtwistle, Gordon Fullbrook, Lorraine Lopresti, Jack Shelbrooke, Alec Blackwood, Nicola Fuller, Richard Lord, Jonathan Simmonds, Mark Blunt, Mr Crispin Garnier, Mark Loughton, Tim Simpson, Mr Keith Boles, Nick Gauke, Mr David Macleod, Mary Skidmore, Chris Bone, Mr Peter George, Andrew Maynard, Paul Smith, Miss Chloe Bradley, Karen Gibb, Mr Nick McCartney, Jason Smith, Henry Brady, Mr Graham Gilbert, Stephen McCartney, Karl Smith, Julian Brake, rh Tom Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl McDonnell, John Smith, Sir Robert Bray, Angie Glen, John McIntosh, Miss Anne Soubry, Anna Brazier, Mr Julian Goodwill, Mr Robert McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Spencer, Mr Mark Bridgen, Andrew Graham, Richard McPartland, Stephen Stephenson, Andrew Brine, Mr Steve Grant, Mrs Helen McVey, Esther Stevenson, John Brokenshire, James Gray, Mr James Mensch, Louise Stewart, Bob Brooke, Annette Green, Damian Menzies, Mark Stewart, Iain Browne, Mr Jeremy Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Mercer, Patrick Stewart, Rory Bruce, Fiona Griffiths, Andrew Metcalfe, Stephen Stride, Mel Buckland, Mr Robert Gummer, Ben Miller, Maria Stuart, Mr Graham Burley, Mr Aidan Gyimah, Mr Sam Mills, Nigel Stunell, Andrew Burns, Conor Halfon, Robert Milton, Anne Sturdy, Julian Burns, rh Mr Simon Hames, Duncan Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Burstow, Paul Hammond, Stephen Moore, rh Michael Swinson, Jo Burt, Alistair Hancock, Matthew Mordaunt, Penny Swire, rh Mr Hugo Burt, Lorely Hancock, Mr Mike Morgan, Nicky Syms, Mr Robert Byles, Dan Harper, Mr Mark Morris, Anne Marie Teather, Sarah Cable, rh Vince Harrington, Richard Morris, David Thurso, John Cairns, Alun Harris, Rebecca Morris, James Timpson, Mr Edward Carmichael, Neil Hart, Simon Mosley, Stephen Tomlinson, Justin Carswell, Mr Douglas Harvey, Nick Mulholland, Greg Tredinnick, David Chishti, Rehman Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Munt, Tessa Turner, Mr Andrew Chope, Mr Christopher Hayes, Mr John Murray, Sheryll Tyrie, Mr Andrew Clappison, Mr James Heald, Oliver Murrison, Dr Andrew Uppal, Paul Clark, rh Greg Heath, Mr David Neill, Robert Vara, Mr Shailesh Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Heaton-Harris, Chris Newmark, Mr Brooks Vickers, Martin Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Hemming, John Newton, Sarah Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Coffey, Dr Thérèse Henderson, Gordon Nokes, Caroline Walker, Mr Charles Collins, Damian Hinds, Damian Norman, Jesse Wallace, Mr Ben Colvile, Oliver Hoban, Mr Mark Offord, Mr Matthew Walter, Mr Robert Corbyn, Jeremy Hollingbery, George Ollerenshaw, Eric Ward, Mr David Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hopkins, Kris Opperman, Guy Watkinson, Angela Crabb, Stephen Howarth, Mr Gerald Crockart, Mike Howell, John Ottaway, Richard Weatherley, Mike Crouch, Tracey Hunter, Mark Parish, Neil Webb, Steve Davey, Mr Edward Huppert, Dr Julian Patel, Priti Wharton, James Davies, David T. C. Hurd, Mr Nick Pawsey, Mark Wheeler, Heather (Monmouth) Jackson, Mr Stewart Penning, Mike White, Chris Davies, Glyn James, Margot Penrose, John Whittaker, Craig Davis, rh Mr David Javid, Sajid Perry, Claire Willetts, rh Mr David de Bois, Nick Jenkin, Mr Bernard Phillips, Stephen Williams, Mr Mark Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Johnson, Gareth Pickles, rh Mr Eric Williams, Roger Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Johnson, Joseph Pincher, Christopher Williams, Stephen Doyle-Price, Jackie Jones, Andrew Poulter, Dr Daniel Williamson, Gavin Drax, Richard Jones, Mr David Prisk, Mr Mark Willott, Jenny 117 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 118

Wilson, Mr Rob Zahawi, Nadhim (b) sending it to the person by post at that address, or Wollaston, Dr Sarah (c) sending it to the person by email or other electronic Wright, Jeremy Tellers for the Noes: means. Mr Philip Dunne and Wright, Simon (8) The requirement in subsection (6) does not apply if the Bill Wiggin Young, rh Sir George whereabouts of the person to whom the material relates is not known and cannot, after reasonable inquiry, be ascertained by Question accordingly negatived. the responsible chief officer of police. (9) An application or notice under this section must be in 8.44 pm writing. Proceedings interrupted (Programme Order, this day). (10) In this section— The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Questions necessary “victim” includes intended victim, for the disposal of the business to be concluded at that “vulnerable adult” has the meaning given by section time (Standing Order No. 83E). 60(1) of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, and the reference in subsection (2)(c) to a person being Clause 3 associated with another person is to be read in accordance with section 62(3) to (7) of the Family Law Act 1996.’.—(James PERSONS ARRESTED FOR OR CHARGED WITH A Brokenshire.) QUALIFYING OFFENCE Amendments made: 1, page 3, line 44, leave out ‘any Clause 8 prescribed circumstances apply’ and insert ‘the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material PERSONS GIVEN A PENALTY NOTICE has consented under section 63FA to the retention of the material’. Amendment made: 6, page 7, line 33, after ‘2001’ insert Amendment 2, page 4, leave out lines 24 to 31. ‘and in respect of whom no proceedings are brought for the Amendment 3, page 4, leave out lines 43 and 44. offence to which the notice relates’.—(James Brokenshire.) Amendment 4, page 5, leave out lines 6 to 11. Amendment 5, page 5, line 11, at end insert— Clause 17 ‘63FA Retention of section 63D material by virtue of EXCLUSIONS FOR CERTAIN REGIMES section 63F(5): consent of Commissioner Amendment made: 7, page 11, line 43, at end insert— (1) The responsible chief officer of police may apply under subsection (2) or (3) to the Commissioner for the Retention and ‘(2A) Sections 63D to 63P, 63R and 63S do not apply to Use of Biometric Material for consent to the retention of material which is, or may become, disclosable under— section 63D material which falls within section 63F(5)(a) and (b). (a) the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996, (2) The responsible chief officer of police may make an or application under this subsection if the responsible chief officer (b) a code of practice prepared under section 23 of that of police considers that the material was taken (or, in the case of Act and in operation by virtue of an order under a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with section 25 of that Act. the investigation of an offence where any alleged victim of the (2B) Sections 63D to 63S do not apply to material which— offence was, at the time of the offence— (a) is taken from a person, but (a) under the age of 18, (b) relates to another person.’.—(James Brokenshire.) (b) a vulnerable adult, or (c) associated with the person to whom the material Clause 20 relates. (3) The responsible chief officer of police may make an NATIONAL SECURITY:APPOINTMENT OF application under this subsection if the responsible chief officer COMMISSIONER of police considers that— Amendment proposed: 108, page 13, line 26, leave out (a) the material is not material to which subsection (2) from ‘must’ to end of line 28 and insert— relates, but ‘place a report in both Houses, after consultation with the (b) the retention of the material is necessary to assist in Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), on the suitability the prevention or detection of crime. of a Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric (4) The Commissioner may, on an application under this Material (referred to in this section and sections 21 and 22 as section, consent to the retention of material to which the “the Commissioner”. application relates if the Commissioner considers that it is ‘(1A) Subject to the approval of a report laid under appropriate to retain the material. subsection (1) by resolution of both Houses of Parliament, the (5) But where notice is given under subsection (6) in relation to Secretary of State may appoint a Commissioner to be known as the application, the Commissioner must, before deciding whether the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric or not to give consent, consider any representations by the Material.’.—(Mr Hanson.) person to whom the material relates which are made within the Question put, That the amendment be made. period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given. The House divided: Ayes 227, Noes 291. (6) The responsible chief officer of police must give to the Division No. 357] [8.45 pm person to whom the material relates notice of— AYES (a) an application under this section, and (b) the right to make representations. Abbott, Ms Diane Allen, Mr Graham Abrahams, Debbie Anderson, Mr David (7) A notice under subsection (6) may, in particular, be given to a person by— Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Ashworth, Jonathan (a) leaving it at the person’s usual or last known address Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Austin, Ian (whether residential or otherwise), Alexander, Heidi Bailey, Mr Adrian 119 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 120

Bain, Mr William Flint, rh Caroline Mearns, Ian Sharma, Mr Virendra Banks, Gordon Flynn, Paul Michael, rh Alun Sheerman, Mr Barry Barron, rh Mr Kevin Fovargue, Yvonne Miliband, rh David Shuker, Gavin Beckett, rh Margaret Francis, Dr Hywel Miliband, rh Edward Simpson, David Begg, Dame Anne Gapes, Mike Miller, Andrew Skinner, Mr Dennis Benn, rh Hilary Gardiner, Barry Mitchell, Austin Slaughter, Mr Andy Berger, Luciana Gilmore, Sheila Moon, Mrs Madeleine Smith, rh Mr Andrew Betts, Mr Clive Glass, Pat Morden, Jessica Smith, Angela Blackman-Woods, Roberta Glindon, Mrs Mary Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Smith, Nick Blenkinsop, Tom Godsiff, Mr Roger Morris, Grahame M. Smith, Owen Blomfield, Paul Goggins, rh Paul (Easington) Spellar, rh Mr John Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Goodman, Helen Munn, Meg Stringer, Graham Brennan, Kevin Greatrex, Tom Murphy, rh Mr Jim Stuart, Ms Gisela Brown, Lyn Green, Kate Murphy, rh Paul Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Greenwood, Lilian Murray, Ian Tami, Mark Brown, Mr Russell Griffith, Nia Nandy, Lisa Thomas, Mr Gareth Bryant, Chris Gwynne, Andrew Nash, Pamela Thornberry, Emily Buck, Ms Karen Hain, rh Mr Peter O’Donnell, Fiona Timms, rh Stephen Burden, Richard Hamilton, Fabian Onwurah, Chi Trickett, Jon Burnham, rh Andy Hanson, rh Mr David Osborne, Sandra Turner, Karl Byrne, rh Mr Liam Harris, Mr Tom Owen, Albert Twigg, Derek Campbell, Mr Alan Havard, Mr Dai Paisley, Ian Twigg, Stephen Campbell, Mr Ronnie Healey, rh John Pearce, Teresa Umunna, Mr Chuka Chapman, Mrs Jenny Hendrick, Mark Perkins, Toby Vaz, Valerie Clark, Katy Hepburn, Mr Stephen Pound, Stephen Walley, Joan Clarke, rh Mr Tom Hillier, Meg Qureshi, Yasmin Watson, Mr Tom Clwyd, rh Ann Hilling, Julie Reed, Mr Jamie Watts, Mr Dave Coaker, Vernon Hodge, rh Margaret Reeves, Rachel Whitehead, Dr Alan Coffey, Ann Hoey, Kate Reynolds, Emma Williamson, Chris Connarty, Michael Hollobone, Mr Philip Reynolds, Jonathan Wilson, Phil Cooper, Rosie Hood, Mr Jim Riordan, Mrs Linda Winnick, Mr David Cooper, rh Yvette Hopkins, Kelvin Robertson, John Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Corbyn, Jeremy Hunt, Tristram Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Woodcock, John Creagh, Mary Irranca-Davies, Huw Rotheram, Steve Wright, David Creasy, Stella Jackson, Glenda Roy, Mr Frank Wright, Mr Iain Cruddas, Jon James, Mrs Siân C. Roy, Lindsay Cryer, John Jamieson, Cathy Ruane, Chris Tellers for the Ayes: Cunningham, Alex Jarvis, Dan Sarwar, Anas Mr David Hamilton and Cunningham, Mr Jim Johnson, rh Alan Seabeck, Alison Graham Jones Cunningham, Tony Johnson, Diana Curran, Margaret Jones, Helen NOES Dakin, Nic Jones, Mr Kevan Danczuk, Simon Jones, Susan Elan Afriyie, Adam Brokenshire, James David, Mr Wayne Joyce, Eric Aldous, Peter Brooke, Annette Davidson, Mr Ian Kendall, Liz Amess, Mr David Browne, Mr Jeremy Davies, Geraint Khan, rh Sadiq Andrew, Stuart Bruce, Fiona Davies, Philip Lazarowicz, Mark Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Buckland, Mr Robert De Piero, Gloria Leslie, Chris Bacon, Mr Richard Burley, Mr Aidan Denham, rh Mr John Lewis, Mr Ivan Baker, Norman Burns, Conor Dobbin, Jim Lloyd, Tony Baker, Steve Burns, rh Mr Simon Dobson, rh Frank Love, Mr Andrew Barker, Gregory Burstow, Paul Docherty, Thomas Lucas, Caroline Baron, Mr John Burt, Alistair Dodds, rh Mr Nigel Lucas, Ian Barwell, Gavin Burt, Lorely Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. Mactaggart, Fiona Bebb, Guto Byles, Dan Donohoe, Mr Brian H. Mahmood, Shabana Beith, rh Sir Alan Cable, rh Vince Dowd, Jim Mann, John Bellingham, Mr Henry Cairns, Alun Doyle, Gemma Marsden, Mr Gordon Benyon, Richard Carmichael, Neil Dromey, Jack McCabe, Steve Beresford, Sir Paul Carswell, Mr Douglas Dugher, Michael McCann, Mr Michael Berry, Jake Chishti, Rehman Durkan, Mark McCarthy, Kerry Bingham, Andrew Chope, Mr Christopher Eagle, Ms Angela McClymont, Gregg Binley, Mr Brian Clappison, Mr James Eagle, Maria McCrea, Dr William Birtwistle, Gordon Clark, rh Greg Efford, Clive McDonagh, Siobhain Blackwood, Nicola Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Elliott, Julie McDonnell, John Blunt, Mr Crispin Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Ellman, Mrs Louise McFadden, rh Mr Pat Boles, Nick Coffey, Dr Thérèse Engel, Natascha McGovern, Alison Bradley, Karen Collins, Damian Esterson, Bill McGovern, Jim Brady, Mr Graham Colvile, Oliver Evans, Chris McGuire, rh Mrs Anne Brake, rh Tom Cox, Mr Geoffrey Farrelly, Paul McKechin, Ann Bray, Angie Crabb, Stephen Field, rh Mr Frank McKenzie, Mr Iain Brazier, Mr Julian Crockart, Mike Fitzpatrick, Jim McKinnell, Catherine Bridgen, Andrew Crouch, Tracey Flello, Robert Meacher, rh Mr Michael Brine, Mr Steve Davey, Mr Edward 121 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 122

Davies, David T. C. James, Margot Penning, Mike Stunell, Andrew (Monmouth) Javid, Sajid Penrose, John Sturdy, Julian Davies, Glyn Jenkin, Mr Bernard Perry, Claire Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Davis, rh Mr David Johnson, Gareth Phillips, Stephen Swinson, Jo de Bois, Nick Johnson, Joseph Pickles, rh Mr Eric Swire, rh Mr Hugo Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Jones, Andrew Pincher, Christopher Syms, Mr Robert Doyle-Price, Jackie Jones, Mr David Poulter, Dr Daniel Teather, Sarah Drax, Richard Jones, Mr Marcus Prisk, Mr Mark Thurso, John Duddridge, James Kawczynski, Daniel Pugh, John Timpson, Mr Edward Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Kelly, Chris Raab, Mr Dominic Tomlinson, Justin Edwards, Jonathan Kirby, Simon Redwood, rh Mr John Tredinnick, David Ellis, Michael Knight, rh Mr Greg Rees-Mogg, Jacob Turner, Mr Andrew Ellison, Jane Kwarteng, Kwasi Reevell, Simon Tyrie, Mr Andrew Ellwood, Mr Tobias Laing, Mrs Eleanor Reid, Mr Alan Uppal, Paul Elphicke, Charlie Lancaster, Mark Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Vara, Mr Shailesh Eustice, George Latham, Pauline Robertson, Hugh Vickers, Martin Evans, Graham Leadsom, Andrea Robertson, Mr Laurence Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa Evans, Jonathan Lee, Jessica Rogerson, Dan Walker, Mr Charles Evennett, Mr David Lee, Dr Phillip Rosindell, Andrew Wallace, Mr Ben Fabricant, Michael Leech, Mr John Rudd, Amber Walter, Mr Robert Fallon, Michael Lefroy, Jeremy Ruffley, Mr David Ward, Mr David Farron, Tim Leigh, Mr Edward Russell, Bob Watkinson, Angela Featherstone, Lynne Leslie, Charlotte Rutley, David Weatherley, Mike Field, Mr Mark Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Sanders, Mr Adrian Webb, Steve Foster, rh Mr Don Lewis, Brandon Sandys, Laura Wharton, James Francois, rh Mr Mark Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Scott, Mr Lee Wheeler, Heather Freeman, George Lloyd, Stephen Selous, Andrew White, Chris Freer, Mike Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Shapps, rh Grant Whittaker, Craig Fullbrook, Lorraine Lopresti, Jack Sharma, Alok Wiggin, Bill Fuller, Richard Lord, Jonathan Shelbrooke, Alec Willetts, rh Mr David Garnier, Mark Loughton, Tim Simmonds, Mark Williams, Hywel Gauke, Mr David Macleod, Mary Simpson, Mr Keith Williams, Mr Mark George, Andrew Main, Mrs Anne Skidmore, Chris Williams, Roger Gibb, Mr Nick Maynard, Paul Smith, Miss Chloe Williams, Stephen Gilbert, Stephen McCartney, Jason Smith, Henry Williamson, Gavin Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl McCartney, Karl Smith, Julian Willott, Jenny Glen, John McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Sir Robert Wilson, Mr Rob Goodwill, Mr Robert McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Soubry, Anna Wollaston, Dr Sarah Graham, Richard McPartland, Stephen Spencer, Mr Mark Wright, Jeremy Grant, Mrs Helen McVey, Esther Stephenson, Andrew Wright, Simon Gray, Mr James Mensch, Louise Stevenson, John Young, rh Sir George Green, Damian Menzies, Mark Stewart, Bob Zahawi, Nadhim Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Mercer, Patrick Stewart, Iain Griffiths, Andrew Metcalfe, Stephen Stewart, Rory Tellers for the Noes: Gummer, Ben Miller, Maria Stride, Mel Mark Hunter and Gyimah, Mr Sam Mills, Nigel Stuart, Mr Graham Mr Philip Dunne Halfon, Robert Milton, Anne Hames, Duncan Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Question accordingly negatived. Hammond, Stephen Moore, rh Michael Hancock, Matthew Mordaunt, Penny Amendments made: 8, page 13, line 28, leave out Hancock, Mr Mike Morgan, Nicky ‘sections 21 and 22’ and insert ‘section 21’. Harper, Mr Mark Morris, Anne Marie Amendment 9, page 13, line 38, at end insert— Harrington, Richard Morris, David Harris, Rebecca Morris, James (iiia) paragraph 11 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Hart, Simon Mosley, Stephen Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011 Harvey, Nick Mulholland, Greg (paragraph 6 material retained for purposes of Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan Munt, Tessa national security),’. Hayes, Mr John Murray, Sheryll Amendment 10, page 14, line 10, after ‘functions’ Heald, Oliver Murrison, Dr Andrew insert ‘under subsection (2)’. Heath, Mr David Neill, Robert Amendment 11, page 14, line 17, at end insert— Heaton-Harris, Chris Newmark, Mr Brooks Hemming, John Newton, Sarah ‘(5A) The Commissioner also has the function of keeping Henderson, Gordon Nokes, Caroline under review— Hinds, Damian Norman, Jesse (a) the retention and use in accordance with sections 63A Hoban, Mr Mark Nuttall, Mr David and 63D to 63S of the Police and Criminal Evidence Hollingbery, George Offord, Mr Matthew Act 1984 of— Hopkins, Kris Ollerenshaw, Eric Howarth, Mr Gerald Opperman, Guy (i) any material to which section 63D or 63Q of that Howell, John Ottaway, Richard Act applies (fingerprints, DNA profiles and samples), and Huppert, Dr Julian Parish, Neil Hurd, Mr Nick Patel, Priti (ii) any copies of any material to which section 63D of Jackson, Mr Stewart Pawsey, Mark that Act applies (fingerprints and DNA profiles), 123 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 124

(b) the retention and use in accordance with paragraphs Clause 24 20A to 20I of Schedule 8 to the Terrorism Act 2000 of— NATIONAL DNA DATABASE STRATEGY BOARD (i) any material to which paragraph 20A or 20G of that Amendment made: 15, page 16, line 12, leave out ‘this Schedule applies (fingerprints, relevant physical section’ and insert ‘subsection (2). data, DNA profiles and samples), and ‘(3A) The National DNA Database Strategy Board may issue (ii) any copies of any material to which paragraph 20A guidance about the circumstances in which applications may be of that Schedule applies (fingerprints, relevant made to the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of physical data and DNA profiles), Biometric Material under section 63FA. (c) the retention and use in accordance with sections 18 to (3B) Before issuing any such guidance, the National DNA 18E of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 of— Database Strategy Board must consult the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material.’.—(James Brokenshire.) (i) any material to which section 18 of that Act applies (fingerprints, DNA samples and DNA profiles), and Schedule 1 (ii) any copies of fingerprints or DNA profiles to AMENDMENTS OF REGIMES OTHER THAN PACE which section 18 of that Act applies, Amendments made: 33, page 90, line 24, at end insert— (d) the retention and use in accordance with paragraphs 5 (da) any of the fingerprints, data or samples obtained to 14 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Prevention and under paragraph 1 or 4 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Investigation Measures Act 2011 of— Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011, or (i) any material to which paragraph 6 or 12 of that information derived from such samples,’. Schedule applies (fingerprints, relevant physical Amendment 34, page 95, line 31, at end insert— data, DNA profiles and samples), and ‘(1A) Subject to sub-paragraph (1), a relevant search (within (ii) any copies of any material to which paragraph 6 of the meaning given by paragraph 20A(6)) may be carried out in that Schedule applies (fingerprints, relevant relation to material to which paragraph 20A or 20G applies if the physical data and DNA profiles). responsible chief officer of police considers the search to be desirable.’. (5B) But subsection (5A) does not apply so far as the retention or use of the material falls to be reviewed by virtue of Amendment 35, page 96, line 10, after ‘(1)’ insert ‘, subsection (2). (1A)’. (5C) In relation to Scotland— Amendment 36, page 97, line 16, leave out ‘paragraph 20H’ and insert (a) the reference in subsection (5A)(b) to use of material, or copies of material, in accordance with ‘a relevant search (within the meaning given by paragraph 20A(6)) paragraphs 20A to 20I of Schedule 8 to the or for the purposes of’. Terrorism Act 2000 includes a reference to use of Amendment 37, page 100, line 18, at end insert— material, or copies of material, in accordance with ‘(1A) Subject to subsection (1), section 18 material may be section 19C(2)(c) and (d) of the Criminal Procedure checked against other fingerprints, DNA samples or DNA (Scotland) Act 1995, and profiles held by a law enforcement authority or the Scottish (b) the reference in subsection (5A)(d) to use of material, Police Services Authority if the responsible officer considers the or copies of material, in accordance with check to be desirable.’. paragraphs 5 to 14 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Amendment 38, page 103, line 6, at end insert— Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011 is to be read as a reference to use only for a purpose PART 3A mentioned in paragraph 13(1)(a) or (b) of that Schedule to that Act. MATERIAL SUBJECT TO THE TERRORISM PREVENTION (5D) The Commissioner also has functions under sections AND INVESTIGATION MEASURES ACT 2011 63F(5)(c) and 63FA (giving of consent in relation to the retention 4A After paragraph 10(2) of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism of certain section 63D material).’.—(James Brokenshire.) Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011(fingerprints and samples) insert— (2A) But a person is not to be treated as having been convicted Clause 21 of an offence if that conviction is a disregarded conviction or caution by virtue of section 88 of the Protection of Freedoms Act 2011.”’.—(James Brokenshire.) REPORTS BY COMMISSIONER Amendments made: 12, page 14, line 36, leave out New Clause 15 ‘carrying out of those’ and insert “Commissioner’s’. OFFENCE OF ISSUING EXCESS PARKING CHARGES Amendment 13, page 14, line 39, leave out from ‘the’ ‘(1) A person commits an offence who, without lawful to end of line 40 and insert ‘Commissioner’s functions.’.— authority requires a driver or any person in possession of a (James Brokenshire.) vehicle to pay parking charges in relation to a contract to park that vehicle. (2) The express or implied consent (whether or not legally Clause 22 binding) of a person otherwise entitled to enter into a contract regarding parking is not lawful authority for the purposes of subsection (1). GUIDANCE ON MAKING A NATIONAL SECURITY (3) Subsection (2) does not apply where— DETERMINATION (a) the person or body attempting to enforce the parking Amendment made: 14, page 15, line 14, after charges is a member of an Accredited Trade ‘Commissioner’ insert Association so accredited by the Secretary of State; ‘for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material’.—(James (b) the penalty charge can be appealed to an independent Brokenshire.) body; 125 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 126

(c) the person or body attempting to enforce the parking 2010 Act in order to deal with rogue wheel clampers, charges takes reasonable steps to inform the driver or because it was recognised that regulation was required. keeper of the vehicle about the right to appeal; and The Government have decided to introduce a ban on (d) the person or body follows a prescribed parking enforcement process including clear signage and wheel clamping on private land, but they have failed to contact numbers. address the real issue now facing motorists, which is (4) The Secretary of State can, by way of regulation, introduce what happens when they are faced with rogue ticketers. a maximum charge, under which parking charges would not be In this regard, as in so many others, the Government subject to subsection (1). have reacted in a knee-jerk fashion without really thinking (5) A person who is entitled to remove a vehicle cannot through the consequences of the legislation they are commit an offence under this section in relation to that vehicle. bringing before the House. (6) A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable— 9pm (a) on conviction on indictment, to a fine, (b) on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding the (Islington North) (Lab): Does my statutory maximum which must be no higher than hon. Friend have any view on unadopted private roads charges for an on-street parking offence. in areas where there is a local authority parking scheme (7) In this section “motor vehicle” means a mechanically all around and where quite successful operations are propelled vehicle or a vehicle designed or adapted for towing by a currently run, with minimal levels of clamping? From mechanically propelled vehicle.’.—(Diana Johnson.) now on clamping will be banned, so far more expensive Brought up, and read the First time. systems will have to be introduced, which will cost residents a great deal of money—including council and Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab): I social housing tenants in the area—but achieve nothing beg to move, That the clause be read a Second time. different from what exists now.

Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo): With Diana Johnson: My hon. Friend makes an important this it will be convenient to discuss Government point. That issue was debated in Committee, but amendments 21, 76, 39 to 54, 77, 55 to 61, and 78 unfortunately the Government set their face against and 62. dealing with it and recognising that there was a problem. We believe that under the ticketing regime set out in Diana Johnson: The Bill sets out in chapter 2 to the Bill, the motorist could still end up facing extortionate outlaw wheel-clamping on private land and to introduce fees from rogue parking companies, which could be a ticketing regime. We had an extensive debate on this enforced by aggressive security staff against the driver issue in Committee. The major concern that still arises and, if necessary, against the keeper of the vehicle. We from the way the Bill is drafted is that there is nothing also believe that it may still be possible to use a barrier to offer any regulation or protection for the motorist or even a chain to block an exit to a car park, forcing from the problems experienced so far with rogue wheel- individuals to pay extortionate ticket fees. We believe clampers. We believe that the rogue wheel-clampers will that rogue parking companies could threaten motorists now move on and become rogue ticketers, and we are with the bailiffs and that their credit ratings could be not alone in this. We have the support of the RAC, the affected. Our amendments have wide-ranging support AA, and the British Parking Association—and I am from the parking industry and motoring organisations. very pleased to say that today a leader in The Times The Government’s impact assessment recognises the supports Labour’s amendment on this point. risk of rogue wheel-clampers becoming rogue ticketers, Our new clause seeks to offer a level of sensible but the Bill is silent on what should happen in those protection for those parking on private land equivalent circumstances. to the protections offered to people who park on the Patrick Troy, the chief executive of the British Parking highway and wish to appeal when they have received a Association, made it clear in his evidence to the Committee parking fine. For many of our constituents, it is bewildering that rogue clampers will just move into another form of that the law in each situation is so different. If someone criminality—rogue ticketing. He recognised that parking parks on the highway, there is a limit on the fines and an is complicated and that it is often difficult for members independent appeals process, but if they park in a small of the public to understand the difference between the private car park, or even a large retail car park, they can highway and private land. In the main, motorists remain face unlimited fines and there is no formal regulated ignorant of their rights, and rogue ticketers will take appeals system. advantage of this. The real reason we need to move this amendment and Edmund King of the AA said that the current have this debate is that the coalition Government rushed arrangements for street ticketing—that is, on the highway, into the decision to get rid of wheel-clamping, and they for which there is a good independent appeals system did not go through any meaningful consultation with through the traffic penalty tribunal—are independent key stakeholders to discuss what the effect of removing and accepted by motorists and the industry alike as fair wheel-clamping as something that a private landowner and proportionate. Parking companies pay a 65p levy could use to protect their land. When the previous per penalty charge notice to pay for the system, which is Government considered how to deal with rogue wheel- fair. We should have the same ticketing provisions on clampers and set out provisions in the Crime and Security appeal for those who receive tickets on private land, Act 2010, those provisions were widely consulted on. especially as the Government are introducing keeper Issues that had to be addressed concerned signage, the liability provisions in the Bill. Without a proper, independent level of fees that should be paid, the methods available appeal, it is unfair and unjust that a keeper could be for payment, the evidence required and a full appeals held liable for a ticket that he or she knows nothing process. They were set out fully in the drafting of the about. 127 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 128

[Diana Johnson] Diana Johnson: That is exactly right, and our new clause sets out clearly that anyone wishing to issue In his evidence to the Committee, Edmund King tickets should be a member of the British Parking talked about the following situation arising: Association or an accredited trade association, and “A company, which seems to be incredibly profitable, is carrying should comply with the code of practice agreed with the out private ticketing. Its website says, ‘Welcome to the ultimate DVLA on proper signage and a proper appeals system. recession-proof business opportunity’ which has ‘limitless earnings We believe that that would solve the problem. potential’. All the company does is…suggest…that if you have a small piece of land and wanted to make some money, you could Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): I was retained counsel apply to my company, and I will send you some parking notices. by the Automobile Association in 2000, in the case of You will take your digital camera and take pictures of the cars Vine v. London borough of Waltham Forest, so I come of neighbours you do not like or of anyone who parks there, and to this matter with a degree of experience. Subsection (1) send the pictures to” of new clause 15 attempts to create a criminal offence in that company, which will then certain circumstances. Does the hon. Lady agree, however, “apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency for their that those circumstances are already covered by the details, send out tickets, and if 60% pay up, which they currently measures in the Theft Act 1968 relating to obtaining do,” property by deception, or by consumer protection legislation? it will give £10 to the landowner for each ticket and pocket the rest. He continued: Diana Johnson: It is quite clear that consumer protection “That company claims to have 1,200 agents who ticket in that legislation has not worked in the motorist’s favour in way…even though that company claims to be a member of the the past. Creating a criminal offence, as the amendment British Parking Association, the 1,200 people are, as far as we know, just individuals. There is no control, and our worry is that would do, would send a clear signal about how serious the clampers who have been making money for nothing for the the matter is and how people who are going to issue past 10 years are not going to give up”.––[Official Report, Protection tickets should be properly regulated. I am not sure that of Freedoms Public Bill Committee, 24 March 2011; c. 145, Q419.] I agree with the hon. Gentleman. Instead, they will become rogue ticketers. I want to move on to the RAC, which gave evidence that the provisions in the Bill would not create a landscape Mr King also gave examples of problems in challenging for parking in which the motorist could be guaranteed the issue of a ticket, because there is at present no a fair deal from the parking industry. I know that the opportunity to do so. He cited the example of Mr B’s Government have made much of the fact that they are car, which incurred a private penalty in a Glasgow on the side of the motorist, but when motoring hospital car park even though Mr B and his car were in organisations and members of the industry itself are the south of France. The company involved commenced saying that the system being proposed in the legislation debt recovery procedures. A second case involved an is unfair, the Government need to think again. AA member who had been issued with a parking charge notice by X. He had parked in the car park of a major As drafted, the right to challenge a ticket is very DIY store and spent more than £1,000 in the store. It limited. It would apply only to cases in which liability had taken him some time to choose the goods, and he could be enforced against a keeper. That means that if a received a parking charge notice from X, which stated person did not pay up to the parking company, the that he had overstayed the maximum permitted time of company could go after the keeper of the vehicle, whose three hours by 19 minutes. He had to pay £80, which information is held by the DVLA. The protection offered would be reduced to £50 if he paid by a certain date. is that only a member of an accredited trade association— currently the British Parking Association—will be allowed A third example involved a Bristol driver whose car access to DVLA information. However, the Government was spotted during two different visits to a fast-food state in the impact assessment that they expect 74% of outlet. The camera or operator took this to be one penalty tickets to be paid up front at the time the ticket single visit and issued a penalty notice for 41 days’ is issued, rising to 82% when keeper liability is added in. parking. Two AA executives were also sent parking The expectation is that people will just pay up and will charge notices by post for infringing unclear bay marking not have the opportunity to lodge any kind of appeal. rules in a local supermarket. Both of them challenged There is no independent appeal procedure. We understand the parking charge notices, but they were threatened that, under the Government amendments, members of with damage to their credit rating and a visit from the the British Parking Association must have an internal bailiffs if they did not pay up. disputes procedure, but we say that is not good enough: it is not fair and not independent. It is widely perceived Andrew Gwynne (Denton and Reddish) (Lab): May I that it must be independent. give my hon. Friend another example? It involves the I mentioned the example of the company that Edmund Peel centre, a retail park in the centre of Stockport King suggested made a lot of money out of ticketing. where many of my constituents have received penalty Will the Minister respond on the issue of road parking fines for overstaying in the car park. One of my constituents companies that are not members of the British Parking challenged this in the courts and had the penalty overturned Association but are able to get information about a because the signage was so small that it was considered vehicle—for example, the address of a commercial vehicle unreasonable to expect people to read the notices. Does on the side of a van parked in a private car park—or to my hon. Friend agree that it would be better to have a gain access to lists of customers’ details in a private car proper appeals system in place, rather than expecting park? In those circumstances, the ticketing organisation our constituents to have to go through the courts in could pursue the keeper without having gone through such cases? the DVLA. As I understand it, that could be done 129 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 130 perfectly legally, but it could be threatening if money is after the parking infringement has taken place. Let us demanded quickly in order to avoid the bailiffs coming suppose that a disabled person is dropped at an airport round. where there is a 15-minute limit for use of a parking Will the Minister for Equalities talk more about space. Because of the nature of the disability, it takes up contract law and consumer protection? She made much to 30 minutes for the car to be unpacked and moved in Committee of the fact that consumer protection law away. What redress is open to the disabled person? If a was already in place, but we made the case that that did ticketing regime were in operation, the person issuing not provide adequate protection for motorists. Will she the ticket would presumably be allowed to exercise therefore comment on the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 some discretion on the basis of the disability, but an and explain whether she feels it needs to be strengthened ANPR system would merely register that the car had or whether further information needs to be given to the entered the parking space at a certain time and left at a public about its provisions? certain time, and a ticket would automatically be issued. Let me make some specific points about the amendments There has been a real failure to address issues involving in the group. New clause 15 would ensure that anyone disability, which we discussed at length in Committee. It issuing a penalty ticket must be registered with an is a great shame that the impact assessment still fails to accredited trade association, that all ticketers were currently acknowledge or deal with the equality issues raised by members of the British Parking Association who must parking bays and the time that people are allowed in abide by the trade association’s code of practice, which which to park. Perhaps the Minister will comment on is agreed, in turn, with the DVLA. The new clause also the example that I have given. means that tickets placed on the vehicle or those issued I understand that the latest definition of car hire is later through the use of ANPR—automatic number not included in Government amendment 78. According plate recognition—would be subject to an independent to the hire car associations, specifying a six-month time appeals procedure. This would ensure that the maximum limit is a rather old-fashioned approach, and it would fines on private land are the same as for those on public be better to reflect modern leasing practices, which roads and that the same terms and conditions, the same often involve a much longer period than six months. right of appeal and the same prompt payment discount Perhaps the Minister could comment on that as well. As would apply. This has widespread support. The RAC for Government amendment 62, why do the Government and the AA have recently conducted a populist poll of need the power to change the definition of “relevant 12,000 people, of whom 98% thought that there should land”? be some form of licensing for ticketers. That shows that I look forward to hearing from the Minister that she there is clear and overwhelming public support for this has had an opportunity to think again about the Bill’s new clause, so I hope the Minister will think again and failure to deal with the issue of ticketing and introduce support it. a fair, independent system of appeal to deal with the Will the Minister clarify some points about the other problem of rogue ticketers, which I believe will come amendments in the group? We welcome Government back to haunt the Government. amendment 21, which came out of the evidence given to the Committee by Patrick Troy of the British Parking The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Association and Edmund King of the AA. The Opposition Home Department (Lynne Featherstone): As the hon. took the view that the drafting of the clause dealing Member for Kingston upon Hull North (Diana Johnson) with a fixed barrier was ambiguous. I am glad that the pointed out, we had a long debate in Committee on Government have recognised the issue raised by the issues such as ticketing and clamping. Before I reply to Opposition and have sought to amend the provisions. her specific questions, let me remind the House what I know, however, that the BPA still has some doubts was said by many of the people she cited when we about the new wording, as it fails specifically to mention announced that we were going to ban wheel-clamping wheel-clamping. on private land. Edmund King, president of the AA, Government amendment 76 passes liability from the said: car hire company to the person who has hired the car “An outright ban on wheelclamping on private land is a victory where appropriate. Will the Minister comment on the for justice and common sense.” fact that she is making it easier to transfer keeper liability in those circumstances? Has she given any The hon. Member for West Bromwich East (Mr Watson) thought to the circumstances where, for example, a said: motorist takes their car to a garage and the garage “I just want to say that this part of the Bill is fantastic and that parks it on someone else’s private land? In that case, can the Home Secretary has my full support for it.”—[Official Report, the liability be passed back to the garage? As currently 1 March 2011; Vol. 524, c. 210.] drafted, keeper liability means that the individual car Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: owner would be liable as the keeper, even though the “We are extremely pleased that the government has decided to actions were carried out by the garage. deal with the scourge of clamping and towing on private land, as Amendments 39 to 54 are technical, but will the a matter of urgency.” Minister explain why she wants to move from the term The AA said in a press release: “relevant contract”to “relevant obligation”in the wording “It is a momentous decision to prepare new legislation to end of the affected clauses? this scourge that has blighted the name of parking control in private parking areas for so long.” 9.15 pm I quoted those comments partly to remind Opposition Government amendment 59 deals with the issue of Members that what they proposed to do was license the keeper liability. I understand that it relates to the use of companies concerned—in fact, individuals have been ANPR and would allow a ticket to be sent to the keeper licensed, which clearly has not worked according to the 131 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 132

[Lynne Featherstone] certain circumstances. The amendments, many of which are of a drafting or technical nature, seek to clarify the tales told by almost every Member in the House about effect of the provisions in order to reduce the potential those whose cars have been clamped and from whom for them to be misunderstood either deliberately or money has been more or less extorted—and also to inadvertently by motorists, vehicle keepers and those remind them that the system that we propose was responsible for parking restrictions and enforcement on wanted by Members on both sides of the House. The private land. issue now is how to ensure that we can implement it. In Committee, the hon. Lady argued for the introduction Licensing clamping businesses, as suggested by the of a statutory scheme for the regulation of parking on Opposition, was not the answer. private land which was the same as the one we are We have discussed the “what ifs”—all the issues that discussing now. The Opposition were particularly concerned might arise—and the potential problems if rogue clampers for there to be statutory provision in respect of signage became rogue ticketers. In Scotland clamping was banned at car parks and appeals rights. That theme is again in 1992, very successfully. On deciding to consider the picked up in new clause 15. option of banning, the first thing I did was ask my officials to inquire what the repercussions and difficulties had been in Scotland, such as whether the use of Diana Johnson: I want the Minister to set out very barriers had been impossible and whether there were clearly that the Government amendments do not provide rogue clampers. I looked into those matters in 2010, for an independent appeals process, but are instead which was after 18 years, and my officials came back limited to keeper liability in very specific circumstances. and said there had been just a handful of letters about They therefore do not provide proper and adequate any problems in all that time. independent appeals for anyone who receives a ticket.

Jeremy Corbyn: The hon. Lady will have received Lynne Featherstone: For any land that is properly correspondence from the Aberdeen Park Maintenance signed and under lawful authority, people will be protected Company, which manages a private road in my constituency. by either consumer law or the appeals process that will It has an effective, low-cost system of controls and a be set up by the British Parking Association. If the hon. minimal level of clamping. Under this legislation, however, Lady lets me pursue my argument, I think that some of it will not be allowed to do any clamping at all. Instead her questions will be answered. it will have to install expensive barriers and employ I made it clear that parking enforcement was properly staff. That will cost everyone, including council and a matter for existing contract and consumer protection social housing tenants, a great deal of money. I realise law, backed up by self-regulation by the parking industry. this is a somewhat anomalous argument, but in every That remains the Government’s position—that is clear. city there are private and unadopted roads where such However, we have looked again at the provisions in issues will arise, and I would be grateful if she would schedule 4 to see whether they include adequate safeguards share her thoughts and say what response she will give for motorists and vehicle keepers, and the amendments to this company. strengthen those in two ways. First, on appeal rights and keeper liability, I fully Lynne Featherstone: I am sure such issues will arise agree with the hon. Lady that there should be appropriate across the land. The way to deal with them will be safeguards for motorists, including access to an appeals through either ticketing or barriers. However, it is also body for drivers or vehicle keepers to challenge parking possible—although this is not required—for a local charges where they believe they have been wrongly or authority to take over responsibility for that land and unfairly imposed. Amendment 59 makes it clear that issue tickets. Such matters can be addressed in that way, the notice to the driver or the keeper of a vehicle must therefore. I cannot give a specific response on every set out the arrangements for the resolution of disputes circumstance that might arise across the land, but in or complaints. We have asked the parking sector, led by Scotland the answer was barriers or ticketing; it was not the British Parking Association, to establish an independent particularly complicated. appeals body, funded by the parking industry and free We will carefully watch how things pan out, but our to consumers, to cover tickets issued by members of the proposal is our best effort to get the balance right and BPA or another accredited trade association. We have to make sure that we proceed without the burdens of also made it clear that we will not bring the keeper regulating everything in the land and instead let the liability provisions in schedule 4 into force unless and parking industry look after itself so there is no cost to until the sector establishes, financially supports and the taxpayer if ticketing is taken forward. An appeals agrees to abide by the decisions of an independent process will also be put in place, and I shall address the challenge body. Unlike the hon. Lady, we do not see a detail of that shortly. need to constitute this appeals body in legislation. We I listened carefully to the comments of the hon. believe that effective self-regulation by the parking industry Member for Kingston upon Hull North, and I think we is the right way forward, wherever possible, rather than are all trying to achieve the same outcome, but we just relying on a governmental regulatory approach. believe that we can get there in different ways. The best way in which I can respond to new clause 15 is by Diana Johnson: I am interested in what the Minister reference to the Government amendments in this group, is saying. However, self-regulation for wheel-clamping which address ticketing issues. clearly did not work and we are ending up in a similar The Government amendments propose a number of position in this area. By providing self-regulation, we changes to schedule 4, which makes provision for vehicle will find that the good ticketing and parking companies keepers to be held liable for unpaid parking charges in will be members of the BPA but the organisations that 133 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 134 are just going to intimidate and impose excessive charges will be able to do is issue a ticket and hope the recipient through ticketing notices on vehicles will not be covered pays up, which is quite a different level from the intimidation by the appeals process. and extortion that exists through the bad practices of rogue wheel-clampers. Lynne Featherstone: Intimidation is against the law. I Ticketers will not be able to possess the car and would say to any motorist intimidated by a rogue ticketer prevent the person from getting away from the place that they should report it immediately to the police. where the car was parked. That is a different level of Secondly, on signage, amendment 61 sets out a reserve intimidation and threat to that experienced by those power to prescribe requirements on the display, content targeted by wheel-clampers who were out to extort and location of signs at car parks and other relevant money unfairly. No longer will motorists have their cars land. I say a “reserve power” because parking providers held hostage, which was clearly the main reason why the will be able to access DVLA keeper data, and therefore unscrupulous clampers were able to levy excessive charges. benefit from the keeper liability provisions, only if they We believe that the measures we are introducing in the abide by the British Parking Association’s code of practice Bill, together with existing consumer protection laws, on signage. We do not consider that regulation on are sufficient to deal with issues such as rogue ticketing, signage will be necessary and we would want to introduce inadequate signage and excessive charges. statutory rules on signage only if there was clear evidence Let me deal briefly with Government amendment 21 that the BPA code was not living up to the job. I would to clause 54, which responds to an issue raised by the be more than happy to read out to the hon. Lady the hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North in Committee. BPA code on signage, but it is quite long. Suffice it to The hon. Lady referred to the concerns expressed by the say, it is big, clear and exactly what one would want in British Parking Association about the effect of subsection terms of proper parking signage. If that was not the (3) of the clause. The provision is intended to permit the case, we would keep an eye on the situation, but we do continued use of barriers as a legitimate means of not want to introduce statutory rules about signage parking control and enforcement once the ban on wheel- automatically because we believe that the BPA code will clamping comes into force. As I said many times in work. Committee, it is not our intention that the presence of a The third significant change introduced by these barrier should, in itself, confer lawful authority for the amendments is to extend the application of the keeper wheel-clamping of a vehicle. It is clear, however, that liability regime to circumstances where an obligation subsection (3) as drafted has been read as providing to pay a parking charge arises as a result of parking on such authority. The Government amendment puts the land without permission, which is to say in the context matter beyond doubt. A landowner will not be committing of a trespass or other tort. This change will help to the clause 54 offence in circumstances where a fixed address the concerns expressed by tenant associations barrier, present at the time when a vehicle was parked and others about their ability to tackle unauthorised on the land in question, restricts the movement of the parking in communal parking areas once the ban on vehicle, but that does not mean that the landowner will wheel-clamping comes into force. We have also made it be able to resort to wheel-clamping or towing away in clear in relation to vehicle hire companies that liability those circumstances. I trust that the amendment makes for any parking charges during the period of hire will the position crystal clear. rest with the hirer of the vehicle once the vehicle hire company provides a copy of the relevant documentation Diana Johnson: Let us be clear. Are we saying that if to the creditor. Again that reflects the position for someone receives a ticket in a private car park and there on-road parking contraventions. is a barrier that restricts the car from being driven away, Finally, the amendments will allow for the use of that is completely legitimate? Is the Minister saying that CCTV or automatic number plate recognition technology, a vehicle can still be immobilised by a barrier being put as well as the physical ticketing of vehicles, in order to down at the front of the car park, with a ticket being manage parking on relevant land. Taken together, these issued, so that the car cannot move away? Is that amendments to schedule 4 will ensure that parking correct? providers and other landowners will have an effective means of enforcing unpaid parking charges which are, Lynne Featherstone: The presence of the barrier means at the same time, fair to the motorist and vehicle keepers. that the owner has either expressly or implicitly consented to pay the parking charges, which must be clearly labelled On the concerns expressed about rogue ticketers, the under either consumer protection law or the new laws Government are fully committed to monitoring the under the keeper liability or BPA rules. If he or she has effect of the ban on vehicle immobilisation and removal paid the charge, the barrier will be lifted and they can and the associated keeper liability provisions in schedule 4. leave the car park. They must pay the charge for the barrier to be lifted, like a normal car park. That is what 9.30 pm happens in a normal car park—when I go shopping, I have cited the case of Scotland, where such things that is what happens. One complies. did not happen in anything like the way described by the hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North, but if Diana Johnson: The point I am trying to make to the there is evidence that we need to take further steps when Minister is that some rogue landowners will put down the new arrangements are in place, we will do so. We barriers to immobilise vehicles but will put a ticket for, recognise that some may attempt to extort money through say, £500 on the car, saying, “Pay the £500 and we will rogue ticketing, but the evidence from Scotland is that take the barrier up.” That is the issue. I am concerned that has not been a significant problem. Rogue ticketers, not about legitimate parking organisations that are by definition, will not have access to the DVLA database, members of the BPA, but about those rogue companies so will not be able to pursue the vehicle keeper. All they that are out to make a fast buck. 135 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 136

Lynne Featherstone: That has not been the experience riddled with holes and exemptions. I foresee a scenario in Scotland. I would say to motorists, first, that they in which a person gets a ticket from one of these should not enter unless the signage is clear and they companies and the DVLA then provides that person’s know what they are doing, and, secondly, that if that address to the ticketing company, which then applies for were to happen, they should call the police. [Interruption.] a bailiff’s warrant in a distant court, and a bailiff then I was about to say that I hope, in the light of the turns up and takes the person’s car. With the best will in reassurance I have provided in respect of appeal rights the world, ringing up trading standards or the police and signage, that the hon. Lady will feel able to withdraw will not help. If these companies cannot get you one her new clause and support the Government’s amendments, way they will get you another way, and bailiffs’ warrants but I am not sure that the timing is entirely appropriate. on vehicles will be in use. The hon. Lady asked about the six-month limit for hired cars and she made a good point that we are happy Lynne Featherstone: I thank the hon. Gentleman for to consider further. She also asked about the effect of that, but he is wrong. A rogue ticketer who is not a consumer protection legislation on ticketing. Where the member of an accredited trade association or the British terms and conditions on which land may be used for Parking Association would not be able to access the parking are displayed on a prominent sign at the entrance information from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. to the land, existing consumer protection legislation applies. Such legislation protects consumers from misleading Stephen Pound: It is not rogue; it is the norm. information and unfair contract terms. That deals with the point about the £500 ticket the hon. Lady mentioned, Lynne Featherstone: It is not the norm. This is about which would, under that protection, clearly be an unfair making parking work for everyone. We are changing contract term. For example, where signs for motorists what was an appalling blot on the landscape. There is in a car park are misleading or where other misleading probably not an MP in the House who has not written or deceptive information is given, such as the use of to me or the Minister who previously held my position tickets that look like local authority tickets, there may with terrible tales of rogue clamping. At the very worst, be a breach of consumer protection regulations. If so, if the hon. Lady—sorry, the hon. Gentleman— local authority trading standards services and the Office [Interruption.] I have forgotten my point now; it is lost of Fair Trading can take enforcement action. to posterity. Where there is no prominent sign setting out the Anyway, I hope that I have answered the points raised terms and conditions according to which the land may by the hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North. We be used, there is no protection, as I have said, and the are trying to do the right thing; we are removing a motorist should not park there as he or she is probably scourge. The measures have been welcomed by motoring trespassing. However, that may not always be clear and organisations and people across the land. There is nothing it may be that a car park provider could be accused of as popular as the measures, as a result of people’s making a misleading omission under the Consumer experiences of being clamped in unfair circumstances. I Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 if hope that the hon. Lady will feel able to withdraw her they fail to provide information that no parking is new clause and support the Government amendments. allowed. Maximum penalties under the regulations are I fear that she may not, but I live in hope. a £5,000 fine on summary conviction—that is in a magistrates court—or a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both, on conviction or Mr Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) (Lab): I rise briefly to indictment in a Crown court. Furthermore, companies support new clause 15, tabled by my hon. Friend the can pursue motorists for a parking fee only when they Member for Kingston upon Hull North (Diana Johnson). have the motorist’s contact details, and the DVLA will In over 14 years as Member of Parliament for Exeter, I provide those details only to companies that are registered cannot recall a local grievance that has caused as many with an accredited trade association. I have seen no constituents to complain to me or seek my help as have evidence that contract law and consumer protection are done about the behaviour of private car park operators defective in any way in that regard. over the last 18 months or so. Constituents have been fined while going to buy a ticket; fined despite buying Let me return to the issue of extortionate fees and and displaying a ticket; and fined despite the fact that barriers, which the hon. Lady mentioned. If she was asking the ticket machine was broken at the time and the driver whether the exemption for barriers in clause 54(3) had left a note to that effect on his windscreen. One car means that a landowner will still be able to charge park at Exeter airport, which has 24-hour digital recording extortionate fees to let motorists out of a car park of the cars going in and out, has fined motorists for where there is a barrier, the answer is no because, as I using the car park to turn around in, or for driving in have said, subsection (3)(a) requires that and out of it by mistake. “there is express or implied consent by the driver of the vehicle to The vast majority of cases concern people who have restricting its movement by a fixed barrier”. been fined, not clamped. The common grievance is the Secondly, in order to establish a contract as a basis for sense of summary injustice and the lack of any right of payment, the terms for parking have to be clearly displayed. proper appeal. In some cases, when I have intervened, We consider that if a landowner demanded a fee for the the companies concerned have reduced or even waived vehicle’s release without that basis, he would be committing the fines. My local newspaper, the Express & Echo, has an offence under subsection (1). also taken up individual cases and sought to name and shame the rogue operators, but no system of justice Stephen Pound (Ealing North) (Lab): I know that the should have to depend on the intervention of an MP or hon. Lady’s heart is in the right place and that we are a local newspaper. I wholeheartedly agree with the trying to achieve something good with this Bill, but it is excellent editorial in The Times today that warned that 137 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 138 the Bill threatens to make a bad situation worse. We Effectively, those people take money from someone need a proper right of appeal, and I am afraid that the in circumstances in which they have no lawful authority appeal process outlined by the Minister, which will be to do so. I have no objection to reforming or tightening on a voluntary basis, will not reassure my constituents. up the law in relation to wheel clamping, but the new clause alleges that it creates a new criminal offence, Lynne Featherstone: Is the right hon. Gentleman when that is manifestly not the case. saying that he would allow wheel-clamping on private land to continue? Mr Mark Spencer (Sherwood) (Con): Does my hon. Friend have any sympathy with the small company that Mr Bradshaw: No. I am making the same point that has a piece of land in front of its office for its staff to other Members have made: if we ban wheel-clamping, park on, only for a member of the public to abuse that the danger is in the unforeseen consequences. As I hope car park and park inappropriately and selfishly? The that the hon. Lady will appreciate from her experience company lacks the ability to enforce provisions on its as a Minister, there is always a danger of moving the own land in front of its own building. problem elsewhere. We are already seeing that happen in towns and cities such as mine. Her approach of a Guy Opperman: Everyone would have sympathy with voluntary appeals process is wholly inadequate, given those circumstances. We have all, in the process of the problem out there; it certainly will not reassure my representing our constituents, encountered wheel-clamping constituents who have suffered rogue fines. cases that are to the detriment of the industry itself and I completely support the requirements in the new the previous measures that applied. clause for any organisation enforcing a parking charge I am mindful that other Members wish to speak on to be a member of an accredited association; for all an important provision, so I shall merely make the parking signage to be clear; and for fine limits to be set point that new clause 15 adds nothing whatsoever to the at similar levels to maximum on-street parking fines. I existing criminal law. As much as I support the efforts hope that my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston of The Times and various organisations, what we have upon Hull North will push the new clause to a vote, and is sufficient. that hon. Members will support her. Henry Smith (Crawley) (Con): I am conscious, after Guy Opperman: I used to be one of the Automobile the previous debate in which we discussed DNA, civil Association’s retained counsels. That is not necessarily liberties and serious crime, that this may appear to be a a recommendation, but it is a past fact that I must mundane matter. However, as we have heard this evening acknowledge. I am no longer one of its retained counsels, and on other occasions, it is a source of great concern to and I am no longer a wheel-clamping specialist, but I our constituents up and down the country. I am pleased was the counsel who represented Mrs Marina Vine. On that it will be addressed in the Bill. 6 March 1997, she went to Langthorne hospital in Leytonstone. She was suffering from ulcerative colitis, I very much support, as my hon. Friend the Member and effectively she was being tested for a type of cancer. for Hexham (Guy Opperman) said a few moments ago, She left hospital, and on her way home, she felt violently the introduction of a ban on wheel clamping. As the sick. She pulled over to the side of the road, went on to Minister pointed out, a ban has been successful for what turned out to be private land, and was violently 19 years in Scotland, and it is high time that such a sick approximately 15 yards away from her car, just provision was introduced in England and Wales. However, around a corner from it. In the time that intervened I very much wish to echo the concerns outlined by the before her return—approximately three to four minutes— right hon. Member for Exeter (Mr Bradshaw) and the her car was wheel-clamped. She literally had to beg the hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North (Diana clamper to release her car, but they would not do so Johnson) that we may be shifting the problem elsewhere. unless she paid £105. The protections that motorists enjoy as consumers differ enormously, depending on whether they park on 9.45 pm local authority-controlled land or on privately controlled Everyone in the House, whether they have been here land. Under the local authority system, which is covered for as little as 18 months, as I have been, or for longer, extensively by legislation, as we have heard, there is an understands that there is a significant problem with appeals process that is laid down in legislation, and wheel clamping which, it is fair to say, the previous there is a reasonable level of fining. If someone transgresses, Government attempted to address—no one disputes or apparently transgresses, the rules in a council car that. It is right that we should change the law to try to park, they are issued with a penalty notice of about £50, reform it, but I wish to stress one point. The hon. which is reduced to half that amount if it is paid within Member for Kingston upon Hull North (Diana Johnson) 28 days. Some two thirds of people who appeal to local has tabled new clause 15, which seeks to make it a authority car-park operators are successful, because criminal offence to issue an excessive parking charge. I they can demonstrate that they did indeed buy a ticket, do not intend any disrespect to the hon. Lady, but which perhaps fell off the dashboard, or they can give section 1 of the Fraud Act 2006, which was introduced another legitimate reason for their appeal. by the previous Government, the Theft Act 1968 and That contrasts significantly with the situation of people other measures that deal with obtaining property by who park on privately available public car parks and deception apply in circumstances in which someone those operated by rogue car park operators. I have had commits an offence without lawful authority—effectively one of those in my constituency. I know from raising dishonestly—and requires a driver or anyone in possession the issue in a Westminster Hall debate that many other of a vehicle to pay a parking charge in relation to a hon. Members have had similar problems. People, often contract to park that vehicle. elderly and vulnerable, receive a threatening letter in the 139 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 140

[Henry Smith] Guy Opperman: Does the hon. Lady not accept that the Theft Act 1968, consumer protection legislation or, post demanding payment, sometimes of £70 or even more particularly, the Fraud Act 2006 apply in exactly more. Within a couple of weeks that demand is hyped the same way as new clause 15? up to perhaps double the amount. There are then threats to send in the bailiffs and threats to destroy Diana Johnson: Unfortunately, none of those Acts credit ratings. Even people whom we would not describe has ever been used to deal with wheel-clamping problems. as vulnerable get very concerned, understandably, that I assume that the hon. Gentleman thinks that they their credit rating might be affected, and they end up could be used where people have obtained excessive paying the so-called fine—it is not, of course, a criminal amounts of money by wheel-clamping and immobilising penalty—because they simply want the problem to go a vehicle. However, our new clause has the support of away. the AA, the RAC and the British Parking Association. Earlier in the Session I introduced a private Member’s Furthermore, given the views expressed by 98% of the Bill on the very issue of consumer protection in relation 12,000 people polled on this issue, I think that we are on to private car parks. Of course my Bill is rapidly going the side of motorists and the British public, and I the way of the vast majority of private Members’ Bills. certainly wish to push the new clause to a vote. In it I proposed that local authorities should have the Question put, That the clause be read a Second time. ability to license the operation of private car parks, in The House divided: Ayes 230, Noes 301. the same way as they license publicans or taxis. That would allow a responsive approach through the democratic Division No. 358] [9.56 pm system at a local level. However, I accept that my Bill is unlikely to find its way on to the statute book. AYES Abbott, Ms Diane Cruddas, Jon I hear what the Minister says with regard to self- Abrahams, Debbie Cryer, John regulation through the British Parking Association. I Ainsworth, rh Mr Bob Cunningham, Alex have met the chief executive of that organisation on a Alexander, rh Mr Douglas Cunningham, Mr Jim number of occasions. My assessment of its operation Alexander, Heidi Cunningham, Tony has been that the pilots that it has run so far have not Allen, Mr Graham Curran, Margaret been overly successful. It tends to be the responsible Anderson, Mr David Dakin, Nic companies that are involved in such schemes, and the Ashworth, Jonathan Danczuk, Simon irresponsible ones that, understandably, are not. Austin, Ian David, Mr Wayne I recognise that we have enough regulation on the Bailey, Mr Adrian Davidson, Mr Ian statute book, and that the self-regulation route is the best Bain, Mr William Davies, Geraint way to go. However, if we are to go down the self-regulation Balls, rh Ed De Piero, Gloria route, I note that the legislation has provision for reserve Banks, Gordon Denham, rh Mr John powers to have the matter reviewed. I seek an assurance Barron, rh Mr Kevin Dobbin, Jim from the Minister that when the British Parking Association Beckett, rh Margaret Dobson, rh Frank and perhaps other accredited organisations introduce Begg, Dame Anne Docherty, Thomas an independent system of appeals, that is reviewed in a Bell, Sir Stuart Dodds, rh Mr Nigel timely manner. If, as I suspect—I hope I am wrong— Benn, rh Hilary Donaldson, rh Mr Jeffrey M. self-regulation does not work, those reserve powers will Berger, Luciana Donohoe, Mr Brian H. have to be used. Betts, Mr Clive Dowd, Jim Blackman-Woods, Roberta Doyle, Gemma Blenkinsop, Tom Dromey, Jack Diana Johnson: We have had an interesting debate Bradshaw, rh Mr Ben Dugher, Michael re-examining the issue. Having listened to the Minister Brennan, Kevin Durkan, Mark explaining the provisions that she is seeking to Brown, Lyn Eagle, Ms Angela introduce by means of amendments to the Bill, and Brown, rh Mr Nicholas Eagle, Maria having heard her explanation of clause 54(3), I am even Brown, Mr Russell Edwards, Jonathan more concerned that companies that wish to get round Bryant, Chris Efford, Clive the law, operate in an intimidating way and issue Buck, Ms Karen Elliott, Julie excessive parking tickets will see this as an opportunity Burden, Richard Ellman, Mrs Louise to go ahead. Under clause 54(3) putting down a barrier Burnham, rh Andy Engel, Natascha in effect immobilises a vehicle so I am particularly Byrne, rh Mr Liam Esterson, Bill concerned about the Minister’s response on that. Campbell, Mr Alan Evans, Chris Campbell, Mr Ronnie Farrelly, Paul The impact assessment sets out that when issued with Chapman, Mrs Jenny Field, rh Mr Frank a ticket, 74% of people will pay up, so it is well worth Clark, Katy Fitzpatrick, Jim rogue ticketing companies putting tickets on vehicles Clarke, rh Mr Tom Flello, Robert and getting those 74% of people to pay up. They do not Clwyd, rh Ann Flint, rh Caroline have to worry about dealing with the 26% who might Coaker, Vernon Flynn, Paul appeal from the keeper liability angle. Coffey, Ann Fovargue, Yvonne I am keen to test the opinion of the House on new Connarty, Michael Francis, Dr Hywel clause 15. In terms of rogue wheel-clampers, I think Cooper, Rosie Gapes, Mike that motorists are going to be out of the frying pan and Cooper, rh Yvette Gardiner, Barry into the fire and that the rogue companies will run riot. Corbyn, Jeremy Gilmore, Sheila The problem will not be solved and I think that we will Creagh, Mary Glass, Pat be back here another day. Creasy, Stella Glindon, Mrs Mary 141 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 142

Godsiff, Mr Roger Morris, Grahame M. NOES Goggins, rh Paul (Easington) Afriyie, Adam Duncan Smith, rh Mr Iain Goodman, Helen Munn, Meg Aldous, Peter Ellis, Michael Greatrex, Tom Murphy, rh Mr Jim Amess, Mr David Ellison, Jane Green, Kate Murphy, rh Paul Andrew, Stuart Ellwood, Mr Tobias Greenwood, Lilian Murray, Ian Arbuthnot, rh Mr James Elphicke, Charlie Griffith, Nia Nandy, Lisa Bacon, Mr Richard Eustice, George Gwynne, Andrew Nash, Pamela Baker, Norman Evans, Graham Hain, rh Mr Peter O’Donnell, Fiona Baker, Steve Evans, Jonathan Hanson, rh Mr David Onwurah, Chi Barclay, Stephen Evennett, Mr David Harris, Mr Tom Osborne, Sandra Barker, Gregory Fabricant, Michael Havard, Mr Dai Owen, Albert Baron, Mr John Fallon, Michael Healey, rh John Paisley, Ian Barwell, Gavin Farron, Tim Hendrick, Mark Pearce, Teresa Bebb, Guto Featherstone, Lynne Hepburn, Mr Stephen Perkins, Toby Beith, rh Sir Alan Field, Mr Mark Hillier, Meg Pound, Stephen Bellingham, Mr Henry Foster, rh Mr Don Hilling, Julie Qureshi, Yasmin Benyon, Richard Francois, rh Mr Mark Hodge, rh Margaret Raynsford, rh Mr Nick Beresford, Sir Paul Freeman, George Hoey, Kate Reed, Mr Jamie Berry, Jake Freer, Mike Hood, Mr Jim Reeves, Rachel Bingham, Andrew Fullbrook, Lorraine Hopkins, Kelvin Reynolds, Emma Birtwistle, Gordon Fuller, Richard Hunt, Tristram Reynolds, Jonathan Blackwood, Nicola Garnier, Mark Irranca-Davies, Huw Riordan, Mrs Linda Blunt, Mr Crispin Gauke, Mr David Jackson, Glenda Robertson, John Bone, Mr Peter George, Andrew James, Mrs Siân C. Robinson, Mr Geoffrey Bradley, Karen Gibb, Mr Nick Jamieson, Cathy Rotheram, Steve Brady, Mr Graham Gilbert, Stephen Jarvis, Dan Roy, Mr Frank Brake, rh Tom Gillan, rh Mrs Cheryl Johnson, rh Alan Roy, Lindsay Bray, Angie Glen, John Johnson, Diana Ruane, Chris Brazier, Mr Julian Goldsmith, Zac Jones, Helen Sarwar, Anas Bridgen, Andrew Goodwill, Mr Robert Jones, Susan Elan Seabeck, Alison Brine, Mr Steve Graham, Richard Jowell, rh Tessa Sharma, Mr Virendra Brokenshire, James Grant, Mrs Helen Joyce, Eric Sheerman, Mr Barry Brooke, Annette Gray, Mr James Kendall, Liz Shuker, Gavin Browne, Mr Jeremy Green, Damian Khan, rh Sadiq Simpson, David Bruce, Fiona Grieve, rh Mr Dominic Lammy, rh Mr David Skinner, Mr Dennis Buckland, Mr Robert Griffiths, Andrew Lazarowicz, Mark Slaughter, Mr Andy Burley, Mr Aidan Gummer, Ben Leslie, Chris Smith, rh Mr Andrew Burns, Conor Gyimah, Mr Sam Lewis, Mr Ivan Smith, Angela Burns, rh Mr Simon Halfon, Robert Lloyd, Tony Smith, Nick Burstow, Paul Hammond, rh Mr Philip Llwyd, rh Mr Elfyn Smith, Owen Burt, Alistair Hammond, Stephen Love, Mr Andrew Spellar, rh Mr John Burt, Lorely Hancock, Matthew Lucas, Caroline Stringer, Graham Byles, Dan Hancock, Mr Mike Lucas, Ian Stuart, Ms Gisela Cable, rh Vince Hands, Greg Mactaggart, Fiona Sutcliffe, Mr Gerry Cairns, Alun Harper, Mr Mark Mahmood, Shabana Tami, Mark Carmichael, Neil Harrington, Richard Mann, John Thomas, Mr Gareth Carswell, Mr Douglas Harris, Rebecca Marsden, Mr Gordon Thornberry, Emily Chishti, Rehman Hart, Simon McCabe, Steve Timms, rh Stephen Chope, Mr Christopher Harvey, Nick McCann, Mr Michael Trickett, Jon Clappison, Mr James Haselhurst, rh Sir Alan McCarthy, Kerry Turner, Karl Clark, rh Greg Hayes, Mr John McClymont, Gregg Twigg, Derek Clarke, rh Mr Kenneth Heald, Oliver McCrea, Dr William Twigg, Stephen Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Heath, Mr David McDonagh, Siobhain Umunna, Mr Chuka Coffey, Dr Thérèse Heaton-Harris, Chris Collins, Damian Hemming, John McDonnell, John Vaz, rh Keith Colvile, Oliver Henderson, Gordon McFadden, rh Mr Pat Vaz, Valerie Cox, Mr Geoffrey Hendry, Charles McGovern, Alison Walley, Joan Crabb, Stephen Herbert, rh Nick McGovern, Jim Watson, Mr Tom Watts, Mr Dave Crockart, Mike Hinds, Damian McGuire, rh Mrs Anne Crouch, Tracey Hoban, Mr Mark McKechin, Ann Whitehead, Dr Alan Williams, Hywel Davey, Mr Edward Hollingbery, George McKenzie, Mr Iain Davies, David T. C. Hollobone, Mr Philip Williamson, Chris McKinnell, Catherine (Monmouth) Hopkins, Kris Wilson, Phil Meacher, rh Mr Michael Davies, Glyn Horwood, Martin Winnick, Mr David Mearns, Ian Davies, Philip Howarth, Mr Gerald Winterton, rh Ms Rosie Michael, rh Alun Davis, rh Mr David Howell, John Miliband, rh David Woodcock, John de Bois, Nick Hughes, rh Simon Miller, Andrew Wright, David Djanogly, Mr Jonathan Hunter, Mark Mitchell, Austin Wright, Mr Iain Dorrell, rh Mr Stephen Huppert, Dr Julian Moon, Mrs Madeleine Tellers for the Ayes: Doyle-Price, Jackie Hurd, Mr Nick Morden, Jessica Mr David Hamilton and Drax, Richard Jackson, Mr Stewart Morrice, Graeme (Livingston) Graham Jones Duddridge, James James, Margot 143 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 144

Javid, Sajid Pawsey, Mark White, Chris Wollaston, Dr Sarah Jenkin, Mr Bernard Penning, Mike Whittaker, Craig Wright, Jeremy Johnson, Gareth Penrose, , Mr John Wright, Simon Johnson, Joseph Perry, Claire Willetts, rh Mr David Yeo, Mr Tim Jones, Andrew Phillips, Stephen Williams, Mr Mark Young, rh Sir George Jones, Mr David Pickles, rh Mr Eric Williams, Roger Zahawi, Nadhim Jones, Mr Marcus Pincher, Christopher Williams, Stephen Kawczynski, Daniel Poulter, Dr Daniel Williamson, Gavin Tellers for the Noes: Kelly, Chris Prisk, Mr Mark Willott, Jenny Bill Wiggin and Kirby, Simon Pugh, John Wilson, Mr Rob Mr Philip Dunne Knight, rh Mr Greg Raab, Mr Dominic Kwarteng, Kwasi Redwood, rh Mr John Question accordingly negatived. Laing, Mrs Eleanor Rees-Mogg, Jacob Lancaster, Mark Reevell, Simon 10.10 pm Latham, Pauline Reid, Mr Alan Laws, rh Mr David Rifkind, rh Sir Malcolm Proceedings interrupted (Programme Order, this day). Leadsom, Andrea Robathan, rh Mr Andrew Mr Speaker put forthwith the Questions necessary for Lee, Jessica Robertson, Hugh the disposal of the business to be concluded at that time Lee, Dr Phillip Robertson, Mr Laurence (Standing Order No. 83E). Leech, Mr John Rogerson, Dan Lefroy, Jeremy Rosindell, Andrew Clause 54 Leigh, Mr Edward Rudd, Amber Leslie, Charlotte Ruffley, Mr David OFFENCE OF IMMOBILISING ETC. VEHICLES Letwin, rh Mr Oliver Rutley, David Lewis, Brandon Sanders, Mr Adrian Amendment made: 21, page 38, leave out lines 14 to Lewis, Dr Julian Sandys, Laura 18 and insert— Liddell-Grainger, Mr Ian Scott, Mr Lee ‘(3) But, where the restriction of the movement of the vehicle Lilley, rh Mr Peter Selous, Andrew is by means of a fixed barrier and the barrier was present Lloyd, Stephen Shapps, rh Grant (whether or not lowered into place or otherwise restricting Lopresti, Jack Sharma, Alok movement) when the vehicle was parked, any express or implied Lord, Jonathan Shelbrooke, Alec consent (whether or not legally binding) of the driver of the Loughton, Tim Simmonds, Mark vehicle to the restriction is, for the purposes of subsection (1), Macleod, Mary Simpson, Mr Keith lawful authority for the restriction.’.—(James Duddridge.) Maynard, Paul Skidmore, Chris McCartney, Jason Smith, Miss Chloe Clause 56 McCartney, Karl Smith, Henry McIntosh, Miss Anne Smith, Julian RECOVERY OF UNPAID PARKING CHARGES McLoughlin, rh Mr Patrick Smith, Sir Robert Amendment made: 76, page 39, line 11, leave out from McPartland, Stephen Soubry, Anna ‘keeper’ to ‘has’ in line 12 and insert McVey, Esther Spencer, Mr Mark Mensch, Louise Stephenson, Andrew ‘or hirer of a vehicle in certain circumstances)’.—(James Duddridge.) Menzies, Mark Stevenson, John Metcalfe, Stephen Stewart, Bob Schedule 4 Miller, Maria Stewart, Iain Mills, Nigel Stewart, Rory RECOVERY OF UNPAID PARKING CHARGES Milton, Anne Stride, Mel Amendments made: 39, page 113, line 11, leave out ‘a Mitchell, rh Mr Andrew Stuart, Mr Graham relevant contract’ and insert Moore, rh Michael Stunell, Andrew Mordaunt, Penny Sturdy, Julian ‘virtue of a relevant obligation’. Morgan, Nicky Swayne, rh Mr Desmond Amendment 40, page 113, line 14, leave out Morris, Anne Marie Swire, rh Mr Hugo ‘or have only been partly paid’ Morris, David Syms, Mr Robert and insert ‘in full’. Morris, James Teather, Sarah Mosley, Stephen Thurso, John Amendment 41, page 113, line 22, leave out ‘claim’ Mowat, David Timpson, Mr Edward and insert ‘recover’. Mulholland, Greg Tomlinson, Justin Amendment 42, page 113, line 24, leave out from Munt, Tessa Tredinnick, David ‘service”’ to end of line 25 and insert Murray, Sheryll Turner, Mr Andrew ‘means— Murrison, Dr , Mr Andrew Neill, Robert Uppal, Paul (a) in the case of the keeper, an address which is either— Newmark, Mr Brooks Vara, Mr Shailesh (i) an address at which documents relating to civil Newton, Sarah Vickers, Martin proceedings could properly be served on the Nokes, Caroline Villiers, rh Mrs Theresa person concerned under Civil Procedure Rules; or Norman, Jesse Walker, Mr Charles (ii) the keeper’s registered address (if there is one); or Nuttall, Mr David Wallace, Mr Ben (b) in the case of the driver, an address at which the driver Offord, Mr Matthew Walter, Mr Robert for the time being resides or can conveniently be Ollerenshaw, Eric Ward, Mr David contacted;’. Opperman, Guy Watkinson, Angela Amendment 43, page 113, line 30, at end insert— Ottaway, Richard Weatherley, Mike ‘“notice to driver” means a notice given in accordance Parish, Neil Webb, Steve with paragraph 6A; Patel, Priti Wharton, James “notice to keeper” means a notice given in accordance Paterson, rh Mr Owen Wheeler, Heather with paragraph 6B or 6C (as the case may be);’. 145 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 146

Amendment 44, page 113, line 31, leave out from Amendment 54, page 115, line 20, leave out ‘notice is ‘charge”’ to end of line 33 and insert— given’ and insert ‘time so specified)’. ‘— Amendment 77, page 115, line 23, at end insert— (a) in the case of a relevant obligation arising under the terms of a relevant contract, means ‘(9) The right under this paragraph is subject to paragraph 7B a sum in the nature of a fee or charge, and (which provides for the right not to apply in certain circumstances in the case of a hire car).’. (b) in the case of a relevant obligation arising as a result of a trespass or other tort, means a sum Amendment 55, page 115, line 26, leave out from in the nature of damages, ‘vehicle’ to ‘but’ in line 28 and insert however the sum in question is described;’. ‘the requirement to pay the unpaid parking charges;’. Amendment 45, page 113, line 33, at end insert— Amendment 56, page 115, line 29, leave out ‘enforce ‘“registered address” means, in relation to the keeper of those terms’ and insert a registered vehicle, the address described in ‘take steps to enforce that requirement’. paragraph 7(3)(b) (as provided by the Secretary of State in response to the application for the Amendment 57, page 115, line 32, leave out sub- keeper’s details required by paragraph 7);’. paragraph (2) and insert— Amendment 46, page 113, line 39, after ‘on the’ insert ‘(2) Sub-paragraph (1)(b) ceases to apply if (at any time after ‘relevant’. the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the notice to keeper is given) the creditor begins proceedings to Amendment 47, page 114, line 3, at end insert— recover the unpaid parking charges from the keeper.’. ‘“relevant obligation” means— (a) an obligation arising under the terms of a Amendment 58, page 115, line 34, leave out sub- relevant contract; or paragraph (3). (b) an obligation arising, in any circumstances Amendment 59, page 115, line 38, leave out paragraph 6 where there is no relevant contract, as a result and insert— of a trespass or other tort committed by parking the vehicle on the relevant land;’. ‘6 (1) The second condition is that the creditor (or a person acting for or on behalf of the creditor)— Amendment 48, page 114, leave out lines 4 to 6. (a) has given a notice to driver in accordance with Amendment 49, page 114, line 8, at end insert— paragraph 6A, followed by a notice to keeper in ‘(2) The reference in the definition of “parking charge” to a accordance with paragraph 6B; or sum in the nature of damages is to a sum of which adequate (b) has given a notice to keeper in accordance with notice was given to drivers of vehicles (when the vehicle was paragraph 6C. parked on the relevant land). (2) If a notice to driver has been given, any subsequent notice (3) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2) “adequate notice” to keeper must be given in accordance with paragraph 6B. means notice given by— 6A (1) A notice which is to be relied on as a notice to driver for (a) the display of one or more notices in accordance with the purposes of paragraph 6(1)(a) is given in accordance with any applicable requirements prescribed in regulations this paragraph if the following requirements are met. under paragraph 7A for, or for purposes including, the purposes of sub-paragraph (2); or (2) The notice must— (b) where no such requirements apply, the display of one (a) specify the vehicle, the relevant land on which it was or more notices which— parked and the period of parking to which the notice (i) specify the sum as the charge for unauthorised relates; parking; and (b) inform the driver of the requirement to pay parking (ii) are adequate to bring the charge to the notice of charges in respect of the specified period of parking drivers who park vehicles on the relevant land.’. and describe those charges, the circumstances in Amendment 50, page 114, line 40, leave out ‘claim which the requirement arose (including the means by payment of’ and insert ‘recover’. which it was brought to the attention of drivers) and the other facts that made those charges payable; Amendment 51, page 114, line 42, leave out sub- paragraphs (2) to (6) and insert— (c) inform the driver that the parking charges relating to the specified period of parking have not been paid in ‘(2) The right under this paragraph applies only if— full and specify the total amount of the unpaid (a) the conditions specified in paragraphs 5, 6, 7 and 7A parking charges relating to that period, as at a time (so far as applicable) are met; and which is— (b) the vehicle was not a stolen vehicle at the beginning of (i) specified in the notice; and the period of parking to which the unpaid parking (ii) no later than the time specified under paragraph (f); charges relate. (d) inform the driver of any discount offered for prompt (3) For the purposes of the condition in sub-paragraph (2)(b), payment and the arrangements for the resolution of the vehicle is to be presumed not to be a stolen vehicle at the disputes or complaints that are available; material time, unless the contrary is proved. (e) identify the creditor and specify how and to whom (4) The right under this paragraph may only be exercised after payment may be made; the end of the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the notice to keeper is given.’. (f) specify the time when the notice is given and the date. Amendment 52, page 115, line 17, leave out ‘claimed’ (3) The notice must relate only to a single period of parking and insert ‘recovered’. specified under sub-paragraph (2)(a) (but this does not prevent the giving of separate notices each specifying different parts of a Amendment 53, page 115, line 18, leave out single period of parking). ‘the driver under paragraph 6(2)(d) less’ (4) The notice must be given— and insert (a) before the vehicle is removed from the relevant land ‘keeper under paragraph 6B(2)(c) or (d) or, as the case may be, after the end of the period of parking to which the 6C(2)(d) (less’. notice relates, and 147 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 148

(b) while the vehicle is stationary, of sub-paragraph (4)) on the second working day after the day on by affixing it to the vehicle or by handing it to a person which it is posted; and for this purpose “working day” means any appearing to be in charge of the vehicle. day other than a Saturday, Sunday or a public holiday in England and Wales. 6B (1) A notice which is to be relied on as a notice to keeper for the purposes of paragraph 6(1)(a) is given in accordance with (7) When the notice is given it must be accompanied by any this paragraph if the following requirements are met. evidence prescribed under paragraph 6D. (2) The notice must— 6C (1) A notice which is to be relied on as a notice to keeper for the purposes of paragraph 6(1)(b) is given in accordance with (a) specify the vehicle, the relevant land on which it was this paragraph if the following requirements are met. parked and the period of parking to which the notice relates; (2) The notice must— (b) inform the keeper that the driver is required to pay (a) specify the vehicle, the relevant land on which it was parking charges in respect of the specified period of parked and the period of parking to which the notice parking and that the parking charges have not been relates; paid in full; (b) inform the keeper that the driver is required to pay (c) state that a notice to driver relating to the specified parking charges in respect of the specified period of period of parking has been given and repeat the parking and that the parking charges have not been information in that notice as required by paragraph paid in full; 6A(2)(b), (c) and (f); (c) describe the parking charges due from the driver as at (d) if the unpaid parking charges specified in that notice to the end of that period, the circumstances in which driver as required by paragraph 6A(2)(c) have been the requirement to pay them arose (including the paid in part, specify the amount that remains unpaid, means by which the requirement was brought to the as at a time which is— attention of drivers) and the other facts that made (i) specified in the notice to keeper, and them payable; (ii) no later than the end of the day before the day on (d) specify the total amount of those parking charges that which the notice is either sent by post or, as the are unpaid, as at a time which is— case may be, handed to or left at a current address (i) specified in the notice; and for service for the keeper (see sub-paragraph (4)); (ii) no later than the end of the day before the day on (e) state that the creditor does not know both the name of which the notice is either sent by post or, as the the driver and a current address for service for the case may be, handed to or left at a current address driver and invite the keeper— for service for the keeper (see sub-paragraph (4)); (i) to pay the unpaid parking charges; or (e) state that the creditor does not know both the name of (ii) if the keeper was not the driver of the vehicle, to the driver and a current address for service for the notify the creditor of the name of the driver and a driver and invite the keeper— current address for service for the driver and to (i) to pay the unpaid parking charges; or pass the notice on to the driver; (ii) if the keeper was not the driver of the vehicle, to (f) warn the keeper that if, at the end of the period of notify the creditor of the name of the driver and a 28 days beginning with the day after that on which current address for service for the driver and to the notice to keeper is given— pass the notice on to the driver; (i) the amount of the unpaid parking charges (as (f) warn the keeper that if, after the period of 28 days specified under paragraph (c) or (d)) has not been beginning with the day after that on which the notice paid in full, and is given— (ii) the creditor does not know both the name of the (i) the amount of the unpaid parking charges specified driver and a current address for service for the under paragraph (d) has not been paid in full, and driver, (ii) the creditor does not know both the name of the the creditor will (if all the applicable conditions under this driver and a current address for service for the Schedule are met) have the right to recover from the driver, keeper so much of that amount as remains unpaid; the creditor will (if all the applicable conditions under this (g) inform the keeper of any discount offered for prompt Schedule are met) have the right to recover from the payment and the arrangements for the resolution of keeper so much of that amount as remains unpaid; disputes or complaints that are available; (g) inform the keeper of any discount offered for prompt (h) identify the creditor and specify how and to whom payment and the arrangements for the resolution of payment or notification to the creditor may be made; disputes or complaints that are available; (i) specify the date on which the notice is sent (if it is sent (h) identify the creditor and specify how and to whom by post) or given (in any other case). payment or notification to the creditor may be made; (3) The notice must relate only to a single period of parking (i) specify the date on which the notice is sent (where it is specified under sub-paragraph (2)(a) (but this does not prevent sent by post) or given (in any other case). the giving of separate notices which each specify different parts (3) The notice must relate only to a single period of parking of a single period of parking). specified under sub-paragraph (2)(a) (but this does not prevent (4) The notice must be given by— the giving of separate notices which each specify different parts (a) handing it to the keeper, or leaving it at a current of a single period of parking). address for service for the keeper, within the relevant (4) The notice must be given by— period; or (a) handing it to the keeper, or leaving it at a current (b) sending it by post to a current address for service for address for service for the keeper, within the relevant the keeper so that it is delivered to that address period; or within the relevant period. (b) sending it by post to a current address for service for (5) The relevant period for the purposes of sub-paragraph (4) the keeper so that it is delivered to that address is the period of 28 days following the period of 28 days beginning within the relevant period. with the day after that on which the notice to driver was given. (5) The relevant period for the purposes of sub-paragraph (4) (6) A notice sent by post is to be presumed, unless the contrary is the period of 14 days beginning with the day after that on is proved, to have been delivered (and so “given” for the purposes which the specified period of parking ended. 149 Protection of Freedoms Bill10 OCTOBER 2011 Protection of Freedoms Bill 150

(6) A notice sent by post is to be presumed, unless the contrary (a) include incidental, supplementary, transitional, transitory is proved, to have been delivered (and so “given” for the purposes or saving provision; of sub-paragraph (4)) on the second working day after the day on (b) make different provision for different areas or which it is posted; and for this purpose “working day” means purposes.’. any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or a public holiday in England and Wales. Amendment 78, page 117, line 2, at end insert— (7) When the notice is given it must be accompanied by any ‘Hire vehicles evidence prescribed under paragraph 6D. 7B (1) This paragraph applies in the case of parking charges 6D (1) The appropriate national authority may by regulations incurred in respect of the parking of a vehicle on relevant land made by statutory instrument prescribe evidence which must if— accompany a notice which is to be relied on as a notice to keeper (a) the vehicle was at the time of parking hired to any for the purposes of paragraph 6(1)(a) or paragraph 6(1)(b) (as person under a hire agreement with a vehicle-hire the case may be). firm; and (2) The regulations may in particular make provision as to— (b) the keeper has been given a notice to keeper within the (a) the means by which any prescribed evidence is to be relevant period for the purposes of paragraph 6B(4) generated or otherwise produced (which may include or 6C(4) (as the case may be). a requirement to use equipment of a kind approved (2) The creditor may not exercise the right under paragraph 4 for the purpose by a person specified in the to recover from the keeper any unpaid parking charges specified regulations); or in the notice to keeper if, within the period of 28 days beginning (b) the circumstances in which any evidence is, or is not, with the day after that on which that notice was given, the required to accompany a notice to keeper. creditor is given— (3) The regulations may— (a) a statement signed by or on behalf of the vehicle-hire firm to the effect that at the material time the vehicle (a) include incidental, supplementary, transitional, was hired to a named person under a hire agreement; transitory or saving provision; (b) a copy of the hire agreement; and (b) make different provision for different purposes.’. (c) a copy of a statement of liability signed by the hirer Amendment 60, page 116, line 23, leave out paragraph 7 under that hire agreement. and insert— (3) The statement of liability required by sub-paragraph (2)(c) ‘7 (1) The third condition is that— must— (a) the creditor (or a person acting for or on behalf of the (a) contain a statement by the hirer to the effect that the creditor) has made an application for the keeper’s hirer acknowledges responsibility for any parking details in relation to the period of parking to which charges that may be incurred with respect to the the unpaid parking charges relate; vehicle while it is hired to the hirer; (b) the application was made during the relevant period (b) include an address given by the hirer (whether a for the purposes of paragraph 6B(4) (where a notice residential, business or other address) as one at which to driver has been given) or 6C(4) (where no notice to documents may be given to the hirer; driver has been given); (and it is immaterial whether the statement mentioned in (c) the information sought by the application is provided paragraph (a) relates also to other charges or penalties of any by the Secretary of State to the applicant. kind). (2) The third condition only applies if the vehicle is a (4) A statement required by sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (c) must registered vehicle. be in such form (if any) as may be prescribed by the appropriate (3) In this paragraph “application for the keeper’s details” national authority by regulations made by statutory instrument. means an application for the following information to be (5) The documents mentioned in sub-paragraph (2) must be provided to the applicant by virtue of regulations made under given by— section 22(1)(c) of the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act (a) handing them to the creditor; 1994— (b) leaving them at any address which is specified in the (a) the name of the registered keeper of the vehicle during notice to keeper as an address at which documents the period of parking to which the unpaid parking may be given to the creditor or to which payments charges relate; and may be sent; or (b) the address of that person as it appears on the register (c) sending them by post to such an address so that they (or, if that person has ceased to be the registered are delivered to that address within the period keeper, as it last appeared on the register).’. mentioned in that sub-paragraph. Amendment 61, page 117, line 2, at end insert— (6) In this paragraph and paragraph 7C— ‘7A (1) The fourth condition is that any applicable (a) “hire agreement” means an agreement which— requirements prescribed under this paragraph were met at the (i) provides for a vehicle to be let to a person (“the beginning of the period of parking to which the unpaid parking hirer”) for a period not exceeding 6 months charges relate. (whether or not the period is capable of extension (2) The appropriate national authority may by regulations by agreement between the parties so as to exceed made by statutory instrument prescribe requirements as to the 6 months); and display of notices on relevant land where parking charges may be (ii) is not a hire-purchase agreement within the incurred in respect of the parking of vehicles on the land. meaning of the Consumer Credit Act 1974; (3) The provision made under sub-paragraph (2) may, in (b) any reference to the currency of a hire agreement particular, include provision— includes a reference to any period during which, with (a) requiring notices of more than one kind to be displayed the consent of the vehicle-hire firm, the hirer on any relevant land; continues in possession of the vehicle as hirer, after the expiry of any period specified in the agreement (b) as to the content or form of any notices required to be but otherwise on terms and conditions specified in it; displayed; and and (c) as to the location of any notices required to be displayed. (c) “vehicle-hire firm” means any person engaged in the (4) Regulations under this paragraph may— hiring of vehicles in the course of a business. 151 Protection of Freedoms Bill 10 OCTOBER 2011 152

7C (1) If— (b) adding to, removing or amending any of the conditions (a) the creditor is by virtue of paragraph 7B(2) unable to to which the right conferred by paragraph 4 is for the exercise the right to recover from the keeper any time being subject. unpaid parking charges mentioned in the notice to (2) The power to amend this Schedule for the purpose keeper, and mentioned in sub-paragraph (1)(b) includes, in particular, power (b) the conditions mentioned in sub-paragraph (2) below to add to, remove or amend— are met, (a) any provisions that are applicable for the purposes of a the creditor may recover those charges (so far as they remain condition; and unpaid) from the hirer. (b) any powers of the appropriate national authority to (2) The conditions are that— prescribe anything for the purposes of a condition by (a) the creditor has within the relevant period given the regulations made by statutory instrument. hirer a notice in accordance with sub-paragraph (5) (a “notice to hirer”), together with a copy of the (3) An order under this paragraph may— documents mentioned in paragraph 7B(2) and the (a) include incidental, supplementary, transitional, transitory notice to keeper; or saving provision; (b) a period of 21 days beginning with the day on which (b) make different provision for different purposes. the notice to hirer was given has elapsed; and (c) the vehicle was not a stolen vehicle at the beginning of 10 (1) A statutory instrument containing regulations under the period of parking to which the unpaid parking any provision of this Schedule is subject to annulment by— charges relate. (a) a resolution of either House of Parliament (in the case (3) In sub-paragraph (2)(a) “the relevant period” is the period of regulations made by the Secretary of State); or of 21 days beginning with the day after that on which the (b) a resolution of the National Assembly for Wales (in documents required by paragraph 7B(2) are given to the creditor. the case of regulations made by the Welsh Ministers). (4) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(c) a vehicle is to be presumed not to be a stolen vehicle at the material time, unless (2) A statutory instrument containing an order made under the contrary is proved. paragraph 9—’.—(James Duddridge.) (5) The notice to hirer must— Bill to be further considered tomorrow. (a) inform the hirer that by virtue of this paragraph any unpaid parking charges (being parking charges specified in the notice to keeper) may be recovered Business without Debate from the hirer; (b) refer the hirer to the information contained in the notice to keeper; BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE (c) warn the hirer that if, after the period of 21 days beginning with the day after that on which the notice Ordered, to hirer is given, the amount of unpaid parking That, at the sitting on Wednesday 12 October, paragraph (2) of charges referred to in the notice to keeper under Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments) shall apply to paragraph 6B(2)(f) or 6C(2)(f) (as the case may be) the Motions in the name of Edward Miliband as if the day were has not been paid in full, the creditor will (if any an Opposition Day; proceedings on the Motions may continue, applicable requirements are met) have the right to though opposed, until the moment of interruption and shall then recover from the hirer so much of that amount as lapse if not previously disposed of; and Standing Order No. 41A remains unpaid; (Deferred divisions) shall not apply.—(Sir George Young.) (d) inform the hirer of any discount offered for prompt Motion made, payment and the arrangements for the resolution of That, at the sitting on Monday 17 October, notwithstanding disputes or complaints that are available; Standing Order No. 14(3A) (Arrangement of public business), (e) identify the creditor and specify how and to whom the Speaker shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of the payment may be made; and proceedings on the Motion in the name of Sir George Young (f) specify the date on which the notice is sent (if it is sent relating to the Parliamentary Contributory Pension Fund not by post) or given (in any other case). later than two hours after the commencement of proceedings on the Motion; and such Questions shall include the Questions on (6) The documents mentioned in sub-paragraph (2)(a) must be any Amendments selected by the Speaker which may then be given by— moved.—(Sir George Young.) (a) handing them to the hirer; (b) leaving them at an address which is either— Hon. Members: Object. (i) an address specified in the statement of liability mentioned in paragraph 7B(2)(c) as an address at which documents may be given to the hirer; or (ii) an address at which documents relating to civil DELEGATED LEGISLATION proceedings could properly be served on the hirer Motion made, and Question put forthwith (Standing under Civil Procedure Rules; or Order No. 118(6)), (c) sending them by post to such an address so that they are delivered to that address within the relevant period for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(a).’. TRIBUNALS AND INQUIRIES Amendment 62, page 117, leave out lines 17 to 34 and That the draft First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum insert— Chamber) Fees Order 2011, which was laid before this House on 12 July, be approved.—(James Duddridge.) ‘9 (1) The appropriate national authority may by order made by statutory instrument amend this Schedule for the purpose Question put. of— The Speaker’s opinion as to the decision of the Question (a) amending the definition of “relevant land” in being challenged, the Division was deferred until Wednesday paragraph 3; 12 October (Standing Order No. 41A). 153 Business without Debate 10 OCTOBER 2011 154

PETITION Interpretation Services (Ministry of Justice) Swindon Town Centre Motion made, and Question proposed, That this House do now adjourn.—(Bill Wiggin.) 10.11 pm

Mr (South Swindon) (Con): I present 10.13 pm a petition signed by Swindon residents and visitors to our town centre. It is made in respect of established Mr John Leech (Manchester, Withington) (LD): I am street traders. [Interruption.] delighted to have secured this end-of-day Adjournment debate on the proposed outsourcing of interpretation Mr Speaker: Order. It is rather discourteous. There is services by the Ministry of Justice. I wish that it had not a lot of noise, including that being made by a Government been necessary and that the coalition Government had Whip, who unaccountably is not staying to hear the recognised the mistakes made by the previous Labour presentation of the petition; I cannot imagine why. If Government in not taking action to stop police forces Members are leaving the Chamber, I feel sure that they around the country outsourcing interpreting services to will do so quickly and quietly. [Interruption.] We are agencies, which has resulted in a poorer level of service grateful to the Whip on duty for toddling back to his not only to defendants but to police forces and the place to hear the presentation of the petition. criminal justice system around the country. This is not the first time that I have raised this issue in Parliament. Mr Buckland: I am grateful, Mr Speaker. Back in March 2009, I secured a Westminster Hall The future role of established street traders in the life debate in response to the north-west police forces planning of Swindon town centre is supported by no fewer than to outsource their interpreting services. Unfortunately, 4,371 signatories. The prayer reads as follows: it fell on deaf ears; I hope that it will not do so this time. Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Honourable House I would like particularly to thank my constituent urges the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Marc Starr, who originally brought this issue to my to request that Swindon Borough Council review its policy on attention, and Geoffrey Buckingham, the chairman of street trading in Swindon town centre. the Association of Police and Court Interpreters, for Following is the full text of the petition: providing me with a lot of information for the debate, [The Humble Petition of Swindon residents and visitors, and to recognise colleagues who have contacted me about this issue, including my right hon. Friend the Sheweth that there is support for the street traders of Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills Swindon town centre; that street traders add to the vibrancy and the hon. Member for Bromsgrove (Sajid Javid), of Swindon town centre; and that the future of street who is in his place. trading must be placed on a secure footing. A framework agreement to regulate the supply of Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your Honourable police and court public service interpreters has been House urges the Secretary of State for Communities and brokered by the Ministry of Justice. Its intentions are to Local Government to request that Swindon Borough Council endeavour to ensure that interpreting services to the review its policy on street trading in Swindon town centre judiciary and police are delivered to a high standard via And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray, qualified interpreters in a way intended to save about &c.] £18 million annually against the current £60 million [P000963] budget. The Ministry of Justice has decided that the best way to do so is to let a contract to a single self-regulating commercial organisation that will book interpreters, individually or through agencies, to service the police and courts; determine a rate for the job; and monitor not only the quality of the interpreters’ work and need for further training and review, but its own performance. However, it is highly questionable whether this framework agreement and Applied Language Solutions, which is the agency that will provide interpreters, will be able to meet the Ministry of Justice’s requirements. The plans introduce three tiers of interpreters, and the intention is to rank interpreters into one of three categories, with a rate of pay of £22 for tier 1, £20 for tier 2, and £16 for tier 3. Interpreters will be ranked according to their qualifications, but also subject to the agency’s own assessment, to which already fully qualified interpreters would be expected to subject themselves at their own personal cost. These rates of pay, along with severe restrictions on travel expenses and an end to travel-time payments, will result in interpreters refusing to sign up to the agency, or to take specific jobs, because of the low rates of pay. I have received evidence from one interpreter in whose current net pay after travel expenses for a typical magistrates court job in Greater Manchester is £103.75 for anything 155 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 10 OCTOBER 2011 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 156 Justice) Justice) [Mr John Leech] Does the Minister also think that closing the list when more than half the NRPSI-qualified interpreters up to a three-hour job, whereas under the proposed have refused to sign up will increase the availability of framework agreement it would be £10 for a one-hour suitably qualified and vetted interpreters? Of course, it job or £50 for a three-hour job, which equates to will not. We should look at the evidence from where £4.44 per hour for one hour, rising to £11.76 per hour if outsourcing has already taken place and at its impact the job lasts three hours. on the quality and availability of interpreters. The Ministry Perhaps an even starker example is that of a Lithuanian- of Justice claimed on 6 July that “collaborative authorities” speaking interpreter who sometimes has to travel to had Plymouth Crown court from Surrey because of a lack “concerns that NRPSI registration does not necessarily guarantee of qualified Lithuanian-speaking interpreters. Under quality. The evidence for this is anecdotal, but has been consistent the current agreement, they would receive £246.25 after enough to warrant action.” travel costs for the 11.5-hour return trip. Under the new I would prefer to rely on hard evidence, and there is framework agreement, this would be minus £65.10 after significant evidence that the outsourcing of interpreting travel costs. Does the Minister seriously think that that services by police forces has resulted in the use of is acceptable, and does he really think that this will be unqualified interpreters. an incentive to accept that particular job? When Cheshire constabulary outsourced to ALS, only 34% of the interpreters provided by ALS were on Jonathan Evans (Cardiff North) (Con): I assure my the NRPSI. In Lincolnshire, outsourcing led to a reduction hon. Friend that the worries that he has outlined are of registered interpreters from 68% to less than 30%. shared by interpreters in Wales, whose concern is not so Where outsourcing has taken place there has been a much the finance but the fact that the service is going to significant reduction in the number of registered interpreters deteriorate because of the quality of interpreters who being used—clear evidence that the quality and availability will work at these rates. of interpreters is reduced.

Mr Leech: I thank my hon. Friend for that contribution. Lilian Greenwood (Nottingham South) (Lab): Does That is a common issue that has been raised with me by the hon. Gentleman agree with my constituent interpreters around the country, in England and in Svetlana Clark who is a member of the Chartered Wales. Institute of Linguists and a public service interpreter on When one adds in the additional disincentives of no the national register, that the potential cost to the pension, holiday pay or sick pay, as well as no job judiciary of adjournments, mistrials, appeals and failed security and no increase in interpreters’ rate of pay prosecutions as a result of inadequate interpreting cannot since 2007, it is unthinkable to assume that these proposed be overestimated and does not serve the interests of rates of pay and costs are suitable. It also seems perverse justice? that the new framework agreement encourages the use of an interpreter’s car rather than public transport. Mr Leech: I do agree with the hon. Lady’s constituent. Currently, standard-class fares are reimbursed in full, There is lots of evidence to suggest that where unqualified while the car mileage rate is 25p a mile. A higher rate of interpreters have been used there have been delays in 45p a mile, which is more in line with the true cost of police and court action, resulting in additional costs. I running a car per mile, along with parking costs, is have been handed pages and pages of examples of payable only if the interpreter can show that there was unqualified interpreters being sent to police stations no public transport option. However, under the new and courts by agencies, or interpreters proficient in the arrangements all calculations will be based on the use of wrong language. One example that made it into Private a personal car and public transport costs will not be Eye was ALS providing a Czech-speaking interpreter covered—not much of an incentive for interpreters to for a Slovak-speaking suspect. ALS’s explanation was reduce their carbon emissions and travel on public that transport. “it is fair to say that most people from Slovakia essentially speak One of the stated aims of the framework agreement Czech.” is increasing the number of suitably qualified and vetted Is this really the sort of organisation that we want in interpreters to meet the demand. There are currently charge of ensuring that justice is done? around 2,300 interpreters registered with the national register of public service interpreters. Applied Language Other questions have been raised about the suitability Solutions claims that 1,000 linguists have signed up to of ALS to fulfil the role. The Minister has already its Linguist Lounge recruitment website. That means a assured me that the Department’s procurement specialists cut of around 1,300 qualified interpreters available to were satisfied by the company’s stability and probity, the courts system, assuming that all 1,000 are NRPSI- but the fact remains that more than 50% of qualified qualified. If they are not, the cut in qualified interpreters interpreters do not and will not work for it. The company will be even greater. The failure of ALS to reach agreement has been found to be in breach of the Data Protection with at least 1,300 qualified interpreters shows the level Act 1998 on three occasions since 2007. Can the Minister of opposition to the proposals, in spite of evidence to assure me that potentially highly sensitive data are safe suggest that ALS has sought to pressurise interpreters and that is it appropriate for them to be handled in into signing up, with thinly veiled threats that the registration non-UK call centres? is closing soon. Does the Minister think that that is Finally, will the Minister explain why foreign-language- appropriate behaviour for a company purporting to speaking interpreters are being treated differently from implement the legal interpreting and translation register, British sign language interpreters, who will retain their which surely must be consistently open to applicants as existing terms and conditions? Surely that contravenes a public resource? sections 13 and 19 of the Equality Act 2010, by providing 157 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 10 OCTOBER 2011 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 158 Justice) Justice) less favourable terms to foreign-language interpreters? 10.28 pm The Ministry of Justice also intends effectively to re-test foreign-language interpreters, but not British sign language The Minister for Policing and Criminal Justice (Nick interpreters. Surely it is a contradiction that the Ministry Herbert): I congratulate my hon. Friend the Member accepts BSL qualifications as valid but rejects foreign- for Manchester, Withington (Mr Leech) on securing language interpreters, even though they have the same this debate. I understand his concerns, and this debate level of accredited qualification. gives me a welcome opportunity to address them. There are two points I would like to clarify before turning to These proposals have not been properly thought through. his key concerns. The first is that the Government’s The MOJ has failed to look at the evidence from reforms do not limit in any way the circumstances in outsourcing, and failed to treat all interpreters equitably. which relevant parties to proceedings are entitled to the I hope that it is not too late for the Government to take services of an interpreter. An interpreter is made available a step back and review this decision. If they cannot do as soon as practicable once an apparent need is identified, that, I would at the very least strongly urge the Minister irrespective of the language involved. That will not closely to monitor the performance of the service, paying change. close attention to the delays and additional costs that will undoubtedly occur when cases are delayed as a Secondly, I believe that we need to take care in our result of a lack of an available interpreter, or when use of the word “outsourcing”, which has characterised mistakes are made when under-qualified interpreters this debate. I am referring not only to this Adjournment are used. debate, but to the wider debate taking place on this matter outside the House. Interpretation and translation services are not currently provided in house; they have 10.25 pm always been outsourced. The difference is that, in future, Sajid Javid (Bromsgrove) (Con): I should like to the Government will be outsourcing to a single supplier thank my hon. Friend the Member for Manchester, rather than to individual freelance interpreters and Withington (Mr Leech) for raising the important issue translators. of the outsourcing of interpretation services by the There is no doubt that, at a time when we are striving Ministry of Justice. I want to raise the case of a local to make savings across all public services, there is an company, Sign Solutions, which is based in my constituency opportunity to make savings in this area. Currently, the and which specialises in interpretation services for British annual spend on these services is in the region of sign language. It was formed in 1998, following the £60 million across the justice sector, so it is by no means retrial of the case of R v. Smith, Smith and Sams. This insignificant. We estimate that moving over to the murder trial had been running in the Old Bailey for framework agreement will result in savings of at least seven weeks using an unskilled, unqualified BSL interpreter. £18 million a year—significant savings. The interpreter errors eventually became so great that The decision to move to a single supplier is not a snap the judge had to stop the trial. decision. Officials in the Ministry of Justice have conducted My constituent Sean Nicholson and his friend Gloria a lengthy, thorough and robust procurement process, as Ogborn were interpreters of known expertise, and they required by EU law, engaging with a range of bidders to were approached by the Ministry of Justice to undertake ensure that we get the best possible service for the best the retrial. Their company, Sign Solutions, went on possible price. The single supplier with which we have successfully to tender for civil and family court work for signed a framework agreement is Applied Language more than 10 years. Since then, it has helped to streamline Solutions. ALS will provide a single point of contact, interpreting services, and introduced cost savings by available to staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reducing the number of interpreters booked for cancelled through which the provision of face-to-face interpreting, hearings and supplying the right number of interpreters telephone interpreting, written translation and language for each case. It has also suggested cost-saving ideas to services for the deaf and deaf-blind can be obtained. the MOJ, such as using a web-based video system that could cut pricing by up to 50% without compromising Under the framework agreement, the Ministry of quality. Sign Solutions is an award-winning national Justice will sign a contract on behalf of MOJ central vocational qualification centre that offers post-qualification functions, Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service training in police and court work. It employs apprentices and the Prison Service. Other organisations—for example, who are training to become the next generation of BSL individual police forces and the Crown Prosecution legal interpreters. Its services encompass all languages Service—can also sign contracts with ALS, but the and telephone interpreting, in order to be able to compete MOJ cannot mandate this. It is important to be clear for one-service tenders. that a wide range of justice organisations support the need to make these changes. During the recent MOJ tender process, Sign Solutions was rejected on the basis of having insufficient turnover, The changes will primarily affect England and Wales. despite being one of the most experienced BSL court However, it will be open to justice organisations in interpreters in the country, with more than 12 qualified Scotland and Northern Ireland to sign contracts under interpreters in house, four of whom have more than the framework, although the Scottish Court Service 20 years of legal experience each. Small and medium-sized already has its own contract with a commercial supplier. enterprises such as Sign Solutions are just the kind of business that this Government are committed to supporting, Mr Andy Slaughter (Hammersmith) (Lab): The Minister so may I ask the Minister for Policing and Criminal has said that the tendering process is robust. Will he Justice to look carefully at the MOJ procurement process, assure us for the record that he is clear that what he is to see how a more level playing field could be created so doing in the single tendering to ALS will conform to the that companies such as Sign Solutions have a better directive on the right of interpretation in criminal chance of winning Government business? proceedings? 159 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 10 OCTOBER 2011 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 160 Justice) Justice) Nick Herbert: My understanding is that it does. will be properly managed. In addition, all interpreters Some of our stakeholders—primarily interpreters and and translators will be required to abide by a comprehensive their representative organisations—oppose the new model. code of conduct, which emphasises that they should My hon. Friend the Member for Manchester, Withington accept only assignments that they are competent to has eloquently set out some of their concerns. They undertake. suggest that our proposals will reduce the quality of Clearly, in any system for the provision of such interpreters and translators working in the justice sector services there will be exceptional cases in which it is not to the detriment of justice itself. Interpreters have suggested easy, or always possible, to find a person with the that there will be breaches of articles 5 and 6 of the specified qualification requirements within the time scale European convention on human rights with, for example, sought. That happens under the present arrangements, suspects spending longer in custody, collapsed trials and—we must be realistic—we cannot rule it out entirely and miscarriages of justice. I do not accept that these under the new arrangements. Such cases are currently are valid claims. managed as well as possible on the ground by the police Let us first remember that the current system does and courts as appropriate, and that will continue. The not meet our needs. We already have the unacceptable new arrangements will help to mitigate the problems position that approximately 400 magistrates court trials with a tiered approach, and, perhaps most crucially, and a number of considerably more expensive Crown with objectives to promote the recruitment and training court trials cannot go ahead as listed because the interpreter of new interpreters, particularly in certain areas of the does not attend court. court or in certain languages. Let us consider the following scenario. A member of Our proposals constitute a reasonable and sensible court staff receives notification that a defendant due to response to the need to improve efficiency in our spending appear in court for a pre-trial hearing the following on interpreters, drive up standards and reduce burdens Monday morning requires an interpreter. That member on the justice system, while ensuring that we maintain of staff accesses the register and starts to make phone quality standards. We believe that when, for example, a calls. Interpreter 1 is not available. Interpreter 2, despite defendant or witness needs an interpreter, he or she repeated call-backs, cannot be contacted. Interpreter 3, should be entitled to one. We do not want police officers, who lives some considerable distance away, is available court staff and other workers to spend time telephoning and takes the booking. At around the same time, the and booking interpreters. We do not believe it is acceptable Crown Prosecution Service needs to book an interpreter that the taxpayer can pay hundreds of pounds in fees in the same language for a prosecution witness due to and travel expenses to an interpreter who will deal with give evidence in a trial. The witness is due to give a 10-minute traffic hearing in a magistrates court which evidence on Monday afternoon. The interpreter originally results in a fine of less than £100. We want interpreters booked has pulled out. The CPS accesses the register to spend more time interpreting than travelling, and we and starts to make phone calls. Interpreter 1 is not believe that positive benefits will result from the introduction available; interpreter 2 answers the phone and accepts of more competition. the booking. After 20 minutes of phone calls, we now We have considered carefully what interpreters have have two interpreters in the same language travelling to told us. What they have said has influenced this project, the same court building on the same day. Under the and has, I believe, resulted in a more robust model. The current arrangements, we would pay each of them a fact that we have decided to adopt a framework agreement payment equivalent to a minimum of three hours work that is opposed by some interpreters does not negate and possibly travel time on top of that. that consultation. The alternative models that they suggested would clearly have led to some savings—we acknowledge Mr Leech: Does the Minister accept, though, that that—but they did not meet all the objectives that we where services have been outsourced to an agency to sought, and did not offer us the controls that we needed. arrange interpreters rather than directly to the registered As I said earlier, we were looking for the best possible interpreters, there have been more rather fewer problems? service at the best possible price. The Government are satisfied that the framework agreement will ensure that Nick Herbert: I do not accept that the problems my the justice sector continues to have access to quality hon. Friend describes will characterise the new service language services, while ensuring the provision of value we are setting out under the framework agreement. The for money on behalf of the public. difference with our new framework agreement is that My hon. Friend raised the issue of the pay that the court staff and the CPS each make a single phone interpreters will receive under the new arrangements. call or send a single e-mail to ALS. ALS then not only We have always been aware of the claims by interpreters contacts the interpreters, but its infrastructure means that lower pay will cause them to seek alternative work. that it knows about the two jobs and can ensure that As a result, bidders involved in the procurement process one interpreter is used for both jobs—saving on costs were tested to ensure that rates of pay would be sufficient for the justice sector and providing a more worthwhile to attract and retain linguists with the appropriate piece of work for the interpreter who is booked. quality standards. ALS has now published the rates that Ensuring that interpretation and translation are of it will pay interpreters. We know that making that the appropriate quality and widening the available pool information available has not eased the concerns of of interpreters are fundamental elements of this reform some foreign language interpreters. We have seen and have always been so, and the Government believe calculations by interpreters which suggest that revised that they will be delivered. The framework agreement is terms and conditions would lead to a reduction of clear about the quality standards that are expected. It between 40% and 60% in remuneration, and would requires detailed and meaningful management information drive them from the profession. However, the situation and comprehensive key performance indicators, and it is not as simple as those calculations suggest. 161 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 10 OCTOBER 2011 Interpretation Services (Ministry of 162 Justice) Justice) It is not possible at this stage to produce a detailed and creation of, profit can be a useful tool in establishing analysis of how individual interpreters will be affected, greater quality standards. We are not creating a monopoly. because the whole model is being changed, not just the The UK market for language services is worth about hourly rate, but we believe that the improved technology £940 million annually and the justice sector currently available to ALS will enable interpreters to be given represents about 7% of that market. work in a more efficient and co-ordinated manner. For My hon. Friend also asked why language services instance, an interpreter may be given a series of assignments professionals for the deaf and deaf-blind are treated on the same day and in the same general location. We differently from foreign language interpreters. While also know that a large number of interpreters have there are differences in the detail and operation of the registered with ALS. Ultimately, the framework agreement frameworks for foreign language interpretation and offers the opportunity to any linguist, irrespective of language services for the deaf and deaf-blind in tiering race or other protected characteristic, to perform services and assessment, we do not accept the suggestion that for the justice sector if appropriately qualified. this constitutes unlawful discrimination under the Equality My hon. Friend also expressed concerns about the Act 2010. Ultimately, the framework agreement offers company, and concerns have been expressed by others the opportunity to any linguist to perform services for about the competitive process. During a dialogue that the justice sector, if appropriately qualified. was robust and rigorous, ALS satisfied the procurement I appreciate my hon. Friend’s concerns about these specialists at the Ministry of Justice of its financial issues, but I hope I have gone at least some way to stability and probity. Failure to satisfy officials in that allaying his concerns about the way in which this framework regard would have resulted in its elimination from the agreement will operate, in particular by emphasising process I am satisfied that my officials took all the not only the importance of ensuring quality in relation necessary steps to ensure the financial probity of ALS to interpretation services, but the significant savings such that the framework agreement was properly awarded that can be made in this sector of the justice system. to that company. My officials were aware of the criticism The public finances are under great pressure. We have that had been made by some interpreters of ALS. The to deal with the deficit, so we have to make savings in selection of questions and criteria used for the procurement the criminal justice system, where costs have risen very process was influenced by the issues that had been substantially over recent years. This is one way in which raised. In particular, the process focused on relationships we can make those significant savings. We cannot dismiss with interpreters, market rates and quality issues. This an £18 million a year saving in this sector. That is a process was applied equally to all bidders, including substantial sum, which is why we think it is important ALS, in line with procurement law principles. to maintain our commitment in this regard. This is nothing new. Many goods and services are Question put and agreed to. provided successfully across the justice sector by commercial entities, and in many cases this ensures a continued 10.42 pm improvement in quality and standards. Opportunity for, House adjourned.

1WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 2WS

in the process make it easier for families to go green and Written Ministerial improve local amenity and local environment. It also builds on the abolition of bin taxes through the Localism Statements Bill and our plans to abolish unfair bin fines introduced under the last Administration. Monday 10 October 2011 Helping local families

TREASURY Under the last Administration, while bin collections halved for many homes, across the country council tax Tax Agreement (Switzerland) more than doubled. In 2011-12, the coalition Government introduced a council tax freeze, which was taken up by all participating councils. The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury (Mr David Gauke): On 6 October the Government signed an agreement On 3 October, the my right hon. Friend, the Chancellor with the Swiss confederation on co-operation on tax of the Exchequer, announced £805 million support to matters. The agreement seeks to tackle tax evasion by help freeze council tax bills for a further year. The UK residents through the use of Swiss financial services. support for local authorities, on top of the existing It will clear up past tax liabilities through the imposition freeze, means that taxpayers living in an average band D of a significant one-off levy, safeguard future revenues home in England could save up to £72 compared to a through a new withholding tax on investment returns, 5% rise in council tax. In addition to providing real help and expand the powers of HM Revenue and Customs to households in difficult times this provides a positive to find out about Swiss assets. contribution to those local authorities who wish to keep The text of the agreement has been deposited in the council tax down while protecting vital front-line services. Libraries of both Houses and is available on the HM I will shortly make a written statement setting out the Revenue and Customs’ website. provisions for English local authorities and my officials will then write to the authorities with full details of the COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT scheme for 2012-13, including providing an indicative breakdown of estimated grants to help local authorities Work of the Department (Conference Recess) with their budget planning. Improving transparency and accountability The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Mr Eric Pickles): I would like to update Transparency is at the core of delivering efficient and hon. Members on the main items of business undertaken accountable Government. On 29 September, my by my Department since the House rose for conference Department published the final code of recommended recess on 15 September. practice for local authorities on data transparency. The Delivering better services code of practice calls on local authorities such as councils Under the last Administration, thanks to policies and fire and rescue services to shine a light on every engineered in Whitehall, millions of homes saw cuts to part of their business, from employees’ salaries over their local rubbish collections. Weekly rubbish collections £58,200 and details of all their contracts and tenders to are the most visible of all front-line services and I details of grants to voluntary organisations, spending believe every household in England has a basic right to data and the locations of public land and building have their rubbish collected every week. assets. In June 2011, the Government review of waste policy Subject to consultation, Ministers will consider making in England stated: the code a legally binding requirement to ensure authorities “The Government will be working with local councils to are fully accountable to the people they serve. The increase the frequency and quality of rubbish collections and coalition Government have abolished top-down inspection make it easier to recycle, and to tackle measures which encourage councils specifically to cut the scope of collections”. and increased local autonomy making local accountability On 30 September, my Department announced a new more important than ever. Central Government have a fund of up to £250 million to support councils to role in ensuring that local people can exercise their right deliver weekly collections of household waste. The new to know how their money is being spent and have the weekly collections support scheme will support councils information they need to question that spending. which switch from fortnightly to better weekly collections, Decentralisation and a robust local democracy needs and will support weekly collection councils which wish greater local accountability. to keep and improve the weekly service they offer, such On 5 September, I informed the House that I had as through better procurement, new technologies and asked the Audit Commission to outsource its audit reward schemes like Recyclebank and others. work from next year, as the first step towards disbanding Councils will be able to bid individually or in consortiums, the Commission and introducing a new, decentralised and with the private sector, where that increases value audit regime which will allow local authorities to appoint for money. In order to encourage the most innovative their own auditors. Following careful consideration of and locally tailored solutions, authorities will be able to the options, we determined that outsourcing was likely bid for a mix of revenue and capital funding. to offer the best value for money for the taxpayer. In In due course, I will make a further statement on the line with our commitment to transparency, on 10 October detail of this scheme, and the details for inviting councils my Department published on its website a summary of to submit innovative bids for funding. This initiative the independent report we commissioned to inform our will help councils deliver better weekly collections, and decision. 3WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 4WS

In September and October my Department published develop strong and viable proposals for enterprise zones two further groups of reports presenting the findings that will accelerate local growth, generate hundreds of from research projects commissioned by the previous jobs and attract many new start up firms. Administration. The reports and findings are of general On 10 October, my Department published a consultation policy interest, but do not relate to forthcoming policy on reforming the community infrastructure levy to provide announcements. We are publishing these documents in that a proportion of the money raised from development the interests of transparency.The first group was published will go directly to the neighbourhood where it takes on 29 September and relates to immigration; a summary place. Local people will have the freedom to spend this of the reports and their cost to taxpayers can be found money to deal with the demands that new development online at: places on their community, for example by providing http://www.communities.gov.uk/statements/corporate/ facilities such as parks, playgrounds and community legacyresearchimmigration1 centres or new and improved transport. The second group, published on 6 October relates to The levy will also continue to be used to contribute to housing; a summary of the reports and their cost to larger infrastructure projects across areas like new roads, taxpayers can be found online at: transport, or hospitals. Developers will benefit from a system that ensures they know upfront how much they http://www.communities.gov.uk/statements/newsroom/ legacyresearchhousing will be expected to contribute towards the infrastructure needed to support new development and communities Ensuring fairness for council workers and taxpayers will benefit because they will be able to decide for The cost of local government pensions to the taxpayer themselves how the demands placed on their area are has risen from £1.8 billion in 1997 to £6 billion in best addressed. 2009-10 increasing burdens on council tax—and in The Government are also moving ahead with plans turn, hitting pensioners the hardest. In the light of to release disused public land and empty offices with changing demographics, this growing burden is not enough capacity to build up to 100,000 new homes by sustainable or fair on the taxpayer. Moreover, Lord 2015. On 5 October, four Departments with significant Hutton’s report sets out why public sector pensions landholdings published their strategies that set out how need to be reformed to more fairly protect taxpayers. their formerly used land and property has the capacity to deliver more than 50,000 desperately needed new On 7 October, my Department published a consultation homes. that proposes how to deliver the £900 million of savings required by the spending review 2010 to the local Over the summer these departments have moved government pension scheme in England and Wales by swiftly to identify land and property that could be 2014-15. released for new development. This builds on the 11,000 housing starts that will be achieved through the release The paper proposes a progressively phased increase of land owned by the Homes and Communities Agency. in employees’ contribution tariff from April 2012 that The amount of previously-developed land owned by would raise an additional £450 million, or 1.5% of pay, the public sector is more than twice the size of Leicester, and a change in the accrual rate from April 2013 to raise and its development could support as many as 200,000 an additional £450 million, or 1.5% of pay. This provides construction and related jobs. a balance between increasing employee contributions and adjusting the accrual rates while making the necessary At the same time, my right hon. Friend, the Minister savings to better protect the taxpayer. for Housing and Local Government announced fresh steps to help communities across the country reclaim To ensure the scheme continues to be an attractive and develop hundreds of acres of unused public sector scheme to all existing and future members. Any increases land and buildings, which could be used to deliver the in contribution rate will protect low earners, with no schemes communities want to see in their areas. Members increase for those earning less than £15,000, and mean of the public will now be able to request a sale of public high earners pay in proportionally more reflecting their land and buildings by filling in a simple and user-friendly more generous pensions. form. It will replace a system that is so obscure and We will continue to engage with local government restrictive that it has hardly ever been used, with only and trade unions throughout the consultation as they one successful application in the past 13 years. have a key role to play. We hope all parties will take the The improved process for requesting the sale of public time to consider these proposals in a constructive manner. land and property will be one way of applying for land to be released by Government Departments, and will Building a better Britain also apply to land owned by councils and other public We believe that creating the conditions for sustainable bodies. growth and thriving economies begins at a local level, Promoting home ownership and affordable housing with local control and responsibility and local investment. The Government also want to support people to On 3 October, the coalition Government invited the meet their aspirations of home ownership. Since 1980, Lancashire and Hull and Humber local enterprise nearly 2 million social homes have been bought by their partnerships to develop proposals for two new enterprise occupants under , improving social mobility zones. This is in response to the recent announcement and building mixed communities. The Right to Buy by BAE systems on their sites in Brough, Warton and gave something back to families who worked hard, paid Samlesbury.The zones will benefit from simplified planning their rent and played by the rules. It allowed them to do rules, super-fast broadband and tax breaks for new up their home, change their front door, improve their business for the next four years. The Government will garden—without getting permission from the council. work closely with these local enterprise partnerships to It gave people a sense of pride and ownership not just in 5WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 6WS their home, but in their street and neighbourhood. Yet source, non-competitive, procurement, the so-called Yellow under the last Administration. Right to Buy discounts Book. Lord Currie has now submitted his independent were cut significantly. report, a copy of which has been placed in the Library On 2 October, the Prime Minister announced the of the House. I would like to thank Lord Currie and his intention to raise Right to Buy discounts to a level team for the report. The MOD and other interested which will make the scheme attractive to tenants across parties will now consider his recommendations. England. The receipt from the Right to Buy will be used The Government welcome Lord Currie’srecommendations. to pay off the housing debt and build more housing for In broad terms his report focuses on achieving a more affordable rent—for every home bought under Right to open relationship between MOD and defence industry, Buy, a new affordable home will be built, over and ensuring standardised high-quality cost data are provided above our existing plans. Further details of this will be by contractors to the MOD. This will help ensure greater set out in the forthcoming housing strategy. The reform transparency of costs and should improve the MOD’s of the housing revenue account system is and remains a ability to negotiate realistic prices. Industry will be incentivised coalition priority and the timetable for the reform remains to deliver efficiency by the opportunity to make greater unchanged. returns should they deliver cost savings for the MOD. Tackling the 700,000 empty homes across the country Making industry more efficient should not only achieve is a top priority for my Department. On 20 September, value for money to the taxpayer, but also lead to a more the Under-Secretary of State for Communities and competitive role for the UK defence industry in the Local Government, my hon. Friend the Member for export market. Hazel Grove (Andrew Stunell), announced more powers Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will be offered for community groups to bring empty homes back into fewer data reporting requirements and a simplified profit use. Community and voluntary organisations will be rate process. Larger contractors will provide an annual able to bid for a part of £100 million of Government statement on how they have engaged SMEs in their funding for pioneering housing schemes that will ensure supply chain. empty properties are lived in again. This will also help Lord Currie recommends these arrangements are to provide more affordable housing. The coalition overseen by an independent Single Source Regulations Government are already providing more incentives for Office (SSRO) which would replace the existing review councils to bring empty homes back into use, including board to provide stronger oversight over both MOD them in the new homes bonus. In one year of the new and industry. homes bonus just under 16,000 previously empty properties The Department will now consider the report’s have been brought back into use. recommendations as part of the next stage of consultation, My Department will also consult in due course on which will run until 6 January 2012. Responses to all plans to allow councils local discretion to introduce a aspects of the report are welcome, but the Government council tax premium on homes in their area that have particularly seek views on the merits of the establishment been empty for more than two years, to provide a of the SSRO or possible alternatives such as the stronger incentive to get the homes back into productive strengthening of the existing cost assurance and analysis use and remove the blight from such properties on local service. A final report will then be produced which we neighbourhoods. intend to publish in early 2012 when I shall report back The coalition Government will stand by and help to the House. families who work hard and play by the rules, while tackling the small number of people who abuse the system. In this context, it has been estimated that there could be 6,000 households living in this taxpayer-funded DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER social housing with incomes greater than £100,000. This is not fair to the millions of people in genuine Boundary Commission for Wales (Appointments) housing need and those who work hard, earn a modest income, yet still remain on a housing waiting list. On 4 October, the Minister for Housing and Local Government The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Mr Mark indicated that he will be looking at introducing a “pay Harper): On 4 October 2011 Mr Paul Loveluck CBE to stay” scheme for social tenants on incomes greater and Professor Robert McNabb were appointed as members than £100,000 who want to stay in those properties. A of the Boundary Commission for Wales (BCW), following consultation on this will be published in due course. the resignation of two former members of that commission I am placing in the Library copies of the press notices earlier this year. and papers associated to this statement. Mr Loveluck’s career has included spells as president of the National Museum and Libraries of Wales, CEO DEFENCE of the Wales Tourist Board, and CEO of the Countryside Council for Wales. Professor McNabb is professor of at Cardiff university, a fellow of the Higher Independent Review of Single Source Pricing Education Authority and Learned Society of Wales, Regulations and a former dean of Cardiff Business School. The appointments are for five years and made following The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence a fair and open public appointments process competition, (Peter Luff): On 26 January 2011, Official Report, columns in accordance with the code of practice published by 10-11WS, I announced that Lord Currie of Marylebone the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Ministers would chair an independent review of the regulations made the appointments in line with the recommendations used by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) in single of a panel which comprised a Cabinet Office official, 7WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 8WS the deputy chair of the BCW (Mr Justice Lloyd Jones) Commonwealth Caribbean and Commonwealth African and an independent assessor approved by the Office of countries, we have worked to achieve further restrictions the Commissioner for Public Appointments. on the use of the death penalty, for example in June the The Boundary Commission for Wales has stated that mandatory death penalty for felony murder was ruled it will publish its initial proposals for the 2013 review of unconstitutional in Trinidad and Tobago as a result of parliamentary constituencies in January 2012 and that one of these projects. In July the FCO funded a regional it expects to complete the 2013 review within the deadline workshop in the Caribbean, providing training to 70 mental stipulated by Parliament. The Government made the health professionals from across the Caribbean, which replacement appointments as quickly as possible and should lead to improved mental health assessments for will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure there those facing the death penalty in the region. In is no risk to this deadline. we supported a regional seminar on the abolition of the death penalty, which took place in April, and we are also currently supporting project work in Nigeria and China. EDUCATION Consular staff in London and at our overseas missions continue to work hard, in collaboration with the NGO New Schools Reprieve, and local lawyers to make progress on the cases of British nationals facing the death penalty. For each case, we have agreed with the key stakeholders our The Secretary of State for Education (Michael Gove): handling strategy, to ensure that our representations are I will be making an announcement on new schools this targeted and appropriate. In recent months we have afternoon via an oral statement in the House of Commons. made ministerial and head of mission representations A list of new schools will be placed in the Libraries of on cases in the US, Ghana, Democratic Republic of both Houses to coincide with this oral statement. Congo, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan. We have also worked with the EU to create an international voice for abolition. We have raised the death penalty with a number of countries, through FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE statements, dialogues and project work. We have also raised many cases of third country nationals who are Global Abolition of the Death Penalty facing the death penalty. In November 2010 the UN General Assembly resolution on the moratorium on the use of the death penalty was The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth adopted with record support. As part of an EU campaign, Office (Mr Jeremy Browne): I wish to make the House the UK lobbied several states to vote in favour of aware of the 2011 update to HMG’s strategy on global the resolution or at least move from voting against abolition of the death penalty and provide an update on to abstention. We have also made recommendations to progress which the Government have made against the several countries on the death penalty through the strategy since it was publicly launched on 11 October universal periodic review process since October 2010. 2010. We have welcomed a number of other positive Promoting human rights and democracy is a priority developments over the past year. Illinois became the for the UK Government. It is the long-standing policy 16th US state to abolish the death penalty in March, of the UK to oppose the death penalty in all circumstances and in China we welcomed the return of the power of as a matter of principle. We believe that its use undermines final review to the Supreme People’s Court and the human dignity; that there is no conclusive evidence of reduction of the number of crimes eligible for the death its deterrent value; and that any miscarriage of justice penalty from 68 to 55 in February. The international leading to its imposition is irreversible and irreparable. momentum towards abolition continues to grow and Since the publication of the “Strategy for Abolition the Government will continue to work to make progress of the Death Penalty”, the Government have raised the against their strategy in order to achieve their ultimate death penalty bilaterally with a number of our priority objective of global abolition of the death penalty. countries at both official and ministerial level in Asia, A copy of the updated strategy to 2015 will be placed Africa, the middle east, the USA, Europe and the in the Library of the House and published on the FCO Caribbean. website (www.fco.gov.uk) on 10 October. We have had some success through our project work. The British High Commission in Uganda is currently supporting a project which aims to provide access to Sino-British Joint Declaration (Hong Kong) justice for those who have been on death row for over three years, and through this we have funded work by an organisation which has applied to the courts for The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth those on death row to have their sentences commuted to Affairs (Mr William Hague): The latest report on the life imprisonment. The FCO is also currently funding a implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration project in the middle east and north Africa region on Hong Kong was published today. Copies have been covering Tunisia, Morocco and Jordan, funding workshops laid in the Library of the House. A copy of the report is which have provided others with the tools to advocate also available on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for abolition. This project has also led to the publication website (www.fco.gov.uk). The report covers the period of a book that shows the death penalty is not implicit from 1 January to 30 June 2011. I commend the report in sharia law. Through the funding of projects in to the House. 9WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 10WS

HEALTH both regulatory and non-regulatory approaches. This includes possible roles for Monitor, as allowed for in the Health and Social Care Bill currently before the House. Southern Cross Healthcare and Social Care Market The paper invites comments on these options, but also welcomes other ideas. At this stage the Government have not formed a firm view on what would be the best The Minister of State, Department of Health (Paul approach. They want to take this opportunity to hear Burstow): I wish to update the House on Southern different views, before settling their position ahead of Cross and the Government’s wider response to the next year’s White Paper. issues which this case has raised. “Oversight of the Social Care Market; Discussion On 30 September, Southern Cross announced that Paper” has been placed in the Library. Copies are 250 of the care homes in which it operates have been available to hon. Members from the Vote Office and to transferred to new care operators. This represents one noble Lords from the Printed Paper office. third of all of Southern Cross’s homes, involving 249 homes in England and one in Scotland. In each case, the transfer was scrutinised and approved by the relevant national regulator. For the time being, Southern Cross HOME DEPARTMENT will continue to provide care services in the remainder of its homes. Changes in Immigration Rules Two further transfers of homes are expected in October and when the transfers are concluded Southern Cross will no longer be a provider of care services. The Minister for Immigration (Damian Green): The The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services Government are today laying before the House a statement is maintaining a list of Southern Cross’s care homes of changes in the immigration rules. The first change with information on plans for transfer to alternative will allow the UK Border Agency to refuse entry or stay providers, as well as contact information for residents, in the UK to those subject to immigration control with relatives and any other interested parties. This is updated outstanding unpaid NHS charges of £1,000 or more. weekly and is available at: This change will be phased in from 1 November. www.dh.gov.uk/health/2011/09/transfer-of-southern-cross- On 18 March 2011, I announced the Government’s healthcare-to-new-operators/ response to the 2010 consultation on refusing entry of This first set of transfers is an important step towards stay to NHS debtors and signalled my intention to lay a the consensual and orderly winding down of the company. new rules change in respect of outstanding NHS charges. Throughout, it has been the Government’s overriding This will deter overseas visitors from misusing the NHS concern to secure the welfare and safety of the residents and encourage overseas visitors to meet their obligations in Southern Cross’s care. This transfer and the ones to to pay for the NHS services that they use. The UK follow should ensure that this is achieved, with minimal Border Agency will continue to work closely with the impact on the residents of these homes and clear Department of Health on a range of measures to arrangements to ensure continuity of care. prevent health tourism. We will continue to monitor closely the remaining I can also confirm that we are publishing the impact steps to the full transfer of all homes, and will work assessment for the changes in respect of outstanding closely with all interested parties, but I am encouraged NHS charges on the UK Border Agency website and I that those involved in the restructuring negotiations will arrange for a copy to be placed in the House have put in place the necessary agreements to secure a Library. successful outcome. A minor technical change to the evidential requirements As noted by the National Audit Office in its recent for settlement is also being made which will oblige report on the social care market “Oversight of user economic migrants to provide supporting documents to choice and provider competition in care markets”, the show they are earning a minimum amount before they case of Southern Cross has highlighted the risks associated are granted settlement. with a large care provider facing financial difficulty. I am also making minor changes to rule 317 on In my previous written ministerial statement to parents, grandparents and other dependent relatives to Parliament, I said the Government would shortly be improve the drafting and transparency of the rule. publishing a discussion paper on the issue. This paper Consequential changes will be made to rule 319(v) has been published today, and forms a part of the which deals with the dependent relatives of refugees Government’s wider engagement exercise on care and and those with humanitarian protection. support reform, as reported to the House on 15 September We are also making some technical corrections to the 2011. rules for other dependent relatives of a refugee or The paper considers the issues raised by the risk of beneficiary of humanitarian protection. We are deleting financial failure in large providers and seeks views on a provision in the rules that requires an applicant to be service continuity and/or whether new measures are refused if he or she has one or more unspent convictions necessary. It sets out what the Government think is the within the meaning of the Rehabilitation of Offenders key objective of any reform, and outlines the key Act 1974 when they apply for entry clearance or further considerations which need to be balanced when coming leave to remain in this route. This provision was included to a view on what measures may be appropriate. It then in error, as Government policy is that indefinite leave to lists a range of possible options that could be pursued, remain (ILR) should be refused to people with unspent drawing on experience in other sectors and considering convictions, but not that an application for entry clearance 11WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 12WS or limited leave to remain should be refused. We are 8 November 2012 will be admitted up until, and including, also clarifying the existing rules to ensure that other 8 November 2012. In both cases conditions prohibiting family members who wish to switch into the further recourse to public funds and restricting employment to leave to remain or settlement route in this category can employment only related to Olympic and Paralympic do so. The amendments will also affect the criteria for games, will be attached to the leave. granting settlement as we are clarifying the need for an These changes to the immigration rules will help the applicant to have valid leave to enter or remain in the UK facilitate the entry and stay of games family members United Kingdom so that those who have overstayed do in the UK during the games while also allowing the UK not qualify under the rules. Border Agency to maintain a robust immigration control. We are also making minor, technical changes to the We previously informed Parliament, in the explanatory immigration rules on students, including: to reflect that memoranda accompanying the Immigration (Provision Education Scotland is the new name for Her Majesty’s of Physical Data) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 and Inspectorate of Education; to amend the definition of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 UK-recognised body to confirm that this includes (Amendment) Order 2011 and during their debate in foundation programme offices for post-graduate doctors the House of Commons and House of Lords, that we and dentists; to clarify the definition of who benefits would be amending the Channel Tunnel (International from the streamlined application process for tier 4. A Arrangements) Order 1993 and Channel Tunnel minor correction is being made to the rules laid on (Miscellaneous Provisions) Order 1994 to enable the 6 April to make provision for spouses and civil partners collection of fingerprints and facial images from visa of a British citizen or settled person in the United nationals accredited for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Kingdom in line with the policy intention relating to games at the UK’s train juxtaposed controls in France in-country switching. and Belgium. The aforementioned 2011 regulations enable Minor changes are also being made to the immigration biometric information to be taken from persons accredited rules relating to unmarried and same-sex partners of a for the Olympic and Paralympic games who would British citizen or settled person in the United Kingdom usually be required to apply for a visa and therefore to enable in-country switching into this route, reflecting have their biometric information taken as visa nationals the policy intention. but as part of the host city contract Her Majesty’s The last change relates to the Olympic and Paralympic Government gave a commitment that in specified games. The UK needs to manage effectively the entry circumstances there would be no requirement for certain and stay of persons accredited for the 2012 Olympic holders of an accreditation card to apply for a visa and Paralympic games such as athletes, umpires, technical before travelling to the UK. The amendments to the staff and broadcasters and other individuals before, channel tunnel orders are no longer considered necessary during and after the games in order to deliver a safe and as the 2011 regulations, when read with the provisions secure games. Such persons are referred to as games of the channel tunnel orders, provide us with the legal family members. power to make the collection at the UK’s train juxtaposed controls in France and Belgium. In order to do this, and fulfil contractual and agreements reached with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), it is necessary SCOTLAND to make two sets of changes to the UK’s immigration rules. The first change amends appendix 1 to the immigration Emergency Towing Vessels rules by exempting certain holders of the Olympic Identity and Accreditation Card (OIAC) and Paralympic Identity and Accreditation Card (PIAC) from visa The Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore): requirements during the accreditation period of the I am pleased to confirm to the House that the Scotland games, which runs from 30 March 2012 to 8 November Office is now leading efforts to secure a long-term 2012, providing the card is presented with a valid national replacement for the emergency towing vessels (ETV) passport or other document satisfactorily establishing service in waters surrounding the Northern Isles and nationality and identity, and providing the requirements Western Isles. set out in the statement of changes to the immigration It has been agreed that interim funding will be provided rules have been met. from the UK Government to support the service for up The second change amends the visitor category of to three months while this work continues. The contract the immigration rules by creating two new categories of will be managed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency visitor—an “Olympic or Paralympic games family member and every effort will be made to ensure value-for-money visitor” and an “Olympic or Paralympic games family for the public purse. member child visitor”. Leave in these two visitor categories The Scotland Office, drawing on technical and will only be available during the accreditation period of operational advice from the Maritime and Coastguard the games to games family members who meet the Agency and Scottish stakeholders from the UK ETV requirements of the immigration rules. Individuals granted working group, will lead efforts to broker a long- leave to enter or remain as an Olympic or Paralympic term replacement for the service. Time scales are games family member visitor and Olympic or Paralympic tight and this work will be progressed as a matter of games family member child visitor, during the period of urgency. I will convene a meeting of a Scottish ETV 30 March 2012 to 8 May 2012, will be admitted for up working group on Monday 17 October, comprising to six months, while those who are granted leave to representatives of Highlands and Islands local authorities. enter or remain during the period of 9 May 2012 to Marine Scotland, KIMO (Kommunenes Internasjonale 13WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 14WS

Miljøorganisasjon) and other interested parties. An Member for Neath (Mr Hain) was present as events announcement will be made by the end of the year unfolded and my office worked closely with him in the notifying the House of the outcome of this work. immediate aftermath. The South Wales branch of the National Union of Mineworkers set up the Swansea Valley Miners Appeal Fund as a trust to administer the donations to support TRANSPORT the families of those involved in the disaster. His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, has agreed to be the Royal patron of the fund. The Wales Office worked Parliamentary Written Question (Correction) with the Charity Commission to assist the fund in gaining its charitable status, which was confirmed on 26 September. Until this point the Wales Office has The Minister of State, Department for Transport agreed to reimburse the appeal fund for the funding it (Mrs Theresa Villiers): I regret to inform the House that did not receive from gift aid contributions while charitable there was an inaccuracy in the answer I gave to status was being sought. parliamentary question 58263 on 20 June 2011, Official South Wales police are currently the primary lead for Report, column 20W, about rolling stock. The variable the investigation and are working closely with the Health track access charges that were contained in the table and Safety Executive. The gathering of evidence has were incorrect. The corrected table is reproduced below. been extremely difficult and dangerous. This evidence will need to be reviewed and the Government will £ continue to do all they can to facilitate a full investigation. Variable Track Maintenance Fuel Access Charge

Bi-mode WORK AND PENSIONS When under 2.74 1.72 0.63 diesel power When under 1.78 1.34 (1) - electric power Cold Weather Payments Scheme 2011-12 Electric 1.78 1.32 0.57 (1) Indicates brace. The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Steve Webb): I am pleased to announce that regulations to amend the cold weather payment scheme WALES will be laid later today. The changes will come into force on 1 November this year, in time for the beginning of the winter period. Incident at Gleision Colliery Following advice from the meteorological office the amendments will introduce four new weather stations to the scheme for winter 2011-12 and withdraw the The Secretary of State for Wales (Mrs Cheryl Gillan): current stations at Dundrennan, St Catherine’s Point On Thursday 17 September, a retaining wall holding and West Freugh. As a result of the changes the postcodes back a body of water collapsed in Taren Gleision drift that are currently linked to the withdrawn stations will mine near Pontardawe in the Swansea Valley. Of the be re-assigned to different weather stations. The four seven men working in the mine three men were able to new weather stations are: escape, but all of the remaining four miners tragically Aboyne died. The four trapped miners were named as Charles Auchincruive Breslin, 62; David Powell, 50; and Garry Jenkins, 39, Bainbridge from the Swansea Valley; and Phillip Hill, 45, of Neath. Threave It is a distressing time for the families and friends of The new stations have been chosen to maintain weather those who lost their lives and I send my sincere condolences station to postcode links that are at least as representative to them. I would also like to pay tribute to the efforts of as the current arrangement. the whole community and the organisations, including the Red Cross and the WRVS, who provided support to I have written to each Member who made representations all concerned during what were very difficult days. about the administration of the scheme last winter to make them aware of the advice from the meteorological The emergency services and mine rescue workers office. involved in the search and rescue operation carried out their work in incredibly difficult and dangerous Cold weather payments are separate from, and in circumstances. We are deeply indebted to them for their addition to, winter fuel payments. tireless determination and dedication. The amendments resulted from the Department’s The Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat annual review of the cold weather payments scheme. provided full co-ordination in the immediate aftermath The review drew on expert advice from the meteorological ensuring all parts of Government with a role to play office and took account of representations from benefit were fully appraised of the situation on the ground and claimants and Members of Parliament. of any actions that needed to be taken locally and For winter 2011-12 the cold weather payment rate centrally. We worked closely with the Welsh Government will continue to be £25 for each seven-day period of in the initial stages of the operation. The right hon. very cold weather. 15WS Written Ministerial Statements10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Ministerial Statements 16WS

Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Under any other business, a debate on the EU Aid for Affairs Council the Needy scheme took place. France and Slovenia had circulated a joint paper asking Employment Ministers (3 October 2011) to lobby their agriculture counterparts to agree a short-term continuation of the programme, which would allow The Minister of State, Department for Work and food to be sourced from the open market as well as from Pensions (Chris Grayling): The Employment, Social Policy, increasingly limited intervention stocks, and to introduce Health and Consumer Affairs Council met on 3 October an element of co-financing. The Commission reiterated 2011 in Luxembourg. Andy Lebrecht, UK deputy its support for the scheme and indicated that it would permanent representative to the European Union, table a revised proposal with a dual cohesion and represented the UK. agriculture legal base, reverting to 100% EU funding. A The first item on the agenda was a policy debate on number of member states expressed support for the the future shape of the European social fund (ESF) and scheme and the Commission’s efforts to find a solution. its role in the implementation of the Europe 2020 The UK, along with Germany, the Netherlands and strategy. The Commission confirmed that it would publish Sweden stressed that measures such as these should be its draft regulation on the ESF in 2014-2020 later in the delivered at national level. A Europe wide scheme raised week. The presidency stressed that it was vital to strengthen competence issues and was not as effective as national the role of the ESF in cohesion policy. Member states measures. The presidency noted the positions in Council agreed that the ESF should contribute in helping to and would send a note on the discussions to the Agriculture achieve Europe 2020 targets and that ESF should be Council. more efficient and targeted at the most disadvantaged. For the UK, Andy Lebrecht intervened to stress the need to focus EU resources on the less developed member The other items under any other business were reports states, to improve value for money, and that ESF should on Polish presidency conferences and the EPSCO informal add value to national investment in employment and which took place in July. The presidency also reported skills. The UK also raised concerns about the effectiveness on preparations for the first annual convention of the and added value of the European globalisation fund. European platform against poverty and social exclusion The second item on the agenda was a report from the which takes place in October. The French reported back presidency on preparations for the tripartite social summit on the G20 labour and employment Ministers which which will take place on 17 October 2011. took place in Paris and the Germans reported back on The Council also adopted Council conclusions on the meeting of an informal ministerial group on the role of voluntary work in social policy and managing employment and social policy which took place in demographic changes. Potsdam. 1P Petitions10 OCTOBER 2011 Petitions 2P

Commission. Interested parties would be able to make Petitions representations on the application through the planning process. Monday 10 October 2011 There are clear statutory and policy frameworks in place governing arrangements for processing and OBSERVATIONS determining planning applications and applications for development consent for major infrastructure projects— including matters relating to conditions, obligations HEALTH and requirements. It is important that these are adhered to. It would be inappropriate for the Government to Leacroft surgery (Crawley) comment on any specific aspect of a prospective planning The Petition of residents of Crawley, or development consent application, or speculate about Declares that the Petitioners are concerned by the conditions that may or may not be applied by the current proposals to close a general practitioner’s surgery decision-maker to any eventual consent. in the Crawley Borough Ward of West Green The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to take all possible Dartford Crossing Tolls action to ensure that Leacroft surgery is able to maintain The Petition of residents of Dartford and readers of health service provision in the area. the Dartford Messenger newspaper, And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Henry Declares that the Petitioners are opposed to any Smith, Official Report, 7 September 2011; Vol. 532, increase in tolls charged for the Dartford Crossing. c. 517.] The Petitioners therefore request that the House of [P000953] Commons urges the Department for Transport not to Observations from the Secretary of State for Health, increase tolls on the Dartford Crossing and to reconsider received 19 September 2011: the emergency measures to lift the barriers during severe congestion and extend the local residents discount scheme. The issue raised in the petition is a local matter and my Department will bring it to the attention of the local And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Gareth NHS. Johnson, Official Report, Wednesday 14 September 2011; Vol. 532, c. 1146 .] [P000960] TRANSPORT Observations from the Secretary of State for Transport, received 3 October 2011: Bridgwater by-pass The Government have not yet made any decisions The Petition of residents of Bridgwater, regarding the future ownership of the Dartford Crossing. Declares that the Petitioners believe that EDF Energy I understand that several key factors need to be should not be granted permission to proceed with the considered in the decision-making process including Hinckley Point C Nuclear Development without first whether a new concession structure would provide better constructing a northern bypass for Bridgwater from value for the taxpayer, the flexibility needed to provide Junction 23 of the M5 to connect with the A39 west of possible additional crossing capacity in the future, and Cannington; that such a bypass would ensure that how user charging policies would be affected. construction traffic would avoid Bridgwater’s already The Budget statement (22 June), confirmed that decisions over-congested roads and leave the whole area a worthwhile will be made on the possibility of providing future legacy after the construction of the Hinckley Point C additional crossing capacity and the possibilities for Nuclear Development is complete; and that the Petitioners letting out a concession at the conclusion of the spending believe that a bypass would render an EDF facility and review. the Bridgwater Gateway Development an unnecessary and unjustifiable intrusion on farmland close to the residential area of North Petherton. High Speed Rail The Petitioners therefore request that the House of The Petition of residents of South Northamptonshire Commons urges the Government to take all possible and others, steps to ensure that permission for EDF Energy to Declares that the Petitioners are strongly opposed to proceed with the Hinckley Point C Nuclear Development the proposed high speed railway; declares that the Petitioners should be conditional on the construction of a northern believe it to be a massive waste of money; declares that bypass for Bridgwater from Junction 23 of the M5 to it will destroy miles of beautiful countryside, thousands connect with the A39 west of Cannington. of homes and villages; and further declares that there is And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Mr Ian no business case or environmental case for this railway Liddell-Grainger, Official Report, 19 July 2011; Vol. 531, and upgrading existing rail networks is a better alternative. c. 906.] The Petitioners therefore request that the House of [P000946] Commons urges the Government to reconsider its support Observations from the Secretary of State for Transport, for the proposed high speed railway and support the received 3 October 2011: upgrading of existing rail networks. It would be for the developer to put forward a And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Andrea transport strategy as part of any development consent Leadsom, Official Report, 14 July 2011; Vol. 531, c. 585.] application, for consideration by the Infrastructure Planning [P000944] 3P Petitions10 OCTOBER 2011 Petitions 4P

Observations from the Secretary of State for Transport, received. I can assure petitioners that any responses received 3 October 2011: they have submitted during the consultation period will The documents published to support the recent public be given thorough and detailed consideration. consultation on high speed rail set out the Government’s I fully acknowledge the need to design any high speed case that a national high speed rail network would offer line in a way which reduces local environmental and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the social impacts as far as possible. The Government have way we travel in Britain and would provide a step-change been clear that high speed rail must be delivered sustainably; in rail capacity, speed and connectivity. balancing the benefits of high speed rail with the local Analysis carried out by HS2 Ltd has indicated that impacts on landscapes and communities. I believe that the Government’s proposed Y-shaped network would through carefully designed mitigation measures the most generate monetised economic benefits with a net present intrusive local impacts can be eliminated and a solution value of around £44 billion and the first phase (from found which is balanced and fair. London to the West Midlands) alone would support the I expect to announce the Government’s response creation of more than 40,000 jobs. We estimate that to the consultation process and our decision whether to over 50% of the benefits of HS2 would fall to cities and proceed with the proposal by the end of this year. regions outside of London and the South East, helping Swansea Coastguard Station boost long-term and sustainable economic growth and regeneration in the areas that need it most. The Petition of people concerned about maritime safety In respect of upgrades to the existing network, the in the Bristol Channel, Government are committed to one of the most far Declares that the recommendation of the UK reaching programme of rail capacity improvements since Government to close the Swansea Maritime Rescue the Victorian era, despite the pressure on the public Co-ordination Centre at Tutts Head, Mumbles, would finances caused by the deficit. However, this will not be endanger the lives and wellbeing of people on the water enough to deal with capacity pressure of the future and around the coast of the Bristol Channel. which is why we have put forward our high speed rail proposals. Work carried out by Atkins on strategic The Petitioners therefore request that the House of alternatives to high speed rail concluded that major Commons press the UK Government to retain the enhancement packages could provide only a fraction of Swansea Maritime Rescue Centre as a 24-hour staffed the potential benefits of a national high speed rail coastguard station. network, while potentially creating significant disruption And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Martin for travellers during the construction period and creating Caton, Official Report, 13 September 2011; Vol. 532, risks for service reliability. c. 1008.] In addition, the Government’s objectives for high [P000957] speed rail are broader than can be achieved by simply upgrading current lines. High speed rail would offer Observations from the Secretary of State for Transport, potential to release capacity on the existing network, to received 4 October 2011: promote economic growth and regeneration, and to The future of the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination enhance connectivity between inter-urban, urban and Centre at Swansea is a specific question within the international networks, for example via new links to wider consultation on the modernisation of the coastguard and HS1. that I announced on 14 July 2011. The public consultation on the Government’s proposals That consultation ended on 6 October 2011. The for a national high speed rail network closed on 29 July Government are considering all the responses to that 2011 and we are carefully considering all the responses exercise and will make an announcement in due course. 1W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 2W Written Answers to Audit Commission : To ask the Secretary of State for Questions Communities and Local Government what meetings the Audit Commission has had with representatives of (a) the Labour party and (b) Her Majesty’s Monday 10 October 2011 Opposition since May 2010; and on what dates. [72384]

Robert Neill: This is an operational matter for the COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT Audit Commission and I will ask the chief executive of the Audit Commission to write to my hon. Friend Affordable Housing: Finance direct. Letter from Eugene Sullivan, dated 10 October 2011: Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Your Parliamentary Question has been passed to me to reply. Communities and Local Government by what means The Audit Commission has not met with representatives of (a) his Department plans to allocate funding under the the Labour Party or (b) Her Majesty’s Opposition since May Affordable Homes Programme. [72532] 2010.

Grant Shapps: I announced the outcome of the Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Affordable Homes Programme on 14 July. 146 providers Communities and Local Government how much the will deliver 80,000 new homes for Affordable Rent and Audit Commission spent on photography from Frank Affordable Home Ownership with Government funding Noon in the last three years; and (a) on what dates and of just under £1.8 billion. (b) for what functions Frank Noon was commissioned Taken with existing commitments, we are investing a to take photographs during that period. [72385] total of nearly £4.5 billion between 2011 and 2015. This funding is now expected to provide up to 170,000 new Robert Neill: This is an operational matter for the affordable homes by 2015, compared to the 150,000 Audit Commission and I will ask the chief executive of originally estimated. the Audit Commission to write to my hon. Friend The 2011-15 Affordable Homes Programme Framework direct. set out the criteria for assessment by the Homes and Letter from Eugene Sullivan, dated October 2011: Communities Agency, which included meeting local Your Parliamentary Question has been passed to me to reply. needs and priorities in their proposed locations, offered The Audit Commission has spent a total of £1,811.80 on good value for money, and delivered within the programme photography with Frank Noon in the last three years. The dates, timeframe. functions and individual costs are shown below:

Function Total (£)

21 April 2008 The Reform Club, London—event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Audit 255.80 Commission. Attended by senior stakeholders, including Lord Heseltine, and long-serving members of staff. Photographs taken for internal communication purposes. 23 July 2008 Lancaster House, London—Audit Commission’s Annual Lecture given by Lord Heseltine. 205.80 Photographs taken for Annual Lecture transcript document and for internal communication purposes. 30 April 2009 British Library, London—Appointed Auditors conference, presentation of two annual 200.80 awards. Photographs for award winners and internal communication purposes. 4 November 2009 One Great George Street, London—Alumni event. Photographs taken for internal 230.80 communication purposes and alumni newsletter. 10 November 2009 Savoy Place, London—Seminar for past and present senior staff to discuss issues 230.80 affecting the public sector. Photographs taken for internal communication purposes and alumni newsletter. 7 December 2009 St Martins in the Field, London—press launch for the: Oneplace website. Photographs 250.00 taken for internal communication purposes. 10 March 2010 Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury—Discussion event to improve arrangements for staff working 232.20 part-time or flexible hours. Photographs taken for internal communication purposes. 21 April 2010 The Welcome Collection, London—Appointed Auditors conference. Photographs for 205.60 award winners and internal communication purposes.

The Commission no longer uses external photographers for Robert Neill: This is an operational matter for the internal publications and has ceased alumni events and production Audit Commission and I will ask the chief executive of of its alumni newsletter. the Audit Commission to write to my hon. Friend direct. Audit Commission: Government Procurement Card Letter from Eugene Sullivan, dated 10 October 2011: Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Your Parliamentary Question has been passed to me to reply. Communities and Local Government how many staff I can confirm that there were no instances of misuse or abuse of the Audit Commission were disciplined for misuse of the Government Procurement Card by staff of the Audit or abuse of the Government Procurement Card Commission that warranted disciplinary action during the period between 2005-06 and 2009-10. [72422] in question. 3W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 4W

Business: Civil Disorder couples with children, (d) lone parents, (e) married couples without children, (f) civil partners without Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for children, (g) unmarried couples without children and Communities and Local Government whether the funds (h) single people without children in the latest period provided by his Department in respect of the High for which figures are available. [72761] Street Support Scheme are allocated from existing budgets; and if he will make a statement. [71789] Grant Shapps: The information requested is not collected centrally. Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government contribution to the High Street Delegation of Powers Support Scheme will be funded from unallocated provisions within the Department’s budgets; this is therefore additional Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for local government funding from schemes that had been Communities and Local Government what consideration announced to date. his Department is giving to further delegation of powers to city regions. [70529] Community Relations: Religion Greg Clark: The Government are supporting a cross Stephen Timms: To ask the Secretary of State for party amendment to the Localism Bill, proposed by the Communities and Local Government how he plans to Core Cities Group, which will support greater devolution consult with faith communities in the future; and if he to help drive economic prosperity and growth across will reconsider his decision to abolish the Faith England. This amendment will provide an enabling Communities Consultative Council. [72307] power to allow for the transfer of public functions and delegation of ministerial functions to cities and other Andrew Stunell: The Government remain wholly localities to increase their economic competitiveness. committed to consulting faith communities on the Any transfer of powers to particular places would be development and implementation of policies that affect for the decision of the relevant Secretary of State and them, in the most effective way possible. subject to discussion and agreement with individual cities and affirmative resolutions in both houses of My ministerial colleagues and I will continue to host Parliament. tailored meetings with faith communities for detailed discussions on specific policies. On occasion there will Departmental Air Travel also be the need to have collective round-table meetings to draw on the perspectives of faith communities on overarching areas of policy. These should take place as John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for and when necessary. Communities and Local Government which travel management companies his Department uses for the My Department will continue to lead the process of purchase of airline tickets. [72683] engagement with all faith communities. The Government recognise the vital contribution that Robert Neill: Redfern Travel Ltd is the Department’s faith communities make to civil society, and we are travel management company for both rail and airline committed to facilitating linkages and tackling barriers tickets. that faith groups face. For instance my Department has invested £5 million in the Church Urban Fund’s Near Departmental Alcoholic Drinks Neighbours programme, using the local infrastructure of the Church of England to build productive relationships Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for between people from different faith backgrounds in Communities and Local Government how much his four key geographical areas. Department spent on alcohol for the consumption of Ministers in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2009-10; Council Housing: Fire Prevention and from which suppliers. [72425]

Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: Information relating to the purchase of Communities and Local Government what representations alcohol for ministerial consumption is not held separately he has received from local authorities in (a) Birmingham, on the Department’s financial systems and it would be (b) Manchester, (c) Sheffield, (d) Leeds, (e) Bristol, impossible to disaggregate this from records held about (f) Exeter and (g) Southampton on fire safety assessments spend on total hospitality refreshments. Nor is it possible on local authority owned residential property. [72278] to separately identify spend on alcohol from Government Procurement Card records. Robert Neill: We have received no representations from these local authorities in respect of fire safety in Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers local authority-owned residential property. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Council Housing: Waiting Lists Communities and Local Government what the resource budget allocation was for the office of his Department’s Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for Communities and Local Government how many and which figures are available. [72451] what proportion of people on the housing waiting list in each local authority were (a) married couples with Robert Neill: Admin budgets for the Office of the children, (b) civil partners with children, (c) unmarried Chief Scientific Adviser were as follows: 5W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 6W

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for £ Communities and Local Government what his policy is 2006-07 66,000 on requiring his Department’s (a) agencies and non- 2007-08 38,000 departmental public bodies and (b) contractors to have 2008-09 227,000 a written code of practice or protocol relating to the 2009-10 229,000 provision, conduct and quality assurance of scientific 2010-11 188,000 evidence and advice. [72454]

Robert Neill: My Department is committed to handling Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for science and engineering advice in accordance with the Communities and Local Government what the salary, Government Chief Scientific Adviser’s “Guidelines on including benefits, was of his Department’s chief scientific the use of science and engineering advice in policy adviser in each of the last five years for which figures making”. The Building Regulations Advisory Committee are available; and how many individuals have held the is a non-departmental public body, and it operates in post in the last five years. [72452] line with the “Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees” and the “Principles for Scientific Advice Robert Neill: The salary of the Department for to Government”. Communities and Local Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser is publicly available on the DCLG website for Terms and conditions applying to contractors’ request the periods ending 31 March 2011 and 30 June 2010. that the contractor’s personnel shall be appropriately Information is being provided only for these dates as it experienced, qualified, trained and security cleared and is already available in the public domain. shall undertake the services with reasonable skill, care and diligence in accordance with the contract and good On both of these dates, the salary was between £60,000 industry practice and to the reasonable satisfaction of and £64,999. The individual in question works part the Department. time and salary is pro-rated accordingly. The full time equivalent salary of the individual is between £125,000 and £129,999. Departmental Consultants In the last five years, two individuals have held the post of Chief Scientific Adviser for the Department for Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. Communities and Local Government how many senior civil servants in his Department at each grade had Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, Communities and Local Government how many Deloitte or KPMG immediately prior to taking up their full-time equivalent staff were employed in the office of appointment in each of the last four years; what consultancy his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the agreements his Department had with those firms in last five years for which figures are available; and on each such year; and how many consultants from those what date the office was established. [72453] firms have advised his Department in each such year. [68958] Robert Neill: Not including the Chief Scientific Adviser himself, staff numbers are as follows: Robert Neill: One senior civil servant, at Director Level, who started on 1 December 2008 worked for Number PricewaterhouseCoopers immediately prior to joining the Department. 2006-07 1 Appointments to the Department are made on merit 2007-08 1.08 on the basis of fair and open competition in accordance 2008-09 1.67 with the Constitutional Reform Act 2010, and conflicts 2009-10 2 of interest would be explored as part of the recruitment 2010-11 2 process. The office has been in existence throughout the life of Departmental records show the following contracts the Department for Communities and Local Government with PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte and KPMG (no and its predecessor Department, the Office of the Deputy such contracts have been awarded to Ernst & Young) in Prime Minister. the last four years:

Name Contract title Contract start date Contract end date

PricewaterhouseCoopers Business and Town Centre Partnerships project 1 April 2006 31 April 2008 PricewaterhouseCoopers Support to Internal Audit Function 27 November 2007 31 December 2010 PricewaterhouseCoopers ECO Towns Delivery Study 14 May 2008 31 October 2008 PricewaterhouseCoopers Homeowners Mortgage Scheme Financial Support 16 January 2009 27 February 2009 PricewaterhouseCoopers Eco Town Delivery Study—Phase 2 1 September 2008 27 March 2009 PricewaterhouseCoopers Consultancy support to Homeowners Mortgage Support 24 March 2009 30 June 2009 Scheme PricewaterhouseCoopers A study to identify the Thames Gateway Top 20 Schemes 12 June 2009 28 July 2009 PricewaterhouseCoopers Modelling business plans for council landlords 26 January 2010 26 February 2010 PricewaterhouseCoopers A cost evaluation of the local area performance framework 2 September 2009 30 July 2010 7W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 8W

Name Contract title Contract start date Contract end date

PricewaterhouseCoopers Consultancy support to the project team managing the 15 January 2010 31 March 2010 closure of the European Regional Development Fund PricewaterhouseCoopers Infrastructure Planning Commission ICT Consultancy 15 June 2009 31 July 2009 Deloitte Development Study on the QE2 Conference Centre—Stage 1 July 2009 30 September 2012 1 Deloitte DCLG Regional and Group Estates Strategies 15 October 2009 30 November 2009 Deloitte Acquiring commercial intelligence on the Thames Gateway 7 July 2009 1 June 2010 Deloitte Finance Process Improvement Support Consultancy 12 August 2008 30 September 2008 Deloitte Business case for ERP Enabled Business Transformation 22 March 2010 14 May 2010 KPMG Review of IT outsourcing project business case 2 March 2009 15 April 2009 KPMG Sustainable communities events 7 July 2006 30 April 2008

The Department does not hold details of the number In August 2011, the Minister for the Cabinet Office of consultants who may have advised the Department announced that the Efficiency and Reform Group’s in the course of these contracts. new measures had saved £3.75 billion over 2010-11. This impact was assessed using methodologies outlined in the following table. The assessment has been Departmental Procurement independently verified by Government auditors who found the benefits assertions to be fairly calculated and presented. : To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what methodology These savings are borne out in department accounts. (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental Note 9 ‘other administrative Costs’ of the Department’s public bodies for which he is responsible use to estimate Report and Accounts 2010-11 (page 129) reports that savings to the public purse made in respect of its non-pay gross admin costs for the Department reduced procurement and purchasing since May 2010. [69274] from £104 million in 2009-10 to £123 million in 2010-11, once early retirement costs of £64 million were taken into account. Figures in this report are prepared in Robert Neill: On 15 November 2010, the Chief Secretary accordance with HM Treasury’s Financial Reporting said in response to PQ 16752, Official Report, columns Manual for central Government Departments and 615-16W, that the Government had announced a more associated Treasury resource accounting and budgeting specific and innovative approach to efficiency and reform guidance. across the public sector, including: In particular the Department has made significant a reduction in administration budgets of 34% across the whole operational savings, by reducing demand and renegotiating of Whitehall and its arm’s length bodies saving £5.9 billion a commercial terms, £1.8 million in IT contracts and year by 2014-15; £2.4 million in temporary staffing and interim labour radically reducing the number of arm’s length bodies across costs. Government; and The Department has achieved estimated net property the Efficiency and Reform Group’s tough new efficiency regime running costs reductions of £9.8 million per annum which will drive savings in procurement, major projects and estate since the start of the spending review period which management; includes £1.9 million in Estates requirements in the last and that, in result, Departments would no longer be financial year. In addition the Department has reduced required to report against the previous Government’s its Research expenditure by 36% (£10.8 million) in failed efficiency target. 2010-11.

Activity and Calculation Method: An illustrative table of the cross-departmental approach Area Activity description Evidence base/calculation

Consulting Government put in place a moratorium on Savings are calculated by subtracting total new consulting spend, and extensions to existing departmental reported spend on consultancy contracts. Where spend was considered for 2010-11 from total departmental reported operationally critical (for example, where it spend on consultancy for 2009-10. To reduce might put at risk critical services) an exception the risk of costs shifting between categories, process existed for Department Ministers to we also monitored expenditure on other sign off expenditure over £20,000. professional services categories, including contingent labour. Crown Commercial Government have renegotiated deals with some The method of calculation varies according of the largest suppliers to government. to the initiative that yields the saving, but was based on cash releasing savings against a baseline of what would have otherwise been spent. This was often price savings against the previous price paid. Savings agreed with suppliers are recorded in Memoranda of Understanding as guaranteed-in-year or conditional-in-year savings. Realised savings were subsequently tracked back to departmental verification of supplier progress reports. 9W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 10W

Activity and Calculation Method: An illustrative table of the cross-departmental approach Area Activity description Evidence base/calculation

Contingent Labour Government have significantly cut the number Savings are calculated by subtracting total of temporary staff. departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2009-10. Communications Government froze all new marketing spend Calculations compare departmental spend on unless it is an operational necessity. Where marketing and advertising through COI for spend was proposed, ministerial sign-off was 2010-11 with that for 2009-10. required for £20,000 or above. Centralising Procurement Government have started to centralise spend For each initiative, calculations are performed on common goods and services to drive down using individual benefit methodologies that prices. These savings derive from the 10 categories set out how savings will be calculated against of expenditure targeted for centralisation, and a 2009-10 price baseline. Evidence is management relate to price savings through increased information provided by suppliers. aggregation. ICT We implemented a moratorium on all new Calculations are based on departmental reports ICT spend above £1 million and a review of of spend that has not proceeded Spend that all on-going ICT commitments. Departments has not gone ahead in 2010-11 is recorded, as also reported those projects that were closed a result of stopping or reducing spend. Further, before undergoing the review. sustainable savings are targeted through the Government ICT strategy. Major Projects We reviewed the Government’s biggest projects HMT have provided assurance that the relevant to see where 2010-11 costs could practically amounts were removed from departmental be reduced within contractual constraints, or budgets following the major projects related wasteful projects stopped altogether. We have negotiations. halted or curtailed spend on four projects: 14-19 Reform—£60 million; Identity Cards—£50 million; Highways Agency projects—£54 million; Whole Farm—£5 million. We have redacted £22 million of potential double counting from these figures that arises between this work and our supplier renegotiation work stream. £14.9 million arises from the Home Office National Identity Cards and £6.7 million from DEFRA Whole Farm. Property We put in place national property controls Calculations are property by property based such that signature of new property leases or on the amount departments have reported lease extensions were approved centrally. It saved through the Government’s property has not always been possible to net off all database by non-renewal of property leases at costs associated with vacating buildings. However, lease breaks or upon lease expiry. we have also not claimed savings in respect of revenue from property disposals.

Enterprise Zones Worcestershire; and North Yorkshire; : To ask the Secretary of State for Enterprise M3; Communities and Local Government what the unsuccessful Heart of the South West; bids were for the most recent round of enterprise zones; Lancashire; and for what reasons each such bid was unsuccessful. Gloucestershire. [70161] In addition, the London local enterprise partnership Greg Clark: The competition generated a significant submitted two bids for enterprise zones—one in Croydon amount of interest and the Government received a and the other in Tottenham. Following subsequent number of very strong bids. The successful bids were conversations, a separate, unringfenced London Enterprise better able to demonstrate how they matched the three Fund has been set up which supersedes these proposals. criteria of sustainable economic growth, implementation Many of the unsuccessful bids contained strong economic and value for money. ambitions, and Ministers are encouraged that several The unsuccessful bids for enterprise zones came from partnerships are exploring other ways to take forward the following local enterprise partnerships: their proposals. Officials have given feedback to unsuccessful Greater Birmingham and Solihull; bidders and will continue to work with them—on an individual basis where necessary—to support them in Coventry and Warwickshire; their ambitions for growth. Cheshire and Warrington; A copy of the announcement naming the successful Cumbria; bids has been placed in the Library of the House: Hertfordshire; www.communities.gov.uk/news/newsroom/1967595 Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Derby and ; Greater Lincolnshire; Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for Coast to Capital; Communities and Local Government what criteria were Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire; used to select the first 11 local enterprise zones. [71201] 11W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 12W

Greg Clark [holding answer 9 September 2011]: Seven his Department’s press notice of 1 August 2011, on of the 11 local enterprise partnerships were selected on European Regional Development Funding, which (a) the basis that they encompass one or more of England’s Ministers and (b) accounting officers were responsible largest cities, ranked by population. The remaining four for oversight of the 2000 to 2006 programme from 2000 local enterprise partnerships were selected on the basis to May 2010. [72391] of need, using the published location criteria used to assess bids to the regional growth fund. EU Grants and Loans Robert Neill: The Secretaries of State with responsibility for the European Regional Development Fund 2000-2006 Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Programme for the period 2000 to May 2010 were: Communities and Local Government with reference to

Department Secretary of State Dates

DETR Lord Prescott May 1997 to June 2001 DTLR Rt. Hon June 2001 to May 2002 ODPM Lord Prescott May 2002 to May 2006 DCLG Rt. Hon Ruth Kelly May 2006 to June 2007 DCLG Rt. Hon Hazel Blears June 2007 to June 2009 DCLG Rt. Hon John Denham June 2009 to May 2010 DCLG Rt. Hon Eric Pickles May 2010—

The Permanent Secretaries with responsibility as accounting officers for the European Regional Development Fund 2000-2006 Programme for the period 2000 to May 2010 were:

Department Permanent Secretaries Dates

DETR Sir Richard Mottram 1998 to 2001 DTLR Sir Richard Mottram 2001 to May 2002 ODPM Dame Mavis McDonald DCB May 2002 to September 2005 ODPM Sir Peter Housden KCB September 2005 to May 2006 DCLG Sir Peter Housden KCB May 2006 to June 2010

Fire Services: Manpower Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Authority regarding business continuity in the event of a dispute; and if he will make Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for a statement. [72100] Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the potential impact of changes in the Robert Neill: The Chair of Stoke-on-Trent and fire service on emergency plans for (a) Aldermaston Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor and (b) other weapons facilities. [68923] Leonard Bloomer, wrote to the Prime Minister on the 20 July, highlighting the difficulties his authority faced Robert Neill: The Ministry of Defence is responsible in maintaining business continuity, should there be a for ensuring that appropriate arrangements are in place national dispute in the fire and rescue service. I replied for their weapons establishments. The chief fire and to Councillor Bloomer, on behalf of the Prime Minister, rescue adviser liaises closely with the Ministry of Defence’s in my capacity as Fire Minister on the 12 August. fire and rescue service on a regular basis, and on a range I indicated in my response that any form of national of issues. dispute in the fire and rescue service poses challenges to Following the fire at Aldermaston AWE which took individual fire and rescue services. However, fire and place on 3 August 2010, the Ministry of Defence’s fire rescue services do have a statutory duty to plan for such and rescue service investigated the operational response an event, and that is important that detailed planning to the incident and produced a report. This identified starts as early as possible. A body of notable practice areas where improvements could be made, including exists both within and outside the fire and rescue service arrangements with the Royal fire and rescue which fire and rescue authorities should be using to service. This investigation has been completed and I develop their plans. understand the findings have been acted upon by the respective authorities. Government Procurement Card

Fire Services: Staffordshire Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many staff Joan Walley: To ask the Secretary of State for of his Department and its predecessor were disciplined Communities and Local Government what representations for misuse or abuse of the Government Procurement he has received from the Chair of Stoke-on-Trent and Card between 2005-06 and 2009-10. [72421] 13W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 14W

Robert Neill: No staff in the Department for Grant Shapps: This Department has received Communities and Local Government and its predecessor representations on homelessness from a range of voluntary were disciplined for misuse or abuse of the Government organisations. Ministers from this Department regularly Procurement Card between 2005-06 and 2009-10. meet with key partners in the voluntary sector to discuss homelessness issues. Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for I have also established the first ever cross-departmental Communities and Local Government pursuant to the ministerial working group bringing eight Departments answers to the hon. Member for Dover of 30 June 2011, together on homelessness to ensure better joined up Official Report, column 892W, on the Government working on this important issue. Procurement Card, what the name is of each Government Procurement Card holder authorising each of the Housing transactions listed in the answer who was a member of the senior civil service or a ministerial private office. Andrew Selous: To ask the Secretary of State for [72424] Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the potential effects on the level of family breakdown of (a) house and rental prices and Robert Neill: A column has been added to the original (b) housing supply. [72759] table identifying those card holders who were members of the senior civil service and where the card holders Grant Shapps: The Department has made no assessment were based in a ministerial private office. As private of such effects of house and rental prices and housing office card holders were not members of the senior civil supply. However, the wider social effects specifically of service their names have not been released. ‘mortgage repossession’ were identified in a Department This amended table has been deposited in the Library Research Report, ‘Evaluation of the Mortgage Rescue of the House. Scheme and Homeowners Mortgage Support’ published My Department is committed to greater transparency in July 2010. over the use of the Government Procurement Card Housing: Local Government Finance than under the last Administration, and has strengthened checks and balances to ensure protection of taxpayers’ Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for money. Communities and Local Government on what date he plans to announce the funding allocations arising from High Rise Flats: Fire Prevention the Housing Market Renewal Transition Fund. [71888] Grant Shapps: I expect to announce the outcome shortly. Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what steps he is Housing: Planning taking to ensure that residential tower blocks meet fire safety standards. [72277] Mr Hollobone: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what his policy is Robert Neill: Ensuring appropriate standards of fire on the possible use by the Planning Inspectorate of safety are in place in residential tower blocks is the unmet five-year rolling housing delivery targets as a responsibility of the landlord or building owner who factor in decisions on appeal for housing developments must comply with the provisions in the Regulatory on land outside the approved local development framework. Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Housing Act [70057] 2004. Fire and Rescue Authorities and Environmental Robert Neill: The current policy of the Secretary of Health Officers have enforcement responsibilities in State is set out in paragraph 71 of Planning Policy these premises and are encouraged to work together to Statement (PPS) 3, which advises local planning authorities ensure safety standards are being met. to maintain an up-to-date five-year housing land supply. To support landlords and others to effectively put in Where they have not achieved this objective, planning place and manage appropriate fire safety arrangements, decision-makers are asked to consider planning applications my Department provided funding to the Local Government for housing favourably, having regard to general policy Group to develop new fire safety guidance specifically safeguards set out in the PPS. Where there is an appeal, for those with fire safety responsibilities in purpose Planning Inspectors must consider this policy. built flats, including tower blocks. The Secretary of State for Communities and Local This guidance, developed in partnership with the Government, my right hon. Friend the Member for housing and fire sector, was published on 29 July and is Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles), is currently consulting available on the Local Government Group and Department on a proposal to simplify and replace all planning for Communities and Local Government website. policy statements with a single National Planning Policy www.communities.gov.uk/firesafety Framework. The draft framework may change before it is approved. However, if it was approved as currently Homelessness drafted, local planning authorities will be set an objective to increase the supply of housing. The draft policy suggests that authorities will identify and maintain a Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for rolling supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to Communities and Local Government what recent provide five years worth of housing against their housing representations he has received from non-governmental requirements. Their five-year land supply should include: organisations on the effects of his Department’s “an additional allowance of at least 20 per cent to ensure policies on the level of homelessness. [72236] choice and competition in the market for land.” 15W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 16W

If this advice were not to be taken and a planning Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for appeal were to follow, Planning Inspectors would consider Communities and Local Government how many the presumption in favour of sustainable development officials in his Department worked on the draft of the that is also set out in the National Planning Policy national planning policy framework produced by his Framework. This would indicate that planning permission Department. [71892] should be granted at appeal to meet the housing objectives of the framework, unless the adverse impacts of allowing Greg Clark: A wide range of officials from the the development would significantly and demonstrably Department for Communities and Local Government outweigh its benefits, when assessed against the policies and other Government Departments were involved to in the framework taken as a whole. varying degrees in the development of the draft national planning policy framework. Housing: Planning Permission Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for officials in his Department worked on the draft of the Communities and Local Government what estimate he national planning policy framework produced by the has made of the number of new homes for which practitioners’ advisory group. [71897] planning permission has been granted but construction has not yet commenced in the last three years. [71629] Greg Clark: The suggested draft of the practitioners’ advisory group was the conclusions of the members of Robert Neill: In England at 31 July 2011 there were the group, rather than of the Government. A small 250,000 dwellings with detailed planning permission on number of officials from the Department for Communities sites where construction has not yet commenced, according and Local Government provided administrative support to estimates by the Homes and Communities Agency. to the group and officials from the Department for These outstanding planning permissions amount to just Communities and Local Government and other over one year’s projected average annual household Government Departments met with the practitioners growth (232,000 household per annum until 2033). during the course of their work.

Interreg IVA France (Channel) England Programme Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (1) what (a) financial Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for assistance and (b) other support his Department plans Communities and Local Government what the (a) to provide to local authorities which do not have a local monetary value, (b) recipient and (c) purpose was of development framework in place to introduce one; each grant made under the Interreg IVA France [71898] (Channel) England programme since the scheme’s (2) what (a) financial assistance and (b) other support inception. [68887] his Department plans to provide to local authorities to update their local development frameworks; [71899] Robert Neill: The information requested has been (3) what assessment he has made of the adequacy of drawn from the website set up by the programme’s local authority resources to produce or update local managing authority (Région Haute-Normandie) and is development frameworks. [71900] set out in a table which has been placed in the Library of the House. Greg Clark: Councils’ statutory planning functions Ministers are of the view that a number of these are financed through formula grant. As with all local programmes, inherited from the last Administration, do government functions and services, there is significant not represent good value for money for the taxpayer. I potential for councils to make savings and do more for am also placing in the Library of the House a copy of a less through better procurement and joint working. letter from the Secretary of State to the European A number of our reforms are reducing planning Commission on this issue. burdens on local authorities—such as through reducing the need for unnecessary planning applications and the Local Development Frameworks abolition of regional planning. My Department has also provided £3 million of Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for funding in 2011-12 to the Planning Advisory Service to Communities and Local Government whether he plans provide consultancy and peer support, learning events to put in place a fast-track procedure to approve existing and online resources to assist councils on planning local development frameworks to bring them up to date reform. with the national planning policy framework. [71886] Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Greg Clark: The last Government’s Planning and Communities and Local Government what legal advice Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 added significant his Department has sought on whether (a) adopted complexity and delay to the planning system. As highlighted and (b) post-examination local development frameworks on 23 February 2010, Official Report, column 497WA, will be technically out-of-date once the national planning by the beginning of 2010—six years after the Act—only policy framework is adopted. [71920] 61 core strategies had been adopted. In this context, we are currently considering what Greg Clark: In line with the practice of previous steps central Government can take to help local authorities administrations, the Government do not disclose their speed up the system. legal advice. 17W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 18W

Notwithstanding, it is a common occurrence—under Non-domestic Rates this and previous administrations—for central Government to make amendments or updates to national planning Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for guidance. Communities and Local Government (1) what estimate In such circumstances, it is a matter for the local he has made of the potential effect of proposals for the planning authority to assess the weight and relevance to future of the national non-domestic rating pool on be given to the new policies when making decisions on Sunderland city council in the next three financial individual planning applications. years; [67105] (2) if he will take steps to mitigate any loss of net Local Government Finance: Greater London income to Sunderland city council arising from proposed changes to the national non-domestic rating pool; [67485] Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will place in (3) if he will estimate the funds required to replace the Library a copy of each representation from the any annual loss of net income to local authorities Greater London Authority on the (a) Balance of Funding arising from proposed changes to the national non-domestic Review and (b) Lyons Inquiry into local government rating pool in the next three financial years. [67486] finance. [72383] Robert Neill: As the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, my right hon. Friend the Member Robert Neill: Copies of the Greater London Authority’s for Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles) told the House responses to the Lyons Inquiry and the Balance of in his oral statement on 18 July 2011, Official Report, Funding Review have been placed in the Library of the columns 662-64, our proposals ensure a fair starting House. point, so that no local authority is worse off at the outset of the scheme as a result of their business rates base. Local Government: Billing The suggestion made by the hon. Member in her local media that Sunderland city council “will lose up to £58 million a year” has no basis in fact and is simply Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for wrong. Communities and Local Government what steps he has taken to encourage local authorities to pay their Our proposals include protections for councils across creditors in a timely fashion. [71416] the country, including a safety net for places in need of additional support.

Robert Neill: The arrangements for payment of their : To ask the Secretary of State for creditors are a matter for individual local authorities. Communities and Local Government how much each To challenge the culture of late payment that persists local authority collected in national non-domestic rates across the UK economy, the Government have worked in each of the last 10 years. [69157] with the UK’s leading business and finance organisations to develop a strategy for challenging the long-standing Robert Neill: I have today placed in the Library of the culture of late payment. One element of this strategy is House a table giving details of the amount of national to establish the public sector as a payment exemplar. non-domestic rates collected by each local authority in Across the public sector the standard payment target is England, from 2001-02 to 2010-11. 30 days and we have further extended this target to tier The figures shown in the table are the amount of one suppliers to ensure the benefits of prompt payment national non-domestic rates collected by each local are felt through the supply chain. authority in England after reliefs and before allowances Government Departments have been set a target of for collection costs. paying 80% of supplier invoices within five working The data are taken from national non-domestic rates days. DCLG paid 82.32% of invoices for the period (NNDR3) out-turn returns submitted annually by all April to September 2011 within five working days. The billing authorities in England. Department has agreed to bring forward payments to I would note that the Government’s proposals for the all businesses, given the role of larger businesses in the local retention of business rates will include a range of supply chain. protections to ensure councils can meet local needs, including a safety net for places in need of additional Ministerial Policy Advisers: Complaints support, funded by a levy recovering a share of disproportionate gain. The new regime will also introduce incentives for councils to promote local economic growth, Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for so thereby creating the potential to increase aggregate Communities and Local Government whether any formal revenues from business rates compared to the current complaints from officials in his Department have been regime. received in respect of the conduct of his special advisers since May 2010. [71868] Non-domestic Rates: Yorkshire and the Humber

Robert Neill: No complaints have been received from Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for officials in the Department for Communities and Local Communities and Local Government what assessment Government in respect of the conduct of the Secretary he has made of the effect of business rate localisation of State for Communities and Local Government’s on economic growth in Yorkshire and the Humber. Special Advisers since May 2010. [72404] 19W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 20W

Robert Neill: Our proposed reforms will provide new each document containing the evidence base for the incentives for councils to promote local economic growth, added 20 per cent. housing target for choice and encouraging them to work closely with local businesses competition; [71864] and create the right conditions for local firms to expand (2) with reference to paragraph 109 of the draft and prosper. national planning policy framework, what assessment his Department has made of how the 20 per cent. Planning Permission housing target for choice and competition will work in areas of constraint or low demand. [71867] Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to Greg Clark: The evidence base for policies in the paragraph 51 of the draft national planning policy draft national planning policy framework is set out in framework, what legal advice his Department has (a) the consultation stage impact assessment which was sought and (b) received on the precedence of the published on 25 July 2011 and placed in the Library of neighbourhood plan over existing policies in a local the House. development plan. [71859] Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Greg Clark: Under Section 38(6) of the 2004 Planning Communities and Local Government what steps his and Compulsory Purchase Act, applications for planning Department is taking to assist local authorities in permission must be determined in accordance with the preparing for the implementation of the national development plan unless material considerations indicate planning policy framework. [71902] otherwise. Once a neighbourhood plan is brought into force its policies will form part of the development plan for the local area. Greg Clark: The draft framework is currently out for The Localism Bill requires all neighbourhood plans consultation. As part of the public consultation process, and neighbourhood development orders to be in general we are holding a series of events across England offering conformity with the strategic policies of the local plan opportunities for councils, community groups, the that applies to the neighbourhood area. development industry and local people to express their views directly to us. For example, we arranged, with the Planning Officers’ Society, a specific event to bring Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for together planners from across England to discuss the Communities and Local Government with reference to draft framework on 26 September 2011. paragraphs 62 and 63 of the draft national planning policy framework, what legal advice his Department The draft framework includes a draft policy that has (a) sought and (b) received on how development states it will be open to councils to seek a ‘certificate of management works in law. [71860] conformity’ with national policy to assist councils in identifying which of their existing local policies may be Greg Clark: Paragraph 62 of the draft National consistent with the national planning policy framework Planning Policy Framework confirms the existing position and which may not be, and will consider any representations on the role of the development plan in the determination made on this point in the current consultation. We are of planning applications. It fully reflects Section 70(2) currently considering how this procedure can be offered of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, and free to councils. Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Act 2004. Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what guidance Communities and Local Government what the planned the Planning Inspectorate has issued to local planning timetable is for implementation of the national authorities on what consideration should be given to planning policy framework. [71861] the draft national planning policy framework in planning decisions; and if he will make a statement. Greg Clark: The Department’s Structural Reform [71941] Plan includes a commitment to produce the final National Planning Policy Framework by April 2012. Greg Clark [holding answer 15 September 2011]: My Department’s chief planner wrote to all local authority Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for chief planning officers announcing the publication of Communities and Local Government with reference to the draft national planning policy framework. This paragraph 28 of the draft national planning policy letter can be seen on the Planning Portal and the DCLG framework, where the inputs of the Strategic Housing website. Market Assessment will be defined. [71863] The Planning Inspectorate has also issued advice to Greg Clark: Current guidance on the preparation of inspectors on the consultation document and this can Strategic Housing Market Assessments can be found at: be seen on the Planning Portal and the Planning Inspectorate website. http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningand building/strategichousingmarket Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many planning Communities and Local Government (1) with reference applications have been (a) submitted, (b) approved to paragraph 109 of the draft national planning policy and (c) rejected in each local authority area in each of framework, if he will place in the Library a copy of the last four quarters. [71942] 21W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 22W

Robert Neill [holding answer 15 September 2011]: Greg Clark: The impact assessment accompanying The number of applications received, decided, approved the draft National Planning Policy Framework contains and refused for each local planning authority in England an assessment of the potential effects of the draft for the quarters April to June 2010, July to September National Planning Policy Framework on the justice 2010, October to December 2010 and January to March system. The process of reducing and simplifying planning 2011 are shown in a table that has been placed in the policy will lead to a reduction in the number of planning Library of the House. decisions that are referred to the courts. This is because there will be less complexity, less contradiction and a Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for clearer statement of Government policy, as a result of Communities and Local Government with which streamlining planning policy (Part A) and of the greater organisations his Department has had meetings to likelihood of having local plans. discuss the National Planning Policy Framework since May 2010. [72072] Planning Permission: Appeals Greg Clark: Officials routinely meet with a wide range of organisations to discuss planning matters. Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Ministerial meetings with external organisations are Communities and Local Government what assessment published on my Department’s website. his Department has made of the potential impact of the national planning policy framework on planning Tristram Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for appeals. [71858] Communities and Local Government (1) with which organisations he has had meetings to discuss the National Greg Clark: I refer the hon. Member to the published Planning Policy Framework since April 2011; [72073] Impact Assessment, a copy of which is available in the (2) with which organisations the Minister of State Library of the House. for Housing and Local Government has had meetings to discuss the National Planning Policy Framework Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for since April 2011; [72074] Communities and Local Government if he will place in (3) with which organisations the Minister of State the Library a copy of the assessment of the potential for Decentralisation has had meetings to discuss the impact on appeals of the national planning policy National Planning Policy Framework since April 2011. framework made by the planning inspectorate on the [72075] day his Department receives the assessment. [71862]

Greg Clark: My Department routinely publishes details Greg Clark: Information about the expected impact of ministerial meetings on the departmental website at: on appeal cases is contained in the consultation stage http://www.communities.gov.uk/corporate/ impact assessment. A final impact assessment will be transparencyingovernment/ministerialdata published alongside the final national planning policy framework, and a copy will be provided to the House. Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (1) what assessment his Department has made of the potential Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for effects of implementation of the National Planning Communities and Local Government how many Policy Framework on the level of judicial reviews in planning applications in each development category respect of planning applications; and what assessment have been referred to the Secretary of State in each of he has made of the risk of a judicial review in respect the last five years; and how many such applications so of the process for introducing the National Planning referred have been called in for determination in each Policy Framework; [72291] of those years. [71883] (2) what assessment he has made of the potential effects of his National Planning Policy Framework on Robert Neill: The information requested is shown in the (a) legal profession and (b) courts system. [71901] the following table:

Referral type Numbers referred Numbers called in

2006 Departure 620 17 Flooding 20 Green Belt 59 1 Shopping 94 5 Playing Field 20 0 Housing Density 20 Greenfield Housing 34 0

2007 Departure 597 14 Flooding 20 4 Green Belt 68 2 Shopping 99 2 23W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 24W

Referral type Numbers referred Numbers called in

Playing Field 16 0

2008 Departure 574 10 Flooding 20 4 Green Belt 81 4 Shopping 99 10 Playing Field 11 0 2009 flooding 00 2009 Greenbelt 00 2009 outside Town Centre 1 0 2009 playing field 10 2009 World Heritage Site 0 0

2009 Departure 221 1 Flooding 52 Green Belt 39 1 Shopping 37 4 Playing Field 13 0 2009 flooding 31 2009 Greenbelt 72 0 2009 outside Town Centre 45 0 2009 playing field 21 0 2009 World Heritage Site 0 0

2010 Departure 18 0 Flooding 00 Green Belt 00 Shopping 00 Playing Field 00 2009 flooding 41 2009 Greenbelt 157 4 2009 outside Town Centre 93 0 2009 playing field 50 0 2009 World Heritage Site 3 0

20111 Departure 20 Flooding 00 Green Belt 20 Shopping 00 Playing Field 00 2009 flooding 00 2009 Greenbelt 54 0 2009 outside Town Centre 46 0 2009 playing field 20 0 2009 World Heritage Site 0 0 1 To 31 August. Notes: 1. The criteria for referral of application to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has changed over the five year period. 2. As of 1 April 2007 the Greenfield and Housing Density direction were cancelled. Also on 20 April 2009 the Consultation Directions 2009 superseded the remaining referral directions with departure from the local plan no longer included as a reason for referral and development on a World Heritage Site introduced as a reason for referral. Data Source: DCLG Planet Database

Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for implementation of the National Planning Policy Communities and Local Government when he plans to Framework. [72292] publish the Planning Inspectorate’s assessment of the potential effects on the level of planning appeals of 25W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 26W

Robert Neill: I once again refer the hon. Member to Hearings the published Impact Assessment a copy of which is Percentage Percentage available in the Library of the House. Decided Upheld upheld dismissed 2006-07 3,216 1,169 36 64 Planning Permission: Offices 2007-08 2,252 873 39 61 2008-09 3,332 1,312 39 61 Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009-10 2,174 847 39 61 Communities and Local Government what assessment 2010-11 1,160 461 40 60 his Department has made of the effect of the removal of office development from the town centre first policy Inquiries on sustainable transport on (a) the removal of car Percentage Percentage parking standards and (b) other sustainable transport Decided Upheld upheld dismissed matters. [71871] 2006-07 937 439 47 53 2007-08 889 478 54 46 Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State 2008-09 901 432 48 52 for Communities and Local Government what impact 2009-10 561 297 53 47 assessment he has made of the effects on the sustainability 2010-11 337 165 49 51 of high streets of the removal of office development from the Town Centre First policy. [71877] Regional Planning and Development Robert Neill: A consultation stage impact assessment was published alongside the draft National Planning Mr Betts: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities Policy Framework on 25 July 2011. This includes and Local Government when he plans to publish for consideration of the expected impact of changes in consultation his Department’s environmental assessment current planning policy. of the revocation of regional strategies; and if he will publish the environmental report for each region separately. Planning Permission: Rural Areas [72387]

Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Robert Neill: I announced in a written ministerial Communities and Local Government how many statement on 5 April 2011, Official Report, column out-of-town planning applications referred to him have 52WS, that the Government are undertaking a voluntary assessment of the likely significant environmental effects been called in since May 2010. [71874] of revoking all eight regional strategies which will be Robert Neill: No out-of-town applications have been published as eight separate reports. I will announce the called in by the Secretary of State between 1 May 2010 start of public consultation on the assessments shortly. and 31 August 2011. Sports: Planning Permission Planning: Appeals Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Jack Dromey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (1) what assessment Communities and Local Government how many planning he has made of the likelihood of sport and recreation appeals in each category the Planning Inspectorate facilities being closed as a result of the implementation considered in each of the last five years; and how many of changes to the planning system; [72644] and what proportion of such appeals in each category (2) what assessment he has made of the likely effect on were (a) upheld and (b) dismissed. [71884] the long-term future of sport and recreation facilities of the draft National Planning Policy Framework. [72650] Robert Neill: The following tables show the numbers of planning appeals in each procedure category considered Greg Clark: The coalition agreement included a by the Planning Inspectorate in each of the last five commitment to help support important community years. The tables also show the percentage that were facilities and services. In line with this, the draft National upheld and dismissed. Please note that from 6 April Planning Policy Framework seeks to increase planning 2009 a new procedure category, Householder Appeal protection for community facilities. Service, was introduced and is a sub category of Written The new guidance proposes to strengthen current Representations. policy by asking local councils to consider the availability Written Representations1 and viability of community facilities as part of the plan Percentage Percentage making process and to develop policies to safeguard Decided Upheld upheld dismissed against their unnecessary loss.

2006-07 16,705 5,557 33 67 The Government’s objective is to create strong, vibrant and healthy communities. To help achieve this, the draft 2007-08 16,875 5,732 34 66 framework is clear that the planning system should 2008-09 16,854 5,332 32 68 ensure access to open spaces and recreational facilities 2009-10 12,418 3,695 30 70 1 1 1 1 that promote the health and well-being of the community. (2,218) (714) (32) (68) The Government are also introducing a new designation 2010-11 9,396 2,827 30 70 to protect valued local green spaces, which has the 1(4,959) 1(1,741) 1(35) 1(65) potential to provide additional planning protection to 1 Householder Appeal Service shown in brackets. playing fields and other open green spaces. 27W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 28W

These measures will also be supported by the Community Sustainable Development Right to Buy in the Localism Bill which will provide additional protection for community assets. : To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what definitions Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for of sustainable development are used by his Communities and Local Government (1) if he will meet Department. [71945] the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport to discuss the arrangements in the planning system Robert Neill [holding answer 15 September 2011]: to protect sports and recreation facilities; [72645] The classic definition of sustainable definition, set out (2) if he will discuss with the Secretary of State for by the , is development that Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport the potential effect meets the needs of the present without comprising the on sport and recreation facilities of the draft National ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Planning Policy Framework. [72649] This is reflected in the Government’s vision for sustainable development published in February 2011 and by this Department in their work including the consultation Greg Clark: Ministers within the Department for draft of the national planning policy framework. Communities and Local Government already regularly meet colleagues from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Travel: Concessions

Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what discussions Communities and Local Government what estimate he he has had with representatives of the sport and recreation has made of the costs of administering the sector on the draft National Planning Policy Framework. concessionary travel scheme by local authorities since [72646] its introduction. [72185] Robert Neill: The national implementation of the Greg Clark: Ministers and officials have been meeting concessionary travel scheme occurred in 2008. The following with a wide range of organisations as part of our table shows net expenditure on the scheme for each of consultation on the draft National Planning Policy the financial years from 2008-09 to 2011-12. This Framework, including organisations with a particular expenditure includes administration costs but predominantly interest in sports and recreation. consists of reimbursements to bus operators. The costs of administering the scheme are not separately identified Standards for England: Credit Cards in centrally held data.

Net cost1 (£ million) Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether the 2008-09 (Outturn) 990 Standards Board for England has used a corporate 2009-10 (Outturn) 1,000 credit card or charge card in the last three years; and 2010-11 (Budget) 1,111 what records are held of transactions on any such card. 2011-12 (Budget) 1,158 [72382] 1 Net cost is equal to the sum of employee costs and running expenses (e.g. premises and transport related expenditure, supplies and services, third party payments etc.) and offset by income from sales, fees and Robert Neill: The Standards Board for England has a charges (e.g. charge for replacement or reissuing of lost travel passes) corporate credit card which is used to pay for goods and and other sources of income (e.g. income from issuing or renewal of services which cannot be paid for by BACS transfer or subsidised rail cards offered to the over 65 and disabled people). cheque. Detailed records of transactions are held by the Standards Board. Travellers:

Sustainable Communities Mr : To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will take steps to prevent the illegal occupation of land by Steve Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Travellers in Peterborough constituency; and if he will Communities and Local Government what assessment make a statement. [68502] he has made of the (a) effectiveness and (b) cost of implementation of the Sustainable Communities Act Robert Neill: The police and local authorities have 2007. [71737] powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 to direct trespassers from land. We are removing Greg Clark: The Sustainable Communities Act 2007 the top down targets for Traveller site provision by local Act was amended in April 2010 in response to feedback authorities which fuelled opposition to the development from stakeholders and to allow procedures for receiving, of Traveller sites. Local authorities will be responsible considering and deciding proposals under the Act to be for determining the right level of Traveller site provision improved. The Department has consulted on detailed in their area to meet local need and historic demand. arrangements for implementing the Sustainable We will encourage councils to provide sites with incentives Communities Act and submissions were received from through the New Homes Bonus scheme and we have 26 interested parties. The Government are currently secured £60 million grant funding to help councils and considering their response. other registered providers deliver new Traveller sites. 29W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 30W

We are increasing enforcement powers available to Staff are expected to make all bookings through the councils to tackle unauthorised development more contracted suppliers where feasible. Some airlines flying effectively, including stopping the abuse of retrospective direct from the UK to certain overseas destinations planning permission. accept only direct bookings. In these cases where a direct flight cannot be booked through the travel management companies DECC may book direct with the airline. ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers Carbon Emissions

Peter Aldous: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for and Climate Change what measures relating to tackling Energy and Climate Change what the resource budget the UK’s outsourced emissions will be included in his allocation was for the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which Department’s updated Carbon Plan. [72380] figures are available. [72463] Gregory Barker: The Department’s updated Carbon Plan will focus on territorial emissions (including the Gregory Barker: DECC’s first chief scientific adviser effect of the EU Emissions Trading System), in line (CSA) joined the Department in October 2009. with the Framework Convention on The Department’s chief scientific adviser is responsible Climate Change reporting framework and our reporting for ensuring the best science and engineering advice requirements under the Climate Change Act 2008. underpins DECC’s policy and decision-making. The We recognise the importance of tackling outsourced resource budget for the CSA’s Office is as follows: emissions if we are successfully to deliver our climate CSA office budget change objectives. We are therefore working hard to Total (£000) secure an international agreement with commitments from all key countries to reduce emissions, which is the 2009-10 from October 2009 180 most direct way to reduce all emissions, including those 2010-11 529 related to consumption. 2011-12 614

Departmental Air Travel Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what the salary, including John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy benefits, was of his Department’s chief scientific adviser and Climate Change which travel management companies in each of the last five years for which figures are his Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets. available; and how many individuals have held the post [72687] in the last five years. [72464]

Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and Gregory Barker: Since DECC was formed in October Climate Change (DECC) currently uses the Department 2008 there has so far, been only one chief scientific for Business Innovation and Skills’ contract with Carlson adviser appointed. The chief scientific adviser has been Wagonlit Travel for booking air travel. engaged by DECC since October 2009. His salary costs Some airlines flying direct from the UK to certain to date fall in the following pay brackets, as disclosed in overseas destinations accept only direct bookings. In the Remuneration Report of DECC’s annual resource these cases where a direct flight cannot be booked accounts: £65,000 to £70,000 in 2009-10 and £140,000 through the travel management companies DECC staff to £145,000 in 2010-11. The chief scientific officer is may book direct with the airline. seconded to DECC from Cambridge University who are reimbursed for his payroll costs. No VAT is payable. John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what (a) contractual obligations Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for and (b) other processes his Department uses in respect Energy and Climate Change how many full-time equivalent of travel management companies to ensure the staff were employed in the office of his Department’s best value is achieved when purchasing airline tickets. chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for [72701] which figures are available; and on what date the office was established. [72465] Gregory Barker: DECC currently uses the Department for Business Innovation and Skills’ contracts for hotel Gregory Barker: The office of chief scientific adviser and travel bookings. Contracts are in place with the was established on 1 October 2009. following companies: Staffing levels for the support office (including the Redfern Travel—domestic rail travel; post of chief scientific adviser) are as follows: Expotel—domestic hotel stays; and March 2010: 3.8 FTE plus 0.8 on secondment, with salary Carlson Wagonlit Travel—air travel, overseas rail travel and costs covered 100% by seconding organisation; overseas hotel stays. March 2011: 4.8 FTE; From 1 December 2011 DECC will move to the September 2011: 4.8 FTE including 1.0 FTE supporting policy pan-Government contracts that are being put in place. analysis in other parts of DECC. 31W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 32W

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Comprehensive information could be provided only Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on at disproportionate cost. requiring his Department’s (a) non-departmental public bodies and (b) contractors to have a written code of Energy practice or protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality assurance of scientific evidence and advice. Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for [72466] Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he has made of progress towards a single market in Gregory Barker: DECC does not apply a one-size fits energy. [72296] all approach. NDPBs have terms of reference that set out how they will go about their activities. Contractors Charles Hendry: The Third Package of EU energy who provide scientific advice, or any other form of market liberalisation has established a framework for evidence, to DECC, are required, in tender documentation agreeing detailed cross-border technical codes. These to set out how they will acquire, and quality assure the will facilitate the linking of gas and electricity markets evidence they will provide. Tenders are scrutinised by across national borders and provide practical impetus experts within the Department and contracts are only to the creation of a single EU energy market, consistent awarded to those contractors who have demonstrated with the target of 2014 set by the European Council. they can deliver high quality evidence. Progress is being made on developing these codes; the first is likely to be agreed early next year. Departmental Legal Opinion Energy: Prices Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what the average hourly Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for rate paid was to external (a) solicitors and (b) barristers Energy and Climate Change what representations he engaged by his Department in 2010-11; what guidance has received from energy consumers on charges in his Department uses in commissioning external legal energy bills to underwrite decarbonisation. [72539] advice; and if he will publish (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor and (B) barrister engaged by his Charles Hendry: DECC Ministers and officials receive Department in 2010-11 and (ii) the sums paid in each written responses to consultations, meet with consumer case. [72566] groups and respond to correspondence from consumers, domestic and business, on a regular basis relating to the Gregory Barker: The average hourly rates the Department costs associated with implementing its decarbonisation paid external solicitors could be provided only at programmes. disproportionate cost. Quarterly lists of DECC Ministers’ meetings that The Department paid the external barristers it engaged involve outside interested parties are published on the at the rates published on the Treasury Solicitor’s DECC website: Department’s website: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ registers/ministermtgs/ministermtgs.aspx Per hour (£)

First Treasury Counsel 220 Fuel Poverty Queen’s Counsel 180 to 250 Attorney-General’s A panel of 120 Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy counsel and Climate Change what steps he plans to take to Attorney-General’s B panel of 100 prevent households falling into fuel poverty as a result counsel of the introduction of a floor price for carbon; what Attorney-General’s C panel of 60 to 80 estimate he has made of the likely change in the counsel number of households in fuel poverty consequent upon such introduction; and if he will make a statement. [R] The Department uses the following guidance in commissioning external legal advice: [72227] Attorney-General’s guidelines on the use of the private sector Gregory Barker: The Government recognise that the for Government legal work carbon price floor will marginally increase consumer Treasury Solicitor’s Department’s guidance on the use of counsel bills. The estimated impacts of a carbon price floor on Government Legal Service guidance on best practice for fuel poverty were set out in an impact assessment that Government lawyers managing private sector provision of legal was published alongside the Carbon Price Floor services Consultation in December 2010. These estimates suggested Government Legal Service legal services procurement protocol that a price floor targeting £30/tCO2 would result in an Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) procurement additional 50,000-90,000 fuel poor households in England code and procurement guidance, including guidance on the use of in 2020. external law firms. Government are committed to supporting vulnerable Some information covering sums above £500 paid consumers and tackling fuel poverty and are putting in directly to certain solicitors’ firms and barristers DECC place a range of policies to contribute towards these engaged in 2010-11 is available on the DECC website at: aims. These include the introduction of the Warm Home http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/ Discount to assist more of the most vulnerable households expenditure/spend_over_500/spend_over_500.aspx with their energy bills and introducing the Green Deal 33W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 34W from 2012 so that households can improve their energy Number efficiency at no upfront cost, repaying through their savings on energy bills. All MCS heat pumps 26 Alongside this, the Energy Company Obligation will Micro C-HP 0 provide additional support to where it is most needed, Solar PV 84 including for the poorest and most vulnerable and for Biomass 8 hard to treat homes. The carbon price floor consultation ASHP 28 document and impact assessment can be found at: The Welsh Government (WG), has been taking forward http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/consult_carbon _price_support.htm a number of measures through the Energy Saving Trust. It supports the Supply Chain Development Programme Methane: Arctic which helps Welsh installers to achieve MCS certification and aims to equips them with the tools, techniques and : To ask the Secretary of State for business connections to help them to compete for Energy and Climate Change what the most recent microgeneration contracts. It has provided interest-free estimate is of the rate of Arctic methane release; what loans for certification fees, subsidized QMS training, factors his Department has identified as contributing signposting to WG training and development and one to such a release rate; and what assessment his to one guidance. The programme has also addressed the Department has made of the (a) historic and (b) need to unlock the supply chain of a Welsh labour force potential effects on the environment of such a rate of working on Welsh homes. A number of events and seminars release. [72156] have been held across Wales to promote the scheme. As a result, a 254% rise in the number of certificated Gregory Barker: Recent research suggests that the installers in Wales has occurred since 1 August 2010. rate of methane release from the high Northern latitudes that include the Arctic, is around 10 million to 40 Nuclear Power Stations million tonnes per year, approximately 2% to 8% of total global methane emissions and 5% to 20% of Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for natural methane emissions. Energy and Climate Change whether his Department As temperatures increase, the main factors contributing has considered the feasibility of constructing in the UK to this Arctic release rate are emissions from wetlands floating nuclear power stations similar to the MH-1A. (which are the predominant source), melting permafrost, [72602] and methane hydrates beneath the Arctic ocean. Emissions from methane hydrates are, however, considered to be Charles Hendry: Ultimately it is for the industry to relatively very small and are most uncertain. consider and propose what type of reactors they may Research indicates that the increase in atmospheric wish to operate in the UK, the designs of which would methane concentrations since pre-industrial times, and be subject to independent regulatory assessment and their related temperature effects, have been caused by acceptance. To date, no potential operator has put anthropogenic emissions and not by changes in natural forward proposals for a floating plant in the UK. emissions from high Northern latitudes or other sources. Future methane releases from Arctic permafrost and Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for wetlands are highly uncertain but are currently projected Energy and Climate Change with reference to the to increase as temperatures rise, thereby amplifying Committee on Climate Change Renewable Energy Review, global warming and its potential impacts on ecosystems May 2011, page 40, what work his Department has and societies. done on uncertainties in respect of the (a) costs, (b) site availability, (c) long-term fuel supply and waste Microgeneration Certification Scheme disposal and (d) public acceptability of nuclear power. [72674]

Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Charles Hendry: On page 40 of the Renewable Energy and Climate Change what assessment he has made of Review the Committee on Climate Change give their the effects of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme view that: on small companies operating as energy installers in “nuclear power should be part of the energy mix assuming Wales. [71708] safety concerns can be addressed, but that full reliance would be inappropriate” Gregory Barker: The Microgeneration Certification given (a) to (d). Scheme (MCS) is a UK-wide scheme with coverage in Wales. The overall number of MCS installer companies The Government believe in having a diverse mix of is 3,269 companies in the UK, of which 124 are based in all types of power generation so as to ensure that we are Wales. A breakdown is provided as follows of the not dependent on any one type of generation or one number of installer companies for each technology for source of fuel or power. This helps to ensure security of the period 2010-11: supply. Nuclear power is a low carbon proven technology which should be part of that energy mix. Number The Government have carried out two public consultations on the Nuclear National Policy statement. Solar Thermal 38 The Government responses to these consultations Wind turbines 8 summarise points made by the public and the Government’s Hydro 4 view on costs, suitability of sites and waste disposal and GSHP 26 are available here: 35W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 36W

Response to the 2010-11 consultation: Offshore Industry: Carbon Capture http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy- demand/consents-planning/nps2011/1945-govt-resp- Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for consultation-on-nps.pdf Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on Response to the 2009-10 consultation: investment in carbon capture and storage technologies in redundant offshore oil and gas fields. [72755] http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20110302182042/ https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/docs/ Charles Hendry: The re-use of redundant offshore oil GovernmentResponsetoConsultation-October2010.pdf and gas facilities, where this is feasible and cost-effective, is one option for the permanent storage of carbon dioxide as part of Carbon Capture and Storage. The Nuclear Power Stations: Accidents Government introduced measures as part of the Energy Bill 2011 to facilitate the conversion of offshore oil and Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for gas facilities to carbon dioxide storage. Additionally the Energy and Climate Change what his Department’s CCS demonstration programme will facilitate the assessment is of the risk of a disaster similar to (a) development of offshore storage opportunities, including Fukushima and (b) Chernobyl happening in (i) the UK the use of redundant oil and gas facilities where appropriate. and (ii) the countries of the former Soviet Union. [72285] Renewable Energy John Stevenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Charles Hendry: The Secretary of State for Energy Energy and Climate Change what proportion of the and Climate Change, my right hon. Friend the Member UK’s energy requirement was met from (a) wind power, for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne), asked the UK Chief Nuclear (b) solar power, (c) wave power and (d) other renewable Inspector, Dr Mike Weightman, to provide a report to energy sources in (i) 2009 and (ii) 2010. [70831] the Government on the implications of the unprecedented events in Japan and the lessons to be learned for the UK Charles Hendry: The following table shows the proportion nuclear industry. This interim report was presented on of primary energy supply, and electricity generation, 18 May 2011. met by wind power, solar power, wave power, and other Dr Weightman’s interim report gives a clear indication renewable energy sources, in 2009 and 2010. that the UK’s current safety regime remains robust and Percentage of primary Percentage of electricity therefore, so far as is reasonably practicable, the levels energy supply generation of protection currently in place are appropriate compared 2009 2010 2009 2010 to the level of risk to ensure safety at the UK’s nuclear power plants. Wind power 0.4 0.4 2.5 2.7 Solar photovoltaics <0.0 <0.0 <0.0 <0.0 Dr Weightman is currently finalising his report and and active solar the Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR) are working heating with industry on the UK input into the EU Stress Tests. Wave power <0.0 <0.0 <0.0 <0.0 Their progress reports, submitted on 15 September, Other renewable 2.8 2.9 4.2 4.1 showed that thus far operators and the ONR have failed energy sources1 to find any fundamental weaknesses at the UK’s nuclear 1 Excluding non-biodegradable wastes. power plants. Primary energy supply data from tables DUKES 1.1 The UK are currently actively participating in the and 1.2, available at: efforts of the IAEA to strengthen the international http://decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/source/total/ nuclear safety framework with a view to raising standards total.aspx of safety and thereby reducing the risk of a nuclear Primary renewable energy supply data from table DUKES accident. However, in the event of a nuclear related 7.6, available at: accident in another country, the UK has in place measures http://decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/source/ to respond to such an accident and would invoke its renewables/renewables.aspx overseas nuclear accident plan. Total electricity generation data from table DUKES 5.6, available at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/energy_stats/ Nuclear Power Stations: Safety source/electricity/electricity.aspx Renewable electricity generation data from table DUKES Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for 7.4, available at: Energy and Climate Change whether his Department http://decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/source/ made a comparison of the safety of British nuclear renewables/renewables.aspx reactors and (a) VVER-440, (b) VVER-1000, (c) Atucha, (d) HIFAR and (e) Fukushima models. [72286] Solar Power: Feed-in Tariffs Graham Stringer: To ask the Secretary of State for Charles Hendry: The Office for Nuclear Regulation is Energy and Climate Change what information his the UK’s nuclear safety and security regulator. Department holds on the (a) number and (b) average In undertaking this work they adhere to the principle annual load factors of solar photovoltaic installations of continuous improvement, taking into account experience in receipt of feed-in tariffs that are situated (i) north of and lessons learned from the operation of other nuclear 57 degrees latitude and (ii) north of 58 degrees latitude. plants and regulatory regimes across the world. [72304] 37W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 38W

Gregory Barker: The latitude of FIT installations is Warm Front Scheme not recorded on the central register. The number of installations in the local authorities which lie on the Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy latitudes mentioned are given in the following table. and Climate Change how many households have had DECC uses an average load factor for photovoltaic their applications accepted by the Warm Front scheme installations across the UK as a whole, and this cannot since the change to eligibility criteria in April 2011. currently be broken down on a regional basis. More [72505] specific load factor estimates may be available commercially. Gregory Barker: The Warm Front scheme has received Number of photovoltaic and accepted 27,374 eligible applications from 14 April installations confirmed onto FITs to 14 September 2011. Local authority register as at 31 August 2011

57 degrees latitude Wind Power Aberdeen City 39 Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Aberdeenshire 198 Energy and Climate Change on how many days in (a) Moray 56 2010 and (b) 2011 wind farm operators were given Highland 171 constraint payments from non-generation. [72538]

58 degrees latitude Charles Hendry: Wind farm operators received constraint Eilean Siar 5 payments on the following number of days: Orkney Islands 8 (a) 2010: three days, which involved overall constraint payments Shetland Islands 0 of £176,788 to a total of three different wind farms; (b) 2011: 37 days (up to and including 14 September), which involved overall constraint payments of £6,959,915 to a total of 17 different wind farms. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change on what dates he National Grid takes thousands of actions every day informed representatives of the solar industry of to balance the system, including through the Balancing proposed changes to support for solar feed-in tariff Mechanism where generators will make monetary ’bids project extensions built within 12 months of the review and offers’ to alter their output. Nearly all of these start date of August 2011; and when he expects such actions relate to conventional (non-renewable) generation. changes to take effect. [71797] This is a competitive market where National Grid will always pick the most cost-effective way to deliver what is required. Gregory Barker: Proposed changes to the rules on extensions under the Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) scheme Mr Brine: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy were set out in a consultation which was published on and Climate Change what steps he is taking to reduce 27 July 2011. On the same day stakeholders, including the level of constraint payments to wind farm representatives of the solar industry, were notified of operators; and if he will make a statement. [72043] the consultation. Charles Hendry: Reducing or increasing the output The consultation closed on 31 August and the decision of generators is a normal part of National Grid’s role document was published on 27 September with changes to balance supply and demand, and it will pick the most to be implemented 18 October 2011. cost effective way to deliver what is required. However, the recent requirement to use wind farms in order to manage the system has raised questions as to whether Timber: Imports the current market wide balancing arrangements for wind are appropriate. National Grid has launched a Graham Stringer: To ask the Secretary of State for consultation to seek views on the issues involved. Energy and Climate Change what information his In the short-term, the Secretary of State is proposing Department holds on the proportion of wood co-fired to introduce a licence condition to tackle problems that with coal in electricity generating plants that has been can occur in the balancing market when normal competition imported. [72302] is distorted by bottlenecks on the transmission system. Ofgem and DECC have been working closely together to develop this licence condition, which the Secretary of Charles Hendry: DECC does not hold information State is able to introduce under powers conferred by the on the proportion of wood co-fired with coal in electricity Energy Act 2010. DECC will be consulting on the generating plant sourced from outside the UK. licence condition shortly, with a view to introducing it In 2010, 822,000 tonnes of oil equivalent (ktoe) of in 2012. biomass (which includes wood) was co-fired with fossil fuels (mainly coal), while 753,000 ktoe of biomass was Wind Power: Planning Permission imported for all energy use, including co-firing. Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Source: Energy and Climate Change if he will publish the Digest of UK Energy Statistics, 2011, tables 7.6 and 7.1, available responses of English local planning authorities to the at: questionnaires in Section 5.4 of the Parsons Brinckerhoff http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/energy_stats/ report for his Department entitled Update of Shadow source/renewables/renewables.aspx Flicker Evidence Base. [72066] 39W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 40W

Charles Hendry: There are no plans to publish the Lynne Featherstone: We are currently considering the responses of English local planning authorities to the responses to the public consultation on exceptions to questionnaires for the report on the Shadow Flicker the proposed ban on age discrimination in the provision Evidence Base. The questionnaires were completed on of services and public functions which took place earlier the understanding that the information within would be this year. We will announce how we intend to proceed in treated as strictly confidential and not to be passed to the Government’s published response to the consultation third parties or published. in due course. The summary of responses can be found in the Marriage report. Responses were received from the following local planning authorities: Caroline Lucas: To ask the Minister for Women and 1. South Gloucestershire Council Equalities pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member 2. Gloucester City Council for Glasgow North East of 28 June 2011, Official 3. Tendring District Council Report, column 703W,on marriage, when the Government 4. Barnsley. Metropolitan Council Equalities Office expects to begin its consultation on 5. Lancaster City Council reform of marriage and civil partnership law. [72623] 6. Rossendale Borough Council 7. Uttlesford District Council Lynne Featherstone: We announced on 17 September 8. Charnwood Borough Council that we will publish a formal, government consultation document in March 2012 which will consider options 9. Sheffield City Council on equal civil marriage. This would allow us to make 10. Warrington Borough Council any legislative changes before the end of this Parliament. 11. Northern Ireland Planning Service We are clear that this will only cover civil marriage—not 12. City and County of Swansea religious marriage. Between now and the publication of 13. Orkney Islands Council. the consultation, we will be meeting with a wide range of people with an interest in this issue, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and religious and non-religious organisations, to help shape WOMEN AND EQUALITIES the formal consultation document.

Equal Pay

Alison McGovern: To ask the Minister for Women DEFENCE and Equalities what assessment the Government has EU Defence Headquarters made of the potential costs and benefits of introducing compulsory gender pay audits for larger companies in 12. Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State the last 12 months. [72379] for Defence what discussions he has had on the proposal to establish an EU defence headquarters. Lynne Featherstone: In the Modern Workplaces consultation published in May 2011, Government proposed [72910] that employers who are found at an employment tribunal Dr Fox: NATO remains the cornerstone of UK defence. to have discriminated because of sex in contractual or I have always been clear that the UK opposes the creation non-contractual pay should be made to conduct a pay of a permanent EU operational military headquarters. audit. It would be a duplication of existing capability provided The accompanying impact assessment included an by NATO, would permanently disassociate the EU initial estimate of the average cost of an equal pay audit from NATO and would be an unnecessary use of resources. as £8,800 but recognised that costs would vary significantly The Minister for International Security Strategy, my with the size and complexity of an employer’s business. hon. Friend the Member for Aldershot (Mr Howarth), Benefits include, for example, making sure there is emphasised our position at the Informal Meeting of maximum use of employee’s capacity and demonstrating EU Ministers of Defence in Poland on 22-23 September fairness to employees. 2011. I will continue to take every opportunity to reinforce In addition to the proposal in Modern Workplaces, this message with our European and NATO partners. Government are actively promoting voluntary, business-led approach to analysis and publication of equality data Departmental Civilian Jobs through the new ″Think, Act, Report″ initiative. 16. Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State Equality: Age for Defence what the change has been in the number of civilian jobs in his Department since May 2010. [72914] Mr Marsden: To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities (1) what preparations the Government Equalities Mr Robathan: Defence statistics show that, on a Office has made for communication to the public on full-time equivalent basis, there were 85,850 civilian commencement of the anti-age discrimination regulations employees in the Ministry of Defence on 1 April 2010. arising from the Equality Act 2010; [72512] As at 1 July 2011—the latest date for which information (2) when the Government plans to bring into force a is available—this total had reduced to 81,150. These commencement order for the anti-age discrimination figures therefore show a reduction of 4,700 full-time regulations arising from the Equality Act 2010. [72513] equivalent employees over that 15-month period. 41W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 42W

Reserve Forces Military Covenant

18. Richard Graham: To ask the Secretary of State 23. Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of for Defence what steps he is taking to improve the State for Defence what steps he has taken to strengthen capabilities of the reserve forces. [72916] the military covenant. [72922]

Mr Robathan: In his oral statement on 18 July 2011, Mr Robathan: On 16 May 2011, the Government Official Report, columns 643-645, the Secretary of State published the new armed forces covenant, and announced for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for a series of measures to strengthen the covenant, building North Somerset (Dr Fox), confirmed a package of on those already included in the coalition programme investment amounting to more than £2.8 billion over 10 for government. We have also launched the armed years, of which £400 million will be within the life of forces community covenant to encourage activities which this Parliament. This package has been designed to help to integrate the armed forces community into local enhance the capability of the reserve forces and consequently life. increase their trained strength following the recommendations of the Future Reserves Independent Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations Commission. Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for NATO Transformation Defence how many UK troops will remain in Afghanistan beyond 2015 to provide military training 20. Richard Ottaway: To ask the Secretary of State and assistance. [72597] for Defence what recent progress has been made on NATO transformation. [72918] Nick Harvey: As the Prime Minister announced to the House on 6 July 2011, Official Report, columns Dr Fox: A continual process of reform and 1511-1514, by the end of 2014 there will be nothing like transformation is vital for the health of any organisation. the number of British troops which are in Afghanistan NATO is no different and the UK is playing a leading now and they will not be serving in a combat role. role in ensuring our Alliance remains fit for purpose. In However, the UK will continue to have a military June, Defence Ministers agreed to a more streamlined relationship with Afghanistan after 2014. The UK will and more effective Command Structure including the continue to train Afghan security forces and we will UK keeping the Maritime Component Command at provide the lead at a new Afghan National Army Officer Northwood. We are working to put the new Command Academy from 2013. At this stage it is too early to structure in place as soon as possible. comment on the exact number of troops who will be deployed in these non-combat roles from 2015 and British Army Training Unit Suffield beyond.

21. Craig Whittaker: To ask the Secretary of State for Alix Partners Defence when the memorandum of understanding between his Department and the Department of Thomas Docherty: To ask the Secretary of State for National Defence of Canada concerning the British Defence when his Department reached its Agreement Army Training Unit Suffield is due to be re-negotiated. with Alix Partners; what estimate he has made of the [72920] savings accruing to his Department as a result of the Agreement since it came into force; what the average Nick Harvey: The Memorandum of Understanding daily rate paid to external consultants by his between the MOD and the Department of National Department is; how much his Department has paid to Defence of Canada concerning the British Army Training individual Alix Partners consultants in consultancy Unit Suffield is open-ended and may be renegotiated at fees since May 2010; how many (a) Alix Partners and any time with the mutual consent of both parties. (b) other consultants have qualified for a success fee from his Department since May 2010; and on how Afghanistan many occasions Alix Partners consultants qualified for such a success fee since May 2010. [72204] 22. Rehman Chishti: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent assessment he has made of the Peter Luff: Alix Partners were appointed on 15 November security situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a 2010 to support the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to statement. [72921] re-negotiate contracts in order to deliver savings as a result of decisions taken in the strategic defence and Dr Fox: The 2010 ISAF troop surge has brought security review (SDSR). The MOD did not have the significant security gains to the south of Afghanistan in highly specialised skills required to undertake this work 2011. However, the insurgency is resilient and remains a in the timescales. The savings the Department will accrue nationwide threat as the recent attacks in Kabul have will depend on a number of issues, the detail of which I demonstrated. am withholding as their disclosure would prejudice I am encouraged by the continued progress being commercial interests. made by the Afghan National Security Forces who The average daily rate for each Alix Partners consultant increasingly demonstrate their competence, whether in is £3,950, and the Department has paid a total of response to high-profile attacks in Kabul, in joint operations £5.5 million under the contract so far. 12 Alix Partners with ISAF, or in areas where security transition has consultants have qualified for the payment of an additional begun. “success fee” under the contract on two occasions. 43W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 44W

Information about the total number of all other consultants Nick Harvey: Comprehensive planning work is now who have qualified for a success fee from the Department under way to draw up plans for the timing and sequencing since May 2010 is not held centrally and could be of the changes in the Army as set out in the Defence provided only at disproportionate cost. Transformation statement made by the Secretary of The contract with Alix Partners has already proven State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for its value and, without prejudice to our commercial North Somerset (Dr Fox) on 18 July 2011, Official negotiation, I can confirm that it has helped to save the Report, columns 643-45W. Department hundreds of millions of pounds. It is too early to say who will fulfil the duties as Governor of Edinburgh Castle or the other duties Armed Forces: Craigiehall mentioned but our plans will ensure that these duties will be serviced by a 2-star Army officer, who will be Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for based in Scotland. Defence which personnel in which units are based at For clarification, HQ 2nd Division will not move to Craigiehall; and how many (a) Army and (b) civilian Aldershot in 2012. As announced by the Secretary of personnel there are in each unit. [72583] State for Defence on 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 66-70WS, 2nd Division will disband in 2012 Mr Robathan: We do not comment on individual along with HQ 4th Division at Aldershot and HQ 5th personnel. The units based in Craigiehall and the numbers Division at Shrewsbury, upon the creation of a single of Army and civilian personnel in each unit are shown 2-star support command, to be known as HQ Support in the following table: Command, which will be based in Aldershot.

Army Civilian Armed Forces: Military Decorations Headquarters 2nd Division 89 122 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal 24 2 Ms Gisela Stuart: To ask the Secretary of State for Regiment RLC Defence for what reasons UK military personnel may 2 Military Intelligence Battalion 6 0 be awarded EU service medals; and whether they are Army Recruiting Group 0 7 allowed to wear them. [70857] Headquarters 51 Brigade 60 12 Defence Fire & Risk Management 01Mr Robathan: The involvement of the United Kingdom’s Organisation armed forces in operations around the world, may give Army Welfare Service 0 4 rise to the award of a European Union service medal. Headquarters Land Forces Branches 8 0 There are four European medals which have been Defence Infrastructure Organisation 0 8 approved for UK armed forces personnel who meet the relevant criteria. These are: Other 2 1 Total 189 157 WEU Mission (Yugoslavia), which has been approved for wear. This is based on the latest available numbers for European Community Monitoring Mission (Yugoslavia), which Army and civilian personnel. has been approved for wear. European Security Forces: Congo, which has not been approved Armed Forces: Edinburgh for wear. European Security and Defence Policy Service Medal for Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for Operation ALTHEA (Bosnia and Herzegovina), which has been Defence what proportion of service family approved for wear (with the exception of the Planning and accommodation at (a) Redford and (b) Dreghorn Support version). Barracks will be used in each of the next five years; and Each new offer of such a medal requires a proposal which personnel are expected to be housed at each site by the Ministry of Defence, the support of the Committee during this period. [72584] on the Grant of Honours Decorations and Medals (known as the HD Committee), and the approval of the Mr Robathan: 87% of service family accommodation Sovereign. In general, proposals should demonstrate (SFA) at Redford and Dreghorn Barracks is currently that those on the operation have endured a period of being used to house service personnel and their families. risk and rigour. However, proposals that would result in It is too early to say at this time what the exact future ‘double medalling’, which is the simultaneous qualification usage or requirement for SFA in Edinburgh may be, for a United Kingdom medal and an international although it is likely that all current housing stock across organisation’s medal, are not supported. the Edinburgh area will be needed to meet an ongoing requirement to house entitled service families. Armed Forces: Yorkshire and the Humber

Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence who will fulfil the (a) duties as Governor of Defence how many people were recruited to the armed Edinburgh Castle and in respect of the Edinburgh forces through Armed Forces Career Offices in the Military Tattoo and (b) other additional and Yorkshire and the Humberside area in each year since ceremonial roles previously carried out by the General 2001. [71493] Officer Commanding 2nd Division after the 2nd Division Headquarters move to Aldershot in 2012; and Mr Robathan: The following tables provide the number where the person who takes over these roles will be of entrants from recruitment centres in the Yorkshire based. [72585] and Humberside area. These give an indication of the 45W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 46W numbers recruited from that area but do not provide a universities from which officers are recruited together comprehensive picture of where these individuals may with the small number recruited via careers offices. reside as they may not always apply to join the Services Army officer entrant figures before 2007-08 were collected through their nearest career office or may choose other on a different basis than currently and are not included. means by which to apply. Figures are not available for all years requested as and Royal Marine officers are primarily over time various IT systems have been used which are recruited via regional officer careers liaison centres, not now compatible with current systems. each of which covers a large area of the UK. Prior to In the following tables these abbreviations are used: 2009-10 they were not recruited through armed forces career offices. The recruitment data for Army officers is AFCO—Armed Forces Career Office based on data related to the location of the schools and ACIO—Army Career Information Office.

Royal Navy and Royal Marine other rank entrants 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

AFCO Hull 106 80 88 90 89 72 95 66 AFCO Leeds 79 95 103 88 62 100 140 94 AFCO Sheffield 83 82 89 69 85 85 89 52

Army Officers 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

North 11 56 88 81 East

Army other ranks 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

ACIO Bradford 143 172 170 131 139 154 119 143 158 116 ACIOCatterick24322518243931466432 ACIO Doncaster 132 132 143 84 133 143 112 151 127 89 ACIO Grimsby 112 117 110 84 78 79 82 64 93 87 ACIO Halifax 64 67 71 44 50 38 59 50 63 45 ACIO Huddersfield 133 140 104 81 63 95 41 84 72 76 ACIO Scarborough 85 104 48 56 51 70 62 66 39 53 ACIO Wakefield 129 129 107 95 85 119 141 150 129 64 ACIO York 76 107 58 54 74 87 97 95 99 85 AFCO Hull 307 436 255 213 256 304 294 335 315 279 AFCO Leeds 656 693 631 523 547 677 572 630 624 440 AFCO Sheffield 371 378 413 277 303 376 335 341 383 248

RAF Officer and other ranks entrants 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

AFCO Hull 75 41 23 51 66 95 73 27 AFCO Leeds 137 79 60 69 85 123 132 56 AFCO Sheffield 101 64 64 84 113 131 168 50 Senior Career 32476864 Liaison Officer RAF Linton on Ouse

Armed Forces: Young People Proportion under Total strength 18 years (Percentage)

Mr Frank Roy: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009 188,600 2.5 Defence what proportion of the armed forces were 2010 191,660 1.8 under the age of 18 in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and 2011 186,360 1.4 (c) 2010-11. [72820]

Mr Robathan: The following table provides information Challenger Tanks on the total strength of the armed forces as at 1 April each year and the proportion of that strength under the age of 18 years. Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence with reference to his Department’s Business Proportion under Plan 2011-2015, how much has been saved in (a) Resource Total strength 18 years (Percentage) DEL, (b) Capital DEL, (c) annually managed expenditure

2008 186,910 2.4 and (d) in total from the reduction of holdings of Challenger 2 main battle tanks by 40%. [71299] 47W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 48W

Dr Fox [holding answer 12 September 2011]: Reflecting (2) what (a) contractual obligations and (b) other a reduction in Challenger 2 numbers and track activity, processes his Department uses in respect of travel the savings over the next four years are expected to be: management companies to ensure the best value is achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72699] £ million 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Peter Luff: The Defence travel contract, which includes Resource DEL 5101010providing airline tickets for use by Ministry of Defence (near cash) (MOD) personnel, was awarded to the Hogg Robinson Capital DEL 1— 1— 1— 1— Group in 2007. The company has negotiated rates with 1 Less than 5. 28 airlines covering 432 domestic and international routes. They do not include any savings in depreciation or the costs of writing the assets down, which cannot be No other arrangements are in place for the provision calculated until the future of the surplus equipment has of MOD air travel and personnel are mandated to use been determined. the contract which allows discounted air fares to be provided with lower administration costs than if individuals All figures are planning assumptions and are rounded were to book direct through commercial travel companies. to the nearest £5 million; the Capital DEL element of Where negotiated rates have been agreed, the contract the savings is less than £5 million in total over the also offers other benefits including the provision of four-year period. more favourable terms and conditions of travel, increased baggage allowances and flight cancellations without Chinook Helicopters incurring additional costs. This has resulted in considerable savings being achieved across the MOD. In financial Gordon Birtwistle: To ask the Secretary of State for year 2010-11 around £60 million was saved on air travel. Defence what proportion of the contract cost for his Department’s order for Chinook helicopters is Departmental Public Expenditure associated with a follow-up five-year service agreement. [72112] Mr Jim Murphy: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what financial savings are expected to be made Peter Luff: The details of the initial five-year service in (a) Resource DEL, (b) Capital DEL, (c) annually- arrangements for the new Chinooks have yet to be managed expenditure and (d) in total from reducing finalised but, based on experience of similar arrangements, the non-deployable regional administrative structure; we expect the initial support package following entry and over what period those savings are expected to be into service to be some 10% of the approximate £1 billion made. [71281] total value of the procurement. Dr Fox: As a result of the restructuring of the Army’s Gordon Birtwistle: To ask the Secretary of State for non-deployable regional administrative structure, we Defence whether any British manufacturers were expect to save some £20 million in Resource DEL each invited to tender for the order for Chinook helicopters. year on an enduring basis from 2013-14. [72113] Departmental Research Peter Luff: In the Chinook new buy decision, all available procurement options were considered, including open competition. Based on the key criteria of value for Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for money to the UK taxpayer and confidence in delivery Defence what his Department’s definition is of (a) of the project with lowest risk to schedule and cost, it research and development budget and (b) science and was decided in accordance with EU Competition Law, technology budget. [72518] to pursue a single source procurement with Boeing. As well as formal arrangements in place between UK Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) uses the Trade and Investment (UKTI) and Boeing on UK internationally recognised Frascati definition of research industrial participation, we have successfully encouraged and development as covering three elements: pure or Boeing to make full use of the UK supply base on the basic research, which generates new knowledge for its Chinook new buy contract where this has no adverse own sake; applied research, in which knowledge generation impact on the programme schedule and continues to is directed towards a specific practical aim; and development provide value for money. where such knowledge is applied to a new service, device or product. We estimate that over the next 10 years the UK economy will benefit by some £350 million as a direct The term science and technology programme refers result of this contract. to the MOD research programme under the Department’s chief scientific adviser. Departmental Air Travel Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his Department’s research and John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for development budget was in each of the last five years Defence (1) which travel management companies his for which figures are available; and what the budget will Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets; be in each year of the comprehensive spending review [72685] period. [72519] 49W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 50W

Peter Luff: Ministry of Defence (MOD) research and The Department is conducting its routine annual development expenditure is published in ‘UK Defence planning round (PR 12), which will conclude in spring Statistics 2011’ (Table 1.7), which is available at the 2012, and may result in changes in the figures. However, following website: as I have previously said to the House, the MOD’s http://www.dasa.mod.uk/modintranet/UKDS/UKDS2011/c1/ Science and Technology budget will rise in cash terms table107.php over the comprehensive spending review period. The most recently published figures for net MOD research and development spending across MOD, inclusive Departmental Scientific Advisers of non-recoverable VAT at current prices are as follows: Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Research and development expenditure Defence what the resource budget allocation was for Financial year (£ million) the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in 2005-06 2,243 each of the last five years for which figures are 2006-07 2,124 available. [72459] 2007-08 2,139 2008-09 1,991 Peter Luff: The running costs for. the office of the 2009-10 1,742 Ministry of Defence’s chief scientific adviser (CSA) in each of the last five years, comprising CSA and the There is no fixed forward budget for research and immediate administrative support staff is as follows: development because development expenditure is mostly part of the equipment programme applied as needed Financial year Cost (£000) against the development requirements of individual 2006-07 520 projects. 2007-08 426 2008-09 402 Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for 2009-10 439 Defence what his Department’s science and technology 2010-11 444 budget was in each of the last five years for which figures are available; and what the budget will be in each year of the comprehensive spending review Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for period. [72520] Defence what the salary, including benefits, was of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last Peter Luff: Expenditures from the centralised Ministry five years for which figures are available; and how of Defence (MOD) science and technology programme many individuals have held the post in the last five under the Department’s chief scientific adviser, and the years. [72460] total net research expenditure by the MOD, for each of the past five years (inclusive of non-recoverable VAT at Peter Luff: Two individuals have held the post of current prices) are: chief scientific adviser in the Ministry of Defence in the past five years: Of which, Science Professor Sir Roy Anderson FRS FMedSci: October 2004 to and Technology September 2007 Total MOD research programme Professor Sir Mark Welland FRS FREng: April 2008 to date. expenditure (£ expenditure (£ Financial year million) million) From October 2007 to March 2008 Professor Anderson continued to provide advice to the Department on 2005-06 598 475 scientific issues as required. 2006-07 632 498 2007-08 635 519 Details of their salaries and benefits are published in 2008-09 584 480 the Department’s Annual Resource Accounts which are available at following website: 2009-10 567 446 http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/ CorporatePublications/AnnualReports/ The current planned budget for the centralised MOD science and technology programme under the Department’s A copy of the document is available in the Library of Chief Scientific Adviser, reflecting Defence planning the House. round (PR11), for each year of the comprehensive review period (rounded to the nearest £5 million) is Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for shown in the following table: Defence how many full-time equivalent staff were employed in the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser Science and technology in each of the last five years for which figures are programme planned budget (£ available; and on what date the office was established. Financial year million1) [72461] 2010-11 415 2011-12 435 Peter Luff: The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) 2012-13 420 staff in the immediate outer office of the chief scientific 2013-14 410 adviser (CSA) for the Ministry of Defence (MOD), 2014-15 470 comprising CSA and the immediate administrative support 1 Nearest £5 million staff, in each of the last five years is as follows: 51W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 52W

The UK’s policy is that qualified majority voting Financial year Number of staff (FTE) should not be used in any other areas and we would 2006-07 4.8 oppose any moves to expand qualified majority voting 2007-08 4.8 on defence matters. 2008-09 3.8 2009-10 3.8 Dr Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010-11 3.8 Defence what the criteria are for an EU member state to take part in Permanent Structured Co-operation. [R] The MOD had a chief scientific adviser when the [72305] Department was established in 1964. Mr Gerald Howarth: The provisions on Permanent Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Structured Co-operation (PESCO) were introduced by Defence what his policy is on requiring his Department’s the Lisbon treaty and the criteria can be found in (a) agencies and non-departmental public bodies and articles 42(6) and 46 and protocol (No. 10) to the (b) contractors to have a written code of practice or treaties. The Lisbon treaty was ratified by the previous protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality Government. assurance of scientific evidence and advice. [72462] EU Defence Policy: Offices

Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence is committed to Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence handling science and engineering advice in accordance what discussions he has had with non-EU members of with the Government chief scientific adviser’s ‘Guidelines NATO about the proposal to the EU High on the use of science and engineering advice in policy Representative by France, Germany, Spain, Italy and making’. Poland that the EU should establish an EU military EU Defence Policy operational headquarters; and what representations he has received from (a) the US, (b) Canada, (c) and (d) Norway on this proposal. [72258] Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of previous experience of Mr Gerald Howarth: I have always been clear that the participating in (a) EU military structures and (b) the UK opposes the creation of a permanent EU operational EU Defence Agency; and what recent assessment he military headquarters and continue to be so in my has made of the Government’s ability to influence the discussions with NATO and European partners including direction of EU military policies. [72260] at the recent informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers last month. I have not received any formal representations Mr Gerald Howarth: NATO remains the cornerstone from non-EU members of NATO on this subject. of UK defence. Participation in the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) operations—and their access Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence to wider economic, legal and diplomatic tools—should what assessment he has made of the total resources support or complement this primary role of NATO in required to establish an effective EU military meeting European defence and security requirements. operational headquarters. [72259] Following our last assessment of the European Defence Agency (EDA) in autumn 2010, we decided that the Mr Gerald Howarth: While the Ministry of Defence UK would continue to participate in the EDA for a has not conducted a formal assessment, we believe that period of two years (until autumn 2012), at which time neither has the EU. The establishment and development we want to see if UK membership in the EDA brings of a new EU institution and associated subordinate sufficient benefits to warrant Britain’s continued command functions would add substantial costs over membership. existing structures. The UK opposes a permanent EU operational headquarters (OHQ) for reasons other than Through our participation in the Common Security cost alone. We have been clear that establishment of a and Defence Policy, the UK has helped to influence the permanent OHQ would be a duplication of existing development of EU military policies. We secured a capability provided by NATO, would permanently freeze in the EDA’s defence budget, led opposition to disassociate the EU from NATO and would be an the establishment of an EU operational HQ and shifted unnecessary use of resources. the debate within the EU on developing capability, not structures, and on more robust anti-piracy measures. Mr Brazier: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his policy is on the creation of a permanent EU Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Operational Headquarters; and if he will make a what his policy is on the introduction of qualified statement. [72311] majority voting in EU defence matters. [72261] Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence Mr Gerald Howarth: There are three areas where what assessment he has made of the proposal to the qualified majority voting can be applied to decision EU High Representative by France, Germany, Spain, making: for certain decisions relating to Permanent Italy and Poland that the EU should establish an EU Structured Cooperation (PESCO); the decision making military operational headquarters without UK support powers of the European Defence Agency Steering Board; by means of the structured cooperation mechanism and establishing procedures for a start-up fund. These established by the ; what his policy is were agreed by the previous Government under the on participation in such an EU military operational introduction of the Lisbon treaty, the ratification of headquarters; and what representations he plans to which the Conservative party opposed. make to his EU counterparts on this issue. [72257] 53W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 54W

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for military communications including satellite television; Defence what his policy is on the creation of a force protection; petrol stowage; mounts for two rigid Permanent EU Operational Headquarters; and if he hull inflatable boats; and an enhanced navigation system. will make a statement. [72743] The small amount of additional work completed by the MOD covers the fitting of a small craft davit and a Dr Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for high definition radar, and the re-designing of military Defence what his policy is on the creation of a communications equipment to adapt it for use by HMS permanent EU Operational Headquarters; and if he Protector. will make a statement. [R] [72306] HMS Protector is on schedule to deploy for the first Mr Gerald Howarth: NATO remains the cornerstone time around the end of the year. of UK defence. We see no justification for a permanent EU military Military Bases: Edinburgh Operational Headquarters (OHQ) and would oppose it, whether there is an attempt to create it by Permanent Structured Co-operation (PESCO) or other means. We Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for have been clear that the establishment of a permanent Defence whether any valuations have been carried out OHQ would be a duplication of existing capability of United Kingdom Land Command sites at (a) provided by NATO, would permanently disassociate Redford Barracks, (b) Dreghorn Barracks and (c) the EU from NATO and would be an unnecessary Craigiehall in the last 10 years. [72586] waste of resources. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary rejected Mr Robathan: The Ministry of Defence values its the case for the establishment of an OHQ at the Foreign estate on a rolling five year programme for asset purposes. Affairs Council on 18 July 2011, a position I repeated The latest asset valuations can be found in the National emphatically at the informal meeting of Ministers of Asset Register, published by the Stationary Office on Defence in Wroclaw, Poland on 22-23 September 2011. the following website: The UK will continue to reinforce this message with our http://www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/cm70/7022/ European partners at every opportunity. 7022.pdf Helicopters: Technology A copy is available in the Library of the House. The Department does not routinely assess the current Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for market value of all its estate because the estimated Defence what assessment he has made of the Brownout receipts will depend on market conditions and other Landing Aid System Technology for installation on factors at the time of sale. However, the indicative armed forces helicopters. [72349] market values of these sites was reviewed in March 2011 as part of the ongoing basing review. Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is committed to minimising the risk to our personnel Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for when helicopters have to land with limited visibility. Defence pursuant to the answer of 6 September 2011, This is not simply a matter of new equipment, but also Official Report, column 89W, on military bases: of ensuring that we have the right training, tactics, Edinburgh, what annual costs are associated with the techniques and procedures in place. private finance initiative agreement with Bannockburn Through our research programme run by the Defence Homes Ltd used to fund some service family Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), we maintain accommodation for Redford and Dreghorn barracks; close links with industry to monitor technologies in this and whether these costs change for any period in which area, including the Brownout Landing Aid System the accommodation is unused. [72588] Technology (BLAST) programme. We are closely monitoring the development of BLAST, as well as Mr Robathan: In order to accommodate entitled service other industrial solutions and assessing them all against personnel based across Edinburgh, the Ministry of Defence our requirement. No decisions have been made on the (MOD) leases 103 service family accommodation (SFA) most effective technical approach to mitigating the risks properties under a private finance initiative with to helicopters from limited visibility landing. Bannockburn Homes Ltd at an annual cost in 2010-11 of £2.2 million for rent and services. HMS Protector This cost does not vary if properties are unoccupied. The MOD maintains a small management margin of Mr Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for void SFA properties in order to ensure that homes are Defence what work was planned to be carried out on available for families when required. HMS Protector before it was taken over by the Royal Navy; and what work was subsequently carried out Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for that had not been anticipated. [72618] Defence what listed buildings in each category there are Peter Luff: Work planned to be carried out by the at (a) Craigiehall, (b) Redford Barracks and (c) Ministry of Defence (MOD) on HMS Protector started Dreghorn Barracks. [72599] after the signing of the lease and is to be completed before her first deployment later this year. This work Mr Robathan: The requested information is as shown included the fitting of: hydrographic systems; secure in the following table: 55W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 56W

Mr Robathan: Comprehensive planning work is now Building description Listing category under way to draw up detailed plans for the future of Craigiehall House elevations and A Kirknewton, which will include an assessment of the interior likely effect on local transport. This will involve the Walled Garden including A appropriate and necessary engagement with partners such Gatepiers as the Scottish Government, West Lothian council and Craigiehall Sundials A the relevant other Government Departments and agencies. Craigiehall Dovecot B We have a shared interest in managing local issues, such Stable Court, Including Walls and C as transport, as effectively as we can for the benefit of Gatepiers both the local community and for our own personnel. Redford Cavalry Barracks with B Officer’s Mess Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for Balaclava House B Defence pursuant to the answers of 6 September 2011, Guard House B Official Report, columns 844-45W,on RAF Kirknewton, Gates B when in 2012 the further ecological survey into water Gatepiers B quality at Kirknewton, West Lothian, will take place; Sergeant’s Mess B when his Department’s Land Quality Assessment Former Band Block B programme for 2011-12 will take place; and if he will Education Block B place in the Library copies of each report when they are Former Stables B completed. [72603] Stores and other ancillary B buildings Mr Robathan: The Defence Infrastructure Organisation Dreghorn Barracks Guard House C plans to carry out a further ecological survey at Kirknewton Barrack Block C in February 2012, in order to enable a direct comparison Band Block C with the findings of the initial survey. The exact timings Battalion Headquarters C will, however, be dependent upon factors such as the weather. Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for The current phase of the Ministry of Defence estate-wide Defence if he will place in the Library copies of maps Land Quality Assessment (LQA) programme, runs from of the Defence Estate lands in Edinburgh which his 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012. In the case of RAF Kirknewton the phase two LQA is scheduled to start in Department proposes to sell. [72600] November 2011 and will involve an intrusive investigation. The exact timings of the LQA will also be dependent Mr Robathan: Copies of plans showing the extent of upon factors such as the weather. the Ministry of Defence landholdings at Craigiehall, Redford and Dreghorn Barracks will be placed in the Copies of both reports will be placed in the Library Library of the House. of the House once they are completed. The precise boundary of the land to be disposed of will be determined nearer to the time of any sale. Radar: Wind Power

Military Bases: Kirknewton Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent progress has been made in the search for potential mitigation solutions to prevent Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for radar clutter and aircraft obscuration caused by turbines; Defence pursuant to the answer of 6 September 2011, and if he will make a statement. [72246] Official Report, columns 1151-52W, on military bases, what discussions he has had with the Scottish Government Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has on the location for the tank training ground for the reached agreement with wind energy developers to provide proposed new Multi-Role Brigade at Kirknewton; and Lockheed Martin TPS77 air defence radars as mitigation whether a site has been identified. [72587] against specific wind farm radar interference concerns. The MOD is continuing to work with the wind energy Mr Robathan: The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is industry and the Department of Energy and Climate currently investigating options put forward by the Scottish Change to assess potential other mitigation solutions Government for the location of the proposed new training for air defence, air traffic control and precision approach area. The MOD will continue to consult with the Scottish radars. Government as we work through these options, however it is too early to confirm any further details of our exact Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for requirements. Defence whether NATO has issued guidance on acceptable levels of interference by wind farms with Air Defence Mike Crockart: To ask the Secretary of State for Radar. [72248] Defence what assessment his Department has made of the amount of additional traffic movement that will be Peter Luff: NATO has not issued guidance on acceptable generated by the proposed new base at Kirknewton, levels of interference by wind farms with Air Defence taking into account deliveries, commuting of personnel Radar. Acceptable levels are assessed on a site by site remaining in service family accommodation at Redford basis, and will be influenced by the technical characteristics and Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh, movements of of the affected radar system and the strategic importance personnel living at the base, and all other traffic. [72598] of the airspace near the wind farm. 57W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 58W

Transport airline tickets, balancing cost effectiveness against the individual requirements of each request. We monitor Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for expenditure on tickets on a continuous basis at the Defence whether the (a) Radar Additional Study and initial order stage and routinely check subsequent invoices (b) Data Transport study have completed; and when for accuracy. We hold twice yearly meetings with the he plans to place copies in the Library. [72247] travel company in order to review the effectiveness of existing route deals and ticket spend. Peter Luff: Both studies have completed and redacted In addition staff are encouraged to book flights well copies have been placed in the Library of the House. in advance of travel whenever possible, to take advantage of lower fares; to avoid changing flights unless there is a Unmanned Air Vehicles: Ammunition pressing business need to do so and are required to travel economy at all times unless there is a clear business Angus Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for need to do otherwise. Defence what munitions can be carried by the Departmental Legal Opinion Watchkeeper 450 unmanned air system. [72350]

Peter Luff: None. The current design of the Watchkeeper Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for unmanned air system precludes the carrying of munitions. Northern Ireland what the average hourly rate paid was to external (a) solicitors and (b) barristers engaged by his Department in 2010-11; what guidance his Department uses in commissioning external legal advice; and if he SCOTLAND will publish (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor Scotland Bill 2010-12 and (B) barrister engaged by his Department in 2010-11 and (ii) the sums paid in each case. [72573] Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many times the joint Exchequer Group Mr Paterson: The does not to consider the implementation of the Scotland Bill has have an in-house legal team. It receives legal support met since its formation; and when it will next meet. from a range of Government bodies, including the [72007] Crown Solicitor’s Office for Northern Ireland, the Treasury Solicitor’s Office, the Home Office Legal Advisor’s Michael Moore: The Joint Exchequer Committee met Branch, and the Departmental Solicitor’s Office. The for the first time on 27 September 2011, and it is Northern Ireland Office does not commission external intended that it will meet at least biannually. legal advice itself, but in acting on behalf of the Department, Taxation: Scotland these bodies will from time to time engage counsel. Departmental Security Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many times the High Level Implementation Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Group that advises on the practical implications of Ireland what discussions he has had with (a) Cabinet implementing the Calman Commission’s taxation proposals colleagues and (b) Ministers in the (i) Scottish and (ii) has met since its formation; and when it will next meet. Welsh Government on security issues since May 2010. [72008] [72169]

Michael Moore: The High Level Implementation Group Mr Paterson: Since May 2010, I have had a number met on 26 July and 4 November 2010, and 28 February of discussions with Cabinet colleagues on Northern 2011. It will meet again in late October. Ireland related security issues. This has included discussions in Cabinet and in the National Security Council. I have had no formal meetings to discuss security issues with NORTHERN IRELAND Ministers in the Scottish and Welsh Assembly Governments during that time. Departmental Aviation Inquiries John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what (a) contractual obligations and Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for (b) other processes his Department uses in respect of Northern Ireland how much his Department has spent travel management companies to ensure the best value on inquiries into events in Northern Ireland in each is achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72709] year since 2001. [72173]

Mr Paterson: The Northern Ireland Office has a Mr Paterson: The total costs of the four Northern contract with a travel management company which is Ireland public inquiries, in each year since 2001 are set expected to ensure best value for money when purchasing out in the following table:

£ Bloody Sunday Inquiry1 (end Robert Hamill Inquiry (end Rosemary Nelson Inquiry (end Billy Wright Inquiry (end May 2010) February 2011) May 2011) August 2010)

2000-01 19,345,573 — — — 2001-02 19,179,164 — — — 59W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 60W

£ Bloody Sunday Inquiry1 (end Robert Hamill Inquiry (end Rosemary Nelson Inquiry (end Billy Wright Inquiry (end May 2010) February 2011) May 2011) August 2010)

2002-03 25,771,371 — — — 2003-04 27,322,499 — — — 2004-05 14,373,390 409,738 551,586 58,848 2005-06 7,161,967 3,408,142 3,525,774 2,261,855 2006-07 9,518,864 6,186,984 10,335,687 4,437,849 2007-08 5,053,994 4,329,846 10,272,333 8,604,601 2008-09 4,867,038 9,157,856 14,651,183 8,955,958 2009-10 3,199,837 7,778,895 5,081,501 4,817,835 2010-11 503,258 1,596,736 1,924,195 692,373 2011-12 — — 114,725 — Total 136,296,955 32,868,197 46,456,984 29,829,319 1 The Bloody Sunday Inquiry was established in 1998 and was funded by the Northern Ireland Office. Costs in relation to the inquiry were also incurred by the Ministry of Defence. The total cost of the inquiry to the NIO since its establishment in 1998 was £155.6 million. In addition, the MOD incurred a total of £35.6 million. The total cost of the Bloody Sunday Inquiry was therefore £191.2 million.

Lawyers Mr Paterson: The legal costs of the four Northern Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Ireland public inquiries, in each year since 2001 are set Northern Ireland how much his Department has spent out in the following table: on payments to lawyers in relation to inquiries held on events in Northern Ireland in each year since 2001. [72172]

£ Bloody Sunday Inquiry1 (end Robert Hamill Inquiry (end Rosemary Nelson Inquiry (end Billy Wright Inquiry (end May 2010) February 2011) May 2011) August 2010)

2000-01 7,371,628 — — — 2001-02 8,456,941 — — — 2002-03 7,475,621 — — — 2003-04 11,323,226 — — — 2004-05 7,722,725 69,736 213,577 — 2005-06 3,108,239 1,533,793 650,968 947,849 2006-07 6,013,519 1,448,322 3,595,705 1,348,436 2007-08 1,714,001 1,745,229 4,795,714 2,171,188 2008-09 1,177,297 5,213,683 5,895,561 3,353,645 2009-10 894,000 3,805,212 1,563,159 2,016,954 2010-11 121,435 101,135 162,524 2,587 2011-12 — — 407 — Total 55,378,632 13,917,110 16,877,615 9,840,659 1 The Bloody Sunday Inquiry was established in 1998 and was funded by the Northern Ireland Office. Costs in relation to the inquiry were also incurred by the Ministry of Defence. The legal costs incurred by the inquiry since its establishment in 1998 were £67.6 million. In addition, the Ministry of Defence incurred £32.6 million in legal costs. The total legal cost of the Bloody Sunday Inquiry was therefore £100.2 million.

Terrorism 2010-11, when she expects the big society seminar to take place. [71711] Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his most recent assessment is of the level Mr David Jones: The Wales Office big society seminar of threat from dissident Republicans in Northern Ireland; took place on 12 September, with guest speakers including and what his equivalent assessment was 12 months ago. the Minister for Civil Society, my hon. Friend the [72170] Member for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner (Mr Hurd), and Nick O’Donohoe, CEO of Big Society Capital, Mr Paterson: The threat level in Northern Ireland taking part. remains at SEVERE, the same level as in October 2010. It was a well attended event with over 50 delegates Despite the overwhelming community rejection of violence, from across the full spectrum of Welsh civil society terrorist groups continue to pose an indiscriminate threat including the private, public, voluntary and charitable to the lives of police officers and the general public. sectors. Broadcasting Programmes: Welsh Language WALES Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Big Society Wales whether the Commission on Devolution for Wales will consider (a) Welsh language broadcasting Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales and (b) the scrutiny of and support required by police with reference to the Wales Office Annual Report commissioners in Wales. [68692] 61W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 62W

Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State for Wales, the Departmental Legal Opinion right hon. Member for and (Mrs Gillan), made a written ministerial statement on 19 July Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales 2011, Official Report, column 115WS, informing the what the average hourly rate paid was to external (a) House of our plans so far on establishing a Commission solicitors and (b) barristers engaged by her Department on Devolution in Wales. Further announcements on the in 2010-11; what guidance her Department uses in process will be made after recess. commissioning external legal advice; and if she will publish (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor and Business Advisory Group (B) barrister engaged by her Department in 2010-11 and (ii) the sums paid in each case. [72577] Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales who the members are of the Wales Office Business Mr David Jones: Nil. Advisory Group. [71712] Departmental Procurement Mrs Gillan: The participants at each meeting of the Wales Office Business Advisory Group are invited on Mr Denham: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales an individual basis. The attendees of the most recent what the annual value is of her Department’s current session in June were: contracts in each sector in which contracts are held. Paul Gorin (Smart Solutions Recruitment) [66625] Phil Orford (Forum for Private Business) Iestyn Davies (Federation of Small Businesses) Mr David Jones: My Department holds two contracts Steve Thomas (Airbus) currently, one is for the hosting of our websites and has an annual value of £6,936, the other is for the cleaning Uday Chaturvedi (TATA Steel UK) of our Cardiff office and has an annual value of £7,715.76. Wayne Powell (IBERS, Aberystwyth University) David Williams (Chairman of Llandudno Hospitality Association) Devolution: Wales Colin Orr Burns (Dragon LNG) Professor George Boyne (Cardiff University) Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Graham Hillier (Toyota). Wales when she plans to announce the (a) chair and (b) membership of the Commission on Devolution for Constituency Size Wales; and what criteria she plans to use to determine the membership. [68697]

Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State for Wales, the whether she has had any discussions with the Ministers right hon. Member for Chesham and Amersham (Mrs in the Welsh Government on the time taken to Gillan), made a written ministerial statement on 19 July announce the outcome of the constituency boundaries 2011, Official Report, column 115WS, informing the review in Wales. [71714] House of our plans so far on establishing a Commission on Devolution in Wales. Further announcements on the Mr David Jones: The Boundary Commission for process will be made after recess. Wales is expected to publish proposals for new parliamentary constituencies in Wales in January 2012. Energy Supply Neither the Secretary of State for Wales, my right hon. Friend the Member for Chesham and Amersham (Mrs Gillan), nor I have discussed this with Welsh Government Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Ministers. Wales whether the Commission on Devolution for Wales will consider the case for the devolution of Departmental Carbon Emissions decision-making on consents for energy projects with a generating capacity of 50 to 100 megawatts. [69396]

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State for Wales, the Wales what estimate she has made of the carbon right hon. Member for Chesham and Amersham (Mrs dioxide emissions from her Department in (a) June Gillan), made a written ministerial statement on 19 July 2010 and (b) June 2011. [66747] 2011, Official Report, column 115WS, informing the House of our plans so far on establishing a Commission Mr David Jones: The information requested is given on Devolution in Wales. Further announcements on the in the following table. The Wales Office has a programme process will be made after recess. of work in place to reduce its carbon emissions and environmental impact through, for example, greater use Enterprise Zones of video conferencing and recycling.

Tonnes Guto Bebb: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales pursuant to the oral answer of 29 June 2011, Official (a) June 2010 4.67 Report, column 939, what recent discussions she has (b) June 2011 4.22 had with the First Minister of Wales on delivering benefits from enterprise zones in Wales. [71783] 63W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 64W

Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State for Wales, my Justine Greening: I have been asked to reply. right hon. Friend the Member for Chesham and Amersham The European Commission has made no such request (Mrs Gillan), has had continued discussions with the for additional contributions to the EU Budget from the First Minister on this issue and recently wrote seeking UK. confirmation on when a decision on the establishment The UK’s contributions to the EU Budget take place of Enterprise Zones in Wales will be announced. under obligations imposed by the treaties. The European We were therefore pleased to see the announcement Communities Act 1972, and section 2 in particular, on 20 September by the Welsh Government setting out gives effect within the UK to Community law. plans for five sector-based Enterprise Zones across Wales. I look forward to hearing more details about how these will work in the coming weeks. It is important that the new zones in Wales are used HOME DEPARTMENT to ensure that Welsh businesses have the same competitive Animal Experiments advantages as those across the border in England. Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Home Department what representations her Wales what discussions she has had with ministerial Department has made to (a) East Riding of Yorkshire colleagues and the Welsh Assembly Government on the council and (b) the Planning Inspectorate on the potential development of enterprise zones in Wales. planning application of B&K Universal to construct [72263] an expanded new beagle breeding facility; and if she will assess the compliance with the provisions of Mr David Jones: The Secretary of State for Wales, my European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of right hon. Friend the Member for Chesham and Amersham animals used for scientific purposes, of the provision in (Mrs Gillan), has regular discussions with ministerial the application for access to outside space by the dogs colleagues in the Department for Communities and in the facility. [72756] Local Government, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Treasury on various Lynne Featherstone: I have made no representations issues including Enterprise Zones. to East Riding of Yorkshire Council or the Planning She has also had continued discussions with the First Inspectorate on the planning application of B&K Universal Minister on this issue and recently wrote seeking to construct an expanded new beagle breeding facility confirmation on when a decision on the development of and have no plans to do so. Enterprise Zones in Wales will be announced. Under section 7 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) We were therefore pleased to see the announcement Act 1986, places where animals specified in schedule 2 on 20 September by the Welsh Government setting out to the Act are bred for use in regulated procedures, or plans for five sector-based Enterprise Zones across Wales. are kept for supply for use in such procedures or to I look forward to hearing more details about how these other designated sources, must be designated as breeding will work in the coming weeks. and/or supplying establishments. Applications for It is important that the new zones in Wales are used designation are considered on a case by case basis to ensure that Welsh businesses have the same competitive according to their merits. It is not Home Office policy advantages as those across the border in England. to comment on individual applications. Mandatory standards of housing and care of animals set out in Annex III to European Directive 2010/63/EU must be implemented from 1 January 2017. PRIME MINISTER Asylum Anti-Slavery Day Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if she will bring forward Andrew Selous: To ask the Prime Minister what plans proposals to allow asylum seekers who have been (a) he has to mark Anti-Slavery Day. [72191] waiting for more than six months for their cases to be concluded and (b) refused asylum but temporarily The Prime Minister: The Government are fully committed cannot be returned home to be given permission to to combating human trafficking by tackling organised work until their cases are resolved; and if she will make crime groups and protecting the victims of this modern a statement. [70651] day slavery. To mark Anti-Slavery Day I will be hosting a reception at for individuals and Damian Green: Currently, asylum seekers can apply organisations who are involved in work to combat for permission to work if they have not received an human slavery and trafficking. initial decision on their claim within 12 months. This is in line with the requirements of the European Union EU Budget: Contributions (EU) directive on the reception of asylum seekers. The Government have no plans to reduce this time period to Jim Shannon: To ask the Prime Minister for what six months, nor to extend access to the labour market to reason the EU Commission has requested additional all asylum seekers who have been refused asylum, but monies for EU membership from the UK; and whether who face a temporary barrier to their return. Extending the Government is obliged to comply with the request. the permission to work policy in this way risks abuse of [72070] the asylum system by economic migrants and detracts 65W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 66W from the aim of encouraging those whose claim has Nick Herbert: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office failed to return home voluntarily. Our focus, through (FCO) offer support to families and friends of British the Asylum Improvement Project, is on implementing nationals who die overseas and will assign a caseworker new ways to speed up the processing of applications, with knowledge of the country concerned. Where a while also improving the quality of decision making. death has occurred in suspicious circumstances, which Overall, performance has improved in the last year. In may lead to legal proceedings overseas, the Foreign and particular, we are making decisions more quickly— Commonwealth Office will keep the family informed of consistently deciding over 50% of asylum cases within developments and offers guidance. Since November 30 days—without sacrificing quality. 2010 the FCO has been working in partnership with the charity Victim Support (which runs the national homicide Hilary Benn: To ask the Secretary of State for the service) to ensure that families living in England and Home Department how many legacy asylum cases Wales get the practical support that they need to deal remain to be dealt with by the UK Border Agency with the added trauma, complications and costs when a (UKBA); how many of these relate to people living in British national is murdered abroad. Leeds Central constituency; and when the UKBA When a crime, for example a homicide, is committed expects all legacy cases to be cleared. [71071] in another country, the investigation would be the responsibility of the police and judicial authorities in Damian Green: As reported to the Home Affairs the country where the offence occurred, who will investigate Select Committee, the UK Border Agency completed according to their own laws, standards and practises. In its review of all cases in the legacy cohort at the end of most cases, British police have no jurisdiction outside March 2011. A total of 500,500 cases were reviewed as the UK. part of the programme and the majority (455,000) had It is possible that a local UK police force will appoint been fully concluded. The agency has also issued 3,000 a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) to liaise with the family. grants which are subject to information from the applicant However a FLO will not be deployed in all cases where in order to complete a final security check. a British national has died abroad and will only generally The agency is now actively managing around 18,000 be deployed if there is an investigative role for them to cases which have been caseworked to the furthest possible perform, for example if the foreign police service is point but barriers to their removal remain, such as specifically asking for inquiries to be made in the UK. ongoing litigation, impending prosecution, incomplete Guidance on the role and criteria for deployment of a legal or criminal proceedings, non-compliance or because FLO is issued to police forces by the National Policing they are from difficult to remove countries. These cases Improvement Agency (NPIA) on behalf of the Association are being actively caseworked and will be concluded of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) within appendix 3 of when those barriers have been lifted. the Family Liaison Officer Guidance 2008. Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate she has made of CCTV the cost of training a new asylum casework team to deal with legacy cases which were not concluded by the Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for previous legacy team. [72823] the Home Department what steps her Department has Damian Green: The UK Border Agency has advised taken to ensure that CCTV systems installed by bus that the staff allocated to the Case Assurance and Audit operators use a technical format compatible with use Unit, previously worked in the Case Resolution Directorate. by the police for the purposes of legal proceedings. The staff are fully versed in all aspects of asylum [70032] casework. Training costs will therefore be nil. James Brokenshire: There is no single industry standard Asylum: Translation Services for digital CCTV format, and this can complicate the recovery by the police of images from other operators’ Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for CCTV systems. To improve the effectiveness of all the Home Department how much her Department has CCTV systems, and to ensure these systems command spent on translation services for asylum seekers in the confidence of the communities they serve, we have Birmingham, Ladywood constituency in each of the introduced provisions in the Protections of Freedoms Bill for a surveillance camera system code of practice. last five years. [72079]

Damian Green: It is not possible to answer the question in the form in which it has been put because the UK Civil Disorder Border Agency does not record expenditure by parliamentary constituency. Disaggregating the data in Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for the order to provide the information would incur Home Department if she will estimate the (a) cost to disproportionate cost. each police authority and (b) total cost of the August 2011 public disorder. [71066] British Nationals Abroad: Homicide Nick Herbert [holding answer 9 September 2011]: : To ask the Secretary of State for the There is no estimate yet for the total cost. It is too early Home Department if she will make provision to enable to know the final cost of the policing operations and police forces to provide assistance and support to claims made under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 following families of British nationals murdered overseas. [70128] the recent public disorder. 67W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 68W

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Nick Herbert: The Home Office has received no such the Home Department how many people have been reports. Police instructions on the sale of fuel during charged in connection with the public disorder of public disorder are an operational matter for chief August 2011. [71324] police officers.

Nick Herbert [holding answer 13 September 2011]: Counter-terrorism The Ministry of Justice is currently publishing frequent updates on people charged who were dealt with by the Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for court system in relation to the disturbances on 6-9 the Home Department with reference to Section 11.34 August. These reports can be found on the Ministry of of the Prevent Strategy, Cm 8092, what progress her Justice website at: Department has made on working with other http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data Government Departments to establish whether Prevent As the publications note the Ministry of Justice chief work can be integrated into their core activities. [72331] statistician will review the quality of data and release further breakdowns as reliable data become available. A James Brokenshire: Good progress has been made in more detailed release was published on 15 September, working with other Government Departments to which contained detailed information on age, gender, mainstream Prevent into their core business. offence committed, sentence given and previous criminal Each Government Department with a Prevent interest history. is developing a programme plan to take forward its work on this issue and reports to the Home Office’s Civil Disorder: Greater London Office for Security and Counter Terrorism, in accordance with the governance arrangements of CONTEST, the Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Government’s counter-terrorism strategy. Home Department (1) how many residents of the London borough of Southwark have been charged with offences Counter-terrorism: Finance related to the disturbances in August 2011; [71514] (2) what the age was of the oldest resident of the Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for London borough of Southwark charged with an offence the Home Department when she plans to publish audit documents and records relating to the assessment of related to the disturbances in August 2011; [71515] applications for Prevent funding. [72294] (3) what the age was of the youngest resident of the London borough of Southwark charged with an offence James Brokenshire: We shall publish annual reports related to the disturbances in August 2011; [71516] on the progress of Contest, the Government’s counter- (4) what the average age was of residents of the terrorism strategy. These will include information on London borough of Southwark charged with an offence the delivery of the Prevent strand of Contest. The related to the disturbances in August 2011; [71517] content and format of the reports has yet to be decided. (5) what offences related to the disturbances in August 2011 residents of the London borough of Southwark Crime have been charged with; [71518] (6) what proportion of London borough of Southwark Mr Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for the residents charged with an offence related to the disturbances Home Department how many (a) knife crime, (b) gun in August 2011 are under 25 years old. [71519] crime and (c) street robbery incidents were recorded in (i) Coventry and (ii) Warwickshire in each of the last James Brokenshire: The Ministry of Justice published five years. [70343] statistics on 15 September on people being dealt with by the court system in relation to the August disturbances. Nick Herbert: Data on knife and sharp instrument A bulletin, titled “Statistical bulletin on the public offences have been collected by the Home Office via a disorder of 6th to 9th August 2011” can be found at the special additional data collection since April 2007. Data following link. The data is provided for London as a are therefore available only for the last four years. whole in table 11, but is not broken down by London Data are not comparable across this time period. In borough. 2007-08, the offences covered by the special knife crime http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ collection were: attempted murder, GBH and robbery. criminal-justice/public-disorder-august-11.htm These data are presented in table A. In 2008-09, the Charging data are not collated centrally by the Ministry collection was expanded to include threats to kill, ABH, of Justice or the Home Office. rape and sexual assaults, therefore data for 2007-08 are not comparable with those for later years. Data from Civil Disorder: Petrol 2008-09 onwards is presented in table B. Furthermore, data for West Midlands police, are not Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the comparable for 2010-11 against earlier years due to Home Department what reports she has received of changes in their recording of these offences. police officers instructing petrol filling stations not to Prior to 2010-11, for technical reasons, the West sell fuel in cans during the public disorder in August Midlands data return included offences using unbroken 2011; in which police force areas such instructions were bottles and glass, which are outside the scope of the issued; and whether she will issue guidance to chief collection. From 2010-11, West Midlands have excluded police constables on the sale of fuel in cans during any these offences and data are therefore not comparable future public disorder. [71579] with earlier years. 69W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 70W

Figures for homicides involving the use of a knife or Table E: Total police recorded robbery offences recorded in Coventry sharp instrument are presented separately as they are local authority, 2006-07 to 2010-11 taken from the Homicide Index. These are also available Number of offences only at police force level. The 2005-06 to 2009-10 homicide Financial year Coventry data for West Midlands and Warwickshire are shown in 2006-07 843 Table C. The 2010-11 data will be published in January 2007-08 646 2012. 2008-09 699 Data on firearm offences are also only available at 2009-10 616 police force level. The 2005-06 to 2009-10 firearms data 2010-11 816 for West Midlands and Warwickshire are shown in Table D. The 2010-11 data for police recorded firearm Table F: Total police recorded robbery offences recorded in offences will be published in January 2012. Warwickshire police force area, 2006-07 to 2010-11 Number of offences Data on robbery offences are available at local authority Financial year Warwickshire level as well as police force level. It is not possible to identify the location of the offence from data held 2006-07 488 centrally, so data provided are for all robbery offences, 2007-08 375 not only those committed in the street. Data covering 2008-09 334 the period from 2006-07 to 2010-11 for Coventry local 2009-10 280 authority area are presented in table E and West Midlands 2010-11 298 police force area are shown in table F. Table A: Total number of offences recorded involving a knife or a Criminal Records sharp instrument in West Midlands and Warwickshire police force areas, 2007-081 Anna Soubry: To ask the Secretary of State for the Number of offences Home Department what recent progress the Independent Financial year West Midlands2 Warwickshire Advisory Panel for the Disclosure of Criminal Records [71924] 2007-08 2,648 160 has made in its work. Table B: Total number of offences recorded involving a knife or a sharp Lynne Featherstone: The Independent Advisory Panel instrument in West Midlands and Warwickshire police force areas, for the Disclosure of Criminal Records (IAPDCR) was 1 2008-09 to 2010-11 formed on 13 September 2010 following recommendations Number of offences made by Mrs Sunita Mason, the Government’s Financial year West Midlands2 Warwickshire Independent Advisor for Criminality Information ″ ″ 2008-09 3,682 223 Management, in her report A Balanced Approach 2009-10 3,216 157 published in March 2010. 2010-11 2,998 162 The panel is chaired by Mrs Mason and is attended 1 Police recorded knife, and sharp instrument offences data are by experts from a range of backgrounds including the submitted via an additional special collection. Other offences exist third sector, legal professionals, the Information that are not shown in this table that may include the use of a knife or Commissioners’ Office and police. sharp instrument. 2 West Midlands included unbroken bottle and glass offences in their Since September 2010 the IAPDCR has met regularly returns until April 2010 but now exclude these offences in line with to discuss: other forces. As such, their 2010-11 data are not comparable with whether filtering arrangements should be applied as part of their data for earlier years. the process to disclose information relating to convictions, Table C: Total number of homicides involving a knife or a sharp cautions etc (“central records”) under the provisions of the instrument in West Midlands and Warwickshire police force areas, Police Act 1997; 2005-05 to 2009-101 how such arrangements might be structured to improve the Number of offences proportionality between civil liberties and the impact on public Financial year West Midlands Warwickshire protection; and 2005-06 22 1 how such arrangements might operate alongside other existing 2006-07 15 5 legislation, especially the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. 2007-08 15 2 Mrs Mason is currently in the process of consolidating 2008-09 24 1 the opinions of panel members with a view to providing 2009-10 9 1 advice to Ministers by the end of October 2011. 1 As at 28 September 2010; figures are subject lo revision as cases are dealt with by the police and by the courts, or as further information Dangerous Dogs becomes available. Table D: Total firearm offences (excluding air weapons) recorded in Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for the West Midlands and Warwickshire police force areas, 2005-06 to Home Department if she will publish each police authority’s 2009-10 enforcement costs in respect of the kennelling of dogs Number of offences held under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. [71662] Financial year West Midlands Warwickshire

2005-06 946 80 Nick Herbert: While the Government provide core 2006-07 979 90 police funding, spending decisions are made locally by 2007-08 974 107 the chief constables and police authorities. Data on 2008-09 985 56 each police authority’s expenditure, including enforcement 2009-10 903 57 costs of the kennelling of dogs held under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, is therefore not collected centrally. 71W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 72W

Mary Creagh: To ask the Secretary of State for the Total admin resource budget1 Home Department how many dog legislation officers £000 were employed by each police authority in each of the 2011-12 870 last five years; and how many such officers each authority 1 Costs include all pay costs including those of the chief scientific expects to employ in each year of the comprehensive adviser and the science secretariat and the cost of running the science spending review period. [71663] advisory committees.

Nick Herbert: The information requested is not collected Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the centrally. Home Department what the salary, including benefits, was of her Department’s chief scientific adviser in each Departmental Air Travel of the last five years for which figures are available; and how many individuals have held the post in the last five John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the years. [72480] Home Department which travel management companies her Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets. James Brokenshire: Paul Wiles was appointed the [72692] Home Office chief scientific adviser in September 2004 and was succeeded in the post by Professor Bernard Damian Green: The Home Department, including its Silverman in April 2010. executive agencies, uses Carlson Wagonlit for the purchase of airline tickets. The available information on salary costs and benefits of the Home Office chief scientific adviser were released John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the for 2010 as part of the plans to increase transparency Home Department what (a) contractual obligations across Government. The available information is shown and (b) other processes her Department uses in respect in the following table. of travel management companies to ensure the best Annual pay rate including value is achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72706] Name taxable benefits and allowances Damian Green: The Home Department’s travel Paul Wiles (March 2010) £155,000 to £159,999 management company, Carlson Wagonlit (CWT), is Bernard Silverman (from April £120,000 to £124,999 contractually obligated to constantly source and where 2010) possible negotiate improved deals, fares and rates on behalf of the Department. The Department and CWT Salary figures for senior civil servants are not released work collaboratively, as part of a cross Government prior to 2010. programme, to identify routes frequently flown by officials. This assists CWT to negotiate further discounts on Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the these routes. The Department’s policy on air travel is Home Department how many full-time equivalent staff underpinned by an objective of achieving best value. were employed in the office of her Department’s chief The policy is rigorously enforced through effective use scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which of management information which identifies both frequency figures are available; and on what date the office was of travel and type of airline ticket purchased. established. [72481]

Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers James Brokenshire: The Home Office chief scientific adviser is supported by the Science Secretariat, which, Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the in addition to supporting the chief scientific adviser, Home Department what the resource budget allocation also supports the Department’s independent science was for the office of her Department’s chief scientific advisory committees. The full-time equivalent (FTE) adviser in each of the last five years for which figures staff numbers for each of the last five years are in the are available. [72479] table. The figures fluctuate as the Home Office Science has James Brokenshire: The Home Office chief scientific restructured to bring the advisory committees under the adviser is supported by the science secretariat, which, in management of the chief scientific adviser. Currently addition to supporting the chief scientific adviser, also approximately 3.5 FTEs in the Science Secretariat directly supports the Department’s independent science advisory support the chief scientific adviser; the remainder support committees; it is not possible to separate these costs. the advisory committees. The office to support the The total resource costs for each of the last five years Home Office chief scientific adviser was created in are shown in the following table. The figures fluctuate September 2004. as the Home Office science has restructured to bring the advisory committees under the management of the Number of staff (FTEs) chief scientific adviser. Total admin resource budget1 2007-08 13 £000 2008-09 13 2009-10 13 2007-08 1,023 2010-11 10.4 2008-09 776 2011-12 12.4 2009-10 936 Note: 2010-11 840 Includes secretarial support. 73W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 74W

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the £ Home Department what her policy is on requiring her Department’s (a) agencies and non-departmental Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP 751,551 public bodies and (b) contractors to have a written Winkworth Sherwood 378,533 code of practice or protocol relating to the provision, Hartnell Taylor Cook LLP 253,039 conduct and quality assurance of scientific evidence Eversheds Cambridgeshire 211,375 and advice. [72482] Fairfax Solicitors 174,453 Merrill Legal Solutions 109,997 James Brokenshire: My Department is committed to EC Harris LLP 99,617 handling science and engineering advice in accordance Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP 97,770 with the Government chief scientific adviser’s “Guidelines Blake Lapthorn Tarlo Lyons 71,891 on the use of science and engineering advice in policy Essex Court Chambers 65,008 making”. The Scientific Advisory Committees that advise Law Absolute 59,570 the Department operate in line with the “Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees” and the Woodward Lewis Ltd 47,000 “Principles for Scientific Advice to Government”. G2 Legal 46,831 Morton Fraser 45,588 The Home Office Standard Research Contract has a Savills (L&P) Ltd 44,652 condition that refers to research ethics and this states Michael Douglas 43,830 that Benedict Mackenzie LLP 43,346 “The Service Provider shall conduct the Project in accordance Morrison and Foerster (UK) LLP 42,469 with the standards and codes of practice accepted by the social research profession.” Lexisnexis Butterworths 40,933 Dame Nuala O’Loan 37,241 There are further generic terms and conditions that state that the contractor will deliver to time, specification Addleshaw Goddard 36,654 and with reasonable care and due diligence. Walker Morris 36,229 James Eadie 35,392 Departmental Legal Opinion Argent Chambers 34,891 Lord Carlile of Berriew QC 31,324 Jane Sarah Gordon 30,693 Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the average hourly rate paid was to external (a) solicitors and (b) barristers Departmental Sick Leave engaged by her Department in 2010-11; what guidance her Department uses in commissioning external legal Mr Scott: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home advice; and if she will publish (i) the names of each Department how many staff in her Department are on external (A) solicitor and (B) barrister engaged by her long-term sick leave. [71933] Department in 2010-11 and (ii) the sums paid in each case. [72570] Damian Green: As at 31 August 2011, 635 employees were recorded as being on long-term sick leave, which is Damian Green: The Home Department procures legal 2% of the civil servants working in the Department on advice as a service rather than at an hourly rate, as such that date. We have used the Cabinet Office definition of we do not capture hours completed by (a) solicitors or long-term sickness absence, which is a sickness absence (b) barristers engaged in 2010-11. that continues for more than 21 working days or 29 calendar The Department uses a number of different guidance days. documents in commissioning external legal advice. These include the Attorney-General’s Guidelines on the Use Deportation of the Private Sector for Government Legal Work; the Government Legal Service Best Practice; and the Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Government Legal Services Procurement Protocol 2009. the Home Department if she will bring forward The Home Department publishes payments of over proposals to establish an independent body to monitor £25,000 to suppliers, as part of Government’s Transparency all enforced removals from the UK. [72275] policy. The following table provides (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor and (B) barrister firms engaged Damian Green: There are no plans to establish an by the Department in 2010-11 where the payments have independent body to monitor all enforced removals been over £25,000 and (ii) the sums paid in each case. from the UK. The table includes payments of over £25,000 to self- All detention and escorting services provided by private employed solicitors and barristers engaged by the sector companies are subject to internal and external Department in 2010-11. The table does not include oversight. Staff are vetted carefully by the Home Office payments of under £25,000 to solicitors and barristers as part of their accreditation to work as detention made by the Department in 2010-11 as this information custody officers or escorts, undergoing thorough security could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. checks and extensive training before they are certified. Escorting services are subject to scrutiny by not only £ a team of UK Border Agency contract monitors, but Pinsent Masons 5,039,865 also a programme of unannounced inspections by HM Cripps Harries Hall 3,061,896 Chief Inspector of Prisons and specifically, at Heathrow Kingsley Napley 863,705 airport, an independent monitoring board. Both of these bodies publish their reports on their websites. 75W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 76W

Deportation: Cameroon The data provided are normally used for management information only and are not subject to the detailed checks that apply for National Statistics publications. It Mr Nuttall: To ask the Secretary of State for the is provisional and subject to change. Home Department how many persons have been removed to Cameroon in each of the last three years. Detention Centres: Police [72582]

Damian Green: 142 people, including dependants, Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for were removed or departed voluntarily from the UK to the Home Department how many times the police have Cameroon in 2008; 141 in 2009; and 109 in 2010. The been called to the immigration removal centre at (a) figure for 2010 is provisional and subject to change. Brook House, (b) Campsfield, (c) Colnbrook, (d) Dover, (e) Dungavel, (f) Harmondsworth, (g) Haslar, The Home Office publishes statistics on the number (h) Lindholme, (i) Morton Hall, (j) Tinsley House of persons removed or departed voluntarily from the and (k) Yarl’s Wood in each of the last five years. UK on a quarterly and annual basis. The information [71914] provided has been published in the Immigration Statistics: April-June 2011 release, which is available from the Damian Green: There is no requirement on immigration Library of the House and from the Home Office’s removal centres to centrally collate the data requested. Science, Research and Statistics web pages at: An accurate response could be provided only by http://homeoffice.gov.uk/science-research/research-statistics/ examination of individual security records at each centre migration/migration-statistics1/ at disproportionate cost. The police might be called to a centre for a variety of different reasons, including where an offence may have Deportation: Suicide been committed or to assist with managing incidents such as a death, an escape or a protest. Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information her Department Domestic Violence holds on the number of attempted suicides by (a) adults and (b) children awaiting deportation in 2011 to Emma Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for the date. [72293] Home Department pursuant to the answer of 13 June 2011, Official Report, column 653W, on domestic Damian Green: I have assumed that the question violence, when she expects to take a final decision on relates to persons being held by the UK Border Agency signature and ratification of the Council of Europe pending removal or deportation. The data provided do convention on preventing violence against women and not therefore include persons in the community who domestic violence. [72333] will be removed from the country in the future. The UK Border Agency keeps records of the number Lynne Featherstone: We continue to be supportive of of incidents across its detention estate of self-harm the work of the Council of Europe in raising awareness where a person required some form of medical attention. of violence against women and girls and supported the Such attention may involve an examination by a nurse, efforts to agree a strong convention, but we are not yet or in more serious cases, treatment at a hospital. The in a position to make the final decision on signature and data do not break down to show the type of treatment ratification. We are reviewing whether the requirements required, nor whether they were as a result of suicide of the convention are best placed to support our existing attempts, given it is not always clear whether a person work to tackle violence against women and girls and intended to take the more serious step of taking their domestic violence in the UK. own life. Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre There were 119 incidents of self-harm across the Agency’s immigration removal centres which required medical attention between 1 January and 31 August 2011. : To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what procedures are in place to The figure above does not include foreign national monitor the level of service delivery by GEO Ltd in prisoners who will be deported at the end of their managing Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre; sentence or detainees being held in prisons or those held [70258] in the Agency’s short-term holding facilities. (2) what recent representations she has received on Children are only now held in very limited circumstances the awarding of the contact to run Dungavel House and for short periods, primarily when they have been Immigration Removal Centre to GEO Ltd; and if she intercepted at the border with their family or where they will make a statement. [70259] are being returned under the ensured return route. There have been no recorded instances in the same Damian Green: All immigration removal centres operated period where children being held attempted to harm by the private sector, including Dungavel, have their themselves. contracts managed by a central commercial team. The The safety of those in the care of the UK Border UK Border Agency has a team of staff based in each Agency is taken very seriously, and there are well established centre to monitor day to day contract delivery and systems and policies entitled Assessment Care in Detention compliance. Meetings take place with the centre manager and Teamwork (ACDT) to identify and support those at an operational level on a weekly basis and on a who are at risk of suicide or self harm. commercial level on a quarterly basis. 77W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 78W

Very recently, a letter addressed to the Secretary of The Office for National Statistics (ONS) uses the International State for the Home Department has been received about Passenger Survey (IPS) to estimate flows of international migrants the GEO Group’s overseas operations. A reply is being into and out of the United Kingdom. The IPS is a continuous prepared. voluntary sample survey conducted by ONS. It covers the principal air, sea and Channel Tunnel routes between the UK and countries Entry Clearances outside the British Isles. The IPS provides a good measure of the numbers of students arriving into the UK for formal study. Our latest provisional Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for figures for the year ending Dec 2010 show that 228,000 migrants the Home Department what information her Department arrived to the UK for formal study. This estimate has a standard holds on the number of Tier 2 intra company transfer error percentage of 3 per cent, which is considered to be a reliable visas that were issued for the 12 months to 1 September estimate. 2011. [71917] The current IPS questionnaire is not adequate for accurately identifying emigrants who originally migrated to the UK for Damian Green: 29,392 Tier 2 intra company transfer study. The IPS records a passenger’s main reason for migrating. visas were issued in the period July 2010 to June 2011. Therefore a passenger’s main reason for emigrating from the UK may bear no resemblance to the person’s main activity while they The figures include the following endorsements for have been resident in the UK. For example, a person who has main applicants only. been studying in the UK may be emigrating to work abroad. This Tier 2 (ICT) graduate trainee means that it is currently not possible to derive a net student migration figure. Tier 2 (ICT) skills transfer ONS have addressed these limitations by developing a number Tier 2 (ICT) migrant of changes to the IPS, which will be effective from January 2012. Tier 2 (ICT) long-term staff migrant These changes will identify emigrants who have been studying in Tier 2 (ICT) Established Staff the UK and thus will enable a net student migration figure to be Tier 2 (ICT) short-term staff migrant estimated from the first quarter of 2012. The data is based on management information. It is EU Nationals: Sentencing provisional and subject to change. Entry Clearances: Overseas Students Mr Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many EU nationals resident in the UK given a custodial sentence of more Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for the than two years were removed from UK jurisdiction at Home Department whether she plans to provide a the conclusion of their sentences in each year since transitional period to educational and language service 2004; and if she will make a statement. [71695] providers to comply with new accreditation requirements. [72580] Damian Green [holding answer 14 September 2011]: The following table sets out the number of EEA nationals Damian Green: The Government have adopted a given a custodial sentence of more than two years who phased approach to the implementation of the new were removed from the UK in each year since 2006. educational oversight requirements. The Secretary of Data prior to 2006 are not available. State for the Home Department, my right hon. Friend the Member for Maidenhead (Mrs May), announced EEA nationals given a custodial sentence of more than two years who the new arrangements in Parliament on 22 March. On were removed from the UK 31 March a Statement of Intent was published setting Number out the changes and implementation timetable in more 2006 246 detail. 2007 404 On 13 June the Government announced that educational 2008 411 oversight of private sector providers would largely be 2009 389 carried out by the Quality Assurance Agency and the 2010 421 Independent Schools Inspectorate. The deadline for applications to these bodies was 9 September. All sponsors Extremist Groups: Finance must have been satisfactorily inspected or reviewed by one of the approved review bodies by December 2012. Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps she is taking to alter Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the criteria for her Department’s funding of organisations the Home Department what assessment she has made in order to prevent the funding of extremist groups. of the effectiveness of the International Passenger [70410] Survey in measuring the number of student migrants in the UK. [71190] James Brokenshire: The new Prevent strategy is clear: if organisations do not support the values of democracy, Damian Green: The information requested falls within human rights, equality before the law and participation the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have in society, then we will not fund them. The following asked the authority to reply. guidelines have been developed to ensure that organisations Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: funded by central Government are working in the public As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I interest: have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question 1. The screening of organisations and individuals that apply concerning what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of for funding; to verify that they subscribe to our shared British the International Passenger Survey to measure the number of values, are not extremist, do not support extremism and do not student migrants in the UK (71190). employ extremists; 79W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 80W

2. Systematic monitoring, based on first-hand knowledge of such as the police, local authorities and voluntary sector organisations and individuals awarded funding, to ensure that organisations, the NRM shares information and expertise initial favourable assessments remain valid; and that can be used to confirm victim status and ensure 3. The capability to take prompt action to suspend or cease appropriate care is provided. funding if concerns arise about any funded organisation or individual. Further details of the UK Border Agency’s contribution can be found in the Government’s strategy on human trafficking, published on 19 July 2011, available at: Forensic Science www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime/human-trafficking-strategy Diana Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if she will publish her Department’s Humberside Police: Olympic Games 2012 analysis of the ability of private sector forensic science providers to undertake work currently performed by the Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the Forensic Science Service. [68640] Home Department how many police officers will be deployed from the Humberside police outside the James Brokenshire: The Association of Chief Police Humberside area to assist in operations connected with Officers have been clear that the forensics market can the 2012 Olympic games; for how long they will be so cope with the managed wind-down of the Forensic deployed; and who will meet the cost of that deployment. Science Service. The capacity and ramp up plans of [71303] forensic service providers is commercially sensitive information that would be of value to their competitors. Nick Herbert [holding answer 14 September 2011]: As such we have no plans to release any information of While detailed planning continues and the final resource this nature at present. requirements will not be confirmed until early 2012, it is anticipated that a small number of Olympic venue Forensic Science: Innovation forces, including Dorset, Surrey and the Metropolitan Police Service are likely to require a level of additional Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the support in the form of officers supplied under mutual Home Department what steps she is taking to promote aid arrangements. innovation in the forensic science market through public Requests for mutual aid will be co-ordinated through procurement. [72414] the Association of Chief Police Officers, Police National Information and Co-ordination Centre (ACPO PNICC). James Brokenshire: All police forces in England and This is the standard mechanism through which the Wales procure their forensic services through either the police service manages all such movements of officers National Forensic Framework Agreement (NFFA), to support major events. It is expected that all non-venue managed and supported by the National Police forces across the UK, including Humberside police, will Improvement Agency (NPIA), or as part of the North be asked to supply resources to the national operation West, South West and Wales Forensic Contract. Both of and PNICC will ensure that resource requests are these frameworks contain a requirement for forensic proportionate to the relative size and capacity of the service providers to undertake research and development. providing force. The Home Office will reimburse donor forces in Human Trafficking accordance with the policy prevailing at the time, which will allow them to back fill for officers supplied to : To ask the Secretary of State for support, thereby mitigating any potential impact on the Home Department in what ways she expects the UK local service delivery. I understand that the four forces Border Agency to contribute to (a) reducing the number in the Yorkshire and Humber region are looking at the of and (b) identifying victims of human trafficking. feasibility of responding to these mutual aid requests in [70779] a collaborative manner, though this is a matter for the chief officers and police authorities concerned. Damian Green: The UK Border Agency has a vital role to play in disrupting trafficking attempts abroad Identity and Passport Service: Wales and detecting trafficking both at the border and within the UK. Border staff are trained in child protection issues and to spot human trafficking; multi-agency child Jessica Morden: To ask the Secretary of State for the safeguarding and investigation teams are in place at the Home Department what progress the Identity and UK’s major ports; overseas border controls stop criminals Passport Service has made on mobile interview teams and illegal immigrants before they get to the UK; in Wales. [72197] people’s identities are fixed using biometrics; and alerts and intelligence tools are used to give officers the Damian Green: Flexible working teams began offering information they need to intervene. The UK Border customer interview appointments from new premises in Agency also supports the Serious Organised Crime Wrexham on 2 August and in Aberystwyth on 31 August. Agency (SOCA) in pursuing organised criminals involved We are also planning for flexible working teams to offer in trafficking. appointments from new premises in Swansea from early The UK Border Agency is one of the key agencies October. Customer interview appointments are also involved in the national referral mechanism (NRM), offered in our Newport office as well as through video the UK’s framework for identifying and supporting interview services hosted by local authority sites in trafficking victims. Together with other front line agencies Caernarfon, Newtown and Haverfordwest. 81W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 82W

Illegal Immigrants: Employment management information on the number of asylum age dispute cases in detention and these are released quarterly Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for to selected corporate partners. These figures are provided the Home Department how many businesses had been in the following table: issued with penalties for employing illegal immigrants Number of individuals detained as in the 12 month period to 1 September 2011 and each adults but later released due to doubts of the previous five 12 month periods. [71915] Period over their age

Damian Green: A total of 6,346 businesses have been 2009-10 served with a civil penalty for illegally employing migrant Quarter 3 (October to 3 workers since the start of the regime on 29 February December) 2008. Quarter 4 (January to March) 6 The following table shows the number of businesses that have been served with a penalty under section 15 of 2010-11 the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, in Quarter 1 (April to June) 3 each year to 1 September 2011 Quarter 2 (July to September) 0 Quarter 3 (October to 7 December) Number of businesses served with penalties Quarter 4 (January to March) 5

29 February 2008 to 1 September 2008 616 These figures are based on management information 2 September 2008 to 1 September 2009 1,962 and are not subject to the detailed checks that apply for 2 September 2009 to 1 September 2010 2,283 National Statistics. 2 September 2010 to 1 September 2011 1,485 Total 6,346 Note: Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for the Any data provided within this written answer is sourced from internal databases. Home Department how many individuals were The Civil Penalty database utilised by the Civil Penalty Compliance Team detained as adults under the detained fast track (CPCT) is a management information tool and data from it is not quality assured under National Statistics protocols and is subject to change due to procedure but were later found to be children under 18 internal data quality checking. in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10 and (c) 2010-11. [72549] Immigrants: Detainees Damian Green: Detailed records of age dispute cases Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for within the detained fast track processes have been kept the Home Department what recent estimate she has since July 2009. made of the average cost per night of holding a detainee In 2009-10 three asylum applicants were released and awaiting removal at (a) Brook House, (b) Campsfield, later assessed as being under the age of 18. (c) Colnbrook, (d) Dover, (e) Dungavel, (f) In 2010-11 no asylum applicants were released and Harmondsworth, (g) Haslar, (h) Lindholme, (i) Morton later assessed as being under the age of 18. Hall, (j) Tinsley House and (k) Yarl’s Wood. [72276] The figures are based on management information Damian Green: We do not distinguish our detention and are not subject to the detailed checks that apply for costs between those held for removal from the UK and National Statistics. those held for further examination for entry into UK. To do so would require an examination of every person detained over the last 12 months which would be at a Immigration Controls disproportionate cost. The average cost of holding a person per night in a Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for detention centre is currently £102. the Home Department how many people were refused entry to the UK at airports (a) in the year to 1 September Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for the 2011 and (b) in each of the last five years. [72737] Home Department how many individuals were detained as adults under immigration powers but were later Damian Green: The following table shows the total found to be children under 18 in (a) 2008-09, (b) numbers of non-asylum passengers initially refused entry 2009-10 and (c) 2010-11. [72548] to the UK together with the numbers of those who were refused entry at airports, in each of the last five calendar Damian Green: In May 2010, the Government announced years. The data for 2010 are provisional and subject to a review into the ending of the detention of children in change. the UK for immigration purposes and announced the Non-asylum passengers initially refused entry to the UK conclusions in December 2010. We are now publishing Of these, refused at an unprecedented amount of information on detention Total airports both in relation to adults but also data on children entering detention. This can be found at: 2006 29,946 22,516 http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research- 2007 28,140 21,724 statistics/research-statistics/immigration-asylum-research/ 2008 26,589 20,733 immigration-q2-2011/ 2009 22,522 17,175 We are unable to provide the complete dataset for the 2010 18,941 14,255 period requested. However, the agency does produce 83W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 84W

These figures exclude any cases where the person Damian Green [holding answer 7 September 2011]: claims asylum at the border, and although could be The UK Border Agency does not record specific data technically refused entry, is ultimately granted temporary on those people removed following a sham marriage. admission while a decision is made on their asylum The information can be provided only at disproportionate claim. cost as it would require a manual search of individual Information on those refused entry at airports on 1 case files. September 2011 is a subset of data which are due for We are therefore unable to answer the PQ as tabled. publication in the Immigration Statistics: July-September 2011 release on 24 November 2011 as part of the Members: Correspondence regular Home Office publication scheme and is not yet available. Mr Whittingdale: To ask the Secretary of State for The Home Office publishes National Statistics on the the Home Department when the Minister of State for number of non-asylum passengers refused entry to the Policing plans to respond to the letters from the hon. UK on a quarterly and annual basis, which are available Member for Maldon of (a) 9 April 2011 and (b) 30 from the Library of the House and from the Home November 2010 on behalf of Mr Stephen Jennings. Office’s Science, Research and Statistics web pages at: [72111] http://homeoffice.gov.uk/science-research/research-statistics/ migration/migration-statistics1/ Nick Herbert: I wrote to my hon. Friend on 28 April A copy of the Immigration Statistics: July-September 2011. 2011 release will be available from the Library of the House and the aforementioned website from 24 November Sir : To ask the Secretary of State for 2011. the Home Department when the Minister for Immigration plans to reply to the letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton of 9 August Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for 2011 with regard to Mr S. Ullah. [72619] the Home Department what assessment she has made of the ability of firms to attract highly skilled workers Damian Green: A reply to the right hon. Gentlemen’s following the implementation of the immigration cap. letter was sent on 15 September 2011. [72824] Sir Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for Damian Green: Employers continue to be able to the Home Department when she plans to reply to the recruit the brightest and best foreign workers. After five letter from the right hon. Member for Manchester, months, over 6,000 spare places have been carried forward, Gorton of 9 August 2011 with regard to Mr R. meaning that the limit is currently around 50% Farrukh. [72620] undersubscribed and has not prevented any firm from recruiting a skilled migrant worker. Damian Green: A reply to the right hon. Gentlemen’s letter was sent on 14 September 2011.

Immobilisation of Vehicles Mr Bradshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when she plans to reply to the letter of 11 May 2011 from the right hon. Member for Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for the Exeter, ref: C/Ind/WALL01006. [69741] Home Department when she expects to bring forward legislation in respect of vehicle clamping companies; Nick Herbert: A reply was sent on 22 August 2011. and if she will make a statement. [72289] Motor Vehicles: Theft Lynne Featherstone: Clause 54 of the Protection of Freedoms Bill will make it an offence to immobilise, Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for the move or restrict the movement of a vehicle without Home Department how many (a) construction vehicles, lawful authority. In effect this will ban most clamping (b) agricultural vehicles, (c) cars, (d) motorcycles and and towing by anyone other than the police, local (e) commercial vehicles were stolen in the latest period authorities, bailiffs and other Government agencies. for which figures are available. [72551] Subject to parliamentary approval, the Bill is expected to be enacted by May 2012. Our aim is to bring the ban James Brokenshire: The police recorded 99,277 offences on wheel clamping into force as soon as possible following of theft or unauthorised taking of a motor vehicle and Royal Assent. 6,951 offences of aggravated vehicle taking in England and Wales in 2010-11 but the separate breakdowns requested are not centrally available. Marriage of Convenience Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what police resources were allocated Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for to vehicle crime prevention in respect of (a) construction the Home Department how many people have been vehicles, (b) agricultural vehicles, (c) cars, (d) motorcycles removed as a result of involvement in a sham marriage and (e) commercial vehicles in the latest period for since May 2010. [70579] which figures are available. [72552] 85W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 86W

James Brokenshire: The allocation of police resources sectors. Police forces throughout the country also have to tackle vehicle crime is a matter for the relevant chief officers dedicated to child protection. officer of each police force. This information is not Police: Accountability collated centrally by the Home Office.

Motorcycles: Theft Mr Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the oral answer by the Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for the Prime Minister of 7 September 2011, Official Report, Home Department what discussions she has had with column 350, if she will publish a breakdown of the the motorcycle industry on steps to reduce the number estimated additional cost to the public purse of holding elections for police commissioners in November 2012. of motorcycle thefts. [72550] [71935] James Brokenshire: Home Office Ministers have not met the motorcycle industry, but I am aware that there Nick Herbert: The additional cost of deferring the are ongoing discussions between the Metropolitan Police Police and Crime Commissioner elections from May to Service and the industry on how best to tackle motorcycle November 2012 is £25 million. This will not come from theft. police budgets. Police: Manpower Paedophilia Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information her Department Home Department what resources her Department has holds on the number of police (a) sergeants and (b) allocated to pursuing those involved in institutional constables employed in (i) 2007, (ii) 2009 and (iii) 2011 paedophilia rings. [72589] by pay band. [71482]

James Brokenshire: The Child Exploitation and Online Nick Herbert [holding answer 14 September 2011]: Protection Centre (CEOP) leads nationally on tackling The available information shows the number of police those who seek to abuse children. The Home Office has sergeants and police constables that were employed in allocated £6.38 million to CEOP for 2011-12. CEOP 2007, 2009 and 2011 and the top and bottom points on receives additional financial support and support in the pay scale for each rank. This information is shown kind from its partners in the private and voluntary in the following table:

Number of police sergeants and police constables employed in 2007, 2009 and 2011 by pay scale1, 2, 3 Police sergeants Police constables 31 March each Number of police Top of the pay Bottom of the Number of police Top of the pay Bottom of the year sergeants4 scale (£) pay scale (£) constables4 scale (£) pay scale (£)

2007 21,949 37,071 32,985 109,400 32,985 21,009 2009 22,664 39,006 34,707 110,080 34,707 22,104 2011 22,265 41,040 36,519 106,609 36,519 23,259 1 The figures for the pay scale for 2007 are from 1 September 2006. 2 The figures for the pay scale for 2009 are from 1 September 2008. 3 The figures for the pay scale for 2011 are from September 2010 (current rates). 4 This table contains full-time equivalent figures that have been rounded to the nearest whole number. These figures are as at 31 March.

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Nick Herbert [holding answer 15 September 2011]: Home Department (1) what information her Available data show the number of police inspectors Department holds on the number of police inspectors and chief inspectors employed in England and Wales, employed at each pay band in (a) 2007, (b) 2009 and their salaries by top and bottom points on the pay scale (c) 2011; [71619] in England and Wales and London for 2007, 2009 and (2) what information her Department holds on the 2011. number of police chief inspectors employed at each The information is given in the following table. pay band in (a) 2007, (b) 2009 and (c) 2011. [71622]

Number of police inspectors and chief inspectors employed, England and Wales, and salaries for England and Wales and London, 2007, 2009 and 2011 by pay scale1,2,3 Police inspectors Police chief inspectors Number of police Top of the pay Bottom of the Number of police Top of the pay Bottom of the As at 31 March: inspectors4 scale (£)5 pay scale(£)5 inspectors4 scale (£)5 pay scale(£)5

2007 7,034 45,843 (47,709) 42,264 (44,118) 1,848 48,705 (50,568) 46,779 (48,645) 2009 7,398 48,234 (50,199) 44,469 (46,419) 1,916 51,246 (53,205) 49,221 (51,183) 2011 6,764 50,751 (52,818) 46,788 (48,840) 1,889 53,919 (55,980) 51,789 (53,853) 1 Pay scale information for 2007 is as at 31 March 2007, reflecting salaries applicable from 1 September 2006. 2 Pay scale information for 2009 is as at 31 March 2009, reflecting salaries applicable from 1 September 2008. 3 Pay scale information for 2011 is as at 31 March 2011, reflecting salaries applicable from 1 September 2010. These are the current salaries. 4 This table contains full-time equivalent figures that have been rounded to the nearest whole number. 5 London salaries in brackets. 87W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 88W

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for the number of days of staff sickness absence in police Home Department what information her Department forces in England on average per employee in (a) 2009 holds on the average number of years of employment and (b) 2010. [70584] of (a) police constables, (b) sergeants, (c) inspectors and (d) chief inspectors at each pay band. [71621] Nick Herbert [holding answer 15 September 2011]: Nick Herbert [holding answer 15 September 2011]: The information is not collected centrally. The Home Information is not centrally available on the number of Office collects figures for numbers of currently serving days of staff sickness absence in police forces in England officers by rank and length in service. However, length in 2009 and 2010. Figures are available on a financial in service is grouped in a series of size-bands, some of year basis showing the contracted hours lost to sickness which span five years (e.g. 10 to 15 years). Therefore, for police officers and police staff. any calculation of current average length in service from these data would be approximate. Furthermore, these These are shown in the following tables for 2009-10 data are not collected by pay increment within each and 2010-11 for individual police forces in England. rank. The contracted hours lost to sickness are broken down by sickness term, the number of hours available and the number of contracted hours lost to sickness as a proportion Police: Sick Leave of the number of hours available. John Stevenson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information she holds on the

The contracted hours lost to sickness, by sickness term, the number of hours available and the number of contracted hours lost to sickness as a proportion of the number of hours available for police officers and police staff, by police force area, 2009-10 and 2010-111 2009-10 Police officers Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Medium- Total contracted proportion of hours Short-term term Long-term Total hours available available (percentage)

Avon and Somerset 74,335 48,351 117,568 240,253 5,810,900 4.1 Bedfordshire 24,880 19,298 43,939 88,117 2,427,313 3.6 Cambridgeshire 23,994 14,595 56,728 95,316 2,553,389 3.7 Cheshire 20,158 17,022 61,218 98,397 3,781,969 2.6 Cleveland 23,719 20,687 42,657 87,062 3,142,670 2.8 Cumbria 19,488 13,815 56,828 90,131 2,227,316 4.0 Derbyshire 28,974 24,917 78,603 132,494 3,705,100 3.6 Devon and Cornwall 67,907 62,379 131,020 261,306 6,294,756 4.2 Dorset 28,310 24,409 42,974 95,693 2,641,482 3.6 Durham 17,835 15,566 70,024 103,425 2,717,537 3.8 Dyfed-Powys 22,809 16,487 42,829 82,126 2,101,798 3.9 Essex 68,504 38,200 128,056 234,760 4,700,221 5.0 Gloucestershire 34,663 22,967 42,979 100,609 2,728,374 3.7 Greater Manchester 102,589 88,040 357,145 547,773 14,556,520 3.8 Gwent 23,988 24,960 57,956 106,905 2,436,147 4.4 Hampshire 28,352 19,688 72,672 120,712 4,996,566 2.4 Hertfordshire 38,462 34,501 64,893 137,857 3,777,734 3.6 Humberside 29,425 29,495 34,940 93,859 3,628,334 2.6 76,446 49,509 95,328 221,283 6,673,496 3.3 Lancashire 36,778 41,085 145,922 223,784 6,465,916 3.5 Leicestershire 25,266 23,022 58,148 106,436 4,123,573 2.6 Lincolnshire 12,859 12,877 93,667 119,403 1,583,556 7.5 London, City of 12,232 10,331 20,077 42,640 1,452,187 2.9 Merseyside 27,285 43,932 232,946 304,163 7,959,586 3.8 Metropolitan Police 347,610 364,950 1,054,779 1,767,339 58,681,889 3.0 Norfolk 27,205 22,040 53,510 102,755 2,929,071 3.5 Northamptonshire 29,809 20,154 24,131 74,093 2,351,684 3.2 Northumbria 36,004 42,350 171,495 249,849 7,311,471 3.4 North Wales 20,279 27,568 61,449 109,296 2,812,218 3.9 North Yorkshire 21,742 14,876 59,368 95,986 2,603,391 3.7 Nottinghamshire 36,626 25,941 97,870 160,437 4,284,099 3.7 South Wales 36,842 43,894 189,226 269,962 5,561,292 4.9 89W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 90W

The contracted hours lost to sickness, by sickness term, the number of hours available and the number of contracted hours lost to sickness as a proportion of the number of hours available for police officers and police staff, by police force area, 2009-10 and 2010-111 2009-10 Police officers Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Medium- Total contracted proportion of hours Short-term term Long-term Total hours available available (percentage)

South Yorkshire 36,819 25,326 108,846 170,991 5,261,480 3.2 Staffordshire 47,318 36,131 92,693 176,142 3,877,160 4.5 Suffolk 11,539 9,176 38,184 58,899 2,258,212 2.6 Surrey 28,651 19,755 76,122 124,528 3,246,623 3.8 Sussex 54,650 48,662 102,950 206,261 5,835,432 3.5 Thames Valley 80,249 49,806 165,544 295,599 7,825,883 3.8 Warwickshire 18,917 15,143 60,849 94,909 1,743,068 5.4 West Mercia 51,841 35,928 85,827 173,596 4,261,299 4.1 West Midlands 100,998 118,911 275,574 495,483 15,726,636 3.2 West Yorkshire 86,050 98,106 167,231 351,388 10,102,018 3.5 Wiltshire 16,687 15,013 32,776 64,476 2,125,392 3.0

2009-10 Police staff Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Medium- Total contracted proportion of hours Short-term term Long-term Total hours available available (percentage)

Avon and Somerset 74,689 42,495 101,740 218,924 4,066,955 5.4 Bedfordshire 23,026 14,060 46,365 83,451 1,739,793 4.8 Cambridgeshire 28,050 19,201 43,550 90,802 2,054,799 4.4 Cheshire 23,517 15,988 56,192 95,697 2,895,640 3.3 Cleveland 18,709 17,494 22,391 58,594 1,510,019 3.9 Cumbria 17,499 13,763 41,675 72,937 1,558,427 4.7 Derbyshire 23,069 19,090 50,417 92,577 2,607,326 3.6 Devon and Cornwall 64,573 43,694 103,023 211,290 3,998,856 5.3 Dorset 31,198 20,379 48,313 99,891 1,987,899 5.0 Durham 16,064 13,276 48,166 77,506 1,807,530 4.3 Dyfed-Powys 15,900 8,790 25,141 49,831 1,289,676 3.9 Essex 68,560 37,001 127,273 232,834 3,207,982 7.3 Gloucestershire 21,907 15,946 29,822 67,675 1,643,116 4.1 Greater Manchester 84,179 65,942 210,551 360,672 7,993,863 4.5 Gwent 18,263 23,939 36,970 79,173 1,531,894 5.2 Hampshire 31,568 21,623 43,365 96,555 3,358,633 2.9 Hertfordshire 39,521 34,560 62,034 136,114 3,220,642 4.2 Humberside 30,321 26,827 32,982 90,131 3,240,169 2.8 Kent 69,180 43,166 87,163 199,509 4,925,077 4.1 Lancashire 33,448 28,840 99,554 161,842 4,197,908 3.9 Leicestershire 19,783 21,884 51,047 92,714 2,475,536 3.7 Lincolnshire 16,888 13,863 48,723 79,475 1,288,478 6.2 London, City of 7,497 3,778 11,424 22,699 537,532 4.2 Merseyside 25,903 29,957 154,032 209,892 4,508,489 4.7 Metropolitan Police 280,972 273,806 685,223 1,240,001 30,714,100 4.0 Norfolk 28,337 19,040 39,787 87,164 2,631,126 3.3 Northamptonshire 37,280 24,200 25,941 87,421 2,195,711 4.0 Northumbria 32,543 30,681 99,541 162,765 4,098,918 4.0 North Wales 13,240 16,862 36,810 66,913 1,765,261 3.8 North Yorkshire 25,302 14,743 49,150 89,196 2,190,848 4.1 Nottinghamshire 37,104 23,553 77,543 138,200 3,101,421 4.5 South Wales 26,655 25,937 102,586 155,178 3,514,173 4.4 South Yorkshire 43,312 31,324 121,700 196,337 4,415,703 4.4 Staffordshire 38,322 24,803 73,096 136,221 2,926,543 4.7 Suffolk 11,334 6,571 21,440 39,344 1,839,282 2.1 Surrey 42,797 26,437 76,654 145,888 3,588,625 4.1 Sussex 59,677 51,173 96,172 207,022 4,213,044 4.9 91W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 92W

2009-10 Police staff Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Medium- Total contracted proportion of hours Short-term term Long-term Total hours available available (percentage)

Thames Valley 83,953 48,666 118,982 251,601 5,796,573 4.3 Warwickshire 17,498 14,193 35,983 67,674 1,470,172 4.6 West Mercia 54,361 30,641 59,266 144,268 3,266,965 4.4 West Midlands 59,130 53,995 139,373 252,498 8,039,058 3.1 West Yorkshire 73,610 68,195 108,190 249,995 6,938,523 3.6 Wiltshire 19,943 15,992 33,989 69,924 5,421,869 1.3

2010-11 Police officers Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Medium- Total contracted proportion of hours Short-term term Long-term Total hours available available (percentage)

Avon and Somerset 67,987 48,324 92,026 208,337 5,680,046 3.7 Bedfordshire 21,698 16,268 38,435 76,401 2,584,599 3.0 Cambridgeshire 21,318 15,389 41,703 78,410 2,526,295 3.1 Cheshire 21,420 16,910 68,059 106,388 3,709,246 2.9 Cleveland 12,249 13,736 33,415 59,400 2,299,977 2.6 Cumbria 20,524 13,508 40,853 74,885 2,147,224 3.5 Derbyshire 31,100 29,517 86,450 147,067 3,630,521 4.1 Devon and Cornwall 63,599 45,883 45,889 155,371 6,209,366 2.5 Dorset 27,658 22,672 53,335 103,664 2,605,584 4.0 Durham 12,498 12,479 56,172 81,148 2,573,015 3.2 Dyfed-Powys 25,863 18,141 55,351 99,354 2,046,266 4.9 Essex 46,520 24,896 82,424 153,840 3,177,662 4.8 Gloucestershire 35,124 21,628 44,021 100,773 2,600,252 3.9 Greater Manchester 102,198 91,743 347,052 540,993 14,112,714 3.8 Gwent 22,798 24,905 57,482 105,185 2,660,283 4.0 Hampshire 93,840 0 131,088 224,928 6,497,219 3.5 Hertfordshire 35,535 25,298 62,957 123,790 3,643,567 3.4 Humberside 26,395 28,408 45,449 100,252 3,474,119 2.9 Kent 70,318 40,704 74,216 185,238 6,531,276 2.8 Lancashire 40,866 53,704 149,449 244,020 6,162,497 4.0 Leicestershire 16,365 21,408 36,578 74,352 4,005,408 1.9 Lincolnshire 12,769 10,935 59,154 82,858 2,102,023 3.9 London, City of 12,876 6,286 15,667 34,829 1,539,429 2.3 Merseyside 21,769 37,995 198,681 258,445 7,808,253 3.3 Metropolitan Police 322,180 349,010 1,009,992 1,681,182 58,267,216 2.9 Norfolk 28,939 24,908 48,375 102,221 2,853,253 3.6 Northamptonshire 23,678 9,311 18,694 51,682 2,342,562 2.2 Northumbria 35,653 41,540 162,054 239,246 7,214,439 3.3 North Wales 14,774 21,084 38,025 73,884 2,726,403 2.7 North Yorkshire 22,018 13,452 51,954 87,425 2,600,774 3.4 Nottinghamshire 40,741 21,916 110,973 173,631 4,196,782 4.1 South Wales 29,996 30,516 165,045 225,557 5,341,769 4.2 South Yorkshire 32,695 26,864 85,737 145,295 5,184,483 2.8 Staffordshire 41,819 34,669 89,823 166,312 3,785,676 4.4 Suffolk 27,300 18,612 59,342 105,254 2,235,274 4.7 Surrey 30,806 14,924 41,401 87,131 3,336,813 2.6 Sussex 58,353 46,749 97,679 202,780 5,689,086 3.6 Thames Valley 76,326 50,819 141,758 268,903 7,768,087 3.5 Warwickshire 16,600 15,016 45,963 77,579 1,651,235 4.7 West Mercia 49,588 34,164 82,017 165,770 2,038,357 8.1 West Midlands 109,763 113,690 344,896 568,349 15,362,366 3.7 West Yorkshire 71,714 82,407 112,125 266,247 9,854,597 2.7 Wiltshire 20,234 15,152 41,826 77,212 1,977,959 3.9 93W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 94W

2010-11 Police staff Contracted hours lost to sickness Hours lost to sickness as a Total contracted hours proportion of hours available Short-term Medium-term Long-term Total available (percentage)

Avon and Somerset 56,317 34,703 58,556 149,575 3,688,242 4.1 Bedfordshire 18,919 11,670 34,489 65,078 1,905,649 3.4 Cambridgeshire 22,636 14,839 41,856 79,330 1,964,197 4.0 Cheshire 20,326 15,966 50,105 86,398 2,796,211 3.1 Cleveland 6,627 6,765 17,040 30,433 926,868 3.3 Cumbria 16,488 11,998 30,134 58,620 1,501,417 3.9 Derbyshire 20,333 25,735 54,909 100,977 2,440,460 4.1 Devon and Cornwall 65,306 41,351 55,577 162,234 3,885,600 4.2 Dorset 29,240 18,200 43,793 91,232 1,973,607 4.6 Durham 8,197 7,211 34,402 49,809 1,702,048 2.9 Dyfed-Powys 14,991 10,216 34,590 59,797 1,268,662 4.7 Essex 36,726 20,993 58,986 116,705 2,005,000 5.8 Gloucestershire 21,604 15,376 22,914 59,895 1,611,155 3.7 Greater Manchester 66,462 55,259 186,391 308,112 7,873,585 3.9 Gwent 15,614 22,141 50,401 88,156 1,585,283 5.6 Hampshire 86,277 0 91,628 177,905 4,373,754 4.1 Hertfordshire 31,410 25,975 53,041 110,426 3,124,529 3.5 Humberside 28,246 32,040 33,305 93,591 3,186,134 2.9 Kent 55,281 34,918 71,489 161,688 4,741,687 3.4 Lancashire 33,062 32,039 81,068 146,169 3,746,923 3.9 Leicestershire 12,059 13,244 33,451 58,755 2,364,310 2.5 Lincolnshire 14,448 11,886 52,760 79,094 1,714,634 4.6 London, City of 6,713 2,670 11,414 20,797 575,681 3.6 Merseyside 19,069 23,565 108,293 150,927 4,584,491 3.3 Metropolitan Police 263,059 251,667 696,166 1,210,892 30,223,093 4.0 Norfolk 26,389 15,971 30,861 73,221 2,193,076 3.3 Northamptonshire 29,341 14,681 28,083 72,104 1,756,589 4.1 Northumbria 26,403 22,285 101,286 149,973 3,932,049 3.8 North Wales 10,076 19,453 26,900 56,429 1,700,889 3.3 North Yorkshire 22,935 13,689 47,697 84,320 2,286,348 3.7 Nottinghamshire 33,454 17,655 78,315 129,424 3,056,324 4.2 South Wales 22,368 19,922 86,009 128,299 3,401,934 3.8 South Yorkshire 39,592 31,346 118,180 189,117 4,290,464 4.4 Staffordshire 32,802 22,177 77,222 132,200 2,782,680 4.8 Suffolk 23,995 16,438 42,766 83,200 1,846,183 4.5 Surrey 41,437 20,748 48,179 110,364 3,651,168 3.0 Sussex 57,797 46,852 81,971 186,619 4,089,421 4.6 Thames Valley 77,162 45,803 99,310 222,275 5,663,811 3.9 Warwickshire 14,792 11,996 34,041 60,829 1,421,683 4.3 West Mercia 47,753 25,223 52,697 125,673 1,610,350 7.8 West Midlands 53,044 49,879 132,218 235,141 7,717,447 3.0 West Yorkshire 49,577 49,965 94,725 194,267 6,801,960 2.9 Wiltshire 23,061 13,233 33,793 70,087 1,785,742 3.9 1 Data are provisional and have not been verified by forces.

Police: Southwark (3) how many civilian staff were assigned to duties in the London borough of Southwark in each of the last Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for the five years. [71584] Home Department (1) how many police officers were assigned to duties in the London borough of Nick Herbert [holding answer 13 September 2011]: Southwark in each of the last five years; [71582] The available information shows the number of police (2) how many police community support officers officers, police community support officers and police were assigned to duties in the London borough of staff in the London borough of Southwark, in each of Southwark in each of the last five years; [71583] the five years to 31 March 2011 (full-time equivalents).

Police officers, police community support officers and civilian staff strength in the London borough of Southwark, 2007-111 Number As at 31 March each year Police officers Police community support officers Police staff

2007 846 75 194 95W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 96W

Police officers, police community support officers and civilian staff strength in the London borough of Southwark, 2007-111 Number As at 31 March each year Police officers Police community support officers Police staff

2008 844 102 184 2009 905 132 174 2010 964 154 156 2011 933 131 151 1 These figures are based on full-time equivalents that have been rounded to the nearest whole number. Figures include those officers on career breaks or maternity/paternity leave.

Prevent Funding Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964

Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent discussions she has Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for the had with (a) Universities UK and (b) the British Home Department what legislative proposals she plans Medical Association on the Prevent strategy. [72082] to bring forward to amend the Scrap Dealers Act 1964. [72530] James Brokenshire: The Home Office is the lead Department for the Prevent strategy but its delivery in James Brokenshire: The Home Office is in discussion particular sectors is managed by other Departments. with other Government Departments to identify whether Officials and Ministers from the Department for any legislative changes should be made to the Scrap Business, Innovation and Skills, as the lead Department Metal Dealers Act 1964 to tackle the theft of metal. for the delivery of Prevent in higher education and further education institutions, regularly meet with representatives from Universities UK. The Department of Health, as the lead Department Skilled Workers: Emigration for the delivery of Prevent in the health sector, will shortly be discussing the Prevent strategy with the British Medical Association. John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate has been made of the Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for level of (a) immigration and (b) emigration between the Home Department how many individuals received the UK and (i) the US, (ii) China, (iii) Singapore, (iv) Prevent-related support (a) in the year to 1 September Japan, (v) Switzerland, (vi) Jersey, (vii) Guernsey, (viii) 2011 and (b) in each of the last five years as a result of the Isle of Man, (ix) Bermuda and (x) the Cayman intelligence passed on by groups that received Prevent Islands in each quarter since 2007. [72726] funding in line with section 6.35 of the Prevent strategy. [72083] Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply. James Brokenshire: Prevent-related support for The information requested falls within the responsibility individuals is not the result of intelligence passed on by of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority groups but of referrals made to the Channel scheme. to reply. Channel is a multi-agency process that aims to help individuals who are vulnerable to being drawn into Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: terrorism. As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I The specific information requested is not available have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking but the most recent published data shows that between what estimate has been made of the level of (a) immigration and (b) emigration between the UK and (i) the US, (ii) China, (iii) April 2007 to December 2010, 1,120 people were referred Singapore, (iv) Japan, (v) Switzerland, (vi) Jersey, (vii) Guernsey, to Channel. Of these, 286 were assessed by a multi-agency (viii) the Isle of Man, (ix) Bermuda and (x) the Cayman Islands in panel as needing support. each quarter since 2007. [72726] Recording standards have varied over time and across The Office for National Statistics (ONS) uses the International forces, so this aggregate data may not be internally Passenger Survey (IPS) to estimate flows of international migrants consistent and there is some evidence of imperfect data into and out of the United Kingdom. The IPS is a continuous which it has not been possible to clean or correct. voluntary sample survey conducted by ONS. It covers the principal air, sea and Channel Tunnel routes between the UK and countries outside the British Isles. Raed Salah The table shows rolling annual estimates of long-term international migration to and from the UK for the USA, China, Singapore Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for the and Japan from the year ending March 2007 to the year ending Home Department on what date she authorised the December 2009 (the latest data available). Reliable long term exclusion order against Sheikh Raed Salah. [65078] migration estimates are not available for Bermuda, Switzerland or the Cayman Islands due to the small sample sizes in the IPS. Routes between the Channel Islands/Isle of Man and the UK are Damian Green: Raed Salah was excluded from the excluded from the estimates, as is all movement of diplomats and UK on 23 June. armed forces personnel. 97W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 98W

International Passenger Survey (IPS) estimates of long-term international migration, rolling annual data to Q4 2009, United Kingdom Thousand Country of last/next residence United States of America China (excluding Taiwan) Singapore Japan Year ending Est SE% Est SE% Est SE% Est SE%

Inflow 2007 March 22 10 20 12 2 24 6 19 June 24 9 19 13 1 25 6 20 September 24 11 18 12 1 27 5 16 December 22 12 18 12 1 28 5 16

2008 March 22 12 19 14 1 28 5 17 June 23 12 19 14 1 25 6 16 September 20 12 17 13 2 24 n/a n/a December 23 12 17 14 2 24 n/a n/a

2009 March 21 13 18 12 2 25 n/a n/a June 20 14 17 12 3 28 n/a n/a September 32 12 22 11 5 26 6 16 December 30 12 22 11 5 25 6 17

Outflow 2007 March 31 12 11 21 2 34 6 23 June 26 13 10 22 2 28 5 23 September 21 13 9 20 3 18 4 18 December 19 12 7 17 3 16 4 15

2008 March 17 13 7 16 3 16 4 17 June 22 12 8 15 3 17 4 17 September 24 11 8 16 2 19 3 20 December 22 11 8 16 2 20 4 22

2009 March 24 11 8 17 2 20 4 24 June 22 10 9 16 2 23 4 24 September 27 10 11 13 2 22 5 21 December 27 10 11 12 2 25 4 18 n/a = not available. Notes: 1. All estimates are uncalibrated. There may therefore be small differences from other published estimates. 2. Standard error percentages (SE%) indicate the robustness of each estimate. A migration figure with a standard error of >25% is not considered to be reliable. For any given estimate there is a 95% probability that the true figure lies in the range: estimate +/- 0.0196 x estimate x standard error %.

Theft: Metals UK Border Agency: Termination of Employment

Mark Garnier: To ask the Secretary of State for the Shabana Mahmood: To ask the Secretary of State for Home Department (1) what steps she is planning to the Home Department how many staff are expected to take to reduce the trade in stolen metal; [71762] leave the UK Border Agency through natural wastage. [72738] (2) what progress her Department has made in bringing forward legislative proposals to strengthen Damian Green: The number of staff expected to leave regulation of scrap metal yards. [71763] the UK Border Agency through natural wastage per annum is in a range from 330 (1.5%) to 500 (2.3%) per James Brokenshire: The Home Office recognises the annum. Natural wastage has been calculated on retirement significance of metal theft to the United Kingdom and and resignation rates in permanent staff. that some scrap metal yards are a disposal route for stolen metal. The Home Office is in discussion with Violent and Sex Offender Register: Foreign Nationals other Government Departments to identify whether any legislative changes should be made to tackle the Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the theft of metal. Home Department (1) how many foreign national offenders 99W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 100W were on the violent and sex offender register in each of council and various local committees and transport the last five years; and how many foreign national groups. Safety is a standing item for discussion at each offenders have been added to the violent and sex offender of these meetings. However, no specific representations register in each of the last five years; [72370] about road safety have been made to the Highways (2) how many foreign national offenders on the Agency at these meetings. violent and sex offender register have (a) reoffended, I can confirm that the Highways Agency has received (b) been recalled to prison and (c) breached the terms a number of representations from the residents of the of their licence on release from prison in each of the village of Ganton since 24 January 2011. These last five years; [72371] representations commenced following a fatal accident (3) for how many foreign national offenders on the at the neighbouring village of West Heslerton. This violent and sex offender register is their location tragic incident is currently the subject of ongoing police unknown. [72372] investigations and a coroner’s inquest.

Lynne Featherstone: The data required to answer this Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for question are not collected in the format requested and Transport when he last met (a) the Highways Agency, could be collated only at disproportionate cost. (b) North Yorkshire County Council and (c) local community groups to discuss road safety on the A64 ViSOR (previously known as the violent and sex between York and Scarborough. [72615] offenders register) is a UK-wide computer database system used by the police as a case management system Mike Penning: I meet regularly with the Highways and by other agencies to share information. ViSOR Agency but there have been no specific discussions stores information on a number of offender types, about safety on the A64 between York and Scarborough. including but not limited to registered sex offenders. The database is not designed as a statistical tool. I have not discussed road safety matters relating to the A64 at this location with North Yorkshire county Visas council or local community groups.

Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for the Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Home Department what consideration her Department Transport what plans he has to improve road safety has given to the implementation of an online system to and reduce congestion on the A64 between York and enable applicants to monitor the progress of their visa Scarborough; and if he will make a statement. [72616] applications. [72138] Mike Penning: Any plans for the A64 will be developed Damian Green: Visa applicants in most countries can through continuous routine network management, and apply online. They receive a reference number which will be delivered subject to prioritisation and the availability allows them to track where their documents are at any of funding. one time (either in the Visa Application Centre or at the decision-making UK Mission) but which does not monitor Aviation: Working Hours the status of the application. The decision to issue or refuse the visa is made known personally to the applicant Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for at the time of return of their documents. Transport what steps he is taking to notify pilots of the As part of the development of its new immigration entry into force of the new European-wide flight-time case working system, the UK Border Agency is introducing limitations; and if he will make a statement. [72320] online customer accounts for all applications made online both in the UK and overseas. These will include Mrs Villiers: The Civil Aviation Authority will notify the ability for customers to receive updates on the status pilots of the entry into force of European flight and of their application at key junctures in the application duty time limitations. Currently, we expect the Commission process. regulation giving effect to the proposed requirements to come into force in the autumn of 2013. We anticipate that airlines will be given an additional period to transition to the new requirements. TRANSPORT Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for A64 Transport what recent discussions his Department has had with the US Federal Aviation Administration on Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for pilot fatigue; and if he will make a statement. [72321] Transport what recent representations he has received on road safety on the A64 between York and Mrs Villiers: At this stage in the development of the Scarborough. [72614] European requirements, neither the Department nor the Civil Aviation Authority has had any formal discussions Mike Penning: Representations about safety issues on with the Federal Aviation Administration on this subject. the Strategic Road Network (SRN) are handled by the Highways Agency. Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for The Highways Agency maintains a regular dialogue Transport what recent discussions (a) he and (b) Ministers with all relevant stakeholders about the A64 between in his Department have had with the Civil Aviation York and Scarborough. This includes regular meetings Authority on the Notice of Proposed Amendment on with North Yorkshire police and North Yorkshire county Flight-time Limitations. [72322] 101W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 102W

Mrs Villiers: Neither Ministers nor the Secretary of have made journeys assisted by the Coach Concessionary State for Transport, my right hon. Friend the Member Travel Scheme in each of the last five years. [72435] for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond), had recent discussions with the Civil Aviation Authority on Norman Baker: The Department for Transport does this topic. However, officials have regular discussions not hold information on the number of people assisted with the Civil Aviation Authority about the development by the coach concessionary travel scheme in the last five of European requirements on aviation safety including years. those on flight time limitations. The following table shows the number of concessionary Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for coach tickets sold in England in the last five years. Data Transport what contribution his Department has made are not available to show ticket sales in Sunderland to establishing new flight-time limitations for pilots; specifically. and if he will make a statement. [72323] Concessionary coach tickets sold in England Number Mrs Villiers: Officials from the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority have responded to the 2010-11 3,247,850 European Aviation Safety Agency’s consultation on 2009-10 3,187,476 draft implementing rules on flight time limitations. The 2008-09 3,320,378 CAA has published its comments on its website at: 2007-08 3,011,102 2006-07 2,868,736 www.caa.co.uk EASA are in the process of reviewing the responses to the consultation and will be issuing an amended proposal Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport in due course. The Department, taking account of pursuant to the answer of 9 September 2011, Official advice from the Civil Aviation Authority, will put forward Report, column 953W, on buses: concessions, what the UK’s views on the proposed requirements. Ministers assessment he has made of the effects of withdrawing will determine how the UK will vote when a legislative funding for the Coach Concessionary Travel Scheme on proposals is made. those aged over 60 in (a) England, (b) the west midlands and (c) Dudley borough; and if he will make a statement. Bus Services: Finance [72508]

Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: A regulatory impact assessment relating Transport what assessment he has made of the effects to the ending of the Bus Service Operators Grant of the comprehensive spending review on tendered bus (BSOG) coach concession in England was drafted and services provided by local transport authorities. [72181] submitted to the Reducing Regulation Committee for clearance. The impact assessment will be published on Norman Baker: I am aware that, as a result of local the DFT website and a copy will be placed in the decisions, in some areas of the country bus services are Library of the House when it is available. being reduced. The latest statistics on bus services can Following the 2010 spending review announcement, be found at the Department for Transport website and National Express said they were already planning for are updated periodically: the removal of the coach concessionary fares scheme in http://www.dft.gov.uk/statistics/series/buses/ October 2011 and would announce new products aimed Changes to bus and community transport services at the over 60s and disabled travellers in due course. are a matter for bus operators and local transport National Express said that they believed the financial authorities. The Government do not and cannot make impact of the scheme’s removal was manageable and an assessment of every individual change but are working would be mitigated by their own plans. with local transport authorities to get an overall picture. No assessment of the effects of ending the coach concession in the west midlands or Dudley borough has Buses: Concessions been made.

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for what consultation he undertook with (a) coach and Transport pursuant to the answer of 9 September 2011, bus operators, (b) members of the public, (c) charities Official Report, column 953W, on buses: concessions, and groups representing elderly people and (d) charities what estimate he has made of the number of over-60s and groups representing people with disabilities on the in (a) England, (b) the west midlands and (c) Dudley change in his Department’s expenditure on the Coach borough who have used the Coach Concessionary Concessionary Travel Scheme. [72340] Travel Scheme in each of the last five years. [72509]

Norman Baker: The decision to end Government Norman Baker: The Department for Transport does funding for the half price coach concession was announced not hold information on the number of over 60s who as part of the Chancellor’s 2010 spending review. have used the coach concessionary travel scheme in the Decisions taken in the spending review were not the last five years. subject of public consultation. The following table shows the number of concessionary coach tickets sold in England in the last five years. Data Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport are not available to show ticket sales in west midlands how many people in (a) Sunderland and (b) England or Dudley specifically. 103W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 104W

Concessionary coach tickets sold Running costs (£000) in England 2007-08 836 2010-11 3,247,850 2008-09 907 2009-10 3,187,476 2009-10 814 2008-09 3,320,378 2010-11 722 2007-08 3,011,102 2011-12 748 2006-07 2,868,736 Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Departmental Air Travel Transport what the salary, including benefits, was of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for last five years for which figures are available; and how Transport which travel management companies his many individuals have held the post in the last five Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets. years. [72492] [72679] Norman Baker: One individual held the post of chief scientific adviser in the Department for Transport between Norman Baker: DFT(c) and two of its agencies (Maritime October 2006 and May 2011. The post was part-time and Coastguard Agency and Vehicle Certification Agency) and for both 2010 and 2011 received a salary in the use Capita Business Travel. Highways Agency uses NYS range £80,000 to £84,999. The post is currently vacant. Corporate Ltd and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency uses Redfern Travel Management Services. Driving Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Standards Agency uses Portman Travel for the purchase Transport how many full-time equivalent staff were of some long haul airline tickets. The remaining two employed in the office of his Department’s chief agencies (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency and scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which Government Car and Despatch Agency) do not use figures are available; and on what date the office was travel management companies for the provision of air established. [72493] tickets, but use direct booking if the need arises. Norman Baker: Support for the Department’s chief John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for scientific adviser was provided through a small unit Transport what (a) contractual obligations and (b) which also had responsibility for related science, technology other processes his Department uses in respect of travel and research issues. The full-time equivalent staff allocated management companies to ensure the best value is in that unit were: achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72710] Full-time equivalent staff Norman Baker: DFT(c) and four of its agencies (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, Highways Agency, Maritime 2007-08 14.1 and Coastguard Agency, and Vehicle Certification Agency) 2008-09 12.6 use contracts under the Government Travel Framework 2009-10 11.7 established by Buying Solutions (now Government 2010-11 10.7 Procurement Services). The framework provides its users 2011-12 9.5 with the benefits arising from collaborative procurement processes. In addition, the framework suppliers offer The unit predates this period and was substantially the centrally negotiated discounts contained in the revised when DFT was created in 2002. Government Air Programme which provides savings when tickets are necessarily bought at short notice. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his policy is on requiring his Department’s The remaining three agencies (Driving Standards (a) agencies and non-departmental public bodies and Agency, Government Car and Despatch Agency and (b) contractors to have a written code of practice or Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) have very low protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality demand for air tickets and use direct booking if the assurance of scientific evidence and advice. [72494] need arises. Norman Baker: The Department for Transport (including Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers agencies and non- departmental public bodies) is committed to handling science and engineering advice in accordance Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for with the Government chief scientific adviser’s “Guidelines Transport what the resource budget allocation was for on the use of science and engineering advice in Policy the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in Making”. each of the last five years for which figures are Scientific Advisory Committees that advise the available. [72491] Department operate in line with the “Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees”. Norman Baker: Support for the Department’s chief Commissioned research is carried out externally under scientific adviser was provided through a small unit contract by academia, industry and other research which also had responsibility for related science, technology organisations and must comply with the “General and research issues. The resource budget allocations Conditions of Contract of Services”. This includes (running costs) were: provisions that any work undertaken is in line with the 105W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 106W required Quality Standards (which may vary from Metals: Theft commission to commission) and is performed in accordance with the Law and Good Industry Practice. Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport Research undertaken and managed by social researchers what the conclusions were of the interdepartmental within the Department is also subject to a Code of working group on the theft of metals held on 14 September Practice set out by the Government Social Research 2011 and chaired by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary Service (GSR), the professional membership organisation of State for Transport; and if he will make a statement. for social researchers in government. These principles [72604] apply to research undertaken by the Department’s social researchers and by the external contractors they manage. Norman Baker: I refer my hon. Friend to the oral answer I gave to him on this issue on 15 September Heathrow Airport: Railways 2011, Official Report, column 1172. I should also record that this ministerial meeting was in fact chaired by my noble Friend Baroness Browning, then Minister of State Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for for crime prevention and antisocial behaviour reduction. Transport what discussions he has had with Ministers in the Welsh Assembly Government about a railway Motor Vehicles: Exhaust Emissions transport hub at Heathrow airport. [71507] John Woodcock: To ask the Secretary of State for Mrs Villiers: No discussions have been held with Transport what progress has been made on the Ministers in the Welsh Assembly Government about consolidation of existing support mechanisms for low the proposal for a railway transport hub at Heathrow and ultra-low emission vehicle research and development; airport. and if he will make a statement. [72190]

Highways Agency: Government Procurement Card Norman Baker: The Department for Transport has consolidated its existing support mechanisms for low : To ask the Secretary of State for Transport and ultra-low emission vehicle research and development what the (a) transaction date, (b) transaction amount by channelling all future programmes through Technology and (c) supplier was of each transaction undertaken by Strategy Board (TSB). The Department has been working the Highways Agency using the Government Procurement with the TSB and industry to identify key areas of Card in (i) 2008-09 and (ii) 2009-10; and which of these research with the aim of inviting bids by end of this transactions attracted level three or enhanced transaction financial year. entry. [70835] Passenger Focus Mike Penning [holding answer 12 September 2011]: The information requested has been placed in the Libraries Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for of the House. Transport what changes he plans to make to the functions of Passenger Focus. [72622] Large Goods Vehicles: EU Action Mrs Villiers: There are no plans to change the functions of Passenger Focus. However, it has reduced the scope John Woodcock: To ask the Secretary of State for of its activities as part of a major restructuring programme Transport what discussions he has had with the EU to fit in with a substantial reduction in its budget. The Transport Commissioner relating to proposals to inclusion of Passenger Focus in schedule 3 of the Public increase the permitted length of HGVs; and whether he Bodies Bill could facilitate changes to the Passenger plans for further such representations. [72189] Focus Board.

Mike Penning: I have not discussed this matter with Public Transport: Concessions the EU Transport Commissioner. We intend to announce our conclusions and proposed way forward on longer Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for semi-trailers, in the light of the responses to the recent Transport (1) what estimate his Department has made consultation exercise, early in the new parliamentary of the cost to local authorities of renewing concessionary session. travel passes when they expire in 2013; [72174] (2) whether his Department plans to provide financial Large Goods Vehicles: Tolls assistance in 2012-13 to local authorities for the renewal of concessionary travel passes when they expire in 2013; John Woodcock: To ask the Secretary of State for [72175] Transport what the scope and goals are of the HGV (3) what plans he has for the validity of concessionary road user charging scheme. [72206] travel passes beyond five years; and if he will make a statement. [72177] Mike Penning: The primary aim of the HGV road user charging scheme would be to ensure a fairer competitive Norman Baker: In the spending review last autumn environment for UK hauliers. We are still working up the Government stated that they will protect the statutory detailed proposals, but our current intention is that it entitlement for concessionary bus travel, ensuring that would apply to all HGVs, both foreign and UK-registered, older people can maintain greater freedom and of 12 tonnes and above. independence. 107W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 108W

Not all England National Concessionary Travel Scheme holders such as train operating companies or infrastructure (ENCTS) passes expire in 2013. Legislation requires managers. These are regulated by the Office of Rail that the maximum life of an ENCTS pass is five years Regulation. Crime levels at individual stations are monitored from the date of issue, but there is no recommended by the British Transport Police (BTP). minimum life. Travel concession authorities (TCAs) are However, the Department for Transport’s Secure Stations free therefore to set the exact expiry date provided it is Scheme, run jointly with the BTP, accredits stations that no more than five years. Consequently, many passes have good security practices in place. Accredited stations have an expiry date of less than five years and will be up have introduced packages of security measures to cut for renewal before 2013. The Department has always down crime and enhance security. There are currently recommended that TCAs consider staggering the expiry 1,271 accredited secure stations across the railway network. dates on passes so that they do not all need to be A proposal for the removal of certain ticket offices replaced at the same time. This could be done, for was the recommendation of an independent study by example, by setting expiry dates at monthly intervals by Sir Roy McNulty on the value for money of the railways. alphabetic distribution of surname, or by date of birth. The Government are currently considering the findings The Department will not be providing additional of this independent report but no decisions have yet funding for the cost to local authorities of renewing been made. ENCTS passes. Local authorities in England receive funding for the National Concessionary Travel Scheme Railways through Formula Grant funding administered by DCLG. It is expected that some of this funding will be spent on administering the scheme, with the majority being spent Kwasi Kwarteng: To ask the Secretary of State for on reimbursement to bus operators for carrying ENCTS Transport what recent progress he has made on passholders. implementing the recommendations of the McNulty report. [71802] The Department has not made an assessment of the cost to local authorities of renewing ENCTS passes, Mrs Villiers: The Department has been working closely and costs will depend on the efficiency of each TCA’s with industry and the regulator to examine the proposals individual renewals process. in Sir Roy McNulty’s independent review of Rail Value for Money. We have already accepted Sir Roy’s Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for recommendation to conduct a review of fares policy, Transport what assessment his Department has made the terms of which we expect to announce shortly. Over of the effects of increasing the state retirement age on the coming months, we will be finalising a package of the cost of providing concessionary travel. [72179] priority proposals to be delivered through the refranchising programme and during Control Period 5. Norman Baker: I refer the hon. Member to page 15 of the Explanatory Memorandum to The Travel Concessions (Eligibility) England Order 2010 No. 459 which can be Railways: Fares found at the following link: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/459/pdfs/uksiem Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for _20100459_en.pdf Transport what steps his Department is taking to ensure that increases in rail fares in 2012 will result in an Railway Stations: Manpower improved service and better quality rolling stock. [72591] Emma Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what criteria will be used in determining Mrs Villiers: This Government have embarked on which railway station ticket offices should remain one of the biggest programmes of rail investment for a staffed. [72273] 100 years. This includes projects such as Crossrail, Thameslink, rail electrification and delivering more than Mrs Villiers: The proposal for the removal of ticket 2,700 new rail carriages. offices at certain stations was the recommendation of To deliver this major upgrade programme, we have an independent study by Sir Roy McNulty on the value needed to ask fare payers to contribute as well as for money of the railways. The aim of the study was to taxpayers. The pressing need to tackle the deficit has examine the overall cost structure of all elements of the forced us to take the difficult decisions to increase fares rail sector to identify the options for improving value in 2012. for money to both passengers and to the taxpayer, while continuing to expand capacity as necessary and drive up passenger satisfaction with the railway. Government Railways: Franchises are currently considering the findings of this independent report but no decisions have yet been made. Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 7 September 2011, Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Official Report, column 746W, on west coast railway Transport what assessment he has made of the effect lines, whether train operating companies will continue on (a) safety of and (b) crime levels against rail to receive revenue from the lease for stations if they travellers of unstaffed category E stations. [72329] subsequently lose the franchise for the line. [72327]

Mrs Villiers: No such assessments have been made by Mrs Villiers: The outgoing west coast train operator the Government. Health and safety matters at individual would typically transfer the station lease, including the stations are the responsibility of railway safety duty operating revenues, to a successor operator. 109W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 110W

Where an investment has been made that extends Road Signs and Markings beyond the franchise term we would expect to recognise future value for that investment at the end of the John Woodcock: To ask the Secretary of State for franchise through a payment from the successor operator Transport when he expects to complete consideration to the outgoing operator. The detailed arrangements of the final recommendations of the Traffic Signs are under consideration. review. [72188]

Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Norman Baker: Consideration has been completed Transport what criteria he plans to use to determine and I expect to make a full announcement shortly. levels of flexibility in future rail franchises. [72330] Road Signs and Markings: Tourism Mrs Villiers: The criteria which will be used to assess options for specifying and contracting rail services are: Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the fit with the Government’s wider transport and economic Transport what recent progress has been made on his objectives; Department’s review of brown tourist signs. [72795] value for money; and affordability. Mike Penning: A cross-departmental review of brown These criteria frequently conflict, and in reaching a tourism traffic signs was established following the final decision, the Department’s task is to strike a publication of the Government’s ‘Tourism Strategy’ in reasonable balance. March. This work is proceeding and stakeholders will be invited to take part in the development of new criteria to meet both the needs of the road user and the Railways: Great Yarmouth tourism industry.

Roads: Accidents Brandon Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will estimate the likely average change in rail fares for rail travellers in Great Yarmouth in Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for January 2012. [72592] Transport what steps he is taking to prevent injuries (a) caused by and (b) to cyclists. [71774] Mrs Villiers: Regulated fares from Great Yarmouth will increase by an average of 8%. This is calculated in Mike Penning: We take the issue of cycle safety very line with the consolidated spending review announcement seriously. Everyone who uses the highway has a to increase regulated fares by RPI (which was 5% in responsibility to behave safely and with consideration July) plus 3% for the next three years. The increase in for others, in May we launched the Strategic Framework unregulated fares is a commercial matter for National for Road Safety: Express East Anglia. This increase will help fund the http://www.dft.gov.uk/publications/strategic-framework-for- Government’s rail improvement programme. road-safety which sets out our approach to continuing to reduce killed and seriously injured casualties on Britain’s roads. Rescue Services: Scotland In addition the Government are also progressing measures with regards to improving European vehicle safety regulations, supporting Bikeability cycle training for the Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for rest of this Parliament, raising the standard of lorry Transport what assessments he has made of the (a) driver training, and promoting the Highway Code. There safety risks associated with and (b) socio-economic are also a range of measures local authorities can take, impact of the proposed closure of the Clyde for instance, safer road infrastructure, cycle lanes, local Coastguard. [72009] safety campaigns, 20 mph zones and better traffic management. These will, however, depend on local decisions Mike Penning: No individual assessment specific to and need to reflect local priorities. the closure of Clyde Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre has been made in respect of (a) safety risk or Rolling Stock: Procurement (b) socio-economic impact. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has : To ask the Secretary of State for assessed on a national basis the safety risks in relation Transport what comparison he has made between the to HM Coastguard’s current operation and how these procurement processes for new passenger rolling stock are mitigated by the modernisation proposals. The MCA of his Department with (a) the rolling stock leasing has also assessed the impact of the modernisation proposals companies and (b) Transport for London. [68848] on HM Coastguards capability to deliver its national service. Mrs Villiers: The Department shares knowledge with These assessments, as well as a location impact Transport for London (TfL) on its procurements and assessment, sub-centre rationale and supporting tables looks at lessons learnt from previous procurements showing factors taken into consideration in the choice including those by rolling stock leasing companies and of sub-centres can be found on the MCA’s website at: TfL. This work helps inform decisions on procurement www.dft.gov.uk/mca strategy. 111W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 112W

Safety Belts Mike Penning: The Secretary of State for Transport, my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Weybridge (Mr Hammond), expects a new senior traffic Transport (1) what recent research his Department has commissioner to be appointed by the end of the year. evaluated on installing seat belt reminders in cars; if he Traffic Commissioners: Wales will place in the Library a copy of each such piece of research; and if he will make a statement; [R] [72220] Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what recent reports he has received of the Transport what discussions he has had with Ministers effectiveness of advanced seat belt reminder systems in the Welsh Government on establishing a post of with visual and audible warnings for increasing seat traffic commissioner for Wales located in Wales. [72729] belt use; and if he will make a statement. [R] [72221] Mike Penning: The Secretary of State for Transport, Mike Penning: The Department for Transport has my right hon. Friend the Member for Runnymede and not evaluated any research on installing seat belt reminders Weybridge (Mr Hammond), has had no specific discussions in cars, nor has it reviewed any reports regarding the with the Minister in the Welsh Government on this effectiveness of advanced seat belt reminder systems. matter. However, requirements for fitting seat belt reminders Station with both visual and audible warnings to the driver’s seat of passenger cars were included within the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe regulations Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for in 2008. Transport what recent discussions he has had with representatives of (a) the Rugby Football Union, (b) Many manufacturers already build their vehicles to Network Rail and (c) the London borough of Richmond conform to these regulations on a voluntary basis, in upon Thames to consider changes to Twickenham railway order to achieve higher ratings in consumer tests, but station ahead of the 2015 Rugby World Cup. [72353] these provisions will become mandatory across Europe for all new types of passenger cars from November Mrs Villiers: Details of meetings by the Secretary of 2012, as part of a suite of harmonisation and simplification State for Transport, my right hon. Friend the Member measures. for Runnymede and Weybridge (Mr Hammond), are published quarterly on the Department for Transport Thameslink Railway Line: Rolling Stock (DFT) website. He has not met with the Rugby Football Union, Chris Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Network Rail or the London borough of Richmond Transport what steps his Department took to ensure upon Thames to discuss changes to Twickenham railway consultants and consultancies offering advice on the station. Thameslink Rolling Stock contract were impartial and The DFT expects the Rugby Football Union to engage credible. [71817] with the rail industry and local authorities to co-ordinate the transport strategy for this event. Mrs Villiers [holding answer 15 September 2011]: All consultants that have been employed on the Thameslink Rolling Stock Project procurement have had to satisfy the requirements of an accreditation review by the CABINET OFFICE Department for Transport (DFT). Furthermore, support Admiralty Arch: Admiralty House contracts have been subjected to individual procurement competitions to ensure that suppliers are capable of delivering the required services whilst offering value for Mr Watson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet money. At all times suppliers are obliged to declare any Office (1) what the cost to the public purse has been of conflict of interest to the DFT. any damage to the Admiralty House residences since May 2010; [72388] : To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what catering services his Department has Transport whether the Thameslink Rolling Stock provided to the Secretary of State for Defence on a Project contract is subject to (a) Public Contract re-charge basis in respect of use of a flat in Admiralty Regulations and (b) Utilities Contract Regulations. House; [72402] [72401] (3) pursuant to the answer of 7 September 2011, Official Report, column 618W on Admiralty Arch: Mrs Villiers: I refer the hon. Member to my answer Admiralty House, for what reason the Secretary of given to the right hon. Member for Derby South (Margaret State for Defence has use of a flat in Admiralty House; Beckett) on 5 September 2011, Official Report, on what date his use of the flat began; what expenditure column 219W. his Department has incurred in relation to the flat since May 2010; and for what purposes. [72403]

Traffic Commissioners Mr Maude: There has been no cost to the public purse of damage to the Admiralty House residences Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for since May 2010. Any catering services provided by the Transport when he plans to appoint a new senior traffic Cabinet Office’s facilities management contractor to commissioner. [72728] the occupants of Admiralty House are recharged. Official 113W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 114W residences are assigned to Ministers by the Prime Minister 2006, due to start shortly, will consider the options for either on grounds of security or in order to allow them the future licensing and regulation of public charitable to perform better their official duties. The Secretary of collections. State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for North Somerset (Dr Fox), had use of a flat in Admiralty Tracey Crouch: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet House from 20 April 2011. Other than meeting the cost Office whether he plans to consult the civil society of the council tax while it was unoccupied, and a deep sector on the development of terms of reference under clean prior to occupation, the Cabinet Office has not the Charities Act 2006. [72556] incurred any expenditure in relation to the flat since May 2010. Mr Hurd: There will not be a formal consultation with the civil society sector on the development of the Charitable Donations: Fraud terms of reference for the review of the Charities Act 2006. Our intention is that the review’s terms of reference will give it a broad scope to consider the legal and Tracey Crouch: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet regulatory framework for charities, and fundraising for Office what estimate he has made of the financial effect charitable purposes. An announcement about the review on the charity sector of each type of fraudulent charity will be made shortly. collection. [72553]

Mr Hurd: The Office for Civil Society has not attempted Charities: Finance to estimate the financial cost to charities as a result of fraudulent charity collections due to a lack of reliable Tracey Crouch: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet data, and because records are not kept centrally. Sector Office what steps he is taking in respect of street estimates put the cost to charities of bogus house to fundraisers. [72554] house collections and theft of donated goods at anything between £15 million and £50 million a year. I continue Mr Hurd: The licensing and regulation of charitable, to encourage and support collaborative work between philanthropic or benevolent fundraising in the street the charity sector, commercial recyclers, and licensing will be considered as part of the forthcoming statutory and enforcement agencies to tackle these unacceptable review of the Charities Act 2006. An announcement crimes and reassure the generous donating public that about the review will be made shortly. they can give with confidence. Departmental Air Travel Charitable Incorporated Organisation Structure John Mann: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Jackie Doyle-Price: To ask the Minister for the Office which travel management companies his Cabinet Office when the new charitable incorporated Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets. organisation structure will be announced. [72069] [72682]

Mr Hurd: The draft Secondary Legislation needed to Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office uses Carlson Wagon complete the legal framework for the Charitable Lit (CWT) as the travel management company for Incorporated Organisation is currently being finalised. booking airline tickets. This is taking longer than expected, as there have been some complex issues to resolve on the insolvency and Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers dissolution regime for CIOs. Subject to parliamentary approval, implementation Chi Onwurah: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet is now expected to start in early 2012. Implementation Office (1) what the resource budget allocation was for will have to be phased to help the Charity Commission the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in manage anticipated demand. An announcement will be each of the last five years for which figures are available; made in due course. [72438] (2) what the salary, including benefits, was of his Charities Act 2006 Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which figures are available; and how many Tracey Crouch: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet individuals have held the post in the last five years; Office what representations he has received on the [72439] implementation of Part 3 of the Charities Act 2006; (3) how many full-time equivalent staff were employed and if he will publish these representations. [72555] in the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which figures are Mr Hurd: Chapters 2 and 3 of part 3 of the Charities available; and on what date the office was established. Act 2006 have been implemented. However, chapter 1, [72440] which makes provision for the regulation of public charitable collections, has not yet been implemented. I Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office does not have a have received a number of representations from Members departmental scientific adviser. of this House, charity sector representatives and local The Government’s chief scientific adviser (GCSA), licensing authorities, arguing both for and against Sir John Beddington, has responsibility for ensuring implementation. I do not intend to publish these as I that policy and decision-making across Government have publicly stated that the review of the Charities Act are underpinned by robust scientific evidence. 115W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 116W

Part of this role coincides with the cross-Government As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I work of the Cabinet Office in that the GCSA: have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many people with disabilities were employed by each Government Provides scientific advice to No. 10 and Cabinet where needed; department in each of the last five years (72088). Normally chairs the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies Civil Service Statistics are published annually by the Office for (SAGE), which provides scientific advice to the Cabinet Office National Statistics on the ONS website. Civil Service Statistics Briefing Rooms (COBR) in times of crisis; seek to collect the disability status of every civil servant but Chairs the National Security Council Officials’ Science and government departments can only record individuals as ’disabled’ Technology sub-committee (NSC(O)S&T). if the individuals concerned have actively declared themselves so. The GCSA also has oversight of other cross-Government Therefore, the estimates in the table show the number of people science issues. For example, the scrutiny of the scientific who have declared themselves to be disabled. evidence underpinning the National Risk Assessment A copy of the table has been placed in the House of Commons (NRA), which is owned by responsible Departments Library. and the Cabinet Office. Government Office for Science supports the GCSA and is located in the Department for Business, Innovation, Departmental Legal Opinion and Skills. Angela Smith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Departmental Consultants Office what the average hourly rate paid was to external (a) solicitors and (b) barristers engaged by his Thomas Docherty: To ask the Minister for the Department in 2010-11; what guidance his Department Cabinet Office what information his Department holds uses in commissioning external legal advice; and if he on the average daily rate paid to external consultants will publish (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor across central Government in each of the last five and (B) barrister engaged by his Department in financial years. [72139] 2010-11 and (ii) the sums paid in each case. [72559]

Mr Maude: Last year the Government saved over Mr Maude: The Cabinet Office commissions external £800 million on consultancy as a result of the controls legal advisers in line with its policy guidance for the use they put in place. These controls currently remain and of consultancy and other external resources. will be supported by a new centralised contract, currently being finalised for common consultancy roles, to improve Complete information with regard to hourly rates the way central Government purchase consultancy. and specific individuals appointed is not held centrally and is therefore available only at disproportionate cost. The Cabinet Office does not hold average day rates for consultancy across Government. Departments are responsible for their own purchasing of consultants Departmental Procurement because of the specific nature of individual requirements. Departmental Disabled Staff Owen Smith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the 10 largest suppliers of goods and Gareth Johnson: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet services to his Department were in (a) 2009-10 and (b) Office how many people with disabilities were 2010-11, measured in terms of the total monetary value employed by each Government department in each of of expenditure incurred; and what the (i) purpose and the last five years. [72088] (ii) monetary value was of each contract with each such supplier. [69336] Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Mr Maude: The 10 largest suppliers to the Cabinet asked the authority to reply. Office by value in 2009-10 and 2010-11 are set out in the Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: table.

Supplier Services supplied £

2009-10 Ecovert FM Ltd Facilities management services 37,399,038 British Broadcasting Corporation Media monitoring services 25,016,000 Fujitsu Services Ltd IT and telecommunications services 9,587,589 Steria UK Ltd Website hosting and managed services 8,321,558 CESG Technical security consultancy services 5,300,364 The Social Investment Business Grant fund administration services 4,951,114 Capita Civil Service pension payroll services, medical advisory services, and temporary labour 4,888,317 Ministry of Defence Telecommunications services 3,858,240 Central Office of Information Media and marketing services 3,841,192 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Consultancy support to Civil Service Pension Transformation programme 2,806,681

2010-11 Ecovert FM Ltd Facilities management services 31,261,282 British Broadcasting Corporation Media monitoring services 25,624,000 117W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 118W

Supplier Services supplied £

Fujitsu Services Ltd IT and telecommunications services 13,976,450 Department for Work and Pensions Employee and financial transaction services and Civil Service pension administration services 8,970,243 Ministry of Defence Telecommunications services 6,348,057 Steria UK Ltd Website hosting and managed services 5,379,833 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Consultancy support to Civil Service Pension Transformation programme 4,656,083 Central Office of Information Media and marketing services 3,864,210 The Social Investment Business Grant fund administration services 3,003,193 Parity Solutions Ltd Recruitment services 2,217,263

Information relating to the total monetary value of Table 1 shows the percentage of public sector employment in each contract may be obtained only at disproportionate each parliamentary constituency, from the Annual Population cost. Survey (APS), for the latest available period (January 2010 to December 2010) and for 12 months earlier. Individuals in the APS are classified to the public or private sector according to Maria Eagle: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet their responses to the survey. Office what assessment he has made of the merits of Table 2 shows the unemployment rate in the 100 parliamentary including socio-economic considerations in public constituencies with the highest level of public sector employment procurement tenders. [72398] (based on the January 2010 to December 2010 period) for each period from the twelve month period July 2008 to June 2009 to Mr Maude: Public sector procurers are required to the latest available period. assess value for money from the perspective of the As the information requested is quite extensive, a copy has contracting authority using criteria linked to the subject been placed in the House of Commons Library. matter of the contract, including compliance with the As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject published specification. to a margin of uncertainty. Wider socio-economic benefits that do not accrue to National and local area estimates for many labour market the contracting authority cannot be taken into account statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant at tender evaluation stage as they do not relate to the count are available on the NOMIS website at: subject matter of a contract from the point of view of http://www.nomisweb.co.uk the contracting authority. However, there is currently a review of public Financial Services: Manpower procurement under way, which is examining UK application of EU procurement rules. The review will consider any John Mann: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet actions the Government need to take to help ensure that Office what estimate has been made of the number of UK businesses can compete for Government work on jobs in the financial sector in each quarter since 2007. an equal footing with their competitors. [72730]

Employment: Private and Public Sector Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority, I have Chris Ruane: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet asked the authority to reply. Office (1) how many private sector jobs were created in Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: each month in the last two years in each parliamentary As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I constituency in the UK; [72023] have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question concerning (2) what proportion of employment was in the public the number of jobs in the financial sector in each quarter since sector in each parliamentary constituency in (a) June 2007. (72730) 2010 and (b) June 2011; [72032] The following table contains the seasonally adjusted number of (3) what the rates of unemployment were in the 100 UK workforce jobs in the financial sector in each quarter since parliamentary constituencies with the greatest level of 2007. Workforce jobs include employee jobs, self-employed jobs and government-supported trainees. Quarterly estimates since public sector employment in each of the last 18 1978 are available at months. [72039] www.ons.gov.uk Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the United Kingdom responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Seasonally adjusted (thousand) asked the authority to reply. Total workforce jobs in SIC2007 section K; financial and insurance Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: activities As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Questions asking 2007 Q1 1,162.3 how many private sector jobs were created in each month in the 2007 Q2 1,168.5 last two years in each parliamentary constituency (72023); what 2007 Q3 1,169.1 proportion of employment was public sector employment in each 2007 Q4 1,174.2 parliamentary constituency in (a) June 2010 and (b) June 2011 2008 Q1 1,190.8 (72032); and what the rates of unemployment were in the hundred parliamentary constituencies with the greatest level of public 2008 Q2 1,189.0 sector employment in each of the last 18 months. (72039) 2008 Q3 1,194.0 Due to small sample sizes, estimates of the number of private 2008 Q4 1,194.4 sector jobs created are not available for parliamentary constituencies. 2009 Q1 1,192.9 119W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 120W

United Kingdom Table 1: Bilingual and English only marriage registrations in Wales, Seasonally adjusted (thousand) 2006-08 Total workforce jobs in SIC2007 Bilingual English only section K; financial and insurance registrations registrations activities Number of 2009 Q2 1,180.0 marriages registered Number Percentage Number Percentage 2009 Q3 1,136.1 2009 Q4 1,133.3 2006 13,483 470 3.5 13,013 96.5 2010 Q1 1,095.1 2007 12,884 483 3.7 12,401 96.3 2010 Q2 1,125.2 2010 Q3 1,135.3 2008 12,925 520 4.0 12,405 96.0 2010 Q4 1,136.3 Source: 2011 Q1 1,138.8 Office for National Statistics. 2011 Q2 1,125.1 Once a marriage has been registered, it is possible to purchase Source: one or more certified copies (certificates) of the register entry. Business Statistics Division, ONS These will be an exact copy of the information as recorded in the entry. A central record of the number of such certificates issued Immigration locally across Wales is not compiled.

George Freeman: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the level of immigration from outside the EU was (a) by country of origin, (b) by continent of Public Sector: Manpower origin and (c) in total in each of the last 10 months; and if he will make a statement. [72288]

Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the Ian Austin: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have (1) how many people were employed in the public asked the authority to reply. sector in (a) the West Midlands and (b) Dudley Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: borough in each of the last three years; [72545] As Director General for the Office for National Statistics (ONS), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question (2) how many people were employed in a (a) asking what the level of immigration from outside the EU was (a) full-time capacity and (b) a part-time capacity in the by country of origin, (b) by continent of origin and (c) in total in public sector in (i) the West Midlands and (ii) Dudley each of the last 10 months; and if he will make a statement borough in each of the last three years. [72546] (72288). The Office for National Statistics (ONS) uses the International Passenger Survey (IPS) to estimate flows of international migrants into and out of the United Kingdom. The IPS is a sample survey Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the and cannot provide monthly estimates of migration. responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have The latest annual long-term international migration estimates asked the authority to reply. by citizenship and country of last/next residence relate to calendar year 2009; these are available on the ONS website in the 3 Series Letter from Stephen Penneck: IPS tables (3.01) by using the following link: As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/publications/re-reference- have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Questions asking tables.html?edition=tcm%3A77-228078 how many people were employed in the public sector in (a) the West Midlands and (b) Dudley Borough in each of the last three Marriage Certificates: Wales years; and how many people were employed in a (a) full-time capacity and (b) a part-time capacity in the public sector in (i) the Hywel Williams: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet West Midlands and (ii) Dudley Borough in each of the last three Office how many marriage certificates were issued in years. (72545 & 72546) Wales in each of the last three years; and how many Public Sector employment statistics for local areas can be and what proportion were in the English only format. calculated from the Annual Population Survey (APS). Individuals [72310] in the APS are classified to the public or private sector according to their responses to the survey. Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have Table 1 shows the number of persons employed in the public sector, broken down by part-time and full-time, resident in the asked the authority to reply. West Midlands and Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council. The Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: figures have been provided from the APS for the 12 month As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I periods ending in December from 2008 to 2010, the latest period have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking for which figures are available. how many marriage certificates were issued in Wales in each of As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject the last three years, and how many and what proportion were in to a margin of uncertainty. the English only format [72310]. The table below shows the number of marriages registered in National and local area estimates for many labour market Wales between 2006 and 2008, the latest year for which figures are statistics, including employment, unemployment and claimant available. The table also shows the number and percentage of count are available on the NOMIS website at: these in which the information has been entered in both the English and Welsh languages. http://www.nomisweb.co.uk 121W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 122W

Table 1: Number of the resident population of West Midlands and Dudley employed in the public sector by full-time and part-time Level (Thousand) West Midlands Dudley Full-time Part-time Total Full-time Part-time Total

12 months ending December 2008 398 181 579 22 10 32 2009 414 188 602 26 11 36 2010 *391 *192 *583 ***26 ***9 **35 Note: Coefficients of Variation have been calculated for the latest period as an indication of the quality of the estimates. See Guide to Quality below. Guide to Quality: The Coefficient of Variation (CV) indicates the quality of an estimate, the smaller the CV value the higher the quality. The true value is likely to lie within +/- twice the CV—for example, for an estimate of 200 with a CV of 5% we would expect the population total to be within the range 180-220 Key: *0≤ CV<5—Estimates are considered precise ** 5 ≤ CV <10—Estimates are considered reasonably precise *** 10 ≤ CV <20—Estimates are considered acceptable **** CV ≥ 20—Estimates are considered too unreliable for practical purposes Source: Annual Population Survey.

Unemployment Justine Greening: There have been more than 20 receptions held for charities in the last 16 months hosted Chris Ruane: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet by the Chancellor of the Exchequer and other Ministers. Office what the unemployment rate is for (a) There has been no cost to the public purse for any professional managers and senior officials, (b) skilled reception held at No. 11. workers and (c) unskilled workers. [72057] Bank of England: Public Appointments Mr Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply. Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his policy is on the possibility of re-appointment Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated September 2011: to the post of Governor of the Bank of England for a As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I second term. [71922] have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what the unemployment rate is for (a) professional managers and senior officials, (b) skilled workers and (c) unskilled workers. Mr Hoban: Schedule 1 of The Bank of England Act’ [72057] 1998 states that appointment as Governor or Deputy For the period April-June 2011 the UK unemployment rate for Governor of the Bank shall be for a period of five years. people previously employed as a corporate manager, director or The current Governor, appointed in 2003, is on his senior official was an estimated 3 per cent. The unemployment second term in office. The Bank of England Act 1998, rate for people previously employed in skilled and unskilled as amended by the Banking Act 2009, provides that a occupations was an estimated 5 per cent and 12 per cent respectively. person may not be appointed as Governor more than In each case, the unemployment rate has been based on a denominator twice. comprising the sum of all those currently employed in the occupational group and all those unemployed who reported that their previous job was in that group. Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will bring forward proposals to enhance pre- Estimates for unemployment are derived from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) with previous occupation based on the appointment scrutiny of members of the Monetary Standard Occupational Classification (SOC). The structure of Policy Committee of the Bank of England by the the SOC allows the measurement of ’skill levels’ for occupations House of Commons. [71979] that are similar in terms of qualification, training, skill and experience. Justine Greening: The Treasury Select Committee In accordance with the International Labour Organization (TSC) conducts pre-commencement hearings of members (ILO) convention, people are classed as unemployed if they are: of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of without a job, and have actively sought work in the last four England. These hearings take place after appointments weeks; or, out of work, have found a job and are waiting to start it have been made, but before members start work. in the next two weeks. The Government consider appointments for MPC members as market sensitive and therefore not appropriate for pre-appointment scrutiny. TREASURY 11 Downing Street: Official Hospitality Bristol and West: Shares

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Graeme Morrice: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what (a) official and (b) charity receptions Exchequer if he will make representations to the Irish he has held at 11 Downing street in 2010-11; and what government on the position of UK holders of Bristol the (i) date and (ii) cost to the public purse was of each. and West Permanent Interest Bearing Shares; and if he [72431] will make a statement. [72389] 123W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 124W

Mr Hoban: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer (2) in how many cases of those affected by the I gave him on 6 September 2011, Official Report, proposed withdrawal of child benefit for claimants or column 342W. their partners liable to pay higher rate income tax (a) the child benefit claimant only, (b) the partner of the Business child benefit claimant only and (c) both the child benefit claimant and their partner are liable to pay Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer higher rate income tax. [72115] what estimate he has made of the contribution of non-EU based businesses in the (a) financial and (b) Mr Gauke: Child benefit is paid to an individual insurance sector to the UK’s total GDP in each of the claimant on behalf of the child, and not for the personal last five years. [71905] benefit of the claimant. Child benefit will be withdrawn from families where the claimant, or their partner (with Mr Hoban: The data breakdown required to provide whom they are living) is a higher rate taxpayer. estimates of the contribution of non-EU based businesses Around 1.5 million families are affected. Around 1.3 in the financial and insurance sectors to the UK’s total million affected families contain one higher rate taxpayer GDP is not available. However we are able to provide and around 130,000 affected families contain two higher estimates of the contribution of the Financial rate taxpayers. Around 55,000 of the affected families Intermediation—which includes both the financial and are lone-parent families. Of these, around 35,000 are insurance sectors—sector to GDP over each of the last female and around 20,000 are male. five years. In 2009 Financial Intermediation represented 10.0% Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the of nominal Gross Value Added; in 2008 it represented Exchequer whether he plans to treat the savings from 9.0%; in 2007 it represented 8.3%; in 2006 it represented the proposed withdrawal of child benefit for claimants 7.7%; and in 2005 it represented 7.1%. or their partners liable to pay higher rate tax as (a) a reduction in tax revenue or (b) a saving in public CF Arch Cru Investment Fund expenditure; and if he will make a statement. [72118]

Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Mr Gauke: Consistent with the ONS’s advice, table Exchequer for what reason he has not established an 2.2 of Budget 2011 shows the savings as a spending inquiry under Section 14 of the Financial Services and reduction, available at: Markets Act 2000 in respect of the CF Arch Cru http://cdn.hm-treasury.gov.uk/2011budget_complete.pdf Investment Fund. [72515]

Mr Hoban: In relation to Arch Cru funds, Capita Cluster Munitions Financial Managers Limited (CFM) announced that ″The FSA will, in due course, be publishing a statement Mrs Moon: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer of its findings in relation to CFM’s role regarding the what discussions he has had with representatives of (a) Arch Cru funds″. The Financial Services Authority and (b) Lloyds on investments (FSA) is continuing to look at the issues surrounding in companies that produce cluster munitions; and if he the Arch Cru funds and while the FSA’s work is ongoing, will make a statement. [72762] it would be inappropriate for the Government to make any further comment on this issue or commit to taking Mr Hoban: The Government’s shareholdings in the any action as a result. Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) are managed on a commercial and arm’s Charity Bank length basis by UK Financial Investments Ltd (UKFI), a company which is wholly owned by the Government. Alun Cairns: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received on the permanent UKFI’s role is to manage the Government’s investments, site of the headquarters of the Charity Bank in not to manage the banks—the banks retain their own independent boards and management teams to manage Cardiff; and if he will make a statement. [71719] the banks commercially without interference from Mr Hurd: I have been asked to reply. shareholders. I have not received any representations on locating Both publicly-owned banks have issued denials that the big society bank in Cardiff, but I have recently they knowingly support or provide finance to companies visited Wales to discuss social investment and promote who manufacture weapons that would be in breach of the bank there. the convention. RBS has publicly stated that it will not knowingly support or provide finance to companies It is for Big Society Capital to choose where it locates who manufacture weapons that would be in breach of its headquarters. the letter or the spirit of the convention. Child Benefit Coastal Communities Fund: Scotland Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) how many individuals will be affected by Fiona O’Donnell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer the proposed withdrawal of child benefit for claimants what discussions he has had with the Convention of or their partners liable to pay higher rate tax are Scottish Local Authorities on their involvement in the women; [72114] allocation of the Coastal Communities Fund. [71939] 125W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 126W

Danny Alexander [holding answer 15 September 2011]: Justine Greening: HM Treasury is committed to handling I have had no such discussions with the Convention of all scientific evidence and advice in accordance with the Scottish Local Authorities. The Scottish Government “Government Social Research Code”and the Government will be fully consulted as the Government take forward chief scientific adviser’s “Guidelines on the use of science the Coastal Communities Fund. and engineering advice in policy making”. Scientific evidence and advice may be used to support Departmental Air Travel material submitted by other Departments and agencies to HM Treasury, but in the usual course of its business John Mann: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer HM Treasury does not independently contract research (1) which travel management companies his or advice on scientific matters. HMT has no formal Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets; requirement that a written code of practice or protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality assurance [72689] of scientific evidence and advice must be provided to (2) what (a) contractual obligations and (b) other contracted scientific advisers. The usual provisions that processes his Department uses in respect of travel relate to a wider range of procurements do apply. management companies to ensure the best value is achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72703] Departmental Disclosure of Information

Justine Greening: HM Treasury has used Carlson : To ask the Chancellor of the Wagonlit Travel since 2007 for the purchase of airline Exchequer (1) whether the Chief Secretary to the Treasury tickets. The contract with Carlson Wagonlit Travel requires has issued guidance and instructions to Cabinet colleagues the supplier to continually source and negotiate improved regarding the sign-off and agreement of policy fares on behalf of HM Treasury. The supplier is also announcements over the party conference season; and required to provide the Department with monthly if he will place in the Library a copy of any such management information on the savings they have achieved guidance; [68179] for the Department. (2) when he plans to answer question 68179 on policy HM Treasury employees are required to book travel announcements during the party conference season tabled in accordance with the Departments Travel and Subsistence on 18 July 2011 for answer on 5 September. [71971] policy which advises on booking travel in the most cost-effective way. Danny Alexander [holding answer 15 September 2011]: The Treasury and Cabinet Office have issued joint guidance Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers setting out the timetables and processes for obtaining any necessary approvals or collective agreement ahead Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer of party conferences, in line with the rules set out in the (1) what the resource budget allocation was for the Cabinet Manual and “Managing public money”. office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in Departmental Job Satisfaction each of the last five years for which figures are available; [72495] Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the (2) what the salary, including benefits, was of his Exchequer how often his Department conducts a staff Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last survey; and if he will place a copy of the report of the five years for which figures are available; and how many most recent staff survey in the Library. [72375] individuals have held the post in the last five years; [72496] Justine Greening: HM Treasury runs an annual staff (3) how many full-time equivalent staff were employed survey every autumn as part of the cross-government in the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser Civil Service People Survey. The most recent survey was in each of the last five years for which figures are held in autumn 2010; the results for HM Treasury are available; and on what date the office was established. available on the HM Treasury website. A summary of [72497] the results has been placed in the Library following this request. Justine Greening: Dr James Richardson has been chief scientific adviser (CSA) at HM Treasury since the Departmental Magazine Press post was established in June 2011. His salary is notified through the usual public disclosure provisions for the Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the SCS. It is between £85,000 and £90,000. Exchequer whether his Department produces a staff There are no specific resources reserved exclusively to magazine; and with what frequency. [72504] support the CSA, but resources are drawn on from across the Treasury for work arising from the post as Justine Greening: HM Treasury does not produce a appropriate. staff magazine.

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Departmental Training what his policy is on requiring his Department’s (a) agencies and non-departmental public bodies and (b) Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the contractors to have a written code of practice or protocol Exchequer what (a) seminars, (b) workshops and (c) relating to the provision, conduct and quality assurance exhibitions were held by the human resources team in of scientific evidence and advice. [72498] his Department in 2010-11. [72503] 127W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 128W

Justine Greening: In 2010-11, alongside a programme Economic Situation: International Cooperation of formal training events, staff from HM Treasury’s human resources team ran a number of regular informal Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer internal seminars and workshops for Treasury staff on what discussions he has had with his US counterpart a range of subjects including health and wellbeing, during the recent G7 summit on supporting global recruitment and pay.No exhibitions took place in that time. economic growth and stability. [71904] Departmental Written Questions Justine Greening: The Chancellor is in regular contact with his G7 partners (including the US) to discuss a Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the range of issues, including the global economy. The Exchequer what deadlines his Department’s Parliamentary global economy was discussed at the Marseille G7 Unit normally sets for the receipt of draft answers to meeting, where Ministers and Governors committed to (a) written parliamentary questions for answer on a a strong and coordinated international response to maintain named day and (b) other written parliamentary questions financial stability, restore confidence and support growth. from officials. [72377] Energy: Prices

Justine Greening: Treasury Ministers endeavour to Albert Owen: To ask the Chancellor of the answer questions within the timescales set by the House Exchequer how many meetings (a) he and (b) officials of Commons. This determines the date by which officials of his Department have had with representatives of the are asked to prepare draft replies. six largest energy companies to discuss electricity and gas prices in 2011 to date. [71550] Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer on how many occasions in the last 12 months Justine Greening [holding answer 13 September 2011]: he has circulated guidance to other Departments relating Treasury Ministers and officials meet with a wide range to answers to round-robin written parliamentary questions. of organisations and individuals in the public and private [72378] sectors as part of the usual policymaking process. As was the case with previous Administrations, it is not the Justine Greening: In their response to the Third Report Government’s practice to provide details of all such of Session 2003-04 from the Public Administration meetings. Select Committee, the previous Government made clear that while individual Departments may liaise with each Equitable Life: Compensation other when they receive the same question, this co-ordination: Dan Jarvis: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons he has not used his statutory powers “does not cut across the line of ministerial accountability which is that it is for individual Ministers to decide on the final under the Policyholders Protection Act 1997 to require content of an answer to a Parliamentary Question.” the insurance industry to contribute to restoring the losses of Equitable Life policyholders. [72319] The Treasury has provided advice to other Government Departments on this basis. Mr Hoban: The Equitable Life Payment Scheme has been set up in recognition of losses suffered by Equitable Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Life policyholders as a result of Government Exchequer how many written parliamentary questions maladministration. It would not be appropriate to require his Department has taken longer than 10 days to the insurance industry to contribute to the cost of this. answer in the current Session. [72420] Henry Smith: To ask the Chancellor of the Justine Greening: Treasury Ministers responded within Exchequer if he will consider further compensation for 10 days to 3,727 of the 4,084 (91.3%) written questions Equitable Life policy holders to take account of tabled to the Treasury since the beginning of the current inflation since 2009. [71928] session. Mr Hoban: Payments will be made in accordance The Leader of the House provides the Procedure with the profile set out at the spending review settlement— Committee with Sessional statistics about all Departments’ with £1 billion allocated to the scheme in the first three performance in providing written answers. years of this spending review—and the Independent Economic Policy Commission on Equitable Life Payments’ recommendations on the prioritisation of payments. Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Payments will be free of UK income tax, capital whether he plans to include an assessment of the gains tax, or (in the case of companies) corporation tax. Government’s fiscal consolidation as part of his More detail on how this will apply across the tax strategy for economic growth. [72235] system, including inheritance tax and tax credits, is set out in the Scheme rules, available at: Justine Greening: The Government created the Office http://equitablelifepaymentscheme.independent.gov.uk/docs/ for Budget Responsibility (OBR) in June 2010, bringing pdfs/elps_main_doc_final.pdf independence, greater transparency and credibility to Excise Duties: Fuels the economic and fiscal forecasts upon which fiscal policy is based. Mr Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the The Chancellor has announced that the OBR will Exchequer (1) if he will assess the effects of road fuel publish the next Economic and Fiscal Outlook on 29 duty on small businesses; and if he will make a statement; November 2011. [72199] 129W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 130W

(2) what recent assessment he has made of the level Group as well as BT, The Employers forum for Disability of taxation on (a) diesel and (b) unleaded petrol on Issues, The Post Office, and the Motability Contact the standard of living of (A) job seekers and (B) Centre are working with the forum to improve the level pensioners; and if he will make a statement; [72200] of service provided by just not only financial institutions (3) what recent discussions he has held with the but businesses and organisations alike. Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills The Equality Act 2010 also requires companies providing in respect of the effects on rural businesses of the cost services to make reasonable adjustments for those customers of petrol; and if he will make a statement; [72201] with disabilities, including customers with hearing (4) what recent discussions he has had with the difficulties. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change on the effects of the removal of the bio-diesel duty differential on achieving the Government’s targets for green energy Financial Services usage; and if he will make a statement; [72202] (5) if he will assess the effects of the volatility of the Mark Garnier: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer price of fuel on the economic growth of small (1) how many claims for compensation in respect of the businesses; and if he will make a statement. [72203] NDF Administration Fixed Income Plan June 2008 submitted to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme Justine Greening: Small businesses including those in and assessed by a subcontractor, were successful in rural areas are affected by a range of measures to tackle receiving compensation on the (a) first, (b) second, the deficit and support growth including fuel duty and (c) third and (d) fourth attempt; [71755] other policy measures. From April the small profits rate of corporation tax reduced to 20%. Budget 2011 added (2) how many claims for compensation in respect of to this by extending the small business rate relief holiday the NDF Administration Fixed Income Plan June 2008 by one year from 1 October 2011. Businesses may submitted to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme reclaim VAT and deduct other business costs including since 2008 were assessed by a subcontractor; and how fuel costs under existing business tax arrangements. many of these were (a) approved and (b) rejected; The Government’s taxation decisions including on [71756] fuel duty support their objective to achieve strong, (3) how many applications for compensation in respect sustainable growth. Budget 2011 reduced fuel duty by 1 of the NDF Administration Fixed Income Plan June penny per litre, abolished the fuel duty escalator and 2008 the Financial Services Compensation Scheme has replaced it with a fair fuel stabiliser. As of 1 April 2011, received since 2008; [71757] small businesses, job seekers and pensioners could have (4) what the highest number of claims is for compensation benefited from average pump prices being 6 pence per received by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme litre lower as a result of these changes compared to the from one applicant in respect of the NDF Administration previous Government’s fuel duty plans. Fixed Income Plan June 2008; [71758] Treasury Ministers routinely discuss a range of issues (5) how many applications to the Financial Services with Cabinet colleagues. Compensation Scheme for compensation in respect of the NDF Administration Fixed Income Plan June 2008 Financial Institutions: Hearing Impaired were successful on the (a) first, (b) second, (c) third and (d) fourth attempt; [71760] Jim Dowd: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (6) whether secondary, tertiary and additional what steps he has taken, and what further steps he applications for compensation in respect of the NDF plans to take, to assist British Sign Language users to Administration Fixed Income Plan June 2008, submitted communicate with financial institutions (a) in person, to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) (b) by telephone and (c) by other electronic means. and assessed by a subcontractor but unsuccessful on the [71793] first attempt were sent to the same subcontractor for consideration on subsequent occasions; and by what Mr Hoban: As part of its implementation of the mechanism applications were divided between FSCS European Framework on Electronic Communications, and subcontractors. [71765] Government are supporting deaf, deaf/blind and hard of hearing telecoms users by pursuing the duty for businesses and organisations to provide suitable access Mr Hoban: This is a matter for the Financial Services to equivalent services and products for disabled users Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which as a non- through the eAccessibility Forum, which draws together Government body administers the scheme independently Government, industry and the voluntary sector to explore from Government. I have written to the chief executive and understand issues of e-accessibility and develop of FSCS, asking him to reply directly. and share best practice across all sectors. is currently conducting a review of the adequacy Immigration: Students of relay services for people with hearing difficulties in the UK, to assess whether existing provisions provide equivalent access. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer To complement Ofcom’s review of future relay services what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State in the UK, one of the eAccessibility Forums work for the Home Department regarding the potential impact streams is looking at ways we can improve the present of reforms to the student immigration system on (a) use of text relay service in the UK. Lloyds Banking growth and (b) the fiscal position. [72052] 131W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 132W

Danny Alexander: Treasury Ministers hold regular Loans: Greece discussions with ministerial colleagues on a wide range of issues. As was the case with previous Administrations, Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the it is not the Government’s practice to provide details of Exchequer if he will take steps to ensure that the all such discussions Government will provide no additional public sector Inflation: Annuities support to the Government of Greece in the event that that country seeks further financial assistance. [72194] Rachel Reeves: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent assessment he has made of the Mr Hoban: The international financial assistance effect of inflation on the annuities market. [71213] package for Greece agreed in May 2010 included a ¤30 billion loan from the international Monetary Fund and Mr Hoban [holding answer 9 September 2011]: No ¤80 billion of bilateral loans from euro area member recent assessment has been made of the effect of inflation states. There was no contribution either from the EU on the annuities market. Budget or from the European Financial Stabilisation For those who decide to use their pension to purchase Mechanism, which is backed by the EU Budget. an annuity, shopping around for the best rate may The Prime Minister secured agreement at the June increase their income. In particular, there are higher European Council that the EU-wide European Financial rates available for smokers and people with health Stability Mechanism (EFSM) would not be used in a conditions, so they should check whether a better deal second assistance package for Greece. is available elsewhere before accepting their provider’s offer. Those who are worried that rising inflation may Members: Correspondence reduce the purchasing power of their annuity income can consider purchasing an index-linked annuity. This Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the product would adjust their income in line with inflation Exchequer when the Exchequer Secretary plans to thereby providing protection against future price rises. respond to the letters of (a) 27 January 2011 and (b) Insurance: Unfair Practices 15 April 2011 from the hon. Member for Weaver Vale on behalf of Mr John Reilly. [64020] Emma Reynolds: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what information his Department holds on the average Mr Gauke: I have replied to my hon. Friend. waiting time for resolution of complaints by the Financial I also replied to the same inquiry forwarded by my Services Ombudsman for cases involving the mis-selling hon. Friend the Member for Eddisbury (Mr O’Brien). of payment protection insurance. [72274] Mike Crockart: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr Hoban: The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) when he expects the Complaints Manager, HMRC is operationally independent of Government. According Customer Operations Complaints Service, Queensway to their annual review, 41% of all complaints (including House, to respond to the Member for payment protection insurance (PPI)) were settled within Edinburgh West’s letters of 1 August 2011 and 25 three months, 70% within six months, 81% within nine August 2011 regarding Mrs D E Cooper. [72228] months and 87% within 12 months. Their latest published quarterly figures show that they received 56,025 new cases about PPI between April and June 2011. HM Mr Gauke: A member of the Complaints Team at Treasury does not hold more detailed information on East Kilbride replied to the letter of 1 August 2011 by waiting times than the data the FOS publishes. telephone on 8 August 2011. There is currently a large number of PPI complaints The Complaints Manager at East Kilbride replied to at the FOS due to a build-up of claims following the the letter of 25 August 2011 on 2 September 2011. banks’ earlier refusal to deal with cases during the These letters were responded to within the Department’s British Bankers’ Association’s judicial review of the 15 working days target. FSA and the FOS’s approach to PPI. The FOS is currently working closely with the banks to ensure cases can be resolved as soon as possible. Mortgages: Northern Ireland Judiciary Dr McCrea: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Mr Gale: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many mortgage repossessions have taken place in what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary Northern Ireland since autumn 2008. [72205] of State for Justice on the funding of the proposal to televise aspects of the work of the judiciary; and if he Mr Hoban: The Council of Mortgage Lenders and will make a statement. [71753] the Financial Services Authority collect data on repossessions across the UK. There are no specific Danny Alexander: Treasury Ministers hold regular repossessions data for Northern Ireland. The Ministry discussions with ministerial colleagues on a wide range of Justice collects data on writs and summonses for of issues. As was the case with previous Administrations, possessions in Northern Ireland. There have been 11,035 it is not the Government’s practise to provide details of since August 2008. The number fell 13% from 2009 to all such discussions. 2010. 133W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 134W

National Insurance Contributions Mr Gauke: A breakdown of successful applications for the NICs holiday by region will be published in the NICs holiday factsheet in the House of Commons : To ask the Chancellor of the Library in the autumn. Exchequer (1) if he will estimate the cost to the public purse of extending the national insurance holiday scheme to apply to one additional employee taken on by existing businesses with four or fewer members of Oil: Prices staff; [71267] (2) how many new businesses in Newton Abbot Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the constituency have benefited under the national Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect insurance holiday scheme. [71305] of recent trends in oil prices on (a) the UK’s public finances, (b) the UK economy and (c) inflation. Mr Gauke [holding answer 15 September 2011]: A [72295] reliable estimate of the potential cost of extending the national insurance contributions (NICs) holiday to existing Justine Greening: The Government consider a range micro businesses who employ one additional member of of factors when assessing prospects for the economy staff is not available due to data limitations. and public finances. The Government have considered the case for extending The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is responsible the NICs holiday to all existing micro businesses but for producing independent economic and fiscal forecasts. believe the best use of public funds at this time is to The OBR published an ‘Assessment of the Effect of Oil keep the NICs holiday as a targeted scheme for those Price Fluctuations on the Public Finances’ in September areas in most need of employment support. 2010, which is available online at: A breakdown of successful applications for the NICs http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/wordpress/ holiday by constituency will be published in the NICs docs/assessment_oilprice_publicfinances.pdf Holiday Factsheet in the House of Commons Library The Chancellor has asked the OBR to publish a new in the autumn. economic and fiscal forecast on 29 November. Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate how many (a) full-time and (b) part-time Pensions: Tax Allowances jobs were created in (i) England, (ii) Scotland, (iii) Wales, (iv) Northern Ireland and (v) each parliamentary constituency as a result of the temporary waiver from Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Chancellor of the employer’s national insurance contributions for the hiring Exchequer what account he will take of the effects of of new employees in each month since the introduction tax relief on pension contributions in considering the of that waiver. [71345] future of the 50% rate of income tax. [72193]

Mr Gauke: A breakdown of the number of jobs that Mr Gauke: The Chancellor takes all relevant factors have been supported by the NICs holiday, by region into account when making decisions on tax rates, including and constituency, will be published in the NICs Holiday any decision on the 50% rate of income tax. Factsheet in the House of Commons Library in the autumn. The Chancellor made clear in his Budget 2011 speech that the 50% rate is a temporary measure. In an age Due to data limitations the factsheet will not differentiate when business, capital and people are increasingly mobile, between full-time and part-time jobs that have been high tax rates send a negative signal to those looking to supported by the policy. work and invest in the UK. The Chancellor has asked HM Revenue and Customs National Insurance Contributions: Devizes to assess the revenue from the 50% rate of income tax. As I outlined in debates around the 2011 Finance Bill, Claire Perry: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer HMRC will consider all available evidence on the impact how many businesses in Devizes constituency have of the 50% rate including data from 2010-11 self-assessment benefited from the National insurance contributions returns which will become available next year. holiday scheme to date. [72012]

Mr Gauke: A breakdown of successful applications Personal Taxation for the NICs holiday by constituency will be published in the NICs Holiday Factsheet in the House of Commons Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Library in the autumn. what proportion of monthly earnings is paid in taxes on average by persons in each income decile. [72031] National Insurance Contributions: New Businesses Mr Gauke: Estimates of the proportion of earnings Mr Hanson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer paid in income tax and employee national insurance how many applications for the national insurance holiday contributions by hypothetical earners at the mid percentile scheme had been (a) received and (b) approved in each point of each decile of the employee earnings distribution region as at 13 September 2011. [72090] in 2011-12 are set out in the following table. 135W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 136W

their records do not hold information on the number of Position in earnings pocket lighters entering the UK which do not comply distribution Percentage earnings with the safety standards in Commission Decision 2006/ Gross 502/EC. earnings1 Income tax Records of enforcement action taken on non compliant (£ per Income Employee and employee goods detected at UK points of entry are maintained Percentile point month) tax2 NICs2 NICs2 locally by UK market surveillance authorities. 5 338 0.0 0.0 0.0 15 744 3.3 2.3 5.6 Public Finance 25 1,109 8.8 5.5 14.3 35 1,396 11.1 6.8 17.9 Miss McIntosh: To ask the Chancellor of the 45 1,671 12.5 7.7 20.2 Exchequer what recent representations he has received 55 1,981 13.7 8.4 22.1 on the UK’s credit rating. [70866] 65 2,351 14.7 8.9 23.6 75 2,807 15.6 9.4 25.0 Mr Hoban: Standard and Poor’s placed the UK’s 85 3,461 16.4 9.9 26.3 AAA sovereign rating on negative outlook on 21 May 95 5,145 23.8 7.5 31.3 2009. In recognition of the Coalition Government’s 1 Decile mid percentile points show gross monthly earnings for all plan to tackle the deficit, and the decisions announced employees, based on Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings data to in the October 2010 spending review, Standard & Poor’s April 2010 (Great Britain), projected to 2011-12 using earnings growth later revised up its UK outlook from negative to stable assumptions consistent with the OBR’s March 2011 economic and on 26 October 2010. All three of the major credit rating fiscal outlook. 2 Calculation based on an individual aged under 65 paying employee agencies have affirmed the UK’s triple-A sovereign credit NICs (not contracted out). rating with a stable outlook. Most recently in June, Planning: Costs Moody’s stated, “The stable outlook on the UK’s AAA rating is largely driven by the Government’s commitment to stabilise and eventually Jack Dromey: To ask the Chancellor of the reverse the deterioration in its financial strength.” Exchequer pursuant to the oral answer of 6 September 2011, Official Report, column 170, on planning costs, Revenue and Customs: Leicester what evidence his Department holds that shows planning costs in Britain are among the highest in the world; and if he will place in the Library a copy of any Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many unopened letters there are in HM such evidence. [71934] Revenue and Customs processing offices in Leicester. Justine Greening: The Plan for Growth published in [72376] March 2011 sets out the costs imposed by the planning system on business and the wider economy, and the Mr Gauke: There are no unopened letters in HM actions the Government are taking to create a planning Revenue and Customs processing offices in Leicester. system that makes the right land available in the right All inbound post is opened and date stamped with places to deliver the commercial development, vital the date of receipt. infrastructure and housing that the country needs while ensuring development is sustainable. Revenue and Customs: Manpower Pocket Lighters: Import Controls Mr Hanson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Hayes Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Chancellor of the and Harlington of 29 June 2011, Official Report, Exchequer (1) whether customs officers are instructed column 818W,on Revenue and Customs: labour turnover, to seize at UK ports of entry pocket lighters which do how many officers of Revenue and Customs he expects not conform to EU and UK safety standards; [72811] HM Revenue and Customs to recruit in each year of the (2) what information HM Revenue and Customs comprehensive spending review period; and how many holds on the number of pocket lighters entering the of these he expects to be deployed to work on compliance UK which do not comply with the safety standards in functions in each year. [70156] Commission Decision 2006/502/EC. [72815] Mr Gauke: I have interpreted ’Officers of Revenue Damian Green: I have been asked to reply. and Customs’ as staff of all grades recruited externally HM Revenue and Customs and the UK Border Agency who will be working on compliance functions, rather have no statutory powers at UK points of entry to seize than the literal translation of staff at ’officer’ grade. pocket lighters and other non-food consumer products In addition, as the CST announced this year, an that do not conform to EU or UK safety standards. additional 2,250 HMRC staff will move into new anti- UK product safety legislation assigns safety compliance evasion and avoidance jobs. checks at points of entry and elsewhere in the UK to Our only planned external recruitment will be the local authorities acting in their statutory role as a annual graduate intake for people on our Grade 7 Tax market surveillance authority. Development Programme. HM Revenue and Customs and UK Border Agency Our plan is to bring 210 people on to the programme have powers to detain any suspect consignments and starting in September 2012. All of them will be engaged inform the relevant market surveillance authority, but on compliance work. Nominations are invited from 137W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 138W existing staff as well as external graduates so it is Mr Gauke: In the 12 months to August 2011 70 time impossible to say how many new recruits will be joining to pay arrangements involving £1 million or more were HMRC. agreed. Our work force plans are not developed to a point HMRC are unable to provide details of those cases that enables me to provide a number for subsequent above £5 million as the small numbers involved may programmes at this time. breach taxpayer confidentiality. In none of these 70 arrangements did we insist on an Sports: Clubs independent business review being prepared solely for HMRC. Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what consideration he has given to Taxation: Foreign Companies applying the Gift Aid scheme to junior membership subscriptions paid to community amateur sports clubs; Mr Hanson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer and what estimate he has made of the potential cost to what assessment his Department has made of the the public purse of such a change; [72641] potential effects on the size of the tax gap of the (2) if he will consider the merits of extending the decision by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to Community Amateur Sports Club scheme to include redeploy staff from the controlled foreign companies clubs with semi-professional players; [72642] (CFC) legacy team; how many members of staff there (3) what his policy is on establishing incentives for were in that team before the redeployment; how many commercial organisations to donate to amateur sports have been redeployed to other work areas; where within clubs. [72643] HMRC the work they were undertaking has been transferred; and how many revenue and customs Justine Greening: The Sports and Recreation Alliance officers are working on CFC compliance. [70213] (SRA) produced a report in Spring 2011 recommending a number of changes to the Community Amateur Sports Mr Gauke: HM Revenue and Customs considers that Club (CASC) scheme. These recommendations include there has been no impact on the size of the tax gap from extending Gift Aid to junior membership subscriptions the decision to reorganise work on current controlled and allowing clubs with semi-professional players to foreign company (CFC) inquiries by forming a new register as CASCs. team to undertake this work. The time spent by the I have asked officials to explore with the SRA all of advisory and operational staff previously engaged on the recommendations contained in their report. Changes this work as part of their wider duties has been reallocated. to tax policy are announced at Budget. The advisory staff are now contributing to work on CFC reform in addition to their other existing duties, The Government are keen to encourage commercial while the operational staff are engaged in additional organisations to donate to amateur sports clubs and corporation tax compliance work. Detailed information there is a tax relief available for donations to clubs that about the varying extent of the range of individual staff are charities. No representations have been received to members previously involved in the CFC inquiry work introduce further incentives for commercial organisations is not available. CFC compliance work is now undertaken to donate to sports clubs. both by the new team and more generally remains an Taxation area of interest to all operational staff dealing with the corporation tax of international groups.

Mr Offord: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer Taxation: Personal Savings what plans he has for tax simplification. [72536]

Mr Gauke: The Chancellor is committed to the ongoing Caroline Lucas: To ask the Chancellor of the process of simplifying the tax system. He set up the Exchequer what recent assessment he has made of the independent Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) last progress on the revised EU Savings Tax Directive; what year, and has responded to their first review by announcing activities have been undertaken by (a) Ministers and the abolition of 43 tax reliefs, and consulting on further (b) officials in his Department on this directive; and if abolitions. He has committed to improving HMRC’s he will make a statement. [70440] administration of IR35, and will examine reforms to integrate the operation of income tax and NICs. Further Mr Gauke: The UK is disappointed that the amending OTS reviews, to report before the 2012 Budget, are savings tax directive has not yet been agreed by the looking at pensioner taxation, approved employee share Council, due to reservations by a small number of schemes and small .business tax issues, including member states. The UK continues to call for early disincorporation relief for small companies and a simpler adoption of the draft directive. income tax system for the smallest businesses. Taxation: Sports Taxation: Business Mr Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) Mr Hanson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what exemptions his Department has granted on how many Time to Pay arrangements involving sums liability to income tax attributable to income tax on over (a) £1 million and (b) £5 million there have been (a) endorsement income, (b) prize money and (c) in the last 12 months; and how many such arrangements appearance money paid by non-UK resident sporting have been subject to independent business reviews. performers in each of the last five financial years; [71197] [70556] 139W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 140W

(2) what estimate he has made of the level of revenue Mr Hoban: The Financial Services Authority. (FSA) to the Exchequer attributable to income tax on (a) is responsible for the regulation of financial services endorsement income, (b) prize money and (c) firms and operates independently from Government appearance money paid by non-UK resident sporting under the powers given to it in the Financial Services performers in each of the last five financial years; and Markets Act 2000. HM Treasury sets the legal [70557] framework for the regulation of financial services, but (3) what his policy is on the exemption from liability does not have investigative or prosecuting powers of its to income tax on endorsement income paid to non-UK own. resident competitors in the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth If the FSA were to have concerns over the performance Games; [70558] of auditors, it would as a matter of general practice (4) what his policy is on the liability to corporation refer the case to the Institute of Chartered Accountants tax of international companies which set up a permanent in England and Wales (ICAEW). establishment in the UK to perform work associated Tunisia: Economic Situation with organising the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth games; [70559] Mr Gale: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (5) if he will make an assessment of the costs to the when he expects the funding pledged by the G8 for the Exchequer of the creation of exemptions for the Glasgow purpose of assisting economic reforms in Tunisia to be 2014 Commonwealth games in respect of (a) corporation provided. [72433] tax, (b) capital gains tax and (c) income tax withholdings on income paid to competitors and staff; [70560] Mr Hoban: Finance Ministers of the Deauville (6) what his policy is on the creation of exemptions Partnership, including the G8 and representatives from for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth games in respect the region, met in Marseille on 10 September 2011 to of (a) corporation tax, (b) capital gains tax and (c) discuss the historical changes under way in some countries income tax withholdings on income paid to competitors of the Middle East and North Africa, including Tunisia. and staff. [70561] Bilateral donors, including the G8, will work to align their support with the national strategies and priorities Mr Gauke: The Government’s policy is that exemptions set out by the countries of the region. to taxation have been considered for major sporting In May 2011, the Prime Minister announced increased events only where the event represents the highest level support to the region, called the Arab Partnership, now of world sport and when provision of those exemptions worth £110 million between 2011 and 2013. This assistance is a pre-condition of a successful bid for an event. The is focused on those committed to reform, including Government will make an assessment of any future Tunisia, where projects have already begun, for instance Exchequer impacts as part of any consideration it improving voter education. undertakes of applying the policy on concessions for major sporting events. VAT Non-UK resident companies will only be chargeable to corporation tax in the UK if they trade through a Gloria De Piero: To ask the Chancellor of the permanent establishment. A temporary presence in the Exchequer how many businesses were registered for UK of not more than six months solely for the purpose value added tax in Ashfield constituency in each year of carrying on activities related to the major sporting since 1997. [71732] event will not be treated as creating a permanent establishment in the UK. Mr Gauke: The existing population of VAT-registered businesses and the number of businesses that registered The Government have granted exemptions from UK for VAT during the year, for years since 1997, taxation for sportspeople competing in the 2011 UEFA is shown for Ashfield in the following table: Champions League Final and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. The exemptions covered income tax Number on appearance fees, prize money and endorsement income Registrations during connected to performances at the event. The 2011 UEFA Start of year stock year Champions League Final took place in the 2011-12 tax year, the London 2012 games will take place in the 1997 1,630 185 2012-13 tax year. 1998 1,660 160 Revenue from visiting sports professionals is not 1999 1,685 190 distinguished from that of visiting foreign entertainers 2000 1,725 190 in HMRC records. The information requested could 2001 1,750 185 therefore be obtained only through the examination of 2002 1,800 205 individual case files at disproportionate cost. 2003 1,860 230 2004 1,940 210 2005 1,970 225 Trust Funds: Audit 2006 2,035 215 2007 2,105 210 2008 2,155 — Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will assess the performance of the These figures came from the report ‘Business Start-ups auditors of (a) Capita Financial Managers Ltd and and Closures: VAT Registrations and De-registrations’, (b) the CF Arch Cru funds. [72358] published by The Department for Businesses Enterprise 141W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 142W and Regulatory Reform in November 2008. This report once the Statement of Principles comes to an end in has now been discontinued and so registration and July 2013. [70830] deregistration figures are available only up to 2007, and start of year stock figures are available only up to 2008. Richard Benyon: DEFRA is working closely with the insurance industry to ensure that flood insurance remains Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer widely available in England after the Statement of Principles what consideration he has given to increasing the turnover comes to an end. I hosted a flood summit in September limits for VAT accounting to assist firms during adverse last year to discuss flood risk management and the economic conditions. [72790] challenges involved in flood insurance. Three working groups continued the dialogue and reported back on Mr Gauke: The VAT registration threshold (the level progress at a follow-up meeting in July this year. of turnover below which a business does not have to register for VAT) was increased in the last Budget from DEFRA is looking in detail at a number of options £70,000 to £73,000. Increases are subject to EU VAT for the future of flood insurance. These include the agreements and any further changes will be considered possibility of creating a risk pool and options for supporting by the Chancellor as part of the annual Budget process. the market by targeting information or financial assistance at those at highest risk or least able to afford insurance. Voluntary Contributions We are continuing to develop these options in partnership with HM Treasury and will provide an update shortly, with the aim of reaching a final decision by the spring. Gavin Shuker: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much HM Revenue and Customs received in voluntary contributions in financial year Slaughterhouses (a) 2011-12, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2009-10. [71173] Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gauke: I have interpreted the hon. Members Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her question to mean voluntary national insurance Department’s policy is on the regulation of abattoirs. contributions. [72396] Voluntary Class 3 national insurance contributions totalled £139.3 million in 2009-10 and are currently Mr Paice: Regulation of abattoirs (in England) is estimated at around £73 million in 2010-11. Figures for shared between DEFRA, which has policy responsibility 2011-12 are not available. for animal health and welfare and the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which has policy responsibility for food safety. The FSA also delivers official controls against animal health, including in relation to animal by-products ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS (ABPs), and welfare on behalf of DEFRA. The Government are committed to supporting and Animal Health and Welfare Board developing British farming and encouraging sustainable food production. This involves providing help to enhance Nic Dakin: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, the competitiveness and resilience of the whole food Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is taking to chain, including farms and fish industry, to help ensure ensure that the appointment of external members to the a secure, environmentally sustainable and healthy supply Animal Health and Welfare Board reflects the full of food with improved standards of animal welfare. range of opinion relating to the health and welfare of These principles underpin departmental policy on the farmed animals in intensive and traditional systems of regulation of abattoirs. production. [72397] The welfare of animals in abattoirs is currently protected Mr Paice: The appointment of external board members by directive 93/119 which has been implemented by The is being managed in accordance with guidance from the Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments 1995, as amended. This makes individual food business (OCPA) to ensure an equitable and transparent process. operators responsible for the welfare of the animals in Selection criteria is based on a demonstration of personal the abattoirs they operate. Regulation 1099/2009 on the ability across a wide range of competencies which includes protection of animals at the time of killing will replace expertise in all relevant sectors and knowledge of animal directive 93/119/EC from 1 January 2013. The Regulation health and welfare. will be directly applicable in every member state. However Regulation 1099/2009 also allows member states to Once appointed, external board members will collectively introduce stricter national rules to maintain welfare be responsible for actively engaging with all animal protection above the minimum standards provided for health and welfare stakeholder groups, and for articulating in the Regulation, which was in force before the Regulation the differing views of such groups at meetings of the was made in September 2009. Stricter national rules can Animal Health and Welfare Board for England. also be used to introduce new protection in relation to killing animals outside a slaughterhouse, religious slaughter Floods: Insurance and farmed game. We are currently considering how Regulation 1099/2009 will be implemented and will John Stevenson: To ask the Secretary of State for consult on draft regulations before they are introduced. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what proposals Our approach to implementation will be guided by the she has to ensure that those who live in properties at principles set out above and the Government’s commitment risk of flooding are able to insure their possessions to reduce regulatory burdens where appropriate. 143W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 144W

Regulation of ABPs arising in abattoirs is covered by Last year the Department for International Development the EU animal by-products Regulation 1069/2009 and (DFID) provided £132 million in aid for the DRC. The enforced by the FSA, which is responsible for ensuring 2011-12 budget is £146 million. Monitoring and evaluation that operators keep ABPs separate from material fit for (M&E) is taken very seriously to ensure results, value human consumption and that ABPs are dispatched for money and well managed risks. As data is limited from the abattoir for safe use or disposal. and national systems weak in the DRC, DFID is making a significant investment to create bespoke M&E systems Wildlife: Circuses across its DRC portfolio. In addition to routine monitoring by programme partners and DFID staff, plans are in Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for place for robust independent evaluations for many of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to the our programmes to verify the results of our interventions. Resolution of the House of 23 June 2011, on wild To boost internal capacity in this area, DFID is recruiting animals in circuses, what steps she has taken towards an evaluation adviser for its DRC office. banning the use of wild animals in circuses by 1 July 2012. [72794] Afghanistan: Overseas Aid Mr Paice: We are continuing to explore ways of overcoming the current legal obstacles to a ban. However, Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for given that a ban is not an immediate possibility, work is International Development what assistance his under way to develop a tough licensing regime that will Department is providing to Afghanistan. [71784] stop circuses from using wild animals unless they provide appropriate welfare standards. Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International Development’s (DFID’s) programme in Afghanistan is focusing on tackling poverty and helping Afghanistan become a stable and effective state by promoting more INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT inclusive politics, supporting the establishment of effective local government institutions and helping communities Commonwealth Development Corporation resolve their disputes peacefully. DFID is also helping to make the country a better place for business by Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for ensuring that small and medium sized enterprises have International Development on what dates meetings or what they need to grow and compete. In addition we are discussions have taken place between officials from the working to support the Afghan Government to deliver Financial Services Authority’s Enforcement and basic services, such as healthcare and education, for Financial Crime division and the Commonwealth their people. By the end of 2015, DFID support will Development Corporation (CDC) on (a) the adequacy create 200,000 jobs, provide technical and vocational of CDC Group’s anti-money laundering procedures education and training for 45,000 young people, help and (b) matters arising from the CDC’s investments in more than 100,000 children enrol in school (40% of Nigeria. [72601] them girls), and build or upgrade more than 47 km of road across central Helmand. Mr Andrew Mitchell: CDC met with representatives from the Financial Services Authority (FSA) on 11 July Developing Countries: HIV Infection 2011. Democratic Republic of Congo: Overseas Aid Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development when he expects to announce future funding for the Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS, Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Malaria and tuberculosis; and if he will make a statement. International Development how much has been given [72526] in aid to the Democratic Republic of Congo in each of the last five years for which figures are available; and Mr Duncan: The UK is ready to increase it’s funding what monitoring arrangements are in place in that to the Global Fund in order to help meet its targets. country to ensure that all the aid is used for the purpose for which it was provided. [72595] The Report of the High Level Independent Review Panel on Fiduciary Controls and Oversight Mechanisms Mr O’Brien: The latest official figures for British is due to be issued on 19 September. I expect the Board Government aid to the Democratic Republic of Congo of the Global Fund, which will meet on 26 September, (DRC) in the last five years are: to take full account of the panel’s report in its vision and strategy for the fund’s future. The extent to which £ million the Global Fund is able to deliver on the recommendations DFID (share of UK of the panel and define its strategy for the future will Financial year Total UK aid total) clearly be a key factor in the UK’s decisions on future funding. 2005-06 59 59 2006-07 79 75 Equatorial Guinea: Overseas Aid 2007-08 83 83 2008-09 100 94 2009-10 117 109 Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for International Source: Development how much has been given in aid to Equatorial Statistics on International Development, October 2010. Guinea in each of the last five years for which figures 145W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 146W are available; and what monitoring arrangements are in As a board member and shareholder of multilateral place in that country to ensure that all the aid is used for organisations such as the World Bank and UN agencies, the purpose for which it was provided. [72594] the UK takes a strong role in the oversight of performance, results and fiduciary issues. DFID also continues to Mr O’Brien: The Department for International press for organisational reform in all multilateral, Development (DFID) does not have a bilateral programme monitoring their contribution to results and achievement or any presence in Equatorial Guinea. DFID does of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). provide support however through multilateral partners working in Equatorial Guinea such as the European Horn of Africa: Famine Union, World Bank and United Nations. DFID publishes the imputed UK share of multilateral Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for aid for each country that receives official development International Development what meetings his assistance (ODA) in our annual report, which can be Department has had with representatives of the (a) found on the DFID Website: Somali and (b) Kenyan community in the UK on the www.dfid.gov.uk famine in the Horn of Africa. [71785] The following shows the imputed UK share of multilateral net ODA for Equatorial Guinea: Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Prime Minister and I visited Birmingham in July to meet members of the city’s Equatorial Guinea: Imputed UK share of multilateral net ODA Somali community to listen to their concerns about the UK share (£000) famine in Somalia. We discussed the substantial British 2005 512 aid effort and what more could be done internationally 2006 1,305 to help those suffering. 2007 971 In mid-September I spoke at a community meeting in 2008 296 Leicester where I met a number of Somali diaspora 2009 491 groups including the Somali Development Services. I also gave an interview to Somali television on the UK’s As a board member and shareholder of multilateral response to the current humanitarian crisis. organisations such as the World Bank and UN agencies, Officials from the Department for International the UK takes a strong role in the oversight of performance, Development have also met, and will continue to meet results and fiduciary issues. DFID also continues to diaspora groups involved in the relief effort across the press for organisational reform in all multilaterals, Horn of Africa, to share information and promote monitoring their contribution to results and achievement effective coordination of our efforts. of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Horn of Africa: Overseas Aid Gabon: Overseas Aid Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for International International Development what recent discussions he Development how much has been given in aid to Gabon has had with his European counterparts on aid for the in each of the last five years for which figures are horn of Africa. [71772] available; and what monitoring arrangements are in place in that country to ensure that all the aid is used for Mr Andrew Mitchell: Over the summer months I have the purpose for which it was provided. [72596] spoken with a number of my European counterparts on the provision of aid to the Horn of Africa. Mr O’Brien: The Department for International Specifically I have spoken with Germany’s Minister Development (DFID) does not have a bilateral programme for Economic Cooperation and Development, Dirk or any presence in Gabon. DFID does provide support Niebel; Ben Knapen the Development Minister of the however through multilateral partners working in Gabon Netherlands and Henri de Raincourt France’s Development such as the European Union, World Bank and United Minister, Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini and Nations. Swedish Development Minister Gunilla Carlsson. At DFID publishes the imputed UK share of multilateral the Tidewater conference in July I also addressed aid for each country that receives official development Development Ministers, which included Erik Solheim, assistance (ODA) in our annual report, which can be Norway’s Minister of the Environment and International found on the DFID Website: Development. www.dfid.gov.uk More recently, last Saturday at the meeting focusing The following shows the imputed UK share of multilateral on the Horn crisis at the UN General Assembly in New net ODA for Gabon: York, I addressed member states (including those from Europe) to stress the need for us all to do more; Argentina’s UK share (£000) Amado Boudoo, Australia’s Kevin Rudd and Wayne Sean, Brazil’s Guido Mantega, Canada’s Jim Flaherty, 2005 528 China’s Xie Xuren, India’s Pranab Mukherjee, Indonesia’s 2006 2,948 Agus Martowardojo, European Union’s Olli Rehn, France’s 2007 888 Francois Baroin, Germany’s Qolfgang Schaulbe and 2008 509 Dirk Niebal, Italy’s Giulio Tremonti, Japan’s Jun Azumi, 2009 1,286 Mexico’s Ernesto Cordero Arroyo, Russia’s Alexet Gabon: Imputed UK share of multilateral net ODA Leonidovich, Saudi Arabia’s Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf, 147W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 148W

South Africa’s Pravin Gordhan, South Korea’s Yoon Mr O’Brien: The Department for International Jeung-Hyun, Turkey’s Mehmet Simsek and the US’s Development’s (DFID’s) focus remains to improve the Hillary Clinton. health of the poor through support to governments and The Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and other organisations to deliver basic services and to the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth support the strengthening of health services to deal Affairs, have also had discussions with their counterparts more effectively with communicable and non-communicable from a range of countries on the Horn of Africa. diseases (NCDs). The UK is also the largest contributor to Global Libya: Armed Conflict Alliance of Vaccines and Immunisations (GAVI), and has already committed £2.3 billion. In June 2011, the Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for UK made a further pledge of an additional £163 million International Development what recent assessment he per year over the next five years. Since 2000, GAVI has has made of the work of the Stabilisation Unit on increased access to hepatitis B vaccination which prevents post-conflict stabilisation activity in Libya. [71706] chronic liver disease and cancer that can result from hepatitis B infection. GAVI has immunised 267 million Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Stabilisation Unit has played children against Hepatitis B and saved over 3,407,000 an important part in the British Government’s response lives as a result. DFID recently launched PRIME to post-conflict planning for Libya and the unit has (“PRogramme for Improving Mental Health CarE”) a underpinned the work of its three parent Departments—the new research programme which will focus on the Department for International Development; Foreign development, feasibility, acceptability and impact of and Commonwealth Office; and Ministry of Defence—in mental health care packages for priority mental disorders. cross-Whitehall planning for UK support to Libya’s stabilisation. Mr Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for The Stabilisation Unit co-ordinated the deployment International Development what his objectives are for of the International Stabilisation Response Team (ISRT) negotiations on the next round of European Development to Libya in May 2011 to identify and report on the Fund replenishment; and if he will make a statement. immediate challenges facing the Libyan people and [72527] suggest how the international community could respond. The ISRT reported its findings to Libyan leaders and Mr Duncan: The European Commission (EC) published the international community in June 2011 which has its Communication “A Budget for Europe 2020” on 29 helped inform their planning. June 2011. This included a proposed European Development Fund (EDF) of ¤30.321 billion for the The Stabilisation Unit has also been part of cross- period 2014 to 2020. Government teams working on stabilisation planning and has helped recruit necessary UK technical expertise Over the coming months, discussions on the EC’s including policing and civil society experts. proposals are due to begin. The future of the EDF will be negotiated alongside the EU Budget. The UK’s Overseas aid recent review of multilateral aid confirmed that the EDF was a high performer. In negotiating detailed Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for proposals, the UK will not accept changes to the structure International Development by what mechanism his or focus of the EDF which might prejudice its current Department ensures that UK aid reaches those who effectiveness. require it. [72753] Somalia: Armed Conflict Mr Andrew Mitchell: The UK Government have introduced a new ‘Aid Transparency Guarantee’ which Ms Harman: To ask the Secretary of State for will make our aid fully transparent to citizens in both International Development what recent discussions he the UK and recipient countries. Aid transparency is has had with his European counterparts on conflict in critical to improving aid effectiveness and value for Somalia. [71773] money, and reduces waste, fraud and corruption. The creation of a new independent aid watchdog to Mr Andrew Mitchell: Over recent months I have review the effectiveness of DFID programmes has been talked to a number of my European counterparts on set up. The Independent Commission for Aid Impact the situation in Somalia, including the impact of the will scrutinise exactly how our aid money is being spent. conflict on the drought. The Department for International Development (DFID) This has included discussions with Germany’s Minister has established a strong set of controls to manage risk for Economic Cooperation and Development, Dirk of misuse of funds. We protect our funds in three ways: Niebel; The Netherlands Minister for Development, by ensuing that the funds were paid to the intended Ben Knapen and France’s Development Minister, Henri recipient, that the funds have been used for the purposes de Raincourt. I have also met Andris Piebalgs and agreed, and that the use of the funds has been audited. Kristalina Georgieva, the European Union Commissioners for Development and Humanitarian Aid respectively, Overseas Aid and discussed Somalia with the Italian Foreign Minister, Franco Frattini and Swedish Development Minister : To ask the Secretary of State for Gunilla Carlsson. International Development what his policy is on the More recently, last Saturday at the meeting focusing provision of aid to tackle non-communicable diseases on the Horn crisis at the UN General Assembly in New in developing countries. [71963] York, I addressed member states (including those from 149W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 150W

Europe) to stress the need for us all to do more; Argentina’s September 2010. I welcomed Ms Shahinian to the UK Amado Boudoo, Australia’s Kevin Rudd and Wayne on the UN International Day for the Abolition of Sean, Brazil’s Guido Mantega, Canada’s Jim Flaherty, Slavery on 2 December last year. We remain a strong China’s Xie Xuren, India’s Pranab Mukherjee, Indonesia’s supporter of her work. The FCO will develop plans to Agus Martowardojo, European Union’s Olli Rehn, France’s mark this year’s UN International Day for the Abolition Francois Baroin, Germany’s Qolfgang Schaulbe and of Slavery closer to the time. Dirk Niebal, Italy’s Giulio Tremonti, Japan’s Jun Azumi, Mexico’s Ernesto Cordero Arroyo, Russia’s Alexet Armed Conflict Leonidovich, Saudi Arabia’s Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf, South Africa’s Pravin Gordhan, South Korea’s Yoon Mr Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Jeung-Hyun, Turkey’s Mehmet Simsek and the US’s and Commonwealth Affairs whether UK Government Hillary Clinton. personnel provided information on Libyan dissidents resident in the UK to the Libyan authorities between 2003 and 2010. [70637]

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE Alistair Burt: It is the policy of successive British Africa: Agriculture Governments not to comment on security and intelligence matters.

Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State Armed Forces: EU Internal Relations for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received of the number of white farming families Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign in (a) South Africa and (b) Zimbabwe believed to have and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is on UK been the subject of direct intimidation leading to their participation in EU structured cooperation in respect relocation in the last 12 months for which figures are of military matters. [72525] available. [72324] Mr Lidington: The UK has no plans to participate in Mr Bellingham: Although the number of illegal farm EU permanent structured co-operation. invasions in Zimbabwe has significantly decreased since its peak in the early 2000s, there has been an increase in Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign the frequency of reported intimidation of commercial and Commonwealth Affairs if he will estimate the level farmers in recent months. No precise figures are available. of the UK financial contribution to an EU military We continue to condemn the practice of farm invasions, operational headquarters; by what means such a which contravenes the South African Development contribution would be funded; and if he will assess the Community ruling of November 2008 and the terms of effectiveness of such potential expenditure. [72529] the Global Political Agreement and demonstrates a lack of respect for the rule of law. We have and will Mr Lidington: The UK will not contribute financially continue to raise this issue with all sides of the Government to a permanent EU military operational headquarters. of Zimbabwe. It does make its military headquarters at Northwood There are no reliable data on the number of South available for the conduct of EU operations, such as the African farmers who have relocated due to direct EU’s counter-piracy operation Atalanta. We see no intimidation. Tackling crime in all its manifestations is justification for creating a permanent EU military a high priority for the South African Government. operational headquarters. The establishment of a permanent Crimes committed against commercial farmers, who operational headquarters would be a duplication of play a vital role in the local economy providing food, proven existing capability provided by NATO, as well as security and employment, are a particular concern. EU member states, and would be an unnecessary use of resources. Anti-Slavery Day Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and Government Mr Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans his Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has to mark Anti-Slavery Day on 18 Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment October 2011. [72110] he has made of the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. [72792] Mr Jeremy Browne: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has no plans to mark Anti-Slavery Day Mr Lidington: The Government remain very concerned on 18 October 2011. This event is focused at national about the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina level and the Home Office are coordinating how the (BiH). It is now a full year since general elections were Government will mark the event. held and there is still not a new state-level Government In terms of international efforts on this important in place. Key reforms remain stalled, holding BiH back issue that blights the lives of the poorest and most from further progress towards EU and NATO accession. vulnerable in our society, the UK is a strong supporter HMG remains active, with its international partners, in of anti-slavery efforts. At the UN Human Rights Council effort to unlock reform progress and ensure compliance in September 2007, the UK set up the mandate of the with the Dayton Peace Agreement. In this context, Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Slavery, HMG welcomed the arrival in September of the new Ms Gulnara Shahinian. Her mandate was renewed by EU Special Representative, Peter Sorensen, marking consensus with an increased number of co-sponsors in the launch of a strengthened EU presence in BiH aimed 151W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 152W at accelerating the pace and quality of EU-related reform promoting cultural and religious tolerance and on and supporting BiH in its effort to move towards EU eliminating all legal provisions and policies which membership. discriminate against different religious communities. We continue to support a peaceful transition to a diverse, British Nationals Abroad non-discriminatory and democratic Egypt.

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Egypt: Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information he holds on the number of UK nationals living in each Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign foreign country. [72055] and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what reports he has received of the attack on the Israeli Embassy in Egypt Mr Jeremy Browne: We do not hold information on 9 September 2011; and if he will make a statement; about the numbers of UK nationals living in each [R] [72223] foreign country. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (2) what discussions he has had with the government has, in the past, sought to record this information but of Egypt about the protection of the Israeli Embassy in this practice was discontinued due to a lack of confidence Egypt; what response he received; and if he will make a in the accuracy of source information. statement. [R] [72231] Council of Europe Alistair Burt: The Israeli embassy in Egypt was attacked by protesters on the night of 9 September. The Prime Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Minister made the following statement on 10 September: and Commonwealth Affairs what the Government’s priorities are for the UK’s forthcoming chairmanship “I strongly condemn the attack on the Israeli embassy in Cairo. We have urged the Egyptian authorities to meet their of the Council of Europe; and if he will make a responsibilities under the Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic statement. [72245] property and personnel, including the Israeli embassy in Cairo. They have reassured us that they take these very seriously. Mr Lidington: Reform of the European Court of The Egyptian authorities have previously said that they will Human Rights will be the main priority of the UK uphold Egypt’s international agreements including its peace treaty Chairmanship of the Council of Europe, under an with Israel. We welcome this and look to Egypt to honour this overarching theme of protecting and promoting human commitment. We urge both countries to work together to resolve rights. Our full set of Chairmanship priorities will be current tensions and enhance regional stability”. published shortly before the beginning of the Chairmanship, as is the usual practice, and I will make a written Egypt: Politics and Government ministerial statement then. Mr Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State Departmental Air Travel for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make representations to the Egyptian authorities regarding John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign reports that it may restore emergency law. [72195] and Commonwealth Affairs (1) which travel management companies his Department uses for the Alistair Burt: The Supreme Council of the Armed purchase of airline tickets; [72690] Forces reinstated the full powers of the emergency law (2) what (a) contractual obligations and (b) other on 11 September. This has been presented as a response processes his Department uses in respect of travel to growing concerns about the security situation, including management companies to ensure the best value is violent protests against the Israeli embassy in Cairo. In achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72704] May 2010 amendments had been introduced to limit the application of the emergency law to terrorism and Mr Lidington: Hogg Robinson is used for the travel drugs crimes. requirements of all Foreign and Commonwealth Office The Prime Minister, my right hon. Friend the Member (FCO) staff based in the UK. They are charged with for Witney (Mr Cameron), and the Secretary of State obtaining the best fare on the day in line with the for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. traveller’s requirements and the Department’s Travel Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), Policy. In addition the FCO has negotiated fares with called on the Egyptian authorities to end the state of some airlines on designated major routes. These fares emergency during their visits to Egypt earlier this year. are available to our travel management company and We have urged the Egyptian authorities to replace the are used as a fare ceiling. emergency law with counter-terrorism legislation that is compliant with international standards on human rights Egypt: Anti-Semitism and fundamental freedoms, and we will continue to do so. Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has European Union on anti-Semitism in Egypt; and if he will make a statement. [R] [72219] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the Alistair Burt: The Government are committed to answer of 17 January 2011, Official Report, column fighting all forms of discrimination and intolerance, 565W, on European Union, what recent progress his including anti-Semitism. We have made clear to the Department has made in its review of the EU’s existing Egyptian Government the importance we place on competences. [71716] 153W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 154W

Mr Lidington: Under the coalition agreement we are Alistair Burt: I have had no discussions with my US committed to examining the existing balance of counterpart on this issue. competences and working to limit the application of the working time directive in the United Kingdom. We Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign police the existing limits of competence carefully; for and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has example, we have held firm to limit the EU’s exercise of had with the National Transitional Council in Libya on its external competences. compensation for those affected by IRA terrorism. On the working time directive, negotiations are expected [72167] to start later this month. Ministers have made it clear that the opt-out must remain workable and without Alistair Burt: The National Transitional Council’s burdensome constraints. (NTC) chairman Abdul Jalil and Prime Minister Jibril have assured us that they will work with the UK to Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for resolve bilateral issues arising from the wrongs of Qadhafi’s Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the regime. As the Prime Minister, my right hon. Friend the answer of 17 January 2011, Official Report, column Member for Witney (Mr Cameron), said in the House 565W, on European Union, what timetable he has set on 5 September, we are clear that compensation for for his Department’s work to review the EU’s existing those affected by IRA terrorism will be an important competences. [71717] bilateral issue between the United Kingdom and the new Libyan authorities. I have not yet had detailed Mr Lidington: Under the coalition agreement we are discussions with members of the NTC on this specific committed to examining the existing balance of issue, since we have to give the NTC time to establish a competences and working to limit the application of the new Libyan government. working time directive in the United Kingdom. The coalition programme for government is a programme Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign for a full term, not one year. I have been clear that my and Commonwealth Affairs what steps his Department priority was to deliver on the promise to make it a legal is taking to assist in the recovery of compensation from requirement to hold a referendum before any future Libya for those affected by terrorism. [72168] treaty change which transfers power or competence from the UK to the EU. That commitment was delivered Alistair Burt: As the Prime Minister, my right hon. in the European Union Act 2011. Friend the Member for Witney (Mr Cameron), told the hon. Member on 5 September, this will be an important bilateral issue between Britain and the new Libyan Israel: Politics and Government authorities.

Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for Pitcairn Islands: Sexual Offences Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has made to the Government of Meg Munn: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Israel on (a) Christians in the Holy Land and (b) and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he other issues for movement and access. [72531] has made of the adequacy of the measures in place to protect children on the Pitcairn Islands from convicted Alistair Burt: The Government places real importance sex offenders. [72432] on the right to freedom of religion for all. I visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories in July, Mr Bellingham: An independent review of child safety and raised the difficulties faced by Christians and in on Pitcairn was conducted in June by experts from the particular the impact of residency restrictions in Jerusalem. UK and New Zealand. The reviewers have concluded We remain deeply concerned about restrictions on that the child safeguarding structures and policies freedom of movement between the west bank and East introduced since the last review in 2009 are effective and Jerusalem. It remains difficult for Palestinians, including should remain in place. Christians, to enter East Jerusalem. Tunisia: Anti-Semitism Through our embassy in Tel Aviv and consulate general in Jerusalem, we have lobbied the appropriate authorities on the issue of movement and access. We Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign continue to work closely with the Quartet and EU and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has partners, and to call on Israel to ease restrictions on received of the looting of synagogues in Tunisia; and if access. he will make a statement. [R] [72224] The Minister of State, my noble Friend the right hon. Alistair Burt: We are aware of an incident in August Lord Howell of Guildford delivered a speech to the when a synagogue in Sfax was vandalised and items International Conference on Christians in the Holy stolen. Our embassy in Tunis are monitoring the security Land on 19 July 2011. situation closely and believe that this was an isolated incident and not part of a wider trend targeting the Libya: Terrorism Jewish community. We believe this incident is part of an increase in crime Mr Dodds: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign in Tunisia due to the Tunisian security services having and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has to deal with incidents of unrest and strike action across had with his US counterpart on receiving compensation the country, as well as tensions on the border with from Libya for those affected by IRA terrorism. [72166] Libya. However, the Tunisian authorities have taken a 155W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 156W strong stance against any acts of criminality and violence, Binyam Mohamed and we understand that the Tunisian security forces are taking steps to address these security challenges. Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice The Government are committed to fighting all forms what assessment he has made of the effect on the of discrimination and intolerance, including anti-Semitism. Detainee Inquiry of the Court of Appeal ruling on the We will continue to challenge racism and anti-Semitism disclosure of material in the case of Binyam and promote the human rights of all people across the Mohamed; and if he will make a statement. [70688] world. The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member Mr Kenneth Clarke: Serious allegations have been for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), has called upon made by Mr Mohamed and others about UK involvement other states to do the same. in the mistreatment or rendition of detainees held overseas by other countries. The Government have established the detainee inquiry, under the chairmanship of the right hon. Sir Peter Gibson, a retired former Court of JUSTICE Appeal judge, to examine these issues independently and thoroughly. Administrative Justice and Tribunals Council UK national security must be protected—including from the harm that could arise from the damaging public disclosure of sensitive information. However, the Mr Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice inquiry will have access to all HMG papers it requires when the Government proposes to lay before that are relevant to its examination. It will be for the Parliament the necessary administrative orders to detainee inquiry to choose what material is relevant to provide for the abolition of the Administrative Justice the issues it is examining. No non-sensitive material and Tribunals Council contemplated under the Public that the inquiry wishes to publish will be withheld from Bodies Bill; and what provision the Government are public disclosure. The Prime Minister has made clear making to ensure the full operational capability of the that he intends to publish the inquiry’s report with Council up to the date on which such orders are redactions only where necessary in order to avoid damage approved by Parliament. [72514] to the public interest. The Government have also undertaken to publish a formal response to any recommendations. Mr Djanogly: The public consultation on the proposals contained in the Public Bodies Bill will close on 11 Camp on Private Land October. If, after considering the responses, the Government confirm their intention to abolish the Administrative Miss McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice and Tribunals Council (AJTC), Ministers will Justice what plans he has to create a criminal offence of lay an order before Parliament in spring 2012. illegally occupying a camp on private land; and if he will make a statement. [72617] To ensure the operational capacity of the AJTC, the Department has re-appointed Council members where Mr Blunt: We have no plans to create a new offence of appropriate and will arrange for adequate funding to be illegally occupying a camp on private land, though we in place until closure. Ministers will keep the AJTC are consulting on options for dealing with squatters in under review until closure. buildings. Bill of Rights Commission: European Court of Human Children: Maintenance Rights Alok Sharma: To ask the Secretary of State for Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice Justice how many prosecutions for failure to make pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2011, Official Report, payments to the Child Support Agency resulted in (a) column 893W, on the Bill of Rights Commission: a custodial sentence, (b) disqualification from driving European Court of Human Rights, when he expects a and (c) any other conviction in the latest period for detailed breakdown of the precise costs of the visit to which figures are available. [71175] be available. [72242] Maria Miller: I have been asked to reply. Mr Kenneth Clarke: The chair of the Commission on The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission a Bill of Rights, seven commissioners and two members is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have of the Commission’s secretariat visited the European asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg in July. The the hon. Member with the information requested and I costs for the visit were as follows: have seen the response. Letter from Noel Shanahan: Cost (£) In reply to your recent Parliamentary Questions about the Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive Travel (Eurostar—Standard Class) 2,334 reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Travel (other) 312 Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance Hotel 1,870 and Enforcement Commission. Transport in Strasbourg 503 You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how T&S 340 many prosecutions for failure to make payments to the Child Total 5,359 Support Agency resulted in (a) a custodial sentence, (b) disqualification from driving and (c) any other conviction in LPFA. [71175] 157W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 158W

Failure to pay child maintenance is not a criminal offence, so parents can not be prosecuted. However, where a non-resident Financial year Cost (£ million) Number of calls parent fails to pay maintenance, there are a number of enforcement 2005-06 8.4 273,157 actions available. Money can be taken directly from a non-resident parent’s earnings if the non-resident parent is employed, money 2006-07 12.1 387,977 can be taken directly from a non-resident parent’s bank or 2007-08 16.7 411,954 account, or action can be taken to recover money 2008-09 19.1 566,085 through the courts. 2009-10 23.8 639,006 The most serious forms of enforcement are commitment to 2010-111 23.3 631,221 prison or disqualification from driving. The decision whether to Total 103.4 2,909,400 impose these and the length of any order made, is at the discretion 1 Figures for 2010-11 are currently unaudited. of a Magistrates’ Court (or Sheriff in Scotland) where they are satisfied that a non-resident parent has “wilfully refused or culpably neglected” to pay child maintenance—but these are not criminal Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for sanctions. Justice whether his Department plans to make the Child Support Agency: England Wales and Scotland civil enforcement Community Legal Advice Helpline the sole gateway to actions criminal legal aid services. [72252] Committals April 2010 to March 2011 Mr Djanogly: We do not have any current plans to Order to Pay only 65 make the Community Legal Advice Helpline the sole Suspended Committal sentences 1,010 gateway to criminal legal aid services. Committal Sentences 40 Suspended driving license 165 disqualification sentences Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Driving license disqualification 30 Justice whether the impact assessment for the sentences establishment of the Community Legal Advice Note: Helpline as the sole gateway to civil legal aid services An order to pay is where the Magistrate grants a custodial prison considered the cost implications to (a) service users sentence, suspended on condition that the NRP makes payment. and (b) welfare services providers of using 084 and 087 Committal information includes both actual and suspended prefix telephone numbers. [72253] committal sentences and driving licence disqualifications following non payment of child maintenance The total number of enforcement actions carried out by the Mr Djanogly: The Community Legal Advice Telephone Child Support Agency is routinely published on p23 of the Child Helpline uses a 0845 prefix number. The impact assessment Support Agency Quarterly Summary of Statistics (QSS) available identifies both monetised and non-monetised impacts in the House of Commons library and at the following link: on individuals, groups and businesses in the UK, including http://www.childmaintenance.org/en/publications/ both legal aid clients and legal services providers. Paragraph stats0611.html 14 of the impact assessment considered the issue of the I hope you find this answer helpful. cost of calling the helpline. Civil Disorder In addition, paragraph 22 of Annex D of the Government Response to the consultation on the Reform Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for of Legal Aid in England and Wales sets out the measures Justice what proportion of those charged with public in place to minimise the cost of contacting the service. disorder offences since 6 August 2011 are (a) in These include various call back facilities available such employment and (b) not in employment. [72542] as call operators and specialist advisers offering to call people back, a ’text for a call back’ service and an Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice published available online call back request service to request a call at a statistics on 15 September on people being dealt with by time and in a language of their choice. the court system in relation to the August disturbances. The impact assessment for the Advice Telephone A bulletin, titled ″Statistical bulletin on the public disorder Helpline can be found at: of 6th to 9th August 2011″ can be found by following http://www.justice.gov.uk/downloads/consultations/annex-d- the link: telephone-advice.pdf http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ criminal-justice/public-disorder-august-11.htm Crime Information on the current employment status of those charged with public disorder offences since 6 August 2011 is not collected centrally on Ministry of Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice administrative data systems. Justice what assessment he has made of the potential effects on crime rates of the reduction in funding for Community Legal Advice: Telephone Services the Magistrates’ Mock Trial competition. [71034] Simon Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Djanogly: The Magistrates’ Mock Trial Competition Justice how much his Department spent on the Community is organised by the Citizenship Foundation. Although Legal Advice telephone service in each year since 2004; the level of Government funding has reduced as a and how many calls the service received in each such consequence of reduced departmental budgets, the year. [72250] competition continues to run. Mr Djanogly: The cost of and number of calls to the This year HMCTS is making a grant of £25,000. In Community Legal Advice Helpline, established in July addition it is opening courtrooms at weekends and in 2004, is provided in the table as follows. the evenings and giving staff time. To ensure the 159W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 160W continuation of the scheme, HMCTS is assisting the The CSA role was established in MOJ in August Citizenship Foundation in identifying alternative funding 2008. streams. We do not have a policy of requiring agencies, non- HMCTS has not made an assessment of the potential departmental public bodies or contractors to have a effects of the reduction in funding on crime rates nor written code of practice or protocol relating to the would it be possible to do so. provision, conduct and quality assurance of scientific evidence and advice. Other arrangements are in place to Departmental Air Travel seek this outcome. Civil service staff in agencies and non-departmental John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice public bodies would be expected to adhere to the Civil (1) which travel management companies his Department Service Code. The code requires them to demonstrate uses for the purchase of airline tickets; [72694] integrity (putting the obligations of public service above personal interests), objectivity (basing advice and decisions (2) what (a) contractual obligations and (b) other on rigorous analysis of the evidence) and impartiality processes his Department uses in respect of travel (acting solely according to the merits of the case). We management companies to ensure the best value is would expect this to lead to independent and robust achieved when purchasing airline tickets. [72708] advice to Ministers and policy makers. Where Government Analysts are in place, the various analytical professions’ Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice uses Carlson Wagonlit codes would similarly require the provision of objective, Travel (CWT) to manage its air travel requirements robust and impartial advice delivered to high professional under contract that expires in May 2012. standards. This would often include external peer review CWT are contracted to access the best and most of products to ensure their robustness and quality. appropriate deals. They provide quarterly data comparing In relation to contractors for analytical services, our the deals achieved relative to market trends. standard terms and conditions require them to perform the services with reasonable care and diligence. This Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers would include, but not be limited to, applying industry best practice, in accordance with their own established Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for internal procedures and their compliance with any Justice (1) what the resource budget allocation was for appropriate code of practices on ethical standards. the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in Departmental Compensation each of the last five years for which figures are available; [72487] Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for (2) what the salary, including benefits, was of his Justice how many compensation claims were received Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last by the Prison Service from (a) prisoners, (b) prison five years for which figures are available; and how many staff and (c) visitors in each of the last three years; individuals have held the post in the last five years; how many of these cases were defended by the Prison [72488] Service; and how many cases the Prison Service settled (3) how many full-time equivalent staff were out of court. [71569] employed in the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which Mr Blunt: Civil litigation can take several years to figures are available; and on what date the office was resolve and the number of claims completed in any established; [72489] given period may not be the same as those received (4) what his policy is on requiring his Department’s within the same time frame. Therefore, a full answer to (a) agencies and non-departmental public bodies and the question could be obtained by interrogating hundreds (b) contractors to have a written code of practice or of individual cases files and only at disproportionate protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality costs. assurance of scientific evidence and advice. [72490] Departmental Legal Opinion Mr Blunt: In the Ministry of Justice, the Department’s Director of Analysis also carries out the Department’s Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for chief scientific adviser role. Therefore there is no separate Justice what the average hourly rate paid was to external resource budget allocation for the office of chief scientific (a) solicitors and (b) barristers engaged by his Department adviser in the Ministry of Justice. in 2010-11; what guidance his Department uses in commissioning external legal advice; and if he will The Ministry of Justice was created in 2007. Our first publish (i) the names of each external (A) solicitor and Director of Analysis was appointed in August 2008 and (B) barrister engaged by his Department in 2010-11 and remains in post. Details of her salary have been made (ii) the sums paid in each case. [72572] available under the data transparency agenda on the MOJ website. It is between £85,000 and £89,999 per Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice spent circa annum. £12.9 million in the year 2010-11 on external solicitors The Director of Analysis draws on staff within the and barristers. A breakdown of the average hourly rates Analytical Services Directorate and beyond as required and sums paid in each case as requested cannot be to fulfil her remit. We do not hold information on the provided as this information is not held centrally or proportion of time spent on the chief scientific adviser’s recorded in a manner that is easily retrievable to provide duties within the Ministry of Justice. Therefore we have a full reply, it could be obtained only by manually no estimate of the full-time equivalent staff. sifting through files and invoices at a disproportionate 161W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 162W cost. However in accordance with HM Treasury http://www.tsol.gov.uk/PanelCounsel/ requirements all spend transactions over £25,000 are appointments_to_panel.htm published on the Ministry of Justice website: http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/transparency-data/ Departmental Manpower spend-over-25000.htm MOJ has established a departmental-wide gateway Mr Crausby: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice process for authorising spend on external legal services. how many staff were employed in his Department’s Business units wishing to purchase legal services of any Ministerial Correspondence Unit in each of the last value from suppliers other than the Treasury Solicitor five years. [72416] or Counsel must first inform Legal Directorate who will ascertain whether the matter can be dealt with in-house, Mr Djanogly: The number of posts in the Ministry of or by the Treasury Solicitor’s Department. Legal Directorate Justice’s Ministerial Correspondence Unit was as follows: assist the business area in deciding which external firms should be invited to tender from the list of accredited Financial year ending 31 March Number suppliers under Legal Services Framework Agreements available on the Buying Solutions website for the 2007 10 Government Procurement Services: 2008 17 www.buyingsolutions.gov.uk 2009 17 Government have negotiated fee rates with each of 2010 15 these firms which may be open to further discussion as 2011 15 part of contract negotiations. Barristers are instructed through Legal Directorate Deportation: Offenders from the Attorney-General’s Panel of Counsel. A full list is available on the Treasury Solicitors website: Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice www.tsol.gov.uk/attorney_generals_panel_of_counsel.htm pursuant to the answer of 13 September 2011, Official London Panel Rates Report, columns 1131-2W, on deportation: offenders, A Panel: £120 per hour (1) how many foreign national offenders were subject to Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) B Panel: £100 per hour in each of the last five years; and how many foreign C Panel: £60 or £80 per hour for under or over five years call national offenders have become subject to MAPPA in respectively. each of the last five years; [72367] First Treasury Counsel advise on, and represent Government in, particularly complex and sensitive matters at an hourly rate of (2) how many foreign national offenders subject to £220. Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) Regional Panel Rates have (a) reoffended and (b) breached the terms of their MAPPA in each of the last five years. [72368] 10 years’ or more experience: £110 per hour Over five years’ experience but under 10: £90 Mr Blunt: Information on the nationality of offenders Under five years’ experience £60 subject to Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements QC rates are negotiated with the clerk and usually range from (MAPPA) is collected by the local criminal justice agencies between £180 and £250 per hour. that constitute the MAPPA Responsible Authority and is used in developing plans for managing the risks posed Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for by offenders in the community. This information is not Justice whether, on average, private legal firms contracted available centrally in the National Offender Management to provide legal services to his Department were paid Service and would have to be obtained from the records more than such firms contracted to provide comparable of local Probation Trusts and local police forces. This services for the Legal Services Commission in the latest could be done only at disproportionate cost. period for which figures are available. [72757] The UK Border Agency cannot provide the information requested about the number of foreign national offenders Mr Djanogly: It is not possible to make proper who were, or have become subject to, MAPPA in the comparisons between the costs of legal services provided past five years, because the date a foreign national to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and those to the Legal offender becomes managed under MAPPA is not recorded Services Commission (LSC). The MOJ as a Government on the agency’s case management database. Nor can the Department is able to use agreed panel rates with the agency provide information about the number of foreign Treasury Solicitor, rates which are open to all Government national offenders subject to MAPPA who have reoffended Departments. The LSC, as a non-departmental body, or been in breach in the past five years, because the only cannot use the same framework to procure its advice. way to obtain this information would be via a manual However, the LSC does use the Office for Government search. This could be done only at disproportionate Commerce procurement framework which represents cost. negotiated hourly rates available to non-departmental bodies when obtaining legal services, without having to revert to negotiations with the private market. Both the Driving Offences: Speed Limits Treasury Solicitor panel rates and the rates from the procurement framework are designed to deliver value Grahame M. Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for money, as both provide for rates lower than private for Justice what his policy is on people with 12 points market rates for similar services. Treasury Solicitor panel on their driving licence being given exemptions from a rates are available at the following website: driving ban; and if he will make a statement. [72096] 163W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 164W

Mr Blunt: Under the Road Traffic Offenders Act Mr Blunt: There have been no prosecutions under the 1988, section 35, disqualification for a minimum of six Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 reported to the months must be ordered if an offender incurs 12 penalty Ministry of Justice for England and Wales, since its points or more within a three-year period. The minimum introduction in March 2004, up to the end of 2010 period may be automatically increased if the offender (latest available). has been disqualified within the preceding three years. The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 is intended The period of a totting up disqualification can be to help prevent this unacceptable practice from happening reduced or avoided for exceptional hardship or other in the first place. Research suggests that a number of mitigating circumstances at the court’s discretion. barriers to prosecution, including pressure from the family or wider community, lead to cases going unreported. Drugs: Prisons Following a public consultation, multi-agency practice guidelines on handling cases of female genital mutilation Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice were published by the Home Office in March; and the what steps he is taking to reduce the use of drugs and CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) published guidance alcohol in prisons. [72579] for prosecutors on 7 September 2011. Mr Blunt: The Government are committed to tackling Court proceedings data for 2011 are planned for the supply of illegal drugs and alcohol within prisons publication in the spring of 2012. and rehabilitating prisoners from drug and alcohol Fly-Tipping: North West dependency to drug-free lives. As set out in our response to the Green Paper ‘Breaking Eric Ollerenshaw: To ask the Secretary of State for the Cycle’, we are increasing security measures in prison Justice how many (a) prosecutions and (b) convictions to reduce the supply of drugs and alcohol. there were for fly-tipping in each local authority area in We are also piloting Drug Recovery Wings to provide the North West in each of the last five years. [72789] short sentenced, drug dependent prisoners with continuity of treatment between prison and the community and Mr Blunt: The number of defendants proceeded against working with health services to move to a treatment at magistrates courts and found guilty at all courts for system focused on recovery which does not maintain fly-tipping offences in the North West region from 2006 heroin users on prescription alternatives such as methadone, to 2010 (latest available) is given in Table 1 as follows. unless absolutely necessary. A penalty notice for disorder (PND) may be issued The current measure of drug prevalence in prisons is for offences of depositing and leaving litter. Information the random mandatory drug testing (rMDT) programme. on the number of PNDs issued for these offences in the In 2010-11 the positive rate for rMDT was 7.1%. North West Region from 2006 to 2010 is given in Table 2. Female Genital Mutilation: Prosecutions Centrally held court proceedings and PND data are not available at local authority area level. Data are Meg Munn: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice given in the table for the North West region broken how many prosecutions there have been under the down by police force area. provisions of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003; Court proceedings and PND data for 2011 are planned and if he will make a statement. [72229] for publication in the spring 2012.

Table 1: Number of defendants proceeded against at magistrates courts and found guilty at all courts for fly-tipping offences1, by police force area, North West region, 2006-102, 3 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Proceeded Found Proceeded Found Proceeded Found Proceeded Found Proceeded Found North West region against guilty against guilty against guilty against guilty against guilty

Cheshire police 16 11 16 14 34 27 23 17 11 9 force area Cumbria police 6 5 9 9 16 16 14 11 7 2 force area Greater Manchester 164 106 209 153 127 98 57 47 87 75 police force area Lancashire police 56 40 102 60 81 59 75 57 51 39 force area Merseyside police 13 12 30 27 46 39 40 21 44 30 force area

Total 255 174 366 263 304 239 209 153 200 155

1 Includes offences under the following statutes: Environmental Protection Act 1990, s.33(6)(8)(9), 34 and 59; Control of Pollution Act (Amendment) Act 1989, s.1; Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978. 2 The figures given in the table on court proceedings relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. 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 fortwoor 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. Source: Justice Statistics Analytical Services—Ministry of Justice. 165W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 166W

Table 2: Number of penalty notices for disorder issued to persons aged or a statement as cited by my hon. Friend under 16 and over for offences of depositing and leaving litter, by police force 1 section 19(l)(b) that a statement of compatibility cannot area, North West region, 2006-10 be made. North West region 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Since this requirement came into force on 24 November 1998, only one Government Bill has, on its first introduction Cheshire police 84131 force area into Parliament, carried a statement under section 19(l)(b): the Communications Bill, which was introduced on 19 Cumbria police — 18 9 13 7 force area November 2002. On that occasion, the right hon. Member Greater 18 43 50 61 51 for Dulwich and West Norwood () made a Manchester statement as the Minister in charge of the Bill that, police force area because of clause 309 of the Bill, she was unable to Lancashire police 61 33 39 19 12 make a statement of compatibility with the Convention force area rights. Clause 309, which was ultimately enacted as Merseyside 134 96 97 111 138 section 321 of the Communications Act 2003, perpetuated police force area the ban on political advertising and sponsorship in the Total 221 194 196 207 209 broadcast media. The contemporary report of the Joint 1 Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate Committee on Human Rights on the Bill (“Scrutiny of and complete. However, it is important to note that these data have Bills: Further Progress Report”, Fourth Report of Session been extracted from large administrative data systems generated by the police forces. As a consequence, care should be taken to ensure 2002-03, HC Paper 50) discussed further the basis for data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken this statement. into account when those data are used. In addition, Ministers have made a statement under Human Rights section 19(l)(b) in respect of two Government Bills brought from the House of Lords, the provisions in Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State respect of which the statements were made having been for Justice in how many cases of alleged overseas introduced by amendments in the Other Place. Upon human rights abuses UK multinational companies the introduction of the Local Government Bill into this were granted (a) conditional fee agreements and (b) House on 13 March 2000, the Minister in charge of the legal aid prior to the enactment of the Access to Justice Bill, the former right hon. Member for Kingston upon Act 1999. [72506] Hull East (John Prescott), made a statement under section 19(l)(b); this was in light of the amendment Mr Djanogly: Claims can be brought in England and agreed by the House of Lords to prevent the repeal of Wales alleging corporate harm in foreign jurisdictions. section 2A of the Local Government Act 1986 (as These are claims for damages in tort or contract rather inserted by section 28 of the Local Government Act than claims under the Human Rights Act or European 1988), which required local authorities not intentionally convention on human rights. A number of such cases to promote .Similarly, upon the introduction have been brought, but we do not hold a breakdown of into this House of the Civil Partnership Bill on 5 July their funding as between conditional fee agreements 2004, the former right hon. Member for Leicester West and legal aid. We understand that most of these cases () made a statement under section 19(l)(b) concern claims for personal injury, which has been as result of amendments made by their Lordships that outside the scope of legal aid since April 2000 unless would have permitted family members to register as they are brought as part of a multi-party action with civil partners. wider public interest. In both of these cases, the Bill in question bore a The LSC cannot provide full information on the statement of compatibility under section 19(l)(a) upon number of actions granted funding prior to the Access its first introduction into Parliament; and in both cases, to Justice Act as full records are not retained. the provisions in respect of which the statements under section 19(l)(b) were made no longer formed part of the Human Rights Act 1988 Bills when they were enacted as the Local Government Act 2000 and the Civil Partnership Act 2004 respectively. Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice on which dates since the entry into force of section 19 of the Human Rights Act 1998 a Minister of the Crown in charge of a Bill in the House of Legal Aid Scheme Commons has made a Statement under that section to the effect that, although he is unable to make a Statement of compatibility regarding the provisions of Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Bill, the Government nevertheless wishes the House Justice whether he plans to pay state-funded external to proceed with the Bill; what each Bill that was the legal services at the same rate as solicitors funded by subject of the Statement was; which provision or legal aid in the same dispute. [72159] provisions of each such Bill caused the Minister to be unable to make a Statement of compatibility; and whether each such provision was, or those provisions Mr Djanogly: The state does not qualify for legal aid, were, enacted. [72352] and as such it cannot procure its own legal services at legal aid rates. If external legal services are engaged by Mr Kenneth Clarke: The Minister in charge of a Bill the Ministry of Justice, the Department uses agreed must, upon its introduction into each House of Parliament, rates through The Treasury Solicitor which are applicable make a statement of compatibility under section 19(l)(a), to all Government Departments. 167W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 168W

Mr Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for Magistrates’ Mock Trial Competition Justice if he will place in the Library a copy of the response from the Financial Inclusion Taskforce to his Mrs Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for consultation on the reform of legal aid. [72334] Justice what estimate he has made of the potential savings to the public purse of the reduction in funding Mr Djanogly: The response has been placed in the for the Magistrates’ Mock Trial competition. [71035] House Library. Mr Djanogly: Since 2008-09 total Government funding Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for for the Magistrates’ Mock Trial competition has amounted Justice what steps he is taking to reduce the costs to £180,000. The level of the grant has reduced over this incurred by his Department on state-funded defendants period due to the need to focus on the delivery of instructing private firms of solicitors and barristers. front-line business. This year HMCTS is making a [72158] grant of £25,000. Mr Djanogly: State-funded defendants cannot instruct Miscarriages of Justice: Simon Hall lawyers on a private basis as lawyers are paid through legal aid. However, acquitted individuals (defendants) Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice in criminal cases who instruct lawyers privately are what recent representations he has received in support currently eligible to receive their defence costs at private of allegations of a miscarriage of justice in the case of rates. These rates are substantially higher than legal aid Mr Simon Hall. [71881] rates. These costs are borne by the central funds budget for which the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State Mr Blunt: On 9 September 2011, the Ministry of for Justice, my right hon. and learned Friend the Member Justice received an eight-page file from Mr Hall outlining for Rushcliffe (Mr Clarke), is responsible. The central the circumstances of his conviction and claiming that funds budget has increased from £45 million in 2004-05 he had suffered a miscarriage of justice. to £94 million in 2010-11. The Criminal Cases Review Commission has assumed The Secretary of State for Justice is taking steps to responsibility for investigating alleged miscarriages of reduce central funds expenditure. The provisions of criminal justice and referring them to the relevant appeal clause 52 and Schedule 6 to the Legal Aid, Sentencing court, where appropriate. The Criminal Appeal Act and Punishment of Offenders Bill, currently before 1995 gave the Commission full powers to direct and Parliament, provide that: (i) acquitted individuals in the supervise investigations, approve the appointment of magistrates court who pay privately will remain eligible officers to carry out investigations on its behalf, and to to receive their private defence costs but these costs will gain access to documents and other relevant materials. be capped at legal aid rates or thereabouts; (ii) acquitted As the Commission is an independent body it would be individuals in the Crown court will not be eligible to inappropriate for Ministers to seek to influence its receive their private defence costs because legal aid is consideration of applications. It is open to Mr Hall to available to all individuals in the Crown court. consider making an application to the Commission for These provisions are, subject to receiving Royal Assent a review of his case. in their current form, expected to lead to savings of up Offenders to £50 million per year in steady state by reducing the amount paid to acquitted individuals who instruct lawyers privately. : To ask the Secretary of State for Justice whether he plans to publish all submissions to the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill consultation on the Green Paper entitled Breaking the Cycle: Effective Punishment, rehabilitation and Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State Sentencing of Offenders. [67969] for Justice what assessment he has made of the likely effects of the implementation of the provisions of the Mr Blunt: The Government intend to publish a summary Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders of the responses to the Green Paper Breaking the Cycle Bill which (a) remove recoverability of after-the-event in the near future. (b) insurance, introduce damages-based agreements, Offensive Weapons (c) introduce qualified one-way cost shifting, (d) increase general damages by 10%, and (e) remove success fees on the number of cases involving alleged overseas human Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for rights abuses by UK multinational companies in which Justice how many people have been convicted of victims are able to access legal redress. [72434] possession of a bladed article where the bladed article has been used to threaten or cause fear in each of the Mr Djanogly: The impact assessments published last three years; and what the average length of alongside the Government consultation and response sentence was. [72537] on implementation of Lord Justice Jackson’s recommendations set out the impact of the reforms on Mr Blunt: It is not possible to separately identify claimants. The Government are aware of concerns about those specific cases where the defendant was convicted the impact of the reforms on claimants alleging overseas for using a bladed article to threaten or cause fear. human rights abuses by UK multinational companies, Data held centrally on the Ministry of Justice Court however, we are not persuaded that there is anything Proceedings Database does not include information fundamentally different about these types of case which about the circumstances behind each case, other than would warrant an exemption from our proposals. that which may be identified from a statute. 169W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 170W

Prisons: Catering Re-offending rate As at Quarter 1: Number of offenders (percentage) David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will consider allowing prisons to bid to 2000 912 75.7 1 1 provide their own catering services. [67613] 2001 — — 2002 959 72.9 Mr Blunt: All providers of custodial services are free 2003 786 73.8 to provide catering themselves, or to choose the provider 2004 815 76.4 of their catering services from an approved list of framework 2005 844 73.1 suppliers. When a change to the current catering service 2006 817 77.0 provision is requested, a formal mini tender competition 2007 778 75.3 is carried out. 2008 816 74.3 2009 765 71.9 Prisons: Private Sector 1 Data are not available for 2001 due to a problem with archived data on court orders. Note: Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for More information on the re-offending rates is available from the Justice what his policy is on the maximum profit Ministry of Justice website: margin allowed to private companies which take over http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ reoffending/juveniles.htm running of prisons. [70271] Youth Offending Teams: Redundancies Mr Blunt: Our objective in using competition for the running of prisons is to deliver more effective outcomes and to achieve better value for money for the taxpayer. Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice The competition process is open to providers from the whether there have been any redundancies from youth public, private or voluntary and community sectors. As offending teams in (a) London and (b) Newham since with previous prison competitions, the profit margins 2010. [71346] achievable by private companies will be balanced against the need to ensure that their bids are sufficiently competitive. Mr Blunt: The Ministry of Justice are not able to give figures on redundancies from Youth Offending Teams (YOTs) as the data are not collated centrally. Probation YOTs are a partnership made up of representatives from the police, probation service, children’s services, Mr Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice health, education, drugs and alcohol misuse and housing what discussions he has had with the National officers. YOT staff are employed by the relevant local Association of Probation Officers with regard to the authority and as such are not employees of the Ministry competitive tender in the Probation Service. [71987] of Justice or the Youth Justice Board. Mr Blunt: The National Offender Management Service (NOMS) has consulted NAPO regarding the current competition to deliver Community Payback in London. CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT This competition is the only competition currently being run for community offender service. As part of the review of probation, announced by the Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, my Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport on what dates he right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Rushcliffe has met Andy Coulson since his appointment. [72746] (Mr Clarke), on 13 July 2011, NOMS is currently developing wider proposals on the use of competition Mr Jeremy Hunt: I refer the hon. Member for Bury in community offender services and the best model for South to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for delivering them. We will set out our proposals on probation Bassetlaw (John Mann) on 7 September 2011, Official reform in the autumn, at which point we will engage Report, column 615-16W. with wider stakeholders. Anti-Slavery Day

Young Offenders: Re-offenders Justin Tomlinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans his Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Department has to mark Anti-Slavery Day in 2011. Justice what proportion of young offenders leaving [72020] young offender institutions reoffend. [72076] John Penrose: The Government are fully committed Mr Blunt: The table shows the one year re-offending to combating human trafficking by tackling organised rates for juvenile offenders (aged 10 to 17) discharged crime groups and protecting the victims of this modern from custody (YoungOffender Institutions, Secure Training day slavery. Centres or Secure Children’s Homes) in the first quarter We published a strategy on human trafficking on of each year since 2000. 19 July, which reiterates the UK’s intention to take a A re-offence is defined as any offence committed in comprehensive approach to combating trafficking—both the one-year follow up period proven by a court conviction by focusing on tackling traffickers and maintaining or an out-of-court disposal. effective care for victims. 171W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 172W

The strategy also sets out our commitment to raising Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for awareness of trafficking among the public and the Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what representations private sector. The Government recognise the importance he has received from small businesses on the provision of Anti-Slavery Day as an opportunity to improve of high speed broadband. [72634] understanding and increase vigilance in our communities. Accordingly, we are planning to mark Anti-Slavery Day Mr Jeremy Hunt: I receive a significant amount of with a range of events including the launch of a training correspondence from all sizes of businesses and from and referral process for the airline industry with a major business representative organisations regarding availability UK airline. of high speed broadband. However, DCMS has no plans to mark Anti-Slavery day itself. Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Arts Olympics, Media and Sport what regulatory changes his Department proposes in respect of the roll-out of super-fast broadband in areas not served by the market. Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for [72667] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what responsibility (a) his Department and (b) Arts Council England has for the development of Government policy on the arts Mr Vaizey: The Government are committed to helping and culture. [72752] increase investment in broadband networks, partly by removing legislative or regulatory barriers. For example, Mr Jeremy Hunt: I am responsible for Government we are committed to consulting on the deployment of policy on the arts and culture; Arts Council England is new overhead lines which have the potential to reduce responsible for implementing that policy, as set out in the cost of deploying new infrastructure in some hard its Royal Charter. to reach areas.

Botulinum Toxin Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport for what reasons Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, the date for provision of universal broadband has Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he plans to take changed. [72799] in relation to the advertising of botulinum toxin. [72524] Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Government have announced more ambitious targets, to be delivered in a more realistic Mr Vaizey: None. Controls on the advertising of time frame and with more funding available, compared medicines, medical devices, treatments, health-related with the approach taken by the last Government. products and beauty products, such as Botulinum toxin, are the responsibility of the independent regulators, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) and the Medicines Broadband: Scotland and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine which cannot be advertised to the public under the current Advertising Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Codes administered by the ASA. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he has had with Ministers in the Scottish Broadband Government on the allocation of funds for the rollout of superfast broadband in Scotland. [72162] Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans his Department Mr Vaizey: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I has for private sector involvement in the creation of a gave to the hon. Member for Kilmarnock and Loudoun world-class broadband network. [72624] on 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 543W.

Mr Vaizey: The Government aim to stimulate private Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for investment and delivery of superfast broadband to 90% Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent of all premises and 2Mbps for virtually all communities assessment his Department has made of the speed of by 2015. Delivery will be led by the private sector, with the rollout of superfast broadband in (a) Scotland and public funding being made available to make the necessary (b) other parts of the UK. [72230] investment cost-effective to industry in areas where this is required. Mr Vaizey: The Government are supporting the Scottish Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Government to deliver superfast broadband to 90% of Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how the UK high all premises in Scotland and standard broadband to speed broadband balanced scorecard is being created; virtually all communities by 2015. and when it will be published. [72632] With regard to the rest of the UK, the Government announced in the summer the indicative funding allocations Mr Jeremy Hunt: My Department is discussing with for local authority areas in England and for the devolved Ofcom the appropriate indicators to use and the timing Administrations to support delivery of the objective for of the publication of the Best In Europe Scorecard and 90% of the UK population to have access to a superfast I will make an announcement in due course following broadband connection and for universal access to a those discussions. service of at least 2 Mbps by 2015. 173W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 174W

Five pilot projects are currently undertaking procurement, John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media including the project in the Highlands and Islands of and Sport had one chief scientific adviser in the last five Scotland, and a further four projects are ready to commence years, who was employed until 13 September 2010. She procurement. Other areas of the country are making was a member of the Department’s board until her last good progress with their plans. day of service and, as such, her remuneration details were published in the Department’s Annual Accounts. Creative Industries Council This can be accessed on our website: http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8309.aspx Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for (page 72). Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what issues the Creative Industries Council will address. [72749] Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Creative Industries Council Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many will look at a wide range of issues relevant to economic full-time equivalent staff were employed in the office of growth in this sector as identified by the Industry his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the membership. This includes, but is not limited to, the last five years for which figures are available; and on issues of skills and access to finance. what date the office was established. [72457]

Departmental Aviation John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport does not currently have, nor has it had during John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for this period, a formal office to support the chief scientific Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport which travel officer. Support has been received from a civil service management companies his Department uses for the equivalent grade of 7 and a senior executive officer in purchase of airline tickets. [72684] the order of 1.05 full-time equivalent (three days a month). John Penrose: The Department uses Capita Business Travel. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what his policy is John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, on requiring his Department’s (a) agencies and Olympics, Media and Sport what (a) contractual non-departmental public bodies and (b) contractors to obligations and (b) other processes his Department have a written code of practice or protocol relating to uses in respect of travel management companies to the provision, conduct and quality assurance of ensure the best value is achieved when purchasing airline scientific evidence and advice. [72458] tickets. [72698] John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media John Penrose: The information is as follows: and Sport does not have a specific written code of (a) Capita Business Travel were procured via a Buying practice relating to its agency and arm’s length bodies Solutions (now Government Procurement Service—GPS) scientific evidence and advice provision, conduct and framework Agreement, and it is this framework that set quality assurance. When using contractors for research, the contractual obligations (b) travellers are asked to our policy is to ask them to adhere to the standard book as far in advance as possible to get better rates. guidelines and principles on conducting social research. Also as this is a government wide contract, the travel This includes the Social Research Association ethical company has to ensure that it is delivering the best guidelines as well as the principles developed and made pricing/value and these are being continually benchmarked available by Government Social Research. by category managers at GPS.

Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers Departmental Legal Opinion

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the resource Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the average budget allocation was for the office of his Department’s hourly rate paid was to external (a) solicitors and (b) chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for barristers engaged by his Department in 2010-11; what which figures are available. [72455] guidance his Department uses in commissioning external legal advice; and if he will publish (i) the John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media names of each external (A) solicitor and (B) barrister and Sport does not have a formal resource budget engaged by his Department in 2010-11 and (ii) the allocation for a chief scientific adviser and has not had sums paid in each case. [72564] a specific resource budget allocation over the last five years. The resource budget allocation which covers their work is the wider DCMS research budget. John Penrose: The Department does not hold the information in the consolidated format you have requested. Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for To provide it would incur disproportionate costs; but Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the salary, we can provide total costs paid to external solicitors including benefits, was of his Department’s chief and barristers, which can be found in the table. scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which The Department commissions external legal advice figures are available; and how many individuals have on the basis of advice provided by a team of lawyers held the post in the last five years. [72456] from the Treasury Solicitor’s Department (TSol). 175W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 176W

Counsel is usually selected from a set of panels filled Mr Jeremy Hunt: My Department, along with the by competition and with agreed panel rates. Details of Department for Education, will set out our plans for Counsel who are currently on the Treasury Solicitor’s cultural education later in the year in response to Darren (civil) panels are available from the TSol website at: Henley’s review into this area. www.tsol.gov.uk/attorney_generals_panel_of_counsel.htm FIFA In circumstances where Counsel is selected off-panel (for example, where leading Counsel is required), Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for nominations are sought from the Attorney-General. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions Fees in these cases are individually set but the nomination he has had with his international counterparts on the process ensures that higher charging Counsel are unlikely reform of FIFA. [72748] to be retained unless a very cogent business case can be made. Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Minister for Sport met his External firms of solicitors are chosen from panels of European counterparts in February in Budapest and competitively selected firms on the basis of their ability then on 6 September in Gdansk to discuss issues of to provide high quality, value for money legal services. governance, match-fixing and integrity. On each occasion The Government have negotiated fee rates with each of he reiterated our view that international federations, these firms. such as FIFA, should reform themselves quickly and The names of the external solicitors and barristers effectively. The Minister for Sport is a member of the engaged by the Department in 2010-11, and the sums International Olympics Committee President’s High paid in each case, can be found in the following table. level Working Group on Corruption in Sport. These costs are taken from the departmental legal costs budget. Government Art Collection

(A) Firm (B) Barrister Total (£)1 Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what his policy is Field Fisher 8,001.11 Waterhouse on making the Government Art Collection available [72631] Charles Russell 12,634.78 for public display. Jeremy Johnson (5 Essex 729.75 Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Government Art Collection Street) (GAC) regularly lends works of art to temporary public Marie Dementriou 4,025.25 exhibitions all over the country. Current and future James Eadie QC 2,326.50 exhibitions which include loans from the GAC are Withers 10,476.59 taking/will take place in Birmingham, Brighton, Carlisle, Michael Furness QC 6,227.51 Chichester, Compton Verney, Durham, Edinburgh, Charles Harpurn 3,840.00 Penzance and Stratford-on-Avon. Daniel Beard 8,349.75 In 2011-13 the GAC is holding a series of 5 displays at the Whitechapel Art Gallery in London which will Ben Hooper 1,370.00 include nearly 200 GAC works of art. These will tour as Linklaters 1,062,616.90 a single unit to Birmingham 16 November 2012 to Mr Gerard Clarke 634.50 24 February 2013 and Belfast 15 March to 9 June 2013. DLA Piper 48,298.93 Additionally, the vast majority of the GAC’s holdings 1 Including VAT. Note: All the figures listed are inclusive of any are accessible online via its website. All the GAC’s disbursements incurred, such as travelling costs. paintings (up to the end of 2007) are included in the In the case of barristers, the above figures do not Public Catalogue Foundation’s volume on the GAC represent the personal earnings of the individuals during (2008) and on the BBC/Public Catalogue Foundation’s 2010-11. A percentage of their fees are also paid towards “YourPaintings”website, and this year the GAC published professional overheads. a book, “Art, Power, Diplomacy: The Untold Story of the Government Art Collection”. The GAC gives tours Departmental Training of its premises to organised groups approximately three times per month and is open to the public during both the annual Culture 24 Museums at Night and Open Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for House weekends. GAC staff also give public lectures, Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his when requested, to organisations outside London. Department has funded foreign language tuition for Ministers or officials of his Department since May Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for 2010. [72744] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many items in the Government Art Collection are in storage. Mr Jeremy Hunt: There is no record of my Department [72635] having funded any foreign language tuition for Ministers or officials since May 2010. Mr Jeremy Hunt: Of over 13,500 works in the Government Art Collection 4,571 are currently not on Education display and are available for selection and display. Of these 382 are awaiting installation at already selected Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for specific venues and 26 are being either restored or Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has reframed. Given the nature of the collection these figures for the future of creative education. [72793] are continually changing. 177W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 178W

Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for In return for their funding, local authorities are required Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many items to report on: the nature of the music education services in the Government Art Collection are on display in they provide, including data on the number of schools locations outside Greater London. [72636] and children receiving free first access instrumental tuition; the number of children continuing instrumental Mr Jeremy Hunt: In the UK, 352 Government Art tuition after first access; the number of ensemble Collection items are on display in locations outside opportunities offered to pupils; and the level of funding Greater London (including 29 on temporary exhibition local authorities themselves contribute towards music and loans to non-Her Majesty’s Government’s buildings) education. and 5,194 are abroad. Given the nature of the collection The FMS reports back to the Department on a this figure regularly changes. regular basis, highlighting both problems and best practice. Intellectual Property National Lottery: Tickets

Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport when he last met Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will place in the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and the Library a copy of any assessment his Department Skills to discuss the Hargreaves Review of intellectual has made of the geographical distribution of the property. [72633] purchase of lottery tickets. [71869]

Mr Jeremy Hunt: I meet the Secretary of State for John Penrose: The Department makes no assessment Business, Innovation and Skills on a regular basis to of the geographical distribution of the purchase of discuss a wide range of issues. lottery tickets. The national lottery operator, Camelot, and their regulator the National Lottery Commission Local Enterprise Partnerships (NLC), ensure that total sales figures broken down by game type, week by week, are made available on a Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for monthly basis with quarterly sales reports providing Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much (a) some additional commentary, the link to the agreed financial and (b) other support in each category local reporting timetable for this financial year and links to enterprise partnerships in (i) the East Midlands, (ii) the the reports can be found on the NLC website here: East of England, (iii) London, (iv) the North East, (v) http://www.natlotcomm.gov.uk/regulating-the-lottery/sales- the North West, (vi) the South East, (vii) the South reporting West, (viii) the West Midlands and (ix) Yorkshire and The national lottery operator believes that the geographical the Humber have given to the creative industries since breakdown of national lottery sales information is the inception of each partnership. [72654] commercially sensitive information, particularly given the development of the gambling and lottery markets in Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Government encourage any recent years. In the interests of transparency, we are work undertaken by Local Enterprise Partnerships to looking into this further and, in the meantime, I will ask support the creative industries in their area but does not the chief executive of Camelot to write to the hon. Lady. record the information specified. Olympic Games 2012 Mass Media: Ownership Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether the he has made of the outcome of the London 2012 Government plans to submit evidence on the issue of Olympics test events. [72628] (a) media ownership and (b) press regulation to the Leveson inquiry. [72800] Mr Jeremy Hunt: To date, the staging of test events for London 2012 has been a notable success. Feedback Mr Jeremy Hunt: If we are approached for information from International Sport Federations has been very or to give evidence, we shall co-operate fully with any positive and the London 2012 Organising Committee requests. (LOCOG) is already addressing the learning areas captured Music in this first series in readiness for both Games-time and the next series of test events, which started in early October. The public has also responded with enthusiasm Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for to the events, with large turnouts rewarded by considerable Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what monitoring British sporting success. his Department carries out of the provision of local music services. [71660] Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent assessment Mr Gibb: I have been asked to reply. he has made of progress on the Government’s objectives The Department for Education has contracted with for a sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympics. the Federation of Music Services (FMS) to monitor [72747] and report on the use of the Government’s Music Education Grant, which is paid to local authorities. The Mr Jeremy Hunt: I am confident that the London FMS also administers this grant on behalf of the 2012 games will leave behind a significant sporting Department. legacy. We will support elite sport by maintaining public 179W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 180W funding for Olympic and Paralympic sport going into Olympic Games 2012: Dorney Lake the Rio 2016 cycle. We’ve set out an ambitious programme of bids for major sporting events, with the 2013 Triathlon : To ask the Secretary of State for World Series Final and 2015 Canoe Slalom World Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his Championships secured in Olympic venues, Weymouth Department is taking to ensure that local media outlets and Portland bidding for the World Cup in sailing and receive media accreditation for the London 2012 the Major Prize of the 2017 World Athletics Championships Olympics events at Dorney Lake. [72094] to be decided in November. Olympic venues and investment in training facilities will support local communities after the games. We are preserving Whole Sport Plans and Hugh Robertson: The British Olympic Association holding sports to account on meeting challenging (BOA), as the National Olympic Committee for Great participation targets. More than a thousand local sports Britain and Northern Ireland, is responsible for allocating clubs and facilities will be improved, the nation’s accreditation for the Olympic games for media based in playing fields protected, and 40,000 new community the United Kingdom. The British Paralympic Association sports leaders recruited to get more people playing (BPA), as the National Paralympic Committee, is similarly sport through our mass-participation strategy, Places responsible for UK media allocation to the Paralympic People Play. This will also have a specific disability games. The process for the Paralympic games has yet to sport strand. be finalised. The new school games will give every school and I understand from the BOA that the International pupil the opportunity to take part in more competitive Olympic Committee (IOC) has awarded the BOA far sport, with opportunities for disabled children and young more accreditations than in the past and more accreditations people to participate in each level of the competition. In than any other National Olympic Committee. Over addition, the Change4Life sports clubs will allow more 3,000 applications have been received for the approximately young people to try a wider range of sports, giving 400 accreditations available. young children their start to enjoy a lifetime’s habit of To assist with the allocation process, the BOA established playing sport. a Media Accreditation Committee composed of Our legacy plans will even change lives abroad through representatives from a broad spectrum of the written the ground-breaking International Inspiration programme and photographic press respected for their knowledge which helps to increase sports opportunities in 17 countries and experience from Olympic games or understanding and has reached over 10 million young people in 16 of the UK media. countries. For 2012 the IOC awarded BOA the following number of accreditations:

Olympic Games 2012: Conditions of Employment Number Journalist 270 Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Photographer 80 Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his Department Sport specific journalist 20 is taking to ensure that branded merchandise that has Sport specific photographer 20 been manufactured by children working in sweatshops Support staff 8 or otherwise unacceptable working environments is not Technician 12 sold during the London 2012 Olympics. [72137] When determining the allocation of accreditations BOA has taken into account, among other things, Hugh Robertson: The London 2012 Organising continuous editorial commitment to Olympic sport Committee (LOCOG) is a private company operating throughout the four-year Olympic cycle; history of attending independently of Government, responsible for Olympic games; circulation numbers; publication frequency. staging the games including the licensing and Throughout this process the BOA’s primary purpose merchandising. has been to ensure that the allocations made are fair LOCOG places a high priority on environmental, given the limited number of accreditations available. social and ethical issues when procuring goods and The Press Association has been appointed by the IOC services needed for the games, and explicitly rules out as the National Host News Agency for the London the use of child labour by all of its suppliers. LOCOG 2012 Olympic games (and has also been appointed by has put in place effective supply chain assurance the International Paralympic Committee as the National arrangements, by developing a Sustainable Sourcing Host News Agency for the 2012 Paralympic games) to Code which all licensees are contractually bound to service the local and regional press in the UK and they abide by. The code can be found at london2012.com/ have committed to covering every British athlete at the publications games. The BOA has also agreed that regional written and photographic press who applied for accreditation http://www.london2012.com/about-us/publications/index.php should benefit from a small number of passes to be The code requires licensees to disclose to LOCOG the allocated on a pool basis. The distribution of these will locations of factory premises used to produce London be decided by the BOA with guidance from the Newspaper 2012 products, to register these premises on the Supplier Society, in consultation with regional publishers. The Ethical Data Exchange (Sedex) and to comply with the Newspaper Society will be in touch with representatives Ethical Trading Initiative’s Base Code (which covers of regional newspaper groups in the next few months to labour conditions, trade union membership, non- set up a meeting to discuss practical arrangements over discrimination and child, labour). operation of the pool. 181W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 182W

I will shortly be writing to the BOA on this matter Hugh Robertson: The Government have provided a and I will ensure the outcome of this correspondence is financial guarantee for the Rugby World Cup should passed on to my hon. Friend. the tournament not generate sufficient revenues. It has also provided a number of other guarantees in areas Olympic Games 2012: Greater London such as security, visas, anti-doping and customs controls necessary to stage the competition. Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for UK Sport also supported the hugely successful Women’s Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what meetings he Rugby World Cup in 2010. The support being provided has had with the Mayor of London on the economic to the Rugby Football Union (RFU) is on the basis that legacy for east London of the London 2012 Olympics. they will hold a tournament which reflects the diversity [72640] of the nation and invest all profits in grassroots rugby or social programmes such as Hitz. Mr Jeremy Hunt: I have regular meetings with the Sculpture: Abingdon Green Mayor of London on matters connected with London 2012 and its legacy. The Mayor is responsible for the Mr Doran: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, legacy for East London which is why Government are Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has for the legislating to enable him to set up a Mayoral Development care and maintenance of the Knife Edge-Two Piece by Corporation to drive the regeneration of the area and Henry Moore on Abingdon Green accepted as a gift to its economic legacy post-games. the nation by the Government in 1967. [72196]

Olympic Games 2012: Horse Riding Mr Vaizey: My Department is not generally responsible for the maintenance of public sculptures but is keen to Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, see them properly maintained. I understand that the Olympics, Media and Sport what plans his Department problem with Knife Edge Two Piece has been compounded has for the equine-specific equipment purchased for the by the fact that it has been difficult to identify who is London 2012 Olympics after the conclusion of the responsible for the care and maintenance of the work. games. [72581] The House of Commons has an excellent Advisory Committee on its works of art, chaired by the hon. Hugh Robertson: The London 2012 Organising Member for Aberdeen North and I would propose that Committee (LOCOG) is a private company operating the matter should be referred to his Committee to allow independently of Government, responsible for staging the House to consider whether it would be willing to the games. LOCOG will hire the majority of sports take on the ownership and duty of care of this sculpture. equipment it requires, however there will be some sports In suggesting this, I am aware that the House of Commons equipment purchased. LOCOG is talking to National has its own professional curatorial staff who would Governing Bodies (NGBs) about donation of this provide the very finest levels of care for the sculpture. equipment post-games, including the British Equestrian Sports Foundation (BEF). Next year LOCOG will finalise what equipment this is likely to include and will agree this with the NGBs, including BEF. LOCOG must of Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for course balance its overall budget. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what targets he has set for increased participation in sport in England. [72629] Rugby Mr Jeremy Hunt: We are determined to get more Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for people playing sport. Part of that will be making it clear Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment to sports governing bodies that we expect concrete his Department has made of the likely effect on amateur results in return for Government investment. I have rugby of hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2015. [72357] already written to all NGBs emphasising that funding will be decreased or may cease altogether for organisations Hugh Robertson: Recent research by UK Sport says that fail to achieve their objectives. that two-thirds of live spectators at major events are We have already introduced the School Games, Sport inspired to participate in the sport. The Rugby Football England has a £136 million lottery funded legacy Union (RFU) is committed and determined to ensure programme in place and we are reviewing, with Sport that enthusiasm is properly harnessed in 2015 producing England, how to increase the number of young people a domestic and international legacy from the tournament. playing sport. The RFU has set up eight Regional Legacy Boards to lead this drive ensuring that amateur rugby across the Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for country benefits from hosting the World Cup on home Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps his soil. The legacy plans are to start right away. Department is taking to promote community and grassroots sport. [72751] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what (a) financial Mr Jeremy Hunt: We are preserving Whole Sport and (b) other support his Department (i) has provided Plans and holding sports to account on meeting challenging and (ii) plans to provide for preparations for hosting participation targets. Through our mass-participation the Rugby World Cup in 2015; and if he will make a programme, Places People Play, more than a thousand statement. [72374] local sports clubs and facilities will be improved, the 183W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 184W nation’s playing fields protected and 40,000 new community Sports: Community Development sports leaders recruited to get more people playing sport. This will also have a specific disability sport Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for strand. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what measures his The new School Games will give every school and Department is taking to promote the Community pupil the opportunity to take part in more competitive Amateur Sports Clubs scheme. [72630] sport, with opportunities for disabled children and young people to participate in each level of the competition, in Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Sport and Recreation Alliance addition the Change4Life Sports clubs will allow more (SRA) has already re-launched the Community Amateur young people to try a wider range of sports, giving Sports Clubs scheme (CASCs) and Sport England is young children their start to enjoy a lifetime’s habit of funding Running Sports to develop new training sessions playing sport. for CASCs. The SRA looked at the issue of CASCs in the Red Sports: Clubs Tape review commissioned by the Minister for Sport and the Olympics, the hon. Member for Faversham and Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Mid Kent (Hugh Robertson), who has written to Her Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) what recent Majesty’s Treasury to raise various issues on CASCs, estimate he has made of the number of sports clubs including a request to consider allowing CASCs to using community asset transfers; [72647] claim Gift-Aid on junior subscriptions. (2) how many sports clubs have successfully completed the transfer of a community asset in the last Sports: Local Government Finance 12 months. [72648] Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Jeremy Hunt: This information is not collated by Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions the Department; however, Sport England is aware of he has had with the Secretary of State for Communities the increased popularity of community asset transfers. and Local Government on the effect on community Sport England has been working closely with the Asset and grassroots sport of changes in Government Transfer Unit to develop a range of support tools and funding to local authorities. [72758] resources aimed at sports clubs, national governing bodies and local authorities. In addition, the Localism Mr Jeremy Hunt: I have regular conversations with Bill includes provisions to give community groups more Department for Communities and Local Government opportunity to bid to take over assets listed as an Asset colleagues in relation to sport. Through Whole Sport of Community Value, if they are made available for Plans, Sport England is investing £480 million through sale. 46 national governing bodies between 2009 and 2013. The governing bodies work closely with their network Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for of sports clubs to invest funding at a local level, in Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will assess addition, the mass participation Olympic Legacy-Places the effect of philanthropic giving on amateur sports People Play, will provide funding opportunities for sports clubs. [72651] clubs with £10 million for playing fields and £50 million for community sports facilities. Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Department does not hold this information. Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs advise Sports: Young People that sports clubs that have registered as Community Amateur Sports Clubs have benefited from £9.1 million Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for of gift aid relief since 2002. Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the likely effect of the outcome of the Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Comprehensive Spending Review on participation in Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) if he will assess sport at youth level. [72627] the effect of deregistration requirements on the number of community amateur sports clubs; [72652] Mr Jeremy Hunt: As a result of the Government’s (2) if he will bring forward proposals to make it changes to the National Lottery, Sport England will see easier for sports clubs to leave the Community its funding increase by 14% over the spending review Amateur Sports Clubs scheme in circumstances where period. Up to £35.5 million of lottery funding from they no longer derive benefits or become ineligible. Sport England is being invested into the development of [72653] the School games, which will give more young people the opportunity to compete in competitive sport. This Mr Jeremy Hunt: The Sport and Recreation Alliance’s investment alongside our plans for an Olympic and Red Tape review identified deregistration requirements Paralympic sporting legacy will provide more opportunities as a barrier preventing clubs from registering as Community for more young people to participate in sport. Amateur Sports Clubs. The Minister for Sport and the Olympics, the hon. Member for Faversham and Mid Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Kent (Hugh Robertson), has written to Her Majesty’s Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what analysis he Treasury to request that an easier exit strategy be found has undertaken of recent trends in the level of should a club no longer benefit from the scheme. participation in sport by young people. [72638] 185W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 186W

Mr Jeremy Hunt: Data from the latest Taking Part Television: Local Broadcasting survey shows that 90% of children (aged five to 15) had taken part in sport in the four weeks prior to being Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, surveyed. Olympics, Media and Sport what regulatory changes he plans to make in respect of the introduction of local Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for television. [72533] Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what change the Government expects in levels of participation in Mr Vaizey: As set out in the framework for local TV competitive sport by young people during the consultation paper, the Government intend to lay three comprehensive spending review period. [72639] orders to: reserve a block of geographic interleaved spectrum across the UK for use by local services; create Mr Jeremy Hunt: Sport England is investing up to a new local licensing regime for local TV and; secure £35.5 million of Lottery funding from now until March appropriate electronic programme guide prominence 2015 in the School Games which is a key part of the for newly licensed local TV services on digital terrestrial Government’s plans for a lasting sporting legacy from television. hosting the London 2012 Games. All children in participating schools will have the opportunity to take Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, part. Olympics, Media and Sport upon what timetable he Swimming: Concessions plans to establish the Framework for Local Television under the Local Media Action Plan. [72534] Bill Esterson: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Vaizey: It is expected that the Government will Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment lay the necessary legislation by the end of this year and, his Department has made of the effects of (a) the subject to parliamentary process, Ofcom will consult on provision of and (b) the removal of provision of free and award the new local television licences during 2012. swimming on (i) the over 60s and (ii) the under 17s. The first local licences are expected to be awarded in [72543] 2012 with the first services expected to begin broadcasting in 2013. Hugh Robertson: We have made no such assessment. However, in April 2009 the Department commissioned Mr Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to undertake an Olympics, Media and Sport what local content other independent evaluation of the Free Swimming Programme than news and current affairs he expects of local (FSP). This evaluation report, published in June 2010, television. [72535] found that the FSP did not represent good value for money, particularly as the report found that 83% of Mr Vaizey: Content shown by local services will be over 60s and 73% of those aged 16 and under would for local operators and the market to decide. It should have gone swimming anyway, even if they had to pay. reflect the individual needs and interests of the communities The analysis has also found that the costs of the scheme served. outweighed the health benefits. Full details of this evaluation can be found at the following link: Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/ Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport when he expects FSPyear1_main_report.pdf the first group of new local TV stations to begin Sport England is investing £20.8 million into the broadcasting. [72750] Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) over the period 2009-13 to grow and sustain participation in swimming. Mr Jeremy Hunt: The first local services are expected The ASA are working closely with key local authorities to commence broadcasting in 2013. to drive increases in participation across all age groups. Television: Young People Television Channels: Licensing Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport when he plans to Department spent on programmes targeted at young respond to Ofcom’s report on the licensing people in (a) 2004-05, (b) 2005-06, (c) 2006-07, (d) arrangements for Channels 3, 4 and 5. [72745] 2007-08, (e) 2008-09, (f) 2009-10 and (g) 2010-11. [71562] Mr Jeremy Hunt: I will announce my response as soon as I am able. I wish to take the opportunity of the John Penrose: Significant programmes run by this Communications Review to give this matter proper Department since 1995 which will have particularly consideration. benefited young people are:

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

UK Schools — — 6,000,000 490,000 10,000 725,000 Games Youth Mentoring — 616,599 708,181 666,333 666,000 643,436 Change 4 Life ————3,380,000 750,000 187W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 188W

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

Children’s Play 500,000 498,009 502,140 514,128 508,719 475,163 Youth Dance — — — 100,000 100,000 95,000 Music Rehearsal ————72,434367,630 Spaces Free Swimming ————21,730,799 6,688,189 (for under 16s) Total 500,000 1,114,608 7,210,321 1,770,461 26,467,952 9,744,418

Young people have also benefited from a range of Mr Jeremy Hunt: I refer the ho. member to the schemes administered by arm’s length bodies but we do answer I gave him on 4 May 2011, Official Report, not hold centrally the data for these. Schemes paid column 753W. directly by the Department and by arm’s length bodies included funding contributions from other Government Departments. EDUCATION Tourism: Economic Situation Academies

Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how his tourism Education pursuant to the answer of 22 June 2011, strategy will promote economic growth. [72637] Official Report, column 351W, when he expects the second round of applications to open for the fund for Mr Jeremy Hunt: The tourism policy, published in 2011-12 that will be targeted mainly towards March, includes a range of proposals to help tourism academies’ building condition needs. [67266] achieve its potential as a central part of Britain’s growth strategy. These include initiatives which will help us to Mr Gibb: We have decided to retain the remainder of capitalise on the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2011-12 fund in order to ensure funds are available other major events in 2012, increase domestic tourism to address urgent and unexpected capital maintenance and improve productivity. needs in academies. Academies should discuss such For example, over the next four years VisitBritain will needs with their liaison officer in the Young People’s be overseeing the “You’re Invited” programme, which Learning Agency in the first instance. will make the most of the international interest in the On 19 July, we announced details of the Government’s recent royal wedding, as well as next year’s Diamond initial response to Sebastian James’s independent review Jubilee celebrations as well as the Olympic and Paralympic of capital, and this will inform the shape of future Games, showcasing Britain to the world. The programme arrangements for allocating capital funding to academies. aims to attract 4 million extra visitors, spending an Significantly, we have committed to carrying out a additional £2 billion in the UK economy, which will condition survey of the schools estate, to enable a fairer support businesses, jobs and growth. The programme is distribution of available funding in the future. backed by a £100 million marketing fund, funded by the We also announced the launch of a new privately- public and private sector. financed school building programme to address those VisitEngland is working closely with local areas and parts of the schools estate in the worst condition. The destinations, in line with Government’s localism agenda, programme will be open to academies, schools and to grow the value of local tourism economies. They are local authorities, and is expected to cover between 100 also currently working on a marketing campaign with and 300 schools. Further details can be found at: destinations across the country, to deliver economic https://sharepoint.partnershipsforschools.org.uk/PSBP/ growth from the domestic market, and to support employment and job creation. This will maximise the Academies: Bromley impact of the unique events of 2012, helping to spread the benefits of the Games outside London and maintain Jim Dowd: To ask the Secretary of State for a legacy of domestic tourism growth. Education which secondary schools in the London We will also help the industry to improve staff and borough of Bromley have converted to academy status management skills and prepare for changes in technology in 2011 to date; what the operative date is in each case; and information provision, cut red tape and identify who the partner is in each case; and what staff changes sector specific rules and regulations that are holding the are planned for the posts of (a) headteacher, (b) industry back, and improve our visa processes and deputy headteacher, (c) other teaching staff and (d) visitors first experience when they arrive in the UK. other staff in each case. [71669] Mr Gibb: As of 1 September, 14 secondary schools in UK Film Council the London borough of Bromley have converted to academy status in 2011. Of these, three schools— Mr Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Beaverwood School for Girls, Bishop Justus Church of Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what savings have England School and Coopers Technology College—opened been made from the abolition of the UK Film Council. as academies in March 2011. Six schools—Charles Darwin [72798] School, Hayes School, Langley Park School for Boys, 189W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 190W

Newstead Wood School for Girls, Ravens Wood School Children: Care Homes and The Ravensbourne School—opened as academies in April 2011. The Bullers Wood School opened as an Ann Coffey: To ask the Secretary of State for academy in May 2011. Two schools—Langley Park Education how many looked-after children were placed School for Girls and St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar in (a) homes and hostels (i) subject and (ii) not subject School—opened as academies in August. The two to children’s homes regulations, (b) foster placements remaining schools—Cator Park School and Kelsey Park and (c) other arrangements by another local authority Sports College (now known as the Harris Academy in each local authority area in each of the last five Beckenham)—opened as academies in September and years for which figures are available. [71251] are in a formal partnership with the Harris Federation. As autonomous bodies, personnel issues, including Tim Loughton [holding answer 13 September 2011]: the recruitment and retention of staff, are matters for Information on the number of looked after children the Academy Trust. who were placed in (a) homes and hostels (i) subject and (ii) not subject to children’s homes regulations, (b) foster placements and (c) other arrangements by another Academies: Warwickshire local authority in each local authority area for the years 2009 and 2010 only, has been placed in the House Libraries. Information for the three years prior to 2009 Mr Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for can be provided only at disproportionate cost. Education which primary schools he expects to become academies in (a) Coventry and (b) Warwickshire in Ann Coffey: To ask the Secretary of State for the 2011-12 academic year. [70365] Education how many children aged between (a) 0 and five years, (b) six and 10 years and (c) 11 and 16 years Mr Gibb: At present, no primary schools in Coventry were placed in (i) homes and hostels (A) subject and or Warwickshire have applied to convert to academy (B) not subject to children’s homes regulations, (ii) status; this may, however, change over the course of the foster care and (iii) other arrangements by another academic year. Four primary schools in Coventry and local authority in each local authority area in each of eight primary schools in Warwickshire have already the last five years for which figures are available. expressed an interest in converting. Full details of schools [71252] that have formally applied for academy status, as well as a list of academies that have opened in the academic Tim Loughton [holding answer 13 September 2011]: year 2010-11, can be found on the DFE academies The requested information for the years 2009 and 2010 website at: only has been placed in the House Libraries. For http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/typesof schools/ completeness information has also been included for academies/a0069811/schools-submitting-applications-and- children aged 17 years and over. Table 1 includes academies-that-have-opened-in-201011 information for 2009; table 2 includes information for 2010. Information for the three years prior to 2009 can be provided only at disproportionate cost. Anti-Slavery Day Children: Crimes of Violence Michael Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what plans his Department has to mark Toby Perkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Anti-Slavery Day 2011. [72087] Education if he will (a) assess the United Nations Global Survey on Violence against Children conducted Tim Loughton: The Department for Education and by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General the Home Office are marking Anti-Slavery Day with the on Violence against Children and (b) place a copy of launch of new guidance entitled ’Working together to his assessment in the Library. [72409] Safeguard children who may have been trafficked’. The guidance will raise awareness of the issues amongst Tim Loughton: The Department is now considering agencies in England who are likely to encounter, or have the United Nations Global Survey on Violence against referred to them, children and young people who may Children. A copy of any Government response will be have been trafficked. placed in the House Libraries. The Government are fully committed to combating human trafficking by tackling organised crime groups Children: Hyperactivity and protecting the victims of this modern day slavery. The Government published their strategy on human Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for trafficking on 19 July. The strategy reiterates the UK’s Education what estimate his Department has made of intention to take a comprehensive approach to combating the incidence of (a) attention deficit disorder and (b) trafficking—both by focusing on tackling traffickers hyper-activity among school pupils in the last 15 years. and maintaining effective care for victims. [72128] The strategy also sets out our commitment to raising awareness of trafficking among the public and Sarah Teather: The Department does not collect annual the private sector. The Government recognise the data that record the incidence of attention deficit disorder importance of Anti-Slavery Day as an opportunity to or hyperactivity among school pupils. The most recent improve understanding and increase vigilance in our data collected on the mental health of children and communities. young people, ‘Mental Health of Children and Young 191W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 192W

People in Great Britain 2004’, put the incidence of Curriculum: Animal Welfare hyperactivity disorder among children and young people in Great Britain aged five to 15 at 1.5%. Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Children: Respiratory System Education if he will make it his policy to include animal welfare in the personal, social, health and economic curriculum. [72016] Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what information his Department holds Mr Gibb: The review of personal, social, health and on the number of children who did not attend sports economic education (PSHE), which was launched on 21 lessons as a result of respiratory illnesses in the last July 2011, will identify the core body of knowledge that year for which figures are available. [72326] pupils need, as well as ways to improve the quality of teaching. In addition to considering the submissions of Mr Gibb: The Department does not collect this evidence and good practice the review will also evaluate information from schools. the existing research available on PSHE education and Children’s Centres: Finance its teaching. We welcome representations, including evidence, which can be submitted up to the end of Mr Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Education November 2011. The consultation website can be accessed what funding his Department plans to allocate to at: children’s centres in each of the next four years. [71903] http://www.education.gov.uk/consultations/

Sarah Teather: Since April 2011, funding for children’s Departmental Air Travel centres is included within the Early Intervention Grant (EIG). The allocation for 2011-12 and the indicative John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for allocation for 2012-13 are shown in the following table. Education which travel management companies his Funding beyond March 2013 is subject to future spending Department uses for the purchase of airline tickets. reviews. [72686] The EIG is an un-ring-fenced and un-hypothecated funding stream that gives local authorities flexibility to Tim Loughton: The Department uses Carlson Wagonlit target resources strategically and to intervene early to Travel Ltd to purchase airline tickets. improve outcomes for children, young people and families. It is up to local authorities to judge how best to use this Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers funding in consultation with local communities, taking account of local need and evidence of what is most effective. Local authorities have statutory duties under Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for the Childcare Act 2006 to provide sufficient children’s Education (1) what the salary, including benefits, was of centres to meet local need so far as is reasonably practicable, his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the and to ensure there is consultation before opening, last five years for which figures are available; and how closing or making significant changes to services through many individuals have held the post in the last five children’s centres. years; [72448] Early Intervention Grant (2) what the resource budget allocation was for the £ office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser in each of the last five years for which figures are available; 2011-12 2,222,555,697 [72447] 2012-13 2,307,199,996 (3) how many full-time equivalent staff were employed Total 4,529,755,693 in the office of his Department’s chief scientific adviser Children’s Play: Training in each of the last five years for which figures are available; and on what date the office was established; [72449] Dr Huppert: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what his policy is on requiring those seeking to (a) (4) what his policy is on requiring his Department’s establish and (b) find employment with children’s (a) non-departmental public bodies and (b) contractors playschemes to achieve the same qualifications as those to have a written code of practice or protocol relating to the provision, conduct and quality assurance of scientific working in educational children’s programmes. [68510] evidence and advice. [72450] Sarah Teather: Play settings that provide care for children aged between birth and the academic year in Tim Loughton: The information is as follows: which they turn five need to meet the staff-to-child (i) In the Department for Education, the role of chief ratios and qualification levels required by the Early scientific adviser is carried out by the full-time director Years Foundation Stage framework. Play settings that of research and analysis. Her basic salary was between provide care for children who are aged over five and are £85,000 and £89,999 in 2010-11, and is expected to be on the General Childcare Register need to meet the between £85,000 and £89,999 in 2011-12. The Department requirements set out in the General Childcare Register publishes information about the salaries of senior civil Regulations 2008. Subject to those requirements, the servants on its website: Government believe that the play work sector is best http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/departmental information/ placed to determine the training and development needs transparency/b0065313/disclosure-of-scs-posts-and-salarv- of its work force. information 193W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 194W

The post of chief scientific adviser was established in evidence and advice are met. Potential contractors are the Department in 2005. Three people in the Department required to clearly state in their tenders which codes of have held the post of chief scientific adviser in the last practice or protocols they are bound by, these are then five years. The current director of research and analysis, considered by the Department’s project manager when encompassing the chief scientific adviser role, was appointed they are evaluating the tenders. Once a contractor is to the post in August 2008. Prior to that, it was filled on appointed their work is overseen by a professional a temporary basis for 11 months, following the departure Government analyst to ensure quality standards are of the previous chief scientific adviser, and chief economist, maintained. in September 2007. The Department’s social researchers, who manage (ii) Our chief scientific adviser does not have a specific most of the Department’s externally commissioned research chief scientific adviser’s office. There is no specific and evaluation projects, are bound by the Government budget for the chief scientific adviser role. The role is social research (GSR) code which sets out specific principles carried out as part of the duties of the director of to guide the work and behaviour of Government social research and analysis. researchers. The GSR code brings together professional (iii) Although there is no specific office supporting standards and departmental/devolved Administration the chief scientific adviser, there are approximately 0.15 guidance under seven key principles. Adherence to the FTE staff supporting the director of research and analysis code ensures high quality research and analysis for in carrying out the chief scientific adviser role. policy and operational delivery research, and analysis that is scientifically rigorous, relevant and valued. (iv) The Department is committed to providing scientific advice in accordance with the Government chief scientific The Department’s contractors who are involved in adviser’s ″Guidelines on the use of science and engineering the processing of data that supports statistical publications advice in policy making″. All of our analysts are bound are bound by principles within the UKSA code where by the civil service code and its core values of integrity, relevant, for example regarding how they handle and honesty, objectivity and impartiality. Commitment to store data to ensure security and prevent early release of these values is required of all members of the home civil statistics. service. The largest volume of statistical releases and outputs related to my Department’s areas of responsibility are (a) The Department’s arm’s length bodies (ALBs), produced by or in association with professional statisticians formerly known as non-departmental public bodies, working within the Department itself, who act in accordance have their own standards and principles which they with the UKSA code of practice: apply locally to ensure analytical evidence is robust. Where they have produced official statistics, they have http://www.statisticsauthority.gov.uk/assessment/code-of- practice/index.html been bound by the UK Statistics Authority (UKSA) Code of Practice for Official Statistics. A number of Where statistical releases have been assessed by UKSA activities will be transferring from these ALBs to four for compliance with the code their designation as National new Executive agencies in the Department by April Statistics compliant with the code has been confirmed. 2012, under the departmental reform programme. The Departmental Manpower Executive agencies will be bound, as appropriate, by the UKSA Code of Practice for Official Statistics Mr Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for http://www.statisticsauthority.gov.uk/assessment/code-of- Education how many people have been (a) recruited practice/index.html and (b) made redundant from (i) his Department and and the Government social research code (ii) each non-departmental body for which he is responsible since May 2010. [66319] http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/networks/gsr/gsr-code (b) The Department ensures that all of its research Tim Loughton: Information for the number of staff and evaluation contractors have suitable systems and recruited to and released from the Education Family processes to ensure that appropriate standards for the workforce (the Department and its arm’s length bodies) provision, conduct and quality assurance of scientific is set out in the following table:

Number of staff recruited Number of staff released Name since May 2010 since May 2010

Department for Education 71 178 British Educational Communications and Technology Agency (BECTA) 0 2071 Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) 291 121 Children’s Workforce Development Council (CWDC) 0 11 General Teaching Council for England (GTCE) 6 0 National College 723 Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC) 17 1 Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) 25 0 Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills () 123 27 Partnerships for Schools (PfS) 521 Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency (QCDA) 0 140 School Food Trust (SFT) 118 Training and Development Agency (TDA) 14 21 195W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 196W

Number of staff recruited Number of staff released Name since May 2010 since May 2010

Young People’s Learning Agency (YPLA) 52 0 1 BECTA is now closed. Note: The total cost of all releases (248) was £5.6 million.

Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers Sarah Teather: Through the Children and Young People’s Grants the Department for Education funded : To ask the Secretary of State for organisations called ’Solve It’ and ’Re-Solv’ which both Education whether any complaints from officials of his work on the prevention of volatile substance abuse Department have been received in respect of his (VSA). political advisers since May 2010. [71390] ‘Re-Solv’ received money to develop training materials, promote them to key work force groups and deliver Tim Loughton [holding answer 12 September 2011]: training. ’Solve It’ received funding to develop a programme Since May 2010, officials in the Department have no of VSA education, awareness, training, family support record of receiving any complaints in respect of its and counselling. The amounts allocated are shown in political advisers. the table.

Dominic Cummings Re-Solv Solve It Total

2008-09 — 51,000 51,000 Lyn Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Education when Mr started work 2009-10 44,518 50,000 94,518 at his Department; and whether he is still employed. 2010-11 45,097 52,000 97,097 Total 89,615 153,000 242,615 [72313]

Tim Loughton: Dominic Cummings joined the Local authorities used to receive funding through the Department for Education on 21 February 2011 and is area-based grant (ABG) for substance misuse. Between still employed. 2008 and 2011 it was £7 million per year (£3 million from DFE and £4 million from DH). This year local Drugs: Misuse authorities have received £2.2 billion though the Early Intervention Grant which allows them to target their funding where it is most needed. Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education who the members are of the volatile substance abuse stakeholders group; when the group last met; and when Education: Environment it next plans to meet. [70458] Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Sarah Teather: The volatile substance abuse steering Education what recent assessment he has made of the group was established under the previous Administration. level of environmental education in schools. [71733] It last met in November 2009 and there are no plans to reconvene the group. Mr Gibb: Environmental issues are included in both the current geography curriculum and science curriculum Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education for primary and secondary aged pupils. what recent assessment his Department has made of the work of (a) hospital trusts, (b) voluntary organisations Ofsted undertakes thematic reviews of National and (c) local education authorities concerning the Curriculum subjects. The ‘Geography—Learning to make a world of difference’ report, published in 2011, found prevention of volatile substance abuse. [70460] that in strong performing schools students had an awareness Sarah Teather: No recent assessments have been made of environmental issues, locally and globally, and cared concerning the prevention of volatile substance abuse. about their environment and were aware that they needed Department for Education research published in February to act as responsible citizens. In addition, the ‘Successful 2011 looked at the costs and benefits of specialist drug science—An evaluation of science education in England and alcohol services for young people. Also, as part of 2007-2010’ report, published in 2011, found that in the the 2010 Drug Strategy, officials looked at international schools in which the pupils’ achievement was good or evidence on preventing substance misuse, consulting outstanding the school used their local environment widely on the most effective ways of doing so. Government effectively. Departments are working closely to ensure commitments made in the Drug Strategy are met. Education: Finance The non-ring fenced Early Intervention Grant will allow local authorities to prioritise funding according John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Education to local need and where it will have the greatest impact. how much of the 16 to 19 Bursary funding awarded to students in Bassetlaw has been awarded to students who Mr Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for previously received education maintenance allowance Education what funding his Department has allocated (EMA); and how much remains for schools to allocate to the prevention of volatile substance abuse in each of to applicants who have not previously received EMA. the last three years. [70464] [72796] 197W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 198W

Mr Gibb: This is a matter for the Young People’s awards. The bursary is not necessarily distributed to learners at Learning Agency (YPLA) who operate the 16-19 Bursary the start of the academic year but is designed to help at the time Fund for the Department for Education. Peter Lauener, of actual need. We have published details of the allocations of the YPLA’s chief executive, has written to the hon. funding to schools, colleges and other providers and this can be found at the following website: Member for Bassetlaw with the information requested and a copy of his reply has been placed in the House http://readingroom.lsc.gov.uk/YPLA/YPLA- Funding_Allocations_201112-li-Aug11-v1.xls Libraries. This shows allocations arranged by upper tier local authority, Letter from Peter Lauener, dated 22 September 2011: so figures for providers serving Bassetlaw will be included under I am writing in response to your Parliamentary Question Nottinghamshire. We do not collect information on the individual PQ72796 that asked: students to whom bursaries are allocated. “How much of the 16-19 Bursary funding awarded to students in Bassetlaw has been awarded to students who previously received Education: Young People Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA); and how much remains for schools to allocate to applicants who have not previously received EMA.” Ms Buck: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many and what proportion of young We do not hold the information you are requesting. people aged between 16 and 19 were not in education, Transitional arrangements have been put in place for young employment or training in each (a) region and (b) people previously in receipt of EMA. These arrangements provide London borough in each year between (i) 2006-07 and continuity for those young people who successfully applied for EMA in 2009/10 and are completing their course of education or (ii) 2010-11. [71681] training in 2011/12. In these cases, students will get EMA in 2011/12 at the same rate as they did in 2009/10 and 2010/11. Tim Loughton [holding answer 13 September 2011]: Those young people who were successful in applying for EMA The official national estimates of the number and for the 2010/11 academic year and who were assessed as most in proportion of young people who are not in education, need and therefore granted the full £30 a week EMA are still employment or training (NEET) in England are published eligible for support until the end of the 2011/12 academic year at by the Department in a Statistical First Release (SFR) the amount of £20 per week. each June. However, these cannot be disaggregated to The 16-19 Bursary is designed to help support those young local authority or regional level. people who face the greatest barriers to continuing in education or training post-16. We can estimate the number and proportion of 16 to 18-year-olds NEET at a sub-national level using data The most vulnerable young people will be eligible for a bursary collected by local authorities. The figures for 16 to of at least £1200. This group covers young people who are looked after, care leavers, those in receipt of income support and disabled 18-year-olds who were NEET in each year between young people in receipt of both Employment Support Allowance 2006/07 and 2010/11, for England, each region, and for and Disability Living Allowance. local authorities in London, are shown in the following Schools, colleges and other providers have received an allocation tables. Note that due to methodological differences, the of funding for the bursary and are free to determine the scale of figure for England does not correspond to the official discretionary bursaries and the frequency of payments for all estimates of NEET published in the SFR.

Average number and proportion of 16 to 18-year-olds NEET (actual age) November to January

2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET

England 7.7 122,077 7.8 107,161 6.7 107,970 6.4 101,479 6.0 93,098

South-east 5.6 13,685 6.3 12,852 5.7 14,331 5.8 14,219 5.4 13,147

East of 6.8 11,947 7.1 10,147 6.2 11,058 5.9 10,455 5.7 10,254 England

South-west 6.0 9,547 5.9 8,451 5.7 9,035 5.6 25,893 5.3 24,326

West 8.9 15,804 8.8 12,919 7.0 12,738 6.6 35,247 6.2 31,912 midlands

East 6.4 8,888 6.7 7,953 5.4 7,819 5.5 23,481 5.4 22,327 midlands

Yo rk s a n d 9.3 15,676 8.9 13,923 7.9 13,474 7.8 39,282 7.2 35,201 the Humber

North-west 8.9 21,045 8.8 19,152 7.8 19,029 7.3 51,483 6.7 45,954

North-east 11.4 9,958 11.7 8,788 9.8 8,755 9.0 23,531 7.9 20,219

Notes: 1. Information on 19-year-olds in the format requested not available for the period 2006-07 to 2010-11. 2. The figures for England presented are calculated by aggregating LA results. They differ from the official DFE estimates of NEET in England reported in a DFE SFR, due to methodological differences. Source: CCIS 199W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 200W

Average number and proportion of 16 to 18-year-olds NEET (actual age) November to January 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average NEET Average (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET (%) NEET

London 7.5 15,527 7.4 12,976 5.8 11,731 5.3 10,500 5.0 9,717

Barking and 11.4 702 11.5 622 8.9 600 7.9 519 6.9 458 Dagenham Barnet 4.8 496 5.5 451 4.1 407 3.8 375 3.6 345 Bexley 6.9 477 7.4 437 5.3 350 5.0 326 4.6 300 Brent 6.7 422 6.8 355 4.6 301 4.6 307 5.0 313 Bromley 5.0 499 4.9 472 4.6 478 4.2 444 4.3 445 Camden 7.5 358 7.1 352 6.5 355 5.5 284 6.4 296 City of 1.1 6 1.8 1— 0.6 1— 0.6 1— 0.2 1— London Croydon 8.1 796 8.3 729 7.1 689 6.9 658 6.6 542 Ealing 7.8 483 6.8 326 5.4 331 4.9 301 4.4 278 Enfield 7.0 662 7.7 641 6.4 562 6.1 496 5.8 453 Greenwich 12.0 813 10.1 631 9.5 593 6.6 398 6.2 368 Hackney 13.1 619 14.4 521 10.0 371 7.4 293 6.2 267 Hammersmith 8.4 267 7.4 187 6.0 183 5.6 184 5.2 159 and Fulham Haringey 12.5 582 11.7 444 6.8 313 6.8 320 6.6 299 Harrow 5.3 338 3.5 178 3.2 188 2.9 174 2.7 158 Havering 6.1 576 7.4 519 5.2 459 4.7 406 4.0 343 Hillingdon 7.0 686 6.5 490 5.3 442 5.4 448 4.6 382 Hounslow 8.3 577 7.2 406 5.5 339 4.7 304 4.6 279 Islington 8.6 522 10.1 504 7.7 485 7.3 400 6.2 381 Kensington 7.9 178 6.3 157 5.4 154 5.0 118 5.3 143 and Chelsea Kingston 3.4 174 3.2 165 3.2 159 3.4 164 3.1 138 10.5 483 10.3 439 7.9 319 7.6 299 7.4 293 Lewisham 6.7 489 6.5 444 5.5 451 4.9 414 4.7 363 Merton 6.7 188 6.7 154 5.8 149 5.6 146 5.5 152 Newham 10.8 880 11.4 654 7.7 612 6.7 521 6.4 481 Redbridge 4.8 423 5.6 381 4.2 376 4.1 358 4.1 335 Richmond 4.0 141 4.0 83 3.4 104 3.5 116 3.8 114 Southwark 11.7 582 11.7 485 8.8 395 8.7 294 8.4 271 Sutton 4.8 335 5.1 308 4.4 286 4.4 279 4.2 265 Tower 10.9 634 11.2 459 6.7 368 6.0 319 5.3 275 Hamlets Waltham 6.3 514 6.6 453 4.7 391 4.5 353 4.2 307 Forest Wandsworth 6.0 382 4.9 307 4.4 305 4.3 290 4.5 307 Westminster 6.5 245 5.9 217 5.0 212 4.6 188 4.1 207 1 Values of five or less have been suppressed for reasons of confidentiality. Note: Information on 19-year-olds in the format requested not available for the period 2006-07 to 2010-11 Source: CCIS

Families: Scotland analysis on the proportion resident in Scotland or demographic information about such families. However, Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for data from Census 2001: Education if he will (a) estimate the proportion of the http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/rel/family-demography/focus-on- 120,000 most troubled families in Britain that are families/2007/index.html resident in Scotland and (b) publish demographic shows that 9% of Britain’s families live in Scotland—though information about such families. [72013] that is all families, not families with multiple problems.

Tim Loughton: Estimates from the Cabinet Office Family Intervention Programme have shown about 2% of families (around 140,000 families) across Britain suffer from multiple problems. Further Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for (unpublished) analysis was commissioned to estimate Education how many families have participated in the the number in England which showed that there were Family Intervention Programme in each year since the around 120,000. We do not have information from that establishment of the programme. [72035] 201W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 202W

Tim Loughton: Official statistics show that 3,518 families Information about the actual amount spent is not collected. were either receiving an intervention or had received The budget for the next four years has not been decided support from a family intervention project in England yet. between 1 April 2009 and 31 March 2010 and 5,461 Free School Meals families between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2011. We do not have this information for previous years. Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many of the 200 lowest performing Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for primary schools which will become academies (a) have Education how many families have participated in the more than 40 per cent. of pupils eligible for free school Family Intervention projects in each parliamentary meals, (b) are in the most deprived third of primary constituency. [72036] schools measured by the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index of Area Deprivation, (c) have more Tim Loughton: The Department does not hold this than 40 per cent. of pupils eligible for free school meals information but there is information provided at local and are in the most deprived third of primary schools authority level for England, published as official statistics and (d) were in each Ofsted grade category in their on 14 September 2011: most recent inspection report. [68469] http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/STR/d001021/ Mr Gibb: The Department does not intend to publish index.shtml the characteristics of the 200 schools that have been below the primary school floor standard for the last five Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for years. Education what the budget was for Family Intervention Free School Meals: Yorkshire and Humberside Projects in each year since the establishment of such projects; and what the planned budget is for each of the Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for next four years. [72038] Education how many people in (a) Yo rk , (b) North Yorkshire, (c) Yorkshire and the Humber and (d) Tim Loughton: The Government allocated £9,049,684 England received free school meals in each year since in 2007-08, £11,201,586 in 2008-09, £33,604,489 in 2009-10, 1997. [71458] £49,789,569 in 2010-11 and £46 million in 2011-12 for family intervention projects/services. The ring fence for Mr Gibb: The available information on the number of this funding was removed in May 2010 and the funding pupils known to be eligible for and claiming free school for 2011-12 was included within DFE’s Early Intervention meals is shown in the tables. Grant. This means that the actual amount spent in Information is not available prior to 2002 as pupil 2011-12 could be more or less than the amount allocated. level data was not collected.

Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5, number and percentage of pupils known to be eligible for and claiming free school meals, January each year York local authority area Maintained nursery and state-funded primary State-funded secondary schools1, 3 Special schools4 schools1, 2 Number of Number of Number of pupils Percentage pupils Percentage pupils Percentage known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming Number on free school free school Number on free school free school Number on free school free school roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals

2002 13,201 1,460 11.1 9,205 852 9.3 276 84 30.4 2003 12,879 1,332 10.3 9,486 775 8.2 245 64 26.1 2004 12,843 1,380 10.7 9,555 817 8.6 221 51 23.1 2005 12,785 1,333 10.4 9,385 781 8.3 187 37 19.8 2006 12,621 1,338 10.6 9,266 821 8.9 178 44 24.7 2007 12,385 1,288 10.4 9,162 800 8.7 166 42 25.3 2008 12,175 1,203 9.9 8,873 760 8.6 150 37 24.7 2009 12,069 1,236 10.2 8,744 779 8.9 143 38 26.6 2010 12,170 1,339 11.0 8,743 796 9.1 133 30 22.6 2011 12,274 1,468 12.0 8,693 806 9.3 119 27 22.7

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2002 — — — 22,682 2,396 10.6 2003 — — — 22,610 2,171 9.6 2004 — — — 22,619 2,248 9.9 2005 — — — 22,357 2,151 9.6 203W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 204W

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2006 — — — 22,065 2,203 10.0 2007 — — — 21,713 2,130 9.8 2008 — — — 21,198 2,000 9.4 2009 — — — 20,956 2,053 9.8 2010 125 39 31.2 21,171 2,204 10.4 2011 149 54 36.2 21,235 2,355 11.1

North Yorkshire local authority area Maintained nursery and state-funded primary State-funded secondary schools1, 3 Special schools4 schools1, 2 Number of Number of Number of pupils Percentage pupils Percentage pupils Percentage known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming Number on free school free school Number on free school free school Number on free school free school roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals

2002 45,410 4,014 8.8 35,650 2,354 6.6 498 119 23 9 2003 44,751 3,889 8.7 36,139 2,294 6.3 713 116 16.3 2004 43,885 3,897 8.9 36,429 2,439 6.7 683 108 15.8 2005 43,076 3,615 8.4 36,317 2,402 6.6 696 108 15.5 2006 42,223 3,442 8.2 36,022 2,367 6.6 669 114 17.0 2007 41,524 3,461 8.3 35,457 2,363 6.7 658 111 16.9 2008 41,083 3,379 8.2 34,902 2,352 6.7 646 108 16.7 2009 40,658 3,477 8.6 34,393 2,358 6.9 639 107 16.7 2010 40,323 4,122 10.2 33,922 2,617 7.7 617 122 19.8 2011 40,377 4,191 10.4 33,411 2,609 7.8 613 137 22.3

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2002 — — — 81,558 6,487 8.0 2003 — — — 81,603 6,299 7.7 2004 — — — 80,997 6,444 8.0 2005 — — — 80,089 6,125 7.6 2006 — — — 78,914 5,923 7.5 2007 — — — 77,639 5,935 7.6 2008 — — — 76,631 5,839 7.6 2009 — — — 75,690 5,942 7.9 2010 66 10 15.2 74,928 6,871 9.2 2011 46 3 6.5 74,447 6,940 9.3

Yorkshire and the Humber Maintained nursery and state-funded primary State-funded secondary schools1, 3 Special schools4 schools1, 2 Number of Number of Number of pupils Percentage pupils Percentage pupils Percentage known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming Number on free school free school Number on free school free school Number on free school free school roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals

2002 431,015 84,905 19.7 312,420 53,930 17.3 6,585 2,765 42.0 2003 424,145 80,955 19.1 316,080 53,165 16.8 7,060 2,715 38.5 2004 415,765 79,770 19.2 317,955 51,805 16.3 6,845 2,625 38.4 2005 410,570 75,900 18.5 315,715 50,885 16.1 6,650 2,410 36.2 2006 404,205 69,430 17.2 313,890 48,460 15.4 6,615 2,230 33.7 2007 398,295 68,345 17.2 309,795 46,500 15.0 6,535 2,145 32.8 2008 394,575 67,270 17.0 304,190 45,540 15.0 6,570 2,100 32.0 2009 393,310 69,205 17.6 298,370 45,085 15.1 6,510 2,190 33.6 205W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 206W

Yorkshire and the Humber

Maintained nursery and state-funded primary State-funded secondary schools1, 3 Special schools4 schools1, 2

Number of Number of Number of pupils Percentage pupils Percentage pupils Percentage known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming Number on free school free school Number on free school free school Number on free school free school roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals

2010 394,640 76,030 19.3 294,380 47,180 16.0 6,365 2,185 34.3

2011 397,300 78,345 19.7 290,395 47,240 16.3 6,270 2,290 36.5

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2002 — — — 750,020 141,600 18.9 2003 — — — 747,280 136,835 18.3 2004 — — — 740,570 134,200 18.1 2005 — — — 732,935 129,190 17.6 2006 — — — 724,715 120,120 16.6 2007 — — — 714,630 116,985 16.4 2008 — — — 705,335 114,910 16.3 2009 — — — 698,190 116,480 16.7 2010 1,195 445 37.8 696,580 125,835 18.0 2011 1,355 480 35.4 693,965 127,875 18.4

England Maintained nursery and state-funded primary State-funded secondary schools1, 3 Special schools4 schools1, 2 Number of Number of Number of pupils Percentage pupils Percentage pupils Percentage known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be known to be eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for eligible for and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming and claiming Number on free school free school Number on free school free school Number on free school free school roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals roll6, 7 meals6, 7 meals

2002 4,064,895 741,495 18.2 2,953,655 469,760 15.9 77,785 30,305 39.0 2003 4,023,395 719,425 17.9 2,992,635 463,600 15.5 84,240 30,615 36.3 2004 3,977,530 730,420 18.4 3,010,100 464,425 15.4 81,825 30,245 37.0 2005 3,939,755 708,245 18.0 2,993,920 453,390 15.1 80,240 27,955 34.8 2006 3,899,450 664,980 17.1 2,985,905 439,125 14.7 79,310 26,690 33.7 2007 3,860,420 654,290 16.9 2,955,210 425,110 14.4 78,760 26,290 33.4 2008 3,837,680 637,170 16.6 2,913,725 413,365 14.2 78,265 25,705 32.8 2009 3,825,475 652,305 17.1 2,883,245 417,970 14.5 78,030 26,245 33.6 2010 3,838,680 711,405 18.5 2,864,345 441,145 15.4 78,335 27,325 34.9 2011 3,873,175 743,255 19.2 2,837,825 450,275 15.9 79,030 28,830 36.5

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2002 — — — 7,096,340 1,241,560 17.5 2003 — — — 7,100,265 1,213,635 17.1 2004 — — — 7,069,450 1,225,090 17.3 2005 — — — 7,013,915 1,189,590 17.0 2006 — — — 6,964,660 1,130,790 16.2 2007 — — — 6,894,390 1,105,690 16.0 2008 — — — 6,829,670 1,076,240 15.8 2009 — — — 6,786,750 1,096,525 16.2 2010 15,140 5,050 33.3 6,796,500 1,184,920 17.4 207W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 208W

Pupil referral units5 Maintained nursery, state-funded primary1, 2, state-funded secondary1, 3, special schools4 and pupil referral units5 Number of pupils Percentage known to Number of pupils Percentage known to known to be eligible be eligible for and known to be eligible be eligible for and for and claiming free claiming free school for and claiming free claiming free school Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals Number on roll6, 7 school meals6, 7 meals

2011 13,725 4,745 34.6 6,803,755 1,227,110 18.0 1 Includes middle schools as deemed. 2 Includes primary academies. 3 Includes city technology colleges and academies. 4 Includes maintained and non-maintained special schools. Excludes general hospital schools. 5 Comparable information for pupil referral units is not available prior to 2010 (when the collection became pupil-level). 6 Includes sole and dual (main) registrations. In pupil referral units also includes pupils registered with other providers and further education colleges. 7 Includes pupils who have full-time attendance and are aged 15 or under, or pupils who have part-time attendance and are aged between five and 15 (age as at31 August). Note: National and regional totals have been rounded to the nearest five. Source: School Census.

The latest information, for January 2011, on free (2) if he will publish the results of each consultation school meal eligibility and other school and pupil undertaken under section 10 of the Academies Act information can be found in the “Schools, Pupils and 2010 by the free schools that opened in September their Characteristics: January 2011” Statistical First 2011. [71567] Release at: http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001012/ Mr Gibb: The duty to consult under section 10 of the index.shtml Academies Act 2010 is on the academy trust of a free school, not the Department. The Department does not Free Schools hold a central record of all of the organisations and individuals consulted as part of the establishment of Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for the free schools opened this month. It is for the individual Education (1) for what reasons he has extended his academy trusts to decide whether to publish the results Department’s contract to provide support for the free of their consultations. school pre-application process; [71556] (2) who was involved in taking the decision to extend Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for his Department’s contract for providing support on the Education what the budget is of his Department’s free free school pre-application process; [71557] schools group for 2011-12. [71648] (3) who composed the advertisement on his Department’s website for the contract to provide support in the free Mr Gibb: The budget allocation for free schools for school pre-application process; [71558] 2011-12 has yet to be finalised and is partly dependent (4) which Minister of his Department was responsible on the number of high quality free school proposals for the decision to extend the contract to provide support that are approved to open in September 2012. for the free school pre-application process; [71590] (5) when the New School Network was advised that Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for the contract for providing support for the free school Education from which geographic areas applications pre-application process had been extended. [71594] have been made to establish free schools to date. [72150] Mr Gibb: We formally agreed with the New Schools Network in June 2011 that the original grant agreement Mr Gibb: Applications to establish free schools have was being extended by two months, without additional been received from every region in England. funding, to 30 September 2011. The decision to extend was made by the Under-Secretary of State for Schools, Free Schools: Ashfield my noble Friend Lord Hill of Oareford, on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for following advice from officials. It allowed the Department Education how many applications for free schools to evaluate the level and quality of support provided to funding he has received from Ashfield constituency. proposers as part of the new process for the second [72336] wave of applications before finalising the specification for the competitive grant process that was recently Mr Gibb: To date, the Department for Education has launched. The advertisement on the Department’s website not received any applications for free schools proposing for the competitive grant process was written by officials. to be located in Ashfield constituency.

Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Free Schools: Inspections Education (1) what the names are of the organisations and individuals consulted by each of the free schools that opened in September 2011 in accordance with the Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for duty to consult under section 10 of the Academies Act Education what plans Ofsted has to inspect free 2010; [71566] schools. [72268] 209W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 210W

Mr Gibb: Free schools are subject to inspection by for free schools that opened in September 2011 will take Ofsted under the same arrangements as those that place during this academic year and the resulting data apply to other academies and maintained schools. will be published on the Department’s website. Free Schools: Teachers GCSE

Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what proportion of teachers in each free Education how many and what proportion of children school do not have a teaching qualification or qualified achieved GCSE grade A* to C in (a) ICT, (b) classical teacher status. [72271] civilisation and (c) business studies in (i) 2009, (ii) 2010 and (iii) 2011. [70515] Mr Gibb: The Department for Education does not currently hold this information. Free schools are required Mr Gibb [holding answer 7 September 2011]: The to take part in statutory data collection exercises, including available information is given in the following table. the School Workforce Census which collects data on Provisional figures for 2011 will be published in October teaching staff. The first such data collection exercises 2011.

Number and percentage of pupils achieving GCSE grade A*-C in selected subjects, 2009 and 2010 ICT Classical civilisation Business studies Number Percentage Number Percentage Number Percentage

2009 39,400 6.2 3,200 0.5 48,200 7.6 2010 32,900 5.1 3,500 0.5 46,900 7.3 Notes: 1. Source: School and College Performance Tables. 2. Numbers are rounded to the nearest hundred. 3. All figures are final.

Manpower Tim Loughton [holding answer 13 September) 2011]: Sub-departments are known as directorates and the Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for latest published information for the Department (as at Education what sub-departments there are within his 31 August 2011) is available in the following table: Department; and how many full-time equivalent staff are employed in each. [71679]

Directorate Total FTE

Children Young People and Families 526 503.0 Education Standards 970 925.9 Finance and Strategy 168 161.5 Infrastructure and Funding 809 767.1 Private Office 64 63.1 internal Audit 28 27.0 Legal 33.0 Total 2,568 2,450.6

National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Office colleagues regarding the award of Government Mathematics: Manpower funding to the New Schools Network. [70817]

Nic Dakin: To ask the Secretary of State for Education Mr Gibb [holding answer 8 September 2011]: The how many (a) managers and (b) operational staff Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Friend there are at the National Centre for Excellence in the the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), has not Teaching of Mathematics. [70671] had any discussions with Cabinet Office colleagues on this matter. Mr Gibb: The National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics is currently receiving funding New Schools Network: Finance for 3.8 full-time equivalent managerial staff undertaken by five members of staff, and five full-time equivalent Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for operational staff undertaken by seven members of staff. Education what the reasons were for establishing a This does not include the part-time director role occupied grant agreement between his Department and the New by Professor Celia Hoyles who is seconded from the Schools Network. [71391] Institute of Education. Mr Gibb [holding answer 12 September 2011]: The New Schools Network experience of the Academies programme indicates that the support requirements for some promoters, such as Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for new parent groups, could be significant, particularly in Education what discussions he has had with Cabinet the first few months. Some of this function is most 211W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 212W appropriately provided by an external organisation, Number of Ofsted registered places by ownership which also distinguishes the roles of promoting and Full day care encouraging free school projects from the role of approving 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 them. The Department considered carefully the options Other 14,400 16,100 26,100 14,500 14,500 41,600 for securing the requisite services from an external Note: organisation. Given the need for specialist skills and Full day care settings are defined as ’facilities that provide day care for experience to be in place quickly, it was decided to children under eight for a continuous period of four hours or more in any day in premises which are not domestic premises’. award a time limited grant to the New Schools Network Base: (NSN). Child care providers 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005. Sources: NSN has championed the development of parent 1. Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey 2010. DFE: OSR17/2011 and teacher promoted schools and has been providing 2. Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey 2009. DFE RR-012 advice and support to those interested in establishing new schools, including many of those that have gone on Sessional to form the first free schools to open, since 2009. It has 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 also been developing networks among interested groups Total 251,000 227,900 243,500 248,100 278,300 265,400 and individuals. This experience made it ideally placed number of to fulfil the role and no other organisation had similar places experience. The Department has given similar grants in the past, such as to the Specialist Schools and Academies Private or 238,500 216,700 226,800 232,000 265,700 229,200 Trust, the Youth Sport Trust, Holocaust Educational Voluntary Trust and the National Literacy Trust. Private 91,200 67,900 71,400 70,200 83,000 81,700 Voluntary 147,300 148,800 155,400 161,700 183,500 49,300 Nurseries Maintained 17,200 10,300 14,200 15,400 12,800 11,300 Local 10,200 5,600 7,700 8,600 9,600 7,200 Elizabeth Truss: To ask the Secretary of State for authority Education how many nursery places there were at (a) School/ 6,900 4,700 6,500 6,800 3,200 4,100 maintained, (b) private, (c) voluntary and (d) college independent Ofsted-registered providers in (i) 2000-01, (ii) 2004-05, (iii) 2005-06 and (iv) the most recent year Other 2,600 2,000 3,800 3,300 700 8,300 for which figures are available. [72098] Note: Sessional care is defined as ’facilities where children under eight attend day care for no more than five sessions a week, each session being less than a continuous Sarah Teather: The Childcare and Early YearsProvider period of four hours in any day. Where two sessions are offered in any one day, Survey collects information on a regular basis on the there is a break between sessions with no children in the care of the provider’. Base: number and characteristics of Ofsted registered places Child care providers 2010, 009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005. amongst childcare and early years providers, including Sources: their ownership. Data is not collected on independent 1. Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey 2010. DFE OSR17/2011 Ofsted registered providers. 2. Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey 2009. DFE RR-012 In 2001, the estimated total number of nursery places Pupils: Attendance was 335,300 and the total number of places for playgroups and pre-schools was 360,900. Data on ownership is not Julian Sturdy: To ask the Secretary of State for available for 2001. Figures for 2001 are not directly Education what steps he is taking to improve school comparable with subsequent years as there was a change attendance. [71555] to the question about child care places and a change in the definition of provider types. Mr Gibb: We are taking a number of steps to improve The following tables provide the number of Ofsted school attendance. In particular we have reduced the registered places in full day care and sessional settings threshold at which a pupil is defined as persistently by ownership for 2005 to 2010, the most recent year for absent to where a pupil is absent for more than 15% of which these figures are available. their schooling, down from 20%. We will continue to Number of Ofsted registered places by ownership look at the possibility of further lowering the threshold Full day care over time. 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 There are a range of parental responsibility measures Total 716,700 647,800 620,700 596,500 544,200 511,100 available to tackle poor attendance, which include parenting number of contracts; parenting orders; penalty notices; and places prosecutions. Charlie Taylor, the Department’s independent adviser on school behaviour, along with a team of Private or 626,400 567,500 535,600 510,200 477,900 379,500 teaching professionals, will be undertaking a review of voluntary these measures in order to make them more effective Private 464,200 466,900 436,700 417,300 379,400 303,000 and to encourage schools to make more use of them. Voluntary 162,300 100,600 98,900 92,900 99,700 77,600 We will be publishing school level absence data in both the combined autumn and spring term and annual Maintained 83,800 63,400 62,900 67,200 54,300 69,800 statistical releases. Local 46,200 28,200 29,800 32,600 30,600 49,100 authority As part of the new Ofsted inspections framework School/ 37,500 35,200 33,100 34,600 24,000 20,800 inspectors will, from January 2012, be looking at school college attendance as part the wider behaviour strand of the framework. 213W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 214W

Pupils: Disadvantaged Decisions on levels of spending on services for young people are for local authorities to make. The Government Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for encourage local authorities to invest in evidence-based Education how many children and young people have early intervention strategies to improve outcomes for been sent to each pupil referral unit in each of the last disadvantaged young people, and to avoid reductions five years. [72034] likely to lead to higher costs in future years.

Mr Gibb: Information on pupils attending each pupil Schools: Admissions referral unit (PRU) in England for each of the past five years has been placed in the House Libraries. The Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for information relates to pupils registered at a PRU at the Education what plans he has to allow good schools to census date, third Thursday in January. expand by increasing pupil numbers. [67267] In 2010 a finer breakdown of the different registration types was introduced and this is reflected in the tables. Mr Gibb: We consulted nationally between 27 May and 19 August on revised school admissions and appeals Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for codes. As part of that consultation we proposed to relax Education what assessment he has made of the level of the current regulations that restrict schools’ ability to spending by local authorities on youth activities. increase their Published Admission Number (PAN). [72058] The changes would enable schools, where they are able and willing to do so, to increase their PAN with far Tim Loughton: The Department recently received fewer restrictions than at present. returns from local authorities in England showing planned We are carefully analysing the responses to the spend on education and children’s services in 2011-12. consultation and intend to publish the departmental These suggest that local authorities plan to spend a response, along with the revised codes, in due course. total of £883 million on services for young people this year which include: youth work; positive activities; information, advice and guidance; substance misuse Schools: Ashfield and teenage pregnancy reduction; and discretionary awards and student support. This represents a 25% Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for reduction on planned spend in 2010-11. Education how many pupils attended schools in Some youth activities are funded from local authority Ashfield constituency in each year since 2007. [71731] youth justice budgets. Including total spend on youth justice, planned spend in 2011-12 is £1,245 million, a Mr Gibb: The information requested is shown in the reduction of 20% on planned spend in 2010-11. following tables:

All schools: Number of pupils by type of school, Ashfield constituency. January each year: 2007-11 Number (headcount) of pupils5 Nursery Maintained Direct grant Total State-funded primary1,2 State-funded secondary1,3

2007 142 n/a 142 8,549 6,765 2008 136 n/a 136 8,195 6,772 2009 129 n/a 129 8,378 6,639 2010 139 n/a 139 8,325 6,623 2011 101 n/a 101 8,355 6,520

Number (headcount) of pupils5 Special Maintained4 Non-maintained Total Pupil referral units Independent All schools

2007 149 n/a 149 n/a 149 15,354 2008 155 n/a 155 n/a 155 15,714 2009 145 n/a 145 n/a 142 15,433 2010 151 n/a 151 n/a 126 15,366 2011 156 n/a 156 n/a 73 15,205 n/a = not applicable. No schools at this type. 1 Includes middle schools as deemed. 2 Includes primary academies. 3 Includes city technology colleges and secondary academies including all-through academies. 4 Includes general hospital schools. 5 Includes pupils who are sole or dual main registrations. In PRUs. also includes pupils registered with other providers and further education colleges. Source: School Census

Schools: Assessments has received from Ofqual concerning examination paper errors since May 2011; and how many such items of correspondence he has responded to; [66928] John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Education (1) how many (a) letters and (b) emails he 215W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 216W

(2) how many students sat (a) a GCSE and (b) an that were sat. This equates to less than 1% of papers A-level paper that contained an error in a question for which may have contained an error. each (i) subject and (ii) examination board in 2011; However, the total number of papers containing errors [66929] will be not be confirmed until Ofqual report on the (3) on what dates his Department has reviewed summer 2011 appeals against results for GCSE and examination paper errors since April 2011. [66930] GCE, which is due to be published early in 2012. Predictions now on the total number of papers, and the Mr Gibb: The Secretary of State for Education, my subsequent number of students affected by the errors right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael would not be wholly reliable. Gove), has had a number of updates from the chief Schools: City of York executive of Ofqual on this matter, and respective officials have stayed in touch regularly, both in person and using various media. Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how much was spent on average per child on Both the Secretary of State and I met with Ofqual on (a) primary and (b) secondary school pupils in state a number of occasions to discuss the issue and also schools in the City of York (i) in cash terms and (ii) at received regular briefings from Ofqual. constant prices in each year since 1996-97. [71462] We estimate that 138,782 individual papers may have contained errors from a total of around 15.7 million Mr Gibb: The information is as follows:

Per pupil spend in primary and secondary schools in City of York from 1996 to 20091,2 Cash terms expenditure per pupil in City of York Real terms expenditure per pupil in City of York Pre-primary and Secondary Pre-primary and Secondary Primary education primary education3 education Primary education primary education1 education

1996-97 — 1,540 2,210 — 2,210 3,020 1997-98 — 1,600 2,350 — 2,130 3,130 1998-99 — 1,730 2,460 — 2,250 3,210 1999-2000 1,760 — 2,430 2,250 — 3,110 2000-01 1,860 — 2,640 2,340 — 3,330 2001-02 2,180 — 2,830 2,690 — 3,490 2002-034,5 2,390 — 3,080 2,860 — 3,680 2003-04 2,560 — 3,330 2,970 — 3,870 2004-05 2,680 — 3,660 3,040 — 4,140 2005-06 2,930 — 3,860 3,260 — 4,280 2006-07 3,140 — 3,970 3,370 — 4,260 2007-08 3,290 — 4,190 3,430 — 4,380 2008-09 3,490 — 4,570 3,540 — 4,640 2009-10 3,590 — 4,750 3,590 — 4,750 1 Pupil numbers include only those pupils attending local authority maintained primary schools and are drawn from the DFE Annual Schools Census adjusted to be on a financial year basis. 2 Figures are rounded to the nearest £10. 3 Expenditure was not distinguished between the pre-primary and primary sectors until the inception of Section 251 for financial year 1999-2000. 4 1999-2000 saw a change in data source when the data collection moved from the RO1 form collected by the ODPM to the Section 251 form from the DFE. 2002-03 saw a further break in the time series following the introduction of Consistent Financial Reporting (CFR) and the associated restructuring of the outturn tables. The change in sources is shown by the dotted line. From 2002-03 school based expenditure is taken from Section 251 Outturn Table A line 51 net current expenditure (NCE). For 2001-02 and earlier years the expenditure is calculated as lines 1 to 12 less lines 29, 30, 35 and 37. This differs from the old Net Institutional Expenditure (NIE) calculation only in the treatment of meals and milk which is no longer excluded and no adjustments for balances are now made. This is taken from Section 251 Outturn Table 3 for 1999-00 to 2001-02 and from the RO1 form previously. 5 The calculation for 2002-03 onwards is broadly similar to the calculation in previous years. However, 2001-02 and earlier years includes all premature retirement compensation (PRC) and Crombie payments, mandatory PRC payments and other indirect employee expenses. In 2001-02 this accounted for approximately £70 per pupil. From 2002-03 onwards only the schools element of these categories is included and this accounted for approximately £50 per pupil of the 2002-03 total. Also, for some LAs, expenditure that had previously been attributed to the school sectors was reported within the LA part of the form from 2002-03, though thisisnot quantifiable from existing sources. Notes: 1. School based expenditure includes only expenditure incurred directly by the schools. This includes the pay of teachers and school-based support staff, school premises costs, books and equipment, and certain other supplies and services, less any capital items funded from recurrent spending and income from sales, fees and charges and rents and rates. This excludes the central cost of support services such as home to school transport, local authority administration and the financing of capital expenditure. 2. Base year for real terms prices is 2009-10 financial year.

Schools: Devon slightly higher than the Guaranteed Unit of Funding for 2011-12 (which is £4,602.77) because the 2010-11 Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for allocation included £20 for sixth formers and £80 from Education how much his Department spent on (a) the ending of grants which were not mainstreamed this primary and (b) secondary school education in Devon year (such as Targeted Improvement Grant, Music, in 2010. [71263] Foundation Learning and National Challenge). As the Dedicated Schools Grant is a mechanism for distributing Mr Gibb: The Department for Education allocates funding, a split between primary and secondary schools education funding to local authorities via the Dedicated is not available. But in 2010-11 Devon county council Schools Grant and separate Standards Fund grants. In delegated on average £3,251 per pupil to its primary 2010-11, the Department allocated £4,700 per pupil. schools and £4,148 to its secondary schools. This figure relates to pupils aged three to 19. This is 217W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 218W

Anne Marie Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gibb: The Department is currently consulting on Education what the guaranteed level of funding per key recommendations of the Review of Education Capital, pupil was for (a) primary and (b) secondary schools including on gathering existing condition data and carrying in Devon in the latest period for which figures are out a full survey of the school estate; and on the available. [71266] implementation of a national contract for maintenance and small capital projects. The consultation will close on 11 October. We want to progress swiftly with the Mr Gibb: The Guaranteed Unit of Funding for Devon collection of condition data and our provisional timetable in 2011-12 is £4,602 per pupil. The Department for suggests surveys would start in April 2012 and be Education allocates this funding to Devon and it is for completed by late 2013. We will consider the findings of the authority to delegate this funding to the schools in the consultation before making decisions about national their area through their local funding formula to best contracts. meet the individual needs and pressures of their schools. It also pays for the free entitlement to early education The review proposes that the Department maximises for three and four-year-olds, and for services retained value for money delivered through maintenance and by the local authority, such as support for high needs small projects and puts in place a clear national contract pupils. to make this happen. Overall, we wish to move to the model the review proposes, but we are aware that there The level of funding of the pupil premium in 2011-12 are currently local and regional procurement models in is £430 per pupil for those pupils known to be eligible place which claim to be delivering on time and with for free school meals, £430 per pupil for looked after value for money. Some of these may involve contractual children and £200 per pupil for service children. According arrangements which cannot immediately be changed. to the figures recorded on the January 2011 School This is why we are consulting on this issue to explore the Census, Devon will receive £4.86 million for the pupil potential and benefits before implementing any change premium. and we do not want to pre-judge the outcome of the consultation. Schools: Finance No information is collected on capital maintenance spend at school level. Local authorities and other local partners make their own decisions on investment : To ask the Secretary of State for maintenance for their buildings based on their own Education if he will estimate the size of his assessment of need. Also, revenue funding can be used Department’s schools budget in each of the next four to support routine maintenance of buildings. years required to increase schools spending by 0.7 per cent. in real terms in each of those years. [68499] Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what progress his Department has made Tim Loughton: The estimate of the schools budget on the introduction of the national funding formula; were it to be increased by 0.7% in real terms in each of and if he will make a statement. [71873] the next four years is set out in the following table. To calculate this the Budget 2011 GDP deflators have been Mr Gibb: In July we launched a consultation on used. For information these are also set out in the school funding; this closes on 11 October. We will following table. consider the responses carefully before making decisions on a new funding formula for schools. School baseline in cash terms (uprated at 0.7% per annum plus GDP deflator Financial year inflation) (£ million) (Budget 2011) Schools: Flags

2011-12 37,400 1.000 2012-13 38,603 1.025 Bob Russell: To ask the Secretary of State for 2013-14 39,923 1.053 Education what guidance he has given to schools on 2014-15 41,288 1.081 flying the Union flag on (a) a regular basis, (b) 2015-16 42,700 1.110 specific national occasions and (c) occasional special events; and if he will make a statement. [71606]

Stephen McPartland: To ask the Secretary of State Mr Gibb: The Department has not issued any guidance for Education (1) what progress his Department has to schools on flying the Union flag. This is consistent made in conducting its full survey of the school estate with our overall strategy to increase schools’ autonomy in (a) England and (b) Hertfordshire; [71870] and to reduce the burden of guidance. Too much guidance (2) what progress his Department has made on can overwhelm school staff and stifle innovation. That identifying expenditure on capital maintenance at is why we have reduced the amount of guidance for school level; what assessment he has made of the value schools by 6,000 pages since May 2010. for money of such expenditure; and if he will make a The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) statement; [71872] is responsible for issuing guidance for hoisting the Union (3) with reference to the Review of Education flag on UK Government buildings. However, individuals, Capital, April 2011, what progress has been made on local authorities, schools and other organisations may implementing a national contract for maintenance and fly any flag they wish, subject to compliance with any small capital projects. [71876] local planning requirement. 219W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 220W

Guidance on flying the Union flag can be accessed on Tim Loughton: This Government are committed to the following hyperlink: reducing the bureaucracy and burdens facing our front http://www.culture.gov.uk/what_we_do/honours/7124.aspx line services. Following a review of the data collected through the Schools Census, carried out in partnership with representative schools and local authorities, the Schools: Overseas Students Secretary of State for Education, my right hon. Friend the Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), agreed to remove a number of items, including questions on : To ask the Secretary of State for mode of travel. Education what information his Department holds on the (a) number and (b) country of origin of foreign The Department introduced ’Usual Mode of Travel’ nationals who have attended (i) an independent and (ii) into the School Census in 2007 primarily to inform the a maintained school in each of the last five academic Travelling to School Initiative (TTSI), which was a years. [72655] project to encourage more children to travel to school sustainably.The data was used to inform schools completing Mr Gibb: Information on the country of origin of a travel plan. As the TTSI ended on 31 March 2010, the pupils is not centrally collected. Department no longer has any need to collect this data. However, if local authorities wish they can continue to The latest information on the ethnic origin of pupils collect such travel data locally. can be found in Table 4 of the ‘Schools, Pupils and their Characteristics: January 2011’ Statistical First Release Schools: Wirral at: http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001012/ index.shtml Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what funds (a) were and (b) are to be made available to schools in Wirral in (i) 2010-11, (ii) Schools: Sports 2011-12, (iii) 2012-13, (iv) 2013-14 and (v) 2014-15. [67991]

Toby Perkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Mr Gibb: Information on the funding available to Education what the budget was for school sport Wirral’s maintained schools is provided in the authority’s partnerships in (a) 2008-09, (b) 2009-10, (c) 2010-11 annual section 251 budget return. This shows that Wirral’s and (d) 2011-12. [72410] schools budget is £193.8 million in 2010-11 and £217.8 million in 2011-12. Tim Loughton: The Department’s budget for the School Sports Partnerships programme for the years Academies are funded via the YoungPeople’s Learning 2008-09 to 2010-11 is set out in the following table. The Agency (YPLA) using the authority’s local school funding programme finished in July 2011 and therefore no grant formula to ensure that academies and maintained schools payments were made in 2011-12. are funded on a fair and comparable basis. In 2010-11, Birkenhead High School Academy was funded £4.5 £ million by the YPLA. In 2011-12 Birkenhead High School Academy and the University Academy Birkenhead 2008-09 113,214,939 have been allocated a total of £12 million. 2009-10 116,030,709 2012-13 local authority allocations will be announced 2010-11 102,528,267 in the autumn. The Department is currently consulting on a series of However, new funding of £65 million is now being proposals to reform the school funding system which made available to enable schools to provide more will affect the allocations for 2013-14 and 2014-15. The opportunities for competitive sport. This grant covers consultation will close on 11 October 2011. The consultation the next two school years and will pay for one day a document is available via the following link: week of a secondary PE teacher’s time to be spent out of the classroom to encourage greater take-up of http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/adminandfinance/ competitive sport in primary schools and increase the financialmanagement/schoolsrevenuefunding/a00192415/ consultation-on-school-funding-reform-proposals-for-a- amount of intra- and inter- school sporting competition fairer-system for all pupils. Sure Start Children’s Centres: City of York Schools: Transport Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many (a) children and (b) families are Mr Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for in receipt of support from Sure Start Children’s Education (1) what discussions he has had with local Centres in York. [71459] education authorities on his proposal no longer to include questions on mode of travel in the School Sarah Teather: The Department does not collect this Census; [72116] information. Local authorities have a statutory duty to (2) with reference to his Department’s Information ensure there are sufficient children’s centres in their about Children, Education and Schools Bulletin issue area to meet local need, so far as is reasonably practicable. 50, for what reason he proposes that questions on It is for local authorities to commission children’s centres mode of travel should no longer be included in the and to monitor and evaluate the use and impact of their School Census. [72117] services. 221W Written Answers10 OCTOBER 2011 Written Answers 222W

Vocational Guidance: Greater London Mr Hayes [holding answer 7 September 2011]: The Department for Education does not hold information on the services local authorities are planning to provide Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for to fulfil their responsibility to enable, encourage or Education what information his Department holds on assist young people’s participation in education or training. the level of careers advice services local authorities in each London borough are planning to provide in response to the ending of the connexions service. [Continued in Column 223W] [69798]

1MC Ministerial Corrections10 OCTOBER 2011 Ministerial Corrections 2MC

significant difference in numbers means that direct Ministerial Correction comparisons cannot readily be made. In the year to July 2011, about 2.5% of Bristol staff and about 1% of Monday 10 October 2011 Glasgow staff left through retirement or resignation compared with around 4.5% for Defence Equipment DEFENCE and Support as a whole. The restrictions on recruitment across the whole of Defence Equipment and Support: Recruitment the Ministry of Defence mean that there has only been Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for external recruitment into critical or specialised posts. In Defence what estimate he has made of recruitment and the year to July 2011, we recruited around 150 new staff retention rates for Defence Equipment and Support in Bristol and none in Glasgow. staff based in (a) Glasgow and (b) Bristol. [69386] The correct answer should have been: [Official Report, 6 September 2011, Vol. 532, c. 546W.] Letter of correction from Andrew Robathan: Mr Robathan: As at 31 August 2011, Defence Equipment and Support employed around 200 civilian staff in An error has been identified in the written answer Glasgow and around 6,700 civilian staff at its headquarters given to the hon. Member for Glasgow Central (Anas in Bristol. The significant difference in numbers means Sarwar) on 6 September 2011. The original answer that direct comparisons cannot readily be made. In the failed to take account of organisational changes that year to August 2011, about 2.2% of Bristol staff and took place in April 2011 but which were not recorded about 0.5% of Glasgow staff left through retirement or on the departmental HR management information system resignation compared with around 4.1% for Defence until August. The data provided in the original answer Equipment and Support as a whole. covered the period August 2010 to July 2011 only. The full answer given was as follows: The restrictions on recruitment across the whole of the Ministry of Defence mean that there has only been Mr Robathan: Defence Equipment and Support currently external recruitment into critical or specialised posts. In employs around 100 civilian staff in Glasgow and around the year to August 2011, we recruited around 160 new 5,500 civilian staff at its headquarters in Bristol. The staff in Bristol and none in Glasgow.

ORAL ANSWERS

Monday 10 October 2011

Col. No. Col. No. DEFENCE...... 1 DEFENCE—continued Comprehensive Spending Review...... 8 Libya...... 15 Defence Contracts (SMEs)...... 6 Medical Care ...... 9 Defence Exports...... 4 Military Equipment ...... 13 Defence Exports...... 14 Security Relationships (South Asia)...... 1 Eurofighter Typhoon ...... 12 Topical Questions ...... 17 Levene Review ...... 3 Training and Support (Armed Forces) ...... 11 WRITTEN MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

Monday 10 October 2011

Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.. 1WS HOME DEPARTMENT...... 10WS Work of the Department (Conference Recess) ...... 1WS Changes in Immigration Rules...... 10WS

DEFENCE...... 5WS SCOTLAND...... 12WS Independent Review of Single Source Pricing Emergency Towing Vessels...... 12WS Regulations...... 5WS TRANSPORT ...... 13WS DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ...... 6WS Parliamentary Written Question (Correction)...... 13WS Boundary Commission for Wales (Appointments). 6WS TREASURY ...... 1WS EDUCATION...... 7WS Tax Agreement (Switzerland)...... 1WS New Schools ...... 7WS WALES...... 13WS FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 7WS Incident at Gleision Colliery ...... 13WS Global Abolition of the Death Penalty...... 7WS Sino-British Joint Declaration (Hong Kong)...... 8WS WORK AND PENSIONS ...... 14WS (3 October 2011) ...... 15WS HEALTH...... 9WS Cold Weather Payments Scheme 2011-12...... 14WS Southern Cross Healthcare and Social Care Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Market...... 9WS Affairs Council ...... 15WS PETITIONS

Monday 10 October 2011

Col. No. Col. No. HEALTH...... 1P TRANSPORT—continued Leacroft surgery (Crawley)...... 1P Dartford Crossing Tolls ...... 2P High Speed Rail ...... 2P TRANSPORT ...... 1P Swansea Coastguard Station...... 4P Bridgwater by-pass...... 1P WRITTEN ANSWERS

Monday 10 October 2011

Col. No. Col. No. CABINET OFFICE...... 112W CABINET OFFICE—continued Admiralty Arch: Admiralty House ...... 112W Employment: Private and Public Sector ...... 117W Charitable Donations: Fraud ...... 113W Financial Services: Manpower ...... 118W Charitable Incorporated Organisation Structure.... 113W Immigration...... 119W Charities Act 2006...... 113W Marriage Certificates: Wales ...... 119W Charities: Finance...... 114W Public Sector: Manpower...... 120W Departmental Air Travel ...... 114W Unemployment ...... 121W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 114W Departmental Consultants...... 115W Departmental Disabled Staff...... 115W COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT .1W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 116W Affordable Housing: Finance ...... 1W Departmental Procurement...... 116W Audit Commission ...... 2W Col. No. Col. No. COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT— CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT—continued continued Olympic Games 2012: Horse Riding ...... 181W Audit Commission: Government Procurement Rugby ...... 181W Card...... 1W Sculpture: Abingdon Green ...... 182W Business: Civil Disorder ...... 3W Sports ...... 182W Community Relations: Religion ...... 3W Sports: Clubs ...... 183W Council Housing: Fire Prevention...... 3W Sports: Community Development...... 184W Council Housing: Waiting Lists ...... 3W Sports: Local Government Finance ...... 184W Delegation of Powers ...... 4W Sports: Young People...... 184W Departmental Air Travel ...... 4W Swimming: Concessions...... 185W Departmental Alcoholic Drinks...... 4W Television Channels: Licensing ...... 185W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 4W Television: Local Broadcasting ...... 186W Departmental Consultants...... 6W Television: Young People ...... 186W Departmental Procurement...... 7W Tourism: Economic Situation...... 187W Enterprise Zones...... 9W UK Film Council...... 187W EU Grants and Loans...... 11W Fire Services: Manpower...... 11W DEFENCE...... 40W Fire Services: Staffordshire...... 11W Afghanistan ...... 41W Government Procurement Card ...... 12W Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations ...... 42W High Rise Flats: Fire Prevention...... 13W Alix Partners...... 42W Homelessness...... 13W Armed Forces: Craigiehall ...... 43W Housing ...... 14W Armed Forces: Edinburgh...... 43W Housing: Local Government Finance ...... 14W Armed Forces: Military Decorations ...... 44W Housing: Planning ...... 14W Armed Forces: Yorkshire and the Humber...... 44W Housing: Planning Permission ...... 15W Armed Forces: Young People...... 45W Interreg IVA France (Channel) England British Army Training Unit Suffield...... 41W Programme ...... 15W Challenger Tanks ...... 46W Local Development Frameworks ...... 15W Chinook Helicopters...... 47W Local Government: Billing...... 17W Departmental Air Travel ...... 47W Local Government Finance: Greater London...... 17W Departmental Civilian Jobs...... 40W Ministerial Policy Advisers: Complaints ...... 17W Departmental Public Expenditure...... 48W Non-domestic Rates...... 18W Departmental Research...... 48W Non-domestic Rates: Yorkshire and the Humber... 18W Departmental Scientific Advisers...... 50W Planning: Appeals...... 25W EU Defence Headquarters...... 40W Planning Permission ...... 19W EU Defence Policy ...... 51W Planning Permission: Appeals...... 22W EU Defence Policy: Offices ...... 52W Planning Permission: Offices...... 25W Helicopters: Technology...... 53W Planning Permission: Rural Areas...... 25W HMS Protector ...... 53W Regional Planning and Development...... 26W Military Bases: Edinburgh ...... 54W Sports: Planning Permission ...... 26W Military Bases: Kirknewton ...... 55W Standards for England: Credit Cards ...... 27W Military Covenant...... 42W Sustainable Communities...... 27W NATO Transformation ...... 41W Sustainable Development...... 28W Radar: Wind Power...... 56W Travel: Concessions...... 28W Reserve Forces ...... 41W Travellers: Peterborough ...... 28W Transport ...... 57W Unmanned Air Vehicles: Ammunition ...... 57W CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT...... 170W Andy Coulson...... 170W EDUCATION...... 188W Anti-Slavery Day...... 170W Academies...... 188W Arts...... 171W Academies: Bromley ...... 188W Botulinum Toxin ...... 171W Academies: Warwickshire ...... 189W Broadband ...... 171W Anti-Slavery Day...... 189W Broadband: Scotland ...... 172W Children: Care Homes ...... 190W Creative Industries Council...... 173W Children: Crimes of Violence...... 190W Departmental Aviation ...... 173W Children: Hyperactivity ...... 190W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 173W Children: Respiratory System ...... 191W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 174W Children’s Centres: Finance ...... 191W Departmental Training ...... 175W Children’s Play: Training...... 191W Education ...... 175W Curriculum: Animal Welfare...... 192W FIFA...... 176W Departmental Air Travel ...... 192W Government Art Collection ...... 176W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 192W Intellectual Property ...... 177W Departmental Manpower...... 194W Local Enterprise Partnerships...... 177W Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers...... 195W Mass Media: Ownership ...... 177W Dominic Cummings...... 195W Music...... 177W Drugs: Misuse...... 195W National Lottery: Tickets...... 178W Education: Environment ...... 196W Olympic Games 2012 ...... 178W Education: Finance...... 196W Olympic Games 2012: Conditions of Education: Young People...... 198W Employment ...... 179W Families: Scotland...... 199W Olympic Games 2012: Dorney Lake ...... 180W Family Intervention Programme ...... 200W Olympic Games 2012: Greater London...... 181W Free School Meals...... 202W Col. No. Col. No. EDUCATION—continued FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE— Free School Meals: Yorkshire and Humberside ..... 202W continued Free Schools...... 207W Israel: Politics and Government ...... 153W Free Schools: Ashfield...... 208W Libya: Terrorism ...... 153W Free Schools: Inspections...... 208W Pitcairn Islands: Sexual Offences ...... 154W Free Schools: Teachers...... 209W Tunisia: Anti-Semitism ...... 154W GCSE ...... 210W Manpower...... 209W HOME DEPARTMENT...... 64W National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Animal Experiments ...... 64W Mathematics: Manpower ...... 209W Asylum ...... 64W New Schools Network...... 209W Asylum: Translation Services ...... 65W New Schools Network: Finance...... 210W British Nationals Abroad: Homicide ...... 65W Nurseries...... 211W CCTV ...... 66W Pupils: Attendance...... 212W Civil Disorder ...... 66W Pupils: Disadvantaged...... 213W Civil Disorder: Greater London...... 67W Schools: Admissions ...... 214W Civil Disorder: Petrol ...... 67W Schools: Ashfield ...... 214W Counter-terrorism ...... 68W Schools: Assessments ...... 213W Counter-terrorism: Finance ...... 68W Schools: City of York...... 216W Crime...... 68W Schools: Devon ...... 215W Criminal Records ...... 70W Schools: Finance...... 217W Dangerous Dogs ...... 70W Schools: Flags ...... 218W Departmental Air Travel ...... 71W Schools: Overseas Students ...... 219W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 71W Schools: Sports ...... 219W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 73W Schools: Transport ...... 219W Departmental Sick Leave ...... 74W Schools: Wirral ...... 220W Deportation ...... 74W Sure Start Children’s Centres: City of York ...... 220W Deportation: Cameroon...... 75W Vocational Guidance: Greater London ...... 221W Deportation: Suicide...... 75W Detention Centres: Police...... 76W ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 29W Domestic Violence ...... 76W Carbon Emissions...... 29W Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre...... 76W Departmental Air Travel ...... 29W Entry Clearances...... 77W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 30W Entry Clearances: Overseas Students ...... 77W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 31W EU Nationals: Sentencing...... 78W Energy...... 32W Extremist Groups: Finance ...... 78W Energy: Prices ...... 32W Forensic Science...... 79W Fuel Poverty...... 32W Forensic Science: Innovation...... 79W Methane: Arctic ...... 33W Human Trafficking ...... 79W Microgeneration Certification Scheme...... 33W Humberside Police: Olympic Games 2012...... 80W Nuclear Power Stations...... 34W Identity and Passport Service: Wales...... 80W Nuclear Power Stations: Accidents...... 35W Illegal Immigrants: Employment...... 81W Nuclear Power Stations: Safety ...... 35W Immigrants: Detainees ...... 81W Offshore Industry: Carbon Capture ...... 36W Immigration Controls ...... 82W Renewable Energy...... 36W Immobilisation of Vehicles...... 83W Solar Power: Feed-in Tariffs...... 36W Marriage of Convenience...... 83W Timber: Imports...... 37W Members: Correspondence ...... 84W Warm Front Scheme ...... 38W Motor Vehicles: Theft ...... 84W Wind Power ...... 38W Motorcycles: Theft...... 85W Wind Power: Planning Permission ...... 38W Paedophilia ...... 85W Police: Accountability ...... 86W ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL Police: Manpower ...... 86W AFFAIRS...... 141W Police: Sick Leave...... 87W Animal Health and Welfare Board...... 141W Police: Southwark ...... 93W Floods: Insurance ...... 141W Prevent Funding ...... 95W Slaughterhouses ...... 142W Raed Salah...... 95W Wildlife: Circuses ...... 143W Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964...... 96W Skilled Workers: Emigration ...... 96W FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE..... 149W Theft: Metals ...... 97W Africa: Agriculture...... 149W UK Border Agency: Termination of Employment. 98W Anti-Slavery Day...... 149W Violent and Sex Offender Register: Foreign Armed Conflict...... 150W Nationals ...... 98W Armed Forces: EU Internal Relations...... 150W Visas ...... 99W Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and Government...... 150W INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT...... 143W British Nationals Abroad...... 151W Afghanistan: Overseas Aid...... 144W Council of Europe ...... 151W Commonwealth Development Corporation...... 143W Departmental Air Travel ...... 151W Democratic Republic of Congo: Overseas Aid...... 143W Egypt: Anti-Semitism...... 151W Developing Countries: HIV Infection ...... 144W Egypt: Israel...... 152W Equatorial Guinea: Overseas Aid...... 144W Egypt: Politics and Government ...... 152W Gabon: Overseas Aid ...... 145W European Union ...... 152W Horn of Africa: Famine ...... 146W Col. No. Col. No. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT—continued TRANSPORT—continued Horn of Africa: Overseas Aid ...... 146W Motor Vehicles: Exhaust Emissions ...... 106W Libya: Armed Conflict...... 147W Passenger Focus ...... 106W Overseas aid...... 147W Public Transport: Concessions ...... 106W Overseas Aid...... 147W Railway Stations: Manpower ...... 107W Somalia: Armed Conflict ...... 148W Railways...... 108W Railways: Fares ...... 108W JUSTICE...... 155W Railways: Franchises ...... 108W Administrative Justice and Tribunals Council ...... 155W Railways: Great Yarmouth...... 109W Bill of Rights Commission: European Court of Rescue Services: Scotland ...... 109W Human Rights ...... 155W Road Signs and Markings...... 110W Binyam Mohamed ...... 156W Road Signs and Markings: Tourism...... 110W Camp on Private Land...... 156W Roads: Accidents ...... 110W Children: Maintenance ...... 156W Rolling Stock: Procurement ...... 110W Civil Disorder ...... 157W Safety Belts ...... 111W Community Legal Advice: Telephone Services...... 157W Thameslink Railway Line: Rolling Stock ...... 111W Crime...... 158W Traffic Commissioners ...... 111W Departmental Air Travel ...... 159W Traffic Commissioners: Wales ...... 112W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 159W Twickenham Station...... 112W Departmental Compensation...... 160W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 160W TREASURY ...... 121W Departmental Manpower...... 162W 11 Downing Street: Official Hospitality...... 121W Deportation: Offenders...... 162W Bank of England: Public Appointments ...... 122W Driving Offences: Speed Limits...... 162W Drugs: Prisons ...... 163W Bristol and West: Shares...... 122W Business ...... 123W Female Genital Mutilation: Prosecutions...... 163W Fly-Tipping: North West...... 164W CF Arch Cru Investment Fund ...... 123W Charity Bank ...... 123W Human Rights ...... 165W Human Rights Act 1988 ...... 165W Child Benefit...... 123W Cluster Munitions...... 124W Legal Aid Scheme ...... 166W Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Coastal Communities Fund: Scotland ...... 124W Departmental Air Travel ...... 125W Offenders Bill...... 167W Magistrates’ Mock Trial Competition...... 168W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 125W Departmental Disclosure of Information...... 126W Miscarriages of Justice: Simon Hall...... 168W Offenders ...... 168W Departmental Job Satisfaction...... 126W Departmental Magazine Press ...... 126W Offensive Weapons...... 168W Prisons: Catering...... 169W Departmental Training ...... 126W Departmental Written Questions ...... 127W Prisons: Private Sector ...... 169W Probation ...... 169W Economic Policy ...... 127W Economic Situation: International Cooperation .... 128W Young Offenders: Re-offenders ...... 169W Youth Offending Teams: Redundancies ...... 170W Energy: Prices ...... 128W Equitable Life: Compensation...... 128W Excise Duties: Fuels ...... 128W NORTHERN IRELAND ...... 57W Financial Institutions: Hearing Impaired...... 129W Departmental Aviation ...... 57W Financial Services ...... 130W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 58W Immigration: Students ...... 130W Departmental Security ...... 58W Inflation: Annuities...... 131W Inquiries...... 58W Insurance: Unfair Practices...... 131W Lawyers...... 59W Judiciary ...... 131W Terrorism ...... 59W Loans: Greece ...... 132W Members: Correspondence ...... 132W PRIME MINISTER...... 63W Mortgages: Northern Ireland...... 132W Anti-Slavery Day ...... 63W National Insurance Contributions ...... 133W EU Budget: Contributions ...... 63W National Insurance Contributions: Devizes ...... 133W National Insurance Contributions: New SCOTLAND...... 57W Businesses ...... 133W Scotland Bill 2010-12 ...... 57W Oil: Prices...... 134W Taxation: Scotland...... 57W Pensions: Tax Allowances ...... 134W Personal Taxation ...... 134W TRANSPORT ...... 99W Planning: Costs...... 135W A64 ...... 99W Pocket Lighters: Import Controls ...... 135W Aviation: Working Hours...... 100W Public Finance ...... 136W Bus Services: Finance...... 101W Revenue and Customs: Leicester...... 136W Buses: Concessions ...... 101W Revenue and Customs: Manpower...... 136W Departmental Air Travel ...... 103W Sports: Clubs ...... 137W Departmental Chief Scientific Advisers ...... 103W Taxation...... 137W Heathrow Airport: Railways ...... 105W Taxation: Business ...... 137W Highways Agency: Government Procurement Taxation: Foreign Companies ...... 138W Card...... 105W Taxation: Personal Savings...... 138W Large Goods Vehicles: EU Action ...... 105W Taxation: Sports...... 138W Large Goods Vehicles: Tolls...... 105W Trust Funds: Audit...... 139W Metals: Theft ...... 106W Tunisia: Economic Situation ...... 140W Col. No. Col. No. TREASURY—continued WALES—continued VAT ...... 140W Departmental Legal Opinion ...... 62W Voluntary Contributions...... 141W Departmental Procurement...... 62W Devolution: Wales...... 62W Energy Supply...... 62W WALES...... 59W Enterprise Zones...... 62W Big Society...... 59W Broadcasting Programmes: Welsh Language...... 60W WOMEN AND EQUALITIES ...... 39W Business Advisory Group...... 61W Equal Pay...... 39W Constituency Size...... 61W Equality: Age...... 39W Departmental Carbon Emissions ...... 61W Marriage ...... 40W MINISTERIAL CORRECTION

Monday 10 October 2011

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CONTENTS

Monday 10 October 2011

List of Government and Principal Officers of the House

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

Defence Responsibilities [Col. 23] Statement—(Dr Fox)

Eurozone [Col. 40] Statement—(Mr George Osborne)

New Schools [Col. 62] Statement—(Michael Gove)

Protection of Freedoms Bill [Col. 80] Programme motion (No. 3)—(James Brokenshire)—on a Division, agreed to As amended, considered

Tribunals and Inquiries [Col. 152] Motion—(James Duddridge); Division deferred till Wednesday 12 October

Petition [Col. 153]

Interpretation Services (Ministry of Justice) [Col. 154] Debate on motion for Adjournment

Written Ministerial Statements [Col. 1WS]

Petitions [Col. 1P] Observations

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

Ministerial Correction [Col. 1MC]